Report

Summer League Success 

The last game of what feels like a very long season. The lads have had no real break from Saturday football since September 2010 but have put together an incredible run in the league which when added together reads; Played 34 Won 34, Drawn 0, Lost 0, Goals for 221, Goals against 18.

Each and every one of the squad have played a huge part in achieving this and I personally thank all the players, parents and supporters for the commitment and support you have given.

Our opponents today were still in the hunt for second place so the lads were told that we could not afford to be complacent in our approach to the game. The Cannons have proved to be our toughest opponents this season and if we took our foot of the gas they were more than capable of denting our 100% record.

With the importance of the game still in mind I spoke to the boys before the final warm up to remind them of the need to be focused, telling them my starting line-up would reflect this and also once again emphasising how vital it would be to get an early foothold in the game.

Once again the starting nine responded to my requests and the lads were one – nil up in the opening minutes.

After some fantastic build up play the ball found its way to Josh who remained calm under pressure in the six yard box to almost pass the ball into the net after wrong footing the keeper.

An early goal settled the lads and they went on to control most of with game with some tight passing movements in the opponents half. James was acting as the pivot for most of the play. With his back to goal he succeeded a number of times in laying the ball off for our mid-fielders to run on too.

Our second and final goal of the season came when Australia bound Jake managed to reach a ball that many players may have given up on as he powered to the line to put in a great low cross for James to control and finish from close range. This goal edged James one step closer to finishing the season as top goal scorer, with Harry P waiting in the wings for his chance in the second half.

 Changes were made in the second half and on a boggy pitch the lads passing game became a little tougher to play. The Cannons as they did in our last encounter pushed on and the game switched to our half of the pitch. The passing game may have been harder to get going but the commitment to winning the ball back was tremendous to watch as the lads worked hard to hold on to another clean sheet. I thought Harry P became a little isolated at times with all the hard work going on in mid-field. When the ball found Harry he was often alone and up against three defenders but even in these circumstances with his back to goal Harry again played some clever balls to begin counter attacks.

Josh was very unlucky not to add to his first half strike as he hit the post not once but twice after beating the keeper with a couple of great shots.

Ben also flashed a thunderous strike inches wide of the far post as the Raiders lads looked to increase their lead.

Mid-way through the game I think we all witnessed the moment of the season. Aiden playing on the left side of defence uncharacteristically sliced an attempted clearance straight back into our own box and to the feet of a Cannons attacker. Instead of holding his head in his hands and watching the opposing striker attempt a shot on goal (something many an older and more experienced player may have done) he gave chase to the ball. In training I keep telling the lads to let the ball do the work as we can’t run as fast as the ball travels, well I may have to re-think this as on this occasion Aiden somehow arrived at the striker’s feet a heartbeat after the ball! Not only did he get to the ball but he then managed to win it before the striker could adjust his feet. This completely underlines the total commitment and positive attitude Aiden brings into every game and is an example to us all.

Consett continued to push forward looking to claw their way back into the game but could not find a way past our hard working defence and outstanding goalkeeper.

The game ended 2-0 to the Raiders. Meaning the lads have successfully completed another season to remain as Champions of the Chase Holmes League at their own age group.

Much appreciation goes to Consett Cannons and their coach Colin who remained behind after the game not only to witness the presentation of the league trophy but also to form a ‘guard of honour’ for the lads as they stepped up to receive their awards. To me this epitomises the sporting behaviour of the Chase Holmes League and its members and is a gesture we will always remember.

We have also received complimentary comments from the majority of Coaches/Mangers from within our age group on the success of the team and the style of football the lads have delivered. This is an accolade to the players we have assembled. Well done lads!

It is now time to draw a line under our time in kid’s football and progress into the youth game. Changes will inevitably occur within the squad to reflect this and I will be working hard to help with the progression.

MU   

Photos

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