Dubai English Speaking College knew that two wins on Tuesday afternoon would secure their boys under 12’s A and B sides respective DASSA titles in what was set to be a fantastic day for DESC sport. The A side took on JESS while the B side welcomed Raffles World Academy.
U12A DESC 3 vs JESS 1
It was a top of table clash in the final league game of the season as Jumeirah English Speaking School were welcomed to DESC in a shoot-out for the U12 DASSA Division 1 title.
A strong and quick JESS side arrived in good form and looking to capture a huge three points. A competitive and enjoyable first half saw the match all square at 1-1, with a well struck free kick from JESS before a composed finish from DESC’s Luis Dunn drew the home side level.
In the second half DESC started to take control and dominated possession throughout. As the tempo increased more opportunities started to arise, with the inspirational captain James Aubrey popping into the box to slide in the second goal for DESC.
As the game progressed opportunities continued to arise – with the crossbar hit twice – and the JESS strikers looking to capitalise on a couple of half chances to keep their side in the game.
With ten minutes remaining and the game becoming end to end Luis Dunn, the league’s top scorer, finished a well worked move for the home side to take a 3-1 lead.
DESC played out the remainder of the game and secured a deserved win for the league title, scoring 41 goals and only conceding one. A superb achievement.
U12A Head Coach Paul Barratt was delighted for the students: "It has been a pleasure coaching these boys so far this year, they have listened and worked hard in training which has shown in their performance during fixtures.”
Barratt emphasised the strong team ethic throughout the squad. It is an important attribute which has complimented the bundles of talent evident during the season.
“Implementing a strong team chemistry is important here at DESC and the squad has supported one another both on the field and around school which is fantastic to see. Scoring so many goals and being defensively solid conceding one goal shows the high level they have played at."
U12B DESC 5 – 3 Raffles World Academy
In the inaugural fixture on Dubai English Speaking College’s newly laid 4G astro-turf surface, DESC’s Under 12’s B-side were looking to defeat Raffles World Academy to claim the DASSA Division Three title.and complete an excellent afternoon for the school’s football sides.
Steve Green’s squad did not disappoint, securing a 5-3 victory over Raffles in an exciting game. The match could have gone either way with chances for both teams but it was DESC who triumphed as eventual winners to claim the school’s second title of the day.
Coach Green said: "Its a fantastic achievement as these boys have come up against other schools A teams week in week out, showing a desire to compete and work hard for victories. There has been plenty of close, high scoring games, which to be honest have been very entertaining even if the defending as a team has been suspect at times.”
Green was keen to emphasise the attitude of his players throughout the season who he says have been a pleasure to work with. The win capped a great day for DESC football.
“The teams shape has improved greatly over the season and with coachable characters it’s been very enjoyable for all involved in U12 football this year,” he said.
A special mention must go to the DESC Girls Under 12’s A squad who were also crowned champions of DASSA Division One this week – the win really does complete a triumphant year of under 12’s football for DESC.
A huge well done to all at DESC for a fantastic season and a big thanks to Paul Barratt and Steve Green for their contributions to the article.