In a thrilling and fiercely contested encounter at Cranleigh, Albury Eagles FC U9 emerged victorious with a win over a determined Cranleigh Eagles side. The match was packed with energy, skill, and drama from start to finish, with both teams showing great spirit and sportsmanship.
The opening period ended goalless, but it was far from uneventful. Albury goalkeeper Tommy produced a standout performance, pulling off a string of impressive saves to keep the scores level. One acrobatic dive to tip a long-range Cranleigh effort wide was particularly eye-catching and set the tone for his day.
Meanwhile, Digby and Sullivan linked up superbly down the left flank, causing problems for the Cranleigh defence, though neither side could find a breakthrough.
The second period burst into life as Cranleigh capitalised on a defensive lapse to take the lead. But Albury responded in style — Marcell picked up the ball near the sideline, danced past defenders, and fired home a fantastic solo goal to equalise.
Momentum swung Albury’s way soon after, as a Cranleigh own goal put them 2-1 up. Moments later, Leo added a third with a stunning long-range effort that flew past the keeper. Cranleigh, however, weren’t done yet — a wonder strike from distance clawed them back to 3-2 by the half.
Cranleigh began the second half brightly, and their pressure paid off with a well-taken goal to level the match at 3-3. Their strategy of launching long balls forward kept the Albury defence under pressure, but Jenson was alert and composed at the back, dealing with danger bravely.
Albury responded with growing pressure, earning a series of corners. A beautifully delivered long corner from Leo was met perfectly on the volley by Marcell, who grabbed his second of the game to make it 4-3.
Max’s tireless work across the pitch helped drive Albury forward while also making key interventions at the back when needed.
In the final period, Albury showed impressive maturity to protect their lead. Cian was calm and composed in defence, ensuring Cranleigh found no easy way through. Up front, Leo continued to threaten, and it was Rui who found the net next — scoring the only goal of the period after sustained pressure.
Albury held firm in the closing minutes to secure a hard-fought win on the road.
? Eagle of the Week: Tommy
A special mention goes to Tommy, who was named Eagle of the Week for his outstanding goalkeeping display — his crucial saves, especially in the first period, laid the foundation for Albury’s eventual victory.