Stalybridge U15s (Sat) 2 vs 0 Medlock Rangers (Cup)

The pitch had to be inspected early by the referee due to persistent rain overnight and this morning,
Fortunately we managed to get rid of the worst of the the water off the pitch and the game started on time.

We started the game with a 343 Line up which we haven't played this season and with a new addition to the Squad with Connor.

We controlled the first half  well with lots of passing and movement by an energetic midfield and lively forwards with a back line providing solid cover for the lads in front.

After a bit of a tussle on the edge of the box the referee gave us a free kick about 25 yards out to the right of the goal
Connor on his debut stepped up and placed the ball over the wall and the keeper failed to stop the ball flying over his head.
Great strike!

The second goal came after some great pressure by our Midfield who kept Medlock pinned in their own half Danny burst forward from a deep position to steal a badly placed pass from Medlock and then brushed off two players and stuck the ball in the bottom left of the net, right across the keeper (made the finish look easy).
 
We reverted back to 442 after Medlock's number 9 started to look dangerous by getting into the space behind us at the back , they didn't really threaten to much once this gap was closed.

Medlock played better in the second half but didn't really test a solid back 4, a few decisions given by the ref seemed a little strange from where i was stood e.g. Jordan being thrown to the floor over Medlock's side of the pitch and they got the Free kick!

The second half was controlled well by us with Medlock not really able to breach our defence with the midfield working hard today not giving them too much time to dwell on the ball
Medlock tested Charlie on one occasion after a well struck shot had Charlie diving down to his left and he pushed the ball and himself onto the post and out of danger Great Save!


A great team performance by all concerned today.
Well done enjoy the next round of the Cup