TAVISTOCK College's high-flying girls' soccer team last week clinched a dream fixture at Premiership club Southampton FC, when they sailed into the South West finals of the Coca Cola National Schools Cup.

The Year 8 team has had a stunning record throughout the competition — in seven games they have scored 37 goals and conceded just one, securing the county title and demolishing strong opposition to reach the regional finals.

Having defeated Dorcan Technology College from Swindon 2-0, the girls now get to go to St Mary's Stadium, use the team dressing rooms and run out of the tunnel to meet Sholing School, the Hampshire champions.

Hayley Bray, Tavistock College team manager, said: 'It is so great, I still can't believe we are through to the South West finals. The girls have been fantastic all season and congratulations to them. They have shown great team spirit and determination.'

Miss Bray said the semi-final against Dorcan was 'very tense'.

'Tavistock had several chances and finally Clarice Payne put away a superb cross by midfielder Tamsin Bryant.

'After half-time, Dorcan came back very strongly after a tactical change. With 15 minutes left, Clarice scored an excellent goal from outside the box to put Tavistock 2-0 ahead.'

Miss Bray said she was 'very proud' of the girls.

'Amy Campbell has done an excellent job leading her team — I would like to say a special thanks to all the supporters who were there to cheer the girls on.'

John Simes, Tavistock College principal, said: 'This is an exceptional team, with a fluent passing style, and a very commanding defence. Above all, they are a "team" in the best sense, always encouraging and working for each other. They also have a very dedicated fan base of students, staff and parents.'

Tavistock travel to Southampton in May. The national final is being played at Stamford Bridge, famous home of Chelsea Football Club.