21 Sep 2008 - RESULT - early Cup exit for u13s

Thames Gateway  0 – 9  Woodford Youth

This was a tough test for the boys as we played our first ever County Cup match, and for 24 minutes we competed well and did ourselves proud.

Woodford, from the Echo Premier Division, showed some good touches but our defence was strong and the midfield competed brilliantly.  For 10 or 15 mins we played much of the game in their half without really creating the chances that some of the approach play deserved.  When the deadlock was finally broken there was an element of good fortune in it for the visitors after the deflected cross took a big bounce and looped over James in goal and fell in to the path of the incoming striker.

At half time, trailing 1-0 Kevin told the boys he was pleased with their performance but urged them to push forward more.  However, Woodford came out strong and scored after 5 mins of the second half.  Still we battled and pushed for a goal.  CJ was very strong at the back, Matthew, Josh and Kews worked hard in midfield.  Woodford’s third sealed the win and after that a 15 minute spell changed the score line completely.

We have no complaints about the result, it was a fair game and both teams put everything in to it on a very warm day.  Our plight wasn’t helped by injuries to Harry, Kews, CJ, Matthew and Jamie but we will not make any excuses.

Instead we say congratulations to Woodford who we wish well for the rest of the competition.  This was good experience for the team and we can learn from playing against teams of this level.