Salford Schools FA U15 1 v 1 Leeds Schools FA U15 -
Saturday 12 September 2009
The first day of a new season for the Leeds Boys in conditions that probably represented the first real day of summer in the North West.
As parents competed on who could wear the skimpiest top, and the boys competed with each other on who could leave the field with the reddest face, it was great to get back to competitive football.
And competitive it was, with the Salford Boys not afraid to put their collective foot in ( and on many occasions to actually leave it in as well )
From his diminutive viewpoint, the referee seemed happy enough to let the came flow, but frustratingly disallowed a goal from Nathan for foot up after the Salford keeper spilled the ball. With no-one else near, the offence must have been to the ball itself !
This disappointment was componded after 25 minutes of the first half when quick passing at the edge of the area ended with a low shot past Ashley. 1-0 to Salford.
Leeds responded well and ended the first half the stronger. This was translated into an equaliser just before half time when a free kick floated in by Jackson caused confusion in the box and was poked home by Matty who showed great poaching instincts. 1-1.
As the second half began, each side probably gave each other a little too much time in midfield, but both were very tenacious in defending at the edge of the 18 yard line. The game at times therefore resembled a basketball game and was enjoyable to watch.
Salford looked the most dangerous with their long ball game releasing pacy forwards, but who were well controlled by a strong Leeds defence.
Half chances came and went for both sides with the best probably falling to Leeds when a deep free kick sailed just over the heads of onrushing forwards.
A draw was the right result, but represented a very encouraging performance from a side containing six new faces and some new positions for some of last year's players.
Whilst parents and supporters looking forward to similar conditions next week, the Boys will undoubtedly be wishing for cooler and wetter weather. Good job we are in West Lancashire then ! "