Despite holding top spot in the Grad E league, we knew todays Oppo was going to be a test.
We know that Halliford are fit, well organised, and have a couple of quick star players.

Saying that, we knew we can score goals against this side, and can battle hard.

In early exchanges, the Oppo held much of the possession with a number of chances thwarted by Daniels amazing ability to make himself big (bigger) and block shots with his positioning and bravery. It was going to be a busy day for Louie and Clark with the attacks coming thick and fast, but they worked exceptionally hard to clear out with the help of Oliver and Archie tracking back.
It took some time for Ravens to grab hold of the ball, and get a few chances ourselves. But, nothing really clear-cut in early exchanges, and Oppo hustling our forward line of Albert and Teddy. Oliver was up against some equally quick feet sharing the same shirt number, but did manage to rattle some crosses away, but with Oppo covering most of our efforts. On the left, Dan working hard to chase down Oppo and getting those monster throws into the box, but just not falling for us.

Then a couple of chances falling to Teddy, who was called off-side by inches, but enough to keep the scoreline level.

Oppo running at pace into the box with a slightly mis-timed tackle resulting in a Penalty.
An amazing first save by Daniel, but unfortunate ricochet to put them ahead 0-1.

HT

Oppo making some good 1-touch passing, which resulted in a v good early goal to double their lead. 0 - 2
Although, Ravens were still pressing forward with many efforts scrambled off the line, or a cross bar to keep us chasing..
Then, another searing run and individual effort gave the oppo another goal. 0 - 3.
Ravens still pushing, and managed to get one back themselves with Teddy finding a 1 on 1 with the keeper. 1 - 3.
Now feeling like we could put on a fight back, with some great efforts from Toby and Coben, who were both in battle royals against oppo wingers. But, despite our best efforts, the oppo nailed another one in. 1 - 4.

A little loss of shape as we chased the game, and we conceded another 1 - 5.
At this time, with 5 mins left, we threw players forward, and a great Kayden ball into the box and flick on from Stanley resulted in another for Teddy. 2 - 5..Final Score

MOTM to Archie, who was close to it last week as well after another 100% effort chasing down everything in sight.

A tough game against a team that holds the balance of power on us, but we do not make it easy for them..or anyone we have played this year.
A season to be proud of, and ending the regular season at a higher level than where we started. 3rd place in the Graduation League, and likely to play similar teams that we have since October re-shuffles for next season.

Big thanks to Chris and Brian today as officials, and the HT/FT treats.