Year 11 Football Final Champions

Alsop’s Year Eleven football team were celebrating a triumphant victory over St. Margaret’s after a nerve racking match, which eventually went down to the lottery of penalties. Friends and family of the players alike invaded the beautiful playing surface of Walton Park when goalkeeper Liam Brooks saved the spot kick which gave him and his team mates winner’s medals.

The game was a tense affair all the way through, with heavy winds making it difficult for both teams. Although the playing surface at Walton Park was immaculate, both sides found it difficult to judge the ball in swirling winds, and often kept a deep back-line to prevent any unnecessary goals, which made the first half a midfield battle, although Alsop also played some excellent football at times, and looked the more dominant at half time.

The second half was more open, and although Margaret’s nearly took the lead after an error from eventual hero Brooks, Alsop eventually took control of the game. Alsop midfielders Edward Wishart and Mark James began to run the show, and Luke Parkinson had a wicked, dipping volley tipped over the bar by the excellent Margaret’s keeper.

However, the best chance of the game presented itself to second half substitute Paul Folkard. The flying winger found himself with plenty of time inside the area, and coolly slotted below the opposition keeper. However, Folkard was denied by the outside of the post.

Extra time came, and went, without any sort of chances, with both sides happy to enter the lottery of the shoot-out. Alsop slotted all their first five penalties with ease, as did Margaret’s, until the shoot-out went to sudden death. Alsop captain Ellis Mullaney, who had been outstanding throughout the game at centre-back, blasted his penalty straight at the keeper, and the cup looked to be out of Alsop’s grasp.

Luckily, the Margaret man tasked with winning his side the cup dragged his spot kick wide, and Alsop were back in with a chance. Alsop managed to slot the next penalty, and then it was all down to Brooks. The Alsop keeper dived low to his right for a magnificent stop, and was jubilantly mobbed by the crowd.

Captain Mullaney lifted the trophy, and although he looked relieved, the delight was there to see plainly on his face and the rest of his squad.

Sam Carroll, Year 11 Alsop High School

For more picture of the event follow the gallery link or click here