In a commanding display, Mile Oak Football Club triumphed over Polegate Grasshoppers U14 White with a decisive 4-0 victory in their league away match held at the Polegate Grasshoppers U12 White venue on 13 April 2025. The match kicked off at 10:00 am, with referee Barry Myers overseeing the proceedings.
Mile Oak set up in a 4-4-1-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking transitions. Archie Gunn took his position in goal, shielded by a back four consisting of Pip Aspey on the right, Kingsley Roussel and Will Newton as central defenders, and Olle Webb on the left. The midfield was structured with Tyler West and Izac Woodward operating as right and left midfielders, respectively, while Josh Boarer and Stan Churchyard occupied central roles. Tyler Mugridge played just behind the lone striker, Isaac Samagh, who was tasked with leading the line.
The substitutes available for Mile Oak included Alfie Brookes-Baker, Harrison Franklin-Lester, Finley Howarth, Charlie Morton, and Herbie Woolin, providing the team with depth and options as the match progressed.
The first significant moment of the match came in the 32nd minute when Alfie Brookes-Baker opened the scoring with a well-placed shot using his right foot, following a short pass from Harrison Franklin-Lester. This goal set the tone for the remainder of the match, as Mile Oak began to assert their dominance.
Shortly after the goal, in the 35th minute, a flurry of substitutions took place. Alfie Brookes-Baker replaced Tyler Mugridge, while Harrison Franklin-Lester came on for Tyler West. These changes aimed to maintain the momentum and energy in the midfield and attacking third as the first half drew to a close.
With the score at 1-0, the teams headed into half-time, but Mile Oak's momentum did not wane. Just three minutes into the second half, Stan Churchyard doubled the lead with a stunning volley from the left side, showcasing his technical ability and precision to find the back of the net.
However, the game took a turn for the worse for Harrison Franklin-Lester, who received a yellow card for a bad tackle in the 51st minute. Just moments later, he was shown a second yellow for dissent, resulting in a red card and leaving Mile Oak with ten men in the 52nd minute. Despite this setback, the team remained resolute and continued to press forward.
In the 62nd minute, Izac Woodward added a third goal for Mile Oak, scoring from outside the box with his left foot after receiving a long pass from Will Newton. This goal effectively sealed the match for Mile Oak, who were now in complete control.
The final nail in the coffin came in the 70th minute when Izac Woodward scored again, this time tapping in from close range to make it 4-0. His performance was instrumental, and he demonstrated great poise in front of goal.
Mile Oak's victory was a testament to their teamwork and tactical discipline, with Stan Churchyard earning the accolade of Player of the Match for his influential display. The match concluded with a resounding 4-0 scoreline, leaving Mile Oak in high spirits as they celebrated a well-deserved win.
