Girls football team inspired by Lionesses celebrate successful first season

A girls' football team in Chandler's Ford has had a successful first season with help from a Hampshire business.

The St Francis Under 9 Rangers, who formed two years ago, were inspired by England's Lionesses' victory in the 2022 Euros.

At the start of their inaugural season, breakfast and brunch restaurant Josie's agreed to sponsor their playing and training gear.

The business had recently opened a new location in Chandler's Ford, just in time for the team's introduction into competitive matches.

The girls celebrated their win with milkshakes at Josie's (Image: Becky Attwood Comms)

Despite most of the girls having no previous footballing experience, they exhibited great determination and teamwork throughout the season.

A rough start with no wins in the first seven games was followed by only two losses across the next 15 matches, ending the season with 10 wins, eight losses, and four draws.

As a token of celebration, Josie Latouf, the owner of Josie's, hosted the girls at her Chandler's Ford restaurant, treating them to milkshakes.

Ms Latouf said: "The local community has welcomed us with open arms since we opened last year, and we wanted to give something back.

"The girls have done so well this season, it's wonderful to see them be inspired by the England women.

"I'm proud to be able to support them in this way and can't wait to see what they achieve next season."

Josie Latouf, of Josie's, sponsored the girls' kit (Image: Becky Attwood Comms)

Team manager, Ollie Smart, said: "We're very grateful to Josie for sponsoring the kit.

"The girls have been the envy of other teams as Josie's is so popular.

"We've had a great season and the improvement has been amazing to see.

"They've all helped each other and worked really hard.

"We're already looking forward to next season."