Cougars Under 9’s Blues, with only seven fit players, rode into Melbourn Dynamo’s to take on a strong Panthers’ team. Starting at a fast tempo, which they managed to maintain throughout, Cougars went close early doors when Rylee Kitteringham thumped a post. The combination play between Kitteringham, Oscar Kay and Dan Fone was exceptional and this deservedly led to Cougars getting in front when Kitteringham swept home a smart Fone pass. Just before the break the all action Kay went close from a cleverly worked corner.
The second half continued in the same vain as the first with Cougars carving out opening after opening. One passing move involved the whole team and ended in efforts from both Kay and Fone hitting the post seconds apart. Ben Lewis on an excursion from his solid defensive duties also had a shot well saved by Panthers’ excellent goalkeeper, who made a string of high class saves during the game. Finally the lead was extended when Kitteringham fired in a bullet of a shot, which left the keeper checking all his fingers were still intact. Cougars prevented Melbourn from scoring with Fraser Finlay and Adam Sleath not only putting in some excellent tackles but also distributing well to set up further waves of attacks, while Lui LoConte stayed alert throughout the game and acted as a sweeper when needed. Kitteringham finished the showdown with two excellent finishes which deservedly earned him man of the match for his sharp shooting display.
