U11s Picking up where we left off

Following the break imposed by Lockdown 2.0 the WCFC boys were back in action against a tough side from Solihull Academy who had previously beaten the league leaders, Kidderminster Harriers.

The question of whether the WCFC boys would be ring rusty or “up for it” was emphatically answered after just 33 seconds. Tom won his battle, played in Evan Kelly who left his man and delivered a lovely cross for Caleb to control and put WCFC in front. The score line was extended with a penalty seven minutes later converted by Dylan. In truth, WCFC were rampant going forward, but were becoming a little ragged on the back foot and were not winning the second ball. Solihull pounced on a transition and a simple through ball split our defence in half and the lead was reduced.

The team talk at the break was about raising the levels out of possession, pressing hard and winning the second ball. Caleb, who had an outstanding first period, continued where he left off and scored a goal out of nowhere through sheer determination winning the ball three times before slotting home. Caleb was causing all manner of problems and it was no surprise that he was involved in the fourth cutting inside and forcing a good save from their keeper with the improving Austin being first to react and score WCFC’s fourth. Austin had come close moments earlier with a smart turn and shot on the swivel coming close.

Into the third quarter and WCFC were put under considered pressure from the off, and the boys couldn’t find a stranglehold in the game. However the back line, who have improved week on week, were holding steady with the trio of Isaac, Will and Jack communicating well and defending on the front foot. Jack especially was growing in confidence and stepping in on several occasions to cut out potential counter attacks and having the vision to build WCFC’s own attacks. Solihull pulled one back with a smart finish to the bottom corner.

The final period was a tense affair with Solihull growing in confidence and WCFC showing the effects of a fast start and a month’s layoff. Their dominance paid off with their midfielder returning a clearance from Evan with interest to make it 4-3 just six minutes in to the quarter and it was going to be a Herculean effort for WCFC to come out on top. One thing the WCFC boys have never lacked is heart, with Will and Isaac leading the rearguard action. Evan made a smart save from distance and Isaac pulling of an unbelievable goal line clearance when it looked certain the scores would be level.

WCFC have played better and lost. However the boys deserved their first home win of the season and it was great to see the smiles on the faces at the end of the game.

GOLD
Blessed with a touch crafted in heaven, that has been rolled in unicorn tears and as flawless as a voice of an angel, with two goals and an assist to his name, Caleb literally ran the show in the first half. A remarkable performance.

SILVER
How good was Jack?! First to the ball, excellent reading of the game, brilliant distribution, strong in the tackle and all with a smile on his face which capped a fine showing at both right and left side of the defence.

BRONZE
Part of the improving defensive unit, Will was calm on the ball and used his body to maximum effect to shield and protect the goal. Well done Will!