Match report

Match report

This week was local derby time again at the Warriors Fortress as Woodside U13 Red and Blue squared off on a firm pitch under heavy, but thankfully rain-less skies.

The first installment of this season’s U13 local derby saw Woodside Blue take bragging-rights in a game that an undermanned Red side had dominated on the statisticians sheet (both in terms of possession and territory). Again, both sides were ravaged by illness, injury and absences this time around with a weeks-worth of phone calls resulting in each achieving 12 players to take to the field.

From the get-go Woodside Red looked dominant, and within the first few minutes had scored the opening goal through a fine finish from their left wing. But Woodside Blue have honed their defensive skills over the last nine weeks and after this early shock to the system they steeled themselves and regained focus. As a result, each attacking raid from their opponents was efficiently nullified, possession claimed, and the ball cleared to safety. This work in their own half kept the marauders at bay and whenever they found a way forward, Blue looked likely to break-through and score. But Woodside Red are also a sound defensive unit and all attacking forays were rapidly repelled. For twenty minutes the game ran thus, with Woodside Red perhaps dominating play, but neither side able to stretch the net. Eventually Woodside Red’s right wing scored his first goal, which was quickly followed by a second to his mate on the left (who was immediately sent back into defense for her trouble). In their never-say die way, Woodside Blue continued their efforts and were rewarded with a fine goal, when a failed clearance from Red gave them a second chance within range. This was struck like a bullet and demonstrated what Blue are capable of in attack. Red goaled a couple more times in the first half to create a comfortable lead at half-time.

In the second half, Woodside Red came out a little harder and more committed to the challenge than they had in the first. This saw them dominate the early stages. Red’s ball usage was also on the improve, becoming cleaner and more assertive as the intrepid Blue defenders tired and space opened up in their defensive half. Long through-balls down the wing or behind the line were now becoming a major problem for Woodside Blue and soon Red had stretched their lead by a couple. Again, Blue showed their potential in attack, goaling with another powerful strike mid-way through the second half. But by now Woodside Red had their tails well and truly up and ran the game out strongly, scoring a few more and sealing a well-deserved victory.

This match was another demonstration of fine Hills sportsmanship – players, spectators and officials gave and received respect in equal measure. Local Derbies can be fun, but only when played in the true spirit of the game – This one didn’t disappoint.

Final Score: Woodside Red 10, Woodside Blue 2