Ben and Mike reflect on a defining mid-season episode that spans an academy test against Arsenal’s development squad and a local derby to close the year. Against Arsenal, the boys learn what real team football demands. Faced with sharper movement, quicker pressing and higher standards, individual moments stop being enough.

They are forced to communicate, release the ball earlier and trust each other under pressure — lessons that carry into the following day against Leigh Ramblers Reds, where they show the impact that passing, discipline and teamwork can have.

The pair then reflect honestly on fatigue, behaviour, confidence and coaching responsibility, as listener stories and grassroots dilemmas round out the final episode of 2025.

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