Newport U12s welcomed Gurnard Thunder to WightFibre Park for an eagerly anticipated Isle of Wight League fixture between the teams occupying third and second place respectively and produced an outstanding display to secure an emphatic 6–0 victory.

Newport began brightly and immediately took the game to their opponents. After Luca was fouled early on, Freddie tested the Gurnard goalkeeper from range with an excellent free-kick. The pressure soon told when Luca released Freddie, who showed great composure to lift the ball over the advancing goalkeeper and give Newport an early lead.

At the other end, Odin made an important clearance and Daniel remained alert when called upon, while Newport’s defence dealt confidently with Gurnard’s attempts to build an attack. Zalan also produced some excellent defensive work as the entire team pressed together and refused to allow the visitors any time on the ball.

Newport continued to create chances through their quick passing and movement. Archie and Jenson both went close before Jenson doubled the advantage with a well-taken finish. With the midfield repeatedly breaking up play and moving the ball forward intelligently, Newport remained firmly in control. Lewie added a third just before the interval, picking up the ball outside the box and placing his shot into the top corner to send the home side into half-time with a commanding 3–0 lead.

The second half continued in much the same fashion. Caiden provided the pass for Freddie to score his second of the match, before Monty found the net to make it 5–0. Newport continued to play with energy and purpose, with every player contributing both in and out of possession.

Archie completed the scoring following an assist from Jenson, sealing an impressive 6–0 victory. Newport’s passing, movement and teamwork were superb throughout, while the whole team pressed as one cohesive unit. The defence remained consistently solid, restricting Gurnard to very few openings and ensuring Newport finished the match with a thoroughly deserved clean sheet.

It was a complete team performance against the side who had started the day one place above Newport - a display full of quality, discipline and togetherness from the first whistle to the last. The hard work on the training ground is clearly paying off.

Man of the Match: Freddie
A complete centre-forward’s performance from Freddie, who played effectively with his back to goal, moved the ball quickly and intelligently, and brought Newport’s attacking unit into play throughout. He capped an excellent all-round display with a thoroughly deserved brace.

Goalscorers: Freddie × 2, Jenson, Lewie, Monty, Archie

Assists: Luca, Caiden, Jenson

Team: Archie, Caiden, Daniel, Freddie, Hunter, Jenson, Lewie, Luca, Monty, Odin (C), Zalan