Stadium of Light to host Durham FA Challenge Cup final between Hebburn and Spennymoor

The Stadium of Light which will be hosting the final on May 3

The Stadium of Light will host the Durham County FA Frank Pattison Challenge Cup final between Hebburn Town FC and Spennymoor Town FC on May 3 for the first time in four years.

The home of Sunderland AFC last hosted the final in 2019 when Shildon AFC defeated South Shields 1-0 to lift the cup.

Spennymoor won the competition in 2011/12 before finishing as runners up the following two seasons, but were declared shared winners with Sunderland’s under-23s in 2020 due to Covid-19 stopping the final from being played. The Moors made it to this years final with a 2-0 win over Dunston UTS.

Hebburn have won the competition on two occasions with their last triumph coming in 1992, 49 years after their first win in 1943. The Hornets progressed to the final this season after beating Seaham Red Star 2-1 on penalties following a 0-0 draw.

Stephen Rutherford, Chief Executive of Hebburn Town FC Said: “We are delighted as a club that the final will be held at the Stadium of light. The challenge cup is the most prestigious county cup competition and it’s great that the county FA have partnered with SAFC to make this event happen, well done to both parties.

“As a upcoming club this will be another great opportunity for the players, staff and club officials to enjoy entertaining football in a world class stadium, showcasing our club and this time (unlike the FA Vase final) we’ll be able to have our fans in attendance and this is the most pleasing outcome for us all.

“We are already working hard behind the scenes as to how we can make this an extra special event for the club and our fans, so watch out for more information.

“Someone has made me aware that the last time we played cup final on May 3 we won (The FA Vase of course) so fingers crossed it becomes another good day for us, but I’m sure we’ll enjoy the occasion regardless.”

Hebburn Town celebrate their FA Vase trophy win in 2021

John Topping, Durham County FA CEO, said: “The Durham County FA are delighted and honoured that Sunderland AFC have agreed to host the Durham County FA Frank Pattison Challenge cup final.

“This is our senior competition and the chance of playing at the Stadium of Light will be a great experience for those involved whether players, management, officials or spectators.

“I am sure all connected with both clubs are looking forward to the day.”

The competition started in 1884 with Sunderland winning the first edition of the cup, they are also the most successful team in the history of the competition winning the trophy on 23 occasions.

Ticket details will be confirmed in due course, for the fixture that takes place on Wednesday May 3 at 7.30pm.