UNDER 15 MATCH REPORT: LEFC 2 - 1 Mickleover 95

After over 2 months since the last ball was kicked Emmanuel returned to league action with a solid 2-1 victory over Mickleover 95. Things started slowly and it was obvious that the long lay off would have an effect on the team and early on Mickleover made their match sharpness pay off catching the Emmanuel players off guard when poor reactions saw a high ball sail over Maini into the net. Emmanuel then picked up the pace but didn't create enough chances despite the tireless efforts of Parton, Trebski and Willey. However with half time approaching Ball equalised after some good work from Gee down the right. Gee moved the ball inside to Willey who saw his shot blocked but Ball was on hand to force a good save from the keeper and eventually stab home the 3rd rebound to score. 1-1.

The 2nd half was mostly Emmanuel with Mickleover threatening mainly through direct balls and corners. With the cobwebs brushed off somewhat Emmanuel started to dictate the play but creativity and finding the killer final ball was still proving difficult. Kieron, finally making his debut after nearly 3 months wait, the play started have an impact on the left and gaps started to appear in the Mickleover defence. The breakthrough eventually came after a strong run from Willey down the left channel saw him cut the ball back onto his favoured right foot and finish superbly with a curling shot past the keeper. 2-1. A few more chances came and had substitute Bishal been a little taller we'd have been 3-1 winners. However, a solid defence and a good back to action performance saw Emmanuel get the result they deserved.

Special praise to Rob Barrow who played sweeper superbly today and played with great energy as always. A solid performance from Mike and a superb second half display from Joe helped the defence look in control today, as well as a composed substitute appearance from Jabed. Patryk, captain for today, did a true captains job and lead by example in his normal all action style. Rhys, as well as scoring his first Emmanuel goal, had a really good game in midfield after a slow start. Another high energy display from Jubed also deserves praise as did the performances of debutants Rob and Keiron who both comtributed the a solid victory. Everybody should be happy after a good result and look forward to building upon this team display with an exciting 2nd half of the season to come.

Goals: Ball, Willey. (no one laugh)
Man of the Match: Rob "Beckenbauer" Barrow