After last week’s U16s trip to Liverpool, it was the turn of the U10s, who made the long journey south to Derby University to take part in the England Futsal U10 Festival.

This was not a tournament with winners or losers, but a celebration of the game, a day for teams to play against a variety of opponents, try new things, and most importantly, enjoy playing without fear.

Bootham were proudly represented by:
Sabine R (GK), Ania G, Isabella S, Mia T, Lotti H, Beatrix P, Iris W, Betty H, and Eva D

A huge thank you goes to Sabine for stepping in to help and doing a fantastic job as goalkeeper.

The games were played over 20-minute with a constant clock, and every player getting equal playing time. It was a brilliant day of learning, growing, and having fun through futsal.

Their opponents where:

Shifnal Girls Football Club	Inspired Futsal	SMC Futsal

Game 01 – Bootham vs Shifnal Girls Football Club

The girls started brightly and played some excellent, simple futsal. If not for an incredible double save by the Shifnal goalkeeper from Isabella’s efforts, the girls would have come away with a well-deserved win!

Full Time – Bootham 0 – 0 Shifnal Girls Football Club

Game 02 – Bootham Vs Inspired Futsal

The girls once again started well but struggled to create any clear-cut chances and were caught on the break by a very well-organised opposition. The score could have been much higher if not for some outstanding goalkeeping from Sabine.

Full Time – Bootham 0 – 4 Inspired Futsal

Game 03 – Bootham Vs St Marys College

In their final match, Bootham finally got the goals their play had deserved across the earlier games. Beatrix opened the scoring with a powerful strike from outside the D, followed by Lotti finishing off a well-worked move. Late on, Isabella was unlucky to hit the post, but despite their efforts, it just wasn’t their day as they narrowly lost by a single goal.

Full Time – Bootham 2 – 3 St Marys College

Player of the Tournament as chosen by Coach Chris & Coach Tyler was Lotti H – She stood out for her excellent futsal technique throughout the day. She was a natural leader on the court, constantly organising and supporting her teammates. A top job from a very talented young player – well deserved!

After the games, Coach Chris said: ‘I was so pleased with the way all the girls played today, and best of all, they did it with huge smiles on their faces! We played some great futsal at times, but our lack of game experience showed here and there. That said, the girls are all still very new on their futsal journey, and this was a fantastic start against some strong opposition. Two very happy coaches!‘