Joel Richards honoured at Memorial Cup match
Rushall Olympic Youth Development U18s have been crowned the Joel Richards Memorial Cup champions 2019.
They won the match against AFC Wulfrunians U18 Youth after the game went to a penalty shootout.
The competition was named after the teenager who tragically lost his life in the 2015 Tunisia terrorist attacks.
Joel, aged 19, was a Birmingham County FA Youth Council member and referee.
He died alongside his grandfather Patrick and his uncle Adrian in the horrific attacks. Ever since, the cup has been a celebration of Joel and his family, as well as grassroots football.
Rushall Olympic Youth Development U18s secured a 4-2 victory on penalties in the final.
Kevin Shoemake, CEO at Birmingham County Football Association, said: “The naming of a county-wide competition is not only a fitting tribute to Joel, but also a lasting memory for everyone who competes and officiates in the cup in years to come, with it also being a lasting legacy to the wider football community.
“Joel Richards was a fabulous young man, a talented Referee and an inspirational first Chair of Birmingham County Football Association’s Youth Council.”
Before the match kicked-off, a minute’s applause took place before the players and match officials posed for a picture to remember Joel and the special occasion.
