Corby Town U16 v Kettering FC U16 Kites

It’s time to kick off the pre-season campaign as Corby Town U16s make the short trip to Gate Lane to face Kettering FC U16 Kites in what can only be described as a proper local derby. Corby versus Kettering – two towns with footballing pride stitched into their very fabric.
Both clubs arrive off the back of success last season. Corby, the champions of Bedfordshire Division 2, a side that mixed steel at the back with a free-scoring forward line. Kettering, no less impressive, lifting the Bedfordshire Division 3 title with a brand of football that saw them soar above others in the league. Now, the two champions collide for the very first time.

Corby’s squad has a fresh look. Between the posts, a new presence in Avaani, already showing signs of commanding her area. In midfield, Annika brings energy and guile, while Faith – the so-called “Danger Mouse” – is expected to be a livewire in the attacking third. Add to that the permanent signing of Freya who offers stacks of flamboyance. Corby will be eager to see how the new quartet blend into an already talented group.

It may only be pre-season, but these games set the tone. Corby will want to hit the ground running, showcasing the flair and creativity that lit up last year, while keeping that defensive resilience that made them champions. Kettering, meanwhile, will see this as the perfect stage to measure themselves against higher-division opposition and to prove that their promotion was just the beginning.

So, buckle up. It’s Corby Town U16s, it’s Kettering FC U16 Kites – it’s a derby, and derby days are never just friendlies.