Poynton FC Under 10's 'B' Reports 2007-08

Saturday 8th September 2007 - Whaley Bridge Juniors Under 10's 1-10 Poynton FC Under 10's 'B' - Stockport Metro League (Group D)

Who would have thought that we had just had a summers break.The boys slipped effortlessly into a slick and precise passing game as if they had never been away.What was most pleasing was their intelligence in adapting to a small and tight pitch by playing the ball on the floor,almost always into feet and moving into space with a mesmerising effect on the opposition.Remember this was a team that we had drawn 2-2 with at the end of last season. Poynton quickly established a 2 goal lead and went into the break at 3-1.Their dominance in the second half was almost total as they ran in 7 more goals.For the record the scorers were Liam x5 , Alfie x3 and George x2. A superb performance that was a joy to watch.

Kyle his distribution improved immensley as the game wore onand he communicated well with his defenders to receive back passes when necessary. Jamie an outstanding display from Jamie who read the game so well , timing his interceptions and tackles to perfection and passing so accurately. Tom slotted in brilliantly on the left, this was Tom back to his best , linking well with Matt ,his energy , vision and awareness made Tom a thoroughly deserved Man of the Match. Alfie imperious on the right,he was at the heart of Poyntons attacks , scoring 3 great goals and creating numerous chances for others. Liam an outstanding display Liam seems to have added another dimension to his game as he dominated the centre of the pitch.He scored 5 goals including a thunderous header from a corner. Matt a revelation on the left showing us his attacking skills.In addition his usual tenacity and powers of recovery were evident for all to see in an excellent display. George did not look out of place at all in his first A team start , took his 2 goals well and linked up the play cleverly with first time touches creating space and opportunities for others

Saturday 15th September 2007 - Poynton FC Under 10's 'B' 4-2 Queensgate Juniors U10's 'B'- Stockport Metro League (Group D)

Saturday 22nd September 2007 - Poynton FC Under 10's 'B' 5-0 Queensgate Juniors U10's 'B'- Stockport Metro League (Group D)

The B team also did not disappoint with an improved result on last week even though the first half looked ominuous with only one goal that looked such a struggle to find. A mixture of resolute defending from Queensgate and not enough communication and simple passing meant that we could not find the space and break down the oppositions reserves. As the saying goes "it's a game of two halves" and the second was such a contrast as some of the one touch passing moves were exhilerating and the new found attitude to make sure the lads imposed their mark on the game gave the team a fantastic 5-0 win. The goals game from Ed, Mazzer, Louis and two from the man of the match; Nino.

Chris - He was only asked to go in goal for one half but enjoyed the yellow jersey so much has asked to stay in for the second half. Not much to do but what he did could not be faulted; good kicks into space and used his strength as the fine cricketer we know he is to launch the ball to the wings. Arjun - Another comfortable performance from the right back and it is great to see the partnership with Jason working well. Arjun provided cover and support when Jason moved forward and visa versa. Jason - Almost got my vote for man of the match again this week for a third week running as he did not put a foot wrong. Clever defending getting on the right side of the player and not letting them come inside is so pleasing to see as we have practised this in training for the last two weeks. Every tackle is spot on and always plays the selfless and simple ball. Ed - So nice to see him back. Came across to help the B team this week and even played out of position in centre midfield. His role was very understated always looking for the best pass to play, many times with one touch play to open the oppositions defence. Marek (Mazzer) - Another fine performance, especially in the second half when he remembered the team result is more important that the number of goals individuals can score. Hit the post twice, got one goal but most pleasing for a manager was the tireless work he did and a beauty of a pass to lay a goal on a plate for Nino's 2nd. Louis - The best captain to have in your team when not in posession as Louis never gives up trying to get the ball back. In the second half he also set a fantastic example of pass and move and selflessness that opened Queensgate up. His football brain was working overtime in the second half as displayed some very clever football linking with Ed. Nino - Nino's passion for scoring and winning can sometimes get the better of him; but I also know a number 10 who plays for his favourite team that sometimes shows the same characteristics. Using this passion for the right reasons gave Nino 2 goals this week and one which will be up for goal of the season. He picked up the ball just inside his own half with just two players to beat but he was gone for dust as his pace was a different class. At this speed it is very difficult to keep control but Nino showed us how it is done, drilling the ball home low into the net. For turning his frustration into dazzling skill is why he won man of the match.

Saturday 29th September 2007 - Poynton FC Under 10's 'B' 10-0 Mountfield Rovers Under 10's 'B' - Stockport Metro League (Group D)

If ever there was a game or performance of two halves this was it. Although the boys were comfortable and in control during the first period they never reached their best form and seemed lethargic, playing well within themselves. Indeed a penalty from Louis looked like being the only goal of the half until Arjun came forward for a corner and cooly slotted home from Mareks cross. However a stern talking to at half time saw an entirely different attitude and performance as they turned on the style in the second half. Slick passing moves from defence through midfield and into attack mesmerised their opponents as they added a staggering 8 goals in the second period. A quickfire hat trick from Nino , 2 from Jamie who has really got the taste for scoring this season,2 more from Louis and a first of the season for Chris completed the scoring. A much better performance from the boys .Credit must be given to their opponents who despite the scoreline battled bravely and played in a very sportsmanlike manner.

Nathan excellent debut , what little he had to do he did professionally and who can argue with a clean sheet. Arjun man of the match Arjun really impressed today as he played a disciplined game in defence,always in the right position and most pleasing was his distribution as long and short passes alike all found their intended target. Jason recovered from a pre match fall to play his usual cool and composed game. Chris in defence in the first half produced some timely interceptions and enjoyed playing in attack during the second half with a very composed finish. Jamie as I have said in previous reports this season Jamie is making excellent progress, playing exceptionally well on both teams and today was no exception as he controlled the midfield. Marek how he didn't score today I will never know , Marek was at the heart of everything good we did in the second half and the selfless side of his game as he creates so much for others is a joy to watch. Louis the Captain at the top of his game , there is so much to admire about Louis , his skill,tenacity , stamina and determination make him such a dominant player and as we have seen so often before Louis has an excellent eye for goal and very powerful shot. Nino we saw the enigma that Nino is today , like most of his colleagues he was largely anonymous in the first half and then he exploded into life and was unplayable for 10 minutes as he scored one of the quickest and silkiest hat tricks you will ever see.

Saturday 13th October 2007 - Poynton FC Under 10's 'B' 1-4 Richmond Rovers Under 10's 'B' - Stockport Metro League (Group D)

Writing this report still finds me in sombre mood as I reflect on how the mighty fell. I am sure we will not admit this often but Richmond deserve some credit as they have improved dramatically since the last time we met and were the better team on the day, especially in the second half. The game started like all derby's do, scrappy football, half chances, no one team getting the upper hand and only a moment of luck for Richmond that left us one goal down at half time. The team came in for the team talk positive and knew they had the run of the pitch in their favour and so we tried to focus on getting more movement into our play that could take advantage of the three players that tried to mark Marek out of the game as soon as he got the ball. The memory of what happened in the second half must still be stinging for all the Ponyton B team, as we played the game as though we had not been a team for 3 years. The lads were so uncharacteristic and I was first left hoarse then speechless as we could not find the answers to the lesson we were being given in counter-attacking play. We were marking when we had possession, leaving gaps when not in possession but most of all the movement disappeared at 3-0 down as we looked like rabbits caught in the headlights. To compound our troubles our midfield and attack started to play with their eyes only on the ball so any movement that was useful would not even be seen. I think we only managed two moves in the whole second half where we strung three passes together to look like the team they know they are; one of these resulted in a goal. I heard someone say at least we got a consolation goal but I am sure the team did not feel this way as it is no consolation winning by high scores against easy opponents if we do not use this to improve against the tougher challenges. There are positives of this defeat; the first being that I am sure the lads will learn from this and hopefully want to come back stronger. The second took some time to crystallise due to the emotion and passion of the day but this loss seemed to hurt one player more than most; he spent the second half tearing into his players for their mistakes and tried to lift them with his heroic display of box to box work. He even cleared a great shot off the line with an amazing diving header to deny Richmond a 5th goal! Even though his attacking play was not to his usual standard, Louis Davies gave everything his heart could give and did more defensive work that he usually has to, this will be hurting more as he has to go back to class today surrounded by Richmond players. I know there was no man of the match award this week but Louis Davies would be the first choice on a team selection; you cannot develop, train for or buy what Louis has. Desire is something that comes from within, you either have it or you don't and Louis' desire was an example for everyone to follow.

Saturday 20th October 2007 - Bollington United Under 10's 'B' 0-2 Poynton FC Under 10's 'B' - Stockport Metro League (Group D)

An accomplished performance from a team clearly smarting from their first defeat in a long time last weekend.Poynton started brightly and it was a surprise that it took so long for them to score their first when Louis drilled home a typical shot from just inside the box.Two quick goals just after half time from Nino and Louis again wrapped up the game , however Poynton could and should have scored many more but were guilty on occasion of over elaborating.The most pleasing aspect of the performance was the reaction to last weeks defeat as their attitude was spot on.

Nathan his best game in a Poynton shirt so far , excellent communication with his defenders , good distribution and safe hands when needed. Jason a top notch performance as he didn't put a foot wrong all game , passing and vision when playing out of defence is improving all the time. Arjun complemented Jason and worked well to give their strikers no opportunities. Jamie another solid performance as he won his tackles and gave good passes to the flanks on a tight and restricted pitch. Louis very nearly man of the match two excellent goals and high tempo performance at both ends of the pitch. Marek man of the match mirrored Louis on the opposite flank tremendous workrate as usual and passing today was outstanding including the pass of the game to set up Louis's second goal. Nino started second half much brighter and scored a poachers goal. Chris cameo for 10 minutes at the end playing in attack for a change.Outstanding in the friendly game when he went in goal have we found a new position ?

Saturday 3rd November 2007 - Great Moor County Under 10's 'B' 2-5 Poynton FC Under 10's 'B' - Stockport Metro League (Group D)

A very good B team performance with flashes of brilliant pass and move football in places. Poynton commanded a short but wide away pitch grabbing a goal in the opening seconds and coming in at half time 3-1, up knowing there was much more to give. The second half saw Great Moor push themselves back into the game and their second goal was finely taken with a perfectly timed chip that most keepers would have had problems with, the goal was deservedly applauded by both sets of supporters. This served as a wake up call for Poynton and Louis and his men stepped up the pace to keep the gap between them comfortable.

Nathan - A solid performance and those goal kicks are getting much better providing the distribution for our wingers counter attacking play. Some excellent low saves that had Great Moor frustrated as most low shots are normally successful but Nathans agility and quick reactions proving too much for them. Jason - Consistency is the key to a great defence and Jason exemplifies this to the letter. His pace has improved so much that even on the odd occasion he finds himself being turned he can make up the difference and always gets in the saving tackle while staying on his feet. This is so difficult to do but Jason makes it look easy. Chris - Another fine performance and another defender you can rely on not to shy away from a tackle. You cannot fault Chris's commitment to the team, he also played a disciplined game many times holding back just in case Great Moor got a lucky break. Andrew - A fantastic performance for someone not only breaking into the team but now challenging for a starting place. He takes instruction very well; in the first half he left his marker a few times but after a quick reminder his confidence grew and we saw the intelligence in Andrew's play. He actually brought the best out of Marek playing some very nice pass and move football that took some of the pressure away from the left flank. So often have we seen Marek with three players swarming round him. What told me Andrew was man of the match is how after taking two corners it was then assumed he would take them all, which is a fantastic unspoken compliment of trust from Louis and Marek who normally dominate the corner taking. He took both sides using both feet and lifted the ball into the area perfectly. A well deserved man of the match for a player who works hard in training and when given the chance to shine on match days does not let you down. Louis - What can you say about this Lion that has not already been said. Louis was everywhere, sometimes when he did not need to be but that can be forgiven when he dominates the pitch, his team and the opposition so much. Teams need leaders and there is no doubt that Louis is already leading his team. What is exciting to consider is the collosus of a leader he will be in a few years to come. Marek - A battling performance for our left winger, who kept on hearing his name "Mazzer, Mazzer" from his mate in midfield calling for the ball. The interchanges between midfield and back to the wing were the highlight of Marek's game often giving him more space to go on the driving runs we have become so used to. Nino - It was nice to see Nino's fire today as he played this game in the same vein as his captain. He chased lost causes, grabbed a goal for his efforts and most importantly looked as though he was thoroughly enjoying himself. I saw a few swapped words between Nino and a Great Moor defender that tickled me as I knew who was getting the better of who. Don't let this worry you as many an opposing defender will give you stick when you make them look slow and stuck in the mud.

Saturday 10th November 2007 - Poynton FC Under 10's 'B' 8-2 Whaley Bridge Juniors Under 10's - Stockport Metro League (Group D)

A breathtaking first half saw these boys cut through Whaley Bridge like a knife through butter as they played another near perfect team performance. The movement, vision and determination is what has made this team unstoppable so far this season. Driving runs from Matt that led to two very well taken goals, with one in particular that was a beauty of a shot everyone knew would be a goal as he took a wide approach to the ball and hammered it home. We knew the opposition would come back hard at us in the second half as Whaley have a good fighting spirit. However the lads made it difficult for themselves by playing such a different game in the second half with a mixture of personal crusade's and also not taking the obvious route to goal that meant we conceded two and only managed to notch up one more for their efforts. It is difficult to criticise the lads for this as it is human nature to return to type when things are going too easy or too hard. The league is bitter sweet this year with so many easy games; we want to see our boys stretched for them to learn and grow as footballers even more, which will improve their decision making skills.

Kyle - pulled off some fantastic saves, especially the one which looked a certain goal as the ball dropped out of the sky appearing to catch him off his line. Using all his strength he managed to get to it and push the ball over the cross-bar. Matthew - an awe inspiring first half in which we saw the full repertoire of Matty's skills. Dribbling and releasing at the right time, shooting at the right time and also communicating and maintaining his defensive duties. However I think there was only one thing on his mind in the second half and that was "hat-trick!". Jacob - probably one of his best performances I have seen and hardly put a foot wrong all match. Patient, strong, composed and covered a great deal, especially in the second half with a highlight being a last minute tackle to deny Whaley's right striker a certain 3rd goal. Tom - another fine first half, although he took a knock and did not see much of the second. Tom was all over the pitch in the first half creating the space and diversion we love to watch. He should have had a 2nd goal as he was in the best position to score and where some of his team-mates were guilty of having the ball stuck to their feet, Tom was unselfish at the wrong time. Liam - Man of the Match - there are so many clichés I could drag out here but I will use only two. Liam is a top class player and class is permanent only form is temporary. So it was so nice to see him have that bouncebackability to show off his class this week. Stepping into the breach, the vice Captain was determined to stamp his name all over this game and actually all over the pitch. Deadly in attack, covering at the back when needed and commanding in the centre. With this level of performance the ball will always find you; with the proof being a well deserved hat-trick. Louis - another player with true class. Louis, along with Marek has been the driving force of the other team for so long that it takes a clever football brain, guts and determination to come across and fit in straight from the off. He had to slightly adapt his game as there was not as much space down the wings that he is used to but this did not phase him as he gave a gritty and solid performance. Alfie - a cameo appearance for the Captain today in the strikers role that sent shudders down Whaley's spine when he appeared. Credit must be given to Whaley as they then over compensated and smothered Alfie with bodies that was difficult to dribble out of. George - A comfortable performance from the striker and back to his best in the first half, not only from a finishing perspective but also using his strength to hold the ball up while support arrived. It was particularly pleasing to see him move to left midfield with out any grumble and use the great football brain we know he has to adpat his play.

Saturday 17th November 2007 - Queensgate Juniors Under 10's 'B' 0-7 Poynton FC Under 10's 'B' - Stockport Metro League (Group D)

Poynton B blew Queensgate away in spectacular fashion, on an awkward pitch and in difficult conditions. he scoreline does not quite reflect the teamwork that was on display, with Poynton working the ball with ease from the back with the keeper throwing the ball wide to the fullbacks, through the midfield, to the flanks and then through to Nino up front. As always Poynton B attacked from the very start and scored early to unsettle the opposition who could not contain the free-flowing football that they were facing. Half time found Poynton 4 -0 up and coasting. Queensgate tried to rally in the second half and when they did get past the Poynton midfield & defence they found Nathan in fine form, with one save in particular standing out, diving bravely at the forward's feet. However Poynton soon got back on top again, and continued to work the ball from Chris & Jason through to Arjun who fed both Marek & Jamie on the flanks who always had more than one option to pass to, with Nino making several clever runs and in turn being supported by central midfield as well as the flanks. At times it appeared that we had at least 3 more players on the pitch than the opposition. The game finished 7-0, which was a fair result after a superb team performance.

Nathan - growing iin confidence with every game, and showing fearlessness, especially in one on one situations. Jason - not really tested defensively which allowed him to get forward to support the left wing. Chris - he was able to get on the ball more today and again supported his midfield & forwards. Arjun - protected the defence when needed, but also got forward to link with the attack. Unlucky not to get on the scoresheet. Jamie - he was always available to pass to and unselfishly got back when required to help his defence. Covered every blade of grass. Marek - another player clearly on top of his game, with 4 superbly taken goals. Never stopped running and a constant thorn in the opposition's side. Man of the match - Nino's skill is never under question, but sometimes he doesn't show his true qualities. However, there was no danger of that today, and I saw a new maturity from him. His running off the ball was intelligent and he came back to wrestle the ball off the opposition when we weren't in posession. His finishing was lethal & a hat trick was the least he deserved.

Saturday 26th January 2008 - Whaley Bridge Juniors 3-4 Poynton FC Under 10's 'B' - Stockport Metro League (Group D)

Do not let the scoreline deceive you this was a commanding and convincing performance from the boys who dominated the game completely bar a five minute spell of madness in the second half. During the first period the passing and movement was scintillating as Poynton raced into a 3 goal lead with a brace from George and the move of the game finished by Alfie. With a strong wind behind them and playing downhill it seemed appropriate to change to 1 at the back for the second half. No one could have predicted the mayhem that followed as Whaley scored 3 in 5 minutes. This team was not prepared to lie down and could have scored several more before Matt scored a stunning individual goal with as clean a strike as he is ever likely to hit.

Kyle - one memorable save in the second half and not much else to do bar pick the ball out 3 times. Jamie - had a really solid dependable game with excellent distribution and clean well timed tackles and interceptions. Matt - another all action display Matt composed himself after some rough treatment in the first half and took the sweetest revenge with the stunning final goal. Tom - passing and movement was top drawer as Tom worked the left flank tirelessly. Liam - his energy, work rate skill and determination made Liam joint man of the ,match today. A lot of Liam's work can go unnoticed but his value to this team is priceless. George - two more clinical finishes but most pleasing was Georges work rate and link up play as he rarely gave the ball away. Alfie - exceptional skill as Alfie constantly tormented their defence. Alfie was joint man of the match as he unselfishly created so many chances for others with great vision and awareness.