The El Clasico final between 9B and 10D certainly lived up to its billling.It was a game filled with drama from the very beginning. 10D,who had not conceded a single goal in the tournament on their way to the final were pegged back very early on in the game when 9B scored within the first 10 minutes.However 10D fought back immediately and an equaliser was scored shortly afterwards.
Our absent chief guest Leonardo diCaprio would have been very happy to see the TITANIC struggle that then ensued between both teams to score another goal.However the first half passed by without either ship hitting any icerbergs and it ended with the scoreline reading 1-1.
The second half saw a shift in fortunes for 10D .They scored two quick goals and suddenly it looked like game over for 9B. However,the hallmark of champions is that they do not give up. 9B were relentless in their determination to get back into the game and their hard work paid off. 10D conceded a penalty.
The last 15 minutes of the game saw much nail biting action. Vilario and Om in particular harried the 10D defence with their tireless running and superb ball control skills.10D supporters chewed their nails to the bone seeing how much 9B were pressing for the equaliser. 9B supporters did the same to their fingernails as they saw the clock ticking down and 10D repelling every frantic attack.No one had any fingernails left.!!
Special mention must be given to Ronil Pereira of 10 D. With 7 goals to his name in the tournament he just needed one goal more to tie for the Golden Boot Trophy.However after his team scored two goals in the second half he moved out of the forward line and played deep to support the team defence.He could have chased the glory of the Golden Boot but instead chose to play where his team needed him more. That’s really well done Ronil.
Never in the 5 year history of the Robert Correia Tournament has a team from class 9 won the finals. Class 10A were the winning class in 2018. In 2019 Class 10B were the winners.Class 10D were the winning class in 2022. Last year class 10C beat Class 9D in the finals. So with the memory of being runners up last year and destiny on their side Class 10 D held on till the final whistle was blown and claimed the Correia Memorial Trophy 2024 as their own. They were an excellent team and worthy winners.
Highlights..
Thanks to Sir Murugan,Kenneth and Parth for officiating at the games and to Sir Barry and Sir Brice for organising and coordinating the tournament. Congrats to all the players. We can be sure that Sir Robert is very happy to see from heaven the wonderful spirit,passion,energy and fair play you brought to the 2024 version of the tournament in his memory.
FINAL WORD
A short movie dedicated to class 9B. They were desperately looking for the equaliser and there were about 5 minutes left.Then they got a free kick.The movie is called Almost.
St Augustine's School 
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