In a re-arranged fixture, the Downs saw 18 little Foxes take on 9 players from Ashley Down, and struggle. Was it the windy conditions? Was it a hangover after the euphoria of last week's goal-fest? Was it a basic error by their coach - agreeing to games of 9 a-side so that everyone could play without subs? Whatever the cause, the fixture got off to a bad start.
In a sometimes quite rough game, the first Foxes team came unstuck. The Foxes tried their hardest to play skillful, passing football, but were constantly surrounded by a herd of opposition players who followed wherever the ball led. With no space and no time, the result was not pretty. Several times the Foxes were through on goal only to shoot straight at the keeper, who did well to save all that was thrown at him. By contrast, lapses in concentration left Ashley Down players unmarked in very forward positions, with predictable consequences. Despite having 6 or 7 excellent chances to score, we lost 0-5. Not a fair reflection of the match and all the hard work put in by everyone, but a lesson to be learnt.
Team - Brody, William LP, Toby, Eddie, Teya, Jago, TJ, Jack, Joseph
Having seen the opposition's game plan in action, the second Foxes team came out better prepared and raring to go. In another fiercely contested match, the Foxes held the upper hand throughout. Again crowding round the ball by the opposition made it very difficult to find any space to pass. But after prolonged pressure the Foxes scored. Felix took a well-earned corner and Harrison, having timed his run to perfection, smashed the ball into the net. We were ahead 1-0. More chances followed but as none were put away, we were always vulnerable. Despite some superb defence, especially by our newcomer, Billy, we conceded an equaliser late in the second half. The final score of 1-1 was probably a generous result for Ashley Down.
Team - Caleb, Josh, Sam, Matthew, Henry, Harrison, Stanley, Felix, Billy
Goal Scorer - Harrison
Overall, everyone tried really hard to play exciting, passing football but there were just too many players on the pitch (I still blame the coach!). We'll know better next time.
Man of the Match - Billy
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