Crewe Alexandra Under-12s have celebrated victory at Newcastle United’s inaugural Black and White Cup.
The talented youngsters locked horns with some top teams in nine-a-side games at the Magpies’ Little Benton Academy over the weekend.
They beat the likes of Newcastle, Stoke City and Motherwell before overcoming Polish side Lech Poznan in the final.
Youth Phase Coach Arlen Birch, who took the team, said: “The lads were excellent and deserved to emerge as winners.
“They are a great group and always willing to learn, and they applied themselves really well. They can be very proud of winning the tournament.
“It’s a great set-up at Newcastle and the event was very well organised. We were grateful to Newcastle for the invite and we’d love to go back next year.”
Crewe, who walked out to Blue Moon in the opening ceremony, actually lost their first game to Dutch side Vitesse Arnhem in the group stage.
But that was the last time they tasted defeat, as they also went up against Hearts and Carlisle United in the eight-team competition.
Also accompanied by Academy Analyst Ciaran Frost and Academy Physio Eve Elliott, they were cheered on by supportive parents as they progressed through the knockout stages on the second day.
And the youngsters held their nerve to edge Poznan 1-0 in the final. The trophy and medals were handed out by Newcastle United midfielder and academy graduate Elliot Anderson.
The Black and White Cup success has capped a successful spell for the Alex academy.
The U10s, U14s and U15s have won recent tournaments hosted by Aston Villa, Manchester United, and at St George’s Park respectively.
Academy Manager Aidan Callan said: "Our job is to develop players and bring them through to the first team where results are everything.
"That’s why that while our day-to-day focus is on teaching skills and techniques, it’s important the boys experience competitions and develop a winning mentality.
"Taking part in tournaments across all age groups is a key part of our strategy and I’m delighted to see the success we continue to achieve."
