In a closely contested league encounter at Barnwell Upper School on 13 October 2024, Stevenage Borough Juniors U16 Giants secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Welwyn Garden City U16 Tornadoes. The match, which kicked off at 12:00pm, showcased a blend of tactical discipline and individual flair, culminating in a decisive goal that sealed the points for the home side.
The Giants lined up in a 3-4-3 formation, designed to provide both defensive solidity and attacking width. Saba Rajaloo took his place in goal, while a back three comprised Joseph Akhidenor, C.J Meadows, and Joel Adeniyi provided a robust defensive foundation. In midfield, George Hallam and Jack Kenward operated on the right and left of midfield respectively, with Archie Briars and Reegan Spencer occupying central roles. Up front, the attacking trio featured Charlie Dempster on the right, Masireh Sidibeh as the central striker, and Khaya Ngwenya on the left. The substitutes for the match included Adrian Ciosek, Trystan Acebuque, and Cole Barnes.
The match began with both teams probing for weaknesses, but it was the Giants who created the first significant opportunity. In the 12th minute, Charlie Dempster unleashed a shot that was saved by the Welwyn goalkeeper, signalling the home side's intent. Shortly after, George Hallam made a crucial tackle in the 18th minute to prevent a potential goal for the Tornadoes, demonstrating the defensive resilience of the Giants.
As the first half progressed, Archie Briars had a go at goal in the 23rd minute, but his effort was also saved. Saba Rajaloo, the Giants' goalkeeper, showcased his skills just a minute later with a diving save at the feet of an advancing attacker, maintaining the scoreline. The half continued with further attempts from the Giants, including a shot from Jack Kenward that went wide in the 29th minute, and another effort from Briars that sailed high in the 37th minute.
The first half concluded with the score still at 0-0, but the Giants were clearly the more threatening side. The second half saw immediate tactical changes as Trystan Acebuque and Cole Barnes were introduced for Reegan Spencer and Joseph Akhidenor respectively, both substitutions aimed at enhancing the team's attacking options.
Just after the substitutions, Archie Briars had another chance in the 42nd minute, but his shot went wide. The Giants continued to press, with Masireh Sidibeh making an attempt in the 47th minute that was saved, followed by a wide shot from Sidibeh again in the 49th minute. George Hallam also tried his luck shortly after, but his effort was off target.
In the 50th minute, Reegan Spencer re-entered the fray, replacing Sidibeh, as the Giants sought to inject fresh energy into their attack. Spencer was active immediately, with attempts in the 56th and 57th minutes, the latter being saved by the Welwyn goalkeeper, who was kept busy throughout the match.
As the game approached its final stages, Charlie Dempster was substituted back on for Khaya Ngwenya in the 69th minute, a tactical move that would prove pivotal. In the 73rd minute, Dempster found the back of the net, scoring with his right foot after a clever assist from Adrian Ciosek. This goal not only broke the deadlock but also sent the home crowd into raptures, as the Giants took a well-deserved lead.
The final moments of the match saw Dempster attempt to add to his tally in the 78th minute, but his shot went wide. Despite the late pressure from Welwyn Garden City, the Giants held firm, securing a vital three points in their league campaign. The match concluded with Stevenage Borough Juniors U16 Giants emerging victorious, a testament to their determination and tactical execution on the day.
