Four-for-four: Fantastic Footballers!

On Tuesday, a squad of eight Y6 boys competed in an inter-school football tournament hosted at Greenhill Primary School, against players representing four other schools.

In the first match our footballers managed a hard-fought 2–1 victory thanks to goals from Hector and Madhi, bringing a sense of deserved pride as they secured their first victory.

The next match was another tough one, but a 2–0 victory was secured as a result of solid goalkeeping, decisive defending and fantastic teamwork — with great goals scored by Hector and Kaius too.

Our team faced the Greenhill B team in their third match and, by now, confidence was strong. They therefore managed to secure a comfortable 6–0 victory with a sensational hat-trick from Hector and further fantastic goals from Madhi, Kaius and Drew.

The fourth and final match against St Thomas of Canterbury was vital, as both teams had won their first three games. The scene was set for a dramatic conclusion to the tournament and, for the victors, the crown as tournament champions.

The match began in a fast-paced manner, with St Thomas of Canterbury threatening, but their attempts were forestalled by some resolute defending and goalkeeping that ensured the SJF goal would not be breached.

Finally, in a slick move, SJF took the lead — and then the brakes were off...

As confidence grew, so the goals began to flow, with fantastic hat-tricks from Kaius and Hector along with a well-taken goal from Phelan sandwiched in between. The opposition managed to grab a good consolation goal but, ultimately, it was not enough — as our players deservedly claimed a great victory against skilful opponents.

Our footballers ended up as the overall tournament champions, which means they now advance to the citywide finals where they will face the victorious teams from other locality tournaments for the right to represent Sheffield in the northern finals.

Huge congratulations to our players, and thanks to both the organisers and hosts. We also thank Mr Murphy for all his hard work in organising our team and preparing our players so well, as well as Mr Pursehouse, who supported as a referee, and Mrs Grayson, who also helped him at the tournament.

At both this football tournament and the previous one that involved our victorious girls, the conduct of our SJF players was marked by the great determination demonstrated, teamwork and sense of fun.

Our players encouraged and looked after each other, and their manners were exceptional, for example, shaking hands with — and thanking — referees and opponents alike.

Sometimes it is not just the victory that counts but the class and manner with which it is achieved. It is especially because of this that we are so proud of the players in both squads.

Click here for the report from the girls' previous football tournament.