Panthers Dominate Falconwood In 8-2 Rout At Hayden Youth

Hayden Panthers U15 welcomed Falconwood FC Green to the Hayden Youth Association ground on 21 September 2025 for a league home fixture kicking off at 10:00am. The Panthers delivered a commanding performance, running out comfortable 8-2 winners in an 80-minute contest.

Deploying a 4-5-1 formation, Hayden Panthers set up with Josh Jolly in goal, protected by a back four comprising Josh Quinn at right back, Riley Webb and Sid Hale as central defenders, and Tyler Cracknell on the left. The midfield was packed with five players: Archie Bristo on the right wing, Ryan Cracknell, Aston Hawgood, and Ollie Challis occupying central midfield roles, and Alfie Severn’s operating on the left flank. Leading the line was lone striker Darcey Illing. This setup was designed to provide width and midfield dominance, with the wide midfielders expected to support both defence and attack, while the central trio aimed to control possession and supply the striker. No substitutes were named for the Panthers in this fixture.

From the first whistle, Hayden Panthers exploded into life with an extraordinary flurry of goals. Archie Bristo, stationed on the right midfield, was the standout early figure, netting four goals in rapid succession within the opening moments. His clinical finishing and intelligent positioning overwhelmed the Falconwood defence, setting the tone for the match.

Not to be outdone, striker Darcey Illing also made a significant impact in the early stages, matching Bristo’s tally with four goals of his own. Illing’s movement and composure in front of goal proved decisive, as he capitalised on chances created by the industrious midfield and wide players.

Despite the Panthers’ dominance, Falconwood FC Green managed to find the net twice during the first half, offering brief respite and demonstrating some attacking threat of their own. However, these efforts were insufficient to stem the tide of Panthers’ relentless scoring.

The first half concluded with Hayden Panthers firmly in control, leading 8-2 at the interval. The defensive unit, marshalled by Riley Webb and Sid Hale centrally, alongside full-backs Josh Quinn and Tyler Cracknell, maintained discipline to limit further damage, while goalkeeper Josh Jolly was rarely troubled beyond the two Falconwood goals.

The second half saw Hayden Panthers maintain their composure and control, managing the game effectively to secure a comprehensive victory. The midfield’s work rate and tactical awareness ensured Falconwood struggled to create meaningful chances, while the lone striker continued to pose a constant threat.

Overall, Hayden Panthers’ 4-5-1 formation proved highly effective, with the midfield quintet providing both defensive cover and attacking impetus. Archie Bristo’s remarkable four-goal haul from the right midfield and Darcey Illing’s matching four strikes as the lone forward were the highlights of a dominant team display. Falconwood FC Green were unable to cope with the Panthers’ intensity and quality on the day, resulting in a resounding 8-2 scoreline at the Hayden Youth Association.