Another bumper week of football with Spring Trophy Events in full flow for the younger age groups and Boys Cup competitions reaching their final stages with GNP interest still very much alive! Congratulations to our U13 Tigers who edged out Hillmorton to reach the Mid Warwickshire League Cup Semi Finals, and commiserations to the U14 Tigers who took favourites Coventry United all the way before losing out 3-2 to 2 goals late on in the Bedworth Nursing Cup. This was a semi final tie so devastating for the lads to miss out on a Cup Final after such a strong showing!
Well done to the U14 Panthers girls who won away with some great goals, and to the Under 17 and Under 12 Pumas boys who kept up the push towards the top end of their respective league tables. Our Jaguars teams at Under 9 and Under 10 go into the final week of their Trophy Event group stage with live chances to qualify for the knockout stages next week as they both stayed right in contention.

SATURDAY – GIRLS

Under 15 Panthers

GNP Under 14 Panthers’ match against Hillfields FC unfolded under bright Saturday sunshine, with a cool breeze and blue skies setting the scene. Jah’Dae set the early tempo with direct running and the first shot on goal, then worked tirelessly up and down the wing, including a brilliant recovery run to shut down a counterattack. Sustained pressure produced a string of corners, and after several attempts through a crowded defence, Mankirat finally broke the deadlock with a composed low finish. Rose then took control in midfield, linking sharply with Hannah and Lizzy and unleashing two powerful long‑range efforts—one sailing over the keeper to make it 2–0. A brief lapse just before half-time gifted Hillfields a simple tap‑in, but the Panthers regrouped well after the break. Orna stepped into defence with calm authority, breaking up attacks and clearing danger, supported by Koko’s confident goalkeeping. Lilly‑Rose, Maya, Anaya and Dhanroop added strength and flair, while Ekham delivered key defensive moments, including a volleyed clearance off the goal line and several big clearances to release the midfield trio. Hannah, Lizzy and Rose kept the tempo high with crisp passing and constant pressure, allowing Mankirat to keep testing the defence. Rose then struck again with her trademark long‑range finish to restore the 3–1 cushion. With the defensive line holding firm on the halfway line and most of the match played in Hillfields’ half, the Panthers closed out a dominant display—capped by Rose’s final lofty effort that beat the keeper but dropped just over the bar moments before full‑time.

GNP Panthers Under 12s hosted Kingshurst on Saturday morning fresh off the back of last weekends win over Cov Utd. It was Kingshurst who were the better team in the opening exchanges with physical, but fair play and they broke the deadlock after 15 minutes from a shot from range. They added a second shortly before the break to take a 0-2 lead in half time. Second period the Panthers played with a bit more urgency with Patience everywhere in midfield driving them up the pitch. GNP pulled one back when Faith made a tackle on the edge of the box and the ball fell to Suvreet who finished well from 6 yards. 1-2 and back in the game and in the ascendancy, it was all to play for. But a cantankerous back pass that looked like a clearance led to a free kick on GNP's penalty spot and was dispatched for 3-1 Kingshurst, to take the wind out of Panthers’ sails. Another was added shortly after to make it 4-1. Avneet pulled one back with a nice shot but Kingshurst added a fifth, five minutes from time to seal the deal. Panthers not quite at the races today. Final score: GNP 2-5 Kingshurst.

The Under 11 Panthers began the match at SoccerRockz with real determination, immediately showing attacking intent and pushing forward with confidence. Early pressure saw GNP testing the opposition defence. Jodh thought she had given the Panthers the lead after finishing a lively attacking move, but the celebrations were cut short when the goal was ruled out. The Panthers, however, continued to press and were soon rewarded when Lily stepped up to take a free kick and delivered a perfectly placed ball into the area. Hope reacted quickly and finished calmly, giving the Panthers a deserved lead. Soon after, the opposition unleashed a powerful strike towards the corner of the goal, only to be denied by an incredible diving save from Poppy. Straight away, SoccerRockz delivered a dangerous corner. The ball flashed across the goal, struck the left post and dropped perfectly into the net for a goal. The Panthers midfield triangle proved formidable; Avneet played a fantastic game, reading the play well and controlling the tempo; Jodh and Hope worked tirelessly, repeatedly thwarting SoccerRockz with determined tackles and clever passing to move the Panthers forward. Aish, Khloe & Elizabeth were denied as GNP continued to push forward. However, a huge kick from the halfway line later caught the Panthers’ defence off guard, resulting in a scrappy finish at the goalmouth for SoccerRockz. Poppy responded brilliantly, staying alert and producing an important save before half time. The 2nd half continued at a high tempo. Roop and Khloe both had strong attempts on goal, while Poppy produced a string of outstanding saves, including three from corners and another remarkable diving stop. The girls continued to push to the final whistle but it wasn’t to be. Jodh was awarded the Parent's PotM award and Poppy the Manager's PotM.

Under 9 Panthers travelled away to face Atherstone Rangers and started the game with great energy, pressing well and linking up with some excellent passing moves from the outset. Abigail was in great form in the first half, scoring five goals to give the Panthers a commanding lead. Mihar then added another with a clinical finish, followed by a goal from Siya. At the other end, Shreya made a couple of superb saves to keep Panthers firmly in control. The 2nd half continued in much the same way, with Panthers creating plenty of chances. Shreya got on the scoresheet, before Mihar added another impressive hat-trick. Shreya then finished the scoring with Panthers’ final goal of the match. The team played with confidence and determination throughout the match, showing excellent teamwork and a real willingness to support one another across the pitch. Their passing, movement, and communication reflected how much they are developing as a group, with players working hard for each other both in attack and defence. It was great to see their growing understanding of the game, as well as their resilience and positive attitude from start to finish.

SATURDAY – BOYS

GNP Under 13 Tigers produced a solid performance against Hillmorton in the quarter-finals of the Mid Warwickshire League Cup to secure their place in next week’s semi-finals. Josiah grabbed one goal and Muhamadou added two, as GNP were twice pegged back in a tightly contested match. With neither side willing to lose, it was end-to-end football throughout on a soft pitch. The Tigers now head into the semi-finals after knocking out second favourites, currently sitting 2nd in Division 1. Final Score: GNP Tigers 3 – 2 Hillmorton

Under 10 Pumas played away against Coundon Court in a Trophy Event group match. The Pumas started strongly and quickly found their rhythm. Some excellent passing from midfield created early chances for Harvey, but he was denied by some outstanding goalkeeping. The Pumas continued to test the keeper but were unable to find the back of the net. Against the run of play, a long-range strike put the Pumas behind. Much like the 1st half, the Pumas maintained the majority of possession and continued to play attacking football, but they were again denied by a goalkeeper in outstanding form. Jenson was awarded Player of the Match for a determined and hardworking performance in midfield. The match had a penalty shootout at the end, which the Pumas won convincingly. The Pumas showed great football, teamwork, and determination throughout and were unfortunate not to have reflected their performance in the scoreline.

GNP Under 10 Jaguars produced a determined performance to secure a hard-fought victory against Lawford Utd in an exciting match filled with goals, resilience and a standout individual display. The game began with Lawford taking an early lead. Their attacker managed to break through the Jaguars defence, using his strength to power past the back line before finishing well to put the visitors ahead. Jaguars responded positively and began to apply pressure going forward. Their persistence paid off when Angad struck an effort that took a deflection, with the ball hitting Agam and finding its way into the net to bring the Jaguars level. The Jaguars continued pushing for another goal before the break and came close on several occasions, but Lawford’s goalkeeper produced a number of important saves to keep the scores level. Just before half-time, Lawford struck again on the counter attack, finishing clinically to restore their lead heading into the break. After the interval, the Jaguars made a few changes which helped shift the momentum of the match. Reggie stepped up with an outstanding performance, scoring a sensational 2nd-half hat-trick to turn the game around. Despite Lawford Utd managing to score once in the 2nd half, the Jaguars’ attacking drive proved too strong as they secured the win. Player of the Match: Reggie – for his determination in playing through an injury and delivering an incredible 2nd-half hat-trick that inspired the comeback victory.
Under 10 Lions played away in another Trophy event group game. The Lions made a very strong start pressing high into the opponents half. With Veer and Nikhil dominating the wings the Lions created multiple chances. Their efforts were rewarded when Nikhil effortlessly slotted home at the back post. The Lions onslaught continued but they were unable to build their lead. Khalsa caught the Lions on the back foot with a series of goals as well as an unfortunate own goal. Fakhir arrived with fresh legs and renewed determination narrowing the gap just before half time. The 2nd half saw the Lions continue pressing the opposition. Yuvraaj created further chances, lobbing the keeper from outside the penalty box to equalise. Unfortunately the opposition then scored further goals from a free kick as well as a penalty in the final 5 minutes to win the game. Sehaj was awarded PotM for his great efforts in goal. Unfortunate end given the boys efforts.

The Under 9 Jaguars were at home for a cup game against Rugby Borough Colts. The Jaguars put in a brilliant performance from the very first whistle. We moved the ball confidently, created a stack of chances and looked the stronger side throughout. Isaac’s well‑taken goal was fully deserved, and we went in at 1–1 at half‑time, very much on top and playing the better football. The 2nd half followed the same pattern: pressure, possession and plenty of shots, but it was one of those frustrating days where the ball simply wouldn’t cross the line. Their goals came from an unfortunate OG and a soft second ball after Freddie had already made a superb save. What mattered most was the boys’ attitude — they never let their heads drop and kept pushing right to the end. Across the pitch there were huge positives. At the back, Bobby, Theo and Stan were strong and composed, with Bobby earning PoTM for his superb defensive work and forward passing. Freddie backed them up brilliantly with safe hands, sharp distribution and that outstanding goal‑line save. In midfield, Emaad, Mithun and Leo worked tirelessly, mixing skill with graft and constantly driving us forward. Out wide and up top, Varun and Anwar caused real problems, beating their men, getting shots away and keeping the pressure on, while Isaac led the line superbly with his goal and relentless work rate. The boys can be incredibly proud of the football they played today. We dominated large spells, created the better chances and showed real heart from start to finish — it was simply a game where the scoreline didn’t reflect the performance.

The Under 8 Lions (pictured) had their Trophy event group stage this week and the boys put in a fantastic effort throughout the event. Lions vs Alvis: The boys started strongly, taking an early two-goal lead with Theo adding two more to his season tally. He has been on fire in front of goal over the past few weeks. Thomas was steady as a rock at centre back, picking out great passes to Elliott on the wing who drove forward looking to create chances for his teammates. Sahib worked tirelessly, putting constant pressure on the opposition. Alvis managed to pull themselves back into the game with two late goals, meaning the match ended all square. GNP win the penalty shootout. Lions vs Vision: Coming up against the strongest team in the group stage, Vision showed their quality by going 2–0 up in the first five minutes. Luca, who had an amazing game, scored his first goal of the season after a brilliant run past the defenders to bring the boys back into the match. Unfortunately, a mix-up at the back allowed Vision to add another goal. The boys were unlucky to come away with a loss, but the performance was outstanding. GNP once again won the penalty shootout. Lions vs Rugby: This was a must-win match for the Lions and they came out roaring from the start. Thomas, now in goal, made some excellent clearances. Jagraaj on the right wing tracked back every time the opposition attacked down his side, always ready to put in a challenge. Elliott stood tall and strong at the back, keeping things calm for the team. Some great attacking play from Theo and Dhillan led to Dhillan scoring two excellent goals with quality finishing and his usual pressing from the front. GNP win the penalty shootout. Lions vs Lawford United: The Lions showed great energy and teamwork from the very start. An excellent pass from Theo set up Dhillan for the opening goal. Then came the goal of the tournament – Theo to Dhillan, who spotted Sahib in the box, and Sahib finished brilliantly for a well-deserved goal. Dhillan found himself in the box again to score his second of the game. Elliott remained solid at centre back, not letting anyone past him and helping secure another clean sheet. Theo added another goal for his great performance. The parents went wild when Evan found space and finished coolly to score his first goal of the season! Luca added another goal to cap off a fantastic team performance. GNP finished the game by winning yet another penalty shootout. Well done to the Lions for showing great resilience throughout the day. In every game they kept going, never giving up. It was fantastic to see them working together and playing as a team.

The Under 8 Tigers travelled to Warwick for their Spring Trophy Event, a morning of non-stop football. With four back to back matches to play the coaches were keen to keep the boys warm, fresh legs on the pitch and give all the team maximum minutes experience against some of the best teams they've played. They started strong against RC Warwick, taking the lead but Warwick pounced on a weak clearance to level before a goal line clearance was judged to have crossed the line and cost GNP the game. Match 2 saw the team give a more assured performance against Panjab Athletic with some good defensive play and nicely worked moves up the field. There were good chances at either end but PA took advantage of the tiny goal area to clinically slot any 1v1s away and come away winners. By game 3, the boys were getting into a groove and playing Copsewood Lions. With a strong all round performance the boys scored two, kept a clean sheet and came out comfortable winners. Game 4 was against Exhall who were full of confidence and trying to win the group. The boys came out strong and took the lead but a relentless Exhall put constant pressure on the team and were more alert at crucial moments to put the game out of reach of GNP. The boys tried hard today in demanding circumstances with no break between games. But they all tried their best and had great moments which they can be proud of. The highlight of the day was scoring their best goal against the strongest opponent with a Naod interception, Petru went in strong to win the resulting rebound and put in a quick cross which was wisely left by Akram ready for Luca to slot home - Quality stuff! The goalkeepers also did well today with the tiny area giving them little room to command; Indeed the goalkeepers helped the boys win all four of their penalty shoot outs. Goals came from Rhys and Luca. Assists from Petru and Milkias. Not the end result we hoped for going into the day but a great experience and the boys seemed to have a lot of fun on and off the pitch which is great to see!

Under 7 Lions hosted Coventry United this weekend. The Lions had only 5 players available for the game, so no substitutes. The Lions played brilliantly in the first quarter. It wasn't long before Lucas scored the opening goal, a superb individual effort from the left wing cutting in to score. That was quickly followed by Gian, Harvansh played Gian through who battled through two defenders and slotted the ball into the net. The 2nd quarter was similar. The Lions had plenty of possession and threatened the Coventy United goal at will. Aathi found Gian, who made his way past the opponents and found the corner for his 2nd. And then from a kick-in, Gian went on to score his hat trick with a great strike that clipped the post. In the 3rd quarter, United started to find their rhythm, and neither team created many chances. United dialled up their physicality, which resulted in a stop-start period of play. The Lions did score in this quarter, Aarav took an excellent corner, and Harvansh was perfectly placed to score his 2nd goal of the season. The final quarter was the most competitive, and United started to create chances. The Lions were tiring, having played the game with no substitutes, United scored despite Lucas' efforts in goal, who made an incredible save earlier, drawing applause from everyone watching. A superb team performance and some tired legs at the end. Efforts were faultless. POTM was given to Harvansh for his effort and attitude. Todays game was very physical, and his natural game really supported the Lions' dominant performance.

GNP Under 7 Tigers took on Rugby Borough Pumas at home on a bright morning. The Tigers got into their groove early on which was great to see as this is something we’ve been wanting to see from the boys. Tigers got an early goal with Cameron receiving the ball in the box and finishing nicely. Tobias has a solid start in defense, covering well and pushing up the field confidently. The 2nd goal came from a corner from Cameron with Rehmat knocking it into goal. In the 2nd quarter GNP kept up the pressure. Tobias ended up in the Rugby Borough half near the left hand corner, crossed it in beautifully and Marsels got on the end of it to score, post and in. The match then went into PowerPlay and Rugby Borough gained a player. The boys' communication continued to be great as they organised themselves. David and Tobias combined well in the box for Tobias’ 1st goal. Tobias scored a second goal using some determined and skilled individual play. Shout out to Uday in goal too as it isn't his favourite position and he has a great quarter. Rugby Borough started strong in the third quarter and scored from a fantastic long range free kick before adding another from further pressure. The final quarter saw the Tigers switching it back on and Joban scored a hat-trick. The first was a very early goal where Joban stole the ball, took on two players to score. Cameron then made a long cross into the box which Joban received, and continuing strong play saw the third. Tobias was calm and collected in goal with great hands and thoughtful passes out from the back. The Player of the Match was decided by both GNP and Rugby Borough to be Rehmat. He was continuously working hard in whatever position he was in and showed great footwork both stealing and playing the ball.

SUNDAY – BOYS

The Under 17s hosted Leamington Foundation for only their second game in 3 months, hoping to build a run of form. We started at a high tempo and got an early lead through some brilliant footwork from Dylan, beating his man on the left and slotting it on a plate through to Archie W, who was never going to miss from that range. Leamington got a lucky equaliser soon after but the boys did not give up. The back four defended very well, with Zaid and Jatin playing out of position but doing well to neutralise any wide threat. Eben and Arjun solid too, reading the game well and being direct with their clearances. This led to a goal from Skipper Archie B after some great hassling of their centre half. Leamington equalised again soon after, but continued direct football led to the skipper’s second of the game. Leamington managed to equalise again, going into the break at 3-3. The boys continued to show desire in the second half, goalkeeper Lewis doing well to keep us in the game but the deadlock was finally broken after a quick throw to Ajay. A beautiful guided first touch with his chest set him up for a great volley from the edge of the box to put us ahead. All of our subs made great impact from the bench to keep the intensity, and we finished the game off with a goal from Sai, well deserved after an impressive shift from him. +3 on the board and a happy Sunday for all.

Under 14 Tigers hosted unbeaten top Division A side Coventry United Red in a crucial Bedworth Nursing Cup Semi Final tie at Finham. We knew the opposition well from our previous stint in the top tier and exactly what they were capable of. The boys however came in confident, also unbeaten so far this season and buoyant after a momentous cup double last weekend. They took the game to United with the midfield dominating and MD striking fear into the backline. The defence were also making great use of the offside trap to frustrate the visitors. Oscar came close following a corner when his high cross bounced onto the top of the bar, but Wiktor also had to be alert with a fantastic 1v1 save. United took the lead against the run of play when a long free kick was whipped in. Wiktor spilled the ball and the tall centre back was first on the scene to calmly knock it into the net. GNP responded immediately. Oscar combined with Saavun on the left; Saavun then executed a trademark chip which beat the keeper but rebounded off the crossbar; however Ayden was on hand to react first and return the ball into the back of the net with interest with a vicious volleyed finish from 12 yards! 1-1 at half time and GNP feeling comfortable. The pattern continued 2nd half and GNP took the lead to the delight of the crowd when Saavun floated in a beautiful corner for MD to rise and head home at the far post. Cov United had to react and did so, having their best spell of the game, forcing 2 further superb saves from Wiktor and a series of corners which were delivered with pace and accuracy time and time again. These corners proved to be decisive with Cov United scoring from a rebound to equalise after the initial ball wasn’t cleared. A carbon copy with 9 mins left on the clock then saw them take the lead. GNP still created chances of their own during this spell with MD’s solo run culminating in a shot over the bar but sadly, it wasn’t to be, despite a heroic effort from the whole Tigers squad. The team today delivered a real statement of intent, showing how far they have progressed over the last 12 months, and proving themselves to be a force to be reckoned with at the highest level. PotM: Wiktor for a superb shot-stopping performance.

GNP Under 14 Pumas were at home to Coventry Saracens who only managed to field 8 players, however they are currently 2nd in the league and a very dangerous team. Pumas also had a few absentees 4 in total, with CB George stepping up and putting the goalie shirt on. The game started very well for GNP with Striker Sean breaking through and getting a shot away then scoring with the rebound to put Pumas 1-0 up in the first few minutes. The conditions were very bad with strong swirling winds all leading to a bit of confusion within the Pumas but nevertheless GNP pushed on with Abdul slotting home making it 2-0. Saracens tried fighting back and put pressure on Pumas who looked shaky for a period, which led to a few half chances. A solid defence of Jacob, William, Dom and Milad were able to deal with everything Saracens tried and Pumas went into halftime 2-0 up. GNP were playing against the wind in the second half and Saracens goal kicks and long ball tactics started to really worry Pumas but they still managed to keep the ball on the ground and play some nice football, getting the ball wide and working the channels with Corbyn bursting through on many occasions and eventually making it 3-0. Although the long balls gave Saracens a few dangerous chances, Pumas kept pushing adding a 4th, 5th, then 6th goal with Sean, Abdul and Corbyn all grabbing braces. A huge win for GNP Pumas to get them out of the relegation zone!

Under 14 Lions visited Southam United on their 1st team pitch looking forward to building on a fine performance last weekend. Unfortunately, a sudden change in weather conditions made it a very difficult afternoon for both teams, with the wind gusting and intermittent rain throughout the game. Southam adapted much better to the conditions and took a deserved lead in the 1st half despite playing into the wind. It could have been worse but for a wordlie double save from Keeper Daniel. GNP failed to capitalise on having the wind advantage in a very disappointing 1st half. The boys reacted well to a stern half time team talk and had the best of the opening 5 or 10 2nd half minutes. Chances were being created with Emmanuel and Yuvraj prominent in our attacking threat. The goalkeeper came to Southam’s rescue with a couple of fine saves but could do nothing when Emmanuel converted from the spot after being hauled down in the box. A deserved goal for Emmanuel, giving GNP hope of a comeback. Unfortunately for the majority of the remaining time, the Lions struggled to break out of their own quarter of the field. The wind and a determined Southam team kept the ball pinned in and around the GNP penalty area. It was from a GNP goal kick that Southam took the lead with a charged down clearance ricocheting wildly with wind assistance past Daniel and into the back of the net. Mario had a chance to equalise on the counter attack but shot high and wide in a 1v1 thanks to a nasty bobble. It proved a costly miss as Southam then extended their lead to 3-1 and finally 4-1 through a well taken run and finish from the winger, and then a low drilled free kick which seemed to go straight through our defensive wall. A day to forget for the Lions; they need to bounce back immediately next week at Coventrians Phoenix.

GNP Pumas Under 12 v Stratford Colts. The game was a crucial league encounter which the Pumas started slow, conceding three goals early on, but a defensive rethink sparked a stunning turnaround. Faris, Jaiden and Lekan rattled Stratford's defence, hitting the post and crossbar, and the Pumas' pressure paid off, and they got their first. Lekan led the charge, bagging five goals, including a moment of magic from outside the box and Ziyyad with a neat assist. The Pumas went into halftime 5-3 up. The Pumas' defence held strong in the second half, with Faris, Ruben and Jovan breaking up Stratford's attacks. Lekan added three more goals, including one assisted by Mason, to seal the win. Despite Stratford missing a penalty and then scoring a fourth, the Pumas held on to their lead. A fantastic comeback win to leapfrog 2nd-placed Stratford, and it makes the promotion push a seriously close call! What a game!

The GNP Under 12 Lions faced Alvis this week in Division A – a fixture that is always competitive and played with the right attitude by both teams. Alvis started the stronger side, controlling possession early on and creating several chances. Their pressure paid off with an early goal following a GNP mistake. The Lions gradually worked their way into the game and created a few good opportunities but were unable to find the finish. Alvis then added a second goal before half time to make it 2–0. GNP came out for the second half with great commitment and created a number of chances that could have made it 2–1 and set up an interesting finish. However, Alvis found a third goal which ultimately settled the match. Despite the result, the Lions continued to battle until the final whistle. Man of the Match went to Arjun Sumal, who showed great character by significantly improving his performance in the 2nd half.

Under 12 Tigers

Under 11 Tigers hosted Bulkington Vipers in their 3rd trophy event match. The game started evenly with both sides struggling to stamp authority on the game. Following a corner the away side took the lead as the Tigers struggled to clear. Soon after the Tigers conceded more goals as corners became a problem. Following some smart work from Jude, Harry raced away only see his shot saved, Chimdubem was on hand to tap in. In the second half the Tigers came out in a more attacking formation; they started to get more joy going forward but couldn't keep the away team quiet. Jai scored a late consolation after some good wing play. It was a tough day for the Tigers in difficult conditions and missing a few key players. PotM went to Dharam for his intelligent use of the ball and determined approach throughout.

Under 10 Tigers

The Under 9 Pumas had an early start, welcoming Coventry Copsewood for a home game on a sunny day. The boys were out of the blocks quick and took the game to the opposition, and both teams traded shots in the first half. The opposition scored two goals which were both the result of unlucky deflections in the box. However, our goalkeeper Jodhbeer and defensive partnership of Jwad and Arjan made sure we didn’t concede more. In the second half, we pressed further up the pitch, and a long goal kick led to Srihan beautifully lobbing the keeper which got us back in the game. Soon after, a lovely through ball by Hugh and a jinking run by Aarush led him to score the equaliser. It was a great comeback by the Pumas and a brilliant performance by both teams, either of whom could have nicked it. In the end, the draw was a fair result.

Under 9 Tigers