Billing United U11 triumphed over Delapre Dragons U11 Diamonds in a pulsating league match at Great Billing Pocket Park on 5th April 2025, with a final score of 4-3. The match, which kicked off at 10:30 am, showcased a fierce contest between the two teams, with Billing United ultimately emerging victorious after a rollercoaster of events.
Billing United adopted a 3-2-3 formation, designed to balance defensive solidity with attacking flair. Jackson Pearce took his place in goal, while Gerrard Afum Tutu, Damaree Alexander, and Oscar Nawrocki formed a robust back three. In midfield, Theo Lee-Skepple and Jermel Williams operated centrally, tasked with linking play and providing support to the forwards. Up front, Justin Juszynski, Leighton Fletcher, and Layton Dewar were set to exploit the width and create goal-scoring opportunities.
The substitutes for Billing United included Cohen Adams, Logan Lynch, Oscar Luck, and Riley Abbott, who would be called upon to make an impact as the match unfolded.
The match began with an unexpected twist as Delapre Dragons took an early lead in the 10th minute, courtesy of an own goal from Billing United. This setback could have dampened spirits, but instead, it ignited a fierce response from the home side. Just five minutes later, Leighton Fletcher equalised for Billing United, finishing expertly with his right foot inside the box after a well-timed assist from Justin Juszynski.
However, the Dragons were quick to respond, regaining the lead in the 19th minute, leaving Billing United trailing once more. The home side continued to push forward, and in the 18th minute, Cohen Adams was introduced to replace Damaree Alexander, adding fresh legs to the defence. Shortly after, in the 22nd minute, Logan Lynch came on for Theo Lee-Skepple, further bolstering the midfield.
As the first half drew to a close, the score remained 2-1 in favour of the Dragons, and the teams headed into the break with plenty to ponder. The second half commenced with renewed intensity, and in the 44th minute, Oscar Luck struck a magnificent long-range effort to level the score at 2-2, sending the home crowd into raptures.
Just three minutes later, Justin Juszynski put Billing United ahead for the first time in the match, converting a chance set up by Oscar Luck, who was proving to be a key player. With the score at 3-2, the momentum was firmly with Billing United, but the Dragons were not finished yet.
In the 50th minute, Riley Abbott was brought on for Layton Dewar, as Billing United sought to maintain their lead. As the match approached its climax, Oscar Luck was awarded a penalty in the 60th minute, which he coolly converted to extend Billing United's lead to 4-2.
However, the Dragons refused to back down and struck back in the 63rd minute, narrowing the deficit to 4-3. In a final tactical adjustment, Cohen Adams returned to the pitch in the 62nd minute, replacing Luck, who had been instrumental in the second half. As the match neared its conclusion, Justin Juszynski came back on for Logan Lynch in the 65th minute, adding experience to the final moments of the game.
Billing United held on to secure a thrilling 4-3 victory, marking a memorable day at Great Billing Pocket Park. The match was a testament to the resilience and determination of both teams, with Billing United ultimately emerging as the victors in this high-stakes encounter.
