In a commanding display at Birtley Town FC on 9th February 2025, Birtley Town Hawks secured a resounding 4-1 victory over Chester Le Street United Lionesses in a league home match. The match kicked off at 10:30 am and showcased the Hawks' attacking prowess and tactical discipline throughout the 60 minutes of play.
Birtley Town Hawks lined up in a 3-2-3 formation, which allowed for a solid defensive base while providing ample support for their attacking players. Fletcher Tranter took his position in goal, shielded by a back three consisting of Harrison Younghusband on the right, Harry Kean in the centre, and Jacob Davison on the left. In midfield, Seb Davison and Jack McKay operated centrally, tasked with linking defence and attack. Up front, Noah Hodgson and Leo Patterson occupied the right and left forward positions respectively, while Alfie Elmy led the line as the striker.
The substitutes for the match included Harry Morrison, Walter Johnson, Isaac Morales, Kayden Dailey, and Ben Routledge, who would later play pivotal roles in the game.
The first half saw Birtley Town Hawks take control early on, with a flurry of substitutions occurring at the 20-minute mark. Harry Morrison replaced Leo Patterson, Walter Johnson came on for Seb Davison, Isaac Morales took over from Alfie Elmy, and Kayden Dailey substituted for Noah Hodgson. Additionally, Ben Routledge entered the fray, replacing Harry Kean, all within a short span, indicating a tactical shift aimed at enhancing their attacking threat.
The breakthrough came in the 28th minute when Kayden Dailey found the net, finishing off a clever flick from Harry Morrison who made a straight run on the left wing to receive a brilliantly lofted diagonal through ball from Ben. A Brilliant team move that came from the training ground.
Just a minute later, Chester Le Street United responded with a goal of their own, capitalising on a defensive mistake to score from close range, bringing the score to 1-1.
As the first half drew to a close, the teams went into the break level at 1-1 after a competitive opening period. The second half began with Birtley Town Hawks determined to regain their lead, and they did so swiftly. In the 38th minute, Kayden Dailey struck again, this time converting a cross from Isaac Morales, showcasing his poaching instincts inside the box.
The Hawks continued to press, and in the 49th minute, Jack McKay extended their lead with a stunning effort from outside the area, finding the back of the net with a perfectly placed right-footed shot.
Further substitutions were made shortly after, with Alfie Elmy returning to replace Isaac Morales, and Harry Kean coming back on for Harrison Younghusband. Noah Hodgson also re-entered the match, taking the place of Kayden Dailey, while Leo Patterson returned to the pitch, replacing Jack McKay.
In the 52nd minute, Noah Hodgson capped off a brilliant performance by scoring Birtley’s fourth goal, tapping in from close range after another shot was saved from Alfie Elmy. This goal effectively sealed the match for the Hawks, who displayed a cohesive team effort and clinical finishing.
The final whistle confirmed a 4-1 victory for Birtley Town Hawks, a result that highlighted their attacking flair and solid defensive organisation. Jack McKay was particularly impressive, earning accolades for his performance, contributing not only with a goal but also with his overall influence in midfield. The Hawks will look to build on this momentum as they continue their league campaign.
