After meticulous pre-season activities leaving no stone unturned, the Wood roared into the new season with a series of dazzling displays.
Our U9 Girls played their first ever match and, in an unprecedented achievement, scored not one, but, three goals! As we all know, hitting the net is the hardest thing in football. For the girls to do it so many times at their first attempt against a very experienced side is testament to their natural ability and super coaching from Dave. A brilliant début performance from all the team then with lovely goals bagged by Mya and Gabriella, who also secured PoM for a sparkling performance.
Not to be outdone, our U15 Girls took on a tough assignment far away from home against Bedwell Rangers. The girls signalled their intent for the season with a resounding 2-4 victory, taking them 2nd out of 26 teams in the U15 pre-season league. A smart finish from Coque and a vintage hatrick from the impressive Swain secured the goals, while PoM went to the combative Embleton who covered more ground than a king size marquee!
After the loss of many experienced players, our U16s put in a really encouraging performance against Watford Hornets in the U16 pre-season league. The match was in the balance until the closing minutes, with a 1-3 reverse ultimately ensuing. The Wood fought valiantly and showed a fighting spirit and togetherness that will yield great dividends going forward. Makamian lashed in an exocet for the team's goal while Turner secured PoM for a defensive masterclass at the back.
After moving from 5 to 7-a-side, U9 Boys started the season with a gritty performance against talented opposition. The boys showed a great attitude throughout with Dragos producing a cool finish for the team's goal and Charlie picking up MoM after an excellent display.
Following a superb last season that saw them produce both a 10 match unbeaten run in the League and remain unbeaten in the League Tournament, U11 Boys were delighted to recently learn of promotion to the Green Division for 2019/20; a huge achievement for them all. The boys started away against a slick Hinton side but, quickly came to grips with the new 9-a-side format and offside rules, producing a hard-working performance and frustrating their opponents repeatedly. Débutantes Max & Daniel enjoyed tremendous games as did Sammy who was dominant & vocal in defence. The match culminated with a truly wonderful team goal. El-Roi fed the marauding Kai who whipped in a wicked cross that was swept into the net first time by the on-rushing Riley. Scoring on your debut and also securing MoM; it just doesn't get any better!
U16 Boys have welcomed many new players this season and faced a challenging match away to Enfield Rangers in the WFL White division. As they continue the gelling process, the team put in a very creditable performance scoring twice away from home in a 4-2 reverse, showing great potential for the forthcoming fixtures. Leica and Tillcock produced accomplished finishes for the team's goals, with the latter securing MoM after an impressive all-round display.