Written by Mr Hulley
In what is always a fiercely contested game between two neighbouring teams, John Taylor High School looked to defend their title against John Taylor Free School in the Year 8 District Cup Semi-Final.
The defending champions started by conceding an early goal to a ‘Route 1’ flick on leaving their striker through on goal who made no mistake. Not the best start, however this made the champions raise their intensity and start to get control of the game. But, before too long once again conceded to a free kick before half-time. The next goal was crucial and although JTHS came out from half-time with enthusiasm and desire to score the next, the goal went the other way giving the Free School a 3-0 lead.
With a determined attitude, JTHS continued to push and with 20 minutes to go Carter T gave the team some hope with a come back by scoring a goal. Unfortunately, during the build up to the goal a Free School player landed awkwardly and the game was paused for a serious looking injury. With both sets of players happy to play on it was either going to be a case of a fight back from the High School or putting the game to bed from the Free School.
JTHS never took their foot off the gas and momentum swung in our way when Saahan V got our second goal. Not long after Carter T again got on the score sheet to bring the game level at 3-3. With 10 minutes to go, Saahan got his brace and put the High School ahead on the night for the first time! With the Free School pushing for an equaliser in the dying moments and the High School with backs against the wall defending, it took a break-away moment with the ball being worked nicely through the wings and a calm finish by Max C to finish the game.
This incredible come back of 4-3 is a game that the team will talk about for years and saw John Taylor High School lift the John Appleby Trophy again. A special thank you to all pupils who have been part of the team this year and all parents and staff who have supported the team.
Everyone at John Taylor High school send our best wishes to the John Taylor Free School player who’s cup final was marred by the injury and wish him a speedy recovery.
