Malet Vikings U16 And South Cave Sporting Club U16 Share Spoils In Thrilling Encounter

The Malet Vikings U16 faced off against South Cave Sporting Club U16 at the Brooklands Park Recreation Ground on 4 May 2025, with the match concluding in a dramatic 2-2 draw. Both teams showcased their skills in this league home match, providing an entertaining spectacle for the small crowd of ten spectators.

The Vikings lined up in a 3-5-2 formation, designed to bolster their midfield while maintaining a solid defensive structure. Linden Maughan took his place in goal, shielded by a trio of defenders: Lucas Hunt on the right, Alfie Jackman centrally, and Axel Nicholson on the left. The midfield was packed with Logan Pashley on the right, Tommy Anson, Will Schrimshaw, and Alex Ward in central roles, while Eliot Wilberforce operated on the left. Up front, Lucas Applegate and Ronnie Fuller formed a dynamic partnership, looking to exploit any gaps in the South Cave defence.

The match kicked off with both teams eager to assert their dominance, but it was South Cave who struck first. In the 24th minute, they unleashed a stunning effort from outside the box, a screamer that left Maughan with no chance, putting the visitors ahead. The Vikings were quick to regroup, determined to respond to the setback.

As the first half progressed, Malet Vikings began to find their rhythm. In the 38th minute, they levelled the score through Lucas Applegate, who netted a spectacular goal of his own. Following a short pass from Logan Pashley, Applegate unleashed a powerful left-footed shot from outside the box, sending the ball soaring into the net. The equaliser sent the home fans into raptures just before the half-time whistle blew.

With the score tied at 1-1, both teams returned for the second half with renewed vigour. However, it was South Cave who capitalised on a defensive error from the Vikings in the 60th minute, regaining the lead with a right-footed strike that caught the home side off guard. The Vikings now faced the challenge of coming from behind once more.

In a display of resilience, Malet Vikings pushed forward in search of an equaliser. Their efforts bore fruit in the 66th minute when Lucas Hunt found the back of the net. After a well-placed cross from Alex Ward, Hunt was perfectly positioned to tap in from close range, restoring parity once again. The match was finely poised at 2-2, and both sides pressed for a winner in the closing stages.

Despite several attempts from both teams, neither could find the decisive goal, and the match concluded in a thrilling draw. The performance of Will Schrimshaw and Alfie Jackman stood out, earning them recognition as players of the match for their contributions in midfield and defence, respectively. The Vikings will take heart from their spirited display, while South Cave will reflect on missed opportunities as they look ahead to their next fixture.