THE FA Cup, one of football’s most famous trophies, toured two Newport schools this morning, to the delight of pupils and staff caught up in Newport County’s fairytale cup run.
Exiles midfielder Andrew Crofts and chairman Gavin Foxall joined pupils at Glan Usk Primary School and St Julians School to answer questions about their team’s showdown with Manchester City on Saturday.
At Glan Usk, the whole school gathered to listen to an enthusiastic presentation about the history of the competition. Many pupils were decked out in black and amber in support of the club.
“This is massive for the city and will live your memories for many years,” Mr Foxall told the assembly. “Hopefully as a club we’ll make many more memories for you as well.”
Afterwards, pupils had a chance to ask Andrew Crofts some questions, before each class lined up for a photograph with the famous cup.
Music teacher Lucy Lawson, who led the assembly, said: “We’ve been blown away. We didn’t find out until quite late in the day, as it happened last minute.
“I could only tell the children yesterday and they were really excited to come in wearing their kits and scarves. It’s so special for a player to come in and inspire the children.”
Among the pupils to meet Crofts were Lola Mclaren, 7; Carter Littlejohns, 10; and Fraser Morgan, 11.
They all predicted a home win, with Fraser believing the pitch at Rodney Parade would work in County’s favour.
And Mrs Lawson’s son, Oliver, said: “It’s really good everyone in Newport has got together to get behind the club. We’re all proud of them, they’ve done really well so far.”
At St Julians, headteacher Rhys Evans told pupils County’s cup heroics contained important messages of hard work and self-improvement.
He said: “The club was near the bottom a few years ago, but what did they do?
“They got together, worked hard, and set themselves goals.
“Don’t let anyone ever tell you that you can’t achieve, or that excellence is for someone else.”
And associate assistant headteacher Nick King – an avid County fan – said: “The story’s unbelievable. It shows what can be done through teamwork and effort. It’s fantastic.”
Afterwards, speaking to pupils, Andrew Crofts said his side had a chance against the Premier League giants.
He said: “If the crowd can get behind us, as I know they will, there’s going to be a great atmosphere.”
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