Denton Town u11's vs. Rochdale u11's

Again, another step in the right direction. You started off really well, and did some excellent defending. The areas that are costing us are: -

1. Some players didn't stick to their given position, which confused everyone, including me and Amy. Stick to the position me/Amy have given you.

2. Holding onto the ball when a simple pass to someone in space would have done. Look up, see who's around you and don't panic.

3. Several players going after the same ball, partly due to no. 1.

4. Players walking back when we lose possession, and have to defend. Everyone has to put it in, defenders, midfielders and forwards - its a TEAM game.

5. Not talking to each other. You do enough of it off the pitch, lets have some more on it.

6. Better than last week, but players are still waiting too far up the pitch to receive the ball from our goalkicks. Stand in front of the opposition, and be ready to react when they do.

7. Not clearing the ball out of danger. Its no good just tapping the ball, if you need to clear it, then get some power behind the ball.

8. Passing across your goal. Remember, IF IN DOUBT - KICK IT OUT. Better to give away a throw-in or corner than letting them have a goal scoring chance.

9. They were very physical, and pushed some of you off the ball a little too easy (some were fouls as well, not picked up by the ref). You need to be a little more physical back.

All that makes you sound awful, doesn't it? Well, you're NOT! You have IMPROVED so much over the last few weeks - remember, Rochdale won 21-0 last time. Some positives from the game were

1) Hannah; ran her heart out upfront, and pulled off some great saves as goalie.

2) Lachem; not only is she a fantastic keeper, but a cracking defender as well, and some of her runs and tackles were excellent. Awarded player of the match for the 2nd week running.

3) Most of the match, you tried, we need to make that ALL of the match - then things will really start to improve.

PARENTS/SPECTATORS/PLAYERS - Leave a comment please, and tell me what you think.

Training on Thurs, I will be late, so give your subs to Amy. Training is important, as we can work on these problems. Chris said he would come along again, and I thought he was excellent last week, so please do your best to attend. Still places left for Laserquest, please get your forms to me or Amy. Even if you have already booked, you can add friends and family if you wish.

No match next Saturday.

Enjoy your weekend.

Nigel.