In a gripping league encounter at Myerscough Pitch #1 on 16 February 2025, Euxton Villa U15 Black emerged victorious against Myerscough Junior F.D.C. U15 Reds, clinching a 3-2 win. The match, which kicked off at noon, showcased a blend of tactical prowess and individual brilliance, with both teams displaying their competitive spirit throughout the 80 minutes of play.
Euxton Villa adopted a 4-4-1-1 formation, which allowed them to maintain a solid defensive structure while providing support to their attacking play. Adam Tucker donned the gloves as goalkeeper, shielded by a back four comprising Alex Howarth on the right, Jack Shirley on the left, with Harley Ashton and Colin Plewa central. In midfield, Harry Clarke and Luke Whelan operated on the flanks, while Junior Cummins and Ethan Bingham formed a robust central partnership. Zak Whalley played just behind the lone striker, William Murray, who was tasked with leading the line and converting chances into goals.
The substitutes for Euxton Villa included Freddie Beanland, Owen Bargh, Jayden Moffatt, Louis Grant, and Lucas Harvey, who were poised to make an impact from the bench as the match unfolded.
The action began early, with William Murray putting Euxton Villa ahead in the 9th minute, expertly heading home a cross delivered by Harry Clarke. The early goal set the tone for an engaging contest, but Myerscough responded with determination. They equalised in the 26th minute, scoring a header of their own to level the match at 1-1, igniting the home crowd's enthusiasm.
As the first half progressed, Euxton Villa made a tactical substitution in the 35th minute, bringing on Freddie Beanland for Junior Cummins, aiming to bolster their midfield and dominate in this area. William Murray was awarded a penalty after being fouled inside the box, Harley Ashton confidently converted the spot-kick in the 42nd minute, restoring Euxton Villa's lead to 2-1. This concluded the half, and both teams regrouped for the second period.
Euxton Villa tried to keep the momentum shifted in their favour as they made a series of substitutions at half time, with Owen Bargh, Jayden Moffatt, Lucas Harvey and Louis Grant entering the fray, replacing Jack Shirley, Luke Whelan, Harry Clarke and Colin Plewa, respectively.
However, the match remained finely poised, and Myerscough struck back in the 62nd minute, scoring from close range to equalise once more at 2-2. The tension in the air was palpable as both sides pushed for a decisive goal.
As the game approached its final stages, Alex Howarth came agonisingly close to giving Euxton Villa the lead again, hitting the post in the 70th minute. The visitors continued to press, and in the 77th minute, William Murray had a shot saved, keeping the score level.
The decisive moment arrived in the 83rd minute when Harley Ashton found the net again, tapping in from a short pass by Lucas Harvey, sending the Euxton Villa supporters into raptures. This late goal sealed a thrilling 3-2 victory for Euxton Villa U15 Black, showcasing their resilience and determination in a match that was a testament to youth football's excitement and unpredictability.
