Mental Health Inclusion reach county cup final at short notice

The newly-founded Mental Health Inclusion side, from Wolverhampton, defeated Cannock United Lions 4-3 on penalties after a goalless draw in the semi-finals at St George’s Park.

Their incredible tournament run came after a last-minute decision to enter the Staffordshire Ability Counts League Cup.

Mental Health chairman Jon Law said: “A player's mom came to me and said ‘I wish my son could play mainstream football but because of his disability, he can’t’, so I decided to do it with just a week and a half's notice."

The team now go on to face Leek CSOB 'A' in the final at Chasetown's Scholars Ground on Sunday, May 4.

When asked how he feels for his team to have reached the final, Law added: "I can’t believe it."

The week leading up to the tournament consisted of the side trying to get kit and funding, which they managed, thanks to The Junction in Wolverhampton and others who stepped in to help.

Leading up to the final, Law said his side will train as much as they can, despite difficulties with funding and travel and wants his side to give it their best.

“I always say to play like you’ve got your heart on your sleeve,” he added.

The Wolverhampton-based side was established as an extension of Mental Health FC, which was formed two years ago by Law with a priority of helping those struggling with mental health issues and giving them an escape.

Law’s ambition to start his own club came after he found happiness in being a part of one previously.

Mental Health Inclusion joins the number of teams under the Mental Health FC banner.

Sarah Attree stepped up to manage the side and is helping to make sure her players enjoy football as much as possible.

The team includes those facing difficulties with anxiety, depression, cerebral palsy, ADHD and learning difficulties.

With the supporters and volunteers helping to guide the side to the success they have had so far, their next step is to look towards the league.

The side is hoping to join both the Staffordshire and Birmingham leagues, who each play once a month, to give their players as much time on the field as possible.

But for now, their full attention is on the final, with the hopes of bringing home some silverware.