Busy Few Weeks of Matches for GFA Aztech Academy Sides

All GFA Aztech Academy age groups have been in match action over recent weeks, gaining valuable experience and putting their training into practice across a range of competitive fixtures.

The Year 4s played their first-ever match as a team, taking on St Martin’s Year 5s. The group started strongly, showing the impressive connections they’ve already begun to build. Saints fought their way back to make it an exciting finale, and after an end-to-end

encounter, the match finished 4–4 — a great development opportunity for all involved.

The Year 5s faced Bels Year 6s in a 9-a-side match at Victoria Park, which turned into another high-scoring contest full of momentum swings and attacking play from both sides.

Our Year 6 group had a strong test against St Martin’s Year 7s. The Saints side worked well as a unit and made it a challenging game, with their goalkeeper producing several outstanding saves to keep his team ahead. Despite a positive Academy performance, the Saints’ defensive resilience proved decisive.

The Year 7s also enjoyed a competitive match against Vale Rec Year 8s. Vale Rec started quickly, using the wind to their advantage to take a three-goal lead. The Academy players showed real character, battling back to 3–2 by half-time. A tight and hard-fought second half followed, with strong defending and goalkeeping keeping the score line unchanged.

Our Year 8s were the first group to play under the lights on a Monday night — their first experience of 11-a-side football together. They faced a powerful St Martin’s Year 9 side, who defended strongly and ultimately earned a deserved win. The 3–0 score line didn’t quite reflect how competitive the match was, with the Academy team playing some excellent, attractive football throughout.

Finally, the Year 9s took on a Vale Rec Year 10 side, also under the lights on a Monday evening. The match was evenly contested, with Vale Rec making the most of the wind in the first half. The Academy side hit back strongly after the break, turning pressure into goals to lead 4–2. Vale Rec closed the gap late on, but the Aztech players held firm to take a 4–3 win — a great result and experience for the group.

These fixtures have provided valuable learning experiences for every age group, helping players translate their training into match scenarios and continue their individual and collective development. With each game offering new challenges, the Academy squads are building confidence, connection, and understanding as they progress through the early stages of the season.