Match Report - Fulham U13 Academy - 09 Jan 2022

The CTYFC U14 Rebels returned for their first game in 4 weeks on Sunday following an extended Christmas break. We had the privilege of being invited to play a friendly match against Fulham FC Academy U13’s at their training facility in New Malden. This was a fantastic opportunity for the boys to showcase their ability and impress in front of a professional club. Unfortunately 4 of the squad were unavailable so we travelled with just 13 boys. Despite a slight overall size advantage in our favour it was soon clear that counted for little as the opening exchanges were keenly contested. We were maybe slightly nervous of the occasion and gave away a penalty after 6 minutes which was superbly saved by Dom low down to his right. This was the catalyst for us to wake up and start playing. We took the lead soon after having defended a Fulham corner - turning defence into attack with a lightning counter attack. We found Mikey down the left who got to the byline, his cross just evading Oli at the near post. Fulham half cleared but could only find Josh DK 12 yards out who slotted neatly into the bottom corner. We now had a good foothold on the game and JJ, Freddie and Isaac were defending strongly, whilst Lewis, Erim and Kris were dominating the centre of the park. Josh and James were a threat in wide positions and Oli and Mikey causing problems with their pace and pressing. We chopped and changed with subs throughout the game and Luke and George were soon on after 20 minutes. Mikey made it 2-0 following a strong solo run and finished with a neat flick into the far corner. It was 3-0 just before half time when Isaac rose highest from a well delivered corner from James and buried a good header into the back of the net. A really pleasing first 40 minutes that saw us limit Fulham to only a few half chances and the saved penalty. We had been clinical and took our chances really well. HT 0-3.

Luke made it 4-0 after 50 minutes after picking up a cross from the left, finishing well across the keeper into the far corner. We continued making regular changes but the pace of the game was beginning to show. Despite conceding 2 late consolation goals the boys kept battling right till the end to see the game out comfortably. FT 2-4.

A great experience for the boys who gave absolutely everything. To outplay and outperform a Fulham FC academy side and come away with the win was an amazing achievement and testament to the talent this squad has. A big thank you to Fulham FC for hosting us and offering the boys this opportunity.