Match Report

❄️ Ice-Cold Resolve in Salisbury: Kestrels Grind Out a Vital 2–0 Win!

The MAFC Kestrels made the long journey down to Salisbury to face Bemerton Heath Harlequins U12 Black, welcomed by a lovely 4G surface and absolutely freezing conditions. 🥶 Despite the weather, the boys were set a clear challenge: play out from the back, use the wings, move the ball forward positively, keep possession, and be patient in the final third.

First Half – Slow Start, Big Chances
The Kestrels began slowly, allowing the Harlequins to grow into the game. Our press wasn’t sharp enough, and we didn’t impose ourselves early on. That said, when we did settle, we produced some excellent passages of link-up play and looked the more dangerous side throughout. We created chance after chance, striking the post and bar multiple times. Henry’s superb free-kick had the keeper beaten all ends up—only for the woodwork to deny what would’ve been a stunning opener. Despite dominating the opportunities, the score remained 0–0 at halftime, leaving the boys with work to do.

Second Half – Tempo, Tenacity & Two Goals
The message at the break was simple: play quicker, win the first and second balls, be more physical, and take control. The response was excellent. The Kestrels came out far stronger, again creating numerous chances but finding the Harlequins’ keeper in inspired form. He kept his side in the game with several top saves.

With around 10 minutes to go, a bold tactical shift to 2–4–2 added more attacking threat. It opened the game up, but it got us higher up the pitch—and it paid off. Jack broke the deadlock with a composed finish after sustained pressure, and moments later Zac sealed the win with an unstoppable strike from the right side that the travelling supporters loved. With the lead secured, the boys dropped into a more defensive shape and saw the game out professionally. A well-earned 2–0 victory kept the Kestrels firmly at the top of the league. Sometimes, you have to win ugly—and today, the lads showed grit, patience, and resilience to do exactly that.

Man of the Match: Zac
Chosen by Captain Maxi himself 👏. Maxi praised Zac for a brilliant assist on the first goal, quality crosses delivered into dangerous areas, relentless work down the flank, and of course that thunderbolt of a second goal. A fully deserved MOTM performance from Zac—well done!

Absentees
We missed Thomas and Jesse today, both recovering from injuries. Wishing you both a speedy recovery—get well soon, lads! 💙💛

What’s Next?
Training: Thursday @ Ash Manor, 6–7pm.
Next Match: HOME vs Down Grange Rangers (details to follow). Don’t forget to confirm attendance on Commentary Box!

🔵🟡 Well done, Kestrels! A strong, battling display and another three points on the board. Let’s keep the momentum going! 💪