In a thrilling league encounter at the Fords Sports & Social Ground on 1 December 2024, Bowers & Pitsea U14 Whites showcased their attacking prowess, defeating Hawkwell Athletic Y U14 Blacks with a convincing scoreline of 5-2. The match, which kicked off at 10:00 am, saw the home side dominate proceedings, particularly in the second half, to secure a vital three points.
Bowers & Pitsea adopted a 3-4-3 formation, which allowed for a fluid attacking style while maintaining defensive solidity. Rhys Hughes started in goal, shielded by a back three consisting of Marcus Stanbury in the centre, flanked by Freddy Partner on the right and Sebastian Cenciu on the left. The midfield was anchored by Cory Jennings and Jack McCullim in central roles, with Harry Fairchild on the right and Luca Cepoi on the left providing width. Up front, Mattie Bristow, Benjamine Smith, and Lewis Baber formed a dynamic attacking trio, each tasked with pressing the opposition and converting chances.
The substitutes for Bowers & Pitsea included Marvellous Nbubueze, Stanley Martin-Gardener, Oliver Wakeling, and James Holgate, who would later play pivotal roles in the match.
The early stages of the match saw Bowers & Pitsea struggling to find their rhythm, and in the 12th minute, they were forced into an early substitution as Marvellous Nbubueze replaced the injured Mattie Bristow. Just five minutes later, Hawkwell Athletic capitalised on a defensive error, scoring the opening goal from outside the box with a right-footed strike that left Hughes with no chance.
Bowers & Pitsea's woes continued when Hawkwell Athletic struck again in the 25th minute, doubling their lead with another long-range effort that found the back of the net, again from outside the area. Trailing 2-0, Bowers & Pitsea needed to regroup, and they made a tactical change in the 35th minute, bringing on Stanley Martin-Gardener for goalkeeper Rhys Hughes.
As the first half drew to a close, Bowers & Pitsea finally found their footing. Just two minutes after the restart, Marvellous Nbubueze scored a crucial goal in the 37th minute, finishing a well-worked team move with a right-footed shot after a precise cross from Benjamine Smith. The momentum shifted, and in the 40th minute, Lewis Baber added another for the home side with a stunning solo effort, cutting in from the left and unleashing a powerful left-footed shot.
Bowers & Pitsea continued to press, and just three minutes later , Cory Jennings scored a long-range strike in the 43rd minute, further extending their lead. The home side's dominance was evident, and they made another tactical substitution, introducing Oliver Wakeling for Harry Fairchild followed James Holgate on for Benjamine Smith.
The scoring continued in the 51st minute when Lewis Baber netted his second of the match, converting a flicked assist from Marvellous Nbubueze inside the box. With the score now at 4-2, Bowers & Pitsea were in control, but they were not done yet. In the 60th minute, Marvellous Nbubueze found the net again, scoring his second goal from inside the box with a composed right-footed finish.
Bowers & Pitsea made their final substitution in the 65th minute, bringing Mattie Bristow back on for Luca Cepoi as they looked to maintain their lead. The match concluded with Bowers & Pitsea securing a well-deserved 5-2 victory, showcasing their attacking flair and resilience in the face of early adversity. The performance will undoubtedly boost their confidence as they continue their league campaign.
