U12 T1 East Area League vs T1 - Group 2

Our U12 boys travelled to Cambridge City for the first installment of the T1 East League.

Memories of big defeats from last season causing concerns for the team.

However, right from the off we played as a team against Cambridge Juniors. Superb passing from defence, through midfield to the forwards saw a swift cross from Luca being met with a powerful finish from Oscar. Quickly met by an amazing solo effort from Toby. 2-0 at half time and our boys were showing how the team can perform. 2-1 after a few moments before Jack and Luca worked the ball well together and Jack finishing the game 3-1.

Game 2 drew us against Saffron Waldon. Mika and Rory playing such nice hockey out of the defence, coupled with some fantastic saves from Monty meant Pelicans could really push forward with each attack.

Goals from Toby, Jack and Oscar quickly saw us with a comfortable 3 goal lead. Saffron Walden scoring a late consolation goal with the game ending 3-1.

The third game drew us against Blueharts, Mika's old club and he desperately wanted the win. A close fought game saw exceptional play from everyone with Toby sealing a victory in the last few minutes. 1-0 Pelicans.

Game 4 against Cambridge City (who beat us 15-0 last year). A difficult game saw Henry drop into a defensive position where he had a fantastic game. 2-0 down we pushed hard, Oscar scoring a well earned team goal. The team battled to the very end with Jack scoring at the final whistle. Although the game ended a 5-2 loss it was great to watch the boys really dig deep and apply pressure right up to the last second.

Special mentions:

Monty, a solid performance and coming back from a fractured wrist to drop a player on his head with a beautiful challenge!

Mika, learned from an early, silly, mistake and performed very well in defence.

Rory. The team bulldog, doesn't quit and isn't scared of anything.

Henry, team captain, as voted by his team. Took time on the ball, developed play very well with quick distribution and a keen eye for a long pass.

Toby, workhorse as per usual. Scored some brilliant solo goals. 3 goals scored.

Luca, always in the right place to receive a pass, dragged defenders wide and set up some great goals.

Jack, didn't put a foot wrong all day. Every time he collected the ball something good happened. 3 goals scored.

Oscar, solid performance, 3 goals scored and did well to hold the ball up front allowing team to support.

Proud of the team who will do very well together throughout the season. A force to be reckoned with.