01/11/2025
Olympia Reserves 3–1 Rufforth
Another brilliant win for the Olympia Reserves today, overcoming Rufforth in a hard-fought encounter that saw determination, quality football, and some standout performances across the pitch.
Rufforth came into the game seeking revenge after the previous meeting between the two sides, and both teams started brightly. Olympia, however, quickly found their rhythm, pressing high and controlling possession in the early stages.
Down the left flank, Lewis Kelly was a constant threat, repeatedly getting in behind the Rufforth defence, though that final killer pass just eluded him. After 20 minutes of strong play, Olympia were caught out by a long ball over the top. Rufforth’s striker found himself one-on-one with Adam Prince and calmly slotted home to make it 1–0.
The setback didn’t dampen Olympia’s spirit. The lads responded brilliantly, continuing to press and play positive football. Their efforts paid off just minutes later when Ellis Cunningham broke through on goal and finished confidently to level the scores at 1–1 going into half-time.
Managerial changes at the break brought fresh energy, with Nathan Sedman replacing Ellis. The substitution proved inspired — Nathan immediately made an impact, running tirelessly at the Rufforth back line and causing constant problems. His persistence was rewarded when he latched onto a through ball and coolly finished to put Olympia 2–1 up.
Olympia weren’t done yet. Determined to put the game beyond doubt, the side continued to press forward. A long throw deep into the Rufforth half was flicked on by Chris Thompson, and Bobby Lawler was on hand to smash the ball into the roof of the net. His celebration — shirt off and pure elation — said it all.
From there, Rufforth looked deflated, and Olympia saw out the match with composure. The back four of Bayley, Marcus, Josh Wilko, and Adam Wardle were rock-solid, keeping Rufforth’s attack quiet for the remainder of the game. In midfield, Chris Thompson and Josh Woollard battled for every ball, linking play beautifully and driving the team forward.
A well-deserved Man of the Match award went to Bobby Lawler — not just for his emphatic goal, but for his pinpoint passing, tireless work rate, and tough tackling reminiscent of a prime Steven Gerrard.
A superb all-round performance from the Olympia lads — fully deserving of the victory.
Final Score: Olympia Reserves 3–1 Rufforth
Goals: Cunningham, Sedman, Lawler
MOTM: Bobby Lawler
