Pro Shottas U13 faced off against Mavericks in a league neutral match at the Pine Resource Center on 2nd November 2024, with kick-off at 9:00 am. The home side delivered a commanding performance, securing a resounding 4-1 victory over their opponents, showcasing their attacking prowess and tactical discipline throughout the encounter.
Pro Shottas U13 lined up in a 4-2-1-3 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking transitions. Christopher Palmer took his place in goal, shielded by a back four consisting of Nikkeil Freeman on the right, Ben Hutton and Zayne Galt in central defence, and Elijah Jacob on the left. The midfield duo of Samuel Campion and Raiden Lee operated in front of the defence, tasked with both breaking up play and initiating attacks. Kaleb Catwell played as an attacking midfielder, positioned centrally to link up with the forwards. The front three featured C'jae Nichols on the right, Emanuel Espinosa Alvarez as the central striker, and Aiden Knight on the left, all expected to exploit the spaces left by the Mavericks' defence.
The substitutes for Pro Shottas U13 included Dylan Boucaud, Junilio Richmond, Aries Payne, Jazeel Codogan, and Dimitri Applewaithe, who would later be introduced to maintain the team's momentum.
The match began with both teams probing for an early advantage, but it was Pro Shottas U13 who struck first. Aiden Knight opened the scoring in the 30th minute with a close-range tap-in, demonstrating his poacher's instinct and putting his side ahead. Just four minutes later, Kaleb Catwell doubled the lead with a stunning effort from distance, a true screamer that left the Mavericks' goalkeeper with no chance.
As the first half drew to a close, Pro Shottas U13 went into the break with a comfortable 2-0 lead, having controlled the tempo and created several chances. The Mavericks struggled to find their rhythm, often thwarted by the disciplined Pro Shottas defence.
The second half commenced with Pro Shottas U13 looking to extend their advantage, and they did just that in the 41st minute. Emanuel Espinosa Alvarez scored with a powerful header, expertly assisted by Kaleb Catwell's precise cross, making it 3-0. The Mavericks managed to pull one back in the 56th minute, but it was too little, too late as Pro Shottas maintained their composure.
Kaleb Catwell continued to shine, adding to his impressive performance by scoring his second goal of the match in the 49th minute, finishing inside the box with a well-placed shot. Following this, Pro Shottas made a series of tactical substitutions in the 51st and 58th minutes, bringing on Dylan Boucaud, Junilio Richmond, Aries Payne, Jazeel Codogan, and Dimitri Applewaithe to refresh the squad and maintain their dominance.
Despite the Mavericks' solitary goal, Pro Shottas U13's performance was characterized by effective teamwork and individual brilliance, particularly from Kaleb Catwell, who was undoubtedly the standout player of the match. The final whistle confirmed a convincing 4-1 victory for Pro Shottas U13, reflecting their growing confidence.
Pro Shottas U13 were crowned champions after a dominant display this season, with only one loss out of eleven. Congratulations are in order!
