The afternoon began with a special gathering of past Peterborough legends, a tribute to the journey that so many from the ethnic minority community have undertaken over the past 50 years to play the beautiful game. This reunion brought together the old and the new, giving former players from PYA (Pakistani Youth Association) a chance to meet the current team, tour the facilities, and share stories of their hardships and resilience. Their sacrifices and struggles laid the foundation for FCP, paving the way for the next generation of players who now benefit from greater inclusivity and opportunity within the game.

Match Report

Early Exchanges
Framlingham Town showed early promise with several crosses from the left wing, including a free kick in the 2nd minute that resulted in a near-post header. However, Shaz was quick to react, stretching to hold the ball and keep FCP safe. FCP responded with some promising runs, although early passes were often intercepted, neutralising their initial attacks.

In the 8th minute, Mo sent a great pass to Atif, who cut in from the right wing and attempted a left-footed shot, which was comfortably saved. Minutes later, Framlingham countered, but FCP quickly regained control. Derick narrowly missed an excellent chance in the 12th minute when, after being set up by Ayman, he chose to shoot at the keeper rather than round him. Soon after, Mo connected with Ayman, whose dangerous cross caused panic in the Framlingham defence.

FCP 1-0 Framlingham Town
FCP’s efforts finally paid off in the 20th minute. A corner found Ayman, who headed the ball down across the goal, allowing Niall to tap in from the back post. The “Green Army” erupted in cheers, further motivating the team and leaving the Framlingham bench visibly concerned. Aliew held strong at right-back, regularly intercepting attacks, while Zahid attempted a long-range shot that ultimately fell short.

Half-Time: FCP 1-0 Framlingham Town
The remainder of the first half saw a mix of free kicks and corners. Framlingham T’s best chance came from a free kick, forcing Shaz to make a diving save. FCP also had a close call in the 43rd minute when Framlingham Town executed a training-ground routine, nearly scoring from a close-range header. Shaz’s quick reflexes saved FCP yet again, earning cheers from fan Musa: “What a save!”

Second Half – FCP Under Pressure
The second half began with Framlingham Town applying steady pressure in FCP’s half. Despite their organised passing, they posed little real danger as FCP’s defence held firm. Shaz made another excellent save in the 60th minute from a shot outside the box, diving right to concede a corner. Shortly after, the opposition’s number 11 broke past Romeo and aimed a shot, but Niall’s quick thinking delayed the strike, allowing Shaz to deflect it with his foot.

FCP 2-0 Framlingham Town
After enduring Framlingham’s attacks, FCP began to generate their own opportunities. A fluid passing exchange between Ayman and Derick created space for Micky to attempt a shot from distance, which went wide. Minutes later, Derick turned his marker and found Mo, who lofted a perfect ball over the defence. Ayman latched onto it, finishing with a half-volley across the goal from 12 yards out. The ground erupted, with the “Green Army” in full voice.

Finishing Strong
In the closing minutes, FCP effectively managed the game, keeping possession and leaving Framlingham short on ideas—a testament to the team’s growth over the past year. Securing a clean sheet against last season’s runners-up and promotion contenders was a significant achievement. Shaz, putting his body on the line, was instrumental in preserving the lead with multiple crucial saves, while the defence remained resolute.

Post-Match Reflections

With this win, FCP climbs up the table into a play-off position, even without key attacking players Vitor and Ruben. The team’s cohesion was evident, with the wingers posing a constant threat and the defence holding firm. Mario and Romeo delivered solid performances, and Micky created shooting chances—though perhaps with room for more precision in future practice sessions. Zahid displayed relentless aggression, while Mo, as ever, covered ground effectively. Up front, Ayman, Derick, and Atif showed tireless energy. However, the standout performer was unquestionably Shaz, whose clutch saves have kept FCP’s momentum going match after match, with today being no different.

Goals
Niall
Ayman

Green Army MOTM
Shaz

Match report by Bash