U8's A v Failsworth Dynamo Sat 19th March

Failsworth Dynamo Juniors 1-1 Stalybridge Celtic A

Celtic were down to a bare 6 for the game today and after a delayed kick off made a sloppy start. Failing to clear their lines in the opening minutes led to a Failsworth shot through a crowded penalty area leaving Josh in goal unsighted and with no chance. After the poor early start Celtic pulled their socks up and played some excellent football with the Dynamo keeper busy in goal for the remainder of the half. Jack had a number of efforts saved, the best of which, a powerful instinctive shot from distance, the keeper somehow managing to tip it over the bar. Marcus grew into an unfamiliar role upfront with some well worked corners and linking up with the midfield, leading to an excellent shot unfortunately coming back off the post. Sam held the midfield with some good tackles and neat passes forward as well as a couple of efforts on goal himself whilst Nathan was solid at the back. Rhys worked hard for the team on the right and created chances going forward as well as tracking back with some excellent tackles. Further shots just wide from Jack after good play between Rhys, Sam and Marcus left us in disbelief going into half time 1-0 down.  

Celtic started well in the second half with a powerful strike from Rhys which was bravely headed out of the Failsworth penalty area. Stalybridge soon got their deserved rewards for good play with Marcus turning the last defender and running in on goal following a quick Celtic counter. Celtic then looked the more likely team to go on and win the match with further attacks but were camped too long in their own half following a couple of Dynamo half chances. Towards the end of the game Celtic tired as Dynamo’s were able to rotate fresh players from the bench leading to Josh making a decent save before a final scare with 10 seconds remaining. A Dynamo shot from the right, Josh tipping magnificently onto the bar and Nathan reacting first clearing brilliantly off the line.MOM Rhys.