A team of potential football stars got a taste of success when they beat 884 schools, and survived more rounds than the FA Cup to win a national trophy.

The under-14s team at Richard Challoner won the final of the ESFA Premier League 4-3, beating a specialist sports school based in Manchester to grab the title.

They lost in the final round of the competition two years ago, so the win was extra sweet and the fact they got to play at Manchester City FC’s stadium added to the excitement.

Former head of PE Franco D’Agostino said: “They were over the moon to win. They know the disappointment of losing, so it was great.”

The team, coached by current head of PE Sean Walsh, have several boys tipped for stardom.

Among them are Jeremie Boga and Jose Capita play at Chelsea, Andrew Mills is at Brentford and Ryan Sweeney is the captain at AFC Wimbledon.

Mr D’Agostino said: “It’s rare to get so many great players in one year group, but it’s happening more and more. They’ve all gelled really well.”