This turned out to be the toughest game of the season so far with a strong Bradfield College side retaining possession of the ball for long periods of time. We executed our game plan successfully for the initial period of play but then two lapses in concentration saw Bradfield establish a 2-0 lead.

As half-time approached plans were being made to alter the formation to bring Bishop’s back into the game but a third goal on the stroke of half-time gave Bradfield College a commanding lead.

The planned changes were implemented for the second half and the game became more even, one goal apiece for each side saw the game end 4-1 in Bradfield Colleges favour.

A successful run in the ESFA Trophy is always a good way to start the season and reaching the last 32, from over 530 entries nationally, has been an excellent achievement this year. It is reward for the dedication shown by the players to their training and on match days.

In subsequent correspondence, Bradfield College praised the way we played and conducted ourselves as a school, and as a result we are looking at establishing a regular friendly fixture with them next year.

Attention now turns to the defence of the Wiltshire Schools FA League and Trophy Titles. Two games have already been played in the league, with wins in both games placing the team in a strong position at this point of the competition.

Mr Lloyd