Manager Dave Sabri has backed Blacon High School to go one better next season after a narrow defeat in the ESFA PlayStation Small Schools Cup final.

Opponents Ibstock Place took an early two goal lead at the Madejski Stadium in Reading as nerves got the better of the Chester school.

But the boys from Blacon showed bags of courage to battle back and draw level, only for the Londoners to snatch a 3-2 win.

Midfielder Calyn Barlow bagged both goals for Blacon and Sabri, who manages the team with Gary Stroyd, said he could not be prouder of his players.

He said: “We conceded twice in the opening 10 minutes and we didn’t really settle because it was such a big occasion.

“But we have been in similar positions before and showed incredible resilience and a brilliant attitude once again.

“I felt we were the better team for the majority of the game but the winning goal was a worldie and worthy of winning any cup final.

“We are gutted of course but we congratulate Ibstock Place on their win.”

School leaders arranged for the team to travel down the day before  for an overnight stay and kitted out the players in new polo shirts and tracksuits.

Pupils, teachers and parents travelled in numbers to support the team in the final.

Sabri said: “The whole experience has been amazing and it has motivated us to go one step further next year.

“I would like to thank the ESFA, PlayStation, Reading FC and Blacon High School, the parents and Blacon Youth FC for making it a wonderful occasion for the whole Blacon community.”

Headteacher Sue Yates said she was delighted at what the team had achieved.

She said: “The team represent the high level of ambition, hard work  and achievement across the school.

“Mr Sabri and Mr Stroyd lead this group with a consistent focus on excellent relationships and team spirit, exemplifying the whole school.

“It was a very proud personal moment for me when I looked out of the directors’ box with David Peachey, our chair of governors, and saw the sea of positive  supporters, students and teachers from this school and our boys and the managers on the pitch.

“It is a moment that I will remember for ever."