Double Dave leads heroic Mighty6s defence

10 shorts and no goal

Looking at the team sheet before the match, I commented that we looking at the natural positions of the team, we were looking at a defensive 1-3-6 formation. After the game, this looked like an inspired selection.

Newbury brought a typical development side, with a core of experienced players, augmented by young, fit and skillful colts. A tough game was on the cards and it proved to be so. We started with an experienced back three of Date L, Paul C and Craig S, with Wards as a midfield sweeper. Four more in midfield and 2 upfront, with a maiden appearance for our colt, Tyler.

Newbury were soon on the attack and we struggled to contain them in the midfield, but our defence was solid and the Newbury youngsters failed to break through. We had a few counterattacks, but most of the game was played in our half. We made a tactical change midway through the half, moving to a second defensive midfielder, leaving only 1 up front. That seemed to settle and solidify the defence, although losing Dave to a green card didn't help matters.

0-0 was a great score at half time, but we knew we would have a long and difficult second half and so it proved to be. Newbury continued to push forward and pressed us hard from the 16. Much of the play was in and around the D, but we continued to doggedly keep them at bay. We continued to prove ourselves to be great defenders of the short corner. At least 10 times we faced them and they walked away goalless. Rhys as ever had a great game in goal and we are lucky to have him.

The last 15 minutes seemed to last forever. Newbury seemed to get more frustrated at their inability to score and the game opened up a little and we were able to make a few more breaks.

0-0 at the final whistle felt like a victory and I couldn't be prouder of the team.

Tyler had a great first game, Jon was solid in the middle and the defense were awesome. Double Dave won both DOTD (green card) and MOTM (strong defence), but I would applaud the whole team for an outstanding effort.

Next week, we have a long road trip to Milton Keynes for a 3pm push-back. Numbers are going to be tight, so anyone who can, please make themselves available.

#Mighty6s #COTN