Sunday 20th September 2009 - Wroughton Youth (A)

WOW WHAT A GAME!!! From an almost casual start from both teams, each finding their feet, the game suddenly picked up and the nail biting tension did not ease. No team dominated the game in fact both had a fair crack at hitting the targets and both goalies had to keep on their toes working for their team. Most of the people spectating as well as managing would probably say that because both teams played so well it could have been any ones triumph at the end of play. Wroughton was a very worthy opponent for our guys to play against for the second time this season so far. And to show how worthy, early on in the first half Wroughton scored their first frustrating goal. They were to go on to score another in that first half.

Bassett were missing its most experienced defender but Cade and Matthew certainly showed what they were made of. They were the dynamic duo on Sunday and worked so well together, covering each others' backs when needed and going in for some great tackles. Ryan was superb always running for the ball and backing up the defense and made a great captain for the team. All of the mid fielders had their work cut out on Sunday. As instructed by Nige and Ralph at the sidelines to 'go go go' and what a fantastic difference they made throughout the whole game, working so hard everywhere and anywhere they could.

There were some hugely tense moments between Wroughtons first and second goal (again in the first half) when there was some great tackles from defense, sometimes bringing our players to the ground but thankfully getting straight back up again. There seemed to be some strange goings on with the ground on Sunday – some of the boys were up and down like yoyos but still kicking and fighting for the ball from the floor and one or two even doing a bit of break dancing while they were there.

There were frequent and firey kicks almost on target from our lads but one of the most memorable attempts at goal or defending I should say, as it happened from our lads own half, was Cade clearing the ball from his end and powering a phenomenal kick right over the pitch towards the goal. Everything from that second seemed to happen in slow motion (Lyndsay –thanks) as everyone looked skyward. Spectators, players, managers all looked up or so it seemed as Cades volley flew through the air, incredibly right on target – and oh what a shame – it wacked the cross bar – what a momentous goal that would have been if it had gone in – some say it may have been the goal of the season so far?? I think Cade was amazed at his own strength and power of that clearance. Later in the game a spectator was heard shouting 'Shoot' to Cade when he again got hold of the ball (in his own half!), that was you Colin - hoping that Cade would try another monster shot!?

At half time the score was 2 - 0 to Wroughton but you could see that there was no down heartedness or agitation from the lads at Wootton Bassett – they were told they had done superbly and to continue doing what they had been doing, and they did.

This game certainly wasn't finished for the blues as Wootton Bassett made a flying comeback with not just one but three amazing goals in the second half. They were tired towards the end but got stuck in just as much as the first half they played. Quite often if the opposition are leading at half time players can be demoralized and lose confidence as a team but not Bassett. Our lads came fighting back and Wroughton were sure to be bewildered at the attacking and defending coming at them. Shortly into the second half we were given a corner and Nige asked the defence to move up. What a great tactic as a fantastic goal then followed, set up by Joe and booted in by Cade – what a goal and what a wonderful look on Cades face – he didn't quite know where to go next but he grinned from ear to ear which was all he needed to do!! It's at times like these when it would be great to capture these fantastic and memorable moments on camera. This then set the scene for the rest of the match – goal two was hammered past Wroughtons goalie by Joe (set up by Hadley), and Joe again pleased as punch ran with his hands up, almost a Shearer celebration, again with a huge grin – what a goal!! Nice praising high five from Ralph too! And it didn't stop there. Hadley was the next to boot one into the back of the net – what a goal!! High fives all round. The team worked brilliantly again as 'a team' each doing their bit and working hard for the ball. There were so many superb efforts from all the players, lots of kicks on target but some not quite making the mark. Matthew was impressive as always, in goal, as Wroughton had lots of other chances to score, as well as their original 2 goals. In this game Harrison was playing up front on his own and although had lots of back up from his team mates this is a difficult position to be in but he did not waiver once, always putting in 100% effort to move the ball forward.

Another mention on the strange things in football: LACES what was going on with our boys laces – a few spectators had to keep shouting as our boys laces kept undoing themselves. And a quick mention about a certain someone denying themselves a hair cut whilst Wootton Bassett under 9's are drawing and winning. Whos' hair is it – I will leave it to you to make up your mind with your own observations. And how long will it get??

Penalties were again good this week and no injuries which was great although have since found out that Cade possibly played with a slight fracture to his 5th right metacarpal bone, which he hurt on Saturday! But hey ho that's kids for you!! And just to add he is ok for football but no rugby or boxing – that's a relief then. Spectators were well behaved although there was a lot of whoo-ing (?) but that was understandable as it was a very exciting game. Sweet talk isn't always necessary though – that goes to the lady shouting 'babe' into the pitch? – you know who you are – heads turned that shouldn't have though in response, which is the worrying thing. Wroughton are a great team – players and managers and even though this was a friendly, it is still so great for the lads to get a win. Excellent all round – bravo to the two big boys and a big clap of applause for the lads – another outstanding and action packed performance!!

Report compiled by Sam Simmons

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