Preston Manor Royals 2 vs 0 Brighton & Sussex Medical

Preston Manor Royals secured a convincing 2-0 victory against Brighton & Sussex Medical School in a league match held at the Falmer Sports Complex on 26 October 2024. The match kicked off at 3:00pm, with the Royals showcasing their tactical prowess and determination throughout the contest.

The Royals adopted a 4-3-2-1 formation, which allowed them to maintain a solid defensive structure while providing ample support for their attacking players. Ryan Thompson was stationed in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Mark Baroni on the right, Adam Arnold and Jake Burton in central defence, and Gillan Williams on the left. The midfield trio featured Dominic Hewitt on the right, Matt Howard centrally, and Valery Jingwa on the left, while Marlon Perrin and Stiven Lopes operated as right and left attacking midfielders, respectively. Jaegan Roberts led the line as the lone striker, expected to capitalise on any opportunities that arose.

The match began with both teams probing for an early advantage, but it was the Royals who struck first. In the first half, they displayed a cohesive unit, with the midfielders working tirelessly to link defence and attack. As the game progressed, the Royals began to assert their dominance, creating several chances that tested the Brighton defence.

The first half concluded with the scoreline remaining 0-0, but the Royals were clearly the more threatening side. The tactical setup allowed them to control possession and dictate the tempo of the game, setting the stage for a strong second-half performance.

As the second half commenced, Preston Manor Royals continued to apply pressure. Their persistence paid off when they broke the deadlock, with a well-executed move leading to the opening goal. The crowd, albeit small, erupted in celebration as the Royals took a deserved lead.

With the momentum firmly in their favour, the Royals doubled their advantage shortly after. The attacking midfielders, Perrin and Lopes, were instrumental in creating space and opportunities, showcasing their flair and creativity. The Brighton defence struggled to cope with the relentless attacking waves from the Royals, who were now in complete control of the match.

As the final whistle approached, the Royals maintained their composure, expertly managing the game to secure a clean sheet. Ryan Thompson, in goal, was a commanding presence, ensuring that Brighton's attempts to claw back into the match were thwarted.

The referee, Duncan Brooker, officiated the match with a steady hand, allowing the game to flow while keeping a close eye on any potential foul play. His performance contributed to an engaging contest that saw the Royals emerge victorious.

In the end, the Preston Manor Royals celebrated a well-deserved 2-0 victory, showcasing their tactical discipline and attacking prowess. The result not only boosts their league standing but also instils confidence as they look ahead to future fixtures.