Panthers Fall To Narrow 3-2 Defeat At Fernheath Playing Fields

Christchurch FC Panthers travelled to Fernheath Playing Fields on 2 November 2025 for their league away clash against Bournemouth Youth Poppies U16 Dragons, kicking off at 2:00pm. Despite a spirited second-half fightback, the Panthers ultimately fell short, losing 3-2 in an entertaining contest refereed by Richard Carrigan.

Christchurch lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming to balance defensive solidity with attacking flair. Davis Goga-Jashari took his place between the sticks as goalkeeper, protected by a back four comprising Arwan Hassan at right defender, George Adlem and Aaron Scullion as central defenders, and Jamie Gray operating down the left. The double pivot in central midfield featured James Adams alongside Dominik Chudy, tasked with breaking up play and distributing the ball forward. Ahead of them, the attacking midfield trio consisted of Emilio Parandian on the right, Henri Day centrally, and Rafael Maggiora on the left, all supporting lone striker Jamie Moore. The substitutes named were Finley Everett, Kian Sinclair, Thomas Hunt, and Daniel Goodson.

The match started with the Panthers looking to impose their shape, but an early setback came when right defender Arwan Hassan was forced off injured in the 37th minute, replaced by Finley Everett. Shortly after, tactical changes were made just before the half-time whistle at 40 minutes, with Kian Sinclair coming on for Dominik Chudy, Thomas Hunt replacing Rafael Maggiora, and Daniel Goodson entering the fray for striker Jamie Moore. These adjustments hinted at a shift in approach as the Panthers sought to gain control.

The first half ended goalless, but the Dragons broke the deadlock early in the second half, scoring in the 50th minute to take the lead. The visitors then extended their advantage from the penalty spot eight minutes later, converting a spot-kick in the 58th minute to make it 2-0. Christchurch responded swiftly with further substitutions at 63 minutes, reintroducing Jamie Moore for Thomas Hunt to bolster their attacking options.

Despite the uphill battle, the Panthers showed resilience. A further tactical switch saw Jamie Gray replace Rafael Maggiora in the 73rd minute, coinciding with Daniel Goodson opening the scoring for Christchurch. Assisted by James Adams’ short pass, Goodson’s goal injected renewed hope into the Panthers’ challenge. Just four minutes later, Goodson struck again, this time converting a cross from Henri Day to level the match at 2-2.

However, the Dragons restored their lead almost immediately, scoring again in the 78th minute to make it 3-2. Despite a late push from Christchurch, the visitors could not find an equaliser before the final whistle, leaving them to rue missed opportunities and defensive lapses.

The referee, Richard Carrigan, managed the game well, maintaining control throughout an intense and physical encounter witnessed by 32 spectators. The Panthers’ tactical flexibility and spirited comeback highlighted their potential, but Bournemouth Youth Poppies U16 Dragons proved just too clinical on the day.