Stradbroke YFC U14's Triumph 4-2 At Mendlesham Playing Field

Stradbroke YFC U14's travelled to Mendlesham Playing Field on 12 October 2025 for a 10:30am kick-off in a league away match against Mendlesham F.C. U14. The 70-minute contest plus added time ended in a thrilling 4-2 victory for Stradbroke, who demonstrated attacking prowess and resilience on the road. The referee’s performance was exemplary, maintaining control throughout the match in front of a modest crowd of 20 spectators.

Jude Wharton took his place between the sticks as goalkeeper. The defensive line consisted of Vinnie Williams at right back, Jai Williams and Lewis Harvey as central defenders, and Sid Bryant covering the left flank. In midfield, Jimmy Bealing operated on the right, Will Russell held the central midfield role, and James Thurlow was deployed on the left. Ahead of them, Tom Cooke and Robin Chambers took up the right and left attacking midfield positions respectively, supporting lone striker Ollie Clarke. The substitutes named were Arthur Mills, Edward Last, Louie Smith, and Finley Holmes.

The match burst into life early on with Tom Cooke opening the scoring in the 15th minute. Jude Wharton’s long pass found Cooke, who expertly finished to give Stradbroke the lead. Cooke was again on target seven minutes later, this time converting a precise assist from right midfielder Jimmy Bealing. Stradbroke’s attacking intent was clear as Cooke completed his hat-trick in the 28th minute, this time benefiting from a well-delivered free kick by Will Russell.

Shortly after the third goal, and against the run of play, Mendlesham responded quickly, pulling a goal back in the 31st minute to reduce the deficit to 3-1. The first half concluded at the 35-minute mark with Stradbroke holding a two-goal advantage.

The interval saw a flurry of substitutions. Edward Last came on for James Thurlow on the left midfield, Louie Smith replaced striker Ollie Clarke. Before the break, Jimmy Bealing was also substituted off for James Thurlow, who returned to the pitch in a different role. Early in the second half, Finley Holmes was introduced for Will Russell in central midfield, signalling further adjustments.

The second half was marked by a yellow card for right back Vinnie Williams which saw Mendlesham awarded a penalty, Jude Wharton got his fingers to it but it wasn't enough to stop the shot narrowing the gap to 3-2.

Stradbroke’s final substitutions of the game were Jimmy Bealing on to replace a tiring Vinnie Williams after his strong and passionate display in defence in the 52nd minute and Arthur Mills was brought back on for Louie Smith in the 56th minute to finish the game out in the Striker position. Stradbroke restored their two-goal cushion in the 60th minute when Arthur Mills himself scored, assisted by left back Sid Bryant, showcasing the team’s ability to score from set plays or build-up from the back.

Throughout the first few matches of the season Lewis Harvey has been solid in central defence, today was no exception, earning the player of the match accolade for his composed and commanding performance. Stradbroke controlled the midfield and launched effective attacks, while their defensive unit absorbed pressure well, particularly after Mendlesham’s late rally.

In the end, Stradbroke YFC U14's secured a well-deserved 4-2 victory away from home. This result will boost their confidence as the league campaign progresses.