Heddon maintain top position in the Hands Trophy group.
In another game largely spoilt by the wind, Heddon showed further signs that their best is just around the corner. Trying to pass the ball the majority of the game and working better off the ball, Heddon dominated most of the game against a good Pont Village team, with Ro the outstanding player for them.
Whilst there is clearly still some work to do, the focus on maintaining the ball and player confidence increasing as a result is a great thing to see - the formation working well i think providing more options for those on the ball. We absolutely could be working harder off the ball, higher line as a team and defensive line will enable us to press higher up the pitch as a team - its pointless one person doing it without backup. This is a vital function of how we play and it needs to be done in units, with the midfielders supporting the forwards in closing down high up the pitch. Whilst it's difficult in the conditions to push high in the wind, we do need to to try and get back into the habit as it provides the foundation to retain the ball higher up the pitch. That said, a very pleasing performance and every single player contributed positively to the result.
Player synopsis:
Bull - Solid as ever, distribution spot on. Bit more talking needed moving forward ideally.
Sladey: Nice performance in slightly new position, want to see him bringing the ball out more.
Ramma: playing in yet another position, played the sweeper role supremely. Passing out from the back and set the tone.
Roy: Very impressive, especially on the ball. Just scream at the full/wing back to get back in so you don't have to cover two players.
Phil: Given he was very hungover was a very solid performance. Love the drives forward and assists for the goal. Love the crunching tackles, just not in the box. 0.5 deduction for pen!
Tom: really solid and played big role in both opening goals. Never beat defensively.
Woody: Never seen him happier than when he scored - PUMPED! Great game
Elliott: As normal class again. Would like to see higher up the pitch and driving at players more often as causes havoc.
Flem: Nice to have 90 minutes under. Held the midfield excellently to allow woody and Elliott to get forward. Class.
Sean: In his favourite position and didn't disappoint. found the holes like a pro and used the ball effectively every time.
Scotty: Hatrick and played really well. Hold up play good and maybe could have scored more. Third goal was absolute class.
Subs: Jay: Mint on the ball, never beat. Unlucky not to score.
Cieran: Backed out of a challenge as scared i would have a go - that's the first time he has ever listened to me!!! but get stuck in next time but go for the ball this time! Lovely header for the goal - was harder than it looked. Nice on the ball as usual.
Ross: Solidified it nicely at the back when we (Phil mainly :-)) let them back in the game at 2-1. Best talker we have, more need to follow suit.
Walker: on for 15 mins 2 assists, hit post, 2 other chances. no need to say anymore.
KOD: Tactical genius! The Irish Klopp!
