CANNONS BLOWN OUT BY RAIDERS

3 games left with the first of those against today against Consett Cannons, a team well below us in league terms but they had held us to a 0-0 draw when we last met, albeit it was straight after a very tiring cup match.

We were back to our squad of 10 with the return of Ben, who had jetted back from the States only yesterday and probably not knowing what day or time it was.

The match was played on one of the bottom pitches with their bigger goals in perfect conditions. Although we didn't concede an early goal today (for a change) it was the Cannons who played the better football and our lads were on the back foot in a mostly forgetable half as far as the Raiders were concerned.

Half Time 0-0 with Phil slow to get the water bottles to the lads which needs to be worked on!!!

All the goals came in the last 12 minutes, which normally coincides with the team waking up.

Sam A. What can you say about Sam A. he is asked time and time again to remember his defensive duties, but he is always heavily involved in our forward play and was pivotal in changing the game our way, and earning both parent's and oppo's m.o.m.

With the Cannons' left back going off injured, this created space for Sam to run into, and with a couple of twists and turns, he delivered an inch perfect cross for Edward to head into an empty net. A header he made look very simple with players queueing up behind him just in case.

Two minutes later and almost a carbon copy. Sam U playing a lovely ball out right which Sam A crossed perfectly again for Edward to tap in from close range.

Edward, desparate to get his hat-trick, tried a couple of times from longer range, one of which the keeper palmed away, however Ben reacted quickest and played the ball back to Sam U for one of his trademark poacher's finishes.

Sam U sort of returned the favour minutes later when, with the goal at his mercy he shot for goal. Ben cheekily stuck a leg out to claim the goal, saving Martin a fiver in the process. Phew!

Still time for Sam C to have a crack from outside the box which flew over the bar (and the bar of the next pitch as well!)

As always, mentions to Ethan and Harry at the back for their composed defending today, Elliot for his steady handling and distribution, Jamie for his neat play and James for his good touches and passing in the first half.

Full Time 4-0

League update is that we look certain to finish either 3rd or 4th, depending upon how well Monkton Reds do in their catch up games.

The mighty Wallsend Boys Club provide the opposition on Monday, and with Martin asking Reece and Aidan to come along, we will have a full squad of 12 to choose from meaning we will almost have more subs than players!

Martin has also asked the game to be filmed by the same guy as last year, so make sure that the lads brush their teeth and that the Mums have their full slap on.

KH