U14
Rotherfield Raptors got off to a bright start when John Middleton picked up a cross from Tom Bean firing the ball into the back of the net. But, Caversham were determined not to let Rotherfield get the better of them and quickly evened the score line. After that Rotherfield’s defence toughend its line. Simeon Tang’s strength, Harry Gannon’s pace and Adam Conway’s wise play kept Caversham at bay, allowing Danny Court on the wing and Sam Foad in midfield to up the pace. The whole team engineered some great passing and a tactical change led to the ball finding its way up to Duncan Toms who weaved round one defender broke free and scored a fabulous goal on the half volley.
Immediately after half time two more goals followed scored by Tom Bean and Jack Drinkwater. Caversham looked tired, their forwards constantly outpaced by either Brett Barton or Rory Bird now leading the defence. The defensive strength supported the forward work of the whole team allowing Jack Drinkwater to grab a second after brilliant play from Danny Court. Then, Ryan Jeal, a regular scorer for Raptors, got the sixth. Five goals up Raptors relaxed a bit and Caversham took advantage. William Adams in goal, suddenly under a bit of pressure, prevented a string of shots and was supported by the whole defence in keeping the ball out, with one very alarming moment when Brett Barton cleared the ball off the line. Caversham’s extra goal was scored, not through open play, but from a fantastic free kick which nothing could be done to save.
Man of the match was awarded to William Adams.
Squad
William Adams, Brett Barton, Tom Bean, Rory Bird, Adam Conway, Danny Court, Jack Drinkwater, Sam Foad, Harry Gannon, Ryan Jeal, John Middleton, Duncan Toms, Simeon Tsang.