Macdonald bags a brace in thrilling final as MK College lift the National Cup
After a searing run to the final, MK College topped off the season in style
Captain Tristan Hargreaves called MK College’s National Collage FA Cup final victory an unforgettable moment as he lifted the trophy in Accrington.
The College’s academy football side were 3-2 winners over South Devon College at the Wham Stadium - home of League Two side Accrington Stanley - to win the cup, drawing a line under many of the players’ time with the group.
A Tom Macdonald brace either side of a Dylan Sutton strike ensured MK came out on top against a strong Devon side, who scored five minutes from time to make for a nervy finale.
The team’s had a spectacular run to the final, winning five games and scoring 32 goals in the process. It’s the second trophy in two years for the team, having won the Association of Colleges National Plate competition in 2025.
Speaking afterwards, the skipper said:: “Being a part of this college group has been an unforgettable experience. Over the past two years we have worked so hard for each other and captaining the side to another national final has been truly unforgettable.”
Goal-scorer Macdonald added: “I have dreamed of moments like this all season, but dreams don’t mean much without the work behind them. Every tough training session, every setback all led to this final. To score twice on the biggest stage, and to get the winner, is something I’ll never forget.”
Iain Ellis, course team leader at the College Football Academy, spoke of the pride he felt in his players and staff after the victory.
He said: “I’m incredibly proud to have led such an outstanding group of players and staff to become AoC National Champions.
“The staff have worked tirelessly to create an environment where players feel supported, challenged, and able to thrive, and the players have shown exceptional hard work and dedication to their football throughout the season and fully deserved to experience yesterday on the correct side of the score.
“This success is a true reflection of the collective commitment and belief shared by everyone involved.”