Under 16 ISA League Champions are Crowned
Saturday 15th March
In the final game of the season against Hulme Hall the squad assembled with a perfect pitch and everything to play for. A fantastic start saw a 20 yard left foot shot from Bart Ryan –Beswick hit the inside of the post and go into the net to give the College the lead after only 2 minutes. A further goal from a long kick from goalkeeper Sam Williams and a cool finish from Joe Imlach stretched the lead with less than 10 minutes gone. Hulme Hall replied with a penalty and then both teams hit the post in an entertaining first half. Half time 2-1.
The second half lacked the same action as the first with both teams working very hard to gain supremacy. The College secured the title when an astute through ball from Oliver Moore was clinically finished by Joe Imlach. Full time 3-1.
At the final whistle it was fitting that the opposition gathered to present the trophy to the Abbey Gate College team in a game that saw both teams playing competitive football played in a sportsmanlike manner.
The final league record is impressive reading:-
Played 10 Won 9 Drawn 0 Lost 1 Goals For 48 Goals Against 11 Points 27
The under 16 team has seen 21 pupils represent the team in matches with great assistance from some Year 10 pupils. Joe Bate has been an influential centre half alongside James Handley and he also represented the ISA team at full back even though his best position is goalkeeper; an outstanding display of versatility!. The electric pace up front of Khalid Al-Rafai has been invaluable in a couple of closely contested games. Although limited in his availability the vital hat-trick of Danny Ting against Bridgewater showed his outstanding potential, which we hope to see flourish next year.
The team played open attractive football and averaged nearly 5 goals in every game. A special mention to Bart Ryan-Beswick, James Handley and Michael Lewis who played in every match and their ability, energy and enthusiasm shone through.
The contributions of the two playmakers in the team cannot be under estimated. Ryan Wan mesmerised defences with his footwork and he also contributed vital goals; especially in the first encounter against Hulme Hall. Joe Imlach’s performances at the start of the season allowed him to control games and his explosive shooting resulted in many stunning long range goals.
Finally; well done to everyone who represented the college, especially in the last few weeks of the season when they showed great character, resilience and loyalty in giving up their time and energy to clinch the title. A special thank you to Mr Wan who was an ever present supporter at every game encouraging the boys and providing fantastic refreshments at half time; Thanks also to the rest of the parents who came along to watch and collect the team after matches.
Mr Cutler
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