Derbyshire football club stands united on day for youth player with inoperable cancer

As previously reported, Ripley schoolboy Noah Toplis, 13, learned at the start of June that doctors have no way to beat his rare and uncertain form of cancer, which was first detected in January.

In the wake of that news, friends and family have launched a fundraising campaign to make some of Noah’s dreams come true, not least his treasure hunt for some hard-to-find Pokémon trading cards. As word has spread, the kindness of strangers has reached across oceans.

Back on home turf, Noah’s clubmates at Swanwick grassroots side Sleetmoor United did their bit by staging the Noah Toplis Cup on Saturday, June 27.

If the quality on the pitch was perhaps a few leagues below the World Cup, the heartfelt contributions of all involved were more than a match for Messi, Kane and co, as the veterans side rolled back the years and racked up a 6-1 victory.

Club welfare officer Chris Hodgkinson said: “A massive thank you to absolutely everyone who was involved in today's charity match for Noah. The love and outpouring of support was incredibly touching, and it was fantastic to see everyone turn out in huge numbers to enjoy the match and raise money for the family. We're with you all the way, Noah.

“A huge thanks to all the players and the coaches for their efforts on the pitch, as well as to all of the staff and volunteers working behind the scenes to ensure the event ran smoothly, and to everyone who made it to the ground today to support and those who had sent in donations.

“A special thanks to several sponsors for their very generous donations toward the event Rock Fall Safety Boots, Purpose Media, HSL Utilities and Star Café Alfreton. “As well as a number of Sleetmoor teams donating to the cause, including U14 Barca who Noah plays for. Additional donations were received from several of our boys teams and from our girls teams, who have gone above and beyond in support. Your love is incredible, and we're so proud of the community we have. ”

Noah’s dad James was in attendance to kick off the contest and present the cup to the winners.

He also relayed a message from the real man of the match, who is currently on the children’s cancer ward at the Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham.

Manchester United-mad Noah said: “I wish I could have been there today, but I have been sent lots of photos and videos of the event and I can’t believe how much love and support there is for me. Thank you so much to everyone. I hope to see some of you soon.” To add to the fundraising total, go to gofundme.com/f/pokemon-treats-for-noah-while-he-fights-cancer.

Photos courtesy of Darren Clay/DC Live Photography – facebook.com/realphotos63.