Stradbroke YFC U14's Suffer Defeat Against Elmswell

Stradbroke YFC U14's faced a challenging encounter against Elmswell in a friendly match held at Elmswell Public Open Space: The Pightle on 7th September 2025, kicking off at 10:00 am. The final score saw Stradbroke succumb to a 4-1 defeat, despite a spirited performance.

Stradbroke lined up in a 3-2-3-2 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for attacking flair. Jude Wharton took his place in goal, with a back three consisting of Edward Last on the right, Lewis Harvey in the centre, and Vinnie Williams on the left. The midfield was anchored by Jai Williams and Nathan Eagling, providing both defensive cover and support for the attacking trio. Finley Holmes operated as the right attacking midfielder, Robin Chambers in the central attacking role, and Will Russell on the left, while Ollie Clarke and Louie Smith led the line as forwards.

The match began with both teams feeling each other out, but it was Stradbroke who struck first. In the 15th minute, Jai Williams found the back of the net after a precise long pass from Will Russell, showcasing their attacking potential and giving Stradbroke an early lead. However, the joy was short-lived as Elmswell responded with a goal of their own in the 25th minute, levelling the score and shifting the momentum.

As the first half progressed, it was a very even match with bith sides having chances to push out into the lead, and the half-time whistle blew with the score tied at 1-1. The second half saw mich the same but with Stradbroke definitely having the better chances at goal but were just not ablento make any of them count. In the 57th minute with Elmswell making the most of having a full subs bench with fresh legs, Elmswell made a break through the Stradbroke defense to score their second goal, putting Stradbroke on the back foot.

Then it just came down to the fresher legs, Stradbroke having only 11 players available today started to look tired and despite their best efforts, Elmswell added a third goal in the 65th minute, further extending their lead and a last minute shot sealed the fourth goal of the match and the win.

Despite the defeat, Stradbroke YFC U14's display shows a huge amount of promise for the season to come and should be hugely proud of what their 11 players achieved today in the heat and at no point did they look like thy wanted to give up! Well done boys!