In a gripping league encounter at Avon Park on 12 January 2025, Witham Friary U13 faced off against Bradford Town Youth U13 Harriers, ultimately succumbing to a narrow 4-3 defeat. The match, which kicked off at 2:30pm, showcased a flurry of goals and intense action, leaving the 41 spectators thoroughly entertained.
Witham Friary adopted a 4-2-1-3 formation, designed to balance defensive solidity with attacking flair. Finlay Patrick took his place in goal, while a back four comprised of Dempsey Matthews on the right, Jahmiah Harding and Dylan Turner in central defence, and Matthew Lyons on the left aimed to provide a sturdy foundation. In midfield, Max Norris and Cristiano Do Amaral Vanzil operated as central midfielders, tasked with linking play and supporting both defence and attack. Leo Griffin played as the attacking midfielder, looking to create opportunities for the front three, which included Archie Hansford on the right, Oscar Contini as the central striker, and Zak Daniels on the left, who were expected to exploit any defensive lapses from the opposition.
The match began with an early breakthrough for Witham Friary when Dylan Turner cooly converted a penalty in the fifth minute, after Hansford was tripped on the edge of the box. Just a minute later, goalkeeper Finlay Patrick showcased his skills with a confident catch, ensuring his side maintained their lead. However, Oscar Contini's attempt to extend the advantage was thwarted in the seventh minute, as his shot was saved by the Bradford keeper.
As the game progressed, Witham Friary continued to press, but Matthew Lyons' effort in the 13th minute went wide of the target. The tide began to turn in the 32nd minute when Zak Daniels scored with a powerful header from a corner delivered by Lyons, doubling Witham's lead. Yet, Bradford responded swiftly, finding the net just two minutes later with a close-range goal that reignited their hopes.
The match took another twist in the 33rd minute when Bradford were awarded a penalty, which they converted to level the score at 2-2. The first half concluded with the score tied, leaving both teams eager to seize the initiative in the second half.
The second half commenced with Archie Hansford testing the Bradford goalkeeper again, but his shot was saved in the 36th minute. Just a minute later, Zak Daniels struck again, this time from outside the box, unleashing a stunning right-footed shot that found the back of the net, putting Witham ahead 3-2.
Witham then had the chance to go 4-2 up but having been successful with a penalty in the first half, this time Turner put the ball narrowly wide after a push on Contini.
In the 48th minute, Ethan Oatley had a chance to extend the lead, but his effort was saved, and Bradford capitalised on the momentum. They equalised once more, and then took the lead with another goal, sealing a dramatic comeback to finish the match at 4-3 in their favour.
Witham Friary U13 will reflect on a match filled with promise and potential, which they dominated possession and had the majority of chances but ultimately fell short against a resilient Bradford Town Youth U13 Harriers side. The thrilling encounter at Avon Park will surely be remembered as a testament to the competitive spirit of youth football.
Witham will have to pick themselves up with two cup ties in a row both away from home. The first of which is against a very strong Corsham side. They competed well against a very physical Bradford side and will need to do more of the same next week.
