CHEAM HIGH 3 – WILSON’S 2

Following last year’s incredible cup hat trick – this year the Year 8s were the only team representing Cheam in the finals day held at Sutton Grammar on Thursday 18th April.

Having defeated John Fisher in the first round – Cheam had put in an excellent display to knock Carshalton out and reach the final. They faced the team that knocked them out in the semi- final last year – Wilson’s.

Cheam made a slow start but then began to take control of the game – creating a number of chances – hitting the bar and the post and creating a number of scoring opportunities in the Wilson’s box.

Cheam then began to dominate possession playing some lovely passing football – they continued to pile on the pressure before Harry crossed a ball into the box which was finished by Albie for the first goal of the game.

Wilson’s were limited to a few lone breaks but the Cheam defence held firm. They continued to create scoring chances at the other end, but were unable to extend their lead before half time.

At half time, Mr Harris praised the team but warned them how important the first 10 minutes of the second half would be. He asked them to stay tight and ensure they beat their opposite numbers to the first and second balls – if they could do this, the game was theirs for the taking.

Wilson’s then scored almost directly from the kick off!!!

The game changed suddenly and now it was Wilson’s on the offensive and Cheam soaking up the pressure. Cheam
seemed to lose their shape, the game became scrappy and it was no surprise when Wilson’s took the lead.

An injury break gave Mr Harris the chance to have a quick word with some of the players. He asked the midfielders to get a bit closer together and asked them for one big last effort to get back in the game.

This was exactly what they did – Cheam regained theirshape and got a bit more possession and started to threaten Wilson’s for the first time since the first half. This pressure resulted in a Cheam free-kick which was delivered into the box, Jude’s header was saved. It dropped to Harry who fought off two defenders, his determination got him to the ball first and he was able to drive it home to level the score.

We were well into the last stages of the game at this point and the goal rejuvenated Cheam who suddenly believed they could win again. Now Wilson’s were under pressure as Cheam mounted a wave of attacks. A ball was headed out outside the box, it dropped in front of Jude who instinctively struck it first time with his left foot. It sailed over the head of the goalkeeper and into the roof of the net. With barely any time left on the clock, Cheam were able to sit tight and take the victory.

Cue the celebrations – and a noisy bus ride home!!!

Well done to all the boys who have represented the school in exemplary fashion this season.

Thanks to Mr Draper, Mr Taylor, Ms Warman, the students and all the parents who came to support and witness this excellent achievement.

Year 8 Squad:

Olly T (Capt), Albie E, Zach G, James D, Rhys J, Jacob H, Max O, Jude O, Charlie K, Alfie H, Alfi L, Isaac F, Jacob R, Harry W, Ollie H, Archie F, Louis O, Mason G, Freddie S, Adam C