Match Report - MIGHTY DRAGONS JFC U13 BLACKS - 13 Nov 2021

A good match up against a very physical team this morning.

It was the first time playing Mighty Dragons but they sat in a similar position in the table so we knew it should be a good game. The game started well with both teams attacking and defending well but two goals for Mighty Dragons in quick succession came after small mistakes by Roach Greens. They didn't drop their heads though and mid-way through the half, should've been awarded a goal after a scramble saw the keeper finally grab the ball from what looked like behind the line. The ref didn't see it though and couldn't give the goal so it stayed 0-2. The rest of the half was very physical with some late challenges flying in and just before half time, Josh was left in a heap after a particularly bad foul by one of the opposition, and needing to come off to assess the injury.

At half time we talked about not getting wound up by the constant fouls and taunts (including plenty from opposition parents sadly) and focusing on our football.

The first 20 minutes of the half remained goalless but another lapse in concentration ended in a 3rd goal for the away team and then 10 minutes later, they grabbed a fortunate 4th. The call came to show some pride and finish strongly and that's what Roach Greens did. In the 69th minute, Alex beat his man and cut the ball back across goal for it to be turned in to his own net by the defender. Then in the final minute, with Greens pushing for another goal, Ewan's long throw found Jailson just outside the area to hit a half volley flying into the corner of the net.

The score finished 2-4 with Greens needing to learn a few lessons about how to deal with such physical and intimidating teams.

Man of the match awards went to Ewan for his constant effort on the right of the attack, Nate who showed some great touches and tried to play some good football and Dan who had another solid game at left back.