After the disappointment of yesterday’s semi-final defeat, combined with a very early 6:30 a.m. start, the girls were understandably subdued this morning.

Their opponents in the third-place play-off were the very first team they had faced in this year’s tournament — a team they had already beaten once. Knowing that result was in their favour, the girls were aware they had every chance of ending the competition on a high.

Adding to the sense of occasion, the match was being played at the same venue where, a year earlier, last year’s team had secured victory in the third-place final. The memories of that success were still fresh.

Could history repeat itself? Could the girls lift themselves one final time after the heartbreak of the semi-final? And could they produce another performance worthy of bringing home the third-place trophy?

First Half:

Half Time: Bootham 0 – 0 Adriatica Futsal (Italy)

Second Half:

Full Time: Bootham 2 – 0 Adriatica Futsal (Italy)

Player of the Match:

Today, we are going to sing the praises of the three 12-year-olds in the squad — Maja, Emily and Rusne. Playing against girls three years older, bigger and stronger is no easy challenge, but all three were outstanding today. They showed real class in everything they did, competing with confidence, determination and composure well beyond their years. I’m not sure any of them missed a tackle all game.

Once again, they put their bodies on the line for the team, never taking a backward step and matching their older opponents every step of the way. Their courage, commitment and maturity were remarkable, and they played with a level of confidence that belied their tender years.

If they continue to develop at this rate, just imagine how good they will be in three years’ time. So proud of you, Maja, Emily and Rusne. You should be incredibly proud of yourselves too!

Coaches Comments:

I sit here alone in the hotel room, writing these final thoughts after yet another emotional and amazing week in Montesilvano.

On the downside, we currently have one of our girls in hospital after injuring her ankle, so fingers crossed everything is okay. On the plus side, the rest of the team, parents and coaches are sat by the beach and pool, having the time of their lives.

Once again, we came here with no expectations. We told the girls to enjoy it first, score a goal second, and, if possible, try to win a game. So, to win four out of five games, losing only to the eventual winners, scoring 13 goals and keeping two clean sheets, is both staggering and thoroughly deserved.

This year’s group couldn’t have been more different from last year’s. There was a much wider age range, less futsal experience, and far less familiarity with one another. But did it matter? It seems not. They have impressed me every single day, and the smiles on their faces after achieving an incredible third-place finish today will stay with me for a very long time.

Suzy and I have given nine long years of our lives to this club. From where we started to where we are today, with the academy, the ladies’ team and the ladies’ fun sessions, it has been quite a journey. It is hard—very hard at times—trying to promote a sport that hardly anyone in England knows about, let alone cares about. Then you come to Italy and see over 1,000 passionate players who absolutely love this game. It does make you wonder… can we move the club here?

I don’t like being in the spotlight. I just point and shout occasionally during matches. The hard work is always done by the players, both on and off the court. They are the heartbeat of our small but passionate club, and they are the future. Last year’s team still talks about their week in the sun, and I’m sure this group will do exactly the same.

Thank you to everyone involved: our sponsors, Portakabin and Walker Crips; the players, who continue to amaze us; the parents, what a fantastic group you are; the coaches, who help more than you will ever know; and, finally, Suzy, for allowing me to chase this crazy dream of building a futsal club.

Coach Chris