U8
The opening fixture of the 2008-2009 season pitched last years first and second against each other, in a game that could shape the rest of the season.
In training Rotherfield had been concentrating on one touch passing all week, but it was not to be that sort of a game as both teams battled to dominate the midfield. Although Westwood had the best of the early exchanges Martinez, Kemp and Jordan started to win the battle and started to feed lone striker Newbold with the sort of passes he thrives on.
At the other end Westwood were still looking dangerous but the exemplary defence of Beville and Floyd continually broke down their attacks and anything that got past them was dealt with by "Cool hand Luke" in the Rotherfield goal.
William Mullin came on at the start of the second half to shore up the defence and James Atkinson to add a new attacking dimension down the right flank. This quickly paid dividends as Atkinson continually beat his full back and then fed Martinez whose deflected shot beat the keeper to give Rotherfield the lead. With this the Westwood heads seemed to go down and Rotherfield looked as if they would increase their lead but for some heroics from the Wanderers keeper.
A superb all round performance against a very good Westwood side bodes well for the rest of the season and if United can keep up this level of effort and commitment they can look forward to another successful campaign.
The effort award went to Beville for an all action performance.
Squad
Floyd, Jordan, Beville, Kemp, Luke Mullin, William Mullin, Atkinson, Newbold, Martinez