SATURDAY – GIRLS
Under 10 Panthers (pictured) were away at Leafield Athletic. The girls started this match with determination and dangerous attacking threat. After numerous efforts on goal early on, the inevitable breakthrough arrived with a fanghtastic goal from Elizabeth off an assist from Khloe. This was swiftly followed by a great cross from Anaiya to Elizabeth, whose shot was saved by the opposition goalie but expertly dispatched into the goal by Jodh. No further goals 1st half despite continued pressure! 2nd half saw a fightback from Leafield - a gap in the GNP defence was exploited by a solo run finished with a powerful shot. Soon after a penalty kick was awarded, and Leafield capitalized convincingly with an equaliser. Panthers regrouped before some brilliant ball movement up the pitch provided Elizabeth the opportunity, and she took advantage to score GNP’s third goal! A frantic end to the game saw keeper Poppy make a match-saving dive onto Leafield’s final attempt at goal, securing another great result for this team. Well done again girls!
Under 14 Panthers were away against 5th place Coventrians. On a cold morning the girls struggled to get into their stride and fell behind within 3 minutes after not clearing the ball following a corner. The hosts would have been 2-0 up soon after had it not been for a piece of really brave goalkeeping by Charu. The Panthers continued to attack but couldn’t get past the last line of defense. The hosts managed to break through the Panthers defence and put a low shot p,ast the onrushing Charu to make it 2-0 which is how the first half ended. An encouraging pep talk at half time kept the Panthers spirits high - from the first attack of the second half, Kia broke through and hit a shot that the keeper pushed onto the crossbar and was cleared to safety but this gave the Panthers a lift and they were rewarded with their attacking efforts when Poppy played a through ball that Mekenna latched onto and fired past the keeper. The equalising goal came soon after, the home defence struggled to cope with Saffron’s corner and Kia hit a shot from a tight angle that beat everyone and crept inside the far post. Both teams continued to attack but neither could find the winning goal. 2-2 final score after being 2-0 down at half time. Player of the match was Eva who put in a true captain’s display, bossing the midfield , supporting the attack and closing down the opposition. Also a special mention for Dhianne who marked the Coventrians best player out of the game.
The Panthers Under 8s played an away game against a well-organised Redditch Borough Juniors team. The Panthers showed strong progress, building on previous experiences and growing in confidence. It was Jasmine’s first game, and she made an impression with some excellent movement on the ball. Mihar scored a fantastic goal in the first half, while Siya displayed resilience and strength throughout. Lilly put in a determined effort, Tanaya defended with poise, and Abigail made some crucial saves in goal. Overall, it was a solid team performance, with several standout individual moments that were both positive and inspiring.
Under 13 Panthers were away, up against Alvechurch Foundation. First half went back and forth with no goals scored so it was all level heading into half time. Second half both teams starting to go for the victory and more space opened up on the pitch. Alvechurch opened the scoring on the 50th minute but the Panthers hit back 5 minutes later with a fantastic corner by Rose for Anayah to connect sweetly to make it 1-1. Alvechurch pressed forward with only 2 minutes left and a long range effort saw them score to win 2-1. The Panthers were disappointed to lose but can be very proud of their overall performance.
Under 11 Panthers
SATURDAY – BOYS
GNP Tigers Under 7 vs Lillington Juniors FC The GNP Tigers continued their fantastic start in Tier 2 with back-to-back victories after being promoted at Christmas. Despite conceding two early goals, the Tigers showed resilience and quickly turned the game around. Rhys broke the deadlock, with Aaron, Joban, and Sahib adding crucial goals to secure another impressive victory. The team showcased their growth and put their training into practice, combining energy and tactical awareness. Their strong teamwork and determination in both attack and defence were key to controlling the game after a challenging start. The Tigers are thriving in Tier 2, demonstrating great progress and team spirit. It was another all-around effort that highlights their potential for continued success. Well done, GNP Tigers!
What an exhilarating match the U7 Lions had! The boys truly left it all out there on the pitch. Thomas was a shining star in defence with some fantastic tackles, earning him the coveted Player of the Match title. Elliott provided solid support at the back, ensuring the team kept the pressure on throughout. Luca had some incredible near misses that kept everyone on the edge of their seats. Theo, in goal, made strong saves throughout after a sterling performance in defence. Jagraaj's performance on the wing was nothing short of fantastic, offering brilliant support throughout the game. Kiaan showcased impressive footwork, weaving through defenders with ease. The determination from the boys was commendable, fighting until the very end. What a team effort!
The Under 8 Lions held their own against the Vision Rockets in a riveting home game. The match was played in 4 quarters with end to end action and goals for the first 10 minutes with every attempt at goal on target. After this intensity the team faced a lull of energy which Vision was able to capitalize on. The boys brought it back in the final stages but ended up agonizingly short! An intense match with some superb goals from Louis and Arthur. A big shout out to our fantastic goalie Balraj who made some fantastic saves. Well done boys and keep it going!
GNP Tigers Under 8s were up against a very strong outfit in Christ the King Jnrs. While the result wasn't in our favour, there were positive moments to build upon. Bishoy put in a strong performance as a striker with two well-taken goals. The team showed great effort, and a positive attitude in the first half but the performance dropped in the second half and conceded some avoidable goals. GNP will be looking to return to their best form next week.
Under 8 Pumas/Jaguars fought out another derby game on Saturday, with the Jaguars again coming out on top. The Pumas however, put a much better fight this time! Well done to both teams! Jaguars goalscorers were Mithun (2), Oryn (2), Isaac (2), Theo and PotM Varun! Pumas goals in reply from Dayal, Kishan & Jeevan!
Under 9 Jaguars hosted Vision on Saturday. Jaguars started off attacking and pressing the ball - their efforts paid off with a goal from Raylan and another from Hakeem to double our lead. The opposition were able to get one back however the Jaguars didn't lose focus and were able to get another with Raylan slotting another one in from a deflected shot from Agam. 2nd half Jaguars started off like they did the first. Agam opened his scoring account with a goal with some great passing play from the attackers. The opposition got another one back where they were awarded a penalty which was unfortunate. Nonetheless GNP kept pressing on with some great play between our defence and attack where Hakeem and Rayan scored with Agam scoring a free kick to seal a well deserved result for the Jaguars. PotM was given to Hakeem for his determined attitude and his attacking play where he scored 2 goals and got some assists also.
The Under 9 Pumas faced the Stockton Hurricanes in an away match. In the first half, the Pumas played excellent football, creating numerous goal-scoring opportunities but were unable to convert them. Just before halftime, the Hurricanes capitalized on a counterattack to take the lead. Early in the second half, Harvey equalized with a well-taken goal. Despite dominating possession and creating a flurry of chances; including two shots hitting the post and a goal-line clearances, the Pumas couldn’t find the breakthrough. The opposition made the most of their opportunities, scoring two quick goals to seal the game. It was an impressive performance from the Pumas, though luck wasn’t on their side in front of goal. Player of the Match went to Zak, for his outstanding defensive work and precise distribution.
The Under 9 Lions unfortunately had an unfavourable outcome against a strong Stratford Colts team. Stratford opened the scoring with a succession of early goals. The Lions switched up a gear and gained control to be rewarded with an own goal just before halftime. With no subs to call upon the halftime pep talk was all they had as they started the second half. The Lions took the fight to the opposition coming out as the superior team. The boys' superb performance and better finishing should have narrowed the gap, but good saves by the opposing keeper left the scoreline unchanged. Well done, Lions; your perseverance was commendable, and you deserved a better result!
GNP Tigers Under 12s were away to Kenilworth Wardens. GNP were looking to continue their fine form of late and took an early lead with goals from MD + Josiah and Junior taking the game into HT 4-1 up. GNP continued their fine form in the second half and added a further 6 goals with MD and Josiah both grabbing a hat trick apiece. Player of the match went to Faris, who had his best game of the season. Fine movement and plenty of dangerous crosses into the box, resulting in some fine goals and play. Final score 10-1!
SUNDAY – BOYS
GNP Under 9 Tigers visited Coundon Court Red. Both teams battled with all their might in the first half, but with no impression made on the scoreline by either team. Ollie joined the team this week as a new signing, and made an amazing debut with impressive all round play. Arveer stood in early as goalkeeper, and along with Jacob, worked hard to maintain a GNP clean sheet. When moved outfield, Arveer went on to produce a really powerful performance in the second half of the game, to earn himself the POTM award. We saw a confident performance by Josiah. Rivan gave strong defence again in a new formation. Rajan was very good on the ball, scanned well and made some good passes. In the second half, the Tigers upped their levels. Josiah combined with Arveer to set up a tap-in by Joban. Joban then delivered his second goal, when Veer made a quick tackle and an assist. This was the turning point of the game, after which GNP hardly allowed the ball to enter their half by applying constant pressure. Veer hit the crossbar again this week, which could have been a beautiful goal. But most importantly the Tigers continued their impressive form and positive streak since the new year.
Under 10 Tigers vs Chapelfields Colts. The Tigers were at full strength as they hosted Chaps Colts. Tigers started the game on the front foot and played positively from the back and created some clear cut chances which they failed to make count, partly due to some smart saves. The Colts opening the scoring with a rare shot on goal following a dubious decision from the referee. The Tigers remained composed and continued to knock on the door. The second half started with the same pattern, chance after chance was being created. Finally with less than 10mins left Harrison equalised with a brilliant finish, minutes later Harrison scored again with an outstanding long range finish. In the final seconds, Birat neatly converted a penalty. PotM went gto Sohan for his overall commitment, playing in the 3 different positions, being especially effective on the right wing and central midfield where his passing was exceptional.
GNP Under 11 Tigers vs. Christ the King - The Tigers put on a thrilling display at home against CTK, securing a dominant victory despite challenging conditions. The match began with a dream start for the Tigers, as new signing Jude opened the scoring with a superb header from a perfectly delivered corner by Kyle. Moments later, Jude doubled the lead with a brilliant solo run through the middle, showcasing his pace and composure. However, Christ the King pulled one back before halftime after a loose ball left their striker one-on-one with the Tigers' keeper. In the second half, Jude completed his hat-trick with another fantastic effort to extend the lead, cementing his status as the star of the day. Despite relentless pressure from Christ the King, the Tigers' defense held strong, winning every 50/50 duel and showing incredible resilience. Late in the game, Reece sealed the victory with two clinical finishes, ensuring a commanding final result. The Tigers were outstanding, demonstrating excellent discipline, teamwork, and determination. With no substitutes, every player stepped up, delivering sharp passing and sticking to the game plan throughout. A true testament to their hard work and focus, especially in harsh conditions. Man of the match went to new signing Jude and special credit goes to goalkeeper Kian for some fantastic footwork and distribution helping keep CTK at bay. An amazing performance all around—well done, Tigers!
Under 11 Lions away to Copsewood Lions. A tough and very even game away to Copsewood. The conditions didn’t lend themselves to free flowing football and GNP started well, despite missing a few players. After a defensive lapse, GNP went into half time a goal down. GNP came out in the 2nd half determined to find a goal and started to boss the game in the 2nd half. Without creating too many clear chances they piled on the pressure. After 2 wicked corners from Sehaj, GNP capitalised by attacking the ball at the corner and found themselves 1-2 up after goals by Athrv and Rajan. GNP broke clear a few times, but could not add to their tally - great play by Mason on the right of midfield and a quality through ball putting Sehaj clear, which ended up with us hitting the post. A very good battling performance and good to get the first positive result since moving up to tier 2.
GNP Under 11 Pumas vs Whitnash wanderers. Pumas tried to break the early deadlock with Lekan having a few opening chances in the first half. The goal finally came after a great individual effort from Lekan beating the keeper. Whitnash managed to get a goal back only for Lekan to get his 2nd minutes later - an assist from Jaiden which Lekan slotted past the keeper. Pumas were leading at half time. The second half continued with the Pumas applying pressure with Ziyyad getting the third goal. The game took a turn with Whitnash getting 3 goals to take the lead. Pumas continued to battle, eventually getting a 4th goal through Faris. It seemed the game was heading for a draw only for Whitnash to attack and snatch the winning goal . A very entertaining game and overall, a performance the team should be proud of!
Back in league action, the Under 12 Pumas hosted an in form Coundon Cockerels team. An impressive start by the Pumas, who were awarded a penalty in the 1st minute but denied by the woodwork. However Pumas were not to be denied with Pumas goal machine Nathan giving them the lead with a strike inside the box. Pumas defence and midfield made it very tough for Coundon to play their game and went into the time break 1 up. Not much to separate the teams in the 2nd half before the game went goal crazy. Coundon pulled one back, but some great battling by Armaan in midfield, Ryan slipped a ball into Nathan who shot away from the Coundon defence to give the Pumas the lead. Handball by a Pumas defender allowed Coundon to convert their penalty to level things up again. But Nathan added a 3rd and 4th to put the game out of reach, and took his tally to 26 goals for the season in just 10 games! Nathan’s 4th goal originated from a tremendous sliding tackle from Mikaeel, inside his own penalty area. Coundon did have a couple of goal-scoring opportunities late on in the game, but were denied by some excellent goal keeping from stand in goalkeeper, Jenson. Player of the match was awarded jointly to Armaan and Mikaeel.
Under 13 Tigers hosted top of the table Racing Club Warwick Green, hoping to cause an upset and close the gap on the title favourites with so many games in hand. The 1st half was very even with both teams trying to play good football. GNP forced several corners and free kicks around the box but could not capitalize. Unfortunately the Warwick striker was sharpest to react when the ball was spilled from a searching through ball, and finished into the unguarded net. As the half came to a close, the wind gusts picked up and a long ball was misjudged by the defence, allowing the same striker clean through on goal. Wiktor made a fine initial save but could do nothing to stop the rebound which sat up nicely. 0-2 down at half time but plenty of signs that GNP could potentially claw themselves back into things 2nd half. The boys did just that 10 mins in, when GNP defended a set piece well. Harman S got the ball under control and delivered a precise low through ball beyond the RCW defence. Striker Aaron D latched onto it, slid it past the onrushing keeper and finished expertly from a narrow angle to close things to 1-2. GNP were buoyant and full of belief, but the conditions led to the game becoming very scrappy on both sides. Despite a few glimpses at goal we couldn’t really create enough clear chances to recover the game. Final score 1-2.
Under 13 Lions visited Hartshill Hurricanes in the worst of the stormy weather on Sunday lunchtime. Rain, Gusty winds and ice cold temperatures created a nasty environment for youth football. The game kicked off and a physically superios Hartshill team made a dominant start. A very early attack down the right left GNP exposed and the attacker hit a rasping shot to the near post which our keeper could not keep out. It looked ominous as the aptly-named Hurricanes threw men forward time and time again in the first 10 minutes. However GNP held firm and kept them out, increasingly growing into the game and starting to dominate territorially with the wind at their backs. Unfortunately we naively fell foul of the offside trap time and time again in the 1st half denying ourselves numerous clear chances to run at goal. 2nd half GNP played into the cold wind and rain, which was at its worst. Despite some brilliant efforts from the boys, the defiance was finally broken by a Hartshill goal and 2 more quickly followed before the game came to a close. Special mentions to Dom, Pavan & Max in central midfield who all battled well, and to William & Ryan at centre back who held firm for so long under significant pressure.
The Under 16s were away to Central Ajax in what were horrible conditions. The game started very slow and the play was very sloppy from GNP. Nevertheless 2 quick fire goals from Tom and Archie put them 2-0 up after 17 mins. Ethan increased the lead after 30 mins to make it 3-0 at half time. The conditions then got worse with a freezing and gusty wind. GNP reacted with greater resilience and produced a flurry of goals, including a hat trick for Archie and 4 for Zaid to cap off a fantastic performance on a bitterly cold Sunday morning.