Hampton’s Second XI footballers have made it through to their respective English Schools’ Football Association (ESFA) Cup national final after narrowly missing out at the same stage last year.

The Second XI tournament began with 73 teams, with Hampton making it through to the final two after an excellent 3-0 semi-final victory against Bede’s School in front of a delighted home crowd. The Senior footballers made an excellent start to the match, playing with intensity, confidence and conviction. The early pressure paid off when vice-captain Gabriel F shifted on to his left and finished low into the far corner. This was followed up quickly by a whipped cross from winger Sam M-J which was met by a brave header from Olly S. The leadership and communication of goalkeeper Theo L, captain Joe M and centre-back Louis B were instrumental in keeping the footballers high standards of concentration, commitment and work rate throughout the game. Hampton went into half time with a 2-0 lead, a place in the ESFA final only 45 minutes away.

A strong Bede’s side showed resilience with several chances in the early stages of the second half, but Hampton defended superbly, and momentum swung back to the home team. Their place in the final was sealed after Oli L’s instinctive finish made it 3-0 with just minutes of the match left to play. Having progressed through six rounds of the tournament, the Second XI now wait to find out who they will meet in the final, which is due to be played at a prestigious football league ground during the summer term.

Second XI coach and Head of Politics, Mr Will Leafe, praised the team on a superb season so far:

Mr Ritchie and I are immensely proud of this group of footballers, who all stepped up to the occasion and showed outstanding spirit, work rate and togetherness. What is perhaps most exciting is that we feel this team is still improving and there is plenty more to come.

It has been a full squad effort to get here, and they thoroughly deserve an exciting ESFA Final to look forward to. They can really enjoy this moment: it is one they will never forget.

Director of Football, Mr David Burke, congratulated the senior footballers on their fantastic performance:

We are delighted for the Second XI players and their coaches. Losing in the semi final last season was tough, and today their commitment and conviction for each other was clear to see. The Senior Footballers have worked hard all season and will now finish it off with a National Final, which is thoroughly deserved!

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