Page 110 - The Gonzaga Record 1986

THE MATCH

The school was expectant,
The trainers were cautious;
We were nervous.

We met and parted at school
'We'll all be there - good luck: (a well-wisher)
See you at two

The hours snailed till the appointed time,
'OK, let's go!' (last check on the gear),
And finally we're there.

So's the rest. We meet but say nothing;
Faces are white and strained, the pressure is mounting,
Walk the pitch - electric tension.

Changing-room time and a final team talk.
'Do your best - you school expects it:
Old timers by now - some hope.

A quick warm up and the door opens,
Out we charge ready to do battle,
The deafening roar hits our ears.

We look at the ref nervously;
A final prayer and the game
Is starting and has finished in an instant.

Back in the changing-room - unbelieving
The well-wishers arrive;
'Hard luck; 'well done' 'congratulations(!)'

And so ends the year once more
Tears are dried, emotion calmed
Till next year- the phoenix rises.

David Kennedy (S.4A)

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