Oakham School’s second eleven retain the Independent Schools Football Association Mercian League title

For the second successive season, Oakham School's second eleven boys' football team have been unbeaten to retain the ISFA Mercian League title.

With a record of eight wins and one draw from their nine games, Oakham secured the title with one match to spare, underlining their status as the region's top team.

Before February half-term, Oakham had already set the pace with wins against Oundle, Uppingham, King’s Ely and Rugby.

After the break, three further wins against Wellingborough, Stamford and Loughborough Grammar School saw Oakham go into their final two games against their biggest rivals, Bedford, with a perfect 100 percent record of seven wins from seven matches.

The trip to Bedford saw Oakham fight back from two goals down to earn a draw while the final match at Stowe saw a thrilling climax to the season with the Rutland team scoring two goals in the last five minutes to earn a dramatic 4-3 victory.

The record of 41 goals in nine matches is testament to the team's attacking dominance.

The golden boot for top scorer went to Will B for his 13 goals, with Kaden E (10 goals) earning the most man of the match awards.

The unsung hero award went to Thomas T for his unselfish and unflappable leadership, while Eddie R’s skill and pace on the wing was often the deciding factor in several crucial close finishes.

Coaches David Russell and Steve Bent said: "Congratulations to the whole squad for their efforts.

"A classic blend of youth and experience, the squad also had an international flavour, boasting several nationalities.

"The Year 13 students will leave with great memories and our best wishes while the Year 12 members of the team can look forward to even better things next year.

"All should be proud of the teamwork, character and resilience that they showed in victory and in times of adversity. That is the true hallmark of champions."

The first eleven boys' team also enjoyed a strong season, finishing a creditable third place in the Mercian League.