Special prize for fan who missed out on football match

Then-Inverkip Primary pupil Evie McQueen, 12, was selected to attend a special football match at Ravenscraig Stadium between Scotland and England's rising female stars, but had to miss out after taking poorly.

The fixture was organised to mark five decades from the iconic first game between the two nations after a ban on women’s football was lifted to allow them to meet at the Inverclyde sports venue back in 1972.

To make up for her disappointment, Inverclyde Council's education convener Jim Clocherty stepped in and presented the new Inverclyde Academy pupil with a commemorative programme and jersey from the day.

The youngster said: "I was really shocked and surprised at the presentation, it is really nice and helped make up for missing out.

"I enjoy following and sometimes playing football, so I was disappointed not to be able to go to such an important event, given its history and local importance.

"This is a cool keepsake."

The Under-15s sides played at Ravenscraig Stadium on May 15, following in the footsteps of the women who took part in the first official international between the two countries 50 years ago.

The fixture was organised by Inverclyde Council in partnership with the Scottish Schools’ Football Association and with support from the English Schools’ Football Association.

Councillor Clocherty says he was 'delighted' to help promote women's football in the area - and make the special presentation to Evie.

He said: "It is a pleasure to give her a momento of what was a really excellent day in the calendar.

"Promoting women's football is something that I think is very important - the events of 1972 serve as a reminder of the impact the sport has on girls and women in the area and beyond.

"The day was brilliant and we had a good turnout, with some incredibly talented players on both teams.

"We are sad Evie missed out, but hopefully this helps to make up for it."