The boys, who all play Mini-Soccer in the under 10’s age group, were taking part in the Festival which is just one part of McDonald’s commitment to grassroots football in their role as The FA’s Community Partner.
McDonald’s have organised more than 50 free regional football festivals this summer involving over 20,000 kids.
Cumberland FA’s own McDonalds festival attracted over 1,500 boys and girls from Charter Standard Clubs to the Frenchfields complex, and it was at this festival that Cleator Moor Celtic were drawn out of the hat to represent the county and play at Wembley.
After a morning of matches at nearby Northwick Park, which included expert coaching from former Manchester United youth team coach, Eric Harrison, the team headed to Wembley where their once-in-a-lifetime opportunity began.
Cleator Moor Celtic Coach Graeme Close takes up the story:
“We went onto Wembley, where all the teams entered through the player’s entrance and walked out onto Wembley pitch through the tunnel.
“When the kids were seated Sir Geoff Hurst introduced himself and said a few words then Fabio Capello came out and the kids went crazy.
“We were in the second round of games so didn't have to wait long to play, they called us down and we had our team photo taken with Sir Geoff Hurst. At that point we had to walk past all the watching parents who were on their feet cheering and clapping, with the lads waving back at them like true pros.
“The game we played was against Larkhall Athletic (Somerset). We won 2-1 with Lewis Close getting both our goals. The lads were brilliant all day and played some cracking football. I received some nice comments off coaches and spectators alike who had watched us play.
“After the game we walked around the full pitch and just by chance Mr Capello was doing an interview for sky sports and when he was done he shook all the player’s hands. The lads were saying they were never going to wash their hands again.
We then walked the 139 steps up to the royal box to receive our medals from Eric Harrison, we then came down to meet the parents.
“The whole experience was breathtaking, amazing and very emotional the smiles and enjoyment on their faces will never be forgotten and as a coach I don't think I will ever top this.
“Can I just take this opportunity on behave of myself the team and the parents to thank the Cumberland FA and McDonalds for given us this chance of a lifetime. We now have memories that will last forever.”