Mulbarton Wanderers
Under 11

Hethersett 4 Wanderers 3

It was a real pleasure to see two teams play good hard football whilst every player had a smile on their face. A really even match that saw every goal matched with one at the opposite end.

In the end there was nothing in it and although Hethersett took the win, it could have so easily seen Mulbarton be the winners come full time. Some great corners from Casper and some great goals from Cayd, Dion and Adam showed the opposition that Mulbarton Under 11's can score goals and can play well as a unit.

Full marks to Hethersett's coaches and players for making it such an enjoyable experience. I know Mulbarton always go into matches with an eye to playing good fair football and it was good to see Hethersett had similar views.

All in all a great game where both teams showed the passion and skill that their previous score lines might not have highlighted

Firside 11 - Mulbarton 1

Mulbarton once again started with real promise and then let a few silly mistakes take the game away from them.

Firside were no more skillful that Mulbarton, but as they played as a team and not as individuals, we were punished for not using our passing game to our advantage.

Mulbarton showed some flourishes and Cameron in goal made some brilliant saves, but in the end Firside showed us what we should have been able to achieve in our sleep.

Thorpe 4 Wanderers 2

Mulbarton came to Thorpe with high hopes for a first win of the season. It was soon obvious that the smaller pitch and long ball were to make life very difficult for the Mulbarton players.

First half Mulbarton seemed to playing in treacle as they constantly found themselves bunching up and losing possession due to poor passes. Thorpe were quick to capitalise on this and before we knew it we were 4-0 down.

Half time and the team seemed to have found new life. Within minutes, Mulbarton had come back to score 2 excellent goals (one being contender for goal of the season) and they finished the match off in very fine style.

Real shame the second half wasn't played at the start of the match as it could have been a much different score line. A great match against two teams who played very respectful and sporting football.     

Old Catton - 11 Mulbarton - 0

Another solid performance from the Under 11's that is not reflected in the score. The first half was dominated by great play between the Wanderers players however Old Catton (leaders in the league) made good with the chances given to them and went into half time 3-0 up.

Second half there was two (well 3 but one was a retake) Old Catton penalties missed and plenty of chances for Wanderers to redress the balance. However the mixture of the offside traps and good defending meant we just could not find the back of the net.

Unfortunately the attitude of the Old Catton players left a lot to be desired and the ref was required to talk to them on more than one occasion. But again Mulbarton played as a team and although goals were not in supply, we were all proud of their determinedness and hard working

Wanderers 5 Scole 8 (AET)

Mulbarton 3 - Scole 3 (after full-time)
Mulbarton 5 - Scole 8 (after extra time)

What a cup match. Mulbarton played an excellent game where the score kept going back and forth between the two teams. Some great passes to the forwards meant the pressure was on the Scole goal. Great goals from Casper (2) , Dion (fantastic long range goal) and Elliott M (2) and some great saves from Cameron meant we were never out of the match until the final minutes where tiredness caught us out. Full marks to all the team for never taking their foot off the gas in some hard conditions!

Very very enjoyable match and and a real pleasure to watch 2 very accomplished teams in action. Mulbarton are looking like a team to be reckoned with again.

Taverham 6- Wanderers 4

We headed to Taverham home ground with the sun shining and mood good. As it was it would turn into a game of high drama and questionable sportsmanship and would highlight why Mulbarton have won the Sporting Trophy two years in a row.

Taverham won the kick off but did not reckon on the strength of James in defence. He quickly nabbed the ball and passed it long to Pete who flicked through to Casper up front. Casper winged the ball into the area where Adam was waiting. Adam saw his shot blocked by a defender but this didn’t stop Elliott M racing in behind him to blast a shot in, causing the keeper to save it and realise that Mulbarton really meant business.

Taverham come back fast and with 2 large quick players we feared they may intimidate the defence but today the defence were totally focused. Jordan made light work of the first attacker but the loose ball rolled into his partner’s path and he unleashed a shot that flew wide of the far post. Elliott K takes a long goal kick that sends Adam down the right wing – flanked by Casper on the left. However the Taverham defence block his shot and return the ball to their players in our half. A freak bounce off a Taverham cross sees the ball over the line before anyone realises what’s happened. 1-0 Taverham.

Mulbarton don’t seem to be phased by this mishap and are swift to get revenge. From the kick off it is obvious that the players feel cheated as Dion, Casper and Elliott M keep the ball in the Taverham half and play some fantastic football. Taverham manage to dispossess Dion as he turns on goal and the attack is on our goal now. However Cam comes off his line and forces a long shot onto goal that Jordan clears (in a mirror move of last week). The pressure form Taverham seems to encourage play from Mulbarton and the pushing and jostling in the box doesn’t phase our guys from clearing the ball and sending Dion and Cayd running towards their forwards. Keeping possession, Dion tries a shot on goal and forces a corner which he takes extremely well. Adam is on the end of it and his shot is just over the cross-bar. This is great stuff from Mulbarton.

They retaliate well but again Jordan is on hand to clear the ball onto his waiting midfielders. This time Dion passes through to Casper who turns on the speed, beating the defence and scoring a pretty perfect goal from the left of the box. 1-1 Mulbarton.

Kick off to Taverham and they were not happy, powering through the midfield, Sam B took on the biggest of the team and was pretty successful in keeping any shot on goal at bay, but a lucky turn by the Taverham player found his shooting partner and as Cam ran off his line the ball scooted under him to out Taverham back in the lead.

Kick off and a pass back to Dion who sent the ball very deep into the Taverham half. Casper picked it up and was about to go for goal when the linesman called offside (it would be a re-occurring theme that offside decisions were made against Mulbarton when it certainly looked to all concerned to be totally onside). This however didn’t deter Mulbarton who kept the pressure on. Taverham goal kick and the ball didn’t reach it’s target as Sam B volleyed a return back towards their goal. Dion receives and beating the midfield passes through to Elliott K who makes a great shot count making the score 2-2.

Taverham kick off again and this time they lose the ball thanks to James and Charlie M. Charlie passes the ball through to James who again finds Dion in space. With Dion on top form, it doesn’t take him long to pick out Adam up front. Adam makes a run for goal but is denied as the goalie comes way off his line. This doesn’t stop Elliott M from taking the loose ball and scoring a most sublime goal to take Mulbarton ahead for the first time this season.

Again the Taverham forwards have to battle with a determined Mulbarton side. They manage to reach the goal area but are denied by Charlie clearing the ball for a corner. Corner taken, Cam saves the ball before Taverham can get to it. Goal kick and Mulbarton are pushing up once more. Casper and Adam attempt to get round the defence but fall foul of offside (this time correctly flagged). Free kick taken, it is down to Taverham’s fastest forward to beat James and Jordan. Sam B gets a foot in but the ball beats Cam’s good save attempt and equalisers to make it 3-3.

Pressure both ends of the pitch see Cam make a great brave dive to save the ball. This results in a crunching contact with a Taverham player and a few anxious minutes until he’s back on his feet. Goal kick finds Casper who runs through the defence and shoots on goal, only to see his shot miss the post by a inch or two. Taverham’s counter attack see another goal attempt but Jordan closes the player down only to have Cam almost fumble the ball into his own net – luckily he manages to back-peddle and save the ball in time.

Mulbarton are soon back on the attack when Elliott M crosses a long ball to Casper who has to watch as his shot from just inside the area is saved. This is isn’t the end of the drama though as both Casper and Cayd have attempts on goal but both times the ball refuses to cross the line and the half ends 3-3.

Second half and Mulbarton have the ball. With Elliott K off and Sam M on, Taverham come on strong and a very cheeky chip finds Cam just a little too far off his line and the ball falls into the net to make it 4-3. This again doesn’t dampen spirits and Mulbarton are back on the offensive. However Taverham have similar ideas and force a corner. Corner is taken and cut out by Sam M and another Taverham corner is awarded. Second corner falls to Jordan who passes out wide to Adam but again a debatable offside call stops Adam before he can make good on his run. Free kick sends Taverham towards our goal but for once we get the advantage and they fall into the offside trap. Jordan takes free kick but a tall defender cuts the ball out and with a good pass through allows a midfielder the chance to have a shot. Cam is prepared and saves it easily before rolling it out to Sam M who crosses the ball to Pete who then with Casper runs on goal. Pete takes on the biggest player on the pitch and wins before passing through to Casper who scores the goal of his footballing career so far.

Charlie D comes on for Cayd and Elliott K comes back on for Sam B. Taverham are still pressing hard and the tackles become more and more body contact than ball. This does not go unnoticed but the Mulbarton players do what they do best – play good fair football. Taverham are heavily loaded in the Mulbarton half when a goal kick results is a tussle for the ball between the defenders and the attackers. Jordan does brilliantly in fighting for possession but he cannot stop the four Taverham players crowding him out and firing the ball into the net 5-4 Taverham.

Mulbarton are still in the game though and don’t let up for a moment. A charge on goal by Dion and Adam sees the goalie taken down by a very fair challenge (as it was witnessed by referee and both sets of coaches and all agreed it was not intentional) and out of action of a few minutes whilst Adam and the team are convinced he’s scored. However it was never over the line but it was still a great play by Mulbarton. On his return, the goalies kick sees Cam come way off his line to clear the ball into the path of an oncoming Taverham player. Sam M swiftly takes up the goal line though and makes sure the ball doesn’t come over the line.

The final minutes of the game show up Taverham‘s tactics for all to see with Taverham’s players seemingly losing all sense of the rules of Under 11’s football. In the final moments we saw our lads subjected to very high tackles aimed at knees and thighs, a blatant pushing over that resulted in immediate dismissal from the pitch and a torrent of abuse (at the referee of all people) that would have seen half the team penalised had it been the match was played at Mulbarton. Bad behaviour aside, a late clearance from the Taverham goalie fell well for their midfielder who manager to outrun James (who had played an outstanding game) and find the net as Cam did his upmost to keep the ball from passing him. Final score was 6-4 Taverham

It is the attitude of all the Mulbarton players that needs to be highlighted and commended, Not once did they retaliate or lower themselves to the level that certain Taverham players had taken themselves too. The coaches were actually approached afterwards by some of the parents to apologise for they teams behaviour and they wanted to congratulate us on a very well behaved and sporting team. So I think the score line does nothing to show who were the real winners today.

Wanderers 0 – Hethersett 8

Another home game for the under 11’s and with a massive defeat form last week still stinging, the mood was not as positive as we would have liked.

As it was we did win the toss and with kick off taken the guys seemed determined to go on fighting. Early ball from Dion allowed Elliott K to make a strong run through the centre. Hethersett were quick to cut Elliott out and the play switched to our half. Jordan made sure the attack didn’t turn dangerous and forced the Hethersett shot wide for a corner. A good long cross was easily received by Elliott K who clears the ball out to the win and allows the forwards a chance to attack.

However the hesitation we have suffered with this season means a good chance is stopped before it can become interesting and Hethersett bring the ball straight back to us where Cam makes a brave dive at the ball as the Hethersett forward brings his foot up for a shot.

Goal kick and here they come again but Jordan again makes sure the shot is off target with some great marking and strong defending. The loose ball is picked up by a Hethersett midfielder as Mulbarton scramble to the ball but Cam again makes a brave save and gives the team breathing space. Goal kick out to Mark who turns and runs into 4 Hethersett defenders. He manages to keep possession but unfortunately cannot get the ball to Dion who is making moves into space on the right hand side. The cut out cross means that Mulbarton are once again on the back foot, and yet again it’s Jordan and Cam who have to keep the ball out of our net. The resulting scramble of Hethersett and Mulbarton players force the ball over the line for a corner but with a great header Dion clears the ball before it poses a danger.

For once we have the advantage and Cayd makes a break for goal only to watch his shot miss the goal by mere inches. It’s a quick reprieve though as before long the defence are being made to work once more as a long shot is headed over the bar by Mulbarton. The corner see’s Cam getting his defence in order before making a big jump to receive the ball. Goal kick and the ball falls short and allows Hethersett a chance to shoot outside the box but it flies over the bar and Cam gets Elliott to take the goal kick. Unfortunately this shot falls directly to a Hethersett player and he muscles his way through to the goal area where his shot across goal is tapped in for the first goal.

Mulbarton are now faced with the demon of this season – being a goal down. With the kick-off taken it is obvious that the players feel the game is already lost and although the next few plays are deep within the Hethersett half, no amount of support form the ever loyal parents can seem to lift their spirits.

Before long Hethersett are back hassling Cam, but a great off his line run forces the Hethersett play to shoot early and this then allows Jordan to clear off the line – there may be chance yet for us to get back into this game. The ball falls into Dion’s path and he along with Casper make a run for goal. Mark has already got round the offside trap and with Dion’s lovely pass has a shot on goal – forcing a good save from the Hethersett goalie. Mulbarton corner taken by Elliott but the cross is cut out by a tall Hethersett defender which the goalie easily retrieves. The ball is send deep into the Mulbarton half where a shot on goal is cleared by Cam only to have a rebounded shot almost cleared off the line by Jordan, but it’s too powerful to stop and it’s 2-0 Hethersett.

Kick off again and before we know it, we’re back peddling to defend our goal. Cam again blocks a shot from the six yard box before Hethersett shoot the ball wide of the uprights. Again the goal kick isn’t our best and the Hethersett players make good with a one-two move that finds an unmarked player striking at goal. Jordan (once again) almost clears off the line but the ball is in. Mulbarton are now 3-0 down and the heads are dropping fast.

The last few minutes of play sees Cayd have a second shot saved and then Mark’s brave effort at lobbing the keeper going over the bar. The final minutes of the half bring Mulbarton a corner where Elliott M manages to get a shot on goal but sees it saved.

Second half sees Hethersett start and Mulbarton quickly win the ball. Pete makes a great pass to Casper who speed beats 2 Hethersett players but is cut out by a large defender. Hethersett come back but James solidly stops the run. Again James is there for the Hethersett throw and manages to get the ball out to Dion who is on the break. Mark sees Dion’s run and starts to runs into space but gets caught offside. Free kick brings Hethersett into Mulbarton’s area and Cam is forced to make another brave save. Mulbarton then clear the ball and Cayd finds himself all alone in the Hethersett area with Dion, Mark and Casper coming up behind. Cayd crosses the ball to Casper but is cut out by the keeper.

Hethersett come back again and James and Jordan keep things tidy before a loose ball sees Cam again making a fine save to keep the score line down. This is however short lived and a goal kick is intercepted and banged into the net before Mulbarton had a chance to react – 4-0 Hethersett.

Kick off and somehow it’s Hethersett who are making a run onto the Mulbarton goal. Cam comes off his line and meets the ball at the attacker’s feet – Cam is having a great game and really beginning to show his confidence in goal. Ball out to Pete who crosses to Mark who forces a great save at the Hethersett end and forces a corner. Corner is taken and Hethersett win the ball and shoot it deep into Mulbarton’s half but waster the chance and shoot wide of the goal. Adam comes on for Mark and there is a (temporary) shift in Mulbarton’s mood as Dion and Casper start to dominate midfield with both trying to one-two the defence and worrying the goalie.

Hethersett are still dominating though and a long goal kick sees Hethersett touch the ball twice before it’s in the net for 5-0. Sam M comes on in defence and immediately manages to catch a Hethersett attacker offside. Again though the free kick is not what it could be and Hethersett make us pay for this with a long shot on goal that beats Cam’s outstretched hands 6-0.

With this kick off Casper tries a long run down the left wing and is onside when a tackle takes him out before he can cross to Adam and Dion. Mulbarton win the corner but the cross falls wide and Hethersett have the goal kick. This time it is three Hethersett touches before a shot at a very tight angle manages to wind itself into the goal – 7-0 Hethersett.

Although the players seem to have accepted their fate, there is still a little play in them and Pete and Adam both fight their way through to the Hethersett area before being forced to shoot wide. Hethersett return fire and with Cam out of position make the chance to go 8-0 up a reality.

The final play of the game sees four Hethersett corners taken with Mulbarton defending well and Elliott Martin making a final run on goal as the whistle blows. 8-0 to a team we easily match for skill and pace is not a good result. The players have lost their confidence and I think us coaches will need to go back to the drawing board to make these guys believe in themselves again.

Wanderers 0 – Lakeford 16

Due to the terrible wind and rain there is no report to be had for last weeks match. Brilliant support from Wanderers parents as ever but we were subjected to probably the worse weather the players (and spectators) have ever experienced.

The score more than proves that the Under 11’s had their minds more on hot baths and warm clothes than on trying to beat an on form Lakeford but this should not distract from the fact that the players plugged away until the final whistle. There was a lack of wanting in Mulbarton, there is no denying that, but they all turned up, played the game and didn’t moan once.

Credit needs to be given to Lakeford who showed us how a team can win a game in terrible conditions and although it was by far our worst ever defeat, it may well teach the guys a valuable lesson in wanting to win!

In a very nice side note, once we had all come home and warmed up I received a call from Lakeford’s coach to say that we didn’t deserve to lose by such a large margin – he said he knew we were a lot better than that. He also wanted me to pass on to all the players that all the Lakeford players, coaches and parents were totally impressed with Mulbarton’s determination to finish the game as a team.

So as a score – not worth mentioning, but as a team who keeps trying, 10 out of 10!!!

Wanderers 0 Rocklands 10

Special guest reporter and coach – Amelia Statham

Once more the home game advantage falls to Mulbarton and with last week’s defeat still leaving a bitter taste, we face the league leaders and all-round very good team Rocklands. The weather is clear but very windy and we take advantage of this by playing with the wind for the first half.

Kick off brings a boost of confidence as Tom takes the ball from defence and sends a speculative shot toward the Rocklands goal. Rocklands return the ball via a goal kick and Dion picks up the play and passes a very measured and weighted ball into the path of a sprinting Elliott M. However Rocklands have been reading their rule book very well and Elliott’s run is in vein as he falls into the Rocklands offside trap. Free kick and the first of many Rocklands attempts on goal. Luckily the wind sends the ball sailing over the bar and Cam collects for a Mulbarton goal kick. With the wind assistance, the ball sails deep into the path of Mark who goes for goal but is caught offside. Free kick taken, Jordan sends the ball back into Rocklands half. Elliott M flies down the wing and again is past the defenders before the whistle blows for offside.

This time the free kick is more calculated and forces Cam to make a great charge off his line to stop the Rockland attacker from scoring. With the ball free, Jordan and Tom scramble to keep the ball away from the goal as Dion and Charlie come back from midfield to assist and force a corner. Rockland cross the ball deep and Dion manages to pass the ball out to Casper. Casper turns on the speed and tries to send Mark on his way. However Mark is met with a strong defence and the ball is cut out before any danger can emerge.

However the pressure is still on and the evenly matched game means Mulbarton have another chance on goal. Elliott K forces the goalie to come way off his line and send the ball wide for a Mulbarton corner. Corner taken and the goalie punches it over the bar for a second. This time Sam L sends the ball into a tight curve and it hits the side netting. Goal kick and another well cut out move from Tom. Passing to Dion, again it’s Elliott M who gets things moving but before he can switch play to Mark and Casper he finds himself offside again – the Rocklands defence are laying this move extremely well. The free kick sends four Rocklands players into the area and with Cam trying to cut out the attack, there is no stopping them and they score 1-0.

Kick off Mulbarton and Dion is troubling the keeper with a great shot that had goal written all over it. Goal kick and its all change as the Rocklands crew are back hassling Cam. Cam makes a great blocking save and Jordan clears the ball off the line. Rockland then try to re-group but find themselves offside thanks to Tom and Jordan moving up field. Free kick taken by Elliott K and Mulbarton are again in a good spot. Casper and Mark are both onside but the goalie is ready and bravely saves the ball as they are racing towards goal.

Defenders are back in the thick of it as the goal kick finds the ball deep into Mulbarton territory. However Tom is ready and using the wind sends the ball flying back into the Rocklands half. This allows Dion to show off his skills and to pass a great ball for Mark who outruns himself before he can get any power behind his shot – goal kick Rocklands. This time it falls to James to cut out the play and full marks to him as he takes on two players, loses the first encounter and then goes in for a second and wins the ball. With the play now in Mulbarton’s favour, the ever vigilant Rockland goalie is forced way out of his area and finds himself tackling Dion in midfield. With a late challenge a free kick is given and Tom steps up to take. Tom’s shot is well taken but the goalie is good at his job and takes the save easily.

Again it’s end to end stuff with Cam making a great save and then Mulbarton’s persistent defending making Rocklands shoot wide. Goal kick and this time its Rocklands turn to cut out the shot and with a great one-two movement, the score is 2-0.

Kick off and Mark sends the ball back to Dion who sends Mark into the area with a high cross. Winning a corner, Elliott K takes and gives Casper a great shot on goal which is saved to allow Dion to shoot – only this time it is saved by Mark’s butt!

Final play of the half see’s Elliott M running deep into the area as the match is stopped as a Rocklands player is injured. Restart sees Elliott M passing through to Casper whose cheeky back heel to Mark gives him a chance on goal and only narrowly misses.

Second half and as coaches we couldn’t be happier. 2-0 to the best team in the league is nothing to sniff at. However now we are tired and playing against the wind. Still spirits are up and with a few tactical changes we are confident for more of the same.

Rockland kicks off and make a play for goal. Cam sends it wide for a corner. Kick taken, Mulbarton end up frantically trying to defend with Elliott K saving Mulbarton this time with a shot out to the edge of the area. Unfortunately Rocklands have a midfielder waiting but his shot is sent wide. Short goal kick allows Sam M to pass through to Dion who foxes the midfield and passes through to Elliott M. Elliott is well placed but his shot falls short of the goal and is easily picked up by the keeper.

Rocklands counter attack forces a fumbled save from Cam which then sees Mulbarton nearly concede a goal as it rolls across the goal mouth. However Jordan gets the ball away and we play the same game at Rocklands goal with the goal being forced to make a brave tackle as Casper and Mark were running in.

Back to Mulbarton’s half and Cam makes another cracking save but the rebounds works against him and Rocklands scream the ball in for 3-0. Kick off and Dion sends Mark and Pete flying down the wing with a signature perfect cross. Mark crosses to Pete and Pete connects to shoot a great ball into the goal. Only problem is that the goalie will refuse to be beaten and saves it with flair to give a corner. Casper takes and gives Sam B a chance to shoot, but his shot flies over the bar.

Goal kick and with a good kick and a wind behind him, the Rocklands keeper easily reaches our goal area. After a great double foot save from Cam, there is no stopping the Rocklands onslaught as they bang home goal number 4. Mulbarton come back fighting though and Casper is desperate to get a goal back but as he passes through to Pete he falls into the offside trap – much to his frustration. Free kick and before we know it, a fifth goal has been scored.

It is obvious that the wind is wearing the guys down more than the opposition and from the kick off their attempts to cross a ball into a strong head wind does not win many results. Rockland capitalises on this and whilst Mulbarton try to defend, 4 Rocklands players fan out along the area. Cam comes way off his line to defend the goal but the player nutmegs him and the ball rolls in for 6-0. A similar play sees us defending again and although Cam bravely tackles a Rocklands forward, the loose ball is taken before Jordan can get back and banged into the net for goal number 7. Unfortunately this will happen again a few minutes later as Cam is forced to save a difficult ball and as he tries to recover from the first shot, the defence are struggling to get the ball away and Rocklands strength sees them score again 8-0.

However Mulbarton have learnt to not give up and Pete makes a battling run into the Rocklands half and wins a throw deep into their half. James takes and Casper tries to get the ball over to Mark but is cut out by a well placed defender. This means that Rocklands can once again attack our goal but this time Jordan is gunning for the ball and wins his tackle – winning a goal kick. Elliott K takes the kick which sees Jordan pass to Pete who passes to Casper and Casper’s shot glances the bar and goes over.

Rocklands ball is cut out by Elliott M who tries to make up for all the offside traps with a great shot on goal – denied by the goalies feet. The rebounds falls to their defender who hucks the ball deep into the area where Cam makes a big presence and forces the attacker to shoot wide. Mulbarton ball but they are pressured into giving a corner. Corner taken, Cam is beaten by a great header from the far post 9-0.

Again credit to Mulbarton for battling on, but just as we seem to making headway, we fall into the offside trap again – this time Dion being the guilty party. Free kick is cut out by Elliott K and as the ball is loose Rocklands keeper come out of his area and dribbles the ball into the Mulbarton half. Mulbarton go for the tackle but the goalie crosses to his forward who fires a blistering shot at goal. Cam saves really well but again our luck isn’t that great and the rebound falls to another forward and his shot flies in to end the game 10-0.

All in all a good performance by Mulbarton. We know that a victory would be a long shot, but the guys played well in some hard conditions against a very strong side, Very proud of their determination and perseverance.

Wanderers 1 – Firside 10

Yet another home game and after a cracking result in the cup, we were eager for the chance to make it two in a row. Unfortunately whatever mojo had been working with us last week was distinctly lacking today. Kick off and Mulbarton were pressing deep into the Firside half. Some good ball work from Dion and Peter in midfield was allowing Cayd to slip through the offside trap. However the defence know their stuff and were able to keep the Mulbarton push at bay.

With a Firside goal kick, the ball sailed deep into our half and with the defence on the back foot a Firside attacker unleashed great shot towards goal that flew wide of the post – Cam in a good position to save if it hadn’t. Our goal kick and the ball falls at Dion’s feet who beats a defender and sends Cayd on to his second shot on goal – but is charged down by the Firside keeper in a play very similar to Cam’s great save last week. Firside quickly react to the Mulbarton attack and capitalise on so many players being in their half. A long ball catches the defence off-guard again and this time there is no stopping the Firside attackers from beating Cam and making it 1-0.

Kick off and another Mulbarton attack looks promising. Elliott M sends Elliott K on a run but a defender takes the ball and passes down field to an awaiting midfielder. The midfielder runs past 2 Mulbarton defenders and scores Firside’s second in so many minutes.

Another Mulbarton kick-off and with dropped heads it looks as if Mulbarton have already given up. The midfielders are still trying to piece together a move to break the Firside defence, but once the ball falls back into Firside’s possession it is almost inevitable that the attack will come back doubly strong. This time a long ball form Tom is cut out by a Firside midfielder. As the defence on the right come out to him, he manages to get round both of them and making use of the space in front of him steadies and shoots and Cam’s effort is in vain as it flies over his outstretched hands. 3-0 Firside.

Mulbarton seem to becoming out of their daze – with a good strong press into the Firside half. Unfortunately Tom’s great pass to Dion did not pay dividends as Dion was forced to shoot early and although well taken, didn’t seem to cause the keeper too many problems. The response was another swift attack on the Mulbarton goal – but thanks to some quick thinking from the defence, they stood their ground and Firside’s attackers found themselves well offside. It didn’t take too long for the next wave of red and white shirts to head towards Cam and with a forced save, Firside won the corner. The resulting kick was met with a header that flew wide of the far post.

Mulbarton were desperately trying to get back into the game and Ryan and Dion were both doing their upmost to allow the forwards a chance on goal. However as much as they do achieve the Firside defence has Mulbarton’s moves covered well. Before we know it Cam is again under pressure and is forced to scoop the ball up from the edge of his area. With a great kick out, the ball is claimed by a Firside player and returned to the area with such force that Cam cannot do much to stop – 4-0 Firside.

It seems unlikely that we can retrieve much in this half but as ever the team still show flairs of great play – this time it’s Sam B who takes on a Firside attack and clears the ball before it can be passed to the masses streaming into the area. This change of fortune doesn’t last long though and Firside once more punish the defence with a solo run through the middle and a shot that was never ever going to miss – 5-0.

Kick off and although the score is not that encouraging, play is still 50-50 with Tom cutting out a Firside attack and trying to find his midfielders. Firside have other ideas though and goal number 6 comes via Mulbarton as a wicked deflection rolls past Cam as he tries to back peddle towards the goal. In an almost instant replay of goal five, Firside take advantage of a disheartened defence and bash goal number 7 into the net. Mulbarton have yet to give up though and Cayd forces the keeper to keep his place with a great low shot that the keeper only just manages to fingertip away.

The payback is swift with Firside again beating the defence and Cam saving a great shot. Cam’s save causes the ball to roll back into the forwards path, his rebound shot is again reached by Cam, but the power is too much and Cam looks on in vain at goal number 8.

Second half and a substitution sees Casper come on for Elliott K and Ross on for Charlie. Firside take the kick off and it seems as if the half time “chat” has woken Mulbarton up. Firside are still eager for goals but thanks to Cam, an early strike is well saved and a corner is awarded to Firside.

Corner taken and a volley shot is well blocked by Pete. Ball out to midfield where Dion and Ryan are keeping possession well. Ball sent out left to Casper on the run but is cut out by 2 Firside defenders. The resulting Firside pass sees a Firside attack foiled by tom who goes in hard to win possession and pass a great cross over to Casper. Casper seizes the chance for a go on goal and see’s a well taken shot saved.

Firside show signs of disappointment at the new more upbeat Mulbarton and try to attack the goal once more – but this time Elliott M cuts out a pass and Mulbarton are back in the driving seat. Elliott passes through to Pete who chips the defensive line but cannot finish his nifty little move to make it count. Again it’s end to end stuff and Cam is forced to make a save feet first before cradling a second shot on goal. Kick out and somehow Firside have the ball yet again. Cam is back in the zone though and saves a shot on goal for a corner.

Mulbarton defence seem to have woken up too as this corner is well defended and the ball is easily taken by Cam. Kick out finds Casper (who has moved back into midfield) who loses his marker and passes a great ball to Ryan who does the same and then passes through to Elliott M. Elliott then streaks down the right wing and forces a great save from the Firside keeper.

Another Firside push see’s James persistence pays off as he wins the ball and sends it deep up field. However as much as Dion tries to get through the defence, they will not let him pass and Firside return fire and force a corner. Corner taken straight to Cam who then sends it to Casper. Casper makes a solo run down the left and passes to Pete who makes sure he doesn’t miss and get Mulbarton back on the score shoot – 8-1.

Cam is soon called back into action though with a great save from a well taken shot in his area. It’s not long until Cam is called back into action as Tom defends “too well” and sends a Firside player flying into the ground and Firside win a free-kick. Firside take the kick but thanks to a well placed defensive wall, they send the ball way over the goal.

Mulbarton back in play and Elliott M passes over to Casper who manages to bring the ball down, control it and blast it goal wards all in a matter of milliseconds. The goalie to his credit does well to save it by dropping to the floor and using his feet to keep the ball out of his net. Again it’s end to end as Firside come back once more and win a corner from a well defended Mulbarton goal. The kick is taken and a great melee the box sees the ball glances past Cam to make it 9-1.

Final play of the game sees a drop ball after a 50-50 tackle takes both a Mulbarton and Firside player out. The ball in play and Firside has possession but Tom clears the ball for a throw in. Firside throw is long, high and very accurate as it hits its mark and the Firside forward makes a dash on goal. The defence cannot contain him and he’s through and shooting onto goal – 10-1 Firside.

The final whistle comes and it is a relief to finish this game. Problem is that had we played the first half like the second half – we would have been in the running to win. As it was Firside made good on our weaknesses and this is something we cannot afford to happen.

Wanderers 2  Costessey 1

So back home for Mulbarton to tackle the first game of the 2009/2010 cup challenge. With 4 key players unavailable, it was down to the coaches to try a new approach with some new eager players and a new formation. With Cam gaining in confidence every game, we had a new line up to support him with Tom, Jordan, James and Sam M in defence. Midfield was made up with Casper, Pete, Elliott M and Dion leaving Elliott K and Cayd up front.

Costessey won the toss but Mulbarton were quick to take possession and show Costessey they meant business. With Pete and Casper keep the play deep in the Costessey half, Cayd and Elliott K were trying to break the Costessey defence. With a free ball falling to Costessey it was Pete who managed to pass the ball back to Tom. Tom took charge and fired off a long ball to Elliott K. Elliott then took the ball into the Costessey box but was thwarted (not the first time) by the Costessey goalie.

Costessey came back to us with a good run along the right wing. A hopefully strike from outside the area sees the ball fly wide outside the Mulbarton goal. Goal kick from Tom sends Elliott M running into the Costessey half where he tries to switch the play with a long cross over the pitch to Casper. Casper takes the ball well but is shut out by 2 Costessey defenders. Keeping possession, he manages to pass back to Pete who takes the ball round the first defender before being tackled hard from behind. The Costessey attack takes the ball back to Cam’s goal but Cam confidently takes the ball out of the air and holds it firm.

Long goal kick to the wings where Sam M passes through a great fast ball to Cayd who dummy’s a pass and lets Elliott K run on goal. Elliott tries to beat two defenders but cannot get the ball past them and the ball rolls out for a Costessey goal kick. Long ball into the Mulbarton half and Costessey are back on the attack. Jordan and James ensure the Costessey forwards struggle to connect any play and Jordan blasts the ball back into Dion’s path. Dion passes two midfielders and passes right to the wing where Elliott picks up and shoots on goal. The Costessey goalie does very well saving the shot but again it shows him Mulbarton mean business.

Mulbarton pressure Costessey again and again any break Costessey get is shut out by a very strong back four. Costessey win a corner after Jordan and a forward battle it out at the corner flag. Corner taken, Tom boots the ball out of the danger zone and Elliott again takes a shot on goal – forcing the goalie to send it wide for a Mulbarton corner. Elliott M steps up and takes a great corner that sees a lot of headers being committed to before

Ball is back in play when Pete cuts out a Costessey cross but his pass to Cays is in vain as Elliott has moved into offside. Free kick and again the defence have to keep things form turning dicey with Tom stopping a Costessey advance (though it called offside after Tom commits to the tackle). Free kick Mulbarton and Tom sends a great long ball to Casper who works his way past a midfielder, lays a pass off to Pete who shoots on goal – but as he’s so far away he cannot get the power behind it to worry the goalie who saves it’s easily.

Costessey as soon back in our half though and a great edge of area shot sees Cam make a great save onto the near post for a corner. Costessey corner goes wide and give Mulbarton the goal kick. Mulbarton break once more and Elliott again is on target but the ball curves round into the side netting. It’s not long until he’s back trying it a second time but this time he falls offside as he takes his shot – 0-0 still.

Mulbarton are still not easing up though and Dion takes the ball of an advancing forward and once more takes his time to place a great ball into the area where Elliott tries once more – denied by a quickly returning defender. The ball falls to Casper who takes the ball wide and crosses a lovely ball to Dion whose near volley skims the cross bar. Casper, Cayd and Pete are working the defence hard on the left and force a Mulbarton throw from near the touchline. Casper throws downfield to an advancing James who takes a long shot on goal and forces another good save out of the Costessey goalie.

Last play of the game sees Cam sacrifice himself as Costessey try to attack one more time before half time. With two forwards and two midfielders coming at him, Cam has to think quick to ensure his clean sheet this game. With Sam M, Jordan, James and Tom in support Cam runs off his line and dives on the ball as the Costessey forward tries to take his shot. Collision ensues as players topple and Cam is on the bottom. On inspection his knee has taken a proper beating but to his credit – he takes it and steps up to play the rest of the half. Half time and thanks to the best display this season – Mulbarton are 0-0. Second half and Mulbarton kick off. Again the pressure is on the Costessey goal with Casper and Dion making it easy for Elliott and Adam (subbed for Cayd) to have strikes on goal. However this isn’t to say Costessey are not trying their hardest at the Mulbarton goal. Cam is forced to make a dangerous save with his feet after a bad back pass goes wrong. Goal kick from Cam and Costessey manage to win possession and with a swift strike the ball is headed toward our goal. Great save from Cam sees an unlucky rebound and the resulting kick sends it into the goal – 1-0 Costessey.

Kick off and it is soon evident that the early bang to the legs has taken it’s toll on Cam and with applause all round, he leaves the field to have Elliott K take up the gloves and Cays comes back on as forward with Adam. A Costessey corner sees Elliott make a great save and clear the ball to Elliott M who feeds Adam a wonderful pass but Adam is blocked before he can capitalise on it. However Casper sees his chance and takes the ball out wide on the left wing. Beating both midfielder and defender, Casper sends the ball high and right and it finds the top corner of the net to make it 1-1. Kick off and Adam manages to steal the ball and have go at Mulbarton’s second goal but it goes wide for a gaol kick. Adam isn’t finished though and blocking the goal kick the rebound almost goes straight back in. As Costessey try to get back into the game, Cam makes a brave return to goal.

The play is end to end with both goalies being made to work and the defenders. Sam M is subbed with Elliott after playing a cracking role in defence. Costessey have a try on goal and force Cam to make a flying save that could make save of the season. Elliott breaks from defence and passes through to Pete who 1-2 with Casper allows Adam to find space in the Costessey half. A great pass from Pete and Adam is very unlucky not to score as the goal just reaches the ball.

Goal kick lands to Elliott who passes the ball across the pitch to Casper. Casper takes the ball on a solo run and with Dion, Pete and Adam in support takes a shot at goal that the goalie only manages to bang out to the feet of Adam whose make sure this time he sinks it deep – 2-1 Mulbarton and a worthy goal.

Kick off and Mulbarton are back in possession again. On the run Dion is faced with 3 defenders and although he does very well keeping the ball his pass out to Cayd is cut out and Costessey are back on the attack. Offside catches them out though and danger is adverted.

Final play of this half is a reflection of the first half with Cam making a Bartez like save from a long shot with his feet and then getting to his feet and making a proper save from a very well taken shot. Goal kick and as the ball falls to Costessey the whistle is blown on full time!

Mulbarton have shown that they are a side to be reckoned with. Great play – both as a team and some great individual play. Great performance and our first ever win in a cup match so here’s to round 2. Well done lads – very very proud of you all

Dereham 5  Wanderers 1

We travelled to Dereham feeling confident that we could bring home our first win. The team were beginning to work together and with all our previous encounters with Dereham being pretty exciting, we were looking forward to the coming match. The weather was once more kind to us after a terrible day of windy weather the day before in training.

Mulbarton were playing a pretty strong squad with a few changes to the line-up to play on our strengths in defence. With Mulbarton winning the toss, we took the ball deep into the Dereham half. Mark and Elliott were keeping themselves deep in the Dereham half, but a long ball from half way found a Dereham defender waiting to return it. The ball sailed high and long, finding Sam L. Sam tried to clear the shot but unluckily he scuffed the ball and it curved straight into the path of a Dereham forward and with the slightest of taps, the ball was in the net – once again Mulbarton had conceded an early goal.

However as soon as the ball was moving again, it was obvious that the team were out for revenge. Ryan was holding fast in defence and crossed a long ball for a Dereham throw. Quick throw and Dereham sent another shot towards goal but Cam had it covered with a confident stop.

Goal kick and Mulbarton were on the attack. Elliott made a great run down the wing but got shut down by 2 Dereham defenders. The returning play saw Jordan defending well and crossing a great ball to Pete on the left wing. Pete turned and sprinted down the line but like Elliott before him got shut out just shy of the corner flag. The play was definitely 50/50 and again Dereham were trying to break the defence but Ryan staying strong and forced Dereham to give Mulbarton a throw. Ryan took this and sent a far ball into Dereham’s half and Dion’s path. Dion managed to get into the area and his cheeky lob almost beat the keeper but he managed to pluck it out of the air just in time!

Goal kick saw Dereham trying to beat Elliott Martin out on the wings but Elliott’s speed kept the Dereham players frustrated. Although the play was mainly being played down the wings, there was a few opportunities for the play to switch and Elliott Martin sent a great ball over the pitch into Pete’s path. Again the little whippet managed to outrun two Dereham players and cross the ball over to Mark who unfortunately had stepped into offside.

Free kick brings on another Dereham attack and with a very controversial decision from the line, Dereham seem to fall into offside – however play is allowed to continue and a second very disputed goal is won thanks to a well placed Dereham shot. 2- 0 to Dereham.

Mulbarton again kick off and take the ball into Dereham’s area where the defenders take the ball off for a corner. Ryan takes the corner and a volley of headers and a scramble of feet cannot get the ball over the line. Dereham goal-kick and this time their player is caught offside. Free kick and Dion wins a corner which is quickly taken by Ryan. Dion, Mark and Pete all have a chance on goal but the defenders played well to stop the ball going in. Dereham goal kick and Ryan cuts it out before it can travel too deep into our half. A great cross to Pete allows him to beat the defender and have a great attempt at goal but it flies just wide of the post.

Final play of the half saw Ryan win a free kick from halfway, Fires the ball into the area and Dion finds time to bang in a great shot that again flies just shy of the post.

Second half and Dereham kick off and again an early attack is foiled due to the canny defence and the offside trap. Ryan’s free kick find Elliott Martin on the wing and with a good cross to Elliott K who beats a defender and allows Dion another chance to up his season’s tally – but Dion’s luck is against him and he again misses by inches.
Dereham come straight back and this time they do get through the defence before Cam shows his chops by making a great save (well he sat on the ball, but a save is a save). Goal kick and this time it is Casper and Charlie’s chance to shine. Both left footers bring the ball up the left wing and Casper gets the ball crossed deep into the Dereham box but it is saved by the keeper. Dereham counter attack and Jordan’s defending stops the danger dead in its tracks. Jordan clears the ball over to the right but as Elliott is trying to keep possession, Dereham let three forwards come up and as they beat the offside trap Cam is at full stretch as the ball is blasted into the top corner for an impressively taken goal. 3- 0 Dereham.

Again Mulbarton have not lost hope and the kick off unleashes the Elliott/Elliott partnership. Elliott Martin sends the ball deep and Elliott Kelly tries to “pull a Dion” and lob the keeper, but again luck isn’t with us and it goes just over.

Goal kick finds Mulbarton defenders on the half way line and the ball is sent back into the Dereham box. Mulbarton win a corner but the ball is caught well and another goal kick is taken. Dereham again came on the attack but the offside caught them again. Free kick and Cayd is this time given a chance on goal. The ball goes to Dion who passes a great ball to Cayd whose touch of the ball is just wide.

Not long and Dereham are back on the attack, but Cam is once again ready and waiting with a great save to Dereham corner. Corner taken it is down to Casper to clear the ball and give Elliott and Elliott another chance to try on goal. Elliott K makes a great solo effort and watches as his perfect shot is blocked by a very fast Dereham defender. Corner taken, and this time Casper’s cross to Cayd gives Cayd another go to score but again the shot is blocked by aforementioned fast defender.

Dereham goal kick sees a lone attacker come deep into Mulbarton territory and it’s Sam B vs lone attacker and as he manages to lose Sam, Cam come off his line to save his shot. Dereham player keeps his cool and manages to side step Cam and get the ball into the net. 4-0 Dereham.

Kick off and again Mulbarton seems ready to score with a great 1-2 between Casper, Dion and Cayd. Casper brings the ball deep and crosses to Dion who dummies to allow the ball to get to Cayd. Cayd then has 2 defenders to deal with and passes over to Elliott Kelly who fires off a great shot that is well saved. Goal kick and the ball doesn’t fall well for Dereham. Mulbarton back on the attack and Dion has a crack on goal and though them goalie gets a hand to the ball, it’s not enough and Mulbarton score. 4-1.

Dereham come straight back and Cam was left standing as the ball was sent through his legs only to have the goal saved by Jordan off the line. However the Dereham attack isn’t over and with Sam L trying to clear it the ball from the area and a Dereham attacker bashes the ball onto the crossbar where it falls lucky and the game ended 5-1.

Another disappointing score line but by no means a disappointing performance. The team kept their cool throughout the whole game and they are showing real signs of playing as a “unit” as apposed to 11 individuals. Very impressed with the play on display and once more, Mulbarton were a little unlucky with the decisions and the way some of their shots fell. Still well done lads – looking good.

Wanderers 1 - Wymondham 4

Another home game and another chance to see new players in action. As the ranks of the Under 11 are swelling, it is good to see how the team work with new players and also how the newbie's gelled with the established old guard. With the sun shining and the temperature extremely warm for both September and Orchard Park itself, we were all ready for an enjoyable display of football.

With Wymondham winning the toss, Mulbarton knew they were not going to have it easy. Kick off taken and Mulbarton went in hard with Casper winning the first tackle of the game. He resulting throw-in saw a Wymondham long ball easily scooped up by Cam. Cam kicks long and finds Charlie out on the left wing but the bounce get's the better of him and Wymondham take possession back. The defenders are quick to react and force the player wide. However he manages to get his foot round the defence enough to slot the ball past Cam for an early 1-0 lead.

This is what Mulbarton needed as we do seem to suffer with first goal nerves. Once the first goal
is scored the team seems to relax and get into the game and this is what happened next. From the kick off Mulbarton are pushing hard into the Wymondham defence. Casper and Dion are both working the wings well and Dion's shot goes close to equalising.

Wymondham come straight back though and Jordan's great defending earn us a goal kick. Tom takes and sends it long into the Wymondham half but over the sideline for a Wymondham throw. A quick throw and Wymondham are back on the attack. Cayd makes a great run back to help the midfield, but the Wymondham attackers are too strong and battle through. Luckily the defence have their wits about them and Wymondham walk straight into an offside position. This was doubly lucky as the resulting goal (a great strike form Wymondham) was ruled out.

Cam kicks out to Cas per who is tackled hard from behind and awarded a free kick. Ryan takes it and finds Casper on the wing. A great run ends in Casper passing a great ball to Mark who side steps a Wymondham defender and plants the ball home to equalise.

Soon after the Wymondham kick off and it's all back near the Wymondham goal. This time it is Dion fouled and the free kick is to be taken just outside the area. Ryan again steps up but sends the ball over the bar. Ball back in play it's send long into the Mulbarton half. Again the defence play some great football and force Wymondham wide once more for a corner. The cross is well taken but an over-eager Wymondham header sends the ball high over the bar.

Cam sends the ball out to the wing where Dion takes it into the Wymondham half where Cayd is waiting. A sweet Dion pass allows Cayd to run onto the ball and shoot at goal - forcing a great save from the Wymondham keeper and winning us a corner. Ryan again tries to work his magic and with four Mulbarton players running onto the cross it's a scramble of goalie's hands, Mulbarton feet and an erratic ball. Somehow it doesn't cross the line and the ball is booted to safety.

Mulbarton are keeping possession well and after a free kick from a Wymondham player it is Dion who wins a throw-in. Unfortunately Mulbarton's throw is foul and the vigilant ret hands the ball over to Wymondham, Mulbarton do well in keeping play out of their half and toward the opposition's goal.

After a delay in play due to a Wymondham injury it was Cayd determination that gave us a corner. Ryan took it well and the ball was forced out of the area but into the hands of a Wymondham player. This time Ryan connected well and the ball looked as if it was in, but it shaved the post for a goal kick. Wymondham were pushing hard but Cam was playing extremely well as the play entered his area. Coming off his line he bravely saved a well struck ball that forces a Wymondham rebound but Cam - as cool as a cucumber - saves it easily. Half time score 1 -1.

Second half and Mulbarton kick off. With Casper and Cam subbed; Will and Peter have come on. From the off it seems as if Mulbarton have once again come out charging with an early throw been won. However the feet come up again and the throw is rewarded to Wymondham. This marks the change in the play, as the throw travels deep into Mulbarton territory and Wymondham's forward strikes, bringing a bouncing shot directly at the goal. Will gets his fingertips to it but it goes over his head and in for 2-1 Wymondham. Mulbarton show their determination though and try to get back into the game. Wymondham try and break after tackling Charlie on the left wing but are caught offside once more. The pressure doesn't stop though and Will is forced to clear a long shot before making a great save on the return.

Will manages to find Elliott unmarked and sends him the ball. Elliott then heads up the right wing but is closed out before he can try on goal, Wymondham's throw and the ball is caught at midfield where Pete is trying to give Charlie a chance to break. Wymondham earn themselves a free kick but don not make the most of it as Jordan cuts out the shot before the runners can pass him. 8all is quickly kicked back up field to Wymondham who cannot keep the ball in and give Mulbarton another throw in (but once more we give it away as we cannot keep our feet on the floor).

Wymondham attack once more and Jordan again is in the thick of it, and forces the ball off for a Wymondham corner. This time the defence show they are on form and deal with the corner easily - giving Will a goal kick. Pete takes the ball from the bounce and after taking on three midfielders tries to get the ball through to Dion, but is shut out by the number of opposition in the way.

Will is forced to save a great effort form outside the box which Jordan then clears to the sidelines. Wymondham run in from the throw but again fall into the offside. Goal kick from Ryan is returned from half way by Wymondham but Will is on hand to easily save it. It's the sign of things to come hopefully as Will makes three great saves in succession from Wymondham attackers.

Goal kick again and Sam 8 makes a brave run into the box. His cross Marks almost enough to make it 2-2. The ball comes back to us but Sam L sends it deep into the Wymondham area where we try to pressure once more. But Wymondham are on the turn and they come back into our half with all but three defenders. A long, high and very fast shot comes out of nowhere and beats all the players and Cam's outstretched hand - 3-1 Wymondham.

The final minutes of the game see Mulbarton try their best to get that second goal, but it isn't going to happen and with seconds remaining, a long cross across goal finds a Wymondham striker clear and the ball is banged in for 4-1.

All in all a good game for the lads. First half they were all over Wymondham, keeping them within their area and taking the game to them. Second half we seemed to lose our voices and this got us into trouble, However we are still on a very steep learning curve with new players, players new to the league, offside, 11-a-side etc but I know that we have the makings of a very good and confident team.

Wanderers 1 – Thorpe 3

With not the best ever start to the season out the way we now find ourselves on home turf against last years league runners-up Thorpe. As the last report stated, the guys were very gracious in defeat and we went into this game with a good deal of confidence thanks to a really successful training session the day before.

Thorpe kicked off and it was obvious that Mulbarton were not going to sit back and watch. Charlie swift run in from defence made the Thorpe players fumble the pass and Mulbarton won the throw in. The throw by James finds Elliott making a run down the right wing and with a good first touch sends the ball into the Thorpe area – but the Thorpe goalie had read his mind and saved the ball easily.

Thorpe soon turned the attack back to the Mulbarton goal, but a new positive attitude on Cameron saw Mulbarton’s goalie take full control of the situation, marshalling his defence and coming way off his line to knock the ball off for a corner.

Well taken corner was brilliantly defended by the Wanderers players who got the ball safely back to keeper. The Mulbarton forwards began to press once more and Cam’s kick found Cayd and Elliott unmarked. Dion brought the ball down and long passed to Elliott who had made way into the Thorpe area. Thorpe defenders hassled Elliott enough to stop the shot but Elliott managed to win the corner.

Tom’s corner floated high into the 6-yard box and Dion was ready to sink it but his shot was caught off target slightly and the ball shot wide. This caused the Thorpe players to come back once more and again it was Cam who kept his cool and saved a good shot from outside his area. Tom took possession but as four Thorpe players were pressing him, he was forced to clear the ball for another Thorpe corner. However this was badly taken and the Thorpe players conceded a throw in.

Most of the first 15 mins of play was down the right and leaving Pete and Casper without much to do. Mainly this was down to Thorpe using their strong player deep into the Mulbarton right corner and relying on him to be ready to pounce. However it wasn’t a wise move when Charlie’s throw in found Mark who turned and crossed a long ball to Dion. With a burst of speed, Dion lost his marker and crossed to Cayd but as good as Cayd’s shot was, the goalie’s save was equally good.

Thorpe were once more in charge of play and brought the ball back to the Mulbarton half. It looked as if Thorpe might be on the verge to break through into the area when Charlie made his move and expertly got the ball and sent it deep back into Thorpe area. But this was once more a temporary reprieve as Thorpe came back with a counter attack. This time both Tom and Charlie were caught on their heels and it was Cameron who saved the day with a great “feet first” save that allowed Sam B to clear the ball from the Wanderers area.

The ball didn’t leave the field though and it was down to a great run from Casper who managed to win the ball and send it up field. Peter got the ball under control but was tackled from behind, causing Thorpe to give away a throw in. Charlie took a quick throw that had Mark, Dion, Cayd, Casper and Peter all in good positions. Mark made the most of the free ball though and ran through the Thorpe defence and gambled his chances with a late strike. Well worth the effort though as the goal had to fully stretch to keep the score sheet empty but did not manage to keep hold of the ball and with a great strike Dion unleashed a shot that skimmed the crossbar by millimetres.

It didn’t take long for Mulbarton to be back at the Thorpe goal and this time it was Elliott’s turn to have a pop. Elliott had made a great run from midfield to the right hand side of the area when his shot was again saved by the annoyingly on-form Thorpe goalie. The counter –attack brings up a new side of the goal when the lone Thorpe player (mentioned earlier) tried to outwit the Mulbarton defence but fell into offside before he could make any attack on goal. Halftime and the game was 0-0 with Mulbarton showing none of the new season nerves of last week.

Second half and Mulbarton kick off. Thorpe soon win a corner and take a very controlled long cross that falls smack bang into the six yard box. However Pete is on hand to clear the ball before Will (who has come on for Cameron) finds himself in trouble. Cayd takes the ball through to the half way line but is tackled by two Thorpe midfielders who then pass the ball back up to the Wanderers gaol. Will saves well and this allows Casper to pass the ball up the wing and into Mark’s path. Mark then tries again to break the defence but he is once again denied by the ever vigilant keeper.

The goal kick is a long one and it bounces only the once before a Thorpe striker volleys the ball straight into the Mulbarton goal. Will made a great save – even getting a hand to it, but the power of the shot was too much and Will couldn’t stop the ball crossing the line 1 – 0 Thorpe.

Mulbarton don’t lose any steam though and come back to attack the Thorpe goal with Dion Mark and Casper all within the area. The ball is bounced around between Wanderers and Thorpe players and it finally is pushed out for a goal kick. Another long and high goal kick sees an almost instant replay of the last goal with Will again making a brave effort to get to the ball but the ball just rolling over the line 2-0 Thorpe.

Dion and Cayd kick off and Casper runs deep to take the ball from Mark’s cross. With Casper sweeping the ball into the area, Dion attempts to make it 2-1 but the defenders clear it before it gets dangerous. Again the Thorpe players attack and with the defenders caught napping, it is left to Will once more to try and save the ball. Again he makes a good effort, but it is not enough to keep it out and the score jumps to 3-0.

As with our last match, the score doesn’t seem to effect the team in the negative ways it would last season. They get the ball, kick off and all dig in and make the effort to bring the score line back. This kick off sees Casper and Cayd set up a lovely move for Mark as Elliott runs into the space in the far right corner. Mark crosses the ball for Elliott but it is kicked out by a Thorpe player for a corner. Tom takes the kick that fools the Thorpe goalie and sees Tom’s curling cross headed off the line. This time it’s Casper’s turn to shine as he sends the ball out to Cayd and with a turn loses his marker, receives the ball back sends it just wide of the near post.

This time the goal kick is cut out by a persistent Mark and his shot falls just wide. Thorpe turnover the ball and come back into Wanderers territory. Again the lone Thorpe player is left wanting the long ball and this time he receives it without falling foul of the offside. He takes his shot but has it wonderfully saved by Will who quickly turns the ball back into Thorpe’s end. Casper and Pete work the ball well to pass two Thorpe defenders and then Mark and Dion make their break. Casper and Mark work the ball well into the near corner and Mark then peels off to allow Casper the chance to cross. With this ball Mark turns to goal, beats one then two players and sails home the ball to make the game 3-1. A great effort by all the forwards that really showed the skill on offer in the Under 11’s.

Final play of the game saw Tom tackled hard and awarded a free kick. Tom took the kick well – rebounding it off the Thorpe wall. As it fell back to him, he tried to clear the wall with a cheeky long lob but the ball falls just wide to keep the score 3-1.

Though the score is not showing it, the guys played some fantastic football and it was evident to all that they were suddenly aware of the positions they had and what they needs to do to make those positions work. Good work by all and again – another game to be proud of.

Mulbarton

Cameron – GK
Tom – DF
James - DF
Sam B – DF
Charlie – DF
Casper – MF
Peter – MF
Dion – MF
Elliott – MF
Mark – FWD
Cayd – FWD

Will – Sub
Ross – Sub

Wanderers 2 – Drayton 9

Goodbye mini-soccer rules, hello to big goals, a huge pitch, 30 minutes each way and 11-a-side football where offside traps and the long ball come into play.

Mulbarton’s Under 11’s headed out to Drayton for the first game of the new season. Thanks to a long, easy and well deserved summer break, the chances of forming and playing a team of 11 players had not been realised and this match gave the coaches their look at how 11 players worked as a team.

With Drayton taking kickoff, the expectation and excitement was pretty high as play started. Mulbarton won possession with Dion running down the right. Drayton soon won back the ball however and made a good attempt on goal before Jordan cleared the ball away for a Drayton throw. Drayton were bringing the game straight to Mulbarton and another effort on goal was well defended by Sam and Jordan. Jordan kept possession and crossed a lovely ball to Elliott who was free on the right. With a great turn of pace, Elliott beat the defence and took his shot – forcing the keeper to push it wide for a corner. Mark took the corner well but Drayton were ready and soon play was heading back towards our half, before Jordan again cleared the ball into safety.

Drayton throw came to nothing and Cam’s goal kick was a well placed ball towards Dion and Eliiott but again Drayton reacted first and broke through. Charlie did well to knock the ball wide for a corner but the Drayton forward took a brilliant corner and floated the ball into the goal from the flag 1-0 Drayton.

Mulbarton kick-off and after furious struggle to keep the ball, Dion is off down the wing again, however the defence close him down before he can make an try on goal. Keeper throws out and here they come again. Cam comes off his line and forces a wide shot – goal kick to Mulbarton.

Cam’s kick to the left finds Casper waiting and after beating two Drayton players feeds a great ball through to Pete whose makes a dash through the middle. Unfortunately Pete is tackled by a considerably large Drayton player and the tables are turned once more. Cam again charged down the shot but the Drayton attackers were calm and collected. They get round Cam and beat Sam B (whose run in from defence to assist was just short of saving the ball) and score their second, 2-0 Drayton.

Kick off and it’s a wide cross to Casper who is off again toward the Drayton half. A lovely cross allows Elliott the chance to head the ball at goal. Keeper saves what would have been the goal of the match! Mark wins the ball from the goal kick and tries to break the Drayton defence on the right but is forced out of play. Drayton‘s throw get them back into our half but thanks to a well placed defence, offside is called before any danger appears. Free kick from Charlie goes slightly awry and Drayton capitalise on it with a blistering outside the area shot that Cam made a good effort to reach but could not stop. 3-0 Drayton.

Kick off and again Mulbarton are held in the middle of the pitch, with Casper Pete and Jordan all involved with tackles and pass attempts. Drayton manage to get a player free and a long pass find Sam L chasing him down the wing. Sam manages to interfere with the cross but the ball still finds its way into the area. The resulting scrum of Sam B, Jordan, Charlie and Cam ends with Cam being injured and subbed for Will and a corner to Drayon.

Drayton corner sends the ball upfield and the Drayton midfield make another attempt on a fourth goal – only to be denied by a wonderful fingertip save from Will. Mulbarton no have the advantage and a quick return finds the ball with Casper who again tried to outpace his attackers. Casper manages to pass the ball over to Dion whose shot on goal is saved but not stopped, Mark come in and tries again but the keeper is ready this time. Goal kick and its Mulbarton having to defend again with 6 Drayton players in the Mulbarton half. Will makes a great defensive move against a Drayton attacker but he manages to slide the ball round Will for goal number 4. 4-0 Drayton.

The final minutes of the half – which seemed to last for AGES – brought us back into the game with a free kick from Elliott forcing a Mulbarton corner. Sam L took the corner which found Dion in space and with a great shot, the ball sailed into the net – 4-1 at half time!

Second half and the team seemed more eager to score, With Sam M on for Charlie and Cayd on for Adam we needed to strike fast to keep the momentum going. Unfortunately this wasn’t going to happen with the first kick off as we failed to find a player before Drayton took possession and shot at goal – hitting the post and then the crossbar. Sam B took a knock in this time and had to be subbed with Charlie. Will’s goal kick found the defence in some sort of confusion and as Drayton bared down, Jordan took the ball and in an attempt to clear the ball send it back into the Mulbarton net, 5-1 Drayton but to their credit, the Mulbarton players were all rather tickled by Jordan’s attempts at defending!

Once more Mulbarton are forcing play into Drayton’s half but again and again they are cut out before they can make something happen. A long Drayton cross is cut out by Charlie and passes it to Dion who suddenly pelts down the right and tried to swing the ball into the area. Drayton defenders swarm to the ball and we are playing catch up as they run en-masse to the Mulbarton goal but shoot wide. After Will’s goal kick, Cam returns to goal just as Drayton come back again. Cam makes a seriously good effort to save the shot at full stretch but the ball just beat his gloves to make it 6-1.

By this time we knew winning was a distant possibility but the lads did not drop their heads. They battled on and with Drayton constantly attacking our half, the defenders were working overtime. Charlie again cut out a Drayton shot to force a Drayton corner. Taken quickly, it allowed a great cross into the area to be tapped in for Drayton’s seventh goal.

Kick off again loses the ball to the Drayton onslaught before Cam grabs the ball before anything happened. Unfortunately Cam then miss-kicks the ball and Drayton use this chance to bang in goal number 8! Cam soon redeems himself thought with a great save (with his feet) from a long Drayton shot,

Mulbarton were still trying and with a Jordan clearance from the goal line, the pace turns back towards Drayton’s half. The ball is forced off for a Mulbarton throw and Adam comes back on for Charlie. The throw finds Adam in a great spot, and he sends a wonderful ball into Elliott’s path who then buries it into the goal – 8.2! The final play of the game sees Cam make three brilliant saves before Drayton claim their final goal before the whistle blows. Final score 9-2 Drayton.

It should be highlighted that although it is by far our biggest ever league defeat, we were playing a lot of players who had not experienced league football. Also we had not had the chance to try out all the great ideas we had for defence, midfield and attackers. We always new we would be facing some big score lines on the first few months of the league, but you cannot take away the fact the players did their best and they played some very exciting football.

Cameron – GK
Sam L – DF
Jordan – DF
Sam B – DF
Charlie – DF
Casper – MF
Peter – MF
Dion – MF
Eliiott – MF
Mark – FWD
Adam - FWD

Will – Sub
Cayd – Sub
Sam M – Sub

Top of the League again

Well Done to the team who topped the league for their sporting behaviour for the second year in a row. Every club is marked by their opposition in every game and Mulbarton received the highest awarded points in both divisions of the Norfolk Youth Combination.

Well done to all the players, supporters and officials of the team