Sandwell Academy crowned national football champions

Students and Staff at Sandwell Academy are celebrating national success after their Year 8 Boys Football Team won the Under 13s English Schools Football Association National Cup.

The whole Academy staff and students went to the Hawthorns to support the team and witnessed an action packed match against Hove Park School, Brighton. Both teams were roared on by an excited and enthusiastic crowd.

Sandwell Academy took the lead after just two minutes with a free kick scored by captain Yan Dhanda. A quick equalizer from Hove Park made it 1-1. After two disallowed goals, the Academy finally regained the lead just before half time with an outstanding individual goal from Jonathan Leko.

The second half saw more goals as Hove Park equalised after 5 minutes. But the Academy turned up the pressure and goals from Tyler Roberts, a second from Jon Leko and a penalty from Yan Dhanda ensured a comfortable 5-2 victory for the Academy.

Team Manager Sam Woodhall said: "This is the proudest moment of my life! I am privileged to work with such talented athletes and have always believed in their ability as individuals and most importantly as a team.

"At the start of the year we set out our goals for the season with the number one aim being to win the National Cup. This was a culmination of all of the hard work we as a squad have put in and I am delighted for each one of the lads."

Mr Topper, Head of the Academy, said: "Everyone connected with Sandwell Academy is thrilled that we have been able to achieve a National Football title in only our sixth year as a school."

He also paid tribute to the opposition, "It was a great match with both teams playing their part in a very competitive and exciting game. Despite losing the game, the Hove Park players were a credit to their school and families and everyone had an experience they will never forget."