U13 Blacks 26/27 - FSC
Match Report: UFCA U13 Blacks vs. FSC (JPL Cup)
Full time: UFCA U13 Blacks 3 – 3 FSC (FSC progress 5–3 on penalties)
While a penalty shootout is always a tough way to end a cup tie, the scoreline doesn't begin to tell the full story. This was a heroic, high-tempo, and thoroughly entertaining performance from the boys—a massive step up in quality and easily some of the best football we’ve played all season!
First half
FSC drew first blood 13 minutes in with a sharp switch of play and a clean finish. The boys responded with real composure, and 21 minutes in, Brandon met a beautifully delivered corner from Max Ramsden with a powerful downward header to bring us level at 1–1.
FSC retook the lead shortly after from a corner of their own, but the lads kept pressing hard. Right on the stroke of half-time, we almost produced a stunning team goal—Josef released a quick, booming kick out from the back that bounced over their defence for Max R to chase down, coming agonisingly close to finding the bottom corner.
Second half
We dominated long spells of the play, outshooting the opposition 21 to 14 over the 70 minutes. With just 3 minutes left on the clock, FSC managed to break away on the counter and make it 3–2 against the run of play. Heartbreak loomed, but the boys showed immense grit and refused to give up. Just two minutes later, Josef acted fast once again with another precise long ball over the top. FSC failed to clear it, and Max R charged into the box to slot a brilliant finish into the far corner for a dramatic 3–3 equaliser!
Penalties
In the shootout, FSC converted 5 well taken spot-kicks and their keeper managed to pull off one fine save to take the tie. There was zero fault on our end—it takes real courage to step up under that kind of pressure.
Player of the Match
⭐ Max Ramsden who was voted Player of the Match by his teammates! Max wore the captain's armband for the second game running for him and revelled in the role —assisting the first goal, leading the press, driving the team forward, and popping up with the clutch last minute equaliser to send the game to penalties.
A magnificent team performance filled with character, quality, and pride. The boys can hold their heads exceptionally high!
Here’s a link to the VEO footage: https://app.veo.co/matches/20261107-u13s-blacks-vs-fsc-v165194a/
