In a gripping league match at Hazel Grove Sports Centre on 6th September 2025, SKFC Blues U13 faced off against Winsford Town FFF Black U13s, with the match concluding in a dramatic 2-2 draw. The game, which kicked off at 1:30pm, showcased the resilience and determination of both teams, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
The SKFC Blues lined up in a 3-1-4-2 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for attacking flair. Kobe Gaskell took his position in goal, shielded by a back three comprising Lucas Simpson on the right, Daniel O'Keefe in the centre, and Jack Lundy on the left. In front of them, Alex Savage operated as a central midfielder, tasked with linking defence and attack. The midfield was bolstered by Jake Blackburn on the right, Harry Horsfield in a more central attacking role, and Bradley Murrell on the left, while Jenson May and David Matuszewski led the line as forwards.
The substitutes for the match included Jasper Heselwood and Drayton Dawson, who would later play pivotal roles in the unfolding drama.
The match began with an electric start, and just seven minutes in, Jenson May opened the scoring for the Blues. He connected powerfully with a corner delivered by Freddie Robinson, directing a precise header into the net, sending the home crowd into raptures.
As the first half progressed, the Blues maintained their lead, but the tide began to turn as Winsford Town found their rhythm. The visitors equalised shortly after the break, with a well-placed header that caught the Blues' defence off guard in the 41st minute. Just two minutes later, Winsford struck again, taking a surprising 2-1 lead and leaving the Blues to regroup.
In response to the mounting pressure, SKFC Blues made a series of substitutions to inject fresh energy into the game. Bradley Murrell returned to the pitch in the 48th minute, replacing Jenson May, while Jake Blackburn came on for Jack Lundy shortly after.
The Blues' persistence paid off in the 56th minute when David Matuszewski converted a penalty, awarded after a foul in the box. Harry Horsfield provided the assist, setting up Matuszewski to calmly slot the ball home, bringing the score to 2-2 and reigniting hopes of a victory for the home side.
As the match entered its final stages, Jenson May re-entered the fray, taking the place of Drayton Dawson in the 63rd minute, while Jack Lundy returned to the pitch for Alex Savage in the 65th minute. However, the match took a tense turn when Harry Horsfield received a yellow card in the 66th minute, adding to the pressure on the Blues as they sought to maintain their composure.
Despite several attempts from both sides to find a winner, the match ended in a stalemate, with both teams sharing the points. The Blues displayed commendable spirit and skill, particularly in their attacking play, while Winsford Town showcased their resilience in coming back from behind. The draw leaves both teams with much to ponder as they look ahead to their next fixtures in the league.
