In a commanding display of football prowess, Corby S & L Under 12 triumphed over Comprehensive Football Centre U12 with a resounding scoreline of 7-0 in their cup home match held at Corby Stewart & Lloyds U11 S on 15 September 2024. The match kicked off at 10:30 am and saw the home side dominate proceedings from start to finish, showcasing their attacking flair and solid defensive organisation.
Corby S & L adopted a 4-3-1 formation, which allowed them to effectively control the midfield and launch quick counter-attacks. In goal, Filip Opacic provided a reliable last line of defence, while the back four comprised Tom Withpetersen and Rudy Gray as the right and left defenders respectively, with Vuk Janus and Kaidyn Walker anchoring the central defence. The midfield trio featured Sonny Coombs on the right, Liam Smith centrally, and Preston Allotey on the left, supporting the lone striker, Jack Douglas, who was tasked with leading the line and finishing off the chances created.
The substitutes for the match included Riley McCrossan, Emilis Januskevicius, and Harry Elliott, who would later play pivotal roles in maintaining the momentum for Corby S & L.
The scoring opened in the 11th minute when Tom Withpetersen found the back of the net, expertly assisted by Sonny Coombs, who delivered a precise ball into the box. Withpetersen's early goal set the tone for the match, and the home side continued to press forward with intent. Just 12 minutes later, Withpetersen struck again, this time converting a chance created by Preston Allotey, doubling Corby S & L's lead to 2-0.
As the first half wore on, Corby S & L maintained their dominance, but tactical changes were made as the match approached the half-time mark. In the 30th minute, Rudy Gray was substituted for Riley McCrossan, a move aimed at refreshing the left defensive flank. The first half concluded with Corby S & L firmly in control, leading 2-0.
The second half commenced with further substitutions, as Emilis Januskevicius and Harry Elliott entered the fray, replacing Jack Douglas and Liam Smith respectively. The changes proved effective as Corby S & L continued their relentless assault on the Comprehensive defence. In the 43rd minute, Preston Allotey scored a stunning goal, a true screamer that left the opposition goalkeeper with no chance, assisted once again by the ever-influential Sonny Coombs.
The scoring frenzy continued just moments into the second half when Harry Elliott converted a penalty in the 46th minute, extending the lead to 4-0. Not content with just four goals, Tom Withpetersen added his third of the match shortly after, executing a long-range strike that showcased his finishing ability, with Elliott providing the assist.
Sonny Coombs then got in on the act, converting another penalty in the 49th minute, further widening the gap to 6-0. Tactical changes continued as Liam Smith returned to the pitch, replacing Preston Allotey, while Rudy Gray re-entered the game, taking the place of Tom Withpetersen.
The final goal of the match came in the 57th minute when Jack Douglas, who had been substituted earlier, scored with a deft finish, assisted by Riley McCrossan, capping off a remarkable performance by Corby S & L. The match concluded with a staggering 7-0 victory, a testament to their skill and teamwork.
Tom Withpetersen was undoubtedly the standout performer, earning accolades for his hat-trick and overall influence on the game. Corby S & L Under 12 will take immense confidence from this emphatic win as they progress in the cup competition, leaving Comprehensive Football Centre U12 to reflect on a challenging outing.
