Game Week 12 v CLEVELAND HALL YELLOWS

Another home game and Rutherford fielded a relatively unchanged team after a good performance and positive result the week earlier versus Whitburn Panthers. Unfortunately despite the sunny and clear conditions the wind was howling from end to end and it really spoiled the game as it didn't allow either team to play the football they both enjoy.

Rutherford won the toss and chose to attack with the wind at our backs, which in theory should help but in my experience it rarely does as the ball tends to run away from players and there's a temptation to go too long, too early. This proved to be the case on more than one occasion, with both teams struggling to control the ball and find any rhythm. As expected Rutherford carried the biggest attacking threat and registered 7 shots which was our minimum target at the start of the half but interestingly, Cleveland completed more passes and had more possession in the first half.

The first meaning shot came from James Lee, who blasted a long range shot, wind assisted over the bar. Next up was Max Johnson, who after good work from Elliott, tested the goal keeper from just inside the box. The breakthrough came on 17 minutes, when Mason won the ball back from a goal kick and played the ball forward to James Lee who controlled the bouncing ball, flicked the ball over the shoulder of the defender and volleyed low into the bottom right corner. It was a lovely goal and settled Rutherfords nerves.

Next up was Max Billingham who tested the keeper from a free kick which was well struck and pushed out by the Cleveland keeper but Rutherford were second to the ball and allowed Cleveland to clear their lines. Jacob had the final shot of target for Rutherford but the half ended 1-0 and it didn't quite feel enough if truth be told.

Turn around and the wind was now into Rutherfords face and we needed to be brave, both physically, in terms of blocking shots and mentally in terms of receiving the ball deep and playing our way up the pitch. Cleveland scored after 3 minutes of the restart and it was the worst possible start, a long shot from a central position with caught the wind and gave Aodan no chance at all. 7 minutes later it was 2-1 and another example of how the wind was causing havoc, the ball was played through the centre of the Rutherford defence, Taylor, Connor Aodan weren't able to judge the pace of the ball as it picked up on the wind, a scramble ensued and the ball was forced home. The game settled from here and Rutherford were still right in it, passing had picked up and although we rode our luck somewhat there was only 1 goal in it. Unfortunately 5 minutes or so from time, Rutherford were caught on the break and Clevland scored from a short cross and low shot from inside the area, 3 minutes later the game was put beyond doubt when the wind had its final impact on the game, a speculative shot, gathered a ridiculous amount of speed which caught Aodan totally off guard, he managed to save the shot but it was tapped home from Cleveland striker.

Rutherford kept pressing and had 3 quick chances, a shot from Max Johnson which on another day might've gone in. Then Jacob scored following a through ball from Max Johnson, it was a well taken goal from inside the area. Then from the restart, Max Johnson broke and had a great chance to slip Elliott in for a chance but it was intercepted by the covering defender.

We had the Vet camera again today and I'm keen to use the camera and statistics to improve certain aspects of our game both collectively and individually but I don't want to pour over every pass, tackle, shot and decision. I don't think this would be a good use of my time, the kids' time nor do I think it will be a healthy way to coach. I've enrolled in a FA course titled "Using video to support observations and feedback in coaching" which I'm hoping will give me some insight on how best to use the excellent tools and technology at our disposal.

Today's Man of the Match, as awarded by Jo Porter, was Joe. Jo, Shaun and I all agreed that Joe played very well in a number of different positions. Joe is always willing to get on the ball, often in deep positions when under pressure. He passes forward, supports his team mates and works really hard throughout. Special mentions go to Aodan who dealt with the conditions well and James and Jacob for their goals. The Cleveland manager via his son gave praise to Elliott and Mason who described them both as "Very good and difficult to play against" which is always a complement when it comes from your peers.

Finally, for the second week running, the opposition manager was quick to praise the way we play with John saying that we really likes our passing style of play and that we have some excellent players who are technically gifted which is nice to hear and will hold us in good stead as we move through the game formats. The big players won't always be big and they will eventually be caught up. At this point they will need to have good technical skills otherwise they'll be left behind.

Well done everyone, we go again next week!