The clash between Billing United U11 and Bilton Ajax U11 Falcons took place at the Bilton School on 8th March 2025, kicking off at 10:00 am. In a gripping league match, both teams showcased their talents, ultimately finishing the game with a 2-2 draw, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
Billing United set up in a 3-2-3 formation, with Jackson Pearce donning the gloves as goalkeeper. The defensive line consisted of Gerrard Afum Tutu on the right, Damaree Alexander in the centre, and Oscar Nawrocki on the left. In midfield, Jermel Williams and Logan Lynch operated centrally, while the attacking trio featured Justin Juszynski on the right, Oscar Luck as the striker, and Leighton Fletcher on the left. This formation allowed for a balanced approach, with the midfielders expected to support both defence and attack, while the forwards aimed to exploit any gaps in the opposition's backline.
The substitutes for Billing United included Cohen Adams, Max Soltanici, and Theo Lee-Skepple, providing additional options for tactical adjustments as the match progressed.
The match began with an electric start, as Jermel Williams opened the scoring for Billing United just three minutes in, converting a well-placed assist from Oscar Luck with a precise left-footed shot inside the box. However, the lead was short-lived, as Bilton Ajax responded swiftly, equalising in the eighth minute, demonstrating their resilience and intent to compete.
As the first half continued, Jackson Pearce was called into action, making a remarkable point-blank reaction save in the 17th minute, showcasing his agility and reflexes. He was again tested in the 21st minute, but the details of that save remain undisclosed, highlighting his crucial role in keeping the score level.
The first half concluded with a flurry of activity, including two substitutions for Billing United. Cohen Adams replaced Logan Lynch in the 23rd minute, followed closely by Max Soltanici coming on for Leighton Fletcher in the 24th minute. The half-time whistle blew shortly after, with the score tied at 1-1.
The second half saw further changes for Billing United, with Theo Lee-Skepple entering the fray in the 39th minute, taking over from Cohen Adams. The match resumed with both teams eager to seize control, but it was Bilton Ajax who struck first after the break, scoring their second goal in the 48th minute to take a 2-1 lead.
In response, Billing United made a tactical switch, bringing Logan Lynch back on for Jermel Williams in the 51st minute, aiming to bolster their attacking options. The pressure paid off when Oscar Luck was awarded a penalty in the 56th minute, which he confidently converted, bringing the score to 2-2 and reigniting Billing United's hopes.
The final moments of the match saw further substitutions, with Jermel Williams returning to the pitch in place of Theo Lee-Skepple, and Cohen Adams coming on for Gerrard Afum Tutu in the 59th minute, as both teams pushed for a late winner. However, the match ended in a stalemate, with both sides sharing the points in a thrilling encounter that showcased the spirit and determination of youth football.
