Totteridge FC Yellows secured a narrow yet exciting victory over Flackwell Heath Minors Scorpions, winning 3-2 in a captivating league clash held at Four Ashes on 22nd September 2024. The match kicked off at 9:30 am and showcased a fierce contest between the two sides.
Totteridge FC Yellows deployed a 3-4-3 formation, which is often characterised by its attacking intent and fluidity. The formation consisted of three defenders at the back, including Chaise Duff on the right, Veera Manivannan centrally, and Muhammad Hussain on the left. The midfield was anchored by Noah Brereton and Kacper Gowin in central roles, with Ojas Pawar providing width on the right and Rory Fairless on the left. Up front, the Yellows featured striker Logan Paulse flanked by forwards Nico Cox on the right and Muhammad Ali Qarni on the left. This setup typically allows for quick transitions from defence to attack, giving the team the ability to overload opponents in wide areas.
The substitutes for Totteridge FC Yellows included Kathirsan Losuthan, who would later play a role in the match.
The game commenced with Flackwell Heath Minors Scorpions striking first in the 16th minute, taking the early lead and testing the resolve of Totteridge. In response to the conceded goal, Totteridge made an immediate substitution, bringing on Kathirsan Losuthan for Nico Cox. The tactical adjustment seemed to galvanise the Yellows, as they swiftly equalised just two minutes later. Logan Paulse found the back of the net with a right-footed strike following a goalmouth scramble, bringing the score to 1-1 in the 18th minute and energising the home supporters.
Totteridge then took the lead in the 26th minute thanks to Ojas Pawar, who scored a stunning long-range strike assisted by none other than the ever-influential Logan Paulse. The first half progressed steadily into its final minutes, with the score favouring Totteridge at 2-1 before reaching half-time.
The second half saw an early substitution for Totteridge as Rory Fairless was replaced by Nico Cox in the 41st minute, restoring the attacking balance in the midfield. The Yellows continued their pursuit of goals and extended their lead in the 54th minute, when Muhammad Ali Qarni capitalised on an assist from Nico Cox, finishing with precision inside the box to make it 3-1.
However, Flackwell Heath remained resolute and made a late charge in the match, introducing more pressure. Totteridge made a further change in the 55th minute, with Muhammad Hussain coming on for Veera Manivannan, consolidating their defensive efforts. The dynamic of the match changed once more in the 72nd minute when Veera Manivannan was substituted for Ojas Pawar, with the game reaching a tense climax.
As the match wound down, Flackwell Heath managed to reduce the deficit with a goal in the 81st minute, setting the scene for a dramatic finish. Despite the late goal from the visitors, Totteridge held on to secure the win, showcasing their character and determination throughout a closely fought encounter.
Noah Brereton’s performance throughout the match earned him the accolade of Player of the Match, reflecting his pivotal role in midfield and contributions to the attacking play of the team. Totteridge FC Yellows left the pitch victorious, while Flackwell Heath Minors Scorpions, despite their spirited display, would have to settle for a painful defeat.
