U15

21/03/10 

Bishop Auckland (away)    

Sunday 21st March 2010. Away to Bishop Auckland St Marys on a sunny and slightly breezy day. Kick off was delayed due to the unfortunate delay of four players. The team could only just muster the eleven for today's game.

With so many players missing this was always going to be a hard game to win. A defeat would end any hopes of promotion. We started slowly against a team who were obviously up for it. As the game progressed it was obvious the Saltburn team were lacking any determination and no surprise when after an awful defensive blunder allowed the opposition in behind the defence and the ball was hammered past the helpless keeper Walters. The team just seemed to be going through the motions and had no self belief and it was no surprise when the opposition scored again. The first half play was a disgrace and coaches and parents alike wished we hadn't bothered turning up. Half time and a 2-0 score line did not reflect the fact we were being totally outplayed. Only two goals behind meant we had a chance but as the second half continued we still struggled. It was better but no where near good enough. When the opposition keeper dropped an easy cross Clark was on hand to drive the ball into the net. Up to this point we couldn't hit a barn door from two yards. This was the opportunity to get back in the game but no sooner had we done so defensive frailties let us down and it was now 3-1 to the opposition. An excellent shot by Axe, well saved by their keeper was all we finally had to offer. This was truly a dispiriting performance and some players need to have a think at their attitudes and work rate. The centre halves Whitfield and Graham kept their heads above water as did the battling duo of Waller who ran out of steam towards the end and Clark who deserved his goal. Seven losses out of the last ten games tells the story.