SKFC Blues U13 hosted Waterloo AFC Warriors U13s at Hazel Grove Sports Centre on 27 September 2025, with kick-off at 1:30pm in a league fixture. The home side emerged victorious with a 3-1 scoreline after 70 minutes of competitive football.
The Blues deployed a 3-1-4-2 formation, aiming to balance defensive solidity with attacking flair. In goal, Kobe Gaskell was tasked with commanding the area and organising the back three, which consisted of Owen Shea at right defender, Daniel O’Keefe centrally, and Aaron Dooner on the left. Jasper Heselwood operated as the lone central midfielder, acting as the pivot between defence and attack. Ahead of him, the four attacking midfielders were Lucas Simpson on the right, Harry Horsfield and Jack Lundy centrally, and Freddie Robinson on the left, charged with creating chances and linking play. Up front, Alex Savage led the line on the right forward position, supported by David Matuszewski on the left forward role. No substitutes were named for this fixture.
From the outset, SKFC Blues showed intent to control possession and press high, utilising their midfield quartet to probe the Warriors’ defensive lines. The first half saw a competitive battle, with the Blues’ attacking midfielders frequently interchanging positions to unsettle the opposition. Harry Horsfield, in particular, stood out with his creativity and work rate, making incisive runs and threading passes through the Warriors’ defence.
The match reached half time with the scoreline reflecting the Blues’ dominance, although the exact timing of goals is not detailed in the events. The interval at 35 minutes allowed both sides to regroup, with SKFC Blues holding a lead going into the break.
In the second half, SKFC Blues continued to impose themselves, maintaining pressure through their wide players and forwards. The defensive trio remained resolute, with Daniel O’Keefe marshaling the backline effectively and supporting the transition from defence to attack. Owen Shea and Aaron Dooner provided width and defensive cover on their respective flanks, ensuring the Warriors found it difficult to create clear-cut chances.
The Blues’ attacking midfielders, particularly Harry Horsfield, continued to influence the game, combining skill and vision to unlock the opposition. The forward pairing of Alex Savage and David Matuszewski capitalised on the opportunities created, contributing to the three goals scored by SKFC Blues.
Waterloo AFC Warriors managed to pull one goal back, but it was not enough to threaten the home side’s advantage. The Blues’ goalkeeper, Kobe Gaskell, made crucial saves to maintain the clean sheet for the majority of the match and secure the three points.
Overall, SKFC Blues U13 delivered a composed and effective performance at Hazel Grove Sports Centre, demonstrating tactical discipline and attacking prowess. Harry Horsfield was deservedly named player of the match for his influential role in midfield, driving the team forward and orchestrating play throughout the 70 minutes. This victory will boost the Blues’ confidence as they continue their league campaign.
