After a week of reflection and regrouping, the lads stepped onto the pitch with renewed confidence—embracing the challenge of the jump from U16s to U18s. With some opposition teams already seasoned at this level, Saturday’s fixture against Clitheroe Green was a chance to show how quickly we’re adapting.

From the first whistle, the boys moved the ball with intent, finding space and pressing high. That early pressure paid off within 15 minutes when Shay’s corner was deflected in off a Clitheroe defender—1–0 Saints.

Clitheroe responded in the 30th minute, capitalising on a scuffed clearance to level the score. The rest of the half was a thrilling end-to-end battle, with both sides pushing for control.

The second half saw Saints raise the tempo. A free kick from the right-hand touchline—about 25 yards out—was met with a moment of magic from Shay, who curled it straight into the top corner. 2–1.

Ethan Watson then took centre stage, driving past three defenders with the ball at his feet, turning inside the box, and rifling it low under the keeper. 3–1.

The final goal came from another Shay corner, this time met by Lewis Francis to seal the win at 4–1.

👏 MOM: Ethan Watson – Tireless up front, dropping deep to support the midfield when defending, and delivering a goal that summed up his grit and flair.

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⚽️ Goals
 - OG (15') – Shay’s corner deflected in  
 - Shay (Free Kick, 2nd Half) – Top corner stunner  
 - Ethan Watson – Solo run and finish  
 - Lewis Francis – Header from Shay’s corner

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