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Sunday 14 / 09 / 08
Long Melford 1 – Earls Colne 5
EC U13s' goals scored by:
Luke - 2, Harry LA , Joe, James |
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We played with only 11, as a number of lads signed on after the deadline, but for periods of the match it felt like we were fielding 14 or 15 players such was our dominance.
I had called for three touch football to encourage passing and movement, and the lads did not disappoint. From the start Sam showed that as right back he was happy to win the ball, control it, look up and pass. Soon his confidence was spreading through the team. New players Joe and Harry LA were a regular threat down the left, with Harry sending a dipping shot just past the post, and the reliable duo of Harry C and Louis soon began bossing midfield.
It was against the tide that Melford scored – a well taken header from a dangerous inswinging corner. Not sure we will repeat the celebration.Within two minutes we were level. Chamley’s weighted pass sent Luke through unchallenged, and his calm finish high to the keeper’s right showed class. Soon after James found the ball at his feet after a scramble in the Melford box, and he coolly sidefooted it low past the keeper.
The end of the first half and the words were simple –‘ keep doing what you’ve been doing.’ We were playing so well my intended strategy of mixing things up in the second half seemed foolish, so no positions changed.
Jack’s confidence and control helped bring an assurance to the defense. All four of them played with strength and maturity and they gave Melford no hint of a chance. Patrick had moved from right to the centre, and looked comfortable and relaxed. Backing them up was Thomas who was quick off his line and loud with his calls. It was great to see him throwing the ball out, encouraging us to play the ball on the floor.
Melford were resorting to kicking our ankles and sliding in recklessly, and so I was delighted when we added three second half goals. Harry pinched one from the edge of the box following a fumble from the Melford keeper, Joe burst through following a defense splitting pass from Chamley and slotted the ball home, and Luke hit a cracker from the right hand corner of the box high into the net – a great goal. It was a great display, which makes picking the team for next week all the more difficult. It was also great to see Cameron and Callum H along to support with the parents.
By the way - I am starting a boot swap system. We have benefitted from an old pair of Callum’s, now Chamley has a pair of Harry’s. Jake has donated a pair of size 7’s, so if you want them give me a call.
Thanks to the support, Val for snacks, James for the line and Mrs O’Byrne for doing the washing. Who’s next???
Man of the Match – Sam King – Showed skill, maturity and intelligence in his play, which established a pattern for the whole team to follow. |