Match report NMJFC U9s Falcons - 12/03/23
A sunny yet windy morning at Glossopdale as the Falcons lined up against Whaley Bridge U9’s.
There was a good feeling in the team as they were looking to build on an excellent performance last week.
During training there has been a huge focus on passing and before the game the coaches wanted the Falcons to bring what they’ve been practising into this match. So continue to press and give the opposition no time on the ball, then when we’re in possession, make the ball do the work and look for those extra passes.
As the game started, both teams started with a great level of energy. With no-one being given time on the ball, this led to some great passing from both teams. The majority of the first half was spent in the middle of the pitch, with some fantastic battles developing. Chances were few and far between in the first half, but it wasn’t through lack of trying. Both teams were standing up well to each others attacks.
Half-time came and a few changes for the Falcons. Most notably, regular goalkeeper Oscar coming to play outfield for the first time this season, with our striker Lucas moving into goal. Lucas had another productive first half with his driving runs and a few chances on goal and now was his chance to show his skills between the sticks. It was a straight swap with Oscar going into the striker role and his mission was to make a nuisance of himself and harass their defenders. After a solid first half in defence, Henry took a deserved rest and in his place came Rowan looking to keep the defence strong.
The second half picked up exactly where we left off, with two teams 100% committed and looking for a breakthrough. With both teams playing out from the back it led to more excellent passing sequences, with the quality of football increasing, making for a fantastic game to watch.
But as the second half went on the Falcons slowly started to make their pressure tell, with a quick succession of attacks, the goalposts rattled a couple of times and a goal line clearance too, the Falcons were now spending their time in the opposition half. When Whaley tried to clear the ball, the Falcons defence were quick to mop up the loose balls. Rowan keeping the defence solid, it allowed Poppy time to execute some excellent distribution today down the lines and into midfield.
The link up play between the team was excellent today. The passing from the back was brilliant and the speed in which the midfield moved the ball around and started attacks was first class. Angus, for example, was outstanding at winning the ball back in midfield and using the space on the right wing to receive the ball and quickly feed this into the striker.
The final whistle came and the Falcons were rightly thrilled with their performance against a great opposition.
Special mention to today’s captain Archie. The last few weeks has seen Archie develop great understanding with his team-mates. Today Archie was reading the game brilliantly to stop a number of Whaley Bridge passes and attacks. He was a constant threat on the ball, with some fantastic dribbling, passing and attempts at goal. His performance was rewarded with an excellent goal ⚽️
But today’s player of the match was Alfie. This was his best performance of the season without a doubt. He continues to show a wonderful level of maturity, knowing when to slow things down and when to speed play up with his attacking runs. But the most pleasing aspect of his game today was his passing. He listened to his instructions and when the coaches challenged him, he absolutely delivered. He played more passes today than anyone and more than he has in any game this season. He was involved in everything today and thoroughly deserved the trophy at the end.
Huge well done to the Falcons - they were all amazing today. Super proud of them all. Roll on next week!
⚽️🖤💛⚽️
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