The first Zeeco Cup competition raises funds for the Tom Mann Foundation
A footballing community was united to ensure the legacy of a dedicated player lives on.
Teams took part in the inaugural Zeeco Cup while raising funds for the Tom Mann Foundation.
Tom was a dedicated footballer and beloved member of the community who tragically passed away at the age of 27.
His legacy lives on through the foundation's mission to support grassroots football and provide essential resources to local teams.
The final under the floodlights at Stamford AFC's Zeeco Stadium pitched Stamford Belvedere against the Daniels' reserves side.
The competition was organised by Bels boss Lewis Morley who is hoping to expand it for next season after Wittering Premiair and Ketton Sports also took part.
Morley said: "I want to say a huge thank you to Zeeco for sponsoring the Zeeco Cup, particularly to Nigel and Steph Palfreeman for believing in the idea and backing it from the start.
"Thanks also to Stamford AFC for allowing us to host the final at the magnificent Zeeco Stadium and also the volunteers and officials.
"A massive well done to all the teams involved for their passion and effort throughout the competition.
"But, most importantly, we were playing for a cause close to all of our hearts, the Tom Mann Foundation.
"Thanks to everyone who came out to support and donate and we've raised an incredible £1,838 in memory of a truly fantastic person.
"Next year, we aim to expand the Zeeco Cup, welcoming more local clubs and continuing to build on the spirit of community and grassroots football.
"This competition was founded to bring people together and celebrate the game we all love and that mission will only grow stronger from here."
Bels had booked their place in the final with a commanding 4-1 victory over Wittering Premier in the last four with goals from Scott Toomey, Jordan Neil, JJ Roberts and Luke Cramp.
In the other last four tie, Stamford AFC Reserves secured their spot in the final with a 3-1 win over Ketton Sports.
The final was fiercely contested from the first whistle and Jake Walton nearly opened the scoring for the Daniels with a cheeky chip that went narrowly wide.
However, Bels soon found their rhythm with Louie Roberts, Jordan Neil and Dan Gargan all testing the Stamford defence.
The breakthrough came when a Louie Roberts corner was flicked on at the near post, allowing Callum Willimont to tap in the opener for Bels.
The lead was doubled before the break as Jacob Smith rose highest to meet another pinpoint Roberts corner, heading in a powerful finish to send Bels into half-time with a 2-0 lead.
In the second half, Stamford Reserves fought back with Tyrell Smith nearly reducing the arrears, only to be denied by Bels' makeshift goalkeeper Joe Morley, who stepped up impressively in the absence of Keenan Murphy and Josh Hollobon.
The game was put to bed when player-manager Lewis Morley was brought down in the box, resulting in a penalty.
Captain Dave Atkinson made no mistake, calmly slotting home to seal a 3-0 victory for Bels.
Scott Toomey was named Man of the Match for his dominant performance in midfield, dictating the tempo and breaking up numerous Stamford attacks.
The competition drew plenty of praise from the Mann family.
They said: "We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made the tournament so special — Lewis, the team at Zeeco, Stamford Football Club and volunteers, the participating teams, and members of the community who came down to support.
"We are incredibly grateful that you all helped to honour Tom’s memory in the most fitting way possible — through the game he loved with all his heart.
"Tom lived and breathed football.
"From his first kick in the garden with his dad to playing for local clubs and university teams, the sport shaped his life and his character.
"The passion he had for the game was matched only by the kindness he showed off the pitch — something his team-mates, friends and family will always remember.
"The Tom Mann Foundation was set up to continue his legacy: to create opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to fall in love with football the same way Tom did.
"With the funds raised from the tournament, we're excited to begin making that vision a reality — supporting local grassroots football and helping the next generation thrive through sport.
"Thank you again to everyone involved. Your support means the world to us and we know Tom would be immensely proud."
