On Wednesday, 14 May our Year 7 Football team travelled to the Valentine Sports Complex to compete in the second annual Rice Cup, a highly anticipated soccer gala day featuring teams from EREA schools across New South Wales. With a mix of determination, skill, and school spirit, our boys competed in three tightly contested pool matches, earning their way into a well-deserved semi-final.
Match 1 vs Waverley College
Our opening match of the day was against a competitive Waverley College side. The game was evenly matched with both teams enjoying periods of possession. Despite some nervy moments—particularly with Waverley being caught offside on multiple threatening occasions—we held firm. Our goalkeeper, Jackson Potter, was solid between the posts, making crucial saves to keep the scores level. The breakthrough came following a corner, where Johann Wainmayer reacted quickly to finish off a loose ball and give us a narrow 1-0 win. A gritty and fortunate start, but a win nonetheless.
Match 2 vs Edmund Rice College
Our second fixture was against a technically strong Edmund Rice College team. We spent much of the game under pressure, with our opposition controlling the majority of possession and testing us with several long-range efforts. Once again, Jackson Potter stood tall, keeping us in the game with multiple sharp saves. The match ended 0-0 with the boys showing resilience and an impressive scramble in defence.
Match 3 vs St Edmund’s College
By our third match, the boys were beginning to find their rhythm. We dominated the early stages of play, winning several corners and showing great energy across the pitch. The team battled hard, winning crucial one-on-one challenges and holding strong in defence. Despite a goalless first half, the boys’ persistence paid off in the second. Will Vidler led the charge, scoring two well-taken goals from runs through the middle, and Zac Auld followed up a penalty rebound to seal a convincing 3-0 win. It was a true team performance, marked by excellent ball movement and growing confidence.
Semi-Final vs Christian Brothers Lewisham
Our efforts in the pool matches earned us a place in the semi-final against a tough Christian Brothers Lewisham team. We started brightly, with Will Vidler once again showcasing his individual brilliance to break through the midfield and slot home the opener. A close-range chance from Matthew Johnston soon after nearly extended the lead, but a fine save from the opposition keeper kept them in the game. The score was locked at 1-1 at halftime. In the second half, Lewisham lifted their intensity and took control, converting two strong chances to finish the match 3-1 in their favour. Though disappointed, the boys left the field proud of their efforts against one of the best teams of the day.
Throughout the competition, the team displayed great sportsmanship, teamwork, and resilience. Special mentions go to Jackson Potter for his consistent presence in goal, Angus Haines for his strong role building up play through midfield, Matthew Johnston for his excellent ‘false nine’ work up front and to Will Vidler for his leadership as captain on the day and attacking impact. The boys can hold their heads high, having competed with heart and skill in a challenging and exciting tournament.
We are proud of their efforts and look forward to more opportunities to see them represent the school on the pitch.
Mr Buxton and Mr Ryan
Team: Zac Auld, Blake Chapman, Lachlan Cormack, Angus Haines, Callan Harvey, Joshua Hunter, Beau Hutchings, Jude Ismail, Matthew Johnston, Bayley Law, Dustin Needham, Flynn Oldfield, Jackson Potter, Roko Schlothauer, Nicholas Snelson, William Vidler, Johann Wainmayer, Archie Worrall
