On Friday 20th June, after a six-year absence, an Old Brightonian XI took on the current College Boys 1st XI football team. Despite the blistering heat, the match began with a high intensity, with the current 1st XI taking an early lead thanks to a well-taken finish from a sharp cut-back. The remainder of the first half was played at a high quality, with numerous chances for both sides, and some strong stops by both goalkeepers. The Old Brightonians drew level near the break thanks to a powerful header at the back post following an excellent corner. Half-time provided an opportunity for the boys to get some much-needed water on board in the 30-degree heat.
The second half saw goals flying in at both ends as defences began to tire. With the game tightly poised at 3-3 with around a quarter of an hour to go, the youthful 1st XI won a corner. A good delivery in caused a scramble in the box, and a penalty was awarded after one of the young guns took a tumble. The penalty was slotted in confidently, putting the first XI ahead 4-3. The OBs had no reply and the boys saw the game out convincingly and they were deserving winners in the end.
Overall, it was a very enjoyable occasion and a competitive match played in a good spirit. We are looking forward to the 2026 rematch already, and hope that this match becomes a regular fixture of the Brighton College Football calendar for many years to come.
With many thanks to the OB Team on the day:
Harry Rogers (Ha. 2016-21), George Tucker (Le. 2016-23), Xavier Henson-Onana (Ry. 2013-24), Aidan West (Du. 2013-21), Herbie Taylor (Ry. 2016-21), Ollie Cook (Al. 2006-21), Ossie O’Neill (Ha. 2016-21), Max Keegan (Al. 2018-23), Ethan West (Du. 2013-23), Adhi Jawahar (Le. 2015-24), Mani Lobo (Le. 2019-24) and Henry Adams (Le. 2017-24).