On Sunday afternoon Bootham Futsal Club U16s took on York Railway Institute U16s in the first round of the FA Pokemon Futsal Youth Cup. Both sides have previously won this tournament, so expectations were high for a tight game.

Bootham U16s were without a regular goalkeeper and huge thanks goes to captain Ava and Madison for taking turns in goal. The game was played over four ten minute periods.

Period 01

Bootham started very brightly and long range shots from Ava, Esmee and Charlie tested the York RI goalkeeper. Just before the end of the period York RI took the lead with a quick break away goal.

Period 02

Bootham again started strong with chances for Madison, Charlie and Hannah. York Ri always looked dangerous on the break and good defending from Eleanor and Emily-Sue kept them out. Towards the end of the period a mistake allowed an easy tap in for York RI’s second.

Period 03

The team rallied strongly and showed much more determination from the start of this period. Ellie, Freya and captain Eleanor were much more determined in their tackling and Bootham looked the better team for a while. Just as Bootham looked to be getting a foot hold in the game, two quick games from York RI finished the game off.

Period 04

The team went out looking for a consolation goal for all their hard work, and Charlie nearly grabbed one, forcing a smart save from the York RI keeper. The game was wrapped up with another goal for York Ri just before the end.

Final score: Bootham Girls’ Futsal Club U16s – 0 – York Railway Institute U16s – 5

Click here to see the pictures from the game

Player Of The Tournament For Bootham U16s was Eleanor W – in a very difficult game, she never once let her head drop, and battled right to the last whistle. She was talking and motivating throughout the game, a constant inspiration. Eleanor is 16 in a few weeks and we can’t wait for her to start playing for the ladies team – with this never say die attitude she will fit right in!

After the game Coach Chris said, ‘York RI are a very strong and good team, they had several fantastic players. I asked the players to show some heart and desire after going behind and they certainly did that. We only had one player who was a true U16, the rest were U15s, so I have to be happy with the way they played. In the end, the best team won, and good luck to York RI in the next round.’

He went on to say, ‘The U16s couldn’t make it 4 out 4 for our teams into the next round, but it has been a fantastic couple of weeks from all the age groups. We have seen over 150 girls from various club play futsal, some for the very first time. With the U10s, U12s and U14s all moving to the next round and the Ladies first national league game starting on Saturday, it is certainly exciting times for all involved. Huge thank you for everyones support – players, parents, family and supporters, the club is nothing without you all!’