This was our captain's last game for the team before heading off for a new challenge. What a perfect time for a great team performance, first time scorers, first time hat trick and highest score and most importantly a clean sheet. The team played with a unity and tenacity that was reminiscent of the great teams of old. The control exhibited over the game was a joy to behold. Jayden Ricketts following his recent goal scoring streak set the tone witha powerful shot on the opposition's goal. For which the goalkeeper could do no more than parry into the path of Lorcan Oomen who happily added to his 2022/23 goalscoring account.

The Reds kept the pressure on and refused to allow Peninsula time on the ball with beautifully co-ordinated pressing. Upon regaining possession a short sequence of passes had Lorcan in on goal for what looked to be a 2nd of the game. A strong tackle thwarted the attempt at a 2nd only for Will Madden to control and set himself for a shot which was stopped by a foul that the referee signalled as a penalty. Captain Charlie Trainor on his last day in the role coolly stepped up and dispatched a penalty into the bottom corner and increased the lead.

Following a cross from the left hand side by Ethan Azaadi, Niko Cunningham decided to score his first goal for the club by ghosting in at the back post to slot home the keeper's parry. Just before half time a young man called Josiah Taiwo would indicate to the watching audience that much was yet to come. Josiah scored his first goal of 2023 with a flying right foot volley.

In the second half, Greenwich Peninsula unleashed a barrage of attacks in an attempt to get a foothold in the game. Following a few attempts at goal which were smartly saved by Ethan Jordan in between the sticks, one attempt directly from a free kick. A penalty was awarded by the referee for a foul in the box. Unfortunately for Greenwich, the penalty was off target and this served as a wakeup call for Dulwich Village Reds.

On a day of milestones, Josiah Taiwo would proceed to grab the game by the proverbial scruff of the neck and dispatch a header and two first time finishes in the box to complete his first ever hat trick for the club and even add a fourth to his personal tally for the day. Will Madden would unleash a vicious shot down the centre of the opposition, to which the goalkeeper was impressively equal. Joe Nicholls would enter the fray with the determination and following a lovely dribble and through pass would set up a great one on one chance for Dulwich Village. Exemplified by Cameron Watt's overlapping runs on the right hand side Dulwich would combine a sequence of passes to put Joe Nicholls through on goal. Again, the opposition goalkeeper was equal to the attempt on goal and determined to protect his goal.

All in all, a wonderful performance that showcased all the learnings and progress throughout the season. The versatility of the team was on display as many players were deployed in a number of positions and performed excellent. The growth and development are apparent. Well done to boys!

We say thank you and goodbye to Charlie Trainor who has been a wonderful asset to his team mates and coaches. Quick witted and strong, Yet kind and incredibly determined he has shown everyone what can be achieved with diligent application and hard work. A young man with excellent leadership skills and a mental fortitude beyond his years. We wish you and your family all the best, we know you will do us proud.

To infinity and beyond.

Written by
Edward Odoom-Simpson
U13 Reds Head Coach
Dulwich Village Football Club