Stony Stratford Town Lions 0 vs 1 Shenley FC U12 Raptors

Stony Stratford Town Lions U12 hosted Shenley FC U12 Raptors at Stony Stratford Town FC on the morning of 21 March 2026, with kick-off at 9:00am. This league fixture, played over 60 minutes plus added time in a 9-a-side format, ended in a close 1-0 victory for the visitors.

Stony Stratford Town Lions lined up in a 3-3-2 formation, deploying a balanced shape designed to provide defensive solidity and attacking support. Earl Preedy took his place in goal, protected by a back three consisting of Alfie Willis at right defender, Sam Smith centrally, and Jacob Cathcart on the left. The midfield trio featured Teddy Green on the right, Ellis Pavitt centrally, and Luca Laera Bury on the left, tasked with both defensive duties and linking play forward. Up front, Harry Beale operated as the right forward, with Sean Imeson on the left, expected to spearhead attacks and create scoring opportunities. No substitutes were named for this match.

From the outset, the Lions sought to impose their structure, with the defenders maintaining a compact line and midfielders supporting both defence and attack. Shenley FC Raptors, meanwhile, looked to exploit spaces and press high to unsettle the home side.

The first half was a tightly contested affair, with both teams demonstrating discipline and organisation. The Lions’ defensive trio, particularly Alfie Willis at right back, were resolute in repelling Shenley’s advances. Willis’s performance stood out for his timely interceptions and calm distribution, earning him the accolade of Player of the Match.

Despite the Lions’ efforts to break through, Shenley FC managed to find the net, securing the only goal of the game. The visitors’ strike came against the run of play but proved decisive in the context of the match. The half-time whistle arrived at the 30-minute mark with the scoreline reflecting Shenley’s slender lead.

In the second half, Stony Stratford Town Lions increased their attacking intent, pushing their forwards higher and encouraging midfield runners to support. Harry Beale and Sean Imeson combined well on the flanks, attempting to carve openings, but the Shenley defence remained disciplined and well-organised.

Ellis Pavitt and Luca Laera Bury worked tirelessly in midfield, trying to create chances and regain possession, but the visitors’ defensive resilience limited clear opportunities. The Lions’ defenders, led by Sam Smith and Jacob Cathcart, continued to thwart Shenley’s counter-attacks, keeping the scoreline close.

Despite sustained pressure in the closing stages, Stony Stratford Town Lions were unable to find an equaliser. The match concluded with Shenley FC U12 Raptors holding on to their 1-0 advantage, leaving the home side to rue missed chances and commend their defensive efforts.

Overall, the match was a display of tactical discipline and commitment from both sides, with Alfie Willis’s defensive prowess a highlight for the Lions. While the result did not go their way, Stony Stratford Town Lions showed promise and determination throughout the contest at their home ground.