Hook panthers 6 v 1 rushmoor saints rocket (RD 3, ON 2, GW, motm JC)
Opportunity to play Div 2 opposition and make a few changes. Ten players, no JW or EHE. Playing 2 in defence and wing backs, allowing more attacking opportunities for those that tend to be in the defensive line and a chance to see our attacking players apply some defensive discipline.
Good game of football. A little more space and time on the ball was noticeable and the boys created numerous chances throughout the game.. The boys really enjoyed it and demonstrated their ever improving footballing abilities. There was some real football intelligence in the forward line, pulling defenders wide and playing with heads up. TH, JF, OK, EH all got a chance to play further up the pitch with JR/RE sharing goalie duties..
Two coaching points from Thursday were protecting the ball and separately focussing on anticipating ie what could happen next. ON following up on shots today was a good example.
Also, we were keen the boys kept possession and looked to play wide. This was more noticeable in the second half.. We've needed to move away from the predictable over the top foot race football that worked in div 2 but doesn't work as well against faster/better organised defensive units.
There were moments of madness in defense sometimes when the ball needed to be cleared. We also moved to a defensive 3 as the discipline and role of the wing backs was not understood by all. Finally, there were far too many offsides when we attacked.
I'm really pleased for the boys today, it shows how far they have come. Motm went to JC, he demonstrated how a clever football brain and good feet can really create chances, rather than a bish bash approach.
Enjoyable game, against good opposition, with a really nice atmosphere to play in...
