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.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
YOUNGSTARS EDGE PAST DUNBAR
MYS Black Stripes 4 - 3 Dunbar Colts Black (16May09)
It was a grey, cloudy morning with more than a hint of rain in the air as the goals went up at Wallyford at 8:30 in the morning. But by kick off time at 9:30 the cloud was breaking up and the sun starting to appear and the stage was set for what turned out to be a great game of football!
Dunbar kicked off the first quarter and went on the attack. A sustained period of pressure led to a Dunbar goal as the Youngstars failed to clear their lines. Further attacking from Dunbar led to a corner which Musselburgh could only clear by conceding another corner. This time the kids cleared their lines well and went on their first raid upfield with Josh making a good run and cross towards the box which Lewis controlled getting a good shot on goal, only for the Dunbar keeper to make the first of what turned out to be many very good saves. The Youngstars started to get into their stride and the play flowed backwards and forwards with both sides competing for the ball well and playing some nice passing football, but the defences on both sides were doing well and keeping the attacks contained. Calum won the ball well in midfield, worked a good pass out to the right to Josh who ran past his man out wide, drove on towards the Dunbar line and crossed the ball into the box. Lewis was running in on the back post and did a great header giving the keeper no chance and levelling the score at 1-1.
The game continued to ebb and flow with Innes making some good saves, Jason working hard in midfield and Sam and Mark defending well at the back. Dunbar went close with a shot which just went over the bar; Josh drove in from the right and shot but the keeper saved well again; Calum got through on goal only for the keeper to come quickly off his line and save; a good Youngstars move down the right with a cross into the box found Lewis at the back of the box who passed it back inside to Calum who shot, but again the Dunbar keeper made a great save.
Dunbar went on the attack as the quarter came to a close, the ball was crossed in, there was a scramble in the Youngstars' box, followed by a shot - Innes pulled off a good save but could do nothing as the ball rebounded out to a Dunbar player who drove home to make it 2-1 to Dunbar.
The Youngstars kicked off the second quarter and immediately went onto the attack, setting the pattern for the quarter. Jason battled for the ball in midfield, passing out to Lewis on the right. His cross was punched clear from the keeper only to fall to Jason whose shot slid to the left of the goal for a goal kick. Dunbar were struggling to get the ball clear of their own half and Sam picked it up on the left of midfield, passed it on to Jason up front whose shot brought another good save from the Dunbar keeper. Pressure continued with the Dunbar defence working hard and the keeper making more good saves. It was 6 minutes into the quarter before Dunbar had their first meaningful attack and managed to get in through Mark and Morgan at the back, but Innes was quickly off his line and made a good save to keep Dunbar out. Mark took the ball from defence and played a good pass upfield to Calum in central midfield to put the Youngstars back on the attack. A ball through the middle found Lewis whose ambitious volley slid to the right of the goal. The game continued with the Youngstars making most of the attacking play and Mark and Morgan at the back dealing with the few Dunbar threats. As the quarter came to a close the Youngstars were again on the attack, winning a corner which the keeper parried only for the ball to fall to Morgan whose firmly hit shot struck a defender and went up over the bar for another corner.
As the third quarter started, the Youngstars were down to 7 available players - not having a replacement, Josh with an injury to his foot, went in goal but struggling to get the gloves on had only just about made it onto his line as the kick off was taken by Dunbar, and with a sharp piece of thinking the Dunbar attacker took a great shot straight from the kick off hoping to catch Josh out with his gloves still not quite on. He saw it coming and managed to push the ball up over the bar for a corner which was then cleared upfield. For the next couple of minutes the game flowed backwards and forwards with neither side dominating, Mark and Morgan defending well containing the Dunbar attacks. Three minutes into the quarter a Musselburgh attack down the right with Jason led to a shot from distance which the Dunbar keeper saved, pushing the ball past the post for a corner. Jason delivered a great corner into the box which found Lewis unmarked and another fine header beat the keeper to level the score at 2-2. Soon afterwards, a Dunbar corner was driven in low and hard, went right through a group of players in the box and had just enough inswing on it to creep in at the back post. It was a great corner and put Dunbar back ahead at 3-2. Dunbar continued to press forwards but the Musselburgh defence held strong. A clearance from Morgan finally relieved the pressure and a good 1-2 from Jason and Lewis in midfield set up an attack down the right but Calum couldn’t quite meet the cross into the box and the Dunbar keeper safely took the ball.
The final quarter started off with the Youngstars on the attack, pressing forwards looking for the equaliser. But the Dunbar defence was looking strong, and Dunbar gradually got into the game with the play flowing backwards and forwards. Sam and Mark at the back held strong for their team and Calum looked secure in goal. The kids pressed forwards again, winning a corner. Dunbar cleared the ball but only to the edge of their box where Lewis hit a great volley back in across the goal - but the Dunbar keeper made a superb save to deny what looked like a certain goal. Another corner followed which was cleared but as Morgan pushed forwards a Dunbar foul gave Musselburgh a free kick in a good position. The free kick was cleared but only as far as Jason who crossed the ball back into the box. Lewis controlled the ball well on his chest and this time his volley left the keeper with no chance and the ball flew into the top back corner of the net for the equaliser, 3-3.
Josh was struggling with an injury on his heel and as Lewis fired in a shot his ankle was caught by the defender’s boot leaving him hobbling for the rest of the quarter. But Musselburgh went back on the attack and it was all Musselburgh pressure forcing the Dunbar team to work hard in defence. A good shot from Josh brought another great save from the Dunbar keeper and the ball was finally cleared away for a kick-in. The kick-in was taken quickly and the ball passed in to Lewis who fired in another shot which went just wide. Later, a Musselburgh goal kick was played up the left side of the field, and collected well by Morgan. He ran forwards and, with a nice pass, picked out Jason who was half way into the Dunbar half. Jason had eyes for one thing, the goal, and set off on a weaving run up the left and then back infield into the Dunbar box, beating several players before placing a nice finish past the keeper to make it 4-3 to Musselburgh with three minutes to play.
The final minutes of the game saw both teams looking for another goal but the defences held firm and as the final whistle went, a well contested match ended with Musselburgh ahead at 4-3.
Man of the match – the Dunbar keeper who was outstanding.
Teamsheet: Innes, Mark, Sam, Morgan, Josh, Jason, Lewis, Calum
Goal scorers: Lewis (3), Jason
It was a grey, cloudy morning with more than a hint of rain in the air as the goals went up at Wallyford at 8:30 in the morning. But by kick off time at 9:30 the cloud was breaking up and the sun starting to appear and the stage was set for what turned out to be a great game of football!
Dunbar kicked off the first quarter and went on the attack. A sustained period of pressure led to a Dunbar goal as the Youngstars failed to clear their lines. Further attacking from Dunbar led to a corner which Musselburgh could only clear by conceding another corner. This time the kids cleared their lines well and went on their first raid upfield with Josh making a good run and cross towards the box which Lewis controlled getting a good shot on goal, only for the Dunbar keeper to make the first of what turned out to be many very good saves. The Youngstars started to get into their stride and the play flowed backwards and forwards with both sides competing for the ball well and playing some nice passing football, but the defences on both sides were doing well and keeping the attacks contained. Calum won the ball well in midfield, worked a good pass out to the right to Josh who ran past his man out wide, drove on towards the Dunbar line and crossed the ball into the box. Lewis was running in on the back post and did a great header giving the keeper no chance and levelling the score at 1-1.
The game continued to ebb and flow with Innes making some good saves, Jason working hard in midfield and Sam and Mark defending well at the back. Dunbar went close with a shot which just went over the bar; Josh drove in from the right and shot but the keeper saved well again; Calum got through on goal only for the keeper to come quickly off his line and save; a good Youngstars move down the right with a cross into the box found Lewis at the back of the box who passed it back inside to Calum who shot, but again the Dunbar keeper made a great save.
Dunbar went on the attack as the quarter came to a close, the ball was crossed in, there was a scramble in the Youngstars' box, followed by a shot - Innes pulled off a good save but could do nothing as the ball rebounded out to a Dunbar player who drove home to make it 2-1 to Dunbar.
The Youngstars kicked off the second quarter and immediately went onto the attack, setting the pattern for the quarter. Jason battled for the ball in midfield, passing out to Lewis on the right. His cross was punched clear from the keeper only to fall to Jason whose shot slid to the left of the goal for a goal kick. Dunbar were struggling to get the ball clear of their own half and Sam picked it up on the left of midfield, passed it on to Jason up front whose shot brought another good save from the Dunbar keeper. Pressure continued with the Dunbar defence working hard and the keeper making more good saves. It was 6 minutes into the quarter before Dunbar had their first meaningful attack and managed to get in through Mark and Morgan at the back, but Innes was quickly off his line and made a good save to keep Dunbar out. Mark took the ball from defence and played a good pass upfield to Calum in central midfield to put the Youngstars back on the attack. A ball through the middle found Lewis whose ambitious volley slid to the right of the goal. The game continued with the Youngstars making most of the attacking play and Mark and Morgan at the back dealing with the few Dunbar threats. As the quarter came to a close the Youngstars were again on the attack, winning a corner which the keeper parried only for the ball to fall to Morgan whose firmly hit shot struck a defender and went up over the bar for another corner.
As the third quarter started, the Youngstars were down to 7 available players - not having a replacement, Josh with an injury to his foot, went in goal but struggling to get the gloves on had only just about made it onto his line as the kick off was taken by Dunbar, and with a sharp piece of thinking the Dunbar attacker took a great shot straight from the kick off hoping to catch Josh out with his gloves still not quite on. He saw it coming and managed to push the ball up over the bar for a corner which was then cleared upfield. For the next couple of minutes the game flowed backwards and forwards with neither side dominating, Mark and Morgan defending well containing the Dunbar attacks. Three minutes into the quarter a Musselburgh attack down the right with Jason led to a shot from distance which the Dunbar keeper saved, pushing the ball past the post for a corner. Jason delivered a great corner into the box which found Lewis unmarked and another fine header beat the keeper to level the score at 2-2. Soon afterwards, a Dunbar corner was driven in low and hard, went right through a group of players in the box and had just enough inswing on it to creep in at the back post. It was a great corner and put Dunbar back ahead at 3-2. Dunbar continued to press forwards but the Musselburgh defence held strong. A clearance from Morgan finally relieved the pressure and a good 1-2 from Jason and Lewis in midfield set up an attack down the right but Calum couldn’t quite meet the cross into the box and the Dunbar keeper safely took the ball.
The final quarter started off with the Youngstars on the attack, pressing forwards looking for the equaliser. But the Dunbar defence was looking strong, and Dunbar gradually got into the game with the play flowing backwards and forwards. Sam and Mark at the back held strong for their team and Calum looked secure in goal. The kids pressed forwards again, winning a corner. Dunbar cleared the ball but only to the edge of their box where Lewis hit a great volley back in across the goal - but the Dunbar keeper made a superb save to deny what looked like a certain goal. Another corner followed which was cleared but as Morgan pushed forwards a Dunbar foul gave Musselburgh a free kick in a good position. The free kick was cleared but only as far as Jason who crossed the ball back into the box. Lewis controlled the ball well on his chest and this time his volley left the keeper with no chance and the ball flew into the top back corner of the net for the equaliser, 3-3.
Josh was struggling with an injury on his heel and as Lewis fired in a shot his ankle was caught by the defender’s boot leaving him hobbling for the rest of the quarter. But Musselburgh went back on the attack and it was all Musselburgh pressure forcing the Dunbar team to work hard in defence. A good shot from Josh brought another great save from the Dunbar keeper and the ball was finally cleared away for a kick-in. The kick-in was taken quickly and the ball passed in to Lewis who fired in another shot which went just wide. Later, a Musselburgh goal kick was played up the left side of the field, and collected well by Morgan. He ran forwards and, with a nice pass, picked out Jason who was half way into the Dunbar half. Jason had eyes for one thing, the goal, and set off on a weaving run up the left and then back infield into the Dunbar box, beating several players before placing a nice finish past the keeper to make it 4-3 to Musselburgh with three minutes to play.
The final minutes of the game saw both teams looking for another goal but the defences held firm and as the final whistle went, a well contested match ended with Musselburgh ahead at 4-3.
Man of the match – the Dunbar keeper who was outstanding.
Teamsheet: Innes, Mark, Sam, Morgan, Josh, Jason, Lewis, Calum
Goal scorers: Lewis (3), Jason
Saturday, May 2, 2009
£5 FOR A HEADED GOAL!
Longniddry Villa 1 - 10 MYS Black Stripes (2May09)
After a good warm-up session focussing on heading technique, the Youngstars convinced the coach to offer a prize of £5 for any player who managed to score with a header during the match. Unfortunately, for the kids at least, there were no headed goals today - but that wasn't for the lack of trying with many excellent crosses being played into the box.
The first 15 minutes was a very close game, with chances at either end of the pitch, but neither team able to score. Morgan came the closest when he met Jason's cross a couple of yards from goal, but the Longniddry defence recovered well and cleared the ball in the nick of time. Mark had been practicing taking corners in training recently, and he got the opportunity to take plenty today as the Youngstars kept up the pressure. This left Sam on his own at the back, and on a few occasions throughout the game he was called on to sweep up as the ball broke out towards the Youngstars' half. Not only was he able to tackle cleanly, he also constantly found one of his team mates with some good passing skill.
Harvey almost opened the scoring early in the second period when his strike had to be tipped over the bar by the goalkeeper. However, a few minutes later he found some space again and this time his shot hit the back of the net to get things underway. Ross was playing in goals for this spell, and after a good bit of Longniddry pressure he managed to clear the ball out to Lewis at the edge of his own box. Lewis charged forward down the right wing, then cut inside at the Longniddry box and fired the ball low into the opposite corner of the goals for the Youngstars' second of the game. Then, following some good passing between Harvey and Morgan, Lewis was on the scoresheet again as his shot struck the Longniddry keeper's shin and trickled over the goal line.
Jason and Josh linked up well throughout the third period, creating loads of scoring opportunities for the team. At one stage, with both of them battling it out against the Longniddry defence in the box, the ball broke to Jason who wasted no time in rifling it into the net for his first of the match. Then after Lewis found Josh in the middle of the pitch, Josh skipped past his marker and played a great pass to Jason on the left. Jason drove further wide, then turned back in-field and dribbled past a couple of defenders before placing the ball neatly between the keeper and his near post. Calum lead the front line with his usual enthusiasm and kept the Longniddry defence under pressure for the whole of this period, meaning that their was very little for the Youngstars defence to do.
Jason completed his hat-trick in the final quarter, when the ball fell kindly to him in the Longniddry penalty box and he struck it sweetly past the diving keeper. Then, following another superb curling corner from Mark, a Longniddry defender got on the wrong side of the ball and knocked it into his own net. The Youngstars continued to make many chances, and Ross was next on the scoresheet with his first goal since joining the club last winter. From out on the right wing he drove forward towards goal and, with his right foot, curled the ball beautifully into the top corner of the net giving the keeper no chance. The Longniddry team kept their heads up though, and managed to pull one back following a great clearance from their defender. It flew over our midfield and defence, and landed at their striker's feet who still had a lot to do to control the ball and squeeze it past Josh right into the bottom corner. It was good to see the Longniddry players getting a reward for their efforts as they had put a lot into the game and really deserved their goal. The Youngstars then scored a very similar goal with Jason's pass flying over the Longniddry players into Harvey's path and he controlled it perfectly on the bounce, tucking it past the advancing keeper into the net. Just before the final whistle, Lewis played a nice pass for Harvey to hammer the ball into the goals for his hat-trick.
This ended another great display from the Youngstars, and each player can be very pleased with their own individual performance today.
Teamsheet: Mark, Sam, Ross, Josh, Morgan, Lewis, Harvey, Jason, Calum
Goal scorers: Harvey (3), Lewis (2), Jason (3), Ross, and an Own Goal
After a good warm-up session focussing on heading technique, the Youngstars convinced the coach to offer a prize of £5 for any player who managed to score with a header during the match. Unfortunately, for the kids at least, there were no headed goals today - but that wasn't for the lack of trying with many excellent crosses being played into the box.
The first 15 minutes was a very close game, with chances at either end of the pitch, but neither team able to score. Morgan came the closest when he met Jason's cross a couple of yards from goal, but the Longniddry defence recovered well and cleared the ball in the nick of time. Mark had been practicing taking corners in training recently, and he got the opportunity to take plenty today as the Youngstars kept up the pressure. This left Sam on his own at the back, and on a few occasions throughout the game he was called on to sweep up as the ball broke out towards the Youngstars' half. Not only was he able to tackle cleanly, he also constantly found one of his team mates with some good passing skill.
Harvey almost opened the scoring early in the second period when his strike had to be tipped over the bar by the goalkeeper. However, a few minutes later he found some space again and this time his shot hit the back of the net to get things underway. Ross was playing in goals for this spell, and after a good bit of Longniddry pressure he managed to clear the ball out to Lewis at the edge of his own box. Lewis charged forward down the right wing, then cut inside at the Longniddry box and fired the ball low into the opposite corner of the goals for the Youngstars' second of the game. Then, following some good passing between Harvey and Morgan, Lewis was on the scoresheet again as his shot struck the Longniddry keeper's shin and trickled over the goal line.
Jason and Josh linked up well throughout the third period, creating loads of scoring opportunities for the team. At one stage, with both of them battling it out against the Longniddry defence in the box, the ball broke to Jason who wasted no time in rifling it into the net for his first of the match. Then after Lewis found Josh in the middle of the pitch, Josh skipped past his marker and played a great pass to Jason on the left. Jason drove further wide, then turned back in-field and dribbled past a couple of defenders before placing the ball neatly between the keeper and his near post. Calum lead the front line with his usual enthusiasm and kept the Longniddry defence under pressure for the whole of this period, meaning that their was very little for the Youngstars defence to do.
Jason completed his hat-trick in the final quarter, when the ball fell kindly to him in the Longniddry penalty box and he struck it sweetly past the diving keeper. Then, following another superb curling corner from Mark, a Longniddry defender got on the wrong side of the ball and knocked it into his own net. The Youngstars continued to make many chances, and Ross was next on the scoresheet with his first goal since joining the club last winter. From out on the right wing he drove forward towards goal and, with his right foot, curled the ball beautifully into the top corner of the net giving the keeper no chance. The Longniddry team kept their heads up though, and managed to pull one back following a great clearance from their defender. It flew over our midfield and defence, and landed at their striker's feet who still had a lot to do to control the ball and squeeze it past Josh right into the bottom corner. It was good to see the Longniddry players getting a reward for their efforts as they had put a lot into the game and really deserved their goal. The Youngstars then scored a very similar goal with Jason's pass flying over the Longniddry players into Harvey's path and he controlled it perfectly on the bounce, tucking it past the advancing keeper into the net. Just before the final whistle, Lewis played a nice pass for Harvey to hammer the ball into the goals for his hat-trick.
This ended another great display from the Youngstars, and each player can be very pleased with their own individual performance today.
Teamsheet: Mark, Sam, Ross, Josh, Morgan, Lewis, Harvey, Jason, Calum
Goal scorers: Harvey (3), Lewis (2), Jason (3), Ross, and an Own Goal
Saturday, April 18, 2009
TOP PERFORMANCE AT PENCAITLAND
Pencaitland Yellow 3 - 8 MYS Black Stripes (18Apr09)
With each team having only 8 players today, all of the kids enjoyed plenty of match-time in an exciting game at Pencaitland. The home team took an early lead when the ball was chipped over the Youngstars' defence into the path of a Pencaitland striker who controlled the ball very well and slotted it past Ross in goals. The Youngstars responded well, and it was all one-way traffic for the rest of the first period as the Pencaitland defence was put under continual pressure. However, they coped well and prevented an equaliser despite some good efforts from Lewis and Morgan.
The equaliser eventually came in the second period, when a great corner from Mark was knocked back across goal from Morgan, and Lewis was on hand to smash the ball over the goal line. Pencaitland took the lead almost immediately afterwards, when the Youngstars missed a chance to clear the ball out of the box and a Pencaitland striker sneaked in to pass the ball into the bottom corner of the net. However, the Youngstars rallied again, and some great hassling from Jason out on the corner flag forced a Pencaitland defender to pass the ball right into Lewis' path and he gratefully knocked the ball past the keeper to equalise for the second time today. Jason was involved in the team's third goal as his cross from wide on the left was met by Josh's head at the far post as he played it back across goal. Once again, Lewis was waiting and simply placed the ball into the back of the net to claim his hat-trick. Calum almost put the Youngstars two goals in front with a fantastic header from distance that went narrowly over the bar. But it was then Pencaitland's turn to equalise when a brilliant strike from wide on the right sailed past Ross' outstretched hand and bounced off the far post into the goals.
This gave Pencaitland a boost as we went into the third quarter, and they were unlucky not to score during this spell. Calum took a turn in goals, and Ross played in defence - both were called on to keep Pencaitland at bay, with Ross making many great last-ditch tackles and Calum pulling off a string of amazing diving saves when faced one-on-one with a Pencaitland striker on three separate occasions. The Youngstars restored their lead following some neat inter-play between Morgan, Josh and Lewis, and although the keeper made a strong save from Lewis' shot, Jason was waiting to pounce onto the rebound and he blasted the ball low into the net. He almost scored a second from the kick-off as he won the ball on the half-way line and took an early shot that almost caught the keeper out (as he managed to block the ball with his shins). The Youngstars then went further ahead when Lewis passed the ball from the left hand side of our own half towards Jason in the centre. Jason looked up and saw Morgan on space on the right wing and played the ball into his path. Getting the ball under control, Morgan then passed back into Josh, who flicked it towards Lewis who had now run past the centre circle. With his first touch, Lewis chipped the ball high in the air towards goal and it bounced in front of the keeper and over his head, falling kindly into the back of the net.
In the final period, Calum didn't have too much to do in goals as the Pencaitland kids began to tire. A great sliding tackle from Josh resulted in him damaging his head and having to go off injured, but Sam came on in his place and had a superb game at the back with Mark as they prevented further Pencaitland strikes at goal. The Youngstars stretched their lead further when Jason strode into the centre circle and passed the ball forward to Lewis, who played a nice back-heeled pass into Morgan's path and he simply curved the ball past the keeper into the net. Seconds later he scored another when Lewis's shot, following a smashing pass from Ross, was parried by the keeper and Morgan charged onto it to knock it in for the team's seventh goal of the game. Before the final whistle, the Youngstars managed to grab another goal as Morgan won the ball down on the by-line and played it back towards Jason, who fired it low into the bottom corner.
This ended another great performance by the team, against a solid Pencaitland side. The kids are really playing well together this season and working hard for each other - and this is paying off in the quality of football being displayed during the matches. Well done everyone!
Teamsheet: Ross, Sam, Mark, Morgan, Josh, Lewis, Jason, Calum
Goal scorers: Lewis (4), Jason (2), Morgan (2)
With each team having only 8 players today, all of the kids enjoyed plenty of match-time in an exciting game at Pencaitland. The home team took an early lead when the ball was chipped over the Youngstars' defence into the path of a Pencaitland striker who controlled the ball very well and slotted it past Ross in goals. The Youngstars responded well, and it was all one-way traffic for the rest of the first period as the Pencaitland defence was put under continual pressure. However, they coped well and prevented an equaliser despite some good efforts from Lewis and Morgan.
The equaliser eventually came in the second period, when a great corner from Mark was knocked back across goal from Morgan, and Lewis was on hand to smash the ball over the goal line. Pencaitland took the lead almost immediately afterwards, when the Youngstars missed a chance to clear the ball out of the box and a Pencaitland striker sneaked in to pass the ball into the bottom corner of the net. However, the Youngstars rallied again, and some great hassling from Jason out on the corner flag forced a Pencaitland defender to pass the ball right into Lewis' path and he gratefully knocked the ball past the keeper to equalise for the second time today. Jason was involved in the team's third goal as his cross from wide on the left was met by Josh's head at the far post as he played it back across goal. Once again, Lewis was waiting and simply placed the ball into the back of the net to claim his hat-trick. Calum almost put the Youngstars two goals in front with a fantastic header from distance that went narrowly over the bar. But it was then Pencaitland's turn to equalise when a brilliant strike from wide on the right sailed past Ross' outstretched hand and bounced off the far post into the goals.
This gave Pencaitland a boost as we went into the third quarter, and they were unlucky not to score during this spell. Calum took a turn in goals, and Ross played in defence - both were called on to keep Pencaitland at bay, with Ross making many great last-ditch tackles and Calum pulling off a string of amazing diving saves when faced one-on-one with a Pencaitland striker on three separate occasions. The Youngstars restored their lead following some neat inter-play between Morgan, Josh and Lewis, and although the keeper made a strong save from Lewis' shot, Jason was waiting to pounce onto the rebound and he blasted the ball low into the net. He almost scored a second from the kick-off as he won the ball on the half-way line and took an early shot that almost caught the keeper out (as he managed to block the ball with his shins). The Youngstars then went further ahead when Lewis passed the ball from the left hand side of our own half towards Jason in the centre. Jason looked up and saw Morgan on space on the right wing and played the ball into his path. Getting the ball under control, Morgan then passed back into Josh, who flicked it towards Lewis who had now run past the centre circle. With his first touch, Lewis chipped the ball high in the air towards goal and it bounced in front of the keeper and over his head, falling kindly into the back of the net.
In the final period, Calum didn't have too much to do in goals as the Pencaitland kids began to tire. A great sliding tackle from Josh resulted in him damaging his head and having to go off injured, but Sam came on in his place and had a superb game at the back with Mark as they prevented further Pencaitland strikes at goal. The Youngstars stretched their lead further when Jason strode into the centre circle and passed the ball forward to Lewis, who played a nice back-heeled pass into Morgan's path and he simply curved the ball past the keeper into the net. Seconds later he scored another when Lewis's shot, following a smashing pass from Ross, was parried by the keeper and Morgan charged onto it to knock it in for the team's seventh goal of the game. Before the final whistle, the Youngstars managed to grab another goal as Morgan won the ball down on the by-line and played it back towards Jason, who fired it low into the bottom corner.
This ended another great performance by the team, against a solid Pencaitland side. The kids are really playing well together this season and working hard for each other - and this is paying off in the quality of football being displayed during the matches. Well done everyone!
Teamsheet: Ross, Sam, Mark, Morgan, Josh, Lewis, Jason, Calum
Goal scorers: Lewis (4), Jason (2), Morgan (2)
Saturday, April 4, 2009
YOUNGSTARS STAGE GREAT COMEBACK
MYS Black Stripes 3 - 3 Haddington Athletic Clarets (4Apr09)
With the start of the Easter Holidays, both teams had a depleted squad for today's game - but they put on a great show for the spectators on the sidelines.
The first 15 minutes was a very evenly contested affair, with chances at both ends and neither team really on top. Haddington broke the deadlock towards the end of the period after Mark, Sam and Lewis had all managed to block shots from the Haddingston strikers before the ball was finally blasted into the net. Calum and Morgan both came close with a couple of efforts for the Youngstars and were very unlucky not to score (on another day they would each have finished off the chances that fell to them).
Calum almost scored an equaliser early in the second period as he lashed a fierce shot towards goal, but it cannoned off a Haddington defender's face. Josh and Sam were playing at the back and were called into action many times as we were fighting against the wind. Their strong tackling helped keep Haddington at bay, but they could do nothing about Haddington's second goal. Their midfielder picked up the ball in the centre of the pitch and strode into the Yougstars' penalty box before blasting the ball into the far corner of the net.
Haddington went further ahead at the start of the third period when a good cross from the right wing was met by the advancing striker, and he calmly slotted it past Innes. From the kick-off, Lewis managed to break into the Haddington penalty box, but his strong strike was saved by the Haddington keeper, who injured his wrist in the process and had to be replaced in goal. The Youngstars eventually managed to pull a goal back though, following some great play from Jason. He won the ball down at his own corner flag, then skipped past two opponents as he advanced up the left side of midfield before passing the ball to Lewis in the centre circle. Lewis wasted no time in charging into the Haddington penalty box and firing the ball past the helpless keeper.
This goal gave the team a boost, and they managed another shortly after the kick-off in the final 15 minutes of the game. Calum controlled the ball in midfield and looked up before slotting the ball into Josh's path on the right hand side. Josh then played a great first time cross towards Lewis who, 6 yards from goal, simply passed the ball into the bottom corner of the net. Haddington fought back well after this set-back and forced a couple of good saves from Innes - one shot in particular was heading for the top corner and Innes' outstretched hand managed to push it out wide. The Youngstars kept fighting for the equaliser, and it eventually came when Jason played a neat lay-off to Josh and his strike from outside the box was saved by the Haddington keeper... but the ball bounced out and Calum was on it in a flash to blast it over the goal-line. Some typically strong defending from Mark helped prevent any further Haddington goals, as the game ended in a draw.
Both teams can take a lot of credit for the way they played today. There was some great passing on display and a draw was a fair result following the efforts of all players involved.
Teamsheet: Innes, Mark, Sam, Morgan, Josh, Lewis, Jason and Calum
Goal scorers: Lewis (2), Calum
With the start of the Easter Holidays, both teams had a depleted squad for today's game - but they put on a great show for the spectators on the sidelines.
The first 15 minutes was a very evenly contested affair, with chances at both ends and neither team really on top. Haddington broke the deadlock towards the end of the period after Mark, Sam and Lewis had all managed to block shots from the Haddingston strikers before the ball was finally blasted into the net. Calum and Morgan both came close with a couple of efforts for the Youngstars and were very unlucky not to score (on another day they would each have finished off the chances that fell to them).
Calum almost scored an equaliser early in the second period as he lashed a fierce shot towards goal, but it cannoned off a Haddington defender's face. Josh and Sam were playing at the back and were called into action many times as we were fighting against the wind. Their strong tackling helped keep Haddington at bay, but they could do nothing about Haddington's second goal. Their midfielder picked up the ball in the centre of the pitch and strode into the Yougstars' penalty box before blasting the ball into the far corner of the net.
Haddington went further ahead at the start of the third period when a good cross from the right wing was met by the advancing striker, and he calmly slotted it past Innes. From the kick-off, Lewis managed to break into the Haddington penalty box, but his strong strike was saved by the Haddington keeper, who injured his wrist in the process and had to be replaced in goal. The Youngstars eventually managed to pull a goal back though, following some great play from Jason. He won the ball down at his own corner flag, then skipped past two opponents as he advanced up the left side of midfield before passing the ball to Lewis in the centre circle. Lewis wasted no time in charging into the Haddington penalty box and firing the ball past the helpless keeper.
This goal gave the team a boost, and they managed another shortly after the kick-off in the final 15 minutes of the game. Calum controlled the ball in midfield and looked up before slotting the ball into Josh's path on the right hand side. Josh then played a great first time cross towards Lewis who, 6 yards from goal, simply passed the ball into the bottom corner of the net. Haddington fought back well after this set-back and forced a couple of good saves from Innes - one shot in particular was heading for the top corner and Innes' outstretched hand managed to push it out wide. The Youngstars kept fighting for the equaliser, and it eventually came when Jason played a neat lay-off to Josh and his strike from outside the box was saved by the Haddington keeper... but the ball bounced out and Calum was on it in a flash to blast it over the goal-line. Some typically strong defending from Mark helped prevent any further Haddington goals, as the game ended in a draw.
Both teams can take a lot of credit for the way they played today. There was some great passing on display and a draw was a fair result following the efforts of all players involved.
Teamsheet: Innes, Mark, Sam, Morgan, Josh, Lewis, Jason and Calum
Goal scorers: Lewis (2), Calum
Saturday, March 28, 2009
MORGAN RELISHES MIDFIELD ROLE
Pencaitland Blue 4 - 12 MYS Black Stripes (28Mar09)
The early kick-off caused a bit of confusion this morning, as a couple of kids turned up late and missed the start of the match. However, the kids on the pitch were up for it right from the outset and Jason scored an early goal to get things underway. Innes had collected the ball in goals and threw it out to Ross in midfield, who passed it high over the Pencaitland defence. Jason rushed forward and, one v one against the keeper, slotted the ball into the bottom corner of the net. Shortly afterwards, Ross took a quick kick-in to Jason, who then played a great one-two with Josh in the Pencialtand box, before firing it past the goalkeeper for number two. Jason completed his hat-trick moments later when Josh won the ball in midfield and lobbed it over the oncoming defenders. Jason managed to control the ball, then lobbed the advancing goalkeeper and watched it land over the goal line. Pencaitland managed to break free a couple of times in the first 15 minutes, but Sam did a great job with his tackling and kept the strikers at bay.
Over the past 6 months or so, Morgan has been really enjoying his spell in midfield and he had a superb game again today, making an immediate impact when he came on in the second period. Jason played a neat pass to Lewis on the right hand side of midfield, who skipped past a couple of defenders and fired a fantastic cross towards the edge of the left hand side of the penalty area. Morgan had charged forward and with his first touch he curved the ball into the top right hand corner of the net. Minutes later, Lewis again found space on the right wing and dribbled to the by-line. He then looked up and drilled the ball low along the goal line where Morgan was waiting for a simple tap-in. Lewis and Harvey linked up well in this period, each switching from centre midfield to right wing to keep the pressure on Pencaitland. Lewis soon scored a great goal when he won the ball in the centre of the pitch, took a couple of steps forwards and rifled it past the diving keeper - the ball then bounced off the post and into the goals. Mark liked the goal so much he decided to show what he could do from distance when he found a bit of space with the ball, well outside the Pencaitland penalty box. He blasted an amazing shot into the top right corner, giving the keeper no chance. The scoring in the first quarter of the match was then rounded off by Lewis as he chipped the ball from an impossibly narrow angle into the top corner of the net.
Pencaitland fought back very well in the third period with some clever passing through the Youngstars defence resulting in three goals. Josh displayed his usual cool manner in defence, though, helping to prevent any further goals (supported by good tracking back by Innes in midfield). Calum was very unlucky not to get on the scoresheet during this 15 minute spell, with a couple of efforts going narrowly wide.
A great Youngstars goal got the team back on track right from the start of the whistle in the final period. Lewis and Josh linked up well, and Lewis' pass found Calum in the middle of the penalty box. Calum swept the ball over to Morgan on the left, and he placed the ball into the bottom corner for his own hat-trick. Calum then got his reward for some quick thinking as he charged into the box and won the ball from a Pencaitland defender who wasn't paying attention. Calum then nut-megged the keeper and enjoyed the celebrations on his way back to the half-way line. Harvey had taken a turn in goals and was called upon to make a couple of good saves, but could do nothing about Pencaitland's next goal as a fantastic shot from outside the box was blasted into the bottom corner of the net. Calum soon scored another for the Youngstars though, following a good pass from Lewis, and then Lewis set up Morgan for the final goal of the game.
So, it was another great performance by the team today and the kids all seemed to enjoy themselves despite the cold conditions. Let's hope the weather improves as we move into spring!
Teamsheet: Innes, Mark, Sam, Ross, Josh, Morgan, Harvey, Lewis, Jason, Calum
Goal scorers: Jason (3), Morgan (4), Lewis (2), Mark, Calum (2)
The early kick-off caused a bit of confusion this morning, as a couple of kids turned up late and missed the start of the match. However, the kids on the pitch were up for it right from the outset and Jason scored an early goal to get things underway. Innes had collected the ball in goals and threw it out to Ross in midfield, who passed it high over the Pencaitland defence. Jason rushed forward and, one v one against the keeper, slotted the ball into the bottom corner of the net. Shortly afterwards, Ross took a quick kick-in to Jason, who then played a great one-two with Josh in the Pencialtand box, before firing it past the goalkeeper for number two. Jason completed his hat-trick moments later when Josh won the ball in midfield and lobbed it over the oncoming defenders. Jason managed to control the ball, then lobbed the advancing goalkeeper and watched it land over the goal line. Pencaitland managed to break free a couple of times in the first 15 minutes, but Sam did a great job with his tackling and kept the strikers at bay.
Over the past 6 months or so, Morgan has been really enjoying his spell in midfield and he had a superb game again today, making an immediate impact when he came on in the second period. Jason played a neat pass to Lewis on the right hand side of midfield, who skipped past a couple of defenders and fired a fantastic cross towards the edge of the left hand side of the penalty area. Morgan had charged forward and with his first touch he curved the ball into the top right hand corner of the net. Minutes later, Lewis again found space on the right wing and dribbled to the by-line. He then looked up and drilled the ball low along the goal line where Morgan was waiting for a simple tap-in. Lewis and Harvey linked up well in this period, each switching from centre midfield to right wing to keep the pressure on Pencaitland. Lewis soon scored a great goal when he won the ball in the centre of the pitch, took a couple of steps forwards and rifled it past the diving keeper - the ball then bounced off the post and into the goals. Mark liked the goal so much he decided to show what he could do from distance when he found a bit of space with the ball, well outside the Pencaitland penalty box. He blasted an amazing shot into the top right corner, giving the keeper no chance. The scoring in the first quarter of the match was then rounded off by Lewis as he chipped the ball from an impossibly narrow angle into the top corner of the net.
Pencaitland fought back very well in the third period with some clever passing through the Youngstars defence resulting in three goals. Josh displayed his usual cool manner in defence, though, helping to prevent any further goals (supported by good tracking back by Innes in midfield). Calum was very unlucky not to get on the scoresheet during this 15 minute spell, with a couple of efforts going narrowly wide.
A great Youngstars goal got the team back on track right from the start of the whistle in the final period. Lewis and Josh linked up well, and Lewis' pass found Calum in the middle of the penalty box. Calum swept the ball over to Morgan on the left, and he placed the ball into the bottom corner for his own hat-trick. Calum then got his reward for some quick thinking as he charged into the box and won the ball from a Pencaitland defender who wasn't paying attention. Calum then nut-megged the keeper and enjoyed the celebrations on his way back to the half-way line. Harvey had taken a turn in goals and was called upon to make a couple of good saves, but could do nothing about Pencaitland's next goal as a fantastic shot from outside the box was blasted into the bottom corner of the net. Calum soon scored another for the Youngstars though, following a good pass from Lewis, and then Lewis set up Morgan for the final goal of the game.
So, it was another great performance by the team today and the kids all seemed to enjoy themselves despite the cold conditions. Let's hope the weather improves as we move into spring!
Teamsheet: Innes, Mark, Sam, Ross, Josh, Morgan, Harvey, Lewis, Jason, Calum
Goal scorers: Jason (3), Morgan (4), Lewis (2), Mark, Calum (2)
Saturday, March 14, 2009
WILD WINDS AT WALLYFORD
MYS Black Stripes 7 -7 Haddington Athletic Sky Blues (14Mar09)
This was quite possibly the strongest wind the Youngstars have ever played in today, making it difficult to control the ball properly and display our usual accurate passing. However, both teams played very well in the conditions and put on an exciting game for the supporters on the sidelines.
Playing against the wind in the first quarter, the Youngstars took the lead against the run of play. Jason's pass found Calum just outside the box. Calum turned and layed the ball off to Morgan who played a superb pass between two defenders and straight to Lewis' feet. Lewis looked up and blasted the ball past the Haddington keeper to score his first of the match. Last week was expected to be Lewis' last game for the Youngstars but his commitments with Hearts FC do not yet clash with our games or training, so he remains a Youngstars player for the timebeing. And his presence was appreciated in the initial period of today's match as we came under increasing pressure from the Haddington kids. It wasn't long before the equaliser came, when a great in-swinging corner was parried out by Innes in goals but the Haddington striker managed to react first in the box and hammered the ball into the net. With the wind behind them, Haddington soon scored another goal to take the lead.
The Youngstars hit back early in the second period, though, when Mark won the ball deep in his own half and fired the ball to Harvey in the centre. Harvey's pass split the Haddington defence, leaving Jason free to slot the ball past the advancing keeper. Within seconds of the re-start Jason scored another for the Youngstars to regain the lead. Harvey came close with a few great efforts (two that hit the side-netting and one off the cross-bar) before Haddington forced a good diving save from Innes. But from the resulting corner, Haddington scored again and then added another moments later to go in front at the half-way point in the match.
In the third quarter, Ross had a strong game in defence showing great composure in controlling the ball and passing to his team mates in midfield. One of his clearances found Lewis on the right hand side, and he played a clever pass into Jason's path. Jason wasted no time in latching on to the ball and completing his hat-trick. Ross was then involved in the next goal when his clearance was met by Harvey, who played a neat pass to Jason at the edge of the box. With his back to goal, Jason nudged the ball out towards the left wing where Morgan met it cleanly and lobbed it over the keeper's head into the goals. The Haddington kids responded well, though, wth two good goals putting them back in front again. They would have scored more had it not been for some excellent defending from Sam, who won more than his fair share of tackles in defence.
Ross moved into midfield in the final period and, after beating his marker with some fantastic footwork, his cross was met by Lewis who headered it past the keeper's outstretched hand into the back of the net. Jason had fought hard all game against much taller Haddington defenders, and after winning the ball again in midfield, he saw Harvey in space and slotted the ball right into his path. Harvey didn't have to think about it as he moved forward and swept the ball high into the roof of the net. However, Haddington showed great determination and managed to squeeze in an equaliser shortly before the final whistle.
So, despite the blistery conditions, the kids all put on a really good show for those watching and the match ended in a fair result of seven goals each.
Teamsheet: Innes, Mark, Sam, Ross, Morgan, Harvey, Lewis, Jason, Calum
Goal scorers: Lewis (2), Jason (3), Morgan, Harvey
This was quite possibly the strongest wind the Youngstars have ever played in today, making it difficult to control the ball properly and display our usual accurate passing. However, both teams played very well in the conditions and put on an exciting game for the supporters on the sidelines.
Playing against the wind in the first quarter, the Youngstars took the lead against the run of play. Jason's pass found Calum just outside the box. Calum turned and layed the ball off to Morgan who played a superb pass between two defenders and straight to Lewis' feet. Lewis looked up and blasted the ball past the Haddington keeper to score his first of the match. Last week was expected to be Lewis' last game for the Youngstars but his commitments with Hearts FC do not yet clash with our games or training, so he remains a Youngstars player for the timebeing. And his presence was appreciated in the initial period of today's match as we came under increasing pressure from the Haddington kids. It wasn't long before the equaliser came, when a great in-swinging corner was parried out by Innes in goals but the Haddington striker managed to react first in the box and hammered the ball into the net. With the wind behind them, Haddington soon scored another goal to take the lead.
The Youngstars hit back early in the second period, though, when Mark won the ball deep in his own half and fired the ball to Harvey in the centre. Harvey's pass split the Haddington defence, leaving Jason free to slot the ball past the advancing keeper. Within seconds of the re-start Jason scored another for the Youngstars to regain the lead. Harvey came close with a few great efforts (two that hit the side-netting and one off the cross-bar) before Haddington forced a good diving save from Innes. But from the resulting corner, Haddington scored again and then added another moments later to go in front at the half-way point in the match.
In the third quarter, Ross had a strong game in defence showing great composure in controlling the ball and passing to his team mates in midfield. One of his clearances found Lewis on the right hand side, and he played a clever pass into Jason's path. Jason wasted no time in latching on to the ball and completing his hat-trick. Ross was then involved in the next goal when his clearance was met by Harvey, who played a neat pass to Jason at the edge of the box. With his back to goal, Jason nudged the ball out towards the left wing where Morgan met it cleanly and lobbed it over the keeper's head into the goals. The Haddington kids responded well, though, wth two good goals putting them back in front again. They would have scored more had it not been for some excellent defending from Sam, who won more than his fair share of tackles in defence.
Ross moved into midfield in the final period and, after beating his marker with some fantastic footwork, his cross was met by Lewis who headered it past the keeper's outstretched hand into the back of the net. Jason had fought hard all game against much taller Haddington defenders, and after winning the ball again in midfield, he saw Harvey in space and slotted the ball right into his path. Harvey didn't have to think about it as he moved forward and swept the ball high into the roof of the net. However, Haddington showed great determination and managed to squeeze in an equaliser shortly before the final whistle.
So, despite the blistery conditions, the kids all put on a really good show for those watching and the match ended in a fair result of seven goals each.
Teamsheet: Innes, Mark, Sam, Ross, Morgan, Harvey, Lewis, Jason, Calum
Goal scorers: Lewis (2), Jason (3), Morgan, Harvey
Saturday, March 7, 2009
NEW SEASON OFF TO A FLYER
Tranent Juniors 3 - 22 MYS Black Stripes (7Mar09)
The first game of the new 2009 season got off to flyer with a goal in the first minute. Josh found space with the ball just outside the Tranent penalty box, skipped past his marker, and fired the ball into the top corner of the net. A couple of minutes later, Josh was involved again as he beat his defender and drilled the ball low across the goal line for Calum to get on the end of it for an easy knock-in. Soon afterwards, Harvey won the ball on the half way line and charged down the right wing. He skipped past three Tranent players on his way to the penalty box, before shooting low into the bottom corner for goal number three. Morgan then had a superb effort saved by the Tranent goalkeeper, but the ball rebounded to Harvey who struck it sweetly into the back of the net. Innes in goals, and Sam and Mark in defence, had little to do in the first period as the Youngstars piled on the pressure. The fifth goal of the game was scored following a smashing cross by Harvey that was met by Calum and he fired the ball low past the diving keeper. Morgan was then unlucky not to get on the scoresheet when his effort from outside the box flew just over the crossbar.
To help balance the teams, Josh and Calum joined the Tranent team for the second period and both were heavily involved throughout. It was the Youngstars who scored next, though, as Lewis played a great cross into Harvey's path and he blasted the ball high into the net to complete his hat-trick. Innes was playing as a striker in this period and made a great run with the ball through the middle, but his shot was met by a good save by the Tranent keeper. Jason was next to get on the scoresheet, after some great footwork at the edge of the penalty area followed by an excellent shot straight into the goals. Seconds later, Lewis scored his first of the match (and the team's eighth). Lewis was then involved in the next goal as he charged down the right wing, cut inside, and played a great pass across the 6 yard area. Innes was waiting to meet the ball and he swept it high into the roof of the net, scoring his first ever goal for the team. This gave Innes a great boost of confidence and he scored his second moments later. Lewis won the ball in his own half and played it to Innes, who layed the ball of to Jason and ran forward. Jason looked up and played a superb pass into Innes' path and he struck the ball low and hard past the keeper's near post. Mark had taken a turn as goalkeeper in this period, but had no action as Ross and Morgan in defence broke down every Tranent attack. A weak kick-out by the Tranent keeper was met by Lewis, who found Harvey with a well-weighted pass. Harvey met the ball on the run and drilled it past the advancing keeper for goal number eleven. The scoring was then completed in this period after a great clearance from Morgan found Lewis in space just outside the Tranent box. He turned his defender and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner.
In the third period, Lewis and Mark took the place of Josh and Calum in the Tranent side but were unable to stop Jason getting on the scoresheet again. Harvey was playing in goals and his kick-out found Morgan on the left wing. Morgan then played a neat pass to Jason, who rounded his marker and blasted the ball into the goals. Jason was invovled in the next goal too, as he played a great square pass across the goal line where Calum was waiting to knock the ball into the empty net for his hat-trick. Tranent managed to pull a goal back, however, as Lewis' pass was knocked forward by Mark and it took a deflection past Harvey's diving hands. The Youngstars bounced straight back, though, when Calum's cross found Morgan in space and he drilled it beyond the Tranent keeper. Tranent scored their second following a scramble in the box as Mark set up their striker for a great shot that sneaked past everyone. Lewis then scored for Tranent with a great effort from outside the penalty area. From the resulting kick-off, the Youngstars scored again as Calum's reactions meant he was first to the ball after the Tranent keeper parried it out with a good save. With the keeper on the ground, Calum had plenty of time to pick his spot in the back of the net.
The kids were beginning to tire a little in the final period, as the pitch was fairly heavy by this point. But that didn't stop some great play by Josh out on the left wing as he left a trail of opponents behind him with a mazy dribble. His accurate pass went straight to Lewis' feet, and he slotted it cooly inside the post. Mark then found some space with the ball on the left wing and played a great cross into the box, where Lewis met it with a volley past the helpless keeper. Lewis then returned the favour with a pass across the goals to Mark, who slotted it away with great confidence. Ross had been playing well in midfield during this period and set up the next goal with a great through-pass to Lewis, who controlled the ball well and rounded the keeper. Driving towards the empty net, it looked like Lewis would walk the ball over the line but Jason wanted more of the action and stole in to knock the ball into the net for his hat-trick. Sam had been playing as a lone defender in this last 15 minutes and some strong tackles ensured no one got past him. Ross then set up the next goal as his strike bounced off the keeper and into Lewis' path, who took the opportunity to score his 5th of the game. Lewis then rounded off the scoring with the last kick of the ball - a smashing effort from outside the box to complete his double hat-trick.
It was good to see all the kids getting lots of touches of the ball today, setting themselves up for the new season. They played really well as a team, with some great passing on display for the supporters, and all the kids can be realy proud of their performance. This was Lewis' last game for the Youngstars as he moves on to pursue his footballing ambitions with Hearts FC, and we wish him all the best for the future.
Teamsheet: Innes, Mark, Sam, Ross, Morgan, Josh, Harvey, Lewis, Jason, Calum
Goal scorers: Josh, Harvey (4), Calum (4), Jason (3), Lewis (6), Innes (2), Morgan, Mark
The first game of the new 2009 season got off to flyer with a goal in the first minute. Josh found space with the ball just outside the Tranent penalty box, skipped past his marker, and fired the ball into the top corner of the net. A couple of minutes later, Josh was involved again as he beat his defender and drilled the ball low across the goal line for Calum to get on the end of it for an easy knock-in. Soon afterwards, Harvey won the ball on the half way line and charged down the right wing. He skipped past three Tranent players on his way to the penalty box, before shooting low into the bottom corner for goal number three. Morgan then had a superb effort saved by the Tranent goalkeeper, but the ball rebounded to Harvey who struck it sweetly into the back of the net. Innes in goals, and Sam and Mark in defence, had little to do in the first period as the Youngstars piled on the pressure. The fifth goal of the game was scored following a smashing cross by Harvey that was met by Calum and he fired the ball low past the diving keeper. Morgan was then unlucky not to get on the scoresheet when his effort from outside the box flew just over the crossbar.
To help balance the teams, Josh and Calum joined the Tranent team for the second period and both were heavily involved throughout. It was the Youngstars who scored next, though, as Lewis played a great cross into Harvey's path and he blasted the ball high into the net to complete his hat-trick. Innes was playing as a striker in this period and made a great run with the ball through the middle, but his shot was met by a good save by the Tranent keeper. Jason was next to get on the scoresheet, after some great footwork at the edge of the penalty area followed by an excellent shot straight into the goals. Seconds later, Lewis scored his first of the match (and the team's eighth). Lewis was then involved in the next goal as he charged down the right wing, cut inside, and played a great pass across the 6 yard area. Innes was waiting to meet the ball and he swept it high into the roof of the net, scoring his first ever goal for the team. This gave Innes a great boost of confidence and he scored his second moments later. Lewis won the ball in his own half and played it to Innes, who layed the ball of to Jason and ran forward. Jason looked up and played a superb pass into Innes' path and he struck the ball low and hard past the keeper's near post. Mark had taken a turn as goalkeeper in this period, but had no action as Ross and Morgan in defence broke down every Tranent attack. A weak kick-out by the Tranent keeper was met by Lewis, who found Harvey with a well-weighted pass. Harvey met the ball on the run and drilled it past the advancing keeper for goal number eleven. The scoring was then completed in this period after a great clearance from Morgan found Lewis in space just outside the Tranent box. He turned his defender and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner.
In the third period, Lewis and Mark took the place of Josh and Calum in the Tranent side but were unable to stop Jason getting on the scoresheet again. Harvey was playing in goals and his kick-out found Morgan on the left wing. Morgan then played a neat pass to Jason, who rounded his marker and blasted the ball into the goals. Jason was invovled in the next goal too, as he played a great square pass across the goal line where Calum was waiting to knock the ball into the empty net for his hat-trick. Tranent managed to pull a goal back, however, as Lewis' pass was knocked forward by Mark and it took a deflection past Harvey's diving hands. The Youngstars bounced straight back, though, when Calum's cross found Morgan in space and he drilled it beyond the Tranent keeper. Tranent scored their second following a scramble in the box as Mark set up their striker for a great shot that sneaked past everyone. Lewis then scored for Tranent with a great effort from outside the penalty area. From the resulting kick-off, the Youngstars scored again as Calum's reactions meant he was first to the ball after the Tranent keeper parried it out with a good save. With the keeper on the ground, Calum had plenty of time to pick his spot in the back of the net.
The kids were beginning to tire a little in the final period, as the pitch was fairly heavy by this point. But that didn't stop some great play by Josh out on the left wing as he left a trail of opponents behind him with a mazy dribble. His accurate pass went straight to Lewis' feet, and he slotted it cooly inside the post. Mark then found some space with the ball on the left wing and played a great cross into the box, where Lewis met it with a volley past the helpless keeper. Lewis then returned the favour with a pass across the goals to Mark, who slotted it away with great confidence. Ross had been playing well in midfield during this period and set up the next goal with a great through-pass to Lewis, who controlled the ball well and rounded the keeper. Driving towards the empty net, it looked like Lewis would walk the ball over the line but Jason wanted more of the action and stole in to knock the ball into the net for his hat-trick. Sam had been playing as a lone defender in this last 15 minutes and some strong tackles ensured no one got past him. Ross then set up the next goal as his strike bounced off the keeper and into Lewis' path, who took the opportunity to score his 5th of the game. Lewis then rounded off the scoring with the last kick of the ball - a smashing effort from outside the box to complete his double hat-trick.
It was good to see all the kids getting lots of touches of the ball today, setting themselves up for the new season. They played really well as a team, with some great passing on display for the supporters, and all the kids can be realy proud of their performance. This was Lewis' last game for the Youngstars as he moves on to pursue his footballing ambitions with Hearts FC, and we wish him all the best for the future.
Teamsheet: Innes, Mark, Sam, Ross, Morgan, Josh, Harvey, Lewis, Jason, Calum
Goal scorers: Josh, Harvey (4), Calum (4), Jason (3), Lewis (6), Innes (2), Morgan, Mark
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