Both our Saturday match & Friday training is cancelled as Upton cried off plus we have both Paul & Rob away Friday and a few of the boys off sick.
Regards
Rob
Friday 16 December 2016
Sunday 11 December 2016
MATCH REPORT - SAT 10 DECEMBER
BLACON YOUTH 0 - 6 ROCKETS
A comfortable win this morning to maintain top spot of our Group in the Chester Shield. The most pleasing aspect was that we really tried, especially in the second half, to knock the ball about and our movement was really good.
We talked about taking the game seriously and from a solid defensive base our midfield of Zac, Bailey and Austin with Rory's movement up top was too good for Blacon - albeit that they have brought in some new lads which does make them much more solid.
We scored firstly from a first time hit from Bailey to the bottom corner and then again from Rory who turned and found the bottom corner. Our domination lead to a series of corners which were expertly lifted into the danger area by Bailey. Scoring more from corners and set pieces when we have Bailey, Xander and Harry delivering them is something we need to capitalise on more going ahead.
We introduced Fin and Wills after 13 minutes and this added strength with Fin able to break up play and bomb forward and Wills was able to make good runs and keep the Blacon defence busy.
At 2-0 at half-time the game was far from over so we talked about relaxing more in possession and shouting if players had time. I felt our midfield sometimes didn't give enough options for our defenders or on occasions we just hit the ball first time or out of play, without relaxing and thinking, but that is a minor criticism really.
Charlie, Alex and Hugo had a quiet morning with only a few scary moments which we mopped up well. I think Hugo only had one real save to make and his kicking and passing was 100%.
Overall our second half display was excellent - Austin and Zac had high energy games which resulted in them both bagging good goals from fine moves. The best move of the game came from our left with Fin getting the ball into Austin who got to by-line and cut back for Zac - bringing admiration from Neil the Blacon coach.
Bailey got his second before Wills wrapped up the game with his second in two games to wrap up a good mornings work against an improved and more organised Blacon outfit with an excellent goalkeeper.
We gave MOTM to Bailey who had a very fine game and deserved MOTM for his leadership and control of the game throughout. Considering this later I felt Rory also deserves a special mention as his movement, great goal and numerous assists showed how much he has come on this year by getting his head up and adding passing to his running game.
Let's keep this going and see where we end up...
A comfortable win this morning to maintain top spot of our Group in the Chester Shield. The most pleasing aspect was that we really tried, especially in the second half, to knock the ball about and our movement was really good.
We talked about taking the game seriously and from a solid defensive base our midfield of Zac, Bailey and Austin with Rory's movement up top was too good for Blacon - albeit that they have brought in some new lads which does make them much more solid.
We scored firstly from a first time hit from Bailey to the bottom corner and then again from Rory who turned and found the bottom corner. Our domination lead to a series of corners which were expertly lifted into the danger area by Bailey. Scoring more from corners and set pieces when we have Bailey, Xander and Harry delivering them is something we need to capitalise on more going ahead.
We introduced Fin and Wills after 13 minutes and this added strength with Fin able to break up play and bomb forward and Wills was able to make good runs and keep the Blacon defence busy.
At 2-0 at half-time the game was far from over so we talked about relaxing more in possession and shouting if players had time. I felt our midfield sometimes didn't give enough options for our defenders or on occasions we just hit the ball first time or out of play, without relaxing and thinking, but that is a minor criticism really.
Charlie, Alex and Hugo had a quiet morning with only a few scary moments which we mopped up well. I think Hugo only had one real save to make and his kicking and passing was 100%.
Overall our second half display was excellent - Austin and Zac had high energy games which resulted in them both bagging good goals from fine moves. The best move of the game came from our left with Fin getting the ball into Austin who got to by-line and cut back for Zac - bringing admiration from Neil the Blacon coach.
Bailey got his second before Wills wrapped up the game with his second in two games to wrap up a good mornings work against an improved and more organised Blacon outfit with an excellent goalkeeper.
We gave MOTM to Bailey who had a very fine game and deserved MOTM for his leadership and control of the game throughout. Considering this later I felt Rory also deserves a special mention as his movement, great goal and numerous assists showed how much he has come on this year by getting his head up and adding passing to his running game.
Let's keep this going and see where we end up...
Tuesday 6 December 2016
THIS WEEKEND - SAT 10 DEC
Hi all
Couple of switches.
Next two matches here are the
details. This takes us up to the Xmas break and two wins would put us in a good
position.
SAT 10 DECEMBER – AWAY AT
BLACON YOUTH, 10:30 KO (so 10am arrival) at
Highfield Primary School, Blacon Point Road, Blacon, CH1 5LD. This is a new pitch so don’t
think we’ve been there.
Rested players are William S,
Harry and Xander.
SAT 17 DECEMBER – AWAY AT
UPTON WILDCATS – TIME AND VENUE TBC
Rested players are Austin,
Bailey and Zac.
If anyone is unavailable please
let me know ASAP so we can shift things about.
Best regards
Rob
MATCH REPORT - SAT 3 DECEMBER
ROCKETS 20 - 0 UPTON WILDCATS
With an almost full squad of 12 in attendance (excluding Charlie) it was a chance for everyone to get a chance and given the opposition was a new development team a chance for the lads to try some different positions.
With an almost full squad of 12 in attendance (excluding Charlie) it was a chance for everyone to get a chance and given the opposition was a new development team a chance for the lads to try some different positions.
To cut a long story short we won 20-0, although FA rules means we record a max 9-0 result. Even better
everyone one of the squad scored - even Hugo!
Scorers were as follows - Austin (1), Zac (3), George
(3), Harry (1), Alex (2), William (1), Fin (4), Bailey (1), Xander (1), Rory
(1), Wills (1) and last but not least Hugo (1).
The MOTM for the whole game had to be
Upton's keeper who made numerous saves to keep the score down, with
our MOTM being Hugo for his many back heels trying to open his
Waverton scoring account before finally slotting in his inaugural goal to much
applause from the parents and his teammates.
It was also good to see how respectful our lads were
towards the opposition when it could of been easy to get a bit silly.
Next weeks game will no doubt be very different against an improving Blacon Youth team who have had some good performances since our last game. So it'll be back to an organised formation, passing and moving over the coming weeks to try to progress in this competition...
An enjoyable morning all round.
Saturday 19 November 2016
MATCH REPORT - SAT 19 NOVEMBER
ROCKETS 2 - 1 VICARS CROSS
It was the second group game of the Chester Shield this morning against, on paper, the toughest opponent in our Group who are from our league.
We thought very hard about the starting set-up this week and went for balance, trying to take some lessons from the Blacon game in terms of shape. We started absolutely brilliantly and everything felt really organised and it was excellent to be able to talk to the boys waiting to come on about how they were going to effect the game.
With George on the left, Zac shoring the middle and Xander everywhere (in a good way) it gave us multiple outlets but especially on the left where George is perfecting the art of giving width when we need it but drifting inside unmarked to create an additional striking threat. It's really very clever play.
We went one up after Rory battled brilliantly for possession, played in Xander who fired in a great cross to George who tapped in for probably our most pleasing move of the season and capping off a period of dominance. Its vital to score when we are on top in tight games.
We introduced Alex, Harry and Bailey shortly afterwards and our play didn't let up. Harry's positional play was stretching Vicars Cross and there were good combinations which meant we were camped in the opposition half. Our second goal came from a Harry long throw which Zac attacked with a nicely timed run to finish.
In the second half we knew Vicars Cross would come at us and they did improve. We survived a few scary moments before they scored with a fortunate deflected corner. However, we looked dangerous on the break and on a few occasions we were just one pass away from being in on goal.
With 6 minutes to go we felt we needed to protect the lead so sent Harry left with Bailey and Zac in the middle and Xander on the right to 'PARK THE BUS'! But for a couple of heart stopping referee decisions we defended like lions to see out the game and take the points!
Vicars Cross showed great spirit in the second half and the away fixture will be real test that we can look forward to. Our two goals when we were on top were vital today in terms of giving us something to defend and hold onto.
Two straight wins following good performances against Ellesmere Port and Princes Villa has brought back the feel good factor (and improved my mood).
MOTM was a hard decision between George, Charlie, Zac and Xander. The award went to Xander who shook off illness to put in a block-buster display full of running, tracking back and always dangerous going forward.
Well done lads - lets keep this run going.
It was the second group game of the Chester Shield this morning against, on paper, the toughest opponent in our Group who are from our league.
We thought very hard about the starting set-up this week and went for balance, trying to take some lessons from the Blacon game in terms of shape. We started absolutely brilliantly and everything felt really organised and it was excellent to be able to talk to the boys waiting to come on about how they were going to effect the game.
With George on the left, Zac shoring the middle and Xander everywhere (in a good way) it gave us multiple outlets but especially on the left where George is perfecting the art of giving width when we need it but drifting inside unmarked to create an additional striking threat. It's really very clever play.
We went one up after Rory battled brilliantly for possession, played in Xander who fired in a great cross to George who tapped in for probably our most pleasing move of the season and capping off a period of dominance. Its vital to score when we are on top in tight games.
We introduced Alex, Harry and Bailey shortly afterwards and our play didn't let up. Harry's positional play was stretching Vicars Cross and there were good combinations which meant we were camped in the opposition half. Our second goal came from a Harry long throw which Zac attacked with a nicely timed run to finish.
In the second half we knew Vicars Cross would come at us and they did improve. We survived a few scary moments before they scored with a fortunate deflected corner. However, we looked dangerous on the break and on a few occasions we were just one pass away from being in on goal.
With 6 minutes to go we felt we needed to protect the lead so sent Harry left with Bailey and Zac in the middle and Xander on the right to 'PARK THE BUS'! But for a couple of heart stopping referee decisions we defended like lions to see out the game and take the points!
Vicars Cross showed great spirit in the second half and the away fixture will be real test that we can look forward to. Our two goals when we were on top were vital today in terms of giving us something to defend and hold onto.
Two straight wins following good performances against Ellesmere Port and Princes Villa has brought back the feel good factor (and improved my mood).
MOTM was a hard decision between George, Charlie, Zac and Xander. The award went to Xander who shook off illness to put in a block-buster display full of running, tracking back and always dangerous going forward.
Well done lads - lets keep this run going.
Monday 14 November 2016
TRAINING AND MATCH - SAT 19 NOVEMBER
Hi all
Training
in ON this Friday night as usual.
On
Saturday we play our 2nd fixture in the Chester & District
Shield.
We
play Vicars Cross at 10:30am KO (10am arrival) at HOME on
Waverton Primary pitches.
Rested
players are Fin, Will B and Austin.
If
anyone cannot play please let me know ASAP so we can bring in a rested player.
Thanks
Rob
Saturday 12 November 2016
MATCH REPORT - SAT 12 NOVEMBER
ROCKETS 5 - 0 BLACON YOUTH
The boys avoided a potential banana skin this morning in the Chester Shield cup game to record their first competitive win.
Prior to the game we held a minutes silence to remember the fallen of all the wars. The boys from both teams did this impeccably. This was Blacon's idea and it showed what a great club they are.
The training session last night went really well, with an overlap passing drill and a high standard mini-game so Hayden and I were looking forward to some flowing and passing football.
However, in the first 12 minutes, whilst we did try hard, we over indulged individually and played into Blacon's hands by not playing as a team. It would also be fair to say that the Blacon keeper was having an absolute blinder!
Into the second quarter we swapped 3 players, with George, Rory, Xander joining Austin and from the outset we got wider, used the space and started passing and overlapping. From there we scored two very good goals from Rory and then George.
In the third quarter the lads who started the game improved massively and we did try to get the ball moving. One or two of the moves cut Blacon to pieces.
Again the Blacon goalie kept them in the game with some unbelievable saves and being really fast off his line. However we managed to get another one through Xander who broke the Blacon line before charging through and firing hard and low.
In the final quarter we produced a pretty dominant display and swapped players and positions about. George grabbed another, cutting in from the wing and firing hard and low into the corner and then Blacon were unlucky to concede an own goal to make it 5-0 and put some gloss on the score-line.
Its hard to be critical of a 5-0 victory when Hugo had one save to make and on another day it could have been 10 or 12. To some extent perhaps we dropped to Blacon's level and got into a tackling war on a muddy pitch! BUT, even on a poor surface we could have moved the ball about better and played more for each other rather than individually. We will have stiffer tests to come if we want to do well in this competition.
Overall I'd say this was 60% of how we can play, so loads of room for improvement which is a good thing!!
MOTM was between Charlie, Austin and George who all played very well. The award went to George who gave us great width, found space and created and scored goals today.
Well done on the result and clean sheet.
FINALLY, just for Steve, here is the photo of Harry last night at training. There is nothing wrong with supporting the team at the top of the league...and he looks very good in red instead of blue! Early night and no tea for Harry I'd say...
The boys avoided a potential banana skin this morning in the Chester Shield cup game to record their first competitive win.
Prior to the game we held a minutes silence to remember the fallen of all the wars. The boys from both teams did this impeccably. This was Blacon's idea and it showed what a great club they are.
The training session last night went really well, with an overlap passing drill and a high standard mini-game so Hayden and I were looking forward to some flowing and passing football.
However, in the first 12 minutes, whilst we did try hard, we over indulged individually and played into Blacon's hands by not playing as a team. It would also be fair to say that the Blacon keeper was having an absolute blinder!
Into the second quarter we swapped 3 players, with George, Rory, Xander joining Austin and from the outset we got wider, used the space and started passing and overlapping. From there we scored two very good goals from Rory and then George.
In the third quarter the lads who started the game improved massively and we did try to get the ball moving. One or two of the moves cut Blacon to pieces.
Again the Blacon goalie kept them in the game with some unbelievable saves and being really fast off his line. However we managed to get another one through Xander who broke the Blacon line before charging through and firing hard and low.
In the final quarter we produced a pretty dominant display and swapped players and positions about. George grabbed another, cutting in from the wing and firing hard and low into the corner and then Blacon were unlucky to concede an own goal to make it 5-0 and put some gloss on the score-line.
Its hard to be critical of a 5-0 victory when Hugo had one save to make and on another day it could have been 10 or 12. To some extent perhaps we dropped to Blacon's level and got into a tackling war on a muddy pitch! BUT, even on a poor surface we could have moved the ball about better and played more for each other rather than individually. We will have stiffer tests to come if we want to do well in this competition.
Overall I'd say this was 60% of how we can play, so loads of room for improvement which is a good thing!!
MOTM was between Charlie, Austin and George who all played very well. The award went to George who gave us great width, found space and created and scored goals today.
Well done on the result and clean sheet.
FINALLY, just for Steve, here is the photo of Harry last night at training. There is nothing wrong with supporting the team at the top of the league...and he looks very good in red instead of blue! Early night and no tea for Harry I'd say...
Saturday 29 October 2016
MATCH REPORT - SAT 29 OCTOBER
ROCKETS 1 - 2 ELLESMERE PORT
Paul and I now realise how David Moyes is feeling! The boys did everything we asked of them today and we were undone by Ellesmere Ports' only shot in the first half and huge divot causing the ball to bobble in the second!
Its not an understatement to say we deserved to win the game by two or three goals bearing in mind the balance of play, but we are not getting any luck at the moment at the top end of the pitch and then to 'rub it in' fortune went against us at the back.
The first 20 minutes we played brilliantly, knocking the ball about and attacking EP to create huge pressure and lots of corners. Remarkably though from EP's only attack of the half they scored after we failed to clear the ball and it broke to their striker who swept it past William. William got his only touch of the half...picking the ball out of the net!
At half time the boys were quite down but we emphasised how well we had played.
We started a bit slowly in second half and EP did manage to play some football but after 5 minutes we settled down and we started to get on the ball. A clearance from the EP defender found its way on target and as Fin was about to pick up the ball it bobbled to the right and went in - there was nothing anyone could have done; it was just a huge slice of luck.
After that we played really well, as I know the boys all felt very hard done to. Our play become too much for EP and after a 4 player move Austin smashed one to the left corner to deservedly get us back to 2-1.
The boys threw everything at EP and again we were very unlucky with EP clearing off and on the line, Austin going close again and our boys camped in the EP penalty area.
Obviously everyone was very disappointed in the result and we deserved a lot more. After the match we talked about all the positives. Although we are going through a sticky patch I'm convinced we have a big performance and score line coming.
MOTM went to Austin. He gave 100% against lads much bigger than him, he ran his socks off and scored a great goal. Xander's performance would have also got him MOTM on any other day - his passing, crossing and attacking play was superb.
Thanks also to William and Fin for stepping in for Hugo. Its not easy and the team owes them both for being brave enough to go in goal.
Well done to the boys for a good effort. Lets keep going and our luck will change (I hope!!).
Paul and I now realise how David Moyes is feeling! The boys did everything we asked of them today and we were undone by Ellesmere Ports' only shot in the first half and huge divot causing the ball to bobble in the second!
Its not an understatement to say we deserved to win the game by two or three goals bearing in mind the balance of play, but we are not getting any luck at the moment at the top end of the pitch and then to 'rub it in' fortune went against us at the back.
The first 20 minutes we played brilliantly, knocking the ball about and attacking EP to create huge pressure and lots of corners. Remarkably though from EP's only attack of the half they scored after we failed to clear the ball and it broke to their striker who swept it past William. William got his only touch of the half...picking the ball out of the net!
At half time the boys were quite down but we emphasised how well we had played.
We started a bit slowly in second half and EP did manage to play some football but after 5 minutes we settled down and we started to get on the ball. A clearance from the EP defender found its way on target and as Fin was about to pick up the ball it bobbled to the right and went in - there was nothing anyone could have done; it was just a huge slice of luck.
After that we played really well, as I know the boys all felt very hard done to. Our play become too much for EP and after a 4 player move Austin smashed one to the left corner to deservedly get us back to 2-1.
The boys threw everything at EP and again we were very unlucky with EP clearing off and on the line, Austin going close again and our boys camped in the EP penalty area.
Obviously everyone was very disappointed in the result and we deserved a lot more. After the match we talked about all the positives. Although we are going through a sticky patch I'm convinced we have a big performance and score line coming.
MOTM went to Austin. He gave 100% against lads much bigger than him, he ran his socks off and scored a great goal. Xander's performance would have also got him MOTM on any other day - his passing, crossing and attacking play was superb.
Thanks also to William and Fin for stepping in for Hugo. Its not easy and the team owes them both for being brave enough to go in goal.
Well done to the boys for a good effort. Lets keep going and our luck will change (I hope!!).
Saturday 22 October 2016
MATCH REPORT - SAT 22 OCTOBER
ROCKETS 2 - 3 PRINCES VILLA
A really encouraging performance against a strong 'A' side shows that our Rockets shouldn't fear any team in Chester. We are now competing at a high level and hopefully we can convert our efforts into results with the 'business end' of the season soon upon us.
We started the game with a formation designed to keep us in the game and to a great extent this worked, playing William just in front of the defence and then a block of 3 midfielders ahead of them. We didn't quite go for Mourinho's flat back 6!!!
In the first 20 minutes our tactic's worked brilliantly although it was hard to create chances. Unfortunately though we went 0-1 down as William was forced to push out to plug a gap in midfield and we were left exposed at the back.
At half time we switched to our normal 2-3-1 formation and while we had a few shaky moments, going 2-0 down, we were more of a threat going forward as we had an outlet in either Harry or Rory.
After we had settled down to the new formation we got back in the game as Rory controlled a cross-field ball and found the bottom corner with a great finish.
At this stage we looked like we could catch them on the break and were very unlucky not to draw level as Harry broke clear, only for the ball to bobble as he was about to score.
Soon after we were unfortunate to go 1-3 down as from a good Villa move Hugo pulled off a save only for the ball to fall to a Villa player who couldn't miss.
With 10 minutes to go we entered the period we always play our best football and the pressure was resulting in Villa giving away plenty of corners and free-kicks. Harry stepped up to bend one into the bottom corner. 2-3 with a couple of minutes to go.
The boys couldn't quite get us level and although we are disappointed the performance was pleasing. MOTM went to William who's position was always spot on, he won his individual battles and kept us organised. A sign we could have a centre half amongst us!!
Next week we play a friendly against Ellesmere Port (2-2 earlier this season) and Paul and I are keen to let the boys play with complete freedom and to make their own decisions. We've done lots of recent work on passing in the hope we can find a balance between attacking runs and team play - we know that some boys are adapting to this but as pitches get bigger its important.
From what we've seen in training and today I'm certain we are close to finding a performance beyond which we've seen so far....
A really encouraging performance against a strong 'A' side shows that our Rockets shouldn't fear any team in Chester. We are now competing at a high level and hopefully we can convert our efforts into results with the 'business end' of the season soon upon us.
We started the game with a formation designed to keep us in the game and to a great extent this worked, playing William just in front of the defence and then a block of 3 midfielders ahead of them. We didn't quite go for Mourinho's flat back 6!!!
In the first 20 minutes our tactic's worked brilliantly although it was hard to create chances. Unfortunately though we went 0-1 down as William was forced to push out to plug a gap in midfield and we were left exposed at the back.
At half time we switched to our normal 2-3-1 formation and while we had a few shaky moments, going 2-0 down, we were more of a threat going forward as we had an outlet in either Harry or Rory.
After we had settled down to the new formation we got back in the game as Rory controlled a cross-field ball and found the bottom corner with a great finish.
At this stage we looked like we could catch them on the break and were very unlucky not to draw level as Harry broke clear, only for the ball to bobble as he was about to score.
Soon after we were unfortunate to go 1-3 down as from a good Villa move Hugo pulled off a save only for the ball to fall to a Villa player who couldn't miss.
With 10 minutes to go we entered the period we always play our best football and the pressure was resulting in Villa giving away plenty of corners and free-kicks. Harry stepped up to bend one into the bottom corner. 2-3 with a couple of minutes to go.
The boys couldn't quite get us level and although we are disappointed the performance was pleasing. MOTM went to William who's position was always spot on, he won his individual battles and kept us organised. A sign we could have a centre half amongst us!!
Next week we play a friendly against Ellesmere Port (2-2 earlier this season) and Paul and I are keen to let the boys play with complete freedom and to make their own decisions. We've done lots of recent work on passing in the hope we can find a balance between attacking runs and team play - we know that some boys are adapting to this but as pitches get bigger its important.
From what we've seen in training and today I'm certain we are close to finding a performance beyond which we've seen so far....
Wednesday 19 October 2016
THIS WEEKEND - SAT 22 OCTOBER
Hi all
This
week we will train on Friday at 5:45pm at the County offices astro pitches on PITCH
2.
On
Saturday we are HOME against Princes Villa. Its a 10:30am KO (10am
arrival) at Waverton Primary School.
Fin,
Wills B and Austin are rested this weekend.
Best
regards
Rob
Saturday 15 October 2016
TRAINING REPORT - SAT 15 OCTOBER
Following the disappointment of our performance against Elton we asked the boys for a reaction over the Friday and Saturday training sessions.
On Friday we felt the best thing was just to play football and have some fun. We designed some overload games (7v5) with some of our skilful dribblers on one team versus some of the boys more prone to passing. It was a good test and throughout the session and definitely towards the end some of the passing from Harry, Fin, Xander and Wills was exceptional.
This morning we mixed things up again with some overload and some even games. The most pleasing thing this morning was that our decision making between dribbling and passing was spot on most of the time, which resulted in goals and assists galore rather than the broken down moves or lost possession we experienced versus Elton.
Bailey was back this week after missing the Elton game, and across both sessions his overall play, work rate and attitude makes him our Captain for the tough fixture next weekend against Princess Villa.
All the boys did really well but we will pick a team next weekend designed to give us the best chance of a positive result as its important for our Cup seeding.
We will try to arrange some friendlies over the half-term involving all available players.
On Friday we felt the best thing was just to play football and have some fun. We designed some overload games (7v5) with some of our skilful dribblers on one team versus some of the boys more prone to passing. It was a good test and throughout the session and definitely towards the end some of the passing from Harry, Fin, Xander and Wills was exceptional.
This morning we mixed things up again with some overload and some even games. The most pleasing thing this morning was that our decision making between dribbling and passing was spot on most of the time, which resulted in goals and assists galore rather than the broken down moves or lost possession we experienced versus Elton.
Bailey was back this week after missing the Elton game, and across both sessions his overall play, work rate and attitude makes him our Captain for the tough fixture next weekend against Princess Villa.
All the boys did really well but we will pick a team next weekend designed to give us the best chance of a positive result as its important for our Cup seeding.
We will try to arrange some friendlies over the half-term involving all available players.
Tuesday 11 October 2016
MATCH REPORT- SAT 8 OCTOBER
ROCKETS 3 - 4 ELTON YOUTH
A frustrating result and performance as the boys went down to our first league defeat of the season.
After brilliant passing displays against Blacon and Ellesmere Port, when we got in behind teams, and following a really good training session we felt we could get a result.
Unfortunately though we showed our opposition far too much respect, with tackles and belief lacking in the first 10 minutes as Elton eased into a 0-1 lead.
Across the park bad habits crept back in against the one team in the league you don't run at! We needed to move them about as we knew they can tackle and break; so over doing dribbles wasn't the way forward and wasn't what we'd talked about...
However, after a poor start we did manage to apply some pressure, gaining ground and few corners. From this the ball came out to Charlie who hit a screamer into the top of the net for his first Waverton goal! 1-1, game on and we looked like we could get on top.
In the second half unfortunately we reverted back to earlier form and went 4-1 down from a mixture of good Elton play, not clearing our lines and us never really relaxing and knocking the ball about. Perhaps we were trying to hard individually.
Fair play to the lads for coming back late on to 3-4 through a nice George right footed finish and then a goalkeeper own goal. We almost got back to 4-4 with the last kick of the match seeing the goalie deflect the ball round the post.
Elton deserved their victory today but we would have given them a better match if we could have reached the standard of play showed the previous week.
We now have a run of three matches all against last years 'A' league teams so it will be very tough few weeks if we don't play like a team - which we know WE CAN.
At training on Friday we will regroup and hope to see a reaction on Saturday.
A frustrating result and performance as the boys went down to our first league defeat of the season.
After brilliant passing displays against Blacon and Ellesmere Port, when we got in behind teams, and following a really good training session we felt we could get a result.
Unfortunately though we showed our opposition far too much respect, with tackles and belief lacking in the first 10 minutes as Elton eased into a 0-1 lead.
Across the park bad habits crept back in against the one team in the league you don't run at! We needed to move them about as we knew they can tackle and break; so over doing dribbles wasn't the way forward and wasn't what we'd talked about...
However, after a poor start we did manage to apply some pressure, gaining ground and few corners. From this the ball came out to Charlie who hit a screamer into the top of the net for his first Waverton goal! 1-1, game on and we looked like we could get on top.
In the second half unfortunately we reverted back to earlier form and went 4-1 down from a mixture of good Elton play, not clearing our lines and us never really relaxing and knocking the ball about. Perhaps we were trying to hard individually.
Fair play to the lads for coming back late on to 3-4 through a nice George right footed finish and then a goalkeeper own goal. We almost got back to 4-4 with the last kick of the match seeing the goalie deflect the ball round the post.
Elton deserved their victory today but we would have given them a better match if we could have reached the standard of play showed the previous week.
We now have a run of three matches all against last years 'A' league teams so it will be very tough few weeks if we don't play like a team - which we know WE CAN.
At training on Friday we will regroup and hope to see a reaction on Saturday.
Wednesday 5 October 2016
THIS WEEKEND - SAT 8 OCT
Hi all
This week we will train on Friday at 5:45pm
at the County offices astro pitches on PITCH 2.
On Saturday we have a HOME fixture against Elton Youth. Its a 10:30am KO (10am
arrival) at Waverton Primary school pitches, Common Lane, Waverton.
The whole squad is picked, minus the players
rested below who are Rory and Charlie this weekend. If we have anyone who can’t
play or who is ill or injured let me know ASAP so I can shift things about.
Sat 8
October. Rory and Charlie
Sat 15 October. Bailey and Xander
Sat 22 October. William and Fin
12 November. Zac and Austin
Best regards
Rob
Saturday 1 October 2016
MATCH REPORT - SAT 1 OCTOBER
ELLESMERE PORT 2 - 2 ROCKETS
The score-line today doesn't really reflect how well we played or our dominance of the game.
The boys played really well, showing a lot of composure and putting together some brilliant passing moves. It was pleasing that we'd taken something from the Jets game and our training last night as we made a lot of diagonal passing moves to get in behind Ellesmere Port.
Our passing resulted in Bailey hitting the post from a brilliant move, Harry having one saved on the line before we again hit the cross bar. At the back we looked really relaxed and both William and Charlie were able to mop up or take the ball from Hugo and find a yellow shirt.
The boys were really unfortunate to go behind as we misjudged a long ball which fell very kindly for their striker who shot low and hard to put Ellesmere 1-0 up at half time.
In the second half we were again the more dominant attacking threat and our pressure began to tell with a wave of attacks and corners. Zac got us level, slamming the ball in off the cross bar and at this stage it looked like we would go on to win the game.
Unfortunately though we conceded a soft goal coming from us not clearing our lines...something we still need to improve!
At 2-1 down we showed "the great character" of a Brendan Rogers' side and Xander managed to break free from two tackles to run through and hit our equaliser. We immediately took off a defender in an attempt to grab the winner but we ran out of time and settled for a deserved point to keep us unbeaten in the league and help our seeding for the Cups to come.
Our overall play was really pleasing as we have players now who can run at opponents but who are learning to lay off the ball and get in behind (the diagonal move). With this added element to our game, coupled with our pace and work rate we can look forward to great season ahead.
Thanks to parents for fantastic support on a cold and wet day. Winter is certainly coming!
The score-line today doesn't really reflect how well we played or our dominance of the game.
The boys played really well, showing a lot of composure and putting together some brilliant passing moves. It was pleasing that we'd taken something from the Jets game and our training last night as we made a lot of diagonal passing moves to get in behind Ellesmere Port.
Our passing resulted in Bailey hitting the post from a brilliant move, Harry having one saved on the line before we again hit the cross bar. At the back we looked really relaxed and both William and Charlie were able to mop up or take the ball from Hugo and find a yellow shirt.
The boys were really unfortunate to go behind as we misjudged a long ball which fell very kindly for their striker who shot low and hard to put Ellesmere 1-0 up at half time.
In the second half we were again the more dominant attacking threat and our pressure began to tell with a wave of attacks and corners. Zac got us level, slamming the ball in off the cross bar and at this stage it looked like we would go on to win the game.
Unfortunately though we conceded a soft goal coming from us not clearing our lines...something we still need to improve!
At 2-1 down we showed "the great character" of a Brendan Rogers' side and Xander managed to break free from two tackles to run through and hit our equaliser. We immediately took off a defender in an attempt to grab the winner but we ran out of time and settled for a deserved point to keep us unbeaten in the league and help our seeding for the Cups to come.
Our overall play was really pleasing as we have players now who can run at opponents but who are learning to lay off the ball and get in behind (the diagonal move). With this added element to our game, coupled with our pace and work rate we can look forward to great season ahead.
Thanks to parents for fantastic support on a cold and wet day. Winter is certainly coming!
Wednesday 28 September 2016
THIS WEEKEND - SAT 1 OCTOBER
Hi all
This
week we will train on Friday at 5:45pm at the County offices astro pitches on PITCH
2.
On
Saturday we have an AWAY fixture against Ellesmere Port. Its a 10:30am
KO (10am arrival) at Whitby Sports and Social Club, Dunkirk Lane,
Chester Road, Ellesmere Port, CH65 6QF. Additional parking can be found on
Dunkirk Lane, past the social club on the right hand side if the car park is
busy.
The
whole squad is picked, minus the players rested below who are Alex and George
this weekend. If we have anyone who can’t play or who is ill or injured let me
know ASAP so I can shift things about.
Sat
1 October. Alex and George
Sat
8 October. Rory and Charlie
Sat
15 October. Bailey and Xander
Sat
22 October. William and Fin
12
November. Zac and Austin
Best
regards
Rob
MATCH REPORT - SAT 24 SEPT
ROCKETS 3 - 4 JETS
A really useful training game against our Jets side showed us a few areas we can improve over the coming months.
Although we lost the game in the final couple of minutes, from being 2-1 up, we shouldn't be disappointed as one year ago we lost 15-1!
On a organisational, commitment and effort level we matched the Jets and after we got back into the game, George scoring from the move of the game, we looked perfectly comfortable in the middle two quarters. We were able to push the Jets back in the second quarter bringing out good saves from Casper.
The Jets passing was more relaxed and as they have played in the higher league for the past two season's they played at a slightly higher tempo and closed more quickly than we are used to which hampered our own football and passing.
BUT, it will do us good to play the Jets or other teams from that league on a regular basis.
The final quarter was great fun and both teams were committed to try and get a result. Jets went ahead before Xander equalised direct from a corner and then with a couple of minutes left Frank was allowed to advance too far towards our area to hit a great winning goal.
Even in the dying moments the Rockets still looked a threat on the break and we nearly equalised but Bailey was stopped by a very good Lewis tackle.
Overall, the result was fair, although a draw would have been nice too!
MOTM for the game, and a contender for Captain this weekend is Hugo who made some good saves and look assured in his distribution and kicking.
A really useful training game against our Jets side showed us a few areas we can improve over the coming months.
Although we lost the game in the final couple of minutes, from being 2-1 up, we shouldn't be disappointed as one year ago we lost 15-1!
On a organisational, commitment and effort level we matched the Jets and after we got back into the game, George scoring from the move of the game, we looked perfectly comfortable in the middle two quarters. We were able to push the Jets back in the second quarter bringing out good saves from Casper.
The Jets passing was more relaxed and as they have played in the higher league for the past two season's they played at a slightly higher tempo and closed more quickly than we are used to which hampered our own football and passing.
BUT, it will do us good to play the Jets or other teams from that league on a regular basis.
The final quarter was great fun and both teams were committed to try and get a result. Jets went ahead before Xander equalised direct from a corner and then with a couple of minutes left Frank was allowed to advance too far towards our area to hit a great winning goal.
Even in the dying moments the Rockets still looked a threat on the break and we nearly equalised but Bailey was stopped by a very good Lewis tackle.
Overall, the result was fair, although a draw would have been nice too!
MOTM for the game, and a contender for Captain this weekend is Hugo who made some good saves and look assured in his distribution and kicking.
Saturday 17 September 2016
MATCH REPORT - SAT 17 SEPT
BLACON YOUTH 'A' 2 - 3 ROCKETS
A storming performance this morning which was surprising considering the training session last night was a bit of a struggle!
Paul and I thought hard about our set-up today and we went for Zac in the middle and Rory up front, with pace and width either side and on the bench. Its really important now that players can keep their shape and understand their roles.
We started brilliantly and got through the Blacon defence early on with Rory being brought down from behind but the ref playing on. With a carbon copy move 2 minutes later Rory put us ahead with a fine finish to the bottom corner.
In the second quarter we switched a few players and from the kick-off we put together a four man passing move from wing to wing for Harry to run and strike the ball into the bottom corner. Already a goal of the season contender!
In the 3rd and 4th quarters the game was end to end and following Blacon getting themselves back into the game we switched firstly to Fin and then Zac to play a deeper holding midfield role. This worked well and although Blacon equalised we always looked a threat on the break.
Our defence was much more alert this week. Charlie was clearing his lines and Alex made a couple of really important blocks and tackles. William in goal kept us level with a brilliant one handed save round the post and a brave save off his line late on.
Xander and the Blacon no.14 were having a very physical battle on the wing. It was interesting to watch two talented players trying to force the other back, and I think Xander won the battle on the whole.
At 2-2 we were finding space and this resulted in Xander getting a cross into the area and Fin smashed the ball into the roof of the net for the winner.
We saw the game out like Liverpool V Chelsea to record our first competitive win which helps our seeding for the upcoming Cup competitions.
Well done to the boys.
A storming performance this morning which was surprising considering the training session last night was a bit of a struggle!
Paul and I thought hard about our set-up today and we went for Zac in the middle and Rory up front, with pace and width either side and on the bench. Its really important now that players can keep their shape and understand their roles.
We started brilliantly and got through the Blacon defence early on with Rory being brought down from behind but the ref playing on. With a carbon copy move 2 minutes later Rory put us ahead with a fine finish to the bottom corner.
In the second quarter we switched a few players and from the kick-off we put together a four man passing move from wing to wing for Harry to run and strike the ball into the bottom corner. Already a goal of the season contender!
In the 3rd and 4th quarters the game was end to end and following Blacon getting themselves back into the game we switched firstly to Fin and then Zac to play a deeper holding midfield role. This worked well and although Blacon equalised we always looked a threat on the break.
Our defence was much more alert this week. Charlie was clearing his lines and Alex made a couple of really important blocks and tackles. William in goal kept us level with a brilliant one handed save round the post and a brave save off his line late on.
Xander and the Blacon no.14 were having a very physical battle on the wing. It was interesting to watch two talented players trying to force the other back, and I think Xander won the battle on the whole.
At 2-2 we were finding space and this resulted in Xander getting a cross into the area and Fin smashed the ball into the roof of the net for the winner.
We saw the game out like Liverpool V Chelsea to record our first competitive win which helps our seeding for the upcoming Cup competitions.
Well done to the boys.
MATCH REPORT - SAT 10 SEPT
ELTON YOUTH 3 - 1 ROCKETS
A pre-season loss to a strong Elton side showed that we need to work on fitness, concentration and positioning to quickly get back to the levels we reached at the end of last season.
We started the game with a robust line up and the lads selected held their positions very well and we controlled the first quarter which ended 0-0 with the Elton keeper making a great save from a Zac screamer.
In the second quarter we introduced some of our flair players who had just returned from the beach and we lost our shape with Elton starting to put us under pressure. From this pressure we failed to clear our lines and Elton scored with a decent finish.
In the 3rd quarter we upped our game and we started to camp in the Elton half. A good move resulted in the equaliser with Zac hammering the ball into the top corner. At this stage it looked like we could go on to win the game.
Unfortunately we then suffered from a couple of individual errors in defence, first letting the ball bounce and then getting the wrong side of the striker and bringing him down. Both errors were costly creating a tap in and a free -kick which the talented Elton striker hit to the top corner. 3-1 down.
On a positive note the boys kept going and were unlucky not to get back into the game. The work out, against a good side on a poor pitch, was a real test and will focus us on clearing our lines and keeping our shape.
A pre-season loss to a strong Elton side showed that we need to work on fitness, concentration and positioning to quickly get back to the levels we reached at the end of last season.
We started the game with a robust line up and the lads selected held their positions very well and we controlled the first quarter which ended 0-0 with the Elton keeper making a great save from a Zac screamer.
In the second quarter we introduced some of our flair players who had just returned from the beach and we lost our shape with Elton starting to put us under pressure. From this pressure we failed to clear our lines and Elton scored with a decent finish.
In the 3rd quarter we upped our game and we started to camp in the Elton half. A good move resulted in the equaliser with Zac hammering the ball into the top corner. At this stage it looked like we could go on to win the game.
Unfortunately we then suffered from a couple of individual errors in defence, first letting the ball bounce and then getting the wrong side of the striker and bringing him down. Both errors were costly creating a tap in and a free -kick which the talented Elton striker hit to the top corner. 3-1 down.
On a positive note the boys kept going and were unlucky not to get back into the game. The work out, against a good side on a poor pitch, was a real test and will focus us on clearing our lines and keeping our shape.
Wednesday 7 September 2016
THIS WEEKEND - SAT 10 SEPT
Hi all
This week we will train on Friday at 5:45pm at the County
offices astro pitches on PITCH 6
On Saturday we have an away fixture against our old foes at
Elton Youth. Its 9am KO so an early 8:30am arrival at Elton Primary School,
School Lane, Elton, CH2 4LT. Please park at the Community Centre.
As this is a pre-season “friendly” we will take all 12
registered players.
Please let me know if anyone CANNOT attend either.
Regards
RobWednesday 31 August 2016
NEW SEASON
Hi all
Training this Friday will take place at Waverton pitches at 5:45pm and then from Friday 9th Sept we are at Cheshire County offices, same time.
This Saturday morning we will train again (mixture of fitness and mini matches) at 9am start at Waverton Primary school pitch. A few boys are still away and Blacon did not come back to us about a friendly...
Can you please have your September £10 training subs with you as we will need to pre-pay County offices for September.
Best regards
Rob
Monday 8 August 2016
PRE-SEASON MATCH REPORT - SAT 6 AUGUST
ROCKETS & JETS 5 - 1 MARKET DRAYTON TOWN FC
Some of our lads travelled to join a mixed Rockets & Jets team versus Market Drayton Town FC, who had narrowly beaten our Rockets 1-0 in the Prees Tournament.
It was a different story this time as our boys gelled from the start beating Market Drayton to every ball and putting together move after move with only the talented goalie keeping the opposition in the game.
Our pressure finally told when a wicked Harry corner was put in for an own goal.
We capitalised again soon after with a sweet move from William to Charlie, down the line to Harry who's cross was put in by the goalie for another own goal.
In the second and third quarters we dominated the match, building from a defensive line up of Charlie, Tom and William who swept up any danger and passed the ball intelligently. Jacob, Toby, Xander, Zac with Frank and Harry leading the line did exactly what we'd asked, by putting high pressure on Market Drayton and forcing errors.
Zac got on the score sheet twice, firstly with a nice finish from a Frank cross and then slamming home from close range. Xander completed the rout with a trade mark finish to the top corner to put us 5-0 up.
Market Drayton improved marginally in the final quarter but we were also unlucky with Jacob hitting the cross bar and every corner looking like we would add to the score-line.
At 3 or 4 nil up we perhaps could have relaxed a little more and passed better bearing in mind the talent in the team but overall the effort level was fantastic on a very hot morning.
The result bodes well for the season ahead for the Jets and Rockets.
Some of our lads travelled to join a mixed Rockets & Jets team versus Market Drayton Town FC, who had narrowly beaten our Rockets 1-0 in the Prees Tournament.
It was a different story this time as our boys gelled from the start beating Market Drayton to every ball and putting together move after move with only the talented goalie keeping the opposition in the game.
Our pressure finally told when a wicked Harry corner was put in for an own goal.
We capitalised again soon after with a sweet move from William to Charlie, down the line to Harry who's cross was put in by the goalie for another own goal.
In the second and third quarters we dominated the match, building from a defensive line up of Charlie, Tom and William who swept up any danger and passed the ball intelligently. Jacob, Toby, Xander, Zac with Frank and Harry leading the line did exactly what we'd asked, by putting high pressure on Market Drayton and forcing errors.
Zac got on the score sheet twice, firstly with a nice finish from a Frank cross and then slamming home from close range. Xander completed the rout with a trade mark finish to the top corner to put us 5-0 up.
Market Drayton improved marginally in the final quarter but we were also unlucky with Jacob hitting the cross bar and every corner looking like we would add to the score-line.
At 3 or 4 nil up we perhaps could have relaxed a little more and passed better bearing in mind the talent in the team but overall the effort level was fantastic on a very hot morning.
The result bodes well for the season ahead for the Jets and Rockets.
Monday 27 June 2016
TOURNAMENT REPORT - FRODSHAM FOOTBALL FESTIVAL
ROCKETS - GROUP WINNERS !
What a fantastic end to the season. The boys were pitched in Group 4 against teams from Liverpool, Warrington and Winsford.
Undeterred we started with a 0-0 draw against Mags Dynamos from Huyton and then went on a run of 5 victories, scoring 10 goals and conceding none!
Results and goal scorers as follows:
Rockets 0 - 0 Mags Dynamos
Rockets 2 - 0 Appleton (Bailey, Zac)
Rockets 2 - 0 Tytherington (Bailey, Xander)
Rockets 1 - 0 Frodsham Park (Bailey)
Rockets 1 - 0 Grappenhall (Xander)
Rockets 4 - 0 Buckley Town (Will B, Xander, William, George)
Rockets 2 - 2 Winsford (George, Bailey)
Our final game was a cup final as Winsford had not been beaten but had drawn one more game so needed to beat the Rockets to top the group. Anything other than a defeat would mean the day belonged to the Rockets.
Winsford were extremely physical and had a very vocal backing from their parents but in the early stages we stood up to their tactics and then began to play our football.
Rockets then scored a goal which is one of the best we've scored and is a contender for goal of the season. Charlie picked the ball up on the right, played in Bailey who switched the ball left, through Zac and onto to Xander who beat a player and crossed to George for a tap-in to complete a 5 player move!
Winsford rallied as the Rockets sat back a little and their no.11 took a blatant dive in the box from a William tackle (along with 3 high pitch squeals and couple of rolls) and unbelievably the referee pointed to the spot. There was nothing Hugo could do as they found the top corner. Game on.
With 5 minutes to go it was end to end and Winsford stunned the Rockets with a break away goal which was nicely finished. 1-2 down!
With a couple of minutes left the Rockets piled on the pressure and Winsford resorted to WWF tackling to try and keep us out. However, the pressure finally told as from a penalty area scramble Bailey scored to break Winsford hearts and ensure the Rockets won the group.
5 wins and 2 draws. 12 goals scored and only 2 conceded with 6 clean sheets. So a tremendous end to the season! This was an even better performance than at Prees, so well done to the boys.
Have a fantastic summer break. Our official first training session will be Friday 2 September at County Offices 17:45 (so same as last year).
All the best
Rob & Paul
What a fantastic end to the season. The boys were pitched in Group 4 against teams from Liverpool, Warrington and Winsford.
Undeterred we started with a 0-0 draw against Mags Dynamos from Huyton and then went on a run of 5 victories, scoring 10 goals and conceding none!
Results and goal scorers as follows:
Rockets 0 - 0 Mags Dynamos
Rockets 2 - 0 Appleton (Bailey, Zac)
Rockets 2 - 0 Tytherington (Bailey, Xander)
Rockets 1 - 0 Frodsham Park (Bailey)
Rockets 1 - 0 Grappenhall (Xander)
Rockets 4 - 0 Buckley Town (Will B, Xander, William, George)
Rockets 2 - 2 Winsford (George, Bailey)
Our final game was a cup final as Winsford had not been beaten but had drawn one more game so needed to beat the Rockets to top the group. Anything other than a defeat would mean the day belonged to the Rockets.
Winsford were extremely physical and had a very vocal backing from their parents but in the early stages we stood up to their tactics and then began to play our football.
Rockets then scored a goal which is one of the best we've scored and is a contender for goal of the season. Charlie picked the ball up on the right, played in Bailey who switched the ball left, through Zac and onto to Xander who beat a player and crossed to George for a tap-in to complete a 5 player move!
Winsford rallied as the Rockets sat back a little and their no.11 took a blatant dive in the box from a William tackle (along with 3 high pitch squeals and couple of rolls) and unbelievably the referee pointed to the spot. There was nothing Hugo could do as they found the top corner. Game on.
With 5 minutes to go it was end to end and Winsford stunned the Rockets with a break away goal which was nicely finished. 1-2 down!
With a couple of minutes left the Rockets piled on the pressure and Winsford resorted to WWF tackling to try and keep us out. However, the pressure finally told as from a penalty area scramble Bailey scored to break Winsford hearts and ensure the Rockets won the group.
5 wins and 2 draws. 12 goals scored and only 2 conceded with 6 clean sheets. So a tremendous end to the season! This was an even better performance than at Prees, so well done to the boys.
Have a fantastic summer break. Our official first training session will be Friday 2 September at County Offices 17:45 (so same as last year).
All the best
Rob & Paul
Tuesday 21 June 2016
END OF SEASON AWARDS - PARENTS V PLAYER MATCH
Hi all
Thanks to all the parents and siblings who turned out for the epic Parents V Players match. The match ended 8 - 8 so we went to penalties with the first to 7 being the winner. The Rockets managed to get to 7 goals in just 8 penalties and even Jonny Winter's 'rabona' penalty kick to the top corner couldn't change the result.
The awards were held at the Ring O Bells where all the boys deservedly got their season awards with Charlie Evans picking up Coaches Player of the Year and Xander Veal picking up Players Player of the Year.
Here are some photos courtesy of Sam and Hayden...
Thanks to all the parents and siblings who turned out for the epic Parents V Players match. The match ended 8 - 8 so we went to penalties with the first to 7 being the winner. The Rockets managed to get to 7 goals in just 8 penalties and even Jonny Winter's 'rabona' penalty kick to the top corner couldn't change the result.
The awards were held at the Ring O Bells where all the boys deservedly got their season awards with Charlie Evans picking up Coaches Player of the Year and Xander Veal picking up Players Player of the Year.
Here are some photos courtesy of Sam and Hayden...
Wednesday 15 June 2016
THIS WEEKEND - SAT 18 JUNE
Hi all
Charlie E
Hugo STW
Bailey G
Fin P
Training is ON
this week at the Waverton Pitches, 5:45pm start.
This Saturday is our Awards day and Parents v Players match
so I hope everyone is prepared and has been hitting the gym?
Rockets to wear their Waverton Kit for a team photo please.
Format will be 9 v 9 with rolling subs which each team
manages themselves – I will keep an eye on the Rockets! 4 x 10m quarters. It
will be non-contact parent versus player. Siblings can play for the parents
team.
Match KO is 11am so
arrival at 10:40 to set up the posts would be appreciated.
At 12:30-12:40pm
pizza, chips and drinks will be served for the players at the Ring O Bells in Christleton (we have
the side bar area reserved). I’ve ordered enough for 12 boys but we can increase
on the day for siblings. The costs will be taken out of the left over subs.
Players Awards will be made about 1pm and we need to vacate
the room by 2pm as they are showing the Ireland game.
MAY SUBS to pay please:
Alex BCharlie E
Hugo STW
Bailey G
Fin P
Thanks
RobMonday 13 June 2016
TOURNAMENT REPORT - SUN 12 JUNE
ROCKETS - QUARTER FINALISTS
Thanks to all the lads and parents who turned out in wet conditions for the Shropshire tournament at Prees FC yesterday.
The Rockets were drawn in Group A, pitching us against Market Drayton and Saha Raptors in the first two group games, both of whom had got to the finals last year. The boys did brilliantly against talented opposition and only conceded one goal from a very dodgy free-kick resulting in one defeat and one draw after two matches.
The highlight of my season, in fact my year, was when the referee produced a can of what must have been shaving foam and sprayed it across the turf to keep our wall back!! I'm not sure he appreciated us laughing at him but it was funny.
The next two games against Worthan and West Hagley FC we scored 9 goals and conceded zero to put the Rockets top of the group after 4 games! We played some of the best football of the season, right up there with the Blacon and Vicars Cross performances.
Needing just one point to be certain of qualification we tensed up in the next two games, getting beat 0-2 by Prees A team and then managing to get a draw against Shawbury FC 1-1 to make for a tense wait while other results came in.
With 2 wins, 2 draws and 2 defeats we had punched above our weight in our first competitive tournament and we had done enough to qualify 3rd in the group to set up a quarter final match with the second placed team in Group B - Randley Colts.
We had seen Randley play a few games and their no.8 from Wolves academy had ran every game. However, we needn't of worried as our boys shot out of the blocks piling pressure and shots on the opposition. Their keeper made some fine saves, we hit the post twice and on a couple of occasions we could have shot earlier. To say we were battering them is an understatement.
Randley though scored first with a really lucky goal from a long goal kick which bounced over our defence and Hugo and was flicked over the line.
We again pressed and the Randley no.8 who had been so dominant in early games found himself getting out fought.
Following a great run into space from William he was assaulted by one the Randley midfielders. Even if the player did get any of the ball, and we don't think he did, the tackle was over the top and over aggressive. Remarkably the ref played on with our player injured and crying and Randley broke through a defenceless Rockets to score. Even though the Randley player admitted the foul the ref allowed the goal. Very poor all round.
Bailey got us back into the game in the dying minutes from a nicely worked free kick but we went out of the competition 1-2 and were obviously all very disappointed.
We have to take massive positives from the day. We took a squad of nine Rockets to a tournament full of so called 'A' teams, full of academy players. I thought we matched everyone as a team and individually all our nine were as good as the opposition. Its easy to say, but we didn't get 'the rub of the green' and on another day I'm certain we could have gone further.
Our parent support was excellent and its nice for the boys to be clapped off the field when we make substitutions or at half time. I think this adds to the team spirit and togetherness of the group.
Well done to the boys.
Thanks to all the lads and parents who turned out in wet conditions for the Shropshire tournament at Prees FC yesterday.
The Rockets were drawn in Group A, pitching us against Market Drayton and Saha Raptors in the first two group games, both of whom had got to the finals last year. The boys did brilliantly against talented opposition and only conceded one goal from a very dodgy free-kick resulting in one defeat and one draw after two matches.
The highlight of my season, in fact my year, was when the referee produced a can of what must have been shaving foam and sprayed it across the turf to keep our wall back!! I'm not sure he appreciated us laughing at him but it was funny.
The next two games against Worthan and West Hagley FC we scored 9 goals and conceded zero to put the Rockets top of the group after 4 games! We played some of the best football of the season, right up there with the Blacon and Vicars Cross performances.
Needing just one point to be certain of qualification we tensed up in the next two games, getting beat 0-2 by Prees A team and then managing to get a draw against Shawbury FC 1-1 to make for a tense wait while other results came in.
With 2 wins, 2 draws and 2 defeats we had punched above our weight in our first competitive tournament and we had done enough to qualify 3rd in the group to set up a quarter final match with the second placed team in Group B - Randley Colts.
We had seen Randley play a few games and their no.8 from Wolves academy had ran every game. However, we needn't of worried as our boys shot out of the blocks piling pressure and shots on the opposition. Their keeper made some fine saves, we hit the post twice and on a couple of occasions we could have shot earlier. To say we were battering them is an understatement.
Randley though scored first with a really lucky goal from a long goal kick which bounced over our defence and Hugo and was flicked over the line.
We again pressed and the Randley no.8 who had been so dominant in early games found himself getting out fought.
Following a great run into space from William he was assaulted by one the Randley midfielders. Even if the player did get any of the ball, and we don't think he did, the tackle was over the top and over aggressive. Remarkably the ref played on with our player injured and crying and Randley broke through a defenceless Rockets to score. Even though the Randley player admitted the foul the ref allowed the goal. Very poor all round.
Bailey got us back into the game in the dying minutes from a nicely worked free kick but we went out of the competition 1-2 and were obviously all very disappointed.
We have to take massive positives from the day. We took a squad of nine Rockets to a tournament full of so called 'A' teams, full of academy players. I thought we matched everyone as a team and individually all our nine were as good as the opposition. Its easy to say, but we didn't get 'the rub of the green' and on another day I'm certain we could have gone further.
Our parent support was excellent and its nice for the boys to be clapped off the field when we make substitutions or at half time. I think this adds to the team spirit and togetherness of the group.
Well done to the boys.
Thursday 9 June 2016
THIS WEEKEND
Hi all
A busy weekend of football coming up…only a few to go!!
TRAINING – due to the schedule training is CANCELLED this Friday night.
SATURDAY – we have an Waverton u8s European Finals
‘mash-up’ kicking off at 10am, lasting until 12pm, at the Waverton Pitches. Our
boys will get the chance to play alongside friends from the other teams as the
coaches have picked England, Spain, France and Germany squads made up of mixed
players from the three Waverton squads. The format will be 3 x 20min Group
matches followed by a final and play-off, so total playing time of 1 hour.
SUNDAY – some of the boys have the Prees Tournament –
please refer to your earlier email and timings.
See you all Saturday.
Best regards
Rob
Saturday 4 June 2016
MATCH REPORT - SAT 4 JUNE
VICARS CROSS 2 - 12 ROCKETS
Between the coaches and parents I dare say we have seen a lot of football over the years. In junior football, since I played and now coaching, this was one of the most complete performances I've seen. Every player did exactly what we had talked about and our level of play today was incredible. It was "that day" when everything we've worked on in training came together, everything just clicked, and this resulted in a level of play and talent that Vicar's Cross could not live with.
Vicar's Cross came into the match on the back of a 20 match unbeaten run and we had lost 3-7 to them last time. That statistic alone shows how far this group have come in the last 18 months.
Unbelievably we went 1-0 down! But from there Harry got us back into the game with a brilliant finish and then Xander hit a free kick to the top corner to start the rout...
To list every goal would be impossible...but our scorers were Xander (4), Harry (3), Zac (2), George (2), Bailey (1). We also hit the post or cross bar 4 times!
We knew that Vicar's Cross were a robust side who like to put in a tackle. However, they soon found out that despite our size we can also fight for the ball and we tackle fairly and stay on our feet. Our opposition grew frustrated by this and every time we got a free- kick we punished them. Harry and Xander both found the top corners from range!
At the back William, Alex, Fin and Hugo did not put a foot wrong against a very talented forward. Hugo made some great saves to keep the oppositions heads down and the distribution from Hugo's hands or from William's feet was excellent.
Our midfield ran the show. Bailey and Zac had there usual energetic games and Harry and Xander's running was just too much for the opposition. A special mention goes to Rory who had a fantastic game, not only threatening going forward but doing the hard work as well to get back and cover.
George up front was patient and took his chances clinically. Some of his movement, drifting off the shoulder of the defence was so clever and is beyond his years. If we had one small criticism of our midfield it is that we need to find George a little more, and sometimes earlier, as he is always in space.
Finally, our set pieces were just out of this world. Every corner or free kick was on the mark and we looked like we would score every time from dead ball situations. This played into our hands as Vicar's Cross lost their heads a little and kept giving free kicks away in dangerous places. We should also mention that the game was refereed extremely well and very fairly.
MOTM went to everyone today. William will Captain the Prees Tournament and I think we will carry on with the 'Harry huddle' and Captain's team talk!
This was a fine way to end the league season. Let the tournaments begin!
Rob & Paul
Between the coaches and parents I dare say we have seen a lot of football over the years. In junior football, since I played and now coaching, this was one of the most complete performances I've seen. Every player did exactly what we had talked about and our level of play today was incredible. It was "that day" when everything we've worked on in training came together, everything just clicked, and this resulted in a level of play and talent that Vicar's Cross could not live with.
Vicar's Cross came into the match on the back of a 20 match unbeaten run and we had lost 3-7 to them last time. That statistic alone shows how far this group have come in the last 18 months.
Unbelievably we went 1-0 down! But from there Harry got us back into the game with a brilliant finish and then Xander hit a free kick to the top corner to start the rout...
To list every goal would be impossible...but our scorers were Xander (4), Harry (3), Zac (2), George (2), Bailey (1). We also hit the post or cross bar 4 times!
We knew that Vicar's Cross were a robust side who like to put in a tackle. However, they soon found out that despite our size we can also fight for the ball and we tackle fairly and stay on our feet. Our opposition grew frustrated by this and every time we got a free- kick we punished them. Harry and Xander both found the top corners from range!
At the back William, Alex, Fin and Hugo did not put a foot wrong against a very talented forward. Hugo made some great saves to keep the oppositions heads down and the distribution from Hugo's hands or from William's feet was excellent.
Our midfield ran the show. Bailey and Zac had there usual energetic games and Harry and Xander's running was just too much for the opposition. A special mention goes to Rory who had a fantastic game, not only threatening going forward but doing the hard work as well to get back and cover.
George up front was patient and took his chances clinically. Some of his movement, drifting off the shoulder of the defence was so clever and is beyond his years. If we had one small criticism of our midfield it is that we need to find George a little more, and sometimes earlier, as he is always in space.
Finally, our set pieces were just out of this world. Every corner or free kick was on the mark and we looked like we would score every time from dead ball situations. This played into our hands as Vicar's Cross lost their heads a little and kept giving free kicks away in dangerous places. We should also mention that the game was refereed extremely well and very fairly.
MOTM went to everyone today. William will Captain the Prees Tournament and I think we will carry on with the 'Harry huddle' and Captain's team talk!
This was a fine way to end the league season. Let the tournaments begin!
Rob & Paul
Friday 3 June 2016
PREES TOURNAMENT- SUN 12TH JUNE
Hello all
William
Charlie
Xander
Fin
Harry
Bailey
Zac
Rory
We now have full details of the tournament at Prees
JFC on Sunday 12th June – see attached document.
It’s an early start as we need to be there for 8:30am
as we have 9am KO’s (and will forfeit games if we are late). That said it looks
like we will be finished by lunch time which is good.
The address is below and parking is £2.50 per car.
Tournament subs are £3 per player.
Brades Road
Prees
Shropshire, SY13 2DX
Prees
Shropshire, SY13 2DX
The journey is about 40 minutes (25 miles on
country roads) from Waverton. If anyone wants to share cars then please
organise between yourselves at training. I have space for 3 in my car and I can
collect from Christleton at 7:40am.
Squad is as follows – format is 5-side with rolling
subs.
Hugo (g)William
Charlie
Xander
Fin
Harry
Bailey
Zac
Rory
It could be very hot and there is not much shade so
if we could bring a couple of gazebo’s (if we have any?) that’d be great and we
can set up Camp Rockets. The boys will need plenty of water, snacks and
depending on allergies and skin the boys may need piriton and suncream!
The competition will be tough but it should be a
great experience! We will practise some 5v5 games at training.
Cheers
RobTuesday 31 May 2016
THIS WEEKEND - SAY 4 JUNE
Hi
all
Alex
William
Harry (c)
Fin
Xander
Zac
Rory
Will B
George
Bailey
Training
on Friday is at 5:45pm, Waverton Pitches. Outstanding
May subs would be appreciated.
This
Saturday we have a match AWAY v Vicars Cross at 10:30am KO (so
10:00am arrival) at Thackeray Drive, Vicars Cross, Chester, CH3 5LP.
We
will select all players we know are available for this last league match of the
year. This is the toughest game in our league and we lost 3-7 last time (from
being 3-0 up!) so we hope to do well this time round. Starting selection and
game time will be based on last week’s performances and this Friday’s training
session.
Team
Hugo
(g)Alex
William
Harry (c)
Fin
Xander
Zac
Rory
Will B
George
Bailey
Rested
Charlie
If
anyone cannot play please let me know ASAP.
Thanks
Rob
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