The team, comprised of Year 11 students, have already played five games since September 2021 to get to this stage in the competition and they were very excited to play this round of the cup at The Hand Stadium in Clevedon.

Backwell got off to a good start – scoring three goals in the first 30 minutes including one after just five minutes as Sol Kent was set up beautifully by Charlie Gill. The second goal came courtesy of Josh Andrieu and the third struck by Harry Peters was perfectly placed into the top corner. A penalty was awarded to Ivybridge just before half time but this was saved by Backwell goalkeeper Logan McKenzie.

Ivybridge came out strong in the second half however a second goal from Josh A put Backwell 4-0 up.

The final 20 minutes of the game were tense, with the Backwell Team focusing on defending their lead. Ivybridge did manage to score two goals in quick succession towards the end of the game, but it was not enough to claim victory. The final score of 4-2 put Backwell Under 16s through to the quarter final of this national competition.

Team Manager, Year 11 student, Harry Davies said after the game: “I thought we were excellent all game and we played some lovely football at times and really took our chances. I hope the boys will now rest up and get prepared for next game”

The draw for the next round will take place this weekend; the team are eagerly awaiting to find out who their next opponents will be.

Chris Budd, Head of PE at Backwell School, has been supporting the team throughout the competition: “They should be very proud of their achievements. They are really enjoying each other’s company; working as a team, supporting each other and discussing tactics and game play ideas. They are a wonderful group of young people and I know they will remember this for many years to come.”  

Headteacher, Mr Jon Nunes said “The whole school is behind them and we wish them the very best of luck in the next round.”