Millbrook Primary School have been crowned champions of the 2025 Sylvia Gore Schoolgirls League Cup, defeating a valiant Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Primary School 1-0 in the final held on Thursday 22 May at Halewood Leisure Centre.
The all-Kirkby clash brought a fitting end to a competition celebrating the legacy of Prescot-born footballing pioneer, Sylvia Gore.
Born in Prescot, Sylvia made history as a member of the first-ever England Women’s International Team, famously scoring the team’s inaugural goal in their first match against Scotland in 1972
Ten schools from across Knowsley – the top five teams from both the North and South Knowsley leagues – descended upon the hallowed turf, all vying for the prestigious trophy. After several rounds, including nail-biting quarter-finals and semi-finals, it was Millbrook and Saints Peter and Paul who emerged to contest the final.
This marks only the third year of the Sylvia Gore Schoolgirls League Cup, a competition established in 2022 as part of Knowsley’s year as Liverpool City Region Borough of Culture. Millbrook Primary now join an illustrious list of winners, succeeding St Andrew the Apostle from Halewood (2024 winners) and inaugural champions Plantation Primary (2023 winners).
A host of special guests attended the final including Sylvia’s cousins, Steve Gore and Jeanette Tree along with Sylvia’s former teammates and original England Lionesses, Sue Whyatt and Pat Davies. Prior to kick-off, Sue and Pat generously participated in an inspiring Q&A session with the young footballers, sharing insights from their groundbreaking careers.
Adding to the star power was former England International and respected commentator, Sue Smith. Having been coached by Sylvia in her youth, Sue went on to enjoy a distinguished playing career with clubs such as Doncaster Rovers Belles, Leeds United, Lincoln Ladies, and Tranmere Rovers. Sue had the honour of presenting the medals to both the victorious Millbrook squad and the commendable runners-up from Saints Peter and Paul.
A special ‘Most Promising Goalkeeper’ trophy, generously sponsored by former England Women’s goalkeeper Sue Whyatt, was also awarded. The prestigious accolade went to Olivia from St Joseph’s in Huyton, recognised for her outstanding performance on the day.
Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council, who welcomed the girls and wished them luck ahead of the tournament commented: “There has been some fantastic talent on display today and if Sylvia was here, I am sure she would have been really impressed. It’s great to see so many girls taking part and witness their enthusiasm and passion for the game – something I am certain would have made Sylvia very happy.
I am really pleased that we have once again been able to support this event and I very much look forward to another thrilling contest in 2026. Thanks to everyone involved and particularly to the girls who played not just today but in all the league games too.”
David Sweeney from the Knowsley Schools Sports Partnership praised the event’s success, saying: “The Sylvia Gore Schoolgirls League Cup continues to go from strength to strength. “
“The passion and talent on display from all ten schools was truly inspiring. This competition is not just about football; it’s about fostering teamwork, resilience, and celebrating the pioneering spirit of women’s football in Knowsley. We are incredibly proud of all the girls who took part.”
The 2025 Sylvia Gore Schoolgirls League Cup final will undoubtedly be remembered as a day of thrilling football and a heartfelt celebration of a local hero whose impact continues to resonate on and off the pitch.
