FOR the first time in nearly eight years, a Chulmleigh College football team had fought its way through to a North Devon Schools Cup Final, an impressive feat for such a small secondary school – sporting fixtures are often a struggle against bigger schools!

The Year 7s have had a truly impressive season.

Less than two months ago they were just a group of players, many not knowing each other, some even not having played much football, but in that short space of time they have trained hard to become a team that work for each other, have many impressive football technicians and are not afraid of any team put before them.

The North Devon Final was held November 19 away against Braunton Academy on the Acacamy’s 3G astro pitch.

The opening exchanges were fierce, with Braunton forcing Chulmleigh’s defence into a mistake from which they scored the opening goal of the game.

Their goal inspired some impressive football and, through a sublime piece of individual skill, Elis Aldrich equalised. There was some fantastic interplay between Jeremy Catling, Scott Hartrey and Fin Adams, which gave Elis Aldrich another goal scoring opportunity to put Chulmleigh into a well-deserved lead.

In a very physical and demanding second half the Chulmleigh boys continued to fight hard, with more defensive play than attacking.

Following a series of corners, Braunton were able to equalise and with just a few minutes remaining on the clock, the hearts of the Chulmleigh boys were broken by a third and winning goal for Braunton.

Both Elis Aldrich and Ben Gech went close in the final minute, but sadly there was not time to counter again and the final whistle blew with many players falling to their knees and the odd tear shed.

Every player was nominated for player of the match, but the final award of the season went to Fin Adams, who kept battling away in midfield, breaking numerous opposition attacks and playing some exquisite passes through to the strikers.

A total of 16 Year 7 players have represented the College this year, and each one of them has played their part in a most memorable season.

The team and coaches are now looking forward to taking on the competition challenge next season.