U12 Boys faced HMH Eagles in the Challenge Cup, having faced this team earlier in the season in the league, coming away 0-4 losers on that occasion. However, the boys are a very different proposition now and were on the front foot from the off.
They raced into the lead after great work from Skinner and Kurti presented Adom with a chance from the edge of the box; he drilled home in style to give the Wood the lead! With Covasala & Joyce very solid at the back, and Gopinath pulling the strings in midfield the boys created many chances but, the flying HMH keeper was in fine form to keep them out.
HMH swung things round with two quickfire goals but, the Wood fought back; Adom's cross-shot finding the back post, where Hartslief swooped down like a Golden eagle to find the net in style! Song was enjoyed an effective game at the back by passing the ball simply and both Elams & Powell were energetic and made many good interceptions. In a bizarre turn of events and as the tension cranked up, Klaudjo's dad appeared to be booked for simulation after a blatant dive when running the line!
Despite their efforts, extra time came and went with Gopinath striking the post and Adom being denied by the away keeper's heroics; Skinner and Kurti were a threat throughout too and went close many times. At the other end, Lehouimel enjoyed an outstanding game, making multiple top quality saves. The final whistle blew and the penatly shoot out began as many of the Wood faithful lent on each other for support, so high were their pulses!
We all know such things are lotteries, and, on this occasion, despite Lehouimel throwing himself around like a ragdoll, HMH came out on top but, there were no real losers. This Wood team showed tremendous courage, desire and technique and all in attendance were very proud of them indeed, as are our club. The boys return to League action next week and we can't wait to hear of their next set of adventures.
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U14 Boys faced Omonia White at home with a full squad of 15 players in an important six pointer against the team immediately ahead of them in the table; a really fast start was required and expected.
However, the boys were very quiet in the warm up and didn't really indicate that they were up for the match, and, once the game kicked off, started slowly for the countless time this season, conceding three very poor goals, the result of a lack of focus and desire to attack the ball.
The introduction of Fan, Pop, Sunkara and Reed brought greater drive to the team and saw Fan pull one back; reading the bounce of the ball well to loop his header into the unguarded net after the keeper had parried. At the back, Manning, Hones, Hobbs and Makamian were performing well and showing good composure on the ball, as were Silva & Song in the midfield, helping the team build momentum. The boys took to the pitch second half looking good and now seemingly ready to grab the game back. However, shortly after the re-start, Omonia secured a penalty out of nothing and scored again.
The Wood were unable to score again despite having numerous chances and much pressure; a lack of quality in front of goal being a real concern. The match finished 1-4 and another game this season ended with nothing for us to show despite the performances of many players warranting so much more. However, if you don't take your chances and gift the opposition multiple goals, football is a struggle. The boys know what needs to be done and it is now up to them to train hard, focus their mindsets further, then go out and do it. The League Cup against Red Division behemoths Enfield Town is next week and there is no better fixture to rebound in.
MoM went to Manning who is enjoying a very consistent season at left back and again excelled today, both defensively and when joining in attack.
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After weeks of postponed games due to flood and then frost, the Wood again welcomed a full weekend of fixtures. First up were our U12 Girls, competing in the second round of the prestigious London County Cup, this after Herts FA were unable to provide a County Cup of their own for the girls, something we all hope is rectified next season?