U16 Boys vs Bedford U16

There’s an old saying that every game is a game of two halves and this match against a strong and skilful Bedford team, was no exception!

The Magpies’ team had never played together before so it was not surprising that the first half was dominated by Bedford. The Magpies' defence tried quickly to get to know each other's strengths and luckily, goalkeeper Alex was in excellent form and working hard to keep control of the score. The experience and excellent defending by Max and Haydn helped to steady the ship and to set up some good runs for the midfield players. But it was very difficult for Magpies to capitalise in the attacking circle as the ball very seldom reached that far. So Bedford’s three goals at half-time was not a surprise.

Whatever was said in the half time team talk certainly worked because the whole team returned to the pitch more focussed and more determined. Suddenly passes and tactics began to work and with Johnny’s speed, Harris’ persistence and Max’s willingness to progress up the pitch, Magpies found themselves in the attacking circle more frequently and more effectively. They dominated the game for most of the second half and out-played Bedford for most of the time.

Sadly two goals which should have happened did not come to fruition. Johnny was away on his own and at the top of the circle he prepared to strike the ball when his stick was taken from behind by a defender preventing the follow through. In similar fashion, Harris was steering the ball quickly towards the goal when he was sandwiched at the top of the circle by two very determined Bedford defenders. Unwilling to stop, Harris drew back his stick and scored a very, very good individual goal under a lot of pressure. Unfortunately the umpire called Harris for barging and the goal was disallowed.

3-2 would have been a fairer result but it was not to be. In the end, the Magpies team came together and played very well together. They showed that they have the potential to do well in the Plate competition. Well done everyone!

Once again, our thanks to Myles and Rae for their time, help and support with this age group. But this time, a special thank you to Lisa who coached the team, (many of whom she had never met before), and enabled them to make such excellent progress over the seventy minutes.

Thank you also to all the parents and supporters for your enthusiastic cheers and encouragement …. It really made a difference.