In a thrilling league encounter at Goshen Playing Fields on 8th March 2025, Tiki Taka Dortmund secured a 3-1 victory against promotion rivals Radcliffe Juniors Tornadoes. The match kicked off at 9:15 am and showcased a blend of tactical prowess and individual brilliance from the Dortmund side.
Tiki Taka Dortmund lined up in a 2-3-3 formation, with Kamsy Anajemba in goal, flanked by central defenders Archie Hunt and Lawrence Nwakamma. The midfield trio consisted of Nikita Velicka on the right, Kai McCaughtrie in the centre, and Zac Humphries-Deveney on the left, while the attacking trio featured Sonic Leung on the right wing, Noah Rule as the central striker, and Yasin Mohammed on the left wing. This setup aimed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking transitions.
The substitutes for the match included Oscar Manders and Zac Leach, who would later play crucial roles in the game.
The match began with Radcliffe Tornadoes on the front foot and looking the sharpest of the two teams in the early stages. Dortmund grew into the match and created their first chance with a key pass from Nikita Velicka in the 6th minute, a great through ball that unfortunately didn't get the finish it deserved. Just two minutes later, Archie Hunt made a vital tackle to prevent a chance for the Tornadoes, showcasing the defensive resilience of Dortmund. However, in the 11th minute, Radcliffe Juniors Tornadoes struck first, taking the lead with a well-placed goal that put Tiki Taka Dortmund on the back foot.
In response to the early setback, Tiki Taka Dortmund made two substitutions in the 14th minute, bringing on Oscar Manders for Sonic Leung and Zac Leach for Zac Humphries-Deveney. This tactical shift aimed to inject fresh energy into the side. Kamsy Anajemba, the Dortmund goalkeeper, demonstrated his skills shortly after, executing a full stretch save in the 15th minute to keep the scoreline manageable.
The defensive efforts continued, with Kai McCaughtrie making a crucial block in the 17th minute, followed by an interception from Lawrence Nwakamma in the 23rd minute, both of which prevented further chances for the Tornadoes, who looked the more lively team so far. As the first half progressed, Sonic Leung showed some good feet and made a good run in the 26th minute but was unable to get a shot at goal.
The breakthrough for Tiki Taka Dortmund came just before halftime, in the 28th minute when Oscar Manders calmly finished with his right foot from close range, assisted by a short pass from Zac Humphries-Deveney. This goal revitalised the team and shifted the momentum in their favour.
The teams went in level 1-1 at halftime and the break gave Dortmund a chance to regroup after a slow first half by their standards.
The second half started with Dortmund making further substitutions, with Kai McCaughtrie returning to the pitch for Nikita Velicka and Yasin Mohammed coming on for Noah Rule.
Kamsy Anajemba continued to shine, making another full stretch save in the 34th minute, followed by a point-blank reaction save just moments later, ensuring the score remained level at 1-1.
As the second half went on Tiki Taka Dortmund started to get a foot hold in the game and quickly took control. In the 36th minute, Yasin Mohammed scored from close range after abit of a scramble in the 6 yard box, assisted by Zac Humphries-Deveney, putting Dortmund ahead 2-1. The momentum was firmly with Dortmund, and they extended their lead further in the 42nd minute when Zac Leach scored a brilliant acrobatic overhead kick that left the Tornadoes keeper with no chance, again assisted by Zac Humphries-Deveney from a corner.
With a comfortable 3-1 lead, Tiki Taka Dortmund made further substitutions in the 44th minute, bringing Noah Rule back on for Oscar Manders and Nikita Velicka for Zac Leach. The team continued to defend resolutely, with Nikita Velicka making a crucial tackle in the 46th minute to prevent a chance for the Tornadoes.
Zac Humphries-Deveney had a chance to add to the scoreline in the 48th minute, but his effort was saved. Kamsy Anajemba also contributed to the attacking play with a long kick in the 51st minute that created a chance, although Noah Rule just couldn't get a shot off after making a great run.
As the match drew to a close, Tiki Taka Dortmund maintained their composure and defensive solidity, securing a well-deserved 3-1 victory. Zac Leach's performance was particularly noteworthy, earning him the accolade of Player of the Match for his contributions in both attack and defence, capped with a stunning goal.
This victory solidifies Tiki Taka Dortmund's position in the league as they push for promotion.
Big thanks to our team kit sponsor:
New Bury Chippy https://www.facebook.com/share/18bYeWyiEw/
