One of Shropshire’s national school finalists have received a glowing tribute after falling agonisingly short of a memorable success on a Premiership stage.

Bridgnorth Endowed School’s under-16 girls were beaten 3-2 by Kirkley High School from Sussex in yesterday’s English Schools FA RAF Cup – a penalty three minutes from time striking the decisive blow.

But coach Simon Tindall insisted the girls had every reason to be proud of their performance at the City of Manchester Stadium and their run to the final of the competition.

“There was obviously disappointment and a few tears from the girls at the end,” said coach Tindall.”But then they got their medals and I think they started to realise just what they had achieved.

“There were lots of other girls who started out in the competition who would love to have been where they were yesterday.

“It was a good performance and they contributed immensely to a very entertaining and competitive game.

“Some girls will move on to other colleges now for six form so the team will probably break up now.

“But playing in a national final on a ground like the City of Manchester Stadium isn’t a bad way to go out.”

It is the second time the team have lost out in a national final after they suffered defeat two years ago as under-14s.

l Report and more pictures – Page 46