Sunderland youngsters crowned best school boys' team in country after dramatic victory
“What this group of young people and players have achieved is nothing short of incredible”
Monkwearmouth Academy Under 12 football team has officially been crowned the best school boys’ team in their age group in England after winning a thrilling penalty shoot-out at Stoke City’s Bet365 Stadium.
The Year 7 team were yesterday (May 18) presented with the Under 12 English Schools Football Association’s Elite National Cup Final trophy after a 7 - 6 penalty shoot out victory over Whitgift School from Croydon at the Championship ground.
It was a hard fought game which finished 0 - 0 after extra-time, leaving the outcome to be decided on penalties.
The boys from Monkwearmouth had already made history as the first team from the school to reach a national cup final and they have now gone a step further by lifting the trophy.
Following the game, the school’s director of football Jamie Chandler said: “This has been an incredible day filled with so much joy and emotion. I could not be prouder of the players, staff and families for the way they have represented the academy with such pride throughout this journey.
“It has been a truly special experience filled with unforgettable memories and moments that we will all cherish forever.”
To get to the final, the team has overcame strong opposition from across the country, including victories against St. Bede’s (Peterlee), St. Joseph’s (Hebburn), Huntington School (York), Malet Lambert (Hull), and Cardinal Heenan (Liverpool).
Being crowned national champions is the icing on the cake in a season of success for the talented team of youngsters.
Alongside reaching the national final, the team has lifted two county cups, remains unbeaten in the Sunderland Schools League with one game remaining, and has also secured a place in another league cup final.
Jamie added: “What this group of young people and players have achieved is nothing short of incredible and truly inspiring.
“The players have shown fantastic commitment, quality, and character in every competition they have entered.”
Jamie said the teams the boys beat to lift the trophy “have a long alumni of players who went on to become professionals”.