Our 1st XI put in another heroic performance against Colfe’s school to progress to back-to-back ISFA National Shield finals.
The team found themselves 2-0 down at half-time, but captain, Will S., has engendered a dressing room of unshakeable belief and positivity.
Throughout the second-half, Cranleigh carved open the opposition to create multiple chances. Hamish R. reduced the deficit to 2-1 with 30 minutes left. At times frustration started to creep as they failed to take their chances but the team continued to reset itself.
As they entered the fifth minute of added on time, Milo R. scored with the last kick of full-time to draw level. Extra-time saw Cranleigh create numerous opportunities but again were unable to convert. With four minutes left a calamitous mistake at the back gave Colfe’s their first opportunity to score a goal since the first-half and they went 3-2 up.
Cometh the hour cometh the giants. Heart, togetherness and self-belief forged in the Surrey hills refused to be bowed. With the last kick of extra-time, up rose James M. to head the game into penalties. There could only be one outcome – Cranleigh win 5-4 on penalties after the sixth kick: ISFA National Shield Finalists 2024!
