Y2 v Clifton United (A)

After a long journey to Abbot's Leigh (our furthest away fixture), the Foxes took on Clifton United at their ground. We played two eight-a-side games each of 24 minutes.

In the first game, it quickly became clear that United had some good players - the reverse game earlier in the season had been cancelled, so there was an 'unknown' factor. It was clear that the Foxes were a little in awe of some of their opponents - the fact that the tackling was not as strong as usual was a sure sign. Despite that, our defenders had a fine game, especially Tom with some perfectly timed interceptions in his cool collected manner. When the United attackers did get through, Frazer was perfectly placed to deal with any trouble. In attack, Foxes were relying on Kieron bursting through, supported by Leo and Jess.

In the second half, Jamie started to dominate the midfield. About half way through the half, after a spell of Foxes pressure, the ball broke to William who fired in from a tight angle. Keeping the lead was no problem for the Foxes, with some tigerish tackles by Ewan and Sam, and they held out for a 1-0 victory.

In the second game (against the same opponents), United started with their strongest eight and were causing the Foxes's defenders problems with some intelligent running and great distribution. It was soon clear that Ben and Xabi were in for a busy morning. A half chance to Acer after a run down the right - but then United took the lead. A powerful long range shot deflected cruelly off a Foxes defender leaving Alex in goal wrong footed. Foxes were soon level though. Xabi's clever through ball from near the half way line to Samuel eluded a defender, and under pressure, the goalkeeper and ended up in the net. Not quite as good as Beckham's all those years ago, but a close second.

In the second half, United pushed players forward and twice the Foxes defence were left like statues as United broke clear. Both times it was Alex to the rescue with two great blocking saves - his timing in closing the angle on the attacker was fantastic. And then Foxes took the lead. After advancing down the left, Acer spotted a gap between the defenders in a busy penalty area, and the ball was in the back of the net. Then it was three as Acer again found space in the area following good work by the midfield of William and Xabi. The Foxes were now in control, and could have scored several times before Samuel got on the scoresheet with a lovely finish, and then breaking (uphill) from the halfway line he despatched the ball with aplomb into the back of the net past the advancing goalkeeper. The gane ended 5-1.

And so a successful morning and some jubilent young Foxes. Once they had gathered some confidence and ceased being in awe of their opponents, they worked out how to play the game. Well done Foxes!