We played Barton in the Winshill tournament and it was a close game so we went into this friendly not taking anything for granted. We played three 15 minute quarters.

1st quarter there wasn`t much in it. Barton were passing the ball around and creating chances but Zak and Iestyn stood strong and cleared the ball up field to Alex who distributed the ball out lovely. Thomas W looked good today getting stuck in with endless tackles. The first goal came from their goal kick which Tom H intercepted and slotted in the bottom corner. Barton came straight back at us with a super run full length of the field and finished with a great strike a fully deserved goal. A great run from Thomas W put the ball way up in their half and went out for a throw, Alex intercepted and put a great ball in the box and Max put it in the back of the net with his left foot (Great Goal Max). That quarter finished 2-1 Marlborough.

2nd quarter started with Thomas W having a couple of good runs down the right wing and putting pressure on Barton. The goal came from a corner that Tom H put away nicely. We seemed to have most of the possession in that quarter but Barton broke through occasionally only to meet Zak and Iestyn who worked great together to get the ball out, Louis did have to help them out sometimes with some stunning saves. Thomas W was off on a run beating one player, he puts Tom H through on goal and with only the goalie to beat... Tom put it in the bottom corner. James H came on for Thomas W and filled his position well the ball came to James and a one two with Iestyn and then a pass to Tom H to put him through on goal which he scored ( great work James ). Barton had a run at us from the kick off but great defensive work put the ball at Tom H feet. He ran the full length of the pitch and cooley put it past the keeper. Quarter finished 4-0 Marlborough


3rd quarter Zak came off for a rest and James H dropped in defence and Thomas W went back on the right wing. Barton started strong and threatened our goal but Iestyn again was solid and cleared the ball up to Thomas W who had a great run and was unlucky not to score (you deserved a goal today mate) Alex worked well in centre mid also taking some great goal kicks and corners. Barton got a free kick just outside the box which they put away beautifully. Zak came back on for James H and then found himself on the attack and having a shot... it rebounded for Alex and then for Tom H who put it away. The next goal came from a corner but nobody was ready so I don`t think we should claim that one. Alex was making some great runs and putting great crosses in which Tom H got on the end of one and put it away for the last goal of the game. 2-1 Marlborough.


This was a great performance today against a strong Barton Rovers side.
Very professional today lads and great sportsmanship I`m proud of you all.

Big thanks to James Hewitt for stepping in as a sub. You had a great game today mate (Rich you should be proud).

This game has put us in good shape for the Derby County academy cup Tournament on the 3rd May.

Ade
Marlborough Rovers U8s