Move over, Beckham!
YOU didn't have to travel to Europe this week to see some fantastic football as the annual Wakefield District Schools Soccer Tournament kicked off.
Despite England's failure to qualify for this year's major adult tournament, juniors from across the Wakefield district matched up against each other at Thornes Park on Tuesday evening.
After the first whistle blew, a fever pitch atmosphere descended. The hard-fought games were spread across 13 pitches and involved more than 50 school teams.
The future of football in the district looks bright as hundreds of supporters turned out to cheer on their teams, which were made up of boys and girls aged between 10 and 11.
Group match highlights included a stunning last-game win for Park Juniors, of Castleford, against Standbridge, who came out winners 7-0 after needing to win by five.
The tension reached breaking point in the semi-finals where Stanley St Peters faced Cobblers Lane from Pontefract. After some free-flowing football, the game went to penalties. And after some great strikes and saves, Cobblers Lane came out winners.
The other semi-final saw Pontefract Larks Hill against Altofts Juniors and that game also went to spot-kicks after it ended 0-0. Following some great penalties, Larkshill made it through to the final.
Some of the tournament's best football was on display in the final game, with the trophy awaiting the triumphant team. And despite a valiant second half comeback by Larks Hill, it was Cobblers Lane who lifted the cup with a 2-1 victory.
Cobblers Lane captain Andy Higgins, 11, said: "I thought we had a good chance to do well and when we won, it was just an amazing moment. The whole team played brilliantly and it helped that we are all mates."
His coach and teacher John Boddy said: "I am dumb-struck, totally lost for words. It's taken 10 years to get here and win."
Mayor of Wakefield, Coun Jacqui Williams paid tribute to the high standard of football and sportsmanship on display.
She said: "The football was wonderful and I've seen some great games. There's been quite a few great goals and I'm sure we have been watching the next group of David Beckhams from right here in Wakefield."
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Weather for Wakefield
Saturday 04 February 2012
Today
Heavy snow
Temperature: -1 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: South
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Cloudy
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