New look U15's - show future promise

6 September 2009

A very different looking squad from the one that finished last seasons U14’s took to the field on this sunny Sunday afternoon and it wasn’t just the smart new kit. Unfortunately, due to the prematurely early cancellation of the use of the home pitch by Macclesfield Council, this was switched to an away fixture.

The U15’s now have a large squad to choose from which was essential today with several unavailable for selection. Welcome to all the new players - we look forward to seeing you all over the coming weeks.

But to business. The lads from last season had put behind them the unfortunate dumping out of the cup they suffered at this ground last season and with the rest of the team came out firing on all cylinders. Within only a few minutes, Town were 1 - 0 up, newcomer Danny getting on the end of a cross from another newcomer, Jamie. This was what the large travelling supporters had come to see.

From the restart play became more end to end with both sides having chances. The new back line was holding firm and not much was getting past them when it came to putting in the tackles. They did need to show their speed at times as any goal kicks from the opposition were generally going over their heads. Need to watch if you’re playing on a slope lads! Their ’keeper may not have had the biggest kick in the world but with the slope and the wind, the ball was also going a long way.

However, when the defence got the ball the clearance up field was good to see. When the ball made it out to the wings Jamie & Joe were rarely beaten to getting the ball up to the 18 yard area.Unfortunately on some occasions the options weren’t there with everyone crowding the centre of the pitch.

When Timperley pulled one back, it wasn’t so much against the run of play as a momentary lapse of concentration. This was the lads first competitive game together so we all expect that things will improve as they become more used to playing as a team.  Their second goal was similarly a mix-up between Simon and his defence. Time will improve their plans for dealing with attacks, but don’t leave it too long lads!

In complete contrast, Town’s second goal was a screamer. Danny picked up the ball not far from the half way line and unleashed a shot with his right foot that the keeper had no chance of either seeing or stopping. The first half ended with Town down by a third goal from Timperley.

The second half will probably be remembered most for the number of corners that Town won and didn’t convert. With the number of lads in the team who are now dwarfing their parents height you’d have thought someone could have got their head on one of the crosses to put the ball away.

Neither side really had an edge in the second half with both having chances, but it was Timperley who gained the advantage adding a fourth. They could have been further ahead if not for a couple of double saves by Simon. Perhaps if the lads had taken note of the goal kicks from the first half they could have taken the advantage themselves realising that any kicks from goal were going to go a long way. They also need to watch that they’re not all bunching in the centre of the pitch and use the width.

Town’s pride was salvaged with a goal from captain, Jack, picking up from where he left off last season. He latched on to a ball from another newcomer, Dave, and buried the ball away. Dave had made his first appearance part way through the first half and showed his strengths with his speed, tackling and skill for which he was rewarded with this seasons first Man of the Match.

This was a good performance from the lads on their first competitive appearance with some great individual performances and when up to full strength we can look forward to some exciting football.

A final note to the supporters - it was good to see so many people there and being so vocal. My source from within the team tells me that it helps to hear the cheering. Lets hope you’re all still there when its blowing a gale, with the rain driving horizontal on the Flixton fields.

Source: A. Hack

<< to news index