VICTORIA Academy did Barrow AFC proud as they represented the club in the National League Cup North West finals at Southport.

Victoria won through a three-team qualifying event in Barrow, defeating St James and Yarlside Academy to progress.

In Southport, wearing Bluebirds kits provided by the club, they claimed one victory from matches against schools representing clubs from across the National League and National League North.

Sides from Southport, Chester, Tranmere Rovers, AFC Fylde, Wrexham, Macclesfield Town and Salford City were among those taking part.

It was a wet and windy day on the artificial pitch at St James for the Barrow qualifiers, where the three local schools battled it out on the first step towards a potential date at Wembley ahead of the National League play-off final.

Victoria Academy beat St James 1-0 in a close opener, with Yarlside also beating St James 1-0 in another tight game.

Victoria emerged as 3-0 victors over Yarlside in the final game to finish top of the group.

Organiser Liam Reid said: “I'd like to thank the three schools for taking part in an exciting afternoon.

“All three teams tried to play the right way and this is partly down to the excellent work that the teachers at the Barrow Primary Schools FA are doing in encouraging players to be confident at playing in any situation.

“Most of all, each team enjoyed the event and hopefully we can increase the participants next season.”