A first half brace for Patrick Burke helped St Bede’s College into round 2 of the Under 15 Boys Small Schools Cup as they overcame a fast start from their hosts to win 4-1 in the Lancashire sunshine.
Williams had given the hosts an early lead, slotting home under the goalkeeper to put Oldham 1-0 ahead and it was just reward after starting the game on the front foot.
Dunlop drew a fantastic save from Taylor in the home goal after cutting inside and firing a shot that the keeper was at full stretch to tip round the post.
Burke drew St Bede’s level later in the half, calmly slotting the ball home from 12 yards out past Taylor as the visitors began to take charge.
Whelan was put through on goal and made no mistake when one on one with Taylor to edge St Bede’s ahead and that lead was further extended when Burke scored from the penalty spot close to half time.
The second half saw Oldham battle to try and grab a goal back and, although they came close to doing that, they could have easily conceded again with the pace for St Bede’s stretching the defence.
With the clock ticking down it was St Bede’s who finally closed out the scoring, Charles finally hitting the net with the very last kick of the game.
A very entertaining game with both sides playing the game in the right spirit and some excellent performances in both teams.
St Bede’s will now travel to Westholme School or Maghull High School in round 2.
Congratulations to both teams involved! If you would like us to feature your ESFA schools’ cup fixture, Please send your match report alongside pictures of the game to [email protected] – alternatively, please feel free to contact 353 Photography to request his presence at your upcoming match.
The National Governing Body for Schools’ Football in England.