Another 3 points for the Under 9s

Stalybridge Under 9s continued their recent run of good results by taking 3 points off Reddish Vulcans at Wright Robinson School on Saturday mornnig, despite both Kai and Thomas being absent leaving one team without a substitute to call upon.

The 'B' team produced a tremendous performance, winning 4-0 and really controlling the majority of the match.  After an even start, Celtic took the lead when Rhylee's long throw flicked off the head of a defender and Keenan was alert to steal in at the back post to opening the scoring - his second in two games.  Defensive uncertainty almost cost Bridge an equaliser, but they held firm until half-time.

An injury to Rhylee early in the second half saw a change in positions for Nathan and Bomber and the introduction of Elliot up front.  The Soccer School graduate made an immediate impact and from then on in, all the play was in the Vulcans half, leaving James very little to do.  A short corner from Bomber found Nathan, who squared it for Josh to strike and score.  Then from another corner, Lewis found the back of the net from 15 yards to make it 3-0.  Elliot added a fourth after a strong run and could have had a hat-trick with a bit more luck, striking the post and missing get his head on the ball by an inch when close in. 

All in all, the lads played fantastically well, passing the ball around nicely and finding the composure on the ball the coaches have been striving for.  Bomber took the man of the match award for an energetic and skilful display both up front and on the left side of midfield.

FINAL SCORE:  CELTIC 4  REDIISH VULCANS 0

Unfortunately, the 'A' team failed to reach the heights of last week, the tempo just not being there in the first half, although they may have come away with both points if their finishing was up to its usual standard.

Celtic took the lead when Brad's free-kick was spilled by the keeper and Max tapped in from a couple of yards - following instructions perfectly!  Luke had to be at his best in goal to deny Reddish with a smart save when faced with a 1 on 1, but could do nothing to stop the Vulcans equaliser before the break.

The harsh words at half-time seemed to have the desired effect as Bridge came out strongly, with Jack providing boundless energy down the left. His superb 50 yard run and cross missed the tap in at the far post it deserved.  Again Luke saved well from close in and Max hit the post, but the winner remained elusive despite the lads hard work.  Dan provided a strong head to nulify Vulcans threat from long throws and for his 3 fine saves, Luke picked up the man of the match award.

Disappointing as it was not to pick up all 4 points, the lads are certainly in decent form as they head towards the Primary Cup Final in three weeks time.

FINAL SCORE: CELTIC 1 REDDISH VULCANS 1

Training: Now at the Soccer School.  Meet 5.20pm

No match next Saturday.