Year 11 Football team County Champions

The BRGS year 11 football team have won the Under 16 Lancashire Shield. They defeated Burscough Priory High School at Burscough FC 2-1 after extra time in the final. They had won through five rounds to reach the final playing schools from all over Lancashire being drawn away on four occasions.

On a windy day BRGS found themselves playing against the wind in the first half but battled hard in difficult conditions. Danny Payne in goal made one outstanding save and the back four did not concede an early goal as had happened in the quarter and semi-finals. Honours were even at half time - 0-0.

The second half saw BRGS putting Burscough under pressure and skipper Curtis Gallagher put BRGS ahead with a well made goal. The game then opened up and there were chances at both ends. Burscough although clearly tiring took one of their chances from a corner and the game drifted towards extra time. Full time 1-1.

In extra time BRGS started to press forward with tireless running in midfield from Fraser Phillips and Conor Porter and appeared to have the momentum but with time running out could BRGS get that clear cut chance. With 5 mins remaining a BRGS move across the penalty area saw Tom Hattan finish clinically at the far post. There was no way BRGS were going to let the lead slip again and BRGS ran out 2-1 winners.

Mr Baird Coach and head of boys PE said -

The game took place on the year 11’s last afternoon in school and it was a wonderful way for them to finish 5 years at the school. The team have got close in the past to winning this competition and this success is well deserved. Their fitness and drive today was outstanding. Their commitment has been excellent throughout the 5 years.

The team consisted of Daniel Payne, Tom Jackson, Daniel Devine, Daniel Mousley, Seamus McDonnell, Ben Horkin, Fraser Phillips, Conor Porter, Tom Hattan, Curtis Gallagher, Joshua Nurney, Joshua Donohoe, David Burns, Alistair Brew.

Year 11 Football team County Champions