Monkwearmouth’s Year 7A’s make the final 16 of the national cup

Monkwearmouth Academy’s triumphant year 7 A’s made the final 16 of the national cup by beating Richard Rose Morton Academy 5-1 on Friday.

A brace by Josh Jones, as well as efforts by Kairon Goldsmith, Charlie Stoker and Fin Dixon secured Monkwearmouth a resounding and deserved win.

And head coach, Jamie Chandler, believes everyone should be proud of the cup run the group has achieved this season.

He said: “It was another proud day for the academy having another of one our fantastic groups represent the school in the late stages of the prestigious ESFA National Cup.

“We knew going into the game we were going to be challenged by a very good side who have so far been unbeaten in all competitions so far this season.

“After speaking to a friend of mine from St. Joseph’s (they beat them 7-0) he mentioned a number of strengths they have but also one or two weaknesses we felt we could exploit.”

It was important for Chandler as a result to focus the group’s training in the build-up to exploit these weaknesses, which worked tremendously in Monkwearmouth’s favour.

“Over the past week,” Chandler continued, “in training and in our team meetings we have provided the players with information and worked on areas we felt we would exploit with the way we to play the game.

“From the first whistle we were aggressive and forward thinking in our play and caused a number of problems for the opposition.

“We were very pleased with not just how we were with the ball but how well we affected the ball without also.

Such a bright start ensured that the team was 4-0 up by half-time, meaning the second half was all about strategy and keeping control of the match.

Monkwearmouth’s next cup match is against Garforth Academy, from Leeds, at home but now is the time to reward the group’s achievements so far.

“Overall, to reach the last 16 of a competition which started with 600 schools is incredible, we are extremely proud of all the players and parents who have supported us and backed us over the past few months and we are excited to continue the journey with another home tie against another decent side in Garforth Academy (Leeds).”