Haxby U11 Sky 4 vs 7 Wilberfoss Mavericks

Colts began their new season as an Under-11s side with an away fixture against Haxby Sky. Haxby are a newly assembled team and, essentially, their B team — something that became apparent in the early stages as we asserted our superiority straight from kick-off.

Our attacking unit started the game strongly, with Will in particular causing all sorts of problems for their defence. Leon was also looking dangerous whenever he got on the ball, but it was a mistake from their defender that gifted us our first real chance, with a back pass forcing the keeper into an excellent save. A low drive from Will went narrowly wide, and soon after, Freddie went close after connecting with a deep cross at the back post.

Haxby offered little in reply, and anything that did come our way was swiftly dealt with by Sam and Leo at the back. We were looking comfortable in every aspect of the game, and our dominance was rewarded when Leon opened the scoring after some excellent work from Will.

Shortly after, Leon popped up in the right place at the right time again, calmly finishing after another neat through ball from Will to make it 2-0.

Haxby looked rattled and Colts could smell blood. Next on the scoresheet was Harris, who produced a clever bit of skill from a kick-in, dribbling past a couple of defenders before firing high into the net from a tight angle.

Colts were on fire, and there was still time for one more before half-time. Leon completed his first-half hat-trick after some excellent high pressing was rewarded with a chance that he duly dispatched off the underside of the bar.

4-0 at half-time.

Haxby decided to use their power play, and the extra player made an instant impact as they pulled one back soon after the restart.

Normal service was quickly resumed, however. Once the power play was over, Colts responded with a fifth as Albert’s corner was turned into the goal by a Haxby defender for an own goal.

Albert was then in on the action again, following up on the rebound to score our sixth and cap a fine individual performance.

Another Haxby power play followed, and a slight resurgence resulted in some pressure around our box. This culminated in a very dubious penalty being awarded for what looked like a nothing foul by Dougie.

Haxby converted the penalty and followed it up with another goal shortly afterwards to make it 6-3 and bring their second power play to an end.

Back to 7v7, and the final five minutes were closer than they should have been, with Haxby scoring again to make it 6-4.

But it was left to Leon to finally put the game to bed. After being dragged down by a frustrated defender — who will probably be having nightmares about Leon tonight — he stepped up to take the resulting penalty and calmly converted to complete the scoring.

Final score: Haxby Sky 4–7 Colts.

An unusual start to the season against a newly assembled team who, on this evidence, probably shouldn’t be playing in Division 2. The scoreline certainly flattered Haxby, as they fully utilised their power plays to give themselves far more hope than they probably deserved.

That said, we could have been a little tighter defensively at times, but it was our offensive play that should really be applauded. We have a wealth of attacking talent, and today they were all on fine form — linking up brilliantly, playing through the lines and giving the Haxby defence a torrid time throughout.

?? Coaches’ POTM: Will

Started the game on the front foot and was a constant threat. Always positive, with great energy, pressing high and showing an incredible desire to win and compete for every ball. A brilliant performance.

?? Parents’ POTM: Leo

Mr Consistent. Leo started the season exactly as he finished the last one. Incredible energy, reads the game brilliantly and consistently finds himself in the right place at the back to nullify any threat. Another excellent performance.

????????Leon ??Harris ??Albert ??OG

????Will ??Albert