Stalybridge Celtic’s wait to lift the Keith Trudgeon Memorial Trophy goes on after local rivals Hyde United once again took the spoils in Saturday’s annual pre-season friendly.
The hosts made the perfect start at Bower Fold, but a late onslaught from The Tigers saw them come out on top to lift the trophy for a second time.
Celtic are still searching for their first victory in the fixture since its inception in 2023 following the passing of club stalwart and lifelong fan Keith Trudgeon.
Jon Macken’s side fired themselves in front after just 14 minutes, with last season’s Young Player of the Season Ellis Horan picking up where he left off and smashing home on the half volley after an inch perfect cross from Obua Mugalula.
Visitors Hyde then found a route back into the game just before the break, with the unmarked Edy Maieco nodding in from close range to level the scoring.
The Tigers took control after the interval, finally making their pressure count 20 minutes from time when Ben Kershaw’s free kick looped over Celtic stopper Charlie Monks, before new signing Tom Clare slotted home to seal the win.
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