Eagles u8 Orange and Blacks - 07/08 Season
Contact: Paul Bush - 01462 673526 - dash.bush@virgin.net
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Match Reports
LGCE Orange and Blacks Vs Stevenage Town 29th March 2008
Game 1
Stevenage kick off and move play quickly into the Eagles half catching the boys unawares, they soon recover and regain possession with some great passing between Joe and Harry, Joe takes a shot but is saved by the goalie. Play remains in Stevenage’s half Joe passes to Harry and then moves into the middle, Harry passes back to Joe who shoots, this time it goes in, excellent play boys 1 0.
Stevenage pushes into Oranges half and Josh (who is on loan from Eagles Whites) saves the shot. Big kick from Josh to Harry J who takes the ball back into Stevenage’s half, a great pass to Joe who shoots but unlucky it hits the post. Kieran B’s relentless tackling sees play remain in Eagles possession. Joe is taken down by a Stevenage player, Oranges are given a penalty which is taken by Elliott, its now 2 0!
Stevenage are back in possession with their No 3 managing to pass 3 of our players, but he can’t beat Josh, another great save. Josh kicks the ball into Stevenage’s half to Kieran B who takes a shot unlucky it just misses the target. Play moves back into Oranges half but with Kieron C-L and Kai’s great defending it’s short-lived! A great run from Joe up the wing passing to Harry who has moved into the middle, Harry shoots its now 3 0. Play quickly moves between both halves with Oranges and Stevenage getting corners, Oranges regain possession and Harry takes a shot yes it goes in 4 0. Whistle blows its half time.
Harry, Elliott and Joe are replaced in the second half by Thomas, Lynson and Ryan.
Eagles kick off. Play moves quickly between both halves, Stevenage slip through our defence and after numerous attempts at goal they score its now 4 1. Oranges move into Stevenage’s half and receive a corner but Stevenage regains possession and pushes back into Oranges half, some excellent defending by Lynson sees Oranges back in control. Big kick from Josh into Stevenage half sees Thomas taking the ball down the wing, passing to Kai who takes a shot, unlucky this time. Some great defending by Ryan and Lynson sees Oranges remain in possession. Kieron C-L is on form today with some great runs and committed tackling.
Corner by Stevenage is well defended by Oranges but play still remains in our half. Our defence keeps another corner shot away, but Stevenage are relentless and keeps attacking our goal with another great save by Josh. Final whistle blows and its 4 1 to Oranges.
Well played boys – some really great football again today. Thanks also to Josh for standing in for us.
Team: Kieron C-L(C), Joshua, Kai, Elliott(1), Joe(1), Kieran B, Harry J(2) Thomas, Lynson, Ryan
Man of the Match: Kieran B
Game 2
The weather is starting to get cold just as Stevenage has the kick off in our second game of the day. The pace of this game is quick and soon sees Stevenage in Eagles half catching the boys out, but some great tackling by Lynson sees the ball go out for a goal kick. A great goal kick by Josh sees Jack who takes the ball down the field into Stevenage’s half. Stevenage come in hard and goes off for a thrown in. Ryan takes it and it meets Harry L who finely takes a header, unlucky it goes out for a goal kick.
Another fine kick by Josh sees Thomas’ feet he takes it up the field into Stevenage’s half goes for goal, unlucky Thomas it just goes wide for a goal kick. Jack and Thomas are showing some great passing in the middle of the field but Stevenage just keep coming back but Ryan and Lynson are putting in some great tackles to make sure we don’t see that ball go in the back of the net.
Eagles are putting in some superb passing between Harry J, Jack and Harry L who quickly looks up sees Harry J on the run that puts in a fine cross to Thomas who shoots and yes its gone straight in the back of the net, 1-0 to the Blacks.
Stevenage Kick off but to no fruition as Jack and Thomas are working really hard in the centre trying to force Stevenage back into their own half. Harry J starts to chase down passing back to Thomas who is tackled well by Stevenage and goes off for a throw in. Harry J takes forcing a corner kick. The corner is taken which meets Ryan who just takes that lovely touch to Harry L who goes for goal, it just goes wide, but what a lovely attempt on goal.
Goal kick is taken which meets the feet of the Stevenage players who then take it down our half; they are just too strong this time and score 1-1.
Eagles kick off but some hard defending by Stevenage sees a corner to them, our players cover well for a corner kick. Another great kick by Josh but it sees it rebounding off the Stevenage players back in Eagles half, they take a shot at goal but another outstanding save by Josh.
We are putting on the pressure now but the interplay is still in our half until Ryan makes a good clearance to Lynson up to Jack. Jack is on the run now (must be those new red boots); he sees his chance takes a shot at goal; it goes right in the back of the net 2-1. Whistle blows for half time.
Second half sees Thomas and Ryan off for Joe and Elliott. It is getting colder now and my hands are bitter cold but it’s my first match report so I must continue. Centre kick off is taken and gets through our players but Harry L puts in a great tackle to Elliott and Jack to Joe who shoots but unlucky it meets the goalies hands. Stevenage takes the kick quickly which sees eagles thrown in. It is met by Lynson who gets it to Harry L to pass down the park but it is met by a strong Stevenage defence which is then put in our half for them score 2-2.
Eagles kick off but with some strong tackling on both sides sees it go out for a thrown in by Harry J, it meets Joe’s feet who go for goal but a great save by Stevenage goalie. Goal kick sees the ball in Eagles half but Lynson is working really hard today keeping their players out of our goal area. Stevenage takes a corner which is again met by Joe who takes it down the line passing several players, he goes for goal but the wind takes it out wide. Goal kick is taken by Stevenage but it is soon straight back in their half by a well earned clearance which meets Harry L who goes for goal but Stevenage goalie dives for the ball and saves it. Another goal kick is taken but it goes out for a throw in by Elliott to Joe who turns and shoots but it just goes wide.
Elliott and Joe are really working relentlessly to keep that ball in Stevenage’s half and with Jack trying really hard to keep it strong in the centre. It goes off for a thrown in for Stevenage but Lynson is there to put the player under pressure forcing a corner. Corner is taken but lucky for us goes straight to Josh’s hands. Josh takes a quick goal kick to Joe who sees Harry J running up the park a shot on goal sees the goalie save it.
Jack is making some excellent space in the middle which gives him the opportunity to go for goal – just wide. Goal kick is taken quickly but it is met by Joe who puts in a lovely cross to Elliott to Jack who shoots and scores 3-2.
Centre kick off is taken and Harry L is straight in there who clears it to Joe then to Elliott – the passing play is very exciting and the side lines seemed to be getting higher at least that is what my ears are hearing. Elliott has the ball and goes for goal, a great shot on goal but just goes over the cross bar by inches.
Stevenage takes a quick goal kick up the park but sees Elliott with a great header and goes off for a throw in. Harry J is off for Ryan.
The run of play is great to watch and the passing is going down well with the spectators but just as we are in Stevenage half we see Joe go down. Not sure how he fell but he is soon back up and running around. A drop kick is taken by Josh it goes down the park but the final whistle goes. Final score 3-2.
Team: Josh, Ryan(C), Lynson, Jack D(2), Thomas(1), Harry L, Harry J, Elliott, Joe.
Man of the Match: Lynson
LGCE Orange and Blacks Vs Bassingbourn 15th March 2008
Game 1
The boys step out for their match against Bassingbourn. It is a dry but dull day and the boys have done their warm up and are waiting patiently for Bassingbourn to take their positions. Kieron C-L is captain, wins the toss and elects to kick-off.
Bassingbourn take the initiative a launch an immediate attack and speed towards our goal. Some worrying moments initially whilst our lads find their feet and try to recapture the form they have shown over the last few weeks where their team work is really coming on.
Some good midfield tackles by Kieron C-L, who is barking a few instructions to his squad, thwart some speedy footwork by Bassingbourn. Kieran B is also getting stuck in and putting in some good blocking tackles trying to free the ball up to Kai, Harry, Joe and Elliott.
The boys settle and there are numerous well placed balls up from both Kieron C-L and Kieran B feeding up to Elliott who makes some really good strikes of the ball putting the Bassingbourn goalie under pressure. Bassingbourn react well and come back strongly on the counter attack. At one stage the Bassingbourn team are playing a three up front, three in defence – with no one in midfield which gives them a great chance on goal when they clear from deep in their half up to 20 yards from our goal giving us a worrying moment whilst our lads regroup and Kieron C-L has to make some good tactical decisions to concede some throw ins by putting the ball safely into touch!
The ball is put into the Bassingbourn half and a great pass from Kai to Harry gives him the chance of a shot which is blocked and Bassingbourn regain possession. They get into our area and Kieron C-L clears the ball up to Kai who wins a throw in. The throw-ins were practiced last night in training – a long ball to Joe who strikes the ball and it deflects off the goalie and into the net!!!!! 1 – 0
Bassingbourn kick off and continue the pressure; they win a corner which is cleared by Kai, up to Joe who passes up to Elliott who has another shot! Great!
The tackles are going in strongly; Kieran B makes a header from the throw in but the ball bounces awkwardly and Bassingbourn take their chance making another shot on goal which is saved by Charlie. He puts the ball out quickly and Kai makes some excellent play. The ball finds Harry, passing to Elliott who makes another shot on goal from distance. Bassingbourn are straight back on attack with Kieran B blocking their progress with a great tackle - the ball bounces out to Elliott who takes another shot; saved by the goalie! A great performance by Elliott really putting those shots in and keeping the goalie on his toes!
Our lads are putting in some good play in midfield and yet again are working well as a team. Harry J is making some good tackles and going round a number of the Bassingbourn players moving towards the goal. Half time comes and it is 1-0 but the match is finely balanced.
The coach gives his advice asking the boys to talk to each other more and to “take a touch”.
Kieran B is substituted by Jack and Bassingbourn take the kick off. The second half starts well with some strong tackles going in as Eagles attempt to control the game and extend their lead against some good play from Bassingbourn.
Jack gets involved immediately and clears the ball up to Joe, passing to Kai, onto Harry and Elliott who takes a shot – the goalie saves yet again – unlucky! Joe makes a great interception in mid field and Eagles are keeping up the pressure. We win a corner; taken by Harry who passes to Jack, passing to Elliott and Joe has a shot but the ball is cleared by Bassingbourn. Some good tackles by Harry, Kai and Jack but Bassingbourn push through and the ball rattles around our area until Charlie gathers it up safely.
Jack heads a throw in towards Joe who makes a shot which is saved. The ball goes out for a corner and Harry steps up. The corner ball deflects off a Bassingbourn player and into the goal. 2-0!
The centre ball comes to Kieron C-L who deftly clears it up to Elliott who takes it down the line in a fantastic run. Again, Bassingbourn respond quickly down to our area and their shot goes across our goal – but fortunately no one is there to put it in! Charlie keeps his concentration well and makes sure that he is sharp to respond to Bassingbourns’ attacks.
Kai is putting in some strong tackles and keeping up the pressure. He passes out to Elliott who makes a strong left footed shot which goes just wide. Kai is substituted and Kieran B comes back on. A free kick from Bassingbourn goes towards goal and Charlie saves. There is some good interplay between Jack, Elliott and Harry. Harry has another shot on goal which is saved – Harry takes the corner and the ball goes into the area and bounces off one of their players – Harry follows up on the rebound and strikes the ball – again it goes in off a Bassingbourn player! 3-0!
The game has been a tough one but the continual pressure from The Eagles has won through with them all playing really well. Well done lads!
Team: Charlie, Kai, Kieran B, Kieron C-L (C), Joe (1), Elliott, Harry J (2), Jack
Man of Match - Elliott
Game 2
This bright sunny Saturday morning brought two enthusiastic terrier-like teams together. The game started at a pace only seen in the Premiership. The Eagles kicked off only for Bassingbourn to steal the ball and create an early chance; superb commitment from Joseph made sure their chance produced nothing.
Excellent distribution from Joseph ensured the Eagles came back with good attacking play down their left. Committed defending from Ryan and Lynson couldn’t stop a well struck daisy-cutter finding its way into the bottom right corner of the home team’s goal. The away team were equally committed as the Eagles applied plenty of pressure but due to many well timed tackles from Lynson in the penalty area, goals were averted. The team were defending as a well drilled unit.
Jack and Thomas were trying to make the most of their possession in Bassingbourns’ half. Thomas made some mazy runs up the centre of the pitch closely supported by Jack but the final ball just wouldn’t come. Then a throw in forced by Thomas, allowed a quality delivery into the oppositions box which resulted in a firmly struck goal into the back of the net by Kieron C-L. 1 - 1.
As the first half wore on it was end to end stuff. Jack won many tackles in the centre of the park and looked to spread the play out wide. Bassingbourn won a throw towards the end of the half that resulted in a narrowly missed chance and a defence splitting pass gave Joseph the opportunity to show his commitment by smothering the ball... a let off for the home team and hopefully not a taste of things to come.
Half time arrived and the manager had drawn on his years of extensive experience to motivate his band of soldiers in the battle of the second half.
The game restarted with an early shot from Thomas that flashed across the goal and went narrowly wide. Then Bassingbourn launched a high ball over Ryan and Lynson falling into the home team’s area for their spritely striker to thump it into the bottom left of the goal. 1 - 2.
During the game the team displayed composure when heading the ball all over the pitch; they were displaying their newly acquired skills from the night before.
The manager decided a change was required. Joe came on for Kieron C-L. Joe worked hard and won plenty 50/50 balls. Again, Thomas used his skills to penetrate the oppositions defence only to be outnumbered before reaching the penalty area. Eagles were then caught on the break with a big punt up field by their tall defender splitting the defence, created a chance for bassingbourn to go 1 - 3 up. This goal put the Eagles on the back foot and Bassingbourn gained strength from the score line.
After covering marathon like territory Kieran B needed a rest and was replaced by Kieron C-L. The Eagles kept plugging away at the game. Bassingbourne scored 3 goals in the last 8 minutes of the game and the final whistle was welcomed by all. Every player gave it their all and despite the score, showed the Eagles can match any team in a battle. 1-6 Final Result!
Team: Joseph, Ryan B(C), Lynson, Kieran B, Kieron C-L(1), Jack, Thomas
Man of the match: Joseph (Goalkeeper)
LGCE Orange and Blacks Vs Sawbridgeworth 8th March 2008
Game 1
Right from the off the team played some good football, with good passing and movement and this set the tone for the whole game.
The boys started the first half with a lot of early pressure and the first movement of the game saw Elliott take the ball down the left wing and pass to Joe, but some good Sawbridgeworth defending kept us out. A good touch early in the game at the back for Kieron C-L allowed some space for Kieran B in the middle and a fantastic pass by Kieran B found Joe in space who had a cross shot which just went wide.
Sawbridgeworth replied with their first attack, but no worries for us with Charlie in goal, a smashing stop from a long range effort.
Then a sustained piece of play from our boys saw the first goal of the game come our way. Kieran B was controlling the midfield and allowed Elliott to yet again play some super football on the left wing, some great passes between Elliott, Joe and Kai gave Joe a chance which just went wide. From the goal kick we saw some immediate pressure down the left again thanks to Elliott who was having a great start to the game, a shot went wide, but Sawbridgeworth just couldn’t get out of their half and after an interception by Elliott, a blocked shot from Harry, Joe was clear on goal and 1 – 0!
Always remember to concentrate after scoring and with Sawbridgeworth attacking it took a great bit of defending by Kai to snuff out Sawbridgeworth attack. Almost immediately we were back in Sawbridgeworth half and Joe had a one-on-one with their goalkeeper, but a great save.
Now Eagles really turned the screw and could have scored 3 or 4 goals in the space of a couple of minutes – Elliott the provider from the left and blocked shots from Harry twice and Joe once and then an almighty goal line scramble just see Sawbridgeworth clear away from both Kieran B and Harry and then Joe and Elliott! Surely a second goal would come?
A bit of Sawbridgeworth pressure was again stopped by interceptions from Kai and Kieron C-L, and Charlie talking to his defence all of the time. Then from nowhere the moment of the match! Kai calmly out of defence and from inside his own half a terrific lobbed shot that the Sawbridgeworth goalkeeper could only parry into the roof of the net – David Beckham would have been proud of that one!
And just to make sure we go in at half-time with a 2 goal cushion, Kai is back in the heart of the defence to clear any danger. A great first half and a well deserved 2-0 lead.
2nd Half
It’s though we haven’t stopped for half time – yet again Kieran B is controlling midfield, passing to Joe and a shot from the right wing brings a smart save from the Sawbridgeworth goalkeeper, Elliott shoots from the rebound and a corner. It’s well taken by Elliott, but also well defended by Sawbridgeworth. If the first half saw Elliott taking on all the defenders on our left wing, then the 2nd half certainly saw Harry doing much the same on the right.
A couple of cracking runs by Harry cause panic in the Sawbridgeworth defence and leave spaces all over the rest of the field and a number of blocked shots and corners follow, taken in turn by Harry and Elliott, with Joe, Kai and Kieran B having chances blocked by the Sawbridgeworth defence. It’s one way traffic, but we only keep our 2-0 lead thanks to some smart defending by Kieron C-L and Charlie out quickly from his goal to stop a breakaway attack.
Some end to end stuff now as Sawbridgeworth have their best spell of the game, but Kai and Kieron C-L’s defending mean that Charlie can calmly control his area and keep Sawbridgeworth to long range efforts – one of which is well saved by Charlie.
We now have another spell of pressure starting with a good run on the left by Elliott, a dribble, and cross and off for a corner, the first of 4 on the trot. From the 4th corner the ball comes back out to Harry who has so much time as the Sawbridgeworth defence tires. Harry uses his time well with a cracking cross that picks out Elliott in the middle who scores a well deserved goal to make it 3-0.
It’s all Eagles now – Kieron C-L sets Harry away from a throw-in and a great right wing dribble and passes to Joe. Joe connects with a great shot, but just wide. One minute later and almost exactly the same move from the 3 boys, except this ends with a corner from Joe’s shot. Harry takes it from the right, Kai makes the ball his and strikes it really well, but just wide.
We’re nearly finished now, but time for a 4th goal – and one which makes the score line spot on from all our pressure. A Sawbridgeworth goal kick is well anticipated by Joe and he’s through on goal, no mistakes and that’s 4-0.
A really deserved result for the boys, an excellent team performance, a memorable 2nd goal, some commanding performances all over the field and some great wing play. Eagles 4 – Sawbridgeworth 0
Man of the Match: Harry
Team: Charlie, Kieron C-L(C), Kai (1), Elliott (1), Keiran B, Harry J, Joe (2).
Game 2
Well with everybody poised ready for the start of the game its Sawbridgeworth who take the kick off, they attempt a great run through the middle of the park but are quickly dispossessed by the Letchworth midfield. Both teams settle quickly and it is Sawbridgeworth who get the first opportunity to a attack the Letchworth goal after being awarded a free kick but this has been swiftly cleared by Harry L.
It’s Eagles who then pile on the pressure and win a corner which results in the shot going wide, goal kick to Sawbridgeworth. Thomas then receives a great pass from Ryan and does his best to outsmart the two big Sawbridgeworth centre backs (I don’t know what they feed them in these parts but we could do with some) but they put the ball out for a throw. We loose possession from the resulting throw but Lynson makes a great recovery to put the ball out for a corner, the corner is taken and sails over the bar for an Eagles goal kick. Joseph takes the kick and we loose possession as Sawbridgeworth bear down on our goal Ryan makes a great tackle, the balls springs loose and they manage to get a shot off but it is not on target.
Joseph takes the kick the ball goes up into midfield with some good passing and movement but the boys are finding it difficult to break the opposition down and get past the two colossuses at the back. The pressure is back on Eagles with Jack making a good clearance and then Lynson with another great tackle; we manage to get the ball out to Joe on the right and with some good skill wins a throw.
The throw reaches Thomas who shoots and the keeper makes a good save, the ball then is played into middle of the park with more interchanging of passes from both teams. The ball then goes off for a Sawbridgeworth corner Jack gains possession and lays it off to Thomas who makes his way up the field and gets into a good shooting position but Thomas’s quick thinking sees Joe and squares it to him who shoots and scores 1 – 0.
Sawbridgeworth attempt to get back on level terms and from taking the centre they attack quickly but the shot goes wide. It’s Letchworth now on the attack and really piling the pressure on which results in Sawbridgeworth scoring an own goal in an attempt to clear their lines, 2- 0. Sawbridgeworth again mount an attack in an effort to pull back the two goal deficit as the seconds to half time count down and they are finally rewarded for their efforts as they score, 2- 1. Half time.
From the start of the second half our opponents mean to carry on as they left off in the first half as they pile on the pressure in the Eagles half. Sawbridgeworth shoot and as the crowd look on the ball seems destined to go in the top right hand corner but Joseph is having none of it, he rises like a salmon with outstretched hand and parry’s the ball onto to the post, unfortunately we are slowest to react and Sawbridgeworth score from the rebound, 2 – 2. It is at this point in a game where it is either won or lost and is a big test of character for the players, Eagles decide this is not a day they want to loose and show great determination and with some clever passing and good defensive work they are starting to gain an edge.
Thomas continues his battle with the defence and it is starting to pay off, with the clock ticking it is decided that fresh legs are needed, after Joe covering every blade of grass on the pitch it is decided that he needs a rest and is replaced by Harry J and Joe exits the field to a standing ovation from the trusty supporters. With Lynson and Ryan at the back now totally focused on not letting anything past them this gives the two Harry’s and Jack a chance to provide Thomas with some well earned support. The Eagles pressure is finally paying off when they win another throw deep into their opponents half, the throw goes to Harry J who beats two players and then puts in a great cross which is soundly met by Harry L who timed his run well and slots the ball in at the far post GOAL! 3 – 2.
Full Time
Players: Joseph, Ryan (captain), Lynson, Jack, Harry L (1), Thomas, Joe (1), Harry J.
Man of the Match: Ryan
LGCE Orange and Blacks Vs Hitchin 1st March 2008
Game 1
After a couple of tough results against Bishops Stortford last Saturday, the Orange and Blacks are keen to return to winning ways with a local derby away to Hitchin Town at the Ickleford Recreation Centre.
The late kick off (12.15) ensures a good size crowd, despite the blustery conditions.
Letchworth win the toss and decide to kick-off. Straight from the off the boys are into their stride and a quick pass from Kieran B to Joe results in a long range effort that is well held by the keeper.
The very windy conditions mean that the team who can win the aerial battles, especially from goal keeping clearances, will have the advantage and Letchworth immediately show they’re on their metal with a strong header by Kieran B and a clearance from Kai.
The wind seems to be putting extra pace on the ball, which spends a lot of time out of play and strong throw-ins by the yellow and greens of Hitchin put the Letchworth defence under pressure. The boys are certainly up for the challenge as a bouncing ball in their penalty area is won strongly by Kieron C-L and cleared up field.
In the tough conditions, Letchworth realise this game will be won ‘on the floor’ and a lovely pass from Joe to Elliott opens up the Hitchin defence which requires a last gasp clearance to stop the boys taking the lead.
Clearly both coaches have been working on their defence as both teams are putting in well timed challenges and clearances. Paul’s choice of Kieron C-L and Kai at the back is working well as they look like they’ve always played there together and give very little to the Hitchin forwards.
Charlie is also reading the game well and a quick pass out to Kieron C-L, followed by a well weighted pass sends Harry J away down the right wing. This formation is working well with Elliott and Harry pulling wide on the wings, allowing Joe to find space in the middle and soon a lovely through header by Kieran B sends Joe away that requires a last ditch challenge by an equally well marshalled Hitchin defence.
Joe is looking strong in the middle, and a quick one-two with Harry J leads to a cross from Joe which is finished off by Elliott who had made a storming run into the box. 1-0 Eagles.
Another quick clearance by Charlie is well controlled by Joe who again puts Harry J away down the right, he turns inside and puts the ball through the Hitchin defender’s legs - “NUTS” - before a covering tackle puts it out. From the resulting corner, Harry J finds Kai in an advanced position and his powerful shot just goes wide.
It is not all Letchworth, with Hitchin having their share of possession and their no.15 looks comfortable on the ball and happy to run at the commanding Eagles defence. On the one occasion he does manage to create a shooting opportunity he is denied by a great one handed save by Charlie low-down to his right, just pushing the ball round the post.
All elements of the Eagles play are delighting the travelling support and a nice one-two between Kieran B and Joe again releases Harry J for another quick counter attack. Hitchin too are playing their part in a great game of football and no.15 again turns and catches the ball on the volley in the Letchworth box, but the confident Charlie is there with his body behind the ball to prevent the equaliser.
Another quick throw out to Kieron C-L results in a lovely through ball to Elliott which requires yet another well timed interception by Hitchin. Hitchin counter attack, but an excellent covering tackle by Kai – just one of many today – allow the Eagles to regain the ball and the initiative.
Harry J is getting plenty of opportunities in his wide right position, one such leads to a smart pass to Joe, whose shot is welled parried by the Hitchin keeper who then gets down to prevent Elliott’s follow up shot. The half ends with more interplay between Joe and Harry J with Joe’s shot again well saved by the Hitchin keeper.
2nd half
Hitchin start the second half, but yet again the Eagles are straight into it with Kieran B beating 2 players before laying the ball off to Harry J down the right. The pace of the game is unrelenting and the ball is moving from end to end with both teams using the ball well. However, each time the teams get into the final third the defences show their strength with great tackling and clearances. The Eagles are also picking up the Hitchin players well and strong marking prevents Hitchin from getting into their rhythm.
When the Eagles pick up the ball, there is good distribution from the defence to Kieran B who then has outlets in both Elliott and Harry J. Joe is showing strong running down the middle and is pulling the defence out of position. One such occasion sees a headed clearance by Kieran to Elliott, who finds Joe in space. He turns and releases Harry J who goes outside the defender and crosses which is deflected for a corner.
From the resulting corner by Harry J the ball bounces in the box and strength from Joe enables him to have a shot which is blocked. Hitchin try to counter attack, but yet again Kai is there to shepherd the ball out for a throw-in.
Charlie is using the wind and on one long clearance he finds Elliott who turns the defender inside out before trying to lay the ball through to Joe. Not content Elliott keeps challenging and the ball breaks to Harry J who plays a lovely through ball that the keeper just beats Joe to.
Hitchin must have been working at their throw-ins, which are getting distance but Kieran B is confident and strong with his headed clearances.
Hitchin has a strong spell winning two or three corners, but the Eagles defence holds strong with a couple of excellent last-ditch challenges from Kieron C-L. The Hitchin no.15 is again their key player and from one corner he swivels and catches the ball on the volley which just sails wide of Charlie’s left hand post. The Eagles are confident to play the ball out of defence and a quick goal kick by Charlie to Kai is passed forward to Joe who shows lovely skill to lay the ball off to Harry J, before collecting the return pass and is just tackled before hitting the shot.
With the game into its final moments a long clearance by Charlie is headed back strongly by the Hitchin defence straight to their no.15 again, who goes on a mazy run. Yet again however, Kai reads the attack and times his challenge to perfection sending the ball out for another Hitchin corner. The ball is cleared and before the Eagles can counter attack again the referee blows for full-time. 1-0 Eagles
An excellent performance by the Eagles against a strong Hitchin team. The match reporter managed to sneak a quick word from the coach who said he was absolutely “chuffed” with the way they played – Well done!!
Result: 1-0 to LGCE
Team: Charlie, Elliott (1), Harry J, Kai, Kieran B, Kieron C-L (C), Joe,
Man of the Match: Charlie
Game 2
After all the excitement of the first game the second match was eagerly anticipated by the crowd!
It started with a Hitchin kick-off and was quickly intercepted by Tom who passed down to Harry L who took an early shot, deflected by Hitchin but won the Eagles their first corner. Corner well taken by Robert but the ball was played out by Hitchin.
Tom took the throw in for Letchworth, to Kai, good passing between the boys. Hitchin gets possession but there’s some excellent tackling from Jack in the middle. Hitchin move forward dangerously into the Letchworth area but a great clearance from Tom puts paid to their efforts!
Letchworth gain possession and some skilful passing between Tom, Robert and Kai who takes the shot and just misses, unlucky Kai! Goal kick leads to a good forward run by Hitchin but some great tackling from Lynson sees the danger off again, forward to Jack who shoots! But the keeper makes a good save!
Play moves to the other end of the pitch and a great shot from Hitchin only finds the side netting! Hitchin keep pushing forward they take another shot but Joseph is spot on and makes the save! The half time whistle blows 0-0.
The second half and Letchworth kick-off, possession is even between the 2 teams, Kai suffers from a hard tackle but gets up and carries on, he takes the free kick which is intercepted by Hitchin but there’s more great tackling from Lynson and Robert that gets the ball back to the Eagles! Some excellent passing between the boys, but Hitchin manage to intercept and slot ball into the back of the net! Unlucky Eagles. 1-0.
Letchworth take the kick-off, ball gets to Hitchin who take a shot, and Joseph makes the save! But gets hurt in the process, he manages to shrug it off and play continues, he takes the goal kick Jack gets possession and passes to Kai who makes a fantastic run down the field going past 3 Hitchin players in the process he shoots, but is just wide, a fantastic effort though! Letchworth win a corner, Kai plays it short to Tom, back to Kai to Jack who takes his chance and SCORES! Well done Letchworth 1-1.
Full time whistle and another great result for the Eagles against good opposition!
TEAM: Harry L, Tom, Jack, Lynson, Robert, Joseph, Kai (captain)
Man of the Match Tom.
LGCE Orange and Blacks Vs Bishops Stortford 23rd February 2008
Game 1
A return match from Bishops Stortford and our lads hope that they can repeat the 2 – 1 result when we last met and following on from some great football last week.
Our lads start quickly – immediately attacking the Bishops Stortford goal after a long throw in by Kai into the area – but it is safely collected by the Bishops Stortford goal-keeper. Bishops Stortford retaliates, getting the ball down to our half; meeting Elliott playing deep who puts the ball out of play. There is some good tackling by Kai and Harry who between them battle back up the field. The Bishops Stortford players get stuck in and thwart the attack – the ball goes out for a goal kick. It is clear that this is going to be a close game!
Bishops Stortford attack again and this time make it around Kieron C-L who has been making some excellent tackles in defence. Charlie collects the ball and quickly kicks it into mid-field where it goes into touch. The throw in is met by a superb header from Kieran Bush; he follows up and Bishops Stortford win a free kick. They push forward and take a shot which edges past the right hand post forcing Charlie to make a spectacular dive – just to make sure! The crowd draws breath – but Charlie climbs up from the ground, dusts himself down and gets back to the job!
The pressure is on and our guys aren’t really settling into the match. Support from the side lines hopefully gees them up – and we hope the referee is able to give them some subliminal messages (under his breath!) It seems to work as Kieron C-L makes some great tackles, solidly meeting the Bishops Stortford attacks. He is forced into conceding a corner – which sails across our area but no-one from Bishops Stortford is there to make it count! – Phew!
We make a counter attack. An excellent long throw in from Kai to Joe gives him a shot on goal – but it is too weak and the goalie pushes it out! We’ve won a corner; Kai kicks it into the box but Bishops Stortford kick down field forcing our team to race back to support the defence. Bishops Stortford shoot – and Charlie makes the save.
Bishops Stortford are on the attack immediately; their continual pressure pays off and they put in some good passing and make the shot to score a good goal into the left hand side of the net. 1-0.
We take the centre and push towards the goal again tackling strongly with Harry moving the ball up the field, passing to Joe who is tackled by Bishops Stortford. Kai makes a strong challenge and gets the ball out to Harry, again passing up to Joe. Bishops Stortford steals the ball and like lightening head towards the goal. A fantastic strike puts the ball into the top right hand side of the net – despite the best endeavours of Charlie who makes another dive. A well executed move by Bishops Stortford- giving them a 2-0 lead!
The boys are into the last few minutes of the first half and now seem to be putting the moves together. Kieran B makes an excellent challenge; gets the ball put to Kieron C-L who boots the ball towards the Bishops Stortford end. Joe intercepts the ball and passes it out to Harry who battles through the area, trying to go around any of the opposition who he meets! He passes to Joe who makes a shot which comes out; Kai has a go, then Harry and after some scrambling in the area Harry manages to toe-punt the ball in for a goal! (2-1)
Kieran B is substituted by Jack who immediately makes his presence felt by cutting out another Bishops Stortford attack. The half time whistle is blown and the boys rest up with some advice from their manager.
The boys receive praise for the character they have shown in the match. They have stuck to their game plan and put in some great passing – following on from their training. Now they have settled down they need to keep focussing on what they have learnt – they are reminded to talk to each other and to get their bodies behind the ball. They need to concentrate on their corner taking and get players into the area.
The second half starts with good positive play and some great ball control. Kieron C-L is having a good game – really making his mark in defence. Bishops Stortford are keen to extend their lead and have a couple of fast players who take the ball and make a shot on goal. Charlie saves and quickly takes the kick; Bishops Stortford wins the ball in mid-field. Kieron C-L reads the situation perfectly and intercepts the ball and clears it – well done!
Bishops Stortford fight on and Jack again makes a good challenge, putting the ball out to touch. Bishops Stortford makes another attack from the throw in and Charlie picks the ball up. Jack, unmarked, calls for the ball and Charlie kicks it to him. They make progress up the field.
Jack gets injured and is substituted by Kieran B. Kieran makes another great header from a Bishops Stortford throw in. Joe and Elliott are working well together and defend the area well – Kieran B clears the ball and concedes the throw in. Kai also makes a good header off of the throw in – over to Kieran B who makes a great pass out to Harry. Harry can’t get the shot and goes down in a tackle. He goes off to nurse his wounds and Jack comes back on.
The play continues in the same competitive manner for the rest of the game. Harry rejoins the game and Kieran B comes off. Bishops Stortford forces another diving save from Charlie. He clears the ball, and Harry – fully recovered goes around the Bishops Stortford defence, passes the ball to Elliott who shoots. The ball goes wide and the whistle goes for full time.
The boys have managed to hold the position against a very strong Bishops Stortford team – well done!
Result: 2-1 to Bishops Stortford
Team: Kieran B, Harry J (1), Joe, Elliott, Kai, Kieron C-L (C), Charlie: Sub: Jack
Game 2
Letchworth Eagles Blacks v Bishop Stortford
The boys are raring to go for the second game. Bishop Stortford kick off but Harry L has an early run up to Elliott who takes a shot, rebounds for Jack to take a shot just goes wide unlucky! Bishop Stortford pushes forward with an attack on goal, well stopped by Joseph.
Bishop Stortford corner goes wide but they continue to attack our goal with a great run, they shoot its 1 – 0. Some great interplay between Harry L and Thomas (making his debut for the team) sees Eagles taking possession, Jack’s playing really well today with some accurate passing to Elliott, he takes a shot but unlucky its saved by their goalie. Eagles have numerous attempts at goal but Bishops Stortford’s defence just proves too much for us.
Bishop Stortford move towards our goal, some great defending from Thomas and Lynson, but unfortunately Lynson’s passing back to Joseph goes into goal, unlucky its 2 – 0 to Bishop Stortford. The boys continue to battle on with Kieran B being taken down by a Bishop Stortford player, he is down for a minute and then up again to play on. Bishop Stortford seize their opportunity and run for goal, its now 3 – 0. Joseph is really working hard today with numerous great saves. Whistle goes its half time!
Harry J comes on for Elliott. Eagles kick off but Bishop Stortford take possession and move quickly into Eagles half, with play remaining in our half and some great saves by Joseph, they keep battling forward and eventually a shot goes in its now 4 – 0.
Bishop Stortford dominates play, but the boys continue to work hard and never give up with some great passing and committed tackling the score at the final whistle remains 4 – 0.
Well done boys!
Team: Jack, Elliott, Harry J, Kieran B (captain), Harry L, Lynson, Thomas, Joseph
Player of the day: Kieron C-L
LGCE Orange and Blacks Vs Pin Green 16th February 2008
Game 1
After a great training session on Friday night (albeit with a slightly bleary eyed coach who had just travelled back from a business trip) the boys are ready for their away game against Pin Green in Stevenage. A number of players are on half-term holiday and last weeks’ man of the day, Kai, is absent from the team; there is consternation as to who will present the man of the day award!
The game starts at a pace with the boys passing well between each other straight away giving Elliott a shot on goal in the first seconds of the match! There is much action in the first half with the boys covering the pitch well and Pin Green proving dangerous in counter attack. Joe has to work hard today in Kai’s absence and he makes good progress towards Pin Greens goal. Good tackles from Elliott and Harry and some great passing give Eagles a corner. Harry takes it and it goes across the Pin Green area – but no one is there to put the ball in!!!!
Ryan and Kieron C-L are playing well and putting in some good tackles and blocks. Ryan clears the ball up into midfield and the Eagles move forward; a loose ball kicks out to Pin Green and they take the opportunity for a shot. Charlie moves out and smoothly collects the ball. He kicks the ball down field and it is picked up by Kieran B who, as ever, is robust in his tackles. Kieran B picks the ball up and makes good progress towards the Pin Green goal. The ball comes to Harry, who passes it to Elliott, who passes to Joe, back to Elliott whose shot just goes wide.
Joe is making good running in mid-field and putting in some good tackles. The ball goes out and Ryan throws in, to Joe who passes to Harry, back to Joe and over to Elliott. The ball goes out but the team are really passing the ball well between themselves! The movement up into the Pin Green half gives the Eagles a number of shots at goal and frustration build as we just can’t get the finish!
The boys can’t let up as Pin Green are playing well and make a number of attacks – to be met by Kieron C-L and Ryan in defence; and ultimately for Charlie to gather up a couple of weak shots at goal. A quickly taken goal kick by Charlie reaches Joe who passes up to Harry who gets a chance for a left footed shot – and hits the back of the net 1-0. Great!
After half time the boys focus on the advice given by their coach – trying to get back to support the defence when Pin Green attack; to keep talking to each other and to keep up the marking at free kicks and throw ins! They were roundly praised for the fluid passing of the ball. Keep doing the same things and more goals should come!
Eagles are playing up field – Kieran B takes the ball into the Pin Green half with some great dribbling; he looks up and passes to Joe, who collects the ball, pushes it out to Harry who takes the ball up towards the goal. Joe runs to receive the through pass and then passes back to Harry who takes a right footed shot this time and scores! A great movement initiated by Kieran B- well done! 2-0.
The boys keep plugging away with a great section with Ryan tackling; picking up the ball and passing out to Harry, who goes around two Pin Green players and passes to Joe. A throw in is won – the ball from Harry to Elliott going for a shot – just wide!
Ryan comes off for a rest and is substituted by Jack who makes his mark with a couple of solid tackles and passes. Kieran B picks up the ball and battles through the Pin Green midfield, a pass back to Jack and up to Harry gives him another shot which is well saved by the Pin Green goalie who pushes it out for a corner. Harry takes the corner which goes across the face of the goal for a great shot by Jack. The ball comes out of the area and is intercepted by Kieron C-L who again passes up to Harry and onto Elliott. The ball comes to Joe about 20 yards out of the area and he hits a cracking shot straight past the goalie and in for a 3-0 lead!
Pin Green push into our area and make a good shot at goal forcing a great save by Charlie who has made some brave saves given his run of bad luck in recent games with the broken arm and almost a broken nose last week! Kieron C-L and Kieran B are playing well – Kieron C-L clears the ball up to Harry, then Elliott and up to Joe in the area – Joe makes a shot and a Pin Green player hand balls it for a penalty! Elliott hits the post and the ball travels back down to our half. An enthusiastic challenge by Charlie concedes a penalty at our end. Charlie squares up for the shot and makes a great save!
The minutes pass and the referee blows the final whistle! A great Team performance from our boys and individually for Joe who has really worked hard and created some great shots! Well done boys! 3-0 Final score.
Team: Kieran B, Harry J (2), Joe (1), Elliott, Ryan, Kieron C-L, Charlie: Sub: Jack
Game 2
The sun is still shining although everybody is starting to feel the cold for the start of our second game. Pin Green kick off, but Eagles quickly take possession pushing forward into Pin Green’s half, some great passing between the boys with a great shot at goal. Pin Green moves into our half and takes a shot, great save by Charlie. Charlie sends the ball back into Pin Green half with Harry J on the receiving end, Harry passes to Joe and onto Jack who passes back to Joe, takes a shot and it goes in 1 – 0.
Eagles continue with possession and play is mainly in Pin Green half, with some great interplay between the boys. Kieran B takes a shot at goal but goes wide. Ryan’s header stops pin Green’s goal kick; moving the play back into Pin Greens Half. Some great defence by Ryan and Kieron C-L. Whistle blows its half time with Eagles leading 1 – 0.
Elliott comes on for Harry J. Eagles kick off but Pin Green takes possession with a good run at goal, stopped by Charlie. Eagles move into Pin Greens half and Elliott takes a shot, it rebounds from their goalie to Joe who takes a shot this time it goes in, its now 2 – 0!
Kieran B takes possession swiftly passing onto Jack who passes to Joe. Joe takes a shot but misses, Elliott is in the right place and just taps the ball pass the goalie with his left foot. 3 – 0.
Kieran B sends a big kick up to Elliott, he crosses to Jack in the middle and he shoots its now 4 – 0. Eagles remain mostly in possession with some really great accurate passing and committed tackling, the whistle goes and its 4 – 0 to us.
Some excellent play boys. Well done.
Team: Jack(1), Joe(C) (2), Ryan, Harry J, Kieron C-L, Kieran B, Charlie, Elliott(1),
Player of the day: Joe
Letchworth Eagles Orange & Blacks v LGCE Whites & Yellows 9th February 2008
Game 1
The long awaited match against the Whites is upon us and the tension amongst the parents is palpable! It is a clear warm morning and Letchworth win the kick off. This is only our second match of the New Year and the lads are focused on building their team, settling into the familiar positions and building their stamina.
The game is played at a fast pace with both teams starting well and play fluidly moving between both halves. An early free kick gives Kieran B a shot at goal – which is saved by the Whites goalie.
Great play between Joe, Elliott and Harry all passing the ball well and making good progress up the field. The Whites intercept a loose ball and one of their players quickly takes the ball down the right hand wing, Charlie, just back from injury, skilfully moves out to protect his goal and gets between the attacker and the goal – The Whites’ player makes the shot and Charlie takes its full force in the face. There is more blood than in an Alfred Hitchcock movie and Charlie comes off to receive attention. The Whites sportingly lend us a goalie, Dylan, and play resumes. Great save Charlie!
The boys settle down once again and appear to have greater possession; they are keeping the pressure up in the Whites’ half. Elliott has a number of shots on goal and Harry J is putting in some great “linking play”. For a moment we wonder whether Kai has been cloned as he appears to cover the pitch at such a pace there seems to be two of him! Kai is making excellent play and is really a commanding presence – making some really telling tackles and getting stuck in to all the action.
Kieron C-L is great in defending our midfield and goal area – making some great blocks and strong tackles. Once such attack – blocked by Kieron C-L pushes a Whites’ shot out and it hits the post! – Phew! Into the last minutes – with the play really focussed in the Whites’ half. They launch a quick counter attack and win a free kick. They exploit their chance to the full with a great goal in from the Free Kick – shooting past Dylan. Great goal by the Whites!
Into the second half and the Oranges keep back on with the pressure. Again we seem to have greater possession and are making great passing moves but the final shots don’t seem to be coming! Joe is substituted and Jack comes on. He gets straight into the match and feeds the ball up to Kieran B into the area – Kieran makes the shot but it is safely collected by the goalie.
The boys are playing some great football – building the play and responding to the support being received from their Coach and the supporters on the side lines (well behind the cones!). Kai’s work rate is fantastic and he is receiving great support from his team mates.
The game comes to an end – it was unlucky we just couldn’t get the finish to justify the excellent game. I guess that’s football!
Final result – 1-0 to the Whites
Team: Harry J (C), Joe, Elliott, Kieran B, Kai, Kieron C-L, Charlie (G) – Subs: Dylan (Whites) Jack
Game 2
Blacks kick off with some good interplay between the boys. Some good passing between the blacks sees play remain in yellows half, with numerous attempts at goal but the goalie keeps the ball out. Kai passes to Joe who shoots, at last it goes in 1 – 0.
Play remains mainly in the yellow half for the next few minutes but then the yellows push forward and attempt a shot – great save by Josh. Excellent defending from Ryan and another couple of great saves from Josh sees the end of the first half 1 – 0 to us.
Second half, Harry J comes on for Joe and Kieran B for Kai. Yellows kick off and blacks quickly take possession moving into the yellows half. Yellows step up the pace and push forward with numerous shots at goal, they eventually get one in, its now 1 – 1. Yellows continue to dominate the game with play staying in blacks half, but Josh saves one shot after the other keeping the score even. Elliott and Kieron C-L take over from Kieran B and Jack, our defence loses concentration and yellows sneak through making it 2 – 1 to them.
Play quickly moves between each half with some excellent play on both sides. With the boys committed tackling and great passing the score remains the same as the final whistle goes. 2 – 1 to Yellows.
Well played boys; for your second game since Christmas you all played really well.
Players: Ryan, Jack, Harry L, Joshua M, Kai, Harry J, Elliott, Joe, Lynson, Harry J, Kieran B, Kieron C-L, Elliott
Player of the day: Kai
LGCE Orange and Blacks Vs Stevenage Boro 26th January 2007
Game 1
The boys are ready for their first match of the New Year following a few weeks “rained off”. A few of our regulars are missing with Charlie still recovering from his injury sustained in the game against Hormead Hares.
The boys start well with an early shot from Joe just going wide. Elliott follows up with a shot, just missing and a pick up from Harry J gives him a chance at a shot with his left foot, just inching in! Great start!
The boys play well passing the ball and calling between each other. There is another chance for Joe but he just misses. A corner to Letchworth but is picked up by Stevenage who are quick to attack our goal. Stevenage make the shot but miss. A corner to Stevenage is well defended with Kieron C-L and Ryan playing well. There is some good passing between Harry J, Kieran B and Elliott giving Elliott a shot on goal – saved by the Stevenage goalie!
Stevenage attack again and seem to be getting into the game, they throw themselves forward and seem to outnumber our guys in our penalty area. A shot goes in to allow Stevenage to level the match.
Kieran B is substituted and Jack comes on. Stevenage continues with the pressure and Harry L, playing in goal for the first time makes a great save. The ball comes back to our boys and they take the ball downfield; Joe gets a shot in and Elliott picks up the rebounding ball and makes it 2-1. The boys are doing a lot of running to keep pace with Stevenage. Kieron C-L is putting in some good tackles and blocks to defend the Eagles’goal. A goal kick is intercepted by Stevenage who makes a good shot, drawing level, 2-2.
We take our centre kick – but the boys’ loose concentration and Stevenage manage to get another goal despite a good bit of goal keeping from Harry L. Another centre kick and this time we attack and Harry J has a chance to shoot – but the shot is straight into the goalies arms! Unlucky!
Half time comes and we trail 3-2.
The second half starts and Stevenage attack straight away. They are fortunate and score, really putting the pressure on our lads. Joe and Elliott pass well and give Kieran B a chance at a shot on goal. It is picked up by the Stevenage goalie who kicks it quickly down the field – our lads all scramble back and there is some frantic defending in our goal mouth until Harry L deftly kicks the ball towards the Stevenage half. Stevenage come back at us but Harry L pulls another great save out of the bag! Well done Harry!
More attacks go in from Stevenage – Ryan, at the back, makes some great clearances to help keep us out of trouble. The boys have gone quiet and need to start talking to each other – although things got off to a good start the Stevenage pressure looks to have taken its toll – made worst when Stevenage score in the final moments and make the full time score 6-2.
Team: Harry J(1), Elliott(1), Harry L(Goalie), Joe, Kieran B, Kieron C-L, Ryan, Jack
After some advice and wise counsel from the manager the boys return to the field for the second match. Elliott has taken up the challenge as goalie and Lynson makes his Eagles debut…
The boys make a great start with Jack making a shot, hitting the post. Stevenage respond again with a speedy attack and win a corner which is blocked by Harry L. Elliott is forced to make a diving save – pushing the ball away to be cleared by Ryan. The ball is collected by Stevenage who make another shot which creeps just under Elliott’s defences.
The boys aren’t daunted and there is some good play with Lynson really making an impact in defence, deftly clearing the ball on numerous occasions and really settling in quickly to the Team.
Harry J comes onto the pitch and has several opportunities for shots at goal – all missing the mark or being saved. It is frustrating for the on lookers as the Eagles are playing well and several “close misses” make for stressful viewing!
The play is quick, Harry L making good progress up the field and putting pressure on the Stevenage defence. The boys are playing well as a team with good passing between Joe and Harry L. Stevenage are dangerous on the attack – and often have four or five players in our area. Kieron C-L is solid as ever in his support at the back working well with Lynson. The team support each other well and Elliott has a baptism of fire throwing himself around and making some great saves, then trying to clear the ball quickly up to Harry L and Harry J trying to exploit the absence of Stevenage players in their half!
One such clearance is picked up by Harry L, passing to Harry J who crosses back to Harry L who taps it into the bottom left hand corner!
Stevenage quickly respond and after some strong midfield play get another shot at our goal – it’s in - 2-1!
Play continues to be end-to-end with anxious moments in our goal with Jack helping save a goal after running back to support Elliott. Quick as a flash the ball is back into the Stevenage half with Harry J hitting the side netting. A good ball in from Joe also threatens the goal – but is saved by Stevenage. Kieran B has a go – again into the side netting!
The boys are passing the ball around well and there are some strong tackles from both Kieron C-L and Kieran B. A free kick won by Stevenage just outside our area flies into the bottom left hand side of our goal. 3 – 1 Stevenage!
The final moments of the game continue to be hotly contested – Lynson puts in some great work and Joe is also working hard in midfield. Harry L has had a great game – the Team have really worked well and are unfortunate that the score did not really reflect the effort!
Well done lads!
Team: Harry J, Elliott (goalie), Harry L(1), Joe, Kieran B, Kieron C-L, Ryan, Jack, Lynson
Player of the day: Harry L
LGCE Orange and Blacks Vs Shefford Saints 15th December 2007
Game 1
The boys arrive for their match against Shefford at Robert Bloomfield School – the conditions vastly better than last week!
Shefford win the kick off and play commences – after last week’s tough opposition our boys start off at a steady pace trying to get the measure of their opposition. There is some excellent passing in midfield with Kieran B making his usual strong tackles and generally pressurizing the opposition. Balls are frequently taken up field and picked up by Elliott, who starts the game in attack. Elliott and Harry, today playing the wing, team up in excellent fashion and, with Kai’s strong play in midfield, are able to make several shots at goal. The first goal is crafted by a pass from Elliott to Harry – who makes no mistake. There are further frequent attacks with the boys using the experience gained over the past few weeks to really bring out some good connecting passes and make some fine tackles.
Ryan and Kieron C-L are working well together dealing competently with the attacks made by Shefford. On numerous occasions Ryan and Kieron C-L are able to slow an attack by Shefford with some good interceptions and then strong kicks back to our midfield and attack. Joseph, playing in goal, is only tested a few times during the match – on each occasion gathering up a shot or loose ball in the goal area and quickly dispatching it towards Sheffords’ half. Harry is able to return the compliment paid to him by Elliott earlier by passing into the box – Elliott connects with a strong left – and into the goal – Brilliant!
The team are playing really well – a throw in won from a challenge by Kieran B is quickly taken by Kai who throws to Harry J and in a fluid move he connects with the ball and into the back of the net. Fantastic! Kieran B is substituted by Joe who immediately gets involved in the game by making some good tackles and passing well. He supports Kai who makes a number of strong runs deep into the Shefford half, getting the ball into attacking positions.
The game ends with Eagles winning 5 – 0; Shefford were put under constant pressure throughout the match and were not allowed to really build on any attack. Excellent teamwork and some great ball skills have made this match a pleasure to watch – Well done boys; and HAPPY CHRISTMAS!
Team: Harry J (Captain) (4), Elliott (1), Kai, Kieran B, Kieron C-L, Ryan, Joseph, Joe (Sub)
Attendance: 27
Letchworth Eagles Orange and Blacks v Hormead Hares 8th December 2007
Game 1
A damp morning welcomes Hormead Hares for their match against Eagles. After a warm up the boys take their positions – Letchworth to take the kick off. Hormead Hares start very well and we can see that they are a strong team. Our lads take a while to settle in to the game – with Hormead Hares taking full advantage of some loose play moving with lightening speed to intercept the ball and push on towards our goal.
Our lads do well to keep Hormead out of our goal on a number of occasions with Charlie making some good saves in the initial stages of the match. The rain starts to set in and it is pretty miserable but the boys are holding to their game and start putting more balls up into the goal area with some shots on their goal by Harry J, Joe and Kai. The shots aren’t enough to make an impact and Hormead react quickly turning the defence into an attack; a long ball up into our half is picked out by Hormeads striker who shoots for goal with an excellent shot – in!!! We are 1 – 0 down and struggling with some of the strong tackles going in from Hormead.
Eagles show their resilience and dig deep to keep hold of the ball. There is great defending and midfield play by Kieron C-L and Kieran B, feeding Joe some good balls allowing him to push up field. Elliott is working hard and matching the strong tackling shown by Hormead. Harry J is struggling to get into the game as the ball hasn’t really got up to him with much of the play concentrated in our half and the midfield area.
Another attack by Hormead gives them a shot on goal. Unfortunately Kai makes contact with the ball with a hand and it’s a penalty. Charlie stands firm and makes a brilliant save – but the Hormead striker goes for the ball and takes Charlie down. Charlie has to come off nursing a sore arm – but has to be congratulated on his save – well done Charlie!
Kieran B stoically takes the position of goalie and is quickly put under pressure with Hormead making some good runs at goal. Despite the pressure the boys are working well together and not giving Hormead the opportunities they were getting early in the game. We put on some good attacks on their goal. Half time comes and we are down 1- 0
Second Half
The weather is getting worse and the lack of coffee and tea means that the supporters welcome the opportunity to give encouragement from the side lines – which at least keeps them warm and hopefully motivates our boys!
Hormead are put under pressure early on with some good play around goal by Harry J, Kai and Elliott. The strength of some of the tackles flying in and a fair amount of pushing means our lads need to up their game and try and adapt to this challenging team. A couple of lads take tumbles with Elliott landing on his head after blocking an attack. With a moment’s pause and a few words of sympathy and encouragement from his Mum (“Oh-get up Elliott!!”) he stands and gets involved again. Harry J takes a blow to the shoulder and after a quick once over gets back on with the match. Joe is the next to suffer when he gets trodden on and is carried off the pitch.
Eagles battle on - more activity in Hormeads area – and they give away a penalty – almost in identical fashion to ours! Elliott steps up to the ball – strikes – and it’s in!!!!! 1 – 1 – Well done Elliott.
The teams both play well and do their best to ignore the driving rain. Harry J takes a knock and is substituted. The team are really digging deep – with three men off the pitch (Charlie, Joe and Harry) team work is critical. Jack, Ryan and Harry L playing as substitutes are working hard for their team. Ryan has made some good defensive recoveries with some great strong kicks into the oppositions half. Jack also is playing well and making some good tackles with Harry L giving good support in midfield and initiating some of the attacks.
Our lads have held on well – but the strength of play by Hormead finally pays off and they have a shot at goal which hits the back of the net. 2- 1 to them.
The final moments of the game continue to be strongly contested. Elliott has really worked hard this game making him the back bone of the team on this occasion. However each and every one of the lads have made their contribution and the final score 2-1 is a great result. If the lads had not fought so hard to close down the attacks of Hormead it could have been much more – so well done!
TEAM: Kai (Captain) Charlie, Kieron C-L, Kieran B, Joe, Elliott 1(P), Harry J – Subs: Jack, Ryan, Harry L
Game 2
The rain is still pouring down and the boys are tired, wet and cold for the start of our second game, but they are keen to get back on the pitch. We loose the throw and Hormead kick off. The boys are really fired up for this game and are using the same tactics as Hormead – they are determined that they will not be beaten for a second time.
The play is fast and furious with the Eagles in possession for much of the game, the passing between the boys is outstanding and the committed tackling along with our rock solid defence sees the Eagles remain in possession for most of the game.
An absolutely brilliant game for the boys, they really showed us what they are capable of in extremely difficult conditions, they played some of the best football so far this season.
A much deserved win 3 2 – outstanding play boys well done!
Team: Jack, Elliott (2), Joe, Ryan, Kai, Harry J, Kieron C-L, Kieran B, Harry L(1),
Player of the day: Elliott
Letchworth Eagles Orange and Blacks v Sawbridgeworth 24th November 2007
Game 1
A bitterly cold day greets the players as they prepare for their match against Sawbridgeworth. A special occasion as a new Eagles supporter joins the crowd - wearing a fine diamante collar and a fetching coat – welcome Marge!
The whistle goes and the boys get going with the ball being passed smoothly between the players and giving them all the opportunity to warm up a bit! An early corner is played by Kai to Elliott who gives it a strong kick which just goes wide of the goal. Sawbridgeworth fight back and quickly take the ball into our half showing lots of confidence and some good ball skills.
We win a throw in which is taken by Kai to Kieran B who heads it down towards Harry J and his left footed shot goes sailing into the goal. The crowd jump up and down in excitement – or are they just trying to get warm? Anyway, 1 – 0 great goal Harry!
The next attack by Eagles sees Harry passing through to Joe who takes a shot which is on target but saved by the sharp reflexes of the Sawbridgeworth goalie! The ball is picked up by Kai who also takes a shot and this again is gathered up into the protective arms of the goalie.
Sawbridgeworth go on the attack once again – one of their larger players takes the ball towards our end and then meets up with a Kieron C-L tackle and comes off worst! Kieron deftly boots the ball back towards their goal – and there is some good mid-field play by both teams with Kai performing well in closing down a number of strong attacks.
Sawbridgeworth persevere and this time break through our defences, they shoot and Joseph confidently stops the ball and kicks it out to Elliott. A good combination from Elliott to Joe and onto Kai really shows how well the Team are playing.
Sawbridgeworth, undaunted gather another attack and force another save by Joseph – put out for a corner. The corner is intercepted by Kieran B who clears well. Joseph has had deal with some difficult moments and copes admirably!
A goal kick up to Harry gives him a good run at goal. Sawbridgeworth pick up the ball again and attack. Kieron C-L makes another great tackle and passes up-field to Elliott who passes to Kieran B who passes to Harry onto Joe – some really great movement between the players! Harry gets the ball and passes to Kieran B – who makes a shot which unfortunately goes wide!
The referee blows for half time! And orders his cup of hot tea.
Second half – and the boys are feeling the cold. Sawbridgeworth start strongly with an early shot which goes across our goal – luckily there are no Sawbridgeworth players to connect and the ball goes wide. Elliott takes the goal kick passing up to Joe. Letchworth put Sawbridgeworth under pressure – the ball goes out for a Letchworth throw in. The throw is taken by Kai over to Harry who kicks it into touch. Sawbridgeworth are calling well between their players and seem to have increasing confidence. A strong attack is again stopped by Kieron C-L. The throw comes to Elliott who plays a long ball behind the defence and Harry picks it up and, with his first touch, it is edged past the keeper! (2-0)!
Sawbridgeworth are quickly back and win a corner but Joe nudges the ball out. Harry takes the ball up towards their goal but is intercepted and the ball goes into our half and another corner is won. This time Kai is able to clear the danger and boots the ball down-field.
Our lads are playing really well. We win a corner which allows Joe to make a good pass into Kai – who strikes and hits the side netting!
Play resumes and Sawbridgeworth are on the attack again. Kieran B puts in some strong tackles. A goal kick is taken by Joseph and Elliott picks it up and passes up to Kai, who links through to Harry who plays a shot in bouncing off a Sawbridgeworth player and wins a corner. Kai takes the corner over to Harry, back to Kai and he passes to Elliott who makes a fine shot which goes just wide.
Play returns to our half and our players make some good tackles with Kieron C-L again acting as the back stop in our defence. Another long kick by Elliott cuts through the S side and falls to Harry’s right foot – a shot and yes! It’s in for Harry’s hat trick! (3-0)
Sawbridgeworth kick off and Kai puts in a great tackle – the ball comes to Joe who passes to Harry and back to Kai. Elliott gets involved but the ball is won by Sawbridgeworth. They surge towards our goal but Kai again intercepts and makes a great pass to Elliott who has a shot – just wide!
The whistle blows and that’s it – 3 – 0 well done! The boys have shown a great team effort with some really good goal keeping from Joseph and excellent passing.
Team: Joe, Harry J (3), Kai, Kieran B, Kieron C-L, Elliott, Joseph (Captain)
Game 2
The temperature has dropped as the boys start their second game. Sawbridgeworth kick off, but the Eagles quickly take possession with a strong tackle from Kieran B passing onto Jack and then Ryan. Throw in by Elliott to Kieran B, but it goes out of play. Free Kick by Elliott to Harry L who takes a shot but it’s saved by their goalie. Eagles remain in possession after some excellent defending by Ryan. Another big kick by Elliott up to Harry who runs up and passes to Kieran B, some really great play by the boys today.
Sawbridgeworth step up the pace and move into Eagles half, a great save by Charlie, but Sawbridgeworth win a corner, they slip through our defence and move ahead its 1 –0. The boys are struggling now as the wind has picked up and it is really cold – the parents are turning blue!! Half time.
Eagles kick off and move forward, Kai takes a shot but misses, Jack gets the ball for another shot but it goes wide. Kai has another chance with a long hard kick at goal; the ball just doesn’t want to go in today. Corner to Eagles, Kai takes the first shot, quickly followed by Harry L and then Jack, this time Jack hits the target and its 1 –1.
Sawbridgeworth move forward again and Joseph makes one great save after another, this really is a closely fought game, with some great team play from the Eagles. Our defence of Ryan and Kieron C-L keeps the ball out of our half and Kai, Jack and Joe keep battling forward. Joe takes a nasty kick to the shin and is carried off luckily nothing is broken. Harry J takes his place.
Sawbridgeworth move into our half, they push forward and manage to slip a goal in 2 –1. Final score.
A very close game with the Eagles having numerous attempts at goal. Well played again boys.
Team: Jack(1), Charlie, Elliott Joe, Ryan, Kai, Joseph, Harry J, Kieron C-L, Kieran B, Harry L(Captain)
Player of the day: Ryan
Letchworth Eagles Orange and Blacks v Stevenage Town Youth 17th November 2007
Game 1
A crisp morning greets the players at their first trip to play against Stevenage Town in the picturesque setting overlooking Knebworth House. Eagles take the kick off and play starts well with some great passing between the players (see – the training does sink in!).
A strong kick from mid-field by Elliott to Kai and then onto Harry who then runs through the Stevenage defence and passes back to Elliott, further great passing gets the ball back to Harry and an early opportunity to shoot at the Stevenage goal. The goalie blocks the ball and a quick throw out to his players puts Eagles under pressure. Kieron C-L deftly deals with the pressure and wins the ball back – strong tackling by Stevenage gives them a shot at our goal which is covered by Charlie. Charlie takes the goal kick quickly with a long kick deep into the Stevenage half – the ball is received by Kieran B and Kai who passes to Elliott.
The play comes back into the Eagles half – a lapse in concentration allows the ball to go out of play; the throw in by Stevenage is intercepted by Kieron C-L who gives the ball a solid kick back up into the Stevenage half. Stevenage put the ball out and Eagles take the throw in – a long one from Elliott to Harry who puts the ball across to Joe – who narrowly misses it – and the ball goes wide. Unlucky Joe – a good effort!
The goal kick is weak from Stevenage and is picked up by our lads giving Elliott a shot on goal which is stopped by the Stevenage goalie who is working hard under the pressure. A throw in intercepted by Elliott is passed out to Harry and then onto Kai. The ball goes into the box to Kieran B who crosses into Joe who takes the shot – hitting the right hand post!!! Harry picks up the ball on the rebound and puts the ball back into their area setting up another shot by Kieran B which bounces off of a Stevenage defender!
Play returns to our half – a free bounce allows Stevenage to exert pressure with Kieran B and Kieron C-L defending well. The ball is picked up by Harry in mid-field who turns it out to Elliott who pushes further on towards the Stevenage goal and makes a good cross which is run down by the Stevenage defence. Good play by Elliott gives him another shot at goal – Harry follows up and hits the crossbar!!! The ball bounces out back into Stevenage’s possession who respond with a shot at our goal – collected by Charlie. Nerve wracking stuff!
A good pass out to Kieron C-L is intercepted by Stevenage but Kieron, undaunted, bravely battles on and helps put the ball out of play. The Stevenage throw in pushes back into our half and forces us to concede a corner. The corner is picked up by Kieran B and Joe and again forces the ball out of play. Kai takes the throw in quickly to Kieron C-L who kicks the ball solidly up to Harry but Stevenage put in a good tackle and the ball goes out of play.
Joe takes the throw in, over to Harry who puts the ball into the area where Kai waits and takes a long shot in onto goal which is blocked by their goalie and goes out for a corner. This is really end-to-end stuff!
The corner is taken by Kai and Stevenage defend well to, once again, push down back into our half – (Phew!) Luck doesn’t seem to be with us – but the boys keep on persevering.
Kai takes a long throw in towards Joe who picks the ball up and passes back to Kai, who returns it to Joe. Stevenage once again wins the ball and return up to our half. We win a throw in Kai to Kieran B who puts the ball back towards Stevenages goal. Harry picks up the ball and passes to Elliott who takes a lovely left footed shot which forces a great save by the Stevenage goalie. There is much activity in the mouth of the Stevenage goal but this comes to nothing – with the ball going out of play. A quick return run by Stevenage presents a dangerous moment and our players rush back to defend. Charlie picks up the ball and gives a massive kick up to Elliott who passes quickly to Harry who takes a shot on goal – it’s in!!!! 1 – 0 at last! Well done Harry! The boys have all worked excellently together and really kept on going to score – brilliant!
Stevenage kicks off and their players are working hard to get themselves back into the match. Stevenage show some great skills passing the ball fluidly between each other. Kieran B intercepts the ball and passes, finding Elliott who is playing magnificently in midfield making lots of strong tackles and putting Stevenage under pressure. A free kick won by Elliott is picked up by Harry who turns the ball quickly across the goal – unfortunately it goes out for a goal kick. Further pressure gives Harry another shot at goal which is saved this time!
The Stevenage goalie steels himself for a big kick – loosing his boot causing the play to stop momentarily - the free ball goes down to Charlie who returns the compliment by making a long kick back towards the Stevenage goal. Strong return play by Stevenage gives them an opportunity to shoot at Eagles goal – Charlie isn’t able to control it this time and Stevenage draw level 1 – 1.
We kick off and again put in some good play between our mid-field players. A throw in from Kai gives Elliott an opportunity to take the ball further up the field , Harry picks up the ball but is not able to stop it going over the line – conceding a goal kick. The kick is intercepted by Elliott who takes his opportunity and shoots! The ball just misses going wide! Unlucky! The whistle blows – half time thankfully gives the parents the opportunity to get a cuppa – and defrost slightly!
The second half gets underway – Harry gets the ball and fields it out to Elliott. A pass back to Harry gives him a shot at goal which is collected by their keeper. Kai picks up the goal kick but he looses the ball after a strong tackle from Stevenage – who again are looking to assert themselves on the game. Good interplay between Joe, Elliott and Kieran B gets the ball down field to Harry who is tackled by Stevenage, putting the ball out.
Our boys seem to have forgotten to talk to each other – crucial when they are playing such good opposition but some encouragement from the coach and parents gets them pushing on again. The ball goes into the Stevenage area and Elliott attempts a header on goal which just misses by inches! Pressure continues and Joe also makes a good shot on goal.
The Coach makes a few suggestions from the sideline and the lads get back into position and ready themselves for the next initiative. Great team play and passing by all means that Elliott soon gets another crack at goal but the Stevenage goalie is really earning his keep and he manages a fantastic save!
Kai also gets involved and, as usual, is a strong force – getting involved and working the pitch well; keeping up the pressure on Stevenage. A strong tackle in the area gives the referee no choice but to award Eagles a penalty. Elliott strolls up – and the ball hits the back of the net! 2 – 1
The kick off by Stevenage is defended well by Kieron C-L who gets the ball down the field to Kai, on towards Elliott and Harry who taps the ball in (off the goalie) for another goal. 3 – 1 Stevenage kick off again and players swarm into our area – a last ditch attempt to tackle takes the legs from underneath the Stevenage player and they are awarded a penalty!
Charlie, unphased, calmly faces the striker, arms wide. Stevenage strike the penalty well but Charlie makes a stunning two handed save and gathers the ball in safely. Fantastic!! Charlie takes the initiative and kicks the ball out to Joe who passes it downfield making a lovely run. He is tackled by Stevenage who have now stepped up a gear. Kai and Harry pass the ball well between them. The ball is picked up by Stevenage who push forward strongly and make a fantastic shot on goal – which again Charlie collects.
Stevenage put on a couple of substitutes but our team keeps its formation and the boys take advantage of the changes in Stevenage’s Team and start building new attacks. Kieron C-L puts in some strong tackles and keeps the attack from Stevenage under control. Our boys are really passing well in all areas of the field – building their attacks and creating numerous opportunities on goal. A final flurry by Kai goes towards the goal – but the referee blows time and the parents breathe a sigh of relief.
Well done boys! A brilliant team effort! Final Result 3 – 1
The Team: Kai, Harry J(2) , Joe, Elliott(1), Kieran B, Kieron C-L, Charlie
Game 2
The boys are raring to go after the fantastic first game. Stevenage kick off and it’s straight into Eagles half, think the boys are caught unawares as its straight for goal 1 0! Play continues in the Eagles half with a great save by Joseph, big goal kick to Harry L who takes it down to the Stevenage half, takes a shot but their defence is ready for us and take it out of play. Eagles throw in taken quickly by Ryan but again it’s knocked out of play for another throw in. Stevenage goal kick goes straight to Kieron C-L, some great passing between the boys and excellent defending by Jack. A strong goal kick by Joseph to Harry L, who again takes it into Stevenage’s half. Stevenage step up the pressure but with Jack’s committed tackling we regain possession, ball goes out of play for an Eagles corner which is taken by Kieran B straight to Harry L who shoots, this time it hits the target 1 – 1.
Stevenage move swiftly into Eagles half, Joseph’s excellent save stops them from moving ahead. The boys step up the pace and move back into Stevenage’s half, Harry L takes another shot but again Stevenage defence prove hard to beat. Play moves quickly back into the Eagles half, Stevenage win a corner but our defence moves play back into their half, a great tackle by Jack gives Letchworth a throw in which is quickly taken by Ryan to Kieron C-L, the boys are playing really well with some great tackling from Jack, Kieron C-L and Ryan. Another throw in from Ryan to Kieran B onto Harry L who shoots again but their goalie is ready. Play remains in Stevenage’s half with some great passing between Ryan and Joe; whistle goes its half time.
Eagles kick off, Stevenage get possession great tackle from Ryan with and excellent pass to Harry J and then Elliott who takes a shot, it goes in 2 – 1. A goal kick taken by Kai into Stevenage’s half, committed tackling from Harry J wins the ball back. Eagles throw in to Ryan, some really great play between the boys. Corner taken by Elliott to Harry L who shoots but it narrowly misses the goal. Stevenage throw in, is intercepted by Kai who passes on to Harry L who shoots, it hits a Stevenage player and goes off. Big goal kick from Stevenage straight into Eagles half, slipping through our defence they score 2 – 2. Some great passing between the Harry and Ryan’s endless defending sees Eagles remain in possession.
An excellent tackle from Jack followed by a great kick sees the ball touching the keepers hands, he looses the ball and Elliott is in the right place at the right time, gentle tap from him means we move ahead 3 – 2. The boys are really playing well with some great passing and tackling we remain in possession. Ryan defends well and passes to Elliott, overhead kick by him onto Harry L then back to Elliott who shoots 4 – 2. Play continues to be fast and furious with the Eagles having numerous more attempts at goal, but unfortunately it just doesn’t go in. Final whistle sees the boy’s win 4 – 2.
Some really great team football again today boys, well done you deserved both wins.
Team: Jack, Kieron C-L, Kieran B, Joe, Harry L(1), Ryan(Captain), Kai, Joseph Elliott (3), Harry J
Player of the day: Elliott
U8 Orange and Blacks Vs Bassingbourn Youth 10th November 2007
Game 1
A cloudy, cold and damp morning saw the Eagles first game away to Bassingbourn.
Eagles kick off, Kai to Elliott and onto Kieran; some excellent passing already between the boys sees possession quickly in Bassingbourns half. Numerous attempts at goal but Bassingbourn prove to have a strong defence, stopping the ball from hitting the target.
A great goal kick from Charlie goes straight back into Bassingbourn’s half, Bassingbourn take it out of play. Kai throws into Elliott who passes to Joe, great shot at goal but again the defence proves tough to break through. Corner taken by Kai but ends up with a goal kick. Great kick by the goalie, which is stopped by Kieron CL with some great defending. Bassingbourn throw in good defending by the Eagles sees a corner to Bassingbourn which is quickly taken, Charlie touches the ball but it rebounds onto a Bassingbourn player who shoots 1 – 0, unlucky boys.
The boys quickly recover with numerous shots at Bassingbourn goal, when Harry finally breaks through their defence it is now 1 –1. Bassingbourn quickly take control heading towards our goal, with only Charlie before them the parents hold their breath, they take a shot but Charlie is there what a save! Again we are in possession, Joe takes another shot at goal but their goalie is prepared.
The game is really heating up now, with play moving quickly between each teams half. Some excellent play between Harry, Joe, Kieran B and finally Kai see Kai taking another shot – yes it goes in 2 – 1. Unfortunately Bassingbourn step up the pace its now 2 –2! Not to be outdone, the Oranges push forward and gives Harry another shot at goal, we move ahead 3 – 2. This is a really fast game and with some great defending by Kieron CL and Elliott we manage to stay ahead at half time.
Bassingbourn kick off, but Eagles get possession, it looks like this half is going to be every bit as thrilling as the first, with Bassingbourn fighting back and breaking through our defence they score 3 – 3. Play again moves quickly back into the Eagles half, a corner by Bassingbourn is headed clear by Kieran B and some great passing between Kai to Elliott and back to Kai see play remain in the Bassingbourn half. Harry and Kieran B both have attempts at goal but their defence remains strong, with another far out shot from Harry but it hits the post – unlucky.
The boys are starting to tire now as the play has been so fast, Bassingbourn sneak through our defence and score its now 4 – 3. Eagles get a free kick taken by Elliott but their defence just stops it going in, the whistle blows final score 4 –3. What a cracking game, the boys played some of their best football yet, well done.
Players: Charlie (Captain), Kieron C-L, Kieran B, Kai(1), Harry J(2), Elliott, Joe.
Game 2
Bassingbourn kick off and are immediately attacking our goal. Good solid defending by the Eagles. Throw in by Joe, runs to Kieran B who wins a corner. Kai takes to Kieran B who wins another!! Bassingbourn step up the pressure but are stopped by Jack and Ryan who are defending well. Kai takes a throw to Jack and then Elliott who has a good shot at goal.
Play is as quick in this game as the first with Bassingbourn keeping the pressure on all the time. Kieran B has a shot at goal, followed by Joe just narrowly missing the target. Quick play by Bassingbourn means play is returned to Eagles half, the response by Eagles gives Joe another opportunity to shoot at goal. But Bassingbourn step up the pressure a great save by Joseph stops them going ahead, but they keep up the pace and Kai and Kieran B defend well.
A great attack by the Eagles gives Joe an excellent shot at goal, straight into the bottom left hand corner - excellent 1 - 0. Bassingbourn’s quick response gives them an opportunity on goal which they take 1 – 1. Another attack leads to a swift goal, its now 2 –1 to Bassingbourn. The boys quickly regroup and Elliott gets possession taking it all the way down the left hand side of the pitch and a great cross into goal, yes its now 2 – 2! The game is really hotting up now!! Bassingbourn attack again, Jack stops them, a corner to Bassingbourn which is quickly taken and saved by Joseph but the pressure is on and a further attack gives Bassingbourn another shot 3 –2! Some great midfield play between Ryan and Jack gives Letchworth a throw in, ending with Kieran B on shot, but saved!!! Half time – a great half with evenly matched teams.
Eagles kick off, Harry to Kai onto Elliott who scores!!! 3 – 3. Quick response from Bassingbourn well defended by Elliott, goal kick, taken by Kai to Harry who passes to Jack but off for a goal kick. Sound defending from Ryan and Kieron CL as Bassingbourn attack again. Throw in by Bassingbourn and they sneak a goal its now 4 – 3. Letchworth throw to Elliott who takes a shot, it misses. Bassingbourn’s goal kick is intercepted by Harry, he takes a shot but it is saved by the goalie – wow what a game! A throw in by Bassingbourn, great tackle from Jack with support from Kai and Kieron CL but another opportunity for Bassingbourn means they move ahead 5 – 3. The boys aren’t ready to give up yet and step up the pace with a great tackle by Kai he passes to Elliott and with a great left foot shot he hits the target 5 – 4. We keep the pressure on and play remains in Bassingbourn’s half with Joe taking another shot at goal. Harry intercepts the goal kick for a great goal its now 5 –5. The fast pace continues with numerous shots on goal for each team, final whistle blows another excellent game played by the boys.
Team: Jack, Elliott (3), Joe(1), Ryan, Kai, Joseph (Captain), Harry J(1), Kieron CL, Kieran B,
Player of the day: Joseph
LGCE Orange and Blacks Vs Bishops Stortford
20th October 2007
Game 1
A bright clear autumn day greats us for our first trip away at Bishops Stortford. Eagles win the toss and play gets underway. The boys are a little sleepy first thing and Bishops Stortford start with a good display of passing between their players with some strong and confident moves into our half.
With a little encouragement from their supporters the boys start playing well in midfield with some strong tackles being made by Kai and Kieran B. The ball goes out of play and a quickly taken throw in by Bishops Stortford gives them a shot across goal which is cleared by Elliott. More close play near our goal gives a few nervous moments with our lads struggling to take play up to the Bishops Stortford half. A corner to Bishops Stortford is intercepted by Elliott and a good kick up-field is collected by Kai who is working tirelessly. Kai is tackled well by Bishops Stortford and the ball goes out for an Eagles throw in. Kai takes a long throw to Harry who makes an excellent shot on goal which is well saved by their goalie! At last the boys seem to be focussing on the game.
The corner, taken by Kai, is well played but unfortunately none of our lads connects with the ball as it runs past the goal. The ball is collected well by Joe and puts in an excellent cross back towards the goal which is then intercepted by Bishops Stortford. The counter attack from Bishops Stortford is thwarted by Kieran B who clears the ball down the field to Harry who takes a shot hitting the side netting! Unlucky Harry!
Bishops Stortford take a well struck goal kick and they progress up the field towards our goal until reaching Elliott who deftly puts the ball into touch. Further good defending by Kai, supported well by Kieran B. Kai then runs the ball down field battling well against up to three Bishops Stortford players at once! The ball is won by Bishops Stortford who quickly forms an attack which Joe and Kieron C-L have to deal with. Further good passing by Bishops Stortford puts the ball across our goal, well covered by Joseph – a narrow escape for us!
The goal kick goes deep into the Bishops Stortford half and they put it out for a corner to the Eagles! The corner goes across the Bishops Stortford goal – again no one is there to finish the job! The ball comes out and is again picked up by Joe and is well cleared by Bishops Stortford to Kieron C-L who, once again, solidly deals with the ball and returns it to Kai who pushes back into the Bishops Stortford half.
Bishops Stortford win a throw in which is blocked by Elliott; Bishops Stortford continue the pressure with some good passing and play between their players. This enables them to get a good shot on goal in the later stages of the first half but this is saved by a kick from Elliott and some strong play in midfield by Kieran B again resists the attack and gives us a goal kick. The goal kick is picked up by Kai who takes the ball into the Bishops Stortford half with excellent fighting spirit as he wins the ball from a Bishops Stortford player with a sliding tackle and is quickly up on his feet to pick up the ball and head towards goal. Bishops Stortford defends well and we put the ball out of play.
The boys seem to have warmed up and relaxed a little, putting in a number of attacks from some good midfield play with Harry taking a number of shots on goal with one going left, missing by inches and sending another shot soaring over the crossbar! A throw in by Kai to Harry gives another opportunity for a shot by Harry which this time is on target but is saved by the Bishops Stortford goalie! Kai picks up the rebound but the goalie saves again.
Some good battling by Joe, who passes to Harry who has yet another shot, pushed out by the goalie and picked up by Kai who sends the ball back in to Harry for another attempt! The ball goes free and is picked up by Kieron C-L with a fantastic cross of the ball back towards the Bishops Stortford goal finding Harry who seems to have lost all his strength and makes a weak shot on goal which is easily picked up by the Bishops Stortford goalie.
Our team starts to pass the ball well between our players who are caught by a fast paced attack by Bishops Stortford and a shot which is well saved by Joseph. The whistle goes and the first half ends 0 -0.
The second half kick-off is taken and Joe wins the ball passing up to Harry who returns it to Joe. The ball is won by the Bishops Stortford team. Elliott connects well in a tackle and passes the ball up to Harry who strikes it well this time for a great goal into the top right hand corner of the net! At last! 1-0.
Heads high, Bishops Stortford pick themselves up and make a good attack on our goal running the ball down the field for a shot on goal which is well saved by Joseph!
Some good defending by Kieran B and Kieron C-L with Kai again connecting well between them and the attacks on Bishops Stortford goal! Joseph is forced to make another save and is helped from some really good work in defence from Kieron C-L. A momentary loss of concentration by Eagles leads to a conceded corner which is intercepted by a header from Elliott. Kai collects the ball and battles his way up the field with good support from Joe; both boys are having a great game!
Some further attacks by Bishops Stortford further test Joseph who rises to the challenge! A quickly taken kick by Joseph up to Joe and then to Kai who pushes it up the line for another throw in. This finds Harry, passing to Kai who takes a shot from around 30 yards out which produces a great save by the Bishops Stortford goalie!
Another corner won by Eagles goes across the goal and is collected by Harry who kicks it back into the penalty area to Joe, passing to Kai meeting strong defence by Bishops Stortford. Continued pressure from our lads and good play between Joe and Kai pushing towards goal again for a shot on goal by Kai – in for a 2-0 lead!!
Bishops Stortford come back with some continued threats to our goal and meets with strong resistance from Kieron C-L and Kieran B. The ball is put out for a throw in and Bishops Stortford gets the ball into our area – amid the confusion the ball trickles over our line and we concede a goal! 2-1 Bishops Stortford sense an opportunity but some good team work by our guys throughout the remaining minutes of the match give Kai another opportunity for a shot on goal which is saved.
Good play by Joe feeds the ball to Harry but the ball goes out for a goal kick. Eagles regain the ball and a good tackle from Harry stops the ball going out; he puts in a good cross to the goal area but, alas, none of our boys are there to capitalise on the opportunity!
Kieron C-L picks up the ball and deftly kicks it into touch. The throw in comes out to Joe who battles through the Bishops Stortford players and passes to Kai who continues the movement up the field. Kieran B supports the midfield and helps start a late attack by Eagles, winning a corner which is passed out to Kai who tries a last second shot. The whistle goes and it is 2-1 to Eagles.
Team: Kai(1), Harry(1), Kieran B, Elliott, Joe (Captain), Kieron C-L, Joseph
Game 2
The sun is beating down for the start of the second game and the boys are confident after Oranges 2 1 win. Bishop Stortford kick off, but the Blacks swiftly take possession with a quick shot at goal by Joe. Play remains in Bishop Stortford’s half with Ryan forcing a first corner taken by Kai to Elliott, but their defence stops the ball from going in. Some excellent passing between Jack, Kai and Ryan and Joe’s relentless tackling keeps the Blacks in possession.
Bishop Stortford steps up the pace and Charlie does one great save and then another. Elliott’s big kick to Jack and onto Ryan see the play move back into Bishop Stortford half. Kieron C-L’s excellent defending stops the ball from returning to our half. A chip by Elliott is stopped by Bishop Storford’s defence. Ryan passes to Jack who takes a shot, it’s stopped by the goalie and rebounds Kai seizes the opportunity and takes a shot, it goes in 1 0 and the whistle blows for half time.
Bishop Stortfords kick off and quickly put the pressure on moving into our half, Harry J’s abilities are tested as he defends, he does a great job and play is moved back into Bishop Stortfords half. Kai throws in to Ryan who takes a shot, the defence stops it going in and Kai again is in the right position for a great left footed shot, wicked goal 2 0.
Bishop Stortford put on the pressure and push into our half, our defence is caught unawares and unlucky for us they score 2 1. Bishop Stortford keeps up the pressure and Charlie has his work cut out for a while, but the Blacks regroup and again we take possession. A great corner by Elliott to Jack who takes a shot but it goes wide – unlucky.
Kieran B and Kieron C-L committed tackling sees that Bishop Stortford make no further threats to our goal, with the sun continuing to shine we win again 2 1.
Well played boys.
Players: Ryan, Jack, Charlie, Kieron C-L, Kieran B, Kai(2), Harry J, Elliott, Joe(Captain)
Player of the day: Kieron C-L
LGCE Orange and Blacks Vs Pin Green 13th October 2007
Game 1
Pin Green kick off, Harry J takes immediate possession, passing to Elliott who crosses back to Harry J for a good first attack on Pin Greens goal. The cross is cleared deep into our half, Kieron C-L defends well, which forces an Orange throw-in. Kai takes it to Kieran B, a good clearance back to Kai, who passes to Harry J in midfield then back to Kieran B, some excellent interplay between the boys. A great pass to Harry J who shoots for goal, into the bottom right hand corner, excellent start 1 0.
Pin Green attempt shot at goal, well saved by Charlie. Joe passes to Harry J
who passes to Kai, he takes a shot at goal unlucky this time. Pin Green regroup but give away a throw in which is quickly taken by Kai to Harry J who passes to Joe then Kieran B who passes back to Harry J who takes another shot at goal, Joe picks the ball up taking another shot straight into the bottom left hand corner 2 0.
Pin Green push into our half, but Kieron C-L’s defending stop them getting anywhere near goal. The ball is back with the Oranges and Harry J takes another shot at goal, Pin Green defence stops it going in, although it is an unlucky home goal for them. Orange take quick possession again and Harry J takes another shot at goal and this time it hits the target 4 0 at half time.
Start of second half with the same team, with the Eagles taking early possession with some excellent passing between Kai, Kieran B, Elliott, Joe and then to Harry J who takes another shot but its cleared off the line by Pin Greens defence, Harry J takes another shot and this time it goes in, hat trick for Harry 5 0.
Pin Green take possession taking it to goal, great double handed save by Charlie who has had a nice quiet game today! Harry L comes on giving Kieran B a break. Joe passes to Kieron C-L then up to Kai who takes the ball up passing up to Elliott. Harry L passes to Kai and onto Harry J who takes another shot 6 0 final score.
Team: Charlie, Joe(1), Kai, Elliott (Captain) Kieran B, Kieron C-L, Harry J (4) and Harry L
Game 2
Eagles kick off, Jack takes the ball up the pitch unfortunately stopped by Pin Green defence for a throw in. Ryan and Jack pass the ball onto Elliott and then Harry J, some excellent passing between the boys. Good throw from Ryan to Kieran B and onto Harry L but the Pin Green relentless defending stops the boys from getting near goal.
The boys are playing well, with some great passing between Kieran B, Harry L and Jack but still we cannot get near to their goal. Pin Green is now in possession and Joseph’s excellent save stops them taking the lead. 0 0 at half time.
A good start to the second half for our boys, although Pin Green’s defence is proving tough to break through. Harry L passes to Kai who takes a nasty kick to his ankle, this sees a free kick to the Blacks, we have a strong attack at goal but it is blocked by Pin Green.
Kieron C-L picks up the ball and kicks it into Pin Green’s half but again their defence stops it going to goal. Joe does an excellent slide tackle taking back the ball, he passes to Harry L who quickly passes to Ryan and then back to Joe great play between the boys. Kai passes to Jack who takes it into the Pin Green half, Jack crosses to Kai who takes a shot, at last it goes in 1 0.
Pin Green have a strong attack on our goal, but our defending proves too much for the team and the Blacks quickly take possession again with a great run by Kai who scores again 2 0 final score
Team: Harry L, Jack, Kieran B, Ryan, Elliott (Captain), Harry J, Joseph, Joe, Kai(2), Kieron C-L
Player of the day: Kai
LGCE Orange and Blacks Vs LGCE Whites and Yellows 6th October 2007
Game 1
An overcast, but warm morning heralds the start of our match against Eagles Whites. The match starts with lots of energy from our lads pushing into the oppositions half. A quick counter attack in the early stages gives a shot on goal which is blocked well by Charlie who takes a glancing blow to the head. The follow up shot from the Whites is brilliantly saved by Kai who clears from the line! It is a worrying start for our boys, who settle down quickly and focus on the match.
Our team now push into the oppositions half with numerous attempts on goal. Good passing by Kai to Harry J who shoots, forcing a save from the White’s. The ball comes back to Kai, again passes up to Harry who this time hits the side netting – unlucky Harry!
The game moves on and a corner is won, taken by Kai but with no one in the goal area to take the opportunity! Our boys continue exerting continued pressure on the Whites’ goal with good passing and calling between the boys.
Whites respond to the frequent attacks on goal with a well hit clearance into our half which is quickly gathered by Charlie. The ball is swiftly put back into play with a good kick from Charlie finding Kieran B. Kieran B passes to Joe, who has been working hard in midfield with some great tackles and passes. Joe takes the ball up the field for yet another shot on goal! The Whites save again and respond quickly with a shot at our goal with Charlie again making the save and taking a painful kick to the ribs for his efforts. After being patched up again Charlie takes an excellent goal kick which is picked up by Whites who take the ball into our half but loose the ball through some strong tackling from Kieron C-L who, as ever, is putting in a solid defensive performance.
A short corner taken by the Whites late in the first half is well defended by the two Kieran’s and a ball down the pitch finds Elliott who hits the post! Fantastic passing from Kai to Joe who finds Harry J who shoots again; the Whites goalie saves! Another follow up shot goes across the goal – still no luck!!!!
Ryan comes onto the pitch substituting Kieran B for his first outing with the Eagles Orange Team. Ryan quickly gets involved in the play in midfield; helping to defend against a number of attacks by the Whites during the closing stages of the first half. The whistle blows 0 – 0 at half-time!
The boys come out in the second half bolstered by a strong team performance in the first half and some words of wisdom from their coach. We are playing uphill this half!
Whites start strongly with Kieron C-L tackling strongly and clearing the ball well. There is some good passing between the boys with Kieran B, Elliott, Joe and Harry J moving the ball around well. A good early shot on goal by Joe is saved by the Whites. Further good teamwork gives another failed shot at goal by Harry J, the ball goes out for a corner but, once again, our lads just lack that final touch into the back of the net!
Another attack by the Whites is cleared by Charlie from the line straight back to our midfield. Good play by Kieran B and Kai, with a spectacular sliding tackle, knocks the ball out for a throw in. The Whites quickly take the throw and pass the ball around between their players; a strong shot on goal hits the back of our net seemingly totally against the flow of play! 1-0 to the Whites!
Another good attack by Whites is saved by Charlie who this time allows Elliott to take the goal kick. Elliott’s kick finds Kai in midfield and the ball is lost after strong tackling by the opposition. The throw in is won by Blacks and a good run by Kai results in another shot on goal which is, again, saved by the Whites!
Continued good play between Joe, Kieran B gives a pass to Elliott, just outside the area, who makes a great shot into the top left hand corner of the Goal! Fantastic!!! (1 – 1) (Phew!!!)
The lads dig deep and with loud support from the sidelines finish the match strongly.
A well fought match with strong performances from all. Well done! Final Result 1 – 1
Team: Kai (Captain), Harry (J), Joe, Elliott, Kieran (B), Kieran (C-L), Charlie, Ryan
Game 2
The boys are raring to go after the 1 1 draw in the first game
The blacks kick off with some great passing from Harry L to Harry J who takes a shot, narrowly missing the goal. Blacks throw in, but yellows take possession, Kieran B is straight in with the tackle but the yellows push through, they take shot – excellent save by Joseph.
Jack gets the ball and passes to Ryan who takes a shot, nearly hitting the target, great attempt. The yellows take control heading towards our goal; Charlie takes evasive action with an excellent tackle. We again take possession, some great passing between Harry J, Ryan and finally Jack, who takes a shot, this time it goes in 1-0.
The boys are really into it now, with some great tackling from Kai, Harry L, Charlie and passing between Ryan, Jack and Harry J, we remain 1 0 up at half time.
Second half starts with a big kick from Elliott, who hits the goalie! Ryan keeps plugging away and it finally pays off, we are 2 0 up. The yellows start to put the pressure on and head for goal, Elliott takes out the ball, giving the yellows a corner, they take a shot and another great save by Joseph. An excellent header by Joe to Kieron C-L sees the ball back with the blacks, Kieron takes a shot, but it goes wide – unlucky.
The boys once again take control with Harry L’s committed tackling and excellent passing to Kieron C-L, this time he has a clear shot and it goes in, final score 3 0. Well played boys!
Players: Ryan(1), Jack(1), Harry L, Joseph, Charlie, Kieron C-L(1), Kieran B, Kai (Captain), Harry J, Elliott, Joe.
Player of the Day: Jack
LGCE Orange & Blacks V’s Stevenage Boro Jnrs 22nd September 2007
1st Game
A cloudy and muggy morning saw the Eagles at home to Stevenage Boro, always a tough game for the boys (and the parents!).
Stevenage kicked off, although Eagles soon took possession with a great tackle from Elliott passing directly to Harry J and on to Joe who takes a shot at goal, unlucky for the boys it didn’t go in. Eagles throw in and there is some great passing between Kieron C-L, Kai and Elliott, however, Stevenage move forward, having an attempt at goal – excellent save by Charlie. Stevenage takes possession once more with a big kick towards the Eagles goal; unlucky for the boys it trickles in! 1-0 to Stevenage.
Some great tackling from Kieran B saw Harry J take a shot, again narrowly missing the goal, with a corner from the Eagles and a shot by Harry J, then Kieran B and lastly Elliott, the Stevenage defence just stops us from hitting the target. Harry L comes on pitch making his debut for the team and starts off as he is means to go on with some excellent tackling and passing to Kieran B, the whistle goes it’s half time.
The Eagles kick off the second half, with Stevenage putting the pressure on from the start, with constant attempts at goal, Charlie really had his work cut out and his does some tremendous saves. Some excellent passing between Kai and Joe sees Kai taking a shot at goal again it just won’t go in.
Stevenage step up the pressure and relentless tackling by Kai, Harry L and Kieron CL is to no avail Stevenage scores another. Eagles have 3 more attempts at scoring but again Stevenage defence just prevents it from happening, today is not going to be our day. Stevenage score twice more making the final score 4-0 to Stevenage.
Unlucky boys, you played really well.
Players: Charlie, Kieron C-L, Kieran B, Kai, Harry J (Captain), Elliott, Joe, Harry L, Jack D.
Game 2
After an undeserved defeat in their first game whilst playing for the Oranges, the boys (and parents) were looking for a more successful outcome in the second match of the day playing as the Blacks.
After winning an early corner the Eagles conceded the ball to the Stevenage team who scored to give them the early advantage of a 1-0 lead.
Stevenage continued their consistent playing and, although Joseph managed some good saves, the Stevenage team maintained strong and continued pressure resulting in numerous goal scoring opportunities one of which fortunately ended up in the back of their own net!!!! .
The team formation was changed a number of times with players being put in positions outside their normal comfort zones testing their abilities.
Harry L, new to our team, showed growing confidence on his first outing for Eagles; he had two long shots on goal, but unfortunately both were successfully blocked. Elliott took a fantastic shot at goal to hit the cross bar – unlucky Elliott! Harry J and Joe both have shots on goal but just don’t find the net.
A disappointing game for the boys as they appeared to lack their usual enthusiasm and team spirit. Chins up and better luck next match boys! Final score 6-1 Stevenage
Players: Harry J (captain), Kieran B, Kieron C-L, Elliot, Joe, Kai, Charlie, Harry L, Joseph, Jack
Player of the Day: Charlie
LGCE Orange and Blacks V’s Bedwell Rangers 15th September 2007
1st Game
A beautiful sunny morning saw the start of our 2nd game of the season against Bedwell Rangers. Unfortunately due to technical problems beyond our control, we are unable to gi