In a gripping encounter at Flowfit Stadium Ludlow on 19 October 2024, Lads Club Juniors U11 faced off against Ludlow Lions U11 in a league match that ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw. The match kicked off at 10:30 am, showcasing the talents of both teams in a thrilling display of youth football.
Lads Club Juniors adopted a 2-5-1 formation, with Romeo Roberts in goal, flanked by central defenders Archie Rigby and Lucas Price. The midfield was packed with creativity, featuring Chase Bracegirdle on the right, Charlie Arnold on the left, and a trio of central midfielders: Finn Jones, Flyn Watkins, and Thomi Scoular. Oscar Jones led the line as the lone striker, tasked with converting chances into goals. This formation aimed to control the midfield while allowing for width and attacking options down the flanks. The Lads had to dig deep today due to only having the bare 9 available for the game.
The match began with an early attempt from Oscar Jones, who tested the Ludlow Lions goalkeeper with a shot that was saved in the third minute. Just two minutes later, Jones had another opportunity, but again his effort was thwarted, signalling his determination to find the back of the net.
The breakthrough came in the twelfth minute when Flyn Watkins unleashed a stunning right footed strike from just outside the box, sending the ball soaring into the top right corner of the goal to give Lads Club Juniors a 1-0 lead. The momentum continued to swing in their favour as Oscar Jones doubled the advantage just a minute later, finishing off a well-worked team move with a precise shot, assisted by Finn Jones.
As the first half progressed, Archie Rigby showcased his defensive prowess with a long pass that created a chance for Thomi Scoular, although it ultimately did not result in a goal, but Thomi quickly had another opportunity in the 19th where his shot was deflected into goal. However, the Ludlow Lions were not to be outdone. They pulled one back in the 27th minute with a well-placed right-footed shot, igniting their hopes of a comeback.
The second half commenced with Lads Club Juniors holding a 3-1 lead, but the Lions quickly scored in the 32nd minute with another right-footed strike, leaving the match finely poised at 3-2. Romeo Roberts, the Lads' goalkeeper, made a crucial point-blank reaction save in the 36th minute to keep the scores level, demonstrating his agility and reflexes.
As the match approached its final stages, the Lions responded with determination, scoring again in the 50th minute through a well-executed team move, bringing the score to 3-3.
The closing moments of the match saw both teams pushing for a winner. Oscar Jones had another attempt saved in the 56th minute, while Chase Bracegirdle and Thomi Scoular both missed opportunities, with Scoular's effort going agonisingly wide. Lucas Price was instrumental in defence, making crucial tackles to prevent further chances for the Lions, while Roberts continued to impress with a diving save at the strikers feet.
As the final whistle blew, both teams had showcased their skills and resilience, the Lads Lub Juniors had have it thier all for the full 90 minutes, leaving the match tied at 3-3. It was a thrilling contest that highlighted the potential of these young players, with both sides earning a well-deserved point in a match filled with excitement and drama.
