ENGLAND Under 18s Schoolboys kicked off their Centenary Shield campaign with a 2-1 victory over Wales at the Racecourse Ground Wrexham.

Goals from Michael Hampson, a student at Myerscough College, and Danny Haile from Gloucestershire Hartbury College sealed victory for the young England side.

Hampson opened the scoring when drilled in a low shot at the near post before Wales equalised from the penalty spot.

But England regained the lead when Haile rose to head home what proved to be the winner.

England are managed by Queen Elizabeth Grammar School teacher Andy Buckingham who will step down from the post at the end of the Centenary Shield following two years in the post.

England are next in action against the Republic of Ireland at Bristol City’s Ashton Gate on March 28 who have also beaten Wales.

England’s final game will be at Ewood Park when they play host to Scotland on Friday, April 11 (7pm ko) where former Blackburn town team player James Beattie will be guest of honour. Buckingham is thrilled the former QEGS pupil will be at Ewood Park.

“James played over 40 games for Blackburn Town team in my time as manager in the early 90s and he also went to QEGS where I teach.

“So I am delighted that he has agreed to be there.

“Let’s hope we are still in with a chance of winning the Shield by the time we get to Ewood and play Scotland!”

Tickets are priced at £5 for adults and £2 for concessions and are available now from the Roverstore (Ewood), Oneroverstore (Blackburn town centre), www.onerovers.co.uk website or by calling the Ticket Office on 0871 222 1444.