Play The Simple Game! ⚽️

It was one of those weeks where scraping together a starting eleven was a challenge in itself. Injuries left us short, but credit to the lads — they dug in, gave everything they had, and still managed to put together a performance that, in truth, looked good enough to win the game.

Liam had a solid game overall, though his distribution still needs a bit of work to help us build from the back more effectively. Rohan was unfortunately forced off after just ten minutes with an injury, and Charlie D picked up a knock early on but showed real grit and determination to battle through the full ninety. That’s the kind of attitude every manager wants to see.

Bobby had a steady game but will be frustrated with one moment where he tried to body his man and it led to their goal — a reminder that sometimes the simple option really is the best one. Conner, on the other hand, was outstanding and fully deserved his Man of the Match. He kept things simple, worked tirelessly, and was always in good supporting positions both in and out of possession.

Kane was unlucky to pick up an injury after about twenty-five minutes when he was stamped on the hand. Sam P had a quiet first half but started to find more influence as the game went on, showing glimpses of what he can offer when he gets on the ball.

In midfield, Cal D worked hard in spells but doesn’t quite look at full fitness just yet — bursts of energy followed by moments catching his breath made it difficult for him to maintain consistency. Sonny had a good game overall, got into some dangerous positions, and just needs to trust his first touch more and pull the trigger earlier when the chance is there.

Ayden took a while to grow into the match and only really started to come alive after the break, but it’s fair to say he’s still short of his best. Nathan worked hard throughout, but at times found himself on a different wavelength to others — that understanding will come with more time on the pitch and attendance at the tactical sessions.

Ryan came on for Rohan and did okay in spells. He just needs to show a bit more composure on the ball and stop allowing opponents to roll him so easily. Logan, on the other hand, really made an impact — he pressed well, worked hard, and was unlucky not to score. Another strong contender for MOTM and a great example of what energy and effort can bring to the side.

As for the no-shows, we were without George W, Charlie C, Armani, Luca, and Tom. Some reasons were justified, some not so much — but either way, it made a tough job even tougher on the day.

A big shoutout to Kaden, PJ, Josh, and Joe who turned up to support the lads — that sort of commitment doesn’t go unnoticed. It’s that togetherness off the pitch that helps build something stronger on it.

Despite being depleted, we still played the better football for large parts of the game. The frustrating part is that the same two things keep costing us: individual mistakes and not taking our chances.

At the end of the day, football really is a simple game — it’s us who make it complicated. If we can cut out the errors and take our opportunities, the results will turn.

All in all, it was a stellar effort from everyone involved. Even with the setbacks, we looked like a side that should have won the game. Plenty of heart, plenty of effort, and still plenty to build on. ??