U11 Cougars - Claygate Royals Youth Foleys U9s

The 'Home of Football' was treated to another entertaining, physical game this week, but unfortunately the U9s Cougars fell to their first defeat of the season.

Claygate Royals didn't look in danger of letting the win get away from them after sliding into a 3-0 lead, but a late flurry of chances for Cougars kept their promise of always being a great watch.. and to always keep the spectators on their toes!

Harry Oswin forced home his first of the season and Cougars first of the game. Max got off the mark with his first goal and Harvey added to his seasons tally. But it was a contender for Goal Of The Season from the 'Preston Zidane' that stole the show.

A beautiful, fluid counter attack late on in the game found Harvey out wide on the left. He floated a peach of a cross across the area that was met by Tom on the full volley, smashing the ball into the top corner.

This sparked an exciting end to the tie, with a host of chances for both sides, Cougars having the better of two teams. Harry Oswin blazed a long driven effort inches wide, Louis was close to getting his head on one of the Cougars' trademark corner routines. Rory had a good oppurtunity to nod one in but unfortunately got his Muhammad Ali mixed up with Mohamed Salah, punching the ball into the net!

There was some lovely build up play shown in places, Bobsy and Rory sweeping the ball around defence with ease, before launching attacks with precision. Jude was a rock as always, playing his second game of the day! Theo, who was asked to play in several positions today, was composed in defence and always looked dangerous with his pin-point crosses. Mature hold up play from Jay - back into the team after missing last week through illness - bringing his teammates into the attack also provided some great chances. Supporters Player of the Match was Tom.. we won't forget that goal for a long long time. 

The result really could have gone either way. It was a great game for the neutrals. And would certainly be the first game Lineker and co would be poring over, knocking the Manchester derby down the pecking order.

It will be a good oppurtunity for growth for the boys. Lots of positives to take from the game. Can't wait for next week!