U11 Panthers keep spectators guessing - and keep up the chase for 2nd place

16 April 2011

Fine conditions and some fine football this morning played in good spirit on the pitch and on the touchline. The Panthers took the lead early in the game after Dan hoisted a high ball into the Longhey box which bounced before Josh Wheeler was first to react and head it past the Longhey 'keeper. Wilmslow looked impressive in the early exchanges, however it was Longhey who scored next to bring the scores level (not for the last time). 1-1.

Late in the first half Wilmslow went 2-1 up after a free kick in the middle of the Longhey half was played intelligently by Dan to Nathan who was unmarked on the edge of the Longhey box. Nathan swung the ball into the area and Rohan timed his run to the back post perfectly, to finish with a strong volley from close range that deflected off the 'keeper. But Longhey were not finished for the opening period and were back on terms almost immediately following some slack defending which left Henners exposed for the Longhey striker to finish cleanly.

2-2 at half time.

We were treated to more end-to-end play in the second half, with both sides set on adding to their score. Wilmslow edged ahead again after good build-up play saw Josh Wheeler lift the ball into the Longhey area and some confusion between defender and 'keeper led to the ball dropping into the net for an own-goal. 3-2.

Once again Longhey came back strongly and had the Panthers' defence at sixes and sevens as they attempted to repel a series of attacks. Wilmslow eventually paid the penalty as first defender then 'keeper attempted to dribble the ball out of the six yard box (how many times this season?) only to roll the ball to the Longhey attacker who was standing expectantly near the penalty spot - there was only going to be one outcome. 3-3.

The play see-sawed for the remaining ten minutes as both teams looked for the winner. It came Wilmslow's way in controversial fashion. With five minutes to go, Calvin sent the ball goal wards following some good support work from Josh Mehta. The Longhey 'keeper gathered the ball on his line and then rolled backwards as he tried to regain his balance. The Wilmslow support thought it went in (as they would), the Longhey supporters thought otherwise (as they would); the ref appeared confident as he awarded the goal. One for the after match deliberations, the Federation of Russian Linesmen and the goal-line technology lobby.

There was still time for Longhey to create chances, none more notable than a clear opportunity, unmarked on the edge of the six-yard box with the goal gaping. Players and spectators were mentally preparing themselves for the re-start as the ball skewed wide of the left hand post and Wilmslow survived the remaining minutes.

This was a very competitive game, with Wilmslow enjoying more success passing the ball while Longhey looked more dangerous running with the ball, especially down the right channel. The only shame was that the deciding the goal was, in itself, indecisive. However this shouldn't detract from an hour's honest endeavour from both teams that kept everyone entertained.

Panthers Awards this week: Bronze to George Barnett for sweeping-up defensive debris for much of the game. Silver to Rohan for showing, once again, how versatile a player he is in defence, midfield and attack, and also for a great finish. Gold/MOTM this week goes to Josh Wheeler, who hardly put a foot wrong all game and worked hard to fill any gaps that appeared, especially as the game wore on.

Source: A Wheeler

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