ECFC Black U10 3-4 Long Eaton United Yellow U10

Well today we got off to the worst start possible. Long Eaton's direct approach earned them an early goal helped by our failure to clear the ball away. Then they scored two corners via their tall no 9 scoring two headers. 3 nil down within 8 minutes of play.

We had to make alterations immediately to neutralise the threat and this worked really well with us finishing the half stronger.

0-3 HT.

All the lads had responded well and we totally dominated the game from after the first 8 minutes, second half we played some good ball and attacked quickly, was first to the ball and looked a constant threat. We looked best when we played the ball on the floor and with some slick passing Reuben & Jayden linked up for J to smash home. A few moments later Reuben fired home a well placed free kick and the game was back on. We switched formations and went for the jugular with attack after attack and a cross switch wing play from Reuben to Reece who slotted home made it 3-3. But in the most strange decision I have seen, before the pass Taylor had been knocked to the ground and after we scored their parents screamed at the ref saying it was a free kick and she missed the goal. The Long Eaton parents were out of order in trying to get our goal cancelled out and she gave the free kick whilst almost in tears from the pressure. I honoured her decision but still marked the goal down for Reece and will inform the league.

Finally after battering the away team they struck a killer blow with a lucky ricochet after Alfie had made some great saves.

All the boys responded very well and walked of the pitch with your heads held high.

The referee was very poor and struggled with the pace of the game and dirty challenges on our lads but we simply pushed on.

I was very pleased with you and even the Long Eaton managers said we deserved a draw at the very minimum.

But we must start stronger and take our positives into next week.

Matt