Tonight, two groups will be part of collectively to honour the reminiscence of the late teenager Ben Bradford, who handed away in his sleep the evening earlier than a cup closing.
Pacey winger Ben, who had solely turned 16 a couple of months previous to his dying, was described as an brisk and chatty younger man who cherished soccer and was very shut together with his household.
Simply over 4 months in the past, Ben was discovered the morning of the ultimate by his father and coach Mike, after spending the earlier night organising post-match meals and drinks collectively.
Mike and Ben’s mom Donna have been instructed that the trigger was sudden grownup dying syndrome, and since then the couple have donated money and time to numerous foundations, however now need to arrange a charity of their son’s title.
Tonight, the teenager’s former aspect Cove Youth will probably be joined onfield by a choose, comprised of quite a lot of gamers, together with members of the family, shut associates and a bunch of his Aberdeen heroes.
Ben’s youthful brother Alex will captain the Ben Bradford Choose, which additionally options Mike in addition to League-Cup-winning defender Andy Considine, midfield brothers Derek and Darren Younger, and ex-Dons striker Darren Mackie.
Alex represents Cove’s 2011s crew, whereas lecturers from Ben’s faculty Lochside Academy will assist officiate the sport.
Mike Bradford, chatting with the Press and Journal, stated: “We’re actually grateful for everybody who continues to assist us bear in mind Ben.
“It is a probability to maintain his reminiscence alive.
“It’s only a technique to come collectively for Ben and do the factor he cherished probably the most.”
A meals and drinks store, a half-time raffle and a silent public sale will assist elevate funds for charity.
The raffle gives a number of prizes together with a soccer signed by Considine, a shirt or ball autographed by Aberdeen’s first crew, or matchday tickets.
In the meantime, the silent public sale gives a chance to bid for 2 VIP tickets to Manchester United’s Premier League match towards Brentford at Outdated Trafford.
The sport will kick off at 7 pm, with free entry for any supporters and gates opening half an hour prior. It guarantees to be a becoming sendoff for a beloved son, brother, and good friend taken too quickly.
Photos provided by Cove Youth
