Match Report: 25 Nov 18

Thame Boys U16 v Old Cranleighans

The match today was the 4th fixture of the season & the hope was that the team could continue where they left off last week, drawing a close game 1-1. Despite a slight faff at the TLC negotiating the new combination lock to the AstroTurf the game started in time.

We had a squad of 13 payers, with Daniel joining us from the U14’s cadre playing as goal keeper. In addition to the “usual suspects” the squad welcomed Tom from Aylesbury HC.

The pre-match talk focussed on doing the simple things well: passing at pace, keeping the correct shape on the pitch and to exploit the full width of the pitch. I was delighted that from the very start every player worked tirelessly to achieve these aims. With only 2 subs it was clear that everyone was going to have to put a shift in: and they did. I have not seen the sort of commitment and determination that was on display today before and I am certain that this sort of positive attitude will only improve the forthcoming scores during the rest of the season.

After an initial nervy few minutes the team conceded a goal to a break away attack. However, optimising the team ethos that was on display today, the boys worked hard for the ball, passed into space and were rewarded with numerous deliveries into the D that could have resulted in a goal. Eventually they were rewarded with one; Tom drive a fierce strike towards the goal and somehow Will K failed to get a touch on it to claim it for himself!With spirits raised the team up-ed the tempo; pushing out of defence with purpose and speed, with the midfield four working tirelessly to provide attacking balls when able as well as tracking back to help in defence. Not long before half time, Hal was on hand to steer in a cross from the back post making the score 2-1.

On the stroke of half time, the opposition scored from a break away attack: a momentary lapse of concentration from the hitherto solid Thame back 3 was punished.

The half time talk focussed on the positives & the Caramel Digestive nutrient supplements that were consumed!

The second half was, if anything, even better than the first half: despite getting tired the boys maintained a high tempo in attack and a tremendous work ethic in defence. I lost count of the goal scoring opportunities that were created: I don’t think there were many fingernails left on the supporting parents’ hands by the end!! Eventually Thame’s efforts were rewarded with a great strike from Elliot, who’s stinging shot found its way onto the backboard.

The OC’s worked hard to find an equaliser but I was confident that the defence would hold fast: this was proved to be the case as Daniel made a terrific last-minute save from a penalty corner: unfortunately the rebound was cooly lifted over him into the goal in the last minute of the match. Even though there were only a matter of seconds left on the umpires watch, the boys rushed back to try and score another (winning) goal. Unfortunately time was against them and the game ended 3-3.

The boys can take many positives from the game today and they should be very proud of themselves. Leo was unrelentless in midfield and was awarded the MoM award (lovey shiny plastic trophy to treasure?). In fact, almost everyone had a shout at receiving the MoM award today. Thanks to the players: they listened, they worked hard for the team and played as a team. Will K and Will V had great games on the wing; Archie ran himself into the ground and Chris battled through the game, still feeling the effects of last week’s chest infection. Dave was solid in defence, with Elliot leading the team both as captain and as an attacking wing-back. Sam ran his socks off for the cause, playing in a number of positions, and well done to Ollie playing in both attack and defence. Jules was brilliant in keeping a high line in attack.

Lastly, thank you to the (parent) supporters: I know the guys play better when you watch! And Sarah, great cake: thank you.

We do it all again next Sunday at 1:30pm. A win is now a realistic expectation!

Nathan