22/02/2026
Range Rovers U12s Match Report
Range Rovers went into today’s fixture having played just one previous match this year, thanks to the recent spell of challenging weather. With rain forecast once again, there were doubts about whether the game would go ahead — but fortunately the worst of it held off and the match was on.
From the first whistle, it was clear that Paddock Wood were up for the challenge, putting us on the back foot early on. A lack of recent game time showed as they played a superb ball through the middle, sending their centre forward clear on goal. Our goalkeeper, Harry, was forced off his line and unfortunately clipped the attacker, conceding a penalty which Paddock Wood confidently converted.
To their credit, our boys didn’t let their heads drop. They continued to battle in tough conditions and began to find their rhythm. The midfield quartet of Lucas, George, Levi and Gibril worked tirelessly, and their efforts paid off when Charlie was slipped through to finish brilliantly and bring us level.
However, just before half-time, Paddock Wood regained the lead, and the whistle came at a welcome time for Range Rovers.
The second half saw a different energy from our team as they shook off the cobwebs and got down to business. Midway through the half, we were awarded a penalty, and Mark James stepped up to confidently convert and draw us level once again. With Alf, Oliver, Cooper and Max standing firm in defence, and Harry producing some outstanding saves, momentum began to swing in our favour.
Then came the decisive moment. Awarded a free kick from 40 yards out, our free-kick specialist Mark James stepped up once more and struck a superb effort to put us ahead — a goal worthy of winning any match.
An incredibly proud performance from the team today. The team showed resilience, determination and real character to come from behind twice and secure a well-deserved victory.
PPOTM- Mark James
MOTM - Mark James