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Bishops Stortford Swifts U10 v Hitchin Hawks U10

Sunday, May 10 2009

The last match of the season saw the Hawks twice come from behind, and in the end they could have ended up stealing all three points. The first five minutes may well be the worst start to a match all season. Bishop Stortford pressed from the outset and the defence, initially, were unable to keep them at bay. A bobbling corner was left to bounce round the penalty area without being cleared before a Swifts player was able to stab it home from close range (0-1). However, as has so often been the case this season the Hawks did not allow their heads to drop and fought their way back into the match.  Tyler, helping out in defence, was able to intercept the ball and start out on a surging run from his own half that took the ball back into the Swifts half. Minutes later Ryan C gave a textbook example of how to stay tall in the tackle and was able to take the ball away from danger.  With the Hawks spending more time pressing their opponents the boys started getting some shots in and one stinger from George was dropped by the keeper allowing Alex to intercept. Though pushed wide, he turned beautifully and delivered a perfectly chipped pass to Tyler at the back post who headed the ball home (1-1).

By this stage the game was opening up and at the other end Sahosh had to throw himself to block a well struck through ball from Swifts and then seconds later blocked a fiercely struck shot from a dangerous area. Juan, playing out of position in goal, grew in confidence as the match went on. At the other end Alex’s speed and total commitment to chase every ball terrorised the Swifts defence. Time after time, his efforts won throw-ins and corners when it seemed play would return to the opposition.

The second half started more positively than the first. Tyler again carved out space with his running down the right wing and the Hawks showed they wanted all three points. All of which made the next goal even crueller. A slick move saw two Swifts players clean through on goal and though Juan was able to save the first shot, he could only push it away and the other attacker was able to slot it home (1-2). 

As has happened so many times this season, the Hawks had the strength to pick themselves up when needed and it was only fair that Juan had such a crucial role in the equaliser. Having taken the ball near the edge of his box he knocked a perfectly placed long ball to George who was just inside his own half near the left touchline. George then set off on powerful run past a series of Swifts players before tucking the ball into the corner (2-2) and then set off on a typically flamboyant goal celebration.

By this time the boys had their tails up and were going for the win. Alex continued to scare the life out of the Swifts defenders with his running and he was able to find Ben in space – his shot was inches away from being the winner.

So, the boys had to settle for a draw - probably a fair reflection of the season. They had the talent to go higher in the table, but at times could not translate possession into goals. However, the spirit the boys showed throughout the year will stand them in good stead for next season.

Bishops Stortford Swifts 2  Hitchin Hawks 2

Hawks: Juan, Ryan C, Sahosh, George, Ben, Tyler, Alex