Youth League match of the week: Freckleton Under-11s v Poulton FC Blacks U11

Two managers who have seen their Blackpool and District Youth Football League teams develop over several seasons were delighted to be part of a Gazette match of the week last weekend.

READ MORE: Lytham Junior Windmills v CN Sports Devils

Under-11 teams Freckleton FC and Poulton FC Blacks played their part in an entertaining encounter and displayed the progress they have made.

Freckleton manager Andrew Fenwick said: "It was a good, end-to-end game. Poulton did have a bit more quality but we had chances too and are playing more passing football this season.

"Nine of our 10 players have been with us since joining the league as under-sevens and we've tried to keep it local, with players from in and around Freckleton. A lot of them go to Freckleton CofE School or Holy Family in Warton, so they are good friends off the pitch too."

Poulton boss Scott Coultas said his side were spurred on to be at their best. "It was a massive incentive to be featuring in The Gazette, so we had a full game in training, rather than running drills," he said.

"We've come through a period of change – going from a squad of 12 to nine – but the players have responded with a lot of hunger and a selfless work ethic, and have got their rewards. They are playing as a team and tracking back for each other."

The sense of team spirit is shared by two longstanding managers. Freckleton's Andrew added: "I've been involved since the team formed. I'm a PE teacher at Lytham St Annes High School, so I couldn't really say no when they were looking for volunteers. I'm still enjoying it and the team keeps on improving."

Scott co-manages the Poulton side with Chris Brindle and added: "This is the fourth season for the team and the third for Chris and I.

"I have a background in swimming coaching but hadn't done anything like this before. It's a pleasure to watch the players develop. They have adapted really well and are doing themselves proud."

Alexander has been in excellent goalscoring form for Poulton Blacks and their player of the match was Junior. Scott explained: “Junior has fully immersed himself into being a team player. He is looking for assists over goals and was our captain for the day."

Jack was man of the match for Freckleton, who awarded their captain's armband to Oliver.

Manager Andrew said: "Jack made some fantastic saves in the first half and a real presence when he came out of goal for the second half. Oliver made countless interceptions and his distribution was very good."