FOOTBALLING teenager Katie Kitching is sprinting up the rankings as she hones her skills with Manchester City.

The Richmond School and Sixth Form College student recently scored twice in matches against another premier side in the Women’s Super League reserves.

After playing for the past nine years, the talented 18-year-old has completed another season with Manchester City’s development squad, training three times a week and playing matches at the weekend.

Katie, of Well, between Ripon and Bedale, began playing for Ripon Panthers Ladies and was spotted by scouts while at York Centre of Excellence.

Renowned for her speed, she has also been able to show off her goal scoring prowess by slotting home two against Aston Villa.

“Playing at this level is a real step up,” she said. “I have learnt such a lot and I am hoping to secure a place in the first team.”

Assistant headteacher at Richmond School Leslie Richardson said: “We are all incredibly proud of Katie’s achievements which show the heights a young person can reach when they pursue a passion.

“We are delighted to help her fit her studies around her training to ensure she can fulfil her wish to play at the highest level.”