Boys U12's Thunder - Whitley

Bright sunshine welcomed Stockton as they embarked on their second league cup game.

Starting line up: Cai, Austin, Yaz, Jack, Mason, Zack, Oliver, Reuben, Ethan.

Stockton adjusted their formation slightly to employ two centre backs and wing backs who would support midfield when attacking and the defence when out of possession.

Early signs were good with Austin and Mason working well together to make sure we weren't over exposed at the back.

Whitley took an early lead but Stockton replied quickly following good work down the right between Oliver and Austin. The cross found Reuben whose shot was saved by the "keeper but converted on the follow up by Ethan.

The half remained fairly even but Whitley were able to get in behind twice and convert.

Zachary moved to right wing back, Oliver to holding midfield and Zack into centre back to give others an opportunity to recharge. Stockton continued to play well with the ball but the onus on defending increased and Jack and Zack were required to work hard. Stockton defended well but a couple of long range strikes increased Whitley's lead.

During an injury stoppage Frederick replaced Cai in goal. Several other subs followed as tiredness became a factor against a team a division higher. Whitley were able to enjoy success twice more before Stockton finished the game with a spell of dominance. Crosses from both sides put the opposition under pressure and this eventually told when Austin's cross was only half cleared and Zachary's quick ball across the box was cooly finished by Yaz for his first goal of the season!

Overall a decent performance against a side a division higher.

CPOTM: Mason adapted to a new position really well and was involved in everything.

PPOTM: Jack defended really well throughout the game working well with whoever he was partnered with and supporting his wing back.