U11 A
Our pre-match chat was all about sticking to our systems and playing the players not the age gap as Copthill U11s took on Oakham U13D. After a cagey start the boys soon found their passing game to take hold of possession. With our possession came pressure, and so plenty of goal chances. However, the challenge of a much larger and more athletic keeper frustrated the boys up front as they had to work out different ways to score. Eventually they got it; stay calm and slot it into a corner! With the goals coming and our excellent defensive unit looking secure the match turned decisively in our direction. Flowing team hockey and intelligent finishing took us on to the final whistle.
Our second game against Oakham U12C was a tighter game, giving our defence plenty of work. The only goal conceded being an unfortunate own goal off an errant Copthill foot. Once again with our energetic and confident passing play across the pitch goal chances were being made at the other end, so it was just a matter of time before they were converted. Having learnt from the first game it was great to see more composure in front of goal, the boys trying some deft touches and deflections, working out alternative routes to the back of the net. Congratulations boys, some impressive hockey played, especially after a half term break! To come away with 8-0 and 4-1 results was testament to your great teamwork. Keep it going!
U11B
The Copthill U11B performed very well against much older opposition, first game v Oakham U12C, followed by the U13D team. The boys are becoming very accomplished team players, and displayed how much they have developed this year, they found space, passed accurately and quickly, as well as marking closely when defending to stifle the opponents attacks. A busy afternoon of hockey returned two wins; 5-3 and 2-0, both well deserved for the skills, effort and teamwork on show. Well done boys!
