An amazing weekend of highs for our teams in Cup and League action, highlighted by the triumph of our Under 10 Boys in their Trophy Event Final. Congratulations to Coach Bal and all the players and supporters for a fine achievement, this team's 2nd Trophy win in 4 seasons.

Our Under 11 Pumas won their Trophy Event semi final yesterday to earn a spot in the final next Sunday.

The Under 8 Jaguars came agonisingly close to a deserved spot in the final, but were denied by a last second goal by the eventual winners in the semi final.

In league action, our Under 16s won their 9th game in 10 league games to reach the top of Division B, whilst the Under 13 Tigers made it 4 wins in 4 fixtures to continue their current hot streak

Next weekend sees 3 GNP teams vying for silverware with the Under 11 Pumas joined by the Under 9 Lions and Under 9 Pumas in their respective Trophy Event Finals. We wish them all the best of luck!!

SUNDAY - BOYS

GNP Sports Under 10 Tigers played Lawford United in the Under 10s Pool D Trophy Event Final. The Tigers came out the blocks fast, playing high up the pitch and forcing the opposition back. Harry opened the scoring after some clever work from Birat, skinning the forward, and playing in Dharam who found Harry to smartly beat his defender and finish. The home side equalised after a free kick was given, Tigers failed to clear and Lawford United levelled after an impressive solo effort. Harry restored the lead with a fine solo effort of his own after another Dharam assist, the Tigers piled on the pressure, Jai added a third and the Tigers were now in cruise control. Shortly after, Dharam found Harry in the box with a smart cross but Harry was unable to make good contact this time. In the second half the game followed the same pattern, however what seemed a blatant push was not given and Lawford took advantage with some tidy play. Fired up, the Tigers came right back. Jai was brought down after another fine run; Sohan stepped over the free kick and bent it over a crowd of players, Harry was on hand to get his toe to the ball to take it past the keeper to secure another hat trick ; a really crucial one too! PotM went to Jai for his superb wing play, but all 12 players were absolutely outstanding. The trophy presentation (pictured) was thoroughly enjoyed by all!

GNP Under 11 Pumas visited Christ The King in a Pool C Trophy Event Semi Final tie. It was a game which GNP dominated from start to finish. The Pumas had goal scoring opportunities in the first half through Lekan but the CTK keeper was on form, making saves at every opportunity. Going in to the half it was all level. The second half Pumas continued to apply pressure and the first goal followed when Jaiden whipped the ball in to the CTK area from which Lekan connected, finally beating the stubborn keeper. The second goal for the Pumas was a lob in to the box from Jovan which the CTK defender tried to head clear, but only beating his own keeper in the process, as the ball dropped into the empty net. The Pumas held their nerve and were glad to hear the final whistle, securing a prestigious spot in the Cup Final next week away to Atherstone Rangers Adders. Congratulations boys - another performance to be proud of! Just one step to go!!

Under 13 Tigers made the return trip to Leamington Brakes after prevailing in a home comeback victory against the same opponents last Sunday. Just like last week they made a slow start, and some ponderous defending let in the dangerous Brakes no 47 who finished cleverly to make it 3 goals in 2 weeks against us. The team huffed and puffed but struggled to find any rhythm in the next 10 mins or so. However, our 4 substitutions helped change the flow in our favour, with Prabhvir, Aarun S, Muhamadou & Arjun all making a positive impact. The dangerous Harman S was denied by a GK save and then Saavun lobbed the keeper only to hit the bar. The pressure told when Muhamadou worked the right channel, hit a cross into the box; the ball ricocheted off Arjun into the path of Cinar, who arrived at the right time to poke it home. 2nd half GNP made the early breakthrough when a delicious cross from Cinar, was volleyed in at the far post by Saavun to make it 2-1, but the joy was short-lived when a mistake led to the Leamington striker finishing clinically for his 2nd of the game. After this, though, it was all one-way traffic, with GNP dominant in a prolific 15 minute spell. A loose ball broke to Aarun S on the corner of the box, he took a fine touch before unleashing a venomous left foot strike high into the far corner of the goal, with a passionate celebration to match! Soon after Muhamadou's strength and pace caused havoc, and he was brought down in the box. Arjun stepped up to sweetly convert the penalty. 3 minutes later, Muhamadou then picked the ball up centrally and went on a skilful, mazy dribble, leaving defenders and the keeper on the floor as he waltzed past them and slotted home beautifully. The icing on the cake came when a long through ball from Enoch set Arjun free - with his confidence high, he slotted the ball in to end the scoring at 6-2 to GNP. A thoroughly enjoyable game and PotM was a tough decision, but went to Aarun S for a controlled and composed display in midfield, unleashing the force of a highly confident GNP attacking unit and scoring a superb goal of his own. 4 wins in a row in the league sees the Tigers on their own in 4th place and looking to continue the winning streak through to the end of the season!

Under 13 Lions visited Rugby Borough Juniors in unusual circumstances, with the home team unable to field a full starting team. In spite of this, Rugby battled well in the first half and made life difficult for GNP, who appeared to show complacency at times. Nevertheless they went into half time 3 up thanks to goals from Filip, Jasraj and Milad. In the 2nd half we saw an improved display from GNP with Harry grabbing 2 well taken goals on his debut, Filip adding another and Dominik scoring a thunderbolt volley from at least 20 yards out! PotM to Ryan for a superb assist for Milad's goal and a controlled display at the back.

Under 12 Pumas had an away fixture against Coventrians Phoenix. Another controlled performance from the Pumas securing the 3 points. Coventrians keeper was kept busy throughout, and made several outstanding saves from the Pumas strike force. Nathan put the Pumas ahead in the first half and then added another to his already impressive tally for the season. Pumas winning 2-0 in a game where they could have hit double figures. Player of the match performance from Armaan who covered every inch of the pitch with a tireless and skilled display.

GNP Under 11 Tigers faced a tough challenge against a strong Alvis Eagles side, who started the match with intensity and clinical finishing. Despite a spirited comeback attempt from the Tigers, Alvis Eagles managed to secure the win in what proved to be a challenging encounter. The game began with Alvis quickly asserting their dominance, scoring three early goals before the Tigers could settle into their rhythm. The quick flurry of goals left GNP trailing at halftime, facing an uphill battle to get back into the game. Despite this, the Tigers came out fighting in the second half, playing with determination and purpose. Their effort was rewarded as they found the back of the net twice, sparking hopes of a dramatic comeback. However, Alvis responded with more goals, knocking the wind out of GNP sails. Heads began to drop, and despite their best efforts, the Tigers couldn’t find their way back into the game. One bright spot for the Tigers was the exceptional performance of their goalkeeper, Kian, who was named Player of the Match. Kian made numerous outstanding saves throughout the match, demonstrating bravery and skill under relentless pressure from Alvis Eagles’ attackers. His heroics kept the Tigers in the game for as long as possible.

Under 16s visited Hillmorton Blue and were run very close in a ding-dong battle which ended 4-3 in favour of GNP Sports. The win takes the boys top of the table and still unbeaten in the league!

Under 14 Tigers hosted Coventry Phoenix in a close, entertaining encounter. The boys played some brilliant football at times and put in a great shift. The passing, and pressing off the ball was outstanding against a team in the promotion places. They put the pressure on and created chances but frustratingly could not convert them into goals. Two errors by us were punished by Phoenix, but the boys gave it all and never gave up. A template that the boys need to match moving forward after a few difficult weeks.

GNP U9 Tigers hosted the Cov Phoenix Tornadoes. It was an entertaining and well fought game, with the Tornadoes opening the game with a goal. The Tigers worked incredibly hard after that, with an apparent equaliser by Veer unfortunately chalked off due to the referee's view. A strong team effort from the GNP boys today with player of the match split between Arveer and Josiah. Josiah worked incredibly hard in attack, and Arveer produced some brilliant goalkeeping as stand-in with some excellent saves. We saw great effforts from Salman and Rivan at winning the ball from Phoenix. Rajan played well in trying to win the ball and moving forward. The last fifteen minutes of the game were incredibly tense, when the Tigers attacked and put great pressure on the visitors, dominating possession for the majority of that time, but sadly unable to deliver the critical goal to equalise!

SATURDAY - GIRLS

Under 14 Panthers went down 2-3 away to Dosthill Colts. The Panthers went in 2-0 down at half time after a poor first half. The half time rollicking pepped the girls into life and played the second half at a more impressive tempo. The Panthers were unlucky to not to get at least a point out of the game. If the girls cut out the silly mistakes at the back they’d have a lot more points on the board in the league, but there are plenty of encouraging signs in the 2nd half display.

Under 13 Panthers hosted Central Ajax. Plenty of pressure applied by the Panthers first half but they just couldn’t find a way through. 0-0 at half time but the Panthers didn’t get frustrated. They came out in the 2nd half but this time got the breakthrough. Lizzie managed to bag a goal from inside the box which started the goal spree. The Panthers were awarded a penalty which Orna buried in the top right corner. Hannah had a great run on the left wing to slot another home and Nimrut bagged a close range effort. Mankirat finished the goals off for the Panthers with a great effort from an almost impossible angle. Central Ajax had a few chances during the match but the Panthers defence was just too strong. They did however get 1 back in the dying minutes but all a little too late. Well done the Panthers who won 5-1.

Under 11 Panthers played their 3rd cup game, this time against Rugby Borough. The team started strong and applied early pressure on the opposition resulting in a great assist by Avneet, with Annabel scoring her first goal of the season. Tino debuted in the goal in the first half and was composed with her distribution of the ball which helped with the goal scored. Kaleesha had her best game of the season so far, as she was supporting up and down the pitch with the defence and attack. In the second half, the opposition started to apply more pressure and eventually managed to get a goal back towards the end of the match, leaving the game all square at 1-1.

GNP Under 10 Panthers visited Alvechurch Foundation in the next Trophy event group game. The girls started this match a little slowly and were startled in the first 2 minutes when Alvechurch produced a swift opening goal. The Panthers picked themselves up and gritted their teeth with a realisation they needed to pull out some energy and fight. Both goal keepers were kept busy for the next 10 minutes. Lily very nearly landed two huge kicks from the halfway line with direct hits on goal, only to be saved or bounce off the post. Finally, a nice passing move ended in a solo run from Anaiya and superb finish for the equaliser. The substitutes cheering from the side line for their team mates was the boost needed to pull this game around. There were 2 brilliant saves from Poppy who was in determined mood, followed by a quick, powerful goal from Khloe, putting the girls in the lead at the end of the first half. The second half was fast paced, and with plenty of subs on both sides to keep legs fresh, the energy level and hunger to win was high on both sides. Another brilliant save by Poppy from a long range effort, was followed by a goal from Jodh, assisted by Roop. The team came together again 2 minutes later for Roop to score the 4th and final goal. Every single player today was fundamental in the team's success. Well done to Khloe, Rhea, Anaiya, Elizabeth, Prema, Jodh, Aish, Roop, Anya, Poppy, and Lily. Go Panthers!

Under 8 Panthers started well against Arden Forest Girls. Siya scored first and we led for the first quarter of the game. The team showed energy and togetherness, defending well and having several shots. Unfortunately, the team tired a little throughout the rest of the game, with the game ending in a loss. Despite this, Jasmine scored another great goal towards the end. Parents and coaches were impressed by the continued progress of this young team and excited about the future development. Big shout out to all who played a massive part in the game - Tanaya, Siya, Lily, Jasika, Abigail, Hargun and Jasmine.

SATURDAY - BOYS

The GNP Jaguars Under 8s should hold their heads so high, such a great performance from everyone in the Trophy Event Finals Day against Racing Club Warwick and Rugby Borough Hawks. We were the better team in the semis and were so unlucky to concede a winner with the last kick of the game. To put this game into context, the Jaguars lost by a wide margin a few weeks ago against RCW, and came out firing today to not allow a repeat of the previous game. The game started with Seva, Mithun, Isaac, Oryn and Theo, every player made sure their performance counted. The subs Shaan, Bobby, Stan and Varun all contributed to a tightly fought game. Unfortunately the Jaguars lost out to a goal in the last 10 seconds but there was no shame in this loss, having made the better chances and giving Warwick the fright of their season. In the 3rd place play off, the boys again played out of their skins and fought non stop against Rugby Borough which ended in a late win for Jaguars! 3rd place in the cup in the team' debut season is nothing to be disappointed about - the team are so happy with what they achieved. Goals today from Oryn (2) Theo (3) & Isaac, but great efforts all over the pitch. PoTM went to Oryn who absolutely ran his socks off as captain today. His defence was outstanding, constantly getting back and sweeping up danger. Well done lads, UP THE GNP!!!

GNP Tigers Under 12s hosted Wellesbourne at Finham Park. After a 2-2 draw earlier this season both teams were looking for a win in the 4-way battle for the Div 3 title. Wellesbourne started off better but couldn’t break the deadlock. GNP started to take control of the first half and managed a brace of goals through Muhamadou and Josiah. Leading clearly going into the break, Wellesbourne then came back, battling to make it 4-2. However, GNP went through the gears and scored a further 3 goals. Player of the match, Farad who came on off the bench in spells and really made a difference with his goals.

The Under 9 Pumas travelled to face Warwick Juniors and put in a strong performance from the first whistle. They started brightly, playing exciting, attacking football and dominating possession. Musa opened the scoring with a calm and collected finish. The defence remained solid throughout, delivering accurate long balls to spark further attacks. The second half continued in the same fashion, with the Pumas controlling the tempo. Harvey doubled the lead following some slick midfield passing. Despite limited chances, the opposition managed to pull one back. However, a brilliant pass from the back set up Kandes, who struck from distance to seal a deserved win for the Pumas. A fantastic all-round display ahead of next week’s Trophy Final. Jaiden earned Player of the Match for his excellent defensive work, key tackles, and composed distribution from the back.

Under 9 Lions played away against Hockley Heath FC, continuing their fine form. The boys performed brilliantly as a team, dominating play in the opposition half to create numerous chances. A corner from Fakhir gave Sahib his first goal which was quickly followed by another from a seemingly impossible angle. The wingers provided vital support driving the ball forward and making their own chances too. In the second half, Sahib provided the cross which allowed Fakhir to slot one away effortlessly. After a few changes, Giyaan played the crucial centre mid position, where he shined bagging a goal and PotM for his efforts. Sahib sealed the victory by securing another hat trick for himself. The team kept a clean sheet due to Sehaj's efforts and a brilliant goal line clearance by Arjun. Well done Lions!

Under 9 Jaguars

Under 8 Pumas played at home against Sporting Rugby. Having played them at their ground a couple of weeks ago, we were prepared for the challenge. We had our full squad available, including our debutant Srihan, and we dominated possession early on. Unfortunately we couldn’t capitalise on this and conceded a goal. However, we ended the game with our most attack-focused team to try to overturn the deficit. In the final few minutes of the game, Jeevan scored a long-range free-kick and Guransh scored with a powerful corner which went over the line. It was a very tight game, and every player contributed to the victory!

Under 8 Lions played against Hillmorton Clarets. The boys had all the momentum to have a great game. However, the opposition came with their "A game" and blew the boys out of the water. Within the first few minutes the boys were behind and playing catch up. They did not give up the fight and brought one back with a goal from Arthur. The boys have been giving the games their all and the positive results will soon follow. Better luck next time Lions.

GNP Under 7 Tigers had the rare treat of a full playing squad as they visited an in-form SoccerRockz Warriors, and it seemed to make all the difference as the boys pulled off a brilliant and hard fought away victory. It was certainly not 1-way traffic, with Rayan in great form in defence, along with keepers Lucas and Joban, who were alert to all danger from the Warriors. At the other end the boys took their chances really well with goals contributed from Aron, Taran, Lucas and Tobias (2).

GNP Under 7 Lions played Christ the King in a spirited performance that deserved so much more. On a brisk morning, the GNP Lions U7s put in a gutsy performance against a well-drilled Christ the King side. Despite what the scoreline might suggest, the Lions were the better team for large parts of the game, playing with heart, flair, and determination from first whistle to the last. Jagraaj was a constant threat down the wing, hitting the post twice and driving the team forward with powerful runs and clever footwork. Dhillon carved out several fantastic chances but was denied by some brilliant saves from the excellent CTK keeper. Thomas, Luca, and Theo all came incredibly close to scoring, only to be stopped by some last-ditch defending and heroic blocks from the opposition. 2nd half saw the boys continue a high level of performance - despite trailing, the team’s morale stayed high. Elliot, between the sticks, put in a fantastic performance. Not only did he make some vital saves, but he also turned defence into attack with his long, accurate goal kicks, putting Christ the King under pressure and launching counter-attacks. Player of the Match was awarded to Jagraaj who was in incredible form, and set the tone for the team’s attacking style. GNP Lions gave everything and showed exactly what being a Lion is all about: determination, teamwork, and pride - Well done boys!