Exciting PlayStation Schools’ Cup encounter at Pettits Lane produces five goals and plenty of drama
A brace from Marshalls Park’s year eight boys captain Freddie Potts inspired a 3-2 victory over Bower Park Academy in the PlayStation Schools’ Cup this afternoon.
The two local rivals produced a five-goal thriller at Pettits Lane with West Ham United’s Michail Antonio in attendance and offering advice before kick-off.
Hammers winger was introduced to all of the Marshalls and Bower Park boys before the match and was present at the Romford school due to PlayStation Kicks partnership with the English Schools’ Football Association.
Whatever the former Nottingham Forest star said worked with Frankie Mowle quickly opening the scoring for the hosts with a fine right-footed strike.
Bower Park hit back with Daniel Armitage heading home to equalise after an excellent cross into the box.
Marshalls were awarded a penalty before half time, which Potts, the son of West Ham legend Steve, converted to put them 2-1 ahead.
An exciting encounter got even better when Tyler Sibbons pounced on a defensive mistake and fired home to level once again for the spirited visitors.
It set up a tense finale, though it would be Marshalls celebrating at the end after Potts had the final say - sliding past the Bower Park goalkeeper from six-yards.
Although the away team pressed for a third equaliser in the match, Marshalls held firm to take the bragging rights and the cup.
Potts revealed his delight after the game and was pleased to get the chance to speak with Antonio before kick-off and thanked PlayStation for the whole day.
“It’s been a great experience for the school and it was a good game. To win 3-2 and against Bowers was brilliant,” said Marshalls Park’s captain Potts.
“We played them last year and beat them 7-2. It was a tougher game today, but we won so I’m happy. It is always nice to score, especially as captain and I love taking my chances and scoring.
“It has been great to have PlayStation here and it’s been brilliant for the team to see Michail Antonio from West Ham. To actually see him here is so good for us.”
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