Hartshill Strollers Women celebrate victory in Birmingham County FA League Festival of Football Tournament

CHAMPIONS!

On Sunday 3rd March, Hartshill women were the pride of the Midlands after a stunning cup final victory. Captained by Jayne Cook, they beat red hot favourites Braunton to lift the Jay Adams Cup in the Birmingham County Walking Football League's Festival of Football in Solihull.

The competition showcased 10 clubs which either played in the just-finished inaugural women's league together with newcomers who will take part in the next league. The top 10 are the cream of the crop in women's walking football from as far afield as North Devon, Leicester and Milton Keynes. Hartshill's finest cruised through the group phase of the festival - winning 2 games & drawing 3 - in a rat-a-tat format of gruelling 15-minute games. They romped through the semi-finals 2-0 to face formidable Braunton. The North Devon club were runaway winners of the league (Hartshill finished 3rd) and were strongly tipped to lift today's cup. But a steely Hartshill squad held them to a 0-0 draw in normal time and confidently won the penalty shootout.

Jay Adams - on crutches & in a wheelchair after breaking her ankle while on England duty - looked on as her pride & joy lifted the trophy named for her. Manager Michael Walker picked up his first silverware with the squad. It's unlikely to be the last on this amazing performance. League chairman & Hartshill stalwart Reg Walker presented the trophies. The tournament organisation & refereeing were top notch. A significant milestone in the clubs history.

Michael said "6 games played, no defeats, 1 goal conceded from open play, and a trophy to bring back home. A great day from a fabulous set of women!"

The festival hosted a league presentation with Laura Teale taking home this seasons "player of the league" for Hartshill, voted by her team mates. Laura's confidence and ability has improved no end with her becoming a valuable asset to Harthill's defence.