The RN U19 team’s second match of the season saw them travel to the capital to take on London FA on Sun 20 Nov 2011. On arrival at Hornchurch AFC, the conditions were foggy and damp, however, spirits were high in the camp.
The starting line saw five players showcasing their debut with the team. The new additions started well and the early exchanges were encouraging. The RN were quickly on the attack, good interplay between LOGS Dylan Wilde (Westminster) and AET Ray Pierce (Culdrose) resulted in a snap shot by striker ET(ME) Lewis Early (Dragon) with was tipped away by the London keeper. The resulting corner was scrambled clear. The Navy defence had to be alert on 7 mins after giving away cheap possession. Good recovery by the central defence forced the London striker to fire the ball over after breaking through on goal.
The first half hour was dominated by the RN. This was particularly down to a very impressive midfield display by debutant Mne Myles Sutcliffe (40 CDO). His strength and composure was evident throughout and having a positive effect on his team mates. The game was to changes on 32 minutes. Mne Sutcliffe twisted a knee in an innocuous challenge and could not continue. In Sutcliffe’s absence, the ball was given away on the half way line allowing a through ball to the London forward who ran in on goal and neatly finished low to the keeper’s right. 0-1
The RN readjusted to the change in personnel and dug in, continuing to play forward without creating any real clear cut scoring opportunities. AET Danny Brookwell (Culdrose), as usual, tried to create and inspire with a powerful run down the left, his cross evaded the oncoming strikers. Against the run of play on the stroke of half time London broke down their right flank. The cross was poorly dealt with d by the Navy defence and fell to an advancing midfielder on the penalty spot who smashed the ball high into the net. Half-time score 0-2.
After a rather stern half time team talk, an unchanged RN team embarked on the second half. They started brightly, creating some good opportunities. AET Brookwell put a 25 yard free kick narrowly wide and ET(ME) Early nearly made his aerial ability tell with a difficult header that again went wide of the mark. A substitution on 53 minutes saw ET(ME) Kenny Whittington (Sultan) also make his debut. He quickly settled in on the left hand side, forming a good understanding with full back AB(CIS) Lewis Stock. After gaining a foothold in the game, the next goal was always going to be crucial. Unfortunately it went the way of the home team. A speculative cross from the London left back sailed over Musn Joe Kemp (RNSoM Portsmouth) and into the net. 0-3.
The team worked hard for the final 30 minutes and were unlucky not to get a goal back. They also defended well when leaving themselves open to counter attack. Full time score: 0-3
WO2 Marty Wallace said after the game “I was very pleased with the performance of the debutants. Competition for places is always healthy for future development. I was particularly impressed with Mne’s Robinson and Sutcliffe, who came into the squad after being spotted at the recent Tunney Cup. They have given fresh impetus and drive to the squad. The loss of Sutcliffe in the first half completely changed the game. I am disappointed with the manner in which we conceded the goals. The basic errors have to stop.”