A hat-trick of championships for Warden Park

The Girls Under 16s final against Tanbridge House on Friday, 1st May, with a score of 7-2 brought to a close a remarkable 5 years for what has been one of the school’s most successful teams. This is the second year running that they have won this competition while, in 2012 having won both of the County Cups for which they were eligible, they also reached the ESFA National Cup Final. As Year 11’s, they have won all four County Cup competitions in which they have played, having never lost a County football match.

Just a week later, on Friday, 8th May, the U12 Girls team enjoyed equal success when they became the first ever Sussex Champions in this age group, the 9 v 9 competition only having been introduced by the FA this season. The final was against a tough Dorothy Stringer side but, after starting nervously and falling behind by a goal, the girls settled and played with more authority, showing courage in defence and determination in retaining the ball. The final score was 3-1.

Later the same evening, the U12 boys took to the field against Blatchington Mill. After another uneven start, they found themselves up 2-0 at half time but during the second half, they had to call on the defensive solidarity that has resulted in them only conceding four goals in the previous eleven matches of the competition. A goal from Blatchington with only 2 minutes plus extra time to go made for a tense final few moments but Warden Park was able to hold out and the final score was 2-1.

All 3 matches were played under spotlight at Lewes FC’s stadium, the Dripping Pan, and were well supported by both staff and students who showed their delight by their celebrations in the stands.

Coach for the girls U16 team, Mr. Corke, said of the results: “All these teams have shown remarkable dedication and commitment to their football this season and it has paid off with this tremendous set of results. The boys have bounced back from one or two tough defeats in other competitions and the girls have helped to transform football at Warden Park. We are very proud of them all.”