In an exhilarating league encounter at Brookvale Recreation Centre on 9th November 2024, Beechwood Santos showcased their attacking prowess, defeating Woolston Rovers U7 Wires with a commanding scoreline of 5-2. The match kicked off at 10:00 am, with referee Jack Slater overseeing the action.
Beechwood Santos adopted a 1-2-1 formation, with Albi stationed as the goalkeeper. Max T played as the central defender, providing a solid backbone to the defence. In midfield, Ezra W and Theo J operated centrally, tasked with both creating chances and supporting the attack. Up front, Bobby B led the line as the striker, expected to convert opportunities into goals. The substitutes included Lennox L, who would later play a role in the match.
The game began with an early attempt from Max T in the third minute, but his effort went wide of the target. Just two minutes later, Ezra W tested the Woolston Rovers goalkeeper, only to see his shot saved. However, the breakthrough came in the fifth minute when Ezra W scored, assisted by Theo J, sending the home crowd into raptures. Barely a minute later, Ezra W struck again, this time with Bobby B providing the assist, doubling Santos' lead.
In the sixth minute, a tactical change was made as Lennox L replaced Max T, adding fresh legs to the midfield. The momentum continued for Beechwood Santos, with Theo J scoring a stunning solo goal in the seventh minute, extending the lead to 3-0. Woolston Rovers struggled to find their rhythm, and in the 14th minute, Max T returned to the pitch, replacing Bobby B.
As the match progressed, Albi, the Santos goalkeeper, showcased his skills with a confident catch in the 17th minute. Max T had another attempt in the 18th minute, but it was saved, while Bobby B's effort in the 20th minute also went wide. The first half concluded with Santos firmly in control, leading 3-0.
The second half saw a substitution as Bobby B returned to the pitch, replacing Ezra W. The action resumed with Max T attempting to add to the scoreline, but his shot in the 20th minute was again off target. Bobby B had another chance in the 21st minute, but his shot was saved, and Max T continued to press, only to be thwarted once more in the 23rd minute.
Albi was called into action again in the 24th minute, making another catch to maintain his clean sheet. However, Woolston Rovers began to find their footing, and in the 35th minute, they scored their first goal, igniting hopes of a comeback. Just moments later, they struck again, reducing the deficit to 3-2.
In response, Bobby B restored Santos' two-goal cushion in the 36th minute, with Ezra W providing the assist. The match continued to ebb and flow, with Lennox L making way for Theo J in the 35th minute. As the clock ticked down, the intensity heightened, but Santos held firm.
The final whistle blew with Beechwood Santos emerging victorious, securing a 5-2 win over Woolston Rovers U7 Wires. Ezra W was undoubtedly the standout performer, earning the title of Player of the Match for his exceptional contributions. This victory not only boosts Santos' confidence but also solidifies their position in the league as they look forward to their next challenge.