U14 Cougars - Binfield Reds U9

I'm not used to reflecting on matches like this one and I think my computer thought I was making error inputs keep adding Opponent Goal. Despite the result I think the scoreline flattered them a little, and numerous key moments in the game fell in Binfield's favour. Having said that, I am a big believer that if you do the right things consistently then you make your own luck, and Binfield got more right in more situations than we did on the day. We tried a new formation for the game, wanting to give us numbers in MF where they are so powerful and to give us an attacking set up when in possession to counter their press. We went with a 1-1-4-1 with the objective being to invite pressure onto the CB leaving gaps for us to play into, break lines and give us overloads in attack. The game got off to a very lively start with both teams exchnaging attacks before we won a corner on the left side. Johann delivered the perfect cross to the back post and Louie was there with a composed finish to make it 1-0. By the 8th minute it was 1-4 as we struggled to contain their powerful running in midfield and down the right wing. In the 10minute Seb won a freekick on the left just inside the Binfield half after showing good feet to beat his marker. Oscar delivered an excellent ball into the Binfield box causing all sorts of problems and Dylan was quickest to reach stabbing the ball home from close range. 2-4 end of 1st quarter. The 2nd quarter was keenly contested and well matched as we started to look comfortable in the new system. It was a close period which Binfield edged 0-1. 2-5 at HT. The 3rd quarter is where we need to analyse where it got away from us as we shipped 4 goals without reply. We continued to compete well but there were a couple of worldy strikes from range that flew in, one off a deflection, but all round it was a tough quarter and meant we were 2-9 down going into the 4th. The most pleasing thing for me was how well we played in the 4th and kept our heads up. it was another tight quarter which we lost 0-2 including a penalty and a goal from a cross come shot that looped over Louie head and in off the foot of the far post. Lots of positives to take away and with a bit more time we feel this formation will work very well with the players we have. Great learning experience against the best team in the SYL. We go again next week v Claygate. Go Cougarss!