In a commanding display at Laithwaite Park on 16 November 2024, Cherrybrook FC secured a resounding 6-2 victory over Sir Tom Finney FC.
The match kicked off at 2:00pm and was officiated by referee Ian Whiteside, who delivered a solid performance throughout the encounter.
Cherrybrook FC lined up in a 4-1-3-2 formation, designed to provide a strong defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking movements. Ben Finch took his position in goal, shielded by a back four consisting of Joe Orme on the right, Lewis Barlow and Joe Libertini in central defence, and Harrison Fleming on the left. Tommy Harban operated as the lone central midfielder, tasked with linking defence and attack. Ahead of him, Robbie Heaton, Matty Glover, and Harvey Brooks formed a dynamic trio of attacking midfielders, while Jack Thorogood and Jack Crowther led the line as forwards. The substitutes for the match included Thomas Holland, Iain Armstrong, and Lewis Maxwell-Argue.
The scoring opened in the 13th minute when Jack Crowther found the back of the net, capitalising on a short pass from Robbie Heaton inside the box. Crowther's right-footed finish set the tone for a dominant Cherrybrook performance. However, Sir Tom Finney FC responded with resilience, earning a penalty in the 33rd minute, which they converted to level the score at 1-1.
Just two minutes later, Cherrybrook regained the lead through Matty Glover, who scored with another right-footed effort after receiving a well-placed assist from Crowther. This goal, coming in the 35th minute, reinvigorated Cherrybrook's momentum and a penalty converted by Robbie Heaton meant they headed into half-time with a 3-1 advantage.
Tom Holland made his debut at the start of the second half coming on for Jack Thorogood.
Cherrybrook then extended their lead in the 47th minute when Jack Crowther struck again, scoring his second goal of the match with a right-footed shot from inside the box. This goal further demoralised the Sir Tom Finney defence and showcased Cherrybrook's attacking prowess.
Despite the setback, Sir Tom Finney FC managed to pull one back in the 58th minute, scoring from inside the box to reduce the deficit to 4-2.
In the 70th minute, Cherrybrook made their second substitution, bringing on Iain Armstrong for Joe Orme. This change aimed to bolster their defensive stability as they led. Shortly after, in the 72nd minute, Jack Crowther was substituted for Lewis Maxwell-Argue, marking the end of a stellar performance from Crowther, who had already contributed two goals and an assist.
Cherrybrook continued to dominate, and their relentless pressure paid off as they added to their tally, finishing the match with a remarkable total of six goals. Matty Glover adding two more, one a second penalty, to confirm his hat trick and enable him to take home the match ball, if he can find it.
The final score of 6-2 reflected Cherrybrook's attacking flair and tactical superiority over their opponents. The victory not only boosts their league standing but also highlights their potential as a formidable force when they have a full squad.
Afterwards the squad visited The Cherry Gardens for a debrief and some chilli.
