European formula proves a winner for junior footballers
Around 100 junior footballers showcased their skills at a European flavoured tournament held at Wolves’ Compton Training Ground.
Youngsters from across Shropshire and the West Midlands – who were all aged seven or under – competed in a junior Champions League and junior Europea League competition.
The teams had been competing in the cup competitions alongside their respective leagues throughout the season with the semi-finals and finals then being staged.
Competing in the Europa League were Randlay Blue Colts, Wednesfield Warriors, Newlands Flyers and Old Wulfrunians East with Randlay Blue Colts running out eventual winners.
In the Champions League, Wrekin Tigers, FC Newlands, Four Oaks Rapids and Admaston Juniors locked horns, with Admaston sealing victory.
The event was watched by around 600 spectators at Compton and Liam Parsons, who is part of the West Midlands Junior Champions League committee as well as being manager of Admaston Juniors, admitted the day couldn’t have gone any better.
“The finals were played with a great spirit and enthusiasm and the levels of commitment and teamwork, not only from the players but the coaching teams and supporters, was just fantastic,” he said.
“The day was a fantastic spectacle of grassroots football. The players simply loved being involved. What’s really great is that we had teams from across the Midlands taking part. In league football, you play the same teams again and again.”
Luke Gray, who managed ‘Europa League’ winners Randley Blue Colts was also pleased with how the event went.
“The tournament was fantastic and the players really enjoyed playing against different teams,” he said. “They loved the finals.”
