In a closely contested cup tie at St Peter’s Catholic High School, Orrell, the home of Robin Park U15 Storm, on 23 February 2025, Euxton Villa U15 Black emerged victorious with a narrow 1-0 win over Robin Park U15 Storm. The match kicked off at 1:00pm and saw both teams battle fiercely, but it was the visitors who secured their place in the next round with a decisive goal.
Euxton Villa adopted a 4-1-4-1 formation, which allowed them to maintain a solid defensive structure while also providing flexibility in attack. Adam Tucker took his position in goal, supported by a back four consisting of Alex Howarth on the right, Finlay Mann on the left, and the central defensive pairing of Harley Ashton and Jack Shirley. In front of the defence, Freddie Beanland played as a holding central midfielder, tasked with linking play and providing support to the attacking players. The midfield was further bolstered by Lucas Harvey and Luke Whelan on the right and left flanks respectively, while Ethan Bingham and Harry Clarke operated centrally as attacking midfielders, with William Murray leading the line as the lone striker.
The substitutes for Euxton Villa included Jayden Moffatt, Oliver Gardner, Junior Cummins, and Roman Taylor, who would be called upon later in the match to provide fresh legs and tactical adjustments.
The breakthrough came in the 25th minute when William Murray found the net, tapping in after a long pass from goalkeeper Adam Tucker. This goal not only showcased Tucker's distribution skills but also highlighted Murray's poaching instincts, giving Euxton Villa a crucial lead.
As the match progressed towards half-time, Euxton Villa maintained their advantage, and a tactical substitution was made just before the break. Jayden Moffatt replaced Luke Whelan in the 40th minute, indicating a shift in strategy as the team looked to solidify their lead.
The second half saw further tactical changes, with Oliver Gardner coming on for Lucas Harvey in the 60th minute. This substitution aimed to inject new energy into the midfield as Euxton Villa sought to control the game.
In the 65th minute, Junior Cummins replaced Harry Clarke, while Roman Taylor came on for William Murray, who had already made his mark with the opening goal. These changes were designed to maintain the team's momentum and ensure fresh legs were on the pitch as the match entered its final stages.
With the clock ticking down, Euxton Villa made one final substitution in the 75th minute, bringing back William Murray in place of Jayden Moffatt. This move was likely intended to bolster their attacking options as they aimed to extend their lead.
Despite several attempts from Robin Park to find an equaliser, Euxton Villa's defence held firm, with Tucker's earlier goalkeeping heroics and the resolute backline ensuring a clean sheet. The referee, Giuseppe Fara, brought the match to a close, confirming Euxton Villa's hard-fought victory.
Harry Clarke was recognised as the standout player of the match, contributing significantly to both the midfield's creativity and the team's overall performance. The victory not only secures a place in the next round of the cup but also boosts the confidence of Euxton Villa U15 Black as they continue their campaign.
