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Ruthin Town FC U13 3–2 Wrexham Foresters U13

Wrexham Foresters U13s were edged out 3–2 away at Ruthin Town on Saturday in a fiercely contested encounter between the top two sides in the U13 Green League, with conditions playing a major role in a physically demanding contest.

Having met earlier in the season in another narrow defeat, the Foresters arrived knowing the challenge ahead would be significant. Heavy rain across North Wales had left the pitch wet and boggy, testing both teams’ adaptability from the outset.

With a tactical adjustment, the Foresters set out to maximise their pace and width against a strong and physical Ruthin side. The pattern of play soon emerged: Ruthin looked to exploit their height and power with direct balls over the top, while the Foresters focused on moving the ball quickly and stretching play out wide in search of openings.

The deadlock was finally broken on 27 minutes, when a Ruthin counter-attack caught the Foresters out, allowing an unmarked midfield runner to finish smartly past Harry Wilson, who had no chance in goal.

The Foresters responded well and pushed for an equaliser, showing composure and resilience. Their pressure was rewarded just before the break, as good work from Alfie Ansloos created the opening for Neeko Edwards, who finished confidently into the bottom corner to level the match at 1–1. It was a fair reflection of a combative and evenly matched first half.

As conditions worsened after the restart, both teams dug deep, with effort and determination becoming the defining features of the game. Despite a positive spell of Foresters possession, it was Ruthin who struck next, once again capitalising on a breakaway to take a 2–1 lead with a well-taken finish.

The Foresters continued to press, creating chances and earning set-piece opportunities, but were unable to find an immediate equaliser. Ruthin missed a penalty, but moments later an unfortunate own goal extended the home side’s lead to 3–1.

Refusing to let the game slip away, the Foresters responded once more. Excellent work down the left from Aled Edwards was rewarded with a fine finish, pulling the score back to 3–2 with five minutes remaining and setting up a tense finale.

Despite a strong late push and relentless effort, the Foresters were unable to find a late equaliser, with the match ultimately going the way of the home side after a hard-fought and physical contest.

Credit goes to both teams for an entertaining and competitive game, played in a strong spirit of respect throughout. The scoreline reflected a match decided by fine margins, quality finishing, and immense effort on a challenging surface.

Players of the Match:

• Charlie Killane – Outstanding on the wing, combining tireless work rate with quality play and strong link-up with teammates.

• Josh Hughes – A tenacious midfield performance, competing relentlessly throughout.

Special mention also goes to Finn and Gethin, who showed tremendous bravery and commitment in defence, matching up against significantly taller and stronger opponents without ever backing down — a credit to themselves and the football club.

The Foresters U13s remain second in the league, with plenty to be encouraged by as the season continues.

Wrexham Foresters are proudly sponsored by Read Construction, Seacon UK, Moneypenny, and TenderWrite.