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I'm finding it difficult to write this report without resorting to the phrases "unlucky", "ill deserved", "dominant" and "unbelievably".  I'll try very hard to avoid these, but it's going to be difficult.

Ashford made by far the better start to this game played in near perfect conditions overhead and on a beautiful playing surface.  Indeed it took us 15 minutes to find our feet in the game, as we struggled to get going.  Once we did get going, there seemed to be no stopping us.  We played some great football which resulted in countless golden opportunities.  We hit the post twice through Ruaridh and Jake, Simon rounded the keeper only for the ball to be cleared off the line, Arran had a goalbound effort brilliantly saved by their inspired keeper, David had a couple of efforts saved by the keeper and there were a few more really good openings created.  

Ashford had some good long range shots saved by Dan, but he was powerless to stop a free kick from 20 yards that went in just under the bar 10 minutes from time.  We laid siege to their goal but couldn't get the ball in the net, though one particular effort that was cleared off the line with a couple of minutes to go was as close as it could possibly be without being given.

So we lost 0-1.  Disappointing result, but U12s football is not all about results.  The important thing is to develop as a team and individuals, and this we are certainly doing.  Quite how we failed to win this game will remain a bit of a mystery (though we did spot Andrea on the sidelines!!!).  We played really well and Paul and I are delighted with the skill and passion shown right to the end.  Every boy can be proud of their performance and this was demonstrated by the enthusiastic applause given to us by our wonderful band of supporters at the end of the game.  There can be no doubt about the progress over recent seasons.  It would be fair to say that we have not been competitive in our meetings with Ashford over previous seasons.  This was a complete turnaround.  Well played boys.

Their management team of Kelvin and Ben were frank in their appraisal of the game - "we feel like we mugged you today".  Without doubt this is the most hospitable of clubs with sandwiches laid on for the boys after the game and drinks bought by Kelvin for ourselves.  We appreciated the encouragement given to us in the bar afterwards and it was very enjoyable to be able to discuss both team performances openly.  Well done to Ashford who played well enough and of course in the spirit we have come to expect from Kelvin and Ben's teams.  We hope we get a chance to reciprocate with a friendly at Beddington Park later in the season (unfortunately the league schedule means we only play Ashford away this season).

On a final note, can everyone make sure they get to the games on time.  The warm-up and preparation before a game is vital in this league.  Late arrivals disrupt the other boys and cause unwanted selection problems for the managers.  We'll say no more.  Also, thanks to Phil Mander and Tony Thomson for running the line.  It appears the same people are doing this each week and we'd appreciate other volunteers to run the line.  Please don't leave it to the same people, as they want to watch their sons playing as much as anyone else.  Family and friends are welcome to run the line.

On to next week and the visit of AFC Wimbledon.  Meet is at Beddington Park at 9.15 in the changing rooms.  Kick off is 10am.  See you there.  I can't wait.

Buzz