B&DYFL match of the week: BJFF Spartans v St Annes Diamonds

The Diamonds made sure every player had a bunch of daffodils to present to their mother.

Team manager James Hayes told The Gazette: “We try to do things right at St Annes. That includes giving the players equal game time because it’s all about having fun.”

There were no free gifts at Bispham Gala Field, where the two committed teams produced an excellent contest.

James added: “The wind was a factor but this was a really good advert for the league.

“Both teams had chances in a great game and I was pleased with the passing football our boys played.

“They have come on in leaps and bounds and it’s been a really positive season.”

Most of the Diamonds players have been together from U8s with James in charge since the start, adding: “I’d love to keep going through all the age groups.”

Theo was named coaches’ player of the match for his defending, while Sam was the choice of the Diamonds’ parents for his attacking.

Spartans manager Lisa Hannigan said: “Just like when we featured as match of the week last season, it was a really good game and everything grassroots should be.

“We have improved this season, we’ve picked up extra players and we’re getting better.”

The versatility of Jacob, who moved from the Spartans’ midfield into defence, saw him named their player of the match.

After very few games in recent weeks because of the weather, the Hogan Cup got underway for the U18s.

Kaleb Deans scored two goals to help Staining JFC edge out Poulton FC Blacks, with Jack Ashton also on target.

Also into the next round are BJFF Blades Blues, who won at West Coast Sports Ravens thanks to Callum Stone, Cole Stephenson, Jake Ryan and Jacob Horn.

Goals from Charlie Sandford, Jayden Pain and Oliver Heaton saw Wyre Juniors Diamonds beat Fleetwood Gym Wanderers 3-1, Keelan Burder replying.

In the league, there was a brace each for Oscar Brooks and Ollie Wilkinson as Fleetwood Town Whites beat Clifton Rangers Bees, while further goals came from Rob Craigie, Jack Jordan and an own goal.

The other fixture saw FC Rangers beat Poulton FC Blues through Connor Campbell, Xavier Gill and an own goal.

FC Rangers have been providing junior football for the Layton area of Blackpool for more than 50 years and are making plans to grow bigger and better in the next half-century.

The club welcomes boys and girls of all ages and all abilities for training all year round at its Boundary Park base.

Officials are particularly on the lookout for players in the U6 and U7 groups, and aims to launch five-a-side teams for players entering school year two this September.

FC Rangers operate a Mini Foxes club for those aged three to six, with girls teams at U8, U10, U12 and U14 as well as mixed teams from U7 up.

The club also welcomes new coaches and volunteers to join an exciting journey.

For more information, contact secretary Steve Jackson on 07711 750871 or [email protected]