I was very keen that we found the boys the toughest possible
opposition over the last couple of games, particularly given we are
dipping our toes into the premier league this season. Slight change of
plan before the game as JF who was planning to be keeper today,
sadly couldn't play due to a recent injury.
First goal was conceded from a corner. Too many cheap corners given
away and a lack of understanding of roles to defend the corner.
Second goal conceded when Defending the ball over top, with our
defender appearing to be shoved in the back leading to a 1 v 1 vs
keeper.
Third goal was a result of long high hopeful ball into the box that
we failed to deal with effectively.
South reading have proven to be very capable with great pace and
intelligence up front as well as excellent defensive skills. Whilst we
lost today, the performance was really pleasing today and far superior
to our game a week ago. There was real thought and maturity to our
game and you could see the improvements as the game progressed.
Conceding early didn't help us and gave Reading a confidence boost.
South reading won because they are a little more clinical than us and
attack with more authority than the Phantoms. However once again the
attitude from all the boys is excellent. Focused, receptive and fully
committed.
We'd recently discussed set piece defending and Jon relayed our agreed
roles/responsibilites for defending corners at half time. Nothing more
pleasing than when we saw the boys setup and apply that second half.
We are picking up a few injuries. Some of them muscular, others
knocks. Need to remind all the boys to stretch properly before any
exercise and to stop as soon as there is a problem... We are wondering
whether to try and recruit one more player, given injuries, illness
and holidays etc. If anyone knows of a player that could play at this
level, let me now.
