Rutherford AFC started the game in perfect fashion, taking the lead inside the opening 90 seconds. Michael Burns delivered an excellent cross to the back post, where Harry Andrews timed his run well to tap home from close range. The early goal gave Rutherford confidence, and they continued to dictate play with Amir and Jacob controlling the midfield.

The dominance was rewarded after 12 minutes when James Lee doubled the lead. A dangerous cross-shot from Harry Andrews forced a save from the Hetton goalkeeper, but James reacted quickest to slot in the rebound. At 2–0, Rutherford were firmly in control, moving the ball well and limiting Hetton’s opportunities.

However, Hetton found a route back into the game shortly after. A shot from distance wasn’t closed down quickly enough, and an unfortunate bounce saw the ball loop over Ethan’s dive to make it 2-1. A series of enforced substitutions disrupted Rutherford’s rhythm, and the momentum began to shift. Hetton capitalised, equalising right on the stroke of half-time with a looping effort that found the top corner.

The second half saw Rutherford struggle to regain their early intensity. Hetton grew stronger as the half went on, consistently winning first and second balls and showing greater physicality in key areas. Rutherford were punished on the counter following their own corner, as Hetton’s attacker ran the length of the pitch unchecked before calmly finishing to make it 3-2.

The final goal came from a corner that Rutherford failed to deal with despite several chances to clear, and Hetton eventually forced the ball home to seal a 4-2 win.

From a coaching perspective, it was a game that got away. The opening 20 minutes were excellent, composed, controlled, and clinical, but the team lost shape and discipline as the match wore on. The lack of urgency and composure in the middle and final thirds was disappointing, particularly after such a strong start.

We need to learn from this if we are to compete in this league. The boys know they are capable from a technical, footballing perspective, but the other side of the game has to come from within. Work rate, resilience, and accountability must be consistent from the first minute to the last. This group has the quality to succeed, but that belief and effort must show every single week.