Westwood Park Football Club

U9 Blue division; U9s v Holmer Green & Chesham Athletic, Sunday 26th February

Squad: Kian (gk), Robert Orr, Kaushal, Joe, Arjan, Andreas, Chris Parsey, Lucas & Alex Walker

With other games for the U9’s called off, I was grateful for the support of Ian (who refereed our two games) and Adam who helped me coach. No such thing as a lie in on a Sunday morning with the boys all turning up on time for a 9.30am start. We played my usual 2 defenders, 3 midfielders and I attacker. Kian went in goal for the first game and half the second match, before coming out on pitch and being replaced by Alex. The warm up went well and the plan was to play “fast” football!

Our first match was against Holmer Green. We attacked from the start and within 5 minutes a flowing move ended with a cool finish from Kaushal!!! Kian was rarely called upon, but when he was the ball was dealt with and we soon regained possession. Arjan and Robert stopped any signs of an attack from our opponents. I can’t remember Arjan missing a tackle all day. Robert played next to Arjan and showed his ability to tackle as well as to provide a lovely pass. Lucas had the most varied time of the day. I think I played him in just about every position! That shows how much he is prepared to try things out (they don’t always work) and how good a player he is starting to become.

Kaushal’s goal turned out to be the winner although Andreas had a chance towards the end that went close (to the excitement of his family on the sidelines!).

The second match was against Chesham Athletic who only have one team so have to buddy with another team to get games. They are clearly a good side, but we matched them for large parts of the first half. Unfortunately, a couple of counter attacks and the odd lapse in defence, left us 4 nil down at half time. This was despite Kian having a good game in goal and producing a stunning tip over late in the half.

Alex went in goal for the last half. He was very assured as normal and produced a couple of good one on one saves. Kian went to midfield and added an extra bit of power. From the kick off for the second half until the final whistle we dominated. Chris, Kian and Joe combined well down the left side of midfield, and Joe coolly rounded their keeper and tapped the ball in the net. No more than we deserved and despite the final result being 4-1, on another day we could have drawn this match.

I had lots of standout players, but Chris was excellent today. His work ethic was fantastic and he lead from the front with his passing.

Overall two really good performances. Everyone contributed and despite the loss in the second game you’d have thought that we had won at the end from the smiles on the faces of our boys, coaches and supporters.

Well done boys!

Nick & Adam