Cal Dill: It’s nice to write history for North Village
North Village have carved their name into the FA Cup history book yet again.
The defending champions’ 2-1 extra-time triumph over St George’s Colts in the semi-final last Sunday saw them become the first team to reach the final of the prestigious competition in four successive seasons on two occasions.
Devonshire Colts were the first to achieve the feat between 1998 and 2001 followed by Village, who equalled the feat between 2000 and 2003.
As fate would have it, the Premier Division rivals are set to clash in the FA Cup final for the first time in 25 years at Flora Duffy Stadium on April 12.
Village coach Calvin “Patches” Dill is proud to see his club add to their remarkable legacy in the competition and is looking forward to squaring off against five-times champions Devonshire Colts in the upcoming final.
“We have done it twice and it’s nice to continue to write history for North Village,” he told The Royal Gazette.
“It’s been 25 years since Devonshire Colts and North Village have met in the FA Cup final.
“Colts have been in the FA Cup final for four straight seasons as well and we at North Village are looking to go up the ‘Carpet’ and play a hard game of football.”
With victory over their opponents, Village can secure the record for the most FA Cup titles, which they share with PHC Zebras (11).
“It’s a great opportunity for us to be the record holders of a very prestigious trophy,” Dill said.
Village’s come-from behind win over St George’s last time did not come without a cost as defender Terryn Fray (hamstring) and wing back Amir Dill (ankle), who came off the bench to grab the winner, picked up injuries but they are expected to make a full recovery before the season-ending final.
“We are waiting on the physiotherapist to give us an update on their injuries,” Dill said.
“None are long term so that’s good to know. Both should be available for the final.”
