The first game of 2017 saw Cougars Under7s Stripes travel to Hitchin Tigers and take an early lead through an Antony Gull strike from close range. More attacking Cougars play saw Gull dribble past the Hitchin defence with the ball finding Alex Pooley whose shot brought a fine save. The hosts scored an equaliser shortly before a good pass from Pooley that led to a shot by Ryan Gull being saved by the Hitchin keeper. Ted Doncaster went in goal for the visitors and with his numerous solid saves and Lucas Crook’s strong tackles in defence the Cougars kept the hosts at bay.
The midfield duo of Ryan Gull and Lucas Hardy worked hard and they closed Hitchin down every time they were in possession. On one occasion Pooley dispossessed Hitchin but his shot was again saved just before Lucas’ last gasp tackle on a Hitchin striker saved a certain goal for Hitchin.
The game was end to end, closely fought and either side could have won it. Player of the week was Ryan Gull for his work rate, fine outfield performance and several fine saves in goal in the last 10 minutes.
