Highworth U8s win major seven-a-side at Bognor Regis (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Highworth U8s win major seven-a-side at Bognor Regis

A LOCAL boys' football team, formed less than 18 months ago, has scooped a major honour in winning the Butlins seven-a-side soccer tournament at Bognor Regis.

After entering a non-competitive league for season 2004-5, Highworth Town U8s finished top under manager Carl Brooks after winning 18 games and losing only two.

The team were then entered into the competition at Bogis Regis where, having to take on big clubs from Kent, West Midlands, Essex, Middlesex, London, Reading and Oxford, expectations weren't too high.

But the Swindon lads took up the challenge and, remaining undefeated in eight games, duly reached the final.

They did come close to a first defeat in the group matches when trailing 2-0 against local team Bognor Regis.

However, with a brilliant display of courage and determination, Swindon came back to win 4-2.

The final itself, against Kent-based Parkwood Rangers, was naturally very competitive and looked to be heading for extra time and a possible penalty shoot-out.

Nonetheless, with a fine team effort, a solid goalkeeping display by Marcus Smith and a superb goal via a free kick from Harry Chevis one minute from time, Highworth finished the as champions.

Demonstrating just how well the team had played in this competition, held over the weekend of April 29-May 2, Highworth U8s are the first team from the Swindon area to have ever won this tournament.