AFC Defib faced a daunting challenge against David Fortnum FC in a league home match held at West Somerset College on 18 November 2024, kicking off at 7:50pm. The match concluded with a resounding 6-0 victory for the visitors, leaving AFC Defib to reflect on a difficult evening.
AFC Defib lined up in a 2-2-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for some creativity in midfield. Hari Sion took his place in goal, with Harvey Kerslake and Danylo Serebrennikov forming the central defensive partnership. In midfield, David Duffy and Lewis Evans were tasked with controlling the game and supporting the lone striker, Alex Attwell, who was expected to lead the line and convert any chances that came his way.
The substitutes for AFC Defib included Ibn Thorne and Josh Gillard, who would be called upon later in the match to inject fresh energy into the team.
The match began with both teams vying for control, but it was David Fortnum FC who struck first, taking the lead in the 15th minute. Their attacking prowess was evident as they capitalised on a defensive lapse from AFC Defib, sending a clear message about their intentions for the evening.
In response to the early setback, AFC Defib made a double substitution just two minutes later. Ibn Thorne replaced Harvey Kerslake, while Josh Gillard came on for Danylo Serebrennikov. This tactical shift aimed to bolster their defensive resilience and inject some much-needed creativity into the midfield.
As the first half progressed, AFC Defib struggled to find their rhythm, and the half-time whistle blew with the score at 1-0 in favour of David Fortnum FC. The break provided an opportunity for AFC Defib to regroup and reassess their strategy.
However, the second half saw David Fortnum FC continue their dominance. Just three minutes after the restart, they doubled their lead in the 23rd minute, showcasing their attacking flair and leaving AFC Defib scrambling to respond.
The relentless pressure from David Fortnum FC paid off again in the 27th minute, as they scored their third goal, further extending their advantage. AFC Defib's defence appeared overwhelmed, struggling to contain the visitors' attacking waves.
The onslaught continued, with David Fortnum FC finding the net for a fourth time in the 31st minute. The home side's hopes of a comeback were rapidly fading as the visitors displayed clinical finishing and excellent teamwork.
In the 35th minute, David Fortnum FC added a fifth goal, leaving AFC Defib in disarray. The home side's frustration was palpable as they sought to regain some semblance of control, but the visitors were relentless.
The final blow came in the 37th minute, when David Fortnum FC scored their sixth goal, sealing a comprehensive victory. AFC Defib were left to ponder their performance, while David Fortnum FC celebrated a well-deserved triumph.
Lewis Evans was recognised as the standout performer for AFC Defib, despite the heavy defeat, showcasing determination and skill throughout the match. The evening ended with AFC Defib needing to regroup and refocus ahead of their next challenge, while David Fortnum FC revelled in their emphatic win.