Schoolboys were the champions!

WARRINGTON Schoolboys’ Under 12 team emerged champions of the annual Leeds 11-a-side soccer competition – but only after a hard fought contest.
They were playing against sides from towns and cities like Barnsley, Sheffield, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, Gateshead, Huddersfield, Hull, etc.
Warrington opened up their group matches with a close fought game against the hosts and favourites, Leeds.
They played well, matching Leeds in every department but lost 1-0.
In a must win second game, Warrington were dominant from kick off, with midfielder Kurtis Lilford and winger Ben Sutcliffe causing Holdsworth FC problems. Three points were secured with goals scored by striker George Farrelly and midfielder Oliver Fleming.
Last year’s winners Sheffield stood in Warrington’s way and a place in the grand final.
With both teams trying hard, Warrington’s defence held strong, with Dan Richards, Laurence Robinson, Patrick Taylor and Jack Marsh marshalling the solid defensive line.
Striker Jack Fox picked a 30 yard pass for pacey winger Ben Sutcliffe to latch on to and drive into the penalty box. Ben was brought to the ground and a penalty awarded
Left back Laurence Robinson struck home the penalty with confidence to give Warrington a 1-0 lead at half time.
Warrington Schoolboys were under pressure in the second half, with the midfield of Matthew Butler, Oliver Fleming and Kurtis Lilford working overtime.
Sheffield levelled with two minutes to go.
Extra time came and went with no more goals. Penalties’ followed Warrington’s goalkeeper Jordan Carroll was hero of the hour as he made save after save and then smashed in his penalty for Warrington to win 7 – 6.
Leeds had also made it through to the final and was looking to sweep aside Warrington for the second time.
Leeds scored early but Warrington battled hard throughout and got their just rewards with 10 minutes to go. Striker George Farrelly pounced on a loose ball 12 yards out and volleyed home an equaliser.
Warrington pressed Leeds goal and Farrelly won a free kick out wide on the right to slot itin from 20 yards.
Every player had played their part, especially debutant midfielders Kurtis Lilford and Oliver Fleming, and central defender Jack Marsh. George Farrelly finished top scorer for Warrington.
Delighted manager Justin Farrelly said: “It is very rewarding for the boys. Full credit goes to them. There were many team changes to our usual line up and yet they all looked as they had played together for a long time, with a great team spirit!”
Pictured: (left to right), back: Patrick Taylor, Jack Fox, Oliver Fleming, Kurtis Lilford, Jack Marsh, Matthew Butler. Front: Jordan Carroll, Lawrence Robinson (captain), George Farrelly, Dan Richards, Ben Sutcliffe.