Hundreds of our kids were back in action this weekend, as the grassroots 2024-25 season got underway.
We had teams playing as far-afield as Bury's historic Gigg Lane and Blackburn...
Our brand new Hurricanes under-eights girls team played their first ever league game and enjoyed the trip to Turton Tigresses in the Bury and Bolton District Football League (BBDFL).
Coach Justin reported: "The opposition are just at the start of their journey, like the Hurricanes were a few months ago, but we put in a really good team performance with the goals shared around.
"Matilda went in goal initially, before a typical all action display in midfield and defence. Betsy swapped between attack and defence, and made some vital interceptions and excellent long passes that started many of our attacks.
"Marnie was as usual absolutely everywhere (including in net), putting in a brilliant midfield display – including scoring a hat-trick. Violet scored an incredible four times, was relentless in her attacking running and made some fantastic passes – and had a spell in net too.
"Lyla also netted a hat-trick, an apt reward for her non-stop running and brilliant finishing, and she is an increasingly vital part of this team. Alma marked her first game for the Hurricanes with a goal, a fabulous long range strike, and in general looked at home all over the pitch. Rene’s first game as well, but played like a veteran as she showcased some great long passing and her powerful shot – and even had a go in net too.
"It was a real confidence booster at the start of the season, and just great to see their enthusiasm and team spirit. Special thanks goes to Matilda’s dad, Brad, who stepped into ref and managed to keep them under control..."
Elsewhere, another girls team Phoenix under-10s, made a little bit of history playing at Bury's famous old Gigg Lane stadium for their BBDFL opener. Lois scoring the Phoenix goal, as they gamely battled a really well drilled and physical Bury FC girls. Iris was player of the game (main picture) for her bravery and a typically skilful display on the wing.
Phoenix Girls at Gigg Lane
Cheetahs Girls under-12s had a cracking 6-0 win, thanks in part to a hat-trick from Flora Simpson Nazim.
Devils Boys under-11s had a great trip to Mountfield, where they scored a few long rangers and benefited from their hard work on fitness during pre-season.
Our Panthers under-nines boys put in a hard working team performance against Cheshire Sports, which gave the lads a big confidence boost.
Wolves Boys under-10s faced a challenging opener as they began their campaign in the MYSL Championship. They played superbly against Richmond Holmes Chapel, doing all the basics well and working hard as a team.
