In a challenging league encounter at Hersham FC on 7th December 2024, Teddington Athletic FC U12 Titans faced a tough test against Hersham Youth U12 Harriers, ultimately succumbing to a 6-2 defeat. The match kicked off at 10:00 am and showcased the Titans' resilience, but the Harriers proved too strong on the day.
Teddington lined up in a 2-3-3 formation, with Kerem Polat in goal, flanked by central defenders Isaac Borsley and Can Polat. The midfield trio consisted of Arthur Bayliss on the right, Maxwell Shaw in the centre, and Elliott Bowen on the left, while the attacking trio featured Rapha Kothakota on the right, Jacob Bragg as the central striker, and Seth Smith on the left. This setup aimed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking play through the wings.
The pitch was in good condition, considering the rain in the week. Whilst it was windy it was not unplayable - but the drizzle blowing in made for cold and wet playing conditions.
Titans started brightly, taking the game to Hersham - getting many shots away, winning innumerable corners, but unable to find the back of the net. The Titans' midfield chased the game upfield, allowing the Harriers to exploit gaps and take their opportunities. As the match unfolded, the Titans struggled to contain all the Harriers' counter-attacks leading to goals in the 9th, 14th and 20th minute. As the first half was drawing to a close, the ball dropped to Oscar Iddon's feet just outside the box. His powerful drive went agonisingly over the bar.
A short half-time interval (taking account of the weather) gave little time for tactical discussions - Jelly Babies were shared and everyone was keen to get back playing quickly.
In the second half, Teddington continued to create opportunties - playing into the wind - and won several more corners. In the 32nd minute Elliott Bowen swung a corner into the danger area which eluded everyone and nestled in the goal to make the score 1-3.
A battling period of the game ensued, with end to end action. Some excellent tackling and interceptions halted the Hersham progress for quarter of an hour. Frustration began to creep into players from both teams as they colder, with a lot of pushing, strong tackling and back-chat. Titans need to learn how to deal with intimidating play, not getting drawn into retaliation, nor wasting effort and emotions by engaging in arguments.
Hersham scored in the 49th and 55th minutes, interspersed with a stoppage while Ethan Shum was subbed off following an elbow to the ear.
In the 57th minute Elliott Bowen was able to demonstrate his knee-slide celebration for a second time - after dribbling the ball through and unleashing a screamer past the Hersham keeper.
The Titans' efforts were commendable, but the Harriers' clinical finishing and cohesive play proved decisive. Hersham knocked in a 6th goal as the match was drawing to a close - cementing their position at the top of the Division.
Despite the heavy defeat, the Titans can take positives from their performance, particularly in their attacking play, which saw them score two goals against a formidable opponent. The match served as a learning experience for the young Titans, who will look to bounce back in their final game of 2024 - home against Molesey Jaguars on 14th December.
