Match Report - Badshot Lea - 30 Aug 2021

The CTYFC U14 Rebels hosted Badshot Lea U14s for their 2nd Pre season friendly of the season on Monday evening. It promised to be a competitive encounter with friendly rivalries across the teams. It was agreed to play 10 a side due to a frustratingly small pitch over 3 x 25 minute periods.

The first period was a tight affair as you’d expect on a tight pitch. With the instruction of minimal touches and to keep the ball moving quickly, Alex, Hayden and JJ were assured from the outset. Erim and Kris were holding the midfield and feeding the forwards well. Luca, Zahir, Mikey and Oli did not have much space to utilise their pace as much as we’d have liked but were causing problems each time we attacked. Chances came and went and the period ended without us being able to break the deadlock. Into the 2nd period and 5 subs brought fresh legs with Luke, Lewis, Josh E, Josh DK and Freddie L all coming on. The pattern of the game was much the same with little space to play and chances missed - Josh E and Lewis both going close. We did finally make the breakthrough when after some sustained pressure an in-swinging corner from Luca found Erim and Alex unmarked and between them powered a header into the net, with Alex getting the decisive touch. It was soon 2-0 when the ball found its way to Freddie L who’s deflected shot was fumbled by the keeper and Mikey was on hand to slot away the rebound having reacted well and followed the shot in. Freddie L made it 3-0 when he found some space in the middle of the park and let fly with a left foot shot which found its way into the bottom corner. Into the 3rd period and again more changes giving everyone valuable game time. Lewis was unlucky having picked up the ball in his own half and driven into shooting range only to see his shot whistle past the post. Luke finished the scoring when he was found by Lewis having put pressure on the opposition back line and found himself through on goal, showing good strength to slide a low finish into the bottom corner. FT 4-0.

It was another very quiet day for Dom with not a single save needing to be made, but what he did have to do he did very well. He commanded his box with good positioning in open play, distributed well from both hands and feet and caught the ball confidently from crosses and corners. Our defence was dominant - with everyone showing good positioning and anticipation. Midfield was solid with commitment and tenacity and no ground being given. And the forward line showed good energy throughout, pressurising their back line and showing good strength and creativity. Overall an encouraging performance from the whole squad as we look to build to the start of the season proper.