In a thrilling cup encounter at the Euxton Villa ground on 16 March 2025, Euxton Villa U15 Black emerged victorious with a scoreline of 4-2 against Mill Hill Juniors U15 Red. The match, which kicked off at 2:00 PM, showcased a blend of skill, determination, and tactical prowess from both sides, but it was the home team that ultimately secured their place in the next round.
Euxton Villa lined up in a 4-4-1-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for quick transitions into attack. Adam Tucker took his position in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Alex Howarth and Finlay Mann as right and left defenders, respectively, with Harley Ashton and Louis Grant forming the central defensive partnership. In midfield, Lucas Harvey and Roman Taylor occupied the right and left flanks, while Harry Clarke and Ethan Bingham operated centrally, with Zak Whalley playing just behind the lone striker, William Murray. This setup aimed to exploit the width of the pitch and create scoring opportunities through quick passing and movement.
The substitutes for Euxton Villa included Casper Pilar, Jack Shirley, Junior Cummins, Freddie Beanland, and Colin Plewa, who would later play crucial roles as the match unfolded.
The match began with an early scare for Euxton Villa as Adam Tucker was called into action just a minute in, executing a full-stretch save to deny Mill Hill Juniors an early goal. However, the home side quickly settled into their rhythm, with William Murray finding himself in an offside position shortly after, a decision that was deemed correct by the officials.
As the first half progressed, Lucas Harvey tested the Mill Hill goalkeeper with a shot in the ninth minute, but it was saved. Harvey then turned provider in the 11th minute, delivering a long pass that created a chance for his teammates. Just moments later, Murray struck the crossbar with a powerful effort, signalling Euxton Villa's attacking intent.
William Murray's persistence paid off in the 17th minute when he scored a stunning lob from outside the box, assisted by Ethan Bingham's long pass. This goal ignited the home crowd, who were buoyed by the early lead. Bingham continued to be a threat, attempting another shot shortly after, but it was saved.
As the half wore on, both teams exchanged attempts, with Tucker making a parry in the 27th minute and Harley Ashton clearing a dangerous ball just before the half-time whistle. The first half concluded with Euxton Villa leading 1-0, but the match was far from over.
The second half saw immediate changes for Euxton Villa, with Casper Pilar replacing Roman Taylor and Jack Shirley coming on for the injured Harley Ashton. William Murray continued to press for a second goal, but his shot was saved shortly after the restart.
Ethan Bingham doubled the lead in the 58th minute with a spectacular volley from outside the box, showcasing his skill and composure. Just a minute later, Harry Clarke converted a penalty after a foul on a teammate, extending the lead to 3-0 and putting Euxton Villa in a commanding position.
Mill Hill Juniors responded with a goal from a set piece in the 70th minute, reigniting their hopes. However, William Murray quickly restored the three-goal cushion in the 73rd minute, scoring a solo effort after receiving a long pass from Casper Pilar.
As the match approached its conclusion, Mill Hill Juniors managed to score again in the 82nd minute, but it was too little, too late. Despite their late surge, Euxton Villa held firm to secure a 4-2 victory, much to the delight of their supporters.
Ethan Bingham's standout performance earned him the Player of the Match accolade, reflecting his significant contribution to the team's success. The referee, Giuseppe Fara, officiated the match well, ensuring a fair contest throughout. With this victory, Euxton Villa U15 Black advances confidently in the cup competition, showcasing their potential for the challenges ahead.
