IT has been an incredible journey for Crediton Youth Under 14’s Girls footballers who ended the season as league winners.

Sean Hartrey, from the club, explained: “At the start of the season the Girls had an under 14’s squad of about six players training, which during the season grew up to 17 players.

“We entered into the North Devon League with mixed early season results but the squad soon started to gel and then the results started to come good.

“When we got down to the business end of league season we were really showing some form.”

He added: “Our first success was a North Devon finals day plate winners where we took on Fremington and after a close first half we dominated the match and went on to win 8-3 and claim our plate.

“Then the serious matter of the league title was up for grabs and after a few wins we had made it to the final against Barnstaple who had remained undefeated throughout the season.

“Fortunately we were drawn at home for the League final play off and had 13 players available. We started slowly and slipped a goal behind very early on but rather than letting our heads drop the girls hung in there and made it to half-time only one down.

“After half-time the game swung our way very quickly with two very quick goals which completely transformed the match.

“Barnstaple had to start chasing the game and as the half wore on we got our third. The game should have been safe but Barnstaple pulled another back and at 3-2 all the parents and supporters started biting their nails, but with a few minutes to go we sealed the league victory by 4-2.

“An incredible win had been achieved, with the presentation night to follow which we all attended going via mini bus to Isaac Hall at Braunton College where the girls were presented with their League winners shield and a trophy each, after which we all enjoyed a meal.

“This capped a great season for our Girls section at Crediton Youth with our Under 12’s side finishing fourth in Devon Girls league after only losing to three sides and also collecting a plate in North Devon.

“Our under 10’s also played a full season of friendlies with great success and showing good potential for the future.”

Sean said Crediton Girls is always looking for more players so if any girls fancy giving it a try then they can check out the website: creditonyouthfc.co.uk and select girls section.

He added that Yeovil Ladies will be running girls training holiday clubs in the summer holidays on Thursday’s (the only club in Devon to have this honour) so advises that those who wish to attend click on the link on the website to register.

He ended: “This is your chance to train with Women’s Soccer League One players!”

Alan Quick