Stoke Hill boys in Wembley final

They are runners-up in cup

Meet the boys from Stoke Hill under-12s' football team, who have played on the hallowed turf.

These youngsters managed to get a match ahead of the League Two play-off final at Wembley.

They represented Exeter City, who, thankfully, didn't have to go into the play-offs for a change to get promotion into League One.

But the boys had a critical match, a cup final, no less.

They were playing in the Utilita Kids Cup Final against St George's Primary School who were representing Tranmere Rovers.

A happy day didn't necessarily end happily. Stoke Hill lost 4-nil and no doubt were fed platitudes such as the "it's not the winning" line well-meaning adults trot out and that most children recognise as patronising nonsense.

They enjoyed a fantastic day nonetheless.

The boys reached the final after regional heats and were supported by coaches from Exeter City Community Trust with training sessions over the season.

The Utilita Kids Cup is a national tournament for junior footballers, involving 16,000 children.

Stoke Hill progressed through two tournaments to win the right to play in the final, having first won the local Exeter tournament, before winning the Southern tournament. St George's route to the final was via three separate tournament wins. 

Callum Shipton, Exeter City Community Trust club community coach travelled with the team to Wembley, He said: "What a fantastic experience for players and staff from Stoke Hill representing Exeter City at Wembley for the Utilita Kids Cup Final.

"Despite the result not going our way on the day, the boys positivity and professional attitude was outstanding throughout.

"Having the privilege to see backstage at one of the biggest and best stadiums in world football is something that myself, the team, and all involved will never forget."

The Stoke Hill team is: Tom (c), Oliver (GK), Ben G, Ben K, Leo, Harley, Jack and Luca.