Lea Marlins v VWFC U12 Ravens
FA Surrey County Cup – Second Round

A spirited Ravens performance against tough opposition!

Today saw the Ravens enter their first cup competition of the season, going straight into the Second Round against Badshot Lea Marlins, a team from the Surrey Youth League whom we'd never faced before.

We were without three players today – Daniel, Teddy Smith and Louis – due to eyes, Germany and illness! Quite the trilogy of absences!

The Marlins came out fast and furious, and we found ourselves under pressure from the opening whistle. A couple of early goals knocked the boys' confidence, and before long we were 3–0 down.

But the Ravens weren't finished!

Despite the difficult start, the boys dug deep, kept battling and were rewarded just before half-time when Kayden unleashed a fantastic shot from the edge of the penalty area, giving the Marlins goalkeeper absolutely no chance!

⚽ Half-time: Marlins 3–1 Ravens

The half-time team talk was pretty straightforward – keep pressing, chase the loose balls and don't allow the opposition time to settle.

There was a little bit of swagger creeping into the Marlins' play, and we knew that if we could put their defence and goalkeeper under pressure, there might be opportunities.

And that's exactly what happened!

The Ravens came out with renewed determination, pressing high and forcing mistakes. The Marlins' defence suddenly looked a little less comfortable, their goalkeeper started to panic, and Teddy Bayliss was perfectly positioned to knock home our second goal of the afternoon! ⚽

Game on!

As the match progressed, tired legs began to show. We started rushing our clearances rather than keeping possession, which made it difficult to create further chances.

But I certainly couldn't fault the effort.

With three players missing and several boys playing out of their usual positions – including having to cover the goalkeeper position in both halves – this was always going to be a challenge.

And I think the boys should be proud of themselves.

We weren't overwhelmed, we scored twice against a very competitive Surrey Youth League side, and we made them work hard.

There are lessons to take away, particularly about keeping possession under pressure, but there's also plenty to be positive about.

Heads up, Ravens! Cup football is all about testing yourselves, and today we did just that.

? Well done, boys!

?⚽ ONWARDS AND UPWARDS – UP THE WATERS!

? NEXT SUNDAY – RAVENS FUN TOURNAMENT!

With only 9 or 10 players available according to the poll, I've booked a 5-a-side pitch at The Timbers for next Sunday, 18th October.

We're going to have a fun 3-a-side mini-tournament amongst ourselves, hopefully finishing with a 5-a-side match if numbers allow.

A chance to relax, enjoy some football and have a bit of fun together!

Please update your availability on Pitchero tonight if you haven't already!

SUNDAY 25TH OCTOBER – HOME FRIENDLY v CP LONDON

The following Sunday, we welcome CP London for a home friendly.

They've got a new manager, and it's been quite a while since we last played them, so I'm really looking forward to renewing our acquaintance!

Please also update your Pitchero availability for this fixture.

Thanks everyone for your continued support, particularly those who came along today.

Up the Waters! ⚽