The Prince Henry’s Under 16’s football squad arguably surpassed their County Cup Win of last year by beating the formidable Sandwell Academy 3 -2 in the 2nd Round of the ESFA National Cup. The result is all the more remarkable with the same side beating Prince Henry’s 6 – 0 in last years competition. Added to the fact that 3 of the County cup winning side are currently injured and unavailable. The Sandwell side had the usual mix of West Brom and Wolverhampton Wanderers Academy players and were a more physical, stronger side than Prince Henrys. The side went into the game with intrepidation which soon turned into belief once the game began and the home side were on top, early PHHS chances were not taken. As the 1st half wore on Sandwell came more into the game and their pressure resulted in them going in front from a well taken headed goal.
At half time Prince Henrys were positive and the belief was that the game was far from over. The 2nd half began with Sandwell starting to get a little complacent and were punished when left winger Matt Knight broke through the away defence and slotted the ball into the top corner. This was goal was met by huge celebration from the Prince Henrys side and supporters. Suddenly it was game on, PHHS were playing with renewed confidence and from nowhere right winger Charlie Banning broke into the box and slid it past the Academys keeper to put the home side 2 – 1 ahead. Sandwell then changed their smooth passing style and turned to playing the ball over the top of the home defence. The PHHS back 4 superbly marshalled by skipper Lewis Drew, aided by Eliott Enoch, Harry Bermingham and Dan Evans soaked up all the pressure Sandwell could apply. Prince Henrys then managed to score on the break thanks to a Luke Sallis tap in after good work by Charlie Banning.
At this stage Sandwells big centre halfs went up front to add to their aerial threat and a ball down the middle for the first time in the game was not dealt with by the home defence resulting in Sandwell pulling a goal back. Despite a nervy few moment Prince Henrys hung on for a famous victory and move into the 3rd round. This was once again a superb team effort with defensive midfielder Nathan Bolland taking the Man of the Match award for his non stop effort and work rate against more physical opponents. The side beat Baverstock Academy of Birmingham in the first round and have shown they have no need to fear anyone as the competition progresses.