Billing United U14 Triumphs In Thrilling Cup Encounter

Billing United U14 faced off against Bilton Ajax U14 Whites in a gripping cup tie at Bilton School on 26 January 2025, with the match kicking off at 10:30 am. The contest ended with Billing United emerging victorious, clinching a 3-2 win after a fiercely contested battle.

Billing United adopted a 3-4-2-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking transitions. Daniel Juhasz stood firm in goal, supported by a back three comprising Ethan Sharp on the right, Ciaran Standham-Walls in the centre, and Oscar Rayner on the left. The midfield was anchored by Tiyan Bansil and Ellis Bentley Lodge in central roles, flanked by Finlay Green on the right and Dylan Ryan on the left, while Temi Adepoju and Eddie Viscu operated as attacking midfielders behind lone striker Jacob Ranft.

The substitutes for Billing United included Leo Rigby, Sonny Manikiza, and Joel Poku, ready to make an impact as the match unfolded.

The match began with an explosive start as Temi Adepoju opened the scoring for Billing United just three minutes in, finishing off a well-crafted move assisted by Jacob Ranft. The early goal set the tone for what was to be an exhilarating encounter.

As the first half progressed, Bilton Ajax responded with increasing pressure, and their persistence paid off when they found the equaliser in the 29th minute, bringing the score to 1-1. The teams headed into the half-time break level, with both sides having shown flashes of quality.

The second half saw Billing United regain their composure, and Tiyan Bansil restored their lead shortly after the restart in the 39th minute, again with an assist from the ever-influential Jacob Ranft. This goal injected fresh energy into Billing United, who were determined to extend their advantage.

However, Bilton Ajax were not to be outdone and struck back in the 61st minute, levelling the match once more at 2-2. The tension in the air was palpable as both teams sought the decisive goal.

In a tactical shift, Billing United made a series of substitutions to inject fresh legs into the game. Sonny Manikiza replaced Dylan Ryan in the 52nd minute, while Joel Poku came on for Temi Adepoju in the 58th minute. These changes aimed to bolster the midfield and maintain attacking momentum.

As the match approached its conclusion, Tiyan Bansil once again proved to be the hero for Billing United, scoring his second goal in the 73rd minute, with another assist from Jacob Ranft. This late strike sealed the victory for Billing United, who held on to their lead despite a spirited fightback from Bilton Ajax.

The final whistle confirmed Billing United's 3-2 triumph, a result that showcased their resilience and attacking prowess. Tiyan Bansil's standout performance earned him the title of Player of the Match, reflecting his crucial contributions in both goals and overall play.