In a commanding display, Birtley Town Hawks triumphed over Washington Association Whites with a resounding 4-1 victory in their league encounter at the Northern Area Playing Field on 2nd February 2025. The match kicked off at 9:00 am, and the Hawks showcased their attacking prowess and tactical discipline throughout the contest.
Birtley Town Hawks lined up in a 3-2-3 formation, with Fletcher Tranter in goal, flanked by a defensive trio of Harrison Younghusband, Ben Routledge, and Harry Kean. The midfield was anchored by Harry Morrison and Walter Johnson, providing both defensive cover and support for the attacking trio of Kayden Dailey, Leo Patterson, and Jack McKay. This setup allowed for fluid transitions between defence and attack, with the forwards expected to exploit spaces and create scoring opportunities.
The substitutes for the Hawks included Noah Hodgson, Isaac Morales, Alfie Elmy, and Seb Davison, who would be called upon to make tactical adjustments as the match progressed.
The match began with an early shock for Birtley, as Washington Association Whites took the lead just two minutes in. A close-range tap-in from an opponent put the Hawks on the back foot, forcing them to regroup quickly. However, the Hawks responded with determination, gradually asserting their dominance on the pitch.
In a tactical reshuffle, Birtley made a series of substitutions in the 22nd minute, bringing on Noah Hodgson, Isaac Morales, Alfie Elmy, and Seb Davison, as they sought to regain control of the match. The changes injected fresh energy into the team, and the Hawks began to create more chances.
The breakthrough finally came just as the first half was drawing to a close. Kayden Dailey, who had been lively throughout, scored a stunning solo goal in the 30th minute, levelling the score at 1-1. His right-footed strike showcased his skill and determination, sending the teams into half-time on equal terms.
The second half saw Birtley continue to press, and their efforts were rewarded shortly after the restart. In the 41st minute, a big deflection from a Washington player, following a free kick taken by Kayden Dailey, put the Hawks ahead 2-1. The set piece was expertly delivered, and the unfortunate deflection added to the opponents' woes.
Birtley made further tactical adjustments at half-time, with Harry Morrison, Jack McKay, and Harry Kean re-entering the fray. The Hawks maintained their momentum, and in the 56th minute, Leo Patterson extended the lead to 3-1 with a well-placed shot from inside the box, assisted by Jack McKay's clever pass.
As the match approached its conclusion, Seb Davison capped off a fine performance with a long-range strike in the 59th minute, sealing the victory at 4-1. His right-footed effort was a fitting end to a dominant display by Birtley Town Hawks.
The match concluded with the Hawks celebrating a well-deserved victory, showcasing their attacking flair and resilience in the face of early adversity. Kayden Dailey's performance stood out, earning him the accolade of Player of the Match for his pivotal role in turning the tide in favour of Birtley Town Hawks.
