In a friendly encounter held at the Whalley Juniors ground on 6th July 2025, Inter Pro Green faced a challenging match against Whalley Juniors - U12S, ultimately succumbing to a 6-1 defeat. The match kicked off at 10:00 am on a very wet day, and the away team showed spirit and determination throughout the 70 mins of play.
Inter Pro Green set up in a 3-1-4-2 formation, with Oliver in goal, supported by a back three comprising George D as the right defender, Noah Evans and Harry B as defenders, with Tyler Liddiard in front of the back 3. In midfield, Yousif Al-Kaisy occupied the right flank, while Oscar Casey and Leon Smith played centrally, with Leon Smith on the left. Up front, Rocco and Lawy Hassan were tasked with leading the attack. This formation aimed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for width and creativity in attack.
The match began with Jasper, taking a chance and forcing a save in the third minute, the keeper showcasing his reflexes. However, the tide quickly turned as Whalley Juniors struck first in the sixth minute with a goal from outside the area, taking a 1-0 lead, the goal was offside but unfortunately there was no linesman as he had gotten lost. Just a minute later, Tyler Liddiard made a crucial block to prevent further damage, but the pressure continued to mount.
In the tenth minute, Whalley Juniors doubled their advantage with a long-range strike, leaving Inter Pro Green trailing 2-0. Oliver S, in goal, was forced into action again, making a point-blank reaction save in the 15th minute, but the relentless attacking from the hosts paid off as they scored their third goal in the 17th minute, again from outside the area.
Inter Pro Green struggled to find their rhythm, with Rocco and George D both having attempts saved in quick succession around the 20-minute mark. Oliver continued to be busy in goal, making another save in the 23rd minute, but the visitors finally found a glimmer of hope in the 28th minute when Noah Evans scored a stunning goal from outside the area, taking a chance and the keeper fumbled it, scoring his first match goal, bringing the score to 3-1.
As the first half drew to a close, Inter Pro Green had a few more attempts, including a saved shot from Rocco just before the half-time whistle. The first half ended with Whalley Juniors leading 3-1, and the visitors needed to regroup and strategise for the second half.
The second half commenced with Rocco again trying his luck, but his effort was saved in the 30th minute. Oliver S showcased his goalkeeping skills by catching a cross in the 31st minute and diving at the feet of an opponent shortly after. However, the relentless pressure from Whalley Juniors continued, and they scored their fourth goal just after the break in the 41st minute, converting from close range.
Inter Pro Green attempted to respond, with Tyler Liddiard and George D both having efforts saved, but the hosts were in control. Jasper Edwards made a parry in the 50th minute, but the onslaught continued, and he was forced into another full-stretch save in the 56th minute.
As the match approached its final stages, Whalley Juniors added two more goals to their tally, scoring in the 65th and 70th minutes, both of which highlighted the defensive frailties of Inter Pro Green. Leon Smith made a commendable interception in the 59th minute, but it was not enough to stem the tide of goals against them.
The match concluded with a scoreline of 6-1 in favour of Whalley Juniors, leaving Inter Pro Green with much to ponder as they look to improve in future fixtures. There were positives, the passing was fantastic and the boys worked hard on a tough pitch with long grass. The new players coming into the team will create competition for places which will be great for the team going forward.
