MAIDEN YOUTH 1 Vs BUSH HILL RANGERS 0

06/02/05

Today we were up against the league leaders, so we knew it would be tough. As they had only lost once in fifteen games. Straight from kick off it was obvious that both teams were up for it as tackles were flying in and both sides were competing, there was not much time on the ball as both teams closed the play down quickly.

Our defence had their hands full with Maiden’s pacey striker who was very mobile and strong.  Although we were carrying a few injuries, the boys gave as good as they got in all areas. Bush Hill tried to get the ball wide at every opportunity as I felt our wide players were beginning to get on top, but Maiden’s defence held strong and their keeper pulled off a few quality saves to deny us.  Both teams created chances after approximately fifteen minutes Maiden were awarded a corner and for once we were slow to react to a short corner and Maiden worked the ball well and scored.  After the goal both teams continued to work hard and chances were limited, as both defences were well on top by the end of the first half.

In the second half Maiden clearly were rattled and they were not enjoying this physical game.  Our boys showed good aggression and passion, Maiden were struggling to cope. The game at times threatened to boil over and the referee had to issue a yellow card to each side to try and calm them down.  After some good work by our midfield, Bush Hill were awarded a corner, and this time we showed how sharp we were with Tony putting the ball in the back of the net with a good header.  The goal was disallowed as the referee felt that we had fouled their keeper (RUBBISH!) another bad decision.  For the rest of the game both defences continued to be in control as chances were limited and the game finished 1-0 to Maiden. 

As we came off the pitch at the end, some boys limping, some boys holding their shoulders and bruised limbs, I was proud because all walked off with their heads held high, because we knew that if this game had gone on any longer we would have got a result.  They clearly did not like playing us, our passion and work rate, along with our hunger, was defeated by one lapse in concentration at a corner.  That’s football!

Today’s Man Of The Match = James – he was kicked, and kicked again, but never gave up!

Well Done Boys!