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Oxford City Colts Under 10s 0 – Ardington Under 10s 9

First Match
OCC 0 – Ardington 6

After the elation of last week’s victory over St Edmunds, the Colts suffered the misery of a heavy defeat at the hands of a well-organised Ardington side. Confidence was high at the beginning of what was the first home match played at Court Place Farm by the Under 10s since early December. Ardington started with two strikers pushed well up field who proved a handful for the Colts’ defence. After a number of attacks, Ardington finally took the lead with a fiercely struck shot. The Colts lifted their game and fought well for the rest of the half but the ball simply wouldn’t run their way. Just before half-time another Ardington attack resulted in a penalty. Joe Russell, the Colts’ goalkeeper, was unlucky not to save the spot kick and was obviously in pain following his valiant effort to keep the ball out.

The second half followed a similar pattern to the first. The boys chased hard with Joe Roberson tireless in midfield. However, after a few minutes another rasping Ardington shot found the back of the net. The injured Joe Russell, who had played on despite what was later diagnosed as a fractured wrist, was replaced in goal by Grady Cherry, but the change in formation upset the Colts’ rhythm. This allowed Ardington to dominate the rest of game and despite some excellent work from Grady, they ended up comfortable winners.

Team: J Russell, M White, W Beechers, G Cherry, J Roberson, H Comely, D Keen, D Dennis

Man of the Match: J Roberson

Second Match
OCC 0 – Ardington 3

After such a strong performance from Ardington in the first match, the second game was always going to be difficult. Colts started well and worked hard at the passing game that has shown such an improvement in 2007. As in the first game, however, things just would not run their way and another strong Ardington side soon found the back of the Colts’ net.

Colts gave a second-half debut to new signing Ben Merrill whose arrival should add strength to squad. As for the match, unfortunately it was one of those days best forgotten as the Colts had no luck with Ardington scoring two further goals. For the second week running, praise should be given to Reece Horwood for another excellent performance in goal.

So, not a great day for the Colts. Despite much endeavour from the boys, Joe’s broken wrist and Grady’s continued ankle problems proved that luck was simply not on their side. Hopefully next week will be better.

Team: R Horwood, A Martin, C Adams, B Muinami, B Rowbotham, C Wood, L Williams, H Bone, B Merrill

Man of the Match: R Horwood