On Thursday, Magna Academy’s Year 8 boys’ football team kicked off 2025 in style with a resounding 9-0 victory against a local school.
Playing on a compact but expansive 4G pitch, the game started at a high intensity. However, Magna quickly settled into their rhythm, showcasing excellent build-up play that dominated the first half. After some animated encouragement from Mr Ginger to be more positive and direct in their approach, the team responded with flair and precision.
Despite their control, Magna went into halftime with only a slender 1-0 lead, courtesy of a close-range finish from Alfie B. During the interval, Mr Ginger urged the boys to be more clinical in front of goal to seal the win. But there was also a twist to contend with – goalkeeper Harrison C was forced to withdraw due to injury. Enter Olly H, the dependable centre-back, who stepped up to don the gloves. Olly’s selfless decision turned out to be inspiring, as he made a couple of outstanding saves to preserve Magna’s advantage.
Then came the second-half blitz. In just 15 minutes, Magna turned on the style with a flurry of goals. Harry L, Taylor V, and Trey T all found the back of the net from corners, with Trey delighting the team by scoring his first-ever headed goal! Alfie B added a moment of magic, expertly controlling the ball on his knee before volleying it into the top corner – a contender for goal of the season.
Gus J capitalised on a defensive mishap to slot home coolly, Taylor V smashed in a sensational 30-yard free kick for his second of the game, and Charlie E rounded off the scoring with a superb strike from the edge of the penalty area that nestled into the worn-out top corner of the net.
This emphatic victory was the perfect confidence boost for the team, blowing away any lingering New Year cobwebs. With performances like this, there’s plenty to look forward to as the season progresses. Watch this space for more thrilling encounters between now and Easter!