APB Raiders U9s v Harvesters Leopards U9s

“Oh what a beautiful morning…” sang the Leopards faithful ahead of the clash with APB Raiders on a sun drenched morning among the rolling fields of Barnet.

On a sloping pitch, it was the visitors who had the early momentum, wing wizard Arthur Pitts having plenty of joy down the right as the boys started brightly - first to the ball and moving it quickly with Freddie Hill a willing worker up front creating space for others. It was the man on fire who opened the scoring for the visitors, Alex Keenan banging home to continue his recent goal spree. The boys continued to dominate with Alex grabbing his 2nd before the break with a long range dip.

It wasn’t all one way traffic as the Raiders direct style tested Noah McConnell and Marcel Lukasik in defence - which they passed with flying colours, keeping their discipline and challenging for every ball.

Sammy Roe was welcomed back to the squad after a groin injury and showed no ill effects, throwing himself into the battle and launching several forays down the left wing.

The game continued in a similar vein during the 2nd half with the Leopards playing most of the football whilst aware of the long ball threat from the home side. Ahaan Dean led the line well putting himself on the scoresheet from close range and drifting wide to create space for the tireless runs of Max Cooper who cashed in by following up a rebound to fire into the roof of the net.

Alex completed his hat trick with a cracking finish,in off the post, and the chaps could have had more but for a good display from the APB GK.

Special mention for Archie Young, in the form of his life, excellent in winning the ball then picking the right pass every time.

It was Raiders of the Long Half (tm) as the ref deemed to play 10 mins of injury time, but the Leopards worked hard to the end defending a late flurry of corners, Arthur making a couple of decent Pitts-stops.

Very pleasing all round display, prepared to compete then keen to play. COYL.