Match report NMJFC U11 Hornets V Bollington Blues - 04/10/25

Nobody will deny that it’s been a tough start for The Hornets. Bigger pitches, 9v9 and the offside rule can all be to blame but for me, the summer tournament victory at The Greater Manchester Cup has created some form of complacency and a belief that ‘We’ve made it?!’ . . . . . WE DEFFO HAVEN’T! The first few games this season have been hard work but you boys have shown a side of your character where you simply refuse to give in. Come-back after come-back, this has made each game so far a very interesting spectacle but today was all about getting a good start and taking control of the game. Boys – You nailed it!

We were up against Bollington United Blues and as I scrolled through my previous match-reports, I couldn’t find them?? When we entered the arena we realised it was last seasons champions and we knew this was going to take something special to break the current form we’ve been in. Every single one of our lads turned up and put in a proper shift. Oliver L was back between the posts and after this afternoons performance, he may never leave there again! Oliver L made so many top class saves today that even the opposition coaches were singing his praises. When he scored from a goal kick . . . . . . They definitely weren’t!! Incredible Oliver L ⚽

This season we have been asking for help from The Scorpions and it was Leo & Cal this weekend. Both of them were outstanding again. Absolute graft from the pair of them and they barley put a foot wrong. Thanks for the help and we will be asking you again to help us out cos you’re both brilliant & reliable. We also had coach Simon from The Scorpions who was a great help in the warm-up / the match / the half-time / the full-time massively helped and encouraged the lads.

Rocket & Kai epitomised what being a team player represents. The pair of them started the game as a full-back. Then when we needed, they went to the wing and Kai even showed how he can influence the game in centre midfield too. Ronan has struggled with injury but has since added so many more qualities to his game. His decision making has improved incredibly. Ronan knows when to tackle, header, clear the ball and it’s cos of the injury, this has come on leaps & bounds and he simply refuses to give in!

Our other two partners-in-crime are Finners & Frankie. They absolutely bossed that defence this afternoon and against the best attack in The Metro League they kept them at bay, whilst playing in horrendous conditions.

Finley & Frank are warriors and I would like to think Oliver B is in that category now too. His work rate is off the radar and does all the dirty stuff. The kind of work you don’t get recognition for playing in other teams but we know your value Oliver B! Breaking up the play and turning defence into attack is the toughest job but you make it look easy.

Then we have Ollie M & Albie who have proven to be our goal-threats in years gone by. I’m going to be completely honest, both of them have had grief from me this season cos I know their have so much more in the tank. Today boys, you both delivered! Outstanding work on the ball, but the tracking back and ‘Making a Difference’ was so good to see. Albie’s ⚽⚽ had it hardest but his performance today was the best he’s played in years. Two fantastic goals will be remembered by most but I will remember the grit & determination you showed to get the team over the line. Outstanding from both Ollie M & our Maestro.

POTM went to Oliver L 🏆 & Albie 🏆  Top class performances in a game our team made significant improvement in from recent weeks.

🖤💛⚽👊

#UpTheMillers