Droylsden Pythons U11s 1 vs 1 Reddish Villa FC

Droylsden Pythons again face Reddish Villa FC in a tightly contested Semi-Final match at the Mike Doyle Centre on 18 July 2026, kicking off promptly at 11:00am. The game ended 1-1 after normal time, with Reddish Villa narrowly triumphing 7-6 in the ensuing penalty shootout.

Droylsden Pythons lined up in a 2-3-1 formation, a setup designed to balance defensive solidity with midfield creativity and attacking threat. Jake Duff took his place between the sticks as goalkeeper, tasked with organising the backline and commanding his area. The central defensive partnership consisted of Joshua O’ Reilly and Logan Myerscough, expected to provide a strong shield against Reddish Villa’s attacks. In midfield, Max Higham operated centrally, with Hamza Bance on the left and Teddy Blunt on the right, all three charged with linking defence and attack while supporting both ends of the pitch. Up front, Joshua (Prince) Karim led the line as the lone striker, looking to capitalise on chances created by his teammates. Elliott Walshe was named as the sole substitute.

The match began with Reddish Villa FC asserting early pressure, and it was no surprise when they broke the deadlock in the fourth minute. A well-worked move culminated in a tap-in, leaving the Pythons momentarily stunned. Despite this early setback, Droylsden Pythons remained composed and sought to regain control before the half-time whistle sounded at the five-minute mark.

Shortly after the restart, Teddy Blunt demonstrated his attacking intent. In the sixth minute, he fired a shot wide but quickly redeemed himself by delivering a slide rule pass that carved open the Reddish Villa defence, creating a clear chance for his side. This moment highlighted the potential threat posed by the Pythons’ right midfielder throughout the contest.

The game’s physical demands soon took their toll, with Joshua O’ Reilly forced off due to the recent rib injury he encountered in the eighth minute. Elliott Walshe was introduced as his replacement, tasked with stepping into the central defensive role and maintaining the team’s defensive shape.

Droylsden Pythons’ persistence paid dividends in the ninth minute when Max Higham swung in a precise corner that found Joshua (Prince) Karim at close range. Karim made no mistake, expertly slotting the ball home with his right foot to level the scores. This goal injected fresh energy into the Pythons and set up a tense finale.

Despite both sides pushing for a winner in the remaining moments, neither could find the decisive breakthrough before the final whistle. The match proceeded to a penalty shootout, Teddy Blunt, Max Hingham and Logan Myerscough bravely volunteered to step forward and take the responsibility of taking the penalties. An unfortunate penalty by Teddy Blunt hit the post. Reddish Villa FC edged out Droylsden Pythons by a single successful spot-kick, winning 7-6 and going through to the Final.

Overall, the encounter showcased a disciplined defensive display from the Pythons, combined with moments of attacking flair, particularly from their wide midfielders and striker. The 2-3-1 formation allowed them to compete evenly against their opponents, with the match ultimately decided by the narrowest of margins in the shootout.

A great performance by all the lads, Team Manager Carl Walshe and Coach Dean Heaton were unbelievably proud of the lads efforts.

Carl Walshe whilst interviewed said 'Well done today everyone involved. There were some really good teams in that competition and you held your own, myself and Dean are proud to say the least.

With Cole Burrows and Callum Heaton both missing today through injuries, these players would have definitely had an impact throughout the competition.

There are lots of positives to take away from today and to work on in training. There is only one way we are going and that is to the top. onwards and upwards... Up the Pythons'