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.

There are 128 pages in this book. This book was published 2011 by Frances Lincoln Publishers Ltd .

John Williams is a former head teacher of primary science. He is chairman of the School Natural Science Society. Rob Childs is the author of five separate football series for Transworld for a wide range of junior readers. Including the successful Big Match series and Soccer Mad series.