Top against bottom can be interesting matches to say the least. When we discovered prior to this one that our opponents only had 9 players, I felt interesting should have read "difficult". In football, playing against teams with fewer players seems to cause mental problems, in that those with less raise their game and those with more think it is easier. We are not psychologists but I think this was the case today.

That some of our lads have problems emerging in time for kick off meant that we started not with the 11 that I had planned. However, with the strength that we have it made no difference. It was a difficult match on an uneven pitch which did not make the game any more pleasing to watch. Early chances that were created missed the target until Chris scored a fantastic 30 yarder. Though he plays well at the back, filling in on the right of midfield did not seem a problem. Alex S was fouled in the box and the ref gave us a fortunate penalty, from which AJ scored without fuss apart from the ball that would not stay on the spot. Alex S was involved for the next penalty though it was against us. The ball appeared to hit his arm after hitting his leg, though Myles nearly saved, getting his hand to a low penalty.

No matter how hard we tried we seemed to play as individuals rather than a team. Being top I guess raises the expectations so maybe we are being harsh...A third penalty was awarded, second to us, which AJ again dispatched without trouble for a 3-1 lead. A little comfort finally but we had enough chances from AJ, Joe, Alex S, Fozzie, George and Ross that should have seen off the opposition earlier. James had probably his best match so far since he joined with a really solid match in midfield. Finally, AJ took one of many chances that came his way with a low drive into the net to round off the scoreline though he still had time to miss the fourth penalty in the match, blazing over the bar. This did not prevent his hat-trick earning him Man of the Match....new trophy already ordered!

We seem to get penalties awarded every week but rarely miss but from open play we need to score more. Shooting practise maybe due in time but in order to bring back the teamwork that is missing, one and two touch 5-a-side will need to improve at training sessions. Otherwise a stronger team will end our excellent run soon, unless we get control of games.

Excellent support again from parents, special thanks to Steve for being a professional referee's assistant.