Falcons falter in cup tie

Falcons 2 v Henley Hurricanes 3
Hurricane 31
Cotton 46
Hurricane 51
Hurricane 56
Laffan 58

I thought the boys delivered a good, competitive, performance today against a physically stronger team who, last time we played them, beat us 6-0.

In contrast to last week, where the game was effectively beyond us after 25 minutes, the Falcons started today’s game really well. The game was finely balanced at 0-0 for most of the first half both teams had chances in the first 30 minutes, but it was just 4 minutes before the end of the first period when a play of real quality from Henley gave them lead. (0-1).

At half time, very much still in the game, we spoke about getting the ball down and using the width more, and having more attempts on goal.
We did this and in the second half played better still. At times we put Henley under real pressure. Our equaliser came after a period of this pressure. A shot parried out from their keeper to Jack in space on the edge of the box, he controlled the ball, picked his spot and struck the ball sweetly beyond the keeper into the side of the goal. A really good goal. (1-1)

We continued to dominate after this goal, with Henley’s heads dropping a bit, but they rallied well and retook the lead 5 minutes later (1-2).
Falcons continued to push for another equaliser, which risked leaving us less secure in defence on the break and that proved to be the case shortly after (1-3).

Almost immediately though, the Falcons again reduced the deficit to one goal through some sharp thinking by Marcus, who was on hand to take good advantage of a mistake by their goalkeeper. Unfortunate for Henley, but great anticipation from Marcus (2-3) well done!
The last 12 minutes saw chances for both sides, but no more goals and the game ended 2-3.

Although, like last week, this was a defeat, the performance was very different and much more positive and competitive. There were strong performances right across the park from each and every Falcons, so be pleased with your efforts this week.

We were level with Henley for over half the game and only behind by more than one goal for 2 minutes. We competed well against a physically much stronger team and we began to play our passing game much better in the second half.

Not going forward in the cup is a shame, but it does allow us some match free Saturdays to plan some training on set plays and formations, which I think will be very helpful.

Overall, pleased with the performance and lets take this level and build on it next week where we have a home league game against Maidenhead Sharks.

Enjoy your weekend!
COYF!!