Billing United U11 faced off against Parklands Tigers U11 Stripes in an exhilarating league match at Great Billing Pocket Park on 1st February 2025, with the match concluding in a dramatic 3-3 draw. The game, which kicked off at 10:30 am, showcased the resilience and determination of both teams as they battled fiercely for supremacy.
Billing United adopted a 3-2-3 formation, which allowed them to maintain a solid defensive structure while providing ample support in midfield and attack. Jackson Pearce took his place between the sticks as the goalkeeper, shielded by a trio of defenders: Gerrard Afum Tutu on the right, Damaree Alexander in the centre, and Cohen Adams on the left. The midfield was anchored by Theo Lee-Skepple and Jermel Williams, who were tasked with linking play and providing creativity. Up front, Layton Dewar, Max Soltanici, and Leighton Fletcher formed a dynamic attacking trio, looking to exploit any gaps in the opposition's defence.
The substitutes for Billing United included Oscar Luck and Justin Juszynski, both of whom would later make significant contributions to the match.
The first half saw a flurry of activity, starting with a double substitution for Billing United in the 18th minute, as Oscar Luck replaced Layton Dewar and Justin Juszynski came on for Max Soltanici. This tactical switch paid immediate dividends, with Luck finding the back of the net just six minutes later, assisted by Juszynski, to give Billing United a 1-0 lead.
However, the lead was short-lived as Cohen Adams added a second goal for Billing United in the 26th minute, showcasing their attacking prowess. Just a minute later, Parklands Tigers struck back, pulling one back to make it 2-1. The first half concluded with a thrilling exchange of goals, leaving the score at 2-1 in favour of Billing United at the break.
Upon resuming, the second half saw Parklands Tigers ramp up the pressure, and they equalised in the 36th minute, bringing the score to 2-2. The match continued to ebb and flow, with both teams creating chances. In the 40th minute, Billing United made a substitution, bringing on Leighton Fletcher for Damaree Alexander, adding fresh legs to their attacking line.
The breakthrough for Billing United came in the 42nd minute when Justin Juszynski scored, with an assist from Jermel Williams, restoring their lead to 3-2. Jackson Pearce, the standout performer, made a crucial point-blank reaction save shortly after, preserving the lead for his team.
As the match approached its climax, a late substitution saw Damaree Alexander return to the pitch, replacing Cohen Adams in the 50th minute. However, the drama was not over yet. In a nail-biting finish, Parklands Tigers found the net once more in the 61st minute, equalising the match at 3-3.
The final whistle blew, and both teams left the pitch with a hard-fought point. Jackson Pearce's exceptional goalkeeping performance earned him the accolade of Player of the Match, as he made several vital saves throughout the encounter. It was a thrilling display of youth football, with both sides demonstrating skill, determination, and a fighting spirit that bodes well for their future matches.
