Final Score – Rugby Town U18’s 6-2 Gloucester (HOME)
After being thrown in at the deep end back in August the U18’s continued their incredible improvement at home to Gloucester.
The last few results show how far the group has come in such a short time, losing to Kidderminster in one of their first games 10-1, would have put most off what looked like it would be a long season, however, visit the same team away and losing 4-2 just two weeks ago was a real turning point. The opposition coach took time to recognise how well the gents had performed in a contest that so easily could have gone in our favour. To test a full time academy in such a manner really gave us belief we were finally in a position to compete at this level.
Our next game saw us somehow not take all 3 points against Coventry Sphinx, denied only by several amazing saves and goal line clearances, it was clear that it would only be a matter of time before we got that much deserved league win.
And so, against another full time academy who we drew with so brilliantly away 1-1 before Christmas, we knew this was a chance to show that we were ready…
The team were incredible from the start, the quality of passing, intensity and chance creation from all areas of the pitch was at times unplayable. The midfield were completely dominant and when called upon the defence stepped up or recovered well to deny Gloucester any real opportunities in the first half. 3 great goals, 2 for Ryan Sahota and 1 for Frankie Episcopo saw us take a 3-0 lead into half time.
The message at the interval was clear, don’t stop playing, be brave and take the game to the opposition. Despite a relatively quick goal from Gloucester to reduce the arrears, we showed our new found confidence to reply in kind with the goal of the game when Stan Legge beautifully chipped the keeper. Moments later Ryan Sahota bagged his hat trick finishing a lovely sweeping move, and Stan Legge gabbed a brace with a curling finish to the far corner. Gloucester did score a second after a scramble in the box, but in truth the 6-2 scoreline flattered them, as their keeper made a number of saves before the final whistle.
Make no bones about it, this was a superb performance, if the lads can replicate this for the remainder of the season they will do themselves proud, despite some very difficult games to finish their season against the top 4 sides. However, we have another home game next Thursday against Bedworth before hosting Rugby Borough, and I’d implore all of you to get down to Butlin Road to see us play. Fixtures can be found via this link :-
Midland Floodlit Youth League
Thanks to our sponsors JRP Electrical Services and Miller Financial Planning for helping to make the squad feel professional with their new kit, tracksuit and polo shirts, it is very much appreciated.
Thanks Tim for the report
