FC Elmstead Roosters vs Orpington Rovers Pumas
7 - 1
30 September 2018 · Tandridge Youth Football League<br>Central
Away league match played on 30 September 2018.
Kicked off at 11:30 AM
7-1
vs FC Elmstead Roosters
Away league match
Written by Steve McCartney
On a warm and sunny autumnal morning, the Pumas travelled the short distance to Chislehurst High Street where we were met by our hosts Elmstead Roosters.
Marco, without George and Ben for this fixture picked an attacking line-up. Brandon in goal, a defensive four of Joe, James, Dylan, and Connor. Sam, Tom and Luke made a midfield trio that sat behind our attack of Gino, Ace and Logan. Jacob starting as substitute this week.
The match kicked off shortly after the scheduled time of 11:30am.
Immediately the Pumas were on the attack looking to take the early lead. Sam, Gino and Ace testing the opposition goalkeeper early on.
The first twenty minutes of the match arguably produced the best football the Pumas have played so far this season. The passing and movement from the boys were exceptional and the Roosters found it very difficult to get some kind hold on the game.
With some nice inter-passing between, Connor, Gino and Sam on the left-hand side, resulted in a free kick for a handball just outside the area. Gino, lining up the free kick, hit the ball past the static Elmstead goalkeeper to give the Pumas a deserved lead. Gino’s third goal of the season after 22 minutes.
The home side without any credible attack up to this point, seemed to awake from a slumber and put the Pumas defence under pressure, producing a couple of fine saves from Brandon.
With gaps appearing in the visitors defence the score was level after 27 minutes. The Roosters having quick players on either wing, soon worked out a way to get the past the once solid defence and soon after took the lead.
The home side's heads were up and went even further ahead with couple more goals just before the interval.
At half time, Jacob was introduced into the back four, Dylan played as an attacker replacing the injured Logan.
The second half resumed with the Pumas midfield taking early control of the game. Tom, playing as central midfield defender stopping all Roosters attacks. Sam and Luke combining well looking to bring Ace into play. But just as the boys seemed to be getting back in the game the home side scored two in quick succession.
Half way through the half Logan replaced Ace who had been carrying a knock.
The boys continued to play some nice football and despite the score kept their heads but with the game coming to a close the home side scored another.
The final score definitely does not reflect the way Pumas played and at times the football was a real joy to watch.
Many thanks to all parents and family members for your tremendous support.
Congratulations to Luke for a very well deserved Man-of-the-match award.