Tranent Colts 6 - 6 MYS Black Stripes (14Nov09)
Still without the services of Mark and Morgan M, the Black Stripes enlisted the help of Jason Grossart from the Blue Stripes for today's match at Tranent. And he proved to be a very influential player in the middle of the pitch against a tough Tranent side.
Tranent started the strongest, forcing a couple of great saves from Innes... but the Youngstars opened the scoring when Jason won the ball in midfield and played it forward to Calum. With the keeper advancing quickly, Calum kept his cool and nudged the ball under the keeper's body and it rolled over the goal line. Tranent hit back though, and it took a goal line clearance from Sam to keep the ball out of the Youngstars' net after a well worked corner. However, the equaliser eventually came when a Tranent midfielder won the ball a few yards outside the penalty box, strode forward and hammered it into the back of the net.
It was Tranent's turn to take the lead next when a lofted effort in the second period was met by Innes' outstretched hand, but he could only manage a slight touch on it and the ball bounced into the goal. Lennon was unlucky not to equalise when his strike from outside the box hit the crossbar and bounced wide. Ross picked up the loose ball and fired a cracking shot at goal that forced a brilliant diving save from the Tranent keeper. From the resulting corner, Tranent cleared the ball up to the middle of the pitch where their striker was waiting... he charged forward and found himself one-on-one with Innes, but his shot was blocked by Innes' foot and went wide of goal. Later, a Tranent kick-out from defence was won by Ross on the right wing, and his driven cross found Calum in the box where he blasted the ball past the helpless keeper to equalise. Ross was playing well on the right wing, winning lots of tackles and playing some great passes. And it was his turn to score next when his low cross from the wing missed everyone in the box and the ball found its way right into the bottom corner. Josh and Lennon linked up well during this quarter, with each of them finding space for shots that went narrowly wide.
Early in the third quarter, Tranent were level again when their striker's shot rebounded off Innes and then back of the striker, before rolling into the net. Ross hit a powerful shot next, once more requiring a diving save from the keeper and the ball eventually fell to Jason, but his strike went narrowly over the bar. Some great footwork from a Tranent midfielder then left him some space in the box for a shot, and he lobbed the ball into the top corner to take the lead. As expected, the Youngstars hit back with Jason holding off some strong tackles down the wing and driving into the box close to the the by-line. Despite some pulls on his jersey, and tough-tackling, Jason simply shrugged his shoulders and waited until Calum found some space in the box before rolling the ball into his path. Calum took one swipe at the ball and completed his hat-trick, before he had to leave the field with an injury. Cameron took his place up-front and made an immediate impact after winning the ball and bombing down the right wing... his low cross went right across the goal line where Morgan was heading towards the back post - but he could only get a slight touch on the ball and it went just wide. Playing slightly up-hill in a heavy pitch gave us some problems, but Sam had a great game at the back with some really powerful clearances helping to keep the pressure off.
The Youngstars went ahead in the final quarter after a quick kick-in from Ross. Jason collected the pass and played a great through ball between two defenders, into Lennon's path. With the keeper advancing towards him, Lennon stretched out his leg and slid towards the ball, tucking it under the keeper's body and into the goal. Tranent scored a quick equaliser, though, when a strong shot skidded right under Innes' feet. Lennon put the Youngstars ahead again, after Jason had chipped the ball over the defence - Lennon controlled the pass well, then fired a brilliant strike that gave the keeper no chance. However, Tranent soon broke free in attack again and scored a late equaliser for the game to end in a draw.
This was a great close match for the spectators to enjoy, with action at both ends of the pitch. A draw was a fair result and both teams should be really proud of their performance today on a very muddy, difficult pitch after all the recent rain. Well done everyone!
Teamsheet: Innes, Sam, Cameron, Morgan F, Ross, Josh, Jason G, Lennon, Calum
Goal scorers: Calum (3), Ross, Lennon (2)
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Saturday, November 7, 2009
BACK TO WINNING WAYS!
MYS Black Stripes 7 - 5 North Berwick Colts (7Nov09)
With a couple of key players unavailable again today, Ben McEwen from the Blue Stripes squad stepped forward to help his fellow team mates this morning - and gave a fantastic performance, scoring a hat-trick for his efforts.
North Berwick opened the scoring when the ball was played neatly between the Youngstars' defenders, leaving their striker clean through on goal and he slotted it away cleanly. However, the Musselburgh boys equalised following a quick kick-in from Lennon on the left wing where he squeezed the ball past a crowd of players into Ben's path. Taking one touch to control the ball, Ben then curled the ball with his right foot into the far corner. The Youngstars soon took the lead from a corner that was cleared out to Cameron who lofted the ball back towards goal. Morgan collected it and fired a cross across the 6 yard box where it was deflected over the goal line by a North Berwick defender. North Berwick fought back well though and forced a couple of good saves from Innes - one in particular had to be palmed up high over the bar. Playing uphill slightly meant the kids were under a bit of pressure, but some typically strong tackling from Sam prevented any further North Berwick goals.
The Youngstars' lead was extended early in the second period after some strong tackling from Josh and Cameron allowed the ball to be passed forward towards the North Berwick penalty area. Calum met the pass, then slid the ball under the diving keeper for the team's third goal of the day. The visitors pulled one back after a good clearance set up their striker to calmly chip the ball past Innes as he rushed forward. Just before the end of the period, a thunderous shot by Ross hit the post and the ball then bounced to safety. Cameron played really strongly at the back today, but particularly in this second quarter, showing some good physical ability to shrug his opponents off the ball and make some excellent clearances.
North Berwick managed to equalise in the third period following a fantastic lob from wide on the right wing. And they almost scored another two had it not been for a couple of fantastic one-handed saves from Innes as he cleared the danger.
So, it was 3-3 going into the final quarter of the match and the Youngstars took the lead following some great passing between Morgan and Lennon. Morgan then found some space and drilled the ball low into the box where Ben was on hand to place the ball into the back of the net. Calum had replaced Innes in goals in this last period and made a couple of great saves of his own to keep North Berwick at bay. The Youngstars then went further ahead after some brilliant one touch passing between Ben, Lennon, and Josh left Lennon clear in the box and he simply passed the ball into the goals. A great fightback then followed as North Berwick scored two quick goals to equalise and the game looked to be heading towards a draw... but Morgan and Lennon then played some neat 1-2s, and Lennon again slotted the ball past the North Berwick keeper for his second goal of the game. And towards the end of the game, Ross cleared the ball from defence up to Morgan who played a great pass to Ben's feet at the edge of the box. Ben took one look up, then curved the ball with his left foot into the far corner to complete his hat-trick.
As usual, the players worked really hard for their team and continue to show improvement week on week. Congratulations to everyone for a great display of teamwork throughout the whole match.
Teamsheet: Innes, Sam, Cameron, Josh, Ross, Lennon, Ben, Morgan F, and Calum.
Goal scorers: Ben (3), own goal, Calum, and Lennon (2)
With a couple of key players unavailable again today, Ben McEwen from the Blue Stripes squad stepped forward to help his fellow team mates this morning - and gave a fantastic performance, scoring a hat-trick for his efforts.
North Berwick opened the scoring when the ball was played neatly between the Youngstars' defenders, leaving their striker clean through on goal and he slotted it away cleanly. However, the Musselburgh boys equalised following a quick kick-in from Lennon on the left wing where he squeezed the ball past a crowd of players into Ben's path. Taking one touch to control the ball, Ben then curled the ball with his right foot into the far corner. The Youngstars soon took the lead from a corner that was cleared out to Cameron who lofted the ball back towards goal. Morgan collected it and fired a cross across the 6 yard box where it was deflected over the goal line by a North Berwick defender. North Berwick fought back well though and forced a couple of good saves from Innes - one in particular had to be palmed up high over the bar. Playing uphill slightly meant the kids were under a bit of pressure, but some typically strong tackling from Sam prevented any further North Berwick goals.
The Youngstars' lead was extended early in the second period after some strong tackling from Josh and Cameron allowed the ball to be passed forward towards the North Berwick penalty area. Calum met the pass, then slid the ball under the diving keeper for the team's third goal of the day. The visitors pulled one back after a good clearance set up their striker to calmly chip the ball past Innes as he rushed forward. Just before the end of the period, a thunderous shot by Ross hit the post and the ball then bounced to safety. Cameron played really strongly at the back today, but particularly in this second quarter, showing some good physical ability to shrug his opponents off the ball and make some excellent clearances.
North Berwick managed to equalise in the third period following a fantastic lob from wide on the right wing. And they almost scored another two had it not been for a couple of fantastic one-handed saves from Innes as he cleared the danger.
So, it was 3-3 going into the final quarter of the match and the Youngstars took the lead following some great passing between Morgan and Lennon. Morgan then found some space and drilled the ball low into the box where Ben was on hand to place the ball into the back of the net. Calum had replaced Innes in goals in this last period and made a couple of great saves of his own to keep North Berwick at bay. The Youngstars then went further ahead after some brilliant one touch passing between Ben, Lennon, and Josh left Lennon clear in the box and he simply passed the ball into the goals. A great fightback then followed as North Berwick scored two quick goals to equalise and the game looked to be heading towards a draw... but Morgan and Lennon then played some neat 1-2s, and Lennon again slotted the ball past the North Berwick keeper for his second goal of the game. And towards the end of the game, Ross cleared the ball from defence up to Morgan who played a great pass to Ben's feet at the edge of the box. Ben took one look up, then curved the ball with his left foot into the far corner to complete his hat-trick.
As usual, the players worked really hard for their team and continue to show improvement week on week. Congratulations to everyone for a great display of teamwork throughout the whole match.
Teamsheet: Innes, Sam, Cameron, Josh, Ross, Lennon, Ben, Morgan F, and Calum.
Goal scorers: Ben (3), own goal, Calum, and Lennon (2)
Sunday, November 1, 2009
PENCAITLAND POWER PAST YOUNGSTARS
MYS Black Stripes 4 - 9 Pencaitland
With a couple of key players missing today, the Youngstars were always going to struggle against a strong Pencaitland side who have merged both of their squads together. Still, the kids played some good football in spells and managed to score some goals in the process.
The Youngstars started the stronger side with an effort from Lennon going narrowly wide and then Ross forced a cracking save from the Pencaitland keeper. However, Pencaitland got a lucky break when a Youngstars' clearance bounced back off the face of a Pencaitland midfielder and the ball fell right into the path of their striker who slotted it past Calum in goals. However, the scores were level again after a neat short corner where Josh played a 1-2 with Lennon then squeezed the ball past the keeper's near post. Pencaitland soon regained the lead, though, with a great little passing move between three or four players from a quick kick-in. Towards the end of the period, Innes almost scored a fantastic equaliser when his shot from the half-way line had to be tipped over the bar by the Pencaitland keeper.
In the second quarter, an equaliser eventually came from Ross after some great play on the wing by Morgan was followed by a great pass for Ross to run onto. His first touch took him past the last defender, leaving him free to blast the ball past the helpless keeper. It was all about Pencaitland after that, though - they scored three goals in a row, and it would have been more had it not been for some brilliant defending by Cameron.
Pencaitland scored another two goals in the third period, and again some great heading and tackling from Cameron prevented further damage. Lennon also played very well here, with lots of good tracking back and tackling to keep Pencaitland at bay. The Youngstars almost got a goal back when a strike from Calum hit the post, and then Morgan hit the rebound narrowly wide of goal. Despite being under constant pressure for most of the game, Sam showed his usual confidence in winning many tackles and making some great passes up to his midfielders. But the Pencaitland defence were simply too powerful during this period and were very difficult to breakdown.
The final period was more evenly contested and, although Pencaitland scored two early goals, the Youngstars played very well. Josh set up a good goal for Calum to score, and then hit the post with a strike of his own. Minutes later, a high bouncing ball in the box was met sweetly by Morgan as he hammered it into the back of the net.
So, things turned out as expected with Pencaitland proving too strong on the day, but the crowd were treated to some great spells of play from the Youngstars.
Teamsheet: Innes, Sam, Cameron, Josh, Ross, Morgan, Lennon, Calum
Goal scorers: Josh, Ross, Calum and Morgan
With a couple of key players missing today, the Youngstars were always going to struggle against a strong Pencaitland side who have merged both of their squads together. Still, the kids played some good football in spells and managed to score some goals in the process.
The Youngstars started the stronger side with an effort from Lennon going narrowly wide and then Ross forced a cracking save from the Pencaitland keeper. However, Pencaitland got a lucky break when a Youngstars' clearance bounced back off the face of a Pencaitland midfielder and the ball fell right into the path of their striker who slotted it past Calum in goals. However, the scores were level again after a neat short corner where Josh played a 1-2 with Lennon then squeezed the ball past the keeper's near post. Pencaitland soon regained the lead, though, with a great little passing move between three or four players from a quick kick-in. Towards the end of the period, Innes almost scored a fantastic equaliser when his shot from the half-way line had to be tipped over the bar by the Pencaitland keeper.
In the second quarter, an equaliser eventually came from Ross after some great play on the wing by Morgan was followed by a great pass for Ross to run onto. His first touch took him past the last defender, leaving him free to blast the ball past the helpless keeper. It was all about Pencaitland after that, though - they scored three goals in a row, and it would have been more had it not been for some brilliant defending by Cameron.
Pencaitland scored another two goals in the third period, and again some great heading and tackling from Cameron prevented further damage. Lennon also played very well here, with lots of good tracking back and tackling to keep Pencaitland at bay. The Youngstars almost got a goal back when a strike from Calum hit the post, and then Morgan hit the rebound narrowly wide of goal. Despite being under constant pressure for most of the game, Sam showed his usual confidence in winning many tackles and making some great passes up to his midfielders. But the Pencaitland defence were simply too powerful during this period and were very difficult to breakdown.
The final period was more evenly contested and, although Pencaitland scored two early goals, the Youngstars played very well. Josh set up a good goal for Calum to score, and then hit the post with a strike of his own. Minutes later, a high bouncing ball in the box was met sweetly by Morgan as he hammered it into the back of the net.
So, things turned out as expected with Pencaitland proving too strong on the day, but the crowd were treated to some great spells of play from the Youngstars.
Teamsheet: Innes, Sam, Cameron, Josh, Ross, Morgan, Lennon, Calum
Goal scorers: Josh, Ross, Calum and Morgan
Saturday, September 12, 2009
HARD LUCK AGAINST HADDINGTON
MYS Black Stripes 0 - 3 Haddington Sky Blues (12Sep09)
The Youngstars struggled to hit their top form today, and the Haddington squad took full advantage, playing some great football throughout.
Haddington took the lead half way through the first period, when a cracking effort from their right winger sailed into the top far corner of the goals. The Youngstars tried to hit back, but despite Calum dragging defenders back and forth across the pitch, the kids never found enough space to have clear chances at goal.
The second period was more promising, with Sam sweeping up everything that came at him in defence and both Morgans working very hard in midfield to win the ball and pass through the Haddington defence. Josh was very unlucky not to score when his thunderous strike was saved low across the ground by the diving keeper. Indeed, the Haddington keeper had an excellent game today and was forced off his line on many occasions to gather loose balls.
The Youngstars had their best spell in the third period, and yet lost two goals here. Cameron was playing in left midfield and had plenty of the ball, linking up well with Josh in the centre and Morgan M up front. At one point, Cameron managed to work some space and fired a great shot towards goal but the Haddington keeper made another brilliant save. Then, a strong effort from Josh bounced back of the post and fell to Cameron's left foot just wide of the goal - but the angle was too narrow and Cameron's shot hit the side netting. Haddington then went two goals up, when their corner met the head of one of their players in the box and he planted it past Calum's diving hand in goals. Soon afterwards, Haddington scored again when a nice through ball fell to their right winger again and he slotted it neatly between Calum and the post.
In the final period, the Youngstars had Mark and Morgan F to thank as they cleared the ball from defence on countless occasions. Ross had a good spell on the right side of midfield and showed some good footwork to get round his markers, but the Haddington team always seemed to have extra cover as their defenders were on hand to sweep up behind the midfield. In the last few minutes, the Youngstars almost scored as a brilliant in-swinging corner from Mark was met by Morgan M on the volley - but the ball cannoned back off the cross-bar to safety.
So, the match ended with a 3-0 victory for Haddington but the Youngtars were really unlucky not to have scored a few of their own. However, it's no bad thing for the players to experience defeat every once in a while and this will hopefully make them hungry for the next match.
Teamsheet: Ross, Mark, Sam, Morgan F, Morgan M, Cameron, Josh, Calum
The Youngstars struggled to hit their top form today, and the Haddington squad took full advantage, playing some great football throughout.
Haddington took the lead half way through the first period, when a cracking effort from their right winger sailed into the top far corner of the goals. The Youngstars tried to hit back, but despite Calum dragging defenders back and forth across the pitch, the kids never found enough space to have clear chances at goal.
The second period was more promising, with Sam sweeping up everything that came at him in defence and both Morgans working very hard in midfield to win the ball and pass through the Haddington defence. Josh was very unlucky not to score when his thunderous strike was saved low across the ground by the diving keeper. Indeed, the Haddington keeper had an excellent game today and was forced off his line on many occasions to gather loose balls.
The Youngstars had their best spell in the third period, and yet lost two goals here. Cameron was playing in left midfield and had plenty of the ball, linking up well with Josh in the centre and Morgan M up front. At one point, Cameron managed to work some space and fired a great shot towards goal but the Haddington keeper made another brilliant save. Then, a strong effort from Josh bounced back of the post and fell to Cameron's left foot just wide of the goal - but the angle was too narrow and Cameron's shot hit the side netting. Haddington then went two goals up, when their corner met the head of one of their players in the box and he planted it past Calum's diving hand in goals. Soon afterwards, Haddington scored again when a nice through ball fell to their right winger again and he slotted it neatly between Calum and the post.
In the final period, the Youngstars had Mark and Morgan F to thank as they cleared the ball from defence on countless occasions. Ross had a good spell on the right side of midfield and showed some good footwork to get round his markers, but the Haddington team always seemed to have extra cover as their defenders were on hand to sweep up behind the midfield. In the last few minutes, the Youngstars almost scored as a brilliant in-swinging corner from Mark was met by Morgan M on the volley - but the ball cannoned back off the cross-bar to safety.
So, the match ended with a 3-0 victory for Haddington but the Youngtars were really unlucky not to have scored a few of their own. However, it's no bad thing for the players to experience defeat every once in a while and this will hopefully make them hungry for the next match.
Teamsheet: Ross, Mark, Sam, Morgan F, Morgan M, Cameron, Josh, Calum
Saturday, August 29, 2009
GREAT TEAM PERFORMANCE AS SEASON RE-STARTS
Haddington Athletic 0 - 11 MYS Black Stripes (29Aug09)
The Youngstars got the second half of the 2009 season off to a flyer, with a brilliant performance from every single player involved. Haddington fielded their new team today (having now entered three teams into our league), and hosted the match on a very windy pitch in the sunshine.
Josh opened the scoring after some great link-up play on the right wing between Ross and Calum. When the ball fell to Josh, he dribbled past the last defender and fired the ball high into the net. Ross came close to getting a second a few moments later, but his shot rattled back off the post. However, the Youngstars eventually went two goals in front after Josh won the ball in his own penalty area and passed it up to Calum on the half-way line. Calum charged upfield and managed to beat three defenders before getting his shot towards goal. The Haddington keeper made a great save, but Calum had follwed up well and was on hand to collect the rebound and rifle the ball high into the roof of the net from a very tight angle.
Early in the second period, Ross scored a fantastic goal after some great skill on the right wing. After beating his marker, he cut inside and curled the ball with the oustide of his right foot into the bottom corner of the goals. With the wind behind them, Haddington had some good chances to score during this period and Innes was called upon to make a good diving save to prevent a goal for the home side. Morgan F continued to show his improved confidence on the left wing, with many driving runs resulting in him beating his opponents and getting the ball into the box. Calum then came close to getting his second when his strike beat the keeper, but the ball hit the crossbar and fell to safety. With the last kick of the ball in this period, Cameron scored a great goal from the left hand touchline, just inside the Haddington half. His looping shot was met by the keeper, but he could only parry it upwards and into the net.
Ross took a turn in goals in the third period and made a couple of good saves when required. However, the Youngstars remained on top with Sam and Mark keeping the Haddington strikers at bay. Sam's courage and tackling ability has been brilliant over the last few months, and today was certainly no different as he won tackle after tackle. At the other end of the pitch, the midfield trio of Josh, Morgan M and Cameron caused continuous trouble for the Haddington defence with some brilliant passing and dribbling on display. It was Cameron who scored the team's fifth goal when he twisted and turned on the left wing, before he cut inside and curled the ball with his right foot into the far corner of the net past the diving keeper. Josh soon scored his second of the day, with a powerful shot from a tight angle on the right hand side. Cameron then completed his hat-trick after Morgan M drove through the centre of the pitch, riding a few tackles along the way, and passed the ball into his path. Cameron looked up and slotted the ball neatly into the bottom near hand corner giving the keeper no chance. Innes had taken a position as striker during this third period and played well with his back to goal, laying the ball off to his team mates on many occassions. He was rewarded with a goal of his own after Josh's effort was parried by the keeper and Innes pounced on it to bury it in the far corner.
In the final period, Calum took the goalkeeping position and made a few fantastic diving saves to prevent any Haddington goals. Mark was given the opportunity to play as a striker, and got a nice early goal following some excellent build-up play. Morgan M dribbled through the midfield and passed the ball wide to Innes on the left. Innes charged down the wing, then played the ball into Mark's path and his first-time shot found the bottom corner of the net. The team's next goal was very similar as Morgan F this time drove forward in the centre of the pitch and played the ball wide to Innes on the left wing. Again he charged foward before playing the ball infield, this time into Morgan M's path, and he slotted it away with ease. The final goal was scored by Mark, direct from his own corner kick. The ball curled beautifully into the penalty area and over everyone's head into the far corner of the net, taking everyone by surprise.
All in all, this was a great team performance and the kids can feel very proud of the way they applied themselves throughout the entire match.
Teamsheet: Innes, Sam, Mark, Cameron, Morgan F, Morgan M, Josh, Ross, Calum
Goal scorers: Josh (2), Calum, Ross, Cameron (3), Innes, Mark (2), Morgan M
The Youngstars got the second half of the 2009 season off to a flyer, with a brilliant performance from every single player involved. Haddington fielded their new team today (having now entered three teams into our league), and hosted the match on a very windy pitch in the sunshine.
Josh opened the scoring after some great link-up play on the right wing between Ross and Calum. When the ball fell to Josh, he dribbled past the last defender and fired the ball high into the net. Ross came close to getting a second a few moments later, but his shot rattled back off the post. However, the Youngstars eventually went two goals in front after Josh won the ball in his own penalty area and passed it up to Calum on the half-way line. Calum charged upfield and managed to beat three defenders before getting his shot towards goal. The Haddington keeper made a great save, but Calum had follwed up well and was on hand to collect the rebound and rifle the ball high into the roof of the net from a very tight angle.
Early in the second period, Ross scored a fantastic goal after some great skill on the right wing. After beating his marker, he cut inside and curled the ball with the oustide of his right foot into the bottom corner of the goals. With the wind behind them, Haddington had some good chances to score during this period and Innes was called upon to make a good diving save to prevent a goal for the home side. Morgan F continued to show his improved confidence on the left wing, with many driving runs resulting in him beating his opponents and getting the ball into the box. Calum then came close to getting his second when his strike beat the keeper, but the ball hit the crossbar and fell to safety. With the last kick of the ball in this period, Cameron scored a great goal from the left hand touchline, just inside the Haddington half. His looping shot was met by the keeper, but he could only parry it upwards and into the net.
Ross took a turn in goals in the third period and made a couple of good saves when required. However, the Youngstars remained on top with Sam and Mark keeping the Haddington strikers at bay. Sam's courage and tackling ability has been brilliant over the last few months, and today was certainly no different as he won tackle after tackle. At the other end of the pitch, the midfield trio of Josh, Morgan M and Cameron caused continuous trouble for the Haddington defence with some brilliant passing and dribbling on display. It was Cameron who scored the team's fifth goal when he twisted and turned on the left wing, before he cut inside and curled the ball with his right foot into the far corner of the net past the diving keeper. Josh soon scored his second of the day, with a powerful shot from a tight angle on the right hand side. Cameron then completed his hat-trick after Morgan M drove through the centre of the pitch, riding a few tackles along the way, and passed the ball into his path. Cameron looked up and slotted the ball neatly into the bottom near hand corner giving the keeper no chance. Innes had taken a position as striker during this third period and played well with his back to goal, laying the ball off to his team mates on many occassions. He was rewarded with a goal of his own after Josh's effort was parried by the keeper and Innes pounced on it to bury it in the far corner.
In the final period, Calum took the goalkeeping position and made a few fantastic diving saves to prevent any Haddington goals. Mark was given the opportunity to play as a striker, and got a nice early goal following some excellent build-up play. Morgan M dribbled through the midfield and passed the ball wide to Innes on the left. Innes charged down the wing, then played the ball into Mark's path and his first-time shot found the bottom corner of the net. The team's next goal was very similar as Morgan F this time drove forward in the centre of the pitch and played the ball wide to Innes on the left wing. Again he charged foward before playing the ball infield, this time into Morgan M's path, and he slotted it away with ease. The final goal was scored by Mark, direct from his own corner kick. The ball curled beautifully into the penalty area and over everyone's head into the far corner of the net, taking everyone by surprise.
All in all, this was a great team performance and the kids can feel very proud of the way they applied themselves throughout the entire match.
Teamsheet: Innes, Sam, Mark, Cameron, Morgan F, Morgan M, Josh, Ross, Calum
Goal scorers: Josh (2), Calum, Ross, Cameron (3), Innes, Mark (2), Morgan M
Monday, June 15, 2009
YOUNGSTARS EARN SUMMER BREAK
MYS Black Stripes 12 - 5 Tranent Colts (15Jun09)
A second evening match in a row for the kids tonight, and they once again relished the opportunity and put on a fine performance.
Jason got the team off to a flying start with an early goal. Ross had made a great clearnace from defence, which Jason collected in the centre circle and flicked the ball round his marker. He then charged towards goal and skipped past the last defender before stroking the ball under the keeper's body and into the net. The Youngstars then scored a second as Morgan's shot was deflected off the Tranent keeper into Josh's path. Josh then lifted the ball over the keeper and just under the crossbar for his first goal of the match. Tranent hit back quickly though, when their midfielder hit the crossbar with a brilliant strike and the ball fell kindly for the alert striker to blast it over the goal line. They almost equalised moments later, but Ross put in a superb tackle to prevent a clean strike on goal. From the resulting corner, Innes managed to get in amongst a crowd of bodies to punch the ball clear and prevent any further chances before the whistle.
In the second period, Jason restored the Youngstars' two goal lead when Morgan collected Lewis' path and, with his back to goal, he layed the ball off for Jason to run onto and strike cleanly into the back of the net. Sam played brilliantly in defence all game, and seemed to have an air of real confidence about him as he swept up time and time again with some fantastic tackles and clearances. One time in particular, he won the ball off the Tranent striker and cleared the ball far upfield towards Jason, who looked up and played a nice little pass with the outside of his foot towards Lewis. With the keeper rushing off his line, Lewis simply took his time and slotted the ball into the bottom corner for the team's fourth goal of the game. He scored another very quickly afterwards, before Calum controlled a good pass from Jason and planted the ball into the bottom corner of the net himself.
Ross played in midfield in the third period and was involved in almost every attack out on the right wing. His cross from the by-line beat the keeper and landed at Calum's feet, giving him an easy tap-in as the Youngstars went six goals clear. Josh then scored an exact replica of his first goal as the ball was deflected into his path just inside the box and he once again lifted the ball over the keeper and it dipped just under the crossbar. Tranent began to apply some more pressure, forcing a good one-handed save from Innes to keep them at bay.
Early in the final period, Josh completed his hat-trick with a great solo effort. From the corner flag he displayed some nimble footwork to dribble past three defenders before blasting the ball past the diving keeper. Tranent pulled a goal back though after a clever chip into the box was headed clear by Innes (now playing outfield), but it was collected by a Tranent midfielder who hit a fantstic shot giving Calum no chance in goals. They soon scored another, but the Youngstars replied with a great goal by Ross as he squeezed it past the keeper from a very narrow angle. Calum was forced to make a strong diving save from the next Tranent attack, but the ball fell to another striker and he passed it into the empty net. It was real end-to-end stuff at this point, and Innes soon won the ball in midfield and fired a good pass to Lewis, who played a neat one-two with Josh before smashing the ball into the net for his hat-trick. Tranent then pulled another goal back, but the Youngstars rounded off the scoring with Lewis planting the ball off the post and into the net following some great link-up play between Ross and Josh.
This was the final match before the summer break, and the kids can all look back on the first half of the 2009 season with real pride. They've played some great attacking football, with everyone working hard for each other in every match. Each player can now look forward to a well deserved rest over the summer and we look forward to seeing them all back in action in August.
Team sheet: Innes, Sam, Ross, Josh, Lewis, Morgan, Jason and Calum
Goal scorers: Jason (2), Josh (3), Lewis (4), Calum (2), Ross
A second evening match in a row for the kids tonight, and they once again relished the opportunity and put on a fine performance.
Jason got the team off to a flying start with an early goal. Ross had made a great clearnace from defence, which Jason collected in the centre circle and flicked the ball round his marker. He then charged towards goal and skipped past the last defender before stroking the ball under the keeper's body and into the net. The Youngstars then scored a second as Morgan's shot was deflected off the Tranent keeper into Josh's path. Josh then lifted the ball over the keeper and just under the crossbar for his first goal of the match. Tranent hit back quickly though, when their midfielder hit the crossbar with a brilliant strike and the ball fell kindly for the alert striker to blast it over the goal line. They almost equalised moments later, but Ross put in a superb tackle to prevent a clean strike on goal. From the resulting corner, Innes managed to get in amongst a crowd of bodies to punch the ball clear and prevent any further chances before the whistle.
In the second period, Jason restored the Youngstars' two goal lead when Morgan collected Lewis' path and, with his back to goal, he layed the ball off for Jason to run onto and strike cleanly into the back of the net. Sam played brilliantly in defence all game, and seemed to have an air of real confidence about him as he swept up time and time again with some fantastic tackles and clearances. One time in particular, he won the ball off the Tranent striker and cleared the ball far upfield towards Jason, who looked up and played a nice little pass with the outside of his foot towards Lewis. With the keeper rushing off his line, Lewis simply took his time and slotted the ball into the bottom corner for the team's fourth goal of the game. He scored another very quickly afterwards, before Calum controlled a good pass from Jason and planted the ball into the bottom corner of the net himself.
Ross played in midfield in the third period and was involved in almost every attack out on the right wing. His cross from the by-line beat the keeper and landed at Calum's feet, giving him an easy tap-in as the Youngstars went six goals clear. Josh then scored an exact replica of his first goal as the ball was deflected into his path just inside the box and he once again lifted the ball over the keeper and it dipped just under the crossbar. Tranent began to apply some more pressure, forcing a good one-handed save from Innes to keep them at bay.
Early in the final period, Josh completed his hat-trick with a great solo effort. From the corner flag he displayed some nimble footwork to dribble past three defenders before blasting the ball past the diving keeper. Tranent pulled a goal back though after a clever chip into the box was headed clear by Innes (now playing outfield), but it was collected by a Tranent midfielder who hit a fantstic shot giving Calum no chance in goals. They soon scored another, but the Youngstars replied with a great goal by Ross as he squeezed it past the keeper from a very narrow angle. Calum was forced to make a strong diving save from the next Tranent attack, but the ball fell to another striker and he passed it into the empty net. It was real end-to-end stuff at this point, and Innes soon won the ball in midfield and fired a good pass to Lewis, who played a neat one-two with Josh before smashing the ball into the net for his hat-trick. Tranent then pulled another goal back, but the Youngstars rounded off the scoring with Lewis planting the ball off the post and into the net following some great link-up play between Ross and Josh.
This was the final match before the summer break, and the kids can all look back on the first half of the 2009 season with real pride. They've played some great attacking football, with everyone working hard for each other in every match. Each player can now look forward to a well deserved rest over the summer and we look forward to seeing them all back in action in August.
Team sheet: Innes, Sam, Ross, Josh, Lewis, Morgan, Jason and Calum
Goal scorers: Jason (2), Josh (3), Lewis (4), Calum (2), Ross
Monday, June 8, 2009
BEECHWOOD PROVIDE TOUGH TEST
MYS Black Stripes 5 - 3 Beechwood (8Jun09)
and
MYS Black Stripes 3 - 6 Beechwood (8Jun09)
As we approached the end of the season, we were keen to squeeze in an additional match against different competition. Beechwood, who play in the Edinburgh league, were able to bring two squads along to allow both of our teams to take part in a match this Monday evening. We agreed to play 2 x 15 minutes against one team, then swap over and play a separate 30 minute spell against the other team.
The Black Stripes got off to a bad start as Beechwood fired themselves into a 3-0 lead (with their third goal being a superb effort into the top corner from a shot from well outside the box). However, as usual, the Youngstars didn't let their heads go down and Lewis quickly pulled a goal back after a great cross from Morgan on the right hand side. Soon after that, Lewis scored again - Jason played a brilliant corner kick right into the 6 yard area straight onto Lewis' head and he guided it past the helpless keeper. Beechwood kept pushing forward though, and it was only a fingertip save by Innes that prevented another goal as he tipped the ball over the crossbar from a neat chip by their striker.
In the second period, the Youngstars scored a deserved equaliser as Lewis' corner was parried by the Beechwood keeper, but Calum was alert and pounced to bundle the ball over the goal line. By this stage, the Youngstars were well on top and were kept at bay by a superb performance by the visitor's keeper who was having a fantastic game with save after save. He could do nothing to prevent the Youngstars' fourth goal though, as Jason scored the goal of the evening. Winning the ball in his own half, the ball seemed stuck to his feet as he dribbled round numerous opponents before looking up and, from just outside the box, placed the ball sweetly into the top corner of the net. Despite the size difference, Sam had a great game at the back and was called upon to clear the ball many times as the taller/stronger strikers were driving towards him. At the other end of the pitch, Calum was playing very well up front, and on many occasions he cleverly came to meet the ball and swept it out wide with his first touch. One of these particular passes fell into Harvey's pass and he was unlucky not to score as his effort clipped the crossbar. Then, following some neat play between Lewis and Harvey on the right wing, Calum received a pass on the by-line a few yards from goal and managed to squeeze his shot into the net from a very tight angle to win the game 5-3.
The second Beechwood side then joined us for a match, and it was clear from the start that they were a bigger and stronger team. An early shot was saved by Innes' knees, but it fell to a Beechwood striker and he planted the ball firmly into the back of the net. They almost scored a second straight from our kick-off, but Innes made a great save when one-on-one with the advancing striker. Then, the Youngstars scored a brilliant equaliser after Harvey won the ball in his own penalty box and played it out to Ross on the right wing. Ross charged forward and passed the ball between two defenders into Jason's path. After controlling the ball with his first touch, Jason blasted the ball over the keeper's head for his second goal of the night. Then, just before the half-time whistle blew, Beechwood regained the lead when their striker scored with a powerful header following a beautifully struck corner kick.
At the start of the second half, the Youngstars got a lucky break as Beechwood scored a bizarre own goal following their kick-in from the sideline. Their keeper didn't seem to expect the pass and it rolled beyond him into the goals. From the kick-off, however, they went back in front with a strong shot that gave Calum (who had replaced Inned in goals) no chance. The Youngstars then showed their great spirit again as Josh won the ball in defence and played it to Jason in the middle of the pitch. He turned and passed the ball to Harvey, who calmly chipped the ball over the advancing keeper for the equaliser. In the final few minutes, Beechwood seemed to get stronger (as the Youngstars began to tire a little) and they managed to score three quick goals to win the game before the final whistle blew.
Tonight was a great test for the kids, playing against a stronger team from a different league - they all coped very well, and can once again be proud of their efforts.
Teamsheet: Innes, Sam, Ross, Morgan, Josh, Harvey, Lewis, Jason, Calum
Goal scorers: Lewis (2), Calum (2), Jason (2), Harvey, and one own goal.
and
MYS Black Stripes 3 - 6 Beechwood (8Jun09)
As we approached the end of the season, we were keen to squeeze in an additional match against different competition. Beechwood, who play in the Edinburgh league, were able to bring two squads along to allow both of our teams to take part in a match this Monday evening. We agreed to play 2 x 15 minutes against one team, then swap over and play a separate 30 minute spell against the other team.
The Black Stripes got off to a bad start as Beechwood fired themselves into a 3-0 lead (with their third goal being a superb effort into the top corner from a shot from well outside the box). However, as usual, the Youngstars didn't let their heads go down and Lewis quickly pulled a goal back after a great cross from Morgan on the right hand side. Soon after that, Lewis scored again - Jason played a brilliant corner kick right into the 6 yard area straight onto Lewis' head and he guided it past the helpless keeper. Beechwood kept pushing forward though, and it was only a fingertip save by Innes that prevented another goal as he tipped the ball over the crossbar from a neat chip by their striker.
In the second period, the Youngstars scored a deserved equaliser as Lewis' corner was parried by the Beechwood keeper, but Calum was alert and pounced to bundle the ball over the goal line. By this stage, the Youngstars were well on top and were kept at bay by a superb performance by the visitor's keeper who was having a fantastic game with save after save. He could do nothing to prevent the Youngstars' fourth goal though, as Jason scored the goal of the evening. Winning the ball in his own half, the ball seemed stuck to his feet as he dribbled round numerous opponents before looking up and, from just outside the box, placed the ball sweetly into the top corner of the net. Despite the size difference, Sam had a great game at the back and was called upon to clear the ball many times as the taller/stronger strikers were driving towards him. At the other end of the pitch, Calum was playing very well up front, and on many occasions he cleverly came to meet the ball and swept it out wide with his first touch. One of these particular passes fell into Harvey's pass and he was unlucky not to score as his effort clipped the crossbar. Then, following some neat play between Lewis and Harvey on the right wing, Calum received a pass on the by-line a few yards from goal and managed to squeeze his shot into the net from a very tight angle to win the game 5-3.
The second Beechwood side then joined us for a match, and it was clear from the start that they were a bigger and stronger team. An early shot was saved by Innes' knees, but it fell to a Beechwood striker and he planted the ball firmly into the back of the net. They almost scored a second straight from our kick-off, but Innes made a great save when one-on-one with the advancing striker. Then, the Youngstars scored a brilliant equaliser after Harvey won the ball in his own penalty box and played it out to Ross on the right wing. Ross charged forward and passed the ball between two defenders into Jason's path. After controlling the ball with his first touch, Jason blasted the ball over the keeper's head for his second goal of the night. Then, just before the half-time whistle blew, Beechwood regained the lead when their striker scored with a powerful header following a beautifully struck corner kick.
At the start of the second half, the Youngstars got a lucky break as Beechwood scored a bizarre own goal following their kick-in from the sideline. Their keeper didn't seem to expect the pass and it rolled beyond him into the goals. From the kick-off, however, they went back in front with a strong shot that gave Calum (who had replaced Inned in goals) no chance. The Youngstars then showed their great spirit again as Josh won the ball in defence and played it to Jason in the middle of the pitch. He turned and passed the ball to Harvey, who calmly chipped the ball over the advancing keeper for the equaliser. In the final few minutes, Beechwood seemed to get stronger (as the Youngstars began to tire a little) and they managed to score three quick goals to win the game before the final whistle blew.
Tonight was a great test for the kids, playing against a stronger team from a different league - they all coped very well, and can once again be proud of their efforts.
Teamsheet: Innes, Sam, Ross, Morgan, Josh, Harvey, Lewis, Jason, Calum
Goal scorers: Lewis (2), Calum (2), Jason (2), Harvey, and one own goal.
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