THURROCK Primary Schools District team became one of the top four districts in the country after reaching the semi-finals of the Premier League National 9-a-side finals.

The event, held at Manchester City's former training ground, Carrington Training Centre, brought together the 16 finalists from the regional competitions from across the country.

Thurrock, who were finalists at the regional round held at West Ham United in December, battled against sides from across the country to see who would be crowned the best district team.

In torrential rain, Thurrock reached the semi-finals before losing on penalties to eventual winners, Darlington. Although Thurrock remained unbeaten throughout the day and didn't concede a goal in normal game time.

Kevin Watts, co-manager said: “It was a fantastic experience to play some of the best district teams from across the country and it really showed what a great team Thurrock have been this year. To get to the semi-finalists was a great achievement and topped off a year which has been full of successes. The players were a credit to their schools and the borough of Thurrock.”

Team: Alfie Mackenzie, David Roberts, Bobby Root (Aveley), Freddie Hesketh (Belmont Castle), Archie Corner (Bulphan), Samuel Griek (Dilkes), Adam Pankhust (Graham James), Joseph Ogundipe-Cole (Harris), Harley Gray (Lansdowne), Cailan Johnston (Quarry Hill), Kaelan Casey (Shaw), Toniyi Kuku (St Thomas’).