Youth Football: Eaton Bray Lions

Posted on December 4, 2007

St Joseph's U8 - 3
EB Lions U8 Blues - 0

Going into Saturday's clash with secondplace St Joseph's, Lions were anticipating a stern test. What transpired was a virtuoso display of football that culminated in the home team's narrowest win this season.

All three goals went in prior to the break, but as the second half got under way defenders Sam Bramston, Bradley Hicks and Daniel Challis drew together and cut off further attacks. As usual an on-form Ollie Mulcahy fielded the odd ball that squeezed through the Lions back line, pulling off half a dozen accomplished saves throughout the match.

Forwards David Wood and Toby McGee, assisted by mid-fielders Robert Bunting and Matt Kennell, harried the St Joseph's defence, creating a string of impressive chances. Despite adopting an accomplished passing strategy, dispersing strategically off the ball, they were unable to capitalise on the numerous openings they had established. Nevertheless, visiting fans were wowed by some of the best football Lions have played to date.

Crawley Green Lions U8 - 4
EB Lions U8 - 2

EB went one down after 4 minutes and had to push forward to get back on level terms in a very busy game, where both sides attacked strongly and defended well.

Freddie and George in defense kept the back safe with Jack, Harrison and Charlie keeping the Crawley midfield under control. With half time approaching fast an acute angled shot by Dax gave EB the goal they needed to end the half 1-1.

In the second half Crawley took the lead again but it only took EB three minutes to get level again after a free kick from Dax was pushed away by the goalkeeper and George put it in the back of their net.

EB MOM, goalkeeper Toby, made some great saves. Then Crawley scored twice more and although EB kept pushing forward and nearly scored twice more they ran out of time.

EB Lions U10 - 3
Oakley Rangers U10 - 0

Adopting his usual style, Dominic ran down every ball while Sean and Chris dispersed into receiving positions. The goals were spectacular, diverse examples each of them, demonstrating the Lions' ability to score from almost anywhere.

Opening the account, Adam fielded a neat cross, guiding it decisively into the net. Following the break, Sean took receipt of a mid-air lob from Dominic, delivering a shot into the top corner. Finally Dominic had his own chance to complete, firing at range to compound the victory.

Midfielders Charlie and Mason put their usual stamp on the game, turning and weaving with the ball past a bewildered Rangers defence, while defenders Ben, James and MoM Aarin, pulled off meteoric shots that would have sent most adult players running for cover.

Keeper Dan once again showed his style, putting in a sequence of stunning saves to retain the zero end of the scoreline.

EB Lions Girls U10 - 3
Houghton Athletic Girls U10 - 0

After a great victory and team performance last week EB Lions were raring to go. They started off the blocks quickly and were soon imposing themselves in the oppositions half.

The first goal to EB Lions was created by some great passing play between Megan and Mel resulting in the goal being scored by Hannah. GoM Hannah got her second quickly after courtesy of a throw in. A great solo effort by Liberty running down the left wing resulted in the third goal. EB Lions continued to work hard with impressive defence duties by Misha, Sarah Jane and Holly.

The second half started brightly for EB Lions with Georgia and Steph battling hard for the ball in the middle of the pitch. The pressure play then swung in favour of Houghton Athletic but they were unable to get on the score sheet due to some great saves by Amber Wright.

EB Lions U11 - 1
Barton Rovers Youth B U11 - 1

Lions' winning run came to an end but this result was every bit as satisfying as those wins. The boys showed huge determination and great team spirit to battle back for a draw after being behind at half time.

A physically strong Barton team took the lead halfway through the first half. Lions' keeper Harry Rogers was excellent again making some great saves and the central defensive pairing of Ivan Brodrick and Jakob Knappitt were solid throughout the game.

The Lions were the better side in the second period with Ben Flitton a constant threat. Matt Bramston and Scotty Mercer both went close to scoring. Lions continued to attack and finally Matt's tenacious play won the ball allowing him to score the equaliser. MoM Ivan used his pace and some great tackling to thwart numerous Barton attacks.

It was a gutsy second half performance from the boys in difficult conditions.

Source: EB Lions