This fixture came at a difficult time for the team, with several injuries affecting the squad. Notably, goalkeeper Rhys, who has been pivotal throughout the season, was ruled out after being injured in our previous game. We wish him a smooth and speedy recovery.

Leading up to the semi-final, Gordano put in an incredible cup campaign, securing victories against St Katherine’s School, Millfield School, and Bridgwater College Academy, scoring a remarkable 16 goals in three games. Our attacking trio of Billy, Yousuf, and Joe were instrumental in this run of form, combining brilliantly to break down defences.

Match Summary

Gordano began in their familiar 4‑3‑3 formation with the starting XI:
Ellis, Archie, Alby, Isaac, Jack, Ollie T, Henry, Ollie H (captain), Joe, Yousuf, and Billy.

Unfortunately, Haygrove School started quickly, capitalising on two early fast breaks to take a 2–0 lead within minutes. Gordano nearly responded when Joe beat two players and squared the ball to Billy, forcing the Haygrove School keeper into his first save of the afternoon.

In the 20th minute, the comeback began. From 30 yards out - a trademark distance for Billy - he lofted a superb shot over the goalkeeper after a precise assist from Jack G. Minutes later, Billy struck again, finishing calmly after a well‑constructed move involving captain Ollie H, bringing the score to 2–2.

Gordano finished the half strongly, with Reigan and Ollie H dictating play.

The momentum continued into the second half, with the back four - particularly Isaac, whose tackling was outstanding - holding firm. However, after a brief dominant spell from Haygrove School, the opposition regained the lead in the 60th minute with a well‑placed strike from the edge of the box.

Impact substitutions Harry, Caleb, and Ollie T helped inject fresh energy. In the 70th minute, a dangerous cross from Billy H was turned into the net by a Haygrove School defender, securing a crucial Gordano equaliser.

Straight from the restart, Joe J nearly put Gordano ahead after being played in by Ollie H, but the keeper reacted quickly to keep the game level.

A lengthy stoppage followed due to an injury to Archie, who has consistently given everything for the team this season. With the score locked at 3–3 at full time, the match headed to penalties.

The confident penalty lineup was Billy, Reigan, Ollie H, Joe J and Yousuf.

Haygrove School converted their first three penalties and saved Gordano’s opening two. Captain Ollie H calmly scored his spot kick, but Haygrove School secured the victory by converting their fourth.

We extend our congratulations and best wishes to Haygrove School as they progress to the final against Castle School.

A special thank you goes to Tom Shallcross for refereeing our matches and to Portishead Town Football Club for their continued support in providing facilities.

Team coach Mr Hayward shared:

“Sadly, that is football finished for this group, who have reached at least the semi-finals every year they’ve played for the school and winning it once. Their determination, resilience and teamwork have been outstanding. They have represented Gordano School to the highest standard, and we wish them all the best in their GCSEs, further education and future sporting careers.