In a commanding display at Leisure United Laithwaite Park on 18 January 2025, Cherrybrook FC secured a resounding 4-1 victory over Hoole United in their latest league encounter. The match kicked off at 2:00 pm, and the home side showcased their attacking prowess, much to the delight of the 30 fans in attendance.
Cherrybrook FC adopted a 3-4-1-2 formation, which allowed for a solid defensive structure while providing ample support for the attack. Ben Finch stood guard in goal, with Joe Libertini, Lewis Barlow, and Joe Orme forming a resolute back three. The midfield quartet consisted of Jack Thorogood and Tommy Harban on the flanks, flanking central midfielders Matty Glover and Harvey Brooks, who were tasked with controlling the tempo of the game. Robbie Heaton operated just behind the two forwards, Jack Crowther and Tom Holland, who were expected to lead the line with their pace and finishing ability.
The substitutes for Cherrybrook included Iain Armstrong, Harrison Fleming, Jay Matthews, and Lewis Maxwell-Argue, providing depth and options for tactical changes as the match progressed.
As the first half unfolded, the Cherries dominated possession, creating numerous chances but failing to find the back of the net. The home side's relentless pressure kept Hoole United on the back foot, yet they could not convert their opportunities into goals before Heatons fine through ball found Crowther who channelled his inner George Best to round the keeper and slot the ball into the goal.
10 minutes later and a succession of Cherrybrook corners saw Lewis Barlow winning a header at the back post and looping it into the net as the Hoole keeper flapped at the ball.
Hoole tried to get back in the game before the break but a fine save from Finch diving to his right, kept the score at 2-0.
Tom Holland nearly added a third with a fine solo effort, chipping the keeper but the ball pinged back off the bar.
The second half saw more of the same with the Cherries dominating play. Heaton hit the bar with a fine strike and numerous other chances where created before Crowther was brought down in the area after 65 mins. The Hoole United keeper dived to his right and kept out Heatons penalty. It was a fine save from the custodian of the goal.
The save galvanised Hoole and they scored a goal in the 71st minute to get back in the game. A scramble in the box being turned into the net, although there was a suggestion of a foul in the build up.
This unexpected turn of events momentarily stunned Cherrybrook, who had been the more assertive side throughout the match. However, the home team quickly regrouped, determined to respond.
They hit back 2 minutes later with a move started with an excellent through ball by Maxwell-Argue and finished strongly by Holland and getting his second goal in as many games.
This knocked the wind from Hoole and a fourth goal came soon after with an own goal headed in by their Centre Half.
Cherrybrook FC found the net four times in a remarkable display of attacking football punctuated by some excellent displays in all areas.
Lewis Barlow, had an outstanding first half earning him the Player of the Match accolade for his overall performance.
As the final whistle blew, Cherrybrook FC celebrated a well-deserved victory and continued their climb up the table.
