On Wednesday, April 30, the Monmouth Comprehensive School senior boys’ football team etched their names into the history books with a thrilling Welsh Schools Under-18 FA Cup final victory.
MCS ran out 3-2 winners against Bryntirion Comprehensive School of Bridgend in the final, which took place at Pen-y-Darren Park, home of Merthyr Town FC.
Before the match, the players were presented with their new kits by Mayor of Monmouth, Councillor David Evans, on behalf of Monmouth Town Council.
Under a scorching sun, Bryntirion dominated the opening stages – a forward latching onto a long ball forward to slot in past Joe Porter from close-range.
Just minutes after conceding, MCS responded with a well-taken goal from Herbie Perry. Perry struck a sweet left-footed half-volley into the top corner, sparking a surge of confidence in the MCS team.
Right-back Lucas Harris made a well-timed run to meet a free kick and head the ball into the bottom corner, giving MCS a 2-1 lead. As the first half neared its end, Bryntirion managed to find the equaliser.
The second half saw MCS’s Porter called upon to make several crucial saves to keep Bryntirion at bay.
As the game approached its final minutes, both teams braced themselves for penalties. However, in the dying moments, George Gouldingay, one-on-one with a defender, created a bit of magic and curled the ball into the top corner, securing a dramatic 3-2 lead.
MCS held firm through added time, securing their Welsh Cup victory.
Mr Hancocke, a teacher and coach of the team, said: “Seeing the celebrations with staff, friends, and family was wonderful. They’ve done the school and the town proud, and for many of the boys, it’s the perfect way to end their journey at MCS.”
Cllr David Evans, Mayor of Monmouth said “It was great to meet the team and present them with their new kit on the morning of the final. I am very pleased that the Town Council were able to sponsor the team and the fantastic result that the team achieved.
Cllr Martyn Groucutt, Monmouthshire County Council Cabinet Member for Education, said: “The MCS team have worked tirelessly this season and truly deserve to celebrate this success.
“I look forward to seeing what they achieve in the future.”
