On a night when Erling Haaland was terrorising the Champions League, Gatwick United’s own talismanic striker JP was tormenting the Mid Sussex League in the 3rd game of the season: Gatwick United U16 – Horley Town U16.
Gatwick United U16 – Horley Town U16 14/09
JP, fit again after a foot injury, returned to the U16s’ line-up and walked off with two wonder goals and the man-of-the-match trophy. His efforts ensured Mitch’s men claimed their first points of the season after a 3-1 victory over local rivals Horley in an explosive encounter at Court Lodge.
It was the very least Gatwick United deserved after a display full of fighting spirit but also cool-headed composure despite a series of dirty challenges from the visitors. Horley Town started the better but Gatwick weathered the storm with new signings Alfie and James rock solid in the centre of defence.
United took the lead after a well-worked move in midfield created space for JP on the left. He cut inside, before curling a quality finish into the top corner. Again Horley pushed forward in search of an equaliser and, again, they were punished by the right foot of JP.
This time, he struck an excellent long-range free-kick into the opposite corner to make it 2-0.
With Horley beginning to lose their heads in the heat of the battle, Gatwick finished the half the stronger and dominated after the restart.
Gatwick United U16 – Horley Town U16 14/09
Bulldog continued his excellent form in midfield, while Riley dropped into a holding role to give Gatwick’s defence a little more protection. Sub Althaff showed once again his predatory instinct slotting home the third and United never really looked like losing their grip on the game after that.
Tommy, who had replaced the injured Finn, shone at right-back and Harry never stopped running on the flank.
The latter stages of the game were spoiled by a succession of unnecessarily late challenges from the Horley players, which resulted in two of them being booked.
But Gatwick kept their heads and, despite the impressive Sam finally being beaten in the dying minutes, United held on to claim derby bragging rights.
Manager Mitch said: “The boys were brilliant. They did everything I asked and more. “It shows that if we listen and put the game plan into place, we will be near the top of this division.”
“I’m very proud of them tonight. They didn’t get involved in all the other stuff going on, we played our football and deserved to win.“And JP was absolutely immense. We go again on Sunday.”
GATWICK: Sam, Finn (Sub Tommy), Joe (Sub Alfie M), James, Alfie J, Bulldog, Riley, Stefan, Mason (Sub Althaff), Harry (Sub Desmon), JP.
Game ended 3-1
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Gatwick United FC is affiliated to Surrey FA.
Written by: Phil Bryant on 14/09