LFC win Premier League Schools Tournament
Liverpool Football Club were crowned winners at this year’s Premier League Schools Tournament at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester yesterday [Tuesday 20th May 2014]
The Club was represented in the final by Plantation Primary from Halewood, who won the opportunity to represent LFC at the tournament alongside Cowley International College, after beating off fierce competition from other local schools.
Plantation Primary took on Crystal Palace in the U11 mixed competition final and beat them by 2-0 to lift the replica Premier League trophy.
Cowley International College competed in the U13 division for girls but were beaten 2-1 after extra time in the semi-final by Everton.
The Premier League Schools Tournament is about increasing participation in football for boys and girls, and offers schools nationwide the chance to team up with their local Premier League club. Each of the 20 Premier League clubs stages their own regional competition to select a school to represent them in the finals.
Over 10,000 young footballers from more than 1,300 schools took part in this year's tournament, with the aim of reaching the Etihad.
Mark Haig, head of operations at Liverpool FC Foundation, said: "I am absolutely delighted for both schools who represented the Club so well yesterday at the Etihad.
"This tournament fits in with the Foundation's main aim, which is to provide a range of sport inspired programmes that help to inspire positive change for people of all ages.
"Our Football and Sports Development programme engages with more than 50 schools across the Liverpool city region providing high quality coaching to help youngsters develop their football skills, team work, dedication and confidence."
All students participating on the day received an authentic Premier League experience - wearing their Premier League club kit, using the Manchester City dressing rooms, and walking out of the tunnel to the Premier League anthem, and even having their matches refereed by Premier League match officials.
The Premier League Schools Tournament will feature on a special episode of BBC Match of the Day Kickabout will air this Saturday May 24 at 7:30am.