Ravalia stars as Hampton U14Ds Beat Eton 2-1

By Francisco Conte-Ireland

After a relatively brief and enjoyable coach ride, the U14D team arrived at Eton College. Once the team had gathered together, they realised that they were slightly low on numbers, with only one substitute. Despite this major hurdle, Hampton were eager to get revenge after suffering a defeat to this side prior to the half term break. As a team, they walked over to their assigned pitch to warm up and get ready for the upcoming clash of heavyweights. 

Following the warm up, they received a huge boost. Dante, from the Hampton C team, was to play in the D team defence for the first half of the match. With this boost of energy, Yusuf Ravalia kicked off the game. It was a solid first half where Hampton mostly dominated possession but were not able to capitalise on any opportunities for the moment. There were many great displays of skill from the wingers and other attacking positions throughout the half. It ended 0-0, despite a good performance, but there were many things still to improve if Hampton were to win. Mr Bailey gave an insightful talk but soon the referee called for the match to restart.

Eton kicked off the second half and immediately launched a quick attack. They continued to press high and counterattack quickly, leading to their one and only goal. But after conceding, the U14Ds were eager to score an equaliser. It came in the form of a set piece. The referee awarded them with a free kick just outside the box. Up strode Ravalia. He stepped up and struck the ball with power, precision and finesse. The ball curled elegantly into the top corner and the net bulged.

Hampton were level again, but they still wanted to win. Just a few minutes after the equaliser they were given a penalty after a late, clumsy tackle by the Eton defender. This was their chance to win the game. Once again, Ravalia was the man to come up, calmly stepping up for the spot kick….. and putting Hampton ahead! He had managed to keep calm and composed and curl the ball past the keeper’s hands.

The U14Ds were now ahead, so the stakes were high. In the closing minutes of the game, an Eton attacker broke through the defensive line and was through on goal. Luckily, George Townley was able to make the crucial stop to secure the win for the U14D team. This outstanding display of resilience and determination was arguably the key element which ultimately won them the game.

This year’s D team has consistently displayed the skills, the passion and the perseverance often attributed to Brazil’s 2002 National Team.  They hope to continue their winning streak next week, with a fixture against Charterhouse.