Durham duo enjoy going back in class

GIRLS FOOTBALL

CONSETT pupils were given a day to remember as they grilled two professional footballers ahead of a crunch cup clash.

Annabel Johnson and Becky Salicki are part of the Durham side set hosting FA Women’s Super League One outfit Everton in the SSE Women’s FA Cup tomorrow - the winners claiming a place in the last four.

Students at Consett Academy lined up for photos with the players and the cup itself, which was in Durham as part of SSE’s commitment to expanding women’s football to the masses.

Johnson and Salicki enjoyed a lively discussion with year seven and eight pupils about the challenges they faced trying to make it in football, as well as sharing some of their most cherished memories on the field.

Johnson said: “We had brilliant question and answer sessions with the girls – they showed loads of enthusiasm.

“I was really impressed by the whole day and the interest shown – it seems the questions came with intent and the kids really meant them.”

Philip Dodd, PE teacher and head of Year 10 at the Academy, said: “It made me very proud to see the girls engage in such a manner – it was fantastic to see.

“The youngsters are very keen on football and it was good to see the players have an impact on those who might want a career in the game.”