Buntingford Cougars

2 days ago

Cougars U12s Royals vs Thorley Manor, Sunday 9th May, Home
Durr, Gower, Parker, Nicholas (JA), Bliss, Woolhead, Duxbury, Beattie, Cooper, Heath, Nicholas (JO)

It was an early start for the Royals on a warm and sunny May morning and it seemed the team were still snuggled in their duvets as it was 15 minutes into the game before they woke up! By that stage Thorley Manor had racked up a decent lead but, my word, when the Royals did finally arise from their prolonged slumber they roared into the game in magnificent fashion.

With Coach Bliss urging the back four higher up the pitch the wide open expanses of turf initially exploited by their opponents began to disappear and the Royals’ early timidity in the tackle was replaced by some determined challenges. Durr had made some good saves during this spell of pressure and, as the home side started to get a foothold in the contest, Beattie and Cooper linked up well down the left touchline with Heath eventually breaking through on goal to force a save from the keeper. A follow up effort from Nicholas (JO) flew narrowly wide. Parker battled bravely at the back to win a 50/50 challenge and Cooper created the opportunity for another shot. Some good clearances from Bliss helped turn the tide and despite going into the break 4-0 down, spirits were lifted for the second half.

Durr moved into a central defensive berth for the second period with Nicholas (JA) taking his place between the sticks. Durr won plenty of tackles and anticipated well to snuff out threats early. Nicholas (JA) was quick off his line as the sweeper keeper and made a number of sharp stops. A Cooper break forced a corner and Cooper’s fine delivery from the set piece saw a scramble which ended with Heath belting a shot towards goal that was saved well by the keeper but Duxbury was on hand to tuck away the rebound. Game on!

More good pressure from the Royals saw Nicholas (JO) almost through on goal before a spectacular long range strike from Thorley Manor restored their four goal advantage. At right back Gower was winning a series of duels with his opposing winger and Woolhead was remaining calm in the maelstrom of central midfield, getting his foot in whenever possible. Beattie chased everything and the back four pushed out relentlessly, catching the eager forward line offside on numerous occasions.

Nicholas (JA) pulled off a great save from point blank range before Cooper broke through one on one against the keeper who matched Nicholas’s efforts with a fine stop of his own. Cooper wasn’t to be denied, however. Heath recycled possession well and Cooper buried the opportunity this time round. In midfield, Duxbury was growing increasingly influential and sped away to create another couple of chances. A late Cooper corner saw an effort from Duxbury cleared off the line and the final whistle sounded on an excellent second half display from the Royals. After such a tough start, they had won the second period 2-1 and listened well to put Coach Bliss’s instructions into action, making him a proud gaffer at the post-match press conference. Player of the match went to Durr for a fine display in both of his roles.

In preparation for next year, the Royals had played with all 11 players on the pitch throughout and, despite the warm weather, kept going right to the end. It was a really useful friendly and the Royals were able to put into practice much of their learning from the weekly training sessions. Hopefully there will be a few more opportunities before the season ends. Well done everyone on a superb effort! ... See MoreSee Less