FOOTBALL starlets from Inverclyde are celebrating a goal-den moment after winning a major tournament in the Netherlands.

Port Glasgow Juniors Reds beat German, Danish and Dutch opposition to be crowned winners of the Holland 19 International Cup.

They have dedicated the trophy to late Port Glasgow Juniors FC president Pat Duffy, who recently died in road accident.

Teams from Holland, Europe and the USA took part in the major two-day tourney which the boys triumphed in.

Delighted manager Derek Winton said: "I was absolutely over the moon with the boys.

"The boys were exemplary, a credit to themselves, their parents and their community.

"I told them all that their behaviour was exemplary on and off the park.

"It is the first trophy we've won and we're hoping it will be the first of many.

"The boys decided themselves that their win was for Pat and they have dedicated the trophy to his memory."

The under-16s team got off to a flying start when Sean Gault took them to a 2-0 win against German Club SV Leingarten.

In their second match they took on tough opponents Dutch side Alexandria 66 but stood firm with goals from Lewis McGarrigle and Jo Dow leading the team to a 2-1 victory.

Their third game of the day was against Tjaereborg and the Port boys won 2-1 with goals from Jo Dow and Connor McIntyre.

Coaches gave the boys a well-earned treat and took them into Amsterdam city centre for sightseeing and a meal on Saturday night.

Their busy schedule continued the next day with a match against Danish side Kvaerkeby, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

The Port's next clash was against EGB of Denmark and the lads didn't disappoint, winning the game 2-0 to make the final against Dutch side Waterwijk.

Their opponents were an excellent team but the Port boys matched them in every department and edged a close game 1-0 thanks to a late Connor McIntyre strike.

A spokesman for the club said: "Coaches would like to take the opportunity to express how proud they are of every player.

"Every boy played their part, whether it being a goal, a tackle, pass or save, it all counts, but most of all the team spirit and effort they all showed was a joy to watch.

"The boys have done themselves, their parents and all of Inverclyde proud."

Derek also wants to thank parents for making the foreign trip possible with their weekly contributions.

* If anyone is able to sponsor Port Glasgow Juniors Reds 2003, please contact Derek on 07415 799 137.