Reds host PL schools regional final

Competitors from across Merseyside took part in the U11s competition, which was held at the Academy in Kirkby.

Reigning Premier League Schools Tournament champions, Plantation Primary from Halewood, won the regional round once again and will now represent Liverpool FC at the national final at White Hart Lane in May.

Two Academy stars, Jordan Rossiter and Marc Pelosi, were on hand to present the trophy and runners-up medals to Bidston Avenue alongside the club's mascot, Mighty Red.

Plantation Primary will join Cowley International College, who won the girls' U13s regional final earlier this month after beating off fierce competition from other local schools.

[SLIDESHOW]

Westvale Primary School from Kirkby also won the Premier League Schools Tournament shield after a close-fought final, which was decided by penalties.

After the tournament each school received a Liverpool FC Foundation goodie bag for taking part and showing great sportsmanship.

The Premier League Schools Tournament is all about increasing participation in football for boys and girls, and offers schools nationwide the chance to team up with their local Premier League club.

Every year, each of the 20 Premier League clubs stages their own regional competition to select a school to represent them in the finals. 

More than 10,000 young footballers from more than 1,300 schools took part in last year's tournament.

Andrea Cooper, Head of Liverpool FC Foundation, said: "I am absolutely delighted for both schools who have achieved this fantastic opportunity to represent Liverpool FC at the national finals in May.

"This is a great competition that fits the Foundation's main aim, which is to inspire people from all walks of life to make positive change happen for themselves and their communities.

"I wish them luck in the tournament and LFC Foundation will be cheering them on."