Rushall Village U14s (MJPL) produced a confident and tactically astute performance to secure a 3–1 home victory over C S Colts (CSC), continuing their steady rise in the Midlands Junior Premier League. The result reflected not only their growing cohesion as a squad but also their ability to execute a game plan with discipline and intent.

Heading into the fixture, Rushall had won two of their previous four matches, showing signs of tactical maturity and improved consistency. Their recent form suggested a team learning to balance defensive resilience with attacking ambition, and Saturday’s display offered further evidence of that evolution. The players looked increasingly comfortable in their roles, with transitions becoming sharper and decision-making more assured.

Despite having just 43% of possession, Rushall made their time on the ball count. Their approach centred on a compact midfield structure that absorbed pressure and invited CSC to commit numbers forward. This created opportunities to counter swiftly through the middle third, where Rushall found space and exploited it with precision. The team registered 12 shots in total, converting three – a 25% success rate that speaks to their growing efficiency in front of goal.

Defensively, we were composed and well-organised. CSC managed 16 attempts, but only one found the back of the net, a testament to the home side’s discipline and communication at the back. The defensive unit remained tight, forcing CSC into wide areas and limiting their ability to create high-quality chances. When called upon, the goalkeeper and back line responded with calm interventions and clearances.

In the attacking third, we showed particular strength inside the box, converting 50% of their close-range efforts. This highlights our composure in key moments and ability to capitalise on high-probability opportunities. However, the match also revealed a tactical imbalance, with most of the attacking play funnelled through central channels. The wings saw less action, suggesting an area for future development as the team looks to diversify its offensive patterns and stretch opponents more effectively.

Overall, this was a performance that combined grit with intelligence. We demonstrated that we can absorb pressure, strike with intent, and manage a game from a position of tactical control. As they continue to refine their wide play and build on their recent momentum, the team looks well placed to push further up the table in the coming weeks.