Saturdays’s result was a difficult one to digest, especially given the belief that this was a game well within our reach. On paper, the opposition didn’t appear particularly strong – bar one standout player who ultimately dictated the tempo and proved decisive. Despite our best efforts, we struggled to contain him, and his influence was evident throughout.

We started brightly, with the opening 10–15 minutes showcasing some genuinely attractive football. The boys were moving the ball well, finding space, and showing confidence in possession. Unfortunately, the momentum shifted with the first goal – against the run of play – and while we initially held our composure, the second goal arrived shortly after and visibly deflated the team. From that point on, our play became erratic. Instead of building through the thirds, we resorted to hopeful clearances and rushed decisions, losing our shape and rhythm.

At the break, trailing 3–0, we made tactical adjustments, switching formation and opting for a more direct approach in the hope of clawing our way back. The response was encouraging at first. Although we conceded again early in the half, Freddie pulled one back with a well-taken strike that lifted spirits and injected some urgency into our play. For a brief spell, we looked transformed: the press was aggressive and coordinated, pinning the opposition in their own half. But as fatigue and lapses in concentration crept in, our pressing structure began to unravel. One by one, players lost their positional discipline, and the gaps opened up again – leading to another goal conceded.

Individually, there were positives to take. Defensively, we showed bravery and commitment, attacking every ball with intent. Our midfield duo worked tirelessly, covering ground and trying to link play. Out wide, our attackers looked to exploit their pace and stretch the opposition. However, the cohesion between units was lacking. We didn’t quite manage to connect defence to midfield, or midfield to attack, in a way that sustained pressure or built meaningful phases of play.

It’s important to keep perspective. This is only our second week of the season, with just a handful of training hours under our belt as a newly formed squad. We’re still learning each other’s strengths, building chemistry, and developing our identity. The potential is there, and with time, consistency, and continued effort, we will improve week by week.