There was great excitement in Saul when the school soccer team travelled to Donard Park to participate in the Acti-Sport Schools' World Cup Finals. Having performed so well in the Dunleath League the school were hoping to give a good account of themselves against the qualifiers from Downpatrick and Newcastle in the 16 team tournament.
St Patrick's got off to a great start with goals from Patrick, Luke and Shane helping them to a 4-1 victory against St Mary's, Newcastle. Successive hard-fought draws against Our Lady and St Patrick's and All Children's, Newcastle helped them to remain unbeaten and top the group.
They came up against a very determined Legamaddy team in the quarter final and edged the game 1-0 with a good finish from Patrick. The whole team grew in confidence in the semi-final and they ran out comfortable 6-0 winners with great strikes from Jay, Patrick and four from Shane. Saul had great strength in depth in the squad with Leah, Erin and Michael impressing throughout the tournament.
In the final St Patrick’s came up against a very strong Our Lady and St Patrick's side who had impressed throughout the tournament. Once again Saul were outstanding in defence. Goalkeeper Danny was in superb form and Conor and Darragh were an outstanding partnership in defence. Not only did they thwart all the Downpatrick attacks but they also showed great composure to play the ball out from the back. Ryan showed great strength, bravery and skill in midfield and was ably assisted by the superb running of Luke on the wing with Patrick leading the line in attack. Shane scored a goal in each half to give Saul a deserved 2-0 win in final.
The whole team celebrated as if they had won the World Cup (which they had!) when captain Danny lifted the trophy and then Shane received the award for joint player of the tournament. Mrs Kernan and Mrs Mullan capped a great day for the children by taking them to Nugelato for well-deserved ice-creams. It was a memorable day for all involved and credit must go to Graham and his Actisport coaches for a very well organised event.
We are so proud of the team and their achievements this year.
