10 men LRFC show real character

LRFC (2) v (2) Bishops Cleeve

Naunton Park, 18th December 2016

With yet another break between games LRFC could be forgiven for being rusty. That they lined up with 10 players the odds were definitely against them. 

What they did was dig in, defend and look to spring attacks on the break. There was much huffing and puffing as fatigue inevitably kicked in. That it was in evidence after, in some cases, 10 minutes was cause for early concern. 

Cleeve started the stronger and probably thought they would get a win considering the opposition. What they did well was move from defence to attack quickly but lacked that clinical finish. They did though open the scoring taking the lead with a smart finish as LRFC failed to be decisive when it mattered. 

What followed was the LRFC best passage of play. They retained the ball and build play well. The equalising goal from Alf. There was good work from Luca down the left, his left footed cross fell to Jacob inside the 6yd box. His tame shot was right at the keeper who parried for Alf to smash home from close. 1-1. 

It would be like this until half time.

Second half and LRFC were playing down the slope. This told as Cleeve struggled to get out of their half. In contrast LRFC were starting to dominate. Cleeve, though, made the extra man count as in defence they blocked and made some great tackles. 

Hayden went close after some great control to take down a cross his shot flew over the bar. As the half progressed Cleeve started to expose space behind LRFC with their pacy winger standing out. They took the lead from a break. 

The Cleeve striker looked to have been forced to wide only to finish from a tight angle. A very well struck finish. 

2-1 but LRFC did not let their heads drop. While the Cleeve players started to show stress, arguing with each other and the ref and the linesman the LRFC players kept theirs and continued to press. The equalising goal came from Ben. Cleeve failed to clear a corner, Ben prodding home when it looked like it might not happen. 

2-2 and how the game would finish. 

A point was a good result for LRFC, stripped of resources they kept discipline and worked hard. When all around are losing their heads it's important to keep yours. None more so than in the aftermath of Bens booking. He definitely took one for the team there. 

When you play with 10 men there will be some excellent performances - Fin caught the eye and played like a leader. The back four were under a lot of pressure and kept firm. Will marshalled them and kept his focus to make some important saves. Ben and George were formidable, their attributes complementing each perfectly. Adam in the other full back position was excellent defensively and showed nice skill to bring the ball out of defence. 

In midfield Jacob started slow but grew in stature as the game progressed finishing strong. His close control proving often to be too much for Cleeve midfield who fouled him time and again. Ryan was slamming into tackles and driving on, typical ryan! 

Hayden was the MOTM, a performance that saw him show some great touch and vision and but for the referees whistle he might have even got into the score sheet. Confidence is a big part of his game and he should be buoyed by this game. 

Alf scored and worked hard, a player that needs games to maintain fitness struggled with recovery but drives the team on. He scored an important goal and was a threat both attack and defence with his head. 

Luca was the outlet for the team and made some blistering runs to get beyond the Cleeve defence. He was unlucky not to score himself on a couple of occasions but not taking the shot early gave Cleeve time to reset. While always fast it is easy to run forwards and much harder to track back when your fitness is not what it was. 

At the start of the game the LRFC management team was heard to say they would be happy with a point. While they got that they could be forgiven for thinking they could have taken all 3. 

A solid performance but they cannot afford to have only 10 players for games to come. 

With a break now for Christmas the players should take some time from the parties and mince pies and cheap lager to do some fitness work. There will be sterner tests and while their character is not in question their running power is. 

Sent from my iPhone

Home to Bishops Cleeve

Sunday we are at home to Bishops Cleeve with the game kicking off at 2pm. 

Squad for the game will be

1. Will (Captain)
2. Ben
3. George
4. Fin
5. Adam
6. Ryan
7. Jacob
8. Luca
9. Dan
10. Hayden
11. Alf

unavailable for this match are; Freddie, Olly, Sam, Tom and Jorge

1:15pm meet ahead of the game.

Training

Training on Wednesday 30/11 is cancelled due to availability of coaches. 

Longlevens away

We have another game this Sunday, away to Longlevens. This is an opportunity to start to get some confidence and form. Longlevens sit bottom of the league with 0 points from 4 matches played. 

The game will be played at Longford Lane, Gloucester, GL2-9EU. Kick off is at 2pm so lets meet at 1:30pm.

We have a full squad for this match, bar Freddie who is still out injured. If you cannot make the game please confirm ASAP. 

Bring your A-game and bring your work ethic. 

Poor decisions cost Cougars

LRFC (1) v (5) Charlton Rovers

Hard work wins when talent doesn't work.

We are the same team as last season and yet we are different. 

When things aren't going your way simplify it. Do not try the magic pass every time, keep the ball and play it short. Use movement to pull the opposition around and create the space. Short passing, triangles, movement all football basics. 

Decision making is key, short pass or long pass? Shoot or another touch? Lay off or dribble. When you're tired you're more likely to make wrong decisions. 

Anticipate rather than react. Sometimes we have one player on the ball and 10 spectators who move when the ball is played or lost. Move with the play. When the striker squeezes the opposition squeeze as a team otherwise it's just wasted effort. 

It's no coincidence that Alf's all action motm performance has followed improved fitness. Training and playing twice a week clearly agreeing with him. 

You cannot get fit playing football you need to be fit to play football. 

Teams that outrun the opposition normally get the result.

We have talent, we need to improve our anticipation and trust the short game. Moving the ball quickly and better movement will  see a return to form. 

All of this is in your control?

Are you fit enough to play the game to the required level. Can you make the right decision late in the game? If the answer is no then do something about it. 

Don't put it off until tomorrow do it now. Then maybe next Sunday will see an improvement across the whole team. 

It feels like the season starts here..

After a long break we are back in league action again this weekend. Yes that's right a league match. 

We play Charlton Rovers Reds at Naunton Park with a 2pm kick off. They sit 2nd in the league having played 7 games winning 4 and losing 3. This is a side we know well and having beaten us last season they will be keen to exert themselves again. Play as we have started to in our last games and the Tuffley friendly and we will put ourselves in a great position to get the result. 

Meet at Naunton Park for 1:15 ahead of the 2pm KO.

Squad for game will be...

1. Will (Captain)
   
2. George
   
3. Ben
   
4. Adam
   
5. Fin
   
6. Sam
   
7. Ryan
   
8. Jacob
   
9. Alf
   
10. Olly
    
11. Luca
    
12. Jorge
    
13. Hayden
    

Unavailable for this match are Freddie and Dan with Tom to confirm. 

Training

Training on Wednesday (16/11) will be at Cheltenham College from 1755-1855. Please confirm via the Facebook page or text if you cannot make this and with as much notice as possible - we make arrangements to finish work on time and get back for it and if there is only going to be a handful of the lads there it is a waste of our time.

At last Wednesday's training there were 3 attendees!! There are injuries, illnesses and school trips to contend with but 3 is still very poor. This season attendance at training has been tracked with 7 players attending less than 50% of sessions and a couple of players having only attended 21% of sessions.

Please do what you can to attend and to reiterate please confirm if you cannot as soon as possible in the early part of the week.

We have a match this approaching Sunday at home to Charlton Rovers Reds who are riding high up the table. What the friendly against Tuffley showed was that we have the technique, approach play and skill levels to match anyone but still fitness in some quarters was an issue. The message is simple and one that has been repeated dozens of times. You need to make sure of your fitness. Can you run 100km? Can you last a full match at the required intensity? Can you get up and down the pitch as much as your position demands? If the answer to any of those is no then do something about it.

No excuses, switch off the TV, put down the phone and just do it.

Improving and room for improvement

With a period of what seems like months between games this LRFC team needed a work out. A friendly fixture against Tuffley just the ticket. With both sides having already played each other in the league there was no upper hand to be gained in this match. The league match ended 2-2 and today LRFC were on the wrong end of a 2-1 score line. The score line really was irrelevant as this was about fitness and playing a match. Nothing more. 

With injuries and illness affecting availability LRFC had a bare 11 players and a late substitute in the shape of Sam arriving after work. The team lined up familiarly in. 4-3-2-1 formation. Will in goal, Adam and Fin at full back, Ben and George at centre back. In front of them Jacob and Tom holding. Alf in the hole, Luca left wing, Olly on the right and Jorge up front. 

As the game progressed the formation was causing LRFC problems with the gap between defence and attack too great. The attackers were not dropping back and forcing the defence to try and push into midfield or hit the ball long. Reverting to 4-4-2 did plug the gap and also saw LRFC create a number of chances as the game reached its conclusion. 

Tuffley took the lead seizing onto a loose ball in the box following a corner to finish well low into the corner beyond Will's dive. LRFC equalised before the half was over with Jorge ringing himself in acres of space following a Tuffley mix up. He kept his cool to wrong foot the keeper and send a shot into the net. 

The winning goal, as it would turn out, came later in the same half. The Tuffley midfielder striking the ball sweetly from outside the box into the top corner leaving the keeper with no chance. 

The game was played in great spirit and while both sides refereed half a game each it could have easily continued without one. Tuffley were strong through the middle and LRFC always a threat from wide positions. Both sides created chances and but for better finishing and composure front of goal there could have been a higher score. 

That it remained 2-1 was in no small part down to the LRFC keeper who made a quite stunning save when he had no right too. A shot from close range saw him throw an arm at it and somehow lift the ball over the bar. Reactions, reflexes and strength all in evidence. A finer save you will not have seen on that given Sunday. 

LRFC played some great football and while there was an improvement from recent weeks there were similar issues, finishing and in particular composure in front of goal and in some areas fitness. 

While football is a game of skill and technique it is also dominated by work rate. All of this requires high fitness levels. Generally a team that outruns the opposition gets the result. Today LRFC showed improving work rate but there is room for improvement. With another fortnight before the next game the players should take heart from this performance as it was an improving one and also be motivated to get out and take responsibility for their fitness.

A good performance  against a good opposition and room to improve. 

Sunday 06/11 - Friendly match V Tuffley

Sunday we have a friendly match away to Tuffley Rovers. We will kick off at 10:30am so make sure you have a dry and early night on Saturday! 

We will meet at 10am ahead of the game. 

Squad will be...

1. Will (Captain)
2. Ben
3. George
4. Jacob
5. Ryan
6. Fin
7. Tom
8. Olly
9. Luca
10. Jorge
11. Alf
12. Adam
13. Sam*
14. James**

*arriving after work (hopefully!)

**James plays for the Reserves and is also eligible to play for us. He is coming along on Sunday to play and see about joining us. 

Unavailable for this match are Freddie, Hayden and Dan

The game will be played at a different venue to our opening league match, we will be on pitches at The Lannet on King Edwards Avenue. According to Google Maps its around 10 miles and a 20 minute drive.

Improving

More than a result what this Leckhampton side needed was a performance. A performance that showed improvement on the last two games. The issues are plain to see and today went a long way to arresting them. 

It didn't start to well though. Cam taking the lead with a back post header from a corner. This was inside 4 minutes.

Whereas Leckhampton might have let their heads drop this time they didn't. Showing more composure they passed the ball well creating a couple of half chances. This was though a very good Cam side, well organised and more than that physically strong and with good ability. 

Leckhampton pressed and pulled a goal back to make it 1-1. Hayden with a lovely improvised finish. Flicking the ball high above the onrushing keeper to see it bounce into an open net. 

If Leckhampton had been able to hold this until half time maybe they could have regrouped and gone again. Cam scored to spoil that, finishing beyond Will from the inside left position. 

The first half drew to a close, Leckhampton were still in the game. The message at half time was to have a go, that Cam were there for the taking. For all Cams physicality they struggled on occasion with Leckhampton quick passing and quick feet. 

Cam scored a 3rd quite quickly after the restart. Leckhampton got a second wind and pressed more and more there was space to attack Cam but maybe a lack of confidence in front of goal. 

Cam got their 4th and probably the goal of the game to make it 4-1 and how it would end. Leckhampton continued to press and show quality. More than recent weeks they also showed a level of commitment that has been missing. 

Cam were the better side and deserved their win. The score line only tells a small part of the story.

There were strong performances today. In particular Alf had probably his best game this season. Strong tenacious and combative in the air he won a lot more balls than he perhaps should have done. 

In the back 4 George, Fin and Sam were all familiar but Freddie was not. He shone in this position. Combative and with skills he used his physicality on more than one occasion to keep Cam at bay.

It was in midfield where the improvement was noticeable. Alf, Ryan, Jacob, and Adam all playing in there and working hard. More than that winning the ball and playing it intelligently. 

Jacob was motm, knitting play, neat in possession. Great tackling and great awareness of what's going on around him. This was a return to form for a player that this side has relied on for many seasons. 

There were though good solid and improving performances all over the pitch. Hayden and Jorge worked tirelessly often alone up front. Hayden scoring  an improvised goal. The wingers worked against strong full backs but kept going. 

Improved all over the pitch.

There were injuries, Hayden with a foot, Ryan with a hamstring and Freddie with a knee. This looked particularly bad and hopefully will be nothing more than a sprain. 

Yes Leckhampton lost the match. But the performance was massively improved and that is what was surely asked for. 

The only way is up...

County Cup venue

Sundays County Cup match v Cam Bullldogs will be played at Rednock School, GL11-4BY. 

We will be playing on a 3G Astro turf pitch. 

Meet at 1:20 for 2pm ko. 

GFA County Cup Match - Sunday 9th October

Sunday we are away in the GFA County Cup first round to Cam Bulldogs. The venue for the game is yet to be confirmed but looks likely to be Everlands, Cam, GL11 5NL. 

I will validate the venue once it is confirmed.

Squad for this match will be.....

1. Will
   
2. George
   
3. Freddie
   
4. Sam
   
5. Fin
   
6. Adam
   
7. Ryan
   
8. Jacob
   
9. Luca
   
10. Alf
11. Olly
    
12. Dan
    
13. Jorge 
    
14. Hayden
    

WORK HARD AND BE BRAVE

Thrashed at Lydney

Lack of confidence shatters LRFC ambitions. 

Following the poor show against Painswick last weekend LRFC needed to show a reaction. They did of sorts but the issues perhaps run deeper than can be fixed in a week. 

Thee was improvement but against the team that has won the league the last two seasons it was too little. 

Goals make the difference and give teams confidence. This LRFC side needs to get into a lead and build from that. It nearly happened that way with an LRFC free kick from distance crashing off the crossbar. At 0-0 if that goes in maybe LRFC can be buoyed by that. 

Lydney took the lead soon after - with LRFC pushing a high line the striker raced through into the space behind to chip the keeper, 1-0. There was then another LRFC chance cleared off the line. Lydney broke and scored to make it 2-0. At 1-1 maybe there was something to grab hold of.

LRFC then slid into the sort of performance that saw them dumped out of the cup. Looking at the game it's too easy to say that Lydney wanted it more but that's how it appeared. First to every loose ball, always on the move, driving back to defend their own goal. LRFC showed this only in flashes.

This LRFC side needs to find its form that is for certain. They have not become a bad team overnight but they are playing very bad indeed. 

There's not enough movement, not enough communication and not enough trust. They are reactive to play rather than anticipating it. Too ponderous in possession and too slow to recover. Fitness is a big part of this and some of the squad need to consider if they can play a full 90 minute game or not. That is the minimum requirement and while LRFC had 4 substitutes today Lydney only had 1.

The touch, the cohesion and confidence will come back it just needs a goal or two. 

It's the County Cup next week and a chance to build on the very small shoots of recovery. If the players do nothing else this week they should continue to develop their own fitness levels. 

League match away to Lydney (Sunday 02-Oct-2016)

The tough games come thick and fast now with our next match against Lydney in the league this coming Sunday. 

Lydney are a strong and consistent side that have won the league the last two seasons. We have beaten them in the last two seasons though and we should remember that as we prepare for Sunday. 

> October 2014 (Lydney 0 V 3 LRFC)
> September 2015 (LRFC 5 v 4 Lydney)

The game will be played at Swan Road, Lydney, GL15-5RU which is around 30 miles and a 45mins drive from Cheltenham please leave in plenty of time to be there for 1:30. 



The squad for this game will be 

1. Will
2. Sam
3. Ben
4. George
5. Fin
6. Ryan
7. Dan
8. Luca
9. Jacob
10. Olly
11. Hayden
12. Adam
13. Alf
14. Jorge
15. Freddie

Training Wednesday 28/09

Training on Wednesday (28/09) will be at All Saints College with the senior squad. Please make sure you are on time and wearing shin pads!

Up our game...

Tough day today and the worse we have played for a long long time. 

What do we need? We need passion we need energy we need more ambition and responsibility. We have quality what we lacked today was legs. 

Too many players ball watching and waiting for the ball against a team that wanted it more and took control. Painswick were good for and deserved the win. 

If you cannot last a full game at the Intensity required then you are not fit enough. Teams that do well outrun the opposition first and then have the composure when it matters most. Painswick outran us today.

Tom was the motm and gave a typical Tom moment. Instructed to play 2 and 3 touch and sit deep he immediately went on a mazy dribble and found himself inside the Painswick 6yd box playing a cross. More than this he gave some much needed energy and tempo. 

Jacob scored from the penalty spot following a handball in the box.

http://youtu.be/rakeh6PA5AE 

There was some introspection after the game with a lot of the lads contributing to discussion around what went wrong and what needs to change. 

Take responsibility for your own performance and do what's necessary to make sure it doesn't happen again. Teams are as good as their weakest man make sure it's not you. 

--

Marcus Bosano
email mbosano@gmail.com   
tel. +44 (0)7973 659 628
LinkedIn http://uk.linkedin.com/in/marcusbosano

League Cup - Away to Painswick

Sunday we have the opening round of the League Cup with the small matter of an away fixture to Painswick.

Painswick are defending champions (they beat us in the semi-finals last season) and vying for their 4th final on the bounce. We know all about Painswick and can be sure that this will be a difficult match for both teams with very little in it.

The squad for this match will be...

1. Will
2. George
3. Ben
4. Fin
5. Sam
6. Adam
7. Tom
8. Jacob
9. Ryan
10. Freddie
11. Luca
12. Alf
13. Olly
14. Dan
15. Jorge

The game will be played at Van Der Breen Street in Bisley, from the centre of Cheltenham this is around 10 miles and 20 minutes travel time. Please leave in plenty of time so we meet at 1:30 to prepare for this match. 

Training - Wednesday 21/09

Training this Wednesday (21/09) will be from 1900-2000hrs at All Saints Academy on the 3G astro-turf where we will train with the LRFC seniors. Please confirm you can make this by adding comments to the Facebook group.

LRFC held by Gotherington

LRFC U18's (2) V (2) Gotherington

There have been many draws between these teams today was no exception. LRFC started slow, Gotherington in the ascendancy and dominating possession. Will was called into action early to keep the game at 0-0. After an initial period of ten minutes or so LRFC started to get onto the ball more and force Gotherington back. Olly, out on wide right, was the outlet ball but with the ball played to his feet he wasn't able to really get forward quickly and was closed down by the spirited Gotherington defence.

The LRFC defence looked confident enough although had to keep their concentration as the Gotherington striker lurked. George and Ben held solid in the middle with Sam and Fin starting and Adam also coming in.

In the middle Ryan and Freddie were strong. Freddie dominant in the air and Ryan mopping up and destroying everything on the ground. Despite dominating possession LRFC could not find a breakthrough.

Against this Gotherington took the lead. Bulding play they found themselves int he LRFC area and finished from close range 1-0.

LRFC were struggling to find energy and tempo. Too many players were just crusing and going through the motions. The introduction of Alf from the bench made an impact, his energy and personality coming through and giving the team a lift. A change was made with the Jorge coming on up front for Hayden.

Hayden, playing against his old team, had a solid start, was busy and linked play well. A couple of half chances were saved or wayward but this was a good performance. As Jorge joined the game Luca and Olly were asked to swap wings.

This led to the equalising goal. With plenty of space on the right wing Ryan threaded the ball through the gap for Luca to run on to. With the ball ahead of him he was able to drop his defender bear on goal and finish low beyond the keeper. 1-1.

Gotherington were now defending deep and leaving one up front. They scored to take the lead with a lovely team goal. Building up play wide left they played a number of passes and found themselves in the LRFC area to finish from close range. 2-1.

The equalising goal for LRFC came from Alf following excellent wing play from Olly. His cross cut out the Gotherington defence leaving Alf with the task of placing the ball from close range. 2-2 how it would be at half time and full time.

Second half followed a similair pattern, LRFC dominated possession and territory yet Gotherington pose a real threat on the break every time they got the ball. There was an opportunity for LRFC to take the lead when Olly was brought down in the box. The ref let play continue and as the shot trickled wide blew for the penalty. Alf stepped up and struck a penalty well enough that, unfortunately, the Gotherington keeper at full stretch manage to get a hand to and palm wide.

LRFC threw all they had at Gotherington and with the clock counting down were in the Gotherington area but unable to apply a finishing touch.

The game played out 2-2.

While on an individual performance basis there were lots of positives the issues are the same. There was a lack of energy and tempo in the side and while LRFC create lots of chances they need to be much more ruthless in front of goal. That these chances are created by individuals means that the team is relying on them for the magic to score. When they play as a team they are excellent, there is a team spirit and understanding but there is also a feeling that turning up will guarantee a result.

Will made excellent saves to keep LRFC in the game and continues to develop into a strong captain. Through the first half particularly he was incredibly vocal, directing team mates and trying to keep the momentum going. At half time his contributions to team talks are insightful and well communicated. The other lads in the team need to develop the confidence to do this and take responsibility for their performances.

George was the MotM for an assured performance alongside Ben at centre back. Bringing the ball out from the back he found himself in the opposition penalty area a couple of times and was just unable to apply the finishing touch. One thing his time at Gloucester City has done is see him find his voice and he has become a leader on the pitch. A well deserved Motm and just a shame that the outcome of the match did not match his performance.

Ryan and Luca were other notable mentions today, Ryan for his constant and ferocious tackling that is always fair. His ability to come away with the ball from congested situations is quite remarkable. As the season develops Luca is looking more and more threatening, able to create something from nothing he just needs to apply a finishing touch to pick up where he was last season.

LRFC are getting stronger each game, they need to find the finishing touch and the tempo to blow teams away with their play.

League match home to Gotherington

Sunday we play Gotherington U18's in a league match. In a change from the normal we are at home with the game to be played at the Burrows and not Naunton Park. We are still the home team so lets meet at 1:15 to set up and prepare. 

We have a full squad for this game, if anyone cannot make it please contact Marcus asap.  

See you Sunday!

Training Update 14/09

Important update - training on 14/09 will be at Leckhampton Primary School from 1830-2000 and NOT Cheltenham College as previously confirmed.

--

Marcus Bosano
email mbosano@gmail.com   
tel. +44 (0)7973 659 628
LinkedIn http://uk.linkedin.com/in/marcusbosano

Wednesday Training

Training this Wednesday and all Wednesday's unless confirmed otherwise will be at Cheltenham College from 1755-1855.

Availability won't be checked every week but if you cannot make a session can you let me know. If numbers are light then we can plan accordingly.

--

Marcus Bosano
email mbosano@gmail.com   
tel. +44 (0)7973 659 628
LinkedIn http://uk.linkedin.com/in/marcusbosano

Profligate LRFC get the win...

LRFC u18's (4) v (0) Quedgeley

This game finished 4-0 to LRFC with Quedgeley barely registering a
shot on target. Better finishing should have seen LRFC run away with
this game and this is surely something they will need to work on in
training.

LRFC were fired up and started much quicker than normal, pushing
Quedgeley back into their half and registering an early chance. The
shape of things to come and while LRFC dominated possession and looked
threatening down the flanks there was no end product. Crosses were
fired across goal with no one able to apply the finishing touch, the
same was true from corners.

The opening goal came from a penalty. Hayden put through centrally
made a surging run into the opposition penalty area where he was
judged to have been unfairly brought down. He took the penalty and
scored it high to the top right. A lovely penalty that sees him off
the mark for the season. Hayden had another excellent game where his
forward play and work rate were valuable to the team.

LRFC continued to dominate proceedings with the wingers enjoying the
freedom of the flanks.

Dan would score two goals, his second brace in as many weeks. His
explosive power too much for the Quedgeley defence to cope with. His
decisiveness in front of goal is something the other players could do
with copying. The first of these was set up by George, driving out of
defence he cut through the Quedgeley midfield and then defence. Being
to wide to take the shot himself he squared it and there was Dan to
apply the finish, just!

Where Quedgeley caused problems for LRFC was in the middle of the
pitch where their midfielders were linking and creating space. Step up
Ryan Kante. The quiet man of this team on the pitch he is a whirlwind
of industry and energy. Relentless in the tackle and his willingness
to run for the team his value is not underestimated. What n'golo has
added to his game more so far this season is creativity and a range of
passing. He does the simple thing brilliantly but is getting more
expansive. LRFC will do well to hang onto him as his performances are
sure to catch the eye of scouts. His was an motm performance and
nothing more than he deserved. He left quietly, he always does, his
work for the day done...

LRFC had Sam, Tom and Jacob in the squad for the first time this
season now that cricket duties are over. Sam slotted in at right back
and looked as cultured as ever. Tom showed versatility playing holding
midfield, number 10 and latterly right wing. Jacob played centrally
and brought some composure to proceedings for LRFC. When boots are
flying he has clarity of thought that means he can find space or a
pass that, perhaps, others wouldn't.

That versatility extends throughout this squad, it always has done.
Freddie started at holding midfield and took a stint at centre back
where he looked very comfortable. George played the opposite role to
this starting in defence then getting a run in midfield. With clever
players up front the movement is always good, Alf and Hayden linked
well and Jorge grew into the game as it progressed and he started to
play it more simply.

The threat, though, was from wide positions. Luca and Dan started on
the wings and we're both matched for pace by the Quedgeley fullbacks
who both had really good games. It cannot have Ben easy for them,
particularly with Olly coming off the bench and having a go too.

Dan would score a brace, Olly struggled to get in range to shoot but
was a constant threat. It was, though, Luca that gave the man from
Opta the biggest headache. He worked shooting chance after shooting
chance only to see his efforts blocked, miss the target or saved by
the keeper. He finally got his goal with a shot that went under the
keeper, 173 shots and 1 goal.

4-0 and how the game would finish.

A clean sheet is a nice bonus. While Will may not have had a save to
make he did have to stay alert to the long ball and showed excellent,
calm distribution. The understanding with the defence is growing and
can only get better.

With excellent full backs, Fin in particular is getting stronger with
each game as he learns what his team mates can do, add Adam and Sam
and there is an ability to rotate the players without impact to the
pattern of play. Why you have a player like Ben then playing centrally
there is a lot of quality there.

LRFC has started the season very well. Team spirit is high and they
are playing for each other, some of the work rate was a delight. They
just though be more clinical in front of goal. Against tougher
opposition there will not be as many chances. Goals win games after
all.

They must also learn quickly that the laws of the game are applied
strictly at this age group, as they should be. LRFC collected some
silly bookings today that were avoidable. Play the whistle and respect
the referee. This also applies to the substitutes who are off the
pitch. It makes no difference whatsoever if you agree or disagree with
the referee, respect his decision and get on with the game.

An excellent win its Gotherington up next.

Quedgeley at Home

Sunday 11/09 we have a league game at home to Quedgeley U18's. The match will be played at Nainton Park with a 2pm kick off. Please let's meet at 1:15 so we can set up the pitch and prepare the team. We have a full squad and full availability.

If you cannot make it please contact Marcus otherwise see you there Sunday.

Training - Wednesday 07/09

Training on Wednesday will be at Leckhampton School from 1830-2000. This will be the last session at the school before we move to Cheltenham College. 

Please confirm in the comments that you can make this.

Back with a bang!

Tuffley 2 - 2 LRFC

LRFC opened their U18's season with an away game to Tuffley. In this fixture last season LRFC were 5-0 winners although this Tuffley team bore little resemblance to the team they faced at U16's. With three of the squad away on cricket duties LRFC went into this fixture with a squad of 13 and two of those arrived after kick off!

Lining up in a familiar 4-2-3-1 formation LRFC did have some personnel changes around this with Freddie starting at the back and Luca in holding midfield. There were three starting debuts out wide on the right there was a welcome return for Dan who was making his first start in 2 years following injuries. Fin also made his competitive debut at full back, Hayden completed the starting trio at number 10. GG also made a return to the side but started as substitute.

Lining up with Will in goal, Fin, Ben, Freddie and Adam across the back line. In front of them Ryan and Luca. The attacking quartet was Dan and Olly on the wings, Hayden at number 10 and Jorge up front. Alf and GG started on the bench.

Tuffley started much the stronger with LRFC showing a reluctance to engage with an opponent that was physically bigger in the early exchanges. Tuffley were unable to make this early dominance tell and were pushed back once the LRFC wingers got onto the ball. The initial burst came from Dan on the wide right who received the ball and drove into the space behind the full back who had no answer. His cross did not amount to anything but Tuffley had been given a warning of what LRFC could do. LRFC started to get a foothold in the game with Olly providing the outlet time and again. Such was his fleet of foot that even the linesman was having difficulty keeping up. In between the flag waving Olly was making surging run after surging run. Driving into the box but unable to apply the finish his work deserved.

From one of his surges and shot the keeper could only parry and Dan was there to finish from close range to open his account for the season. This was a great moment for the team and for a player that has been through it. 1-0 and how it would be until half time.

The second half started in much the same way as the first with Tuffley attacking through the middle of the pitch and playing nice passes without really being able to apply a decisive finishing touch. Their equaliser was a gift with LRFC failing to deal with the ball in the box. It was a soft goal to concede and brought the game to 1-1. Tuffley would then go ahead with a real moment of quality. Their number 7 contolling the ball out wide, as he made his way into the box he put a cute finish past Will in goal leaving him no chance.

As before LRFC started to get a foothold in the game again, the midfield was working well with Ryan Kante at his destructive best. Freddie was relishing the physical challenge and showing real quality in possession. With in turns the creativity of Alf and Hayden picking out the runs of the wingers and Jorge through the middle. It was far from one way traffic and the LRFC back four and keeper were called into action throughout.

In the first half in particular Fin had been excellent, with good positional play he was often the last man in defence picking up the overlap and keeping Tuffley at bay.

The LRFC second goal was again scored by Dan and was almost a carbon copy of the first. The originator was different, the outcome the same. Luca stretched his legs and into the Tuffley box his shot was goal bound and parried by the keeper. There was Dan on hand to poke home from close range 2-2 and how the game would finish. LRFC had further chances to score Luca had a chance that hit a Tuffley player and rebounded off the post following an incredible run from deep in his own half. Dan also went close when he found himself in the box but unable to apply the finishing touch. Hayden also went close with a thumping shot that the keeper kept out.

While LRFC created a number of chances and could feel that they deserved the win it's important to remember that Tuffley also created chances and could they might have won it. A draw in these circumstances was probably a fair result.

This was a game of contrasting styles played in excellent competitive spirit. Tuffley moved the ball well and played very central. When LRFC were able to win the ball they moved it forward with much more purpose the wingers proving the difference. Passing was much improved, all that is needed now is some sharpness in front of goal.

Dan was the MotM, a brace in your first game for 2 years guarantees this. There were good performances all round and plenty to build on. What was pleasing aside from the ability was the workrate. If this LRFC squad builds on this performance they will have another excellent season.

Availability

The U18's fixtures have been updated and are now available on the FA Website. Please review the availability tracker and confirm by email availability as far ahead as possible so that plans can be made and any postponements due to availability submitted via the 28 day rule.

Season Opener - Tuffley away

Our Under 18's season starts with an away match on Sunday 04/09 to Tuffley. The game will kick off at 2pm and be played at Glevum Park, Gloucester, GL2-5DT (map below).

We did play Tuffley at U16's beating them 5-0, a notable game as Tuffley only failed to score in two games last season of which this was one (the other was against Lydney).

Please arange to be at the ground for 1:30 so that the team can be prepared ahead of the match.

The squad for the game will be...

1. Will (Captain)
2. Ben
3. Freddie
4. George
5. Adam
6. Fin
7. Ryan
8. Luca
9. Hayden
10. Olly
11. Alf
12. Dan
13. Jorge

Jacob, Tom and Sam unfortunately are unavailable as they have a cricket final to play. Good luck in that match lads.

 

Training

Training this week will be at Leckhampton Primary school on Wednesday
31st from 1830-2000. There will be an extra session at Naunton Park on
Friday evening from 1830-1930.

Confirm you can attend via the Facebook page.

FC Barometrics (1) v (2) LRFC U18's

FC Barometrics (1) v (2) LRFC U18's
Pre-season, Newlands Park

A warm sunny Cheltenham afternoon saw LRFC U18s play a pre-season
friendly away to FC Barometrics U16's. As it was a pre-season match
the game was split into three 25minute thirds or half as they were
continually referred to.

Starting in 4-3-2-1 with three debutants, George returning in
midfield, Fin at right full back and Hayden starting in the number 10
role. Olly was on the left, Alf on the right, Luca up front. The back
four was Adam, Ben, Freddie and Fin. The holding pair were Ryan and
George. On the bench Tom and Jorge.

LRFC set the tempo for the game in the early exchanges and were
unlucky not to go ahead inside the first minute with Olly looping the
ball to Luca who's shot flew over the bar. This was a tale of the game
for LRFC. there was some excellent approach play but the finishing
touch wasn't applied. Chances from crosses were narrowly missed,
headers just mistimed so the ball would drift over and out of play.

The first period was the best in terms of football played. LRFC were
dominant and created a number of chances without applying the
finishing touch. Barometrics were penned in but did have some
opportunities on the break that were equalled by the LRFC defence and
Will in goal.

The first period ended 0-0.

Second period saw the game open up, as legs started to tire and both
teams experimented a little. The LRFC wingers started to find space
but still the finishing touch could not be applied. In centre midfield
Ryan was doing his best impression of Kante and was one of only two
players able to last the full match.

There was then a penalty award, Luca brought down stepped up to take
it and saw his shot sail wide of the goal. The score remained 0-0.
Undeterred, LRFC pressed on and as part of a goal mouth scramble
Freddie fired home with the help of a deflection. 1-0.

Going 1-0 down saw Barometrics really come out and play, they started
to dominate exchanges through the middle and put pressure on the LRFC
back line. Under pressure LRFC retreated deeper and deeper leaving
large gaps between defence and midfield and leaving the game a little
ragged.

Both teams were showing signs of tiring now and the whistle for the
end of the second period couldn't come soon enough.

LRFC made a number of changes, Freddie at centre back was replaced by
Fin, George also took a stint at the back alongside Ben. Alf, hayden
and Jorge also played a couple of positions each showing valuable
versatility through the squad.

The last period, two penalties. Freddie hitting a *coughs* shot
straight at the keeper and Barometrics scoring well with theirs. It's
not often that Will goes the wrong way and he did today. He did go on
to make an outstanding save to keep the score line favourable to LRFC.
Olly scored the decisive goal, continually finding acres of space on
the wing he drove into the box and hit a shot low beyond the keeper.

The game finished 2-1 to LRFC.

What did LRFC learn from this?

The team needs to be fitter; yes it was warm and humid but their
endurance was lacking. With The season kick off in a week there is
work to be done and time to start addressing it. Doing nothing is no
longer an option.

The debutants all played well, Fin at full back and centre back was
assured and made good decisions when tackling, passing and making
clearances. Hayden had a good game at number 10, linking play
intelligently and creating chances. Had he trusted his left foot and
not leaned so far back he would have surely opened his account today.
A good debut that will only see improvements as match sharpness kicks
in.
George, returning to LRFC after a years sabbatical, looked strong as
ever in the tackle was mobile and drove forward when opportunities
arose. Starting in centre midfield his pace and power were evident and
there was the sign of a good partnership with Ryan forming.

There was chemistry evident throughout the team until tiredness set
in. Passing was crisp and the running power, particularly out wide was
evident. In the middle there is tackling ability and creativity and
the back four and Will looked largely comfortable. In front of goal it
was not so great but there is a training session on Wednesday where
they can work on that more.

This was a good pre season game that shone a light on deficiencies ;
that they are all in the control of the players means they can be
addressed.

Training 24/08

At Leckhampton School from 1830-2000hrs.

See you there...

FC Barometrics Friendly - 28/08

RThe squad for Sunday afternoon's friendly against FC Barometrics U16's will be

1. Will
2. Fin
3. Ben
4. Luca
5. Hayden
6. Jorge
7. Ollie
8. Ryan
9. George
10. Alf
11. Freddie
12. Adam
    Tom

The eagle eyed among you will have noticed that this gives us one substitute which will make this a good fitness session.

Missing are Sam, Dan, Jacob and Tom through a mixture of holidays and of all things cricket.

The game will be played at Newlands Park (bottom of the racecourse hill towards Cleeve) and kick off at 2pm. Please be there for 1:30pm so we can warm up and set the team.

Any problems please let Marcus know.

Friendly v FC Barometrics

On 28th August we are playing FC Barometrics U16's in a friendly match at Newlands Park. The kick off time will be confirmed but this will be in the afternoon.

Squad for this game will be 

Will

Fin

Ben

Luca

Hayden

Jorge

Tom

Olly

Ryan

George

Alf

Freddie

Adam

Unavailable for this match are Sam and Jacob with Dan yet to confirm.

--

Marcus Bosano
email mbosano@gmail.com   
tel. +44 (0)7973 659 628
LinkedIn http://uk.linkedin.com/in/marcusbosano

Who will we be playing?

The teams for the U18's have been confirmed and while many of the usual suspects are present theres a couple of new names in there too...

• Bishops Cleeve
• Charlton Rovers Reds
• Charlton Rovers
• Fintan Black
• Fintan Red
• Gotherington
• Hardwicke
• Leckhampton Rovers Cougars
• Longlevens Youth
• Lydney Town
• Painswick Youth
• Quedgeley Wanderers Reds
• Rodborough Youth Hawks
• Southside Star
• Tewkesbury Town Colts
• Tuffley Rovers

The details are on the FA website with the fixtures to be released shortly.

It's going to be an interesting season!

LRFC U18's - Pre-Season Training

Pre season training will start on Wednesday 10th August with a run session starting and finishing at my house. The run will be 4 miles at an easy pace. The route is one we have done before (details in the link below)...

Football is an endurance sport and you will cover between 8-10km in most games. If you can outrun the opposition this will give you an advantage. Being fit enough to play will also mean you are better able to perform. You need to be fit to play football not get fit by playing. Before the season starts each of you needs to have a target of being able to run at least 10km. It doesn't matter how long this takes just whether or not you can do it. 

It's 3 weeks until 10th August; use that time to get fit for 4 miles. After that we will increase the distance each week. Towards the end of August we'll start with some ball work and proper practice. 

The margins in the league last season were so tight that any advantage will make a big difference. Fitness is something  you can control so what are you waiting for.....

https://www.strava.com/activities/454929146

U18 Squad List

​1 William Fenley

4 Sam Hansson-Willey
5 George Garrad

6 Ben Higgs
7 Luca​ Bosano

8 Hayden Hunter

9 Dan Hodgin

10 Jacob Burgess

11 Jorge Mooney

12 Tom Carter

14 Olly Thomas

16 Ryan Coldridge

18 Fin Winstanley

22 Alf Little

23 Freddie Palmer

24 Adam Fielding

Season 2015/16 - Some numbers

We may have finished second in the league but...

...in finishing runners up this is the best league finish for this team, our previous best was 3rd - considering that at U14's we finished bottom of division 1, then at U15's we were 3rd this is an upward trajectory.

...we scored more goals than any other team in the division with a cool 100, (with 11 players scoring this season) the next best was Painswick with 94.

...we have the joint highest number of clean sheets (with Painswick) with 8 and conceded just 29 goals

...we also have the leagues top scorer in Luca with 32 goals, the next placed was the Lydney styriker on 29 goals

U16's League Champions

Congratulations to Lydney Town on winning the u16's league. 

We ran them close and are responsible for their only league defeat this season. They were though the more consistent side and defended their title. 

Quedgeley Away - Wednesday 20th April at 1815hrs

​

Our final league fixture is on the Wednesday 20th April away to Quedgeley.

The game is to kick off at 1830hrs and will be played at Waterwells Sports Centre, Stephenson Drive, Quedgeley, GL2-2AG. We should aim to meet at 1800hrs so that we can set the team up and warm up.

Quedgeley sit third bottom of the division with 11 points with three wins this season. The pitches at Quedgeley are excellent so this is an opportunity to finish the season playing well. A good surface should suit the way we play.

The squad for this game will be...

1. Will (Captain)
2. Lewis
3. Ben
4. Sam
5. ​Tom
6. Adam
7. Dan G​
8. Freddie
9. Ryan
10. Alf
11. Jacob
12. Olly
13. Dan A
14. Jorge
15. Max
16. Luca