The Undefeated. U13s Report

The Undefeated. U13s Report

Captained by Michael O'Sullivan, Mr. Hartin's 'Wonder Boys' averaged five goals a game, with twin strikers, Powell and Sleeman making an eighty-five goal contribution to a wonderful attacking teams total of finding the net 148 times. Also up front O'Sullivan, whose incredible footwork, deft passing and crack shooting left frustrated opponents in tears, assisted by the intelligent ball play of Hughes and Knight. Early in the season justice was done when Mick Landers was awarded a place in the team. Michael, from Kerry, proved his worth time and time again. However, I must think of my own safety, and not forget to mention the other team stalwarts. Peter Streeter played better than ever, while another newcomer Gerald Fitzgerald settled in nicely. Keith Sherwin played left back along side Mick Landers, while big Paul Sheehy proved a competent centre half. In goal, John Ormiston played consistently well, and though others attempted to topple him from his regular place, he stayed put.

The team gained a unique double in winning both the Headstone Cup and the Harrow Cup, a competition played on the same lines as the Scottish League Cup, with the winners and runners up in two leagues, playing off to determine the eventual finalists. In April the team beat Roxeth Manor in the Headstone Final 10-1. Michael Hughes opened the scoring as he had done in the Cox Shield the previous year, and within 30 seconds, the Salvo's were a goal up and virtually unstoppable. Four months later the Harrow Cup was placed in the School Trophy cabinet, after two very close games in the final stages of the competition, against Chandos 6-4, (3-3) after extra time and Harrow Weald 6-3 (3-3) also after extra time.

Back: Mr P. Hartin, Foley, Sleeman, Ormiston, Sherwin, Fitzgerald, Hughes, Mr Streeter.
Front: Landers, Sheehy, O'Sullivan, Powell, Knight.

The full record for the season was indeed remarkable; 30 games were played, 23 were won, 7 drawn, 148 goals were scored and only 55 conceded. For this wonderful record not all the credit is due to the players. Mr. Hartin was the managerial genius, and his teams attacking policy was a joy to watch. Mr. Streeter came along every Saturday to cheer the lads and Mr. Sheehy. Mr. Sleeman and Mr. Anderson were also present at a number of games. Also to be remembered is Brendan Duffy who filled the role of substitute and assistant manager most capably.

Meanwhile the boys who as first formers dreamed of playing at Lower Mead, now set their sights on Wembley Stadium!

Paul Gibbens reporting.