Year 7 Football Semi Final – Match Report
The Year 7s delivered a determined and spirited performance in their semi-final match, securing a well-deserved place in the final after a thrilling 3–1 victory.
Hailsham Academy started the game confidently, controlling possession and creating early opportunities. The breakthrough came midway through the first half when Emin stepped up for a free kick and expertly curled the ball past the goalkeeper to give us a 1–0 lead.
Gildridge House responded well and applied sustained pressure, but our defence stayed organised and strong, ensuring we went into half-time ahead. The message at the break was simple: stay focused and remember there was still another half to win to secure our place in the final.
Shortly after the restart, Gildridge House found an equaliser, making it 1–1 and creating a tense spell as nerves began to show. However, the boys responded brilliantly. A quick counter attack saw Louis react fastest inside the box and poke the ball past the keeper to restore the lead with ten minutes to play.
As the clock ran down, Hailsham managed the game smartly, playing sensibly and protecting the advantage. The moment that sealed the victory came from Emin again—striking the ball sweetly from outside the box into the bottom left corner to secure a 3–1 win and send Hailsham Academy through to the final.
Honourable Mentions:
- Jenson – Exceptional energy and determination, covering the pitch from box to box.
- Noah, Ollie, and Jude – A solid and composed defensive unit throughout.
Player of the Match:
Emin, for scoring two outstanding goals and leading the team in a superb attacking performance.
Team sheet: Jenson, Ollie, Emin, Eric, Noah, Francis, Jude, Lewis, Huey, Louis, Jerome, Riley.