In a pulsating league match at Burnage Academy For Boys on 22 February 2025, Boothstown Bears triumphed over Richmond Rovers with a narrow scoreline of 7-6. The match kicked off at 9:00am and showcased a thrilling display of skill and determination from both sides, culminating in a nail-biting finish.
Boothstown Bears adopted a 2-2 formation, with two players stationed in defence and two in attack. The defensive duo was tasked with maintaining a solid backline, while the forwards were expected to press high and create goal-scoring opportunities. The starting lineup featured Thomas Killeen in goal, Bobby Swift and Elijah Underdown in defence, with Brooklyn Williams and Alex Carr leading the attack.
The substitutes for the Bears included Fraser Mulcahy, Albie Chambers, and Ellis Cooper, who would all be looking to make an impact when called upon.
The match began with an early setback for the Bears as Richmond Rovers took the lead in the fourth minute. This goal set the tone for a fiercely contested encounter, with both teams eager to assert their dominance.
In response to the early goal, Boothstown Bears made a double substitution in the eighth minute, bringing on Fraser Mulcahy and Albie Chambers for Brooklyn Williams and Alex Carr, respectively. This tactical shift aimed to bolster their attacking options and regain control of the match.
As the first half progressed, the Bears continued to fight back, but couldn’t find a goal.
The Bears made further substitutions at the break, with Ellis Cooper replacing Thomas Killeen in goal, with Bobby Swift coming off to allow Thomas Killeen to move outfield, as they sought to inject fresh energy into their play. It was the Rovers who struck again though in the 21st minute, capitalising on a poor pass from Cooper to extend their lead.
Richmond dominated for much of the second third extending their lead to 5-0 and seemly looking to put the game out of the Bears reach. Boothstown however refused to give up and managed to grab a crucial goal back at the end of the second third when Elijah Underdown scored in the 32nd minute, assisted by a long pass from Ellis Cooper. As the whistle blew at the end of the second third it was Rovers who led 5-1 leaving Boothstown Bears with much to ponder as they regrouped for the final period.
The Bears made further substitutions, with Thomas Killeen returning to the pitch, replacing Brooklyn Williams, and Fraser Mulcahy coming off for Bobby Swift. The Bears emerged from the break with renewed vigour.
In a remarkable display of individual brilliance, Thomas Killeen took centre stage, scoring four goals in quick succession. His first came in the 37th minute when he reacted quickest after the Rovers keeper saved an Elijah Underdown free kick, followed by another tap-in just moments later which came from his pressing of the goal keeper. Killeen then completed his hat-trick with a direct free kick in the 39th minute. Showcasing his exceptional skill and composure in front of goal he finished for his 4th goal bringing the Bears level at 5-5.
As the match entered its final stages, the Bears took the lead for the first time in the match when Killeen added yet another goal in the 42nd minute, latching on to a pass from Williams and finishing fiercely to put the Bears ahead 6-5. Richmond Rovers, however, were not finished yet, scoring in the 46th minute to bring the game back level at 6-6.
With the clock ticking down, Killeen struck again in the 49th minute, scoring his sixth goal of the match with another direct free kick, bringing the score to 7-6.
The match concluded with Boothstown Bears emerging victorious in a thrilling encounter that showcased the talent and determination of both teams. Thomas Killeen's exceptional performance, alongside contributions from all his teammates, ensured the Bears secured a hard-fought win in this exciting league fixture.
