Blackpool FC Community Trust column: Westcliff's Wembley dream remains after EFL Utilita Kids Cup success

The event, which took place on the 4G facilities at Stanley Park, was attended by approximately 160 pupils from 18 teams representing primary schools across the Fylde coast.

It is an open invitation event for all primary schools in the Blackpool area, seeing them participate against each other in a seven-a-side football tournament.

The winners go on to represent their school and Blackpool FC in the regional finals, with a chance to win the opportunity to play at Wembley Stadium during the League One play-off final.

The day consisted of four groups, with the standard of play proving to be fantastic as every team displayed teamwork, determination and incredible sportsmanship.

After a thrilling morning of group stage action, the top two teams from each group advanced to the quarter-finals where the tension began to build.

After four tense quarter-finals, we progressed to the semi-finals where Norbreck Academy played Armfield Academy in a well-contested match.

That ended with Norbreck progressing through again to the final for a match against Westcliff Academy.

They booked their place in the final after another great game saw them defeat St Nicholas Primary in the final four.

The final was a close encounter, with some great moments of attacking and defending from both teams showing why both deserved to be in the final.

Plenty of quality was on show as Norbreck controlled good spells of possession, but it was Westcliff who broke the deadlock with a great long-range effort.

This proved to be the only goal of the game as Westcliff went on to win 1-0.

They will now proudly go on to represent their school and Blackpool FC at next year’s regional finals – and maybe even step onto the famous Wembley turf.

A huge well done goes to the Westcliff and Norbreck players for their fantastic performances throughout the day – and thank you to all the teams involved for contributing to another great competition.