U15 Yellows - Opponent

It was great to have the lads back together for a competitive match, after a longer than planned, break.

Our previous match against Yorkshire Elite, ended in a 6-3 loss. There were elements in that game, that we struggled to deal with and this contributed to the majority of their goals. So, knowing their threats, the fast center forward, the dynamic midfielder, their long ball game and their likely formation, we planned accordingly.

It was clear to me, on arrival to the ground, that the vast majority of the lads, seemed lethargic and very quiet, the latter, an ongoing issue that I don't like and will focus on for the rest of the season. This concerned me, as I wanted to see and hear more energy and excitement to show we were up for this and happy to be back at it. Even the warm up, albeit briefer than normal due to the battle axe pitch manager, not giving up even a second, seemed lethargic and quiet despite my efforts to energise (this has to be better).

We started the game slowly, struggling to deal with the issues highlighted in the pre match talk. We looked disorganised and disjointed, unable to secure the ball and maintain any real possession. We allowed their threat players to get on the ball too easily and we were too shy in the challenges. It was inevitable that they would create a scoring opportunity which, they did and took the lead through a lack of desire to clear the ball in our own 18 yard box.....very frustrating!!

Throughout the first half, the issues seemed to continue and they weren't particularly resolved by the lads themselves. The half time team talk couldn't come quick enough and a few things needed changing and addressing. 

Passion, desire, fight, pack mentality and specific jobs were spoken about in the hope that the second half would be better.

The second half was much better!! We started well, getting in behind and securing periods of possession. Challenges were tougher and there was a definite dynamic change. It was nothing short of deserved when we got a penalty for handball after an onslaught on their goal. Jack dispatched it confidently and we started to look like a team again.

Jacob bossed the striker that was causing us problems and, gave him almost zero opportunities for the whole 40 minutes which, was excellent and he deserved the player of the match award. Midfield ran their socks off, working hard to help the defence as well as supporting the attack. The attackers were a threat every time they got the ball with Seb having 3 or 4 players marking him at times. 

However, getting into areas around the box and shooting straight at the keeper, isn't good and that certainly needs some work. We have to be much more convincing and clinical in front of goal to make our efforts worth while.

They hit the post twice from a couple of counter attacks which, always had potential to happen due to our high line. Fortunately, they couldn't convert these chances which, would have spoilt the second half resurgence.

Our frames of mind and attitudes have to be more energised on a match day. We do ourselves an injustice by starting slow. That starts with the preparation the night before, thinking about the game and what your game will entail. This should continue all the way through to the first whistle so, we can start the game on the front foot and put the onus on the the opposition to deal with us and what we are capable of producing rather than what they've got.

Failure to prepare is preparing to fail!!!

Onto the next one lads!!