In a pulsating league clash at Belmont Road on 11 May 2025, 1874 Northwich Juniors - Jets triumphed over Winsford Town U14 Winsford Town Vale with a final score of 3-2. The match, which kicked off at 12:30pm, showcased a thrilling display of youth football, with both teams demonstrating skill and determination throughout the contest.
The Jets lined up in a 5-3-2 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for quick transitions into attack. Caiden Wilkinson took his place in goal, shielded by a back five comprising Harrison Capper and Lloyd Hill as the right and left defenders, respectively, with Jack Hayes, Ollie Symes, and layton M forming the central defensive trio. In midfield, Aidan Greenway and Toby Jack operated as right and left midfielders, while Lucas Goulding played centrally. Up front, Santiago Redondo and Harry Hayes were tasked with leading the line as forwards, looking to exploit any defensive lapses from the opposition.
The substitutes for the match included Owen Gibson, Greyson Webster, and Reece Colainne, who would later play pivotal roles in the unfolding drama.
The match began with Winsford Town Vale taking an early lead in the 14th minute, catching the Jets off guard and putting them on the back foot. However, the response from 1874 Northwich Juniors was swift and decisive. Just two minutes later, in the 16th minute, Toby Jack found the equaliser, finishing off a well-crafted move assisted by Aidan Greenway.
The momentum shifted further in favour of the Jets when Harry Hayes scored in the 21st minute, converting a chance set up by the newly introduced Owen Gibson. This goal not only put the Jets ahead but also showcased their attacking prowess, leaving Winsford Town Vale scrambling to regain control.
As the first half progressed, the Jets maintained their lead, and the half-time whistle blew with the score at 2-1 in favour of 1874 Northwich Juniors. The second half saw tactical adjustments from both sides, with the Jets looking to consolidate their advantage.
The match resumed with a flurry of activity, and in the 57th minute, Winsford Town Vale struck back, scoring their second goal and levelling the match at 2-2. The tension in the stadium was palpable as both teams sought to seize the initiative.
However, the Jets were not to be outdone. In the 60th minute, Lloyd Hill restored their lead with a well-placed shot, again assisted by Owen Gibson, who was proving to be a crucial influence since his introduction.
As the match entered its final stages, the Jets made further substitutions to maintain their energy levels. Reece Colainne was replaced by Aidan Greenway in the 63rd minute, while Toby Jack returned to the fray, taking the place of layton M.
Despite the late pressure from Winsford Town Vale, 1874 Northwich Juniors held firm, demonstrating resilience and tactical discipline to secure a hard-fought victory. The final whistle confirmed a thrilling 3-2 win for the Jets, a result that will surely boost their confidence as they continue their league campaign.