Despite
a magnificent fight back, the U10 Assassins could not match the organisation
of second division leaders Ashtead Colts, finally losing 3-2.
The
contrast was strongest at the start. Ashtead started confidently whereas
Brockham looked hesitant, conceding too much space in dangerous areas. Ashtead took full advantage, scoring twice in ten minutes, and looked
set to dominate the game.
But Brockham fought back. Manager
Jason Rabbetts made several midfield changes to steady the team and
the Badgers started playing as they can, creating several good chances.
Felix Saro-Wiwa and James Rabbetts were both unlucky after good moves.
Early in the second half Brockham stepped up the pressure and
two crisp, low shots from Sam Lloyd brought the match level, setting
up a tense finish.
Ashtead proved the more resourceful. Sustained pressure from them led to a series of corners and again
Brockham hesitation led to a free header from close range for
Ashtead, giving keeper Jamie Luckins no chance. Final Brockham
chances from Chris Walton and Luke Brightman went just wide and an
engrossing match finished with Ashtead narrow winners.
Once they
were in their stride, Brockham demonstrated commitment, skill and
resilience. With only a touch more organisation at key moments
they could have won this game.
Squad: Jamie Luckins, Tom Hampshire,
Chris Walton, Tom Charman, Luke Brightman, Cameron Boychuck, Sam Lloyd
(c), James Rabbetts, Felix Saro-Wiwa, William Pereira.
Player
of the Week: James Rabbetts
What
a difference the tactical change by team manager Bangs made. At the
last outing, in the search for goals, Bangs used just three at the
back but compensated with three up front. The result - a twelve goal
feast which the U14Bs edged 7-5. The spectators were expecting more
of the same, but the previous week must have been too nerve racking
for the manager as he reverted to a more conventional 4-4-2 line up.
His astute tinkering clearly worked as the defence produced an
almost faultless display and the forwards rewarded them with three
goals and, more importantly, the teams first ever cup victory in this
plate fixture.
Badgers started well and were matching their opponents
from the division above in possession, skill and commitment.
The first half chance fell to Mackrell who miscued a difficult shot,
but this seemed to give Badgers confidence and belief in themselves.
Parker was causing problems all over the pitch and his pass put Robins
through on goal, only for the Tigers' keeper to save. The game was
following a familiar pattern for Badgers U14B - lots of good pressure
but no goals until, just before half time, good work by Goddard led
to a goalmouth scramble and Sourris was able poke the ball over the
line.
Playing downhill with the wind in the second half, Badgers
were confident but Horsham Tigers came out much stronger. Still the
Brockham defence held firm, Thomas and Moorcroft in particular putting
in sound performances. The keeper Hern demonstrated his excellent
reading of the game, continually snuffing out Tiger attacks by clearing
from outside his area. The defence’s hard work was rewarded midway
through the second half when a long shot from Robins eluded the Tigers
keeper to make it 2-0.
The second goal seemed to knock the stuffing
out of Tigers and Badgers looked composed as they completed a 3-0
victory after Mackrell followed up a Parker shot whoch had been too
powerful for the keeper to hold.
Manager Bangs praised
all his team in the after match talk, but reserved special praise
for a defence which this time had given him a less stressful Saturday
morning.
Squad: Hern, Thomas, Moorcroft, Bangs, Goddard, Robins,
Parker, Knowles, Mackrell, Owen, Brightman, Lloyd, Penny
