In an enthralling league encounter at Durrington High School on 7th September 2025, Worthing Dynamo U13 Black faced off against Selsey U13, ultimately succumbing to a 4-7 defeat. The match kicked off at 10:00 am and saw both teams display a fierce competitive spirit, with Selsey proving to be the more clinical side in front of goal.
Worthing Dynamo adopted a 3-4-1-2 formation, which allowed for a solid defensive base while also providing width through the midfield. Ellis Williams took his place in goal, shielded by a back three comprising Toby Rennie on the right, Toby Killick in the centre, and Harrison Flanagan on the left. The midfield was anchored by Sami Dalaman and Leo Whyatt in central roles, with Woody Mason and Teddy Gill operating as right and left midfielders respectively. Up front, Rudy Clark and Lewis Langdell were tasked with leading the line, supported by attacking midfielder Archie Parker-Muckle. The bench featured Theo Phillips, who would later play a pivotal role in the match.
The game began with Selsey asserting their dominance early on, scoring the first goal just six minutes into the match. This early setback forced Worthing Dynamo to regroup and refocus their efforts. In the 13th minute, a tactical change was made as Theo Phillips replaced Woody Mason, who had been instrumental in the midfield but was substituted for strategic reasons.
As the match progressed, Worthing Dynamo faced another challenge when Archie Parker-Muckle had to leave the pitch due to injury in the 22nd minute, allowing Woody Mason to return to the fray. Despite the disruptions, the home side continued to push forward, but Selsey struck again in the 37th minute, followed by another goal just a minute later, extending their lead to three.
However, Worthing Dynamo showed resilience, and in the 40th minute, Theo Phillips scored a solo goal, igniting hope among the home supporters. Just four minutes later, Teddy Gill found the net with a stunning long-range strike from outside the box, bringing the score to 2-4 and further energising the team.
Selsey quickly regain control, scoring their fifth goal in the 49th minute and then converting a penalty in the 53rd minute to push the score to 6-2. Worthing Dynamo responded with another goal from Theo Phillips in the 58th minute, assisted by Rudy Clark, narrowing the deficit to 6-3.
Showcasing the tactical adjustments made by the coaching staff. Selsey, however, were relentless and added a seventh goal in the 61st minute, leaving Worthing Dynamo with a mountain to climb.
Theo Phillips managed to score his third goal of the match in the 66th minute, demonstrating his individual brilliance and determination, but it was not enough to turn the tide. Selsey capped off their impressive performance with another goal in the 69th minute, sealing a 7-4 victory.
Despite the defeat, Worthing Dynamo U13 Black showcased moments of skill and determination, particularly from Theo Phillips, who emerged as the standout player of the match. The team will look to regroup and learn from this experience as they prepare for their next challenge.
