GCE Hire Fleet United Counties Football League
Reserve Division
Saturday 4th April 2026
Harborough Town Under 21’s (2) – (1) Buckingham FC Development
Photo – MGK Captures
Report – Josh Unsworth
Fresh off being crowned league champions on Wednesday, Harborough Town U21s returned to action with a 2-1 victory over Buckingham Development in a controlled and professional display, continuing their strong run and showing the standards that have defined their season.
It was a cagey start at the Bees’ home ground, with signs of a slight hangover following the midweek title celebrations. The tempo was measured early on as both sides looked to settle into the contest. Despite that, Harborough quickly asserted their dominance and controlled proceedings, enjoying the majority of possession and dictating the rhythm of the game.
The breakthrough came in the 20th minute. A flowing move involving Cyprian Mtenga and Lovell Edwards carved open the Buckingham defence, with Edwards seeing his effort saved by the goalkeeper. However, Shaan Virk was perfectly positioned to react first, tapping home the rebound to give the hosts a deserved lead and reward their growing control of the contest.
Harborough continued to press with intensity, forcing Buckingham into mistakes and regaining possession in dangerous areas. Their counter-pressing paid off again before the break. Winning the ball high up the pitch, Mtenga picked it up just inside the box and produced a superb finish into the top corner to double the advantage. It was a moment of real quality that underlined the Young Bees’ attacking threat, and they went into half-time firmly in control at 2-0.
Buckingham Development came out with renewed intent after the break and used the wind to their advantage, looking to play more directly and apply pressure on the Harborough back line. They pulled a goal back in spectacular fashion when Bryce Barnes-Garner spotted an opportunity from distance and sent an audacious effort from the halfway line over Beri Asante, who had no chance of keeping it out.
Despite the setback, Harborough remained composed and showed maturity in their game management. They managed possession effectively, dictated the tempo, and ensured Buckingham were unable to build any real momentum or sustain pressure. The Young Bees continued to control the flow of the game, limiting opportunities and maintaining their structure.
The Young Bees saw the game out comfortably to secure another three points, backing up their midweek success with another disciplined and assured performance.
After the match, U21 Head Coach Josh Unsworth said:
“Although we’ve won the league on Wednesday, it’s important we go into every match giving 100%, today I thought we were a bit passive which is understandable after the amazing few days we’ve had as a team.
I’m certain it’s going to be a celebration after every game, no matter the result with the next 2 games, the lads have deserved it!