Superb comeback win

The U16 boys had their first game of the season after the walk over in the previous game. Starting with 10 players, we were under constant pressure for the whole of the first half. A late call up from Andrew I completed the team and he had a really good debut for the Under 16s at left back. The defence led by Zac H ably supported by Max C and Edwin P were outstanding throughout the game but particularly in the first half where they were under constant pressure. Barney also had an exceptional game in goal pulling off some remarkable saves as well as being a commanding presence between the sticks constantly communicating with his defenders. Maidenhead did manage to break the deadlock with a very good individual effort from one of their midfielders towards the end of the first half. Rather than drop their heads, the team fought back and some good interplay between skipper Sam S and Ollie C was finished off smartly by Charlie C to enable us to reach half-time level.
At half time Zac H had to withdraw with an achilles injury which forced a re-shuffle to the formation and personnel. Charlie C dropped into centre back and had a dominant second half, breaking up numerous attacks and distributing very effectively setting up numerous counter attacks with his judicious passing. The whole team took onboard the half time feedback and looked after the ball much better enabling more pressure to be put on the opposition.
Louie R and Jasper D were terrific all game, working hard off the ball to put the opposition under pressure as well as showing some good individual touches when in possession. The resurgence in the second half was started by a terrific counter attacking move finished off by Will B whose work rate all game was exceptional (and that was after playing a tough game of rugby prior to the match!) Man of the match, with an outstanding second half , was Ollie C who pouched a brace of goals - well deserved reward for his efforts. His workr ate off the ball was exemplary and he showed some very good individual skill putting the opposition under pressure whenever he had possession.
The performance is even more impressive in that 7 of the team were U14s! Yet again, team spirit, resilience and excellent teamwork paid off. Great to watch and congratulations to all.

Big thank you to Colin and the Maidenhead coach for umpiring.