On Sunday 9 March, the sun was shining as 20 Old Vikings returned to New Field for the annual Old Viking Football Match. This year they were set to play against a team of current pupils and staff. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as supporters, including parents, staff, and fellow students gathered to cheer on both teams.

The current pupil and staff team featured players from various Shiplake College football teams, alongside teachers Mr Canning, Mr Cooper, Mr Batchelor and Mr Heaney. The Old Vikings, concerned about fitness levels, opted for three 30-minute thirds to provide more breaks, however their performance proved stamina was not a problem!

From the first whistle, the Old Viking team showcased expert ability, fitness and determination. Top scorer went to Luke Theodorou (19W) whose skill behind the ball resulted in an impressive hat-trick. Henry Doyle (23O) added two more goals for the OV team and both George Head (20O) and Matt Healy (21E) found the back of the net, resulting in a 7-0 victory for the Old Vikings.

A standout moment of the match came when Mr Cooper found himself one-on-one with the OV goalkeeper Josh Walne (20O). In a breathtaking display of reflexes, Walne pulled off a sensational double save preserving the OVs clean sheet and earning a huge cheer from the sidelines.

Notable performances included Henry Doyle and Tom Barley (23O) in midfield, Luke Theodorou up front, Matt Healey and Sam Bourke (22W) at centre back providing a formidable defence and George Head playing a full match in midfield.

After the final whistle, players and supporters enjoyed well-deserved bacon rolls and drinks in the sunshine. It was wonderful to see Old Vikings reconnecting with each other and with their old teachers.

A huge thank you to all the Old Vikings who came and played or supported, in particular to James Burgess (21W) for organising the OV team. Another thank you goes to Mr Canning for organising the student/staff team.

It was a day to remember and certainly a tradition that will live on. Here's to many more matches like this in the future!