Year 10 District Cup Winners 2015

On Tuesday 13^th January, John Hampden Grammar School hosted the annual year 10 Football District Cup.

GMS were drawn in the group stages against John Hampden, Princes Risborough, Highcrest Academy and Bourne End Academy. There were no easy games ahead and GMS would have to be at their best to contend with the miserable weather conditions in order to progress to the semi finals.

GMS started well, gaining a hard fought 0-0 draw against John Hampden. Plenty of chances were created to add encouragement.

Frustrated at being held to a draw, GMS took this year’s winning spirit into the following game against The Bourne End Academy and ran out as comfortable 2-0 winners. Sam Shaw opened the scoring: Callum McCarthy added the second.

Next up were Princes Risborough. GMS continued their winning streak with a solid 2-0 victory. Sam and Callum were, again, the game’s goal scorers.

With the group qualification secure, GMS went on to stumble a surprise 1-0 defeat at the hands of  The Highcrest Academy.

After taking a breather, while awaiting the semi finals, GMS were drawn against St. Michaels, who were runners up in their own group. A tight affair beckoned and indeed it was. St. Michaels failed to test Josh Bates in the GMS goal. At the other end of the field Sam Shaw added his third goal to the competition from close range, which sent a confident set of lads through to defend the title they won last year.

With fellow students making plenty of noise, their presence was felt on the sidelines. The team entered the final full of confidence. Sir William Ramsey would be looking to avenge a recent defeat, however, and wouldn’t be an easy opposition. GMS started well and created the better chances throughout, but there was always a threat of being caught on the counter attack. Perseverance prevailed and Callum McCarthy fired in the decisive goal to give GMS consecutive District Cup wins.

Many congratulations, and thanks to all of our players and those who braved the cold to come out and support. The squad was: Josh Bates, Brendan Rice, Max Boreham, Callum McCarthy, Sam Shaw, Joe Mantle, Jamie Lightfoot and Matthew Smithers. Well done lads. Well done coach.