Year 11 Football - National Cup

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Published: Friday, 12 December 2014 14:39

The Year 11 football team made the long trip to the prestigious Hampton School for their Round of 32 National Cup match this week. Following good wins in the early stages of the competition against St Clere’s (1-0), Simon Langton Grammar School (4-0) and East Bergholt School (2-1), the boys went into the game full of belief that they could make the last 16. Hampton School have a history of National Cup wins at all age groups being one of the leading independent schools in the country for sport.

 A fast paced game from the start with both sides looking to play fast paced attacking football, after a nervous first 10 mins from both teams, it was Franklin Craik that showed his composure to put STM 1-0 up on 13 minutes, the perfect way to silence the home support. The lead was soon doubled as Franklin once again put the ball in the back of the Hampton net on 17 minutes, capitalising on a defensive mistake.  Hampton soon found their passes and dominated the possession for the rest of the first half, a fine save from Fraszczak just before half time was a key moment in the game. HT 2-0.

Hampton started the second half full of steam, keeping the ball for long periods, without creating many chances. However STM remained a threat on the counter attack through Moore and Craik, finally adding to the score line, against the run of play when Connor Moore rounded the goalkeeper to finish from 30 yards. With just over 15 minutes to go, our boys defended fantastically, showing fantastic discipline and intelligence in their play. A late consolation goal for Hampton was well deserved, with a fine finish into the top corner. Although some late pressure was piled on, the boys managed to close the game out. FT 3-1.

 A fantastic achievement from our boys to reach the last 16 of the PlayStation Schools National Cup, the furthest a team from St Thomas More has ever gone in the competition. The side have improved significantly In the last couple of years, through a desire to improve, dedication and hard work, a journey that has been amazing to be part of, and one that can hopefully continue into the New Year. Next round will be at home after Christmas against either Oasis Academy Croydon or Britton’s Academy. The Yr11 side are still going strong in the Essex County Cup, facing Shenfield at home for a place in the Quarter Finals in January.