Young footballers for Deal Town Rangers got a taste of international play last weekend when they competed in the St Omer International Tournament.

The Under 12s and Under 10s were the only English teams to attend when they travelled to the French town on Saturday and returned the following evening.

Chairman Alan Clarke said: “They played against teams from France, Germany, Holland and Belgium.

“The younger team played three games on the Saturday and three games on the Sunday and the Under 12s played four on both days, but because they did so well, they played an extra two games on the Sunday.”

Under 12s manager Chris Curling said: “We all had a brilliant time, no doubt helped by the amazing sunny weather.

“On the football front, the team had a bit of a slow start in the first few matches as they adjusted to some of the quirky tournament rules.

“But then they got in their stride, winning or drawing the remainder of the matches on day one. On the second day they lost just one of their six matches.”

Although Deal is twinned with the French town, it wasn’t a twinning event, but Mr Clarke thanked the twinning society for their help with the arrangements.

Mr Curling added: “Many thanks to the coach driver Steve for his flexibility and always being willing to open up the coach whenever requested.

“And also thanks to the guide Kieron who was assigned to our two teams for the two days and evening.

“He was a great guy who greatly assisted us all getting between the ground, accommodation, McDonald’s and the breakfast hall.

“He was always willing to help with anything we might need.”