08/09/2026
⚽ UNDER 11 AMBER - FIRST GAME OF THE SEASON ⚽
Our U11 Ambers were back in action on Saturday, playing their first game of the season at home against NXT Gen FC.
With NXT Gen being a new team to the league, the team didn’t know quite what to expect — but from the very first whistle, they were absolutely brilliant. They came flying out of the blocks, getting on the front foot and taking the game to the opposition from the start.
There were some fantastic passages of football on display, with the team showing real confidence in possession. One of the biggest positives was the way they kept their shape and held their positions, giving the player on the ball plenty of options and making it difficult for the opposition to press us. The passing and movement was another huge positive. We moved the ball quickly, created space with our movement and played through the thirds with real purpose. Some of the patterns of play were excellent — working the ball from the back, into midfield, down the channels and into the strikers. And importantly, the movement off the ball was just as good as what we were doing with it. Players were making runs to create space for teammates, offering passing options and recognising when to move into the space that had been created. The chances followed, with the Pilgrims creating double figures in the first half alone, which was a fantastic sign of the attacking football we were producing.
There were periods where the team had to dig deep, show character and work hard for each other. The attitude to keep going, keep pressing and continue pushing the opposition towards their own goal was excellent. The Ambers continued to create and convert opportunities and, even when things didn't quite go our way, they stayed positive and stuck to the way we want to play.
🏆 Opposition Manager's POTM – Harry
Harry's quick feet caused the opposition plenty of problems, with their manager saying:
“Within the first five minutes we knew our defence was in trouble with his quick feet.”
A fantastic recognition of Harry's performance and the problems he created throughout the game.
🏆 Manager's POTM – Austin
Austin not only got himself on the scoresheet, but his movement throughout the game was outstanding. He continually looked to find space, pulled defenders into areas they didn't want to be and then exploited the space that was left behind. He did this on numerous occasions and was a constant threat to the opposition.
A special mention to Ralph who also had an outstanding game, created a lot chances, started a lot of the moves off and was very unlucky not to get a goal for his effort. Played with a smile on his face and communicated really well with his team-mates throughout the game.
A fantastic first game of the season from the team. Plenty to work on, as always, but the passing, movement, attacking intent and attitude shown gives us plenty to be excited about.
A great start — now we build on it!👊🏼⚽️🧡🖤
We would also like to say a big thank you to JDM Food Group who have sponsored the team for the next two seasons.
