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Annual football tournament - school team vs LOBFC
Wednesday, 1 May 2024
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The annual Latymer Alumni Football fixture took place this year on Wednesday 24th April, and for the first time in recent past, The Latymer 1st XI snatched a 5-4 win in a thrilling game! A pulsating game saw the Latymer Old Boys' Football Club (LOBFC) take the lead with a cross come shot from the wide right hand touch line, which sailed over the stranded 1st XI goalkeeper Nadav. Having made two previous saves when the ball was likely to dip below the crossbar, it proved third time lucky, much to the embarrassment of the goal-scorer, who clearly was attempting a cross or a defensive clearance of some kind. With the 1st XI having plenty of chances to score and Hasan, Year 13 striker, getting very good at warming up the opposition goalkeeper, Mr Miles, Head of PE and 1st XI manager, took the opportunity to put Dylan, Year 13 student, on to change the 1st XI’s fortunes. The plan failed and saw the Old Boys' put together a move that extended their lead to 2-0. Desperate times called for desperate measures and Mr Reader, Physics teacher and class of 2012, happened to be nearby walking his dog, so he was given all the usual tactical information to change the game for the school team. Helped by his understanding of Physics and his impressive flexibility, he jumped at least six feet in the air before unleashing a thunderbolt of a shot which broke through the goalkeepers’ hands and into the roof of the net. His muted celebrations suggested that this was business as usual for Mr Reader, who tells us he does this most weekends. We think this means that he walks his dog a lot at weekends?! Henry, Year 12 midfield maestro, saw the double cartwheel celebration from Mr Reader, and was inspired to run with the ball through the heart of the Old Boys' defence and powered his own shot into the net from range. This didn't last long though, as LOBFC responded and took the lead into half time following two clinical attacks which left Nadav stranded in the goal and unhappy with the defence for not preventing the shots raining in on his goal. At half time the score was 3-2 and perhaps was a little harsh on the 1st XI who 'huffed and puffed' but couldn't score without Mr Reader on the pitch. Alas, Mr Reader was tired and needed to be dragged off the pitch. Multiple substitutions freshened up the team and Year 13 Mustafa, in the middle of midfield, kept directing his troops to push forward. Fechi, also Year 13, was constantly involved in moving the ball around and keeping possession, which allowed the 1st XI to sustain attacks and look for a winner. A flurry of goals saw the game left on a knife edge with only the typical 20 minutes of additional time due to stoppages, to be added on. Davy, right winger in Year 13, making his first appearance of the season after a long-term knee injury, was finding his flow and causing all sorts of trouble down the right hand side of the pitch. Davy's cut back and finish left the game tied at 4-4 and heading into extra time. With Nathan, Year 13, masquerading as Phil Foden (Man City), the 1st XI went into extra time confident of the win, and with the words of Dimeji, Year 13 master motivator, ringing in their ears the team were inspired to 'cook the opposition' and sure enough he was right. Hasan, as if in slow motion, got goal side of his defender and was put through on goal with the goal gaping. The defender lunged in, to prevent a clear sight of goal, and Hasan hit the floor. Penalty awarded. Davy stepped up, with the game set to be decided by his ability from 12 yards. The result was never in doubt, such is his confidence in striking a ball past the diving keeper. A massive thank you to Matt Cooper and the LOBFC, who were a brilliant opposition and gave a good account of themselves despite the difference in ages and hopefully fitness between the two teams. The school’s team is already looking forward to next year’s game! If you would like to join Latymer Old Boys FC for next season, please read on as they are looking for players to join the club! LOBFC has a deep-rooted affiliation with the Latymer School and rich history, having been formed in 1897. The club enjoys great success each season whilst still being made up of a significant amount of Latymer alumni. All four teams play their home games on Saturdays at Enfield Playing Fields, Donkey Lane, Enfield, EN1 3PL, whilst the Vets team ply their trade on a Sunday at The Paulin Ground (Winchmore Hill Sports Club) 149 Firs Ln, London, N21 3ER. If you love playing football and want to continue being a part of the Latymer community, don’t hesitate to get in touch. To join or simply find out more contact Matt Cooper at 07788 525102 or drop the club an email at latymeroldboysfc@gmail.com |