Malet Vikings U16 Fall To Hull United In Thrilling Encounter

In a competitive league fixture on 15 September 2024, Malet Vikings U16 faced Hull United at Liberty Green, Simpson Crescent Park. The match ended in a 4-2 defeat for the Vikings, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess throughout the encounter.

The Vikings lined up in a 3-5-2 formation, a tactical setup that emphasises both defensive solidity and midfield control. Linden Maughan occupied the goalkeeping position, supported by a trio of defenders: Toby Rowe in the central role flanked by Alfie Jackman on the right and Axel Nicholson on the left. The midfield was packed with five players, featuring Lucas Hunt and Eliot Wilberforce on the right and left flanks respectively, while Will Schrimshaw, Tommy Anson, and Lucas Applegate formed a strong central trio. Up front, Alex Ward and Ronnie Fuller were tasked with leading the line as forwards.

Substitutes available for the match included Logan Pashley, Martins M, Ethan Pickering, and Louie Brookes.

The match began with Hull United taking control early on, and they struck first in the 12th minute when they scored an inside-the-box goal with a deft finish using the right foot. The Vikings responded well, and just 11 minutes later, Lucas Hunt levelled the score at 1-1 with a sensational long-range effort that flew into the net after a short assist from Will Schrimshaw.

As the first half progressed, the teams went into the break level at 1-1 after a competitive 40 minutes. The second half saw a flurry of substitutions for the Vikings, with Logan Pashley, Martins M, and Ethan Pickering entering the fray for Eliot Wilberforce, Will Schrimshaw, and Ronnie Fuller, respectively, all in the 46th minute.

Hull United quickly regained the upper hand, scoring their second goal just six minutes into the second half through a well-constructed team move, making it 2-1. The Vikings struggled to recover, and a defensive error allowed Hull to extend their lead to 3-1 in the 57th minute, with another close-range finish from the right foot.

As the match approached the final quarter, the Vikings made another substitution, bringing on Louie Brookes for Alfie Jackman in the 60th minute. Hull continued to capitalise on defensive lapses, scoring their fourth goal in the 67th minute, again profiting from a mistake in the Malet defence.

However, the Vikings refused to go down without a fight. In the 77th minute, Tommy Anson found the back of the net, converting a well-placed cross from Lucas Applegate, bringing the score to 4-2. Despite a late surge, the Vikings could not find a way back into the match as Hull United held firm to secure all three points.

The referee's performance was commendable, contributing to a well-officiated match that allowed for an entertaining contest. The Vikings will reflect on their defensive frailties, while Hull United will take pride in their attacking display, ensuring a thrilling clash at Simpson Crescent Park.

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