Youth Team News 2011/12

Match Report - Mile Oak Youth 1 Storrington Youth 2 - Sunday 4th March 2012

The lads went into this game having lost just one of the last 5 games and focused on getting above local rivals Steyning Youth who were 5 points ahead of us, by the end of the season. We had this game against Mile Oak plus further games at home to Hassocks and Broadbridge Heath to come – so we needed at least a point at Mile Oak.

Due to a number of reasons such as a bad toe, needing a rest after a holiday, bad attitude etc we were down to a squad of just 12 players. We arrived at the Mile Oak ground in heavy rain which made the pitch very heavy. It was borderline playable but the ref decided it went ahead.

The lads were well up for the game and started off on the front foot. We were playing against a very strong head wind but had the majority of the possession without creating any clear cut chances. Against the run of play, Mile Oak took the lead with a stunning 25 yard curler from there left winger – great goal and we were 1:0 down. For the remainder of the 1st half the lads battled well and we went in at half time with the score 1:0 to Mile Oak.

The team knew exactly what was at stake – we had to get at least a point, and the second half performance showed just that. Mile Oak did not have one chance on target for the entire second half format. 20 minutes in and Will Garrett broke down our left, went past two defenders only to be taken out just below the knee by a third defender. It left Will with a 4” gash on his leg and with the ball on the penalty spot. We patched up Will and Shane West stepped up to take the penalty. Westy kept a cool head and we were level.

The lads really took the game to Mile Oak after this and won a succession of corners, one of which finally gave us the lead we deserved. The ball was swing over by Will Garrett, it hit a Mile Oak player near the front post. A scrappy own goal – but the lads were deservedly in the lead. There was only 5 minutes left and again Mile Oak did not get near the Storrington goal until the ref blew for full time.

So, we all know Mile Oak ground is open to the elements – but take a look at the picture of our penalty taker and man of the match – Shane West (and this was after a shower !!)

Well done lads – you wore the shirt with pride.