Goalkeeper Casey Eisley was the star of the penalty shootout as Marling Sixth Form were crowned Gloucestershire Schools Under 18s County champions.
In a tense final game against Cleeve School at Gloucester City, captain Henry Miles scored the opening goal with a header in the first half, but Cleeve equalised against the run of play. Marling had two goals disallowed and the Cleeve goalkeeper made several crucial saves.
The game concluded with a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes, leading to a penalty shootout. Marling keeper Eisley was the star, saving three penalties, and Thomas Mangan scored the decisive penalty, resulting in a Marling 3-2 victory. Marling will now go on to play in the regional contest.
Striker Hedley Craig said: ”This is the first time in recent years that Marling Sixth Form has got into the final and won it. Regionals next and we will give it an amazing shot.”
Speaking after the win, defender Ryan Khumalo said: “This was the most joy I’ve felt in a long time and I hope it inspires the next generation.”
The players were full of praise for their new coach, Mr Price, who recently joined Marlin School PE department.
Marling: Casey Eisley, Jake Turner, Thomas Mangan, Rudy Kyffin, Olly Gray, Jacob Freer, Ben Szerkowski, Ryan Khumalo, Will Foreman, Luke Ferdinando, Noah Finch, Hedley Craig, Harvey Idicula, Morgan Stacey, Sam Berhan, Daniel Adeusi, Henry Miles (C).
