SEVEN young men paid tribute to the memory of their schoolmate by winning the Mathern 6-a-side tournament at the weekend.

The winning team, named Ben’s Boys, was named as a tribute to their friend Benjamin Cuthbert who died in a car crash in the Forest of Dean recently.

The team, formed by Mathern FC player Cobi Robinson, beat rivals Samba Boys 3-2 in the final after a tournament hailed a success by players and club officials.

But as Ben’s Boys posed for photographs with their cup and personal trophies, Cobi explained that the team and Benjamin had all been friends during their days at Wyedean School and when they had the chance to enter the tournament, they decided to pay tribute by playing in his name.

“It’s amazing because three of the lads haven’t played football for ages but we wanted to do this for Ben and to win it, is really special.”

The standard of football played by the teams – including those from Cardiff Met as well as Gwent County League sides like Wainfelin – was high and the organiser of the event, Mathern FC’s club secretary Wayne Duffield said the whole day was a success.

“We had great weather, the pitch is in great condition and everyone seemed to enjoy the day,” he said.

“We will build on this for next year and hope to invite more teams to compete for the trophies.”