Sunday 15th March 2009 - Elite Soccer Coaching (A)

A week after their semi final victory, Bassett "A" Team travelled to Broad Town to play Elite Soccer in the league, Elite coincidentally being their opponents in the final of the NWDC in May. Having played his last game for Bassett, the team were really pleased to see Ryosuke in the starting line-up once again, a dash to the airport (fully kitted up) on full time being required!

The game started slowly, with both teams trying to play passing football. The first shot on goal came after 5 minutes when Euan burst through the midfield, his shot being comfortably saved by Ryan Gillie in the Elite goal. On 8 minutes a smart Elite move cut through the Bassett defence and Conor made a superb one handed save to keep the score level.

The next 5 minutes proved that this was going to be a tough game as Jordan commanded the defence, whilst Ryosuke and Callum worked hard in midfield to give Bassett the ball whenever possible.

On 16 minutes there was an almighty scramble in the Bassett area. Neither defender nor attacker could get a clean kick and eventually Conor dropped down onto the bouncing ball to avert any further danger. From the goal kick Callum chased the ball hard and took it from the Elite defender, his shot going narrowly wide.

This latest attack sparked Bassett into action and the team entered their best period of play. On 19 minutes Ryosuke, Lewis and Callum combined neatly down the right wing but the resulting shot was well saved.

A minute later Bassett went 1-0 up as a long clearance from Jordan was picked up by Lewis, who rode two challenges to put the ball past the Elite keeper. Bassett continued to press and Ryosuke shot inches wide from the edge of the area.

Bassett went all out for another goal. Ryosuke, Callum, Harrison and Lewis were moving the ball brilliantly and were a constant threat. But just as half time approached, Elite broke away for a counter attack and scored with the last kick of the half.

Half Time: 1-1

The second half started with pressure on the Bassett goal but a quick break saw Ryosuke take to the ball down the right wing and cross to Lewis, who's first time shot hit the side netting.

Elite were a constant threat on the Bassett goal but Jordan, Beckham and Alanah were steadfast in defence. On 9 minutes Jordan made a strong tackle and then took the ball out of defence, his pass found Euan who ran through midfield and shot across goal, the ball going narrowly wide of the left hand post.

On 11 minutes a free kick was awarded on the edge of the Bassett box. A strong shot was deflected as it went into the roof of the Bassett goal, 1-2 Elite!

Following the goal, neither side dominated for any length of time and there were very few clear cut opportunities. Strong defending and hard running ensured that both keepers were not required to make another save.

Full-time: 1-2

Match Analysis: As expected, a tough game which unfortunately ended in Bassett's first defeat of the season. The overriding memory for players and parents will be the show of friendship and complete unity as the team bid their final farewells to Ryosuke. Have a safe trip Ryosuke and family, you will be sadly missed.

Player of the Match: Composed and assured on the ball, strong in every tackle, POTM goes to Jordan Taylor for his brilliant performance.

Last modified on Monday 22nd June 2015 at 23:39