Eagles u8 Whites and Yellows - 06/07 Season
Contact:
Andrew Bishton - 01462-732977 - andrew.bishton@geopostuk.com
Tracey Grindal - 01462-636587 - t.grindal@ntlworld.com
Thank you to Connells Estate Agents and the osteopathy first group - Sponsors of the U8’s White and Yellow Team
Match Reports
Royston Crow League versus Bishop Stortford.
Saturday 5th May at Letchworth.
The bank holiday weekend saw our regular goalies Matthew and Josh ‘Cubbing it’. Robert and Austin kindly stepped into the breach and did us proud. Well-done guys, not easy shoes to fill.
A good start with lots of pressure being applied by Eagles Whites. Nether the less Bishop Stortford scored after 6 minutes. Not down hearted a minute latter Noah put in an excellent cross that slammed into the top corner giving us an equalizer. There followed a really good game with lots of skill and determination, a near miss by the eagles and almost an own goal by Bishop Stortford. Were it not for their undaunted goalie who seemed quite happy taking a few risks I’m sure at least another goal from the Eagles would us seen us in at half time on level terms instead Bishop Stortford scored again to make it Eagles 2-1 down at half time. The second half saw Bishop Stortford come out fighting and put us under pressure. However the defence with Rhys and Harry was strong and with Robert making a couple of saves the Eagles pushed on. In the dying seconds Austin put one in the net leaving the final score 2-2.
Bishop Stortford started well by hitting the post after just 2 minutes play, they also forced Austin into making a good save. Rhys and Noah came off, Harry and Callum coming on. Some good play followed by the Eagles, particularly Alex and Leon who followed the ball everywhere and put in some nice little touches and good passes. Following a tackle on Kieran, Harry found the ball at his feet and gave it a quick kick into the net. This led us into half time at 1-0. The second half saw Harry come off and Robert on with also a goal from Bishop Stortford. Kieran then scored a goal, followed by another one from Thomas giving us a pleasing 3-1 lead. The close of the game saw Bishop Stortford get a goal back to give a final score of 3-2.
So a pleasing weekend football with a depleted but determined squad. Good play Eagles.
No match next week, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!!
Whites: Callum, Harry, Austin (1), Noah (1), Robert, Macauley, Rhys
Man of Match: Harry
Yellows: Austin, Harry (1), Leon, Rhys (1), Callum, Alex, Kieran (1), Thomas (1), Robert
Man of Match: Alex
Royston Crow League versus Hatfield.
Saturday 21st April at Letchworth.
Still away this week watching my team lose again, so this weeks match report is again courtesy of the wife!
Excellent start with Callum setting the pace by scoring in the first minute of play. Eagles Whites applied lots of pressure and Hatfield did well to hold us at bay and see in half time with a 1-0 scoreline. However they came out fighting and quickly got one back. Undeterred, Noah responded with a goal 2 minutes latter. An excellent run from Austin followed with his goal which saw a scoreline of 3-1. Robert was in fine form (despite receiving a faceful of ball) and set up two great goals, again one from Austin and one from Callum. A handball awarded Hatfield a penalty, which saw the final result at 5-2.
An enjoyable game with some strong defence and all round teamwork. A big improvement on passing the ball and playing collectively, hence the well deserved score. Well done whites!!!
A promising start with Rhys having a shot on goal, followed by two good saves by their goalie denying Kieran and Ryan, From somewhere, Hatfield scored a goal, from somewhere else another goal to make it 2-0 to Hatfield. Eagles yellows fought back and after a near miss from Ryan a goal from Robert saw a 2-1 score. Rhys must have had 3 weetabix because a kick from him at the half way line canned the ball into the net. From facing 2-0 down, The Yellows were now comfortably looking at a draw. In the dying seconds Thomas made a lengthy run bringing the ball with him and finished well to get the 3rd goal. Final result 3-2 to the Yellows.
A slow start for the yellows but a superb comeback proves once again the yellows get results.
Next week we are away at Bedwell Rangers, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!!
Whites: Matthew, Callum (2), Harry, Austin (2), Noah (1), Liam, Robert, Macauley,
Man of Match: Callum
Yellows: Josh, Leon, Rhys (1), Alex, Riley, Kieran, Thomas (1), Ryan, Robert (1)
Man of Match: Ryan
MARCH 17TH HOME TO KNEBWORTH
The Whites started the match with some bright passing moves and were all over Knebworth in the early exchanges, with some close shaves, Knebworth were fortunate to keep us out.
With their first attack, our midfield failed to pressure the ball, allowing Knebworth to score. Despite this we maintained possession and kept up the early dominance.
We had and missed several more chances before Knebworth scored with their second shot of the game, after a weak shot and mistake by Mash in goal. 2-0 at half time.
At half time the boys were fired up by the fact that they had controlled play but were yet to score and showed a clear determination to show that football ability. Dispite this we still managed to find themselves 3-0 down after a long through ball should have been dealt with by Mash, but instead we were 3-0 down.
We continued to play football and Liam in particular decided to get on the ball and influence the game. Together with the rest of the boys, a passionate come back ensued, with Liam netting all 3 goals to get us back on level terms.
Sometimes when football teams don’t quite match up in ability, stopping another team from playing can influence the game, this should still happen on the pitch, but even when it doesn’t the Whites showed they have the ability to overcome this. A great comeback to earn a draw in a match they totally dominated, despite being 3-0 down at one stage.
Team: Mash, Macaulay, Harry, Austin, Liam (3) and MOM, Noah, Robert (Ryan)
The Yellows failed to show up for much of their game. Some nice early touches by Rhys showed that confidence was high, but as a group our midfield lacked leadership and constantly failed to get men back behind the ball when Knebworth were attacking.
Knebworth took a deserved lead, but we came back quickly and Ryan scored the equaliser and enjoyed the subsequent celebration. Our positioning was poor in comparison to last week and we failed to keep the ball, which led to most of the pressure on our goal.
We are a much better team than this performance showed and only some good saves by Josh (narrowly missing out on MOM, but worthy of a mention) kept the scoreline respectable. We hardly managed to string two passes together the whole game and with numerous mistakes being made and tackles missed or not gone into, we were well beaten 4-1.
This was a backward step for the Yellows and a very disappointing performance.
Team: Josh, Riley, Leon, Thomas, Ryan (1) (MOM), Rhys, Kieran, (Alex) (Lucas)
10th March 2007 away to Buntingford Cougers
Buntingford 2 Letchworth Eagles 3
Following on from last weeks determined performances, the Eagles had once again worked hard in training on their positioning and further attempts were made at getting the boys to switch the play when advancing with the ball.
The whites kicked off first and immediately showed the home team that all tackles would be fiercely contested and no quarter would be given. Austin in particular championed the spirit and our midfield dominated, largely due to the competitive edge they showed.
Liam put us 1-0 up with a neat left foot finish, before some tenacious work by Noah lead to him beating 3 defenders and crossing for Liam to meet left footed again, a very nicely worked goal, moments before half time.
Buntingford came back 5 minutes into the second half after an excellent run and finish from their right winger. Shortly after, Robert replaced the injured Liam, and Ryan came on for Harry. As Buntingford tried to force the game, our defence remained solid and we managed to extend the lead when Robert hammered home from a scramble in the box.
To their credit, Buntingford came back at us again and Mash was unlucky to get beaten, but 3-2 it was. Rhys came on to replace Robert, who despite scoring had not got into the game and despite some anxious moments, including Macaulay attempting to bring down their forward, we held on for a deserved victory. A really good team performance, epitomised by Man of the match Austin.
Team: Mash, Macaulay, Harry, Austin (MOM), Liam (2), Callum,- subs Robert, Ryan, Rhys
Buntingford 1 Letchworth Eagles 7
This was a very memorable performance from the Yellows. As ever they worked hard and played with passion, but in a break from the norm, kept themselves organized throughout the match.
We actually conceded the first goal of the game, when a lob/pass/shot looped into the net. Josh rightly looked bemused, as did the chap who kicked the ball.
The goal acted as a spur for us and we equalised when Alex produced a great piece of finishing with her left foot. She nearly made it two following a blocked shot, but as her shot was cleared off the line, Ryan pounced with some relish to smash home. 2-1 at half time.
Robert and Ryan both scored to increase our lead and then Rhys pushed up to midfield and netted twice. Liam also scored as we ran out easy winners.
The team passed the ball well and showed great determination and character to get back into the match after going a goal down. Robert’s goal was scored after a four pass move had carved through the defence and he ran on to smash home, this summed us up, play for each other and it is a much easier game.
Ryan got man of the match for his 2 goals and hard work in midfield.
Team: Josh, Riley, Rhys (2), Ryan (2), Alex(1), Thomas, Kieran, -subs Robert (1) Mash, Liam (1) Harry
MATCH 21 – Royston Crow League versus Fairland’s Youth.
Saturday 3rd March at Letchworth.
It was such a pleasant chance to see Eagles play this week being sandwiched in between seeing my pathetic excuse for a football team.
Eagles Whites flew out of the traps this week and were involved in a cracking game where no quarter was asked or given with both teams being fiercely competitive. The first half was fairly even with both teams having chances, Callum having a free kick cleared off the line with a header and Matthew making some good saves. The second half continued in the same fashion with all the Eagle’s players going for every lose ball and challenge. It put Fairland’s of their stride, who are one of the best footballing sides that we play. Eagles Whites made three substitutions in the second half with Ryan having run himself into the ground. Matthew made some more cracking saves and it was only an excellent long-range effort that finally breached our defence to leave us unluckily losing 1-0. One of the best performances I have seen from Eagles Whites and a thoroughly enjoyable game.
Eagles Yellows started of were Whites had finished and were also really up for it this week. We dominated the early stages of the first half and were rewarded when a good shot from Robert forced the keeper into a save with Kieran being alert and scoring with a header from the rebound. Fairland’s recovered well and equalized with a well-taken goal. Just before half time our defence was involved in a mix up and Fairland’s took advantage going 2-1 up. This did not deter Eagles Yellows and they again started brightly in the second half and were rewarded with a second goal from a well-taken long-range shot from Rhys. Fairland’s again came back and took back the lead with a long range effort, with Eagles pressing for an equalizer Fairland’s broke again and made the final score 4-2. Again a very good performance from Eagles Yellows with a score line that did not reflect how close the game was.
So two extremely enjoyable games to watch this week with both sides being very committed and giving everything in both games. What is encouraging as well is how we are playing postionaly and are always trying to play football, I also feel that both sides can consider themselves unlucky to come away with two defeats.
Next week we are away at Buntingford, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!!
Whites: Matthew, Ryan, Harry, Austin, Callum, Noah, Robert, Rhys, Macauley, Leon
Man of Match: Matthew
Yellows: Josh, Leon, Rhys (1), Callum, Alex, Robert, Riley, Kieran (1), Thomas, Lucas
Man of Match: Rhys
MATCH 20 SATURDAY 24TH February – AWAY TO HITCHIN
Eagles whites started quite brightly putting some nice passing moves together and were unfortunate to miss two sitters, with Austin guilty of missing an open goal and then shooting wide when given more time to finish than he thought. Despite the bright start, the Eagles fell behind when Ryan put the ball into his own net again, from a corner. More sloppy defending and keeping allowed Hitchin to go 2-0 up, the second goal they had scored while the opposing coach had been situated just outside the penalty area. A touch strange, but considering the ref missed two handballs which should have gone our way, not surprising.
The second half saw us concede another soft goal, when Mash had a moment to forget, allowing the Hitchin forward time and space in the box to finish, instead of the easier option of coming out of the goal and collecting. Mistakes like this are to be learned from, although the “odd-job” style of throwing his cap after conceding the goal showed he hurt. Amusing as it was.
Still we tried to play football. Callum playing upfront, linked play excellently and manages to belittle those who question his inclusion. Noah, Liam and Austin tried hard to force the play, but often failed to collect the second phase ball.
Harry replaced Mac at the back and Robert replaced the tiring Callum upfront and we pulled one pack after Austin nicked Liam’s goalbound effort on the line. Nothing at all wrong with that, Jimmy Greaves made a career out of that sort of poaching.
3-1 then became 3-2 after the best move of the game. Robert for once choosing team play, rather than solo play before being tackled or falling down, beat his man and crossed superbly for Liam to hit a first time shot into the corner. Well done guys, proper football. Learn from that Robert.
Despite showing ambition and flair, we were unable to create an equaliser. We really failed to boss this game as we should have against a side who in all honesty, should never beat us.
TEAM: MASH, MAC(HARRY), RYAN, AUSTIN (1), LIAM (1), NOAH, CALLUM (ROBERT)
The Yellows were positive right from the kick off in their game and never allowed Hitchin in the game. Leon bossed the midfield and proved very effective at the ugly stuff, constantly picking up second phase ball. With us having the lions share of possession, it allowed us to really use the ball to work for us. Thomas, with both feet, threaded neat passes to his team mates, before choosing to shoot himself and score the opener.
At the other end, Josh saved bravely from Hitchin’s only attack, although once again was guilty of turning his back on the ball. Rhys and Riley dealt effectively with any forward play by Hitchin and as changes were made, Robert rifled in a deserved second for the team.
Macauley then treated us to some entertaining showboating wing play, which drew comparisons to his fathers dancing, but was slightly less messy. A much deserved 2-0 victory with us totally dominating this game, which was refereed fairly throughout this time by a different Hitchin Ref.
TEAM: JOSH, RILEY, RHYS, ALEX, THOMAS (1) LEON, KIERAN, HARRY, MAC, ROBERT CALLUM
MAN OF THE MATCH:THOMAS
MATCH 19 – Royston Crow League versus Welwyn Garden City.
Saturday 17th February at Letchworth.
A much better performance this week from both sides as Eagles found themselves with a smaller squad this week, so players were used in both games.
Eagles Whites started slowly and conceded a soft goal from a corner early on. WGC then scored a well-taken goal from distance to make it 2-0. This spurred Whites into action and they forced four corners in a row. This pressure took it toll on WGC and they conceded an own goal to make it 2-1 at half time. Whites were much the better side in the second half but WGC showed that they were still a threat when they hit the post. Justice was done in the end though when Liam forced in a shot from a cross to make the final score 2-2.
Eagles Yellows started brightly in the second game and spent most of the first half in the WGC half with Austin forcing their keeper into a good save. Second half started well again for Yellows with Robert joining the attack and he had some good efforts on goal. Although Yellows dominated it still took a smart save from Matthew to keep the final score 0-0.
So two enjoyable games to watch this week with both sides trying to play football and I feel that both sides can consider themselves unlucky to come away with just a draw. Special mention that I have never seen a game held up when the WGC coach had to retrieve the ball from someone’s garden and then the poor fellow got caught in the brambles!!
Next week we are away at Hitchin, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!!
Whites: Matthew, Ryan, Harry, Liam (1), Austin, Callum, Noah, Robert, Rhys
Man of Match: Liam
Yellows: Matthew, Noah, Leon, Rhys, Callum, Austin, Liam, Ryan, Alex , Robert, Harry
Man of Match: Leon
MATCH 18 – Royston Crow League versus Bishop Stortford Rangers.
Saturday 3rd February at Bishop Stortford.
Furthest away game to report on this week on a crisp winters morning against Bishop Stortford Rangers.
The Eagles Whites game started quite slowly with the Eagles being a little second best to the ball and not always winning any fifty/fifty challenges. This resulted in a first half where Eagles mainly defended and Rangers hit the post early on. Eagles Whites improved in the second half and showed glimpses of how we can play with Thomas hitting their post. A 0-0 draw was probably a fair result although it took a very brave and excellent save from Matthew at the feet of their striker in the dying seconds to enable Whites to hold on for a draw.
Similar story for the Eagles Yellows this week with them also starting quite slowly. They were behind fairly early on from a good long-range effort. This was followed by two further well-taken goals to take Rangers into a 3-0 lead at half time. Eagles Yellows came more into the game in the second half with some good battling performances from the team but unfortunately we could not turn this into goals and Bishop Stortford Rangers scored another to make the final score 4-0.
So slightly below par performance from both teams but we did show slight glimpses of what we can achieve.
Next up Welwyn Garden City at Home on February 17th, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!
For next weeks report on Cambridge United vs Grays Athletic please read the national press!!
Whites: Matthew, Harry, McCauley, Liam, Austin, Noah, Ryan, Callum, Thomas
Man of Match: Matthew
Yellows: Josh, Leon, Rhys, Callum, Ryan, Thomas, Alex, Kieran, Leon
Man of Match: Leon
MATCH 17 – Royston Crow League versus Bedwell Rangers.
Saturday 27th January at Home.
Certainly two different games to report on this week with a lunchtime kick off for Eagles against Bedwell.
The Eagles Whites report will be very short this week as Andy said afterwards ‘ We were worse than rubbish!’ in what can be described as a very bad day at the office! At half time Whites were 3-0 down with only a good run and effort from Noah to report. Second half we conceded another five to make the final score 8-0, with only two good saves from Josh to report. Less said the better!!
A very different performance from Eagles Yellows with them starting brightly and Liam having a good effort straight at the keeper. Then Bedwell scored against the run of play to go in at half time 1-0 up. Yellows bounced back in the second half and a great cross from Rhys was finished well by Liam to bring them back to 1-1. Then a great finish by Alex put the Yellows 2-1 up. Yellows pushed for a third to finish the game off and the Bedwell keeper denied Rhys with a great save. Unfortunately towards the end Yellows failed to clear the defence and they scored their second to make the final score 2-2. A great game to watch that Eagles Yellows can feel unlucky to of not come away with a win.
So very much a Jeckal and Hyde performance by Whites and Yellows this week.
Next up Bishop Stortford Rangers away on February 3rd, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!
Whites: Josh, Harry, McCauley, Liam, Austin, Noah, Robert, Riley, Ryan,Callum
Man of Match: Noah
Yellows: Josh, Leon, Rhys, Callum, Ryan, Thomas, Lucas, Alex (1), Liam(1), McCauley, Robert
Man of Match: Liam
MATCH 16 – Royston Crow League versus Hatfield Town.
Saturday 20th January at Hatfield.
Disclaimer for match report last week where in fact Ryan scored for Eagles Whites instead of Robert, the stand in reporter has been reprimanded!!
After walking from Welwyn Garden City to Hatfield to find the pitch. Eagles Whites kicked of in very windy conditions and took part in a very keenly contested match. Hatfield have definitely improved since we first played them and Eagle Whites had a few good chances in the first half with Liam being denied a goal when it looked as if the ball had crossed the line. We also had the unique sight of the ref reading the text on his phone during the first half as well. Second half also continued in the same manner with chances at both ends. Then Hatfield were awarded a hotly disputed penalty (well hotly disputed by a biased father/match reporter) but justice was borne out when they missed the subsequent spot kick. McCauley then produced a great clearance off the line that had possibly crossed over but as in the first half with no Russian linesman the goal was not given, so it evened itself out. The game finished 0-0 but I believe that Eagles Whites definitely deserved to win the game.
Eagles Yellows were also involved in a hard fought game. First half was a very even contest with chances at either end and the half time score line of 0-0 was a true reflection. The second half was also keenly contested with nothing between the sides until Hatfield scored a from a good shot. This spurred Eagles Yellows into trying to find the equalizer forcing their keeper to make two good saves. As often happens when you are pressing for an equalizer Hatfield broke away and scored a second to win the game. Eagles Yellows never gave up though and there was some really good battling defending by them throughout the game.
So in all again another two good performances by Whites and Yellows, I definitely feel that we are playing much better now against the more physical sides.
Next up Bedwell Rangers at home on January 27th, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!
Whites: Josh, Harry, McCauley, Liam, Austin, Noah, Robert
Man of Match: McCauley
Yellows: Josh, Leon, Rhys, Riley, Callum, Ryan, Thomas, Lucas, Alex
Man of Match: Rhys
MATCH 15 – Royston Crow League versus Stevenage Borough.
Saturday 13th January at Stevenage.
Guest appearance for the stand in reporter this week who did a sterling job once she realised that Eagles Yellows were playing first!!
Eagles Yellows were under pressure initially and then turned the game around and fought hard in the first half. Callum coped well with delivering numerous consecutive corners and following an excellent run of play and passing, scored the first goal ending the first half 1-0 up. In the second half Stevenage Borough equalized and pressed for a second forcing a very good save by Josh. Kieran came on as sub for Thomas and within minutes had scored our second goal, which proved to be the winner. Excellent teamwork and strong play ensured that our 2-1 win was well deserved.
Eagles Whites were also involved in a hard fought game. They started well with a goal by Robert after 2 minutes play. Excellent play from all the team did not deter an equaliser from Stevenage. A good save from Matthew ensured that the half time score remained 1-1. The second half started quickly and continued in that vein pretty much throughout the second half. Two very good attempts on goal were denied us by their quick thinking goalie. Fortunately another good save by Matthew ensured a full time score of 1-1. Again, excellent play by Whites at a fast and furious pace.
So in all two good performances against quite a physical Stevenage side
Next up Hatfield away on January 20th, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!
Yellows: Josh, Leon, Rhys, Riley, Calum (1), Kieran (1), Ryan, Thomas
Man of Match: Calum
Whites: Matthew, Harry, McCauley, Liam, Austin, Noah, Robert (1)
Man of Match: Austin
MATCH 14 – Royston Crow League versus Shefford Saints.
Saturday 6th January at Shefford.
Well it was a very wet start to 2007 for our game against Shefford Saints, the only dry thing left on me at the end of the match was the socks in my welly’s!!!
Eagles Whites started fairly slowly and were under a lot of pressure throughout the first half. As a result of this Shefford Saints took the lead in the first half resulting from a throw in that was incorrectly called, home linesman!!! Whites started the second half much better and it was their turn to put Shefford under a lot of pressure. This pressure resulted in Eagles gaining a free kick just outside the area from which Robert scored an excellent goal to make it 1-1. Eagles continued to press on and deservedly took the lead when Noah followed up from Robert hitting the post to make the final score 2-1.
Eagles Yellows were also under a bit of pressure in the first half and went into the break 2-0 down, we did make use of the local conditions, using the puddle in front of our goal as an extra defensive option! Yellows had a much better response in the second half and which resulted in Ryan scoring two cracking goals, one being a very well taken penalty. It was a very entertaining game and I thought that we had done enough to draw the game. A sign that Shefford were worried was when they bought on their best player from the first game to try and edge the result, which unfortunately they did right at the end to make the final score 3-2.
So in all two good performances in somewhat difficult conditions, especially for the Yellows in the second game. A special mention to our January transfer window signing Thomas who had a very good start for the Yellows
Next up Stevenage Borough away on January 13th, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!
Whites: Matthew, Harry, McCauley, Liam, Austin, Noah (1), Robert (1)
Man of Match: Noah
Yellows: Josh, Alex, Leon, Rhys, Riley, Calum, Kieran, Ryan (2), Thomas
Man of Match: Ryan
MATCH 13 – Royston Crow League v Knebworth Bobcats.
Saturday 16th December at Knebworth
We traveled Knebworth on a very cold morning to see the last game of 2006. Also to keep the match reporter busy it was decided to have four short games for me to report on.
Eagles Whites started well and early pressure resulted in a well-worked goal finished by Liam. Eagles then had the majority of play and can feel a little aggrieved that Knebworth equalized to make the final score 1-1. In the second game that Eagles Whites played they continued to play some good football and Ryan rounded off a good performance to put the ball away nicely to make the final score 1-0.
Eagles Yellows also started well and a well-taken goal by Robert resulted in them going into half time 1-0 up. In the second half Knebworth Bobcats started to get back into the game and equalized to make the final score 1-1. In the second game it was a fairly even contest with Knebworth going in at half time 1-0 up. In the second half Knebworth took control and scored a further three goals to make the final score 4-0. Credit goes to Eagles Yellows that they never gave up and battled to the end.
Summing up at the end Andy was very pleased with the progress that both sides have made in 2006 and thanked them for all their effort. On a personal note I can say that I have witnessed some very entertaining games in 2006, I know that may not seem as a compliment coming from a Leeds fan used to watching dross but I can assure you it has been very enjoyable and restores my faith in football.
All there is left to say is have a very Happy Christmas and a great New Year!!
Next up Shefford Saints away on January 6th with training starting at the astro turf on 5th, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!
Whites: Matthew, Harry, McCauley, Liam (1), Austin, Ryan (1), Noah, Robert, Rhys,
Man of Match: Ryan
Yellows: Josh, Alex, Leon, Rhys, Riley, Robert (1), Calum, Kieran, Ryan
Man of Match: Leon
MATCH 12 – Royston Crow League versus Buntingford.
Saturday 9th December at Letchworth
What a difference a week makes with two good performances from both Eagle sides.
Eagles Whites started very brightly and with a lot of purpose. They controlled the early part of the game and deserved to take the lead when Liam found Austin with a good pass and he put it away nicely to take us into half time 1-0 up. Buntingford are a good side and in the second half Whites soaked up some good pressure with Matthew making a great double save. It was not all one-way traffic though and Robert broke free and finished well to make to make the final score 2-0.
Yellows also started very well and forced two good blocks from Buntingford defenders, we also had at least four corners in the first half. Unfortunately and I think against the run of play Buntingford capitalized on a mistake and made it 1-0 before half time. This really spurred the Yellows on even further and I counted at least eight corners to us in the second half, it would just not go in even a fantastic back pass from Buntingford hit their own post. As often happens when a side is so dominant and pressing for the equalizer the other team broke and scored with Buntingford ending up winning 2-0. This score line most definitely did not reflect how well Eagles Yellows played and they definately deserved something from the game!
Well the stern team talk from Andy last week definitely got through to both teams who put in very good performances this week.
Next up Knebworth away on December 16th, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!
Whites: Matthew, Harry, McCauley, Liam, Robert (1), Austin (1), Ryan, Riley, Calum
Man of Match: McCauley
Yellows: Josh, Reece, Riley, Calum, Kieran, Austin, Harry, Leon, Lucas
Man of Match: Calum
MATCH 11 – Royston Crow League versus Fairlands Youth.
Saturday 2nd December at Stevenage
We traveled to Fairlands on a crisp sunny winters morning, with the sun being the only thing to shine in a below par performance from both Eagle sides.
Eagles Yellows started the first game and it was a fairly even contest until Fairlands broke with three players to give Josh no chance and made it 1-0. After a lot more pressure they made it 2-0 before half time. Yellows had a better second half but still conceded one more goal to make it 3-0.
Whites started slowly and went behind to a very well taken goal from Fairlands early on. They conceded another from a goal kick and went into half time 2-0 down. We had a chance to get back into the game early on in the second half when Noah was fouled in the penalty area but unfortunately their keeper made a good save from Liam’s spot kick. Whites then conceded an own goal and Fairlands added a fourth before Noah scored a good consolation goal to make the final score 4-1.
Both teams had a stern team talk from Andy at the end, as he said lets put that performance to bed and look forward to a better mornings work next Saturday. There was only one man of the match this week for his sterling work in both games and that went to Noah, who must have been given extra zip from his haircut!
Next up Buntingford Cougars at home on December 9th, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!
Yellows: Josh, Reece, Riley, Calum, Kieran, Noah, McCauley, Austin, Harry, Liam, Ryan
Man of Match: Noah
Whites: Matthew, Harry, McCauley, Liam, Austin, Ryan, Noah (1), Reece, Riley, Calum, Kieran
MATCH 10– Royston Crow League versus Welwyn Garden City
Saturday 18th November
Another sunny fresh morning saw again good performances from both Eagles sides.
Whites started straight away as if they meant business and a lot of early pressure resulted in them hitting a post from a corner. Robert had a good shot saved by the keeper with Austin following up well to slot home the eagles first. A good pass from Liam resulted in Robert finishing well to make it 2-0. Austin was then pulled down in the box for a penalty, which Robert failed to convert. He made up for this miss with a lovely solo effort to make it 3-0. WGC came more into the game in the second half with Eagles Whites adding one more from Robert for his hatrick and making the final score 4-0. Again a very good all round team effort with lots of hard work put in by all the team. In the post match round up Andy said that it was the best the Whites have played!
Second games score line of 0-0 could suggest a rather dull game, but far from it, as we were entertained to a very enjoyable match. This was a very evenly matched contest with chances at both ends. Eagles Yellows did have a couple of near escapes but equally they had chances at the other end, especially one effort where we had three players converging on the keeper with no one deciding to finish! Again as with the Whites, the Yellows also defended from the front and put in a really good display.
So another sunny morning, a win, a draw and another good mornings work!
Next up Hitchin at home on November 25th, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!
Whites: Matthew, Harry, McCauley, Robert (3), Liam, Austin (1), Ryan
Man of Match: Robert
Yellows: Josh, Reece, Riley, Calum, Alex, Leon, Kieran
Man of Match: Riley
MATCH 9 - AWAY V BISHOPS STOTFORD
November 11th, 2006
The eagles travelled to Bishops Stortford for two frendlies arranged at short notice after Welwyn failed to raise a side to play our opponents. A combination of the short notice, early start and distance for this fixture left us without some familiar faces on and off the pitch, but for those who did make the trip it proved to be worthwhile.
In the first match the Eagles were quickly out of the blocks and dominated from the start. The midfield of Noah, Liam and Austin imposed themselves on the match. Twice Noah went close with well worked shots before Liam opened the scoring. Hard work by Rhys enabled him to double the scoring and Liam added a third after neat work in the midfield between him and Austin. We then had a free kick cleared off the line and a shot from outside the box go inches over before the half time whistle.
With the total domination we had in the first half, it was time for some Sven like tinkering, as a total of six changes were made. Macauley playing at left back stayed on as Josh went in goal and on came Kieran, Alex, Leon, Riley and Callum. Credit to those who came on. Although the game became a little scrappy, getting bogged down in the midfield, we battled hard and gave no time to the Stortford players on the ball. Callum went close to increasing the lead and with Macauley showing that size is no replacement for being able to read the game and making sensible decisions in defence, Josh was hardly troubled in goal.
A final score of 3-0 gave credit to all.
The second game kicked off, with the story much the same. Once again Letchworth dominated and we took the lead after Austin had appeared to run out of room on the right wing. Instead of wasting position, Austin dropped his shoulder, jinked inside a defender and slotted home in the far corner, a cracking goal.
Riley was put in for a 1 on 1 with the Stortford keeper and made no mistake from outside the box, much to his delight. A third was added by Liam and Austin scored his second of the match to make the score 4-0 at half time.
Again changes were made and this time we pulled further ahead in the second half when Callum had his hard work rewarded by a good finish. Everyone contributed and 5-0 was a fair scoreline. The one downside was that both a couple of the players missed opportunities to come back on, after wandering off, this despite warnings over this sort of behaviour in previous weeks.
A big thanks to all parents who made the matches at short notice.
The man of the match awards went to Noah and Liam with the goals on the day coming from Liam 3, Austin 2, and 1 from Rhys, Riley and Callum.
MATCH 8 – Royston Crow League versus Bishops Stortford.
Saturday 4th November at Home
Letchworth played host to Bishop Stortford.
A nice crisp morning saw two very good performances from both Eagles Sides. Whites started well and were quickly in front with a good effort from Robert, Austin added a second with a well worked goal and Robert scored his second to make it 3-0 at half time. There was no let up from Eagles Whites in the second half and Robert went on to score his third to make it 4-0 and to collect a bonus payment from his mum!! The scoring was finished when Ryan added a fifth with an excellent goal from a corner that Eagles had been working on in training. To me what was as pleasing as the 5-0 score line, was how well the whole team defended to keep a clean sheet even when they were 5-0 up.
Second game with Eagles Yellows saw them up go into the lead very early on with a lob from Alex. This however, seemed to lull the Yellows into a false sense of security and Bishop Stortford went onto to score their first and second goals of the season to take a 2-1 lead. A wake up call for the Yellows and following a fine save from Josh they went and equalized from a Stortford own goal brought about from a long throw from Calum. Calum’s long throws caused them problems throughout the game. In the second half Eagles Yellows pushed home their superiority with MaCauley scoring twice and Calum also netting from distance to make the final score line 5-2. Again as with the Whites, the Yellows also defended from the front and put in a really good display.
So sunny morning, two wins, ten goals scored, two conceded, it does not get much better than that! Very impressed at how we played and particularly defended, especially from corners, which has been a weakness previously.
Next up Welwyn Garden City away on November 18th, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!
Whites: Matthew, Harry, Noah, Robert (3), Liam, Austin (1), Ryan (1)
Man of Match: Ryan
Yellows: Josh, Reece, Riley, Calum (1), Alex (1), McCauley (2), Leon
Man of Match: McCauley
MATCH 7 – Royston Crow League versus Bedwell Rangers
Saturday 28th October at Stevenage
Letchworth traveled to Stevenage for another tough fixture this weekend at Bedwell Rangers.
After one of their best performances of the season last week Eagle Whites came up against a Bedwell side that I think are the best side I have seen in the league so far, but then what do I know! A close contest saw Eagles Whites go behind to a well worked corner, however Eagles Whites came back straight away and a long range effort from Robert resulted in a Bedwell Rangers player putting in his own net to level the score at 1-1. Then a goal mouth scramble resulted in Bedwell Rangers taking a 2-1 lead, this is where Eagles Whites have changed recently and again fought back with a good goal from Robert to make it 2-2 at half time. In the second half Bedwell pushed on to make it 4-2 but this is in no way a disgrace for Eagles Whites as they came up against a very good side in Bedwell and made them fight all the way.
Second game with Eagles Yellows saw them up put up a really good display against Bedwell. A very even first half saw Eagles Yellows go in at half time 0-0, although our goal did have a charmed life on a couple of occasions. In the second half Bedwell Rangers took the lead through another goal mouth scramble but Eagle Yellows never know when to give up and were so unlucky not to equalize. I counted six corners for Eagles Yellows to one for Bedwell in the second half, which shows the dominance that the Yellows had and that they really deserved a draw if not to win the game.
So again although we lost both matches I feel that both sides played really well and are showing improvement match by match. Good to see Andy back on the sidelines and he must be pleased with how the teams played.
Next up Bishop’s Stortford at home, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!
Whites: Matthew, Yellows: Josh, Reece, Riley, Lucas, Calum, Kieran, Noah
Man of Match: Noah
Harry, Noah, Robert (1), Liam, Austin, Ryan, Calum
Man of Match: Harry
MATCH 6 – Royston Crow League versus Hatfield Town Youth
Saturday 21st October at Letchworth
Letchworth played hosts this weekend to Hatfield Town after a tough away fixture at Stevenage.
What a difference a week makes, this has to be one of the best performances of the season so far by Eagles Whites against a good Hatfield team who were just not allowed to get in the game. Eagles Whites totally bossed the first half with some excellent team play and deserved to be 3-0 up at half time with goals from Liam, Austin and Noah. The second half was pretty similar to the first with again great teamwork by everyone with the midfield and strikers tracking back well to help out their defence. Eagles Whites scored two more to make the final score 5-0 with goals from Robert and a second for Liam.
Second game with Eagles Yellows saw them up against a strong Hatfield side and I feel that they can count themselves unlucky not to come out with at least a draw from this one. They matched Hatfield in the first half and could count themselves unlucky to be 1-0 to a cross come shot. Then in the second half we conceded two soft goals from corners to make the score 3-0. This really spurred the Yellows into action and it resulted in a fight back with goals from Liam and Kieran. I feel if Sean had added even more time on (than he had already had!) then the fight back might have been complete. So another gritty performance by the Eagle Yellows who do not know when they are beat!
So again mixed fortunes this week but Andy can be proud of how both sides played. If my excuse of a football team showed half the passion and pride at Luton on Saturday, that the Eagles did, then I would have had a much more enjoyable afternoon. I think I will stick to watching the Eagles as it is much more entertaining!!
Next up Bedwell Rangers away, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!
Whites: Matthew, Harry, Noah (1), Robert (1), Liam (2), Austin (1), Ryan,
Man of Match: Robert
Yellows: Matthew, Reece, Alex, Riley, Calum, Kieran (1), McCauley, Liam (1)
Man of Match: Kieran
MATCH 5 – Royston Crow League versus Shefford Saints
Saturday 7th October at Letchworth
After realising that professional football really is not that entertaining I decided to get back to proper grass roots football again this week!
Eagles Whites continued their goal scoring form from last week by netting early again this week with Austin finishing well to go 1-0 up. This was followed up by Robert scoring from a one on one with the keeper to make it 2-0. This score line did not reflect that the Whites started slowly with the defence wanting a lot of time on the ball and it took two outstanding saves from Matthew to keep it 2-0 until just before half time when Shefford Saints scored directly from a corner. A much better second half saw Eagles Whites control the half and Liam added a third to make it a final score of 3-1.
Second game with Eagles Yellows also saw them start slowly with them going in at half time 2-0 down. They started much brighter in the second half with them going close on several occasions, then disaster struck and Shefford Saints scored twice to go 4-0 up. Many teams would of buckled at this stage and ended up on the wrong side of a cricket score! Not eagles Yellows though and Reece pulled one back to make it 4-1. He then followed it up by a great individual goal to make it 4-2, unfortunately they ran out of time to make it a memorable come back but managed to give Shefford a bit of a scare!
So again both sides started slowly but we saw a much better performance in the second half, as ever keep up the good work Eagles!!!
Whites: Matthew, Harry, Noah, Robert (1), Liam (1), Austin (1), Ryan
Man of Match: Noah
Yellows: Josh, Reece (2), Alex, Riley, Leon, Calum, Kieran
Man of Match: Reece
MATCH 4 – Royston Crow League versus Knebworth Bobcats
Saturday 30th September at Letchworth.
Typical I decide to see Leeds get stuffed at West Brom and miss two games totaling fourteen goals. Big thanks to the wife (and helpers) who stepped in as guest reporter this week!
It was a fast and furious action packed game for Eagles Whites, this was reflected when Austin scored the 1st goal after 2 minutes. Other goals followed from Liam, Robert and a second from Liam ensured that Eagles Whites went in 4-1 up at half time. In the second half, a good penalty save from the Knebworth goalie prevented Noah from a penalty goal. Eagles Whites continued playing well and added two further goals with Liam completing a hatrick and an own goal that meant the final score finished 6-2.
The second game with Eagles Yellows was a tough encounter with them going in at half time 2-0 down. However as Eagle Yellows often show they really battled in the second half and had a few chances. Their heads did not drop when they conceded another two goals and Alex managed to pull a goal back for the Yellows. Knebworth scored again to make the final score 5-1 but again the Yellows can be proud of themselves for showing a lot of heart throughout he game.
Mixed bag this week with a win and a defeat but as ever there was a lot of positives to take out of both games, keep up the good work Eagles!!!!
Whites: Matthew, Ryan, Harry, Liam (3), McCauley, Austin (1), Calum, Noah, Robert (1)
Man of Match: Liam
Yellows: Josh, Noah, Leon, Calum, Austin, Liam, Ryan, Alex (1), McCauley, Robert, Harry
Man of Match: Alex
MATCH 3 – Royston Crow League versus Buntingford
Saturday 23rd September at Buntingford.
Another away fixture on a large pitch proved to be a tough encounter for both sides.
First half saw Eagles Whites a little slow out of the block and they were soon behind to a long-range effort. Two more strikes saw them go into half time 3-0 down. An inspiring team talk from Andy saw a transformed side in the second half with goals from Robert and McCauley. Buntingford also scored twice to make the final score 5-2 but Eagles Whites definitely played the better football and for slow start in the first half they could have got something from the game.
The second game with Eagles Yellows was a much closer contest and they can count themselves unlucky to go in at half time 2-0 down after conceding two scrappy goals. Second half saw Buntingford hanging on with Eagles Yellows scoring the goal of season so far with a lovely move resulting in Kieran blasting the ball in the net from a pin point cross from Reece. Eagles Yellows can count themselves very unlucky not to get anything out of the game and the whole team put in a great effort.
Although we suffered two defeats I still feel that there was a lot to take out of both games as we are playing some very nice football at times. Special mention to Josh who kept in both games and played very well for both Whites and Yellows.
Whites: Josh, Riley, Harry, Liam, McCauley (1), Austin, Calum, Noah, Robert (1)
Man of Match: Noah
Yellows: Josh, Noah, Leon, Calum, Ryan, Alex, Reece, Lukas, Kieran (1), Harry
Man of Match: Reece
MATCH 2 – Royston Crow League versus Fairland’s.
Saturday 15th September at Letchworth
This turned out to be a much harder test for both sides as they came up against Fairland’s.
In a closely contested first half Eagles Whites scored a well taken goal from Robert but failed to hold onto the lead before half time going in at 1:1. Another good second half saw Eagles Whites take a deserved lead from Noah but again unfortunately we could not hang on to take all three points, with Fairland’s again equalizing to make the final score 2-2. It was a very enjoyable game that I feel we did edge and may be deserved a win.
The second game was also very closely contested, with nothing much to separate the sides. There were chances at both ends in the first half and it ended all level at 0-0. The second half again saw a very good game with nothing in it until Fairland’ scored an unstoppable goal that would of looped over the reporter at 6ft 4in! This really spurred on Eagles Yellows to push for an equalizer and were very unlucky towards the end of the game when they hit the post. The game ended 1-0 to Fairland’s but this was very harsh on Eagles Yellows who really deserved a draw.
Two enjoyable games and we can feel unlucky to come away with only a draw in one game as both sides deserved more than they ended up with, again very good team effort.
Whites: Matthew, Reece, Harry, Calum, Riley, Robert (1), Austin, Noah (1)
Man of Match: Riley
Yellows: Josh, Macauley, Alex, Austin, Kieran, Lucas, Ryan, Reece
Man of Match: Lucas
MATCH 1 – Royston Crow League versus Hitchin Town Youth F.C
Saturday 9th September at Ickleford
This was a strange situation for a Leeds fan to be involved in, watching football with the sun shinning, two games played and two wins!! Letchworth Eagles Yellow and White teams kicked of the season against Hitchin Town Youth.
Eagles Whites started well with two early goals, which seemed to put them at ease. No further goals were scored but this was not from the lack of intelligent play and good attempts by Eagles Whites. Hitchin had a spirited defence and their keeper pulled off some fine saves. It would be fair to say that the 2-0 score line did not truly reflect how dominant Eagles Whites were overall in the game.
Eagles Yellows were involved in a tight first half but were then awarded with a penalty before half time. With Hitchin pushing for an equalizer in the second half, Eagles Yellows defended well and managed to score two more goals to make the final score 3-0. This final score line was a true reflection on how well Eagle Yellows played as they produced a very good team effort.
This was a great start to the season for both teams and I was very impressed by how both teams are really starting to gel together as a unit and have started to communicate well with each other. All the hard work that goes on during the Friday training sessions is definitely paying dividends. Well done!!!!