Thomlinson Junior School, representing Carlisle United Community Sports Trust, won the Premier League Primary Stars National Girls Football Tournament Regional Qualifier on Friday afternoon.
Carlisle were represented by Thomlinson Junior School at the regional qualifier of the Premier League Primary Stars National Girls Tournament on Friday at the Beacon of Light in Sunderland.
Friday afternoon's tournament was one of ten regional tournaments held at community facilities across the country, with primary schools representing Newcastle United, Sunderland AFC, Middlesbrough FC and Hartlepool United also in attendance.
Thomlinson remained unbeaten throughout the group stage, beating Newcastle United, Sunderland AFC and Hartlepool United, while also picking up a point against Middlesbrough.
United remained the only team throughout the group stage to not concede a goal and secured a place in the final as the first-placed team alongside second-placed Hartlepool United, represented by Bewley Primary School.
Thomlinson managed to maintain their record of not conceding in the final, as they ran out 1-0 winners and secured both themselves and the Cumbrians a place in the National Finals later this year.
The Premier League Primary Stars National Girls Tournament is a part of the Premier League Primary Stars programme. The programme uses the positive power of professional football clubs to inspire children to be active, look after their wellbeing and develop important life skills.
Altrincham FC, represented by Willow Primary School, are the current holders of the tournament after winning last year's instalment at Molineux Stadium.
Premier League Foundation Chief Executive, Alex White said: “The Premier League Primary Stars National Girls Football Tournament is a fantastic opportunity for young players to experience the joy and excitement of the game.
“These regional events unite girls from all walks of life, giving them the unique privilege of representing their club and creating memories that will last a lifetime as part of the Premier League’s commitment to supporting the wider game."
Harry Powell, PE Lead at Thomlinson Junior School said: "We had a great day at the Beacon of Light at the Premier League Primary Stars Event.
"We knew from the start of the tournament that if we played to our potential then we had a chance of being successful. That was clear from the first game, as we beat Newcastle United 3-0 and we never looked back after that result really.
"The rest of the group stage allowed us to play some good football and we managed to go unbeaten. It was then a tough final against Hartlepool, but credit to our girls, who were all absolutely amazing and managed to secure the victory.
"It was a whole team effort, whether that be the attackers scoring the goals or the defenders and the goalkeeper, who didn't concede a goal across all five games.
"It was such a great experience for the team being able to represent Carlisle United and we are all really excited for the nationals later on in the year, for hopefully more success."
