In an exhilarating league encounter at Wollaston School #1 on 6th October 2024, Corby S & L Under 12 emerged victorious with a 3-1 win against Wollaston Victoria U12. The match kicked off at 10:30 am, showcasing a thrilling display of youth football that kept the small crowd of ten spectators on the edge of their seats.
Corby S & L adopted a 4-3-1 formation, which allowed them to maintain a solid defensive structure while also providing ample support for their attacking players. Filip Opacic was stationed in goal, with a back four comprising Tom Withpetersen on the right, Vuk Janus and Kaidyn Walker in central defence, and Riley McCrossan on the left. The midfield trio featured Preston Allotey on the right, Sonny Coombs in the centre, and Jack Douglas on the left, while Artjom Sullivan led the line as the striker. This setup was designed to ensure a balanced approach, with the defenders tasked with maintaining shape and the midfielders providing both defensive cover and attacking support.
The substitutes for Corby S & L included Harry Elliott, Aleks Golabek, Connor Chambers, and Liam Smith, who would later play crucial roles in the match as tactical changes were made.
The match began with a bang as Artjom Sullivan opened the scoring just one minute in, tapping in a well-placed free kick from Jack Douglas. This early goal set the tone for Corby S & L, who looked to dominate the game from the outset.
As the first half progressed, both teams battled for control, but Corby S & L maintained their lead, heading into the break with a 1-0 advantage. The referee signalled half-time at the 30-minute mark, allowing both teams a moment to regroup.
The second half saw immediate changes for Corby S & L, with four substitutions made shortly after the restart. Harry Elliott replaced Jack Douglas, Aleks Golabek came on for Vuk Janus, Connor Chambers took over from Sullivan, and Liam Smith replaced Preston Allotey. These tactical adjustments aimed to inject fresh energy into the team as they sought to extend their lead.
However, Wollaston Victoria responded with determination and were awarded a penalty in the 47th minute, which they converted to level the score at 1-1. This setback momentarily rattled Corby S & L, but they quickly regrouped and made further substitutions, bringing Jack Douglas back on for Tom Withpetersen and reintroducing Artjom Sullivan for Riley McCrossan.
The match turned in Corby S & L's favour once again in the 54th minute when Sullivan scored his second goal of the match, tapping in from close range to restore their lead. The momentum shifted firmly back to Corby S & L, who continued to press for more goals.
In the dying moments of the match, Connor Chambers sealed the victory with a goal in the 61st minute, following a goalmouth scramble, assisted by Riley McCrossan. This late strike confirmed Corby S & L's win and secured a smash and grab 3-1 victory.
Riley McCrossan was instrumental throughout the match, contributing significantly to both defensive efforts and attacking plays, earning him the accolade of Player of the Match. The victory not only boosts Corby S & L's confidence but also highlights their potential as a formidable side in the league.
