Match Report - Epsom & Ewell Colts Youth - 14 Nov 2021

We entertained Epsom & Ewell on Sunday in the 2nd around of the Surrey County Cup. We knew a tough game was on the cards having already played them in the league. With 8 minutes on the clock we won the ball high in their half following good pressure from their goal kick but Freddie’s cross/shot could only flick off the top of the bar. We were getting into some good positions with Luca causing havoc down the right and Zahir finding lots of the ball in the middle of the park but our final ball was just lacking a bit of quality. Lewis found himself in a shooting position but his shot lacked power and was saved. HT 0-0.

We broke the deadlock early in the 2nd half - Luca doing well to set Josh who found Zahir down the right who’d made a good run. His cross came in looking for an attacker but sailed in and over the keeper into the far corner. It was soon 2-0, Luke winning a free kick 35 yards out. Freddie took it and smashed an absolute stunner into the top corner. We then switched off and gave the ball away and got hit on the break, and it was now 2-1 and game on again. However our response was excellent and straight from the kick off we restored our 2 goal cushion. Zahir found Luca on the right flank and he did well to beat a few challenges and again set Josh who sent a high searching ball into the danger area. The defenders and goalkeeper didn’t deal with it and Oli showed good strength and determination to get his head on the bouncing ball just in front of the keeper to nod it in. Lewis then had a goal bound shot tipped onto the bar by the keeper. Shortly after it was 4-1 following more good work down the right by Luca, and after beating another couple of defenders his cross looked destined to go in but the keeper just kept it out. We recycled the ball though and found George 20 yards out and his touch and shot found the top corner for his first Rebels goal. A rash challenge from Freddie gave away a penalty with 8 minutes to go. Dom made a great save but Epsom were first to react and knocked in the rebound. With time nearly up, James then drilled in a corner which fell kindly for Zahir following a ricochet and he slotted in from close range. FT 5-2.

JJ and Alex defended well and were solid throughout. Kris did well in midfield and slotted into the back 3 when called on. Erim, James and George all came on and made positive contributions in the 2nd half. Luke and Mikey both worked hard up front despite not having many chances come their way. Overall a solid performance and we made it safely into the hat for the next round.