The chilly wind whipped across the stadium as Ryan Porteous adjusted his gloves, eyes scanning the opposition’s attackers warming up nearby. The roar of the home crowd filled his ears, but his focus was razor-sharp.

His captain clapped him on the shoulder. “Keep it tight today, Ryan. No messing around.”

Porteous gave a short, confident nod. “Don’t worry. I’ll make sure they know who’s boss.”

Moments later, the ball was launched into the box. Porteous timed his jump perfectly, rising above the crowd to power a thunderous header clear.

As he landed, his teammate shouted, “That’s the kind of stuff we need, solid and strong!”

Ryan smiled, feeling the surge of adrenaline. “Let them come. We’re ready.”