With a huge pitch, probably the biggest we’ve played on this season, my first thoughts were on how much Rushy and Fin would have loved it out there today, and with Zach S also missing it was over to the other 11 lads to do the bizzo. Hampton started brightly and looked a threat when attacking, but it was Coleshill who struck first when the striker cut back inside and finished confidently. That was a blow considering we were on the front foot but it showed we had to concentrate on the defensive side as well as attacking.
It wasn’t long until we were back level, with captain Ollie taking the opportunity to strike on goal, which took a wicked deflection and seemed to trickle into the far corner. With our tails up, the goals started to come, a lovely knock from Kielan put Omar through, who squared to Harry and he made no mistake slotting into the far corner. Coleshill again threatened with a strike destined for the top corner, but Harrison was there to tip it onto the bar with a cracking reaction save. A flurry of influence from Jack in the next 5 minutes killed the game off for Hampton. First, it was a clean strike from outside the box into the top corner (I’m hoping Karim has a good video of this one!) to put us 3-1. Then he slotted Omar through whose strike was parried by the keeper but dropped over the line and then slotted Ollie through whose first attempt was saved but Ollie slotted the rebound into the empty net. A goal and 2 assists to show some of what we’ve missed for large parts of the season! Half time, 5-1 and in total control.
The second half started a little more scrappy with Coleshill fighting to reduce the deficit. Their biggest problem? Our defensive line and goal keeper were in no mood to concede any more goals today! JP, Kielan, Josh P, Josh M, scrapped and fought all game long, covering each other, putting in tackles, getting the job done. Harrison, so assured again, standing tall and making saves look so comfortable, one in particular where he got down low to the bottom left corner to keep out a good effort. It was Hampton who would hit the final goal, when Oscar slotted Harry though and he prodded past the on-rushing keeper. 6-1.
We had a few more efforts with Omar hitting the bar and a couple of saves from the Coleshill keeper, with Ollie and Harry both chasing hatricks, but the score would stay 6-1 and another great victory for the Reds.
The shift the lads put in on that big pitch was incredible, with every single player playing their part again.
For me and Dave, man of the match was undeniable, despite so many strong performances, Omar was a worthy winner with his goal and assist and 150% effort throughout, well done Omar!
Every week I run out of superlatives for this group of boys. I look around the squad and I see improvements everywhere; attitude, desire, confidence and ability. Alongside that there’s an enjoyment, you can see that they have bonded as a team and are working for each other, it’s great to see. Dave and I couldn’t be prouder of the season we’ve had so far… but still 6 to go!
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