Lancashire Schools U14 3 Surrey Schools U14 1 LANCASHIRE Schools U14s girls will defend their national title against Kent, last year’s opponents, at Reading’s Madejski Stadium in May.

The Red Rose girls booked their place in the English Schools FA National Cup final again without the influential figure of Brenna McPartlan, from Blackburn with Darwen, who was away on international duty.

But their was still plenty of local interest in the county team with Maisy Sumner, Annabel Mayson (both Hyndburn and Ribble Valley), Caitlin Gerrard, Jessica Rawstron (both Pendle), Eve Clarkson (Blackburn with Darwen), Kimberley Sykes (Burnley) and Justine Elliott (Chorley) all in the Lancashire squad.

Lancashire made a dream start too, forging ahead in the first minute as Jess Walling volloyed home Erin Staunton-Turner’s cross from ten yards out.

And they increased their lead just before half-time Olivia Wilkes hooked her shot into the top corner from a corner.

Lancashire were threatening to run riot, and hit the woodwork several times before Wilkes booked their final return with a well taken strike on the hour.

Surrey grabbed their consolation goal in the final minute but by then Lancashire were already home and dry.

Lancashire spokesman Michael Nadal said: “The girls work rate after such a long trip was outstanding and the County Schools FA are once again extremely proud of their achievements.

“Kent will provide tough opposition, however the girls will be working hard preparing for the final.

“Our thanks go to the schools and clubs who provide our players with quality coaching and hope they are proud of their players achievements.”

The Counties U16 side have reached the Northern Counties FA Schools Final. They will meet Greater Manchester next month.