Corby S & L Under 12 Hold Barton FC U12 In Cup Clash

In a thrilling cup encounter at Latimer Arts College on 15 December 2024, Corby S & L Under 12 faced off against Barton FC U12, resulting in a 1-1 draw after normal time. The match proceeded to a penalty shootout, where Corby triumphed 3-1, securing their place in the next round of the competition.

Corby lined up in a 4-2-2 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for attacking flair. Filip Opacic took his place in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Rudy Gray on the right, Preston Allotey and Vuk Janus in central defence, and Riley McCrossan on the left. In midfield, Sonny Coombs and Kaidyn Walker operated centrally, tasked with controlling the tempo and linking play. Up front, Artjom Sullivan and Jack Douglas were positioned as right and left forwards, respectively, expected to exploit the flanks and create goal-scoring opportunities.

The substitutes for Corby included Dominick Valters, Liam Smith, Emilis Januskevicius, and Connor Chambers, all poised to make an impact as the match unfolded.

The first half saw both teams struggle to find their rhythm, with neither side able to break the deadlock. At the 30-minute mark, the referee signalled for half-time, allowing both teams a brief respite to regroup and strategise for the second half.

As the second half commenced, Corby made a tactical shift, bringing on Dominick Valters for Riley McCrossan, Liam Smith for Kaidyn Walker, Emilis Januskevicius for Jack Douglas, and Connor Chambers for Artjom Sullivan, all at the 31-minute mark. This fresh injection of players aimed to revitalise Corby's attack and maintain defensive solidity.

The breakthrough came in the 48th minute when Rudy Gray scored a stunning long-range strike, expertly assisted by Emilis Januskevicius's precise cross. Gray's left-footed effort sent the Corby supporters into raptures, giving them a 1-0 lead and a glimmer of hope for victory.

However, the joy was short-lived as Barton FC responded with a goal of their own in the 56th minute, equalising the match and setting the stage for a tense finish. Both teams pushed for a winner, but the match concluded with the scoreline locked at 1-1, necessitating a penalty shootout to determine the victor.

In the shootout, Corby displayed composure and skill, converting three penalties while Barton managed to net only one, sealing a hard-fought victory for Corby S & L Under 12. Filip Opacic's outstanding performance in goal throughout the match earned him the Player of the Match accolade, reflecting his crucial role in ensuring Corby advanced in the cup competition.