Worthing Dynamo U12 Black faced off against Rustington Otters U12 in a gripping league encounter at Durrington High School on 29 September 2024. With a kick-off at 10:00 am, the match ended in a narrow 5-4 victory for the home side, showcasing an exhilarating display of youth football.
The Dynamo set up in a 3-4-1 formation, which provided a solid defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking transitions. Ellis Williams donned the gloves as the goalkeeper, with a three-man defence comprised of Woody Mason on the right, Toby Killick in the centre, and Isaish Hatton on the left. The midfield was bustling with Lewis Langdell and Harrison Flanagan operating as right and left midfielders respectively, while Leo Whyatt and Archie Parker-Muckle occupied central roles. Reuben Wickens-Steele spearheaded the attack as a lone striker, expected to make incisive runs and convert chances created by the midfield duo.
Sami Dalaman was named among the substitutes, ready to impact the game when called upon.
The match ignited with an electric opening, as Archie Parker-Muckle struck first for Worthing just five minutes in, firing a long-range strike into the net following a short pass from Reuben Wickens-Steele. This early goal set the pace for an action-packed encounter. However, Rustington Otters responded swiftly; just four minutes later, they equalised, taking the score to 1-1 by the ninth minute.
The Otters continued their momentum and took the lead at 15 minutes, scoring again to make it 2-1. Worthing's defence faced a stern test, yet the home side refused to back down. In the 21st minute, Reuben Wickens-Steele found the back of the net with a well-placed shot inside the box, assisted by Harrison Flanagan's precise cross. The match levelled at 2-2, but Rustington quickly regained their advantage in the 24th minute, taking the score to 3-2. Just three minutes later, they added another, stretching the lead to 4-2 with a quick-fire goal, leaving the Dynamo fans anxious.
With the first half approaching its conclusion, Worthing made a tactical change, substituting Toby Killick for Sami Dalaman in the 30th minute. The half-time whistle soon followed, and the teams headed into the break with the visiting Otters leading 4-2.
The second half saw an energized Dynamo side emerge from the tunnel. In the 34th minute, Reuben Wickens-Steele struck again, scoring his second goal of the match after receiving a short pass from Archie Parker-Muckle inside the box. This goal reignited hopes for Worthing, bringing the score to 4-3.
As the match intensified, the Dynamo's determination shone through. They pushed for an equaliser, which finally came in the 55th minute, as Toby Killick re-entered the fray, replacing Lewis Langdell. Worthing's relentless pressure paid off, and in a remarkable turn of events, they scored their fifth goal, clinching a thrilling 5-4 victory.
Archie Parker-Muckle's performance stood out notably, as he was rightfully named 'Player of the Match' for his contributions throughout the contest. Worthing Dynamo U12 Black will take great confidence from this enthralling victory as they continue their league campaign.
