Poulton FC Triumphs Over Whitehaven AFC with a Thrilling Second-Half Performance

Poulton FC secured an exhilarating 4-2 victory over Whitehaven AFC in a dramatic home match held at Cottam Hall. The game, marked by intense action and remarkable teamwork, showcased Poulton’s resilience and determination as they turned the tide in the second half to secure the win.

First Half: A Cautious Start

The match kicked off with both teams displaying intention. However, Dan Smith received an elbow to the head in the 4th minute which unfortunately spelled the end of his day. Immediately a reshuffle of personnel was needed meaning some were playing in positions not familiar to themself. Whitehaven AFC was the first to threaten Poulton’s defence, with an early attempt that was denied by an offside call in the 24th minute. This close call served as a wake-up call for Poulton, who tightened their defence to create opportunities to attack.

Despite this, Poulton couldn’t get playing and after multiple unforced errors and lack of concentration, they found themselves trailing in the 33rd minute when Whitehaven managed to break through and a low cross was turned in by Matty Stafford after confusion in the box., Whitehaven take a 0-1 lead. The remainder of the first half saw both teams battling for control, but no further goals were scored before the half-time whistle.

Half-Time Score: Poulton FC 0-1 Whitehaven AFC

Second Half: Poulton FC’s Comeback

The second half began with renewed vigour from Poulton FC. In the 49th minute, Corey Harrison levelled the score with a fantastic goal, assisted by Noah Sawkins. This goal ignited the home crowd and boosted the team’s morale.

Poulton FC continued to press forward, and their persistence paid off in the 57th minute. Mitch Cheetham found the back of the net, assisted by Billy McKenna, giving Poulton a 2-1 lead. The momentum was firmly in Poulton’s favour, and they capitalized on it with previews of the football Poulton can play.

Just six minutes later, in the 63rd minute, Billy McKenna added his name to the scoresheet with a well-executed goal, thanks to another assist from Noah Sawkins. Poulton FC was now leading 3-1 and showing no signs of slowing down.

The 72nd minute saw Noah Sawkins, who had been instrumental throughout the match, scoring a goal of his own with an assist from Mitch Cheetham. This goal extended Poulton’s lead to 4-1, putting them in a commanding position.

Whitehaven AFC managed to pull one back in the 88th minute, making it 4-2. However, it was too little, too late, as Poulton FC’s solid defence held firm until the final whistle.

Full-Time Score: Poulton FC 4-2 Whitehaven AFC

Key Performances:

• Noah Sawkins: Played a pivotal role with two assists and a goal, showcasing his playmaking abilities and earning him the Man of the Match
• Corey Harrison: Scored the equaliser, setting the stage for Poulton’s comeback.
• Mitch Cheetham: Contributed with a goal and an assist, crucial to securing the lead.
• Billy McKenna: Scored one goal and provided an assist, underlining his versatility.

Post-Match Reflection:

In Manager Dale Azzopardi’s absence, Assistant Manager John Wigglesworth expressed immense pride in the team’s performance, particularly highlighting the second-half turnaround. “Where we went so wrong in the first half, we almost got so right in the second. We remembered our principles and how we have worked on our play and style and executed it without let-off in the second half. Our class showed as Whitehaven were unable to deal with it. Preservations to players for Tuesday’s game inevitably halted any further damage to Whitehaven’s goal but a satisfactory second half and well deserved 3 points.”

Poulton FC’s victory against Whitehaven AFC is a testament to their hard work and commitment. With this win, Poulton FC continues to build momentum, and fans eagerly await the next match at Cottam Hall.

Next Match:

Poulton FC will face Fulwood Amateurs at Cottam Hall on Tuesday 6^th August. Let’s continue to support our team as they strive for more victories!