Football feast in Blackpool primary school finals

The day was split into two sections, which saw the boys take the early shift in the morning and the girls saving their energy until the afternoon.

The event was a culmination of knockout fixtures played over the last two months, which saw St Teresa’s, Christ The King, Hawes Side, St John Vianney, Stanley, Bispham Endowed, Roseacre and Moor Park contest the boys’ finals and Christ The King, Anchorsholme, Waterloo, Moor Park, Baines Endowed, Hawes Side, Unity and St Johns competing for the girls.

Referees from Lancashire FA took charge of the finals day fixtures and ensured that every game was played in a manner that adhered to the FA Respect Initiative.

Despite the day starting with a heavy downpour, the spectators’ stands were full of very proud families and friends throughout, which provided a great atmosphere for the competing children.

The final for the boys’ plate competition saw Hawes Side overcome St Teresa’s before Roseacre triumphed over Stanley to come out on top in the cup final. Both Hawes Side and Roseacre were worthy winners and thoroughly deserved their medals.

The early stages of the girls’ competition saw some fierce battles taking place before Anchorsholme, Waterloo, St Johns and Hawes Side progressed through to the semi-finals, which ultimately saw Anchorsholme go head to head with Hawes Side in the last game of the day.

The girls from Hawes Side came through a closely -fought game to win the final, which made for a great day all round for the South Shore school.

Dave Rohman, Blackpool School Games Organiser, said: “We have seen some fantastic games in the season and the finals day carried on in the same manner, with all of the players giving their all on the pitch.

“It was clear to see just how much today meant to the young players, and their passion and determination could not be questioned.

The teachers and school staff who have been working with the children should be very proud today as all of the hard work paid off and it was time to stand back and admire the sporting talent we have in our schools.

“Football in our schools would not be possible without Mr Corser from St Johns and Mr Ball from Bispham Endowed.

“We are so fortunate to have such passionate and dedicated people taking charge of the local level of our national game.

Football will be back in the New Year, ready to get the leagues underway.”