The new season was back with a bang this weekend, with 27 of our GNP teams in action across Saturday & Sunday! There were some brilliant individual and team performances across the board, with all the action summarised below.

SATURDAY – MEN’S

GNP Sports Senior Team kicked off their Cov Alliance Div 1 Campaign away to newly promoted Panjab Athletic and it proved to be a closely contested game, finishing all square at 1-1. A point apiece to kick off the season.

SATURDAY – GIRLS

The Under 12 Panthers came out the traps today in full throttle for the season opener in Division 1. From the off, the front 5 of Suvreet, Faith, Avneet, Ariana and Patience had Stratford Town camped inside their own half with tenacious pressing and some slick passing moves. Panthers were leading 3-0 at the break through Avneet (2) and Faith. Defensively, when called upon Maya,Sheena,and Annabel and Tino in goal all were solid as a rock. The subs who came on, in all positions, also were at the top of their game. The 2nd half again saw the Panthers taking the game again to Stratford and saw 2 further goals apiece for Faith and Avneet plus an unfortunate own goal from Stratford. The hosts did pull a goal back but it took nothing away from a very hard working performance and resounding 8-1 scoreline.

Under 11 Panthers visited Stockton Juniors for their season opener and started positively. Roop made a solid attempt 2 minutes into the match and energy was high. However, Stockton found a gap in defence and managed an early first goal. Our Panthers fought back and quickly responded with a solo goal from Elizabeth. Several more attempts from Roop and Elizabeth kept their goalie busy. The 2nd half started all square, but there was a break in our defence and Stockton fired a searing shot past Poppy. The Panthers had no subs, whilst the opposition were able to regularly rotate their 3 subs to gain superiority. Some fatigue was kicking in on the larger pitch, and a final goal from the opposition saw the game secured for the hosts. A shame for the first match in the new 9v9 format, but the girls will come back stronger as a result.

The first Under 9 Panthers game of the new season against Redditch Borough Lionesses got off to a flying start with Siya scoring within the first 20 seconds. It was wonderful to have the team (pictured) back together again after the summer break. After starting well, the girls struggled a little with the lack of match practice, however, rallied towards the end of the game. Additionally, there were great goals for Jasmine and Mihar. Despite a narrow loss, the girls made their families proud and we look forward to an exciting season ahead.

SATURDAY – BOYS

Under 7 Tigers had a brilliant high scoring start to their first league season against Coventry Phoenix. It was great to see the whole squad there looking like an experienced team already with some great awareness on the pitch, passing, and teamwork from all. By half time Tigers were well ahead and were having fun doing what they love. Cov Phoenix never gave up, and continued to put effort in with their heads held high. The 2nd half showed more physicality from both teams which led to a penalty for Phoenix and their first goal. GNP stayed organised and thirsty for the ball, working together and continuing to put balls in the net. A fun and positive start to the season from the Tigers. We look forward to seeing how they get on against stringer teams. Player of the match went to Yunus who showed strength, energy, and ball control, leading to a hat-trick.

After a summer of learning via friendlies, the Under 7 Lions were ready and eager to kick off their first season away to Vision. The Lions started fast with Gian scoring a 10-minute hat trick to get the Lions off to a roaring start linking up well with Jeevan and Mikey, who were both confident on the ball. Vision continued to stick to their football and got back into the match with quickfire goals. The Lions gave a penalty away, which was fantastically saved by Tommy. Aathi was rewarded for the bundles of energy he showed with a goal before another goal from Gian, which gave the Lions a 2 goal lead at halftime. The Lions started the 2nd half strongly with a sublime free kick by Lucas, who had been brilliant all game. Vision, however, kept battling with another 2 goals. Gian scored his 5th before a final goal from Vision. Ending in a tight victory for the Lions. The Lions were pleased with a victory and their performance in their first competive game!

GNP Under 13 Tigers hosted Balsall & Berkswell Hornets in the Tigers first Div 1 game. GNP started off brightly, however it was the Hornets that took the lead against the run of play. GNP continued their pressing play and finally found the equaliser through Muhamadou. Now the game really changed into an end to end battle and it was GNP who added to the goal tally via Josiah, Prabh and Uday going into half time 4-1 up. Hornets weren’t finished and pulled goals back but GNP were in a punishing mood adding two more goals via Prabh and Harjan. A great team effort with many different goal scorers, with Prabh Dhillon awarded player of the match fo an all round commanding midfield display. Final score 6-3.

The first outing for the Under 10 Lions saw them travel to face Warwick Juniors. The Lions delivered an excellent performance against a strong, well drilled Warwick Juniors team, showcasing commendable determination that culminated in a well-deserved victory. The Lions initiated the scoring with a skilfully executed passing sequence, resulting in a goal by Fakhir. Regrettably, Warwick equalised just before halftime through a swift counterattack. The battle between the sides continued in the second half. Sehaj's determination ensured Warwick didn't extend their goal tally. Whilst Ksawery's strike was pushed just over the cross bar. The score remained level until the final minute, when Fakhir secured a decisive goal amidst a goalmouth scramble. It was an engaging match for all spectators. We extend our congratulations to Yuvraaj, our newest team member and the Player of the match!

The Under 10 Pumas kicked off their season away to Rugby Borough in an exciting opener. The game began at a blistering pace, with chances at both ends and Eric pulling off some excellent saves to keep us in it. The home side broke the deadlock. In the second half, the Pumas came out determined and full of energy. Zak, Yash, and Nirvair were solid at the back, making crucial tackles and moving the ball forward with confidence. The teams hard work paid off when Harvey (PotM) coolly slotted a shot into the bottom corner to level the score, before adding a second soon after following an assist from Archie. Jaiden, Ajeet, and Sunny put in relentless shifts, covering every blade of grass to keep the pressure on. Despite our efforts, Rugby Borough found a late equaliser. A fantastic performance all round from the Pumas.

It was a tough outing for the Under 10 Jaguars this weekend as they faced a strong and well-organised Lawford United side. The final scoreline may not have gone in our favour, but there were plenty of valuable lessons and encouraging moments to build on as we continue to grow as a team.

The Under 9 Jaguars returned to action on Saturday, hosting Hillmorton Dragons. This fixture also marked an important milestone, as the team transitioned to the 7v7 format - a real test of stamina and resilience on the bigger pitch. Despite the step up, the Jaguars delivered a strong performance, matching the opposition throughout and showing impressive determination. Debutant Emaad was outstanding, scoring two superb goals and earning a well-deserved Player of the Match award. Both Seva and captain Isaac were excellent in goal, producing a string of crucial saves to keep the team in contention. Defensively, Varun and Stan worked tirelessly to break down attacks and protect the back line, while Mithun impressed with solid interceptions and consistent effort throughout. Leo, a fantastic new addition to the squad, showed great energy and commitment, never dropping his intensity. In attack, the team created 12 shots on target, with Theo testing the opposition keeper on five occasions with powerful strikes. Although the match ended narrowly in favour of the opposition, the Jaguars can take great pride in their effort, teamwork, and attitude. With performances like this, the team is well set for a promising season ahead!

The Under 8 Lions kicked off their season at home with a thrilling encounter against a strong Hillmorton side. Despite going two goals down early in the game, the boys showed incredible character and resilience to fight their way back into the match. Sahib led the charge, applying constant pressure and helping to claw the Lions back into the game. His efforts were matched by goalkeeper Evan, who pulled off a string of fantastic saves to keep the Lions within touching distance. The turning point came through some beautiful team play—Thomas linked up well with Dhillan, who provided a perfectly weighted pass to Theo. With composure beyond his years, Theo slotted home the Lions’ first goal with a cool-as-you-like finish. Luca worked tirelessly throughout, covering every blade of grass and coming agonisingly close to scoring himself—his effort just drifting past the post with many already celebrating. Kiaan brought bundles of energy, tracking back to support the defence and showing great awareness whenever possession was lost. Defenders Thomas and Elliott were rock solid at the back, showing maturity and composure under pressure, ensuring the Lions stayed in the game. Theo added his 2nd of the match following another well-worked move, with the team’s passing and movement again proving too much for the opposition. Dhillan capped off his superb all-round performance with a well-deserved goal of his own. With new additions Sahib and Evan making an immediate impact, this was arguably the best all-round team performance from the Lions so far.

The new look Under 8 Tigers started the season with a trial by fire against the well -established Rugby Borough Pumas. Being one of only two or three teams GNP couldn't get a result from last season the team knew it would be tough. GNP started the match strong and looked the better side for the first 15 minutes with good pressure, movement and passing leading to them peppering the opponents goal and the Pumas relying on the odd break away chance. As the match progressed the Pumas experience as a team started to show and any defensive mistake was pounced upon. All the boys had their moments and showed their skills with the number of shots going GNP’s way if not the final scoreline. Picking up where they left off last season, Rhys (2) and Lucas (1) both got their goal tallies off to a sound start. A fantastic effort all round with lots of promise for the upcoming games.

SUNDAY - BOYS

Under 17s opened up their season with a home game against Kenilworth Town Blues U18s which turned out to be a thriller. A great performance from a re-shaped team, which on another day, would have seen the game put to bed in the 1st half. The new faces in the squad all put in a really important contributions. The final score was 3-3, but so many positives to take forward into the season!

Under 14 Tigers opened their campaign at The Place 3G against Chapelfields Colts, keen to continue the form from the end of last season into the new one. It was a 1st half controlled by GNP with Dylan & Harman B dominating the midfield, and the breakthrough came when a Saavun free kick was flicked on by Dylan, and Iklil was quickest to the 2nd ball and back-headed it past the keeper! Further golden chances came and went, the best from Muhamadou from chances largely created himself. However, Muhamadou did manage to add our 2nd after half time when Iklil played a searching through ball which he raced on to and smashed past the keeper with venom. Chapelfields had their best chances after this but GNP held firm, with Wiktor in fine form when needed. A fine move on 68 minutes saw Ayden set Muhamadou away; he held off his marker and shot left-footed against the post, but wing-back Enoch was in the right place to convert the rebound into the empty net! Final Score: 0-3 GNP; a positive start to the season for the Tigers.

Under 14 Pumas visited Weddington Sports and got off to a great, start, 1-3 up at half time. A very physical Weddington team came back into it, and the game deservedly ended all square at 4-4. Both teams could have nicked it in the final moments, including Arjun striking the crossbar with a free kick.

Under 14 Lions brought together a new-look squad for the first time at home to Attleborough and looked a little shaky early on with the away team grabbing 2 quick goals. However, the boys did settle, and it was a long through ball from Emmanuel, which Jasper raced onto, lobbing the advancing keeper from outside the box! The substitutes made a positive impact, with Chengwu and Pavan bringing aggression and urgency to the centre of defence and midfield respectively, and Reon providing the same on the wing. This gave GNP the advantage for long spells but it wasn’t until the 60th minute that goalkeeper debutant, Daniel, set Jasper free with a long ball and Jasper did superbly to beat the defence and finish with accuracy into the far corner. 2-2! The final 10 minutes was frantic end to end football with Harry very nearly scoring a winner from a Jasper through ball and Emmanuel making 2 superb last ditch tackles at the other end. Sadly, a final raid from Attleborough saw their forward round the goalkeeper and finish to take all 3 points and leave the Lions devastated with no time to recover. PotM: Chengwu for an impactful debut.

Under 13 Pumas hosted relegated CHESS FC in their first game of the season. A new look team, recruiting 4 new players over the summer, started very brightly. Pumas were in control, in the first half taking the lead through new boy Arun Kumar. Pumas should have finished the first half at least 4 goals up but it wasn’t to be. Pumas started the 2nd half very slowly, and on the back foot for the first 15mins. A defensive mix-up by the Pumas, from a Chess FC corner, allowed Chess FC to pull one back. Last 10 minutes, Pumas upped their game, missed several goal scoring opportunities, before Nathan Ngu scored with a shot from just outside the area to give the Pumas the win in almost the last minute. Player of the match performance from debutant Arun Kumar.

The Under 12 Pumas kicked off the new season with an exciting match away at Southam United, filled with plenty of goals. Kian scored twice for the Pumas, with a clever run and shot past the keeper and a tap-in from Lekan's cross. Southam fought back, scoring twice to level the game. The Pumas regained the lead when Mason tucked in a well placed goal from a corner kick, surrounded by a crowd of players, but Southam quickly responded, equalizing once more to make it 3-3 heading into half time. In the second half, the Pumas created several scoring opportunities, with Lekan, Shivan, Jaxx, and Kian all having chances to take the lead. The defence held strong, with Ruben and Jovan solid at the back, Ziyyad covering every area, and Sam making outstanding saves. Despite their best efforts, the Pumas couldn't find the winning goal, and the game ended in a draw, and 1 point apiece.

Under 12 Lions kicked off their new season in Division A of the league away to FC Maine. In what proved to be a very competitive game, the first half was very even and Maine took a narrow 1-0 lead into half time. The 2nd half was even once again and after piling the pressure on, it paid off for the Lions with Sehaj Heer scoring from one his trademark freekicks, to get the Lions on level terms. Straight from the restart, FC Maine managed to restore their lead, the Lion’s not switching on, after just getting back into the game. The Lions never gave up and managed to make it 2-2, with a well taken goal from Ryan McDermott. 10 minutes to go, both teams had chances to win it, but the 2-2 draw was probably a fair result. Well done to the Lions and player of the match was Athrv Bhat for his non-stop, all-action display in both midfield and defence.

The new-look GNP Under 12 Tigers took to the field with a squad featuring several new signings, many of whom have not played together before. What followed was nothing short of amazing – a performance full of energy, resilience, and team spirit, proving that this group is already beginning to gel into something special. The game started at a frantic pace, with both sides trading attacks. Midway through the first half, Wolston applied serious pressure, but the Tigers stood strong, defended bravely, and weathered the storm. The breakthrough came when Reece unleashed a rocket from outside the area, smashing it into the top corner to give the Tigers the lead. Shortly after, Jude produced a worldie – timing his run perfectly to beat the offside trap before calmly slotting past the keeper in a 1v1. After a brief lapse in concentration allowed Wolston to pull one back, the Tigers grew in confidence and took full control. Jude struck again to restore the cushion, and then completed his hat-trick with a cool finish, sealing a fantastic win. POTM went to new signing Eul, who was immense in defence, showing composure and bravery throughout. Joint honours went to **Jude*, whose relentless attacking play and hat-trick made him unplayable on the day. A fantastic all-round team performance and perfect start from the new-look Tigers!

The GNP Jaguars Under 12 team played a strong match against Whitnash Town, despite losing 0-1 in their first competitive outing as a newly formed team. They started the game sharply and battled well against a seasoned opponent. Although they had periods where they were on the front foot, they couldn't find the net despite creating chances. The team's goalkeeper, Morris, made some impressive saves and was awarded Player of the Match. The manager, Tej, was proud of the team's performance and noted that they showed signs of growth and improvement, particularly in the 2nd half.

GNP Under 11 Tigers started off the season with a cup game against Leamington Foundation. GNP pressed high early on and found their reward with a poacher’s goal by the debutant Kiaan, and soon after doubled their lead thanks to Harry’s clinical finish. The opposition beat GNPs high defensive line and got a goal back as the 1st half came to close. After the break the GNP lads took the message on board from the HT talk and ran riot thanks to another 3 from Harry and Kiaan getting one more of his own. The opposition’s discipline helped them get 1 back after some miscommunication amongst the GNP defence. After some offside calls and chances missed it didn’t look like Sohan's name was going to be on the score sheet, but a glimmer of hope arrived when Dharam worked the ball through for Sohan who got his deserved goal. Overall great performance and brilliant way to start the season off with debutant Robert winning PotM for his brilliant defending.

First game as a rebuilt team for the Under 10 Tigers against Leamington Foundation. Glimpses of great play by the Tigers but the opposition were more consistent in their approach. Brilliant debuts by Adam, Tyrae and Patryk which bodes well for the season ahead. Conceding early doors this set the tone for the rest of the match. A heavy defeat to start the season, the only way is up!

Under 9 Tigers kicked off their new season with their first match against Coventry Sphinx. The first half was evenly contested, with both sides finding the net and producing some good attacking football. After the break, Sphinx edged ahead, only for Gurshaan to level in the final minutes following some great team play and sealing his hat-trick. The visitors struck back almost instantly with a last-minute goal, sealing nail-biting win. Despite the defeat, the Tigers showed plenty of spirit and promise for the season ahead.

Under 9 Lions kicked off the season at home to Mount Nod. The boys had strong cohesion and adjusted well for their first competitive match in the 7 v 7 formation. From the get-go, the boys were on the attack with Anwar and Neal, adding hat tricks to the score sheet. Rohan and Aaron also showed great foot work skills leading to further goals. A great start to the season and we look forward to the boys continuing in the same stride. Well done boys!

Under 9 Pumas were away to Coventrians for the first match of the season. The Pumas were on the front foot from the start and really took the game to the opposition, but unfortunately we couldn’t make our possession count. Before half time, we conceded two soft goals against the run of play. After the break, we got back into the game with a great team goal, scored by Hugh, before unfortunately conceding again from a set piece in the final minutes. Overall, an unfortunate result, but a very positive performance from our experienced players and our brilliant new signings, which bodes well for the season ahead.