Match Preview

U12 Tigers entertain high-flying Holyport Cobras this Saturday. Looking to make a quick recovery from the disappointing outcome from last week's trip to Berks County, Tigers face table-topping Cobras, hoping to avenge the 1-4 defeat of October. The autumn fixture saw Tigers take an early and deserved lead through a Sam penalty, but Cobras took back control of the game thanks to their outstanding goalkeeper Ryan, who I believe has now left the club. Jodie Bunce scored two goals and was man of the match. Tigers unfortunately lost Toby early when Gabriel's head hit Toby's knee and up until that point Cobras had struggled to break through our back four of Rufus, Toby, John and Gabriel. Later on, Matt made several wonderful saves as his outfield players tired.

Of course, at that stage of the season Ilyas had not joined us and Hayden was off playing rugby. Hayden returns this Saturday after his extended stay in South Africa and it's hoped that Matt and Eli will have overcome injuries.

A major factor in the defeat in October was Cobras' greater fitness: they simply "outstayed" Tigers over the hour, and were much quicker to recover the ball if they lost it. So, early night on Friday and ReadyBrek and lucozade for breakfast! Cobras' one defeat this season was to our own Pumas, the Hearts team winning 2-1. We know we can run with the Pumas so we should start this match full of confidence.

See you on Saturday