On Wednesday 6 October, Surbiton Boys Prep took an U11 team to the ISFA Regional Finals at Bedales School, Hampshire. The sun was shining, the pitches were in superb condition and the boys were ready for action.
In their first game against the hosts, Bedales, Surbiton played with flare and precision winning 4-0. There were some fantastic goals, amongst some brilliant one-touch football. In their next three matches, the boys found it tough to impose themselves and ultimately fell short in matches against Twyford Prep and Churchers College. Despite creating a host of chances, it was a tense battle against Walhampton, which finished in a draw.
The boys’ frustration was clear, but Surbiton knew they needed to win their final group game to qualify for the knockout stage. Following a motivational team talk, the boys showed their class with a breath-taking performance and some world-class goals. The game finished 6-0 and Surbiton finished 3rd in their group.
In their quarter-final match against RGS Guildford, an early goal gave Surbiton the lead but Guildford equalised just before the half-time interval. Another closely fought second-half ended in a 2-2 draw and the dreaded penalty shootout. Surbiton held their nerve and won 3-2, making it through to the semi-final against Churchers.
With adrenaline still coursing through their veins, Surbiton started like lightning and flew out of the traps. A goal straight from the training ground gave them the lead and they managed to hold on right until the very final second as Churchers equalised. Unfortunately, penalties did not go Surbiton’s way this time and the boys bowed out of the competition with their heads held high. It wasn’t meant to be but their performance, behaviour and attitude was once again flawless. Well done boys!
Categories: Boys' Prep School