AoC National Cup - STC vs East Norfolk

St Charles men's team made the 7 hour 320 mile round trip to play East Norfolk college in the last 32 of the AoC national cup. 

The team set off at 8am in good spirits but without the influential Rivaldo Murray, Dorell Murray and 5 goal hero from the previous round Chase Hunte-Jones, despite this the 15 boys who travelled put in a great effort and represented the college very well from start to finish. 

The first half was a cagey affair which East Norfolk probably shaded in possession but STC won on chances created but not taken! A mixture of good goalkeeping, last ditch defending and wasteful finishing led to a goalless first half and it all to play for. 

The second half was another tight affair that swung from one end to the other and certainly entertained the 100 plus in attendance. After falling a goal behind despite the best efforts of the goalkeeper and then the covering defender, STC did not give up and found themselves back on level terms after a thunderbolt into the top left hand corner gave the very good East Norfolk goalkeeper no chance. STC were now in the driving seat and looking the most likely to find the winner but with 12 minutes left disaster struck when a set piece was not dealt with and the East Norfolk centre back planted a firm header beyond the reach of the goalkeeper. STC did not dwell or feel sorry for themselves they kept working and laid siege to the opposition goal, a strong appeal for handball was turned down by the ref (who had a very good game) Despite numerous corners and long throws and a sprinkling of half chances we were unable to find what would have been a deserved equaliser. 

Final score: East Norfolk 2 - 1 St Charles 

A great effort from this new squad not just today but to get this far in a prestigious national competition. We have many more trophies and titles to play for in 2026 and this young squad will come back stronger for this experience. 

This report has purposely not mentioned any individuals as it was a real team/squad effort and that's where the focus should be. 

We wish East Norfolk college all the best for the rest of the season.