U11's Start Their Season with a Banger..

Heavy overnight rain could not stop the 24/25 season getting under way in sensational fashion as Barkingside won a thriller away at local rivals Frenford.

Looking resplendent in new kit, the light blues made a cagey start but withstood early pressure with new signing Fintan, impressing at full back with his speed and positioning.

Against the run of play a pitch perfect long ball from Lewis found Benji who rounded the keeper and slotted into the corner to open his account. This sparked Barkingside into life and the opposition keeper was forced into action several times - first by Ben after a good move, then from Benji played in by Fintan and finally saving from Josh who took a pop from distance.

Lewis was called into action at the other end saving from Frenfords lively striker who was kept quiet for the rest of the half by the defensive dynamic duo of George G and Savanyah save for one outrageous effort that cannoned back off the bar.

Josh, who was running the midfield with new playmaker George D, used his strength to win two free kicks in quick succession. The first was saved from Alfie but he couldn't cope with a 30 yard belter from the left foot of George G to give a two goal cushion. Then followed a clever short corner routine after some great work by George L before Frenford picked up again with two great blocks from Jackson and then Lewis pushing one round the post to take us into the break.

The second half started as the first ended with Lewis saving with his legs at point blank range before the pressure finally told. 3 attacks and 5 minutes later Frenford were celebrating a lead. An unbelievable, if not undeserved, turnaround, but this 'side team are made of strong stuff.

Heads held high Lucas showed off some mad skills playing in Benji who won a free kick 20 yards from goal. Cameras on and Alfie did what Alfie does 💥 ! Alfie then turned provider setting up Josh who saw his effort tipped round the post. Carnage ensured from the resulting corner with Benji popping up to poke home his second and restore Barkingside's lead.

The game was far from over and it took Lewis channeling his inner David Raya to pull off a breathtaking double save for the ages. George G then made a stunning sliding block to protect the advantage again. Frenford couldn't believe it and their heads dropped. George D, Ben and Lucas made it their mission to deliver assists for Benji to complete his hat trick. Inevitably the moment came as our wizard winger pounced on a loose ball and finished with style showing 3 fingers to the roaring crowds on the sidelines.

The Frenford defence will see him in their nightmares tonight as our tenacious superstar refused to give them an inch once again sneaking off their shoulders to grab a fourth with almost the last kick of the game...and breathe.