Witton Albion JFC

It was back to league action with a home game against Winsford Colts FC U13. The recent rain abated to allow the game to be completed in dry conditions. Winsford Colts are a seasoned higher level team and presented a good challenge for the Warriors.

Despite getting off to a good start the Warriors found themselves behind after four minutes. A long range shot was too strong for Mason and his save couldn’t prevent the power on the ball from looping over the goal line. 0:1.

The Warriors came back strong and in the fifth minute should have equalised. Oli and Robbie combined well down the right before Robbie’s cross into the box was met by Harry however his shot cleared the cross bar.

The Warriors were competing well, and the defence was dealing with the Colts offensive play limiting them to long range shots. However in the 16th minutes one long range effort beat Mason outstretched hand to make it 0:2.

The Warriors pulled a goal back towards the end of the first half. A defensive clearance by Toby was inadvertently flicked on by a Colts defender to allow Jett to advance on goal. Jett slotted the ball beyond the advancing keeper and into the net. 1:2.

HT 1:2

The Warriors were well in the game at half time and had demonstrated that they could compete with the better teams in the league. However the second period of the game is one they will want to forget. In the 40th minute another Colts effort from well outside the penalty area deceived Mason and the ball found its way inside the post. 1:3.

The third goal conceded drained the confidence from the team plus tired legs from the first half efforts resulted in an avalanche of goals. The midfield disintegrated exposing the defenders to the quick running Colts offensive play allowing them to get behind the Warriors defensive line on a regular basis. The official final score was 1:9 but we counted ten against.

We should look to take the positives from the first half performance. Fitness levels need to be considered with each game being played over 70 minutes this season. This wasn’t helped by a number of players not being available for the game leaving a single substitute.

Man of the match was awarded to the hard working Jett.

Next game is the second round tie in the Cheshire FA U13’s County Cup with an away game against Hazel Grove United JFC U13’s Hornets.