On Friday afternoon, the Year 8 boys Football team continued their PEDSSA cup journey with a quarter final away at a local school.
The game was played at the high standard that quarter finals should be played at, with a fiercely competitive first half ending 0-0 with limited chances for both sides. Magna were encouraged to apply more of a determined approach during the half time team talk.
Magna responded well after the interval, competing for every ball and starting to play like a team desperate to progress to the semi finals. Midfield substitute Olie V was instrumental in the uplift in standards. This was rewarded with fifteen minutes to play, winger Ben H reacting well to a parry from the opposition goalkeeper to send Magna into a 1-0 lead, Ben’s third goal in as many matches. Magna did really well to hold off late opposition pressure and looked like they were heading into the semi-finals. Goalkeeper Kieran I made some impressive stops and captain James H battled hard to lead his team through a tricky period. However, the pressure did take its toll just two minutes before the end, with the opposition scoring from close range to bring the game back to all square. Full time: 1-1. A very close game and a penalty shootout would decide who progresses into the semi finals.
The opposition chose to kick first and scored their first penalty. Midfielder Harry B would soon level the shootout at 1-1 with a composed spot kick that sailed into the top corner. Goalkeeper Kieran I saved the second opposition kick with an excellent dive to his right, giving Magna the initiative. Back and forth successful kicks from the opposition players and Ben H, James H and Olie V from Magna left Bailey D with the opportunity to send us through to our first ever cup semi final. After a deep breath, Bailey stepped up and slotted the ball into the bottom corner – Magna won 5-4 on penalties!
I cannot tell you how proud we are of the boys, going from a first round exit last year to the last four this year really does highlight the dedication and subsequent improvement the team has made over the last twelve months. We had a good sing-along on the bus on the way home and we are looking forward to our semi final – bring it on! Well done boys, a top effort.
Sorry, no photo this time – we forgot amid all the celebrations!
Mr Ginger and Coach Neil