Lionesses-inspired women’s football team celebrates successful debut season

A Chandler’s Ford girls’ football team has enjoyed a successful first season with the help of a Hampshire business.

St Francis Under 9 Rangers, formed two years ago, were inspired by the England Lionesses’ victory at Euro 2022.

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

The company had recently opened a new location in Chandler’s Ford, just in time for the team’s introduction to competitive play.

The girls celebrated their victory with milkshakes at Josie’s (Image: Becky Attwood Communications)

Even though most of the girls had no previous football experience, they showed great determination and team spirit throughout the season.

A difficult start to the season, without a win in the first seven games, was followed by just two defeats in the next 15 games, finishing the season with 10 wins, eight losses and four draws.

To celebrate, Josie’s owner Josie Latouf welcomed the girls into her Chandler’s Ford restaurant, offering them 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 played so well this season, it’s wonderful to see them taking inspiration from the English girls.

“I am proud to be able to support them in this way and I look forward to seeing what they accomplish next season.”

Josie Latouf of Josie’s sponsored the girls’ kit (Image: Becky Attwood Communications)

Team manager Ollie Smart said: “We are very grateful to Josie for sponsoring the kit.

“The girls were the envy of the other teams because Josie’s is very popular.

“We’ve had a great season and the progress has been incredible to see.

“They all helped each other and worked very hard.

“We are already looking forward to next season.”