The date for the Durham FA 'Bob Strophair' Minor Cup Final is set, with Hebburn Town Reserves gearing up to face reigning champions Middleston Moor FC. The team’s journey to the final has benefited from home ties, and here’s how they’ve fared so far.

First Round
The team were in the pool of teams that received a bye in the first round.

Second Round
Reserves 8 - 0 Wolviston Reserves
In the second round, it was a strong statement with an 8-0 triumph over Wolviston Reserves. High scoring and a clean sheet really set the tone for their cup campaign.

Third Round
Reserves 8 - 1 Gateshead Leam Rangers Reserves
Continuing their impressive form, another commanding victory was secured, defeating Gateshead Leam Rangers Reserves 8-1 in the third round.

Quarter Finals
Reserves 2-0 Winlaton Community Seniors
The quarter-finals the team face Winlaton Community Seniors. With some resolute defending and clinical finishing, they emerged victorious with a 2-0 win.

Semi Finals
Reserves 3-2 Jarrow Youth Reserves
In a semi-final played on the main pitch at the sports ground a bumper crowd of 400 attended this local derby against Jarrow Youth Reserves. In a closely contested match, after going 2-0 up and at half time Jarrow managed to peg their way back into the game to make it 2-2. The team stayed strong and secured a thrilling 3-2 victory to book their place in the final.

The Final
The team will now face Middleston Moor FC, the current holders of the cup, in the final. The match is set to take place on Friday, 18th April 2025, at Eppleton Colliery Welfare, with an 11:00am kick-off.

We had a chat with manager Rob Blackburn to gather his thoughts on the team's progress thus far and the forthcoming final:

"Firstly, I would like to congratulate the lads on reaching the final. Regardless of the outcome on the day, they are already winners in my eyes for making it this far. We, as a whole, are really looking forward to the game now. We know it will be a tough match as Middlestone are also having a very good season. Let the best team win. Lastly, I would love to see as many Hebburn supporters there as possible. In the semi-final against Jarrow, there were approximately 400 supporters, so hopefully, we can have the same turnout. We really appreciate the support, and hopefully, it will help us cross the finish line."

Having last won this cup back in 2020, Hebburn Town Reserves are eager to reclaim the title and etch their name in history once again. It would be great to see a big support behind the team as they attempt to bring home the Durham FA 'Bob Strophair' Minor Cup.