5th September 2004 - Away 11.00am KO vs. Sole Bay Hunters

Result - lost 3-0

The Norwich & Peterborough Shield match ended in a 3-0 defeat for Mutford, but the scoreline was not a true reflection of the overall match.

The new look Mutford had three players making their debuts at competitive level and seven players starting in different positions from last years fixture. Right from the off the two Teams went at each other, both creating half chances. The Mutford front three of Josh, Jordan and Mikey were always combining well and looking dangerous. The midfield of Brad S, Sam and Phil was working really hard, making some excellent challenges and playing some nice football when the opportunities allowed. The back four of Joe, Jason, David and Jordan W took time to settle and looked vulnerable to the long ball. Harrison in the Mutford goal pulled off some excellent saves when left one on one.

However, even Harrison was unable to prevent the breakthrough for Sole Bay midway through the half. Again a long ball over the top caught the defence square and Bays striker finished well with a low shot to the keepers right. Mutford then made some changes, bringing on Wheels upfront, Johnny left of midfield and Jack at full back. The game continued to go from end to end with both teams continuing to probe for an opening. In the end it was unfortunate that a half cleared attack from Bay allowed them to cross the ball and finish from close range.

At half time Mutford spent most of the talk focussing on the positions of the defence during open play in an attempt to counter-act the problems with the long ball. Early in the second half Mutford were unlucky to be penalised on the edge of the area and this allowed Bay to further extend their lead from a well taken free kick. The remainder of the half was edged by Mutford both in terms of chances and possession. The problems encountered in the first half by the defence were overcome and Bay failed to open up the defence in open play. The Mutford midfield held its shape very well, particularly captain Phil and Brad S on the left. Johnny and Sam played their usual cultured games, passing well and supporting the lively front players.

Mutford won several corners but were unable to get the right delivery to create the elusive opening. Mutford appeared to get stronger as the game wore on despite the sapping heat and came closest at the death when a thunderbolt shot from Johnny struck a post with keeper beaten. Although always disappointing to lose Mutford played great football and should take heart from the fact that Bay scored 133 goals last year in the B league and were very strong, losing just once. Sean Peck, Bays manager, happy with the win, feels his side are stronger than last year and is further evidence this was a decent performance.

The match ref was full of praise for the sportsmanship of both teams and commented on the attacking play of Mutford's left side. This was an excellent pre season fixture and thanks to Sole Bay and Norwich & Peterborough for inviting us over. Well done to Harrison who was voted man-of-the-match by the parents.

Man of the match : Harrison.

©Mutford United Youth Football Club Under 15.

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