FIVE-goal Matthew Marshall led the way as Stafford Town Panthers under-11s emerged 8-4 winners at Penkridge Junior Hawks, in the Mid Staffs League.
In this latest preliminary league game it was the Hawks who opened strongly, taking an early lead.
But the Panthers responded quickly with a brace from Marshall. The Hawks scored a second goal, but it was 5-2 to the Panthers at the break thanks to James Walker (two) and Archie Dyer.
James Walker stood out for the Panthers in the second half, but the woodwork denied his team on more than one occasion.
Penkridge cut the deficit again, only for the Panthers to strike back in deadly fashion through Marshall (three). Walker and Saul Hickey picked up man of the match awards.
On the receiving end were Stafford Town ladies, who suffered a 7-0 defeat at the hands of Shenstone ladies.
Back to junior level and Town girls under-13s went down 4-0 to Hednesford Town, although Chloe Luty worked tirelessly for Stafford.
Jake Cawkwell hit a double as Town Panthers triumphed 4-1 over Sportscape Academy. Will Marsden and star player Ben Fullwood were also on target for the Panthers.
