Over the past 4 weeks the pupils from 3rd-6th Class have been taking part in a World Cup style competition in school. The competition is being run with the help of Ian Haill, FAI as part of an intercultural programme.
Friday provided us with some outstanding and exciting football matches. With the competition in full swing, next week will see the final group stage matches before the winner of each group goes head to head in the semi-finals in week 5!
In Group 1, Ireland edged out Benin to record a second win in the competition. Meanwhile, Lithuania were clinical in their win over Romania hitting the net 3 times. As a result, Lithuania, with the superior goal difference lead the group, with Ireland in second. Romania and Benin need a win this Friday if there to stand any chance of taking the top spot and a place in the semi- finals.
In Group 2, Zimbabwe’s partnership of Conor and Gift has netted them 8 goals so far in the competition and top spot on 6 points. Last week they put 3 past a strong Italian side.However, we must not forget the defensive heroics of Katie Duff- who put in an outstanding and fearless performance in defence. Next up are Estonia who despite a win over Poland on Friday, trail Zimbabwe, who edge them on goal difference. Holding up the group at the other end are Italy and Poland who are yet to record a victory. Both will have to really work hard this coming Friday in order to get back into the race for the top.
Group 3 leaders South Africa snatched a crucial victory over Spain and this sees them on top after 3 matches. They have won two and drawn one, leaving them on 7 points. Slovakia and Philippines, both of whom have only played 2 matches have a chance this Friday to narrow the gap and put South Africa under pressure. However, Spain’s loss on Friday surely means that the best they can hope for is third place at this stage.
Finally Group 4, with three teams is still open to any team to win. Morocco had a stunning 3-0 victory over Brazil with a fine second half performance by Michael Hutchinson- in which he netted a spectacular hat-trick! Morocco leads the group after playing 2 matches, but with only one match played each and one match to go, India and Brazil cannot salvage the situation at this stage and are playing for pride and the second place spot.
This Friday are the final group matches- make sure you’re in for your match! Well done all who are taking part!