AC Hoylake FC U9s - Match Reports

Match 1

AC Hoylake Under 9s Meteors 2 – 7 New Ferry Rangers

Date/Time : Sunday 11^th September

Venue : Newton Park

Squad: Adam , Patrick, Joe Burrows, Dylan Hughes, Kieron Platt, Declan Robinson, Joe Turnbull, Joe Wilson

Goals: Declan, Patrick

Hoylake Man of The Match: Joe Turnbull

Opposition Man of The Match:

Match Report:

You’d expect the first game of the season to take it’s time to light up but that was not the case here as the Meteors took the lead early in a nine goal game dominated by 2 key New Ferry players. Declan and Patrick scored but it wasn’t enough to stop a 6 goal tally for a New Ferry Ranger superstar and their heroic goalkeeper preventing the Meteors from making the game closer.

It was 2 or 3 minutes into what was already a pulsating match when Dylan Hughes was brought down just outside the area from a promising Meteors break. After brushing himself down Dylan’s superb free-kick was tipped over the bar by the NFR keeper and for a moment the crowd thought we’d got our first goal. It didn’t take long for it to come though as moments later a Dylan volley from distance could only be parried out to the lurking Declan to slot home from close range. 1 – 0 to the Meteors.

New Ferry responded immediately with a goal of their own to make the scores level, but it looked like our Meteors had gone ahead again when a mazy run down the wing, followed by a superb shot (or was it a cross?) from Kieron which again forced the NFR keeper into an acrobatic save.

From then on though the Meteors were up against it as NFR took control of the game, mainly through the mesmerising skills of their midfield whizz kid, almost single handedly putting the visitors into a 4 – 1 lead with only 10 minutes gone. As usual though our Meteors didn’t give up, Joe Turnbull was sent on to make use of his “fastest Meteor” status and to restrict the star player from running riot, and what a job he did, producing a man-of-the-match performance. With the main man quite the Meteors got back into the game when Patrick executed a slightly fortuitous, but nevertheless perfectly struck, first time, over-the-head volley with his back to goal from over 20 yards out!! It was an incredible shot which the goalkeeper was unlucky not to catch before the ball made the back of the net. Yet again NFR responded immediately and made it 2 – 5 as we hit half time.

The dominance of New Ferry led us to completely change our approach to the 2^nd half and in doing so taught our boys elements of the game that haven’t been necessary in previous games. They adapted brilliantly to the instructions with Adam and Joe in defence changing their shape and strategy, in midlfield Joe T, Ali and Joe Wilson harassed the star player while Declan and Kieron broke several times on the counter attack.

It was pleasing to see our boys never give up and restrict NFR to 2 goals in the 2^nd half and with their goalkeeper covering his goal superbly as the game played out tightly, finishing with 2 – 7 loss for our Meteors.

match 2

AC Hoylake Under 9s Meteors 7 – 3 Heygarth Utd Sharks
September 17th 2011
Bromborough Pool

An unusually bright and warm September morning sees the Meteors taking on Heygarth at Bromborough Pool - Hoylake are looking to bounce back after last week's defeat to New Ferry.

Hoylake start the first-half brightly with several attacks on the home team's defence - Adam and Joseph B prevent a rare Heygarth attack - showing good understanding in defence.

At the other end, Hoylake attack - Dylan passes to Kieron who finishes coolly with a shot into the bottom corner, giving the Heygarth 'keeper no chance. 1-0

The Meteors continue to pressurise the opposition - a great run and cross from Declan is met by Kieron who fires just wide. Declan goes close himself shortly afterwards with a shot which was unlucky not to result in a goal.

Hoylake's defence doesn't want to miss out on the action - Adam collects the ball in defence and goes on a surging run down the left wing which causes the Heygarth midfield and defence all sorts of problems.

The midfield is working hard to keep possession - Joe W puts in a great block to prevent a Heygarth attack.
Leo comes on to replace Ali in midfield - Ali has been outstanding tackling and chasing - he deserves his rest.
Hoylake win a throw-in mid way in the Heygarth half - Kieron takes it quickly to Joe W who bursts through towards the opposition goal and puts the ball past the 'keeper - 2-0

Heygarth respond to this setback and manage to win a corner - from which, a lucky break results in the ball flying into the Hoylake net - a goal against the run of play - 2-1

Heygarth try to build on this goal but a block from Leo, a brave tackle by Joseph B and a good save from Patrick ensure that they are not able to add to the score.

At the other end Hoylake are causing Heygarth problems - with dangerous runs from Kieron and Dylan - in one such attack Kieron shows great skill to bamboozle the defenders - he puts a cross into the box which Declan finishes. 3-1

A really good half comes to an end with Hoylake deservedly in the lead.

Heygarth's half time team talk seems to have worked as they quickly pull a goal back - 3-2
This does not deter Hoylake who continue to show the positive attitude they displayed in the first half - demonstrating excellent communication, accurate passing and good teamwork.

A run and shot from Dylan causes the Heygarth goalie to make a finger tip save - at the other end, Joe W is in action too - making a good save to prevent Heygarth equalising. From the resulting corner Hoylake break from defence - Kieron makes a run, passes to Dylan who scores to make it 4-2 !
Heygarth are not giving up though - they get a bit of luck in the Hoylake area and score to bring it back to 4-3.
A tactical switch sees Leo moved from midfield to attack - this pays off almost immediately as Kieron beats a Heygarth defender and puts in a cross which Leo powers into the Heygarth net -sparking wild celebrations on the Hoylake touchline - Well done Leo! (and well done Chris for the tactical switch). 5-3

Hoylake are well on top now Adam, Ali and Joseph B have all been resolute in defence - stopping everything Heygarth can throw at them.

Patrick goes on a run down the left combining well with Dylan - Patrick shoots and is unlucky not to add to the score.
The next goal is not far away - another break from defence leads to Dylan shooting - the rebound falls to Kieron who puts the ball into the top corner to score - 6-3.

Hoylake are enjoying themselves now - Ali tackles a Heygarth player - shrugs off a couple of tackles and releases the ball to Dylan who scores to make it 7-3.

The final whistle goes and Hoylake have won 7-3 - a great performance from all the boys.
Man of the Match awards go to Kieron and Joseph B although everyone involved should be very proud of themselves.

match 3

match 4

AC Hoylake Under 9s Meteors 0 – 7 Raeburn Rovers

Date/Time : Sunday 1st October

Venue : Newton Park

Squad: Adam , Patrick, Joe Burrows, Dylan Hughes, Kieron Platt, Joe Turnbull, Joe Wilson, Dan Swainston, James McInally,

Goals:

Hoylake Man of The Match: Dylan Hughes / Joe Wilson

Opposition Man of The Match: Dylan Hughes

Match Report:

A difficult game for our Meteors against a strong Raeburn Rovers team who had until recently been in a higher league. The Meteors held on for a large period of the game but eventually fell 7 – 0, and this despite our 2 Man Of The Match performances coming from our 2 goalkeepers on the day.

The first half saw Joe Wilson making a penalty save followed by another a great save to keep the score at 1 – 0, but eventually despite Patrick Burrows coming close with a signature volley the half ended 2 – 0 to Raeburn.

In the second half our Meteors found it far more difficult with the wind in their faces and the impressive RR keeper punting his kicks straight into our area causing us all sorts of problems. The pressure was constant and we struggled to respond against some technically excellent players as RR finished the game off at 7-0. This was despite an amazing performance from one of our newest choices as keeper, Dylan Hughes. Time after time in the closing minutes Dylan blocked and parried shots away as he was bombarded in goal. A performance that earned some flattering comments from the opposition coaches and surely kept us from conceding double figures.

match 5

West Kirby Panthers White 0 – 3 AC Hoylake Under 9s Meteors

Saturday 8th October 2011

Calday Grammar School 11am

The first local derby of the season saw the Meteors make the short journey to Calday School Playing Fields to take on West Kirby Panthers. A squad of 11 meant that we played 9-a-side leaving 2 subs chomping at the bit on the sidelines. A bright start by Hoylake was in sharp contrast to the weather which was …..anything but bright. However the rainy conditions didn't dampen Hoylake spirits with the early action seeing the midfield trio of Joe T, Kieron and Dylan controlling the middle of the field - forwards Patrick and Leo kept the West Kirby defenders busy and a back three of Adam, Joseph B and James dealt with the rare WK attacks - whilst, soon to be 9, Joe W was assured in goal.
Patrick, Dylan and Kieron were all unlucky not to score with shots on the West Kirby goal.
The pressure eventually told with Hoylake opening the scoring through a fine effort from Kieron.1-0
West Kirby fought to get back into the game, their best chance coming when their winger's shot was cleared off the Hoylake goal line by …...another West Kirby player!
Hoylake upped their game after this scare - Dan S, who had come on as sub, efficiently patrolled the midfield ensuring that the West Kirby team had no time on the ball and Ali settled well into defence when he entered the game part way through the half.

Hoylake went into the half-time break looking comfortable with their 1- 0 lead.

In the second half it was more of the same as Hoylake continued to threaten the West Kirby goal. Patrick took up goal keeping duties for the second period with Joe W moving up front with Dylan. Kieron became more and more influential down the right flank giving the WK defence nightmares- ably assisted by Dan S and Joe T. It wasn't long before Hoylake extended their lead - Kieron adding to his tally with a shot - 2-0.

Good tackles from James, Joseph B, and Adam made sure that West Kirby had few opportunities on goal - on the rare occasion that they did get to shoot - Patrick was able to deal with anything that was thrown at him. It was from one such incident that Hoylake scored the goal of the game - a fine save from Patrick fell to Ali who rode a couple of challenges before passing to Kieron on the right wing - Kieron beat a couple of defenders before cutting in-field to score a fantastic goal! 3-0

The Meteors were now rampant - Shots rained in on the WK goalkeeper - Joe W made the most of his move up front and was unlucky not to score - Leo and Dylan came desperately close with efforts and Kieron was unfortunate not to add to his hat trick.
By the end of the game it was an elated Hoylake team that came out on top - with WK realising they were lucky not to have suffered a heavier defeat.

An excellent team performance - Congratulations to MOMs Kieron and Dan S and a big well done to all the boys for a great victory and for keeping a clean sheet!

match 6

Higher Bebington Rangers 1 – 1 AC Hoylake Under 9s Meteors

Sunday 16th October 2011

A squad of 10 players travelled to Higher Bebington (HB), hoping to continue the good start to the season. Early Hoylake pressure saw a corner forced after good work by Declan. A 2nd corner followed, which was cleared as far as Adam, whose long range effort was blocked, falling to Patrick who shot just wide.

HB then had a number of attacks, exploiting the large pitch and the gap between the Hoylake midfield and defence, good work by Joe B and Adam restricting them to long range shots which didn’t trouble Joe W in goal.

Hoylake then moved forward, Patrick passing up the right to Dan McGuire, whose good work resulted in a throw in. From this, HB broke again, solid tackling by Adam saving the day again, despite being pushed and claiming loudly for a foul whilst still dribbling away from the attacker.

The end-to-end pattern continued, as Hoylake cleared their lines from a HB corner, to break the length of the pitch, only for Dylan’s effort to go wide.

At this stage, Chris brought on James to shackle HB’s main attacking player, in what Chris called “man marking”, but was later corrected by James as “you’re not playing any more”. HB continued to pressurise, but fired 3 or 4 shots high and wide. On the odd occasion that the shot was kept on target, Joe W made a good save.

Solid tackling by James led to a through ball to Dan, the ball then being worked through to Declan who shot wide from a tight angle. James continued to stop the threat of HB’s star player, whilst Leo was throwing his whole body in the way to stop HB. Half-time came with the game still goal-less.

Early in the 2nd half, Joe W played a great one-two with James up the right. Again, HB broke, with Patrick now on goalkeeping duty clearing a goal bound shot off the line. Dylan was then sent clean through, but his shot was saved well by the tall HB goalkeeper.

HB piled on further pressure, Adam and Ali working a good partnership in defence to clear. Ali then took the ball on a long run, putting Joe W through on goal, the keeper again saving well. James had another shot soon after, which was just wide.

Finally the deadlock was broken, when a HB cross evaded the defence and was poked in at the back post despite a great attempt by Patrick to clear off his line.

Hoylake heads didn’t drop, and Joe W had another shot that went wide. Joe B then picked up the ball on the left, and worked his way towards the area. His cross was handled by a HB defender, and the penalty was awarded. Dylan stepped up and put a low drive beneath the diving keeper to equalise.

HB stepped up looking for a winner as the game drew towards a close, forcing corner after corner, Joe W dropping into midfield and putting in some great slide tackles. Declan, now in defence, was resolute, clearing several times under pressure. Joe B went on another long run to win a throw-in, and his through ball put Dylan clear again, the keeper tipping the shot over.

More attacks from HB just before the final whistle, and a deserved draw in a good tussle. In what was a good team performance, Man of the Match went to James for his full-blooded efforts in marking the HB danger player out of the game.

match 7

AC Hoylake U9s Meteors 1 – 5 Young Lions Colts Y

Date/Time : Sunday 22nd October

Venue : Our Lady Of Pity

Squad: Adam Barlow, Patrick Burrows, Joe Burrows, Dylan Hughes, Leo Henshaw, Kieron Platt, Joe Turnbull, Declan Robinson, Dan Swainston, James McInally, Ali Topoglu

Goals: Kieron Platt

Hoylake Man of The Match: Ali Topoglu

Opposition Man of The Match: Dan Swainston

Match Report:

When a match is shaped so heavily by the conditions presented on the day it’s difficult to judge how we performed or what the Meteors could have been done to counteract the issues it created. From the first kick the only real concern was who would make the most of the advantage of the slope, strong wind and low lying sunshine at their backs.

As it turned out it was our opponents Young Lions Colts who made the most of those benefits, running out 5-1 winners in a game that was closer than the score-line suggests.

We played the 1^st half with the beneficial factors but failed to make enough of an impact as a closely fought half finished 1-1. Some good passing football was stymied by the ball continually rolling and blowing away from our players and out of play. However it was Kieron who had opened the scoring with a superbly taken goal only for a cruel deflection from a YLC shot that looped over Dylan’s head to equal the score minutes later.

The 2^nd half as expected was extremely difficult, and with multiple substitutions necessary during the game we never got into any rhythm, constantly struggling to break forward with any purpose and as the game grew longer a few mistakes crept in which cost us the match. Nevertheless there were a few bright sparks including an Adam Barlow back-heel to deceive a YLC attacker, a Kieron shot across the goal and some neat interplay in midfield from Joe and Dylan. It was no surprise though that both defenders Ali Topoglu and Dan Swainston walked away M.O.M award and Opponents MOM award respectively after coming under so much pressure in the 2^nd half.

As ever the result was irrelevant to our boys, they played their hearts out yet again with little concern for the goals conceded tally and undoubtedly enjoyed playing much more than the parents enjoyed getting blown about.

Match Report:-Chris Hughes

match 8

New Ferry Rangers 3 – 1 AC Hoylake U9s MeteorsY

Date/Time : Sunday 30th October

Venue : New Ferry Park, Sefton Road

Squad: Adam Barlow, Patrick Burrows, Joe Burrows, Dylan Hughes, Leo Henshaw, Kieron Platt, Joe Turnbull, James McInally, Ali Topoglu, Joe Wilson

Goals: Patrick Burrows

Hoylake Man of The Match: Patrick Burrows

Opposition Man of The Match: Adam Barlow

Match Report:

After a big defeat only 7 weeks ago against this New Ferry Rangers side, a much improved performance this time around felt like a victory of sorts even though our Meteors lost 3 -1 with Patrick Burrows getting our only goal during the first half.

We knew the NFR star Ryan in midfield would dazzle us with his skills and the goalkeeper be hard to beat but the big question was how we would deal with these problems. Fortunately over the first part of the season we have developed defensively beyond recognition compared to last season and this progress was clear to see as we limited the superior opposition to only 3 goals compared to the 7 we leaked in September when we were not issuing specific defensive tactics. This was typified by the determination shown by Ali covering incredible ground to block a near certain goal inn the 1^st half.

It’s hard to believe but of the 3 defensive players ,Ali, Adam and Joe B, we have used so far this season only Ali had played there before. Watching these 3 now you would think that’s were they’ve always played. The emphasis that we have placed on coaching this area has paid off handsomely and was evident throughout the game.

From the first few minutes of the game it was clear that this game would be close despite falling to an early goal by NFR from you-know-who to make it 0 -1. Our defence held solid and played some good football from the back and in midfield we had James and Joe T who clearly only have one speed – fast! These 2 defensive midfielders had the arduous task of man-marking and containing the NFR attacks and they both did a fantastic job, but they couldn’t stop everything and a scrappy phase of play in our penalty area resulted in NFR going 2-0 up.

Briefly we felt this could turn out to be another struggle of a game but it wasn’t long before those fears were allayed by the Meteors’ Kieron and his own dazzling skills. Encouraged to express himself and take players on at any opportunity he made one of his many dribbling runs through the heart of the NFR midfield to slide the ball square when the goalkeeper had come out to close the angle giving Patrick the easiest of tap ins, keeping the game within reach at 2-1. We continued to press until the end of the first half with some great passing football from all areas, including defence, which has now become the norm rather than the exception.

The 2^nd half continued much the same as the first, with the game kept tight by both teams defences keeping very strong. In truth we could have conceded on a few occasions, but with Dylan making a great save and the NFR star man proving less clinical than is expected it was a while before he finally got through our defensive wall to score again, making it 1-3 to NFR.

We had our own moments too as Patrick, Joe W and Leo caused havoc in the NFR penalty area on a couple of occasions. A Kieron free kick towards the end maybe should have resulted in a late consolation but our forwards got in each others way in their eagerness.

The game ended in a close but fair result of 3-1 to New Ferry Rangers, great satisfaction from the coaches knowing that the work the boys are putting in at training is really paying off, and a humorous rendition from the players of “We Are The Losers” to the tune of “We Are The Champions”! As ever the result was irrelevant to them.

Match Report:-Chris Hughes

match 9

AC Hoylake U9s Meteors 1 v 5 Heygarth United Sharks

Date/Time : Sunday 6^th November

Venue : Newton Park

Squad: Adam Barlow, Patrick Burrows, Joe Burrows, Dylan Hughes, Leo Henshaw, James McInally, Keiron Platt, Declan Robinson, Joe Turnbull, Joe Wilson

Goals: Joe Wilson

Hoylake Man of the Match: Leo Henshaw

Opposition Man of the Match :

Match Report

Today’s match played was in a splendid sunny but chilly atmosphere and with the absence of rain and a clear blue sky. The game kicked off with a lot of promise. Early exchanges at either end of the pitch were cancelled out by some super clearances with Joe Wilson in goal for the first half and Adam Barlow without his customary partner in defence (Ali Topoglu) he made the game a very pressing contest.

In Ali’s absence Leo Henshaw partnered Adam and was to work as doggedly as ever remembering his previous encounter with the opposition in September with him looking forward to try and add to his goal tally.

Prior to kick-off Chris had been coaching Patrick Burrows and Keiron Platt in using throw-ins to drive the ball down the width of the pitch, and in the first 5 minutes, raids on the Heygath goal stemmed from using this latest technique they were able to carved out large spaces down the right flank for kieron to run into towards the opposition’s goal.

Heygarth had remembered this from the previous encounter and defended in numbers to stifled the Hoylake forward line with 2 players shadowing Dylan which gave him very little to feed off.

After a throw in by Heygarth and a punt from them at the half way line on their right hand side, Heygarth broke through and had a resultant shot which lead to scrambled defensive effort towards goal only for the resultant clearance to fall to a Heygarth player to smash it into the empty net, goal 1-0 Heygarth!!

Hoylake responded with gusto and effort from James McInally chasing everything in midfield from the mêlée gave Kieron an opportunity to have a 1 on 1 with the Heygarth goalkeeper, who made a superb save, running out towards Kieron and pushing the ball around the Heygarth post for a corner.

Dylan having taken the corner with a cross which was dealt admirably by Heygarth defence, the ball was cleared up field by a collective group of Heygarth players who latched on to the free ball before pressing down on to Joe Wilson in goal. Joe then made 2 excellent close saves that was then allowed him to be sinfully beaten by a deflected shot into the bottom corner of the goal with Adam trying desperately to clear the ball on the Hoylake goal line. 2 nil Heygarth...

Hoylake restarted and with perseverance from Joe Burrows on the left, the opposition had clearly done the home work and closed the ball down in an effective manner. From this point in the 1^st half the game became very bitty and both sides cancelled each other in midfield which made Hoylake look to the bench to use the opportunity to try Declan Robinson who was brought on for Patrick (who had linked play very well with midfield and attack) and Joe Turnbull as the midfield replacement for ‘dynamo’ James McInally who had to be replaced due his usual exhausted efforts.

With additional coaching now coming from the touch line by Chris and Andy the Hoylake team kept trying to press towards Heygarth’s goal before the 1^st half ending. Again for Kieron for a second time to be denied a goal with a 1 on 1 attack on advancing Heygarth’s goalkeeper, who had been a small “Peter Schmeichel” between the sticks with him spreading his body to turn the ball wide.

Nothing came from the resultant corner and the ball drifted out of play on the far side. Heygarth took the

throw and with Adam accidently slipping whilst attempting to make a solid challenge, a Heygarth player then struck the ball with such little effort (that the bench watched in amazement) as the ball floated towards the back post of the Meteor’s net looping through the air about 10-15 feet in height only for it to drop neatly at the back post with Joe Wilson total flummoxed by the fluky effort.

At 3 goals to the good the half time whistle sounded and the Meteors finished the half thinking that all their efforts made on the Hegarth goal it should have made the game all square.

At the start of the 2^nd half Hoylake had a change of keepers (Dylan talking Joe Wilson’s place). Chris’s team chat at halftime based on the need for more communication the Meteors pressed Heygarth into the own area, and a number of clearances from heygarth one came to Declan Robinson who launched a counter attack that nearly paid off by him sending a looped half-volley towards Heygarth’s goal only for it to go narrowly past the post!.

Heygarth composed themselves after several pressurised attacks by the Meteors only for Joe Burrows to make a last ditch defensive tackle resulting in a corner.

From a long clearance by Dylan in goal the ball broke to Joe Wilson who lashed a strong shot at the goalkeeper for it to clip the bar and fly over!

It was typical of the day to have several attempts at goal without scoring! , Which became increasingly frustrating to both Hoylake players and supporters who were watching!!

Leo was substituted having given his all and Adam returned to the fray with several more attempts going in the direction of Heygarth goal. Who if you had to be honest without the availability of a resilient goalkeeper that deserved the accolade of ‘Man of the match’, he prevented the Meteors again in vain capturing a goal.

Then from pressure mounted in midfield Heygarth scored their 4^th Goal from a scrappy corner and the ball passed through a muddle of players into the corner of the goal beyond the diving Dylan with Patrick caught in the Net.

The 5^th and final goal for Heygath was similar to the 4^th goal and as a spectator you knew that the score was inconsistent with the display shown by Hoylake Meteors who gave everything in the last minutes to have more attempts from Adam/Declan and Joe Wilson who eventually made the keeper push the ball past the post for a Meteor corner.

With only 3 minutes left on the clock a corner swung in by Adam and headed effort by Declan to be blocked towards goal, then for the ball brake to Joe Wilson who lashed the ball home with a hard drive into the net. Goal!!! To the Meteors the bastion of the Heygarth defence had been broken. From the restart Hoylake played with controlled football having several slick passing moves shifting the ball up the pitch without a resultant effort on goal played the rest of the period of the game with Heygarth on the back foot.

This had been a hard fought contest with stalwart defensive efforts on both sides especially by our ‘Man of the Match’ Leo Henshaw.

After the match which Chris spoke of the better use of communication between each other and the ‘Rush n’ Push’ of the game which given a more controlled attempt would have gained a closer score, It was agreed that the Heygarth goalkeeper was tremendous and somebody shouted out that Chris should put an offer in to buy him. With the team huddle which was lead by Leo the lads started singing “Kool and the gang’s –Celebration- It may have not been the result we all wished for a defeat of 5-1 but the was plenty of effort by all members of the team an if it were not for a opposition goalkeeper who saved a good half dozens chances

Hoylake Meteors could have least made it a fair draw……

Roll on to the next match away to Prenton Town Rovers.

Match Report: Alan Robinson

match 10

AC Hoylake u9s Meteors 1 v 3 Raeburn Rovers u9s

Date/Time : Saturday 19^th November 12.30 kick-off

Venue : Newton Park

Squad: Patrick Burrows, Joe Burrows, Dylan Hughes, James McInally, Keiron Platt, Declan Robinson, Joe Turnbull, Joe Wilson, Dan Maguire, Ali Topoglu, Dan Swainston.

Goals: Keiron Platt

Hoylake Man of the Match: Declan Robinson

Opposition Man of the Match: Keiron Platt

Match Report

Today’s match played was in a colder but somewhat sunny atmosphere on a slightly muddy home pitch and with a later than normal afternoon kick off 12-30.

The game started with a 2-1-2-2 formation with the ‘Burrows Boys’ starting up front with a

Diamond formation behind the front 2 of Dylan Hughes (left) and Kieron Platt (right), with the ‘lynch pin’ behind being James McInally.

James played in front of a 2 rear centres of Dan Swainston (left) and Ali Topoglu (right), who was making a welcome return to the defence after a 1 match absence.

Also at the rear of defence was Joe Wilson in goal who had several minutes before kick-off practicing his goal kicking to great effort with coach Andy Burrows.

Starting with 3 substitutes of Declan Robinson/Dan Maguire and Dan Swainston.

The ‘Visitors’’ Raeburn Rovers kicked off and having been coached by Chris Hughes to keep the game narrow and keeping the game tight in midfield, The Meteors commenced battle (having had a previous record of a 7 nil defeat by Raeburn on 1^st October) the 3 in midfield comprising of Dylan/Keiron and James held the their ground with great purpose and defiance putting in crunching tackles. So with only 2 minutes gone a superb tackle by James and excellent turn and short pass by Dylan passed the ball out to the right for the energetic Kieron to race pass a Raeburn midfielder only to have a low shot pass the Raeburn right upright of the goal , was this taster of what was to come shortly after?.

Raeburn took their goal kick and with the uncustomary positioning in midfield for Dylan and Kieron who linked well with both Burrows’ boys who were playing up front (who did a lot of chasing of the ball down on the Raeburn back two) , the ball was cleared into the middle of the Meteors midfield and with the ‘Hard but Fair’ tackling by James McInally the ball was pushed out to the right and Keiron who had been doing Cross–Country earlier today showed a clean pair of heels to the Raeburn defender and with him bearing down on their goal made Raeburn’s Goalkeeper resort to narrowing the shot only for Keiron to slide it into the bottom left hand corner of the net with a diving Raeburn defender attempting to clear his Goal line. Goalllllllllllllll. 1 Nil to Meteors after only 3 minutes an excellently executed goal that had shown that the Hoylake Meteors meant business.

This continued up to half time with some resolute defending by Ali who was as in-penetrative like a Tank. James McInally was still furrowing his efforts to control midfield with Raeburn Rovers finding only 1 attempt on the Meteor’s goal which Joe Wilson calmly dealt with , the first half was now only half way through.

Dan Swainston was also doing his un-benevolent best to stifle the Raeburn Rovers attack with several defensive clearances in to touch, that this was going to become a very exhausting and drawn out affair.

Chris at this point (who had already earmarked his choice of substitutions before the game) then allocated his 3 candidate’s to replace the Trojan’s who had battled hard before a ping pong game insured to bring on

Declan for Ali in defence, Dan Maguire for James and finally Joe Turnbull to replace Patrick was a master stroke as the 3 new comers all paid their part in stifling Raeburn Rovers till half time.

However with the only possibly 1 minute left of the 1^st half, Kieron was involved in a close tackle and came out of this worst for ware and pulled up suffering from a stitch, with all his earlier sporting exploits’ in running and his play in the game Ali was asked to return to the pitch and with Raeburn trying to press for an equaliser Ali battled to clear the ball and the 1^st half was drawn to a close.

A well deserved half time brake was taken, with very little coaching from Chris, (as his team had done what England had recently achieved against Spain in a international match), by preventing Raeburn from getting the upper hand, by continually pressing the play and chasing the ball once possession was lost.

Before the second half got started was a change of Goal keeper. Joe Wilson wanted to get more involved in the match.

Declan took this opportunity to take his place in goal and Chris asked me to just have a quite word with him about closing the opposition, (by coming out of goal) and in this such short space of time we got no opportunity to warm up his goal kicking. The 2^nd half began with Raeburn starting brightly and this showed by their several attempts on the Meteors goal to no avail.

Now with Ali in defence aided by Joe Turnbull, James who was playing the holding midfield dynamo roll with the fresh footed, an eager Joe Wilson in the middle of the park plus Dan Maguire on the right linking well with now Dylan and Patrick playing up front.

The Meteors now staked their claim to increase their slender 1 goal lead.

The Game got rather tough and at one point a Raeburn player was struck accidently in the face by a hard kicking clearance from the Meteors midfield for him to catch it full in the face and the game was quickly stopped to allow him to be checked over by their Manager. A very sporting drop-ball was passed back to him showing their concern and respect for the opposition.

The ball now switched from one end to the other and Raeburn were now committing a greater urgency to their game by pushing forward with a bank of Joe Turnbull defending and James moping up any loose balls this ended up going back to Declan to get his first touch of the ball.

With Andy Burrows Refereeing, he advised Declan to use his area, and boy didn’t he just! He launched the ball from his hands like an ‘exocet missile’ to see it souring up the field past the half way line for it to be controlled by Patrick who was unlucky to have his through pass to Dylan painstakingly get intercepted. Otherwise Dylan was 1 on 1 with the Raeburn keeper.

Chris turned to me shaking his head in disbelief!

Five minutes into the second half and Keiron had recovered to return to the fray. Ali came off.

Raeburn attacked and Declan pushed the ball away having it come through a group of players for a very positive defensive clearance for a corner by Joe Wilson.

Raeburn was now strong in both tackling and pressing forward. And with a clever reverse pass beyond James had only Declan to beat and placed the ball neatly in the bottom of the right of the goal 1-1.

This equaliser seem to give Raeburn greater confidence, However Dylan was patient and when closing down a defender, tackled him, only for the Raeburn defender to crumble under a strong tackle, allowing Dylan to race towards goal, but spurned his chance past the post.

Now half way through the 2^nd half Joe Burrows returned for James McInally and again with more pressure from Raeburn Rovers who were now playing the 2^nd half left to right, forced another good save from Declan Robinson. Dylan was substituted with Joe Turnbull who continued his good defending as it was now apparent that the game had swung in favour of Raeburn Rovers.

Patrick was trying valiantly to release a ball again for Kieron but it broke unfortunately to a Raeburn player to smash a hard high shot on goal for Declan to only get both hands behind it, making a great save but the ball had been forced into the air and with a free player near the back post the ball was tapped in for the 2^nd goal for Raeburn in to an empty net.

2-1 now to Raeburn and there was clearly discussion over what had happened by defence and from the restart the Raeburn team then pressed forward again. This time they had a low driving shot towards the right post for Declan to do a full length finger tip save onto the post for it to bounce clear to Joe Wilson who cleverly cleared it for a corner.

With an increasing number of defensive clearances being conducted from the back by James McInnaly, (who had now taken Dan Maguire’s place after having suffered an awkward miss-timed tackle). Plus a tricky back heel by Patrick on the left side of midfield, who was consistently being closed down by 3 Raeburn players.

There was to become very little rest bite for the Hoylake defence who then conceded their final 3^rd goal by Raeburn putting the ball past a helpless Declan Robinson into the bottom right side of the goal.

The Hoylake team still kept trying and with dying seconds of the game left, a tough tackle by Keiron force both players to carry injuries off till the final whistle.

A hard fought game which was taken with an air of humility as Declan had been given the Man of the Match award for his Stirling efforts in Goal and the opposition’s choice of Kieron for his wonderful 1^st half goal.

Chris commended the team for their efforts and explained although they were beaten the result was far better than the previous tussle and reminded the lads that this team had come down from a league higher last year and with the captain’s armband now worn by Declan, he and the his fellow compatriots sang “we are the champions” in the customary huddle.

Match Report: Alan Robinson (Declan’s Dad)

match 11

AC Hoylake u9s Meteors 2 v 0 West Kirby Panthers White u9s

Date/Time : Saturday 26th November 11.00 kick-off
Venue : Newton Park (Home Match)

Squad: All Team Members.

Patrick Burrows, Joe Burrows, Leo Henshaw, Dylan Hughes, James McInally, Dan Maguire,
Keiron Platt, Declan Robinson, Dan Swainston, Ali Topoglu, Joe Turnbull, Joe Wilson, Josh Gunwhy.

Goals: Keiron Platt (2) 1st Game

Hoylake Man of the Match: Ali Topoglu
Opposition Man of the Match: Keiron Platt

Match Report

With only 4 weeks to Christmas both under 9’s team of AC Hoylake (Comets/Meteors) were gifted new tracksuits which lead to an impromptu fashion parade and photo shoot. This was to be the catalyst for the Meteors display that having suffered a poor run of results (but with excellent displays with great
effort) was to play West Kirby Panthers White.

This game which is unto similar to the San Siro (Inter/AC Milan) with both teams normally playing at
Newton Park. The atmosphere/weather was overcast, but not for the support from both sets of
parents hugging the same touchline and cheering on their respective teams. Today was quite a
busy schedule for the coaching staff having to arrange 2 matches in quick succession.

The first game started with a 2-1-2-2 formation previously used with both ‘Burrows Boys’ starting up front with a ‘Diamond formation’ behind with Dylan Hughes (left) and Kieron Platt (right), with the holding midfielder behind being James McInally.
Finally a defensive partnership of Ali Topoglu and Joe Turnbull, with our regular goalkeeper of Joe Wilson.
The was an early and surprising attempt with the first seconds on the clock for ‘The Meteors’ when a through ball from the right by WK Panthers, an effortless bobbled ball went past Joe Wilson towards the Hoylake goal to hit the far left hand post and with him being alert then pounced onto the ball. Definitely an early let off and wake up call!

With both Ali and Joe Turnbull defending strongly in our defence, James McInally now begun to pull the strings in midfield and started to play one-two’s with Dylan who then put the ball into the path for Keiron to race towards goal on the right but was hindered by some shirt pulling and although the ball went out of play. The ‘Match Official’ for today Mr Andy Burrows then called for a free kick and kieron sent over the ball with a high cross come shot towards the Panthers goal for their Goalkeeper to tip the ball over the bar.
Chris Hughes signalled to the Referee to examine the ball and it was dually exchanged. The ball may have been deflated but throughout the rest of the first half, the was to be several attempts from both sides, to play some good ‘clean’ attractive football and given both Goalkeepers were to be tested.
The Meteors were now in full throttle with Patrick playing wide
On the left touchline and playing a passing move upfield with Joe Turnbull allowed Kieron to press forward and force a corner. Who swung a deep cross into the Panther’s area for it to go unpunished and drift out of play. Several more attempts by both Dylan and Keiron we to no avail as the ball from the Goal kick became a lesson in head ball tennis in midfield until James McInally trapped the ball and skilfully pushed the ball forward to Patrick who shot narrowly wide.
Again with good pressure from WK Panthers on the right who were gifted a chance, which they blazoned over the Meteors Bar. Further attacks from WK Panthers occurred but to no avail. But then after 15 minutes
The deadlock was broken. Joe Wilson kicked up field with cries of ‘laces’ by Coach Chris Hughes the ball then fell to 2 opposing defenders and with a resultant mix-up it fell to Kieron to stretch out a right leg a poke a low hard shot into the bottom right corner of the Panther’s Goal. 1 Nil Gooooooooooooooal! To Hoylake.
A persistent effort by Keiron had paid off and the game now reignited.
At the other end Joe Burrows made a full length diving slide tackle to intercept a shot which was clearly heading towards the Hoylake goal (definitely a ‘3’ shredded wheat effort !)
With further Goal kicks from ‘Laces Wilson’ deep in to the opposition territory this then helped calm any further attacks by WK Panthers and at half time 1-0 to the good the troops rushed to the touchline to have a hard earned drink and with Dylan sharing his raisins’ His Dad Chris commenced the team talk.

The 2nd Half started with a few changes
Leo, Joe and Dan Swainston all coming on, the side continued to battle and forced a corner. Kieron crossed the ball for ‘Patch’ Burrows to put a superb head to it at the far post for the WK Panther keeper to valiantly push around the post, what an effort! Great football…
With Kieron making himself a nuisance to the opposition he pushed out wide on the left picked up the ball,
With 2 players in front of him slotted a low drive into the bottom left of the Panther’s goal 2-Nil.
Their foot was not taken off the gas and with further efforts from good link up play between Patrick and Kieron, allowed Kieron to hit the ball for it to be tipped onto the bar and over the WK Panther’s goal.
Still defending well the ball moved up field with 3 further changes for Joe Burrows, Dan Swainston plus
James having a breather (having worked hard in both midfield and moping up any brakes towards goal)
gave Josh and Dylan another go. From a resultant foul, Keiron took a free kick to see it beat everybody and
bounce against the left upright.

Having scored 2 goals and hit the post twice Kieron came off as the Panther’s were now trying get back into the game. From a brake on the left by the Panther’s forward line the ball was only 10 feet from goal when a shot was hit directly at Joe Wilson. Joe was so quick to react that he instinctively pushed the ball over the bar, a save any Premier Keeper would be proud of.
The game had finished a 2-Nil victory with cheers from both sets of supporters. The ‘man of the match’ was given to Ali for his splendid defending, which then allowed the preparation for the 2nd match for those who were willing to muster the strength and Chris then called the squad together to select places.

Match Report: Alan Robinson (Declan’s Dad)

match 12

AC Hoylake u9s Meteors 2 v 2 West Kirby Panthers White u9s

2nd Match Report

Date/Time : Saturday 26th November 12.00 kick-off
Venue : Newton Park (Home Match) 30Minutes 3x10 periods

Squad: All Team Members.

Patrick Burrows, Joe Burrows, Leo Henshaw, Dylan Hughes, James McInally, Dan Maguire,
Keiron Platt, Declan Robinson, Dan Swainston, Ali Topoglu, Joe Turnbull, Joe Wilson, Josh Gunwhy.

Goals: Dylan Hughes/Joe Wilson 2nd Game

Here we go again!
This time Keiron was to play in goal with Joe Wilson and Declan Robinson playing up front.
With Josh and Dan Swainston plus Joe Maguire having a splendid game on the right pushed the ball forward
for Declan to chase. Having tackled and gained possession drove a hard shot over for Joe Wilson to pick up the chance to attempt an overhead kick which narrowly past the post. The ball bounced around a lot between both sets of players and the 10 minutes passed without any clear attempts on goal.
2nd third now had Keiron playing out and was replaced by Leo Henshaw.
Leo did valiantly in goal until a punt up field from WK Panthers allowed the ball to bounce beyond him and having tried to clasp his arm around the ball in the goal mouth the Referee Mr Burrows then gave a goal to the derision of the hoylake supporters and the jubilation of the WK Panthers (No chance of calling on the assistance of a Russian Lines man then!)
From the kickoff Josh and Dan Maguire tried in vain to break the Panther’s midfield down.
With Dylan first attempting a slide tackle and then Declan getting in on the act the was some well-executed defensive tackling been done. The Panthers now extended their lead with a 2nd goal and although this game did not have any significance regards a result the Hoylake team showed some real steel and metal to their play and Dylan having spotted the opposing keeper adrift of his goal smacked a right footed lob to bounce over the keeper into the Panther’s net 2-1 still time to get a result.
At this point the players had arranged themselves to pick their own positions and pushed the Panther’s back into their own half. Kieron picked up the ball in defence, legged it down the left, and passed it to Declan.
The ball was held up to allow others into play and Declan passed it with the instep of his foot to Dylan, who spread the ball to Dan Swainston.
Dan now attacked the defender and although was pushed in to a blind alley was able to pass the ball back to
Dan Maguire and with 2 opposition defenders in front of him intelligently passed it between them for Joe Wilson to flick a lob shot at goal which was finished nicely into the left corner of the net 2-2 what a result.
The game came to close soon after wards and a fair result to end on a very entertaining day.

Match Report: Alan Robinson (Declan’s Dad)

match 13

Today’s Game away at Calday Grammar in a lovely sunny aspect was to have an unusual event that the manager Chris Hughes was unavailable today ,so Our Coach Andy Burrows stepped into the breach and started with the formation above. With only 1 minute gone from a WK kickoff the ball was intercepted in midfield by James who threaded a ball to the right wing and with Dylan running down the channel on the right-hand side made a right foot cross for it to pass through 2 retreating defenders for it to fall to Kieron Platt, with composure Kieron controlled the ball and side footed it into the net . Goal 1 nilllllllllllllllll ! . The team returned to the centre spot with great eagerness (one of the quickest goals of the season) and certainly showed the team meant business and WK were left reeling. From the restart the was plenty of pressure applied by WK but the 3 pronged defence was totally capable and with James McInally mopping up the ball in midfield doing some superb tackling with the balance of Dan Swainson on the left and Joe Turnbull on the right who ploughed their work up and down the flanks , both moved the ball swiftly forward on several occasions ,the game was fairly balanced and with link up play with Dylan and Keiron after 9 minutes an effort from Keiron flew just wide of the far upright from a very acute angle on the right. The Defence with Ali in the middle both wing backs in Joe Burrows making some last ditch tackling and Declan launching the ball from the back like a rocket launcher, Declan then finding it easy to split the WK team ,Keiron received the ball to his feet and sent Dylan onto take 2 WK players wide and although his physical frame may have been smaller gave every thing in his effort to sprint past 2 defenders and caused the WK keeper to make a save.

With only ½ way through the 1st half Andy made 2 substitutions bring off Declan and Dan Swainston and replace them with 2 eager replacements in Dan Maguire on the left of midfield and Leo Henshaw on the left defence. The boys continued to battle and with Patrick making 2 clean catches the was little nervousness on the touchline from the parents who were giving solid encouragement to see plenty of positives reflected in the faces of their children. With the dying minutes of the 1st half only remaining the wk team broke through and from a low cross shot from the right hand side Patrick saved the ball very well only for it to spill forward and from less than 2 yards out a WK player tapped it into the bottom left hand of the net 1-1. Interestingly there was no disputes from the players in the team and they stood tall for the restart and moments later courageously ran off the pitch for a well earned breather.
Andy had very little to point out other than their collective efforts of the entire squad that their team was given high praise who then ran onto the pitch to reorganise for the second half kickoff and from their Coach orchestrating his observations ,the team took to their new positions (see below)

The game became stretched in the second half and tiredness tends to lead to a lack of concentration. But not this AC Hoylake squad!. With Dylan pouncing on shots mainly from distance and clearing his lines the team kept a clean sheet even though they were playing on a upward slope defended solidly. Dan Maguire was using the ball and with both feet tip toed through the midfield to send Kieron up the right only to be crowded out by 3 players. Patrick with fresh legs ran the full length of the pitch on the right to drive WK back to their own area and half way though the second half the was very little to split the teams. Dan ‘2 footed’ Maguire was flagging but was asked by Andy if he wanted to come off , His answer was in his actions as he tigerishly pursued the opposition into his own half to brake down a WK attack. Determination was this teams mantra and with James returning for a second stint and Joseph Burrows swapping with Ali the team continued to defend and with 2 high clearances by Declan the effort was clear to see. The game ended 1-1 but a valiant effort came a difficult decision as nominees for a man-of-the-match, which was given to Joe Turnbull for his endless running. An away draw which could have been a victory based on the 1st half chances but it ended in a huddle with a reversed version of we are the Champions as the team added we are the ‘draweeeers’! but an excellent game with an emotional rollercoaster ride especially for the coach and parents.

Alan Robinson (Match Report)

match 15

AC Hoylake Under 9s Meteors 2 – 1 Heygarth Utd Sharks

	Chris running through pre-match tactics with players looking at Instruction cards based on their respective positions	Setting up the pitch
Chris Hughes Manager

Andy Burrows
Coach		Setting up the technical area.
DATE/TIME: SUNDAY 12^TH FEBRUARY
VENUE: NEWTON PARK (HOME MATCH)
Today’s match was played on a muddy pitch which had seen plenty of rain and was to be a very engaging challenge for both AC Hoylake and Heygarth Utd. Hoylake started with its customary formation of 3 defenders (including the Goalkeeper) 3 midfielders, plus 2 attackers with 2 substitutes. Kick-off by Hoylake brought early pressure from Heygarth Utd who forced an early corner down the right. The ball was swung in and a clearance from Ali Topoglu towards the middle of the pitch was quickly picked up by the Heygarth defence who again pushed the ball back into the middle of the Hoylake goal for Leo Henshaw to drive it clear for Dylan to latch onto. Dylan had been given nstructions to play off his attacking partner James McInally and burst down the right of the pitch, and with 3 Heygarth players playing a very defensive line they steered him towards the right hand corner of the pitch, making it difficult to cross to James. Heygarth cleared the ball up to their midfield with 1 young lad launching a shot from distance which came off Ali’s head to bounce past the Hoylake right upright. From the resultant corner Declan Robinson closed his man down and from the winning tackle gave the ball to Joe Turnbull in midfield to go on a clear run up the field. Passing 3 players down the left Joe was held up by the 3 Heygarth players camped in defence, passed the ball to James McInally to shoot a low drive past the left-hand post.With only 10minutes on the clock and the game being very tight in midfield Chris made 2 tactical changes bringing Dan Swainston on for Declan Robinson in defence and shifted James McInally back to midfield and swapped Joe Turnbull for Keiron Platt to play in attack.
		Goal Keepers warming up in goal

		AC. HOYLAKE SQUAD JOE WILSON LEO HENSHAW DECLAN ROBINSON ALI TOPOGLU JOE TURNBULL DYLAN HUGHES JAMES McINALLY DAN McGUIRE KEIRON PLATT DAN SWAINSTON MAN OF THE MATCH JOE WILSON (Doing what was asked of him and finishing off 2 goals)

The changes gave fresh impetus for Dan Maguire to make a mazy run down the right to then release Dylan only to meet thevery strong Heygarth defence who were well equipped to move the ball forward and again shooting from distance for Joe Wilson who watched the ball drift past his right hand post. The 1^st half had been a battle and the long drawn out pitch was to take no prisoners as the 2 teams struggled to gain a foot hold. As both defences cancelled each other out. Keiron made plenty of runs down the left, Joe Wilson jumped on everything that appeared in the area to save the ball. Both teams had a well earned break at half time with the score level at 0 -0.

The Hoylake team whilst having a drink to refuel their exhausted efforts allowed Chris to make changes again, this time giving James a break and Dan Maguire (who had both worked hard in midfield) plus Dan had picked up a bad knock to his ankle towards the end of the 1^st half and had hobbled off bravely was now quite happy to watch from the technical area at the side of the pitch.

The 2^nd half started with Ali Tologlu being his typical ‘strong man’ in midfield having replaced James battled through a 3 prong Heygarth midfield to have a looping shot crack against the right pole upright and bounce clear for Heygarth to welly clear to touch. Although the temperature had dropped slightly the game then fizzed into action when Keiron bolted down the right drawing the 3 players in defence and then looked up and seeing Joe Wilson (who had swapped places in attack with Dylan Hughes now in goal) crossed a low ball for him to tuck neatly into the bottom left hand corner of the goal. O que é um objetivo maravilhoso fantásticooooooooooo! (What a wonderful goal, fantastic!)

1-0 Hoylake.

For the next 5 minutes it was all Hoylake as wave after wave of either Kieron or Joe Turnbull racing towards the Heygarth goal with them clearing the ball back to AC Hoylake. Declan Robinson intercepted a through ball in defence to launch a rocket pass direct to the feet of Joe Wilson who now bared down on the Heygarth goal only for the goalkeeper to rush out bravely and make a save at Joe’s feet that kept them in the game.

The game was finely balanced as both side made efforts to attack but James McInally returned to the fray to chase everything in midfield with Leo and Declan clearing all between them at the back. Ali had a close shot from distance but with 5 minutes left Kieron Platt picked up a pass from a quick cleaver clearance from Dylan. He raced off down the right and having struggled to loose his 2 markers passed a high ball into the area for the keeper to palm the ball away only for it to fall to Joe Wilson who calmly placed it into the bottom right of the net. Cruz soberba ea bola foi sepultado na net! (Superb cross and ball was buried in the net!)

2-0 Hoylake.

Declan now had to force a corner by making a slide tackle well executed. Heygarth came back into the game and it became a battle with James conceding a corner. The team still pushed for a 3^rd goal but from a break the Heygarth team found themselves clear and placed a low shot past Dylan into the goal - 2-1, Heygarth were back in the game.

Leo cleared the ball in defence only for it to come back as some desperate defending by Hoylake with all of the team working hard including the attackers chasing back to defend and with seconds on the clock a ball swung in from a corner with virtually everybody In the Hoylake goal area the ball was poked past Dylan and with a goal bound effort heading towards the goal Declan Robinson threw himself full length across the goal for the ball to become trapped under his feet!.

With Heygarth players now bearing down on him he then swung his leg at the ball for it to clear the area and Leo booted it into touch. The team mobbed Declan knowing that he had saved the win and seconds later the ref blew his whistle full-time 2-1 it finished. Chris and the team shook hands with the Heygarth team and then trooped off to see joy and smiles from onlooking parents as Chris nominated Joe Wilson for Man of the Match and was given the customary captain’s armband. Joe then lead the team huddle to ‘We Are The Champions’ showing such a great team spirit which Chris had already pointed out to the boys as a great team effort. A very entertaining game with a positive result.

Match Report Alan Robinson

match 16

AC Hoylake Under 9s Meteors 5 – 1 Prenton Town Rovers

match report

match 17

AC Hoylake Under 9s Meteors 1 – 2 Ridgewood Rangers

DATE/TIME: SAT 3^RD MARCH 2012 10.30 KICK-OFF

VENUE: PENSBY HIGH SCHOOL (AWAY MATCH)

Today’s match was played on a smaller pitch (approx size 5-a side pitch) which had longer than usual grass (which made it difficult to play along). Hoylake started with a change by having a formation of 3 defenders 3 across midfielders with 1 attacker with having a 12 man squad.

Kick-off by Hoylake brought early pressure from Ridgewood who forced an Early corner down the right was due to Joe Wilson tipping the ball onto the post Wonderful save and 1 of many to be done today by Joe. Kieron playing on the right speed up the field and played a low cross in only for

Patrick to side foot past the far left post. Ridgewood kept pressing with James McInally being used as part of a 3 man defence made several last ditch tackles to thwart the opposition. With Declan as an Anchor/lone striker having Keiron and Dylan behind showed glimpses after 5 minutes for Declan to hold the ball up and lay off to Dylan who cleverly saw the run of Keiron only to see his pass deflect off a defender otherwise Kieron who have gone on to score. The team were struggling admirably with the condition of the pitch and the size as players soon realise that they each had very little time to control and use the ball. Keiron again received the ball from Declan and raced up the right to send a ball along the goal mouth only for nobody to touch it into the Ridgewood net.

After 6 minutes Ridgewood forced a corner and when the ball dropped from the cross Dan McGuire struggled to turn and leave his player for him to loose the ball and Ridgewood to pass and shoot low past Joe Wilson in goal. 1-0 Ridgewood rangers. The game continued and a minute later a compacted goal area saw Ridgewood shoot high towards the Meteors goal only for it to glance off Joe Wilson’s Head around the right upright post, super reaction save.

After 10 Minutes Chris called for 4 changes to allow Ali Topoglu/Dan Swainston/Joe Turnbull/Joe Burrows come on for Dylan Hughes/Declan Robinson/Patrick Burrows & Leo Henshaw.

Dan McGuire still was making terrific tackles and when the ball was played long to Joe Burrows he made a turn which totally confused the opposition only to have a weak shot at goal. If it had gone either side of the keeper we would be talking about it for months!

Keiron had the ball pushed out to the right by Ali for him to run up the right only for Ridgewood to concede a corner which was cleared from Keiron’s cross off the Ridgewood line to force a second corner. This 2^nd one fizzed across the area for the Ridgewood keeper to jump on otherwise it would have been a goal.

This time it was Ridgewood to apply pressure and they had several attempts before the half time whistle

1. Was a low drive 15 yards out which Joe Wilson got down well to parry forward and jump on

2. Ridgewood shot beyond a diving save by Joe to hit the post right upright

3. Ridgewood Cross to see an open goal to have Dan McGuire challenge only to see it strike the post!

The first half finished 1-0 Ridgewood but this game was a battle with ball moving so easily from 1 end to the other.

2^nd half….

James McInally in goal for Joe Wilson

Declan Forward Patrick on left for Dan Swainston

Leo Henshaw on for Dan McGuire in defence

Meteors started the 2^nd half and applied early tests to the Ridgewood defence with Patrick on the left making a nuisance of him self by turning the defender several times only to have a 2^nd defender behind him Dylan played a ball up the right having received it in midfield from Kieron and having to drag the ball along as it was not as free flowing along the long grass got to with 5 yards of goal only to hit a 3 man defensive wall. Ali now moved into defence to help and made some last ditch tackles to deny Ridgewood an attempt on goal only for a low shot across the area after 6minutes play went past the helpless James in Goal for Ridgewood to extend their lead to 2-0.

The Game was to become stretched for the rest of the match and Patrick having made good progress down the right with Declan assisting him was brought down with a hard tackle catching the inside of his ankle.

The referee blew his whistle for a foul and from the resultant free kick by Patrick the ball went narrowly wide.

James McInally was still working hard and dived on a loose ball to prevent a chance on goal and having released a early kick distributed it to Kieron in midfield to then play it to Joe Wilson who had wandered up field. Joe the turned like Suarez to beat 3 players to then lay it to Dylan who force the keeper into a hard save.

Although the grass was like running in treacle several attempts by Dylan and Keiron showed all the pressure was coming from the Meteors and having conceded 2 goals it was clear that if time permitted it would not be long before they got a goal back.

AC Hoylake forced a corner on the right. Dylan kicked it deep and long into the goal mouth area and with Joe Wilson Drifting in from Deep he calmly side footed it home into an open net 2-1 game on!

The chances still came to both sides after the goal but with continued defending by Dan McGuire making a last ditch tackle and then the referee blew for full time as Keiron was about to shot from a short corner from Declan. The game ended 2-1 to Ridgewood but after the match Chris Hughes the manager explained the effort in having played the opposition previously and lost 7-0 4-1 to come away with such a narrow defeat was a great effort and pleasing to see the development in such a young team.

The opposition gave their MOM to Joe Wilson for His goal keeping in the 1^st half.

Meteors gave it the Dan McGuire who had learnt an important lesson having lost the ball in possession in the 1^st half showed for the rest of the game tenacity and great effort to capture the ball back.

He was interviewed as ‘man of the Match’ afterwards and Dan McGuire gave his comments to the match reporter saying “ we have lost heavily to this team in the past by either 7-0 or 4-1 but we did a lot lot better today as they had listened to Chris” When asked about his performance replied” I enjoyed it in defence” He then picked himself up and ran off to see his proud parents.

Match Report Alan Robinson