Brent U18 Girls kicked off their season in style with a commanding 5-2 victory away against local rivals Kensington.
The match took place on a warm day at the iconic Wormwood Scrubs, with Brent showing their dominance from the start despite playing up the slope in the first half.
Midfield duo Kate Fox and Apollonia Margetson controlled the tempo of the game with their tireless work, while Liv Bricknell’s brilliant play on the right wing set up the opening goal. Isobel Upstone finished the move superbly to give Brent a deserved 1-0 lead. Brent continued to apply pressure, and it was Margetson who doubled the advantage with a stunning 25-yard drive that flew into the net. Maddie Muir added a third with a sensational long-range effort that found the top right corner, making it 3-0.
“What a great start to the season. The team did everything well today. Superb passing and pressing to win the ball back. I’m very pleased they have been rewarded for their hard work in training.”
– Brent coach Tim Muir
Kensington tried to get back into the game and managed to pull one back just before halftime, scoring on the break to make it 3-1. However, Brent’s defense, marshalled by Thalia Pitish and Violet Kapetanios, remained resolute and blocked most of Kensington’s attacking threats.
In the second half, Brent rotated their squad, leading to a more balanced contest. Noor Gussin was introduced up front and made an immediate impact, scoring a well-taken goal after swiveling in the box and finishing into the top corner to make it 4-1. Brent continued to press, and Isobel Upstone’s driving run down the right wing led to a fifth goal when her powerful cross deflected off a Kensington defender into the net.
Despite some late pressure from Kensington, including a second goal, Brent goalkeeper Emily Danicka made several excellent saves to keep the scoreline comfortable. The match ended 5-2, a fantastic result for Brent to start the season.