Tockwith - G1 1 vs 5 Hampsthwaite & Birstwith J

<p>Another bitterly cold Saturday morning saw a number of bleary eyed parents turn up at the cricket pavilion at an unsociable early time of 8a.m. With a kick off time of 9a.m., we managed to lose a few cars on the way to Tockwith and had to make a few last minute changes to the starting 7! As G1 kicked off, it was soon apparent that the boys were determined to continue where they had left off in the previous matches. Early tackles from Elliot and Craig showed a determination that has been ever present this season. With a high hopeful ball hit into the area by Craig, most players turned and waited for the goalie to catch it and take the goal kick. Not Elliot. Akin to one of the greatest strikers of the 90's, Elliot 'The Toxteth Prowler' Brewins followed the ball and, as the goalie dropped it, he was there to pounce and strike. The Tockwith team proved to be resolute in the first half and repelled a number of HBJFC attacks. Harry has an eye for long range spectacular goals and had a chance from outside the area which went just wide. As we started the second half, Louis was soon to banish any nerves with a great turn and low drive into the bottom corner. Although not called upon too frequently, Kian defended his goal with his usual bravery and was quick to clear a number through balls. Not long after Louis' goal, he was also to pull off a great save. He was, however, unable to save a well taken Tockwith penalty. A great attempt to make a tackle from Craig was deemed to be unlawful and a penalty was awarded. This temporary setback didn't stop the boy’s determination and further HBJFC goals were soon to follow. Matthew, following Elliot's poaching example, was quick to pounce on a goal kick error and rounded the goalie and slotted the ball home. Matthew had goals on his mind and when Anthony unleashed a great long range shot, he appeared to have connected with the ball on its way in. The HBJFC Goal Panel (aka N Everstead) determined that no contact was made and the goal was duly awarded to Anthony. The 5th goal also required the Goal Panel review. The Tockwith defenders couldn't deal with some wonderful foot work from Louis and Matthew in the area. Matthew, making space for himself unleashed a left foot shoot low across the goal. As the ball moved towards the open goal Louis dived in. Had he connected before it crossed the line? 'yes' according to Louis and 'no' according to Matthew. Benefit of the doubt was given to Matthew following review with a couple of players closer to incident than the Goal Panel. Another strong performance from all the players shows that each and every one has made great progress in their development since the season started. Alex covered some ground with great determination and proved to be a resolute defender for Tockwith to by-pass. Josiah had one of his strongest games in the middle. Jack certainly has no fear in attacking and calling for the ball and Will, as usual, with great balance, proved to be too much of a handful for his opponents. Well done!