Eagles u9 Orange and Blacks - 08/09 Season
Contact: Paul Bush - 0797 313 7660 - dash.bush@virgin.net
Meyer Williams - Sponsored kit for U9’s Orange and Blacks
Match Reports
29th November 2008 Letchworth Eagles v’s Bishops Stortford
The boys gave their all this week in a closely contested match between Eagles and Bishops Stortford.
The match started with Bishops Stortford dominating the play forcing some strong defensive moves from the Eagles. Time and time again Bishops Stortford brought the ball in towards our goal showing some great attacking football – rattling shots off our crossbar and giving Charlie numerous early opportunities to show off his goalkeeping prowess.
The Eagles always seem to take their time to settle into the game and this week somehow managed to stave off the attacks before finding their feet to start putting some good football moves together and start imposing themselves on the game.
Kieron showed some excellent defensive skills throughout the match, thwarting a number of attacks and deftly intercepting a number of loose balls to clear them safely into touch. Kieron continues to provide strength in our defence and gave an excellent account of himself today.
Harry managed to demonstrate some quick, incisive moves with some good ball skills to get around the Bishops Stortford defence and feed the ball up towards the goal working well with Elliot “One-Tee”. He is able to hold the ball up and cut back on a number of occasions taking the opportunity a couple of times in the match to get some shots on goal. He is also using his head more and makes an important clearance during another spate of Bishops Stortford activity.
Elliot “One-Tee” has a good turn of speed and is able to intercept the ball well, dispossessing the opposition and getting into some good attacking positions. Elliot involves himself in a great battle to win the ball and works well with Joe and Harry. Elliot involves himself in a number of moves from a throw in, positioning himself well to push forward with the attacking move. Unfortunately the Bishops Stortford goalie was less than keen to let any of the shots in!
Kai had an excellent match; as usual working tirelessly in covering the midfield and tracking back quickly, often taking out the opposition with well timed tackles. He can always be relied upon to put the opposition under pressure and force them into mistakes. Unfortunately Kai managed to receive a boot in the face as he completed a sliding tackle to defend against a Bishops Stortford attack on the left hand side of our goal. He is substituted by Jack just before halftime.
Elliott (“Two-Tees”) has a quiet start to the game before being called on to make some committed tackles in order to keep Bishops Stortford at bay; his stature in the game grows and he takes an opportunity (against the flow of play) in the first half to shoot for goal, just inside the halfway line. The ball sneaks past the goalie leaving a deafening silence from the Bishops Stortford supporters who had been enjoying the continued pressure that they had been exerting on our lads! Conversely the Eagles’ supporters give a loud cheer! (And breathe a sigh of relief!) 1-0 to us! Elliott was also involved in a great clearance off the line of an errant ball that had somehow slipped past Charlie.
Joe has also been working hard on the right midfield and putting some great linking moves with his team mates. A great demonstration of football allows Joe to receive the ball from Harry and make a great attempt on goal narrowly going wide on the right hand side of the goal. Joe is also playing well with Elliot and the pace of the game increases as they put together some good flowing moves, passing the ball between each other. Joe also made a number of excellent tackles in the match.
Jack, coming on to substitute the injured Kai, quickly involves himself in a number of moves by Eagles and pushes the ball up towards the Bishops Stortford goal. Jack works hard to link the play and provides some good crosses into the box. A number of times the ball rattles round in their area but is cleared or collected by their goal keeper. Jack also moves well around the pitch having to cover for Kai.
The man of the match this week is Charlie; although our lads performed well and put on some great football for the spectators Charlie was called on to making a number of crucial saves. The whole gamut of saves was called on: punches away, diving saves, close saves, intimidation tactics etc. etc. Charlie’s presence in goal and his quick reactions enabled him to make some great saves against a strong opposition. Bishops Stortford had a number of very skilful players who carved out a number of shots. Only three got past Charlie – Elliott Lee clearing one from the line.
Alas, the final score 1-2 to Bishops Stortford was a shame but the Eagles played well as a team and have lots to be proud of. They were beaten by some good football from Bishops Stortford but the way the Eagles rallied and chased their opportunities gave us lots of great experience and produced a great game of football – enough to warm the crowd on a bitterly cold day! Well done lads!
Team: Charlie, Kai ©, Elliott L, Kieron CL, Joe, Harry, Elliot W Sub: Jack
Goals: Elliott (1)
Attendance : 50 ish
Ambient Temperature: 0 Degrees Celsius
Wind Chill: Minus 10 Degrees Celsius
LETCHWORTH EAGLES (Blacks) vs. Sawbridgeworth
8th NOVEMBER 2008
Elliott L goes in goal today to cover for Charlie!!
Due to wet and windy weather this match report is short and sweet!!! It was a great start for the eagles putting Sawbridgeworth under a bit of pressure, the pressure nearly pays off when Elliot W puts the ball just wide of the goal.
There is some very good ball play by Joe, Jack and a couple of missed shots from Elliot, the passes flow but they can’t seem to get it in the back of the net.
Sawbridgeworth come on the attack but as Elliott L prepares himself to save a goal Kai comes in on the defence and clears the ball which leaves the pitch (a throw in to Sawbridgeworth) again Sawbrideworth come on the attack Kieron C-L tries to tackle but the ball is passed with a big kick its a shot on goal which is well saved by Elliott and at half time its 0-0 .
As the start of the second half gets under way the weather deteriorates but doesn’t upset the boys. Sawbridgeworth make a pass with the ball which is intercepted by Jack who passes to Harry L who makes a good run down pitch, Harry L passes to Elliot who has another chance at goal but is denied by the keeper.
Just as it looks to be a goalless game Elliot passes to joe who then gives the ball to jack who puts it in the net 1-0 to the eagles. Within seconds of the goal sawbridgeworth strengthen with some good passes and a saved shot on goal, but in the final few minuites there is some tough defending going on the ball is cleared out of pitch which gives Sawbridgeworth a corner. The ball lands in front the goal and with a few scrappy kicks it’s a goal for Sawbridgeworth. Theres a few last passes between Kieron C-L, Joe and Harry but its too late, the whistle goes and its 1-1.
An excellent game with some great passing between all the boys!!! Well done lads!!!!
Team: Elliott L, Kai, Jack , Elliot W, Joe, Kieron C-L, Harry L
Man of Match: Joe
LETCHWORTH EAGLES (Blacks) vs. St. NEOTS - 1 st NOVEMBER 2008
Eagles and St. Neots shared the spoils in an intense and entertaining battle with the away team spoiling the home party with a last gasp equaliser – with the excitement providing the parents warmth to counter the bitterly cold morning.
The Eagles took the lead after a slow start with an excellent cross in from Harry J to Thomas, forcing a mistake from the goalie and allowing Jordan a shot which trickles over the line.
The confidence in the team is energised and some great interplay between our boys really allows them to dominate the play. Eagles really start playing as a team with some good calling and excellent coordinated moves up the pitch with free flowing passing. Harry J was able to demonstrate some good ball skills cutting through the St Neots defense and working well with Jordan and Jack before blasting a left footed shot high past the goalies out-stretched hand to give the fans (not to mention his Dad) something to cheer – his first goal this season!!!!
St. Neots battle to assert themselves on the play and get some good attacks underway. The Eagles defence is up to the task and some excellent defensive play between Kieran B, Lynson and Thomas thwarts the danger. The ball is cleared to give Jordan and Harry J other opportunities for shots on goal but a well cleared ball by the St. Neots’ goalie sends the ball quickly back into our half and Joseph steps in to safely gather the loose ball. Joseph kicks up field and the ball is pushed out to Jack who has a go at a shot. Another quick clearance by St. Neots pushes down field to be met by a great challenge by Kieran B but St. Neots struggle through and get in a good shot, which is well saved by Joseph.
The clearance again finds Jordan, who skilfully takes the ball up the field, passing to Jack, lurking on the edge of the box and the confident Jack stays calm before slotting the ball inside the right post, a fine shot which goes in for a 3-0 lead!
St. Neots retaliate but again are stopped by some good defensive play by Kieran, Lynson and Thomas. They get the ball out to Harry J who makes another shot at goal – blocked by the goalie; Jack screams in and makes it 4-0!
St Neots dig deep and make a last minute rush towards goal and are rewarded by a good opportunity which Joseph is unable to stop despite his valiant efforts.
The whistle is blown for half-time and our boys go in with a confident spring in their step. The manager urges caution in his half time talk.
The second half sees St. Neots bringing on some of their larger players and they start strongly and purposefully. The play becomes more physical and despite putting in some good tackles Lynson and Kieran B are repeatedly brought down and have to work hard to keep the defence intact. Joseph is working really hard to keep St. Neots’ efforts out of our goal. The rate of play increases and St Neots start to impose themselves on the game with our lads working hard to close down some strong attacking moves.
Eagles counter with some attacking moves of their own but a number of shots on target are saved. St Neots gradually claw back with a number of successful shots and the score gets to 4-3.
Our boys can’t believe that their first half lead has been eroded and are working hard to protect their marginal lead. They are all working hard and seem to be holding off the opposition but, seconds before the end St. Neots hit a thumping shot and the ball goes in to level the match! 4-4!
Team: Kieran B, Jordan, Harry J, Jack, Thomas, Lynson, Joseph. Subs: Elliott, Kieron C-L
Man of match: Jordan
Eagles’ Manager Paul comments:
“The boys played some of their best football yet; St. Neots were a physical side and we need to work hard to build our strength and not be intimidated by strong play. Well done lads, overall a good performance!”
Goals: Jordan (1) Harry J (1) Jack (2) Attendance: 40 ish
LETCHWORTH EAGLES (Blacks) vs. Hitchin Town Youth - Saturday 25th October 2008 - AWAY
Eagles kick off but Hitchin quickly take possession pushing into Eagles half. A corner by Hitchin sees the ball fly into the top right hand corner, Hitchin go ahead 1-0. The boys are starting to settle down and Jacks persistent tackling see Eagles in possession battling forward all the time. Hitchin battle back and move swiftly into our half taking the boys unaware they shoot it goes in 2-0.
Some great defending by Ryan and a good goal kick by Elliott but Hitchin come back for another corner, well headed out by Lynson. A throw in by Thomas and some great defending again by Ryan, Hitchin takes another shot well saved Elliott! A big goal kick by Elliott to Jack onto Jordan who shoots – yes it goes in 2-1. Some great tackling by Kieran B see Eagles remain in possession. The boys have really settled down now, some really great football being played today, with some good passing between Harry L, Jordan and Jack. Jack gets brought down giving the Eagles a free kick straight to Jordan who crosses back to Jack in the centre, he turns and shoots, great goal 2-2. Whistle blows half time.
Hitchin kick off, Jordan is quickly on top of Hitchin and takes possession moving forward to Jack who takes a shot, Hitchin save giving Eagles a corner. The ball remains mainly in the Eagles possession, good pass from Ryan to Thomas who takes a shot, unlucky. Final whistle goes, well played boys 2-2 final score. Well played boys, some great football played today.
Players: Kieran B(C), Jordan, Jack, Thomas, Ryan, Lynson, Elliott, Harry L
Player of the day: Jack
Letchworth Eagles Oranges v Hitchin Town Youth
After a great first game it’s now the turn of the Oranges. Eagles kick off and quickly move forward. Great pass from Elliot W to Joe the boys soon settle into the pace of the game. Joe takes the ball forward and shoots, good attempt but it saved by the goalie. Corner to the Eagles, Harry J shoots but it goes wide, unlucky. Throw in by the Eagles, Hitchin push forward for a corner, some great defending by Kai and Kieron C-L and a good save by Charlie.
The boys battle back with another shot by Joe, unfortunately it goes wide, Harry takes another shot the ball just doesn’t want to go in!! Some good team work between Kai and Elliott L. Kai really is working hard this afternoon, some really great defending again! Harry J’s is down and taken off Jack comes in as substitute. Great bit of play between Joe to Jack who passes to Elliott L who shoots it goes in 0-1.
The boys are playing really well this afternoon some lovely passing between Elliot W and Joe. Eagles remain in possession. Eagles corner then another, great defending by Kai. Whistle blows for end of first half score 0-1.
Hitchin kick off and push into Eagles half, great header by Kai sees play move into Hitchin’s half, Jack passes to Elliott L who is in the right place and taps the ball in to the net 0-2. Harry J comes back on, he starts as he means to go on with some committed tackling and Eagles remain in possession. Hitchin win a corner great defending from Kieron C-L another corner is given, they take a shot, goes in, its now 1-2. Final whistle goes. Well played boys a much deserved win.
Team: Kai (C), Harry J, Joe, Kieron C-L, Elliott L, Elliot W, Charlie, Jack
Player of the day: Kai
LETCHWORTH EAGLES (Blacks) vs. Stevenage Boro Lions - Sunday 19 th October – County Cup 1 st Round
Stevenage take the kick-off and looking at the players, the parents all wonder what other sides feed their players on? Another big strong side coming up!
Stevenage have an early attack and a good interception by Jack stops Boro going through on goal, and it goes for a corner, which we clear and send Elliot on a run down our left and he does well to earn a throw-in. Stevenage clear from this and attack very quickly, our boys get back to defend well in numbers.
From open play though, a long shot from Boro takes a massive deflection of Ryan who has done well to close down play and it sends the ball into the right hand corner. Absolutely no chance for Joseph and a really unlucky start for Eagles, 1-0.
The boys kick-off and after some good determined play by Kieran in midfield the play comes to Thomas on the left who makes a good pass to Elliot up front, but 2 defenders are onto him very quickly and Boro break very quickly again. The tall Boro forward makes a very good run through our midfield and hits a very clean shot into the bottom right hand corner – well played by Boro and a good goal, 2-0.
For the next 10 minutes there is some really determined play by our boys, Ryan is calmly playing the ball from the back and Kieran is making some good challenges in midfield, allowing both Thomas and Jack to make some good runs on the wings, but we just can’t get the ball through to Elliot and then support to him. Boro again have some breakaway attacks, but Harry makes one magnificent tackle and Joseph a couple of really good saves from long range efforts.
Whether it’s the exertions of the first 15 minutes or just lack of concentration the boys go to sleep at a Boro corner and we’re guilty of ball watching, with 3 Boro players unmarked on the edge of the box. The corner comes over and the shot goes in, 3-0.
BUT, the heads don’t go down, from the kick-off we immediately attack down the left with Thomas, making his best run of the half, the Boro defender pulls his shirt back just as a cross is about to come in – free kick. A really good free-kick by Jack, curled in from the left, causing confusion in the Boro defence, the ball bounces around their area, Elliott has a shot blocked and it bounces back just wide of Thomas. Boro are lucky to clear their lines. Again they make their quick breakaway, but the tackle of the first half comes in from Ryan leaving a player that is twice his size on the ground – strong and fair. Ryan doesn’t leave it there – from right back he makes a brilliant run up the right wing, cuts inside, looks up and makes a superb pass to Elliot who shoots… but it’s blocked. A really good end to a tough first half.
The second half starts and Stevenage put a lot of pressure on our defence for the first 5 minutes, Lynson makes a couple of good challenges, Kieran helps to clear our lines, but we just can’t get out of our half. Boro break down the right and into our area and Kieran clips the Boro winger and it’s a penalty. Joseph leaps to his left and…..saves it, but perhaps even better gets up really quickly, dashes out and really bravely smothers the shot that comes back – excellent goalkeeping.
Then next 5 minutes is almost all Boro attacking and Joseph makes some really very good saves to keep the score as it is. We finally get out of our half thanks to a clearance by Lynson and Elliot (working on some half-time coaching by Paul) gets in front of his defender and brilliantly spins round behind him. Jack does well to support on the right and Elliot looks up and finds him, Jack runs to the corner of the box, shoots and brings a good save from the Boro keeper – corner. Taken by Jack it causes confusion again, but the ball just doesn’t want to drop to our players today. It goes for a Boro throw-in and the boys switch off and we’re left short at the back and no chance for Joseph to pull off another great save – a goal this time, 4-0.
The last 5 minutes are pretty tough for our boys. They don’t let their heads go down and keep battling, but they begin to lose concentration. Stevenage score their 5 th from a corner when our boys really aren’t watching, leaving 3 unmarked players in the area and in the final minute Boro breakaway from a goal kick and the boys are ball watching again and leave 2 Boro players free on goal, no chance for Joseph and the game finishes 6-0.
As Paul says after, actually a good performance, but a lack of concentration and ball watching has cost us 4 of the 6 goals, a slightly flattering score line for Boro, but a well deserved win for a good side. Good performances by the boys, but Joseph in particular had an outstanding game with some great saves from long shots, brave blocks and of course the double-save from the penalty – a well deserved man of the match.
Team: Joseph, Harry, Ryan, Kieran(C), Jack, Thomas, Elliot; Sub; Lynson. Substitutions alternated throughout game.
Man Of The Match: Joseph
LETCHWORTH EAGLES ( Oranges) vs. Royston Town - Sunday 19 th October – County Cup 1 st Round
Royston kick off. Joe clears the ball and is thrown on by Royston, having a chance at a goal but Charlie saves it. Royston carries on with the attack and Joe once again breaks it down and passes it to Harry. Royston gets the ball and has another go at getting a goal. Kai clears this and is thrown back on by Royston, they shoot wide to leave another goal kick by Charlie. This goes to a corner kick to Royston which again goes wide and Charlie kicks it hard out. This leaves a great pass from Harry to Elliott but then is quickly intercepted by Royston. The ball goes off the pitch and is thrown on by Kai which Harry has a great try at shooting but the keeper saves it.
Royston carry on with the attack, Kieron is strong in defence and gets it out of the box. Royston retrieves the ball, going towards the goal, Charlie does a great save. A great tackle by Elliott but Royston has another corner, shoots wide and Eagles get a throw on. Jordan clears the ball and passes to Joe. Joe has a go at shooting but unfortunately the keeper saves it again and kicks it back up the field to Kieron, who makes a good tackle but Royston get the upper hand and shoots but Charlie saves it.
Eagles under pressure, Royston having a free kick but is cleared by Kieron who passes it to Jordan who takes it down the line and a great pass to Elliott who shoots a bit too wide. Royston attack again and Kai goes for a tackle but Royston shoots and scores. 1-0 to them.
Jordan attacks the ball and is kicked out by Royston. Joe throws it on and Kai quickly passes it to Jordan who then takes it down the line to pass to Joe, Royston attack and Harry clears the ball. Eagles throw on, great tackles done by Harry and Joe but is now half time.
Eagles kick off the second half. Jordan passes to Elliott and takes a shot from just past the half way line and is a great goal! 1-1.
Royston attack our goal Kieron defending passes the ball to Harry and then another great tackle by Elliott, Royston kick it out. Good defending by Kai and Kieron and cleared by Elliott. Good passing by Jordan and Harry. Royston have a corner and it’s headed wide of the goal. The ball gets back to Harry and he shoots wide. Its back to the other end and good calling by Charlie clears the ball. Jordan gets the ball and has a good try but is saved by the keeper. Great passing between Harry and Elliott who makes another great tackle. Ref tells Robbie to get off the pitch and stand behind the line again.
Great tackling by Kieron, Kai and Jordan. The final whistle blows 1-1 going into extra time 5 minutes each way.
Eagles kick off passing from Harry and Jordan. A throw on by Joe and Royston attack which leaves them with a free kick just outside the box and Charlie does a great save.
The second half is started by Royston, Eagles attack by Jordan and Joe has a shot wide of the goal. Eagles are attacking well and Royston are heading towards our goal and Charlie saves yet another goal.
Kai gets a free kick and shoots wide of the goal. Royston attack, shoots and scores. 2-1 to Royston. The whistle blows and is the end of the match. A good performance by all the boys. Well done.
Man of the Match – Elliott
Team: Charlie, Elliott, Kai, Kieron C-L, Harry J, Joe, Jordan
27 th September 2008
LETCHWORTH EAGLES ( Orange) vs. Stevenage Boro Lions
Today see’s the Eagles hosting Stevenage Lions in what is always a good game. Eagles start the game brightly taking the game to Boro but after the first 5 minutes the visitors settled and started to control the game which culminated in them going 1 – 0 up through a momentary defensive lapse. The Oranges did show great character after chasing the game for long periods, the boys took control of the game and pulled a goal back through Elliot (1 T) 1 - 1 but just before the end of the first half Boro break quickly and score. Half time 2 – 1.
The second half started brightly but again the visitors capitalised with another brace putting the Eagles 4 – 1 down but once again showed their resilience and winning a penalty through some good work by Harry J which Kai confidently converts, 4 – 2.
Now the boys are getting back into the game and starting to put some pressure on the visitors through well supported attacks and this is something they have done well all game, unfortunately Boro break quickly and a good passing move results in another goal for Stevenage before the midfield can regroup and help the defence 5 – 2. The boys stick at it and for their efforts pull one back through Joe but there just was not enough time left on the clock, final whistle 5 – 3.
The Team:
Elliott – did well in goal, especially in dealing with crosses and corners.
Kai – usual solid performance and a cool head to convert from the penalty spot.
Lynson – deputising for the injured Kieron C-L did well against strong opposition even after picking up a knock.
Elliot – took his goal well and supported the front line well.
Jordan – again worked hard and played in a new position for him.
Joe – worked tirelessly both attacking and tracking back to defend, took his goal well and was deservedly man of the match.
Harry – Excellent game worked very hard and held the ball up well winning a penalty for his efforts.
Jack and Ryan – came off the bench worked hard and fitted in well.
LETCHWORTH EAGLES (Blacks) vs. Stevenage Boro Tigers
Stevenage Tigers kicked off the first half and quickly lost possession to the blacks this led to a lively start by our boys, with some good play by Thomas who seemed to be at the centre of things early on, pressing the defence only to be fouled and then having a long range shot go just wide. Stevenage Tigers settled down and gained confidence with a few shots on Eagle’s goal, the first well saved by Joseph the second unfortunately going in.1-0 to Stevenage.
Our boys kept their heads up and started to build momentum while going forward, good play again by Thomas and Jack who has been working well, Lynson goes in for a tackle and suffers an injury leading to substitution, Lynson off Kai on.
Eagles keep their momentum going with sustained pressure on the Tigers a good shot from Jack then a goal from Thomas 1-1. Possession is shared for the remainder of the first half, Harry L producing a battling display on the wing, a fairly even first half of football despite Stevenage scoring right on half time after an injury to Kieran Bush half time 2-1 Stevenage.
Subs Kai off Elliott on.
The blacks kick off the second half but Stevenage start well, however the blacks soak up the pressure with some excellent defending, Ryan and Kieran deserving a mention. The blacks then push forward with some excellent play by Jack and Kieran proving to be strong in the middle, Stevenage counter attack with a quick break and score again 3-1 Stevenage.
Our boys still continue to keep their spirits up with Jack battling on in the middle before being subbed Jack off Harry J on.
Stevenage continuing to pressure us but the blacks defends well as a team and Joseph produces an outstanding save to deny the Tigers scoring in the top corner. The blacks finish strongly with both Harry L and Harry J combining well ending with a shot from Harry J which is saved by the Stevenage keeper. The whistle is blown!! final score 3-1 despite the score line an outstanding performance by the whole team, well done boys you should be all proud lots of team work and effort.
MAN OF THE MATCH: Jack
Team: Joseph, Lynson, Ryan, Kieran B, Thomas, Harry L, Jack Subs: Kai, Harry J, Elliott
20th September 2008
LETCHWORTH EAGLES (Orange) vs. Letchworth Eagles (Whites)
A local derby between two strong Letchworth teams sees the Whites kick off. Early pressure by Elliott and Harry J quickly win the ball for the Oranges and a pass down the left wing by Elliott sends Jordan into the channel. Good control allows Jordan to find Harry J in the centre whose shot is blocked by a defender. The ball comes out to Joe on the right and a cross-shot is well held by the keeper.
The whites are trying to play the ball out from the back and one of these is nearly intercepted by Elliott.
Both teams are trying to play football with the whites breaking quickly whenever possible and using their pace down the wings. One such break sees a good cross into the middle, and the oranges are pleased to scramble it away for a corner. The resultant corner meets a white head which fortunately sails wide.
The oranges are immediately under pressure from the goal kick and a shot from the whites is well held by Charlie, getting his body behind the ball. The game is starting to open up and Kai releases Elliott down the left who finds Jordan who shot goes just wide.
Whites immediately break and Charlie finds himself in a one on one situation. He comes out quickly to meet the attacker, getting down to his left to reduce the angle and force the attacker to shoot wide.
Kieron C-L and Kai are working well in defence, making good interceptions and marshalling the attackers wide whenever they break from the half way line. One such attack sees a good cross from the whites, but Charlie is having a very good game and makes the catch.
Kai breaks out of defence and plays a great pass down the line to Elliott whose cross into the box leads to a goal mouth scramble with Joe’s shot being well blocked by the whites defence. The oranges passing is starting to come together and nice interplay between Kai and Jordan sees Joe shoot from the right, but straight at the keeper.
Whites again break, but the ball runs through to Charlie. He decides to take a quick long-kick and finds Elliott whose volley is on target, but the keeper stands tall and takes a difficult bounce. Whites break and Kai recovers well to force the ball out for a throw. From the resultant throw the white finds space, but the shot rises up and over the bar.
The whites continue to use their pace and Charlie finds himself with an attacker bearing down on goal, but again he spreads himself and pushes the ball for a corner, which is easily cleared by Kieron C-L. The game is starting to be end to end and in the last minutes of the half both teams force corners, but to no avail. Half-time 0-0.
Oranges kick off the second half, and immediately press forward. Elliott finds Joe whose shot is well saved by the keeper. From the resultant corner there is a shot by Harry J which is well saved by the keeper. A big clearance by the keeper again finds Charlie up against the white striker and for the third time comes out and reduced the angle and forces the shot wide which is cleared out for a corner by Kai.
Good corner see the whites get a head on the ball, but again it flies wide. From the goal kick Kieron runs forward. He is well tackled but the ball breaks to Harry J who plays a lovely ball through to Jordan who turns the defender, not for the first time today, but is upended. Kai takes the free kick which is well saved by the white’s substitute keeper.
The whites break and the ball eventually finds itself in the oranges box; Charlie makes a good save. The resultant scramble in the box leads to a whites shot which Kieron C-L does well to block on the line. The ball remains in the orange’s penalty box and a sharp shot is excellently pushed around his right post by Charlie – great save!!
The corner goes nowhere and a great break by Joe finds Jordan, who turns the defender and runs into space and passes back to Joe. Only a last ditch tackle prevents the orange’s getting a shot on goal.
This game is so close I can see that only an unfortunate mistake is going to decide things – and then it comes! The whites make another quick break, which is well defended by Kai and Kieron C-L pushing the ball out for a throw. The whites take a quick one and the cross hits the middle of the penalty area and in his desperate attempt to get the ball clear the ball flies off of Joe’s boot into our net. 0-1 Very unfortunate, and particularly from a lad who had run his socks off all match.
Soon there is a substitution with an injured Harry J coming off to be replaced by Elliot W for his first match of the season.
Charlie is not only proving to be a great shot stopper, he’s using the quick clearance to turn defence into attack. One such long clearance sends Joe down the wing and a good defensive challenge is required. From the throw Joe’s cross finds Elliott whose shot is blocked for a corner. Elliot W takes the corner and hits the penalty spot. Unfortunately the resultant scramble ends with the ball in the hands of the whites keeper.
Orange’s are pressing for an equaliser and Kai finds Jordan whose interplay with Elliot W, results in a shot which unfortunately goes straight at the keeper. The whites are now relying on the counter attack and orange’s need to be careful not to concede a second in pushing for that goal to even things up.
A clearance by Kai fins Jordan, who lays it off to Elliot W. A lovely weighted pass sends Joe clear down the right and a good cross is held well by the keeper. In the final couple of minutes both teams press for the goal; a good block from Charlie preventing the second and then excellent play between Jordan and Elliot sending the oranges deep into the whites half just as the whistle blows.
Overall, an excellent game from two committed and talented teams. Excellent effort and teamwork by the oranges in any other match would have got them something out of the game, but today just wasn’t going to be their day!!
Man of the Match: Charlie
Team: Charlie, Kai, Kieron C-L, Joe, Harry J, Elliott, Jordan – Sub: Elliot W.
LETCHWORTH EAGLES (Blacks) vs. LETCHWORTH EAGLES (Yellows)
The boys step out for their derby game against the Yellows - always a strongly contested match! The day is hot and the boys are playing on the under tens’ pitch.
Blacks take the kick off and Yellows pick up the ball and take an early initiative putting Charlie under pressure immediately. Blacks retaliate with Jack making a good run up the wing; he is dispossessed and Yellows charge down the field to give Charlie another challenging collection.
Charlie’s quickly taken kick bounces out to Harry L who makes a great shot at goal which is well saved by the Yellows’ goalie.
The match is end-to-end stuff with Lynson putting in some great defensive moves working the ball well between him and Kieran B, who is playing strongly in midfield and putting making some great connecting moves.
Yellows make yet another attack and force Charlie to punch the ball out of the area; he is well supported by Ryan during a sustained attack by the Yellows who are playing well. Harry L closes down the play and wins us a throw in. Kieran B takes the throw and play pushes towards the Yellows’ area. Thomas receives the ball and he makes a nice shot in which, once again is saved by the Yellows’ goalie. The ball lands at Harry L’s feet – he shoots and the ball is punched out. Lynson wins the ball; passes over to Jack, out to Kieran B who passes to Harry L who makes another great shot! Yellows save - but the movement by the boys is excellent and they have built up a great momentum. Yellows refocus and send the ball down towards Charlie who safely gathers it up. Charlie kicks the ball out into mid-field to Jack who turns on the ball and makes a great cross straight to Harry L who hits it with a sweet right footed kick – straight into the goal – fantastic! (1-0)
Yellows regroup and come towards our goal to be met by the daunting figure of Kieran B who makes some great tackles. Harry L is tracking back and supports his team, putting the Yellows under continued pressure. Yellows are not giving up and make a quick attack forcing a save from Charlie and winning a corner ball.
The corner is taken and goes across the goal – no one connects and it runs through for another corner which this time is despatched easily by Charlie. Ryan gets the ball and makes a long ball up to Harry L who tries to get around the goalie and a crunching tackle sees the Yellows goalie taking a few moments out. Play resumes with Yellows making a quick break with a threatening cross which is intercepted by Jack. Thomas gets stuck in too and Harry L continues to battle hard. Ryan makes a good shot down the line and wins a throw in which is quickly taken.
The match is quite evenly balanced; Yellow put together some good attacks. They push into our area and Ryan and Thomas battle hard to defend. Yellows scramble for the ball, make a shot which is saved by the quick reflexes of Charlie but straight to a Yellows striker who connects well with another shot – saved off the line by Lynson who has appeared from nowhere! Fantastic!
Kieran B receives the ball and passes up to Elliot (“One T”) who has come on for Thomas. He makes a good run up the field; passes over to Jack. Yellows tackle hard and win the ball forcing Ryan to make a good tackle and kick the ball out for a corner to Yellows. Yellows take a great corner ball making a lovely shot but the Blacks defend well and push the ball out to Lynson who is having a great game. Lynson makes a good run but gets taken down by a hard tackle. The game continues and Elliot picks up the ball, passes to Harry L who passes back to Elliot, out to Jack who passes to Lynson who makes a shot going just wide but which is picked out by Eliott (who started the move!) who finishes it by deftly putting the ball into the net! (2-0). Really great connecting play by the Blacks with Elliot really involving himself!
Yellows kick off and immediately surge forward trying to catch Blacks off guard. They make a good shot which hits the side netting. Blacks are all pulled back into defence with Lynson, and Elliot putting in some great work!
The half time whistle blows and we come off for some words of wisdom from the Coach and a well earned breather!
The second half starts with Yellows taking the centre ball. This time the Blacks are quick to impose themselves on the game. Yellows get stuck in and put pressure on our lads in their area. Great play by Jack wins us a throw in, taken well by Kieran B. Harry L now playing in defence puts in some good tackles passing the ball to Lynson, who receives a tough challenge by the Yellows. Play pushes back towards the Yellows half with Lynson and Thomas working well together.
Yellows clear the ball and it comes into our goal area leading to lots of quick tackles and scrambling play – the ball rattles pin-ball like in our area and is eventually kicked out by Charlie. He gets the ball out to Jack who passes to Thomas – intercepted by Yellows who over kick and Charlie receives the ball.
Ryan now comes on for Jack as Charlie takes the goal kick. The Yellows intercept again and send the ball over the cross bar. Jacks’ dad is sent into the nettles to collect the ball and play resumes!
All parts of the team are playing well. The Coach is moving the players around and testing them in different positions on the field. Kieran B is making some good moves in mid-field getting the ball out to Elliot and Thomas who puts the goalie under real pressure; he forces a mistake from the goalie and the ball falls to Elliot – who doesn’t hesitate to put the ball in the net again! Well done! (3-0)
We attack again after the centre ball is taken and, once again, Lynson starts the initiative passing to Ryan who wins the throw in by Kieran B who again releases the ball to Thomas and onto Elliot for yet a another shot on goal!
Just when it looks like our lads can’t put a foot wrong the Yellows forge down the field and a great shot by their striker gives them a goal. (3-1). Harry L comes off and Jack comes back on in time to thwart another attack by the Yellows who are taking any opportunities as they arise. Their shot goes wide but they are quickly back in our area and make another strong attack – scoring another good goal! (3-2).
Blacks realise that they are going to have to contain the Yellows and settle down to concentrate on keeping hold of the ball. Ryan is working hard in defence and has the support of Lynson. Ryan makes a long kick and chases hard. Thomas gets the ball and shoots, showing great football skills. Ryan collects the rebounding ball but the ball falls awkwardly. Unlucky!
Yellows retaliate and forces a punched save by Charlie. He quickly takes the goal kick just after Harry L comes on to replace Kieran B who has had a great game. The Yellows goalie clears the ball and Lynson chases the ball down. The pressure continues giving the spectators an exciting match.
The final whistle is blown and we come off victorious. The boys played excellently as a Team – well done!
Man of match: Lynson
Team: Kieran B, Harry L, Jack, Thomas, Ryan, Lynson, Charlie, Elliot
13 th September 2008
LETCHWORTH EAGLES (Blacks) vs. Royston Town (B)
Centre taken by Royston they lose possession and give us a throw after three throws Kieran sets Thomas up for shot, goalie saves Royston run it up other end cross into box Lynson clears for corner. Ryan clears and Kieran takes it in midfield passes to long, goal kick to Royston Jack gets in midfield sets a shot up for Kieran who misses they do quick kick run up and put the ball wide, our goal kick.
The ball goes out for throw, then we put out for a throw they pass into midfield Royston then take a long distance shot Joseph saves and the ball goes out for a corner which Ryan clears and goes out for a throw after 2 throws we get into their box Harry passes to Kieran but they clear for throw, we pass back into the box to Harry then to Jack and Royston clear for a corner, they clear their lines, and make a quick break up field which Lynson puts out for corner, Ryan then clears but Royston gain possession and get a shot off which Joseph saves and the ball goes out for a corner, Ryan clears again and we win a throw, Royston win the ball and shoot but goes wide, goal kick.
Ryan passes to Jack who goes on a run resulting in a shot but just goes wide, goal kick which Royston put out for a throw to us then we win a corner, Royston clear their lines and break quickly but Lynson intervenes and clears the ball for a throw, from the throw they shoot and score. 1-0
Centre taken Harry crosses to Kieran he passes to Thomas who shoots, which is blocked and Eagles win a corner. The corner goes in and Harry has a shot which is saved. Royston are on the attack again and take another shot which Joseph saves. From the goal kick the ball goes out for a throw Royston win it shoot and score 2-0.
We take centre Thomas gets tackled we take quick free kick win corner which is cleared for another corner we shoot and it goes out for a goal kick we win it back in midfield Jack crosses to Harry who is tackled and we win a throw in, Royston then regain possession and shoot but the shot goes wide, half time.
We take centre they win possession run up shoot Joseph saves. Joseph kicks it up we win throw in then Royston put it out for a corner. They clear it and we win a throw Royston win the ball and are quick to get on the attack down the wing and shoot but Joseph saves, corner we clear our lines but Royston win it back and fire off a quick shot which goes wide, goal kick they win possession get into box but Joseph collects the ball, the goal kick the goes out for a throw, we win back possession they put out for throw then Royston win it back and are on the attack resulting in a goal mouth scramble and the ball gets lobbed over Joseph, goal 3 -0l.
Centre is taken which Royston clear for a throw, Thomas then gets tackled and wins us a free kick and is quickly taken but is put out for another throw after 3 throws we get dispossessed and Royston shoot wide, goal kick.
Royston then win a throw we dispossess them and Jack runs in on goal and shoots but the shot is saved, goal kick. We win it back and Ryan passes to Lynson who runs up the wing they tackle and give us a corner, Ryan passes to Jack he strikes, misses comes back out to Thomas he passes to Harry who strikes in back of net 3 - 1.
Centre taken put out for throw to Royston Jack dispossesses takes the ball into box gets tackled and wins a corner they clear quickly and are on the counter they score 4- 1.
Centre taken they dispossess us and fire off a quick shot which is saved by Joseph and goes out for a corner, we clear it they win it back, have a shot but miss, goal kick they put out for throw, they win back possession run up shoot, score 5 - 1.
Centre taken Royston win it back and are quickly on the attack, shoot, score 6 - 1. Centre taken whistle blows full time .
Man of Match – Harry L
Team: Joseph C, Lynson D, Ryan B, Jack D, Kieran B (CAP), Thomas B, Harry L (1)
LETCHWORTH EAGLES ( Oranges) vs. Royston Town (Whites)
Royston kick-off and are immediately on the attack on our left hand-side but Kieron C-L breaks this down near our area and the ball works its way out to Joe on our right who makes his first run of many down the wing. Royston stop the attack, and come back at us down our right with a very quick breakaway, but excellent tracking back by Joe puts pressure on the skilful Royston left-winger and the ball goes for a corner.
2 Royston corners follow, but both are well cleared by Kai, the 2 nd with a good pass out to Joe who again makes a quick counter-attack that eventually leads to an Eagles corner. This corner is fairly easily cleared, but the 2 nd one by Joe causes problems for Royston and they panic in their area, but the ball just doesn’t drop nicely to an Eagles player and the danger is cleared. The 1 st five minutes is real end-to-end stuff.
The next part of the game has more time in the midfield, Harry and Elliott getting more involved now and we begin to link together well throughout the team. The boys are making sure that Royston aren’t using their 1 st half of advantage of going down hill and Charlie has little to do until 2 long shots come in, in quick succession, from the Royston right midfielder, which he deals with very confidently.
We have another 2 breakaway’s on our right, yet again thanks to Joe who’s having a brilliant first half, but we just can’t get Jordan involved up front, despite his efforts, having to take on 2 big defenders.
As we lead up to half-time the boys come under quite a bit of pressure from Royston and Kai and Charlie help keep a 1 st half clean sheet, Kai with some excellent tackles and clearances and Charlie with some calm shot-stopping. With one clearance Kai finds Harry in a bit of space and Jordan is nearly through, but again some strong Royston defending stops our attack. In the build-up play Harry gets the ball in his face and Jack has to come on for Harry who leaves the field with a bloody nose. Royston finish the half with 2 more long shots, the 2 nd one dealt with brilliantly by Charlie with a strong 2-handed punch which releases Joe for a final run at the Royston defence, but the half-time whistle blows before we can get in on goal.
An excellent half by the boys.
With the downhill advantage, the boys would be hoping for the great first half to be built on, but somehow it doesn’t seem to happen. The Royston numbers 7 & 10 in particular, start to take control of the game.
We find it difficult to get out of our half, but at the same time Kieron C-L and Kai are defending well to ensure Charlie doesn’t have much to deal with in the early part of the half apart from some long shots (which he does as calmly as usual). Elliott is also now more involved on our left and Joe is now spending more time defending on our right. Although we are under pressure we’re coping well, until from almost nothing Royston score. They take a quick throw-in on our right which finds space for the Royston attacker to run onto and a quality finish leaves with Charlie with no chance at all. We change things around to try and get back into the game and so Harry bravely comes back on again to take Jordan’s place up front.
With a few minutes left we start to come back into the game with a bit more pressure at the Royston end with Jack getting more involved in midfield and Joe having a good shot from our right. As we near the end of the game though Royston put us under more pressure and Kai and Charlie are again called into action quite a few times. Joe also helps out with great last ditch tackle in our box after Charlie had done really well to palm away a strong Royston cross-shot. In the last minute the Royston number 7 is through on goal, Charlie comes out to narrow the angle and does really well to block a very powerful shot. The game is stopped with Charlie on the floor, as well as Kieron C-L, who has also been hurt in the build up.
It’s the last piece of major action in the game and a good Royston side end up winning by that 2 nd half goal. Some excellent play by our boys, who I thought deserved a draw just from their pure effort alone.
Man of the Match: Kai
Team: Charlie, Kai, Kieron C-L, Joe, Harry, Elliott, Jordan – Sub: Jack.
6 TH SEPTEMBER 2008
LETCHWORTH EAGLES (Blacks) vs. KNEBWORTH CHEETAHS (Blacks)
The boys step out for their first game of the season against stiff opposition.
The game kicks off with good positive play from both teams; Thomas makes some great tackles to prevent the Cheetahs from swarming towards our goal. An early attack forces a good save by Joseph and settles him into the game.
Knebworth continue the pressure with a couple of dangerous balls going across our area and we are fortunate that there was no one to finish the movement. The boys regroup and start moving the ball around the pitch passing well.
Kai is, as ever, a strong influence on the field covering the pitch well and making some fine tackles to close down the opposition. There is some great play between Jack and Kieran who between them manage to move the play towards the Cheetahs goal. Kieran makes a number of good headers maximising the Eagles chances from some well won throw ins.
The play is now focussed in the Cheetahs area and the boys construct a great move originating from a great long ball from Kai to Jack, who finds Jordan, who just misses the mark! Unlucky! Our lads win the corner, well taken by Ryan who picks out Jack, standing in front of the goal, he shoots and it clatters against the cross bar!
The boys are really into the match and seem to be having the best of the flow of play; Knebworth are not making it easy and a number of times manage to shake off their markers and draw the ball back towards the Eagles goal. At times the Knebworth attack seems to swamp our defence although Kai works hard to cut out their attack and again finds Thomas and Jack, making a good break.
Jordan is working hard up front, finds Jack with a great pass who feeds the ball to Thomas whose shot runs just wide of their goal!
Knebworth attack and are met by Kai who makes another solid tackle. Knebworth pick through the defence and shoot, forcing a good save by Joseph who quickly kicks the ball into the Knebworth half. A lightening quick break by Knebworth catches us unawares and, despite the good work so far, Knebworth go around our defence and score with a well hit shot in the top left hand corner of the goal. (1-0)
Play continues and we attack straight away with Thomas feeding the ball to Jack who passes to Jordan who has to chase hard and forces Knebworth to concede a corner kick. Kai takes the corner with a deftly struck shot; the ball runs across the face of an unprotected goal – but none of our boys is there to make the final touch! The final part of the first half is marked by Jordan working hard trying to break the oppositions defence! The half time whistle is blown and we break, 1-0 down.
Knebworth start the second half with an immediate attack on our goal. We retaliate and Jordan attempts to equalise with a good strike at goal. The Knebworth goalie makes a good save – unlucky! We win the corner and Thomas makes a left footed strike which runs just wide of the goal! Thomas continues to cover the pitch well and is working very hard to push the ball forward and up towards Jordan.
Ryan is having a strong game in defence making some really good moves to keep the attacks at bay. Knebworth keep up the pressure and Kai puts the ball out for a corner. Knebworth do not capitalise on the opportunity and the ball comes to Jordan who takes another shot – again saved. Jordan has picked up an injury and is substituted by Harry who wins a corner. The corner is taken well but, again there is no one to put the ball in the net!
The team are working well together and the quality of football is good. We seem unable to exploit the strengths of our team to find that all important goal, but the boys are working hard and focussing on the job in hand!
Harry is able to feed some good passes or corners to Thomas who is able to get in a couple more shots (again with the left foot!). Another corner taken by Harry goes towards Jack but the ball runs past and is intercepted by Knebworth who make a break and, against the run of play, score a second goal.
Time is running out and our boys are working really hard! Kieran is substituted by Elliott who comes on to involve himself in the closing moments of the match helping close down another attack and, as Jack makes a great tackle, the final whistle is blown!
This was a really good game of football with Eagles a bit unlucky not to have a better result. Knebworth were able to exploit a couple of lapses in concentration and take their chances when they came.
Team: Jack, Ryan, Thomas, Kieran B (C), Joseph, Kai, Jordan. Subs: Harry, Elliott
Man of match: Thomas
LETCHWORTH EAGLES ( Oranges) vs. KNEBWORTH CHEETAHS (Yellows)
The second game kicks off under the threat of an imminent downpour looming! Within seconds Knebworth attack and catch the boys completely unawares and immediately score (1-0). The lads can’t quite believe it but take the ball to the centre spot to restart. Knebworth make another quick attack and, thankfully, Charlie responds with a fabulous save and keeps the ball out of the net.
The boys regroup and seem to realise that they are going to have to work hard to close down an extremely dangerous opposition! The game continues and Eagles try to close down the fast paced and flowing football being played by Knebworth. They are extremely fast and not afraid to take any opportunity that presents itself!
Eagles go through a few minutes of panicky and unsettled play and try to get themselves back in the flow of play. There is some good defending play by Joe who releases the ball to Kai and up to Harry, who is closed down by some excellent defending by Knebworth.
Knebworth attack and there are three Knebworth players effectively unmarked who storm towards our goal and force another excellent save by Charlie.
Kieron C-L is playing solidly know but takes a knock from an ill-timed tackle. Joe goes on the attack and passes to Harry who forces a save by the Knebworth Goalie. The difficulties are making the boys think about their passes and Harry was even forced into calling for the ball on a number of occasions! Paul and Robbie’s lectures may be paying off at last!
Ryan, playing in defence, is working hard and trying to close down the Knebworth players as they come forward. Kai continues to show a high work rate but Knebworth are really dominating the match.
The play continues but the Eagles are struggling and are tentative in their movement. Charlie produces another good save and Elliott manages to clear the ball from the line saving another shot!
Thomas comes on for Ryan and Elliott goes into defence in time to resist another attack by Knebworth. Harry is trying to pick his way through the Knebworth attack with a skilful display of dribbling. Eagles are still struggling to get going and there is relief when the half time whistle goes.
The second half starts with a strong attack by Knebworth, hoping to repeat their first half move. The attack is stopped by Elliott. Joe closes down the play and Charlie takes the goal kick.
Eagles put a good attack together and shoot! The Goalie saves but there is some more impetus now. Kieron C-L makes some good runs up field and then has to make a quick retreat as once again Knebworth attack. He gets the ball to Harry but, despite being quickly surrounded by three Knebworth Players he manages to win a corner. Harry takes the corner but, again, the ball runs through.
Knebworth pick up the play and make a lightening quick break finishing off with an unstoppable shot into the back of the net! (2-0)
Ryan and Jack come on substituting for Elliott and Joe and whilst we settle into the new formation Knebworth capitalise and score again! (3-0)
Ryan makes some good blocking tackles and the boys hang on as the final whistle is blown.
A difficult game to start the season, not helped by a slightly lack lustre performance. Back to the training ground!
Team: Charlie, Ryan, Kieron C-L, Harry, Kai (C), Joe, Elliott Subs: Jack, Thomas
Man of match: Charlie