​On Sunday morning for a change and our last home game before Christmas, the Sharks were looking to return to winning ways after a battling performance the week previous that earned us a draw.
This week our goal keeper Dylan was called up, therefore wasn’t available for selection so a stand in goal keeper was required.  That honor fell to Liam, normally our effective left midfield player. 
So the Sharks lined up this week as follows. Liam in goal. Elliott, Jack, Giacomo, Jake, Freddie and Caleb with Josh and Aidan starting on the bench.    
As the game got underway, the Sharks looked to take control of the game early on, passing the ball better than they normally do, and trying to work as a team, as the pitch remained bad and heavy, which was making the conditions testing.  It became clear early on that the opposition had a great goalkeeper, small in size but with plenty character and was collecting and saving everything that was coming his way. 
The Sharks formation was causing the opposition trouble, we were over loading the midfield and stopping them from playing the ball into attacking positions. As the first half was about 15mins old, the Sharks had registered a number of shots on target but the opposition goal keeper was up to the task, so it seemed that being patient and to continue pressing appeared to be in order. 
The opposition managed to pull ahead through a mistake at the back by Jack, he tried to be creative in a dangerous position, if it would have come off would have been brilliant, but as it didn’t it was egg on your face time, which meant that Jack and Elliott were both caught out of position and the opposition attacker had a free run on goal.  He remained calm and placed the ball just wide of Liam who was impressing in goal.  This meant that the Sharks had to come from a goal down, not for the first time so everybody was remaining calm and we kept trying to play football as best as we could to draw level. 
But as stated, the Sharks were enjoying a plenty of position and chances, but we were being rebuffed by this fantastic goalkeeper.  Jake, Giacomo, Freddie, Jack and Elliott all having efforts on target but were all stopped and saved brilliantly. 
The game was becoming a little physical, with players being fouled and complaining of fouls that was being committed and tempers were beginning to get thin with a number of the Shark players. So the first half finished with the Sharks trailing but everybody thought that it was something that could be turned around. 
The second half started, and the Sharks once again pushed on to find an equalizer that would draw the game level. But the opposition continued with the physical approach to the game and on a select number of Shark players too, it became clear that tempers were beginning to go, and steps had to be taken to calm the situation. 
 As tensions began to raise between the players the opposition managed to extend their lead, it was harsh for the Sharks to concede, Liam pulled off a great save, but the ball dropped perfectly for the opposition attacker who didn’t need a second invitation to slot the ball home. 
The Sharks continued to pond the oppositions goal, but as before the goalkeeper was having an outstanding game.  If it wasn’t for the oppositions goalkeeper I am comfortable in saying that the Sharks would have been well in the lead and the game would have been over, but this wasn’t the case and a lesson that needed to learnt from this was the Sharks need to be more clinical in front of goal when faced with a good goalkeeper and to be able to work themselves into better positions to shoot from.
 As the game drew to a close, it was a valuable lesson that the boys need to take note from.  Sometime you do not get what you deserve with the effort that you have put in, but we will certainly need to keep applying ourselves like this, and we will win more games than we lose. 
A special mention has to be given to all of the boys this week, due to testing conditions that they played in:  Liam showed great character to go into goal when not feeling 100% and he should feel proud of his performance, Elliott as always was again big and strong, and rose to the physical challenge that was presented to him, Jack remained deft and skillful while also raising to the challenge when the time came. Giacomo battled away through testing conditions, he tried to play football in the right way whenever possible, Caleb played brilliantly, tracking back and being disciplined when needed and also rising to the challenge, Aidan also remained skillful under the pressure that was applied to him, producing good crosses and passes too, Freddie showed that he was able to adapt and play another position when required, keeping calm under pressure too, Josh tried his hardest as normal, giving everything within his capabilities, and last but not least our returning Shark Jake, he showed great endeavor with his running and ball carrying, and hard game back for him but pleased to have him back in the fold regardless.       
So we move onto next week our last game before Xmas, so fingers crossed we can come away with a positive result and help with our Christmas cheer. 
Once again thanks to my parents for all the effort and support that they are giving to the boys and me. 

​The Sharks were looking to extend their winning run to four games, but was going to be tested today with a number of players being called up for international duty or they were feeling under the weather and under the doctors orders they were sidelined.  Whatever the reasons that these players were not available, I had the confidence that the players we had playing on this cold afternoon were capable of getting the result we needed. 
So the team was as follows, Dylan in goal, Jack, Elliott, Harry, Liam, Giacomo, Josh with the subs bench only consisting of my daughter who was acting ball girl for the game. So it meant that some of the boys would be completing their first full game of the season, so a test for them and Sharks. 
As the game got underway, it was made clear to them that they needed to pass the ball more, as they would tire quickly if they didn’t as the pitch was heavy and very boggy from the bad weather that we had had recently and the amount of games that have been played on it, but it was the same for both teams and we needed to get on with it and try our best. 
The game started well for the Sharks, they took notice and with the first 5 minutes passing quickly the boys were passing the ball around nicely and creating chances, but it was proving to be a bit sticky and an uneven surface that prevented the ball to run as freely as I would have liked. 
Both Jack and Elliott were once again looking comfortable at the back, protecting Dylan well who is growing with each game that is passing.  With the Sharks quick start and possession, the opposition were slowly growing into the game, and causing a few problems for the Sharks.  I more put this down to the pitch being heavy and not being able to freshen the team up when the boys got tired. 
Then the opposition took the lead, against the run of play if I am being honest, the ball broke down our left hand side, with Liam trying to recover his position on the left of midfield they managed to get a cheeky shot off that lobbed up in the air and over Dylan into the back of the net. This was a bit of a body blow to the lads as they had started the game so well. and I feared that due to the pitch and no subs the Sharks were going to run out of steam or try to force for an equalizer that would leave gaps at the back for the opposition to exploit. 
But I didn’t have to wait long for the Sharks to draw level, through some gritty play from Gaicomo, Jack and Harry.  We managed to force the play and create some good space that was used perfectly.  The ball was played out wide by Giacomo (who was now seeming to embrace my request that he pass the ball more and then look to get it back in a better position rather than trying to dribble the ball through the team) He passed to Jack who made a good run up the right hand side, exchanging passes with Harry before crossing the ball into the box, after some confusion, the ball fell to Giacomo who gratefully lashed the ball into the back of the net giving the keeper no chance. 
 
 
Now the game was level, and we had managed to pull ourselves back into the game.  The Sharks appeared to look for another chance that would give us the lead. With not many chances presenting themselves we had to try and be patient and support each other, because the game was there for the taking.  A glorious chance fell to Josh, but unfortunately he slipped just as he was about to take a shot on goal, a shame because that would have been a well worked goal and team effort. 
The first half finished and the boys still seemed to have energy in their legs, which was a positive sign, I would normally make some changes to try and give the boys a break but unfortunately this could not happen, so we took to the field for the second half with the same players looking to take the game to the opposition and try and take the lead for the first time in the game. 
Again, it was a matter of trying to be patient, and we would get the reward that we deserved, it is like the big bad wolf and the three little pigs, we had to keep knocking on the door in the hope that something will give and the ball would end up in the back of net. 
As we were half way through the second half some chances fell to the Sharks. Liam had a great shot saved by an impressive opposition goal keeper, Giacomo had another one saved well, and Harry also managed a shot that tested the keeper. But a special mention for Dylan, he managed to turn over a great shot, his reactions were great, it is good to see that his goal keeper training is paying off. 
The game started to get a little scrappy, and wayward. With a few fouls that could have been avoided, I believe that this was down to frustration creeping into the lads as they stopped encouraging each other and passing the ball and tried to do everything themselves.  This lead to the opposition retaining the ball in dangerous positions and getting more chances than I would have liked.   
The game came to a close level, I believe that the Sharks had the better of the play, and if we would have maintained our passing and kept doing the right things, we would have probably come out with the victory that we deserved, but we were still happy to remain unbeaten and we can look to put things right next week. 
Once again a massive well done to the lads, the effort they showed could not be faulted it was a hard game on a pitch that is more suited to a mud bath than a football pitch. Also a big thank you, to all of the parents that came and supported the Sharks on the cold afternoon and helped pack away the equipment at the end of the game.  
On to next week now and fingers cross another positive result

​With the Sharks looking to extend the winning streak to three against a strong opposition, confidence was high and the boys were in very good spirts.  Sometimes a little too high, but they were enjoying themselves which is the main thing. 
So the Sharks lined up as follows:  Dylan in goal, Jack, Elliott, Giacomo, Liam, Aidan and Freddie, with Josh, Harry and Caleb starting on the bench.  Unfortunately Jake was still missing but it won’t be long before he is back fighting fit and ready for the Sharks.  
 The game started with both sides being nervy, both trying to gain the upper hand in first exchanges of the game  Both Elliott and Jack seemed comfortable enough, with both lads working well in tandem, with one making the tackle and the other sweeping up behind and vice versa.  It would seem that they have come to a great understanding which is pleasing to see. Dylan is looking more comfortable in goal as the weeks pass.  Aidan and Liam are both learning to hold their positions better which again Is pleasing to see, and Giacomo and Freddie also seem to be developing an understanding too, making runs off the ball for one another; with Josh, Caleb and Harry all coming into the team and making telling contributions too. It all adds up to a strong squad and a fantastic atmosphere, and with the return of Jake next week this will be the icing on the cake. 
The game was about 15 minutes old before the Sharks managed to break the deadlock, and pull ahead.  We managed this through Giacomo, with his energy and enthusiasm he managed to win the ball back in the middle of the park, pass the ball to Aidan who took a player on before attempting to cross the ball  This took a wicked deflection and bounced back to Freddie who passed the ball into space that Giacomo raced onto, he controlled the ball well and took a touch before slotting the ball home nicely. 
With the pitch having been played on twice before our game, it was cutting up badly and making it harder to play football on, but both teams were trying hard, attempting to pass the ball and play the game in the correct way.  The game was finely balanced but the Sharks were managing to contain most of what the opposition was throwing at them, with some excellent performances from Harry, who appears to finding his feet on a bigger pitch now, and will be pushing for a starting place very soon I have no doubt. Caleb as well. He is playing different positions though out the first half but did very well regardless of where he was asked to play. 
The first half came to a close with the Sharks managing to retain a slender lead.  With the short walk to the home dressing room, and a few encouraging words the Sharks took to the field once more looking to build on the lead that they already have. 
Freddie, Harry and Caleb started the Second half on the bench, giving Josh a chance to impress from the start of the half, and boy did he take his chance.  He was full of running, and making a real difference, tackling defenders and putting himself in good positions which was impressive to see. 
With the second half no more than 5/6minutes old Josh struck to double the Sharks lead, with good work from Giacomo, Freddie and Elliott applying pressure after the ball had been played up from the back by Caleb.  The ball was bouncing around in the oppositions like a pin ball machine and eventually broke to Josh who was as cool as you like, passed the ball into the corner of the goal. This lead to wild celebrations from the team management, players and supports alike, as Josh tries so hard every single week and deserves his moment in the spotlight. 
As the Sharks have built up a two goal cushion, it appeared that this relaxed the lads, as we started to pass the ball more and create more chances, with Jack and Elliott now making surging runs from their defensive positions and taking shots from a distance.  These lead to the Sharks getting a corner, not their first of the game but the first of the second half. 
Jack is becoming very adept at striking a dead ball, and he has been entrusted with taking the Shark’s corners this season, he took a wonderful corner which dropped perfectly into the middle of the box, which Freddie managed to get on to the end of, and poke the ball home from close range, this extended the Sharks lead again, putting us firmly in control of the game. 
Before the game finished the Sharks managed to get another goal, this was once again Giacomo, with good work from Freddie, Harry, Caleb the ball got played through the oppositions defensive line, Giacomo raced onto it, and launched a blistering LEFT foot shot into the back of the net, this was even more impressive because Giacomo is right footed and has been trying hard to use his left more, so well done for the effort shown. 
It was now about keeping a clean sheet once more, and to continue to improve defensively, as this is just as important than scoring goals. With the last few minutes winding down the opposition were pushing for a conciliation goal, the Sharks had a few scares with the boys over committing and the midfield not tracking back as much as they should but we managed to hold out for our clean sheet and also score a number of goals too. 
So the win streak continues, and the boys are feeling good about themselves which is a massive boost, I just wanted to mention again how proud I am of the boys and grateful to the parents for their support in packing away and encouraging the boys.  
So onto next week and fingers crossed another victory.        

After the Shark’s impressive defensive display the previous week they were on a high and in good spirits and looking forward to the game.  With one of our injured players returning this gave another boost to the team. 
So the Sharks lined up as follows. Dylan in goal, Elliott, Jack, Giacomo, Freddie, Aidan and Liam starting the game, with Harry, Caleb and Josh starting from the bench. 
This game was going to be a good gauge, being the return fixture for the game that ended in a draw at the start of the season.  We would be able to see how far the boys have come and how they have got used to the bigger pitch and each other. 
As the game started, the opposition came at us quickly, and took the Sharks by surprise We conceded a very cheap goal that should have been avoided, both Jack, and Elliott were caught napping.  The opposition managed to take the lead with a good effort on goal.  I was hoping that this wouldn’t dampen the boys spirts, as I know that our previous game was a close and a tight affair. But the Sharks didn’t have to wait longer for a response. Aidan appeared to be in the mood and had started the game extremely well, picking up the ball, controlling it, making good runs off the ball, and also taking people on.  Our goal came directly from him, but credit must be given to others as well.  With Giacomo back in the middle of the park he was providing much needed energy to our play, closing down and trying to play the ball earlier.  The ball was closed down by Giacomo, who managed to feed the ball to Jack, who in turn played the ball to Aidan, Aidan then slipped a wonderful ball through to Freddie, who managed to control the ball and score past the oncoming opposition goalkeeper.  This seemed to give the boys more confidence. 
After the goal the Sharks started to get on top, and started controlling the game more, with the opposition still threatening but Jack and Elliott were managing to handle most of what that was being thrown at them, and with Dylan now our first choice keeper assisting we were looking assured from a defensive point of view. 
The Sharks then managed to take the lead and extend it, which was good to see.  Freddie was on fire, he managed to bag a first half hat trick in about 15mins which was excellent. But this couldn’t have been achieved without the other lads working extremely hard.  Aidan assisted in another goal and proved to himself that he is an important player for the Sharks. Same for Liam, who is continuing to work hard and develop his positional play. 
Harry, Caleb and Josh all coming on from the bench and making telling contributions. Josh continued his development, by having the confidence to pick the ball up and run with it, Harry was also developing steadily. His positional play is improving week upon week, I believe it is just confidence now that is required for him to take the next step, and Caleb is becoming a good little player too. He is the Sharks Mr Utility, as he is learning to play a number of positions which is a massive bonus.
With the Sharks now with a two-goal cushion, it seemed that we were going to push on and score more goals and put more into practice from the training field. The Sharks managed to extend the lead again, this time it was Liam that managed to score collecting the ball from Giacomo, Liam managed to turn his player well before driving a left foot shot into the bottom hand corner, a deserved goal for the effort that he was putting in recently, and it clearly showed with his celebration. 
The opposition by this point was struggling to contain the Sharks, as Freddie added another and fourth goal for the day. This time Elliott was the provider, bursting through the midfield before passing the ball well to Freddie for him to control and slotting home again!! 
But before the half was finished the opposition managed to pull back three goals!  It seemed that the Sharks had thought that the game had been won, but credit where credit is due, they managed to put us under pressure and to be honest we were hanging on to a slender lead as the half time whistle blew. 
With some words of encouragement and some positional adjustments, the Sharks took to the field to start the second half. 
With Aidan, Freddie and Harry starting on the bench, the second half started. We looked more compact and had a better shape.  Before long the Sharks managed to score another goal, this time it was Giacomo who scored. With some encouragement to shoot a little earlier and not over play he got what he deserved.  This eased our nerves and we started to play and pass the ball again. 
Caleb continued to show his importance to the team, by switching to a defensive position giving Jack a rest. He made some telling challenges and worked extremely hard so well done to you young man.  
The opposition seemed to change their shape which posed a problem for the lads, but they handled it well.  This made the game even closer, closing down the space that we enjoyed in the first half. So credit to the boys that we managed to restore our 3 goal cushion, and this goal was scored by…. you got it, Freddie! That made it five goals in one game, the only other player to do this for the Sharks was Jake who is currently injured.
So the action petered out and the final whistle blew, the Sharks finished the game with another victory.  That makes two in a row again. So our attention turns to next week and we try to continue this run and  remain unbeaten for the remainder of our fixtures.
Well done lads, and once again thanks to all the parents’ help setting up and the support that you show every week.