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Posted on October 21st 2016
Football - HBAED 4 St Mary Magdalene 0
In the opening round of the Inner London Cup, the traveling St Mary Magdalene (SMM) team showed their intent and thirst for goal from the outset.
They played fluid football that resulted in pressure high up the pitch, leading to a back pass and indirect free-kick ten yards from goal. Pushing the ball central from the kick, the SMM captain opened up space for an attempt that slammed off the crossbar.
Frustrated
Quickly composing themselves, the slick, one and two touch football of the Year 10 HBAED boys undoubtedly flustered our opponents, who became quickly frustrated that their early intentions and desires of dominance had failed to prevail.
Each team saw a fair share of possession moving in to the latter minutes of the first half. However, it was HBAED who found the vital composure in the final third of the pitch, with several missed attempts finally leading to a through ball from Aziz that split the SMM back line in half, leaving Enry with only the keeper to beat, a task he completed with real poise.
Quick passes
The half time break allowed us to reflect on the football that gained us a 1-0 lead, an assessment leading to an agreement of a sharper focus on quick passes, better considered link-up play and more use of the width. In doing so, HBAED opened their account in the second half with devastating effect, sinking SMM with goals from Aaron and Mukthar. However, a special mention must go to Gjibril who scored a delightful free-kick that curled in to the top corner with absolute precision, leaving the SMM keeper helpless.
Congratulations to the Year 10 boys and well done for your conduct and sportsmanship in what was a heated and well-fought contest.
Man of the Match: Aziz - a player whose influence is possibly overlooked. Unselfish, assured touches under pressure, lovely link up play and a decisive through ball that led to our first goal.
Stepping up: Dexter - an individual who demonstrated confidence and reliance in the back line. His ability to read the play and remain composed on the ball was at times stand-out.
Mr Belcher
