FERNDALE had a ball in the Stourport and District Youth League's first U-12 girls competition.

While Ferndale Youth won the seven-a-side league and reached the semi-finals of the cup, the club's Flyers were third and lost in the final on penalties.

Their success has brought great rewards, especially for three girls who have joined big clubs.

Frankie Hocking and Sarah Lojko are at Coventry City's centre of excellence, while Kirsty Hughes is with Arsenal.

They all impressed in the new girls league which also involved teams from Worcester University, Dudley, Mostyn Red Devils, Meadow Park and Coreley (Clee Hill).

It will become an U-13s 11-a-side league next season when Youth and Flyers, managed by Dave Nevey and Dave Preece, will merge.

Nevey admitted: "I can see us passing a lot of girls onto professional clubs which is fantastic for them.

"We've had the emphasis on team development during the season and they've all done so well."

As a result of their teamwork, all the players were handed a medal at their presentation awards, courtesy of Kidderminster Harriers star Adie Smith.

Four of the girls made up a league representative side which drew 4-4 with Aston Villa at Kidderminster's Chainwire.

They look forward to further games with Wolverhampton and Arsenal.

The Flyers squad included Charlotte Turner, Kirsty Shepherd, Micheala Preece, Sophie Creeche, Hughes, Robyn Corfield, Kerry Jordan, Jodie Chilman, Kim Heeley and Kirsty Roberts.

Ferndale, whose website is at www.eteamz.com/ferndale, are looking for sponsorship and new players.

Anyone interested can call Nevey on 07929 367915.