A SOLITARY goal late on gave the home side the spoils in this keenly contested MFJFL U10s Division One match, played at a dry and bright Ralph’s Field Stadium.

The Rangers pressed their visitors at every opportunity but could not find a way past a determined defence that was reluctant to concede.

Pick of the home chances in this first period was a rasping drive from home midfielder, Joe Weaver, which just scrapped the top of the bar as it fizzed by.

Cradley too had their moments, but found the Badgers’ defence in equal mood to that of their own, and as it was, the score remained goal-less at the break.

The second period continued with both teams defending stoutly and looking to break the deadlock. A Cradley free kick, midway through the half, almost found its way through, but instead came crashing back off the crossbar, and was cleared by the quick-to-react home defence.

Despite both sides’ efforts not to concede, it was the Rangers’ who got the all-important strike that was to eventually separate these two closely contesting teams. In a move that deserved the finish it got, it all began with a forward pass from deep in his own half, by Luca Adorisio. The home midfielder found team mate, Josh Smallman out wide, just inside the Cradley half, with a great pass. Drawing the advancing fullback, Josh Smallman floated in an inch perfect cross, towards his striker, Ted Hill. In turn, the Rangers’ front man towered above his marker to head home the winning goal from close in.

After the match, assistant team coach Paul Weaver said: "This was a very evenly contested match. Chances fell to both sides and defences worked tirelessly to cope. We got the winner with what was a great move and finish, and the whole side did well to work hard and come up with this result. Cradley were a good side and played their part in a very entertaining game."

Leigh & Bransford Badgers FC U10's Rangers are seen here sporting their newly aquired kit, courtesy of sponsor, Heritage Independent Financial Advisors. They are, from left, standing: George Blinman-Wilson , Ted Hill, Matty Waldren, Josh Smallman (capt), and Stefan Rees. Kneeling: Joe Weaver, Luca Adorisio, Michael Williams, and Matty Griffin.