Arthur Dunn Cup - Reclaimed

On Saturday 11 April 2026, we reclaimed the Arthur Dunn Cup with a hard-fought 2 - 1 victory after extra time against Old Tonbridgians. This marks our fourth triumph in five years, taking our total to 15 titles and moving us clear of Old Salopians into third place on the all-time list, behind only Old Carthusians and Old Malvernians.

The game did not start to plan. We carved the open with the first play of the game but couldn't finish the attack, and then just a couple of minutes later an OT midfielder produced a stunning strike into the top corner, giving Gleb no chance - a finish on his weaker foot that, on another day, may not have troubled the target. They had another opportunity soon after, but Gleb did well to force their attacker wide, and the resulting effort drifted over.

Despite the early setback, we grew into the game and began to assert ourselves. There were flashes of quality, particularly when we managed to get the ball down, but clear chances remained limited. Tom Buffin delivered a dangerous cross into the corridor of uncertainty with no one able to apply the finishing touch. Conditions were difficult in the wind, and OTs—much improved from previous meetings - posed a threat, particularly from set pieces. It was from a set piece that we found our equaliser. Tom Jones, excellent throughout, delivered a corner that the goalkeeper failed to deal with under pressure from Artem Aliev, allowing Josh Riley to head home from close range.

The second half became more attritional, though we did create the better openings. A flowing move involving almost the entire side ended with a fine save to deny Matt Rennie - one that would have capped a superb team goal. At the other end, OT’s goalscorer had a chance to double his tally, but his effort was comfortably held by Gleb.

Extra time brought further pressure. A penalty was initially awarded after Tommy Redhead was clipped, though the decision was overturned—probably correctly. Josh Riley then saw a long-range effort tipped over as we continued to push. The breakthrough came with ten minutes remaining. A partially cleared Tommy Speed long throw was recycled by Nicky Samra, who returned the ball into the danger area, where Riley produced a sharp turn and finish to put us ahead. We nearly added a third soon after, Samra beating his man with an excellent first touch, though his left-footed effort lacked the power to beat the keeper.

OTs had one final opportunity from a late set piece, but their effort was lifted over, and the final whistle confirmed a hard-earned victory.

With five players appearing in their first Dunn final (Matt Rennie, Amos Federico, Otis Williams, Jerry Williams and Harrison Birch), the lads showed real composure to come from behind and win it late - testament to the squad’s maturity, fitness, and depth. The victory was backed by outstanding Old Reptonian support, whose energy and presence were felt throughout.

After a difficult start to the league campaign, losing our opening four matches, it is particularly satisfying to end the season with silverware. This marks a fifth consecutive season with a trophy - an outstanding achievement.

Thanks to all who played their part - league regulars, Dunn squad players, and supporters alike. Please enjoy the photos from our good friend Andy Nunn, who once again went above and beyond, capturing every round and travelling to Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Surrey, and Hertfordshire. Thank you, Andy.