Witham friary u13 2 - 0 FOF FC U13 Sonics
30 March 2025. Kicked off at 9:30 AM.

Home cup match played on 30 March 2025.
Kicked off at 9:30 AM

Que sera sera, whatever will be will be, we’re going to Chippenham Town fc, Que sera sera.

Witham Friary U13 faced off against FOF FC U13 Sonics in a thrilling league cup semi final match at the Leafy Lane Playing Fields on 30 March 2025, kick off at 9:30 am. The Somerset side emerged victorious against their Wiltshire rivals with a solid 2-0 win, showcasing their tactical prowess and determination throughout the encounter.

Witham Friary adopted a 3-4-1-2 formation, which allowed them to maintain a strong defensive line while providing ample support in midfield and attack. Finlay Patrick took his position in goal, shielded by a trio of defenders: Jahmiah Harding on the right, Dylan Turner in the centre, and Dempsey Matthews on the left. The midfield was anchored by Max Norris and Cristiano Do Amaral Vanzil centrally, with Sullivan Collis on the right and Archie Hansford on the left, providing width and creativity. Leading the line were forwards Zak Daniels and Ethan Oatley, with Leo Griffin playing just behind them as the attacking midfielder. The substitutes for the match included Seth Taylor, Matthew Lyon’s, Isaac Gainger and Elliott Atwood all of whom would play a massive part in securing the teams first ever appearance in the Mid Wilts League cup final.

The gaffer would switch it up at half time going to a flat back four in defence which tightened things up and helped secure the victory in the teams biggest match for years.

The match began with both teams probing for an early advantage, but it was Witham Friary who struck first. In the 23rd minute, Zak Daniels found the back of the net, converting a quality free kick from Dempsey Matthews which the FOF keeper turned onto the bar. This goal set the tone for the remainder of the first half, as Witham Friary began to assert their dominance and the defensive rearguard dealing with the direct football played by FOF.

Just two minutes later, Sullivan Collis who was lively all game had a chance to extend the lead but his attempt went just wide after a great bit of play from Archie Hansford highlighting the home side's attacking intent.

As the first half progressed, Witham Friary maintained control, and the teams headed into the break with the scoreline at 1-0. The second half commenced with renewed energy, and it didn’t take long for Witham Friary to double their lead. In the 41st minute, Zak Daniels struck again, this time a pearler, scoring from outside the area with a clever flick assist from Sullivan Collis. This goal not only showcased Daniels' finishing ability but also highlighted the synergy developing within the team.

With a 2-0 lead, Witham Friary continued to press for more goals, demonstrating their attacking flair and some fantastic passing to cut open the FOF defence.

At the other end FOF did enjoy a lot of possession but a number of timely blocks, tackles and assured keeping from Finlay Patrick kept them at bay. This included one fantastic save towards the end to divert the ball around the post albeit the linesman flag was raised for offside.

As the match drew to a close, FOF FC U13 Sonics struggled to find a way back into the game, unable to penetrate the resolute Witham defence. The final whistle confirmed a well-deserved victory for Witham Friary U13, who will take great confidence from this performance as they progress to the final in Chippenham which is likely to be the 10th May against the winners of either Devizes or Larkhall.

A fantastic performance in a highly pressured game for the Somerset side.