The group of boys from Jersey took the Danone Nations Cup, which is organised by the English Schools’ Football Association, yesterday afternoon after winning the final in a nail-biting penalty shoot-out at Premier League winners Leicester City’s King Power Stadium.
St Clements played three group matches, winning two and drawing one, before also wining their semi-final.
But in the final, it was still nil-nil after extra time, which meant the Cup had to be decided on penalties.
After goalkeeper Samuel McLoughlin saved a penalty, it was up to Joel McKinlay to slot home the winner, and bring the trophy back to Jersey for the first time.
Their coach was Deputy Headteacher, Richard Heaven, who said:
“It was a fantastic atmosphere at the sKP stadium, and great for the boys to play there so soon after Leicester had lifted the Premier League trophy on the same ground. It was such an adventure for the children, and perfect to finish it off in such style. We played schools with over 400 children, and beat them even though St Clements only has 180. I’m so pleased with everyone, they have done themselves, their school and their Island proud.”
Group Games:
Britannia Primary – Draw – 2 -2 (Ben Shirley and Luke Harris)
St Benedict’s Primary – Won – 3-0 (Luke Harris, Ben Shirley, Harvey Clifford)
St Teresa’s Catholic Primary – Won – 2-1 (Luke Harris, Ben Shirley)
Semi-Final
Cross Hall Junior School – Won – 2-1 (Luke Harris, Ben Shirley)
Final
St Teresa’s Catholic Primary – Won – 4-2 on penalties (0-0 AET) (Luke Harris, Ben Shirely, Luca Macaione, Joel McKinlay)
Team:
Luke Harris
Samuel McLoughlin
Luca Macaione
Joel McKinlay
Ben Shirley
Barry Beatson
Olly Walker
Harvey Clifford
TJ Woodley
Cameron Neilson