Friday 28th October 2016 @ Wednesfield High School, Wolverhampton

Erdington and Saltley 0 – 0 Leeds

Team: Gerard, Tyrese, Tiarno, Aidan, Danny, Taylor, Kian B, Blessing, Resharne, Toby, Kian ON and Jaiy

Friday’s game against Leeds was a taster of what’s to come for The Ton, with six of the lads being under 10s due to the unavailability of a number of u11s players.

Despite giving away years in age, the boys gave very little else to their northern opponents, actually beating them in most physical battles throughout the game. In what became a scrappy game, The Ton boys battled, fought and scrambled their way to a 0-0 draw, their third clean sheet in five games.

In terms of the younger lads, Toby was making his debut for the u11s and fresh from scoring the winning goal for Blues against Juventus on Tuesday, the strong midfielder seemed unfazed by the step-up in age. With Toby patrolling the middle of the field, Resharne and Aidan were causing Leeds problems down the left and right wings respectively. Alongside Toby in the centre was Jaiy, whose intelligent play helped create a number of chances in the final third for The Ton. At the back, James was steady in possession and strong in the tackle, whilst Tyrese ensured he kept a clean sheet after a number of examples of quick thinking in goal!

In truth the game was a scrappy affair, but this wasn’t down to a lack of ability. Both teams had plenty to offer. However the willingness and desire of the Ton youngsters meant Leeds were never able to get into their stride.

Of all our results this season, this is the one that I’m most proud of. Not only did we have an incredibly young team on the pitch, but it was also great to see the u11 lads protecting their younger peers. All round it was a great afternoon and full of so much to be proud of!

Man of the Match – Tiarno

Up The Ton!