U11s Defeat Curzon

After the U11s received a walkover and three more points when Dukinfield Tigers pulled out of the advertised fixture this weekend, Celtic met great rivals Curzon Ashton in a friendly instead. Both teams lead their respective top divisions at either 11-a-side or 9-a-side football and both were unbeaten to this point, so it was always going to be a good barometer for the two sides.

At kick off, as the snow began to fall, the move to a 3G surface seemed a wise decision. By full time, in a blizzard it seemed best if everyone had stayed indoors! However, Bridge played some excellent football against a good side and dominated large parts of the game, creating numerous chances.

Stalybridge took the lead when Callum delivered a cross following Tom's short corner and Jack swept home with his 'standing' right foot after eight minutes. Curzon's keeper made a couple of good saves to deny anyone adding to that tally before a long ball caught Celtic out and despite James making a fine parry, the ball was turned in to the net for the equalizer - although a decent shout for offside was turned down by the referee.

If the first half was relatively even, then in the second there's no doubt Celtic dominated. Chances were spurned, through balls were slightly overhit and Curzon's keeper was kept on his toes. Then, with the game heading for a draw Brad found the top corner from a brilliant 20 yard free-kick to give Stalybridge the victory they deserved.

There were good performances on either side in terrible conditions, with both teams determined to play passing football. Thanks to Wayne at Curzon for agreeing to the friendly and good luck to his side for the remainder of the season.

FINAL SCORE:  CELTIC 2 CURZON ASHTON 1

Training: Thursday 6pm at St Damians
Saturday v West End Boys Club (away)