Report

Westwood Hoops U11 v Maidenhead Spartens U11   10th March

Westwood Win – Maidenhead Scratch

Unfortunately the Hoops last scheduled competitive league match against Maidenhead was unable to be played as the Spartens could not put a team together. Therefore they forfeited the 3 points to the Hoops which meant the boys finished the season second in the league on 33 points, 3 clear of third placed Theale. Out of the 18 league games played the Hoops only suffered defeat on 3 occasions, 2 of which were against the runaway leaders Caversham. As ‘they’ say the ‘table never lies’ and clearly the Hoops lofty position is a direct result of their consistency, positive approach and desire to win.

Fortunately at short notice Mark was able to arrange a friendly with Woodley Hammers Royals who still have a cup game to go and were happy for the practice so the Hoops were able to enjoy the day and experiment a little. Barney was desperate to have a run out ‘up pitch’  so Mark Dixon Junior went between the sticks with Kane and Jordan at the back, Toby, Ben and Josh in midfield with James up front. Tate, Adam, Barney and Tom started on the bench with only the unfortunate Archie who has just contracted Chicken Pox missing the game. The match turned out to be a good run out for both teams who were eager to work hard and create chances. Early in the game several goal scoring opportunities were carved out by the Hoops but they couldn’t find the final ball or accurate shot to take the lead. Mark in goal was very proficient coming out well to gather the ball when needed with some good kicking from his hands. One of his clearances led to the first goal of the game when James found himself with an opportunity to shoot strongly at goal from outside the box. The keeper got his hands to it but was unable to keep it out. Well done to James who clearly has lots of pace and skill and is learning quickly how to apply his undoubted ability to matches. Despite the Hoops best efforts they were not to add to their tally before half time but they clearly had the majority of the chances restricted Woodley to a few shots and a couple of corners.

In readiness for next season for the second half both teams agreed to go 8 a side and play for 30 minutes to help the boys get used to more players being on the pitch. The players were shuffled around a little which resulted in Barney getting his chance to play up front. The Marks would have liked to have gone 9 v 9 but the pitch laid out for 7 v 7 would have been far too congested. Unfortunately this seemed to confuse the Hoops a little as almost straight from the kick off Woodley broke down the middle and scored low into the corner of the net giving Mark no chance. 1 – 1 was to be the final score as both teams did their bit to ensure that the watching parents could enjoy the final Saturday of the season. In fairness the Hoops could have won the game on the balance of play but the ball would just not fall for them. In fact towards the end of the game Barney and Kane playing in attack both went very close to scoring the winner, with only desperate defending denying both of them. It was great to see both of them do well in unfamiliar positions and demonstrate their tremendous enthusiasm and desire to score. Of course I am biased but Barney almost pulled off a great goal when he ‘nutmegged’ a defender and just shot wide, judging by the response of the crowd it would have been a popular goal from the Hoops keeper.

The effort award went to Mark Dixon Jr who put in an accomplished performance in goal – well done Mark! It must be tough having your Dad as manager and having to listen to him in the car there and back every week; you do deserve a medalJ

So what a season for the Hoops, it would be hard to single out specific players as each and every one of the team has improved week by week and brought their own unique skill set to the squad. The confidence that winning brings has grown throughout the team which has resulted in some terrific performances from the boys. Momentum has been skilfully built by the coaches who ensure that all of the boys are able to contribute week by week and all feel that they can make a difference. I really do not envy them and the decisions they have to make for presentation day!

But above all it seems that the boys really enjoy playing and more importantly enjoy playing together, let’s hope they can keep this great team spirit going into next season and the challenge of going 9 a side. Good luck boys, thanks for the great entertainment provided and well done for a cracking season!