10/11/2024
No scheduled league fixture this weekend, but it turned out to be a busy one with friendlies booked for Saturday and Sunday!!
Saturday saw us play Tommy tekez U13/14s group who hosted us at Stanley park.
Tommy's side played their U14s for the first half and it was an evenly matched game, both sides creating good chances and scoring some good goals. The second half saw Tommy's team field U13s who gave Hoops a good test at times by playing some nice football. Hoops were a bit stronger though in the 2nd half, but composure and being clinical cost us the chance to score some goals. We did however convert some really good chances, Lennon R with thee pick of them with a nice lob over the onrushing keeper.
The final score wasn't important, it was about getting good minutes on the pitch for some players, and experimenting with some new positions for others. Overall a great afternoon ππ
Onto Sunday, and a slightly depleted squad with only one sub, not ideal after already playing Saturday! St Annes Yellows today's opponents.
Hoops started well in the game, the front players linking up well and creating some chances which unfortunately we couldn't take.
Typically, St Annes went down the other end and scored in what seemed to be their first chance in the game. Not long after they doubled their lead, there didn't seem to be any danger with their player on the left side, but he pulled out a fantastic lofted finish! 2-0 which was the half time score. We could see there was some tired legs out on the pitch, but we rallied the lads at half time and knew if they could get the first goal, heads would be lifted.
That's exactly what happened. A great start to the second half, saw more brilliant link up play which ended in a lovely goal for Brandon. Hoops kept the pressure on well for a good 15 minutes but couldn't quote get back on level terms.
Later in the half, St annes were awarded a penalty to make it 3-1, before adding a 4th from a corner.
Again, same as Saturday, the scoreline wasn't the focus. With only 12 players it allowed for plenty of game time. The lads have put things into practice from training over the weekend which has been great to see π
Coaches player on Saturday went to Jackson
Parents Player on Sunday went to Jayden
Well done Hoops, some great effort shown over the weekend and some positive performances πβ½οΈπβ½οΈ
Thanks to Bennett's Bakery as our kit sponsor ππ