UCS win final to clinch MSFA cup glory

UCS’s 1st XI footballers today won the Middlesex Schools FA Tye Cup after Joe Abrahams’ late goal earned a 1-0 victory over the London Oratory School at Rectory Park.

Defences prevailed in a tight final until Abrahams arrowed in a superb free-kick with ten minutes left to clinch the trophy and cap a remarkable cup run by Rodrigo Sousa’s team. “We did it,” said the coach. “I am proud of all the boys who contributed during the season. Thanks to all staff members behind the scenes too – no dream is ever chased alone.”

The Under-18s’ road to glory began with high-scoring wins over Fortismere and Alexandra Park. Those results confirmed the strong organisation of Mr Sousa’s side as well as their belief and conviction. These qualities were examined in a tough quarter-final versus St Ignatius College, where Chase Calvert’s late equaliser earned a penalty shoot-out which UCS won 4-1. A memorable semi-final followed against Barnet and Southgate College. Despite Toby Crawcour’s goal, UCS needed another last-gasp equaliser – Joe Abrahams’ spot-kick – to rescue a 2-2 draw and another shoot-out. An epic 32-penalty drama ensued until Sam Harding’s decisive conversion.

So no surprise that today’s final was entering its climactic straight when Joe Abrahams’ fired in his free-kick to secure the MSFA Tye Cup. “This cup victory is a tribute to the commitment and enjoyment experienced by all 22 players this term,” said team-mate Samuel Abrahams.

Squad: Louis Laniado, Leonard Knight, Chase Calvert, Lawrence Fung Roviras, Charlie Gordon, Samuel Abrahams, Joe Ohnona, Toby Crawcour, Oliver Shah, Martino Coscelli, Matteo Lievens, Joseph Kanerick, Samuel Harding, Joseph Abrahams, Nicky Helfgott, Leon Voulgaris Cleare.