Walsham Le Willows vs Moreton Hall Raiders
2 - 5
01 August 2023 · Cambridge & District Colts League<br>U14 Stanley
Away friendly match played on 01 August 2023.
Kicked off at 6:30 PM
2-5
vs Walsham Le Willows
Away friendly match
With the glory of last season still fresh in our memories, the Raiders began their preparations for 2023-24 in a first pre-season friendly, away to Walsham.
Given the minimal training under their belts, the Raiders players could have been forgiven for looking a bit rusty. But that was far from the case. Every boy looked ready and sharp, which was fortunate considering that the home team started quickly themselves.
In a close opening to the game, both teams gradually started to find their rhythm. The midfield was packed but the Raiders started to take control. Fenton was back in the midfield and pulling strings like he’d never been away.
On a few occasions, the boys in blue looked reluctant to pull the trigger, but the chances were starting to come. There were also some superb long range efforts from Taylor (with a trademark Parker freekick thunderbolt) and from Jack, one of four Raiders debutants.
It was Jack who broke the deadlock with a fine close-range finish after a mazy run and some good interpassing with his new teammates. Raiders were off and running - and beginning to take control.
This was a tough and competitive game though, resembling a cup final more than a pre-season friendly in its intensity. The committed tackles were flying in, and the players on both teams were running hard. Walsham grabbed a fortunate equaliser with their first real effort on goal. 1-1.
Before long, Raiders regained the lead after a searching pass over the top from Heston reached Oscar Barrett at the far post. His strike on the half volley flew into the top corner.
Next it was Aiden on the scoresheet, as he raced onto a great pass from Finn and slotted the ball perfectly into the bottom corner for his first Raiders goal; no doubt the first of many. A slight tweak in formation to provide more width helped the away side to dominate and create countless chances.
Walsham stuck to their task and grabbed another goal back but the Raiders’ superior quality shone through in the end, with an excellent solo effort from Finn and a second Aiden goal from close range completing the scoring.
A most enjoyable 5-2 victory and lots to be proud of in the performance. There’s plenty more to learn of course, as we adjust to the 11-a-side format, but it was smiles all round from the boys after the game, which is always the most important thing.
On to the next one…