In an exhilarating league match at the Manchester Communication Academy on 29 September 2024, RTB showcased their attacking prowess, defeating Macclesfield FC U11s Select with a resounding scoreline of 7-2. The match kicked off at 9:40 am, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter that saw RTB dominate throughout.
RTB employed a 3-1-3-1 formation, which allowed them to maintain a solid defensive structure while also providing ample support for their attacking players. Matilda Ball took her position as the goalkeeper, shielded by a central defensive trio consisting of Kimberley White, Ava Walsh, and Megan Steedman. In front of them, Eva Thompson operated as the central midfielder, orchestrating play and linking defence with attack. The attacking midfield trio comprised Dix Wells on the right, Anya Butler centrally, and Emilia Rolfe on the left, with Flora Snell leading the line as the striker. This formation was designed to create width and exploit spaces, enabling RTB to press effectively and transition quickly into attack.
The substitutes for RTB included Cleo Prince, who would be brought on to inject fresh energy into the team as the match progressed.
The match began with a surprise as Macclesfield FC U11s Select struck first, scoring in the 6th minute to take an early lead. RTB responded swiftly, making tactical adjustments that saw Dix Wells substituted off for Cleo Prince just four minutes later. This change proved pivotal as RTB began to find their rhythm.
By the 21st minute, Kimberley White equalised for RTB, capitalising on a defensive lapse from the opponents. However, just a minute later, Macclesfield FC U11s Select managed to restore their lead, making it 2-1. RTB, undeterred by the setback, continued to push forward, and Anya Butler found the net in the 26th minute, bringing the score to 2-2 as the teams headed toward half-time.
As the second half commenced, RTB made further changes, with Emilia Rolfe substituted off for Flora Snell in the 29th minute. The tactical alterations paid immediate dividends. In the 35th minute, Dix Wells returned to the pitch, replacing Ava Walsh, adding more attacking impetus to the team.
Within moments of his return, Wells made an impact, scoring RTB's third goal just eight seconds into the second half, assisted by Emilia Rolfe. The floodgates opened from there, as Wells netted again in the 49th minute, this time with Flora Snell providing the assist.
Anya Butler then scored her second goal of the match in the 50th minute, with a deft finish following a clever pass from Wells, extending RTB’s lead to 5-2. The scoring spree continued as Flora Snell got on the scoresheet herself in the 54th minute, first with a solo effort and then again shortly after, assisted by Eva Thompson, making it a staggering 7-2.
The match concluded with RTB firmly in control, displaying a remarkable team performance that highlighted their attacking capabilities and resilience in the face of early adversity. Anya Butler and Eva Thompson were particularly noteworthy, earning accolades for their influential roles throughout the match.
