18/01/2026
Bristol Inner City Football Academy – Winter Cup National Finals Runners-Up (U11's)
Bristol Inner City Football Academy’s U11s delivered a spirited and highly impressive performance at the National Finals held at St George’s Park, narrowly missing out on the national title and finishing as runners-up after a gallant effort.
The boys showcased their quality throughout the day, with early nerves in the first half of the opening game proving costly and ultimately denying them the opportunity to lift the trophy. Despite this setback, the team responded with outstanding resilience and character, finishing the tournament in emphatic style with a dominant 7–1 victory in their final game a performance that truly highlighted their high tempo, intensity, and overall playing level.
Qualification for the National Finals was a major achievement in itself, secured by lifting the Regional Trophy 🏆 earlier in the season. That success ensured the team returned home with silverware and recognition for what has been an outstanding first half of the campaign. Importantly, the Academy would also like to acknowledge the players who featured in matches prior to the final squad selection.
Their contributions throughout the qualification stages played a vital role in helping the team reach the National Finals and should be rightly recognised as part of this achievement.
This accomplishment marks clear progress for the group. Last season, the Academy narrowly missed out on national qualification after falling short in two play-off attempts. Reaching the National Finals this year is a testament to the players’ development, commitment, and continued growth.
Also a huge thank you goes to Tom, the team’s manager, whose leadership, preparation, and belief in the players were instrumental in guiding the group to this stage. His work both on and off the pitch has played a key role in the team’s ongoing progress.
The Academy would also like to extend sincere thanks to the parents for their fantastic support, particularly in accommodating an overnight stay to ensure the players were fully prepared for the early start. Your commitment does not go unnoticed and remains a crucial part of the team’s journey.
Bristol Inner City Football Academy is extremely proud of this group of players. Finishing runners-up at a National Final is a remarkable achievement and one that sets strong foundations for the rest of the season.
