In a tense quarter final match, we faced arguably the strongest team in Barnet who are currently top of Division 1. The Archer Boys started the match very slowly and went 1-0 down within the first 10 minutes and things got worse as we conceded 4 more goals leaving us 5-0 down at half time. With many of the boy’s heads down Mr Cifci gave an amazing, inspirational team talk providing the boys with a glimpse of hope. The second half started with Archer scoring a goal and this gave us confidence and belief, this was soon followed by our second and third goals.
10 minutes remained and we still needed 2 more goals to go level and then out of nowhere, Sonny hit a fabulous strike from outside the box curling it into the left-hand corner. We continued to pile on the pressure looking for that all-important equaliser. With just a couple of minutes remaining, Jasper hit the most perfect volley, slicing it into the top corner leading to wild celebrations.
As the full-time whistle blew the game ended 5-5 but it wasn’t over just yet. As it was a cup tie, the match went straight to penalties. Archer was the first to start and Mickey coolly fired home his penalty. The shootout continued with both teams scoring, missing and some outstanding saves from our keeper, Santi. It continued into sudden death and the 7th penalty was dispatched by Rupert. Finchley had to score to stay in it, their player stepped up and missed the target meaning. We were through to the semis and we could finally celebrate an amazing comeback and victory.
This week’s match results:
Y8 Boys football v Finchley Catholic: Draw 5-5 (Archer Win on Penalties)
Y11 Boys football v St Andrews: Draw 0-0 (St Andrews Win on Penalties)