BARCELONA, home to one of the world’s greatest football clubs, provided the perfect backdrop for Harrow Way School’s recent football tour.

Two team of 28 players travelled to the city for the school’s annual Barcelona football tour to experience a new footballing culture, play against teams and visit the seaside city famous for its architecture and culture.

Lawrie Carter, Year 8 Leader and teacher in charge of the trip said: “This was an invaluable experience for all the boys involved who have demonstrated a real commitment to school football. Just being in Barcelona is exciting in itself but as keen footballers, there can be no better city for a tour.

"Competing against teams who play with a very different style was challenging for the boys but as demonstrated week in and out on the pitches back at home, the boys dug deep and won two of their games and drew the other two. We were very proud of their effort and sportsmanship.”

The group's two days were full of excursions including a day at Portaventura theme park and a tour of the impressive Nou Camp, home of FC Barcelona while they also saw Gaudi’s famous cathedral, La Sagrada Familia, the Olympic Stadium and Montjuic Castle.

Harrow Way has a reputation for footballing magic, winning the Hampshire Cup and Andover and District Leagues in recent years.