On 10 May 2025, Pro Shottas U15 faced off against Eden Stars in a league neutral match at Blenheim A, with the home side emerging victorious with a scoreline of 2-1. The match kicked off at 11:25 am, setting the stage for an intense battle between two competitive teams.
Pro Shottas U15 lined up in a 4-2-1-3 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for attacking flair. Christopher Palmer took his position as goalkeeper, shielded by a back four comprising Nikkeil Freeman on the right, Micah James and Keiji Miller in central defence, and Shakobi Jordan on the left. The midfield duo of Tye Gittens and Samuel Campion were tasked with controlling the centre of the park, while Kaleb Catwell operated as the attacking midfielder, looking to link play with the forwards. Up front, Kevio Bellamy and Dominic Parris occupied the right and left forward positions respectively, with Emanuel Espinosa Alvarez leading the line as the striker.
The substitutes for Pro Shottas U15 included Zander Holub, C'jae Nichols, Raiden Lee, Jaaziel Codogan, and Zayne Galt, providing depth and tactical options for the manager throughout the match.
The match began with an explosive start, as Dominic Parris opened the scoring for Pro Shottas U15 just two minutes in. A precise through ball from Emanuel Espinosa Alvarez found Parris inside the box, who coolly slotted the ball home with his right foot, sending the home fans into raptures. However, the joy was short-lived as Espinosa Alvarez received a yellow card for unsporting behaviour in the tenth minute, a moment that would later see him substituted at half-time.
Eden Stars responded quickly, equalising in the 17th minute with a well-timed goal that caught the Pro Shottas defence off guard. The match settled into a rhythm, with both teams exchanging possession and chances, but it was Pro Shottas U15 who looked more threatening in attack.
Christopher Palmer showcased his goalkeeping prowess with a full-stretch save in the 15th minute, denying Eden Stars a second goal and keeping the score level. As the first half drew to a close, Pro Shottas regained their lead in the 39th minute when Parris struck again, this time from close range, demonstrating his poacher's instinct and right-footed finishing ability.
The half-time whistle blew with Pro Shottas U15 leading 2-1, and the tactical changes began as Zander Holub replaced Espinosa Alvarez at the start of the second half. The second period saw Pro Shottas maintain their composure, with Palmer again called into action just two minutes in, making another impressive full-stretch save to keep Eden Stars at bay.
As the match progressed, Pro Shottas made further substitutions to manage their lead. C'jae Nichols came on for Parris in the 55th minute, followed by Raiden Lee replacing Samuel Campion due to injury in the 57th minute. Palmer continued to shine, making a crucial punch in the 61st minute to clear a dangerous cross from the Eden Stars attack.
In the 65th minute, Jaaziel Codogan entered the fray, taking the place of Nikkeil Freeman, while Zayne Galt came on for Kaleb Catwell shortly after, as Pro Shottas looked to solidify their advantage. Despite Eden Stars pushing for an equaliser, Pro Shottas U15 held firm, demonstrating resilience and tactical discipline.
As the final whistle blew, Pro Shottas U15 celebrated a hard-fought 2-1 victory, with standout performances from Samuel Campion, Dominic Parris, and Christopher Palmer, who were all instrumental in securing the three points. The match showcased the team's determination and skill, setting a positive tone for the remainder of the season.
