Year 7 Football – National Cup, Round 1

On a blustery afternoon in Weymouth, the Year 7 team, led by new captain Harry G, returned home victorious after a nail-biting encounter with Budmouth Academy in Round 1 of the English Schools National Cup.
Playing against the wind in the first half, Allenbourn made a dream start, taking an early lead through Jacob H. However, the conditions made life difficult, and Budmouth managed to equalise on the stroke of half-time.
Following a few tactical tweaks, Mr Williams sent the team back out with the wind behind them, and Allenbourn regained the lead midway through the second half. Goalkeeper George M launched a huge kick from his hands, with the ball bouncing over everyone and crashing against the crossbar before Jacob H followed up to tap home.
As tired legs began to show, substitutions were aplenty, with Mason D, Joel P and James P all putting in excellent shifts. Tommy D also impressed, deservedly earning the Player of the Match award.
With the clock ticking down, Jacob H completed his hat-trick (although he wasn't allowed to keep the match ball!), before debutant Melik A added the finishing touch with another close-range finish.
The final whistle confirmed a fantastic 4–1 victory for Allenbourn, securing our place in the hat for Round 2. A brilliant team performance, full of determination, teamwork and resilience in challenging conditions. Well done, boys!
