Panthers Triumph 4-2 At Meridian Sports Ground

Hayden Panthers U15 travelled to Meridian Sports Ground on 23 November 2025 for a 12:00pm kick-off in their league away fixture against Falconwood FC Black, emerging victorious with a 4-2 scoreline after 80 minutes plus added time. The Panthers took control early and maintained their advantage despite Falconwood’s efforts to claw back into the contest.

Hayden Panthers lined up in a 4-4-1-1 formation, deploying Ryan Cracknell in goal behind a back four of Josh Quinn at right back, central defenders Josh Jolly and Reiley Webb, and Tyler Cracknell at left back. The midfield quartet consisted of Sid Hale on the right wing, Sid Reed and Ollie Challis centrally, and Archie Bristo on the left. Aston Hawgood operated just behind lone striker Darcey Illing, tasked with linking play and supporting the attack. This shape was designed to provide defensive solidity with width and creativity in midfield, while allowing Illing to spearhead the attack. No substitutes were named for this fixture.

The match began with Hayden Panthers asserting themselves early on, and it was no surprise when the opening goal arrived in the 13th minute. Sid Hale’s incisive run and precise delivery found Ollie Challis, who finished clinically to put the visitors ahead. Seven minutes later, the Panthers doubled their lead through Sid Reed, who capitalised on midfield space to score, giving Hayden a comfortable cushion before the break.

The first half concluded at the 40-minute mark with Hayden Panthers leading 2-0, having controlled much of the play and limited Falconwood’s chances. However, the second half saw Falconwood FC Black respond with renewed vigour. They pulled a goal back in the 53rd minute, reducing the deficit and injecting tension into the match.

Despite the pressure, Hayden Panthers restored their two-goal advantage in the 75th minute when Darcey Illing converted a penalty, demonstrating composure under pressure to extend the lead to 3-1. The penalty was awarded following a foul in the box, and Illing’s confident strike left the goalkeeper with no chance.

As the game entered injury time, Falconwood FC Black managed to score again in the 91st minute, narrowing the gap to 3-2 and setting up a nervy finish. However, Hayden Panthers sealed their victory with a fourth goal, ensuring the final scoreline read 4-2 in their favour.

Throughout the match, Tyler Cracknell stood out with a commanding performance at left back, combining defensive resilience with effective support in attack, earning him the player of the match accolade. His contributions were vital in both thwarting Falconwood’s advances and initiating Panthers’ forward moves.

In summary, Hayden Panthers U15 delivered a disciplined and determined display at Meridian Sports Ground, executing their 4-4-1-1 formation effectively to secure a well-earned 4-2 victory over Falconwood FC Black in this competitive league encounter.