On arguably the hottest day of the year (or at least it felt like that) Standish Panthers ventured into the unknown with an away fixture at Daisy Hill. In spite of missing a couple of regular players, the game got underway with both teams in agreement (due to squad sizes) playing 8 v 8. In addition to gain greater game time for the kids, two 25 minutes halves were played.

The opening exchanges were tight, with each side getting to grips with the sweltering conditions; however once the Panthers got there foot on the ball, they quickly began to dominate possession. The midfield trio of Patrick, Ethan & Josh Carr, aided by the mazy runs of Oliver ensured that the bulk of the chances fell in the direction of the Standish team. Despite their dominance, Daisy Hill took a shock lead, midway through the half with a fabulous strike from fully 20 yards out. This early set back did not put off the lads with Mason replying just before the break with a cool finish.

With half-time looming, the Panthers were unlucky not to be ahead with numerous near misses almost culminating in an advantage before the break.

The second half got underway in ever increasing temperatures with a succession of corners for Standish, one of which resulted in us taking the lead. An out swinging delivery from the right fell inviting at the feet of Ethan who curled in a shot right into the corner of the net for his first goal for the club. Just reward for a great start to the half.

Defensively the team were solid with Sam, James & Jacob who was captain for the day marshalling the team with some fantastic tackles and interceptions. A special note also for Cameron who has recently joined us and showed some neat touches in a busy midfield.

With 15 minutes remaining & the game at 2-1 to Standish, a crucial save was made by Rhys maintaining our slender advantage; and almost immediately the ball was pumped forwards with Mason latching onto to it and when presented one on one with the advancing goalkeeper, majestically finished for his second and the Panthers third of the game. The last few moments were tense as all the players got on the field in some capacity or another.

When the final whistle went you could hear the cheer all the way back to Standish as the 50,000 (well 50) went wild in celebration as they realised what had been achieved. History had been made as the Standish Panthers Under 8’s had recorded their first ever victory.