There was huge excitement in Prep III this morning, as the boys in the class prepared for their departure to Manchester City’s training academy for the under 8s football festival. These boys exhibited huge amounts of enthusiasm, but given that they had their first practice session together only the previous day, expectations for their success were modest.
Our first game against Altrincham A saw three early goals conceeded as the boys were getting used to playing on the pitch, from which they never recovered. In our second match against Stockport, a late penalty against us broke the deadlock, before a last minute goal made it 2-0 to Stockport – an unfortunate concession, as Owen Thorpe had just made a fantastic save from a long range shot but couldn’t hold on to the ball.
In our third game against Pownall Hall, we led 1-0 thanks to an Alfie Dickinson shot from close range. However, a late lapse in concentration allowed them back into the game with two late goals.
Finally, we faced the group’s strongest team The Ryleys in our final group game, and despite our best efforts could not stem their tide as they ran out 7-0 winners.
Not the best results, but given their lack of match practice these boys did remarkably well, and despite the scorelines demonstrated no little amount of talent, which can only augur well for the future. It should be said that their behaviour was impeccable while at Manchester City, and they were a credit to the school.
Final thanks should be given to Mrs. Seward, who successfully navigated us through the sinkholes to and from the venue!