Blackpool and District Youth League: Foxhall Hoops Under-16s make manager so proud

With the elements in their favour, the hosts were five goals to the good by half-time but had to withstand a determined Wyre fightback.

Ryan finished a fine passing move to open the scoring on 15 minutes and the lead was doubled by Thomas Murray’s long-distance drive into the top corner.

Another passing move on the breakaway resulted in Ryan’s second, then Wictor Kuder headed home a corner and Benji Jenkinson converted a one-on-one to make it 5-0 at the break. But Wyre were also seeking their first win of the season and had the wind at their backs in the second half.

They were kept at bay until midway through the second period but then three goals in quick succession meant it really was game on for the final 20 minutes.

Ethan Jones scored two of them and an own goal further helped the Wyre cause but they couldn’t make chances count in the latter stages.

Hoops boss Ian Squires hopes this victory acts as a springboard and he said: “My team were fantastic in the first half and showed a lot of character in the second, standing up well to a big, physical side. This is a big step forward for us and I’m so proud of them.”

His Wyre counterpart Mike Ward said: “We clawed three back and I thought we had a chance, but we missed too many opportunities and they stood firm.

“All credit to Foxhall, they tore our defence to pieces in the first half and they looked hungry. We’ve started poorly but we have a decent squad who can play, so we just need that first win.”

Hoops boss Squires named two-goal striker Ryan as his man of the match and added: “Haydyn really took us forward and encouraged his team-mates. He was really instrumental in the win.”

The Wyre award also went to their double scorer. Boss Ward explained: “Ethan played centre midfield and worked hard but it didn’t happen for us on the day.”

The BFYFL staged more exciting and fun matches over the weekend as all teams respected the guidelines which are helping grassroots football to continue safely.

The Under-8s played development fixtures in lovely weather with smiles on their faces. There was also lots of good football played among the Under-9s, with plenty of goals and fun under the new format.

Other U16 action included a close-fought derby between Poulton Town and Poulton FC, which the hosts won 2-1.

Freckleton FC and St Annes Diamonds served up an exciting match for spectators. At 2-2, both teams fought hard for a winner but they could not be separated.