Thornaby FC Women have officially completed a historic double, capping off a miraculous two-year turnaround by lifting the North Riding County Cup at the Riverside Stadium.
Following their recent promotion to the National League North, the Teessiders proved they are a force to be reckoned with by defeating York City Development Ladies 9-0 on the big stage at the home of Middlesbrough FC.
The victory marks a staggering 17th consecutive win for the side under manager Curtis Collantine, who took the reins mid-way through the season and transformed the team into a relentless winning machine.
For a club that was on the brink of folding just two years ago, the scenes of celebration at the Riverside represented a stunning renaissance.
Having already secured their second consecutive promotion with a 4-0 win over Ponteland United to reach Tier 4, Sunday’s cup final victory was the perfect way to end a flawless campaign.
Collantine believes the success is the result of a demanding tactical philosophy and a clear vision implemented from his first day in the dugout.
“We came in and set out the aim to gain promotion and win the cup,” he said. “We had certain characteristics and values we wanted to bring to the team and implement both on and off the field. The players have done magnificently taking it all on board, working hard and being able to execute it.”
The team’s high-intensity, possession-based approach has left opposition teams throughout the region struggling to keep pace.
“It is intense, that is how I like it,” he added. “I demand high energy levels, backed up with the correct purpose of play which is dominating games. I knew it would bring results and it has.”
Winning 17 matches in a row is a rare feat at any level of football, and Collantine was quick to heap praise on his squad’s phenomenal mental and physical endurance following the final whistle at the Riverside.
“17 out of 17 is an incredible achievement. To be relentless every single week is tough physically and mentally – that is what we demand, and they have done it. The girls should be so proud of themselves.”
Despite the double celebrations, the Thornaby boss – a former professional with Bradford City – has no intention of letting standards slip as they prepare for the National League North.
He said: “We are always striving to improve each week, that is the mindset we have – in training, with the analysis, workouts at home and building togetherness. That will continue next season too; it doesn’t stop. The hard work has only just begun.
We will raise the quality and standards even more so we can arrive and compete for what we want to achieve.”
While Collantine is the architect of Thornaby’s flawless run after the club assembled such a strong squad, he stressed that the historic campaign was a monumental team effort that extended far beyond the pitch.
Collantine said: “I am so proud of the girls, they have been fantastic. Thank you to them for working so hard. I told them they would get the rewards and they have. A huge well done and thank you to the coaching staff – Martin, Panashe, Joe, and Simon – without them this would not be possible. Thank you to the club, the fans, and the families for the brilliant support.
“My family have been a fantastic support. To have my son with me, enjoying the moments together is amazing. Seeing the enjoyment he gets from being at the games and around the club is incredible.”
With the North Riding County Cup secured, a place in the National League North secured and significant improvements planned for Teesdale Park, the future for Thornaby FC Women has never looked brighter.
