Semi Final Fixture 27/02/16

Signol Reds Vs Santos JFC

Captained by George we went into this game blind, we have never had a match against them before, not sure if this was any kind of advantage or disadvantage for the boys. First half started slow, as always, think we might have to work on our wake up calls! Santos bagged a goal quick and it looked like we had a real fight on our hands. The lads woke up quick sticks and off they went. They didn't want to lose this match it was written on their faces. Kian saved the day by a brilliant shot, hes so good at making the most of their mistakes. Something that has taken time for the boys but Kiwi has it nailed. Equal, we dont want penalties though. I shout "from the top" and they go back like its nil nil, the game is on. We were out playing this team, possession was ours, we didn't give them a chance to find our net. George "the wall" hall secured our defence as always, solid that lad! Never fails to deliver. Ethan was on top form today, his confidence has rocketed and i know from a conversation he feels safe with George in front of him. Diving for the ball and using his area great, he never let another one past him after that! Forcing the ball into Santos half Nyle ploughed through their defence and sized the opportunity, and it paid off! He worked very hard today on his "passion for the win" and he made me proud not just as a mother but a coach. I didn't see one ounce of stamped foot! (or tears). Heading into the whistle Kian again sliced one in and this was just the first half. Adrenaline was pumping not just on the pitch but in the crowds. The lads come for a quick drink and i didn't want to mess with the structure too much because it worked so well. I brought Kian off for Harry, although change of position. Harry's speed and hunger makes him perfect for centre mid. And boom of he went, rapid, he covered every place on the pitch and fell back into defence when needed. Caleb out on the wing as always delivering. Winning the ball, his passing was spot on and he even drove at 6.30am from his grandmas wedding just so we didn't have to play without him. Commitment! Love it! A switch of Caleb for Kobe and we were still 70% possession, we just wanted the ball, a few attempt's on shot but panic set in and it was missed but two superb goals from Harry secured this for the boys. Off came George for Louis and they didn't let anything go wrong. Louis confidence is growing and he knows just where to be. He reads the game well stopping anything getting passed him. Hearts were in our mouths then the whistle blew and it was over! If i was more fitter id of cartwheeled, what a sound game from the boys. Super proud. We head into the Finals at the end of April, so plenty of prep time!

Man of the match and captain for the final went to Nyle, as voted for by the boys. I didnt even have to speak. They said he played so well he deserved it.

Hayley

Signol Blues Vs Stalybridge Celtic Colts

Great team effort from the blues today. Every one on the pitch turned up and gave it their all. Early goal from Rio seemed to set the stall for almost ten mins and we kept them down to minimum until their big man hurdled two tough challenges and smashed one in passed a keiran who could do nothing.  The rest of the first half it was end to end but they were more clinical in front of goal.. finn had a great first half defending our goal and cleared ball after ball.  Dan did well picking up the ball and playing it out from the back to Jackson and second half we were in more control but could just not create enough in front of goal. Rio and Dylan in the midfield tackle after tackle and free kick after free kick. Lol. Overall 100 percent effort from everyone and the interim coach for the day was impressed with such a great effort. Well done guys

Jason

Thank you to Jason who took the team for me today, its a shame, we always give 100% but the score sheet doesnt reflect it. But what makes them winners to me is that they dont stop till the final whistle. They NEVER give up. Super proud of this bunch!

See you all at training! :)

Hayley