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.