Story added: 1st July 2026

Cerebral Palsy team are FA Cup Champions!

Norwich City Community Sports Foundation’s Cerebral Palsy team won the EE Disability FA Cup Final on Sunday 28 July, beating Chelsea 2–1 in a memorable encounter at St George’s Park. 

Norwich qualified for the final after winning the National CP Cup last month, while Chelsea reached the showpiece as CP National League champions. 

Chelsea started brightly and took the lead inside the opening 10 minutes, finishing off a sharp counter‑attack to make it 1–0.  

Norwich responded well, growing into the game and forcing pressure from wide areas. Their reward came when Karl Townsend rose highest to meet a brilliant corner from Liam Irons, powering in a header to level the match. 

Just before half‑time, Norwich turned the game on its head. A pinpoint cross from the right found Reegan McMillan, who climbed above the Chelsea defence to nod home and give the Canaries a 2–1 lead at the break. 

Chelsea came out strongly in the second half, driving forward with intent, but Norwich defended with discipline and resilience. Even after being reduced to six players following a sending‑off, the team held firm.  

Chelsea threatened through long‑range efforts and a late header, but goalkeeper Ben Coe produced an excellent save and Norwich’s game management saw them over the line. 

The victory marks Norwich’s second EE Disability FA Cup triumph, having previously beaten Chelsea in the 2024 Cerebral Palsy final. 

“It was a fantastic performance from the team and a cup win they fully deserved,” explained Rupert Appleton, the Foundation’s Head of Inclusion. 

“Their resilience, their togetherness and the way they handled the big moments was outstanding. We’re incredibly proud of every single player. 

“This group represents the very best of our Realising Potential pathway. Many of them have come through our pan‑disability sessions at The Nest, and seeing them lift a national trophy shows exactly what our inclusive disability and SEND programme can achieve.” 

Leading multi-disciplinary architectural practice Chaplin Farrant proudly supports the CP squad both on and off the pitch, helping to provide vital resources, specialist training, and meaningful opportunities within the community. 

Relive the highlights from Sunday’s win on the TNT Sports YouTube channel.