Onslow St Audrey’s School Ladies Academy football team have become league winners in their first season after a perfect campaign.

The U18 side won all 10 games they played in the ECFA Cat Three League, amassing a superb goal difference of +43.

They also conceded just seven goals and had runs to the quarter-finals in two competitions.

The academy has only been running for four years but as they have always been just short of a full team, they were unable to take their place in the league.

However, there was no such concerns this season and football academy manager Gary Bailey acknowledged it had been a special one.

He said: “The girls have shown real determination and an amazing team spirit to ensure they had a successful campaign.

“At the start of the year if someone had said the girls would complete a full league campaign unbeaten I would not have though that it would be possible.

“But this is exactly what they achieved and all the credit goes to them.

“They have worked hard and never let their standards drop not only on the pitch both also in the classroom, pushing themselves all the time.

“At times they have trained with the Boys programme and I feel this gave them the edge in games. It made them more focused and ensured they pushed each other even when things became difficult.

“They have been an threat in every game they have played in and have been lead superbly by captain Lucy Sende. Each player has worked hard and focused on the team and played with freedom which is why I believe they have succeeded this season.”

Bailey says some of the girls will have plenty of opportunites elesewhere, including the USA.

But for those who remain they are looking to play at a higher level.

He added: “From the current crop of girls we’ve had eight players offered the opportunity to secure scholarships in the USA.

“We have also recently partnered our scheme with Luton Town Ladies who play in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) to create a future pathway for our girls.

“I am really looking forward to the new players that are joining us in September and it will be no doubt another exciting season for the OSA Ladies.”