The Rye Bay U11s travelled to Hawkinge for their second game of the season in the Ashford league and, being new to the league, we weren’t sure what to expect.
With only eight players being available for a 9-aside fixture, under the rules, the opposition have to match the number, which meant we’d have zero subs and they had 6 on the bench. So with the weather being blisteringly hot it was going to be a tough match.
Before the game we spoke about playing sensibly, looking after our positions and not overplaying, to conserve energy and the boys took all of this on board. Straight from the kickoff Hawkinge attacked and caught our defence napping 1-0 Hawkinge, then the boys got on the offensive and Charlie Cooke smashed in our first goal. From that point the boys were excellent, dominating every area of the pitch with the team captain ‘safe hands’ Archie in goal, Reggie, Tommy and Vinnie keeping a solid defence, which Hawkinge only broke through once more to get their second goal.
Vinnie was outstanding at center back being first to everything that crossed the halfway line and the boys in midfield, Charlie, Rex and Lenark, could play a higher line with Seth the front man terrorising their defence and getting himself a great goal from a decent ball into the area.
Charlie Cooke was strong and broke through getting three more goals to take his tally to four! Lenark and Rex also got their rewards for their hard work getting a goal each to make the final score 2-7. A great hour’s work with positive attitudes from all.
Vinnie got the manager’s vote and Lenark got the players’ votes for player of the match. Well done boys.
Image Credits: Glenn Keen .
Well done, boys! Come on Rye Bay!!!
So proud of my grandson and his team mates. It’s wonderful to see the excellent sporting experiences for our children in Rye. Well done Rye Bay U 11’s