Under 11 Black Match Report
Saturday, April 26, 2008 v Waimea Heights White @ Lightwood Park

Match report :

Once again the boys were presented with another perfect autumn day. KLUSC maintained their formation from previous games (3-3-2) and this match was going to test their endurance as we were down to one sub. WH White played with a (4-4) formation, which on the small ground didn't appear to be a bad structure to play with. Joseph and Joshua (the team "spine") were absent, but we turned this into an opportunity to play guys in the central positions to see how they handle each situation. Jordan was provided with the centre back position and Robert controlled the central midfield area. Bobby and Matthew played as twin forwards and excited our supporters with creative scoring opportunities. Luck was not with us today as these chances only just missed the WH White goal. The back line of Jordan, Harrison and Nathan defended well, repelling the ball back towards our midfield. Some indecision by our defence lead to WH White kicking 4 unanswered goals in the 1st half. Our goalkeeper Jayden read the long-range shots taken by WH White players at goal well and managed to save quite a number. WH White had ample players in the goal circle to finish any error our defence made. Our midfielders continued to provide attacking runs down the flanks, William and Michael enjoying the open space.

With Joshua absent this provided the team to change our set piece set-up at corners and in-direct free kicks. Bobby was assigned the job of delivering the ball at corners to taller players William, Kris and Michael and he later combined with Matthew to take an attacking in-direct kick at the WH White goal. It was pleasing to see the team's awareness remain calm at these set pieces, Jordan doing a fine job marshalling his players too for a defensive wall when WH White were presented with an in-direct kick at goal. The team continued to play well, players interchanging with their teammates to gain a well-earned rest. WH White seemed to have all the luck today and put in four more goals unanswered in the 2nd half. WH White players were in the right spot at the right times as our defence appeared to have all the bases covered. Jayden in goals grew an extra 2 feet in this half and displayed very good composure in the goal circle when under attack (first time goalkeeper today!).

The team played very well, their passing and attack play stood out. The result didn't really do the team any justice, KLUSC creating many scoring opportunities equaled to that of the WH White team's. The match ended with WH White 8 KLUSC Black 0.

Colin Robbins
Coach