Marlborough 7s Football Festival 2022

On Saturday 1st October 54 teams from across Malaysia came to MCM to compete in our Marlborough 7s Football Festival. It is the first of its kind in over three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however it certainly came back with a bang.

Over 700 pupils, parents, coaches, events management, caterers and players made their way onto the vast pitches of MCM for a tournament to remember. Kicking off bright and early at 8am, players began their first round of matches in the cool weather. There were some brilliant performances by MCM U18 boys, for example, winning 5-0 against Tenby in their first round match.

As the day progressed, and the sun rose ever higher in the sky, pupils headed to the refreshment tents for a delicious selection of food, with poke bowls a clear favourite, and some cold drinks. The atmosphere of fun, joy and laughter was contagious as all parents and coaching staff were enjoying the games just as much.

During the final few matches of the day, penalties were taken by multiple teams who had an inconclusive draw in their games. These tense moments were watched by spectators and other teams alike. There were some nail-biting shots from other teams, and a few excellent goals from MCM, particularly the U15 girls team.

As the tournament grew to a close, angry rainclouds descended upon us for the final match of the day. After a rather wet conclusion of the tournament, we were able to announce the winners at the medal and trophy ceremony.

They are as follows:

U18 Boys: Kolej Vokasional Tanjung Puteri (KVTP)
U18 Girls: Melaka A
U15 Boys: Maktab Rendah Sains Muar (MRSM)
U13 Boys: Maktab Rendah Sains Muar (MRSM)
U13 Girls: National Football Development Programme Johor A (NFDP A)
U11 Boys: AV United Malaysia (AUFC)

MCM came on the podium in the U15 Boys and U13 Boys group.

A huge thank you to the organisers, teams, coaches and the MCM sports department, without whose support, this event would not have been possible. Congratulations must go to the winning teams, but also to every player who competed on Saturday. All teams conducted themselves in a sporting manner and, although many were soaked due to a good Malaysian downpour by the end, went home in high spirits.