The half time shootout semi finalists have been confirmed as Woodlands book their place in the final four
Last Saturday we were pleased to welcome Woodlands Primary School and St Thomas of Canterbury RC Primary School to MEMS Priestfield Stadium to take part in their Quarter Final fixture of the competition.The outfield players had seven seconds to score form the edge of the D, from when the whistle goes. They can either score by dribbling it past the keeper or shooting straight away, at the same time the keepers can charge off their line as soon as they hear the whistle.
With this being the last of the Quarter Final fixtures, it was clear to see that all the young footballers involved were feeling the pressure as they arrived at the stadium, one of the boys was heard saying ‘’we’ve all made it so far, I really hope I score!’’
Once the rules of the competition had been explained to the two teams, the boys took their seats in the lower Medway stand, eagerly awaiting the half-time whistle so they could have their opportunity to score a goal in front of the cheering Rainham End.
As the whistle blew for half-time, the two teams made their way on to the pitch for a brief warm-up before lining up front of the Rainham End goal to await their opportunity to score in front of the cheering fans.
As the fixture got under way, Woodlands got off to a fantastic start, converting their opening spot kick and instantly gaining the upper hand on their opponents.
However, the advantage was short lived, as the shoot-out was tied after the 4th penalty, adding the pressure to the final two spot kick takers.
The final two penalties were converted in impressive fashion, meaning that for the first time in the competition this season, the shoot-out would be decided in sudden death!
After a gripping sudden death, which had the Rainham End on their feet throughout the duration, Woodlands managed to narrowly clinch the victory and secure their spot in the Semi-Finals of the competition.
We would like to thank St Thomas of Canterbury RC Primary School for their hard work and effort in the Shoot-out and for all their support throughout the season.
Congratulations to Woodlands Primary School on advancing to the Semi-Finals of the competition and they will be back to face Brompton Westbrook Primary School on the 18th April when the Gills face Rochdale.
The Half-Time Shoot-Out will return on the 11thApril as Featherby Junior School take on St Margaret’s at Troy Town COE Primary School for their chance to secure a spot in the Final of the competition.
All pictures courtesy of Sports Images.