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In stifling conditions which were more at home in Equatorial Guinea, Carshalton U9s learned some hard lessons about the level of football they will be playing against this season.  The Wolves are a very well organised team, who have won their division and the Epsom and Ewell League Cup last season.  We were caught cold (didn't seem possible given the unbearable heat) at the start of both halves and conceded goals as a result.  Certainly something we can work on.

After the comfortable win of last week, it was a very rude awakening when we went 0-1 down so soon.  However, the boys dug in and it was encouraging to see that no heads went down and we battled to contain The Wolves, and indeed caused them several problems with our passing football.

In the second half, despite the warnings from The Management, there was a repeat performance and we watched as the Wolves extended their lead immediately after the restart.  Once again, the response was excellent and we continued to play good passing football and create chances of our own.  At the other end, Daniel played a blinder in goal and one headed clearance off the line by Joseph was awesome.  The Wolves scored a third goal with a powerful drive, as some of our players understandably seemed to wilt in the heat. 

With full time approaching, Ben was sent free on goal and he delayed his shot until the keeper had committed himself, then hit it over him into the net.  A well deserved goal for the team after all their hard work.  Certainly there were very encouraging signs as the players get used to playing with each other.

Bad news was Jordan's groin injury.  We don't as yet know the full extend of the injury.  Hopefully he will be back in time for the next friendly against Beecholme FC in 2 weeks' time.

Many thanks and best wishes to the management, boys and parents of The Wolves.  Their players were a credit to them.  Hopefully we can arrange another friendly later in the season.  Best of luck for the new season.

Buzz