Six Hartpury College students have scored a thrilling victory in the FA People’s Cup – winning them a trip to Wembley on FA Cup final day.

Isaac Shirley, Liam Phelps, Sam Wines, Luke Williams, Jack Jeremiah and Nathan Townsend – playing as Ladsh FC – won the College Male category of the national competition in dramatic style.

The team held their nerve in a tense penalty shootout on FA People’s Cup finals days at St George’s Park – the national football centre – to prevail 6-5 over Wolvercranson Wanderers and lift the trophy.

They’re now heading to Wembley Stadium to parade their trophy on the pitch at half-time of the Emirates FA Cup Final between Chelsea and Manchester United on May 19.

“The lads have done so well and are a true credit to student-led sport,” said Jenny Arroud, Sports Development and Physical Activity Co-Ordinator.

“The team have a bright future ahead of themselves both in sport and in the working world.

“The opportunity has been a great way to showcase the fantastic qualities that our students leave Hartpury with and the opportunities they have while studying here.

“Not only have the Ladsh FC team had an opportunity to represent the institution at national events and games, they’ve shown they can lead a team to victory demonstrating punctuality, personal organisation, leadership and motivation.

“This is the first time we’ve hosted the FA People’s Cup here at Hartpury and I’m so proud of each and every person involved in the initiative: the teams that entered the internal round, our Women and Girls Football Intern who supported the internal round and, our FE Lecturer – Jordan James – who dedicated time to taking the team to the semi-final round at Taunton.”

The FA People’s Cup is a small-sided competition open to male, female and disability players across 18 categories, ranging from under-14s to over-35s.