Villa Keep Enjoying That Unbeaten Feeling!

NAFL 3A result:

Crumlin Utd 2nds 0 vs 0 Abbey Villa 2nds

Abbey Villa 2nds finally got the new season in 3A underway yesterday on a ridiculously hot day, in all places, but on the biggest pitch in the amateur league.

1st half:

Due to list of unavailable regulars. Villa started the game yesterday with a very different looking side to what we are used to seeing. But with that being said, the young lads that stepped in, did not disappoint. They have continually showed from appearances throughout pre-season, that they are more than capable of playing at this level.??

Villa started to game pretty well, looking the more threatening. But the home side eventually started to turn the screw. Villa remained solid in defence though, and stopped virtually all of the oppositions attacks. We struggled at times in the heat to create much this half from open play, but still created 2 great chances from set pieces to open the scoring. Both were not taken unfortunately. With the home side dominating possession, it was a tough 45 mins for the lads. But we went into the break on level terms. Half time 0:0

2nd half:

After the break it was a bit more of an even encounter, with chances created by both sides. More openings started to appear on both sides though, with tiredness starting to take effect in the heat. Villa were lucky not to concede, when the Crumlin striker hit the crossbar with a decent effort. But then with the addition of some fresh legs off the bench, Villa started to ignite a bit of life into their game again, and in the final 10 mins. We created easily the best 2 chances of the game. First was a great turn and shot, just wide of the post from Kyle Irwin that could've gave us the lead? But then with minutes to go, it was Kyle again, this time beating his marker to get to the line, he put in a great ball across the box, that was missed by millimeters from the incoming James Boyd, which then evaded young Thomas Drysdale at the back post also. Very unfortunate not to snatch the win, right at the end. But all in all, I am more than happy with the display the lads put in yesterday. Full time 0:0

MOTM: Joshua Colville

Playing in his first full competitive debut for the club, after returning to the Villa from a spell at Bangor FC youth. Joshua Colville, along with his CB partner Matty Edwards, were on top form yesterday. With some great reading of the game, some timely tackles and great passing at times, Joshua "JC" had a great, steady game all round. Well done kid.????