Corby S & L Under 12 Fall To Kettering FC U12 In Cup Clash

In a spirited cup encounter at Stewarts & Lloyds Sports Club on 23 February 2025, Corby S & L Under 12 faced off against Kettering FC U12, ultimately succumbing to a 3-1 defeat. The match kicked off at 11:00 am, with both teams eager to secure a place in the next round of the competition.

Corby lined up in a 2-3-2-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for attacking width. Filip Opacic took his place in goal, shielded by central defenders Vuk Janus and Kaidyn Walker. In midfield, Rudy Gray operated on the left, Tom Withpetersen on the right, and Sonny Coombs in a central role, tasked with linking play. Jack Douglas and Buddy Urquhart were positioned as right and left attacking midfielders, respectively, while Preston Allotey led the line as the striker, expected to convert chances into goals.

The substitutes for Corby included Artjom Sullivan, Riley McCrossan, Dominick Valters, Harry Elliott, and Liam Smith, providing options for tactical changes throughout the match.

The first half saw a competitive battle, with both teams probing for openings. However, the deadlock remained unbroken as the teams headed into the interval at 0-0. Following the break, Corby made their first substitution as Artjom Sullivan replaced Tom Withpetersen, a tactical move aimed at injecting fresh energy into the side.

Corby found themselves awarded a penalty in the 35th minute, and Jack Douglas stepped up confidently to convert it with his right foot, giving Corby a 1-0 lead. However, the joy was short-lived as Kettering FC responded swiftly, earning a penalty of their own just seven minutes later, which they converted to level the score at 1-1.

As the match progressed, Corby made further substitutions, bringing on Riley McCrossan for Rudy Gray, Dominick Valters for Buddy Urquhart, and Harry Elliott for Jack Douglas, all in a bid to regain control of the game. However, Kettering FC took the lead in the 59th minute with a close-range tap-in, making it 2-1.

The final blow came shortly after, in the 62nd minute, as Kettering FC scored again, extending their lead to 3-1. Despite Corby’s efforts to respond, they were unable to find the net again, and the match concluded with Kettering FC emerging victorious.

Filip Opacic was named Player of the Match for his commendable performance in goal, making several crucial saves to keep Corby in the contest. The defeat, while disappointing, provided valuable experience for the young Corby side as they look to regroup and focus on their next challenge.