Squads flying flag for Black Cats at Bridge finals
SCHOOLS FOOTBALL
PUPILS from St Bede’s Catholic Comprehensive in Peterlee and Easington Colliery Primary School are heading to Stamford Bridge to compete in a prestigious national football tournament.
Both teams overcame school squads from across the North East to book their places as Sunderland AFC’s representatives at the Premier League Schools Tournament National Finals on May 23.
Champions St Bedes, who won the under-13s competition at Everton’s Goodison Park last year, will hope to retain their crown after narrowly defeating St Wilfrids RC College at the Academy of Light.
Joining the girls at the home of European giants Chelsea will be Easington Colliery, who will compete in the under-11 mixed tournament following a big win over Tanfied School in the mixed regional decider.
Gemma Brown, PE teacher at St Bedes, said: “The girls did exceptionally well in the qualifiers and it is great for them to be going to Chelsea to defend their title.
“There was tough competition in the first round and against St Wilfrids in the final.
“The girls know what it is like at the Premier League Schools Tournament so they have valuabvle experience of the day.
“It will be difficult but they know it is within their grasp. They will go with and open mind and do their best.”
The Premier League Schools Tournament aims to increase participation in football for boys and girls and offers schools nationwide the chance to team up with their local Premier League club.
Each of the 20 Barclays Premier League outfits stage their own competition to select schools to represent them on finals day, thousands of players battling out for a place in the finals.