The lads were up against a strong, quick and powerful Castle Vale side. The game started well with the Holly Lane midfield dominating possession for the first 15 minutes. Bilal, Connor and Mike were again too skillful for the opposition. Despite this pressing advantage we were unable to score in the first 25 minutes.
Castle Vale played to their strengths, employing the long kick on a short pitch and used their much bigger forwards to force the score. This tactic worked three times leaving us three down at half time.
The boys were however resolute and did not let this perturb them. We came out fighting in the second half. The defence was strong Tom and Joe battled hard to keep out the much stronger and quicker Castle Vale attack. Joe's ball control has improved as he fended off and cleared numerous attacks. Harry continued his good form and attacked from deep clearing effectively.
Rico worked well in goal in the second half to fend off some fierce strikes; one shot in particular would have flattened Fort Knox.
Mike had a handful of strong runs in the second half despite the size and strength disadvantage, he cut through the defence with ease on occasions.
The goal came at last. Connor had threatened down the wing on several occasions, beating the defence and delivering crosses into the box. On one such occasion, Mike managed to get on the end and slip the ball under the keeper.
Bilal continued to impress by weaving and jinking around players and delivering quality passes throughout the game. Craig battled on despite the tough first half in goal and was strong running onto the ball.
All-in-all, a good day at the office for the boys and the score line flattered the opposition, but they took their chances and were clinical - we weren't. Roll on next week.
