Another good performance by the Foxes at the second Tournament of the year and for the second week running we came close to winning the whole thing.
We took two evenly-matched squads both of which played good football and proved hard to beat. One squad (Harry, Aidan, Owen, Sam L, Oli S, Raul, Alec and Max) ended up losing in the quarter finals on penalties of the consolation plate after playing their best game of the day but just failing to turn their possession in to a goal.
The other squad (Harri, Sam P, Jack T, Archie, Danny, Omar, Jacob and Ollie C) finished second in their group, won a quarter final and then lost on sudden death penalties in the semi.
All of the boys played really well and yet again we more than held our own against a range of teams, most of whom play regular, competitive league football.
Thanks again to all of the parents for the fantastic support.
Roll on St Nicks....
Tuesday, 24 May 2011
Friday, 20 May 2011
Year 5s at the Clifton Tournament, 15th May
For the second year running we were beaten finalists, losing on the rather bizarre 3 a-side slow death torture that the organisers prefer to penalties, but that really doesn't tell the whole story.
The boys were magnificent and although we didn't come away as Champions we were the best U10s team at the event and the whole squad should be immensely proud of themselves.
5 group games. 5 wins. These included Ashton Boys (a Hanham Minor League side and thus used to playing a decent level of competitive football) and Jamie Shore Academy (a commercial outfit who select players from across Bristol).
Our squad all performed to their potential with all players making contributions, supporting each other and all patiently (in the most part...) waiting for their turn to play. Our ability to rest players across a long afternoon and still field equally strong sides for each game was key to our overall performance and the strong showing in the semi and the final . The coaches hope that the players who didn't get on in the final are fully aware of their contribution. We were delighted by everyone's attitude on a cold, blowy day and would like to thank them all.
That the goals were shared round (Danny and Joey against Ashton Boys, Raul and Ian against Ashley Down, Sonny against Sefton Park, Joey against Jamie Shore and finally Jack, Nick and Joey against Clifton) indicates the efforts of the whole team. At the back Seb, Ollie K, Owen and Ian took it in turns to shut out the opposition, leaving the excellent Archie to make only a few, but often crucial, saves. In seven games we concede only one goal in 'normal time'. Exceptional.
In the final we played Jamie Shore again having beaten Golden Hill Sonics in our semi with Joey, Archie and Sam starring in the extra time victory.
To say that we were in control throughout the final is not over doing it and, as with last year when Danny hit the woodwork, Seb could have won it for us in the second half when his long range shot hit the bar, bounced down and on to, but sadly not over, the line. Extra time saw us take a 1-0 lead in the dreaded three a-side finale. Jamie Shore nicked an equaliser and took it to golden goals. Chaos, confusion and a penalty decided the game and left many of the boys in tears.
Thanks to all of the players and to parents for the fantastic support throughout. The Year 5's did themselves and the club proud.
The boys were magnificent and although we didn't come away as Champions we were the best U10s team at the event and the whole squad should be immensely proud of themselves.
5 group games. 5 wins. These included Ashton Boys (a Hanham Minor League side and thus used to playing a decent level of competitive football) and Jamie Shore Academy (a commercial outfit who select players from across Bristol).
Our squad all performed to their potential with all players making contributions, supporting each other and all patiently (in the most part...) waiting for their turn to play. Our ability to rest players across a long afternoon and still field equally strong sides for each game was key to our overall performance and the strong showing in the semi and the final . The coaches hope that the players who didn't get on in the final are fully aware of their contribution. We were delighted by everyone's attitude on a cold, blowy day and would like to thank them all.
That the goals were shared round (Danny and Joey against Ashton Boys, Raul and Ian against Ashley Down, Sonny against Sefton Park, Joey against Jamie Shore and finally Jack, Nick and Joey against Clifton) indicates the efforts of the whole team. At the back Seb, Ollie K, Owen and Ian took it in turns to shut out the opposition, leaving the excellent Archie to make only a few, but often crucial, saves. In seven games we concede only one goal in 'normal time'. Exceptional.
In the final we played Jamie Shore again having beaten Golden Hill Sonics in our semi with Joey, Archie and Sam starring in the extra time victory.
To say that we were in control throughout the final is not over doing it and, as with last year when Danny hit the woodwork, Seb could have won it for us in the second half when his long range shot hit the bar, bounced down and on to, but sadly not over, the line. Extra time saw us take a 1-0 lead in the dreaded three a-side finale. Jamie Shore nicked an equaliser and took it to golden goals. Chaos, confusion and a penalty decided the game and left many of the boys in tears.
Thanks to all of the players and to parents for the fantastic support throughout. The Year 5's did themselves and the club proud.
Year 5 v Ashley Down
Last game of the league season and another good sets of results.
The Foxes split into two equal squads, Ashley Down into an 'A' and 'B'. Four games and four wins to the Foxes was a good set of results. Both Foxes' squads beat the 'A' team 1-0, Jack C scoring wonder goal in one game. The other games were a bit more one sided but across the whole morning we played good football, worked hard for each other and took our chances.
Well done to all and now for the Tournaments.
The Foxes split into two equal squads, Ashley Down into an 'A' and 'B'. Four games and four wins to the Foxes was a good set of results. Both Foxes' squads beat the 'A' team 1-0, Jack C scoring wonder goal in one game. The other games were a bit more one sided but across the whole morning we played good football, worked hard for each other and took our chances.
Well done to all and now for the Tournaments.
Wednesday, 18 May 2011
Pyrrhic Victory costs Y4 Foxes the Clifton Tournament 15th May
The Clifton United 7-a-side Tournament was the first fully competitive tournament that the Y4 Foxes had ever played. In a tough competition attracting some of the very best local teams, we began in a league with 4 other teams. It was a voyage into the unknown. But in an afternoon filled with drama, tension and not a little controversy, they covered themselves in glory and left everyone who saw their football bursting with pride.
Tournament Squad: Josh, Harrison, Jack, Stanley, Tee-Jay, Henry, Rohan (goalie), Joseph, Matthew, Ludo
We set up for the tournament with Rohan in goal, Jack as sweeper, Matthew and Henry sharing the mid-field defensive responsibilities, Tee-Jay, Ludo and Josh sharing midfield “generalissimo” roles, and Stanley, Joseph and Harrison providing our rapid strike force. All were to play their roles in a brilliant afternoon of excellent football.
League Match 1 – Shire Colts
A baptism of fire against one of the best. On a sloping pitch we attacked from the off but despite our best efforts went one down to a well-organised Shire Colts team that passed the ball well. However, it wasn’t long before we drew level as Stanley showed his superb skills, latching on to a long goal kick from Jack to rattle the back of the net. Joseph gave us a second and a well-deserved victory. It was great to see the Foxes settle into their passing game and, with Ludo leading by example, come back after going a goal down.
Result: Foxes 2: Shire Colts 1
League Match 2 – Stoke Lane B
As runners-up in the top division of the Hanham Minor League, Stoke Lane started as one of the tournament favourites. It was going to be another tough match. Chances were few for both sides. Rohan kept goal superbly and Jack and Tee-Jay kept the Stoke Lane attack at bay. An illegal back pass by their defence should have given us a free kick on the edge of the box, but confusion over the rules (which took several lengthy conversations after the match to sort out) resulted in the ball being placed in the wrong spot and our long shot went wide. Harrison came closest after some superb midfield teamwork, but it was not to be. We shaded the performance but could not turn superior play into goals.
Result: Foxes 0: Shire Colts 0
League Match 3 – Clifton United Green
Clifton took to the field with their goal-stopping keeper, Charlie, in place. We knew we had to win to have any chance of progressing and the Foxes did not disappoint. A fine drive from Harrison went through the keeper’s hands and we were ahead. Matthew in defence was never really troubled and Josh, Henry and Tee-Jay dominated the midfield. Goals from Joseph, Harrison (twice) and Tee-Jay ensured a fine victory, despite Clifton scoring a consolation goal when their keeper did emerge from goal in the second half. A fine result and an excellent performance that drew compliments from the opposition coaches.
Result: Foxes 5: Clifton United Green 1
League Match 4 – Golden Hill Sonics
We went into the final group match within touching distance of qualification for the knock-out stages. But only a win would guarantee our place. From the whistle we were dominant, wining the ball from the Sonics and passing through the team for Joseph to score straight away. Joseph then added to his total and was joined on the score sheet by Tee-Jay and Josh in a very one-sided match.
Result: Foxes 4: Golden Hill Sonics 0
Semi-Final – Stoke Lane A
Without a break we headed into a semi-final. As winners of our group we were drawn against the runners-up of the other group. Having played on game fewer (one of their group had pulled out) and well rested before the match, they came out all guns blazing. The Foxes were fearsome. Every player ran their heart out. Ludo and Tee-Jay pulled the strings in mid-field, Jack and Henry barricaded our defence, Rohan guarded goal and Harrison and Stanley terrorised on the attack. Soon the pressure paid and Harrison scored the first goal. We kept the pressure up but in the second half limbs started to flag and Stoke Lane eventually equalised.
The match then went into a nail-biting, and ultimately controversial 3 v 3 extra time play-off. No one, including the poor ref, really knew how this was supposed to be played, but after some superb defending by Ludo and a brilliant tackle by Stanley, Harrison was sent through. Free from any defenders, he sprinted half the length of the pitch to run the ball in. We all thought that was it and we had won. Stoke Lane complained that they had a player down and that the ref should have stopped the game. After several minutes, and a few stiff words, it was decided that we had to play on, but that the goal would stand.
Stanley had injured himself in the tackle and left for the first aid tent. Joseph came on. Brilliant, dogged defence, including a goal line clearance from Harrison kept Stoke Lane out. It was only when Joseph took a long shot, which Harrison sprinted onto to tap in, that the final whistle blew. Exhausted bodies celebrated a wonderful win.
Result: Foxes 3: Stoke Lane A 1
Final – Rockleaze Rangers
Yet again we were given no time to recover and this time it cost us dearly. Again we were up against a side that had played one game less and had had long recovery periods. Stanley was off injured; Harrison left after a minute, barely able to walk, and Ludo and Joseph played on but were clearly “out of gas”. Despite a magnificent effort from Rohan, Jack, Matthew, Henry and Tee-Jay we just did not have enough left to really challenge Rockleaze. They played well and deserved their first goal. However, the second came after a player appeared to kick the ball out of Rohan’s hands. The ref let it stand and we accepted his decision.
Result: Foxes 0: Rockleaze Rangers 2
On reflection, the semi-final turned out to be a Pyrrhic victory. The physical and emotional toll on our players put paid to any real chance of winning. Combined with having played more games, the last 3 of which were back-to-back, our chances of competing in the final on an even footing were minimal.
However, the Y4 Foxes were truly magnificent today. Every single one of them gave everything they had for the team. The goalkeeping was brilliant; the defence commanding and stubborn; the midfield majestic and full of sublime skills, and the attack was the deadliest in the tournament. The Foxes scored more goals than anyone else (by some way!) and had the best goal difference of all the teams. We finished runners-up in name only.
For a school-based team, founded on inclusion, today was a day when we should all be very proud of the Foxes. They played with grace, with passion, and with breath-taking skill. Always sporting, they were in many eyes, the best team of all. Congratulations!
Tournament Squad: Josh, Harrison, Jack, Stanley, Tee-Jay, Henry, Rohan (goalie), Joseph, Matthew, Ludo
We set up for the tournament with Rohan in goal, Jack as sweeper, Matthew and Henry sharing the mid-field defensive responsibilities, Tee-Jay, Ludo and Josh sharing midfield “generalissimo” roles, and Stanley, Joseph and Harrison providing our rapid strike force. All were to play their roles in a brilliant afternoon of excellent football.
League Match 1 – Shire Colts
A baptism of fire against one of the best. On a sloping pitch we attacked from the off but despite our best efforts went one down to a well-organised Shire Colts team that passed the ball well. However, it wasn’t long before we drew level as Stanley showed his superb skills, latching on to a long goal kick from Jack to rattle the back of the net. Joseph gave us a second and a well-deserved victory. It was great to see the Foxes settle into their passing game and, with Ludo leading by example, come back after going a goal down.
Result: Foxes 2: Shire Colts 1
League Match 2 – Stoke Lane B
As runners-up in the top division of the Hanham Minor League, Stoke Lane started as one of the tournament favourites. It was going to be another tough match. Chances were few for both sides. Rohan kept goal superbly and Jack and Tee-Jay kept the Stoke Lane attack at bay. An illegal back pass by their defence should have given us a free kick on the edge of the box, but confusion over the rules (which took several lengthy conversations after the match to sort out) resulted in the ball being placed in the wrong spot and our long shot went wide. Harrison came closest after some superb midfield teamwork, but it was not to be. We shaded the performance but could not turn superior play into goals.
Result: Foxes 0: Shire Colts 0
League Match 3 – Clifton United Green
Clifton took to the field with their goal-stopping keeper, Charlie, in place. We knew we had to win to have any chance of progressing and the Foxes did not disappoint. A fine drive from Harrison went through the keeper’s hands and we were ahead. Matthew in defence was never really troubled and Josh, Henry and Tee-Jay dominated the midfield. Goals from Joseph, Harrison (twice) and Tee-Jay ensured a fine victory, despite Clifton scoring a consolation goal when their keeper did emerge from goal in the second half. A fine result and an excellent performance that drew compliments from the opposition coaches.
Result: Foxes 5: Clifton United Green 1
League Match 4 – Golden Hill Sonics
We went into the final group match within touching distance of qualification for the knock-out stages. But only a win would guarantee our place. From the whistle we were dominant, wining the ball from the Sonics and passing through the team for Joseph to score straight away. Joseph then added to his total and was joined on the score sheet by Tee-Jay and Josh in a very one-sided match.
Result: Foxes 4: Golden Hill Sonics 0
Semi-Final – Stoke Lane A
Without a break we headed into a semi-final. As winners of our group we were drawn against the runners-up of the other group. Having played on game fewer (one of their group had pulled out) and well rested before the match, they came out all guns blazing. The Foxes were fearsome. Every player ran their heart out. Ludo and Tee-Jay pulled the strings in mid-field, Jack and Henry barricaded our defence, Rohan guarded goal and Harrison and Stanley terrorised on the attack. Soon the pressure paid and Harrison scored the first goal. We kept the pressure up but in the second half limbs started to flag and Stoke Lane eventually equalised.
The match then went into a nail-biting, and ultimately controversial 3 v 3 extra time play-off. No one, including the poor ref, really knew how this was supposed to be played, but after some superb defending by Ludo and a brilliant tackle by Stanley, Harrison was sent through. Free from any defenders, he sprinted half the length of the pitch to run the ball in. We all thought that was it and we had won. Stoke Lane complained that they had a player down and that the ref should have stopped the game. After several minutes, and a few stiff words, it was decided that we had to play on, but that the goal would stand.
Stanley had injured himself in the tackle and left for the first aid tent. Joseph came on. Brilliant, dogged defence, including a goal line clearance from Harrison kept Stoke Lane out. It was only when Joseph took a long shot, which Harrison sprinted onto to tap in, that the final whistle blew. Exhausted bodies celebrated a wonderful win.
Result: Foxes 3: Stoke Lane A 1
Final – Rockleaze Rangers
Yet again we were given no time to recover and this time it cost us dearly. Again we were up against a side that had played one game less and had had long recovery periods. Stanley was off injured; Harrison left after a minute, barely able to walk, and Ludo and Joseph played on but were clearly “out of gas”. Despite a magnificent effort from Rohan, Jack, Matthew, Henry and Tee-Jay we just did not have enough left to really challenge Rockleaze. They played well and deserved their first goal. However, the second came after a player appeared to kick the ball out of Rohan’s hands. The ref let it stand and we accepted his decision.
Result: Foxes 0: Rockleaze Rangers 2
On reflection, the semi-final turned out to be a Pyrrhic victory. The physical and emotional toll on our players put paid to any real chance of winning. Combined with having played more games, the last 3 of which were back-to-back, our chances of competing in the final on an even footing were minimal.
However, the Y4 Foxes were truly magnificent today. Every single one of them gave everything they had for the team. The goalkeeping was brilliant; the defence commanding and stubborn; the midfield majestic and full of sublime skills, and the attack was the deadliest in the tournament. The Foxes scored more goals than anyone else (by some way!) and had the best goal difference of all the teams. We finished runners-up in name only.
For a school-based team, founded on inclusion, today was a day when we should all be very proud of the Foxes. They played with grace, with passion, and with breath-taking skill. Always sporting, they were in many eyes, the best team of all. Congratulations!
Y4 Foxes have another Golden Day against the Sonics 26 March
18 eager Foxes turned up for a late kick-off away at Golden Hill Sonics. We split into two even squads to play 2 matches each against a club with some outstanding players that has given us some tough matches in the past.
Green Squad: Billy, Brody, Eddie, Henry, Isaac, Josh, Sam, William LP, William W.
Match 1
The Foxes started slowly, gong behind from the first Sonics attack, due to some poor concentration. However, the boys soon got themselves in gear. The result was our signature fast flowing football using the small pitch to our advantage. Three goals followed. Josh struck first, taking his chance after a quick throw. Henry produced some lovely work on the right before Sam finished for our second. The third was a contender for goal of the season. Eddie moved into attack in the second half and produced a Thunderbolt that rocketed into the back of the net.
Result: Foxes 3: GH Sonics 1
Match 2
Again a lapse in concentration at the start cost us dearly as Sonics struck first. Once they switched on the Foxes produced a commanding performance, solid in defence and totally in control in midfield. The goals flowed. Henry started the rout with a well-taken individual effort. Josh gave us the lead after a lovely pass from Sam. Josh returned the favour minutes later, with another lovely pass for Sam to score. Josh added our fourth with a trademark tap-in after William LP’s shot was deflected. William’s efforts were then rewarded when a cracking shot gave us our fifth. 6 minutes in extra time (!) Sonics got a late consolation from a wonderful free kick.
Result: Foxes 5: GH Sonics 2
White Squad: Caleb, Ewan, Harrison, Jack, Joseph, Matthew Y, Oskar, Rohan, Tee-Jay.
Match 1
The Foxes were evenly matched to begin with. And although we made some good chances the Sonics kept us at bay. The breakthrough came when Joseph pressed the opposition hard and the ball fell to Ewan who produced a lovely strike for the first goal. Fantastic keeping from Rohan, including a spectacular save kept us ahead. Tee-Jay played superbly all afternoon, his slide tackles timed to perfection. But it wasn’t just a defensive display. Tee-Jay came close after spinning onto a shot but the second goal would not come. Joseph crossed to Harrison but his shot went just wide. Eventually the pressure and passing play paid off. Joseph latched on to a poor clearance from the Sonics to close out the match.
Result: Foxes 2: GH Sonics 0
Match 2
Keen to take an unbeaten record from the fixture, the Foxes again started well. Tee-Jay won the ball on the right of midfield and delivered a far post cross for Harrison to tap in. The Sonics then produced some great individual play as their best player almost dribbled through the entire team. But our defence of Jack, Caleb, Matthew and Oskar were a match for him. We were warned. Matthew was tasked to mark him man-for-man and did a superb job, nullifying the threat. Tee-Jay added a second after Joseph delivered from Harrison’s quick throw-in. Although Sonics pulled on back, Harrison put the game out of reach when he took a corner on the far left that sailed directly into the net. A great team effort.
Result: Foxes 3: GH Sonics 1
Overall the morning produced some of the best football the Foxes have played. Great team work and lovely football. Everyone played really well as we dominated a very good Sonics side and came away with 4 wins from 4. Brilliant – well done!
Men of the matches: Tee-Jay, Joseph and Henry.
Uncle Cols’ Top Tip: we MUST concentrate in the first 2 mins!!
Green Squad: Billy, Brody, Eddie, Henry, Isaac, Josh, Sam, William LP, William W.
Match 1
The Foxes started slowly, gong behind from the first Sonics attack, due to some poor concentration. However, the boys soon got themselves in gear. The result was our signature fast flowing football using the small pitch to our advantage. Three goals followed. Josh struck first, taking his chance after a quick throw. Henry produced some lovely work on the right before Sam finished for our second. The third was a contender for goal of the season. Eddie moved into attack in the second half and produced a Thunderbolt that rocketed into the back of the net.
Result: Foxes 3: GH Sonics 1
Match 2
Again a lapse in concentration at the start cost us dearly as Sonics struck first. Once they switched on the Foxes produced a commanding performance, solid in defence and totally in control in midfield. The goals flowed. Henry started the rout with a well-taken individual effort. Josh gave us the lead after a lovely pass from Sam. Josh returned the favour minutes later, with another lovely pass for Sam to score. Josh added our fourth with a trademark tap-in after William LP’s shot was deflected. William’s efforts were then rewarded when a cracking shot gave us our fifth. 6 minutes in extra time (!) Sonics got a late consolation from a wonderful free kick.
Result: Foxes 5: GH Sonics 2
White Squad: Caleb, Ewan, Harrison, Jack, Joseph, Matthew Y, Oskar, Rohan, Tee-Jay.
Match 1
The Foxes were evenly matched to begin with. And although we made some good chances the Sonics kept us at bay. The breakthrough came when Joseph pressed the opposition hard and the ball fell to Ewan who produced a lovely strike for the first goal. Fantastic keeping from Rohan, including a spectacular save kept us ahead. Tee-Jay played superbly all afternoon, his slide tackles timed to perfection. But it wasn’t just a defensive display. Tee-Jay came close after spinning onto a shot but the second goal would not come. Joseph crossed to Harrison but his shot went just wide. Eventually the pressure and passing play paid off. Joseph latched on to a poor clearance from the Sonics to close out the match.
Result: Foxes 2: GH Sonics 0
Match 2
Keen to take an unbeaten record from the fixture, the Foxes again started well. Tee-Jay won the ball on the right of midfield and delivered a far post cross for Harrison to tap in. The Sonics then produced some great individual play as their best player almost dribbled through the entire team. But our defence of Jack, Caleb, Matthew and Oskar were a match for him. We were warned. Matthew was tasked to mark him man-for-man and did a superb job, nullifying the threat. Tee-Jay added a second after Joseph delivered from Harrison’s quick throw-in. Although Sonics pulled on back, Harrison put the game out of reach when he took a corner on the far left that sailed directly into the net. A great team effort.
Result: Foxes 3: GH Sonics 1
Overall the morning produced some of the best football the Foxes have played. Great team work and lovely football. Everyone played really well as we dominated a very good Sonics side and came away with 4 wins from 4. Brilliant – well done!
Men of the matches: Tee-Jay, Joseph and Henry.
Uncle Cols’ Top Tip: we MUST concentrate in the first 2 mins!!
Y4 remain unbeaten against Clifton United 16 March
Despite missing a few of our regulars (party!) 16 Foxes turned up for the return fixture, at home, against Clifton United. The question on all spectators’ lips was could the quality of the football live up to the fantastic sunny spring day? The spectators were not to be disappointed!
Green Squad: Brody, Matthew Y, Caston, Caleb, Joseph, Stanley, Sam, Tee-Jay
Match 1
In the first game Caston took guard between the posts, Brody and Caleb in defence, Joseph and Tee-Jay in midfield, Stanley and Sam up front and Matthew on the subs’ bench. From the kick-off the Foxes applied long periods of pressure on the Clifton defence. Many chances were created but Clifton United's goalkeeper was in terrific form, making many point blank saves from Stanley, Joseph and Tee-Jay. Clifton were dangerous on the break, particularly from their goal keeper’s long kicks which put the Foxes defence and goalie under a great deal of pressure. Stanley finally scored the equaliser.
Result: Foxes 1: Clifton 1.
Match 2
In the second game Tee-Jay started in goal, Matthew and Caleb in defence, Brody and Joseph mid-field, Stanley and Caston in attack. The Foxes were quickly into their stride with Stanley scoring early to settle the team's nerves. The mid-field of Joseph and Brody worked really hard to create plenty of chances for the forwards and Matthew played a sweeping role in defence, snuffing out Clifton's attacks. Tee-Jay and Matthew eventually swapped positions and Sam came off the subs’ bench to replace Stanley. Joseph created all sorts of problems for Clifton's defence with his close ball control and dribbling. Joseph was rewarded with two goals to make it 2-0 then 3-0 to the Foxes. A great result.
Result: Foxes 3: Clifton 0.
White Squad: Rohan, Eddie, Billy, Ludo, Josh, Oskar, William LP, Mini-Matt
Match 1
A frantic start from the Foxes created a bombardment of chances against a resilient Clifton defence. The mini dynamo that is Matt commanded the right wing creating cross after cross for the strike force of Ludo and Billy (who were joined regularly from the back by our defender WLP!!). Oskar helped to snuff out any midfield threat with Eddie ensuring all was tight at the back. Whilst Rohan in goal didn't have much to do in terms of shot stopping, his kick outs were decisive in penetrating the Clifton midfield.
The Foxes’ breakthrough finally came with a tactical switch, bringing Josh on for WLP, moving Oskar to the back and getting Josh to provide some typically robust intervention in the middle. A lovely passing move by pretty much all of the Foxes team saw Ludo finally smash the ball into the Clifton net at 8 minutes. The rest of the game saw the Foxes grow in confidence and concentration, not allowing the Clifton team any chances.
Result: Foxes 1: Clifton 0.
Match 2
Game 2 saw us up against a stronger Clifton side with a couple of their star players on the pitch including an excellent goalkeeper. However, the Foxes had really settled into their stride and produced a fantastic display of passing, awareness and teamwork.
Rohan was a little busier in this game and once again his fantastic kick outs were vital in the Foxes’ attack. Eddie and Billy were confident and solid at the back, never once panicking in the face of the Clifton attack. Midfield and attack ebbed and flowed with Mini Matt once more instrumental down the right; Ludo and Josh powering through the middle, and Oskar providing some neat passing play with WLP whose speed constantly troubled the opposition.
The goals were beautiful. Ludo, with a mazy run and lovely touch of skill managed to score in the first minute. The goalie didn't stand a chance. The second goal soon followed after great interplay between the Foxes’ midfield and attack, Ludo providing the final killer pass for Josh to tap in at the far post.
Result: Foxes 2: Clifton 0.
A great game played against a Clifton side who didn't let their heads drop and gave us 2 challenging games, both played in a friendly and sportsmanlike way. Man of the match was a difficult one, but given to Mini Matt for his tireless running, precision passing and enthusiasm.
Well done to all the lads! Thank you to all the Foxes players who really worked hard in both games. Thanks must also go to Clifton United who were very sporting and friendly opponents.
Uncle Col’s Top Tips: your teamwork and passing is improving every week, keep up the concentration and don't be tempted to keep the ball too long, especially if you have an option to pass or shoot!!
Green Squad: Brody, Matthew Y, Caston, Caleb, Joseph, Stanley, Sam, Tee-Jay
Match 1
In the first game Caston took guard between the posts, Brody and Caleb in defence, Joseph and Tee-Jay in midfield, Stanley and Sam up front and Matthew on the subs’ bench. From the kick-off the Foxes applied long periods of pressure on the Clifton defence. Many chances were created but Clifton United's goalkeeper was in terrific form, making many point blank saves from Stanley, Joseph and Tee-Jay. Clifton were dangerous on the break, particularly from their goal keeper’s long kicks which put the Foxes defence and goalie under a great deal of pressure. Stanley finally scored the equaliser.
Result: Foxes 1: Clifton 1.
Match 2
In the second game Tee-Jay started in goal, Matthew and Caleb in defence, Brody and Joseph mid-field, Stanley and Caston in attack. The Foxes were quickly into their stride with Stanley scoring early to settle the team's nerves. The mid-field of Joseph and Brody worked really hard to create plenty of chances for the forwards and Matthew played a sweeping role in defence, snuffing out Clifton's attacks. Tee-Jay and Matthew eventually swapped positions and Sam came off the subs’ bench to replace Stanley. Joseph created all sorts of problems for Clifton's defence with his close ball control and dribbling. Joseph was rewarded with two goals to make it 2-0 then 3-0 to the Foxes. A great result.
Result: Foxes 3: Clifton 0.
White Squad: Rohan, Eddie, Billy, Ludo, Josh, Oskar, William LP, Mini-Matt
Match 1
A frantic start from the Foxes created a bombardment of chances against a resilient Clifton defence. The mini dynamo that is Matt commanded the right wing creating cross after cross for the strike force of Ludo and Billy (who were joined regularly from the back by our defender WLP!!). Oskar helped to snuff out any midfield threat with Eddie ensuring all was tight at the back. Whilst Rohan in goal didn't have much to do in terms of shot stopping, his kick outs were decisive in penetrating the Clifton midfield.
The Foxes’ breakthrough finally came with a tactical switch, bringing Josh on for WLP, moving Oskar to the back and getting Josh to provide some typically robust intervention in the middle. A lovely passing move by pretty much all of the Foxes team saw Ludo finally smash the ball into the Clifton net at 8 minutes. The rest of the game saw the Foxes grow in confidence and concentration, not allowing the Clifton team any chances.
Result: Foxes 1: Clifton 0.
Match 2
Game 2 saw us up against a stronger Clifton side with a couple of their star players on the pitch including an excellent goalkeeper. However, the Foxes had really settled into their stride and produced a fantastic display of passing, awareness and teamwork.
Rohan was a little busier in this game and once again his fantastic kick outs were vital in the Foxes’ attack. Eddie and Billy were confident and solid at the back, never once panicking in the face of the Clifton attack. Midfield and attack ebbed and flowed with Mini Matt once more instrumental down the right; Ludo and Josh powering through the middle, and Oskar providing some neat passing play with WLP whose speed constantly troubled the opposition.
The goals were beautiful. Ludo, with a mazy run and lovely touch of skill managed to score in the first minute. The goalie didn't stand a chance. The second goal soon followed after great interplay between the Foxes’ midfield and attack, Ludo providing the final killer pass for Josh to tap in at the far post.
Result: Foxes 2: Clifton 0.
A great game played against a Clifton side who didn't let their heads drop and gave us 2 challenging games, both played in a friendly and sportsmanlike way. Man of the match was a difficult one, but given to Mini Matt for his tireless running, precision passing and enthusiasm.
Well done to all the lads! Thank you to all the Foxes players who really worked hard in both games. Thanks must also go to Clifton United who were very sporting and friendly opponents.
Uncle Col’s Top Tips: your teamwork and passing is improving every week, keep up the concentration and don't be tempted to keep the ball too long, especially if you have an option to pass or shoot!!
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