Russeller's Under 13's travelled to Orpington FC for our first game of the season. Under the new management team of Tom O'Shea and assistant Ben Murphy the team were looking to capitalise on many new regimes which had been implemented for the new season.
With such a open space, the windy conditions made everything that little bit harder. The boys however got off to a good start, taking control of the game and remembering to stick to their new positions and working together as a team. The first half saw a few chances for us in front of goal and certainly more than our opponents who rarely troubled our defence. Around 25 mins played, Liam Simkins played a ball over the top for Joe Sarcone to run onto and Joe put away a very tidy finish - 1 nil to Russellers.
The boys improved as the half went on, with the defence managing to minimise the opportunities for Orpington. Our midfielders and wingers making use of the space with our attackers chasing down every ball.
Half time came and we made two changes but keeping our formation. We started the second half a little shaky as we just settled back into play. But it was not long before we were back on top. Midway through the second half and once again Liam Simkins played a ball over the top, but this time it was super sub Tommy Commer who did not give up the long chase between the ball and the keeper and kept his nerve to tuck away the second goal. 2 nil to Russellers.
We know from last season that a 2 nil lead meant nothing, and we often conceded goals in the second half, but this was different - the boys looked fitter, more up for winning every ball and most importantly were working well as a team. We controlled the second half and once again created more chances to score. Special mention to Ricardo our goalie who made a very brave save/tackle to keep our lead in the second half.

So yes it is only the first game, but the signs are good and nice to say that we are TOP OF THE LEAGUE!. All 15 players on Sunday played their part in a great win. The boys loved the winning feeling and were even more buoyant as they received their new Russeller's tracksuits. It was a great TEAM effort, both on the pitch and off it (thanks parents for great support and encouragement).

Bring on next week....

Tom & Ben