In a spirited friendly encounter held on 2nd September 2025 at Sandbach's home ground, Sandbach United U13s secured a convincing 3-1 victory against AFC Alsager U13s. The match kicked off at 6:30pm and showcased the talents of both teams, with Sandbach emerging as the dominant side.
Sandbach United adopted a 4-5-1 formation, which allowed them to control the midfield while maintaining a solid defensive line. In goal, Seb Woodruff-Dorey provided a reliable presence, while the back four consisted of Will Kirk-Bradshaw on the right, Rowan Haigh and Hunter Burns as central defenders, and Kerr H on the left. The midfield was packed with creativity and energy, featuring Oscar Kinns on the right, Freddie Moss, George Hall, and Leo Swift in central roles, and Jaxon A on the left. Up front, Trialist A was tasked with leading the line as the lone striker, expected to capitalise on any chances created by the midfield.
As the match unfolded, Sandbach United quickly established their dominance. The first half saw them create several opportunities, with their midfielders linking up effectively to support the attack. The team’s pressing style forced AFC Alsager into mistakes, allowing Sandbach to control the tempo of the game.
The breakthrough came in the first half, with Sandbach United taking the lead through a well-placed goal. The exact details of the goal were not recorded, but it was a testament to their attacking prowess and teamwork. As the first half progressed, Sandbach continued to apply pressure, and their efforts were rewarded with a second goal before the half-time whistle blew at the 35-minute mark.
With a comfortable lead at half-time, Sandbach United maintained their focus and determination in the second half. The team’s defensive unit, marshalled by Haigh and Burns, remained resolute, denying AFC Alsager any clear-cut chances. However, the visitors managed to pull one back, showcasing their resilience and determination to stay in the contest.
Despite the setback, Sandbach United responded positively, quickly regaining their two-goal advantage. The third goal was a result of excellent teamwork and movement, highlighting the effectiveness of their 4-5-1 formation. The midfielders, particularly Freddie Moss, were instrumental in controlling the game and creating opportunities for the forwards.
As the match drew to a close, Sandbach United continued to dominate possession, ensuring that AFC Alsager struggled to find any rhythm. The referee, Dave, kept the game flowing, allowing both teams to showcase their skills without unnecessary interruptions.
In the end, Sandbach United U13s emerged victorious with a final score of 3-1, a result that reflected their superior performance throughout the match. Freddie Moss was particularly impressive, earning recognition as the Player of the Match for his influential display in midfield. This friendly encounter served as a valuable experience for both teams as they prepare for the challenges ahead in their respective seasons.
