"I was determined to prove the critics wrong when it was said we were a bunch of no-hopers, I said: 'lads go out and enjoy yourselves, and if you win, you win, but the main thing is to bring back memories for yourselves and your families.' I'm so, so proud of them all and what they have achieved. They always believed in themselves. I was filled with emotion when they were presented with the plate."
"It's so encouraging to witness how football can bring people together and help them overcome tough personal challenges,"
The Houben Hurricanes from Houben House family hub in Harold's Cross beat The Bulldogs 4-2 to win the Partnership Plate in Manchester. The five-a-side tournament involved 25 teams from Ireland and the UK and is supported by the Guardiola Sala Foundation. The event aims to raise awareness of homelessness and improve wellbeing and mental health. The tournament has run for 14 years and has received ongoing support from Pep Guardiola's family. Houben Hurricanes goalkeeper MD Moshiur Rahman won the golden glove. Irish entrants also included teams from Centenary House and a combined Greencastle and Clonard Road team. The Houben squad ranged from 19 to 55 and overcame low expectations to achieve an emotional victory.
Read at Irish Independent
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