Away to Lakeside

Sunday (04/01) we are away in the league to Lakeside. The game is to
be played at Down Hatherley Lane, off Cheltenham Road, Staverton,
Gloucester GL2 9QH. Kick off is at 2 so let's meet for 1:30.

Lakeside are currently 8th in the league having won 4 and lost 4,
scoring 14 goals but conceding 20 in the process. They did beat
Cinderford Town 4-1 where we were only able to draw. Lakeside have
always been tough opponents and Sunday will not be any different.

With the cold weather here for a few days I will keep you updated if
it affects the match at all.

We have a full squad for the game.....

Will (captain)
George
Lewis
Jacob
Ryan
Taylor
Luca
Finn
Freddie
Louis
Dan G
Adam
Sam
Jorge
Max

Cheltenham youth league u15 results and league table 21/12

We have slipped from the top spot but remain unbeaten in the league....

Goalkeeper on fire...

LRFC Cougars (3) v (3) Cinderford Town

That this game finished 3-3 owes much to the Cinderford keeper as much
as it does the strikers on display.

Cinderford played a strong direct style that we struggled to contain.
Rather than use the width, where there was space, we tried to play
their game. After an initial storm we began to come into the game more
and started to link passes. There were glimpses of last weeks form
starting to emerge.

We went a goal down where indecision at the back cost us and left
Cinderford with a tap in. As much as we were showing lack of decision
at the back up front we were equally profligate and failing to strike
with conviction when faced with the goal. To the lads credit the
equaliser after the opener came within a minute. Jacob scoring with
his swede from a corner.

We took the lead with Taylor finishing very well after good work from
Jacob and Luca. Before the half was out we would go behind again
conceding two goals to robust direct play. The half finishing 3-2.

Second half and we scored early, Jacob slotting past the keeper to make it 3-3.

From here on in we dominated the play, Freddie saw a header hit the
post. Tom, late on, saw a shot crash off the crossbar. Louis drew the
save of the game from the keeper who deflected his ferocious shot over
the cross bar. Luca, playing up front, saw shot after shot saved by
the keeper. It was commented by our resident GK experts, the Fenleys,
that his was the best goal keeping performance that they have seen
against us. Finn got in on the act seeing a well struck shot saved.

It wasn't all one way traffic though and Cinderford had a couple of
chances late on, that would have won the game.

The game finished 3-3 with Freddie the MotM. He was dominant, winning
header after header and showing neat touches on the floor. There was
an incident where the referee needed to get involved but that was over
as quickly as it began.

As much as we missed a number of chances they were largely on target
and well struck, we just met a keeper on electric form who stopped
everything.

We have a fortnight off now for Christmas, hopefully the lads will
have stopped playing with their Star Wars Lego and action man toys and
be ready for the game on 4th January away to Lakeside.

Surely we will never have that many shots saved again....

Scoring with a Rabona...

Sunday 21/12 :: Home Match v Cinderford Town...

Sunday we have our final match of the year in the League against Cinderford Town. The game is a home fixture and will be played at Naunton Park with a 2pm kick-off. We should, as usual, aim to meet at 1:15 so we can set-up the pitch and the troublesome respect barrier etc....

We have not played Cinderford Town before so we don't know what to expect which makes for an interesting match.

Looking at the league they are currently in 8th position with 11 points from 11 games (W3-D2-L6) scoring 27 and conceding 36 along the way. It's worth noting that they have scored in every game and earlier in the season did beat Painswick 2-1, we should not, and we never do, take them lightly. 

​The squad for this match will be...

1. Will (Captain)
   
2. George (Vice Captain)​
   
3. ​Hercules
   
4. Ben
5. Sam
   
6. Tom
   
7. Adam
   
8. Jacob
   
9. Ryan
   
10. Freddie
    
11. Luca
    
12. Taylor
    
13. Finn
    
14. Louis​
    
15. Lewis

Max and Jorge are both unavailable for this match.​

U15 Results & League Table 14-Dec

Suzie Carters Coat....

Cheltenham youth league u15

Cleeve Colts (0) v (3) LRFC Cougars

This was a game of two halves. Cleeve playing a very direct style looking to hit their striker early. With the wind as it was the ball was holding up too much and leaving their striker too much to do. When they did break close to our goal their shot was saved excellently by Will, tipping it full stretch onto the bar. As the ball dropped into play Lewis headed it away with then a clearance into space. Had this gone in the game could have been different as momentum would have swung. 

After this scare Cleeve rarely troubled our goal as we started to exert more pressure on the game. With George missing through injury Freddie dropped into centre back alongside Lewis with Sam and Tom making up the defence. In front of them Ryan and Jacob were busy being destructive and trying to spring attacks. The attacking quadruple were Finn, Louis, Max and Jorge. With excellent options on the bench this was a squad performance.

The first half was noteworthy for its lack of noteworthy action. Will's save aside although we did open the scoring. The goal was very unlike us in the build up although was despatched goal wards with typical aplomb by Jorge, continuing his scoring run. Will sent a clearance long down the pitch, the bounce evaded the Cleeve defenders, Jorge ran through and cooly slotted beyond the keeper. 1-0 and how the half would end. 

During that first half there were glimpses of what we can do, the lads were linking, passing simply and, finally, playing the way they were facing!

Second half we were playing into the wind which suited us. It was holding up the ball and we were playing some great stuff. Our second goal was, possibly, the greatest goal we have ever scored. At the very least it was very good. 

Taylor picked up the ball wide right, he jinked his way infield evading a couple of challenges. A crisp one-two with Sam, who was pushing up from right back in support and he played the ball to Max who, first time, lifted the ball over the oncoming defender to drop into Luca's path. With no defenders around him, such had been the movement and crispness of the passing, he applied the finishing touch passing the ball into the net. 2-0. A fantastic, quality, team goal. 

This turned the game significantly in our favour. As we applied more and more pressure we really retained possession. Ryan was MotM for an excellent midfield display. Constantly moving, flying into tackles and then having the fitness to be able to look for a pass. This was a standout performance on a day where there were a number. 

We lost Will to an injury. Saving bravely at the feet of the on rushing attacker he took a heavy knock on the thigh that shortly afterwards ended his game. Jacob took the famous gold jersey and with it his place in goal. Bar one piece of action where he saved at the feet of the attacker he had little to do such was the dominance with which were now playing. 

As the game progressed Louis and Max were getting more involved. Louis hugging the left touch line and being given the ball with space to run into. Driving to the by line he sent in cross after cross that narrowly evaded our attacker and were defended well. If you keep knocking at the door though someone will eventually answer. He flashed the ball across the area for Jorge to finish from close range. 3-0 and how the game would finish. 

It's often said that a result doesn't tell the story of the game and this was very much the case today. Jorge and Luca had other chances that inexplicably failed to hit the target not least of all because the Cleeve keeper was in great form. Finn also saw a shot agonisingly crash off the cross bar following good right wing play. 

The game ended 3-0 to give us the three points that see us stay at the top of the league. With Lydney and Charlton Rovers Reds both winning today, and waiting for us to slip up, today was not that day... 

We have one more game before Christmas with Cinderford visiting 'Fortress Naunton Park' next Sunday - win that and we are top at Christmas. 

Well done today to all the lads on a great performance. 

Oh and why did Tom have his sisters jacket?

14/12 - Cleeve Colts United away

After a week's break we are back in league action this Sunday (14/12) with a trip to Bishops Cleeve to play Cleeve Colts United. Cleeve are currently 8th in the league with 9 points from 8 games played. With us looking down from top spot there are a number of teams waiting for us to slip up.... lets not make it this weekend. 

We have a strong squad and a full complement of subs.. lets meet at 1:30 for the 2:00 kick-off. 

The game will be played at Cheltenham Road, Bishops Cleeve, Cheltenham, GL52-8WA. The squad for the game is as follows....

1. Will F
   
2. Lewis
   
3. George
   
4. Freddie
   
5. Sam
   
6. Jacob
   
7. Ben
8. Luca
9. Max
10. Louis
11. Finn
12. Taylor
13. Jorge
14. Adam
15. Tom
16. Ryan

League Table, Results and Cup Sem's

We are back at the top of the league!

Six of the best against Gotherington.....

Cheltenham Youth League u15's
LRFC Cougars (6) v (3) Gotherington U15's
Naunton Park

You could have been forgiven for thinking, that much like the week
before, this game would be a bore of attrition. Having only played the
previous week and drawing 0-0 both teams could have easily felt that
they were going to have the better of the spoils today. That could not
have been further from the truth with what happened today where 9
goals were shared.

The game started in the manner we expected with Gotherington straight
onto the front foot. They showed much more guile in attack than they
had the week before and we were forced into some customary last ditch
defending. When we did have the ball we were neat in possession and
progressed forward in a very measured manner. The full backs able to
push on supporting the midfield.

In the centre Freddie was winning header after header with Ryan ever
industrious at his side. If they ever give up playing football they
should consider fighting crime. Just in front of them Jacob was
controlling things and trying to link play with the wide men, Louis on
the left and Max on the right and Jorge up front. He would go on to
score two goals, the first a header from a corner and then a finish
low into the corner for some excellent build up play.

The back four were excellent, again, today and that they are starting
games and playing together is starting to show. George and Lewis in
the centre have power, pace and ability although Lewis ends to realise
his left foot is not just for standing on. The starting full backs
were Sam and Dan. Both excellent, we then had Tom and Adam who came on
in those roles and performed equally well.

Adam made his debut and was very assured in defence. Adept with either
foot and brave with some headers he made calm clearances and helped to
retain possession with some neat passing. There was even a little
glimpse of his skills with some neat footwork on the edge of our area
to see him jink his way out of danger. His fitness was flagging a
little towards the end but this was a very solid and accomplished
debut.

Making up the trio on the bench were Tom and Luca, evidence of the
strength of this squad. Both played a significant part on this match
with Tom playing both full back positions and centre midfield and Luca
playing on both wings and centre midfield.

The scoring was opened by Max. Midway through the half, we were camped
in the Gotherington half and passing the ball in front of their back
4. Jacob spotted Max' darting run and played the ball. Max still had
work to do and finished over the keepers head. 1-0.

We weren't able to push on from this with Gotherington equalising for
the penalty spot. The striker tripping following a tangle with the
full back. Will, in goal, went the right way but the penalty was too
well struck for him to keep out.

The move of the game followed, Louis and Jorge linked down the left
playing a couple of 1-2's to send Jorge clear for his shot to crash
off the upright. Jorge would hit the post again in the same match.
Today he led the line excellently setting up goals for Jacob and Luca
at the expense of his own ambitions.

With less than 5 minutes to go in the half it looked like it was going
to be 1-1. Jacob them scored with a header from a corner. Luca, on for
Max burst from deep and played his cross which was hit out by the
defence. From the corner, that Jorge took, Jacob rose unchallenged and
saw his header hit the back of the net.

With a couple of minutes remaining we instructed the team to keep it
tight, it was important to go into half time ahead. That we did having
doubled our advantage, again through Jacob. The ball crossed for him
to finish low inside the post. 3-1 and half time.

At the start of the first half we scored again this time through
Freddie who bundled his way through fro midfield and finished into an
empty net having gone through the keeper. 4-1. There was then another
penalty. It went Gotherington's way from a heavy handed challenge.
Could have gone either way really.

It was dispatched goal wards, Will went the right way but it was too
well struck.

4-2.

There were three more goals. Luca restored our 3 goal cushion
following excellent and unselfish work from Jorge. He then doubled his
tally with a fine finish after e ball broke to him I the box.
Gotherington would score from open play and the game finished 6-3.

This was an excellent performance, we looked strong in all areas and
could have had more goals today. Jorge hit the post twice and Louis
saw his goal bound shot cleared off the line. We scored 6 today with 4
players getting onto the score sheet. Excellent work all round.

Sam was MotM, his performances in full back have been growing and
today he was at his marauding best. Making clearances, he has
excellent technique and in the second half playing on the right of
midfield was unlucky not to score himself after being sent clear.

Perhaps the most shocking moment of the game was not any of the goals.
Or any saves made by Will. It wasn't the two penalty decisions or the
change in the weather. It was when Dan G got knocked not just off the
ball but to the ground. Hercules was floored....

I don't expect that to happen again.


Well done lads on another great performance and score line! That was
one of our games in hand and we did what we had to do!

Gotherington in the league...

Sunday we return to league action with a match against Gotherington,  funny how the fixture computer does this. It's like Cashes Green all  over again.

We are the home team and kick off is at 2 so let's meet at 1:15 to set up the pitch and prepare.


Both teams will feel they have the measure of the other following the 0-0 draw this Sunday just gone. What we need to do is make the bigger pitch count and not try to walk the ball into the net.

It's a simple game and if you don't shoot you don't score!

All the games are now tough as we are up there to be beaten. We currently lie third in the league but with games in hand on both teams above us. What we need to do is make those games in hand count!

The squad for this Sunday is notable for two reasons.... Adam will make his debut and we see a return to the squad of Luca following a 6 game absence with a broken wrist. 

1. Will F (Captain)
2. George
3. Lewis
4. Sam
5. Hercules
6. Jacob
7. Ryan
8. Freddie
9. Jorge
10. Taylor
11. Louis
12. Adam
13. Luca 

14. Tom

Ben is unfortunately still injured for this game.

Cougars find voice...

Matthew Wyatt U15 League Cup Semi-Final

Gotherington (0) V (0) LRFC Cougars 

LRFC Cougars win 4-5 on Penalties.

The pitch was sticky, the middle like a bog where you might find a neanderthal man buried and preserved. To find him you'd need to be looking down and this match involved far too much looking up. The ball spending a lot of time whizzing through the air, generally towards our goal. 

Gotherington have always been a difficult team for us to play against. Last season we were 2-0 up and ended up conspiring to draw 2-2 and this has been a familiar tale over the last few seasons. That their pitch is on the small side of regulation, and apparently was put in place in 1965, does not help us either. This game followed a familiar pattern Gotherington playing a very effective, direct, approach against our passing game. It made for an interesting contest. 

We enjoyed the lion share of possession but at 0-0 Gotherington remained a threat on the break. Despite this chances for both sides were few and far between. In the second half particularly we really dominated but failed to make a clear chance. Jorge going close with a looping header was the best we had. 

Without dwelling on the game too much there was a significant positive which was that the team is finally finding its voice. George along with Sam was marshaling the back line, Freddie talking and calling in midfield and up front Jorge was leading the line by example. This is what we want, what we have been trying to get the team doing for a very long time. The pass of the game came from such communication.....with play building down our right, Taylor burst forward down the left in acres of space. He shouted for the ball, Dan G looked and switched play putting the ball right into his path, the pass of the match. Taylor did well to get his shot away and the keeper well saved. 

At full time it was 0-0. Penalties.

The five caballeros were Jorge, Jacob, George, Max and Freddie. Will in goal. They all scored, excellent penalties. Jorge took the first settled our nerves. The first Gotherington player missed his penalty, the ball hitting the underside of the bar and bouncing out. It would have been an excellent strike and after that the Gotherington penalties were all excellent. Will did get his hand to one but the power took it beyond him. We had the final penalty to win the tie. 

We needed someone cool, with presence, a leader of men, a player with cool sophistication and effortless charm, a player that the global audience watching live could get behind. A player that could inspire a generation, bring small children and women to tears, a player who could tame a tiger. A player who could star in an Athena print holding a baby. We didn't have one of those so Freddie took it. 

Like Max before him, Freddie put his penalty into the bottom right corner the ball flying straight into the side netting. Perfect!

Each week it gets harder to pick an MotM such is the quality and commitment that we are playing with. Today Ryan was MotM for a performance of committed energy. He does so much destructive work in central midfield and on a heavy pitch like today that is far from easy. Over the last week or two he has also added creativity from midfield and was threading balls through from deep. We are seeing what a player he is.  

Next up in the Matthew Wyatt U15 League Cup will be Charlton Rovers Blues, in the semi-final, who beat Bishops Cleeve United 4-1 today. We played them in October winning 3-1. The other semi-final will be between Painswick and the winner of Lydney and Charlton Rovers Reds.

We get to do the same again next week as we face Gotherington at home in the league. Lets learn from this match and make it count next.

League Cup Quarter Finals - Gotherington Away

We are in action this weekend in the Quarter Finals of the Matthew
Wyatt U15 Cup v Gotherington. This is an away fixture that will be
played at Malleson Road, Gotherington, GL52 9ET. The pitch is behind
the village hall.

Gotherington have been a tough opposition for us over the years, but
if we play with the intensity, spirit, commitment and quality that we
did against Painswick, in our last match, we are a match for anyone.
Remember that!

The squad for the match will be....

Will (Captain)
George
Lewis
Hercules
Sam
Jacob
Finn
Ryan
Taylor
Freddie
Jorge
Tom
Max
Louis

U15 League :: Results & Table 16/11

Some interesting results in today's round of fixtures...

George's orange pants...

Painswick Youth (2) v (2) LRFC Cougars

Imagine lining up your team for a crucial league match against an
opposition you have never beaten or, in fact, got a point off.

If that wasn't hard enough, your squad of 17 players is decimated by
injury, illness and of all things, a grounding, leaving you with 11
fit players. Then one more thing your centre back cannot run because
of a hamstring injury so he goes in goal. Your keeper plays at full
back.

That was part of the story today, the other part was that those 11
players played their hearts out. And their lungs, their spleens and
possibly some other organs too...

Lining up improbably with George in goal, the back 4 from right to
left were Will F, Lewis, Freddie and Taylor. The midfield 4 were,
centrally, Jacob and Ryan, supported by Max and Finn. The link play
was to be Louis hugging the left touch line up front Jorge ploughing a
lone and often fruitless furrow.

First half and we were set up to park the bus. We knew Painswick would
be strong, we also knew that the way the league is playing out they
needed to win. With a paucity of playing resources we needed to
frustrate and defend strong hoping for some magic up front when the
ball broke.

We weathered the initial, inevitable, storm - George in goal making a
couple of saves from long shots. His confidence visibly growing.
Painswick began to exert more pressure forcing us back further and
further. From one of the corners the ball dropped in the centre of the
goal bouncing off the Painswick players groin and falling over the
line. 1-0 and to their credit Painswick did not celebrate the goal
acknowledging the good luck that brought it.

The second goal when it came was also from a corner and very well
worked. The ball played to the back post where the Painswick striker
had peeled off and finished well. 2-0.

It would have been easy to let our heads drop but to the lads credit
they didn't. We won a free kick centrally and close to half way. We
sent Lewis up front and as he sauntered into the box he got the
attention of a couple of the Painswick players. As George sent the
ball direct into the area Jacob was on hand to direct the ball from
close range beyond the keeper into the net. 2-1.

That was the final action of the half. Momentum was firmly with us.

At half time the lads stuffed Jaffa cakes while the message was to
keep going and working for each other.

The second half started and could not have been more different. Max
and Louis were getting on the ball more linking with Jacob and
providing some quality through to Jorge. As Painswick looked a little
lethargic the quality of our passing was starting to flow.

The equalising goal, when it came, was from that interplay. The ball
played to him in the inside right channel. He swivelled and struck a
shot with accuracy and drive into the top left corner. A great goal
and just reward for the shift that Jorge had put in.

With the match poised at 2-2 we needed to play with more discipline
that we normally do. To not take risks at the back. As Painswick piled
on some late pressure they won a succession of corners that we were
equal to, some brave defending and more excellent keeping keeping them
at bay.

The final whistle followed, ending the game at 2-2.

This was an unusual feeling as whenever we have drawn matches before
they have felt more like defeats this was much more than that. This
could have easily been a game that we lost, Painswick had a number of
subs and are a strong side. We had players out of position and no real
options to change anything. We kept the spine of the team as solid as
possible with the more creative players playing in wider positions.

It worked. Taylor and Will were both excellent in full back positions
with Will almost opening the scoring from a long drive that evaded
everyone and hit the post before drifting wide. Taylor stuck to his
task and was brave in the tackle.

Lewis and Freddie were solid through the middle, Lewis' pace getting
us out of trouble on more than one occasion and Freddie's strength and
positional sense not to mention quick feet seeing him able to thwart
attacks and spring our own. Ryan was constant energy, disrupting play
and never giving up. His drive through the middle alongside Jacob kept
the team ticking over. A lot of Ryan's work is unnoticed but not by
his team mates.

Jacob was the MotM for a return to form at exactly the right time.
Busy in midfield,breaking attacks and showing deft touch and skills to
retain possession. He got the goal that got us back into the match and
was a constant threat.

Max, Finn and Louis were playing in unfamiliar roles and having to do
more of the defensive duties than they are used to. They grew into
these positions both having much stronger second halves. They linked
well and When on the ball the Painswick defenders were not able to get
close to them.

Jorge was tireless in his work today. Chasing lost balls and operating
largely on his own. In the first half particularly the gap between him
and the rest of the team was massive. He never tired, he never gave up
and when he had an opportunity he took it with aplomb. He has now
scored 12 this season and they have been absolute blockbusters and
important goals.

At the end of this match the lads were spent, I am sure that everyone
involved with the team was incredibly proud of their effort and
quality on a day where they could have been forgiven for throwing in
the towel. Jacob was MotM but there were 10 other very strong
candidates.

League Match V Painswick

This Sunday we are in league action away to Painswick (not sure why but we have only ever played them away). the match kicks off at 2pm and will be played at King George V Playing Field, Vanderbreen Street, Bisley, GL6-7BN. It's around a 30minute drive and we should meet for 1:30.

Painswick have always been a strong side and currently lie 8th in the league on 6 points having only played 3 matches and losing one. This will be a very stern test of our early season form. Lets make sure that the lads are all well rested and focussed on this match. I have given them permission on Sunday to request breakfast in bed to enable them to rest their limbs as long as possible.... ;)

The squad for the game is as follows.....

1. Will (Captain)
   
2. George 
   
3. Lewis
   
4. Hercules
   
5. Sam
   
6. Tom
   
7. Jacob
   
8. Ryan
   
9. Freddie
   
10. Finn
    
11. Taylor
    
12. Louis
    
13. Max
    
14. Jorge

New Signing...

We are pleased to announce that we are in the process of signing Adam Fielding to the squad. Adam has been training with us for a few weeks showing the right commitment and ability to add to our squad.

Welcome aboard Adam!

County Cup Blues

GFA County Cup 

LRFC Cougars U15 (2) V (3) Fintan FC

This game highlighted the importance of momentum in sport and how finely balanced it can be. 

This was an excellent cup match, there was full blooded commitment, ability and drive in both teams. But for better finishing the result could have been different. Fintan started the quicker of the two teams and were direct and strong in their approach play. After that initial 15 minutes or so we started to come into the game and began playing some really great stuff. Freddie and Ryan were tireless in midfield with Ryan catching the eye with a bustling and energetic performance. Up front we struggled to get quality ball to Jorge. When we did he scored, a brave finish at the far post as it loomed into his view. 

We had other chances too, Jorge took an excellent shot early and from distance that just flashed past the post. Jacob went close with a header from a corner making too solid a contact if anything. We also had a penalty saved that was taken from a spot that looked more like a bucket than a penalty spot. Had we gone in at 2-0 it felt that Fintan's heads might have dropped. At 1-0 they were very much in the game and given belief with the penalty save. 

Second half and again Fintan started strongly again. Momentum had swung in their favour.  

They got a goal back following some indecision at the back. 1-1. The complexion of the game changed now with Fintan chasing and appealing everything. 

We then scored the goal of the game. We were starting to get on the ball more and get our passing game going. As we built down the left the ball was with Louis. He dragged the ball back to avoid a challenge and then struck a shot from distance that flew over the keep and into the net. A stunning strike. 2-1 and momentum back in our favour. The turning point of the game came in the most fortuitous of circumstances. With the ball pinging around in midfield the Fintan player whacked it forward. It was a clearance, not a shot. 

Tell that to the ball. It flew towards our goal and dropped in over Wills head. Impossible to save. 2-2 with around 5 minutes to play. We then panicked a bit and as we were pushing for the winner conceded a third goal as, with no defence to speak of Fintan broke down the right and squared the ball to finish in what i believe the FIFA players call a sweaty goal. 

It was the final decisive action. 

Had we taken our chances in the first half the game would have been over. We didn't and to Fintan's credit they never gave up. 

In training we work on decisiveness in both attacking and defensive positions. Get the clearance away when we are defending and get the shot away when we are attacking. Against Fintan we did, despite conceding 3, defend better, we just lacked that killer instinct in front of goal. 

With Painswick in the league our next opponents we will need to make sure we have our shooting boots on.

Ryan was the MotM for a performance of constant energy that saw him at his destructive best. Avery strong performance against a strong opposition.

GFA County Cup Match

This Sunday is a return to action following the half term break, we
are at home in the County Cup against Fintan FC.

We know that Fintan are a strong side despite their position in the
league (they are currently 12th with 4 points from 5 games). We should
remember that we have never beaten them.

The forecast for the weekend is pretty horrendous so make sure the
lads have jackets as we have a number of subs and will be rotating.

As we are the home team let's meet for 1:15 so that we can set up the
pitch etc.

The squad for the match will be...

Will F
George
Lewis
Sam
Hercules
Jacob
Ryan
Taylor
Finn
Louis
Freddie
Tom
Max
Jorge

Oh and if we get a penalty in the match Lewis takes it.

Impossible Goals...

With no match today this might fill the void - enjoy!

Back in Training

This Wednesday (05/11) training resumes at the Cheltenham College astro-turf pitch from 1755-1855hrs. 

Our next fixture is Sunday (09/11) at home in the GFA County Cup to Fintan.   

No Training 29/10

Just a reminder that there is no training on Wednesday 29/10.

Our next training session will be on 05/11 ahead of our County Cup game on 09/11.

This futsal goal has to be seen to be believed

Tekkers!

https://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/blogs/early-doors/this-futsal-goal-has-to-be-seen-to-be-believed-140005083.html?soc_src=mediacontentstory

Squad Performance...

LRFC Cougars (3) V (1) Charlton Rovers Blues

Autumn has definitely arrived - the wind was swirling and there were more leaves on the pitch than grass. 

This game will long be remembered for Jorges quite excellent hat-trick. Showing power, finesse and reading of the game. Goals win games and Jorge was deservedly the MotM for this display but as importantly as the goals we scored was the way we defended and retained possession.

This was an excellent squad performance. 

In the second half, particularly, we dominated possession. As the Blues were forced back Jacob, Taylor, Finn and Max started to get on the ball more and dictate the pace. We all know what Max and Jacob can do and do it they did. There was some real sparkle from both Taylor, who seems to be able to wrong foot an entire team with barely a movement, and Finn who can dribble a football without seemingly need to touch it. 

With Freddie providing the muscle in the holding role and Ryan making a total nuisance of himself to the opposition breaking up play and doing miles and miles of work running and tackling the platform is set. 

Behind them we have a solid back four, and an excellent keeper. The full backs of Sam and Dan, rhyming aside, are solid in defence and getting more expansive as we go forward. In Lewis and George we have stoic centre backs that do not get bullied off the ball and are comfortable bringing i forward. Very Baresi like if a little reckless sometimes!

Will in goal had little to do but did make some important saves to keep us in the game. With the wind up and the Blues limited to long shots it was important that he kept his concentration. 

Once we got the opening goal the result rarely looked in doubt such was our dominance in this match. Blues kept playing and defended valiantly, they must have the tallest 14 year old in Cheltenham in goal too! It did get a bit squeaky at the end when, having switched to 3 at the back we were being stretched with the Blues attack, that led to their goal. We reverted to a back 4 to then just see the game out. 

This was a very solid and dominating performance. We kept possession well, scored fantastic goals and defended solidly. We competed for every ball and in possession looked to play the ball and pull the opposition out of shape.

The team is developing a pattern of play and spirit that we have not had before. We have already won as many games this season as we did in the whole of last season. 

Lets keep it going.....

==========

A special mention for Bob and Cougars old boy Harrison, he used to be called Hazza, who came to watch the game wearing a medical boot from a namby-pamby rugby injury. 

An even bigger mention to Eric who came along to watch and was given a unique view of the match from the pitch as he was coerced into refereeing. He loved it so much he has now enrolled to complete a referees course! 

U15's Results - 19/10/2014S

Some interesting results today with Lydney back to winning ways and
Southside off the mark with their first win.

We remain top of the league with a 100% record having won our opening
5 league games.

With half term approaching we have a couple of Sundays off with our
next match the County Cup match v Fintan on November 9th.

League Match - Home V Charlton Rovers Blues

This Sunday we are at home to Charlton Rovers Blues, lets meet at 13:15 for the 14:00 kick off. 

Charlton Rovers Blues are currently 4th in the table and have won 2, lost 1 and drawn 1. Scoring 12 and conceding 9. 

This will be another test of our credentials so lets make sure the lads are well rested and focussed on the match. We have a squad for the game with one substitute so we will need to be on top of our game.

If any of the unavailable lads can be available please let me know.

1. Will F (Captain)
2. George (Vice-Captain)
3. Lewis
4. Freddie
5. Dan G
6. Sam
7. Jorge
8. Taylor
9. Jacob
10. Finn
11. Ryan
12. Max

Top of the League!

Enjoy it while it lasts - we are top of the league, a lot of football to be played but we are there on merit!

=======================================================

Today's results....

Jorge must score......

Lydney Town (0) V (3) LRFC Cougars

A lot can change in a year, last November we played Lydney and drew 1-1. In truth we battered them and drew. It was the best we had played in a long time and yet was a draw. ​​This squad is different. It's better sure, that's easy to tell, but more importantly it's tougher. 

We played in our familiar 4-2-3-1 formation. A couple of changes due to injury meant Ben slotted into centre defence alongside George, Tom starting at left back with Hercules feeling something in his knee (sandwich or something). The centre pairing were Freddie and Ryan. With Jorge up front the attacking three were Jacob, Louis and Max. On the bench; Finn, Taylor, Lewis and Hercules. The other thing with this squad is that we can change players and not disrupt the pattern of play. It's a squad game and we have a very good squad. Where we make changes it is never because someone has done something wrong, that is not what we are about, it's about rotation, keeping it fresh and protecting what we have got.

The game started with Lydney attacking very centrally, Ryan - ever bustling in the middle - was breaking up play when the ball was in the ground and, with Freddie competing for the aerial ball. There was a lot of aerial ball. It is a good job that we have learned to head the ball. The back four all winning headers and sending the ball back. We did, for a while, regress to playing the same game as Lydney. Kicking it long and high. As we started to get some control we started to get on the ball, Jacob, Louis and Max all starting to influence play and thread the ball to Jorge up front. The Lydney keeper, though,was in excellent form and thwarted Jorge on a couple of occasions. Jorge has been leading the line excellently in the last few games and is thriving as the focal point of the attack. He would get his goal that his efforts deserved late in the game.

The opening goal came from Jacob. Playing on the right of the attacking three he was starting to find space where the ball was played across from the left. The goal came from Louis linking with Jorge in the wide left. Jorge spun and from wide left played the ball so it curled over the defence and dropped in front of where Jacob was running onto. He outpaced the defender and struck a shot that was powerful enough to slip over the keepers hands and drop into the net. 

1-0. It was a deserved lead as we were in the ascendency. Lydney continued to try and power through although were playing very narrow. When they did come wide Sam, Tom and Dan G were all equal to them. With 5 minutes to go to half time we scored the second goal. Tom scored it. It was an OK finish. 

Lydney in a final flurry won a couple of corners that they could not capitalise on. The half finished with us leading 2-0. 

We made further changes, with Jorge having come off for Taylor and Finn replacing Max we needed to sub Ben who's quad injury had resurfaced. Dan G came on in centre defence and proved what a versatile defender he is this season with a strong performance there. Winning headers and showing assured ability with both feet. 

Second half and Lydney started strong. Forcing Will into the only real save of the game that he had to make. Diving full stretch to his right to palm the ball wide. With the surface as wet as it was it was no time to risk catching a ball moving at pace. Sam, in an excellent performance particularly in the second half, was on hand to complete the clearance. As the half wore on the Lydney crowd were getting quieter as a breakthrough was not forthcoming. We continued to exert control and look solid in possession. Jorge was linking with all around him with the midfield busy being destructive behind him. 

It felt like we needed another goal though as, and they do say that 2-0 is a dangerous scoreline, with Lydney pressing us if it had gone to 2-1 they could have easily got their tails up. The third goal was an excellent team goal. Link up play between Freddie, Jorge and Jacob out on the right saw the latter make it to the byline. He slowed down the play then burst forward beating his defender and drawing the centre backs and keeper. With space in the middle he played the perfect cross for Jorge to finish from a yard out. At 3-0 it was game over. Lydney, to their credit, continued to try and press us but we held firm against the final aerial onslaught. 

This was an excellent squad performance. The back four were solid and there was communication. Will in goal claiming the ball, George talking to his fellow defenders and Sam supporting his winger. Lewis came on late and was decisive in his defending.  In front of them Ryan, Freddie and Jacob worked tirelessly to break up play and provide a creative spark. Louis playing left wing was always the outlet and plays like a proper winger. hugging the touchline and driving forward. When he crosses the ball it is delivered with real quality. In the number 10 libero role we played Max who glides through games and Finn who is very effective in a very different way. As the game wore on and his confidence grew Finn became more influential and started to get more and more involved. Taylor up front shows lovely skill and was unlucky not to score following some fine individual skills. With barely a movement (maybe he gave them the eyes?) he sent the Lydney defence the wrong way, faced with the goal and onrushing keeper he hit his shot too well and it flashed past the far post. Jorge worked tirelessly and led the line incredibly well. In full back Sam was excellent, particularly in the second half where he was able to get forward and support the attack more. Tom on the left had an excellent game and scored a goal that was a little bit meh.

Ok ok - Tom scored a worldy. From left back (he goes where he wants) he was supporting the attack, picking the ball up deep on the left he pushed it forward and hit a lovely shot that looped up then dipped under the bar and behind the keeper. No U15's keeper would have saved that. He celebrated it as only Tom could. It capped a fine display from Tom where he started to show some semblance of discipline in his role!

Motm was Jacob, this was a return to fine form. Wide right he was always available,taking on the full back and looking to make things happen. He opened the scoring, played centrally too and then set up the third. 

Next up are Charlton Rovers Blues on Sunday 19/10. Momentum is building, lets keep this run going.....

Lydney Town - new venue

The league match away to Lydney Town on Sunday 12/10 will now be
played at Blakeney Playing Fields, Butts Lane, GL15 4EE.

Top of the table clash - away to Lydney Town (12/10)

This Sunday we have a top of the table clash away to Lydney Town. This will be a stern test of our credentials with both teams going into this match with 100% league records. Lydney having beaten Fintan and both the Charlton Rovers teams scoring 9 and conceding only 2 in the process.

The match will be played at Lydney Recreation Ground, GL15 5BU. Checking Google maps and from Cheltenham, this is around 30 miles and 50minutes drive, please allow plenty of time to get there.

Lets meet for 1:30pm ahead of the 2 o'clock kick off. The squad for the game is....

1. Will F (Captain)
2. George (Vice-Captain)
3. Lewis
4. Freddie
5. Ben
6. Dan G
7. Sam
8. Jorge
9. Taylor
10. Jacob
11. Finn
12. Tom
13. Louis
14. Ryan
    Max

Third time almost lucky...

GFA County Cup

LRFC Cougars (2) v (2) Cashes Green

LRFC Cougars win 3-2 on penalties

These two teams know each other so well now and it showed in this match. Cashes approached the game with typical aggression and were first to the ball, and the second ball. Where we were strong was in defending. George and Dan G catching the eye and with Ben, making a return following injury, quietly efficient. Sam in the other full back position was always good in possession looking to play the ball to the front players. 

In centre midfield we started with Freddie and Ryan, the attacking four were Louis, Taylor, Tom and Jorge. 

Cashes started strong, again, and continued to call for everything. As with last week the ref got control of this in no uncertain terms. It is ironic then that we then did the same and nearly talked ourselves into a booking. With the central four of George, Ben, Freddie and Ryan holding solid and challenging and winning headers we limited cashes to long shots that Jacob, deputising for Will in goal, was the equal of. 

Finn joined the match for Taylor, initially out wide and then pushed into the number 10 position. This following injury to Sam that saw Tom drop into full back. Finn was excellent in the number 10, excellent going forwards showing good skills and dribbling ability and end product to flash the ball across the goal. 

Cashes continued to be a threat with their direct approach and Jacob was called into action to make a fantastic save at the near post. A great save and reminder of how good a 'keeper he is.

With the half approaching the end and at 0-0 up popped Freddie with the opening goal. Jorge sent in a fantastic cross from a free kick that Freddie rose well for and saw his header hit the net. Two weeks and two headed goals. With the entire Palmer clan present it was a good job he didn't miss. You could see what it meant to the lads too, they celebrated the goal with more intensity than they normally do. Having been under pressure a moment of quality saw us take the lead.

Half time and 1-0.

The second half started in similar fashion with Cashes playing down the slope. They equalised soon into the half with a rare moment of indecision in defence they pounced leaving Jacob no chance. 

We then scored the goal of the game, building play from the back and up the left. The cashes defence and keeper were pulled out of position. The ball played across the area and Taylor finishing from close range. 

Cashes were not done though and while we were starting to play some good football they remained a threat. Their energy and motivation significantly not diminishing. The equaliser came late in the half to make it 2-2. Cashes were then in the ascendency. Nobody wanted penalties. 

Penalties it was.... We needed 5 nominated takers, up stepped Jorge, Jacob, Taylor, George and Freddie. 

Cashes took the first one, Jacob saved. Jorge then scored high over the keeper. 

The next Cashes penalty went wide. Jacob then took and scored his penalty. There's always something cool about seeing a keeper take a penalty. Cashes then scored their third and fourth penalty. Taylor's penalty was well struck but the keeper guessed right making a good save. It was then down to George to take the deciding penalty. He hit it high into the net! 

The game finished 2-2 then 3-2 after penalties. We are through to the next round of the county cup for, I think, the first time.

Cashes could feel aggrieved as they had the better of the game but our performance was a strong one in defence and of character when under pressure. There were a number of strong performances, Jorge ran the line up front excellently and is thriving as the point of attack. He may not have scored today but always looked a threat and never gave up any ball. Finn in the number 10 role was tricky and loose-limbed. 

Out wide Taylor and Louis were always available and linked well for the second goal. Ryan and Freddie were under pressure for much of the game but kept working and trying to play quality to the striker. 

This was a test of character and one that we passed. This team is developing a strength and competitiveness that it has not had before. There is more talking with George, in particular, showing personality on the pitch. We keep our good form going forward - it will be good to test ourselves against a different opposition!

Training 08/10

Training this Wednesday is cancelled due to availability.

As homework each of the lads should do a 20-30minute run and then
confirm it on the Facebook link.

U15's Results - 05/10/2014

County Cup Fixture - Cashes Green again.....

Sunday we have a County Cup fixture against, yes you guessed it, Cashes Green! The game is scheduled to kick off at 2pm so lets meet at 1:15 to set-up etc.... the match will be played at Naunton Park and we have a referee allocated.

Squad for the game will be....

1. Jacob
   
2. George
   
3. Ben
   
4. Freddie
   
5. Ryan
   
6. Finn
   
7. Max
   
8. Jorge
   
9. Sam
   
10. Flymo
    
11. Luca
    
12. Strongman
13. Louis

We may have won the previous two encounters but with both teams knowing what to expect from each other this will be far from easy!

Jacob scores with header...

Under 15's League Cup
LRFC Cougars (4) v (2) Cashes Green

A very good point was made after this game; that last season this is a
game we would have lost. To put that in context at half time we were
1-0 down. About mid-way through the second half we were 3-1 up then
Cashes scored to make it 3-2.

At this point they started to throw the ball long and direct putting
us under pressure. Last season we would have capitulated. This season
is different and we scored a 4th goal following a break down the right
wing.

We won 4-2. We showed strength and tenacity against a Cashes team that
played very well and battled hard.

The game started in much the way we expected and following the same
pattern as our league match against them a couple of weeks ago. They
played direct with strength, purpose and very narrow. Freddie starting
at the back won most of the headers and, importantly put a name on
them too. He was at the heart of everything we did in that first half
in terms of providing a solid platform for us to start to play. With
George in formidable typical style winning tackles and springing
attacks we looked solid. Dan and Tom were the starting full backs both
in action defending then springing attacks down the flanks. In
midfield we started with solidity with Ryan, Jacob and Luca. Of the
wings, Taylor and Louis with Jorge up front.

We struggled to get a pattern of play going and the midfield three
were struggling to link. This was as much to the pressure being
exerted by Cashes as anything else.

Conditions did not help with the weather unseasonably warm and the
lads all flagging in the heat as the game progressed.

When we did get the ball we used the width and tried to get Jorge on
the move. This was a different sort of game for Jorge, leading the
line in a game where the quality of pass to him was not great. As
predicted. He worked incredibly hard for the team, chasing everything
and trying to link play.

As the half wore on we conceded, Cashes scoring from good wing play, a
ball played centrally and a good finish. 1-0 and how it would be at
half time.

With subs being made Max was playing in the number 10. Ryan made way
for Freddie, Lewis coming on at the back. At full back Sam had
replaced Tom then at half time Tom replaced Dan.

Second half and a complete turnaround in form. In less than 10 minutes
we were 2-1 up. Louis scoring both goals for close range after good
build up play down the right. Poachers goals.

We went 3-1 up with, possibly the goal of the game although the 4th
goal was pretty decent too.

Under pressure from Cashes we broke with pace down the right. The ball
played out wide Luca beat the full back and crossed to the centre
where Jacob scored a cushioned header. A great goal following
excellent team play. Notably our first headed goal of the season.

Jorge then went close, racing clear of the cashes defence to see his
shot very well saved by the keeper.

Then the pressure, relentless pressure from Cashes under which we held
well. The lads heading the ball and, more importantly, challenging for
the ball in the air. Tom had a mad moment, the ball bounced as he
raced onto it and misjudged the flight, rather than let it go over his
head his hand instinctively came up. Deliberate hand ball and a
booking. Funnily enough after that Tom played his best football of the
match, driving down the wing and winning tackles and showing that
energy that means he covers every blade of grass!

Cashes scored to make it 3-2. A lack of decisiveness in defence and a
goal. It happens that quickly.

The final goal of the game was almost as good as the first. Luca sent
clear after neat play from the defence and midfield. The keeper saved
his shot well, the ball rebounded to Max just inside the area. The
maestro hit a shot first time beyond the keeper and into the net 4-2
and game over.

A hard fought victory.

Freddie was MotM for dominating play. At centre back and in centre
midfield he was combative and strong with quality. As a unit we
defended well and we are always a threat on the break.

We will face Gotherington in the quarter finals of this competition in
November. Our next match will be, once again, against Cashes Green
this time in the County Cup.

We're playing very and need to keep up this momentum...

League Cup Results - 28/09/2014

Fixture Update & Availability

Our fixture against Painswick has been rescheduled and will now be
played on 16/11.

Please review the tracker and confirm availability by email where
there are gaps.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/pub?key=0AgHDVgJDV60HdFBzR1hZdzVZenVwbXhNdk9TM3Y1eUE&single=true&gid=0&output=html

League Cup V Cashes Green - 28th September

Sunday we have the first of our cup double header against Cashes Green, this week in the league cup. The game is to be played at Naunton Park and as the home team we should aim to meet around 1:15 so we can set up the pitch and warm up the boys.

We may have beaten Cashes Green a couple of weeks ago but they will be bouyed by their 9-5 victory over Gotherington at the weekend and certainly no pushovers.

The squad for this game will be.....

1. Will F
2. George
3. Lewis
4. Dan G
5. Sam
6. Jacob
7. Luca
8. Taylor
9. Jorge
10. Louis
11. Max
12. Fred
13. Tom
14. Ryan

If there's any issues then please contact me otherwise see you Sunday!

A tale of two Fenleys

Southside (0) v (2) LRFC Cougars

This was a game that on paper looked a formality. Playing a team that
had lost both their opening fixtures 6-1. But as someone once said the
games not played on paper.

Lining up in a 4-2-3-1 formation we looked to play the ball wide as
much as possible to create space in the middle. Jacob and Luca
deployed to the wings, Max in the number 10 and Jorge up front. The
midfield screen was provided by Ryan and Freddie.

The back 4 were Sam, Lewis, George and Dan. In goal, Will. On the
bench were Finn, Taylor and making his debut this season, Tom.

First half we were playing up the hill and against the wind. Southside
started strong and enjoyed the majority possession and were winning
the ball more in midfield. That said they did not create a chance and
Will, in goal, had little to do. As the half progressed we started to
impose our game on Southside and the game was being played mostly in
their half. Jorge went close with a half chance and there were other
chances for Jacob and Luca. In midfield Ryan was bustling and knitting
play with Freddie alongside him showing all his strength to win the
ball back. Max was enjoying more and more possession and gliding
through the game. The back 4 were secure although with clearances
being hit long by Southside created some hairy moments with an
inability to deal with the ball in the air.

The first half finished 0-0, in view of the conditions of the pitch
that felt like a good result.

Second half we were playing down hill and with the wind. The pattern
of play continued with personnel changes being made. Taylor had come
on midway through the first half for Jorge, then Tom for Dan, finally
Finn for Freddie with Jacob slotting into centre midfield.

We continued to create chances although nothing clear cut. Our shots
from distance were dealt with by the Southside keeper. The opening
goal came from a moment of magic. Jorge was in the inside left
position in the penalty area, adjusted his feet quickly and sent a
shot curling around the keeper in the top right corner of the goal.
1-0 and a great finish from an in-form player.

The flood gates odd not open.

Max was becoming more and more influential as Southside retreated
deeper and deeper. As was Tom breaking from deep and supporting play
on the left. Tom was kicked and fouled a number of times but could not
catch a break with the referee.

Finn was finding and exploiting space on the right and put in some
lovely crosses. We were playing well, enjoying the majority possession
but could not het the 2nd goal we needed. At 1-0 we looked precarious.

With less than 5 minutes remaining the final changes were made, Jacob
and Sam coming back on for Finn and Tom respectively with the
intention of securing the points. This almost backfired.

Southside in a rare surge into our half were around the edge of the
box with the lads defending a bit ragged and nervy. Step forward
Lewis. He won the tackle then drive out of our area and towards the
half way line. He played the ball down the left to Luca who cut in and
beat the keeper at the near post 2-0. Nerves settled and points
secured.

This was a game where the result could have been secured much easier
but for better finishing. Jorge went close, as did Taylor with a
couple chances, Max drew a great save from a corner from the keeper.
Finn had chances and there were shots from deep.

What we did do, though, was trust the way we play and keep going with
it. We got the reward as a result.

Tom was MotM for a performance where he was a nuisance to the
opposition in defending and supporting the left hand side well.

Other mentions to both goal scorers for moments of quality on both
strikes. Max who ran the show. Ryan and Freddie for their continued
industry in midfield, Jacob for versatility and quality in many
positions. As one player commented "Jacob can play anywhere on the
pitch". Taylor showed tenacity and nice skills, on a different day he
would have had a hat trick. The back 4 defended well and coped with a
few nervy moments, heading the ball remains something to be developed
but they are working well as a unit. Sam in particular had a strong
game and was starting to communicate with the players in front of him.
We need more of this.

Well played today, we played some decent football and were deserved
winners of a nervy game.

By virtue of the alphabet we remain top of the league with two cup
games up next, both against Cashes Green.


Sent from my iPad

Cheltenham Youth League Results 21/09

Sunday 21/09 League Match V Southside

This Sunday (21/09) we have a league fixture against Southside with the game to be played at Bournside School (Warden Hill Road, Cheltenham, GL51 3EF).

The squad (11+4) for this match is as follows...

1. Will F
2. George
3. Lewis
4. Freddie
5. Dan G
6. Ryan
7. Luca
8. Finn
9. Jacob
10. Ben
11. Tom
12. Sam
13. Taylor
14. Max
15. Jorge

Southside may have struggled at the start of this season losing both their opening matches 6-1 but we know from experience that they are no pushovers and have, probably, the fastest defence in the land.

Lets meet at 1:30pm so that we can set-out the team, warm-up and be ready for the 2pm kick-off. If anyone picks up an injury, illness, strain or hang nail before Sunday please let me know.

So long Will...

With the season only a couple of weeks old we have to say farewell to Will Tunnicliff who with the demands of his sporting commitments cannot continue to play for us. He will now spend his Sundays relaxing and recovering, rumours that he has taken a subscription to the Sunday Times and bought a tea-pot remain as yet unsubstantiated. 

We signed Will in October 2013 and he made an immediate impact scoring 2 goals in each of his first three matches. He would go on to score 9 in 11 appearances for us at U14's. He has started both our games this season and scored a memorable goal against Rodborough on the opening day of the season. 

We all wish Will well and maybe we will see him back one day...

Wednesday Training

Training from this Wednesday (17/09) forward will be at Cheltenham College on the astroturf pitch.

This will be from 1755-1855. Details are in the calendar.

A game of two halves....

LRFC Cougars U15 (6) v (1) Cashes Green
Own Goal 1
Jorge 3
Louis 1
Freddie 1

Today there was a massive contrast between the two halves of football.
First half and, as expected Cashes came at us strong and fast. They
were first to every ball, appealing every decision and strong into
every challenge. We struggled to get a foot in the game being over run
in midfield and under pressure at the back. Lewis and Ben showing
great strength and power to keep Cashes at bay, when they were
bypassed Will, in goal, was equal to the long shots. This continued
for 5-10 minutes and then against the run of play we went 1-0 up.

Max driving forward from the number 10 position out to the left
channel. He evaded a Cashes tackle, that could have killed a less
nimble player, and crossed the ball. The Cashes defender playing it
into his own net. The pattern of play continued with Cashes dominant
and the Cougars limited to playing passes for the striker to chase.

Cashes equalised before the half was out, finishing well from a ball
played in from the right wing. 1-1.

Half time.

A rest and water In the shade - the lads challenged to play their way
and not revert to the opposition. This is typical of how we tend to
play, well against teams that play a more passing game and more direct
against teams that play that way. We are not equipped to play that
type of football with, in general the opposition being around half a
foot and maybe half a stone a man bigger. Now that the lads no longer
bring lucozade to matches maybe we need to switch it to baby bio??

Second half and a very different game. A couple of changes enforced by
injury saw, first, Freddie drop back to centre back, Jacob swapping
into centre midfield. Then Ryan also had to take one for the team and
play centre back. This saw a significant reshuffle with Taylor moving
out wide right, Jorge moving up front and Luca dropping back into
centre midfield.

We started to get more involved in the play. Jorge scored an excellent
hat trick, for all the quality in his finishing, particularly the
second goal, they were team goals. Building the play from midfield,
out wide where Taylor was a willing runner, and then quality into the
box. Sam was proving to be an excellent outlet in right back and there
was even the start of communication between the back four.

We could have had more, as Cashes tired and we grew in stature the
quality on the ball that we have started to tell.

Louis would score on his season debut (surely a goal is better than
anything you can do with a golf club), Freddie would round off the
scoring with a goal for close range. Quite what he was doing up there
when he was playing centre back? Possibly been watching too much
Gerrard Pique, if he turns up with a beard or a girlfriend called
Shakira next week we will know.

Will, in goal, had a moment (one for the cameras), with a shot driven
from left to right he dived full stretch and tipped the ball onto the
post from where we were then able to clear our lines.

There was a lot to learn and admire today. A number of the lads played
in different positions. Not only playing I these positions but doing
well. Ryan and Freddie at centre back own headers and tackles and were
playing the ball out of defence. Luca played striker and midfield to
great effect and was perpetual motion. Jacob played wide right then
more familiar in central midfield. Taylor and Jorge both played up
front and then wide, Will T played the full left side. Versatility and
enthusiasm all over the pitch. Finn played wide right and started to
show better skill, increased fitness will see him achieve better
things as the season progresses.

Jorge was MotM for his hat trick that propelled us to victory. Taylor
had a strong game and was a threat with his willingness to run. Luca
showed great energy and skill to drive from deep. Freddie and Ryan
were strong and forming a good understanding playing in midfield and
then at the back.

We can build on this and continue in this trajectory. We have improved
since the friendly and have plenty of options all over the field. This
is the strongest squad we have had and it showed today once we started
to play.

U15's League Results 14/09

Leage Match :: Home V Cashes Green

Sunday 14/09 we have a home match against Cashes Green in the league.

 

This is the first of three matches we will play against them in three competitions over the next four weeks. The game will be played at Naunton Park on the top pitch nearest the car park. As we are the home team lets meet at 1:15 so that we can set up the pitch etc.... the weather forecast is good so please make sure the lads have plenty to drink...

 

We have a full squad for the game (11 players + 5 permitted subs)

1. Will F (Captain)
2. George
3. Lewis
4. Dan G
5. Sam
6. Freddie
7. Jacob
8. Luca
9. Louis
10. Ryan
11. Taylor
12. Ben
13. Finn
14. Jorge
15. Max
16. Will T

Results from 07/09

Full results and league tables available here

http://full-time.thefa.com/ProcessPublicSelect.do;jsessionid=52E2840D8D5F4B3DF68E4BE019B4E3DB?psSelectedSeason=365009446&psSelectedDivision=9870789&Submit.x=14&Submit.y=8&Submit=Submit&psSelectedCompetition=0&psSelectedLeague=4333696

Training - Wednesday 10th September

.....will be at Naunton Park from 1815-1930.

Nobody looked more surprised than George.....

Rodborough Youth U15 (2) v (8) LRFC Cougars

If Carlsberg did youth football pitches then this would have been very
close to being one of theirs. A quite stunning setting, up the hill
out of Stroud a piece of flat ground with an impeccable pitch marked
out. The views across the valley quite stunning. With early September
temperatures hitting 20c and little shade this was going to be a
demanding fixture.

With 4 substitutes the pre-match talk was about how we have, possibly,
the strongest squad we have ever had with competition in all positions
and lads that can play in a couple of positions. That versatility has
always been incredibly useful. That we were able to make a number of
changes through the game without disrupting the pattern of play too
much just serves to prove that.

The starting 11 were Will in goal, the back four of Dan G, Lewis,
George and Will T. The holding pair were Freddie and Ryan. The
attacking trio of Jorge, Max and Jacob lining up behind Luca as
striker. On the bench were Ben, Finn, Sam and bucking the trend with
an extra syllable Taylor.

The game kicked off and immediately we pressed Rodborough. The outlet
was Jacob on the right who was linking with Luca at every opportunity.
They both went close with early efforts. Just pulling shots wide. On
the left Jorge was linking with Max and starting to get onto good
positions. After sustained pressure the opening goal came totally
against the run of play.

Rodborough cleared the ball long, as they chased I the ball downfield
there was miscommunication between Will and Dan G with the ball being
played into our own net. No drama. We had been on top and there was a
long way to go.

We equalised in less than 5 minutes. Luca receiving the ball in the
box to score low past the keeper. Confidence restored we were then in
control of the match. Restricting Rodborough to long clearances down
field. We did struggle when the ball was in the air but were composed
enough to regain possession and try to attack again.

Jorge would score our second goal on the stroke of 20 minutes just
before he was substituted. The sub was planned well before he scored.
The same is also true of Lewis who late in the second half barrelled
his way through the middle of the pitch and struck a ferocious shot
that left the keeper no chance. If there wasn't a net the ball would
now be orbiting the earth such was the power. Immediately after he was
substituted!

Taylor scored the third from the wide left position, finishing well
over the keeper. A competitive debit in which as the game wore on his
confidence grew.

Then...... On the stroke of half time there was a moment so incredible
that even the architect of it was surprised. We had a free kick about
5 yards to the left of centre and about 10 yards outside the box. The
exchange, I believe, went something like this....

George "can I take it?"
Freddie "yeah, have a pop"
Ref "you can take it quick or they will be able to set a wall"
George ran from deep and smashed the ball with his right foot, it flew
like a missile into the top left corner. The keeper had no chance.

As uh turned to celebrate the look of surprise on his face was only
matched by everyone else's in the ground! A special goal.

Half time and we made more changes. Ryan, also making his competitive
debut, taking a well earned breather. Finn came on in the wide right.

The message at half time was to pass the ball more. With the
temperature not abating the ball needed to do the work not the
players. We started well although, smelling goals, this quickly
evaporated as the tendency to take on too many players started to kick
in.

While this was a great opening result it wasn't necessarily a great
performance as we tend to drop to the level of our opponents rather
than impose our way. We pass the ball and use energy, technical
ability and pace. When we play teams that are more direct we need to
remember that as that is how we will get our rewards.

The next goal was probably the team move of the game. Picking up the
ball from defence Sam (excellent at full back and latterly when we
switched to 3 at the back) brought it forward, linked with Finn who
played it inside, there were then 4 or 5 further passes with the ball
then played to Luca. He rode a couple of tackles, showed quick feet
and finished under pressure. This was an excellent team goal and shows
how passing the ball quickly and with purpose can get you goals. There
was still time for two more goals, Will T finishing over the keeper
with a lovely shot from distance and Jorge completing his brace with a
goal high to the right of the keepers dive.

There will be sterner tests in this division but to start with an
emphatic victory is all you can ask for. Will's distribution both
short and long was excellent. George and Lewis look strong at centre
back, also in full back positions we are well covered with Dan G, Sam,
Will T and Freddie all playing there today. We still need to win more
balls in the air and against better opposition will be punished for
some of our defending. There is also a greater need for communication
and trust to play the way you are facing. We do not always need to
dribble out of defence or play the Hollywood pass.

Midfield we looked very strong, Ryan and Freddie a formidable
partnership all about tenacity and power. Freddie is fast becoming an
enforcer in the team and Ryan,alongside him, looked like he had been
playing with us for years.

The front 4 created lots of chances and but for better finishing could
have scored a lot more. It's early season though and it takes a game
or two to get your eye in. It was fortunate that today it did not
really matter. That they made chances and kept making them was more
important than necessarily taking them all.

George was MotM for that goal.

It seems churlish to criticise the team after winning 8-2 but the old
problems are still there. When the ball is played long by the
opposition keeper we need to win the header and head it back. As soon
as we let it bounce we put ourselves under pressure, against better
teams that will count. The same is true in midfield. Up front we need
to be quicker with our passing. Once we have created a moment of space
release the ball, as soon as we hold onto it the opposition can get
back into shape and the moment is gone. Again, against better teams we
will be punished for taking too many touches.

Next up we are home to Cashes Green lets play with the intensity and
drive that we did today and iron out these small issues in the play
and really put on a show.

Well done to the lads today - a good win of the opening day is about
as good as it gets.