On a gloriously hot and sunny day, the newly formed first team squad for the new academic year took on a team of OGs from the class of 2023, including some who have been stalwarts for the school football team themselves over the previous two years.

The game started positively, with chances for both teams before the first team took the lead with a shot from outside the area by Elliot H. This clearly rattled the OGs and 1-0 very quickly became 2-0, as a run from Max W was not properly tracked and he found the net with a composed finish. Albert W scored his first of three goals for a 3-0 lead, however the OG side did not give up and they scored the goal of the game with Toby P-R letting fly from the half way line to find the top corner to bring his side right back into the game. The celebrations that followed were euphoric and even the opposition had to stop and applaud what was a super goal (whether he intended it, only he will know!).

However, any thoughts of a comeback were soon stopped as Jake F scored on his debut (a similarly impressive celebration followed!) to leave the first team leading 4-1 at half time.

The weather was hot and this started to tell in the second half with many tired legs and lots of substitutions, however the OG side found the energy to score when a great run from Luke W ended with a shot into the bottom corner. However, top scorer from last season Albert W was in the mood for more goals, scoring his second and third to round off a fantastic performance and complete his hat trick, leaving the OGs 6-2 behind.

Former captain Charlie H scored to reduce the deficit, but Ru M finally got the goal his efforts deserved (having had several shots well saved by the keeper) and the match finished 7-3.

This was a great start to the season and the first team learnt a lot from the fixture. It was great to welcome back so many former pupils and we wish them every success as they move on to pastures new away from Gresham’s.