Arsenal had me purring but the U11s gave me a fur ball!

Ok, our match/training session wasn’t that bad...but after some good drills to start off with the first half of our intra-Whites match had everything ranging from sulks, late tackles, revenge tackles, minor injuries...and the occasional football! It was good to remind myself of continuous quality team football watching Arsenal thrash Fulham later!

That said (back to our match) after a gentle dressing down at half time (and the threat of no Wheel of Fortune) the U11s regained their composure and concentration and started to do what we gave up our Sunday morning for and played football. When we do concentrate fully and work for each other then we play some good stuff. A point for making 5 good passes in succession and two points for a goal created a very competitive but well-spirited half which helped leave us on a high.

I don’t normally single out individuals publicly after matches but this time I have to give great credit to Jack, Fraser, Orlando, both Tom’s, Harrison, Nathan, Felice, and Henry for keeping concentration throughout and playing with a strong team ethic regardless. Those not mentioned normally do show such positive qualities, so no doubt today was a slight off day and all will be normal next time.

Overall I am delighted with:

1. The turn-out especially given this is the third Beckwithshaw session in five days (parents included).
2. The passion to make a challenge - though we need to ensure we keep it legal!
3. The competition for goalkeeper positions. Last year we barely had any interest - this year we’ve got at least three who all show bravery and huge desire in the role.

One gripe is that 2 kids marked themselves as available but didn’t turn up. Of course there may be very good reason but please let me know in advance so we can rearrange teams accordingly. PS. Thank you to Tobias for letting me know beforehand.

So, all in a mixed bag....not our best session ever but lots of learning for next time and well worth the effort.

Have a great week!

Tony