Hamrun Spartans FC Youth Nursery participated in this year’s 25th edition of the Welsh International Super Cup held in Aberystwyth between the end of July and beginning of August.

This was the second time that the Hamrun nursery participated in this tournament, organised by Team Tours Direct. Thirteen boys from the 1999 and 1998 categories competed in classes K and J (respectively) of the competition. The boys were accompanied by three officials and seven parents. The travelling kit was sponsored by Sports Experience of Attard.

The 1999 category placed second in the group stage, scoring two wins, one draw and one defeat and therefore qualifying for the Cup quarter-finals.

They faced Sports Beijing Storm Troopers, losing 2-0. In the Shield semi-final, Hamrun won against Simla Youngs 2-0. Hamrun played Jamie Shore Academy in the final and, following a goalless draw after extra time, the Shield was shared between the two teams. The 1999 team also played friendly matches against Jamie Shore B (1-1), Jamie Shore A (3-1) and Sports Beijing Storm Troopers (1-0).

The 1998 category managed to reach another semi-final, that of the Class J Challenge Cup. In the group stage, Hamrun placed second with Jamie Shore Academy but the latter had a better goal difference. Hamrun managed two wins, one draw and one defeat. Hamrun played GEMS E-Sport Dubai in the semi-final and were unlucky to lose 3-2 after leading 1-0 for most of the first half. Hamrun played their last game in the play-offs beating Llandrindod Wells 4-0.

The Welsh tour was another positive experience for the boys especially with the high level of play shown by all teams. The tournament is renowned for hosting a number of young players who later became football stars in the names of Michael Owen, Ian Rush, Robbie Fowler, Steven Gerrard and Andriy Shevchenko.