DRAGONS DIG IN AGAINST WHITE STAR

The AFC U14 Dragons welcomed league leaders Ilkeston Town White Star to home turf this weekend, fully aware they were facing one of the toughest fixtures of the season.

Ilkeston started strongly and broke the deadlock early on, showing the attacking quality that has placed them top of the table. But rather than folding, the Dragons dug in, defending bravely and looking to frustrate their opponents.

Midway through the first half, the Dragons had a golden opportunity to equalise. Camden broke forward on the counter and unleashed a strike that went agonisingly wide, signalling hope and evidence that the opposition backline was penetrable.

The Dragons stuck to their defensive plan, but in the second half Ilkeston doubled their lead with a well-worked free kick. Even then, the hosts kept fighting and carved out chances of their own: Jack forced the keeper into a fine save with a strong effort, before Billy’s towering header from a corner flew just wide.

With the Dragons pushing late on, Ilkeston grabbed a third to seal the victory. The 0–3 scoreline didn’t reflect the determination, spirit, and organisation that the Dragons displayed across the match; from the forwards working tirelessly to press, through the midfield’s endless running, to Will in goal pulling off vital saves. Every player gave maximum effort in a spirited performance.

Final Score: AFC U14 Dragons 0 – 3 Ilkeston Town White Star

Player of the Match - Billy

Player of the Match: Billy. A towering display at the heart of defence and unlucky not to be rewarded with a goal.