U13 Calcio Talent & Select - FORZA U13

In a tough fixture against last years 3rd placed JPL National finalists, Calcio U13 finally suffered their first defeat of the season, losing 8-2 to a physical, aggressive and organised side. 

First half began with Forza really setting the tone for the match, one of physicality and quick transitional play. Calcio struggled to rally, coming into half time bruised, bleeding and 5-0 down.

The second half showed promise, with some direct play of our own, intending to challenge their high line and show some danger in behind. With willing runs from Jack, Luca and Ted throughout the second half, we gave them something new to think about. This inevitably created space in central midfield and led to our boys demonstrating the best combination play of the game to consistently and confidently play out from the back.

We finally broke their perfect record (12 goals, 0 conceded) with a lovely through ball from Matty B to Ted, who cut back inside and found the bottom left corner. This clearly rattled both their players and their manager as we enjoyed the best spells of the final period. A similar pattern for our second goal saw some lovely vertical play, finished off with Jack finding Ted, for a top bins finish of the highest quality. Tying the final period 2-2 with the third best JPL side in the country last year demonstrates yet again the resilience, determination and tactical understanding from our boys to adapt, raise their game and finish strong.

Onwards and upwards to the next game!