U11 Yellows vs Calcio Football Centre
Calcio 3 - UFCA 1
We went into this game with confidence, another strong squad and high hopes for another solid performance.
However, in contrast to the Richmondshire Pro Player game, we struggled to play out from the back through Calcio’s aggressive and high press. However, encouragingly we did occasionally demonstrate our ability to break through the high press, when we recognised when and how to play forward. For example, I recall Ewan made more than one line breaking pass into our midfield, which instantly eliminated their first line of pressing players.
The pitch didn’t help. After the crisp morning frost cleared, the pitch very quickly became sticky and muddy. I thought it was really evident that some of our lads didn’t have the correct footwear on, which in turn affected their balance,running and reaction speed, which in turn affected their ability to stop and start. Soft ground boots are a must for grass.
There’s no doubt Calcio posed a bigger physical challenge than Richmond. This is a challenge the lads will encounter a lot, particularly when they get to 13, and we need to find ways to out play these types of teams and players. In possession, I trust our lads to be brave, quicker and more clever in our play, and out of possession up for the challenge, clever in our positioning and body shape to force players into busier areas, and brave to make contact and unbalance the player on the ball.
There’s loads of things I loved about our play in this game.
In the second quarter, Patrick’s pin-point ‘Beckham-esk’ long pass from the halfway line, over their back line and into Max’s path, was exquisite. Max was unfortunate with his finish, which would have taken us into the third quarter with a lead. But these things happen, and I’m sure he’ll get the next one. After this happened, I loved the positive and supportive reactions from the lads towards Patrick and Max.
Another good moment and reaction came after Calcio scored their third, Joshua and Isaac decided to play forward from the kick off and combined through a series of one-twos to get us to the edge of their box and in which a chance to respond instantly.
And last but not least, Aiden’s performance in goals.I lost count of the number outstanding saves he made. Fully deserved the player of the match - well done Aiden!
In summary, we know we weren’t at our best. But like I said to the lads, it’s all good learning and we go again next week, a little wiser and ready for the next challenge.
As always, thank you for the support and positive encouragement from the sidelines.
