U12 Panthers overcome a determined Alderley United - and move into top 3, briefly

4 December 2011

The Panthers entertained first division draw specialists Alderley United this morning on a chilly, and latterly rain-soaked, Jim Evison field. The Panthers ran out 5-2 winners; however the victory was far less comfortable than the score line may suggest.

Alderley started in more determined fashion. Wilmslow struggled to hold the midfield and found themselves coming off second best in 50/50 tackles all over the field. The Panthers were 1-0 down within the first ten minutes as they failed to make an effective clearance and the ball was well placed beyond Henry's reach by the Alderley attacker from the left side of the box.

As play restarted, the boys still looked off the pace but fashioned an equaliser through Jack, who beat the 'keeper after a break down the left wing. Alderley continued to dominate the physical and territorial battles, and forced a foul on the edge of the Wilmslow area shortly before half-time. The spot kick was well placed just below the crossbar and the visitors took a deserved 2-1 lead into the interval.

The half time talk focussed on holding ground in the centre of the pitch and making best use of space and speed behind the opposition defensive line. Alderley's work rate had been superior throughout the first half and this was expected to take its toll in the later stages.

Wilmslow's tackling in the second period was more resolute (on occasions, too resolute) and this relieved some of the pressure on the defence. At the other end, Matias levelled the score after out-pacing the last defender and finishing calmly from Josh W's through ball. Controversy followed as the Panthers were awarded a penalty for handball in the area from a corner kick. The offense was clear, but clearly unintentional, and harsh on the opposition defender. Dan stepped-up to put a powerful spot kick past the Alderley 'keeper and gave the Panthers the lead.

For the first time in the game, Wilmslow looked likely to take all three points, and gained some breathing space with a fortunate fourth. Put clear on goal, Matias couldn't beat the 'keeper but the save rebounded back off him and rolled lamely into the bottom left corner.

Alderley were not giving up and twice appeared to have narrowed the margin, hitting the bar from mid-range and then seeing a long-range effort go agonisingly wide of the empty Wilmslow goal. The Panther's defence was kept busy throughout the half as Alderley continued to threaten.

Wilmslow sewed-up the game in the closing minutes after Matias added a pin-point cross to some good work down the left wing for Max to arrive at the far post and score from five yards out.

On paper, a solid victory by three goals. In reality, a close encounter against well organised, determined and hard working opposition. The penalty was the turning point and Wilmslow went on to capitalise. Alderley will be rueing their luck and, on today's form, are unlikely to be at the foot of the table for too long.

Today’s awards: Bronze to Matias, removed from the action early doors after failing to distribute, but returned to score two goals and finish the game with a great assist. Silver to Henry for some safe handling in difficult conditions and a first-half save that prevented the boys going two behind when on the back foot. Gold/MOTM today for Jack, a regular contributor who scored the opener and stretched the Alderley defence throughout the game.

Source: A Wheeler

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