Malet Vikings U18 Draw 2-2 At South Hunsley Sports Centre

Malet Vikings U18 travelled to South Hunsley Sports Centre on 16 November 2025 to face North Ferriby Football Club U18 Greens in a league away fixture, kicking off at midday. The match ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw after 90 minutes of competitive football under the watchful eye of referee Stephen Antcliff.

Deploying a 4-2-3-1 formation, Malet Vikings set up with Noah Van in goal, protected by a back four comprising Oli Thompson at right back, Riley Baker and Axel Nicholson as central defenders, and Lucas Hunt on the left. The midfield double pivot featured Tommy Anson and George Jackson tasked with both defensive duties and linking play forward. Ahead of them, the attacking trio consisted of Lucas Applegate on the right, Alex Ward centrally as the attacking midfielder, and Louie McDonald on the left, all supporting lone striker Will Schrimshaw. The substitutes bench included Alfie Jackman, Anthony Baker-Cortes, and Ryan Case.

From the outset, Malet Vikings looked to impose their rhythm, with Louie McDonald testing the opposition defence early on. At 16 minutes, McDonald’s attempt drifted wide, signalling the Vikings’ intent to attack down the left flank. Nine minutes later, he forced a save from the North Ferriby keeper, showing persistence in front of goal. Will Schrimshaw also came close in quick succession, his shot saved at 27 minutes, followed by a wide effort at 36 minutes, highlighting the striker’s active involvement in the final third.

Central midfielder Tommy Anson had a chance to add to the tally at 35 minutes, but his effort sailed high over the bar. Despite these opportunities, the first half ended goalless, with both sides locked in a tactical battle.

The second half began in dramatic fashion as North Ferriby struck twice within two minutes. At 47 minutes, the visitors conceded a well-taken goal from outside the box, fired in with the right foot, leaving Van with little chance. Just two minutes later, North Ferriby doubled their lead with a spectacular screamer from distance, again struck with the right foot, putting Malet Vikings on the back foot.

Reacting swiftly, Malet Vikings made tactical substitutions at the 50th minute, bringing on Alfie Jackman for Oli Thompson and Anthony Baker-Cortes for Louie McDonald, aiming to inject fresh energy and regain control. Shortly after, Ryan Case replaced Alex Ward at 53 minutes, signalling a shift in attacking options.

The changes paid dividends as George Jackson pulled a goal back with a stunning strike from outside the box at 64 minutes, a screamer that revitalised the Vikings and their supporters. Building on this momentum, Jackson then provided a precise corner delivery that found Lucas Applegate at close range, who headed home at 75 minutes to level the scores.

The remainder of the match saw both sides push for a winner, but neither could break the deadlock, resulting in a hard-fought 2-2 draw. Malet Vikings’ defensive resilience was epitomised by Axel Nicholson and Lucas Hunt, who were named players of the match for their commanding performances at the back.

Overall, the Vikings showed great character to recover from a two-goal deficit away from home, with key contributions from midfield and attack ensuring they left South Hunsley Sports Centre with a valuable point.