In a thrilling City Cup final held at the legendary Brunton Park on Monday, WHS’s U16 boys showcased resilience, skill, and determination to secure their victory against a tough Richard Rose Morton Academy side.
The match kicked off with WHS starting brightly, asserting early dominance by maintaining most of the possession. Their fluid passing game and controlled build-up saw the team play some attractive football through midfield maestros Bolger, Parkin, and Harper. This creative trio orchestrated quick, incisive balls out to the wide players, causing problems for RRMA’s defence and creating early pressure.
Despite their dominance in possession, clear-cut scoring opportunities remained elusive in the first half. RRMA responded with dangerous counterattacks and relentless set-piece pressure, notably forcing a series of corners that kept the WHS defence alert. The visitors’ physicality and tenacity made it a fiercely contested half, but William Howard’s disciplined play kept them at bay, and the teams went into the break locked at 0-0.
The second half saw the game even out, with RRMA growing more confident and pushing forward in search of a breakthrough. At the heart of William Howard’s defensive resilience was Cattermole, who was a colossus at the back, chasing every ball and intercepting crucial passes. Supported ably by Williamson and Armstrong, the backline held firm against the increasing pressure.
As the game wore on, WHS began to turn the screw, applying sustained pressure and earning numerous corners. From one of these set-pieces, a deep cross into the box was met at the back post, where William Howard’s player rose highest to head home the only goal of the match, sealing a 1-0 victory.
The final whistle confirmed WHS as City Cup Winners, capping off a memorable campaign. This triumph marked a fitting end to their secondary school journey, which has seen them achieve remarkable success over the past five years — winning the county cup four times, lifting the City Cup at Brunton Park twice, and reaching the last 16 of the National Cup.
Congratulations to the lads for their fantastic effort and well-deserved victory. An outstanding achievement and a proud moment for William Howard School’s footballing history. Well done team!
Year 8 Boys Team
It was a commendable performance from the Year 8 boys’ team as they battled hard against a strong Trinity team in the City Cup finals yesterday.
There were some excellent periods of play where they kept the ball well but struggled to make any clear chances, while at the other end of the pitch the defence worked tirelessly to minimise Trinity’s threat. In the end the strength and fitness of the Trinity team gave them a four-goal advantage, but Charley Boertein got a well-deserved consolation for WHS with the game finishing 4-1.
Year 8 Girls Team
Our U13 Girls’ football team also faced strong opponents from Trinity which meant they worked hard right from the beginning of the match. It was a great team effort with Year 7 players stepping up to join the Year 8 team. Although it was a clear win for the Trinity side, our players can be proud of their performance.
