In a gripping league match at Aylestone Recreation Ground on 16 March 2025, Stoneygate Lion Juniors faced off against AFC Andrews U13 Pumas, with the contest ending in a dramatic 3-3 draw. The match kicked off at 10:30 am, showcasing the competitive spirit of both teams in a thrilling display of youth football.
Stoneygate lined up in a 4-4-1-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for quick transitions into attack. Neo Routledge took his position in goal, with a back four comprising Theo Sebastian on the right, Priyan Purshottam and Alfie Roberts centrally, and Hamza Mukadam on the left. In midfield, Oscar Pickering operated on the right, with Veer Purshottam and Javyn Purewal in central roles, while Charlie Malley occupied the left flank. Kabir Sian played just behind the striker, Will Neilson, who led the line as the focal point of the attack. The tactical setup aimed to balance defensive solidity with offensive creativity, allowing the team to exploit the flanks and create goal-scoring opportunities.
The substitutes for Stoneygate included Harvyn Purewal, who would later be called upon to make an impact as the match unfolded.
The match began with both teams probing for weaknesses, but it was AFC Andrews who struck first. In the 21st minute, a defensive mistake from Stoneygate allowed an opponent to capitalise, scoring from close range with a left-footed effort. This early setback put Stoneygate on the back foot, forcing them to regroup and respond.
Stoneygate’s response came shortly after, as they began to assert themselves more in the game. In the 28th minute, a tactical substitution saw Harvyn Purewal replace Oscar Pickering, aiming to inject fresh energy into the midfield. Just four minutes later, the Lions equalised when Will Neilson found the back of the net. Theo Sebastian provided a long pass that set Neilson up for a close-range finish, demonstrating the effectiveness of their attacking strategy.
As the first half drew to a close, the score stood at 1-1, with both teams looking to gain the upper hand in the second half.
The second half commenced with renewed intensity, and Stoneygate quickly took the lead. In the 49th minute, Will Neilson scored again, this time from a direct free-kick outside the box, curling the ball into the net with his right foot. This goal seemed to energise the Lions, who were now in a strong position at 2-1.
However, AFC Andrews were not to be outdone. Just two minutes later, in the 51st minute, they equalised again, scoring from close range with a right-footed shot inside the box. The match was finely poised at 2-2, with both teams demonstrating their attacking prowess.
The Pumas took the lead for the second time in the 64th minute, scoring a solo goal that showcased individual skill and determination, putting them ahead 3-2. Stoneygate now faced a challenging task to claw back the deficit once more.
As the clock ticked down, Stoneygate pushed forward in search of an equaliser. Their persistence paid off in the dying moments of the match. In the 70th minute, Priyan Purshottam rose to meet a corner delivered by Will Neilson, heading the ball home from close range to level the score at 3-3.
The final whistle blew shortly after, leaving both teams to reflect on a match filled with drama, resilience, and moments of brilliance. Stoneygate Lion Juniors will take pride in their fighting spirit, having come back twice to secure a hard-earned draw against a determined AFC Andrews side.
