Barton Rovers VS Toddington Rovers u18s
Sunday 16th May 2021 10:30 Kick off
Last May I visited my local football pitches to write a report between two local rivals Barton Rovers and Toddington Rovers u18s teams, facing each other in a crucial game which would decide who would become league winners. However an unexpected turn took place when a mass brawl began 10 minutes from time.
The title decider between the two local teams was set up for a great game, the early 10:30 kick off was set on a sunny day with both Barton and Toddington going into the match with high hopes to the lift the trophy after the 90 minutes.
With the home advantage and with more points on the league table, Barton Rovers started the match with a extremely attacking setting up with a 4-1-2-3 formation with 2 wingers and the lone striker of Ethan Young leading the line. They certainly went into the match wanting to score goals and to put their opponents on the backfoot. Compared to the away sides classic 4-3-3 which also included two wingers but also gave the side a hope of midfield dominance over Barton.
Although Toddington started the game on the front foot and looked more dangerous than their opponents, Barton got the first goal of the match after Toddington conceded a set piece on the edge of the box. The free kick crossed in by Liam appeared to be headed in by Louie Linton, however, after further notice it went down as an own goal! Barton's dominance in the midfield had panicked Toddington leading to them committing silly fouls as they attempted to gain possession back, with all the set pieces they conceded, it was a matter of time before Barton got the ball in the back of the net. Shortly after the first, another own goal was conceded by Toddington leaving the eleven men in black and white kicking themselves with their heads hung low. Going into halftime, they knew they would need a miracle to be crowned champions as they required all 3 points to lift the title.
As the game kicked off for the second period, Barton seemed in total control and took the game to 4-0 with two goals in quick succession as Liam and Louie both got themselves onto the scoresheet. The two lads both having a great game each with their inclusion to the first couple of goals. With ten minutes to play, Barton manager Paul Rolfe would've expected the game to be out of sight and for his lads would be crowned champions. However his defender Mason Finn proceeded to start a chaotic brawl after Toddington sub Demir hacked Finn just on the halfway line. The riot saw a total of 5 players being sent off including both goalkeepers who decided to play their part in the action! After almost losing control, the referee thought he may have to abandon the match. Luckily for Barton their hard earned win was not taken away as he allowed the last 10 minutes to be continued after a lengthy discussion between the managers and the referee. With 17 players left on the field compared to 10 minutes ago were there was 22, Barton were able to see the game out meaning they were crowned champions, but with a half empty pitch of players and two outfield players in the nets I don't think the victory was as celebrated as they hoped.
Despite the brawl and many red cards, there was a moment of respect at the end as the defeated Toddington players settled for second place and applauded the champions.
Full Time- Barton Rovers 4-0 Toddington Rovers
VIEWS SPORTS Man Of The Match- Liam Doyle for Barton Rovers
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