A Hereford school's football team finished runners-up in an English Schools FA competition that involved more than 2,000 teams when it kicked-off in September.

Aylestone School's boys swept into the final of the Coca-Cola Under-13 National Schools Cup at Liverpool's Anfield headquarters, where they eventually lost 5-1 to Essex-based Sanders Draper.

The Essex school side included two players from the West Ham Academy and they produced an outstanding second-half display in Sunday's final, denying Aylestone time, space and possession.

Stephen Smith slotted in an equaliser for Aylestone just before half-time after the London side had taken the lead in the 10th minute.

But two goals in quick succession at the start of the second period put Sanders Draper firmly in control, although they were flattered by the final scoreline.

Aylestone team manager Kingsley Morris said: "Obviously we wanted to win the competition but we have had an amazing journey. The boys will remember this for the rest of their lives."

Coach Richard Bates commented: "We could have few complaints in the end because Sanders Draper bossed us in midfield and were first to the ball. Ultimately, we were second best in the final."

Aylestone captured the County, West Midlands and Midlands titles and also played at Villa Park in their national adventure.

Although they missed out on the overall title, the weekend in Merseyside was a dream come true for the Aylestone side.

Arriving at Liverpool's Academy of Excellence on Saturday, they faced the Northern champions Houghton Kepier in the national semi-final and won 4-2.

Despite Houghton's early dominance, Ashley Preece put Aylestone ahead on six minutes after outstanding work by Tom Cartwright.

But Houghton produced a strong physical approach and, with some excellent skills from two Leeds United Academy players, scored two quick goals to take a deserved 2-1 interval advantage.

Aylestone goalkeeper Daniel Hill pulled off a crucial save after the break to keep the Hereford side in the match and they swiftly drew level through James Upcott.

Darren Andrews then put Aylestone ahead from close range in the dying minutes before Preece bagged a fourth to confirm their place in the final.