Our U13 squad welcomed Villa this morning knowing a result was important to get their league campaign back on track, and they produced a performance full of character, quality, and resilience to secure all three points.

The lads got off to the perfect start and were ahead after just four minutes. A superb pass from Asanda split the defence and sent Fawwaz racing through on goal. Showing great composure, he finished coolly to give the home side an early 1–0 lead.

The lads were looking dangerous every time they went forward and continued to press. Fourteen minutes later their pressure paid off again when Benjamin did brilliantly to create the opportunity before Finn Kehoe was on hand to finish from close range and double the advantage.

Villa tried to respond but our midfield and defence were working tirelessly, limiting their opponents mainly to long balls into the box which were dealt with well. The first half closed with the lads firmly in control at 2–0.

The second half turned into a much tighter and more dramatic affair. We struck what looked like a decisive third when Benjamin once again played a brilliant pass to release Fawwaz, who finished confidently for his second goal of the game to make it 3–0.

However, Villa refused to give up and were handed a lifeline when they pulled one back from a corner with 15 minutes remaining. Sensing an opportunity, they began to push forward, while we looked to catch them on the counter attack but found the final pass just eluding them.

With seven minutes left Villa struck again to make it 3–2, setting up a tense grandstand finish. Our lads had to dig deep, showing great determination and discipline as they knuckled down to protect their lead.

The drama peaked in the final minute when another long Villa delivery caused chaos in the box. Goalkeeper Ben punched clear under pressure, but the ball fell to a Villa attacker only a few yards out who looked certain to score. Somehow Ben reacted brilliantly, producing a world-class save—his second outstanding stop of the game—to keep the ball out and preserve our advantage.

It was a thrilling end to the game, but the lads showed real character to hang on and secure a well-deserved 3–2 victory.

A fantastic effort from the entire squad and great to see the team getting back on track after two defeats.

Well done to the players and coaches, and thanks as always to the parents for their continued support. ⚽️💙