Cherrybrook FC 5 vs 1 AFC Ainsdale

In a commanding display, Cherrybrook FC triumphed over AFC Ainsdale with a resounding 5-1 victory in their league encounter at Leisure United Laithwaite Park on 25 January 2025. The game kicked off at 2:00pm, with Cherrybrook showcasing their attacking prowess throughout the contest.

The match began with Cherrybrook asserting their dominance early on, but it was not without its challenges. Matty Glover had to be substituted in the 20th minute due to injury, with Aaron Sykes coming on to replace him. This enabled manager Lee Nealens to use his experience and tactical nous by subtly changing the team.

Jack Thorogood opened the scoring in the 27th minute, finding the back of the net with a well-placed shot that left the AFC Ainsdale goalkeeper with little chance. Just before half-time, Thorogood struck again, doubling the lead with another clinical finish in the 45th minute, sending Cherrybrook into the break with a comfortable 2-0 advantage.

The second half commenced with Cherrybrook maintaining their momentum. Harrison Fleming added a third goal for the home side in the 51st minute, showcasing his skill and determination. However, AFC Ainsdale managed to pull one back in the 59th minute, providing a brief glimmer of hope for the visitors.

Cherrybrook responded swiftly to the setback, with a substitution in the 61st minute as Daniel Morris replaced Jack Crowther. The home side continued to dominate, and Thorogood completed his hat-trick in the 64th minute, restoring the three-goal cushion with a powerful strike.

Further substitutions followed, with Mike Meehan coming on for Jay Matthews in the 67th minute, and Lewis Maxwell-Argue replacing Harvey Brooks in the 70th minute. Cherrybrook's relentless attack was capped off in the 75th minute when Harrison Fleming scored his second goal of the match, bringing the score to 5-1.

As the match drew to a close, Cherrybrook FC had firmly established their superiority over AFC Ainsdale, with Jack Thorogood earning the Player of the Match accolade for his outstanding performance. The referee, Gordon Johnson, oversaw the match with a competent display, ensuring the game flowed smoothly. Cherrybrook's emphatic victory not only boosts their league standing but also serves as a statement of intent for the remainder of the season.