The clash between Stevenage Borough Juniors U16 Giants and Potters Bar Town U16 Scholars unfolded at Barnwell Upper School on 17 November 2024, with kick-off at 12:00pm. The Giants emerged victorious, clinching a 4-2 win.
The Giants set up in a 3-4-3 formation. Saba Rajaloo guarded the goal, with a back three comprising Trystan Acebuque at the centre, flanked by Joseph Akhidenor on the right and Joel Adeniyi on the left. The midfield quartet featured George Hallam and Jack Kenward operating on the right and left flanks respectively, while Archie Briars and Adrian Ciosek controlled the central areas. Up front, Charlie Dempster and Ally Ashter supported the central striker, Masireh Sidibeh, who was later replaced by Michael Sarpong early in the match.
After a tense start to the match tactical adjustments were made as Michael Sarpong entered the fray, replacing Masireh Sidibeh in the tenth minute. Almost immediately, Ally Ashter had a chance to score but his effort went wide, signalling the Giants' intent to attack. The game continued to ebb and flow, with Charlie Dempster testing the Potters Bar goalkeeper with a free kick in the 22nd minute, followed by another attempt that sailed high just a minute later.
The Giants' persistence paid off in the 29th minute when Michael Sarpong scored with a header from close range, assisted by a precise cross from Joseph Akhidenor. However, the Scholars responded quickly, equalising just two minutes later with a close-range left-footed strike from inside the box.
As the first half drew to a close, Joel Adeniyi and Reegan Spencer both had attempts, but neither could find the back of the net. Until Charlie Dempster scored a tap-in from a cross by Khaya Ngwenya, restoring their lead. The half-time whistle blew with the score at 2-1, setting the stage for a thrilling second half.
The Giants came out with renewed vigour after the break, the momentum was firmly with the Giants, as they continued to press, with attempts from Michael Sarpong and Adrian Ciosek, though the latter's shot was saved.
In the 51st minute, Khaya Ngwenya found the net, scoring with his left foot after a long pass from Adrian Ciosek, extending the Giants' lead to 3-1.
The Scholars attempted to claw their way back into the match, scoring their second goal in the 66th minute, reducing the deficit to 3-2.
Despite the Scholars' resurgence, the Giants remained composed and continued to threaten. Khaya Ngwenya struck again in the 78th minute, with a fast counter attack scoring his second goal of the match with a well-placed shot inside the box, making it 4-2. The Giants tried to further their advantage, with Archie Briars and Adrian Ciosek both testing the Scholars' goalkeeper in the closing stages.
As the final whistle approached, the Giants held firm, securing a well-deserved victory. The match showcased the teams grit and determination, with standout performances from several players, particularly Khaya Ngwenya, who proved to be a constant threat. The Giants' triumph and results elsewhere moved the Giants back to the top of the division on goal difference.
