On 14 September 2025, Malet Vikings U18 welcomed LIV FC U18 to Malet Lambert 4G for a league home match kicking off at 12:00pm. The Vikings produced a commanding performance to secure a comprehensive 5-0 victory over their visitors in a tightly controlled 90-minute encounter.
Malet Vikings lined up in a 3-5-2 formation, deploying three defenders at the back with Oli Thompson on the right, Riley Baker centrally, and Kyle Evans on the left. The midfield was packed with five players: Logan Pashley operated on the right flank, Louie McDonald, George Jackson, and Tommy Anson occupied central midfield roles, while Eliot Wilberforce took up the left midfield position. Up front, the strike partnership consisted of Will Schrimshaw on the right and Alex Ward on the left. This setup was designed to provide defensive solidity through the back three while allowing the wing midfielders to support both defence and attack, with the central midfield trio expected to control possession and dictate the tempo. The substitutes available were Anthony Baker-Cortes, Lucas Hunt, Axel Nicholson, and Lucas Applegate.
The match saw an unusual flurry of substitutions all occurring simultaneously at the 30th minute mark, indicating a tactical reshuffle by the Vikings. Anthony Baker-Cortes replaced Will Schrimshaw, Lucas Hunt came on for both Oli Thompson and Eliot Wilberforce, Axel Nicholson took over from Kyle Evans, and Lucas Applegate was also introduced, substituting Will Schrimshaw once again according to the records. This suggests a possible clerical overlap, but it is clear that the Vikings made multiple changes to refresh their squad and maintain their dominance.
Despite the early changes, Malet Vikings maintained their grip on the game throughout the first half and beyond. Riley Baker, the central defender, was a standout performer, marshaling the defence with authority and contributing significantly to the clean sheet. His commanding presence at the heart of the back three was instrumental in nullifying LIV FC’s attacking threats. The midfield trio of McDonald, Jackson, and Anson ensured the Vikings controlled possession and created numerous chances, while the wing midfielders provided width and support to the forwards.
The attacking duo, initially Schrimshaw and Ward, were lively before the substitutions, with Ward continuing to pose a threat after the changes. The tactical adjustments appeared to enhance the Vikings’ fluidity and attacking options, allowing them to carve open LIV FC’s defence repeatedly. The visitors struggled to gain any foothold in the match, unable to breach the Vikings’ well-organised defensive structure.
The referee, who maintained a solid performance throughout the match, ensured the game flowed smoothly, allowing the Vikings to express their dominance without undue interruption. The modest crowd of 20 witnessed a clinical display from the home side, who capitalised on their chances with ruthless efficiency.
By half-time, the Vikings had established a comfortable lead, and the second half saw them continue to press and extend their advantage. The clean sheet was preserved thanks to the defensive discipline and the alertness of goalkeeper Noah Van, who commanded his area confidently.
Ultimately, Malet Vikings U18’s 5-0 triumph was a testament to their tactical flexibility, squad depth, and individual quality, with Riley Baker’s defensive mastery earning him one of the player of the match accolades. The comprehensive victory will boost their confidence as they look ahead to the remainder of the league campaign.
