GFA U12 CUP - Frampton Rangers 2 - 7 Foxes U12s

The first ever Foxes' game in the Gloucester FA Cup was played in driving rain and freezing temperatures. On a Sunday. We were drawn against Frampton Rangers, an Avon Youth League side, and we were delighted to give U12 debuts to Archie and Seb.

Frampton were clearly a well-drilled, counter attacking team with real pace and capable of scoring goals. They started the brighter and for the first five minutes the Foxes looked slightly over-awed. However, we gradually started winning tackles, making passes and creating pressure. Suddenly, Danny, from a throw by Sonny, wriggled past two defenders and slotted the ball into the net. Next up, a cross from Anna was headed in by Sonny, then Danny again from distance before Max was on hand to finish after the Frampton keeper spilled the wet ball. 4-0.

Too good to be true? Well, a bit. Frampton had been caught off-side on a couple of occasions and finally sprung our defence for their striker to take his goal well. The game could have turned here, but more pressure put us 5-1 up through an own goal. Right at the end of the half Frampton grabbed a second as we failed to clear the ball. 5-2 at half time.

The squad huddled in the rain as we talked about keeping it tight for the second half and that's just what we did, until the last 10 minutes when everyone got a bit excited and wanted to score....nevertheless goals by Danny (his second hatrick of the weekend) and a cool penalty by Captain Lawes left us a worth winners, 7-2.

Overall the coaches were delighted with the effort. It was impressive that we able to field a team on a Sunday when everyone has so many other commitments but even more pleasing was the teamwork and control that the Foxes showed. With only one substitute we kept going for the full hour and were the stronger team at the end. Great performances all round - Alec outstanding at right back, Sam P slotting in at centre back, Anna on the right and Max and Sonny upfront. It was great to have Watts and Vickerman along and despite the efforts of Ollie K, Sam L, Jack C and Nick man-of-the-match had to go to Danny for a strong display and plenty of goals.

Well done all.