Our Wildcats U12s concluded their league campaign on Thursday evening with a decisive away fixture against title rivals Wessex Vixens.

In front of a crowd exceeding 100, the stakes were high – a draw would secure the title for Wildcats while a win for Wessex would see them crowned champions.

Remi S.

In a blow to the Wildcats’ preparations, standout goalkeeper Tallilah T – who had impressively kept nine consecutive clean sheets – sustained a wrist injury the previous weekend, ruling her out of action.

Stepping into the spotlight for her U12 debut was current U11s keeper Remi S, who rose to the occasion with composure well beyond her years.

The match began with understandable nerves, as both sides struggled to settle into their rhythm.

Wessex controlled much of the early possession during the opening 15 minutes, but the disciplined Wildcat defence held firm, as they have done throughout the season, denying their opponents any clearcut chances.

As the half progressed, Wildcats grew into the game, establishing greater control and exploiting the wide channels effectively.

Iyla J worked tirelessly, frequently outnumbered but never outmatched, continually pressing and challenging the Wessex defence.

Midfielders Mary H, Bella W, Summer O, and Scarlett H delivered strong performances, winning their individual battles and maintaining attacking pressure, although the breakthrough eluded them.

The teams went into the break with the scoreline still goalless.

The second half saw Wessex intensify their approach, adopting a more direct strategy in a bid to break the deadlock.

Debutant goalkeeper Remi S showed remarkable assurance, confidently managing her area and stifling any threat.

True to their season-long form, defenders Peyton A, Evelyn S, Amelia W, and Emily L were resolute, working cohesively to shut down Wessex attacks.

As the clock ticked down and Wessex pushed more players forward in a last attempt to claim victory, the Wildcats held firm under mounting pressure.

Their disciplined and determined performance ultimately earned the goalless draw they needed – a result which crowned them league champions.

Player of the match was awarded to Remi S, whose calm and commanding presence in goal was crucial to the outcome.

The 2024-25 season has been one to remember for the Wildcats.

Across 16 league fixtures, the team remained unbeaten, recording 12 wins and 4 draws, scoring 52 goals while conceding only five and achieving an impressive 12 clean sheets.

With the Plate Cup final still to play, the Wildcats will now turn their focus towards completing the double in what has already been a remarkable campaign.