In an exhilarating league encounter at the Stewarts & Lloyds Sports Club on 2nd February 2025, Corby S & L Under 12 edged past AFC R and D U12 Cobras with a thrilling 3-2 victory. The match, which kicked off at 10:30 am, showcased a blend of skill, determination, and tactical nous from both sides, but it was Corby who ultimately emerged victorious.
Corby S & L lined up in a 2-3-2-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking transitions. Filip Opacic took his place in goal, shielded by central defenders Vuk Janus and Kaidyn Walker. The midfield trio consisted of Preston Allotey on the right, Sonny Coombs centrally, and Riley McCrossan on the left, with Buddy Urquhart and Jack Douglas operating as right and left attacking midfielders respectively. Emilis Januskevicius led the line as the lone striker, tasked with converting chances into goals.
The substitutes for Corby included Tom Withpetersen, Connor Chambers, and Liam Smith, who would be called upon later in the match to influence the game.
The opening exchanges were lively, but it was Jack Douglas who broke the deadlock in the 13th minute. He found the net with a close-range effort, expertly assisted by Preston Allotey's precise cross. Douglas's early goal set the tone for Corby, who looked to build on their lead.
Just nine minutes later, Douglas struck again, this time from a direct free kick. His right-footed shot curled beautifully into the net, leaving the Cobras' goalkeeper with no chance. At 2-0, Corby appeared to be in control, but the Cobras responded with resilience.
In the 26th minute, the visitors pulled one back with a stunning effort from outside the area, a right-footed screamer that left Opacic rooted to the spot. This goal injected new life into the Cobras, who began to press for an equaliser as the first half drew to a close.
The referee signalled half-time at 30 minutes, with Corby leading 2-1. The second half commenced with tactical changes, as Corby made three substitutions in quick succession. Tom Withpetersen replaced Kaidyn Walker, Connor Chambers came on for Emilis Januskevicius, and Liam Smith took the place of Buddy Urquhart, all aimed at maintaining their advantage.
However, the Cobras continued to apply pressure and found the net again in the 42nd minute, equalising with another impressive strike from distance. The match was finely poised at 2-2, and the tension in the air was palpable.
Corby responded well to the setback, and in the 54th minute, Jack Douglas completed his hat-trick with a long-range effort that rocketed into the net. His third goal was a testament to his skill and determination, putting Corby back in the lead at 3-2.
As the match approached its conclusion, Corby made their final substitution, bringing Buddy Urquhart back on for Preston Allotey in the 57th minute. The home side held firm in the closing stages, successfully managing the game to secure a hard-fought victory.
The referee, U Referee, officiated the match with aplomb, ensuring a fair contest throughout. Jack Douglas's standout performance earned him the Player of the Match accolade, as his three goals were pivotal in securing the win for Corby S & L Under 12. This victory not only boosts their league standing but also highlights their potential as a formidable side in the competition.
