A CHILDREN’S football team from Winsford experienced the ‘stuff that dreams are made of’ after watching FC Barcelona’s Lionel Messi bag two goals to clinch them the league title at the Nou Camp.

Winsford Over 3 Athletic JFC u12s club secretary Tony Mitchell, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease two years ago, helped raise more than £7,500 to fund the trip to Barcelona.

The Winsford side thrashed CD Almeda 5-0 before going on to beat Brafa FC in a thrilling contest that finished 10-7.

But undoubtedly the highlight of the trip was the team’s visit to the Nou Camp to witness the world’s greatest player, Messi, and Spanish legend Xavi in his last match for the Catalan giants.

Tony said: “To see what we saw was the stuff that dreams are made of.

“We were able to witness Barcelona lift the La Liga title, a spectacular fireworks display, Messi score twice, Xavi’s last game at the Nou Camp and Deportivo La Coruna come from 2-0 down to draw and stay in La Liga.

“We were all on a high on the way back to the hotel and the kids are still talking about it two weeks later. It was fate in the way things turned out and put the seal on a truly remarkable experience.”

On the fourth day of the trip the group were able to soak up the sunny Barcelona weather, before returning home.

Tony was also presented with a special present from the parents to say thank you for his efforts in bring the dream trip to reality.

He said: “I was really touched the parents put together and brought me my first ever Barcelona shirt before the match.

“The 19 months of organising and effort, along with all the fundraising was really worth it. I would certainly do it again, without a shadow of doubt.”

Tony said he hopes to organise a similar trip next season.

The club are currently looking for players for their u10, u11s and u16s for next season.

For more information, contact 07445834289 or email mitchell_tony1@sky.com