Billing United U11 faced off against Earls Barton U11 Green in a cup away match on 8th February 2025, with kick-off at 10:30 am. The young Billing United side showcased their prowess, securing a convincing 3-0 victory, demonstrating both skill and teamwork throughout the encounter.
Billing United adopted a 3-2-3 formation, which allowed for a solid defensive structure while providing ample support for their attacking players. Jackson Pearce took his place in goal, shielded by a trio of defenders: Gerrard Afum Tutu on the right, Damaree Alexander in the centre, and Oscar Nawrocki on the left. In midfield, Jermel Williams and Cohen Adams operated centrally, tasked with linking defence and attack, while the forward line consisted of Justin Juszynski on the right, Oscar Luck as the central striker, and Layton Dewar on the left. The substitutes for the match included Leighton Fletcher, Theo Lee-Skepple, Logan Lynch, Max Soltanici, and Riley Abbott.
The match began with Billing United quickly asserting their dominance. Just nine minutes in, Justin Juszynski opened the scoring with a well-placed shot that found the back of the net, sending a clear message to their opponents. The early goal set the tone for the match, energising the Billing United players and their supporters alike.
Only three minutes later, Oscar Luck doubled the lead, finishing off a brilliant assist from Juszynski. Luck's strike was a testament to his positioning and awareness, as he capitalised on the opportunity to extend the advantage to two goals. The Billing United forwards were proving to be a constant threat, and it was evident that they were in fine form.
By the 16th minute, Luck was on the scoresheet again, netting his second goal of the match. This time, he showcased his individual skill, weaving through the Earls Barton defence before slotting the ball home. With a commanding 3-0 lead within the first quarter of the match, Billing United were in complete control.
As the match progressed, both teams made tactical adjustments. In the 20th minute, Billing United made their first substitutions, bringing on Leighton Fletcher for Layton Dewar and Theo Lee-Skepple for Cohen Adams. These changes aimed to maintain the momentum while providing fresh legs on the pitch.
The first half concluded with Billing United firmly in command, leading 3-0 at the break. The second half saw further substitutions, with Logan Lynch replacing Theo Lee-Skepple in the 39th minute, followed by Layton Dewar returning to the field for Leighton Fletcher shortly after.
As the match continued, the Billing United defence remained resolute, with Jackson Pearce making crucial saves to keep a clean sheet. The midfielders worked tirelessly to control possession, while the forwards continued to press for more goals.
In the 53rd minute, Max Soltanici came on for Justin Juszynski, adding fresh energy to the attacking line. Shortly thereafter, Riley Abbott replaced Jermel Williams in the 55th minute, further bolstering Billing United's midfield presence. Finally, in the 56th minute, Cohen Adams returned to the pitch, taking the place of Gerrard Afum Tutu, ensuring that the team maintained their stronghold on the game.
Despite several attempts from Earls Barton to find a way back into the match, Billing United's defence held firm, and the final whistle confirmed a comprehensive 3-0 victory for the visitors. Oscar Nawrocki was named Player of the Match for his exceptional defensive performance, contributing significantly to the team's success.
Billing United U11's impressive display not only secured their progression in the cup but also highlighted their potential as a formidable side in the competition.
