WYMONDHAM Lizards U8 represented Switzerland in the Euro 2008 Soccer on the Sands Tournament.With part of the team unable to play there were no expectations and the emphasis was to have fun; however with Ben Bailey on loan from United the Lizards triumphed and took Switzerland all the way to the final to become Euro 2008 winners.

WYMONDHAM Lizards U8 represented Switzerland in the Euro 2008 Soccer on the Sands Tournament.

With part of the team unable to play there were no expectations and the emphasis was to have fun; however with Ben Bailey on loan from United the Lizards triumphed and took Switzerland all the way to the final to become Euro 2008 winners.

Earlier rounds: Switzerland v Turkey 1-1. Jordan Rolf put Switzerland ahead with a fantastic goal from an acute angle. Unfortunately Turkey equalised from a free kick. Czech Republic v Switzerland 1-1. Ryan Howard put Switzerland ahead with a cracking goal. Once again Switzerland couldn't retain their lead and the opposition equalised just before time.

Portugal v Switzerland 2-3, Portugal took the lead and with Switzerland needing a win to qualify it seemed a miracle was needed. Luke Marchant brought the two teams level with an unstoppable free kick. Switzerland was now getting used to the conditions and Jordan Howard and Campbell Young grabbed a goal each to secure the win. Switzerland finished second in their group for a place in the quarter-final.

Quarter-final: Germany v Switzerland 1-3. Luke Marchant put Switzerland ahead with another one of his unstoppable free kicks. Despite some excellent battling Germany equalised and took the game into extra time. Both teams were determined but it was Switzerland's midfielder Luke Marchant who put them ahead again with a terrific header and Jordan Howard sealed the win with a well taken goal.

Semi-final: Switzerland v France 1-0. Both teams put in a spirited display eager for a place in the final. Ben Bailey and David Lambert defended well to deny France and Luke netted the winning goal for Switzerland's place in the final.

Final: Austria v Switzerland 2-3. A thrilling final began with Luke putting Switzerland ahead by one goal at half-time. Austria equalised with a fluke goal which rolled across the bar before dropping down and spinning across the line. Austria then scored again to take the lead but Switzerland's sheer determination resulted in Jordan H smashing home the equaliser.

With the final whistle only moments away Switzerland were awarded a free kick, all eyes were on Luke Marchant who made no mistake in firing home. David Lambert led the team up to receive the Euro 2008 Soccer on the Sands Cup. A well-deserved victory.