A solid performance from the boys today against a team who beat us in pre-season.

It took us a while to find our flow with Underwood scoring first to make it 1-0 but as soon as we equalised the game was never in doubt; the boys went about their business in a relentless but efficient workman like manner.

Goals from both our strikers Isaac and Emmanuel put us 2-1 up at the break, kicking up hill in the first half made it tough but the boys persisted and stood firm.

Shortly after the break Theo scored with a wonderful solo effort that Underwood replied to quickly making the score 3-2 to the Reds. From that point on the Reds persistence and passing really started to get rewards as further goals from Jett, Henry and Isaac ensured a comfortable 6-2 victory for the Reds.

A very different game for me as a coach today that really tested the versatility of our squad. Quite early on it became apparent that Underwood were playing without a forward. This allowed us switch to one defender for the remainder of the game and pack the midfield. In a now unusual situation defensive pairing Oz and Noah had to share minutes for a change while versatile defender Josh dazzled in midfield with his direct running at the opposition defence.

Henry, back in a centre midfield position was a great engine for us, the versatile Jett a bundle of energy & creativity, and Ernie completed a centre midfield trio with his usual assured smart passing and positioning.

On the wings Theo was as determined getting back and defending as he was with the ball at his feet; Archie put in a real shift up and down the pitch claiming an assist, were it not for a great save would have had a goal.

At the top of the pitch winger/striker Emmanuel caped his usual high energy performance with a goal; while Isaac offered not only a target for passes but also some smart link play with the midfield.

And finally all the way back Jesse was back to full fitness; a solid performance where at times he was even taunting the opposition to try and beat him which they were lucky to do twice.

Spare a thought though for Jett who’s absolute banger was adjudged not to have crossed the line in a controversial refereeing decision.

Thanks for the support and thanks to Dave for stepping in as a last minute referee!