21st August 2005 - Away 10.30am KO vs. Gorleston Rangers C (Friendly)

Result - Lost 6-1

Mutford kicked-off their U13 season with a tough friendly against Gorleston Rangers C. Being in the Holiday season, Mutford had 4 key players sunning themselves in some far off exotic location. Taylor and Ryan were drafted in and both played extremely well.

Gorleston (who were also playing their first friendly of the season) soon took the game to Mutford and were working harder than Mutford and were passing well. Mutford were punished 3 times for not clearing their lines and for poor marking at the back. The midfield were also half asleep for much on the first half. Jordan did however bring out a good save from the Gorleston Keeper, when through on goal in a 1-on-1 situation. But in truth the half belonged to Gorleston.

Half Time 3-0

The second Half was much better for Mutford with Josh playing in a more advanced position from that of his first half left back role. Smiffy also came back on, after being taken off in the first following a crunching tackle. Jordan was now seeing more of the ball and should have done better from a Smiffy pass. Apparently the ball "disappeared" just before he shot (a visit to the Mutford Optician has been arranged).

Josh came close with a cross/shot that had everyone but the post beaten, but it was Smiffy who made the breakthrough for Mutford following a short kick out from the Gorleston Keeper, Smiffy delicately chipped the ball in from 25 yards (that's 22.86 metres for those of us who are metricated).

Mutford were working better at the back in the second half, Phil and Jervy were playing the offside much better, but Gorleston did still look dangerous coming forward. Jack and Jason did well considering they were both playing with sore legs and Johnny was withdrawn mid way through the half after taking a knock to his ankle. Taylor and Ryan were playing very well and wheels was working hard up the right.

Gorleston showed why they had finished 3rd in the league the previous season with a solid display and scored 3 more times in the second half.

Mutford were further thwarted by the Gorleston Keeper and Jordan was unlucky not to turn home a parried Smiffy shot.

In summary a poor first half and an improved second half for Mutford. Lessons were learnt and that's what friendlys are for.

Man-of-the-match was very close between Josh & Smiffy, with Smiffy just edging it with his goal.

Man of the Match - Smiffy.

Posted 21^st August 2005