Saugus United Yr 9

We were all very excited about this game from the minute we arrived in LA. Both teams started strongly with Beths making the better opportunities and keeping the ball. We finally, took the lead breaking through the hard-working and tough American defence. Paddy Clifford got the ball from the wing which Billy Davis had provided to him and he then took one touch and set Danny Dunbar who fired home from the edge of the area. Soon after we increased our lead through Jack Curtis which, Matt Peasey had set up. We went into half-time 2-0 up with our heads and spirits held up high. At half-time we had made a lot of changes so that everyone could get on as well as, everyone could get a break seeing as the weather was so hot. The Americans never stopped and kept on going and finally got their reward when they scored after great attempts to stop it by, Laurie Watts and Daniel Wykes. As our lead slipped to a one goal lead some of our heads went a down little and they took advantage of that by getting a penalty which was in fairness a little harsh. We then, made some more changes as we tried to take back the lead and we nearly did that on many occasions. As both teams got a little tired and sloppy we tried to push for a goal and we were so close in the last few minutes from a ball to Paddy Clifford from, Tom Austin through their strong backline, which he chipped the keeper but, very unluckily hit the bar. This was a great game and very enjoyable and we thought that they gave great facilities to us. Also, we thought the way they played was superb as they were not falling over when they were fouled and just got on with the football. Our team gave 100% and could have snatched the win on many occasions.

Team:  D. Wykes, S. Ashby, T. Johnson, L. Watts, M. Peasey, D. Hathrill, T. Austin, B. Davis, P. Clifford, D. Dunbar, J. Curtis.

Subs:  J. Whittle, M. Dunn, K. Jordan, T. Ball, A. Howatson, J. Gilham.

Tom Austin (C).

Final score:  Beths 2 – 2 Saugus United