WHAT A SEASON........it all started off in the Summer League in Blackburn where the boys won every game they played. Next came Euxton Villas 6-a-side when we finished as undefeated winners. Christmas 5-a-side winners.

Finally in the most definitely the hardest of the 3 leagues, finished as Champions with an impressive 100% record. Beating second place and close local rivals Euxton Villa twice 7-1 and also Series A Champions BAC/EE 6-1 in the cup.  Not bad in their first season as Bamber Bridge.

Despite popular belief 6 of the boys have been with us from the start over 2years ago, with James and Charlie both joining two months after that. 

The football this season has been impressive to watch, most games referees or opposing managers would comment on how good the boys team play was.  The lads have been a pleasure to coach, each of them willing to learn and full of youthful enthusiasm to play.

Our only disappointment was missing out on the double when we lost 5-3 to Cadley in a fiercely contested semi-final.  Next season we will be looking to continually improve with many of the lads turning down opportunities to play for Preston North End and only James leaving to join Man Utd Academy.  The lads should be once again the strongest team around at this age and with their continued improvement would be looking to add to their trophy cabinets through playing stylish fluent football.

A big thank you goes out to the parents who have all helped out and supported throughout the season, with a special mention to Tracy Nolan who sorts out most clerical and financial aspect of running the team and Russ who does the team sheets.

Anthony – Goalkeeper. Arguably the best goalkeeper at his age. His saves have been as vital to the team as the goals we have scored in helping us keep our 100% record this season.  Amazing reactions and tremendous bravery along with his chirpy attitude has made him a popular team member with both parents and players.

Jake – Defender. Was last seasons Most Improved Player, strong in the tackle and with lightening pace. Growing in confidence on the ball this season has helped him stand out amongst other defenders in the league. His performances this year have merited him being picked up for Blackburn Rovers Shadow squad.

Ross – Defender. Ross is Mr Dependable, comfortable on the ball and fierce in the tackle always giving everything to win and help the team. Ross is perfect to coach always listening and wanting to learn ways in which he can improve his game. His partnership with Jake & Anthony has been the backbone of the teams success.

Elliott - Defence/Midfield. Joined us pre-season after playing for Lostock Hall last year.  Strong and skilful on the ball and is always looking to start an attack from defence.  Also chipped in with some spectacular long-range goals.  Looking for Elliott to really make his mark next season after some impressive performances towards the end of the year.

Sam O – Midfielder/Forward. Is naturally one of our most gifted players. Scorer of some vital goals this season, notably the winner against Brinscall. His skills on the ball are tremendous, bags of tricks with both feet. Towards the end of the season began to show battling qualities when tackling that hopefully can be taken into next season.

Isaac – Midfield.  Joined us at the end of pre-season after spells with Lostock Hall and BAC/EE. Great vision and sublime skills on the ball. Confident in his own ability. He always wants the ball and never shies away from a tackle.  Has been in the right place at the right time scoring many goals this season. Rewarded with a spot training at Blackburn Rovers next season.

James – Midfielder.  Scorer of some smashing goals from free kicks. James is mature above his age, and already sees that passing to a team mate in a better scoring position is more important than claiming glory himself.  Has deservedly been taken on at Manchester United Academy next season. We all wish him the very best of luck in this new journey of his foot balling life.

Sam M – Midfielder. Joined at the same time as Elliott from Lostock Hall. His battling midfield displays have impressed all the lads in his team.  Training weekly with Sam has been a massive factor in how physically strong our lads have become this season. Tenacious in the tackle and cool on the ball. A valued team member who will be sharing the captaincy with Charlie next season.

Callum – Midfield/forward. His awareness and tricks have been the reason for many goals this season. Starting quick attacks and often being on the end to finish them as well.  Callum has parted company with us for next season and I wish to thank Callum for his efforts over the past two seasons. His presence in the team has been truly valued; all the best for next season.

Charlie – Midfield. Is the youngest member of our team only a week out of playing for the under 7’s. Has everything you could ask for; heads superbly, works tirelessly, dazzling skills and this season has brought it all together to produce match winning performances for the team and not just himself.  Very vocal on the pitch and leads by example in training and matches. Will be sharing the captaincy with Sam next season.

Nathan – Forward. Nat is the clubs Top Goal Scorer, scoring an impressive 46 goals in 16 games; of which in only 4 has he played the full 40 minutes. His natural athleticism and pace have made it impossible for defenders to cope. His finishing is the best I have seen at any age. At this age hitting it hard and high is how most forwards score. Nathan will round the keeper, place an open the ball into corner or when needed let off a screamer. Training with Blackburn’s Shadow squad.

It has been a pleasure this season working with the boys. Their entire attitude towards football and life is more pleasing for me than winning any game of football.  So many times this season I have come away from a game or training proud with the way they have reacted to a situation.  Losing in the semi final was gutting for the lads and myself but their attitude shown when losing their first competitive game in over 50 games was exemplary. At the full-time whistle, James proudly led the team to give congratulations to the deserved winners. There was no place for fighting, arguing or tears, something I have not seen in junior football ever. The boys had grown in maturity that day, on and off the pitch.  The day was summed up by our own little philosopher, Anthony, who proclaimed, ‘its orite, even the best teams lose.’