Boys U12's Thunder - Coventry Future Juniors
*Match Report: Stockton Thunders U12 vs Coventry Future**
Stockton Thunders welcomed Coventry Future for what was always going to be a lively encounter, with both sides eager to get the upper hand after some competitive previous meetings.
The game started in dramatic fashion. Inside the opening minute, Future worked the ball neatly down the right flank and sent in what looked like a cross — but it sailed over Frederick at the near post and dipped under the bar at the far corner. An unfortunate start, but Stockton didn’t let their heads drop.
Their response was swift. In the 5th minute, Mason released Reuben, who took his chance brilliantly, firing a powerful strike beyond the despairing keeper to level the score.
From there, the game became an even contest, with both teams enjoying spells of possession and creating good opportunities. In the 12th minute, Future edged back in front with a composed low finish.
Stockton hit back once again through excellent persistence on the byline from Reuben in the 19th minute. His cut-back caused confusion in the Coventry defence, and Ollie reacted quickest, rolling the ball over the line to make it 2–2.
However, the visitors restored their lead five minutes later, taking advantage of a loose ball to go 3–2 up before half-time.
At the break, Stockton were forced into a reshuffle after Frederick picked up an injury. William took over in goal, while Ethan — who had impressed in defence during the first half — joined Jack and Yaz in a solid back three. Zac moved into midfield, and Alfie pushed up to provide width on the right.
The second half began with Stockton adjusting to their new shape, but Future made the most of the transition period. In the 36th minute, their number 7 broke dangerously down the right, using his pace to reach the byline before unselfishly squaring for a simple tap-in.
Four minutes later, another quick attack saw a Future forward break through one-on-one with William, slotting home confidently to make it 5–2.
From there, Stockton began to regroup and grow into the game again. The midfield started to link play well, and pressing high up the pitch led to a series of corners. From one of these, in the 49th minute, Austin’s pinpoint delivery found Mason, who calmly finished with his weaker right foot to reduce the deficit.
Stockton pushed hard in the closing stages, creating several strong chances. The Futures keeper was forced into a number of fine saves, and a late move saw Alfie break in behind the defence, only for his volley to flash just wide.
Despite the 3–5 final scoreline, the Thunders finished the match on top and can be proud of their performance — particularly their determination, teamwork, and ability to adapt to challenges throughout the game.
**Coach’s Player of the Match (CPOTM):** *Ethan* — made no fuss about starting on the bench and showed great strength and composure when called upon. His tenacity in defence and penetrating passes later in the game caused real problems for the opposition.
**Parents’ Player of the Match (PPOTM):** *Zac* — controversially claiming the award for a second week running! He was everywhere once again, making key blocks in defence and driving play forward. Having started at the back, Zac later thrived as a self-proclaimed “box-to-box” midfielder, showing his energy and determination throughout.
