U16 Boys today played the semi-final of the WFL Challenge Cup at Pursley, hoping to make this prestigious final for the first time in the club’s history, having progressed this far with wins over Maccabi, AC Finchley and Whetstone. Standing in their way were reigning County Champions, St. Albans City, a side that has dominated for some years but, one the Wood had bested 5-2 recently. As such, the boys knew they could come out on top with a good performance even if several influential players were missing or impacted by Easter holidays.
The team started fast and were quickly into a 2-0 lead, with Fan once again delivering the goods; controlling brilliantly with his left and then sending a stunning strike into the goal off the left-hand post. Soon after, the excellent Manning showed his undoubted quality with instant control on his right thigh before a sweetly struck volley with his left found the net after Silva had delivered an excellent set play. Two goals of the very highest quality.
St. Albans were reeling and the match was there for the taking but, the Wood’s defensive qualities were tested and, on this occasion, despite getting to the ball first each time, the boys shipped three goals that you just can’t concede at this level and expect to progress. The second half saw the Wood stabilise defensively but, the side’s offensive opportunities were limited and the match ended 2-3.
It wasn’t to be today, but, the boys showed character and can be proud of their cup run. The team has struggled defensively all season but, contains defenders with genuine potential that can and will perform consistently in the future; they’ve loads of time to hone their skills and improve.
MoM went again to Elbouhkari who enjoyed another outstanding match between the sticks and was totally blameless for the goals conceded. He has showed the perfect example of what can be achieved quickly with the right mindset, raising his performance levels with hard work and determination whilst also displaying formidable and natural leadership qualities. Without doubt he is making the transition from boy to man and as his team-mates do the same, they will all go forward together and achieve great things in the game.
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Our U10 Girls played Evergreen Dragons at Pursley today on a wonderfully sunny morning.
Two big stories dominated proceedings with Manager Gareth thankfully recovering very nicely after an op and Wood legend Ruby playing what would be her last match for the club before departing for pastures new. Without doubt, the girls were highly motivated to put on a great performance and the Wood’s fan base nodded approvingly as their daughters’ smeared woad across their faces and uttered mysterious runic chants before heading into the fray!
Evergreen is a first class and formidable side, with quality players across the park. A very consistent keeper, powerful defenders that clear the lines well, midfielders with an eye for a pass and very rapid and tricky attackers. The Wood knew a fast start was vital to compete against them and despite the searing heat ran hard from the off.
In goal, Olivia and Emily dovetailed superbly and supported each other so beautifully on and off the pitch. Olivia was brave as a lioness, handling really well and launching herself fearlessly into the mix when studs were flying, while Emily transformed herself into Zebedee, springing about to make not one, but, two point blank saves as well as launching huge kicks down the field.
Ahead of them Maisie & Captain Polly were like the Great Wall of China, making an insurmountable defensive barrier to stop the dangerous Evergreen attackers from getting too near the Wood goal. In this, they were aided superbly by Amber, who also played an exciting cameo up-front, showing she has the ability to play with her back to goal as well as when the play is in front of her.
In midfield, Gracie and Ruby, were wearing down the studs on their boots, so much ground were they covering, driving forward with real intent, while on the wings Daisy and Juniper were oozing quality and displaying inexhaustible endurance as they did the hard yards, running back and forth, up and down the pitch. With Elsie twinkling gracefully up front with the ball, a constant attacking menace to the opposition, the Wood were looking so good.
The match was tight as two coats of paint as these two sets of formidable girls went back and forth. Chances came and went but, the Wood grabbed their first goal after Ruby was first to the ball and surged forward to find Daisy. She switched play brilliantly to pressure the Evergreen right flank and after several throws and corners from this side were cleared, Elsie whizzed a super cross into Juniper, who, sharp as a tack, buried the ball home. She then sprinted approximately two thousand yards before an exultant punch into the air!
The Wood were buzzing now and Ruby, again reacting quickest, drove the ball forward to Elsie. She controlled the ball expertly and then swivelling her head like an owl, picked out a sublime and visionary reverse pass for Daisy, who galloped through into space to smash the ball home; a goal of the very highest order!
There was yet more as Amber and Polly both put in big defensive challenges to send the ball forward. Then we saw such clever football from girls that were really switched on. Daisy’s fast throw after the ball had gone out, Ruby’s rapid ball winning and quality snap shot, Elsie staying in the game to force the ball home faster than anyone else. It was really first class stuff.
After another outstanding officiating display, Dave the Ref blew the whistle on a fantastic game of football. Juniper deservedly picked up OPoM while who else but, Ruby secured PoM after a typically brilliant and thoroughly exciting display. The girls had delivered just the performance they wanted for both Gareth and Ruby; a job very well done.
Courtesy of the latest satellite link technology, Manager Gareth conducted a post-match interview with The Borehamwood and Shenley Argus immediately after the game and said “This group of girls keeps improving and their drive and passion today was incredible; I am so proud of them and can’t wait to meet up again at our next training session; I’ve missed them so much. A glorious day is tinged with a little sadness as one of our beloved stalwarts is moving on. I’d just like to say that Ruby has been a true asset to Borehamwood 2000. Her dazzling footwork has played a huge part in the team’s rapid success, and from a personal perspective, she’s always been an absolute joy to coach. Her infectious smile and brilliant personality have made her a firm favourite among teammates and parents alike. She will be truly missed. I also want to thank mum Kelly for her unwavering support; come rain or shine, she’s been there at every training session and match. Thank you for everything and we wish you both all the very best of luck!”
With that, he popped another grape in his mouth, sunk a glug of Lucozade, and wondered how he could sneak out for a jog without the nurses seeing!