U15s Sunday 19 September 2010 - Branksome 1 Broadstone 7

I think today we saw that the squad is beginning to gel and our new players are integrating well into what is for them a new set-up and approach.

Some of our passing moves were excellent today, with some quality finishes to boot, well done!

Today also demonstrated how important it is to maintain concentration for the whole game. We know that goals change football matches and, had we conceded at 2-0 up, as opposed to 6-0, then the outcome would certainly have been different.

As with all things in life we need to learn from our mistakes, and the panicky 5 minutes after we allowed them to score should show you that you should never let up on the opposition, whatever the score.

However, overall a very encouraging display and a standard set for us to match in the future!!

Just a mention on the substitutions today, to avoid any misunderstandings. I offered Louis the chance to participate during the second half, but he felt that an injury he picked up recently would hamper him and did not wish to take the risk. I think Louis made the right call, particularly as we have a squad of 16 which should enable us to absorb the odd 'niggle'.

Talking of odd niggles, thanks also to Mark Partridge, for stepping into Rich Swindlehurst's shoes and running the line. There is apparently no truth in the rumour that the crowd thought it more likely that he had stepped into his wife's shoes, given the style of his running.

Looking ahead, unfortunately we do not have a fixture next week as we have a bye in the Bournemouth Cup.

We will continue training as normal, Wednesday and Saturday at the Rec. I'm not sure if it's possible but we might arrange an inter-club match for the Saturday session, however I'll confirm this if so.

On the subject of training, thanks to those of you who participated in the School trials and matches over the weekend, for keeping me informed of the situation. This is especially important if we are organising perhaps something a bit different as we need to make sure we have sufficient numbers.

Finally, I believe a good time was had by all parents who attended the 'get-together' last night? It was certainly a chance for us to get to know each other and hopefully we'll be able to repeat this during the season.