In an exhilarating cup clash at Apex Playing Fields on 16 February 2025, Bowers & Pitsea U14 Whites emerged victorious against Hawkwell Athletic Y U14 Blacks, securing a 3-1 win. The match kicked off at 10:30 am, showcasing a thrilling display of youth football that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
Bowers & Pitsea adopted a 3-4-3 formation, which allowed for a dynamic attacking style while maintaining a solid defensive structure. Stanley Martin-Gardener took his place in goal, shielded by a back three comprising Oliver Norton on the right, Marcus Stanbury in the centre, and Sebastian Cenciu on the left. The midfield quartet featured Harry Fairchild on the right, Jack McCullim and Cory Jennings centrally, and Luca Cepoi on the left. Up front, Mattie Bristow and Lewis Baber operated as left and right forwards, respectively, with Marvellous Nbubueze leading the line as the striker. The substitutes for the match included Oliver Wakeling, Benjamine Smith, and James Holgate.
The opening goal came in the 14th minute when Mattie Bristow found the net, capitalising on a long pass from Jack McCullim. Bristow's composed finish inside the box set the tone for Bowers & Pitsea's attacking intent. However, the match took a turn in the 23rd minute when Cory Jennings had to be substituted due to injury, with Oliver Wakeling stepping onto the pitch to fill the void.
Bowers & Pitsea continued to press, and their efforts were rewarded again in the 33rd minute. Jack McCullim unleashed a stunning strike from outside the box, assisted by Lewis Baber from a corner, doubling the lead with a goal that will be remembered for its sheer quality. Tactical changes were made shortly after, with Jennings returning to replace Harry Fairchild and Benjamine Smith coming on for Marvellous Nbubueze, as Bowers & Pitsea sought to maintain their momentum.
As the first half concluded with a score of 2-0, the second half began with further substitutions, including Marvellous Nbubueze returning to the pitch in place of Mattie Bristow and James Holgate coming on for Lewis Baber. The game took a twist in the 55th minute when Hawkwell Athletic managed to pull one back, scoring from outside the area with a well-placed left-footed shot that left Martin-Gardener with little chance.
Despite the setback, Bowers & Pitsea remained resolute and responded positively. In the 65th minute, Cory Jennings won a direct free kick for Bowers after being fouled on the edge of the box. Up stepped Sebastian Cenciu who restored the two-goal cushion with a magnificent direct free-kick, expertly curled into the net. This goal not only showcased Cenciu's technical ability but also reaffirmed Bowers & Pitsea's dominance in the match.
As the final whistle blew, Bowers & Pitsea U14 Whites celebrated a well-deserved victory, advancing in the cup competition with a scoreline of 3-1. The performance was marked by strong individual displays, particularly from Luca Cepoi, who was recognised as the Player of the Match for his influential presence throughout the game.
