Brookhurst beat RT Academy at Nottingham Cup

FOOTBALL Brookhurst International School during the Nottingham International Cup 2015. [PHOTO:COURTESY]

Brookhurst International School (BIS) were impressive at the just-concluded 2015 Nottingham International Cup held in England, United Kingdom.

Brookhurst thrashed hosts RT Academy 3-0 in their group stage match held at Nottingham University. Abdullahi Ahmed Ali, who notched a brace, was the first to open the score sheet in the 20th minute before scoring his second in the 43rd minute to give the Kenyan side a 2-0 lead at halftime.

On resumption, Brookhurst’s Kennedy Kinyanjui volleyed in a Brian Irungu right cross in the 70th minute to make it 3-0.

Brookhurst went ahead to hold Greensprings Academy from Nigeria 1-1. Again, it was captain Ali who saved the day in the 61st minute to make matters one-all.

But the Kenyan outfit found the going tough against Crossfire Soccer Academy from USA who won 3-1. Lee Maina headed in Brookhurst’s solitary goal in the 16th minute.

Despite missing the quarter-finals, Brookhurst players savoured the experience they had during the one-week football boot camp in England.

The players had an opportunity to visit the English Premier League side Manchester United home ground Old Trafford.

They also toured Nottingham City including the magnificent 17th century Nottingham Castle, the Water Sport Centre, the Walton Towers and Stoke on Trend City. 

“I learnt a lot from the tournament. I can’t wait for the next football trip,” Maina told FeverPitch.

Ali admitted the tournament was a tough one but was a good experience for them, saying their performance was hampered by chilly weather.

Kinyanjui and Irungu said the tournament gave them exposure as they were able to take their social skills to the next level.

School Director Ruth Waweru and Principal George Mathenge, who were happy with the team’s performance, noted that the school will continue to take part in other international tournaments.

Head coach Kevin Cheruiyot said: “I know we came out victors despite not bringing the cup home. Bravo to the team and the support they gave one another during the tournament,” 

Brookhurst took part in the Warrior Keele Cup in London last year where they reached the semi-final stages.