Fletcher Moss U14s ‘B’ produced another outstanding performance on Thursday 15^th May, thanks to a friendly provided by Oldham Athletic Football Club’s Centre of Excellence. Despite their 2-0 defeat, the Fletcher side rose to the occasion, responding terrifically to the challenge of facing professional opposition.

Oldham played consistently challenging football, attempting to split the final three Fletcher Players and accomplishing some killer through balls. But, with the persistence and strength of captain Steven Reid the defence remained organised allowing Kyle Cunningham to make some outstanding important challenges. Wal Fagbola provided a fantastic outlet from the defence, carrying the ball forward and becoming actively involved in attacking Oldham.

Jawaad Tarq performed some fearless defensive duties assisting keeper Connor Rabbett on the goal line, one of which resulted in a collision and a nasty cut to the head, and ultimately the substitution of Jawaad for Leigh Donohue. Jawaad, despite having his head bandaged, was able to return to the pitch later during the game.

At 20 minutes, a close offside decision resulted in the deadlock being broken and Oldham scoring a tight goal. Having not heard the whistle, Connor Rabbett made a courageous decision to meet the Oldham forward, who managed to squeeze the ball past him.

Despite this set back, Fletcher refused to give up, responding positively and limiting Oldham’s possession of the ball. William Holehouse and Jerome Tait turned up the heat, applying pressure on Oldham and providing Travis Hall with the opportunity to slice through their defence with some impressive passing and well hit shots. Alan Smith also played a vital attacking role with his characteristic flicks and lobs at goal.

As the centre of midfield became an increasingly tough tackling zone, Jacob Brown took the reigns to spray the ball wide bring Omar McKenzie into play who drove forward with his trickery and pace. Omar became the first point of attack for a team who like to counter and break out fast.

Oldham were content in relieving the pressure via long balls, with their persistence resulting in a goal at 60 minutes when one of these long balls was collected wide and pushed to the bi-line to be cut into the path of an Oldham Striker, who slotted it away nicely.

Other Changes in the game saw fresh legs at the front with the Fletcher “Twinies” Leigh and Adam Donohue forming a firm partnership upfront. Tom Minnock also had an immediate impact on the game linking with a bandaged Jawaad to create some good chances. Dwight Lewis provided a vital substitution, halting an Oldham attacker through on goal. Joe Palmer, who is newly training with the squad, also had his opportunity against the professional side and displayed fantastic footwork and promising skills.

The entire Fletcher Moss U14s ‘B’ squad did an excellent job tackling this huge additional challenge after excelling this season. It was an exciting game and the lads looked at home playing such high quality opposition. Thanks must be given to Oldham Athletic for providing the benchmark for the squad. A special thanks goes to Ron and Chris of Oldham Athletic for supplying the match, pitch and ref, and to all the parents for their continuing support.

Report by Leonie & Steve