The Under 8 Panthers (pictured) put up a strong and determined fight against a highly organised and well-drilled Coventry Sphinx team. Although the match ended in a loss, the girls showed incredible resilience and refused to give up, delivering some truly promising individual performances. Given the challenging weather conditions, an despite the result, the team remains optimistic and eager to build on this experience as they look ahead to the fixtures to come.

Under 10 Panthers vs CCC.The first match of the new year started with real spirit, and a great sporting dignity, given some of the challenges in the match. The Panthers were on the offensive in the first half. 3 minutes in, Anaiya scored a fantastic goal from a solo run and opportunity. A high GNP press kept the game very much up one end of the field. A goalmouth battle led to Rhea delivering a 2nd goal. Lily's corner delivery set up a goal for Roop. 2nd half Aish added a superb goal. CCC fought back giving Poppy some work to do as goalkeeper. She thwarted numerous attempts but couldn't stop one which was whipped in to the corner. However, a great late run from Jodh culminated in an assist for Roop to score again, which secured another superb victory. Fantastic work girls!

Under 11 Panthers - no update

Under 13 Panthers hosted Coventry Utd Red. The Panthers straight away were in full attack mode with some great passing. The pressure finally paid off with Lizzie opening up the scoring. The Panthers continued to press and after a succession of corners, another great delivery from Rose meant an own goal was conceded by the opposition taking the lead of 2-0 onto half time. The second half saw Cov Utd Red playing higher up the pitch. Some brilliant defending by Avani kept them at bay. Lilly, Hannah and Enya also had fantastic games in defence. Against the run of play, Mankirat went on a great solo run to add to her tally of goals this season. The opposition however finished the game strong scoring 2 goals in the last 10 minutes as the Panthers only had 1 sub with Preet making her debut. Final score 3-2 to the Panthers.

Under 14 Panthers were at home against Wellesbourne Wanderers in their first competitive game in 5 weeks. The girls didn’t let the cold affect them and put in arguably their finest performance of the season battling from the start to final whistle. The Panthers started the game brightly and had the opening chance after 2 minutes but Mekenna's shot went straight to the keeper. It was the visitors who took the lead after 10 minutes when a ball over the defence was latched onto by the opposition striker who hit a shot from the edge of the area which Harkeerat in goal could only palm into the roof of the net. Wellesbourne were then awarded 2 penalties, one for a dubious foul, which couldn’t be converted and the other for definite hand ball by Ganeve who prevented a cross from reaching the attacker which was slotted into the bottom corner. The Panthers had a couple of chances before half time but went in 0-2 down. 2nd half saw 5 changes for the Panthers but they started with the same tempo with which the 1st half ended. The main chances fell to the Panthers but it was Wellesbourne who got the important 3rd goal. Almost from the restart, the Panthers went on the attack and after a neat one two between Mekenna and Kia, Kia fired a strong shot into the bottom corner giving the Panthers hope. The Panthers were starting to dominate and were given a penalty when a cross into the box was handled by the defender. Kia stepped up and converted the penalty to make it 2-3. With 5 minutes to play another good attacking move found Kia who found the back of the net scoring a hat-trick on her first game back after injury. The Panthers continued to attack but couldn’t find a 4th goal. Wellesbourne had a couple of chances at the end but the defence stayed strong and Charu pulled off the save of the match, turning a low shot around the post for a corner. Final score 3-3 with player of the match performances all over the park but Kia’s 3 crucial goals gave her the edge!

SATURDAY - BOYS

Under 7 Tigers played away to Sporting Rugby for the second time so we expected a test. But didn't the boys deliver! From kick off, Taran showed great passion making many challenges, giving the opposition little time on the ball. Sahib was strong upfront, scoring another great goal and narrowly missing out on several more chances. Rhys showed a lot of energy, supporting the team in defence, driving the ball forward in midfield and making critical saves whilst in goal. Joban was outstanding in defence and made so many critical challenges at key times. Covering most of the pitch, he secured the win with a fantastic run from half way. Yet again, Aron's contribution was exceptional having another fantastic game. He was strong in defence and midfield whilst also playing a crucial part in our set pieces throughout the game. The Tigers were outstanding again with goals from Aron (2), Joban (2) and Sahib (1). A solid performance from the team and a well deserved result in a higher division.

Under 7 Lions were back in action against Rugby Borough and raring to go - Dhillan got a quick fire double applying great pressure from the start. Away team managed to get back into the game, The match played out in that fashion till the final whistle. Some amazing goal keeping from Thomas left everyone amazed. Two great finishes from Jagraaj and Theo brought the game level going into the last 10 mins. Luca worked so hard, Kiaan ran his socks off with some fancy footwork on the left wing. Man of the match went to Elliott today he was a rock at the back making sure the opposition struggled to get past him. The boys have been trying so hard every week and it is starting to click, as always they have smiles on their faces & showed amazing attitude and resilience!

GNP Under 8 Tigers put in an excellent performance against Soccer Rockz after two recent reverses against the same opposition. Tigers dominated the game from the off with Soccer Rockz having their moments. Overall GNP were too strong with Bishoy scoring a hat trick. Arjun, Kurren (who hit a brilliant free kick) and Neal were also amongst the goals. Neal was PotM for his work rate and a brilliant lofted finish at the end to seal the win in style!

Under 8 Lions - no update

Under 8 Pumas suffered a heavy defeat against a well-drilled and experienced Racing Club Warwick Black. It was our first match of the year and it really showed. The boys were on the back foot within the first few minutes, conceding a few early goals, but regained composure as they grew into the match. Our player of the match was Arjan who had a solid performance throughout.

Under 9 Jaguars returned to action against Vision after a weather-enforced break. Jaguars started off strong with goals from Jake, Nico and Veer in the first half, with Angad adding two goals in the second period. The opposition posed a threat during the latter stages of each half, notching a goal in each. There was some great passing play between Agam, Angad and Jake in the attacking areas, whereas Manveer Amarvir and Dhanveer played well in defence (including a dramatic goal line clearance!). Rajveer made some great saves during the game to keep Jaguars in the game. Great work by the team today. PotM was awarded to Jake for his sheer determination and contribution to the defending and attacking play today.

Under 9 Lions again travelled south to play against Stockton Juniors Thunder. Feeling the cold the U9 Lions demonstrated exceptional performance this morning, exhibiting commendable fighting spirit and determination in securing a draw against a now higher-tier opponent. The match showcased a remarkable parity between the two teams. Stockton took the early lead but the Lions fought back. Sahib bagged two outstanding goals which were a direct result of effective teamwork and precise passing. Ending the first half in the lead, the Lions knew the second half would be tough. Our defence, while eventually pressured, was effectively protected by Sehaj. However, Stockton managed to break through to equalise after a barrage of shots. Sehaj earned Player of the Match for his exceptional performance in goal. Congratulations and well done on your excellent performance today Lions; maintain this momentum!

The Under 9 Pumas hosted Wellesbourne Wanderers in an exciting match. The Pumas started strong, dominating the game with energy and numerous goal attempts. Harvey broke the deadlock with a superb strike, beating the goalkeeper to open the scoring. Continuing their offensive pressure, Harvey doubled the lead with a precise shot into the bottom corner. Just before half time, the opposition managed to pull one back, narrowing the gap. In the second half, the Pumas conceded from a corner, allowing Wellesbourne to level the score. Despite maintaining their attacking momentum and creating multiple chances, they were thwarted by excellent goalkeeping. Against the run of play, Wellesbourne snatched a goal to take the lead. The Pumas fought valiantly to equalize but couldn’t find the breakthrough. Player of the Match was Jaiden for his crucial tackles and excellent passing throughout the game.

Under 12 Tigers were away to Stockingford, chomping at the bit with their first game in 7 weeks. GNP started on fire and took the lead in the first few minutes and increased their lead with further goals. 2nd half Tigers increased their lead further and were totally dominating the game. Final score 7-2
Some great goals by Aman, Harjan, Josiah (2) and hat trick hero and player of the game Drammeh (3)! A great performance - well done to all the boys!

SUNDAY - BOYS

Under 16s came up against Division A Alvis Juniors in the League Cup in a local Derby match, intensified by the rivalry between the numerous players on each team who are pupils at Finham Park. The GNP boys were outstanding today and were really up for it. The boys started well and went ahead after 8 mins. Boys continued to play well and had a few chances to increase the lead. A sloppy goal from a corner was conceded with 4 mins to go in the first period. The boys responded immediately and Archie scored a superb goal by lobbing the keeper. Within 2 mins of the 2nd half Ethan scored another brilliant goal to go 3-1 up but Alvis got one back 10 mins later. GNP had other chances to increase the lead, without any joy, but defended brilliantly to close out the game. This was a great win for the boys and thoroughly deserved!

GNP Tigers Under 14 faced Haunchwood in another rescheduled Cup game. The boys made a lovely start to the new year by winning comfortably 6-0 and progressing to the next round. It was an excellent performance from all the boys today. Great ball retention and effort out of possession to win the ball back. Some excellent goals, and they were very entertaining to watch. PotM was awarded to Anesu for some slick skills and electrifying wing play!

Under 13 Tigers visited Coventry Hydras looking to extend a 4 match winning streak, but knew it was going to have to be done the hard way on an awful bobbly pitch and against a team personified by strong, quick athletes. The game sadly started with an early impact injury for striker Arjun, which paved the way for an early debut appearance for new signing Emmanuel - he impressed early on with intense midfield pressing and interplay with Ehan and wing back Harman Sangha on the left side of attack. Sangha provided significant threat down the wing with numerous direct runs past his markers which set up 2 or 3 great chances to score. Appropriately he then gave GNP the lead when keeper Wiktor launched a superb long kick into Sangha's path. Sangha controlled it, ran straight at goal and hit a cross shot which the keeper couldn't keep out! 0-1. Some GNP substitutions then unsettled the team's rhythm & Hydras took advantage to equalise 6 mins later. After that it became an intense end to end battle with GNP having the edge with slightly clearer chances. The Tigers felt many referee decisions went against them, denied free kicks in dangerous areas when clear fouls went unpunished. The clearest example of this was in the closing stages and led to GNP playing the final 7 mins with 10 men following a sin bin for dissent. This allowed Hydras to up the pressure for a late winner but the defence and Wiktor stood firm with several last ditch blocks and superb saves to keep them at 1-1 at the final whistle. PotM: Wiktor

Under 13 Lions hosted CHESS Tigers looking to put things right after dropping 2 points unnecessarily in the reverse fixture. The boys started well and Filip pounced on a loose ball on the edge of the box to fire high into the net. Both teams threatened plenty but no further goals were scored before half time, thanks in part to a superb sweeper-keeper display from new GNP goalkeeper Caleb! 2nd half was a different story with GNP dominant in possession and secure in defence. A wonderful 2nd goal followed with a jinking run from left back and PotM Milad down to the byline before squaring to Jasraj for an easy tap in from 6 yards! Chances came and went with the CHESS keeper also in great form but debutant Max broke the offside trap to finish cutely at the near post after cutting in from the right following Filip's through ball. Final score 3-0 GNP!

Under 12 Pumas were in cup action against high flying Atherstone Vipers from Division B. The boys showed great courage and spirit against a team, who are 3 divisions higher. Pumas spent a large chunk of the game soaking up the onslaught from the Vipers. Pumas did manage to break away on several occasions but were unable to find the back of net. Final score was 7-0 to Atherstone but the real story was Harrison Eyden, making his debut for the U12s in goal, in his first ever competitive game of football. A Player of the Match performance from Harrison with some outstanding saves for the team. His distribution of the ball along with command of his penalty area and defence was second to none!

GNP Under 11 Pumas faced Panjab Athletic in what was an electric game. GNP started off slow but gained momentum as the match went on. The Pumas had chances to go in front but conceded a goal going in to half time. The 2nd half Pumas stepped up several gears and started to create chances with Jaiden scoring the first, smashing the ball in to the top of the net with conviction. Two further goals followed from Lekan, the first was an assist from Ziyyad the second was a great solo effort where Lekan brushed past the Panjab defence with ease and beat the keeper. The 4th and final goal was a well worked goal; a pass from the corner to Mason who whipped in a cross for Reuben to lift the ball over the despairing dive of the keeper. Panjab did have their own goal scoring opportunities but GK Sam made some fantastic saves. PA added a 2nd goal just before the final whistle but it proved a consolation. Well done to all the boys for an amazing game with all the players putting in a real shift!

Under 11 Lions were at home against Wolston, their first home game after moving back up to tier 2. The Lions started well but found themselves a goal down after a defensive lapse. The Lions went on to dominate the match and got their equaliser after a fantastic free kick our wide from Sehaj. Another defensive mistake meant GNP were trailing at half time. The 2nd half was much the same and the game was dominated by the Lions. Athrv scored the equaliser after a corner wasnt cleared and the Lions were well on top but shortly after equalising we conceded again, to find ourselves trailing by one. The Lions hit the post 3 times and missed some great opportunities. An unfortunate result all things considered! Player of the Match was recent signing Devraj, after a solid all-round display.

Under 11 Tigers were away to Cov Jag after a long break. Tigers started very strong scoring from the first attack through Shaan. A few lapses let Cov Jag back in to the game and then they took the lead. Tigers regrouped and in the second half equalised straight away, again from Shaan. But again a bit of rustiness allowed the home team to re-take the lead. Tigers then had a penalty which was missed - Jag broke away and scored again. Tigers chased the game but unfortunately could not get back into it. Unlucky this game - on to the next.

Under 10 Tigers played their first game of the year away to Coventry Copsewood Girls. With a number of players out with illness the Tigers had to work hard throughout the match against an energetic, full strength team. The Tigers looked very assured at the back with Birat and Harsahib playing confidently throughout. Harrison came close to scoring on a few occasions with Nathaniel and Akaalvir also having half chances. The home side broke away twice on the counter attack as the tiring Tigers couldn't recover fast enough. It was an unfortunate scoreline with some improving performances especially from Birat who was PotM. Onto next week and hopefully we find our goalscoring boots during the week!

GNP Under 9 Tigers hosted Leamington Brakes Purple on the Corpus Christi 3G pitch. An aggressive start by the Tigers quickly flipped on its head when Leamington countered with the first goal of the game. The Tigers pushed hard to equalise, without much luck, that is until Josiah shocked the guests with a free kick strike that wowed everyone. Josiah continued working hard to eventually earn the PotM award for his excellent performance today. Veer hit the crossbar twice, but that didn’t stop him from getting himself on the scoresheet when he was fastest to react to a loose ball off the Leamington goalie. The Tigers, with a man short, struggled to finish goals in the second half, although we saw great efforts by Arveer and Joban before Rajan delivered another beautiful goal. Jacob continued to keep the Tigers noses in front with some amazing saves and GNP ended up with a positive result to kick off 2025!