The film follows 15-year-old Jimmy Grimble living in Manchester with his single mother Donna. Obsessed with football, he faces bullying at school but dreams of joining Manchester City. Donna's biker boyfriend tries to bond with Jimmy, who avoids the school bully. Jimmy hides the football tryout notice, aiming to improve his chances. Despite Gordon's skills, he gets kicked out of the team. Pressure from Gordon's father forces the coach to reinstate him. Jimmy's awkward encounter with Sarah and Donna's busyness add to his challenges in pursuing his football dreams.