In a thrilling cup encounter at Leisure United Heron Eccles Pitch #1, MSB Woolton U16 Di Stefano emerged victorious against Heron Junior U16 Roma with a final score of 2-1. The match, held on 27 April 2025, kicked off at 9:00 am and showcased a blend of skill, determination, and tactical prowess from both sides.
MSB Woolton adopted a 4-3-3 formation, which allowed them to maintain a solid defensive structure while also providing ample support for their attacking players. Tony B donned the gloves as the goalkeeper, shielded by a back four comprising Sam B on the right, Jacob F and Christie D in central defence, and Aiden P on the left. The midfield trio featured Charlie C on the right, Oscar R in the centre, and Jack T on the left, providing both creativity and stability. Up front, Sean F and Jack W operated as right and left forwards respectively, with Stan P leading the line as the striker, tasked with converting chances into goals.
The match began with both teams probing for weaknesses, but it was MSB Woolton who found their rhythm as the first half progressed. The first 35 minutes saw a tightly contested battle, with neither side able to break the deadlock before the half-time whistle blew.
The second half commenced with renewed intensity, and it was Stan P who opened the scoring for MSB Woolton in the 42nd minute. A well-placed tap-in from close range following a scramble in the box sent the home crowd into raptures, giving MSB a crucial lead.
However, Heron Junior Roma responded with determination and found an equaliser in the 58th minute. A long range shot was struck which took a slight deflection off a Di Stefano back making the ball slightly loop over the despairing Toby, the game level this would make for a tense but exciting end to the game.
A few minutes later Heron deployed there long range strike tactic and fired a beauty towards the Di Stefano goal. Somehow Toby managed to get the slightest of fingertips to the ball and tip it onto the inside of the post and whilst everyone watched to see which way the ball would go next, it spun off the post and across the line of the goal before bouncing out to MSBs relief.
Just six minutes later, in the 64th minute, Jack T delivered a moment of magic for MSB Woolton. From long range, he unleashed a stunning strike that rocketed into the back of the net, restoring their lead and sending the home supporters into a frenzy once more.
As the match drew to a close, MSB Woolton held firm against Heron Junior Roma's attempts to find another equaliser. The defensive unit, led by the impressive Tony B in goal, stood resolute, ensuring that the scoreline remained intact.
With only a few minutes left on the clock Jacob F turned his man with a sharp turn but lost his footing and landed awkwardly on his knee bringing his game to an end. Hopefully this is only an impact injury and he is still able to lead the team out for the final game.
In the end, MSB Woolton U16 Di Stefano celebrated a hard-fought victory, with Tony B earning accolades for his outstanding performance throughout the match. The win not only secured their progression into the final of the cup but also showcased the team's potential as they continue their campaign.
