Simon - Zero to his older brothers - would rather be watching for kingfishers down at the river with his dog Tilly than playing football. But when they drag him along to the park to help with goal-shooting practice, they discover that he has a natural talent for goalkeeping. The school team already has a goalkeeper, albeit one who lets in more goals than he saves, so there seems little chance Simon will get a game. But as the cup final approaches, tension in the team mounts and Simon teams up with new boy Ollie, who has come from the opposing school, and soon the pair are making an impression in practices. Will they be selected for the crucial game, and will Ollie be able to stand up to the tactics of his former schoolmates?



This gripping story will entrance all young football lovers, as well as raising issues of bullying and self-esteem.



ROB CHILDS wanted to be an England footballer or cricketer, or failing that, a sports journalist - certainly not a teacher. Of course, he did go on to become a teacher, during which time he gained a great deal of experience coaching school teams in football, athletics, cricket and cross-country. He is now a full-time writer and draws on this experience for his stories. He is best known for his successful The Big Match series, the Soccer Mad, Phantom Football and County Cup series in Yearling (RHCB) and for the popular Great! and Wicked series for Corgi Pups (RHCB). He lives near Leicester.



Praise for Rob's previous book, Black & White:

“An engaging, sporty story which is easily accessible to young readers” - School Librarian, UK