Billing United U11 faced off against Thorplands - Club 81 U11 in a thrilling cup match at Great Billing Pocket Park on 23 November 2024, kicking off at 10:30 am. The home side emerged victorious with a resounding 7-2 win, showcasing their attacking prowess and solid teamwork throughout the encounter.
Billing United adopted a 3-2-3 formation, which allowed them to maintain a strong defensive line while providing ample support for their forwards. Jackson Pearce was stationed in goal, with a back three comprising Gerrard Afum Tutu on the right, Damaree Alexander in the centre, and Oscar Nawrocki on the left. In midfield, Cohen Adams and Jermel Williams operated centrally, while Leighton Fletcher, Oscar Luck, and Justin Juszynski formed a dynamic front three, with Luck positioned as the striker. The substitutes for the match included Layton Dewar, Logan Lynch, Theo Lee-Skepple, and Riley Abbott.
The match began with an electric start as Justin Juszynski opened the scoring just three minutes in, receiving a well-timed assist from Oscar Luck. This early goal set the tone for Billing United, who quickly established dominance over their opponents.
As the game progressed, Billing United continued to apply pressure, and their efforts paid off again in the 18th minute when Juszynski struck once more, this time assisted by Jermel Williams. The home side's relentless attacking play was evident, and they extended their lead further just two minutes later, with Williams finding the net after a clever assist from Luck.
The first half saw Billing United in complete control, and they added to their tally in the 23rd minute when Williams scored his second goal, again assisted by Luck. With the score at 4-0, the home side went into half-time with a commanding lead.
After the break, Billing United made a couple of substitutions, bringing on Riley Abbott and Theo Lee-Skepple for Jermel Williams and Gerrard Afum Tutu respectively. The changes did not disrupt their rhythm, as Oscar Luck scored his first goal of the match in the 33rd minute, showcasing his striking ability.
Luck then converted a penalty just two minutes later, extending the lead to 6-0 and putting the match firmly in Billing United's grasp. However, Thorplands managed to find a glimmer of hope in the 37th minute, scoring a tap-in goal to make it 6-1.
Billing United responded to the challenge and, after further substitutions, Cohen Adams scored from the penalty spot in the 51st minute, restoring the six-goal cushion. Yet, the visitors were not finished, as they managed to score another tap-in goal in the 58th minute, bringing the final score to 7-2.
In a standout moment for Billing United, goalkeeper Jackson Pearce made a crucial penalty save just before the end of the match, demonstrating his skills and ensuring that the scoreline remained favourable for his team. The match concluded with Billing United U11 celebrating a comprehensive victory, showcasing their talent and teamwork in this cup encounter.
