It was a cold but bright and sunny day in Bishop Stortford and the Cougars Under8s Royals looked enthusiastic and focused. Within seconds of the kick off, Rubi Pryke made a confident solo run through the defence a took a firm shot on goal, but the oppositions goal keeper stood strong and made the save. Pryke was soon in the action again, as he took a corner and place the ball at the feet of Henry McAllister who was tackled.
The shots from the opposition came thick and fast but the Royals goalkeeper, Archie Beattie, made a number of impressive saves and stayed focused. Kieran Bliss was also sharp in defence, working hard and looking determined he did well to keep the ball away from the goal.
Ryan Gasson made a terrific run down the right wing and crossed to McAllister who was fouled but Cougars were unable to convert the penalty, the keeper making a good save. Before half time William Brown soon after made a run on the right side and his shot just went wide of the goal.
During the second half, the players remained determined to find a goal with Brown continuing to make positive runs on the right and Ben Gower battling hard in the middle of the pitch to winning and keeping possession. The best chance in the second half fell to Brown after a good move involving McAllister and Pryke but his shot was well saved.
