13/09/2026
Sprotbrough U14s 1–1 Retford FC U14s
A new season, a new challenge and an excellent start for Retford FC.
After missing the opening weekend due to West End Terriers playing their wildcard, Retford FC U14s finally got their new season underway with a tough away fixture at Sprotborough.
This season brings a significant step up for the boys. It’s the move to 11-a-side football, while also taking on the challenge of playing a year above but if the opening game was anything to go by, they are more than ready to compete.
There was also a change on the touchline and in colours. Paul and Lee took their places in the dugout, Tom had the flag as linesman, and Retford were back in the traditional blue kit, replacing last season’s orange.
With Charlie, Jenson and Harley unavailable, Retford lined up with Jacko in goal; Teddy, Will, Ronnie and Flynn in defence; Sam, Oscar, Zach and Hugo across midfield; and Louis and Marcus leading the attack.
From the opening whistle it was clear this was going to be a competitive, physical game. Sprotborough were a strong side, but Retford matched them superbly. The boys battled for every ball, used their bodies intelligently and showed they weren’t going to be intimidated by the step up in age or physicality.
The breakthrough came in the 26th minute.
Hugo delivered a delightful diagonal free kick into that horrible corridor of uncertainty between goalkeeper and defence. The keeper had to decide whether to come and collect or anticipate a touch from one of the onrushing Retford players.
Enter Ronnie.
He managed to get what can only be described as a few strands of hair onto the ball but that was all it needed! The slightest touch helped it on its way into the far corner and gave Retford a deserved 1–0 lead.
Sprotborough responded and continued to put Retford under pressure, but the defensive performance was excellent.
Jacko produced some spectacular saves, earning praise from the opposition coaches after the game, while Ronnie was outstanding at the heart of the defence. Calm in possession, strong in the challenge and composed under pressure, he put in a superb performance.
Alongside him, Will was excellent, winning important headers and making a number of well-timed interceptions. Teddy and Flynn worked relentlessly throughout, giving everything on either side of the defence.
In midfield, Zach was in full flow, controlling areas of the pitch and showing the battling mentality that has become such a big part of his game. Oscar showed some really promising moments driving forward with the ball while also getting stuck into the physical side of the contest.
Marcus caused problems with some excellent runs into the channels, carrying the ball forward confidently and linking particularly well with Hugo. Hugo looked to release him with balls in behind while also helping connect the midfield and attack.
Sam and Louis both put in plenty of graft for the team, and Retford very nearly snatched all three points right at the death when Louis had a chance to win it.
It wasn’t to be, and the game finished 1–1 but there was plenty for Retford to take from their first outing of the season.
Playing 11-a-side, stepping up against older opposition and coming up against a strong, physical team was always going to present a new challenge. The way the boys competed, defended and worked for one another was a hugely encouraging sign of what could be ahead.
A really competitive game of football and an excellent start to the new season.
Players of the Match: Ronnie & Jacko