ESFA official photographer Garry Griffiths has been up and down the country this season covering ESFA National cup ties from the first rounds, all the way to the semi final stage. In the lead up to ESFA national finals in May, the ESFA will be looking back at some of the games he has covered throughout the season and shining the spotlight on as many teams as possible involved in ESFA National Cup Competitions.
ESFA Playstation F.C. U14 Schools’ Cup Round 1
Moreton School 0 Wombourne High School 4 – 21st September 2021
Our season opener took us a short drive to Wolverhampton for the opening round tie in the Boys Under 14 competition as Moreton School hosted Wombourne High School.
The first point of order was the installation of some new goal nets after the local wildlife had decided to have a nibble at the old ones – probably the cleanest nets we have seen at a schools cup tie, straight out of the packaging and into action!
A delayed journey for the visitors across to Wolverhampton meant a later than expected start but we were soon underway although neither side were able to hit those newly installed nets and the game went into the break level at 0-0.
It took Wombourne High School just seconds to correct that though as a shot into the far corner gave them the lead with the first attack of the second half with a second goal putting them in command of the tie.
The home side didn’t let their heads drop though and pushed for a way back into the game, the woodwork denying them a goal as the visitors goal led a charmed life.
Two further goals, the last one with the final kick of the game, gave the score line a harsh look for Moreton School but it was a deserved win for Wombourne High School to progress into round two.
ESFA Playstation F.C. U12 Elite Schools’ Cup- Round 1
Riddlesdown Collegiate 5 Wilsons School 2 (AET)– 24th September 2021
Towards the end of the same week we headed south for what turned out to be a classic U12 Elite cup tie between Riddlesdown Collegiate and Wilsons School.
The home side had plenty of pressure and chances but a stubborn defensive performance from the visitors kept Riddlesdown at bay and, despite edging in front twice, they were pegged back to send the game into extra time after finishing 2-2 at full time.
Both sides had chances to win the game late on with some heart stopping moments for both sides – who would be a schools football team manager?!
The extra time period made all the difference as the home side eventually took advantage of their persistent pressure with 3 goals finally seeing them into round two although credit must go to Wilsons for an excellent display in defeat with hard work and determination throughout the team.
A brilliant start to the season with our next stop a week long trip to Devon – stay tuned for that report coming soon!
A huge thank you to Garry Griffiths for providing this report and the photos. Please contact ThreeFiveThree Photography to have your ESFA cup tie featured!
The National Governing Body for Schools’ Football in England.