B&DYFL match of the week: YMCA Blacks v Wyre JFC

What matters most to YMCA Blacks boss Oliver Brindley and Wyre JFC’s Max Landless is that their U7 players are really enjoying their first season too.

Wyre have moved down a level since Christmas and it has been a testing season for both teams, who only came together over the summer.

Max has plenty of experience as a player – he still represents Poulton in the West Lancashire League – but has never taken charge of a team before.

He told The Gazette: “Some of the teams in this league had been together longer but we only got together last summer.

“The players have really improved, though, and we’re doing very well since Christmas.

“I wasn’t bothered about being manager but now I wouldn’t want not to do it. We have a nice strong squad, with nine players when everyone is available.”

YMCA boss Oliver is also enjoying an unexpected journey, adding: “When I agreed to get involved I didn’t think I’d become manager. I just thought I’d be helping out.

“We started out with two teams which merged into one new side before the season began. It has been a challenging season but everyone is enjoying it.

“We are a mixed team and a cosmopolitan one, with players from quite a few countries.”

That team spirit is key for Wyre too as Max explained: “Both teams played well but my players aren’t bothered about the score.

“It’s all about having a good time but we are moving in the right direction.”

Wyre named Rocco as player of the match after the defender really got stuck in to limit YMCA’s chances.

Emir was the YMCA choice for his strong running and outstanding effort.

YMCA boss Oliver also likes to highlight a ‘moment of the match’ which, on this occasion, was a precise cross by Dexter.

At U18 level, BJFF Blades Blues are the early pacesetters after beating South Shore Youth 5-1 courtesy of goals from Fin Hambley (2), Cole Stephenson, Dominik Jones and Josh Wilcox.

Billy Etheridge replied as the win keeps the Blues’ 100 per cent record.

A brace each for Connor Campbell and Karson Dean set FC Rangers on their way to a 7-0 win at home to Poulton FC Blacks, with Christian Cookson, Rees Gallagher and Josh Haines completing the scoring.

Clifton Rangers Bees won 4-2 at Poulton FC Blues thanks to goals from Harvey Shaw, Charlie Valentine, Billy Acton and Coby Williams, as Hayden and Kai Davies replied.

A Ben Hall hat-trick set Wyre Juniors Diamonds on their way to a 5-1 win at Fleetwood Gym Wanderers.

Further goals came from Jayden Pain and Tom Bowman, while Kenzie Ramsbottom scored for the Wanderers.

Staining JFC beat West Coast Sports Ravens 3-2 thanks to Kaleb Deans, Henry Fletcher and Reuben Williams.

Aiden Henson and Harley Maskell replied for the Ravens.

Fleetwood Town Reds beat Clifton Rangers Hornets 7-1, the Hornets goal coming courtesy of Luke Smith.