The Rockets were kicking off early again this week against a CB Lions team ready to play and compete. Joe took the gloves in the first period with Joel marshaling the sweeper role, Jack in the middle, Jake and Katie on the wings Alex warmed the bench and Christian was the lone striker. The Rockets started brightly and began to pass the ball well and for the best part had the measure of the Lions team. Joel was solid and stopped any forays forward, Jack was working hard in the middle releasing Christian, Jake and Katie when he could and Joe was relatively unused in the goal. The opening exchanges were even tho as the Lions did pass and move the ball well, it was obvious the match would be close. This proved to be the case with little opportunity for both sides. Jake was enjoying time on the ball to run and dribble, Jack was constantly involved, Katie was showing real progress playing with the older players and was passing and tackling well. Joe made good use of the ball when he had it and Christian was a threat going forward. The game continued to give Rockets good possession which they were starting to use well and a good run from Jake down the right and a pass to Jack in the box finally dropped to an ever alert Katie to stab home the opening goal. 1-0 Rockets. The Lions weren't down though, and seizing on a lapse in shape from the Rockets they passed the ball really well to move up the pitch and leave a one on one with Joe, the young keeper could do nothing about their goal. 1-1 all square.
Into the second period and Christian took the gloves, Katie was rested, Jake came into the sweeper role, Jack on the wing, Joe on the other flank, Alex the midfield general and the big fella Joel upfront. The change in formation didn't rattle the Rockets but the game was still well contested by both sides and both teams had a great attitude and spirit to the game. Possession was pretty even throughout the period but the Rockets were passing well and showing their overall team play is improving every week. Alex had some good strong runs and Joe was as lively and skillful as ever down the wing. Joel proved playing upfront suited him dribbling well when he had the ball. Jake was assured at the back and moved the ball well given his time and presence on the ball. Jack was cutting in from the wing with purpose and the guys were starting to get chances against the Lions. The ball was moving well and Alex found Joel on the edge of the box and a bit of skill gave him some space and an accurate low shot found the corner. 2-1 Rockets.
Into the final period and Jake was rested, Jack took the gloves, Joel moved to the defence, Joe and Alex went on the wing, Katie in the middle and Christian upfront. The Rockets reshape didn't suit at first and the Lions enjoyed some better possession at the start of the period. The team were strong in defence tho and Katie and Alex worked really well in stopping the Lions moving forward. Jack had a couple of great saves and Joe and Joel were combining well to let the width work to Rockets advantage moving forward. Christian had two or three strong runs but today wasn't his day and his running and dribbling were unlucky not to get the final result he wanted. The Lions pride was growing and towards the end of the period the Rockets passing started to slow allowing pressure on the back. Joel and Katie defended well but a low shot from Lions was well saved by Jack but a young Lion pounced on the rebound to poke home a goal. 2-2 it finished and the tense game ended with handshakes and smiles all round.
The Rockets played really well and should be proud. The passing was good, but we need to do more of this and be even more positive in our passing and play. Everyone contributed to a really good game and the Lions played well too. Well done all.
