Blackpool Youth League match of the week: Layton Junior Clarets Under-9s v BJFF Spartans U9s

Two under-nines teams completed their highly promising first phase of the Blackpool and District Youth Football League season by treating us to a rip-roaring match of the week.

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Layton Junior Clarets and BJFF Spartans have both been promoted for the second phase and showed exactly why in Saturday’s all-action game, which was closely contested throughout, producing plenty of goals and exciting football.

Layton manager Jonno Caldwell told the Gazette: "We've played Spartans twice in this phase and they were two entertaining games, with lots of attacking talent on show."

Bispham boss Chris Dean agreed and added: "This was an end-to-end contest, full of attacking football and decided by a thunderous strike at the end."

Besides their progress on the field this season, both teams have much more in common.

Both are in their second season in the league and have a manager who was new to the role when they started as under-eights.

Jonno, who works alongside dedicated coach Matt Evans, added: "We had a lot of players on the books at the start of last season. It wasn't fair for kids not to get a game, so we split into two teams. We've had quite a change of personnel for this season but the players have hit the ground running.

"I've been around football all my life but I'd never managed before. There are tough times in the freezing rain but most of the time it's great fun."

The Spartans are an even newer side as Chris explains: "The team only formed midway through last season out of the 'Football For All' scheme at BJFF.

"We made a great start and were promoted quickly. We have a brilliant set of lads and the parents are really supportive."

Both sides named two players of the match, chosen by the parents and coaches.

Kaylam was the choice of the Layton parents. A new recruit, who hadn't played before this season, Kaylam is a rock at the back, loves defending and was fantastic on the day.

Jacob was the manager's choice. Having joined the club at the start of the season, he always turns up and gives his all.

An outstanding defender also got a player of the match nod for BJ, with Maksymilian the coaches' choice. The parents selected Sebastian, who made some fantastic saves. Special mention too for Filip, who was a constant threat in attack.

Two relatively new teams are also grateful to their sponsors for providing a welcome kick-start. BJ boss Chris wishes to thank Old Tim Photo Studio, Manfredi Ice Cream and Moy Vets, while Layton greatly appreciate the support of KJ Elite Contruction.