Stratton Youth U12 Blues Triumph 3-1 At Dorcan Academy

Stratton Youth U12 Blues travelled to Dorcan Academy on 15 January 2026 for a 9-a-side league encounter against Liden Community U12 Wolverines, kicking off at 9:10pm. The Blues emerged victorious with a 3-1 win in a tightly contested 60-minute match, overseen by referee Kazimerz Bedry, whose flawless control ensured a fair contest.

Deploying a 2-5-1 formation, Stratton Youth U12 Blues set up with two central defenders anchoring the backline, Archie Clapton and Bradley Cameron, tasked with providing defensive solidity. Connor McIllroy guarded the goal, while the midfield was packed with five players: Lucas Graves operated on the left flank, Leo Banks on the right, and centrally Harry Gale, Theo Risby, and Eddy Kelland formed a robust engine room expected to control possession and supply the lone striker, Jonah Duebbert. The striker’s role was to spearhead attacks and convert chances created by the midfield. The team had no substitutes named for this fixture.

From the first whistle, the Blues showed intent. Within the opening minute, Archie Clapton rose to meet a precise cross from Harry Gale, executing a diving header from close range to put Stratton ahead. However, the joy was short-lived as Liden Community Wolverines immediately responded with an equaliser, cancelling out the early advantage. The match was already pulsating with drama as Leo Banks was flagged offside for a mistimed run, though the decision was contentious and deemed incorrect.

Just a minute later, Stratton were awarded a penalty, but Eddy Kelland’s effort was expertly saved by the Wolverines’ goalkeeper, denying the Blues a chance to regain the lead. Despite this setback, Stratton maintained their composure and continued to press.

The first half ended with the score level at 1-1, but the Blues’ dominance was evident in their midfield control and attacking intent. After the break, the game opened up further. At 34 minutes, Jonah Duebbert delivered a long, incisive pass that carved open the opposition’s defence, creating a clear chance. Theo Risby capitalised on this opportunity, slotting home a goal assisted by Eddy Kelland, restoring Stratton’s lead and shifting momentum firmly in their favour.

As the match progressed, Stratton’s confidence grew. In the 53rd minute, Lucas Graves stepped up to take a direct free-kick from close range, expertly curling the ball with his left foot past the goalkeeper following a short pass from Jonah Duebbert. This goal effectively sealed the victory for the Blues, who controlled the remainder of the game to secure a 3-1 win.

Throughout the match, Leo Banks was a standout performer on the right wing, combining defensive duties with attacking runs, earning him the player of the match accolade. His work rate and skill were instrumental in maintaining pressure on the Wolverines’ defence.

Stratton Youth U12 Blues’ disciplined 2-5-1 formation allowed them to dominate midfield battles and create multiple scoring opportunities, while their defenders and goalkeeper ensured the opposition’s chances were limited. The victory at Dorcan Academy marks an important step in their league campaign, showcasing a blend of tactical awareness and individual quality.