This was a decent performance where the luck was not with us, number of chances was pretty even, and the difference in the end was two deflected goals. We are looking to bring in players to build the squad up and over summer the opportunity is there for other players in squad to push on into Tornadoes side, and the long team aim is of course to get ready for 11 aside.
First few minutes set the pattern for the game, end to end stuff, Aaron having to make a good stop straight off, while good work led to Dylan putting Joseph through, who got a good shot away which was saved. Goal came on 8 minutes a long kick from Aaron and a nice flick on from Dylan. From the kick off Dylan took the ball off the midfielder, it was played, and he skipped through the defenders and smashed the ball home, some confusion whether it was allowed or not, but to me the ball was played and should be counted. Michael and James were under a lot of pressure but generally made all the key tackles and Aaron saved well in goal. While going forward Josh, Joseph and Dylan played some nice football at times.
Second quarter and we went a bit off the boil as Burradon were the stronger side, and created a lot of opportunities, the only goal though was a fortuitous one, as a cross just deflected of Michaels heal. At the other end we struggled to create going against the wind.
Third quarter and we started to get more into the game, Josh had a thunder bolt with his left but the keeper managed to keep him out, while Joseph, Dane and Josh also tested the keeper again in this quarter, and Dylan also forced a good stop after good through ball. At the other end Burradon scored to very good goals from nice team football.
Last quarter and again we created lots of opportunities with Joseph, Josh, Dylan and Dylan all again forcing the keeper into making good saves, while at the other end Aaron had to play well to keep them out. The final goal again was just unfortunate, a shot deflected off James body and went in! Last five minutes AJ came on again, and his work rate and desire is a joy to watch! He got the Burradon's coach decision has man of match.
We certainly don't have any luck when playing Burradon, but looking at the positives, our football was great at times, and the passing is what we need to concentrate on. Where we did get beaten today was in the physical side of the game, need to be strong in the tackle, and we need to move better off the ball! It was an encouraging performance as we go into a new era, so heads up, bit of time off now from competitive games, but come mid June we will go again with a positive attitude.
For home man of the match, Dylan with his two goals and Joseph in centre midfield for his passing were strong contenders, but awards will be not given to players who's attitude at times isn't good enough! Boys play to the whistle, play hard. and give it 100% for the whole time you are on pitch. Aaron had a very good game, but for me just pinching it was Josh, who created a lot of problems for the Burradon keeper and defenders and his hard work on improving his left foot is highly commendable, so well done Josh keep up the good work! Michael and Dane stepping back up to Tornadoes gave 100% and did well, well done boys! While James and Harry also had plenty of good moments in the game.
Lets go Tornadoeeeessssss!
