A cut-down programme of action this weekend with the Coventry & Warwickshire Youth League taking its half term break, but an important one nevertheless, with Under 9 and Under 14 Panthers both facing important knockout cup ties!

SATURDAY – GIRLS

The Under 9 Panthers hosted their cup semi-final on a cold and rainy morning, but the weather did little to dampen their spirit. The team started brightly, showing real determination from the first whistle. Their early pressure paid off when Abi found the back of the net within the first ten minutes, giving the Panthers a deserved lead. The rest of the first half was fiercely contested, with both sides creating chances. Despite some relentless attacks from the opposition, Shreya produced a string of outstanding saves to keep the Panthers in the game. The half ended level at 1–1, setting up a tense 2nd period. After the break, the Panthers continued to work hard, but the opposition managed to edge ahead with two well-taken goals. Despite the final scoreline not going their way, the team never stopped fighting and showed fantastic teamwork and effort throughout. There were many positives to take from the performance: Siya was brilliant, battling for every ball and leading by example. Tanaya stood firm in defence, making some crucial interventions. Jasmine was lively and full of energy, constantly finding space and keeping the pressure on. Jaye remained composed and reliable, while Mihar and Abi created some great opportunities up front. Shreya continued her wonderful form in goal. It was a brave and committed performance from the whole team, reflecting the progress they’ve made this season. Attention now turns back to the league next weekend — with plenty of positives to build on.

Leafield Athletic Lionesses vs GNP Under 11 Panthers. The Panthers returned to league action full of confidence after a strong showing in their recent trophy event. Building on their recent form, the Panthers started brightly, showing bravery on the ball and excellent passing combinations across the pitch. Lily provided a solid presence in defence, allowing the attacking players to express themselves and push forward with confidence. Despite tricky weather conditions, the Panthers produced some fantastic football in the 1st half, demonstrating the decision-making and teamwork they’ve been developing in training. Avani, Lily, and Hope were calm and composed at the back, while Anaiya’s willingness to take on defenders, Elizabeth’s clever linking play, and the intelligent runs of Khloe and Roop continually tested the Leafield Athletic back line. Both teams battled evenly in midfield, with Poppy making several excellent saves to keep her team in the game. The Panthers created a number of chances through quick passing moves and long-range efforts from Roop and Khloe that were unlucky not to find the net. Just before half-time, Leafield took advantage of a quick counterattack, finishing clinically to take a one goal lead into the break. In the 2nd half, Khloe moved further forward in search of an equaliser, supported by energetic play from Avani and Rhea, who linked up well with the midfield. The Panthers continued to work hard but, despite their efforts, Leafield managed to add to their lead with some well-taken long-range goals that were difficult to stop. The final scoreline didn’t reflect how close and competitive the match was. Both teams played with great intensity and skill, and the opposition themselves acknowledged the Panthers’ strong performance. This was another encouraging display from the Panthers to take into their upcoming programme.

GNP Under 14 Panthers faced a cup tie against, Knowle, a very good team, who are undefeated in the league division above. Panthers started off a little slower than they have in previous games and were second to a lot of the balls. That being said, there wasn’t too much in the first half in terms of chances. The opening goal was a wake up call for our girls and we got a great equaliser through Jah’Dae. We nearly went in to half time with the lead, Lizzy doing well to get her shot off and very unlucky from a tight angle. Although we finished the 2nd half very strong and pressed well, the girls started the 2nd period slower, which allowed Knowle to grow in to the game. Orna made some great saves in goal to keep Panthers level. However, a few quick goals sealed the game in treacherous rain for Knowle. The Panthers fought until the end and created some good chances but it wasn’t to be today. Panthers will return focus to the league where they are currently sitting pretty, with 4 wins from 4.

Under 15 Panthers lost 1-3 at home to Coventrians in league action. The hosts struggled to get into a rhythm in the first 25 minutes but the performance improved once they’d woken up. The Panthers lined up without their recognised goalkeeper and strikers and as such several players played out of position. Charu deputised in goal and put in a solid display coming up against some strong challenges by the opposition attackers. Lara moved from defence to attack and put in an encouraging display causing the oppositions back line some problems with her pace and scored the Panthers goal with a neat finish.

SATURDAY – BOYS

Under 10 Jagaurs played away against Balsall & Berkswell Hornets. From the first whistle, the Jaguars came out attacking with real intent. Reggie opened the scoring after some great link-up play with Agam, before Jake doubled the lead to give the team an early cushion. The Hornets managed to pull one back before the break. The Jaguars started the 2nd half with even more energy and determination. Jake added his 2nd of the game to restore the two-goal advantage, but the Hornets quickly replied with a goal of their own. Brandon then extended the lead again, finishing off a well-placed cross from Reggie. With momentum firmly on their side, the Jaguars took full control of the game. Agam stole the show with a superb hat-trick, capping off his performance with a goal with the very last kick of the match. Player of the match was Reggie — for his outstanding all-round performance, showing great determination to track back and help defend, while also contributing the most assists and getting himself on the scoresheet. A brilliant attacking display and a well-deserved result!

Having previously edged Warwick Juniors in a close contest, the Under 10 Lions headed into this weekend’s match with confidence. The boys started brightly, dominating possession and pushing forward with intent. However, despite creating multiple chances, poor passing and mistimed runs meant we couldn’t convert our early pressure into goals. Warwick capitalised on their opportunities, and while the final score didn’t reflect the effort, there were plenty of positives to take away. Manroop and Arjun were formidable at the back, breaking up attacks and keeping the defensive line strong. Kswaery impressed with his pace and determination down the wing, while Fakhir battled tirelessly in midfield, never giving up on a challenge. Though the team didn’t quite gel today, individual performances shone through. PotM went to Giyaan for his strong, composed display and relentless effort throughout the game. Heads held high, Lions—we learn, we grow, and we go again!