On Monday 15^th December, our Key Stage 3 footballers travelled the short distance to The Triangle in Burgess Hill to compete in the annual Albion Cup – a fast-paced six-a-side tournament featuring schools from across the area.

Eight schools took part and were divided into two groups. Woodlands Meed were drawn in Group B alongside Hill Park, Saxon Mount, Serenity School and Springboard.

We got off to a dream start in our opening fixture against Hill Park, recording an emphatic 3–0 victory, with Tianna firing in a superb hat-trick. Confidence was high, and the momentum continued in our second match against Saxon Mount, where Tianna once again found the net three times to secure another convincing 3–0 win. Six goals in two games – an incredible achievement by the whole team who were demonstrating some fantastic attacking play, as well as plenty of committed defending!

Our third group match saw us face Serenity School, who had themselves started strongly, including an eye-catching 7–0 win earlier in the competition. However, Woodlands Meed showed no fear and delivered another outstanding performance, running out 4–1 winners. Tianna completed her third consecutive hat-trick, taking her tally to an astonishing 10 goals in just three games – surely the stuff of tournament records!

The final group game against Springboard was no different. Our attacking play proved too strong once again, with yet another Tianna hat-trick, supported by a brilliant goal from Deacon, sealing a 4–2 win. This meant a perfect group stage record: played 4, won 4, 12 points, top of the group, with an   impressive goal difference of +11, four more than the team in second!

In the semi-final, we faced Cornfield, who had finished second in Group A. It was an extremely tight and competitive match that finished 1–1 despite strong efforts from both sides. The outcome was decided by penalties and, although every player stepped up bravely, we narrowly missed out on a place in the trophy final.

However, our tournament journey was far from over. We progressed to the Plate Final, where we once again faced Serenity School. Taking nothing for granted, the team delivered a determined and resilient performance to secure a thrilling 2–1 victory. This marks the first time in Woodlands Meed’s history that we have won the Plate – a truly special achievement and a moment to be incredibly proud of!

Player of the Day quite rightly went to Tianna for her phenomenal and unmatched goalscoring performance. Her consistency, teamwork and passion were outstanding, and it would be fascinating to know if anyone has ever scored more goals in an Albion Cup tournament!

That said, football is a team game, and every single player played a vital role in this success. From Kielen in goal, leading from the back with fantastic communication and crucial saves, to the tireless effort, encouragement and teamwork shown across the squad, this was a true collective achievement.  We are unbelievably proud of Lou and her team – massive congratulations to everyone involved!

Special Mentions

Tianna – Unbelievable. A hat-trick in every match, incredible teamwork and passion. Truly phenomenal!

Tom – Played with respect and showed tremendous teamwork and dignity in the face of adversity.

Luke – Fully committed and gave absolutely everything!

Jax – Played well, acted on coaching advice and demonstrated solid passing throughout!

Dan – Absolutely brilliant; great commitment, teamwork and provided constant encouragement to others!

Deacon – Scored a fantastic goal and delivered an excellent all-round performance.

Kielen – Outstanding in goal: kept countless clean sheets, fantastic communication and leadership during whole tournament

James – Showed real versatility, defending superbly in an unfamiliar position.

Henry – Encouraged others throughout and demonstrated strong teamwork.  Made his competitive debut!

Lou—Dedicated, supportive, a football guru and the first staff member in Woodlands Meed history to lead her squad to victory!

An unforgettable day, a historic win, and a team effort to be immensely proud of.