In a commanding display at Occupation Road, Stewarts & Lloyds, Corby Stewart & Lloyds U12 Irons secured a resounding 5-0 victory over Rushden FC U12 in their league home match on 3rd November 2024. The match kicked off at 11:15 am, and the Irons showcased their attacking prowess and solid defensive organisation throughout the encounter.
The Irons lined up in a 3-4-1 formation, designed to provide a strong defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking transitions. Danielius Vitochinas took his place in goal, shielded by a back three consisting of Jak Taylor on the right, Kaiden Lloyd in the centre, and Riley Clark on the left. The midfield was anchored by Cody Wykes and Ted Althorpe in central roles, with Balin Stewart and Jude Walker operating as right and left midfielders respectively. Up front, Liam Gartshore led the line as the striker, tasked with converting chances into goals.
The substitutes for the match included Jacob Kajura, George Davis, and Harry Kelly, who would later play pivotal roles in maintaining the team's momentum and adapting to the flow of the game.
The scoring opened in the 19th minute when Ted Althorpe unleashed a stunning effort from outside the box, a true screamer that left the Rushden goalkeeper with no chance. The assist came from Balin Stewart, who provided a short pass to set up Althorpe's strike, sending the home crowd into raptures.
Just eight minutes later, in the 27th minute, Cody Wykes doubled the lead with a close-range tap-in, showcasing the Irons' attacking intent and ability to capitalise on defensive lapses from Rushden FC. The Irons went into half-time with a comfortable 2-0 lead, having dominated possession and created numerous chances.
As the second half commenced, tactical substitutions were made to maintain the team's energy and effectiveness. Jacob Kajura replaced Jude Walker, while George Davis came on for Ted Althorpe, and Balin Stewart was substituted for Harry Kelly, all in the 31st minute. These changes were aimed at keeping the momentum going and ensuring fresh legs were on the pitch.
In the 42nd minute, Althorpe returned to the fray, replacing Wykes, who had put in a commendable shift. Shortly after, in the 45th minute, Liam Gartshore added a third goal for the Irons, scoring with a well-placed shot from outside the area after receiving a short pass from Kajura. This goal further solidified the Irons' dominance in the match.
The Irons were awarded a penalty in the 48th minute, which Jude Walker confidently converted, extending the lead to 4-0. The home side's relentless pressure was evident, and they were determined to add more to their tally.
In the 50th minute, Balin Stewart re-entered the match, replacing George Davis changing the formation to 3-3-2, as the Irons continued to push forward. The final goal of the match came in the 58th minute when Ted Althorpe scored his second of the game, volleying home from a corner delivered by Jak Taylor. This goal capped off a fantastic performance from the Irons, who finished the match with a comprehensive 5-0 victory.
The Irons' performance was a testament to their teamwork, skill, and determination, leaving them in high spirits as they look forward to their next challenge.
Man of the Match was Riley Clark with a dominating performance in defence and supported the attack with some great crosses into the box( he managed a whole game without shooting).
