02/06/2026
Swillington Saints U7s crowned champions at Barnby Dun Colts Tournament 🏆
This Tournament was a step in to the unknown for the boys, facing teams we had never faced before and knew little about but entering a tournament with 24 teams in it was sure to provide the boys the challenge they were looking for, and if that alone wasn't enough, stepping straight into the champions league section made sure of it.
The boys were in good spirit on arrival and the weather was glorious, perfect for playing footy. The venue had been well set out, especially given the very late change in venue location. Credit where its due to the organisers for keeping the show on the road at such late notice.
The boys had to quickly get to grips with short 10 minute 1-way matches but seemed to have no issue winning their first match 4-0, using every player in the squad in the process, something we knew we would need to do, given the number of matches ahead and the mini heatwave to contend with.
The second game proved the day would not always be such smooth sailing, the boys enduring a nervy 2-1 victory, and maybe a first real understanding that 10 min matches mean you can't afford to switch off for a moment, regardless it was enough to see them take an early hold at the top of the group table.
The next 2 games the boys were on it and in control, making sure the clock wasn't to be an issue taking full control for the full 10 and seeing both games out comfortable 2-0 winners.
Then a reminder that things dont always go your way, a defeat to our eventual finalist opponent. The boys taking stock and realising if they wanted to go all the way and also be crowned top of the group table they were going to have to raise their levels again.
That response came immediately in the next match, a composed 2-0 win set up a decisive final group game, with victory guaranteeing top spot. The boys were determined not to let the opportunity slip and produced a superb performance, running out empahtic 6-1 winners. Once again, the entire squad contributed, helping keep legs fresh ahead of the knockout stages.
The semi final was everything you would expect from tournament football, tight, tense and fiercely competitive. Both teams gave everything, but the Saints dug deep to secure a hard fought 4-3 victory and book their place in the final.
Awaiting them was the only side to have beaten them all day. Rather than being intimidated, the boys saw it as an opportunity to put things right. What followed was an excellent final played in fantastic spirit, reflecting the sportsmanship shown throughout the tournament. The boys rose to the occasion, producing a determined display to earn a deserved 2-1 victory and be crowned Barnby Dun Colts Tournament Champions.
An outstanding team performance from start to finish and another day making everyone involved incredibly proud.
💛💙🤍 Champions! 💛💙🤍
