FOOTBALL stars from a Poole primary school hope to lift the cup today after an impressive season.

Year 5 and 6 players from Heatherlands in Parkstone are unbeaten so far this season.

And they hope their good fortune will continue when they take on Oakdale Junior in the Dorset County Cup Final at Chapel Gate this afternoon.

The squad of 22 players has worked hard all season under the direction of football coach and Year 1 teacher Ryan Brehaut.

They have also been selected to play in front of a Poole Pirates Speedway crowd later this month as part of the Pirates' football tournament for eight local schools. They will play against Manorside.

Mr Brehaut said pupils at Heatherlands can join football clubs up to Year 4 but team selection becomes competitive from Year 5.

He said: "I believe competitive sport is important because the pupils learn how to win and lose gracefully.

"We are in an environment where some schools do not play any competitive sport because they want it to be inclusive. I fully understand that but I believe it is also important to champion ability and to encourage the children to be the best they can be."

Mr Brehaut said his squad members have played together at school for several years and that most play outside of school in local clubs and leagues.

He added: "Sport keeps them all fit and healthy in an age where some children spend a lot of time indoors. It is important that they get outside and run around."

The boys said they hope their teacher, who used to teach Year 2 pupils at Old Town Infants School, will lead them to victory in today's important match.

Heatherlands, in Library Road, has many sports clubs and pupils compete in football, rugby, biathlons and netball.