Under 15 Panthers (pictured) had a home game against Shamrock. The girls lined up in an unfamiliar 4-3-3 formation but soon got into their groove with some great forward play. The defence and midfield looked solid and controlled the tempo of the game. A brace each for Saff and Lara and a fine finish from Mekenna meant that the Panthers recorded a 5-1 win over a team who currently sit 2 places above them in the table. The signs for the Panthers are encouraging and if they put a display in like that every week, they will soon climb the table.

GNP Panthers Under 12s made the short trip up the A444 to play Vision Athletic on Saturday morning looking to bounce back from last weekend’s defeat to Kingshurst. In a scrappy opening half Vision drew first blood with a shot high from the left, which flew in for a great goal. Panthers trailing at the break 1-0. Second period saw a different GNP, camped inside Vision territory for long periods. Avani came so close to the equaliser but shooting wide. Patience too broke from midfield and looked certain to score but another defensive block came as she pulled the trigger. It looked like it was going to be one of those days but with five minutes remaining Avneet broke down the left like only Avneet can, sending a delicious left foot cross into the six yard box which the keeper spilled with the lurking Faith smashing high into the net for a predatory finish for 1-1. It was end to end after that and for a moment it looked like the Panthers would be the ones to go on and win, but a swirling near post corner from Vision with a minute remaining somehow found the net which was so cruel on the Panthers, given their 2nd half grit and fight they showed to get back into the game. Sometimes you don’t get what you deserve in football, but the Panthers were a real credit to themselves and unfortunate to be on the wrong end of the scoreline today. Vision 2-1 GNP Panthers.

The Under 11 Panthers delivered an outstanding performance in glorious sunshine this weekend, securing a convincing win against Haunchwood in a terrific all round display from start to finish. The Panthers began the first half with real intent, showing enthusiasm and confidence from the opening whistle. An early warning came from Haunchwood, but Poppy was quick to react with a brilliant diving save. This set the tone for what would be an impressive display in goal, with Poppy later producing further brilliant saves. At the other end, Lily led the charge with a series of powerful efforts with Elizabeth alert to any follow-ups. The team’s communication and game control were excellent, creating sustained pressure in the Haunchwood half. A strong defensive triangle ensured control at the back, allowing the Panthers to press high. This pressure paid off when Roop made a swift run forward and delivered a perfect assist for Khloe, who finished superbly to give the Panthers a well-deserved lead going into halftime. The 2nd half continued in much the same fashion; The Panthers defied any Haunchwood pressure and soon extended their lead, with Avani providing a well-timed assist for Anya to slot home confidently. Roop remained a constant threat, unleashing a powerful shot that forced an excellent save from the opposition goalkeeper. Rhea then produced a brilliant solo run, narrowly missing the target, before later finding the net with a composed finish following a clever assist from Roop. The midfield battles were intense throughout, with Khloe, Hope, Lily, Jodh, and Rhea all working tirelessly both on and off the ball. Anaiya and Avani were solid in defence, combining strong tackling with confident ball distribution. Overall, it was a fantastic team performance, with every single Panthers player bringing their A-game. A well-earned and convincing victory capped off a brilliant match for the Panthers. Manager's PotM Anya. Parent's PotM Khloe.

Under 9 Panthers travelled away to Kenilworth Wardens on a bright, sunny morning for a closely contested match between two evenly matched teams. Panthers went into half-time trailing, despite a fantastic first-half goal from Siya. The team came out stronger in the second half, with Jackie scoring to bring Panthers back into the game, followed by a well-worked team goal finished by Abi. Shreya continued to impress in goal, making several important saves to keep Panthers in the match. Overall, the team showed great commitment, teamwork and determination, with the game finishing in a well-deserved draw.

SATURDAY – BOYS

GNP Under 7 Tigers took on SoccerRockz Saxons away at Daimler Green. The Tigers only had 5 players throughout the game so all the boys had to play every minute! The boys stepped up to the challenge and were brilliant! They played a brand new 2:2 formation but adapted superbly with Joban and Uday working together well at the back with David and Rehmat applying great pressure upfront. Despite the good start, SoccerRockz scored the only goal of the 1st quarter. In the 2nd period we had multiple shots, including efforts from Cameron and David which went wide, but finally the breakthrough arrived when David battled with his opponents, took a turn and hit a high shot past the keeper! Joban added a 2nd with a long distance strike and then Uday took a short kick in, evading 2 markers before hitting a direct long pass to Cameron; Cameron struck the crossbar from outside of the box, but David was there on the spot, ready to finish it off! The third quarter saw no goals from either side. Fortunately we had David in goal who made a few excellent saves. Joban was everywhere, keeping cool, helping to organise the team like a true captain, and he took a cheeky shot with the outside of his foot but the keeper was there to deny him. The final quarter was exciting and eventful; the boys showed brilliant determination to keep going despite no rest. Coaches kept tweaking the formation throughout the match to keep the boys fresh and make the most of different strengths in our team and the boys took the adjustments in their stride. Joban intercepted a SoccerRockz play ran forward with it and finished it off. Rehmat fed a pass to Joban, who was denied by the goalkeeper with his 1st effort, but followed up himself to score. They were even able to afford a missed penalty towards the end. Overall a fantastic match from all players so it was hard to decide the PotM, but Joban took the honours for his leadership throughout the game, his bravery after taking a couple of strong hits, and consistent high level of football!

Under 7 Lions hosted Copsewood Lions this weekend. Copsewood from the first kick showed their intentions for the match. Long kicks from their goalkeeper and overload the Lions box. This resulted in their first goal. The Lions hit back immediately, with Tommy scoring his first goal of the season against his former team. Copsewood, however, scored again, a carbon copy of their first goal, goalkeeper kicks the ball out of his hands into the Lions box, which a Copsewood player bundled over the line. Frustrating first half for the Lions who dominated possession and had many opportunities to score. For the second quarter, the Lions were given some tactical instructions to deal with the long ball into the box. Aarav in goal and Shivaay in defence followed these instructions perfectly to stifle the tactic. From this, GNP continued to play football, and the chances continued to come. First was a goal from Mikey assisted by Jeevan to equalise. Jeevan then went on to win a freekick, which he scored to give the Lions a lead at halftime. A great quarter from Jeevan. The third quarter, the Lions continued to dominate possession. Copsewood's game plan was handled well by Aathi in defence for this quarter. GNP were looking to extend their lead and there were lots of brilliant individual moments by the Lions, skipping past players, whilst the final decision to pass wasn't always taken, the Lions were enjoying themselves. The Lions did score in this quarter, Lucas played Aarav through, his shot was parried into Gian's path for a tap in. In the fourth quarter, the Lions created more chances, which they scored from. Harvansh took an opportunity to shoot from 12 yards out on the turn to surprise the Copsewood goalkeeper. Harvansh went on to score his second of the game, running through from a kick-in. Copsewood scored a late consolation goal, directly from a corner kick. A great team performance today, PotM today was Tommy, getting his first goal of the season and showing a great attitude throughout the match.

The Under 8 Tigers has their first game in a while at Finham vs Alvis Colts and hoped to start with a strong performance. They began the game with some strong attacks and it wasnt long before Akram fed the ball to Rhys who calmly struck the back of the net. Unfortunately defensively the team was slow to get going and through a lack of pressure and tracking back, Alvis were gifted some easy chances with wide open players able to slot home free chances. Rayan and Petru worked hard to limit the damage but unfortunately half time saw the team trailing. The 2nd half saw a more determined side start to take control of the game and put the pressure firmly back onto Alvis, coming within one goal and pressing hard to take something out of the game. But some great last gasp defending from the Colts managed to hold the Tigers off and see out the game. The boys put in a lot of effort for this game but were let down by some minor mistakes and a lack of collective defensive discipline. But that shouldn't take away from the overall performance; they played some lovely football with great passing moves and the lion’s share of the chances, that took three goal line saves and the goalpost to keep them from a result. Practicing and playing home games on 3/4g has left the boys looking a bit rusty on grass as well so hopefully when training returns to finham we'll start to see them judging the ball better and creating even more chances. Special shout out to Rayan who was not only his usual tackling machine, but also showed some wonderful composure to find the right pass forward. Goals for Rhys and Luca, assists for Akram, Naod and Taran. The team were unlucky this week, but with the talent we have the results will come.

Under 9 Jaguars hosted Upper Lighthorne for their third and final group game in the Trophy Event, and from the very first whistle the boys were electric. They dominated possession early on, moving the ball with confidence and intent. Lighthorne’s defence held firm for a while, but Emaad’s slick footwork eventually carved a way through and put the Jaguars ahead—impressively, only moments after coming on. That opener seemed to wake Lighthorne up, and they began pressing harder, but the Jaguars stayed composed and kept playing their football. Before the break, Theo whipped in a brilliant cross and Emaad was there again to finish it, giving the boys a well‑earned lead at half‑time after a first half full of attacking flair. The 2nd half brought a very different challenge. Lighthorne came out flying, stepped up their intensity and pulled one back. The game turned into a proper cup tie—end‑to‑end, full of grit, pressure and big moments. Lighthorne eventually found an equaliser, but the Jaguars refused to let their heads drop. Freddie stood tall in goal, making crucial stops and commanding his box brilliantly. The whole team dug deep, and with only minutes left, Isaac stepped up for a free kick just outside the box. His delivery was perfect, and Anwar timed his run to perfection, slotting home the winner the boys absolutely deserved. It was a performance full of effort, skill and determination. The attacking quality of the first half, the resilience in the second, and the way the boys listened, adapted and kept pushing showed real maturity. Anwar took POTM for his outstanding defensive tracking, clever positioning in attack and the match‑winning goal. Every single player should feel proud. A competitive victory, earned the hard way, and a brilliant display from the whole squad. Due to results elsewhere, the Jaguars may not have progressed in the cup this time, but their performance, attitude and teamwork were something to celebrate!

GNP Under 10 Pumas travelled to face Stratford Town knowing they were in for a tough match, with only seven players available and no substitutes. Despite the challenge, the Pumas started brightly, moving the ball with confidence and creating early chances. Ajeet came agonisingly close to opening the scoring, but it was Stratford who struck first with a superb long-range effort. Undeterred, the Pumas continued to push forward, showing real strength in attack but struggling to find the breakthrough. Their persistence paid off after the break, as Sunny peeled away from his defender and finished neatly to equalise. Just a minute later, Archie delivered another perfectly timed pass that split the defence, allowing Sunny to grab his 2nd and put the Pumas ahead. The momentum kept building, with excellent play starting from Eric which then found Yash and Zak, before Nirvair threaded a brilliant pass through the lines to find Sunny. Calm and composed, he completed a superb hat-trick. Stratford managed a late consolation. Every player worked tirelessly, showing determination and teamwork to earn a well-deserved result. PotM went to Sunny for his clinical finishing and excellent all-round display.

Under 10 Lions hosted Sky Blues in the Community Ospreys in the final group game in the spring trophy event. Tension was high as the previous encounter didn't go the Lions way. The boys kicked off strong pushing forward with determination. A great ball in from Veer enabled Sahib to put the Lions ahead in the first minute. The Lions remained relentless, creating multiple chances at goal under which the Ospreys buckled. Through continued pressure the Lions forced an own goal. The first half was rounded off with a slick finish from Ksawery putting the Lions in full control. The second half continued with the Lions maintaining control and keeping possession. With 10 minutes remaining the Ospreys got a brace of goals to ramp up the tension. But a solid defence and good attacking performance the boys stepped up to secure the win. An all round performance meant anyone could have been awarded POTM but Wahid snagged it with his last-minute tackles and clearances. Brilliant performance Lions!

GNP Under 10 Jaguars started strongly but fell behind to a well-taken goal from Wellesbourne Tigers. They responded well, and just before half-time Agam scored to make it 1–1. Knowing a win would secure a semi-final place, GNP pushed hard in the second half. Strong defending from Angad, Anshveer, Manveer, and Jake supported attacks led by Reggie and Agam. Reggie then put GNP ahead at 2–1. With only minutes left, fatigue set in and Wellesbourne equalised, ending the game 2–2. GNP won the penalty shootout 2–1, but unfortunately missed out on the semi-finals due to goal difference despite finishing unbeaten. Player of the Match: Anshveer, for his battling defensive performance and ability to support the team in multiple positions.

Under 13 Tigers visited SoccerRockz Triumph Stags in a Mid Warwickshire League Cup semi final tie. Uncharacteristically the boys started the game sloppy and lethargic and the hosts took advantage, bursting into a 4-1 lead by half time. GNP then grew into their game and showed some real drive, bringing the tie back to 4-3 and pushing hard for an equaliser. Chances came and went and SoccerRockz held on to advance to the Cup Final at the Tigers expense. Focus returns to League action next week with the aim of securing the Div 1 League title over the next few weeks.

SUNDAY – BOYS

Under 17s visited Division B League leaders Chapelfields Colts in an afternoon kick off on a pitch very familiar to them. Chapelfields took a 1-0 lead into half time but the GNP boys dug deep and put everything into winning their individual battles across the pitch. This eventually paid off when Archie B grabbed an equaliser, and then moments later the turnaround was complete with a decisive GNP goal giving us a 2-1 lead which we would not relinquish. A performance and result to be proud of and 3 points which keep hopes alive of a late promotion push!

Under 14 Tigers went into a tough League Cup Quarter Final tie vs tier 1 Rugby Borough Pumas with high hopes after taking Coventry Utd all the way in last week’s Nursing Cup Semi Final. Rugby proved to be a polished all-round outfit, taking an early lead from a corner routine before adding further goals coming from driving runs down GNP’s left flank, the 3rd goal a penalty when Iklil mistimed his tackle on the winger. However, they didn’t have it all their own way. Oscar struck the crossbar from a superb bending free kick and Ayden and MD were denied certain goals by some stupendous saves on 3 occasions by the former Tigers goalkeeper and PotM, Dhairya, in the Rugby goal. 3-0 felt like a very harsh scoreline at half time, so the boys were encouraged to believe that a comeback was possible. They put this belief into a tremendous defensive 2nd half performance but unfortunately were not able to recreate the attacking threat they showed in the 1st half. Eventually Rugby Pumas rounded off their win with 2 late goals to earn a deserved place in the Cup semi finals. PotM : Dylan for an all-action midfield display against tough opposition.

Under 14 Pumas

It was 1st V 2nd in Under 13s Div D, with the Under 13 Pumas entertaining top of the table Coventrians Phoenix. Pumas were missing a number of players in their toughest match of the season so far. An under-strength Pumas held their own for the first 25mins, and missed a couple of goal scoring opportunities. Coventrians Phoenix taking the lead, and then adding a 2nd straight from a corner kick. Early in the 2nd half, Coventrians added 2 quick goals again to put the game to bed. A battling Pumas pulled one back from Nathan Ngu before Coventrians Phoenix added a 5th. Pumas losing 5-1. The league title now looks a distant hope, but the Pumas remain in an almighty fight for the other promotion spot, with 6 teams separated by just 6 points!

GNP Under 12 Pumas visited Nuneaton Borough. The match began with Pumas on the back foot, conceding within the opening five minutes as Nuneaton Borough capitalised on a slow start to take a 1–0 lead. However, the early goal sparked a response, with Pumas gradually growing into the game and creating a number of chances. Both Lekan and Ziyaad came close as the pressure began to build. The equaliser eventually arrived through a well-worked move. Jaiden threaded a perfectly weighted through ball into Lekan, who showed composure in front of goal to fire home and bring GNP level. Momentum continued to swing in Pumas favour, and they soon took the lead. A corner was only partially cleared, falling to Jovan. His strike took a deflection off a defender, wrong-footing the goalkeeper and finding the net to make it 2–1. Puma’s carried their advantage into the 2nd half and wasted little time extending it. Early after the restart, Faris delivered an excellent pass to release Lekan, who calmly slotted home his second of the game. With confidence high, Puma’s continued to push forward, and Lekan completed his hat-trick to seal a dominant 4–1 win, capping off a fine individual performance and a strong team display after the early scare.

Under 12 Lions

Under 12 Tigers

Under 11 Tigers hosted Rugby Borough Tigers in their final trophy event game. Our Tigers started stronger, looking composed on the ball and especially dangerous on the wings, 5 mins in it was some smart wing play from Kiaan followed by a smart finish which gave GNP the lead. As we pressed for a second we were caught out by a quick throw, with Akaalvir off injured, we missed his pace at right back and we're exposed. Shortly after we conceded from a corner which managed to go past the front post. We continued to create chances with some good football from midfield. Coming out for the 2nd half we were confident of turning the game around, Jude and Harry especially looked menacing, however we disappointingly conceded an early goal. Undetered, our Tigers quickly scored two goals, a smart finish from Harry following a corner and then a beautiful chipped finish from Jude following a great defence-splitting pass from Harry, all of a sudden we were level. We continued to press forward, however some further lapses of concentration at the back led to two more goals, Harry then responded with some determined play before the away side grabbed another late on. It was an unfortunate result, however in parts a really pleasing performance and an excellent game to watch. PotM went to Jude for his super finish and positive wing play.

Under 10 Tigers were home against Christ the King (Greens). Tigers were dominant early doors with some fantastic passing and everyone looking confident on the ball. The breakthrough came with a brilliant assist from Arveer to Rajan who slotted home to break the deadlock 10 mins in. The opposition were awarded a well taken free kick and levelled the match. Ty came on from the bench and instantly impressed continuing his development. Half time came and the Tigers were reminded to remain patient and trust the process. Ollie was crucially called into action with 2 fine reaction saves which were simply amazing. Adam and Felix kept strong back in defence drawing the opposition towards them. This then allowed a counter attack with the ball being driven forward by Arveer who passed to PotM Veer, for a clinical one touch finish to take the lead. Veer once into the game, showed exactly what can be achieved by taking your chances and more importantly, creating them when off the ball. Rivan impressed during the match playing on the wing with the ability to drive forward. Patryk who also played on the wing, bringing great energy to assist the team. Both players assisted in keeping the Tigers on top. With the match evenly poised, a fantastic attacking move across the field with the ball moving from Rajan to Veer to Sahib who scored a well taken goal to secure the victory.

Under 9 Pumas were away to Warwick Stars. It looked like it would be an even contest, but as the first half went on, the opposition took advantage of some poor defending (as well as a very bobbly pitch), scoring three goals. Just before the break, we also conceded an own goal from a corner. We changed the formation for the second half and came out fighting. Pressing high up the pitch, we scored three goals in quick succession to get back into game, but we conceded another own goal from a corner. Despite pulling one back right at the end, it was a narrow defeat. The boys gave it everything; well done to Srihan for scoring a goal and to Hugh for scoring a fabulous hat trick!

Under 9 Lions played away against Brinklow Juniors. The boys had an intense match playing with no subs. We started on the back foot with two goals scored within the first 15 minutes by Brinklow. The Lions came back fighting in the second half as the team cohesion strengthened, the ball went wide and Aaron crossed in for Anwar to score the team’s first goal. Another goal came shortly after when Harvey took a shot from outside the box and it went through the opposition to find the net. Well done to the boys for their great teamwork and another great day for goalkeeper Balraj for keeping the home team’s attack at bay.

Under 9 Tigers