Ferndale U-14s so nearly did the business in the National Young Women's five-a-side football finals in Kettering on Saturday.

Representing Spennells Youth Club and the Midlands, their two teams had finished first and second at the regional stage.

The first team of captain Rachel Baldwin, Emily Bell, Becky Meredith, Nicki Palmer, Sam Rogers and Alison Thorpe, won four of their five matches to qualify for the semi-finals.

They were beaten in extra-time by a team from the south west.

Skipper Vicky Roberts, Jenni Beasley, Toni Hipkins, Liz Meade, Karla Jenkins and Stacey Whittall made up the second team.

The players battled well but missed out on the semis by finishing third in their group.

Ferndale train once a week and play in the Warwickshire League.

Any girls between 12 and 15 can call Denise Thorpe on 01562 637419 or Steve Meredith on 01562 741606 to join the team.