Match Report
Tigers 0 v Woodley Hammers Black 0
This game was Tigers first in Division 1 and to make matters interesting; they were drawn against local rivals Woodley Hammers. With the Tigers management trio of Bennett, Bennett & Mundy (sounds like a solicitors!) all having a Hammers background, the game had an added spice. Just to add more pressure, some of the Tigers players go to school with some Hammers players so bragging rights were also up for grabs!
The biggest crowd of the season (67) witnessed what must be one of the best goalless draws you will see. End to end football, great saves, goal line clearances and that was just the warm up!
With the tougher challenge ahead of them, Tigers made some tactical changes to give them a chance in Div 1. The impressive Thomas went in goal and after this performance, will be coaching Scott Carson. Max took up his attacking sweeper role and was joined by Reiss who moved back from his midfield destroyer role. Sam, Cameron and Jake filled the midfield slots with Callum the lone striker. Taylor (fresh from his two week holiday), Mitch (sporting a nasty cough) and Joe (new signing) started on the bench.
From the kick off, you could see that Hammers had a good understanding of space and team work. Rather than this causing Tigers too many problems, it actually enhanced their game so the ball players in the side could start to show their skills.
Unsurprisingly, Hammers looked the more settled side and quickly moved into their regular pattern of play by knocking the ball around. Aware of their two danger men, Max and Cameron did an excellent job of snuffing out their danger. However, Hammers aren't just a two man team and they have a number of accomplished players so all the Tigers were being challenged.
After ten minutes, the tiring Callum was replaced by Joe soon followed by Mitch replacing Jake and Taylor replacing Reiss. During this time, Thomas in goal had showed great handling skills and the Tigers were gaining confidence all the time. Despite a few Hammers chances and the odd Tigers break, halftime appeared and the score was 0-0.
The second half commenced and the partisan Hammers crowd were expecting their team to raise their efforts. They weren’t disappointed but even more impressive was the fact that Tigers showed they had more in their locker than previously shown in Div 2. Whilst possession percentages were very much in Hammers favour, the Tigers, especially, Joe, Sam and Cameron were showing that they suit Div 1. Sam in particular adding heading to his repertoire.
There were two key points to talk about in the second half. The first, a brilliant save by Thomas who dived to his right to tip a seemingly unstoppable shot past the post. The second, the only time Thomas was beaten by a shot saw Max and then Cameron sweep up and clear the danger. Great teamwork.
In the end, both teams appeared to settle for a draw and the referee (who had a great game) called time on an entertaining match. 0 - 0.
MOTM - Only an impressive performance from Sam pipped Thomas for the man of the match award. Both players showed how key they are to Tigers Div 1 challenge and along with the other more established players.
Get the low down on the Tigers in the mini tournament
Get the low down on the Tigers vs Xmas Tournament (Take 2)
Get the low down on the Tigers vs Maidenhead game
Get the low down on the Tigers vs Reading Rangers game
Get the low down on the Tigers vs Caversham game
Get the low down on the Tigers vs Wrightchoice game
Get the low down on the Tigers vs Rotherfield game
Get the low down on the Tigers vs Meadway game
Get the low down on the Tigers vs Whiteknights game
Get the low down on the Xmas tournament.
Get the low down on the Westwood game.
Get the low down on the Hammers game.
Get the low down on the Reds game.
Get the low down on the Wrightchoice game.
Get the low down on the Blues game.
Get the low down on the Kestrels game.