Maccabi Lions Blue v HARVESTERS LEOPARDS U9s

The WFL fixtures computer threw up an opening day away trip to Maccabi Lions for the new look Leopards squad.Despite a 1pm kick off, it was far from a "lazy sunday afternoon" as the chaps put in a showing full of effort and promise for the season ahead.

Both teams started brightly, Archie Young leading the line with neat touches whilst Ahaan Dean relished his central midfield role, probing and coming close with a long range chip. Josh Allen regularly threatened via a flurry of crosses and shots from the right hand side and it was from one of these forays that Arthur Pitts was able to grab the first Leopards goal - poking home a loose ball from close range. The Leopard's defence was holding firm, Alex Keenan tough in the tackle and disciplined, but were thankful to Noah McConnell for a stunning double save to keep the home side at bay.

Half time gave an opportunity to catch breath and pouch a few oranges before the 2nd period, Archie Young taking the gloves and Noah pushing into defense. Patches of excellent team play had the travelling Leopard's supporters purring and the busy Max Cooper was rewarded with a goal, smashing home after a cross from the right. The larger 7 a side pitch required plenty of stamina and Eveready Freddie Hill covered oodles of ground up and down the right flank as the game entered it's final stages. There were further goalkeeping heroics as Archie stuck up a paw to claw away a one on one, ably supported in defense with a number of tackles and clearances with Noah and Max to the fore. As the game became stretched, gaps began to appear and Arthur made the most of some time and space to fire a low drive in for the team's 3rd goal.

An evenly contested game, played in good spirit - the boys can be pleased with their performance and teamwork. Well done!