BFC Women Juniors U14s hosted Wigan Athletic Ladies & Girls U13 Wigan at Nelson and Colne College on 28 September 2025, with kick-off at midday in a lively league encounter. The home side emerged victorious with a commanding 7-3 scoreline after 70 minutes of 11-a-side football, showcasing attacking prowess and resilience.
BFC Women Juniors U14s lined up in a 3-4-2-1 formation, deploying three defenders at the back to provide solidity and cover. The midfield quartet was tasked with both defensive duties and supplying the forward players, while two attacking midfielders supported a lone striker up front. This setup demanded disciplined wing-backs to shuttle up and down the flanks, central midfielders to control the tempo, and creative players in the advanced roles to unlock the opposition defence.
The starting eleven featured a balanced mix of defensive stability and attacking flair, with the three central defenders anchoring the backline. The midfield four included wide players expected to contribute both offensively and defensively, while the two attacking midfielders operated just behind the striker, aiming to create scoring opportunities. The lone forward was the focal point of attacks, looking to convert chances into goals.
The match unfolded with high intensity from the outset, as BFC Women Juniors U14s took the initiative to press Wigan Athletic Ladies & Girls U13 Wigan and impose their rhythm. The home side’s attacking intent was evident, and they managed to carve out several chances in the opening exchanges.
By the 35th minute, the referee signalled half-time, with BFC Women Juniors U14s leading. The first half had seen the hosts dominate possession and territory but struggle in moments, their 3-4-2-1 formation allowing them to control midfield and create multiple goal-scoring opportunities. Wigan Athletic Ladies & Girls U13 Wigan struggled to contain the fluid movement of the attacking midfielders and the lone striker’s clinical finishing.
In the second half, BFC Women Juniors U14s continued to press forward relentlessly, adding to their tally and maintaining defensive discipline to keep Wigan at bay. The visitors managed to find the net on three occasions, demonstrating resilience and moments of quality, but it was not enough to stem the tide of goals from the home side.
Standout performances came from Roxy Longstaff and Isabella Smith, who were named players of the match for their influential roles. Longstaff’s work rate and creativity in the attacking midfield position were pivotal in unlocking the opposition defence, while Smith’s contributions, whether in midfield or attack, helped maintain the team’s momentum throughout the contest.
The referee’s performance was solid, managing the game effectively with a rating of 70, ensuring the flow of the match was maintained despite the high tempo and physicality.
Ultimately, BFC Women Juniors U14s secured a comprehensive 7-3 victory over Wigan Athletic Ladies & Girls U13 Wigan, a result that will boost their confidence and league standing as the season progresses.
