Sadly, despite going the whole season undefeated, Year 9 lost 3-4 in extra time after a hard-fought match.
There were tears and tantrums on the final whilst, as Claremont scored with the final attack of the match.
In the opening minutes it had been all Ark, as Obama put us ahead with a simple tap in at the backpost, after really strong play in the middle between Idhant, Edward and Alex.
In attack, Claremont fielded an academy player from West Ham, who was different class. However, this player really carried their team and we were collectively stronger.
The boys looked a little uncertain against the skill of their star man, fouling him to give away a penalty and failing to deal with a ball across the edge of the area. We were 2-1 down at half-time, and in the second period Mohammed K and Idhant both scored from outside the box to get us to 2-2 and 3-3 respectively. Mohammed’s goal curled in from left to right, whilst Idhant cooly side-footed a 20 yarder in to the bottom corner.
It was quite an afternoon for Pavel and for Christian, both of whom made their debuts in the final. They were required off the bench in the first half due to injury and sinbin, and put in brilliant performances. Pavel was a rock at the back and Christian was extremely tricky going forwards. As ever, Nedas was cool, calm finesse from centreback and Denis, Tyrese, Toby, Helal and Artur didn’t stop running.
Unfortunately, it wasn’t meant to be. The game looked to be heading towards a penalty shootout, but as Edward suffered a cramp as we attacked the opposition, a nicked ball and a mazy drive from their academy player saw Claremont take the win in the final attack.
Runners up medals in the Brent shield, but I know the boys are very disappointed.