Boys U16 v's Slough

For the final fixture of the year the squad travelled to Slough this afternoon. With two players from Aylesbury (Will and Woody) we had 13 players who made themselves available, with Zak stepping up from the U14s as our goal keeper.

The game started well with the boys keeping possession of the ball and using the wide channels forcing Slough onto the back foot from the get-go. After 10 minutes Robbie finished off a good move, ably assisted by Chris putting us 1-0 up. He then doubled our lead in the 22nd minute after a penalty corner broke down but he calmly took the ball back into the circle and struck a sweet shot past the outstretched goal keeper. At half time the score was 2-0 to Thame.

The second half started off well, with Thame starting where they left off, causing the opposition problems in their defence. Only some solid defending and a great save by their keeper kept the score line from changing. Eventually the third goal came, after Will Venn followed the ball into the circle and slotted it past the goalkeeper from some “pin-ball” hockey around the P-spot. At 3-0 some of our passing lost direction and we gifted Slough the chance to get a goal back, which they duly took. Zak was disappointed to concede the goal, but having had little work to do for most of the game he more than made up for it with a fine save a few minutes later.

Thames’ fourth goal was a well deserved reward for Chris’s efforts up front, wrapping up a splendid performance all round by the team with the game ending 1-4.

Special note must go to Jaco and Will for a brilliant midfield-dominating performance. In addition, Robbie’s team work was noteworthy, passing the ball and moving into space.

A great day out was hopefully a fitting birthday present for Jules who elected to play for the team on his birthday (hope you enjoyed the cinema!!): his attitude personifies the boys U16s this season - one team, one fight.

Sarah and I would like to wish the players their parents a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and thank you for your continued support.

Nathan