FOOTBALLERS from a Wirral school have been crowned Merseyside under 12 champions following a regional tournament.
The year eight team from Mosslands School in Wallasey were presented with their trophy after beating a very strong Calderstones team 6-0 in the final of the Merseyside Cup on Thursday.
On their award, head of PE Mark Reed told the Globe: "This is a huge title for a Wirral school and we are often beaten early by some very strong Liverpool teams.
Mosslands School squad celebrates after being crowned Merseyside under 12 champions
"In fact this is the first time for many years we have been anywhere near the final.
"To go on and win it exceeded all expectations."
Along the way the team beat schools with very strong footballing histories, including Cardinal Heenan in West Derby and Calday Grange Grammar to name a few.
The final was a second chance after last year's final, when they lost to Arch Bishop Beck, and had to be replayed due to an incorrect score reported to the FA.
Mosslands School squad
Coach Mark Reed continued: "The students in the final were exceptional, not only in their skill levels but also their ability to stick to a game plan and follow tactics very maturely.
"The main thing that set them apart in the final was their desire.
"They all wanted to win desperately and all worked tremendously hard for each other, meaning Calderstones could not settle into any rhythm.
"We scored quickly through a brilliant Cole Marl goal and went on from there.
"Cole (pictured, below) went on to score five goals of very high quality. It was a historic achievement.
"Cole was the epitome of hard work, resilience and toughness and was deservedly made man of the match.
"Everyone had to contribute and Captain Tom Randall had his usual good game and Matty Hancox was very solid at the back.
"The score line was a credit to the boys and we could have had more as we hit woodwork several times and had goals disallowed.
"The opposition had no answer to us and we swept to a comfortable victory with a late Hitchell goal.
Mosslands School squad with coach Mark Reed
"I am very proud of a fine set of young men who have been a pleasure to work with and will remember that win for the rest of his career.
"I hope the boys will remember it for years to come too and realise what a great job they did. Let's hope they defend the title well this year too!
"Congratulations to all!"
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