14th November 2004 - Home 1.15pm KO vs. Aztec

Result - Lost 2-0

Aztec ran out 2-0 winners of this top of the table clash which produced some excellent football from both sides. Both teams were able to field the strongest sides available for several weeks and were looking forward to the game.

Aztec started the brighter, passing the ball with great skill and care. This was matched by Mutford's concentration and organisation and kept chances at both ends to a minimum early on. The Mutford defence of Smiffy, Jervey, Jack and man of the match Phil, coped well with the constant threat of the Aztec forwards.

The midfield of Jason, Clabby and Johnny (back from injury), stayed nice and tight protecting the back four, and playing some good football themselves when the opportunity arose. The frontline of Josh, Mickey and Jordy played their usual neat passing and broke with pace creating a few chances by half time. The first half of football was of the best quality seen at The Dell at this age group for quite sometime delighting Managers and spectators alike.

Half Time 0-0

The second half got underway with Wheels coming on upfront for Mutford, adding a more direct approach to the Mutford attack. However it was Aztec who settled the quicker and forced Mutford to defend more than they had in the first half. Aztec also caused havoc with a number of in-swinging corners from the right which required some excellent work by the faultless Harrison in the Mutford goal.

The first goal in the game was going to be vital and so it proved. Midway through the half Aztec won a corner from their right and varying from the near post delivery, sent the ball long and the corner was well met by the number 10, who headed home from 6 yards. The second goal followed shortly after and was a carbon copy of the first and again the corner was well delivered and finished. This seemed to knock Mutford out of their stride and only the excellent defending by Phil and superb and often brave goalkeeping by Harrison kept the score at 2-0.

Slowly Mutford regained their shape and although did not threaten too much towards the end battled on with pride. Final score Mutford 0 Aztec 2. Mutford' s manager said after, "A fabulous display of youth football. It is easy to forget many of these boys are still only 11 years old. The overall quality of passing, understanding of shape and marking from both teams was superb. It was very competitive but there wasn't a bad tackle in the whole game. I was looking forward to this all week and I thought the boys played really well. I'm glad they gave a good account of themselves, they knew this was a big game and they approached it in the right way. Towards the end of the game we ran out of ideas, their goalkeeper did an excellent sweeping job from our throws and through balls, we will work on varying our game. Our shape is good, the boys attitude is spot on and we looked o.k. in terms of fitness and technique. We are now looking forward to playing Bungay".

This win takes Aztec back to the top of the table, with Hempnall chasing in second.

Man of the Match: Phil.

Posted 14^th November 2004