Season 2010 / 11 Reports

FRIDAY, 17 SEPTEMBER 2010
Norton Lees v Millmoor Juniors
Sunday 12th Sep 2010

Under 8s v Millmoor Juniors at Graves Park

First game = 1-1 draw

Norton Lees went behind to an early goal but showed tremendous fighting spirit and with E.Willis leading the line were unlucky to still trail at half time. In the second half they played some awesome possession football and scored a deserved equaliser with a cool finish by C.Ferguson. One of the strongest and most tenacious players on the pitch, J.Lewis, once again excelled by winning a number of crucial challenges. The defensive line was held due to a terrific performance from H.Dickins, one of the youngest players in the squad, assisted by a strong box to box display by J.Cross who tackled well, and showed flair and composure on the ball. Some great darting runs by O.Brown and the usual confident, skilful dribbling from L.Skidmore rounded off what was a terrific performance, and with a bit of luck on their side Norton Lees would have won this game comfortably.

Second game = 1-3 loss

With a solid foundation to build on, the boys in the second game instantly put pressure on the opposition and forced several chances. This game was even more physical than the first with J.Stockdale and J.Dunn showing courage and strength to win tackles and put Norton Lees on the offensive. Some solid goalkeeping from J.Whittaker kept Millmoor at bay until two minutes before half time when the visitors won a free kick on the edge of the Norton Lees penalty area. A solid strike and ricochet put Millmoor in front but this goal was cancelled out almost immediately when a clever Norton Lees attack led to an unfortunate own goal by a Millmoor defender. The second half saw Norton Lees tire slightly and the Rotherham side had some good periods of pressure. Heroic defending from T.Berry kept the score level and L.Wild almost capitalised from a couple of quick counter attacks. J.Ellis showed some great touches throughout the second half and he is definitely a player to watch for the future. Despite a faultless goalkeeping display by B.Croucher who made some great saves, Millmoor scored two late goals to claim the victory.

Overall an excellent performance from Norton Lees, and especially so as a key player (Sam B) was unable to start through illness. If the U8s continue to play this kind of football, future success will definitely come. Keep up the good work !!