A team from Laisterdyke Leadership Academy triumphed in a national girls’ football competition that brought together nine schools run by their academy sponsor, Tauheedul Education Trust.

Year 7 and 8 pupils from the Thornbury Road school travelled to Manchester City’s City Football Academy for the competition, which took place just ahead of the FA’s Girls’ Football Week.

After battling it out on the pitch against eight other schools in a league-style competition, the girls from Laisterdyke took on Blackpool’s Highfield Leadership Academy in the final.

Both teams played well in a tense game that went to extra time, with Laisterdyke’s forward Tenan Baldeh scoring her 31st goal of the day to secure her team a 2-1 victory.

Former Everton and England goalkeeper Rachel Brown-Finnis presented all pupils with their certificates of participation, with medals and a glass trophy for Laisterdyke.

Brown-Finnis also shared words of encouragement and inspiration with the young players after the event last month, highlighting to the female pupils the variety of careers available to them through football.

Laisterdyke’s team captain Kirah Scott of Year 8 said: “It was a brilliant day. We all enjoyed playing against other Tauheedul schools and making new friends. Obviously winning was the best bit!”

Tara Walker, PE teacher at Laisterdyke Leadership Academy, added: “The tournament was a fantastic opportunity for the pupils to demonstrate their skills; they went from strength to strength throughout the day.

"Winning was a massive confidence boost. Hopefully this experience will give the girls the stepping stone into playing football for a local club.”

Brown-Finnis commented: “What a brilliant event! It was great to see so many smiling faces and there was just the right balance between the girls enjoying themselves and being competitive.

“The Trust did an amazing job of bringing together girls from their schools across the country. I found it very inspirational to see so many girls from different backgrounds playing together – for me that was very positive to see.

"Whatever background these young people are from, it’s important to give them the opportunity. Football is for everyone, after all.”