U18 MATCH REPORT: BRISLINGTON 6-3 BRISTOL TELEPHONES

Brislington came into this one looking to build on the momentum of their first league win against Cribbs, and the Poplar Stadium was buzzing for this local derby under the lights.

The young Foxes flew out of the blocks once again — just three minutes in, Hatwood opened the scoring with a sharp finish. But the visitors hit back almost immediately, levelling within three minutes.

Both sides went toe-to-toe in a frantic opening spell, and on 14 minutes Telephones edged in front. Brislington, however, showed their character — Chilcott coolly restored parity on 28 minutes, and moments later Massey’s speculative long-range effort looped over the keeper to make it 3–2.

The end-to-end action continued as Telephones equalised before the break, leaving the sides locked at 3–3 after an exhilarating first half.

The second half brought more drama. Substitute Hope, who had earlier replaced the injured Rocke, was brought down in the box after a surging run, earning Bris a penalty. Chilcott stepped up and confidently converted for his second of the night, restoring the lead.

A controversial spell followed on 69 minutes when Ronnie Moore was dismissed for a robust challenge, only for the referee to immediately send off a Telephones player for dissent seconds later — the man advantage nullified.

Brislington held their composure, and on 78 minutes Hatwood grabbed his second with a superb solo goal to give the home side breathing space. Telephones’ frustrations grew, and a second yellow reduced them further before substitute Stewart sealed the win with a slick late counterattack.

A pulsating contest that had everything — goals, drama, and three red cards — ended with Brislington running out deserved winners. Telephones finished with nine men after two dismissals, while the young Foxes showed maturity and composure to see the game out.

Man of the Match: Hatwood – a fantastic display, scoring twice at crucial moments to lead from the front.