B&DYFL match of the week: West Coast Sports Lions v BJFF Predators
Two teams completing their second season in the Blackpool and District Youth Football League continue to enjoy the journey and make encouraging progress.
Under-8s sides West Coast Sports Lions and BJFF Predators served up an all-action match of the week at Lytham St Annes High School on Saturday.
Lions manager Adam Croft told The Gazette: “It was a great, end-to-end game, with lots of good passages of play and plenty of goals.
“The young players played with smiles on their faces, as they do every week.”
Predators manager Philip Burrow added: “It was definitely a game of two halves – we controlled the first half and they controlled the second.
“There was some good passing from both teams and West Coast play football the right way. They are a credit to their manager.”
Both teams were formed ahead of their first B&DYFL campaign as under-sevens 18 months ago and are still enjoying every minute.
Philip added: “I’m a first-time manager and it’s been good to step out of my comfort zone.
“We did well in our first season to reach the cup semi-finals. This season has been up and down – we started well, then lost a few players – but everyone really enjoys it.
Adam said: “We’re a mixed team of four girls and three boys, and it works really well.
“We’ve found our right level and are having a really good season,” he added ahead of this weekend’s Hogan Trophy match against Kirkham Blues.
The Lions’ player of the match award was shared between the whole team as Adam explained: “It’s something we don’t do often but they all played so well we gave everyone a medal.”
Coaches’ player of the match for the Predators was Nico, who won all his physical battles and showed a full range of skills in defence and attack.
William was the parents’ choice after a solid first-half display in goal. He went up front for the second period, working tirelessly and posing a constant threat.