Secondary Schools ‘Champions League’ 2004/5

18.07.2005

Lewis Boys school recently became Caerphilly Schools Sports Association Yr 9 football champions.

The ‘Champions League’ competition was run by the Sports Development Football Development department and was the culmination of a season long competition.

14 out of the 15 Secondary schools in the borough entered the initial group stages, which involved schools playing in 4 leagues that were split geographically. The winners of each group – Lewis school, Risca, Newbridge and St Martins- progressed into the knock out semi finals with Lewis school and Risca contesting a close, keenly fought final at Risca Comprehensive school.

Champions League Final - Match Report

Lewis school took an early lead with Lian Davies finding the back of the net with an excellent 25yrd dipping volley. This was quickly cancelled out as a corner from Risca’s Steven Dudden well finished off by Tom Craddon to make it 1-1.

Lewis school soon replied as a corner curled in bounced around the 6yrd box and was eventually bundled home by Keiron Parker. Then right on the stroke of half time Risca’s Josh Carter got to the by-line and pulled the ball back allowing Steven Dudden the time and opportunity to pick his spot and make it 2-2 going into the interval.

The second half continued as the first left off with Lian Davies finding space in the Risca box to control, turn and finish powerfully despite the keepers best effort – 3-2 to Lewis school. Then came the goal of the game as Matthew Jenkins spotted the keeper off his line and executed a perfectly placed lob from fully 40 yrds to give Lewis school a two goal cushion.

As the game was drawing to a close Risca’s Daniel Gunter made for a nerve jangling final few minutes as sloppy defensive play from Lewis Boys allowed a hopeful long pass to bounce and Gunter headed home over the stranded keeper.
A special mention should go to referee Paul Lewis from Blackwood for allowing such a free flowing game.

Football Development Officer for Caerphilly Pat Mountain, who organised the competition, said ‘ the final showed just what talent is being developed in the borough. Some of the football on display throughout the competition was outstanding and this was typified by the quality of the final. I would like to congratulate all the schools that took part and thank the PE staff that co-ordinated the fixtures and gave their free time to allow young football talent in Caerphilly opportunity to test themselves and compete in a high standard competition’.