City find their rhythm in six-goal win

City delivered a strong performance, combining positive attacking play with hard work to secure three points and a clean sheet.

The boys started with good energy and tempo, but needed time to settle into the windy conditions and adjust to the opposition’s shape. Once the midfield began finding the ball and linking up through quick exchanges, angled passes and runs down the line, City started to look dangerous.

The breakthrough came when Mark played Josh through on the right. Josh’s angled shot was spilled by the goalkeeper, and Aqib followed in to finish with his right foot — particularly pleasing after being encouraged to prioritise using it during the game.

Mark and Josh combined again for the second, with Josh finishing calmly on his weaker foot. The move began with David responding to coaching feedback, getting tighter to his opponent and winning an early tackle to prevent him turning.

At half-time, the challenge was to maintain the intensity, work hard to find space and look for cutbacks rather than shooting from tight angles. The boys took that advice onto the pitch, with Max and James setting a fine example through determined, direct play out wide.

City’s varied attacking play continued to create chances, while two goals came from long throws. Mark scored twice, Josh added his second — again with his weaker foot — and Chris also found the net to complete the six-goal performance.

Coaches’ Award: Chris

Chris earned the award for much more than his smart turn and finish from a long throw. His link-up play helped create Josh’s second goal, a superb team move, and he continued working back to defend when it would have been easy to ease off.

It was also great to have Luke along supporting his teammates. Togetherness, effort and a willingness to put coaching feedback into practice made this a thoroughly enjoyable performance.

Well played, City!