Blackpool and District Youth League match of the week: Squires Gate U14 6 Foxhall 2

This Blackpool and District Youth League victory over the reigning champions was a massive confidence boost.

They had to come from behind to do it, but manager Nick Grindley was delighted with his side’s reaction as they scored three in each half.

Their goals were shared between three players, Imaan Hussain, Dan Fryer and Matthew Kelsey each bagging two.

Imaan’s second was the pick of the six, a tremendous shot on the turn which flew into the top corner.

This was Foxhall’s first match of the season and they started the game strongly.

They were rewarded with a fine early goal, Aiden Wright running through the defence to fire into the bottom corner.

Wright scored the second too, teed up by fellow striker Kaiden Shorrocks after good passing in the penalty area.

That made the score 3-2 in the second half but Foxhall’s hopes of a comeback were quickly dashed.

Manager Grindley is naturally delighted by his side’s start. He said: “We thought we’d be competitive and I’d like to think we are one of the teams to beat this season.

“We have quite a few new players, who have gelled really well. We may well have the players to do it this year.

“It’s very pleasing to beat last year’s champions, who are a good, strong side.”

Foxhall boss Steve Shorrocks wasn’t too downhearted and is hoping to repeat last season’s success.

“Nobody has left and we have just the one new player, so it’s almost the same team as last season,” he explained.

“We want to win the league again and push on in the Lancashire FA Cup.”

“We started the game well but I think our heads dropped. They were the better side and every credit to them.”

Rocco Williams was Gate’s man of the match. Their rock at the back dealt superbly with Rangers’ physical threat up front

Jake Marshall was outstanding for Foxhall. He kept on battling and driving his Foxhall side on from the centre of midfield.