11-a-side Friendly Against Kings Copse – 12th Feb ’23

We welcomed Kings Copse to the Rec today for our first go at 11 aside in anticipation of next season. It would be a good test for us as a friendly to be able to experiment and get used to playing slightly differently.

The transition should be smooth as we have been coaching with 11 aside in mind since the age of 5.

We tried to play 11 aside on a 9v9 pitch so of course it was very cramped for space. I didn’t mind this as I wanted us to be encouraged to move the ball fast and switch play to create space.

We took the first half to adjust and we struggled to get the passing going and figure out the dynamics of a back 3.

KC we’re managing to catch us out too often and punished us when they went 1.0 up. A stunning save from Thomas kept it at 1.

We kept battling until half time where we could regroup. We were unlucky when Aidan smashed the bar.

Half time – Jaguars 0-1 Vipers

Nobody was panicking at half time and we had a really constructive talk. We focused on the back 3, wing backs and moving that ball a lot fast around the pitch.

Every player took the instructions fantastically well and we were a totally different team in the second half.

The back 3 were outstanding. Aidan (in an unfamiliar position) swept behind William and Theo. The cover was much better so we were never caught out.

AJ held the wing better which created space infield for others.

We moved the ball twice as fast which meant we were getting up the pitch easier.

We got our rewards with some fantastic goals.

AJ got 2 on his home debut. One of which was a fantastic header from a corner.

Mally also scored a brace. A goal of the season contender where a nice set from Harry allowed Mally to rifle the ball first time into the top bin. (Shame we didn’t film this week).

Theo scored a screamer too, into the far top corner.

Everybody went up a couple of gears in the second half.

Full time – Jaguars 5 – 1 Vipers

Joint winners of player of the day today.

AJ impressed in only his second game and showed what we can look forward to when he becomes a regular next season. Pace, power, skills and work rate is a devastating combination. 2 nice goals to top it off too.

Aidan looked outstanding at the back. He will be worried now in case I play him there more 😆 I was so happy with those that sacrificed their own personal glory today for the long term good of the squad. Great captaincy mate and great performance.

A good start to big boy football guys. Keep adapting and keep listening to the coaching as well as you did today.

Quick Announcement

I just want to take this opportunity to clarify my position on the vacant Saints job.
I know that the 15 games unbeaten is turning the heads of the board at St Mary’s my way, but I am firmly M&T through and through and am committed to seeing the job through here. 😀
🖤💛🖤💛