Starlands U.11 Boys Elite travelled to Cannock to play Heath Hayes in a long awaited game.
The previous encounter resulted in a 5-0 whitewash for the Pork Scratching Outfit.
The wind was blowing and the pitch was less than top notch.
There were a few strange decisions with Ben K being made to take 1st half goal kicks from just off his goal line into the wind - with this then changing to the edge of a massive box for the home team.
There were a few dubious off side decisions , Dean was doing his best...but that flag was waving in frustration ;) following WBA's game v Fulham he was even asking for goal line technology ! No need for Hawkeye with Dawneye in attendance....
The boys held their own for the whole of the first half.
Arran blasted over from the edge of the box and Josh had a snap shot saved.
There were the usual trademark storming runs of Callum ably supported by Oscar.
The defence were holding firm with Tom and Zak complementing Marcus Herculean effort.
Arran was showing some nice touches, and was showing more intent to get involved, with a few decisive challenges breaking up play in midfield.
Ben P was doing his bit battling on, man marking and pushing the ball through to oscar under the guidance of Dad.
A few corners ensued, which were defended well.Ben K took a few high takes.
One break the striker was forced wide and his shot just floated by the post.
Another shot by Josh , went through to Ben P but he couldn't finish it off.
Then a fast through ball by HeathHayes saw Ben K quickly off his line to clear the ball up to halfway.
The defensive trio continued to defend well.Blocking,tackling and intercepting to then set up The other boys.
Half time came and it was scoreless....a welcomed opportunity for a hot drink provided by the Mums. Sorry boys ! Just for spectators.
The second half saw Josh & Ben P come off , and Jed and Luke make their appearance.
It was Jed's first game back in a long time, and unfortunately it was not to last too long. His injury and stomach upset got the better of him and he was forced to leave the field after a promising start ...showing his trademark hustle and bustle.
Luke once again was trying a few turns and flicks and passing ,but it was tough in the conditions...maybe a day for the long ball.
HeathHayes big no.9 was starting to make his bulk felt.As our boys tired , it was clear Heath Hayes were making more probing runs through on goal.
He blasted a cross from the corner that was smashed into the top corner despite Ben K getting a hand to it...1-0
Callum responded with a direct run but unable to get his shot off cleanly, It was a lovely over the top ball from Arran.
Then Ben K decided to take man and ball....ok just man no ball, resulting in a penalty. Fortunately the striker fired wide, so it had been a good decision by Ben, but lucky to escape a yellow card.
The 2nd goal resulted from a good save that fell to the HeathHayes player in the box who was free to tap in.
The boys never gave in, and had a few chances of their own.The lesson to be learnt was don't be afraid to SHOOT !
Marcus was awarded Managers Player for his non stop battling effort...back to his best.
He was pushed for the award by Callum whose dynamo effort was awarded with parents player.
Other games of note , showed Tom have one of his best games to date and Arran growing in confidence.
A good run out for the boys after such a long break.
The rumour is ...one week into married life Rob was very keen to get out on a Sunday morning to avoid chores ;) Congratulations to you both for last week.
Another rumour from The Stag Do... says Rob is a life long Liverpool fan?......any truth?
