Skelmersdale Youth U9 Edge Burscough FC U9 To In Final!

On 26 July 2025, Skelmersdale Youth U9 hosted Burscough FC U9 at White Moss Road, Skelmersdale, with kick-off at 11:15am in a 7-a-side neutral cup match. The contest ended in a narrow 1-0 victory for Skelmersdale Youth, secured late in the second half by a penalty converted by Isaac Graham.

Skelmersdale Youth lined up in a 2-3-1 formation, designed to balance defensive solidity with midfield control and attacking threat. George Grant took his place between the sticks as goalkeeper, tasked with organising the defence and keeping a clean sheet. The central defensive pairing of Mack Kayll and Alfie Bullen were charged with repelling Burscough’s attacks and providing a platform for the midfield. Across the middle, Peter Gerrard-Little operated on the right wing, Isaac Graham held the central midfield role, and Forrest Wallis patrolled the left flank. Up front, Oliver Foster led the line as the lone striker, expected to convert chances created by the midfield trio. No substitutes were named for this fixture.

The first half was a cagey affair with both sides probing but unable to break the deadlock. Skelmersdale’s defensive duo of Kayll and Bullen stood firm against Burscough’s advances, while the midfield trio worked hard to maintain possession and feed the ball forward. George Grant was alert in goal, commanding his area and making key interventions to keep the visitors at bay. The half concluded goalless after 15 minutes of play.

As the second half unfolded, the tempo increased with Skelmersdale Youth pushing for a breakthrough. The decisive moment came in the 28th minute when Isaac Graham stepped up to convert a penalty with his right foot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way and giving his side a crucial lead. This goal was a testament to Graham’s composure and confidence under pressure.

Following the penalty, Skelmersdale Youth focused on protecting their advantage. The defensive unit, led by Alfie Bullen and Mack Kayll, remained resolute, thwarting Burscough’s attempts to equalise. Peter Gerrard-Little and Forrest Wallis continued to provide width and support in midfield, while Oliver Foster worked tirelessly to trouble the opposition defence and relieve pressure.

George Grant’s commanding presence in goal was instrumental in preserving the clean sheet, making several important saves and organising the backline effectively. The team’s collective effort ensured that Burscough FC could not find a way through before the final whistle.

Overall, Skelmersdale Youth U9 delivered a disciplined and determined performance to claim a hard-fought 1-0 victory in this cup encounter. The team’s organisation in the 2-3-1 formation, combined with key moments of individual quality, proved decisive in securing the win on home soil.