A SCHOOL’S young footballers are in seventh heaven after storming into the semi-finals of the English Schools U13s FA Cup.

Top scorer Caidan Jones hit an incredible six goals as the Five Acres High School Year 8 team whacked seven past their Oxford quarter-final opposition to keep their cup run going, and are now just one game away from the final.

Opponents Sir Gregory the Great Catholic School travelled to the Forest to take on the Berry Hill outfit, and must have thought the wind was in their sails when they went 1-0 up after just 35 seconds

But the hosts boun-ced straight back to score a beautiful team goal headed home by Dan Hardy after some great lead up play and a fantastic cross.

Five Acres PE teacher Justin Hayward said the first half was exciting with end-to-end play and a bag full of goals, with the hosts going into the break 4-2 up.

Having scored 33 goals in four games beating both Ayelstone School in Herefordshire and Gloucestershire Academy 11-1, followed by 5-4 and 4-3 wins over Catshill, Bromsgrove, and Wolverhampton Grammar respectively, the half-time team talk centred on the team’s need to tighten it up at the back after the break. 

The boys did what was asked and only conceded one goal in the second half, while scoring another three to secure a 7-3 win. 

Their teacher added: “Once again it was a fantastic team performance with every player doing their job.

“Caidan Jones had another outstanding game, scoring six goals, while Jamie Belfitt and Jack Powell ‘bossed’ the midfield and Jason Burrows had a solid game at the back.

“However, I could go through each player and say what they did well – all of our boys showed class and determination.

“We had some great support from students, ex-students and family, and we would like to thank everyone for their support. The ‘12th man’ made a real impact.

“Also a big thank you to Mr Yardley and the choir for their contribution at the start of the game.”

Five Acres have secured home advantage for the semi-final in March, where they will play either North Bridge House from Islington or Claremont School from Sussex.