Today, after a pre match scramble for a replacement goalkeeper - Ben K with tonsilitis, usual stand in Kieran on school engagement..it was Oscar who was prepared to step into the role....however, LAZARUS ROSE FROM HIS BED and Ben K turned up to play having been smuggled out of the house without his Mums knowledge!
The opposition had a couple of girls playing - usually they are pretty good if playing for a boys team - and so it proved.
A welcome to Starlands newest recruit THOMAS who forms a regular partnership with Marcus for School. He started on the bench - and would replace Jed in the 2nd half.
The back three of Zak , Marcus and Jed looked solid at the back - but there was always the worry that one of the Social clubs through balls would not be intercepted.
So it proved....for some reason the ever reliable Oski was a little isolated up front with Callum having to track back and help out in defence rather than support attack.
The Starlands midfield looked out of sorts and there was not the effort or hunger to compete for the ball. Whether it was a bouncing ball or a 50/50 challenge we were guilty of ball watching.
I am all for galantry and manners - but the two girl twins got the better of our boys - and showed them up on a few occassions, The girls had step overs , dribbling skills and tackles !...and a Rory Delap type throw too! .... Maybe we need to recruit a few girls?????
Ben K came off his line in the first half a few times , clearing up loose ends, The defence were communicating and leaving it for him to pick up...and clear with a big boot up field.
One good save came from a tight angle off his knees - and the defence were quick to close down and clear.
For some reason - our boys just wanted an extra touch - and kept getting caught in possession....
We never really had too many clear cut goal scoring chances - Oski went close as did Callum - but the Brereton keeper was equal to it.
The majority of the game was played from edge of box to edge of box - nobody really getting a grip of the game.
The first half finished level - and with Starlands kicking up hill in the 2nd half - it was going to be difficult.
The consistant performer Jed was replaced at half time with a reoccurrence of his knee injury - but he had done a great job...and it was clear Ben P had been giving him some Karate lessons!! judging by the side sweep that took out the striker who had the audacity to side step him!....nobody goes past Jed without tasting dirt :) His Mum promised to have words !!....no harm done...and a great opportunity for Thomas to also make a 'mark'.
Ben P had played well first half working down the left side linking with Callum and Oski - and was surprisingly replaced - but with Luke coming on it gave a fresh pair of legs and another option.
Aran continued to show some silky skills in tight spots, getting away from his marker - but just needs to put his foot through the ball to clear in defence or set up an attack with a good pass....but, it's coming...and with 90 minutes under his belt - confidence will grow.
Thomas looked safe at the back and made some good tackles - there was an obvious understanding between Marcus and himself.
Zak - the quietest of the back four - reads the game well - and made some good tackles, and goes about his business for the team with minimal fuss.
Luke was making a few in roads up the right...and was sticking close to the girl...who can blame the lad ;) ( only joking luke).
The game was slipping away from Starlands - and Brereton were he stronger footballing team - Ben K continued to make some timely interceptions and saves.
In the last 5 minutes the boys pushed on - and had some pressure, but a quick long ball or a huge throw would release the pressure...
the game thankfully finished 0-0 , probably a better result for us , but I would say a fair result due to the defensive effort.
A solid debut for Thomas and a second clean sheet for the defence...
Parents player was unanimously awarded to Ben K - and Man of The Match to Marcus - which just about sums up where most of the game was played !.....
Good effort boys - Just wake up a little earlier, and remember to CHALLENGE FOR EVERY BALL - DON'T WAIT FOR IT ! MAKE IT YOURS!...
On another note,....Luke & Josh both got a date ;) wonder what half time talk Rick & Dean gave them????!!!?
