With determination in their hearts and semi-final dreams in sight, the Year 5/6 boys football team stepped onto the pitches at Taylor Road ready to give it their all. The stakes were high, and the pressure was palpable — only a top performance would secure their place in the next round.

The opening match was a nail-biter from start to finish. Both teams battled fiercely, with chances at either end, but neither side could break the deadlock. The game ended in a tense 0-0 draw, leaving everything to play for in the remaining fixtures.

Knowing that only victories would keep their hopes alive, the boys dug deep. In the second match, Ahmed rose to the occasion, slotting home a crucial goal to seal a 1-0 win. The momentum carried into the third game, where Ahmed once again found the back of the net, securing another 1-0 victory.

With two wins under their belt, the team stood a real chance — but their fate now rested on the outcome of the final group game. As they waited anxiously on the side-lines, fingers crossed and hearts racing, the suspense was almost unbearable.

Then it happened. The email pinged.

Apprehension turned to elation as the message confirmed their place in the semi-finals on 28th October. The announcement was met with jubilant cheers that echoed across Highfields, drawing smiles and curious glances from the people who were walking by. The boys had done it — their hard work, teamwork, and resilience had paid off.

We couldn’t be prouder of the team. Bring on the semi-finals!