On Sunday 21 September 2025, Durrington Harriers U10s went to Downton Youth FC U10 Girls for a 7-a-side league encounter kicking off at 10:00am. The away side produced a commanding performance to secure a resounding 6-1 victory in this 60-minute contest.
Durrington Harriers set up in a 2-3-1 formation, featuring two central defenders, three midfielders across the left, centre and right, and a lone striker leading the line. Evie Bowden-Jones started in goal, tasked with organising the defence and keeping Downton’s attackers at bay. Charlotte Mcmath and Olivia Thomas anchored the central defensive positions, expected to provide solidity and composure at the back. Ahead of them, Mollie Seddon operated on the right midfield, Ava Bulger held the central midfield role, and Evie Ketlety took up the left midfield berth, each responsible for linking defence and attack while supporting both offensive and defensive duties. Leading the line was Scarlett Fenwick as the striker, charged with converting chances and pressing the opposition defence. On the bench, Rose-Ella Appleby, Ellie Thomas and Delphi Webb were named as substitutes, ready to impact proceedings as the game unfolded.
The match began with an early setback for Durrington as Downton Youth FC struck inside the third minute, taking a shock lead at Figheldean. However, the Harriers quickly regained composure and began to assert their dominance. Ellie Thomas, who would later come on as a substitute, was the first to respond, netting an equaliser in the 12th minute to restore parity and ignite the home crowd.
Shortly after, at the 15-minute mark, Durrington made a double substitution, bringing Ellie Thomas on for Ava Bulger in central midfield and Delphi Webb replacing Mollie Seddon on the right wing. These changes revitalised the team’s shape and energy in midfield and wide areas, allowing for greater creativity and control.
As the first half progressed, the Harriers’ midfield trio began to dictate play with increasing authority. Delphi Webb’s influence was soon evident when she provided a precise assist for Ava Bulger, who had returned to the pitch, to score in the 29th minute, putting Durrington ahead for the first time. The momentum continued to build as Olivia Thomas, one of the central defenders, ventured forward to score a goal just a minute later, expertly set up by a clever pass from Evie Ketlety on the left.
The half concluded with Durrington firmly in control, leading 3-1 at the break. The home side’s fluid passing and positional discipline had overwhelmed Downton’s defence, setting the tone for the second half.
Barely two minutes into the second half, Olivia Thomas struck again, this time assisted by substitute Rose-Ella Appleby, who had come on to bolster the midfield. This goal extended the Harriers’ lead to 4-1 and further dented the visitors’ hopes of mounting a comeback.
Durrington Harriers continued to press and create opportunities, adding two more goals to complete a comprehensive 6-1 victory. The team’s tactical discipline, combined with effective use of substitutions and clinical finishing, ensured they dominated proceedings from start to finish.
Overall, Durrington’s 2-3-1 formation proved highly effective, with the midfield trio providing both defensive cover and attacking impetus, while the central defenders contributed crucial goals. The substitutes made a significant impact, particularly Ellie Thomas and Delphi Webb, who injected fresh energy and creativity. The lone striker role was well supported, allowing the team to maintain pressure and control throughout the match.
This emphatic win away at Downton will boost Durrington Harriers U10s’ confidence as they continue their league campaign, demonstrating their ability to respond to early adversity and impose their style of play effectively.
