This year our match reports will rotate through the squads with two reports each week. This will allow our coaches to give greater perspective on what they are focusing on during each cycle - and how well its working on game days.
 Under 15s v Box Hill United
Glen Wilson
During the week we worked on “Structured build up through the middle 3rd” ……given this and based on how we played last weekend, expectations were high for a strong showing once again.
Unfortunately, we were unable to deliver to the same standard and probably had out worst half of the season….conceding 3 goals with a very sloppy performance. Only able to string some possession together very late in the half.
At the break, we sat out in the middle of the pitch to discuss our half…..how insipid we were, how we lacked any composure at all…how we made them look a lot better than what they really are…………….. all agreed that we would certainly lift in the second half.
True to their word, the work rate lifted, gaps were closed down, high balls were contested and the intensity was much better. Still nowhere near where it was the previous week, but nonetheless significantly better than the first half.
We were able to create a couple of chances, but once again, unable to finish when required. Our defensive efforts were much better in the second half and we were able to restrict them to only one more goal…..making the final score 0 – 4. This could have been worse had it not been for several sensational saves by James in goal.
We need to continue to work hard on the training grounds to create better habits that will ensure better match day performances.
 Under 13s v Box Hill
Billy Marshall
On Sunday the boys played against a very good Box Hill in our first Sunday home fixture of the season. Box Hill are in the top 5 so we knew we had a tough game on our hands.
During the week I spoke with Lee and we decided that we believed changing formation would suit the players we have and going to try 3-5-2. We only had one training session on the new formation so I wasn’t expecting miracles but I knew this would make us a little more solid at the back.
As we started the game although we didn’t have to many chances for the first 15 minutes we didn’t look like we were going to concede and the new formation and game plan was working really well. I was particularly pleased with our protection in defence and Zac in goal was showing some real improvement in his decision making and positioning as a goalkeeper. In the final 10 mins of the first half they managed to finally get through our defence and score a couple of goals which came from us just dropping back a little to deep.
The lads were a little disappointed at half time but were encouraged by the progress they were making and I said they just had to be a little braver going forward, commit more men and press a little higher to get back into the game. Once again like some many times this season they listened and took the advice out onto the pitch and the first 15 mins it was all us and we didn’t let them out the half we could have taken the lead with the amount of chances we had but we could only convert 1 - a brilliant effort from Tarkan before Box Hill fired up again to score another 2.
We replied late on with a great solo goal from Hassan but it wasn’t quite enough as we lost 5-2 with them scoring another in the last mintue of the game. After the game I told the boys I was really pleased with the way they adapted to the new formation.
It was great to have a chat with the Box Hill manager after the game who was very complimentary of the boys and said he couldn’t believe we hadn’t won a game with us playing like we did that day - so for me it’s great to see other people noticing the boys improvement. Well done boys!
The amatuer photographers' report
 We endeavour to make it to most games on a weekend but last Sunday the combination of pitches and timing made it possible for us to spend a little longer at each game and we were so impressed.
At least 50% of the photography team knows 0% about soccer (and to be honest, about the same about photography) so we judge players' performances by how easily / well they make our photographs look good. It tends to be games when the players are standing up, scanning the pitch, looking for opportunities and working hard on that first and then second efforts (just like us) that we get some reasonable pics.
So this weekend we were really impressed with our U12s, U13s and U14s. The U12s in particular have come a long way and have really learned how to line up nicely for the camera!
As a result we have uploaded more than 200 photos to our facebook page, with at least half of these featuring our U12s.
Our pick of the pics this week is Rhys Carey's great effort in goals. |
Lindy and Lynne will try to get around to all junior teams pre match this weekend for your team pictures. 
Thanks to all our senior players who came down to watch our juniors' games on Sunday. It was great to see so many at the grounds, sharing experience and tips with our juniors at all the games from the U12s and up. Thanks to Zac Balaburov, Jordan Montagner, Fraser Greenwood, Vani Shamoon and James Lelliot along with seniors coach Craig Carley (apologies if we missed anyone)
The Goulburn North East Referee’s Branch will hold a meeting/information night on Monday 4 June at 7pm at the Quest Hotel Conference Room. If anyone is interested in becoming a referee for the FFV or are refereeing already it would be great if you could attend. 
