Kennington - Away

Oxford City Colts Under 10s 2 - Kennington Under 10s 5

First Match
OCC 1 – Cumnor Minors 5

The away match against Kennington earlier in the season had not been one of the Colts’ better performances and so after last week’s defeat to Cumnor the boys worked hard in training looking to end 2006 on a high note. Unfortunately further heavy rain in the week finally caught up with the Court Place Farm pitch and as a result this home match was switched to the Kennington ground.

The match started in glorious sunshine but, despite the weather and the commitment shown in training, the Colts started slowly with Kennington dominating the first half. Their superiority was converted into four well-taken goals in the first period. The quality of the Kennington finishing gave the Colts’ defence little chance, although credit should be given to Mitchell White who battled hard throughout a torrid first half.

Following Roger Cherry’s half-time talk, the Colts looked like a different side after the break. The boys started to string passes together and certainly had a far greater share of possession. Their reward came with an excellent finish from Grady Cherry after an impressive move down the right flank. Another goal from Kennington gave a final score of 1-5, although much credit should go to the boys for not letting their heads drop and fighting back with a spirited display in the second half.

Team: J Russell, W Beechers, M White, G Cherry, H Comely, D Keen, B Rowbotham.

Man of the Match: M White

Second Match
OCC 1 – Kennington 0

The final match before Christmas produced an extremely encouraging performance. From the outset the Colts played good passing football and were dominant throughout the first half. Henry Bone was unlucky not to score early on, but with continuous pressure on the Kennington goal it was not long before the Colts took the lead from an impressive strike from Brian Muinami. The boys fought hard for every ball and were much the better side in the early stages. Their passing was particularly effective and should encourage the team to listen to Roger’s advice!

The second half continued much as the first had finished with Oxford City playing good attacking football. Curtis Adams came forward with increasing confidence, and the strength of his long throws and corners made the Colts look likely to add to their lead. However the Kennington defence stood firm with no further addition to the score.

So the signs are encouraging as the Christmas break begins. If the boys play as they did in the second half of the first match and in the second game the results must surely improve. Thanks to Tony Beechers for refereeing and Happy Christmas to all involved in the Under 10s.

Team: R Horwood, A Martin, B Muinami, C Adams, C Wood, J Roberson, H Bone, D Dennis.

Man of the Match: C Adams

Reporter: Robin Russell