WHILE most people were gorging on Easter eggs, Alloa Wasps U13s were heading down to the Blackpool Cup to take part in the a highly-regarded tournament.

Fundraising had been enough to secure the team’s accommodation; however, the travel costs proved substantial and couldn’t be covered.

And so instead, a large convoy of parents' cars ferried the kids down to England for the event.

The format of the competition was an initial group stage with the top teams going on to compete for the cup with the remainder competing for the trophy.

The young Wasps were drawn in a group with teams from Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and a fellow Scottish team.

Up first was a tense 0-0 draw against Lisburn, with the best of the chances falling to the Wasps.

The next game was against Firhouse Carmel, from Dublin, who played well as team and beat a disappointing Wasp team 3-1.

And the final group match saw a 1-0 win against Port Glasgow – a much better performance with too many squandered chances.

However, the failure to capitalise on the many chances in the final group match resulted in the Wasps being eliminated from the cup on goal difference.

The following day saw the Wasps drawn against fellow Scots, Blantyre Soccer Academy – a well-drilled and physical team – in the Trophy competition.

The Wasps put up a good performance, with an outstanding display from the keeper, to go down 2-1 against what was clearly a good team.

Blantyre then went on to win the Trophy, though in a final consolation match the Wasps hammered West End Reds from Aberdeen 11-1.

Team secretary Grant Williams said: "The kids were fantastic, both in terms of performance and behaviour. They did themselves, the community and the league proud.

"A special mention and thanks should go to the fundraisers and, particularly, the organisers and the coaches for their commitment, as well as the sponsors for their support.

"A big thank you to Joanna Scobie from ASDA supermarket – without her support and that of her company, we would never have managed to get the required funds. We are proud to wear the ASDA foundation on our kits."