end of the season, the Ravens’ overall performance was excellent. The team’s journey was marked by camaraderie, teamwork, and moments of sheer brilliance, reminding everyone that football was not just about winning but also about the beauty of the game. 2ND XI A veteran group of players, the 2nd XI comprised mainly Years 12–13 players, making this a wily, experienced, and very handy team. Throughout the season, the 2nd XI produced excellent performances, highlighted by gritty efforts against difficult opposition. A stout defence – led by Nicholas Brown, Baxter Lamberg, and goalkeeper Ben Laing – kept the scoreline tight, with most games decided by a goal or two. A score of 2–0 or 2–1 was common, either win or loss. The -four-goal difference at the end of the season reflected the closeness of the 2nd XI results. Oliver Walker, James Bernau, Carlos Parker, and Saleh Ameen were the core attacking players, and they did a good job of creating plenty of chances. There were some breath- taking goals scored, and the players always held their heads high, with a sense of growing team spirit and unity as the season went on. College always turned in a solid performance. Well done to the Year 13 boys who played their final season at Christ’s College with the 2nd XI. Thank you for your commitment, effort, and dedication over the past five years. 3RD XI The 3rd XI had a successful, yet challenging, season, finishing second in its division. A diverse group on paper, the players worked together to really step up. Game after game, training after training, the team excelled at building each other up to improve, while also learning to focus on the positives. Coaching changes early in the season led to the team banding together for self-guided training under co-captains James Whitaker and Tom Dunlop. Old Boy Ciaran
RAVENS Great saves and unwavering determination from goalkeeper Jake Hayes, and a resolute defence, were the backbone of the Ravens’ success in 2023. The Ravens were a formidable force at the back, making it difficult for opponents to breach its defence. In midfield, the Ravens players often controlled the game, distributing the ball effectively, and providing the team with the momentum required for success. The boys’ speed, tenacity, and ability to find the back of the net consistently made the team a threat to any opponent. The adaptability of the team and the willingness of several players to play anywhere added versatility to the line-up and played a significant role in the team’s overall success. The season highlight was the Ravens’ encounter with a very physical Nomads United side. In this match, the Ravens’ 2–0 win demonstrated that the beautiful game could triumph over physicality. They played with finesse, skill, and teamwork, showcasing the true spirit of football. Despite a slight dip in intensity towards the
the dying moments of the match. A thunderous strike from outside the box by Angus Ward secured an equaliser that led to a dramatic penalty shootout. Despite the team’s best efforts, the Junior XI found itself on the wrong side of the shootout, leading to an unlucky end to an otherwise excellent league season. However, the pinnacle of the season was the Junior South Island Tournament in Dunedin. From the start of the week, it was clear the boys were ready to leave everything on the pitch. After a slow start with a 1–1 draw against Marlborough Boys’ College and a tough 1–2 loss against Timaru Boys’ High School on the first day, the team regrouped overnight and bounced back with a resounding 7–0 victory against Southland Boys’ High School and a 4–2 win against St Bede's College to secure a spot in the semi-finals. The boys continued their impressive run by defeating Marlborough Boys’ College 2–0, setting the stage for a challenging final against Otago Boys’ High School. College rose to the occasion and played with unwavering underdog tenacity to secure a 2–0 win and claim the tournament title and trophy.
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