National finals beckon for Perse Prep football team

The Perse Prep boys’ U11 football team have reached the Independent Schools FA (ISFA) national finals after being crowned regional champions.

It is the second year in a row the side have qualified for the ISFA finals, which take place at Burton’s St George’s Park, the training centre of England’s football squads, next May.

To add to their achievement, they won the East qualifying tournament, held at Porson Road, without conceding a goal.

The Prep team got off to a fine start with back-to-back 2-0 victories against Broughton Manor Prep School and Heath Mount School.

They were held to a goalless draw by Finborough School, but went on to top their group by beating Kimbolton School 1-0.

In the semi-finals, the boys edged out Langley 1-0 before taking the title with a 2-0 triumph over Finborough in the final.

Prep Director of Sport Dan Nicholes, who led the team with sport teaching assistant Jacob Butler, said: “We were thrilled with the performances from all of the boys involved.

“It was an outstanding achievement to not only win the tournament, but to do it without conceding a single goal is testament to their dedication, tenacity and willingness to fight until the bitter end.

“The team can look forward to the Nationals at the home of England Football, which will be a chance to create some special memories indeed.”