Teddington Athletic FC U12 vs Gemini U12 Albion
0 - 1
30 November 2024 · Epsom & Ewell Youth Football League<br>U12 Division 10
Home league match played on 30 November 2024.
Kicked off at 9:30 AM
0-1
vs Gemini U12 Albion
Home league match
Teddington Athletic FC U12 Titans faced off against Gemini U12 Albion in a gripping league encounter at Teddington Cricket Club on 30 November 2024, with the match concluding in a narrow 1-0 defeat for the Titans. The game kicked off at 9:30 am, showcasing the talents of both teams in a competitive 9-a-side format.
The Titans lined up in a 2-3-3 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking play. Kerem Polat took his position as goalkeeper, shielded by central defenders Isaac Borsley and Can Polat. In midfield, Arthur Bayliss operated on the right, with Elliott Bowen in the centre and Maxwell Shaw on the left, providing width and creativity. Up front, Rapha Kothakota and Seth Smith were positioned as right and left forwards respectively, supporting striker Ethan Shum, who was tasked with leading the line.
The substitutes for the match included George Everett and Oscar Iddon, who were poised to make an impact from the bench as the game unfolded.
The match began with an early setback for the Titans, as George Everett was brought on for Seth Smith in the third minute when he took a ball to the face. This forced a tactical reshuffle, but the Titans remained resolute in their approach.
As the first half progressed, the Titans made another change in the 15th minute, with Oscar Iddon replacing Ethan Shum in a tactical switch aimed at bolstering their midfield presence. Three minutes later, Seth Smith returned to the pitch, replacing George Everett. However, this was to be a short-lived return to action for Smith, who was forced off with a muscle injury in the 27th minute.
The match took a decisive turn in the 28th minute when Gemini Albion found the back of the net, taking a 1-0 lead. This goal came as a significant blow to Teddington, who had been working hard to establish their rhythm.
With half-time approaching, the referee signalled the end of the first half at the 30-minute mark, leaving the Titans with a mountain to climb in the second half.
The second half saw Ethan Shum re-enter the fray, replacing Oscar Iddon. Titans also changed to a 3-3-2 formation, to try and regain control of the middle of the pitch.
George Everett was brought back on for Oscar Iddon at the middle of the second half. This was coupled with a reversion to a 2-3-3 formation indicating the Titans' determination to turn the tide.
Despite their efforts and a spirited performance, Teddington Athletic FC U12 Titans were unable to find the equaliser, succumbing to a narrow defeat against a resolute Gemini U12 Albion side. Excellent goal keeping saw Kerem Polat awarded man of the match, with several outstanding saves which were commented on by the opposition manager.
The match showcased the challenges of youth football, where injuries and tactical decisions can significantly influence the outcome.