Hook panthers 2 v 0 South Reading Royals (EHE, GW, motm EH)
A lovely sunny Saturday morning, as panthers took on a strong East berks Team that had beaten us in a disappointing game a few weeks back..
A fairly calm start by both teams, with South Reading looking dangerous down their left wing and panthers with plenty of possession but little in terms of forward options.. 0 v 0 1st qtr. Jon H had a coaching word to remind players of the need to quickly close down the man with the ball and of ensuring they understand their roles..
2/4 - better quarter of football. Forward options and movement was much better, keeping pressure on opposition. Defensive unit of TH, OK and JF were working well as a unit. Midfield, particularly Josh and EH were showing some nice composure in the middle of the pitch and make some good decisions. Goal scored after strong run from GW and an early cross, eventually saw EHE tap the ball in from close range.
3/4 - second goal for Panthers this quarter, a through ball from RD to GW who lobbed the ball over the advancing keeper.
4/4 - RE out in a very good reaction save to keep score at 2 v0. GW hit the bar but sadly no-one followed up. ON forced a couple of good saves from the very secure keeper..
In my view it was a more thoughtful performance by the players. Less ball watching and a little bit more awareness..Some of the boys need to be made aware during the game as they have a tendancy to switch off. One or two of our most consistent performers were well under par yesterday, but I was delighted that a couple of other players raised their game..
There were some really nice passing combinations, which look more and more instinctive. A couple of those started from the back, one switching left to right, down the line and a chance to score from the cross. More of our play started from the back, particularly TH on the right side and we seemed more confident to play backwards as well as forwards.
Well done to South Reading. Very good footballing team and also a great environment for playing, as was the case in the away fixture.
Summer tournaments now start, so look out for info on them. If I plan in any more 9 aside games I will ofcourse check numbers for any dates first...None planned.
As mentioned we are still looking for one more player. A defensive minded player, possibly even a goalkeeper backup as we are a little light on backup options. If anyone knows someone then please let me know.
Thank you to Jon H for professional linesman duties and putting up nets and for everyone that helped with taking down nets, picking up cones, corner flags etc..
