Knowsley St Helens School Football under‑13s team has been crowned national champions after a nail-biting cup final against Medway District at Stoke City Stadium on Monday 4 May.
Knowsley St Helens started brightly and were rewarded in the second minute of the game, taking a 1–0 lead after an excellent freekick from Joey Llewellyn. Their opponents responded strongly bringing the score level at 1–1 shortly before half‑time.
The second half was tense and evenly contested, with both teams showing excellent organisation, determination and defensive discipline. Despite several promising chances, neither side could find a winning goal, and the full‑time whistle signalled a penalty shoot‑out.
Both teams deserve huge credit for an exceptional final, but it was Knowsley St Helens who held their nerve, winning the shoot‑out 4–1 on penalties to secure the National Cup and make their hometowns incredibly proud.
The trophy presentation made the moment even more special. Tony James, Chair of the English Schools’ Football Association, presented the cup alongside ‘Sir’ Bob Downing, Life President of Knowsley St Helens SFA. Bob’s dedication to schools’ football has created opportunities for generations of young people in Knowsley.
A truly unforgettable achievement for the boys, their families, their schools and for Knowsley and St Helens as a whole.
For Knowsley, this achievement carries particular significance as this is the first time a Knowsley Boys’ side has taken part in a national final since the famous Huyton Boys’ School team of 1971. That team, which went onto win the cup, included future Everton and England player Peter Reid and was managed by award-winning playwright and screen writer Alan Bleasdale.
From its roots in Kirkby during the 1960s to its present-day structure, Knowsley St Helens Schools’ Football Association has remained committed to creating opportunity, aspiration and pride for young people through football. Despite operating with a comparatively small player pool, its teams continue to compete successfully against much larger districts from across England and Wales.
Knowsley St Helens under 12s team were also in action on cup final day, just missing out on a trophy this time around. Well done to everyone who took part.
Tony James, Chair of the English Schools’ Football Association and Chair of the Knowsley St Helens Schools’ Football Association, said: “This is an outstanding achievement for a group of young players who have shown composure, resilience and real quality when it mattered most. Finals like this reflect far more than the result, they are built on commitment, preparation and belief over time. This success means a great deal – it is a real source of pride for the community and reflects the strength of schools’ football across the area.
“We are grateful to those who have supported the journey. Our thanks go to Next Energy for their outstanding support and sponsorship, to Liverpool Football Club for their continued commitment to Schools’ football and to Anthony Daly for his leadership and vision. A special mention should also go to the families of both the under 12s and under 13s who made the journey to Stoke to support the team. They created a fantastic atmosphere and supported the teams so well throughout.
“Seeing the boys lift the trophy and celebrate together will live long in the memory. It is a moment that reflects everything this association stands for.”