Sunday 6th December 2009 - Swindon Rangers 'A' (H)

After an absolutely huge downpour in the night, and perhaps most thinking that the game would be called off for a second time – play went ahead for Wootton Bassett A (division 3) and Swindon Rangers A (division one), the Cup Game!!

Rain held off and the sun continued to shine as Wootton Bassett fought and fought again and again for the ball against a very physically ambitious opponent. The first goal for SR came about soon after play commenced and then another 10 minutes later. Although as the end result states, the goals kept coming, our lads challenged SR all the way – and there were some pretty impressive challenges too. MJ did a superb job at holding off other attempts at goal and was not swayed or undermined by the ones that were just out of his reach – he kept on going – well done MJ!!

So many of our players were knocked to the ground today – was this a necessity of today's football? Apparently this is the way of the football world but does it have to be the way of the mini soccer world too? Were these tactics actually necessary from such a good team anyway?! After a brilliant tackle by our defense with one of the SR lads ending up on the ground, Cade showed what sportsmanship is all about and went over and helped him up – well done Cade!

Thank you and well done to those boys who made it to the game after being poorly – I know Cade and Mat Cat were two lads that weren't 100% today but made a point of saying they wanted to be there for their team today. Which brings me to another point about our group of lads; they are totally committed to their team in many ways, one of which they keep on coming back on, even if we are down on goals. Some boys, particularly this age would be put off, if the odds were against them, but our lads don't. Again this says a lot for MJ and his game today, and his fab approach to being the Bassett goalie.

At this level is it just a game of footy – is there anything to be said of good, clean, fun football. I think there is, and our team at this point in their game says it all. Many of the parents continue to say what a fantastic attitude our Wootton Bassett lads have especially after a game like today – after all at this level, the importance is to be smiling and laughing and supporting your team mates win or lose. This is one of the many attributes our guys have got. Yes it is good to be competitive but at what cost?

Our guys may have lost today but it was against a strong, physical team who are in the top of the division one and undefeated this season – our guys are in division three holding an admirable position (for a new team – 6 out of 10 playing for their first full season). The mood today remained focused and certainly not dispirited and our lads did not act like the underdogs. Tough and tricky cup game but hey Wootton Bassett under 9's came away smiling as usual after working hard and enjoying the game!! All parents and other supporters I know are very proud of this excellent team and their fantastic attitude and achievement so far this season!! Well done to the Blues!!!

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