Witton Albion Academy u10 2 vs 3 Heaton Mersey Vipers U10s

U10s Whites Match Report ??

??? Date: Sunday 10th May

?? Opponents: Heaton Mersey Vipers

?? Result: 2–3

?? Competition: MYSL League Match

An unfortunate result for the lad on Sunday in a game where we definitely deserved more. The performance, attitude, and quality shown throughout the match were excellent, and the lads can be really proud of how they played against a strong side. On another day, with a little more luck in front of goal, we easily could have come away with the win.

In Possession

The boys started the game a little slowly during the opening 10 minutes. We looked slightly unsure in our shape and found it difficult to move the ball up the pitch in the way we usually do. Me and Tom felt that this may have been due to a few nerves at the start of the game.

However, after those opening stages, the boys really grew into the match and began to take control. We started passing the ball brilliantly, playing some lovely football and creating several dangerous opportunities. There were also some fantastic moments of individual quality, especially in 1v1 situations where the boys regularly beat their defenders and drove us forward.

In the second half, we controlled the game for long periods and spent most of the half in Heaton Mersey’s side of the pitch. We created plenty of chances, including several 1v1 opportunities, but unfortunately their goalkeeper made some outstanding saves to deny us, he did end up getting the MOTM which is very telling for the game he had. We also had four dangerous free kicks in good areas and were unlucky not to convert at least one of them. In the end, it just felt like one of those games where the ball didn’t quite want to go in for us despite all of our attacking pressure.

Out of Possession

Without the ball, the boys defended very well throughout the game. Even in the opening 10 minutes when we looked a little nervous, the team stayed compact and worked hard to stop Heaton Mersey from creating many chances. Earlier in the season, moments like that may have led to us conceding several goals early on, so it was brilliant to see how much the boys have improved defensively.

Across the whole match, the team defended exactly how me and Tom have wanted all season. The boys were organised in their shape, aggressive in their tackles, and worked hard to make themselves difficult to beat. Their pressing was excellent too quick, purposeful, and done together as a team. It was fantastic to see the progress the lads have made and how comfortable they now look within the system and shape we’ve been working on.

Although conceding three goals was frustrating, credit must go to the opposition for taking their chances well. Two of their goals were excellent finishes, especially the second, and the third came from a scramble in the box where they reacted quickest to poke it into the corner.

? Player of the Match – Jacob D

Jacob was phenomenal and constantly drove the team forward. In attacking situations, he dominated his 1v1 battles and caused huge problems for the Heaton Mersey defence all game. Time after time he beat his player and delivered dangerous balls across the box — although me and Tom are still not sure whether some of them were crosses or shots ??. Unfortunately, we just couldn’t quite get on the end of a few of them.

Out of possession, Jacob was equally impressive. He worked tirelessly to recover and help the team defensively, showing great aggression and strength in his tackles. His energy and determination throughout the game were outstanding.

?? Goals: Seth, Sam

?? Assist: Sam

Me and Tom are incredibly proud of the progress the boys have made this season. There has been huge improvement individually and as a team, and the lads have shown great character by sticking together and digging deep during difficult moments in games. There are so many positives to take from this year, and the boys should all be very proud of themselves.

A massive well done to everyone this season.

See you all at training on Tuesday.

Thanks,

Jayden and Tom ??