Hawsker School’s A team were representing the Dutch in Thursday afternoon’s competition at the Whitby and Esk Valley Astroturf site at Caedmon.

They saw off a spirited challenge from Russia (Ruswarp School) in a close final after Ruswarp won through following a dramatic penalty shoot-out win over Germany (Lealholm).

There was nothing to separate the two after six keenly-contested minutes and so the game went to penalties.

After three spot-kicks each, the sides were still level at 2-2 but Ruswarp held their nerve to land the decisive kick to make it a Russia v Holland final.

England had been given a chance in this Whitby Gazette tournament, replacing Croatia as one of the eight teams involved – but the Three Lions’ Euro 2008 adventure ended at the semi-final stage as West Cliff B were beaten 4-0 by the impressive Hawsker A.

In the final, a decision was made to extend the playing time to eight minutes – and that could only benefit Ruswarp after Hawsker forced their way into a 2-0 lead.

Ruswarp pulled one back to set up a rousing finale but the referee’s whistle sounded to declare Hawsker A champions.

Gazette sports editor Duncan Atkins presented Hawsker with their trophy, medals and football, with Ruswarp also claiming medals and a ball for their efforts, all courtesy of Pykes Sports.

Mr Atkins said: “I have to say I was impressed not only with the standard of football on display but the tactical and positional knowledge these youngsters seem to acquire.

“Everyone seemed to enjoy it and all were a credit to their schools.”

l See our special eight-page pull-out between pages 15 and 22 for full pictures and results from the tournament.