Fair play to the lads...

UPPERMILL FC under-16 girls celebrate after winning the Oldham Girls League Cup final 4-3 in a thriller against Heyside Angels. Lucy Hurst netted a hat-trick and Becki Hall scored once for Uppermill as they twice came from behind to cancel out goals by Rachel McHugh (2) and Lois Best.

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THE under-16s team from Athletic’s Kickz project proved that being good sports pays as they picked up the fair play award at the final of a national tournament at Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge.

They were also desperately unlucky not to qualify for the semi- finals having emerged from the group phase unbeaten.

Athletic, one of 10 regional winners, kicked off their group stage with a 2-1 win against Arsenal, Shitu Meah scoring both goals.

They were then involved in goalless draws against Charlton, Sunderland, Barnet and Manchester City to finish third with the top two teams qualifying for the semi-finals.

Barnet went on to win the event defeating Fulham in the final.

The Kickz programme engages young people aged between 12 and 18 years in activities in a bid to build safer, stronger and more respectful communities.

It is delivered in deprived areas with Athletic operating a scheme in Coldhurst where sessions are run three evenings each week and focus on issues like drug awareness, healthy eating, volunteering, career development and anti-weapons workshops.

Athletic’s Kickz co-ordinator James Mwale said: “It was a great achievement for the lads to initially qualify for the finals and to play at Stamford Bridge.

“The attitude of the lads was first class and it was a proud moment for all involved when they were presented with the fair-play award.

“Through the Kickz project we aim to positively influence young people’s attitudes and these guys are fine examples of what can be achieved.”