The Churchill School made the trip to Folkestone Primary Academy after their own pitch was ruled unplayable due to waterlogging. Despite being away from home, Churchill were backed by a large and vocal crowd, matched by strong support from the hosts - creating a fantastic atmosphere for this important Herald Cup group stage fixture.

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First Half

The match began at a high tempo, with both sides creating early chances. Defensively, Churchill were outstanding. Hudson, Freddie O, and Leon stood firm at the back, clearing everything that came their way and showing great composure under pressure.

As the half progressed, Churchill began to build momentum and earned several corners. Hudson came closest to breaking the deadlock early on, rising highest to meet a delivery but seeing his header narrowly miss the target. The Academy goalkeeper was called into action repeatedly, producing a number of strong saves to keep his side level.

There was a brief moment of confusion when a Folkestone throw-in ended up in the net, sparking celebrations from some players and supporters - only for everyone to quickly realise it wasn’t a goal.

Churchill’s persistence finally paid off just before half-time. Josh reacted quickest at the back post to tuck home a classic poacher’s finish and give Churchill a deserved lead. A loud cheer rang out from the travelling supporters, relief evident after a tense but controlled opening.

In midfield, Austin and Leo worked tirelessly, winning countless 50/50 challenges and driving the team forward. Finley never stopped running, constantly pressing the Academy defence and even identifying and communicating a weakness Churchill looked to exploit.

At half-time, Churchill led 1–0 - deservedly so - but knew the job was far from done.

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Second Half

Changes at the break saw Jacob take over in goal, while Ronnie moved into midfield alongside Freddie W.

The impact was immediate. Ronnie began dictating play, threading clever passes through to Ellis, putting the Academy defence under sustained early pressure. That pressure told when the ball bounced around inside the box before Ellis reacted sharply to tap home at the back post and double the advantage.

Freddie then produced a performance full of flair and confidence. With nutmegs and clever footwork scattered throughout the half, it was reminiscent of Dele Alli at his most expressive. Not only stylish, Freddie was composed in possession, calmly collecting lofted passes and playing out from the back to launch further attacks.

Behind them, the defence - marshalled by Hudson, Freddie O, and Leon - dealt with everything calmly and confidently, leaving spectators impressed by their composure.

Ronnie continued to threaten with several efforts on goal, and it felt inevitable when he eventually made it 3–0 with a well-finished strike after another flowing move.

There was a light-hearted moment from a corner when Austin attempted to recreate Diego Maradona’s famous “Hand of God” - but excellent sportsmanship from Churchill saw them immediately admit it had come off a hand.

To cap off an excellent team performance, Josh grabbed his second of the match with another clinical finish, sealing an emphatic 4–0 victory.

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Full-Time

The Churchill School 4–0 Folkestone Primary Academy

A dominant and disciplined display sees Churchill take three valuable points in the Herald Cup group stage. Strong defending, relentless midfield work, and clinical finishing proved the difference.

Churchill leave Folkestone proud, confident, and with their group campaign off to the perfect start.