28/07/2025
Grimsby Neonatal FC 2–3 Old Vic
Sunday League – Match Report
The opening group-stage fixture of the Terry Hanley Memorial Cup saw Grimsby Neonatal FC narrowly beaten 3–2 by Old Vic in a thrilling pre-season contest full of drama and incident.
The visitors struck first after 15 minutes when an Old Vic forward was brought down by the Neonatal goalkeeper. The resulting penalty was calmly dispatched to make it 1–0.
Neonatal, however, found their response shortly after. On his debut, Alex Boyd finished smartly after excellent build-up play from Fin Laking, levelling the game and giving the home crowd hope.
But midway through the half, a defensive mix‑up at the back for Neonatal gifted Old Vic a second goal, their winger racing through unchallenged and beating the keeper at the near post.
There was still time for late drama in the half. Neonatal were handed a lifeline when they won a penalty of their own, but Jack Wilson’s spot-kick was brilliantly saved by the Old Vic goalkeeper. Wilson continued to threaten, rattling the crossbar with a powerful effort and seeing a well-struck volley denied by another outstanding stop before the break.
Early in the second half, Old Vic extended their lead to 3–1 with a well-taken finish, leaving Neonatal with a mountain to climb.
Despite the setback, Neonatal showed resilience and dominated much of the second period. Their pressure finally paid off in the 88th minute when Ollie Harvey’s corner was flicked in at the near post by Ash Sarbutt, setting up a tense finale.
In the end, Old Vic held on to claim all three points, while Grimsby Neonatal were left to rue missed chances and a costly first-half spell.
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Goals & Assists (Grimsby Neonatal FC)
• Goals: Alex Boyd, Ash Sarbutt.
• Assists: Fin Laking, Ollie Harvey.
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Man of the Match: Jack Wilson
Wilson’s energy, flair and determination drove Neonatal forward all match. A saved penalty, a shot against the bar and a brilliant volley capped an excellent but unlucky performance.
Huge thank you to our sponsors, without them this team wouldn't be possible.👌
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