07/10/2026
Myton League U13s - 4 October 2026
Kingswood Panthers 2-1 Esperanza 1894
After a tough start to the season, the Reds travelled to Kingswood for another stern test against a strong Panthers side.
Esperanza started brightly and created the better chances in the opening stages. Their positive approach was rewarded when a brilliant through ball from Henry Day split the defence, allowing Harrison Sexton to race through and coolly slot home to give the Reds a deserved lead.
The visitors were unfortunate not to double their advantage shortly afterwards. Cayson Hall-Barwick knocked the ball past the goalkeeper and appeared certain to be through on goal before being clumsily brought down, only for strong appeals for a penalty to be waved away.
The Reds took their 1-0 lead into half-time thanks to a combination of determined defending and outstanding goalkeeping. Stanley Matchett produced a superb save to tip an effort destined for the top corner away from danger, while the back three delivered a colossal performance to keep Kingswood at bay.

The second half began with Kingswood showing exactly why they are such a strong side. They levelled from an early corner after the Reds were unable to clear their lines, with the ball eventually squirming over the line despite several attempts to keep it out.
Esperanza felt aggrieved once again shortly afterwards when Cayson was brought down in the box for a second time, with another penalty appeal going unanswered. To make matters worse, Kingswood were then awarded a penalty at the other end for a shirt pull that few on the pitch appeared to have noticed. However, Stanley produced another moment of brilliance, diving low to save the spot kick and keep the scores level.
Kingswood continued to press and were handed a second penalty when a long throw struck the arm of a Reds defender. It was a harsh decision from Esperanza's perspective, but one that was difficult to argue against. This time, despite guessing correctly, Stanley could do nothing to stop an excellent penalty as the hosts took a 2-1 lead.
The Reds responded positively and pushed hard for an equaliser. However, they were also fortunate not to concede a third goal on the counter-attack, with more excellent defending and goalkeeping keeping them in the contest.
The match finished 2-1 to Kingswood in what felt like a harsh result for Esperanza. Many spectators would likely agree that a draw would have been a fair reflection of a closely fought encounter. The Reds and Panthers have shared some excellent battles over the years, and this was another game worthy of that list.
Coach's Man of the Match - Stan "The Man" Matchett
Stan continues to improve week after week and delivered another outstanding performance between the posts. His positioning and distribution were excellent throughout, while a series of important saves, including a penalty stop, kept Esperanza firmly in the game. A brilliant performance and a thoroughly deserved Man of the Match award.
Parents' Man of the Match - Rhys
After earning the Coaches' Man of the Match award last week, Rhys followed it up with another commanding display that earned him recognition from the parents. Strong in the tackle, calm in possession, and increasingly vocal at the back, he provided a solid foundation for the team throughout. A fantastic performance, continued development, and a real rock in defence.
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