Bryanston Prep enjoyed a fantastic afternoon of football at Farleigh School, with the U13A team crowned champions at the annual Rory McDonagh Memorial Tournament.
Competing in the tournament for the first time, Bryanston took five teams, involving more than 50 boys from Years 5 to 8, for an afternoon of competitive football against schools from across the region.
The U11 teams took part in a round-robin festival, playing a series of closely contested matches against Farleigh, Edgeborough and Pilgrims. Meanwhile, two Bryanston U13 teams competed in the main tournament, facing opposition from Twyford, Sherfield, Edgeborough, Pilgrims, Farleigh and Highfield.
The U13A team enjoyed an outstanding run, winning five of their six group matches to finish second and secure a place in the semi-finals. A dramatic penalty shootout saw Bryanston progress to the final, where they defeated Edgeborough 2-1 to lift the trophy.
The boys impressed throughout the afternoon, earning praise from other schools for the quality of their football and their sportsmanship. Adding to the celebrations, Bryanston’s Cosmo T was named Player of the Tournament.
The event, which welcomed 14 teams from seven schools, was held in memory of former Farleigh pupil Rory McDonagh, who sadly passed away in 2012. Rory had a great love of football, and the annual tournament continues to celebrate his life by bringing young players together through the sport he enjoyed so much.
Dan Robson, Head of Boys’ Games at Farleigh, congratulated Bryanston on their victory, describing them as “deserved winners” and praising the spirit in which the competition was played.
The tournament was also a valuable opportunity for Bryanston pupils to compete against schools they would not normally encounter during the regular fixture programme.
Football is an important part of sport at Bryanston Prep, with a full 12-week programme offered throughout the Autumn Term. The school’s commitment to developing and educating young footballers is further strengthened by Bryanston’s partnership with AFC Bournemouth.
