Corinthian Casuals U12 And Leatherhead Youth U12 Select Draw 4-4 In Thrilling League Clash

Corinthian Casuals U12 and Leatherhead Youth U12 Select delivered a thrilling 4–4 draw in a pulsating 9-a-side league clash on Sunday morning. The game had everything — momentum swings, slick passing, brave defending, and a dramatic missed penalty in the dying seconds.

Casuals started in a 3-4-1 setup, with a compact back line and energetic midfield supporting lone striker Carter Matthews. The visitors struck first after 11 minutes with a clever lob over goalkeeper Albie Safarty, but the home side responded through Matthews, who finished calmly after good work from substitute Cooper Lund.

Leatherhead regained their lead following a defensive lapse, but the game shifted after half-time when substitutes made their mark. Leo Bradley came off the bench to score twice in quick succession — first volleying home from a Thomas Albuquerque back-heel, then heading in another precise cross from the same teammate. Moments later, Albuquerque turned scorer himself, tapping in from a Lund delivery to give Casuals a 4–2 lead.

Leatherhead refused to fold, reducing the deficit from the penalty spot and finally equalising with a stunning strike from distance in the 58th minute. Despite late pressure and a last-minute penalty opportunity, Casuals couldn’t find the winner.

It was a game of fine margins and flowing football, with standout performances from Bradley (2 goals), Albuquerque (1 goal, 2 assists) and Lund (2 assists). Corinthian Casuals can take great confidence from their attacking play and resilience, while Leatherhead showed impressive spirit to fight back for a share of the points.

The referee managed the game calmly, and the 30-strong crowd were treated to an exciting showcase of youth football at its best.