Hull SC held firm after a second-half AFC Willerby response, with first-half goals from Aaron Gouldthorpe and Sam O’Malley sealing a memorable cup final win.
Hull Sporting Club claimed cup final glory with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over AFC Willerby in the East Riding FA County Qualifying Cup final.
The Reds started with purpose and took the lead in the 22nd minute through Aaron Gouldthorpe, who found the net to give Hull SC an important early advantage on the big stage.
With the opening goal secured, Hull SC continued to play with confidence and composure, managing the tempo well and forcing Willerby to chase the game.
The second goal arrived in the 37th minute, with Sam O’Malley finishing to put Hull SC 2-0 ahead before half-time and strengthen their grip on the final.
AFC Willerby responded after the break and pulled a goal back in the 65th minute through Ed Calver, setting up a tense final spell.
But Hull SC showed the character required in a final. The Reds stayed organised, defended with discipline and refused to allow the momentum to fully swing away from them.
This was a final, so it was never going to be easy. We showed quality in the first half, but what pleased me most was the character after they scored. The players stayed calm, defended together and found a way to get the job done.
— Hull SC Manager
As Willerby pushed for an equaliser, Hull SC managed the pressure with maturity, staying compact and working together to protect the lead.
The final whistle confirmed a memorable victory for Hull SC, with Gouldthorpe and O’Malley’s first-half goals proving decisive.
It was not only a result built on attacking moments, but also on resilience, concentration and togetherness when the match became difficult.
For Hull SC, it was a proud cup final win and a major milestone in the club’s season, showing the group’s ability to perform under pressure and deliver when it mattered most.