4th XI v ORFC L10-0

Date: Saturday 5th September

Venue:
2.15pm kick-off on Lower Tower

Team:
Fabyan, Harvey, Padley, Keen, Ashurov, Hodson-Walker, Greatrex, Webster(C), Fox-Davies, Arnold, Dunlop, Ho Chan, Adams

Result:
Repton 0-10 ORFC


Match Report:
This was a friendly game in every sense of the word and played with a great attitude and spirit, with few fouls by either team. The ORs won the toss and opted to play 'down the hill' as they put it, with the wind behind them. It quickly became apparent that despite their older years the ORs were a much stronger team, both in terms of skill and physical presence. The ORs passed sharply, communicated effectively and pressurised an inexperienced Repton side. Most of the play was in the Repton half, and when Repton did win the ball they all too often gave the ball away with sloppy passing or poor communication. Repton were also guilty of ball watching and marking was loose, allowing the ORs to shoot frequently. The defenders managed to deal with corners with a strong head, and Ricky Ho Chan was hard working and determined for the whole match. However, a controversial penalty awarded for a hand ball gave the ORs an early lead, and by the end of the half the ORs went in 3-0 ahead.

The second half should have been an easier affair with the wind and gradient behind Repton and youth (and fitness?) on their side. However, this was not the case and despite holding on for 10 minutes several goals in quick succession knocked Repton's confidence. The ORs continued to pass the ball well and some of Repton's players gave up far too easily when they lost the ball. Perseverance, communication and hard work at all times are essential elements of success, and these are lessons that need to be learnt quickly. The score at the end (10-0) showed the dominance of the ORs and their win was well deserved, if a touch flattering at the end. Repton should have learnt several valuable lessons from this match and I wish them success for the term ahead.

SMI