Mile Oak Football Club faced off against Seaford Town U14 White in a gripping league clash at the Mile Oak U14 venue on 23 March 2025, with the match ending in a 1-1 draw. The contest, which kicked off at 12:00pm, showcased a blend of tactical prowess and individual brilliance, leaving both teams with a point to show for their efforts.
Mile Oak lined up in a 3-4-1-2 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking transitions. Archie Gunn took his place between the sticks, shielded by a trio of defenders: Josh Boarer on the right, Kingsley Roussel in the centre, and Charlie Morton on the left. The midfield was anchored by Herbie Woolin and Will Newton in central roles, with Tyler West and Finley Howarth providing width as right and left midfielders, respectively. Izac Woodward operated just behind the forwards, supporting Alfie Brookes-Baker and Harrison Franklin-Lester, who led the line as right and left forwards.
The substitutes for Mile Oak included Tyler Mugridge, Stan Churchyard, Isaac Samagh, and Olle Webb, who would later play crucial roles in the match.
The first half began with both teams probing for weaknesses, but it was Mile Oak who struck first. In the 11th minute, Will Newton unleashed a stunning long-range strike from outside the box, finding the back of the net with his right foot and giving Mile Oak an early lead. The home side's confidence surged, and they began to control the midfield, with Woolin and Newton dictating the tempo.
However, Seaford Town responded with determination. In the 32nd minute, they equalised with a powerful header, showcasing their aerial threat from set-pieces. The goal shifted the momentum, and both teams entered the half-time break at 1-1, with the match finely balanced.
As the second half commenced, Mile Oak made tactical adjustments. In the 36th minute, a flurry of substitutions saw Tyler Mugridge replace Izac Woodward, Stan Churchyard come on for Josh Boarer, and Isaac Samagh take the place of Harrison Franklin-Lester. These changes aimed to inject fresh energy into the squad and bolster both defence and attack.
The game continued to ebb and flow, with both sides creating chances but failing to convert. In the 56th minute, Olle Webb was introduced for Finley Howarth, further altering the dynamics of the match as Mile Oak sought to regain their earlier momentum.
As the clock ticked on, tensions rose, and in the 61st minute, Stan Churchyard received a yellow card, adding to the intensity of the contest. The referee, Bobby Dhol, maintained control as both teams pushed for a decisive goal, but neither could find the breakthrough.
Despite a spirited performance from both sides, the match concluded with a share of the spoils, leaving Mile Oak and Seaford Town U14 White to reflect on a hard-fought draw. Player performances were highlighted by Alfie Brookes-Baker and Kingsley Roussel, who stood out with their contributions throughout the match, embodying the fighting spirit of their team.
