SILSDEN AFC Under-17s Feyenoord finished third in the Blackpool International Cup Tournament after taking on some of Europe's best sides.

Silsden met their first opposition, Leith Athletic of Scotland, on day one, disappointingly conceding their first game.

But the side's managers/coaches turned things around and Silsden dug in with fresh determination resulting in a 1-1 draw against Academy team ESA of Liverpool in their next game.

The referee disallowed a Silsden goal which would have given the boys a win against ESA, who later went on to win the tournament.

Day two of the tournament brought new confidence with a 5-1 win against Welsh Academy team Pontypridd Town.

They rounded off their fourth match with another convincing 5-0 victory over German Academy team SV Hagen.

A one-point difference allowed ESA to grab Silsden's place in the final and their last pairing against French team CS Dammartin added further points, putting the boys into third position overall.

Team and manager/coaches put in a sterling performance, bringing home medals and enjoying a competitive weekend of international academy football.

Upcoming fixtures include the Harrogate & District U17 Cup Final to be held at Harrogate Town AFC on Sunday, May 12, the Styan Cup U18 Semi-Final (date TBC) with two pending league games where they're already assured the overall runners-up slot. Silsden AFC U17 Feyenoord have had a great season.

Silsden had been dealt a major blow in then build-up to the Blackpool event when one of the Tetteroo Twins (Xavier - an important midfielder for the team) was seriously injured against Beckwithshaw during their previous league game.

He will be out for a number of weeks, but he plans to lead the team out in the cup final.