On 26 March, Springfield School hosted the U16 Portsmouth Cup Final facing Admiral Lord Nelson School. After winning the trophy last year against Priory, the girls weren’t looking to surrender the cup just yet. During the tournament, Springfield expressed true grit and determination while going on a successful run through to the final.
As soon as the whistle blew, Springfield were keen to score and Isobel Child (11E) took it upon herself to kick off the goal scoring with a wonder of a goal in just the second minute. Not long after, Lola Archbold doubled the score line, and Admiral seemed to have lost a bit of momentum after the two goals. However, the girls were not going to settle with only the two, and Georgia Psaila (11E) slotted the ball into the net adding to the lead. This game will be one to remember for the Year 11s, as it is their last game in a Springfield shirt. The visitors couldn’t keep the ball out the net with Edee Abery (11S) putting it top corner after a tidy cutback. The team maintained their win with lots of neat and structured passing waiting for the perfect goalscoring opportunity. As a result of this passing, Isobel Child secured a brace with a composed finish.
During halftime, the girls were advised by Imogen Fitch-Ballard (10D) and Miss Woolgar to remain calm and collected to secure our name on the cup. Admiral Lord Nelson had a few chances but the players in defense played superbly to keep a clean sheet. Before you know it, Springfield were in with a chance again and Daisy Boswell (11R) fooled the keeper and made it 6-0. By this point, the girls were happy with this result and looked to form some passes to keep ALNS from gaining possession. In the final moments of the game, Captain Georgia Psaila slotted the ball round the keeper, with the final score being 7-0. Springfield have won the Portsmouth Cup Final, two years running.
A spectacular performance from the girls who were the only side in it. The match was special, and showed their resilience and dedication. I’m sure this won’t be the last time the girls will be returning the Portsmouth cup final to our trophy cabinet.
Matilda Watts (10G)
Post match interview with Lola Archbold (10G):
How did you think the team played overall?
“I think that the team played well, and had strong communication across the pitch. We also played some nice balls which led to some goals.”
What was the highlight of the match?
“When Ava showed brave goalkeeping skill during a 1v1.”
As it was the Year 11s final match, do you have any words for them?
“Thank you for playing with us over the years and wish you well in the future.”