A weekend with some really positive results & performances across the board! Under 12 Tigers and Under 16s Boys moved a big step closer to winning their respective league titles with important victories on their travels. Sadly the Under 10 Panthers bowed out bravely from the Girls Trophy Event at the Q Final stage after a tremendous run to date!

SATURDAY - GIRLS

Under 13 Panthers were away to Shamrock. Panthers were on the attack straight away and some amazing runs by the attackers. After several chances, Mankirat finally broke the deadlock and the defence broke down any attack offered by Shamrock. Orna was always ready for any long ball played through and looked assured, even when not called upon regularly. 1-0 at Half Time and the second half brought more of the same with more attacking play by the Panthers. Lizzie, Hannah and Nimrut created some great chances but couldn’t quite the find back of the net. Mankirat scored another to provide a 2-0 goal cushion before Shamrock got 1 goal back 5 minutes from full time. Full time result 2-1 to the Panthers.

GNP Under 11 Panthers vs Hollyfields Girls. Panthers came out fighting this weekend with a convincing performance and result against Hollyfield. After last weekends undeserved result at Redditch, the Panthers from the off were pressing every loose ball, solid at the back throughout. Sheena in defence once again proving a rock when called upon. Avneet opened the scoring with a well timed run and finishing with aplomb. Avneet added another shortly after with a powerful near post shot, the keeper couldn't keep out. Faith was next up to press the ball from half way beating 2 players and sending a beautiful shot from 20 plus yards into the top corner with the keeper helpless. The Panthers going in at half time in control. The second half was much the same as the first with a high energy press from the Panthers. Good work from Faith down the wing to supply a lovely cross to find Suvreet in the right place at the right time who slotted home well. Next up a good shot from Tino was parried to the tireless, hard-working Avani, with her first goal for the club, finishing well from close range. Suvreet then added another, slotting home nicely when clean through one on one with the keeper. A return to form today for the Panthers girls, showing just what they're made of!

GNP Under 10 Panthers hosted Coventry Sphinx U10 in the Quarter Finals of the Trophy Event. A tough Cup draw pitted them against higher tier Sphinx . In the first half, the team played with spirit and determination. Positive intent along with skilled tackling and passing on both sides made for a fast pace and many Sphinx goal attempts. They converted 2 of these into goals in the 1st half. The second half was smattered with moments of GNP brilliance with several runs and passing moves, which almost made it through. But Sphinx were clearly the stronger side, making the Panthers defence work seriously hard! Goalkeeper Poppy had to be on her toes tipping one above the bar and using her knees on one occasion to deflect the ball away from goal. A hard fought game and no shortage of effort, teamwork & spirit from GNP, but Sphinx prevailed with further 2nd half goals. Great work girls!

The Under 8 Panthers travelled away to face a determined Arden Forest side. We started brightly, showing good structure and teamwork, but found it challenging to maintain momentum as the game went on, ultimately falling short on the scoreboard. Despite the result, the girls gave it their all, with a standout moment in the second half as Siya found the back of the net with a fantastic goal. The encouragement from our travelling supporters – parents and families alike – was brilliant and gave the team a real boost. As we approach a well-deserved Easter break, we’re proud of the progress so far and excited to keep growing and improving together.

SATURDAY - BOYS

GNP Sports Under 12 Tigers took on Leamington Brakes in a top of the table clash with the league title for both teams on the line. Leamington started off very strong and created some superb chances and were only denied by fine saves from Jenson in goals. As the first half progressed, GNP countered with a clinical attack, coolly finished off by Muhamadou. The 2nd half opened with GNP yet again feeling the pressure from a Leamington attack. GNP counter attacked and made it 0-2. Leamington were not finished with their constant attacks play and pulled one back. As the game went on the nerves kicked in. GNP found themselves in a position again to take advantage and make the game 1-3. A proper game of high-stakes football with everything on the line. Applauded by all spectators and a ruthless performance by Muhamadou producing a PotM performance with a fine hat trick.

Under 9 Lions played away to higher tier Stockton Hurricanes. With a couple of key players unavailable the Lions were forced to change positions. The Lions took some time to find their feet, allowing Stockton to build a lead. A set of quick passes between Fakhir and Sahib played the ball into the box for Manroop, whose skilful lob beat the keeper, helping him earn PotM. With this the Lions roared into game. Giyaan struck a loose ball outside the box, driving it into the net and Nikhil getting the ball over the line in a crowded goalmouth. Stockton weren't finished and were able to draw level again before half time. A final burst from the Lions took no time to regain the lead. Great teamwork saw the ball played forward for Sahib to score effortlessly, beating the keeper 1 on 1. As fatigue set in for the Lions, Stockton were able to get one back. However, the Lions maintained their lead to win an exciting match!

Under 9 Jaguars played SBitC, From the get go, Jaguars were on the front foot with several efforts just missing the target. There was some great play between Anshveer and Raylan however we were able to get the lead with a goal from Raylan. Agam in goal pulled off some great saves to keep Jaguars in the game. 2nd half, after making some changes, the team didn't get going and quickly this showed as the opposition scored two quick goals to take the lead. They scored another which looked like it would effectively end the contest. After some great long balls from Angad, Raylan played a through ball to Agam and he got on the score sheet. Some great link up between Jake & Raylan ensured Raylan scored another to get us level. Jaguars kept pressing but were caught on the counter attack where the opposition scored a blinder. Minutes to go, some great play by our forwards, Agam shot was saved and then Raylan put the ball away to earn Jaguars a well deserved draw. Agam won PoTM for his great play in goal in the first half and for helping the team with a goal and assist. Great play from the boys given they have lost heavily on the previous two occasions against this opponent.

Under 9 Pumas

The Under 8 Lions played away against Leamington Brakes, and what a cracking game it was. The boys dominated throughout the game with a formidable defence by Balraj and Sam showing a strong partnership. The boys initiated their attack with a goal from Louie. This was soon followed by a hat trick from Arthur with a strike rate of 5 successful attempts out of 6 in the second quarter. There was jaw-dropping cohesion between the boys, leading to a flawless goal from Leo assisted by Sam and a similiar fluid passing between Harvey and Louie. The boys were heading for a clean sheet, but one did slip through. There were equally fantastic goals from Aaron, Harnam, and Sam, showing quick reactions and unity as a team. Well done to the boys for a well-deserved win. The boys shone like the stars they are. We are proud of the boys' strong bond and a great performance.

Under 8 Pumas played away against Mount Nod, a team we haven’t played before. Right from kick-off, we applied a lot of pressure and tried to take advantage of their defensive frailties. Despite a number of shots, we just couldn’t find the target, and then we were punished on the counter-attack. Through their tiredness, our depleted squad almost secured a draw but unfortunately conceded an own goal in the last minute. However, we are proud of the boys who all tried their best.

Under 8 Jaguars triumphed away at Sporting Rugby Raiders to continue a superb debut season for them. Well done to all the boys!

Under 8 Tigers

Cold brisk sunny Saturday morning the Under 7 Lions were at home, up against Exhall Colts, with the visitors having beaten the Lions in the Spring Trophy event. GNP knew it was going to be a tough game but they all stepped up to show how far they have come over the past few months. Luca on the left wing showed great enthusiasm in closing down the opposition every minute he was on the pitch. Theo ran the wing skipping past players getting close every attempt he had, trying to put the Lions into the lead. Kiaan applied great pressure up top with some great footwork getting away from defenders. Dhillan had a few chances to put the lions into the lead but last ditch tackles made sure the game stayed level at half time. Jagraaj had his shooting boots on but just couldn’t manage to find the back of the net - he never gave up trying. Elliott was a solid as always at the back - he stopped the long ball from the opposition with great awareness. Thomas in goals made some outstanding saves to keep the game level, and when he came out he showed the same energy as his teammates. All in all this was probably the team's performance of the season - to not concede a goal was an amazing effort. So proud of the boys, watching them week in week out and seeing the improvement in their skills, confidence and attitude.

Under 7 Tigers also came up against opponents from Exhall Sky Blues and produced a memorable performance with some fine goals and good play all round! Well done Tigers on a tremendous victory!

SUNDAY - BOYS

Under 16s won 2-1 away to their closest title rival, Bedworth Utd, to open up a 5 point gap at the head of the table, with several games still in hand. A superb assist from Ethan set up Tom for the 1st half opener before Archie scored a superb 2nd half goal assisted by Tyler. The opposition scored late on but it proved to just be a consolation for Bedworth.

Under 14 Tigers vs CTK Rovers. The boys were out for revenge having previously lost heavily against this team and from the start they applied pressure and scored 2 goals right away putting CTK on the back foot. Tigers demonstrated great football and composure throughout the game. The second half was the same and tigers scored another 2 goals and were the stronger team. Great performance by all boys and shout out to the goal scorers as they all were excellent goals.. Hawon, Anseu, Max x2, Bilawal. Final score 5-2 to GNP Tigers

Under 12 Pumas were up against Hillmorton Colts. Pumas were tested today against a strong Hillmorton team who appear to have added quality to their squad. Entertaining game to watch for the neutral. Pumas talisman Nathan gave Pumas the lead, scoring from a tight angle, and then added a 2nd before the break. Hillmorton made a good start to the second half, getting themselves an early goal before Nathan netted his 3rd of the game and earning himself another hat trick in his first season for the Pumas. Both teams went at it for the remainder of the game.Hillmorton pulled another one back to make it 3-2, before Nathan netted his 4th of the game and 39th of the season giving the Pumas a 4-2 victory. Pumas were without regular goalkeeper Harrison Eyden. Up stepped JJ who played a dual role of sweeper and goalkeeper in today’s game. On many occasions JJ denied the opposition danger goal scoring opportunities, JJs defensive partner in crime Mikaeel also made many last minute timely sliding tackles to deny Hillmorton goal scoring opportunities. Tough game for the Pumas but deserved winners. Final score 4-2.

Stockton Spitfires hosted GNP Under 11 Tigers. In an exciting and hard-fought match, GNP staged a brilliant 2nd-half comeback to overcome Stockton, showing character, tactical awareness, and relentless determination. The game started with Stockton on the front foot, scoring two early goals and playing some impressive football that kept the Tigers under serious pressure. GNP struggled to find their rhythm in the first half and went into the break with work to do. A tactical change at half time sparked a complete turnaround. The Tigers came out with a new formation, renewed energy, and looked like a different team from the first whistle of the 2nd half. Dominating possession and pressing high, GNP pinned Stockton back and created chance after chance. The comeback began in spectacular fashion when Rohan unleashed a moment of magic from outside the area, bending the ball into the top corner. The goal lifted the entire team and set the tone for a dominant half. Sustained pressure paid off again as Shaan capitalised on a loose ball in the box, tapping in the equaliser following a flurry of attacks. With momentum firmly on their side, the Tigers continued to push forward. Late in the second half, Shaan struck again, grabbing the winner and sealing an incredible comeback victory for GNP. An impressive display of grit and quality from the Tigers, who proved once again that they never back down from a challenge.

GNP Under 11 Pumas vs Rugby borough colts. Fresh off the back of the Trophy Event glory last week, a game where the Pumas dominated from start to finish. GNP started on the front foot and created lots of chances with some crisp passing. Then against the run of play Rugby Borough broke through and scored. The Pumas kept pushing and were finally rewarded with a goal by Lekan from a free kick by Faris. The second half was similar to the first half, lots of chances created, lots of goal mouth scrambles but unable to score. But the Pumas kept pushing and finally scored with another goal from the prolific Lekan. Pumas continued to play the game in the opposition's half, but we're unable to add to the scoreline. Nevertheless a good victory in the heat with no subs.

Under 11 Lions were up against Rugby Borough Tigers at home. The Lions looked dangerous from the first whistle and created numerous good opportunities. The Lions had a number of goal mouth scrambles and hit the post twice in the first half but went in all square at half time. Much of the same in the 2nd half but the Lions found themselves a goal down after a long punt up field and an misjudgement from our keeper meant it landed in the back of the net. The Lions kept pushing hard and in the dying seconds were awarded a free kick about 30 yards out. Sehaj’s trusted left foot unleash a shot which bounced back off the cross bar and after a scramble, Evan forced it in, which proved to be the last kick of the game. Disappointing not to win the game after a dominating performance, but ironically glad to walk off all level at the end.

Under 10 Tigers vs Rugby Borough Foxes. In a repeat of the Trophy Event semifinal, which went onto penalties, Tigers hosted the Rugby Foxes. The Tigers made an encouraging start to the match, a theme in recent weeks, playing higher up the pitch and creating chances from the wingers. Akaalvir came close to opening the scoring early on but it was Dharam's excellent delivery from a corner which went in off the keeper. A handful of other chances passed by with the Tigers in full control. The second half started in the same pattern, it was a long throw which resulted in a unfortunate own goal for the second. Soon after what seemed a clear penalty wasnt awarded to the Tigers, the away side won a freekick shortly after, the wall didn't stand strong, and the ball flew in the bottom corner. The Tigers seemed to get fired up, two more goals flew in, the first from an Akaalvir corner and then a long range drive from Nathaniel after some great work. PoM went to Sohan, filling in defensively today, was solid all game and played some superb forward passes. Chimdubem and Nathaniel also impressed in midfield.

Under 9 Tigers were away to Hawkesmill. The Tigers started off defending quite deeply and with any solitary attack being snuffed out by Hawkesmill. Tigers tried to get out of their own half but then got caught on the break conceding a goal. This forced the Tigers to then press higher and with this Josiah scored a fantastic goal which no one was stopping. Arveer then eventually got into the game and created several chances for the strikers who were unlucky not to put them away. Heading into half time it was even. Rajan then started off on the right and caused havoc amongst the defence before eventually scoring with an assist by Josiah. This goal made Hawkesmill defend deep and the Tigers sensed it so kept pressing. Veer had a kick in and with this he scored as the opposition backed off. He earned Man of the Match not only due to this goal but his overall play both in attack and defence. Ollie had a fantastic game with his debut in goal and his kicking looked strong with a handful of saves made. The defenders Salman and Rivan were given licence to move up and had some wonderful runs and chances on goal. Josiah got another before the end of the game in what was a pleasing win for the boys.

GNP Super 6s (Under 6s) made the trip to Rugby Borough for a friendly against their Pumas team. The squad was decimated by absences and also saw the debut of David, new this week to the Mini Kickers Academy! GNP burst out of the blocks with 2 quick goals from Cameron and Gian, both beautifully taken. Rugby pegged one back before Uday added GNP's 3rd of the opening 10 minutes. The middle section of the game proved much tighter with only 1 goal for each team in the middle 20 minutes. However this showcased the defensive side of the team's game really well. Cameron was superb in a rare outing in defence, intercepting and distributing effectively, whilst Uday's tracking back from midfield saw several superbly anticipated tackles & blocks at key moments, earning him the PotM award. Gian added to his tally late on to complete a poacher's hat trick and make the final margin of victory a clear one. Lucas & Marsels went close to deserved goals and David showed great promise as a busy right winger on his 1st start! Well done to the kids for a resilient performance!