This is what it’s all about! There is no better feeling than waking up knowing that it’s Derby-Day and a game between any County and Breightmet United squad means something. Local bragging rights mainly but also when they all go to school on Monday morning, there are some smiles that are bigger than others. So as we made our way to the game this morning, we were determined that it would be the kids in blue who bore that big grin…

And boy did we do it! From the moment the first whistle was blown until the very last, it was the Bolton County players that were in control and some of the football we played was absolutely top-class. So this is a match report with a difference – because we want to celebrate each and every one of the kids that done us so proud! They all played their part in this fabulous game so here goes:

Right from the off, we had the solid protection of Joseph between out sticks and when he was called upon, he made some world-class saves at important moments. He was so unlucky not to keep a clean sheet with his efforts and he gave us a solid base on which to do our work. This was matched by a really strong game from our Archie whose use of the ball and his passing prowess made loads of chances. He was so unlucky not to get his name on the scoresheet but don’t worry lad – that goal will come if you keep up with the hard work…

Then we had Alfie. Despite a wobbly start with an injury, he came back onto the pitch and was a force to be reckoned with – giving their defenders plenty to think about. His brilliant passing and shots with both feet were a constant thorn in their side and whenever he got the ball, the County fans got excited. And then there was Arthur. His performance today was rightly awarded with the Player of the Match as up and down that wing, he gave us everything we needed. His forward runs were making the United players tired in trying to track back with him and he deservedly got his name on the scoresheet with a tidy finish from the edge of the box. And defensively, he was excellent as well as he kept tracking back and wouldn’t allow any Breightmet player past him. He must have covered every blade of grass out there this morning and we are so proud of him today…

Jack was fantastic today as well and was a massive threat going forward every time he got the ball. He set up a couple of our goals and his range of passing was exquisite to watch. Add that to the way he got back and defending so stoutly and it was another top-quality display from our Jack. Then there was Theo – who for someone so young already seems to have a great sense of positioning as he is always in the right place at the right time. With a superb first-touch, he scored himself a lovely goal and with his inch-perfect passing, we cannot wait to see how much more he can develop in the coming weeks and months. And last but by no means least is Cian – and what can we say about this lad’s performance today apart from marvellous? He was like a brick wall out there and there was nothing the Breightmet United players could do to get around him – and when he surged forward, boy what a menace he was! With the wingers coming in to cover for him, he grabbed himself a hat-trick with three great goals! His tackling, his passing and his shooting was all so good and bringing his team-mates into play whenever he could, it was a masterful performance from the young man…

And that was that. When that final whistle was eventually blown, it was most definitely the County players that were leaving with that big smile. And the faithful supporters were also elated as they applauded their heroes off the field of play. Each and every one of them had done their job to perfection – and it was us that had the bragging rights at least for now…

So as the dust settled and we all made our way home, it was a case of ‘job done’ and we move onto next week. A massive thanks to those of you who made your way down to cheer us on this morning and we really did appreciate hearing your words of encouragement from the side-lines. Bolton County are a family – and it’s days like this that make that all the more welcoming…

Well done kids! We’re so proud of you!

#UpTheCounty!