In a resounding display of skill and teamwork, Moreton Hall Raiders faced off against Eaton Socon U14 Colts at the Ten Acre Field on 21 September 2024, kicking off at 10:00 am. The match concluded with an overwhelming scoreline of 17-0 in favour of the Raiders, showcasing their attacking prowess and defensive solidity.
Moreton Hall Raiders lined up in a 4-1-4-1 formation, which is typically characterised by a strong defensive base supported by a lone central midfielder, providing both defensive cover and linking play between defence and attack. The backline consisted of two central defenders flanked by two full-backs, while the midfield featured a balance of attacking and central roles to facilitate fluid movement. Jack Hurrell led the line as the striker, with support from four midfielders, including attacking threats on both flanks and a central playmaker.
The substitutes for the Raiders included Heston Andrews, Fenton Arnold, Joseph Hawes, and Kingsley Cook, who were poised to make an impact from the bench throughout the match.
The scoring opened early in the seventh minute when Hugo Andrews unleashed a spectacular long-range shot with his left foot, following a clever short pass from Callum Clarke. This stunning opener set the tone for the match, as the Raiders quickly asserted their dominance.
Just six minutes later, Finley Deeks doubled the lead, tapping in from inside the box after receiving a well-placed short pass from Jack Hurrell. The early goals left Eaton Socon reeling, unable to respond effectively to the relentless attacking pressure.
In a flurry of substitutions at the 17-minute mark, Moreton Hall Raiders made significant changes to their lineup, introducing Heston Andrews, Fenton Arnold, Joseph Hawes, and Kingsley Cook for Oscar Kobylecki, Callum Clarke, Oscar Barrett, and Jacob Thrower respectively. These tactical adjustments aimed to maintain the momentum and further exploit the gaps in the Eaton Socon defence.
The Raiders’ third goal came in the 25th minute, with Harry Ambrose finding the net from close range, expertly assisted by Taylor Parker's long pass. This was quickly followed by a brace from Jack Hurrell, who scored twice within minutes. The first was a tidy finish inside the box from a flick by Joseph Hawes, and the second was a solo effort showcasing his skill and composure, making it 5-0 by the 31st minute.
Harry Ambrose then added his second goal in the 34th minute, rising to head in a precise cross from Fenton Arnold. This goal further solidified the Raiders' commanding position before the halftime whistle blew at 35 minutes.
The second half commenced with more substitutions, with Oscar Kobylecki returning to the pitch in place of Harry Ambrose, and Jack Hurrell being substituted for Oscar Barrett. Callum Clarke and Jacob Thrower also returned to the fray, replacing Hugo Andrews and Josh Gilbert respectively.
The second half continued in similar fashion, with Taylor Parker scoring a direct freekick from outside the box in the 39th minute, followed by another goal just two minutes later, finished inside the box after receiving a long pass from Callum Clarke.
Oscar Barrett got in on the action just, scoring in the 44th minute from another long pass, making it 8-0. An own goal from an Eaton Socon player, unwittingly adding to the Raiders' tally making it 9-0.
The Raiders resumed their onslaught with Taylor Parker converting a penalty in the 48th minute following a handball from a Joseph Hawes freekick.
The substitutions continued to see fresh legs introduced, with Hugo Andrews coming back on for Finley Deeks and Jack Hurrell replacing Taylor Parker shortly thereafter.
In a remarkable display of teamwork, Jack Hurrell completed his hat-trick, volleying expertly from a ball that came back off the crossbar from a long range effort by Callum Clarke. The scoring did not stop there, as Hurrell added his fourth and the Raiders 12th goal after another Joseph Hawes assist.
Josh Gilbert then scored with a long-range effort in the 56th minute, followed by Harry Ambrose's solo goal just a minute later, further extending the lead. Ambrose scored his 4th of the day in the 64th minute, scoring from inside the box, bringing the score to an astonishing 16-0.
Hugo Andrews capped off the Raiders' magnificent performance with a final goal in the 69th minute, finishing with his right foot high into the net from a Jack Hurrell through ball.
The match concluded with a staggering 17-0 scoreline, a testament to Moreton Hall Raiders' dominance throughout the encounter.
Jack Hurrell was rightly named Player of the Match, his 4 goals and contributions in linking play demonstrating his pivotal role in this emphatic victory.
