U13B v Anthony Gell, Wirksworth Won 4-1

Anthony Gell 1

S.Anselm's 4 (Alfie H 2, James B 1, Ollie N 1)

Too many match reports refer to a change around at half time, so I'll try not to labour the point, but we failed to score when Anthony Gell didn't have a goalkeeper in the first half, and scored four when they did have one after half time! The first half saw too much trying to hit the ball, not enough use of the wings and little thought regarding our passing game. What a transformation in the second half.

James B and Freddie R-S were solid at the back, tackling well (even if the umpire warned you for stick tackles - better that than no tackle at all). It would be good, however, to see you helping out the midfield more. Alfred H had possibly his best game of hockey for the school - he needed to stay on the wing more, but on two occasions he received perfect through balls to finish with composure in front of goal, which was excellent to see. Max H battled away well on the left, so I decided to put him there for the second half and it worked very well - not a permanent move, but it was the right move today.

Ollie N, with his powerful hit became centre forward, allowing distributor supreme, William S the central midfielders role, one which he did very well. Ollie N scored the second goal, he's rarely not on the scoresheet, and James B scored his second goal for the school, I've often said you need to be lurking at the top of the opposition 'D' more often! A real effort in the second half, a fine start to the season!

JMHF