What a way to end the season. Our last league game had just about everything – bright sunshine, heavy rain, swirling wind, five goals, a controversial moment, and even a sending off!
After a 30-minute delay to the kick-off, Rushall started the game brightly and looked sharp from the first whistle. However, we went behind early on after a defensive mix-up at the back.
The message at that point was simple: we have the quality, now show the passion. The lads responded brilliantly.
Moments later Jareal was clean through on goal when he was brought down from behind, resulting in a red card for the opposition player and a dangerous free kick. Josh stepped up and delivered a strike that took a deflection off Jareal and flew into the net to make it 1-1 at half time.
The second half started in similar fashion. We came out strongly again, but found ourselves behind once more after a controversial goal from the opposition. Once again the boys showed great character. No heads dropped. Instead they kept playing with belief and quality.
Josh produced a superb through ball that split the defence, and Maurice finished calmly to bring us level at 2-2.
The team kept pushing for the winner and were rewarded with a lovely team move. Jareal did brilliantly to create the chance and played the ball across for Maurice, who stayed composed and slotted home to make it 3-2.
It was a real team performance from start to finish — plenty of chances created, solid and disciplined defending when under pressure, and a hardworking midfield that supported both attack and defence all game.
To finish second in the league and be the only team to take points off the eventual champions is a fantastic achievement. The coaches are extremely proud of every single player and the way they have developed and competed throughout the season.
A big thank you as always to all the parents for your fantastic support throughout the campaign — it really does mean a lot to the lads and the coaching team.
Parents’ Player of the Match: Kayden
Managers’ Player of the Match: Joe
Well done everyone — a brilliant way to finish the league season!
