Worthing Dynamo Edge Past Littlehampton Town In Thrilling Clash

In a closely contested league encounter at Durrington High School on 1 December 2024, Worthing Dynamo U12 Black secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Littlehampton Town Youth U12 Black. The match, which kicked off at 10:00 am, showcased the determination and skill of both teams, but it was Worthing who ultimately emerged triumphant with a late goal.

Worthing Dynamo lined up in a 3-4-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for creativity in midfield. Ellis Williams donned the gloves as the goalkeeper, shielded by a back three comprising Teddy Gill on the right, Toby Killick in the centre, and Sami Dalaman on the left. The midfield quartet featured Lewis Langdell on the right, Leo Whyatt and Archie Parker-Muckle centrally, with Harrison Flanagan on the left. Reuben Wickens-Steele led the line as the striker, tasked with converting chances into goals. The substitutes included Theo Phillips, who would later play a crucial role in the match.

The opening exchanges saw both teams probing for weaknesses, but it was Worthing who made the first tactical change, bringing on Theo Phillips for Lewis Langdell in the 15th minute. This substitution aimed to inject fresh energy into the midfield, and it paid dividends as Worthing began to assert more control over the game.

As the first half progressed, both sides struggled to find the breakthrough, with the match reaching its half-time mark at 30 minutes with the score still level. The second half commenced with renewed vigour, and Worthing made another tactical switch, Lewis Langdell returned to the field, replacing Harrison Flanagan.

The match remained tightly contested, with both teams creating half-chances but failing to convert. Worthing's persistence finally bore fruit in the dying moments of the match. In the 60th minute, Archie Parker-Muckle found the back of the net with a spectacular diving header, expertly assisted by Leo Whyatt from a corner kick. This goal sent the Worthing supporters into raptures, as it was a well-deserved reward for their relentless efforts throughout the match.

However, the drama did not end there. Just two minutes later, a yellow card was issued for a bad tackle, reflecting the intensity of the contest. Worthing then made a final substitution in the 62nd minute, with Lewis Langdell coming on for Reuben Wickens-Steele due to injury, ensuring that the team maintained their defensive solidity as they sought to hold onto their slender lead.

As the final whistle blew, Worthing Dynamo U12 Black celebrated a hard-fought victory, with Sami Dalaman earning the accolade of Player of the Match for his commanding performance in defence. The win not only boosts Worthing's confidence but also sets the stage for an exciting season ahead as they continue to build on their promising start.