| Match Report |
PRIDE
Best game of the season so far.
For the last few games we at Yardley Badgers have been praised by our opponents. They have reported not just to us but to the league officials. Our conduct on the pitch and the style of play we are trying to play has been noticed, and praised. Everyone of us in the team should take great pride from these remarks. Well Done Everyone.
This game against Olton could have been the toughest test yet for the Badgers as Olton have been forced to play with three adult due to players moving up into adult hockey. John our usual adult regular was out injured this week so Zach the 1st team captain stepped in. Even though Olton played with three adults we were tempted to play all the youth team but decided to keep to the regular remit of having the adult on the pitch to guide and help develop the play from the back.
Our Badger’s played their best game of the season so far. The team work and eagerness to get on the ball was a pleasure to see. The link up play which has been developing all season really clicked into play in this game and tested the visitors resolve. The visitors adults really made it tough for our young forwards to get to test their keeper. The adults also pushed high to help their attacks but Yardley Badgers defended well and Jack our keeper had very little to do. Our own adult remained in his own 23m and swept up all attacks that got past the youth defence. He got the players involved all around the pitch with his passes from inside the 23m line (impressive).
Throughout the game most play was in midfield as both teams tried to dominate possession. Each team tackled hard and worked hard to close the ball down. Frantic at times but also entertaining to watch. Olton were the taller and stronger players but Yardley Badgers were not daunted by the size difference and battled away. As the game wore on spaces appeared and the home teams best chances came from quick breakaways whilst the Olton adults were high up the pitch. These quick attacks tested the keeper on three occasions but he saved them well. Half way through the second half Olton got the solitary goal which separated two very even teams. The relief on the Olton's faces when the goal went in showed the tough test we were giving them .
We also had two new players this week Kyle and Zac, who enjoyed their first competitive league game and were incorporated into the squad seamlessly. Unfortunately Zac hurt his foot during the game but should be back before the end of season. Our regulars helped them during the game and welcomed them into the team.
You all should be PROUD of yourselves this week for so many positives.
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