A fabulous footballer from Ross had a starring role at the final of the UEFA Euro 2008. Eleven year old James Payne had the honour of leading Spanish star Xavi Hernandez out onto the pitch at the start of the match as an official McDonald's Player Escort. James, from Ross Juniors Football Club, walked onto the pitch hand in hand with the Barcelona star, who was awarded the accolade of UEFA Euro 2008's best player. James added: "It was so brilliant being on the pitch with Xavi and some of the greatest players in the world. I was a little nervous knowing millions of people all over the world were watching me but knowing that Joe was in the crowd and my friends were watching at home gave me confidence!" James won his once in a lifetime exerience through a competition organised by the football tournament's sponsor, McDonald's. James nominated his coach, 16 year old Joe Loftus, for the trip to the final. Joe, who is one of 11,500 McDonald's community grassroots coaches, was judged a worthy winner and accompanied James to the final in Vienna. James was lucky enough to escort the winning team after Spain beat Germany to lift the trophy. Joe said: "Going to the final was a dream come true and one of the best days of my life. I am so proud that James won the competition - I really enjoy coaching the team and to see James lead out the players was amazing." Ross Cricket Club under 15s triumphed in the Nationwide Herefordshire Under 15 Cup, beating Colwall by 31 runs on Wednesday, July 2nd.  Playing at home, Ross won the toss and elected to bat first. They got off to a fast start with Harry King (26) and James Tiffin (10) taking the initiative, with some positive shot selection, and good running between the wickets.  James Tiffin was the first wicket to fall when he was run out by fielder Rory Jones, at mid off.  In the next over Harry King was caught at mid- wicket when he top edged a pull shot. This brought Bruno Warwick and Dale Brooke to the wicket and they went about building a match winning partnership of 88.  Dale was then dismissed for 38 when he was bowled by in-form Rory Jones.  Shortly after this Bruno Warwick had to retire after passing 50.  In the end Ross completed their innings with the score on 151 for 7.  After the interval Ross immediately made it hard work for the Colwall batsman, with Iain Howie (3- 0-22-3) in excellent form. During his spell he removed two of Colwall's able batsman, Odge Davey (16) and Henry Coleman (6). Captain, Charles Hiram caught and bowled Joe Critchard for 23. However, this was not all about the Ross bowling attack. The Ross U15 team's fielding was fantastic with all eleven players supporting each other with plenty of energy, enthusiasm and determination to win. Although Colwall played some positive shots, they were never quite able to achieve the required run rate.  The Colwall captain Rory Jones hit 17 in one over, he then had to retire shortly afterwards when he reached 53.  At the end of the innings, Aaron Tregaskes bowled superbly to tie Colwall down and prevent them attempting any big hits. Eventually Ross won by 31 runs.  All the Ross team players are to be congratulated for an outstanding performance with the bat, ball and in the field.  wo Ross rowers quarter-finalists at Henley