National Game Awards: Lambs Peaked to the millions

In their first season back in the National League after back-to-back promotions, Peaks led his side to multiple cup victories.

The Lambs saw off Macclesfield and League One pair Huddersfield Town and Burton Albion to reach the third round proper, earning themselves a dream home tie with Premier League giants Tottenham Hotspur.

And in front of the watching millions in a global TV audience, the Lambs held Ange Postecoglou’s cast and crew of seasoned internationals scoreless for 90 minutes before falling to defeat in extra-time, capturing the hearts of the nation along the way.

The FA Cup Run of the Season – Tamworth

“It was a really good day,” Peaks reflected.

“I was looking forward to it and I wasn’t sure what team they would select, whether it would be a mix and match, but when we realised that their players were all internationals coming off the bus, it was unbelievable.

“We did well to get there and beat some big clubs like Macclesfield, Huddersfield and Burton, so for me it was a case of enjoying it.

I was so proud of everyone to get that far and I said to the team, ‘don’t let it pass you by, just enjoy it and remember this occasion forever’.

“We matched Spurs for long periods and we were disappointed to lose but proud of what we achieved.

“It was an unbelievable atmosphere and brilliant for the town and Non-League football.”

SPURRED ON: Tamworth’s Kai Williams in action against Tottenham and Andy Peaks receiving the award from The FA’s James Earl
PICTURE: Alamy

Fantastic

Just two years ago, Tamworth were celebrating winning the Southern Premier Central title on the final day of the season – and they quickly followed that up by winning the National League North title to clinch a return to Non-League’s top-flight.

Again, largely with the same group of players, they continued to upset the odds by not just avoiding relegation – as many had tipped them for – but by finishing inside the top ten with a play-off place still mathematically impossible going into the final fortnight.

But it was the FA Cup run and that Spurs showdown that they will forever be remembered, of course, as the Lambs look to build on their success as a full-time team next season.

And Peaks believes the special National Game Awards ceremony meant a lot to him on hearing that your votes had recognised the achievements of his side.

“It was really nice to be invited,” Peaks added.

“I was really pleased when they rang me last week and it has been a fantastic occasion at a really nice venue and I really enjoyed it.

“There were some great people here and it’s testament to The Non-League Paper and what they do.”

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