The U12B football squad at Shiplake College have capped off a sensational season by winning the Berkshire Independent Schools Football League, defeating Leighton Park 2-1 in the Playoff Final last Wednesday. The hard-fought victory away secured their status as league champions and marked a fitting end to an outstanding campaign.
Across 12 fixtures this season, Shiplake recorded 7 wins, 2 draws, and just 3 losses, scoring an impressive 40 goals while conceding only 16. In league matches, the team lost only once, conceding a mere 5 goals and netting 19 themselves—a testament to their defensive resilience and attacking flair.
Standout performances have come from across the squad, with Archie Neil commanding the midfield, Sam Terry solid at centre back, William James excelling between the posts, and Temujin Bentley delivering midfield magic. Their efforts have helped shape a season full of memorable moments.
One of the most dominant displays came against Cranford School, where Shiplake ran out 5-0 winners. Goals from Bentley, Archie Chester Towler, B. Rickerby, and Jack Edwards lit up the match, while goalkeeper William James capped the afternoon with a dramatic penalty save to preserve a clean sheet.
Another standout fixture was the emphatic 8-1 victory over Leighton Park earlier in the season, featuring a hat-trick from B. Rickerby and goals from Archie Neil, Archie Chester Towler, and Evan Jones. Defensive stalwarts Sam Terry and Alex Crowder ensured Shiplake stayed in control throughout. The final itself was a much closer contest, with Shiplake showing grit and determination to edge past Leighton Park 2-1 and claim the title.
The team were officially recognised for their achievement at the Lower School Football Awards last week, where they proudly received their league winners’ medals in front of staff, teammates.
Coach Mr Gower summed up the season with pride:
"It's been a fabulous season for the U12Bs, coming up against a wide range of A and B sides, finishing top of the league, and scoring over 40 goals. The boys have shown strength, depth, and exemplary conduct—always encouraging each other and respecting opponents. We’re thrilled to finish as champions and proud of everything the team has achieved."
With family supporters cheering from the sidelines and a squad brimming with talent and determination, Shiplake College’s U12B team have truly earned their place as league champions.
Photos from last weeks Lower School Football awards are included below.
