After the last couple of tough match's, it was nice to get back to winning ways in style, against a AE Phoenix side who gave 100% throughout and kept their heads up well even after going a few behind.
We could have had a lot more as well, with the bar or post being hit four or five times and the Phoenix keeper making some fine saves.
In the first quarter, we panicked a little near the goal, having four shots within the first few minutes just going wide. The only goal of the quarter going to our very own fox in the box Harry finishing well from close range. The boys took on the coach’s words on board at the break, keeping our shape much better, as we peppered the goal time and time again, the post or bar coming to Phoenix's rescue, and one superb save from a fine shot from Elliott. Goals did eventually come, Joseph scoring direct from the corner, a lovely high corner close to the goal managing just to escape the attention of the keeper. Next goal was a Sam trademark special, winning the ball near the half way line, keeping lovely control and finishing smoothly for a stunning individual goal, great work Sam. 3-0 end of second quarter.
Liam came on at start of the third quarter for Harry, and we scored very early on, Elliott doing great work down the left, crossing a lovely ball and Joseph hitting a well struck shot into the bottom of the net, nicely worked goal boys. Couple of minutes later Elliott this time set up Liam who scored with great confidence well done Liam. We were now playing the best football of the match, and Elliott grabbed a very quick hat-trick, Sam setting up the first with a nice throw, Joseph setting up the second with a nice pass and then Sam again setting Elliott up. All three goals finished expertly and with power from the captain. Excellent play in this quarter, to give a score of 8-1.
Going in to the fourth, we continued to play well, and had many chances, with some very unselfish play particularly from Elliott trying to set others up, this showed a great example. Harry coming back on for Sam, was played in by Joseph, and he took his time well and placed the ball beautifully passed the on rushing keeper. Just when we thought it wasn’t quite going to be Josh's day for scoring despite playing very well, he finally got on the score sheet finishing from close range, after more good teamwork. AE Phoenix got the reward for their hard work, when their man of match finished nicely from the middle of the penalty area. Final score 10-1. Just a mention to James and Aaron at the back who had a quiet day, but when called upon they did everything well, so your role is just as important as the players at the front, well done to both. Man of the match decided by the Phoenix players was Josh, good work Josh! Could have been anyone as it was a good team performance in the end well done every single player.
After a slow start, we kept our shape well, and played some lovely passing football at times, so well done boys, lets keep this up for the rest of the season, and aim to go unbeaten. Training next week is only on the Tuesday Pegswood 5pm, as Ashington Leisure Centre as a function on the Thursday. While just a reminder we have our Christmas Party next Friday at Bomersund club. (How's my spelling today? Will work next week on my grammar.)
