Unique Fc U9s Reds 8 vs 2 West Wickham Blues

Having watched the game back a few times, we dominated the ball and showed plenty of encouraging signs.

I’ve broken down all eight goals because each highlights why we drill specific messages in training and how applying these principles consistently creates success.

Breaking Down the Goals

Goal 1: React, Regain and Play Forward

We lost possession but reacted brilliantly, got numbers around the ball and regained it. Blake played forward into Vinnie, who picked out Cole for a superb finish. Excellent reaction and a quick attack before the opposition could reorganise.

Goal 2: Recognising When to Use Depth

Blake reacted quickly to the ball going dead but couldn’t play forward, so he used depth. Carter then played an excellent pass into Vinnie. Although Vinnie couldn’t get his shot away, Carter followed up and scored with a fantastic strike from distance.

Goal 3: Shape Creates Opportunities

Our shape was superb. The sweeper played short, our wide players stayed high and wide, and we created clear passing lanes. Cole received the ball outside and crossed for Vinnie to finish calmly. Excellent positioning created the space to progress forward.

Goal 4: Using Depth

Blake from a kick on uses depth to play Carter who then played wide to Lennon, who delivered into the box for Blake to score at the back post. Using depth helps create better angles, move the opposition and find the right moment to attack.

Goal 5: Playing Forward Quickly

Carter stepped in and played forward early, finding Vinnie with a superb pass. A brilliant example of recognising when the forward pass is available and attacking before the opposition recovers.

Goal 6: Reacting Together

We lost possession but reacted brilliantly, getting numbers around the ball and regaining control. Carter then took charge and scored an absolutely magnificent goal. Our collective reaction created the opportunity.

Goal 7: Link Play and Movement

Carter won the ball and played into Vinnie, who linked back to Carter. Carter then found Caspian on the other side, allowing him to drive into space and finish superbly across the goalkeeper.

This is exactly why we use link passes. When the forward pass isn’t available, we link the play to create the angle for the next pass forward.

Goal 8: Playing Forward to Create Chances

From a kick-in, Lennon played into Caspian, who took his first touch forward, beat his opponent and shot. The goalkeeper saved it, and Vinnie followed up to score. Just two passes created the chance. When playing forward is on, attack with purpose rather than adding unnecessary passes.

Another Encouraging Moment

End of Third Quarter: Blake couldn’t play forward from a kick-in, so he used Carter, who linked with the sweeper. Cole then played Caspian in, and he held up his opponent well to create a shooting opportunity. Another example of staying patient rather than forcing the forward pass.

Communication and Leadership

One of my favourite things watching the game back was seeing players take responsibility. Lennon telling Blake to use depth showed teammates helping each other, while Blake did an excellent job organising the press.

Carter was outstanding in his decision-making, consistently recognising when to play forward, when to use teammates and how to offer depth.

What Can We Improve?

We can still move the ball quicker, recognise depth earlier and provide better options for the player in possession. We must keep improving our understanding of when to play forward immediately and when to link the play.

Our shape from goal kicks needs significant improvement. Despite working on this for several weeks, we are still far too slow getting organised. Everyone must recognise their position quicker, understand their role and take responsibility so we can restart with purpose and give the player on the ball clear options.

We also conceded while trying to play the way we want to play. Mistakes will happen, but we must remain brave, learn from them and continue trusting our principles.

Final Thoughts

We dominated the ball and scored eight excellent goals, demonstrating the value of reacting together, creating the right shape, using depth, linking play and playing forward quickly.

Tougher tests are ahead, so let’s maintain our high standards, communicate, be brave on the ball and keep doing the right things consistently.

Well done, boys! Fantastic football on show and plenty to build on. Let’s keep pushing!