Season Review · July 28, 2025
Grassroots champions - Rising from the depths to glory
Soughborn Albion's 2023/24 season has been nothing short of extraordinary, especially considering their humble beginnings in Division 8. Finishing at the top of the table with an impeccable record of 21 wins and just a single loss, they have truly risen from the depths to achieve greatness. Their goal difference of +87 is among the best in Division 8, a testament to their formidable attack and resilient defense. This remarkable feat underscores their dominance throughout the season, making them well-deserved champions and a team to watch in the upcoming tiers.
Gary's mark
5/5
Excellent
Finished
1st
Points
63
Record
21-0-1
GD
+87
Gary "Nano" Pettit-Thompson IV
Lead Football Journalist
The Match & Season Desk
Data-first, narrative-second. If it happened on the pitch, Gary filed it.
A Columns Desk filing — visual season centre first, then the full notebook.
Season Centre
The campaign in pictures — before the filing.
Position
1st
Points
63
Win Rate
95%
Games
22
Season Shape
Most used XI
Best-fit starting eleven for the campaign's most common formation.
Primary shape
4-1-2-1-2-WB
Formation usage
Standouts
Season honours
MVP by goal contributions, plus the leading scorer and creator.
Season MVP
Ahmed Sarhan
LCM
14 contributions
Top scorer
Ahmed Sarhan
LCM
9 goals
Top assists
Michael Schmitz
RWB
6 assists
Season profile
League-relative strengths
Percentile rank against clubs in the same league. Further out is stronger.
- Results
- 63
- P96
- Scoring
- 97
- P96
- Defence
- 10
- P96
- Goal difference
- +87
- P96
5/5
Season mark
Excellent
Campaign Record
21-0-1
Wins
21
95%
Draws
0
0%
Losses
1
5%
Attack · Defence
+87 GD
Goal Contributions
Luiz Mendes
Player · 9G · 5A
14
Ahmed Sarhan
Player · 9G · 5A
14
Alexandre Kouadio
Player · 8G · 3A
11
Ko Asano
Player · 3G · 3A
6
Clive Hayes
Player · 3G · 2A
5
The Filing
Gary's notebook, desk by desk — with the forthcoming newsroom voices framed around the edges.
From Gary's Notebook
Season Overview
Filed by
Gary Nano
Soughborn Albion's 2023/24 season has been nothing short of extraordinary, especially considering their humble beginnings in Division 8. Finishing at the top of the table with an impeccable record of 21 wins and just a single loss, they have truly risen from the depths to achieve greatness. Their goal difference of +87 is among the best in Division 8, a testament to their formidable attack and resilient defense. This remarkable feat underscores their dominance throughout the season, making them well-deserved champions and a team to watch in the upcoming tiers.
What makes Soughborn Albion’s journey even more inspiring is their flawless record of no draws and only one defeat, highlighting their consistency and competitive spirit. Their offensive prowess was on full display, netting 97 goals while conceding a mere 10. Such a goal difference not only reflects their attacking efficiency but also their defensive solidity, setting a high standard for grassroots clubs aspiring to climb the ranks.
Campaign Highlights
Key Achievements and Highlights
Filed by
Gary Nano
- League Champions: Secured the top spot with an unbeaten record (21W, 0D, 1L)
- Goal Scoring Prowess: Netted 97 goals, averaging over 4 per game
- Defensive Fortress: Conceded only 10 goals across the season
- Top Scorers: Luiz Mendes and Ahmed Sarhan both scored 9 goals
- Consistency: No draws throughout the campaign, showcasing relentless winning mentality
Pressure Points
Areas for Improvement
Desk lens
Touchline
While Soughborn Albion's season has been outstanding, they could benefit from further squad depth to maintain their high standards in longer campaigns or cup competitions. Additionally, refining their tactical flexibility could help adapt against more organized opponents in higher divisions.
The Long View
Final Assessment
Desk lens
The Ledger
Soughborn Albion’s season has been a masterclass in grassroots excellence, marked by their dominant performance, cohesive team play, and impressive goal difference. Their key strengths lie in their attacking prowess and defensive resilience, making them a formidable force in Division 8. Moving forward, focusing on squad depth and tactical adaptability will be crucial as they aim to sustain their success and challenge at higher levels. Overall, a season to celebrate and a team poised for even greater achievements.