SUNDAY 8 JANUARY 2012
CURZON ASHTON 5-2 3D DYNAMOS
TEAM: 1. JACK DUNNING; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. FLYNN BRADLEY; 5. JAMES FISH; 6. WILLIAM KAY; 7. GEORGE WALSH; 8. JORDAN BAILEY; 9. JAMES GREGORY; 10. LEWIS BURTON; 11. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 12. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 13. OLIVER STURGE; 14 SAM DARKE WILLIAMS
SCORERS: WILLIAM WRIGHT; FLYNN BRADLEY
REPORT: Whilst it was pleasant to hear both the Curzon Manager and the Referee say that the best side lost in this match, that doesn't really take away the disappointment at losing.  It is becoming a bit of a worry that we simply cannot score goals.  Very roughly, Curzon scored 5 goals from their 8 or so attempts at goal.  We managed 2 from our 20-odd goalscoring situations.  As with any level of football, if you have trouble at both ends of the field, it doesn't really matter what you do in the middle of the field.
In our previous match, the 1-0 defeat to Northside, we had a similar sort of situation, although that game was much closer in terms of the goal opportunities to the two sides.
In the Curzon match, you could not fault the effort of the boys.  3Ds worked extremely hard, played good football and created lots of good goalscoring chances.
There was plenty to admire in the match, and some excellent individual performances.
The very first minute of the first half gave an insight into the 3ds frustation that was to follow for the rest of the match. 3Ds striker Jordan Bailey worked hard to win the ball off a Curzon defender but with only the keeper to beat, he could only pass the ball into the arms of the keeper.  That pattern continued for the rest of the game: hard work to create goalscoring chances, then a combination of poor shooting and some very impressive goalkeeping meant that 3Ds goal tally was restricted to 2.
The first half was pretty much all 3Ds as we pushed Curzon backwards.  We passed the ball pretty well and looked quite creative.  Chances came and went with good regularity.   We looked solid at the back with William Kay and James Fish showing lots of aggression (in the right way of course!) to keep Curzon away from goal.  Curzon went in 1-0 up at half time with their only shot of the half - to be fair - a high quality, low shot into the bottom right corner of the goal.
The second half started brightly for 3Ds with the introduction of Cameron Southern, dropped from the previous game after a tame performance against Northside.  We also brought James Gregory back into midfield and his raw energy gave the 3Ds midfield a welcome boost.  3Ds pushed for an equaliser but nothing came.
The rest of the half was nip and tuck stuff with both sides looking capable of scoring.  However, what became clear was that only one side was actually able to score - Curzon.  The home side taught us a lesson in shooting and they raced to 3-0 up less than half way through the second half.
To their huge credit, 3Ds didn't give up and they eventually got a goal. William Wright, moved up front as we prayed for a goal, scored from 10 yards out with a low shot, following a brilliant run and cross down the right wing from Jordan Bailey.  Jordan had worked hard up front, but the move to right wing saw him produce several first class runs and crosses - a level of aggressive wing play that we were lacking.
Having got themselves back in the game, 3ds shot themselves in the foot again by conceding 2 dreadful goals.  Less said the better about them.
3ds could have given up on the spot, but they didn't.  Flynn Bradley grabbed our second goal with a run down the right wing and a looping cross which went over the Curzon keeper and into the net.
Final score 5-2 to Curzon.  As we've said before, the result doesn't matter at this age.  However, the boys need to continue to focus on good behaviours and good habits.  They lead to stopping goals going in, and scoring goals at the other end. Teams at this age will always concede goals, because the art of defending is something individuals and teams learn over the course of years.  However, our inability to score week after week is a worry, because whilst the result might not matter at this age, the boys need to see some match day reward for all their hard work, effort and overall good football.  This was another day when effort and reward did not match up to each other.
Full credit to Curzon on their win - brilliant finishing; excellent goalkeeping and several clearly talented players on view.
For 3Ds, Michael Grabowski was almost faultless at full back; William and James at centre back had a great first half, and they need to focus on that acheivement for the next game; Flynn was not at his best but you had to admire the way he kept working hard and seeking to create chances no matter what the score was; in the second half, Cameron and Jordan were outstanding on each wing; James G showed promise in the centre of midfield.
Keep going boys.  You won't realise it now, but every tough match is teaching you valuable lessons.
Steve

3D DYNAMOS 4 - 2 DELAMERE RANGERS
TEAM: 1. JACK DUNNING; 2. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 3. JORDAN BAILEY; 4. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 5. JAMES FISH; 6. JAMES GREGORY; 7. GEORGE WALSH; 8. FLYNN BRADLEY; 9. OLIVER STURGE; 10. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 11. JOSH REEVES; 12. WILLIAM KAY; 13. LEWIS BURTON.
SCORERS: JAMES GREGORY (2); FLYNN BRADLEY; GEORGE WALSH (PENALTY).
REPORT: The limitations of 3Ds squad was plain to see in this patchy victory, after yet another player was plucked from their ranks by yet another heartless professional club.  If you want your son to move on to a professional club, bring them to 3Ds, we will polish them up and send them on.  All part of the service.  The coaches and remainder of the players are left to battle on, desperately trying to improve, encourage and learn. And we will.
Seriously, if you are reading this and your son needs a new club, bring him to us.  We need new blood, and we can promise a good upbringing for him.
Limited as the team may be, for it to be second in the table (irrelevant as League position is for boys of this age) going into December is quite an achievement, and it is something for the boys to be proud of. 
3Ds controlled this game for the large part, but Delamere did have a bright spell in the second half when they threatened to get back into the game. 
The game was dominated by a fierce wind, and 3Ds chose to play with the wind in the first half.  This proved a good decision as 3Ds controlled the first half and set up a strong 3-0 lead at half time.  We started the game well, and showed the early signs of carving open the Delamere defence.  However, the boys learnt an early lesson, that when you play with the wind in your favour, you don't need to pass the ball forward as strongly as you might do on a less windy day.  Too often the players' first touch was either poor or just too heavy.   3Ds created several chances, but failed to convert them.  We had to wait until half way through the first half for the first goal, and it came through a powerful James Gregory header from close range following a corner from Cameron Southern.
The 2nd and 3rd goals were not long to come, with Flynn Bradley scoring from  close range, and then James Gregory getting into the penalty box again to score from close range.
Half time: 3-0 to 3Ds and much deserved.
The second half began brightly for 3Ds as they pushed Delamere backwards.  However, despite the hard work that went into creating chances, 3Ds lack of technique up front was clear to see as shots went everywhere but on target.  Basic rules: get your shot on target to at least make the keeper work; try and find a bottom corner to make it hard for the keeper; use just enough power. 
Whilst Delamere had not really made an impression in the first half, they stepped up their efforts in the second half, and full credit to them they were really battling to get something out of this game.  Delamere had a bright 5 minutes and grabbed 2 goals (and had one disallowed) in the process. From a 3Ds viewpoint, the first goal was similar to several goals that we have given away this season, as we conceded a free kick in a bad area 10 yards outside our penalty box.  Not a great idea on a windy day.  Bearing in mind the weather, a 3Ds full back was pulled back to cover one of the posts in the 3Ds goal.  The free kick was duly punted over the 3Ds defensive wall and crept into the 3Ds net, after kissing the post on the way through.  Quite how and why the 3Ds defender didn't clear the ball is a mystery.  Boys: I'm a good coach because I made all your mistakes 30 years ago.  When I give you a job to do, it's usually because I know what is about to happen.
A minute later, 3Ds gave away a corner.  With wind assistance, the corner was skilfully whipped into the 3Ds near post area.  A scramble followed, the ball was in the net, but the ref disallowed the goal.  I'm still not sure if it was a foul on our keeper, but the goal was not allowed.
Roll forward another minute, and 3Ds give away another soft free kick 20 yards outside their penalty box.  If the referee saved 3Ds with the disallowed goal, he didn't help this time round, as he missed 3 players offside before the ball found its way into the 3Ds goal.  3-2 and game on.  In fairness, at this stage of the game Delamere had their tails up, and 3Ds looked very shaky.
Thankfully, 3Ds immediately scored a fourth goal - a superbly taken penalty from George Walsh, after a handball decision following a cross from Cameron. 
Full time 4-2.
Best side won, but by no means easily as 3Ds lost their way in the second half.  Effort and attitude was not a problem for 3Ds as they worked very hard throughout the match. How long 3Ds can continue to produce victories looks in question, as their squad gets thinner.  A few new bodies are needed, and we need to find more time to spend with the boys improving their technique. Several of the players have to improve their 'basics'.
George Walsh had his best game of the season - keeping his passing simple; no silly stepovers or drag backs; and he was rarely caught in possession. Flynn Bradley also showed well in midfield with hard work on the ball and effective passing.  If George and Flynn are going to be a midfield duo, they have to work as a duo - communicate with each other, share the work.  They need to do the boring stuff a lot better - marking their opponent being a good example.
James G scored two great goals, showing the power he possess from corner kicks. 
Jordan did well again at left back, and Michael was steady at right back; Cameron was steady at left midfield, but Cameron needs to push himself to the next level of development.  In 3 years he has gone from sub in the 'B' squad, to 'A' squad first choice.  He now needs to push himself even further - stronger in the tackle; be more vocal; be more selfish and direct in possession; sprint away from opponents when he has dribbled around them.  Don't settle for this level of achievement.
Sam Darke worked very hard in the first half, and held the ball up well to bring other players into the game.  First touch Sam; and quality in front of goal - they are your next targets.
Keep at it boys!
Steve

3D DYNAMOS 2 - 4 ROCHDALE ST CLEMENTS
13 NOVEMBER 2011
TEAM: 1. JACK DUNNING; 2. JORDAN BAILEY; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. FLYNN BRADLEY; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. JAMES FISH; 7. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 8. GEORGE WALSH; 9. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 10. WILLIAM KAY; 11. CAMERON SOUTHERN;
12. OLIVER STURGE; 13. SOL PEGLER; 14. LEWIS BURTON.
SCORERS: SAM DARKE WILLIAMS (2)
REPORT: Our website says that we learn more from a narrow defeat, than we do a big win.  So, do we actually believe that, or does it just sound a smart-ass thing to say?  Well, this was a narrow defeat and there was a huge amount to learn….but are the students willing to do so? Are the teachers clever enough to teach? Who cares? What's the point? Is someone taking this too seriously, or are a lot of people not taking it seriously enough? Does anyone actually read these reports? I'm beginning to question these things. 
Something has to change quite soon or someone will lose interest.
Couple of initial points - this was by no means a bad performance from 3Ds - the boys showed a lot of quality and endeavour.  Next, what a good side Rochdale were - full value for their win, and plenty to admire.
The game as whole was a good advert for the League and for football at this level.  Both sides played decent football and worked very hard.  The difference between winning and losing is often very narrow, and 3Ds need to learn what it takes to win.  Inevitably, this report will be 3Ds biased, so please bear with it!
The game opened up with 3Ds struggling to get out of their half.  Rochdale pushed 3Ds back, and our boys struggled to get out of their own half.  Lesson number 1: if you can’t play your way out, buy yourself some time: boot the ball over the opposition defence and push your defence up.  Not pretty, but there are times you need to buy some time, some space and some chance to think.  Man City are a wonderful team, but they aren't pretty for 90 minutes.
After the initial struggle 3Ds began to push forward, and there was no lack of effort. Lesson number 2: if you cant control the ball, you won't win many football matches.  Paul Scholes's brilliance began with his first touch, not his third or fourth touch.  3Ds missed about 7 decent goalscoring chances because our players could not control the ball, steady themselves and shoot effectively.  In the first half no less than 5 decent scoring chances were wasted through a lack of basic technique. Sack the Manager? Yes, perhaps. But if you do 10 minutes a day kicking a ball against a wall (with both feet) at age 11, you will be able to control a ball cleanly at age 13.  Too many players think that a great player means scoring glamorous goals.  It's not. Great players control the ball, but themselves time and buy themselves options.
3Ds fell behind after trying to do the right thing - a short corner between Cameron and George that didn't work.  After that, you just have to applaud Rochdale for a brilliantly quick breakaway and a shot from their striker that was pure quality.
After that, it was nip and tuck.  If memory serves 3Ds had more chances but Rochdale did hit the bar and had plenty of time in the 3Ds half.
HT 1-0 Rochdale.
Second half - less than a minute into the half and Rochdale were 2-0 up.  Good goal from a Rochdale point of view: they hassled 3Ds to win the ball back early from the kick off and then passed and ran their way through the 3Ds defence. From a 3Ds perspective, a dreadful goal: a clueless kick off (passing the ball backwards with no thought) and a totally inability to deal with players running forward with the ball.
Rochdale added a third shortly after, and it looked like it could become an embarrassing day.  However, credit to 3Ds they kept pressing and eventually got a goal.  It owed much to the common sense and patience of Lewis Burton and Jordan Bailey who showed what you can achieve by playing the way you are facing and keeping the game simple.  Their efforts ended in a cross which the very hard working Sam Darke Williams poked home for a goal.
3Ds continued to press for another goal, but it was Rochdale who were to get the next goal, and it summed up everything that the Manager continues to tell the team: keep the ball; the other team gets tired and you win.  Lose the ball; you get tired and you lose.  In less than one minute 3Ds won the ball 4 times; gave it away 4 times, and Rochdale ran away and scored.  We have to look after the ball: show it respect; treat it with care; make your passes simple.  Even though Spain lost to England, they were a master class in keeping the ball and showing the ball respect. Keep the ball, save your energy, tire out the other team.  But, if you cant control the ball and your first touch is poor then you will make life hard for yourself.
Full credit to 3Ds, even at 4-1 down, they kept working hard and their second goal was cute and well executed.  A stunning short pass from Oliver to Sam, who carefully guided his shot past the keeper into the net.
Full time 4-2 to Rochdale.

Rochdale were full value for their win.  They were well organised, they played good football, they were enthusiastic; they kept the game simple; they passed the ball cleanly in the 3Ds half.  They were a good team, and they had several players who stood out: left back, centre forward, right winger, left winger and number 8 in midfield looked several grades above their 3Ds markers.
3Ds didn't play badly at all, but they have a lot to learn from this:
- effort levels: if we had players who worked anywhere near as hard as William Kay and Jordan Bailey we wouldn't go far wrong; too many players have too low a level of effort;
- enthusiasm: if you don't love the game, don’t turn up.  Several of the Rochdale players looked like they loved the game.
- ball control: we lost (partly) because we can't control the ball (especially when shooting);
- aggression: being well behaved is nice, but if you let the opponent win every difficult challenge, then you will never achieve the highest levels.  We need to be a lot, lot tougher.  If you have to battle - then battle!
- rise to the challenge: if your opponent is as good as you, or better, raise your game! The Rochdale number 8 was a perfect example of hard work, enthusiasm, ball control and leadership.
Too many players ignore what they are being taught. Too many players put no effort into their skills outside of training or matches. 
Today, the 'big' players didn't turn up.  The stars today were Jordan Bailey, William Kay, Lewis Burton, Sam Darke Williams. 
C'mon guys, we can do better than this.
Steve

SUNDAY 30 OCTOBER 2011
3D DYNAMOS 4 - 1 BOUNDARY PARK JUNIORS
TEAM: 1. JACK DUNNING; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. LEWIS BURTON; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 7. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 8. WILLIAM KAY; 9. OLIVER STURGE; 10. SAME DARKE WILLIAMS; 11. GEORGE WALSH; 12. SOL PEGLER.
SCORERS: SOL PEGLER (2); OLIVER STURGE; OWN GOAL.
Once again struggling because of a quarter of the squad being unavailable, 3Ds patched up team produced an equally patchy performance in defeating an enthusiastic Boundary Park team.
Whilst the margin of victory could have been much greater (had 3Ds finishing been a little better) the overall performance was no more than 'OK' as 3Ds stuttered through the match.  We need to set standards, maintain them and improve them.  In this match we just did enough to get away with a win, which is not the standard we should be aiming for.
3Ds started poorly and continued to perform with mixed effect throughout the whole of the first half.  Work rate was poor, decision making was poor and it looked like most of the team had decided to ignore everything that they are being taught, and decided to play in whatever way they saw fit.
There were few players playing to their capability, but Will Kay and Lewis Burton were worthy of favourable mention as they not only worked hard, but kept trying (and usually succeeding) to do the right thing.  Playing wide on the left (and out of position) was Will Kay, and he often showed intelligence by moving as far wide to the left as he could to create space for himself and for the person who was trying to pass to him.  Will trusted his left foot, showed the confidence to push the ball past his full back and get his body across his opponent, and then delivered several useful crosses into the box.
Lewis showed how much he has developed as a player, even though he was playing in an unfamiliar middle of midfield position.  He showed a good football brain with his passing - always trying to find feet or find space.  He played several cute forward looking passes, and even more passes to the wide left or wide right, trying to open up the game and use the available space.
3Ds took the lead through an own goal - headed into his own net by a Boundary defender after George Walsh's excellent corner.
Boundary threatened on several occasions - the best of which was a brilliant and powerful shot from outside the goal area, which 3Ds keeper Jack Dunning did extremely well to save and parry the ball to the floor so Cameron Southern could clear the ball from danger.
The second half, on the whole, was much better, although nowhere near the sort of performance we need to be aiming for.  Several positional changes were made and they opened up the game for both teams.  3Ds got the perfect start, going 2-0 up in the first minute of the second half.  Oli Sturge showed a striker's instinct to get to the Boundary front post to tap home a goal after some quite stunning footwork on the left wing from Sol Pegler.
From then 3Ds began to control the game - but missed a bag full of chances.  William Wright began to dominate midfield and adding Cameron Southern to left midfield began to force Boundary deeper and deeper.  George Walsh began to find more space on the right and he often combined well with Josh Reeves' attacking runs from right back.
Boundary made it 2-1 from a free kick, but 3Ds quickly added a 3rd and a 4th with close finishes from Sol Pegler.  The first of Sol's goals came from an excellent short corner from Lewis and Cameron, which led to a first class cross from Lewis.
As the game wore on, 3Ds got more and more wasteful in front of goal, which is a habit we need to get out of.  Regrettably, it shows that several players have an enormous amount of work to do on their technique. Hard work is a good quality to have, but without good technique, hard work will only get you so far.  Also, one hour a week training with 3Ds will not be enough to iron out problems with technique.  Players (and parents) need to do a lot more at home, on the street and in the garden to work on technique.
Boundary did threaten on occasion and this was by no means a one sided game.  Boundary worked hard and showed more hunger for the ball than 3Ds.  Boundary's first league win will not be too far around the corner.
4-1 to 3Ds.  A year ago this would have been a good performance.  However, we need to keep improving and we cannot be self satisfied with such a lumpy, ugly win.  The boys need to understand that at their age winning does not matter - it is the way you play; the habits you form; what you learn from your mistakes; making good decisions; and trying not to make the same mistake twice.  We have got to keep trying to do the 'right thing', even if, at this age, the boys don't always get it right.
Think and learn boys; think and learn.
Steve

STALYBRIDGE CELTIC 0 - 2 3D DYNAMOS
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. LEWIS BURTON; 5. FLYNN BRADLEY; 6. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 7. GEORGE WALSH; 8. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 9. OLIVER STURGE; 10. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 11. WILLIAM KAY; 12 JACK DUNNING.
SCORERS: SAM DARKE WILLIAMS (2)
REPORT: 3Ds produced their bravest performance for a long time in order to come away with a 2 -0 win over a strong Stalybridge side.  3Ds had to ride their luck at times - particularly in the first half - but were delighted to grab a victory, especially as Celtic had beaten us comfortably 4-0 a few weeks ago.
3Ds victory was even more remarkable as they were missing 4 players and in the 12 players they had available, 2 of them were goalkeepers!
Adopting a 4-5-1 formation, 3Ds did their best to make the most out of the players they had available, which also meant playing 3 natural strikers in midfield.
Cameron and Flynn had to go to centre back, and William Wright had to try and control his 4 midfield colleagues who's natural temptation was to stray upfield - and stay there!  Oli had the tough job of being our sole striker.
Celtic started the better side and looked the better organised, fitter and more enthusiastic.  3Ds lived on their nerves for much of the first half, and relied on Scott Moloney in goal on more than one occasion.  The defence in front of Scott was working overtime, and all four defenders were doing their very best to keep Celtic at bay.  Celtic hit the bar from a header and forced a few corners which 3Ds struggled to clear.
Against the run of play, 3Ds broke free and took the lead.  Good work down the left hand side from Michael Grabowski and William Kay allowed William Wright to cross the ball.  The ball somehow found it's way to the Celtic back post and Sam Darke Williams was on hand to calmly pass the ball into the net. 
Celtic recovered well and were nearly handed a goal when 3Ds keeper Scott Moloney mishandled on the edge of his goal area leaving an open goal for Celtic.  However, as the Celtic striker's shot was rolling into the net, Flynn, Cameron and Josh all chased back to keep the ball out of the net.  Josh got their first and cleared the ball off the goalline.  Brilliant defending from all 3 players who refused to give up.
3Ds grabbed a second goal just before half time, and it was that man Darke Williams who was on hand at the back post to pass the ball into the net to make it 2-0.
2-0 up at half time and 3Ds knew that they had had their share of good luck.  As hard as 3Ds had battled, they were given no pat on the back at half time, as the Manager knew that any reduction in effort would mean that Celtic would pounce and get back in the game.  The players were urged to keep working hard, and it was pointed out that it was not acceptable for any player to leave the hard work to his colleagues - we all have to work hard.
3Ds performance in the 2nd half was a delight.  They worked as hard as they had ever worked, and created numerous chances to add to their lead.  Every player made a huge contribution, and several players learnt a lot about playing unselfishly for the team, and sticking to your position, even if it's not your natural position.
Celtic threatened less in the second half as compared to the first half, and that owed much to the organisation and disclipline of Cameron, Flynn and Will Wright who formed a solid spine for the team.  Jack Dunning in goal was well protected by his defenders, but, when called upon, Jack showed safe hands and excellent distribution.
George Walsh had a positive second half and, again, showed how effective he can be when he can turn and face his full back, beat him and cross.  We need to make sure George receives the ball on the half turn so that he is facing his defender, and his first touch is forward.  We seem to put George in difficulty when he receives the ball with his back to his full back.  We need to work on that.
The longer the half went on, the more comfortable 3Ds looked, and the more chances they created. However, they had to settle for 2-0, and that was plenty enough!  Full time: 2-0 to 3Ds.
This was a great performance; not for the football played; but for the attitude displayed, the unselfishness, and the willingness to work extremely hard.  Sometimes you have to dig in and scrap for a victory - this was one of those days.  Given that we had been hammered 4-0 by Celtic and we had only 12 players available (and had to squeeze 5 strikers into the starting line up), 3Ds could have easily decided that they were going to lose this game.  However, they battled hard and got a deserved win (OK, with a fair bit of luck along the way!).
Everybody played well, but special mention must go to Lewis, Sam and Will Kay.  They were asked to play in midfield and were asked to work as hard as they've ever worked before on a football field.  They listened, learned, ran, tackled, played football when they could, made good decisions.  I hope that this gives them a lot of confidence for the remainder of the season. 
Well done everyone.  Very proud of you.
Steve

Sunday 16th October 2011

3D DYNAMOS 4-3 CURZON ASHTON
TEAM: 1. JACK DUNNING; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. FLYNN BRADLEY; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. JAMES FISH; 7. GEORGE WALSH; 8. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 9. LEWIS BURTON; 10. JORDAN BAILEY; 11. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 12. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 13. SOL PEGLER; 14. OLIVER STURGE.
SCORERS: FLYNN BRADLEY (2); SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; JORDAN BAILEY
3Ds deserved their win - but only just!  This was a good advert for kids football as both sides gave everything in this match.
3Ds had the perfect start by scoring in the first minute when Jordan Bailey scored from close range after good work from fellow striker Lewis Burton.
Curzon recovered quickly and soon had 3Ds on the back foot.  Curzon were the more aggressive team and they were also the more enthusiastic, as they pushed 3Ds back into their own defensive third of the pitch.
Curzon's equaliser came close to the half time whistle and it was a lesson for all young referees that you don't make good your previous error by making another one.  Having denied Curzon a fairly clear penalty earlier in the half, the ref gave Curzon a very dubious penalty as 3Ds keeper Jack Dunning came off his line to tackle a Curzon striker.  Curzon scored from the spot, and they continued to push 3Ds backwards.
Curzon took the lead just before the half time whistle with a good finish -following some 'learning curve' defending, shall we say from the 2 James's.
At half time, we had the now very common wake up call from the Manager.  Quite why the team can only play from the 30th minute onwards, instead of the 1st minute is a bit of a mystery.   In keeping with recent performances, 3Ds produced a tremendous second half performance.
3Ds pushed Curzon back into their own half and produced not only good football but also a string of very good chances.  However, those chances were wasted, and 3Ds looked foolish when Curzon escaped their imprisonment to score their third goal to give them 3-1 lead.
Credit to 3Ds, they could have given up at that point, but roared on by the middle duo of Flynn and William, 3Ds pressed forward and refused to give up.  3Ds made it 3-2 when Sam Darke Williams scored from close range following a brilliant high, looping cross from Josh Reeves.
3Ds grabbed an equaliser soom after when Flynn Bradley scored from close range.
3Ds winner came from another harsh penalty decision.  Flynn Bradley stepped up to score the winner for 3Ds.
In the last few minutes Curzon poured forward for an equaliser.  Only a brilliant save from Jack Dunning and an incredible goal line clearance from Cameron Southern saved the day for 3Ds.
Full time 4-3 to 3Ds.  A good game by both sides.  3Ds have to start the game in the first minute, not the 31st minute in future!
Steve

SUNDAY 9 OCTOBER 2011

DELAMERE RANGERS 1 - 5 3D DYNAMOS
TEAM: 1. JACK DUNNING; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3 MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. JAMES FISH; 7. FLYNN BRADLEY; 8. OLIVER STURGE; 9. JORDAN BAILEY; 10. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 11. LEWIS BURTON; 12. GEORGE WALSH; 13. SOL PEGLER; 14. WILLIAM KAY
SCORERS: JORDAN BAILEY; OLIVER STURGE; LEWIS BURTON; JAMES GREGORY; WILLIAM KAY.
3Ds victory was every bit as convincing as the scoreline suggests as they controlled this match from start to finish.

Despite this being an away match, the 3Ds parents showed the Dunkirk Spirit to clear the pitch of several puddles in order to get the pitch playable.  Their efforts were rewarded as the boys produced a non stop display of football and hard work.  To be honest, the main surprise was that the winning margin was not considerably greater.

3Ds began the match strongly, but despite their good football, and quality crossing from Cameron and Lewis, 3Ds could not put the ball into the net through a mixture of good goalkeeping, poor finishing and shots which needed less power and more placement.
3Ds eventually took the lead through a close range effort from Jordan Bailey after Cameron had done well to retrieve a 3Ds shot which was about to go out for a dead ball.

3Ds quickly added another when Flynn Bradley's excellent corner was powerfully headed home by Oliver Sturge - a great goal Oli!
3Ds grabbed their third just before half time when Lewis Burton drove home a shot from 20 yards out - well done Lewis!

In the second half 3Ds didn't have it all their own way as Delamere showed some brave resistance and spent more time in the 3Ds half of the field.  However, 3Ds added their fourth with another headed goal - this time a great header from James Gregory from Cameron's corner kick.
Delamere grabbed a deserved goal to make it 4-1.  3Ds completed their scoring for the day when goal-a-game-William Kay showed good confidence to control the ball and score with his left foot - not William's preferred option! Well done William - trust that left foot.
FT 5-1 to 3Ds.  Good performance on a tricky pitch.  Good football on the whole.  Finishing left a lot to be desired!  Not a weak link in the side on the day.
Steve

2 OCTOBER 2011
BURY AMATUERS 1 - 11 3D DYNAMOS
TEAM: 1. JACK DUNNING; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. FLYNN BRADLEY; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 7. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 8. SOL PEGLER; 9. JORDAN BAILEY; 10. JAMES FISH; 11. GEORGE WALSH; 12. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 13. OLIVER STURGE; 14. LEWIS BURTON; 15. WILLIAM KAY.
SCORERS: GEORGE WALSH (3), WILLIAM WRIGHT (2), JOSH REEVES, FLYNN BRADLEY, SOL PEGLER, LEWIS BURTON, WILLIAM KAY, SAM DARKE WILLIAMS.
MATCH REPORT: Whilst the match was as every bit one sided as the scoreline suggests, this was a mixed display from 3Ds and showed that if the boys' attitude is good, then they can achieve a lot; but if the attitude is poor, then a poor performance will surely follow.
Whilst 3Ds dominated the match, it was Bury who took the lead with a brilliant shot from distance following 3Ds clearing a Bury corner.
3Ds were shoddy in the first half and had too many players who didn't appear in the mood to work hard.  Chances to equalise were wasted, as 3ds suffered from a combination of lack of effort and poor ball control.
It took 3Ds almost up to the half time whilstle to get back on level terms but when they did it began an avalanche of goals.  William Wright put 3Ds back to 1-1, with a scrambling goal from a 3Ds corner kick.  Josh Reeves gave 3Ds the lead with a tremendous shot into the top corner of the net from outside the Bury 18 yard box.  George Walsh added another to give 3Ds a 3-1 half time lead.
Some strong advice was provided to the boys at half time about attitude and effort.  To their credit, the boys took the advice on board and proceeded to control the second half, playing, on occasion some superb football.
3Ds added 8 further goals in the second half - the best of which being George Walsh's shot from outside the Bury 18 yard box, which rocketed into the top corner of the Bury goal.
Other chances came and went, but an 11-1 win is plenty enough for one day.
Flynn Bradley and Josh Reeves excelled all day, whilst decent second half performances were put in by William Wright, Lewis Burton and James Gregory.
Good result, but attitude has to be right from the first minute onwards, and if you are not prepared to equal the other team in terms of effort then you will struggle to get a win.
Not bad, but could and should do better.
Steve

TAMESIDE FOOTBALL LEAGUE 4/9/11(SUNDAY)
3D DYNAMOS 1 - 0 CORINTHIANS
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. JAMES FISH; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. FLYNN BRADLEY; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 7. GEORGE WALSH; 8. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 9. WILLIAM KAY; 10. LEWIS BURTON; 11. JORDAN BAILEY; 12. JACK DUNNING; 13. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 14. SOL PEGLER
3Ds kicked off a new season in a new league and on a new home ground.  The Tameside Sunday League looks set to be a tough league with a number of quality teams within it.
3Ds opened their season with a game against our old friends from Corinthians, and we knew it would be a tough match in terms of the technical quality of the Corinthians team and coach.  Corinthians will be up amongst the top teams throughout the season.
As it happened, the game was one of few chances as both sides tried to pass their way through each other, but found two strong defences in their way.

3Ds scored the only goal of the game halfway through the first half, and, from a 3Ds viewpoint, it was a very pleasing goal indeed.  The move began with Scott in the 3Ds goal, rolling the ball out to left back Michael Grabowski.  Michael pass to the feet of left midfielder Jordan Bailey, who had made a good angle for Michael by running to the left hand touchline.  Jordan cut inside, still in his own half, and passed to William Wright in the middle of midfield.  William's first touch was positive, taking the ball forward and guiding him to look to his right.  William drove the ball out to George Walsh on the right of midfield.  George had taken up a good position wide on the right, and he showed just how good he can be when he keeps it simple and direct.  He sped past the Corinthians full back and drove a fierce low cross into the Corinthians goal area.  The Corinthians keeper could only parry the ball, and fortunately for us, he parried it right into the path of striker William Kay who scuffed the ball into the net from 3 yards out. The goal had a bit of everything: playing good football from our defence; to direct and powerful wing play; to a scruffy but extremely valuable goal from close range.

The remainder of the game showed both sides to be capable of good football.  3Ds had the better of the first half, but Corinthians were the better team in the second half.
Both teams had a goal each disallowed, with Corinthians having most to be upset about with their goal being unfairly ruled out.
From 3Ds viewpoint, this was a good display against a good team, but this was nowhere near the standard that 3Ds should be aiming for.  We passed the ball well early in the game, and showed good ideas, as well as good pass selection.  We looked reasonably comfortable in defence, with Scott looking particularly comfortable in goal.
However, in the second half, as our lack of fitness began to show, our passing and our organisation went missing.  The boys must learn that as the body tires, so does the brain, and that affects the decisions we make with the ball.  Keep it simple guys! Keep the ball on the floor, find feet and find space.  When you are tiring, you must try and find a way to give yourself time to get your breath back and get yourself in the right position on the pitch.
Everybody made a contribution, and with more game time we can only get better.  It was pleasing for our debut boy, William Kay, to score the winning goal. 

Let's keep improving!

Steve

3D DYNAMOS 3 - 1 WATERLOO
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 4. SOL PEGLER; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. SAM LOVERING; 7. JAMES FISH; 8. KIAN STEWART; 9. OLIVER STURGE; 10. DEVON MATTHEWS; 11. FLYNN BRADLEY; 12. JORDAN BAILEY; 13. GEORGE WALSH; 14. LEWIS BURTON; 15. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 16. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI
SCORERS: SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; KIAN STEWART; LEWIS BURTON
3D Dynamos completed their League games for the season with an extremely hard fought win over a very impressive Waterloo team.
Whilst 3Ds deserved their win over the full course of the match, the one - nil half time lead enjoyed by Waterloo was thoroughly deserved as the away team gave 3Ds a lesson in enthusiasm, hard work and also some fast and positive attacking play.
3Ds started brightly enough, and with only 2 players missing from their squad, they could have no complaints about being understrength.  However, as the first half wore on, and whilst the overall balance of play was even, Waterloo began to emerge as the much more polished and determined football team.  Chances were few and far between for both teams, but Waterloo had the best of the chances that were on offer.
3Ds looked disjointed and unhappy in their play. The continuous policy of 'everybody gets half a game' is surely the right thing to do in the long term, but in the short term it does not help the fluency of the team.  Juggling, and keeping happy, a squad of 19 has not proven easy.
Waterloo deservedly took the lead after 20 minutes, crashing home a shot from the edge of the 3Ds box, following determined play on the right hand side to recover the ball from 3Ds.
Half time 1-0.
3Ds made 5 player changes and several positional changes at half time to try and change the pattern of the game.  Thankfully, it worked. 3Ds grabbed hold of the second half and rarely let go of it, rediscovering their aggression and their purposeful passing play.
3Ds equalised 10 minutes into the second half and it was credit to George Walsh initially, as he won the ball back on the right wing before passing the ball simply and sensibly back to Devon Matthews.  Devon scooped the ball over the Waterloo defence and found the alert Sam Darke Williams.  Sam took the ball in his stride, made progress into the Waterloo area, and then slammed a fierce right footed shot into the far right corner of the Waterloo goal.
3Ds continued to press and their second goal didn't take long to arrive.  The goal was brilliantly taken by Kian Stewart - firing home a left footed shot into the bottom right corner of the goal.  The opportunity arose following great play from Cameron Southern who had passed the ball to Kian, after Cameron had been quick witted enough to steal the ball off the Waterloo right back following a risky throw out from the Waterloo keeper.
3Ds sealed the game in the last 10 minutes with yet another brilliantly taken goal.  This time it was Lewis Burton who capped a very pleasing second half for himself, by hammering home a right footed low shot into the bottom right of the Waterloo goal.
3Ds had the better of the second period but Waterloo still showed flashes of quality, and made 3Ds dig as deep as they have had to dig in any game this season.
Full time 3-1.
Not so clever in the first half, but 3Ds produced a very pleasing display in the second period - no weak links at all in the second half.
Waterloo look a team for the future - good footballers, hard working, tough, organised, lively.
Steve

30/4/2011

3D DYNAMOS 4 - 0 WEST END
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. JAMES FISH; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 5. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 6. LEWIS BURTON; 7. SOL PEGLER; 8. DEVON MATTHEWS; 9. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 10. JOE HAUGHTON; 11. GEORGE WALSH; 12. SAM GAMBLE; 13. OLIVER STURGE.
SCORERS: JOE HAUGHTON; SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; OLIVER STURGE; LEWIS BURTON.
3Ds returned to action after 3 weeks without a game, and came into this one minus 6 regular players. The recent sunny weather had created a hard, dusty, but fairly flat, pitch, which made it tricky for the players to get the ball on the floor and play good football.
3Ds dominated the play from start to finish but they found West End difficult to score against and a large part of that went to West End for their determination and bravery.
The first half proved frustrating for 3Ds as simply could not score despite having a strong wind in their favour and despite creating a large number of chances to score.  3Ds failure to score reveals their main problem as a team: the fact that they need about 4 chances to score one goal.  If they could solve their goalscoring problem (or reduce the number of chances that they need before they score) then they would become a much more complete side.
At a rough count, 3Ds had 11 attempts on goal.  Only 4 of them were on target, and 3 of the 4 were well within reach of the West End keeper. We need to do better than that, and getting more attempts on target and more to the four corners of the goal, must be our next development target.
Half time 0-0.
The second half saw 3Ds playing into the strong wind, and West End must have come out thinking that they had a decent chance to get something out of the game.  In reality, 3Ds played better against the wind, than they had playing with it, and they proceeded to control the 2nd half.
3Ds didn't need long to take the lead, and it came from Joe Haughton - playing his best game so far for 3Ds - as he was able to tap home from close range.  Joe showed good energy and inventiveness all day, with his close control and willingness to pass and move.
3Ds added a second goal shortly after as Sam Darke scored from close range.
Goals 3 and 4 for 3Ds followed not long after as Oli Sturge and Lewis Burton both scored.
A large number of chances came and went - largely to a brilliant goalkeeping display to be honest from the West End keeper. 
West End worked hard all the way through the game and could have grabbed a goal of their own following a very fast and direct run from their number 7 - superbly angling his run across his 3Ds marker to prevent him being tackled - but Scott Moloney was alert and agile enough to produce a diving save to push the ball out for a corner.
Full time 4-0.
A reasonable performance from 3Ds, without ever reaching the height of their talents.  James, Cameron and Michael were good as our defensive 3 and played the game simply and very effectively, listening well to their instructions and protecting the 3Ds goal throughout the game.
Lewis had a great game in midfield and then up front, and he was well worth his goal.  Lewis is now able to work hard throughout a full match, and is able to not only take on instructions, but also to think for himself.
Steve

MOSSLEY JUNIORS 1 - 3 3D DYNAMOS
SCORERS: WILLIAM WRIGHT; DEVON MATTHEWS, OWN GOAL.
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. FLYNN BRADLEY; 3. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 4. DEVON MATTHEWS; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. SAM GAMBLE; 7. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 8. KIAN STEWART; 9. JOE HAWORTH; 10. JAMES FISH; 11. SAM LOVERING;
12. GEORGE WALSH; 13. SOL PEGLER; 14. OLIVER STURGE; 15 SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 16. LEWIS BURTON.

WEST END JUNIORS 0 - 7 3D DYNAMOS
SCORERS: : WILLIAM WRIGHT (3); CAMERON SOUTHERN (2); JAMES FISH; JORDAN BAILEY.
TEAM: 1. SOL PEGLER; 2. FLYNN BRADLEY; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. JAMES GREGORY; 5. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 6. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 7. JORDAN BAILEY; 8. GEORGE WALSH; 9. OLIVER STURGE; 10. LEWIS BURTON; 11. JAMES FISH; 12. DEVON MATTHEWS; 13. JOSH REEVES; 14. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS.

2 reports in one this week.  Another 2 wins for the 3Ds boys, but another 2 tough matches for the lads.
Mossley were first up and the conditions were tough to say the least - glad it was a spring summer evening, and not a cold winter's morning.
The pitch was dusty and lumpy, and a fierce cross wind made the game difficult for both teams.
3Ds played 'with the wind' in the first half and whilst they completely controlled possession of the ball, 3Ds struggled to play any of their normal football and the game was very scrappy.  Mossley worked hard to keep 3Ds out and the Mossley defence and goalkeeper played very well. 
3Ds took the lead after 15 minutes when Devon Matthews scored from 10 yards out, aided by a mistake by the Mossley keeper.  3Ds doubled their lead before half time when William Wright's right wing cross was headed into his own goal by a Mossley defender.
In the second half, Mossley were expecting to take the game to 3Ds as the home side had the wind in their favour.  However, 3Ds showed some of their quality by keeping the ball on the floor and passing their way through the Mossley team.  However, 3Ds lacked power up front and the killer instinct to score more goals was sadly missing.
Mossley grabbed a goal back with a great, low shot from the edge of the box, as 3Ds went to sleep at a corner.  Mossley's hope of a recovery were short lived as William Wright hammered home a high shot from the left side of the Mossley penalty box.
Full time 3-1 to 3Ds.
We faced West End on 9 April and whilst the score of 7-0 to 3Ds looked convincing, this was a tired display from 3Ds, and we did no more than enough to see off the home team.
3Ds started extremely well and were 1-0 up within a minute of the match starting.  James Fish - who had his best game for a long time - grabbed the goal with a low shot into the bottom left of the goal.  3Ds went 2-0 up within 5 minutes as William Wright headed home from a corner.
Just as it appeared that we could be in for a flood of goals, 3Ds began to lose their way, and, credit to the home side, West End re-discovered their confidence and began to press forward themselves.
Half time 2-0.
The second half carried on much like the first, with 3Ds in control, but with their play lacking the enthusiasm and flair that we normally see.  West End worked hard and their goalkeeper was in star form.
It looked like the game would end 2-0 but 3Ds rediscovered some life and rattled in 5 more goals before the end of the match.  William completed his hat trick, Cameron bagged 2 goals and Jordan grabbed a goal.  Full time 7-0.
This was an end of season, tired performance with flashes of quality but no more than that.  William had a great game, James Fish had his best game for a long while, Michael G and Cameron were as steady as they always are.
Steve

02/04/2011

REDDISH VILLA 1 - 7 3D DYNAMOS
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. CAMERON SOUTHERN. 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. DEVON MATTHEWS; 7. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 8. GEORGE WALSH; 9. OLIVER STURGE; 10. KIAN STEWART; 11. SAM GAMBLE; 12. JOE HOWARTH; 13. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 14. LEWIS BURTON; 15. JORDAN BAILEY.
SCORERS: SAM DARKE WILLIAMS (3); KIAN STEWART; OLIVER STURGE; LEWIS BURTON; JOE HAWORTH
This was a great game of football and both sides contributed hugely to the game.  The scoreline does reflect 3Ds control of the match, but Reddish came out of this game with a lot of satisfaction at having worked incredibly hard through the whole match and they made 3Ds work very hard for the points.
3Ds maintained their 'new' formation for this game and it served them well.  3Ds took the game to Reddish and our boys looked lively on both flanks with Cameron and George attacking their full backs at every opportunity.  George was ably supported on the right hand side by Josh, at right back, and the two linked up extremely well.
Mainly due to some exceptional goalkeeping from the Reddish keeper, it took 3Ds a long time to get their first goal.  However, we perhaps should have had a goal much earlier as Kian's venomous shot crashed down of the crossbar and (we think) landed into the Reddish goal, but the ref didn't give the goal.  We had our own Frank Lampard v Germany moment! No video technology at the Reddish pitch!
3Ds eventually took the lead when Sam Darke stabbed home from close range after more good work from George and Josh.
Having taken the lead, 3Ds proceed to pile on the pressure and 3 more goal followed before the half time whilstle.  Kian added the second with a tap in, and Sam Darke added the third in similar fashion.  3Ds 4th goal completed a hat trick for Sam and it was an impressive individual effort - wriggling free from his marker Sam cut inside and rocketed a fierce shot into the goal from the narrowest of angles.  Great hat trick Sam!
It must be said that the Reddish keeper pulled off several brilliant and brave saves in the first half.
At the other end, Reddish were dangerous and they worked tirelessly to create chances to score.  Scott, in the 3Ds goal, didn’t have many shots to save, but he had to help his defenders on several occasions as the hard working Reddish strikers tried to put pressure on the 3Ds defence.
Half time - 4-0 to 3Ds.  Comfortable, but by no means easy.
Second half - 3Ds made 4 substitutions to freshen things up.  It didn't take long for 3Ds to add their 5th goal - and it was another cracker.  It was the turn of Oli Sturge to take the praise as he blasted a shot into the goal with a right foot effort.
3Ds sixth goal was simple but very pleasing.  The goal arose from a powerful Will Wright free kick which the excellent Reddish keeper couldn't quite hold on to.  As the ball spilled out of the keeper's hands, 3Ds had two strikers chasing in to see if there was a chance to score. Joe beat Lewis to the ball, and Joe was able to tap the ball into the net. Full credit to both Joe and Lewis for being alert enough to follow William's shot, and to pick up the chance to score when the keeper spilled the ball.
Reddish grabbed a goal shortly before the end of the game, and their efforts had deserved as much.
3Ds completed the scoring in the last minute - a neat finish from Lewis sliding the ball under the keeper as he came out of his goal to close the angle.
Full time 7-1.
Another strong all-round team performance.  Everybody contributed and their were no weak links.  Well done everybody!
Steve

30/3/2011

3D DYNAMOS 6 - 0 BRENDAN BEES
Scorers: KIAN STEWART (3), SAM DARKE WILLIAMS, GEORGE WALSH, JORDAN BAILEY.

TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. FLYNN BRADLEY; 3. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 4. JOSH REEVES; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. KIAN STEWART; 7. SOL PEGLAR; 8. LEWIS BURTON; 9. DEVON MATTHEWS; 10. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 11. GEORGE WALSH; 12. OLI STURGE; 13. JOE HAWORTH; 14. JORDAN BAILEY; 15. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 16. JAMES FISH
GOALS: KIAN STEWART (3), SAM DARKE WILLIAMS, GEORGE WALSH, JORDAN BAILEY.

3Ds returned to normal service with a comfortable victory over the Bees.  3 goals in each half secured the win for 3Ds.
Strong performances all over the field, as 3Ds used a different team formation to try and rediscover their goalscoring touch.
There are too many good performances to mention - an all round, unselfish, team effort.
Goals from Kian, Sam, George and Jordan were the team's reward.
The Bees worked hard - their goalie and number 8 were particularly brave and hard working.

Over and out!

26/03/2011

HOUGH END GRIFFINS 4 - 1 3D DYNAMOS
SCORER: DEVON MATTHEWS
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 5. FLYNN BRADLEY; 6. JAMES GREGORY; 7. DEVON MATTHEWS; 8. KIAN STEWART; 9. GEORGE WALSH; 10. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 11. JORDAN BAILEY; 12. JOE HAWORTH;  13. SOL PEGLER; 14. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 15. JAMES FISH.

Whilst any defeat is disappointing, the result of any match at this age really does not matter.  It is irrelevant.  What matters is the progress that the children are making, the lessons they learn, the type of football they are trying to play, and the way that they conduct themselves.  The 3Ds team are making huge progress in all of those areas, and with a bit more maturity and a bit more learning, the 3Ds team won't go far wrong.
Thinking about this match, the first thing to say is well done to Hough End on the victory and, it seems, on winning the League title.  Hough End are an excellent team - they play intelligent, patient football; they aren't afraid to use strength when pretty football won't work; and they conduct themselves as decent people.  Well done guys.
The Hough End management were kind enough to say that the result of this match did not reflect the game.  That is the second time in 2 weeks that the best two teams in the League have made the same comment.  However, whilst 3Ds can look back on two great performances against 2 good teams, we must also look back on the fact that for all our effort and skill we only have one point and only 2 goals to show for that effort.
3Ds came into the game with the luxury of choosing from a full squad.  Therefore, no excuses from us on team selection.  If we didn't suffer on team selection, we did suffer with the pitch - twice in 3 weeks that we've had to play on a pitch the size of a postage stamp and a stamp that needed the creases ironing out of it!
The game was a great advert for the League and both sides contributed hugely to it.  The game was so close that it was hard to say who had the upperhand at any given point.  From a 3Ds viewpoint, we created enough chances in the first half to win the match.  In fairness, the chances were not clear cut, but there were plenty enough situations where with more quality we could have scored goals.  3Ds weakness in front of goal is becoming a worry - and this match was the third time in 3 weeks that we've been made to pay for our inability to score.
At the other end, Hough End were always dangerous and they could probably claim to have had a similar number of chances to score.
Half Time 0-0.
The second half saw Hough End fully climb back into the game and they looked ever more dangerous - particularly at corners.  Indeed, it was from a corner that Hough End opened the scoring, as 3Ds struggled to clear the ball, and Hough End scored from close range.
Hough End soon added a second goal - well worked down their right hand side and cleverly finished at the nearpost.
3Ds struck back quickly with a fierce Devon Matthews free kick.
3Ds - realising that a victory was needed - pushed more men forward in search of a goal.  This left gaps at the back, and Hough End took advantage to add two more goals and give them a 4-1 win.
The compliments of the Hough End coaches at the end of the match made the defeat a little easier to take, but the 3Ds players knew that their efforts had not been reflected in the result - for the second time in 2 weeks.
3Ds did a lot right in this game - effort levels, attitude, communication with each other.  They also tried to play football the right way, despite the state of the pitch.  Hough End also played some super football, and the pitch cramped them as much as it did cramp 3Ds.
What could we do better? A couple of key players took too long to get into the game - you have to have self belief and tell yourself that you can be better than your opponent - talk yourself into the game: don't talk yourself out of it!  We need all 11 players working hard - we can't carry people.  Shooting - less power, more accuracy.  Strikers have to keep moving and find space - the more you stand still, the easier you are to mark. Our shooting was poor, and when that happens you tend to lose.
Flynn, James G and Michael had strong games and showed a pleasing level of determination to try and keep their team in the game.  After a slow start, William produced a non stop display and got himself into some brilliant shooting positions - with a bit more calmness the goals will come William!  Jordan showed his usual skills and also his tremendous bravery - a lesson to some players who are a foot taller and a stone heavier!
Overall, the last 2 weeks may have lost us the League title, but, in terms of performance, we've matched (if not exceeded) the two best teams in the League, and we've shown the potential we have.  The best thing is that there are so many areas where we can improve, the next few years should be an exciting time for the 3Ds boys.

19th March 2011

3D DYNAMOS 1 - 1 MANCHESTER TIGERS
Own goal.

TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. FLYNN BRADLEY; 7. JORDAN BAILEY; 8. DEVON MATTHEWS; 9. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 10. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 11. SAM GAMBLE; 12. LEWIS BURTON; 13. OLIVER STURGE; 14. SOL PEGLER.
Another mighty battle between these two evenly talented sides. This was a great advert for the League, and a great advert for both sides.
Dynamos needed a performance after their horror show at Delamere last week, and full credit to the boys because they tore into the Tigers from the first minute and didn't stop working hard until the final whistle.  The instructions were kept simple before the game - attitude, hard work and communication - so as not to complicate things for the boys.  They knew how poorly they had performed the week before and they were determined to show that that had been a one off.
The pitch was unkind to both teams, as a burst of sunshine had taken the moisture from the pitch and left the ground rutted and uneven.
3Ds began the game at a tremendous pace and forced Tigers onto the back foot.  In fact, the first half was played almost exclusively in the Tigers half as the League leaders struggled to find any rhythm and control.  However, despite 3Ds control of the game, they found it impossible to score a goal.  3Ds are to be applauded for the football they tried to play, but all too often either a packed defence or the uneven pitch foiled their efforts.  3Ds had several attempts on goal in the first half but not one managed to be on target.  The Tigers keeper literally did not have a save to make, as 3Ds lashed their shots wide or tried to get too much power into their shots, thereby losing control and making their shots go wide.
Tigers were dangerous on the break but they struggled to find the form that has kept them at the top of the table all season.
Half time 0-0.
The second half began in much the same fashion as the first half, with 3Ds taking the game to the Tigers.  However, in honesty, for all their huff and puff 3Ds did not look like scoring a goal.
Gradually Tigers got themselves back into the game and hit 3Ds several times on the break.  The Tigers strikers looked very dangerous and had they had more of the ball, they might have caused damage to 3Ds.  As the second half unfolded, Tigers won several free kicks and corners in good positions.  Their delivery from corners and free kicks was very good, and the Tigers players looked lively in losing their 3Ds markers.  It was from one of these free kicks that Tigers took the lead - a good strikers goal as the centre forward controlled the ball in the 3Ds box with his back to goal.  He turned sharply before guiding a clever, low shot into the right corner of the goal.  Tigers went crazy, and we wondered how 3Ds would react.
To the boys credit, 3Ds shrugged off the goal and resumed their search for a goal of their own.  The effort levels amongst the 3Ds players was first class, as was their continued attempt to keep the ball on the floor and play good football - not easy on such an unfaithful and bumpy pitch.
As the game wore on, 3Ds remained in control but the game began to open up and Tigers had a couple of good chances to seal their victory. At the other end, 3Ds were still failing to make the Tigers keeper work.  3Ds chances were few and far between (despite their control of the game) and it seemed that chances to score were either wasted by shots going wide of the post, or players taking far too long to get their shots in.
With less than 5 minutes to play, 3Ds changed formation twice - first going 3-4-3, then 3-3-4 - in a desperate attempt to salvage a draw. 
3Ds deserved an equaliser and it came with only a couple of minutes left.  The goal itself was a scruffy one - an own goal following a high free kick into the Tigers box.
Full time 1-1.  Phew!
A great game from both sides.  3Ds were - in fairness - the better side, but, then again, Tigers could have easily won the match.
3Ds needed a performance after their disaster last week.  They showed great qualities today both in terms of mature, patient football; and in terms of hard work and attitude.  However, it must be a worry that despite all that possession 3Ds did not make the Tigers keeper work, and our strikers (5 of them tried during the game) did not look threatening. 
In terms of positives from the game, the defence looked strong and James Gregory continues to impress with his strength and calmness.  Josh and Michael were fantastic at full back; and Flynn at sweeper kept his defenders in order.
Devon and William controlled the midfield and were back to their normal, quality service.  Can we get some shots on target though boys??
Cameron had a solid game at left midfield, and, as quietly as he normally does it, he rarely put a foot wrong.
Sol looked tricky when he came on as a sub, and he and Lewis made useful contributions after coming on as subs.
What do we learn?
- talking makes the game so much easier: we had a lot more noise today - good to hear!
- get your head in the right place: a good attitude and a positive mind are essential.
- don’t keep trying the same thing if it isn't working: playing nice football is great, but if it isn't working, try something different - a long pass; a hopeful cross into the other team's penalty box - use your imagination and keep the other team guessing.
- without hard work we get nowhere: be prepared to work as hard as you can.
Great morning's work boys.  Roll on next week!
Steve

12th March 2011

DELAMERE 4 - 1 3D DYNAMOS
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. FLYNN BRADLEY; 7. JORDAN BAILEY; 8. DEVON MATTHEWS; 9. KIAN STEWART; 10. OLIVER STURGE; 11. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 12. SAM LOVERING; 13. SOL PEGLER; 14. LEWIS BURTON; 15. JAMES FISH.
SCORER: WILLIAM WRIGHT
We might as well be honest and say that we were as bad as the scoreline suggests. Delamere fully deserved their victory and 3Ds got what they deserved - a huge wake up call and a message that without hard work you get scoreline's like this.  If you are not prepared to match the other side for effort and aggression, then your footballing skills don't matter.
3Ds have no excuses for this performance and had almost a full squad of players to choose from.  The pitch was small and uneven, but you have to play on good and bad pitches throughout a season and the best teams adapt to every type of pitch.
The first half started in the worst possible fashion as 3Ds went behind very early on, with an own goal from Michael.  The goal summed up the 3Ds defence for the whole game, as they showed little confidence and looked like a group of strangers. 
Having found themselves a goal down - for the first time in over 6 months - 3Ds did not respond very well, and clearly were struggling to raise their efforts.  3Ds did eventually equalise late in the half when William Wright scored with a good shot across the goalkeeper into the bottom right of the Delamere goal.

The goal was within a 20 minute period either side of half time when 3Ds dominated the game.  In that period they had several chances to score (including Devon's fierce free kick which cannoned off the crossbar) but through a mixture of poor finishing and some great goalkeeping - particularly in the second half - 3Ds were unable to score.
Delamere were always dangerous and the longer that the game went on, the more likely it looked like they would score.  After 3Ds had opened the second half strongly, they gradually began to let Delamere into the game.  The home side broke out of defence very quickly and the enthusiasm of their players was clear for everyone to see.
When it came down to it, Delamere wanted the win much more than 3Ds, and it showed in the effort levels of the two teams.  Therefore, it was no surprise when Delamere took the lead halfway through the second half.  It was also no surprise when they added two more goals in the last 5 minutes of the match to give a comfortable - and deserved - 4-1 win.

Oh dear, what a day for 3Ds. It is hard to know where to begin in describing 3Ds display, and boys as you get older, the summary of the match might be a bit more blunt and to the point.

If we can take any positives, then the performances of James Gregory and Jordan Bailey were of the same high standard that you expect.  Jordan, as the smallest player on the team was a shining example of hard work and bravery, which then allowed his football skills to shine.  James was strong, hard working, but also used the ball extremely well - dominating the uneven pitch and generally finding a 3Ds player with his passes.  Far too many 3Ds players were not prepared to work hard, allowed the pitch to dominate them and were way below their normal standard. 

Whilst the boys aren't robots and can't play well every week, they should come to every game with a good attitude and a willingness to listen, understand and work hard.  Sadly, attitudes were poor in this game, effort levels were poor and that showed in the result. 

26/02/2011

3D DYNAMOS 9 - 1 REDDISH VILLA
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. SAM LOVERING; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. SAM GAMBLE; 5. FLYNN BRADLEY; 6. JAMES GREGORY; 7. JOSH REEVES; 8. DEVON MATTHEWS; 9. OLIVER STURGE; 10. LEWIS BURTON; 11. CAMERON SOUTHERN.
SCORERS: CAMERON SOUTHERN (3), DEVON MATTHEWS (3); OLIVER STURGE (2); JOSH REEVES

Huge credit is due to the extraordinary efforts of 3Ds todayas they had to play with a bare 11 players, given that 7 (yes seven) players were missing.  6 of those 7 are regular starters who would have added to 3Ds domination of this match.  Credit also to the 3Ds team for being willing and able to use 3 different goalkeepers in this match to try and protect our goalkeeper(s) from the cold. 

3Ds control of this game began from the first minute and they rarely let that control go, although it has to be said that their first half performance was far more superior than their sloppy second half efforts.  I guess that the higher your standards, the more you expect, so if we can call the second half disappointing it is maybe a reflection of just how high a level of performance we have come to expect from the boys.

The pitch didn't look in the best of health and the rain had made it rather muddy in places.  Despite that, it didn't stop 3Ds producing a first half full of the mature, educated football that we have come to expect from them. The loss of so many regular players (due to holiday etc) meant that the depth of the 3Ds squad was going to be tested.  The squad easily passed that test.
Too many goals to go through individually, and can't go through each individual attempt on target, so suffice to say 3Ds ran in at half time 5-0 ahead.  Ordinarily we might have expected more given their control of the first half.
Goalscorers in the first half were Oli (2), Cameron (2) and Devon.  The best goal was the simplest, and it was scored by Devon Matthews with a tap in on the Reddish goalline.  What was so special about that?  What was special was the fact that the build up to the goal came from 3Ds clearing a Reddish free kick on the edge of the 3Ds penalty box.  There was nothing special about the build up through midfield and down the left hand side, but what was special was the run made by 3Ds centre midfield player Devon, as he charged up field to support his strikers, and then have the energy to position himself in the Reddish six yard box, leading to his eventual tap of the ball into the net. Not many people noticed it, but it is the little things like that which show that 3Ds are continuing to progress up the learning curve, and are getting into good habits that should last a lifetime.
There were too many good things to mention in the first half, but two players do deserve a mention: Sam Lovering and Josh Reeves who dominated the right side of the pitch and created countless attacking opportunities for the team. Sam and Josh linked up extremely well and passed the ball between each other with quality and simplicity.

Poor Scott, in goal, touched the ball only once. To be fair that one touch was much appreciated as it was a good save when Reddish had broken free to get a shot in.  Scott stood tall and grabbed the ball as the Reddish player tried to lift the ball over him.
Half time: 5-0. 

We changed goalkeepers to give Scott a chance to get into the game.  Striker Lewis Burton volunteered to go in goal. 
The second half was, by comparison, with the first, quite poor from 3Ds, as we got lazy - mentally as well as physically.  Too often we chose the wrong option with our direction of play: tending to keep the ball in the middle of the field (where all the mud was!) rather than keeping the ball moving wide.  It was clear that the effort levels dropped considerably, and having gone 7 nil up (Devon completing his hat trick), the boys knew that they had completed their work.  Unfortunately, the boys will learn that when you let your standards drop, the game becomes harder and less enjoyable.
Another goalkeeper change: Lewis swapped places with Oli, so both centre forwards had had a go in the nets!
Just after the change, Reddish scored their goal - and a good goal it was too.  Skilfully crafted on the right hand side and expertly finished with a clever scoop of the ball over the 3Ds keeper.  Reddish running into a brick wall and only caused a couple of scrambles in the 3Ds area.
Dynamos woke up sufficiently to score another 2 goals just before the end of the match.  Cameron completed his hat trick - well done!

The goal of the day came in the last minute and it came from the incredibly hard working Josh Reeves.  Josh ran half of the length of the pitch with the ball under his control, before sliding a shot underneath the Reddish keeper.  This was not only a good goal, it showed several signs of development for Josh (and the whole squad): he had the confidence to carry the ball for such a long distance; he got his body across and in front of the defender; and he had the intelligence to wait until he was close enough to the Reddish goal before he had his shot.  Great goal Josh!
The final scoreline of 9-1 can't really be disputed given the complete dominance of the 3Ds tsquad in the match.
Reddish showed good spirit and their goalkeeper worked wonders in keeping the score down in the first half. Acouple of the Reddish players stood out and the Reddish parents were also incredibly supportive of their team, all never stopped giving encouragement.  As a result of that support, Reddish kept working hard throughout the match but sadly for them, to no avail.

James Gregory played very well for 3Ds throughout the match, as did Cameron.  The contributions of Josh and Sam Lovering have been noted above.
Steve

19/02/2011

3D DYNAMOS 7 - 0 AFC STANLEY
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. SAM LOVERING; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. DEVON MATTHEWS; 5. FLYNN BRADLEY; 6. JAMES GREGORY; 7. SOL PEGLER; 8. KIAN STEWART; 9. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 10. SAM GAMBLE; 11. OLIVER STURGE; 12. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 13. JOSH REEVES; 14. LEWIS BURTON
SCORERS: DEVON MATTHEWS (3); CAMERON SOUTHERN; OLIVER STURGE; SCOTT MOLONEY; LEWIS BURTON.
Despite missing several regular players, 3Ds turned in a strong performance to see of a strong challenge from AFC Stanley.  The weather hadn't helped the playing surface, so both sides took some time to get used to the conditions.
The early stages of the game were fairly even as neither side could take full control of the game.  Stanley had an early change with an attack down their left side of the field, which ended with 3Ds keeper Scott Moloney pulling off a brave diving save.
3Ds took a long time to get into their stride and, worryingly, too many players looked as if they were not fully concentrating on the game.  It required Captain Devon Matthews to grab hold of the game and give 3Ds the lead after 15 minutes.  Devon's goal was a strong, high free kick into the top right corner of the Stanley goal.
3Ds added their second goal just before the half time whistle.  The players are often told that 'the shout creates the pass' and so it proved in this goal, as full back Josh Reeves screamed for the ball wide on the left of the field.  Oli Sturge responded with a clever, but simple, pass across the field right into the path of Josh.  If Josh hadn't shouted for the ball, the pass would not have happened.  Josh moved forward with the ball, squared it across the Stanley goal area, and Oli was on hand to control the ball superbly well, and fire home a fierce shot into the bottom left corner of the Stanley goal.  Well done Josh and Oli.
Half time 2-0.  At half time, 3Ds were asked if their performance had been up to their normal standards - the players felt that they hadn't played to the best of their ability.  The players were challenged to improve.
The players responded superbly well in the second half and rarely let Stanley escape from their own half.
3Ds added 5 more goals in the second half and could have had more were it not for some excellent goalkeeping from the Stanley keeper and some brave defending, particularly from the Stanley number 3.
Devon deserved to complete his hat trick, which was good reward for another hard working display.  Cameron scored a goal with his right foot (equalling his dad's career record of one goal scored with his right foot - however: it was a brilliant goal!).  Scott came out of goal to score and Lewis grabbed himself a goal on his return to the side after an absence.
The second half was much more like normal 3Ds standards, and everyone played their part in a good performance.  Full backs Sam Lovering and Josh Reeves had strong games and were worthy of praise.  Flynn and James were solid and sensible at the back.  Sam G oozed quality in his range of passing.  Sam D worked hard and unselfishly and went in goals in the second half.  Oli continues his improvement and work rate today was much better.
Stanley were great in the 1st half and defended bravely in the second half.  They have improved since our first meeting and they will continue to improve if they stick together.
Learning points:
- we must start the game from the first minute and must be awake and ready to play from the first minute;  if we had all 11 players working hard for every minute of the match, then how much better would we be???
- talking to your teammates and letting them know when you want the ball makes the game so much easier.  The players need to listen and learn from Josh as he demands the ball.  It's no coincidence that Josh had so much of the ball today: not only did he work incredibly hard to get up and down the pitch, he demanded the ball all the time and let his teammates know exactly where he was on the pitch.  If we had 11 people talking, then how much better would we be???
- don't be afraid to use your weaker foot - be brave and don’t be afraid of making a mistake.  We have more players who are now willing and able to use their weaker foot.  We need all the players to use their weaker foot.  If we have 11 players who are willing and able to use both feet, then how much better would we be???
Steve

Saturday 12/2/2011

3D DYNAMOS 6 - 0 DELAMERE (DIVISIONAL CUP 1ST ROUND)
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. KIAN STEWART; 5. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 6. JAMES GREGORY; 7. GEORGE WALSH; 8. DEVON MATTHEWS; 9. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 10. JAMES FISH; 11. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 12. SAM GAMBLE; 13. SAM LOVERING; 14. OLIVER STURGE; 15. SOL PEGLER
SCORERS: OLI STURGE (2); SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; WILLIAM WRIGHT; SOL PEGLER; JAMES FISH

As deserved as the victory was by the end of the match, the scoreline does not tell the full story, as 3Ds were made to work as hard as they have had to work for months to beat off Delamere.   Delamere worked incredibly hard in the first half and out battled the majority of the 3Ds team, who were clearly not used to being hustled and rushed.
In fact, the best lesson to come from this game is that there are times when raw effort is what is needed, rather than textbook tricks and flicks. 3Ds need to learn that you have to start the game from the first minute and you have to work incredibly hard to earn the right to win the match.  Make sure that lesson is learnt boys!
The early minutes of the match saw 3Ds play the better football and create the better chances, but Delamere were the harder workers and were much keener in the tackle - their off the ball workrate was also impressive, particularly up front where the Delamere strikers worked hard to drag the 3Ds defenders around.
Following a couple of disappointing early misses, 3Ds took the lead after 10 minutes.  The goal was well finished by Sam Darke (spinning on the half turn in the penalty box to shoot home from 10 yards out), but there was quite a dose of good fortune as Sam looked to have handled the ball when controlling it.
3Ds quickly added a second goal and it said something about their growing maturity and ability to think for themselves.  The goal came from a simple, but clever short corner from George Walsh, fizzed into the feet of the alert William Wright.  William controlled the ball and turned his body towards goal with one touch.  His second touch was to rifle a fierce shot into the top far corner of the  Delamere goal.  Great effort.
Goal number 3 came just before half time, and for once 3Ds showing their battling qualities by winning several 50/50 challenges before the ball found the feet of James Fish close to the Delamere goal.  Fishy showed a cool head to steer the ball into the Delamere goal.
Half time - 3 - 0 to 3Ds.  3Ds were reminded at half time that their efforts had not been of the required level, and they were asked to put the same amount of effort into the game that Delamere had shown.
Whether it was the Manager's wise words(!) or the players stepping up their efforts, but the second half was much more like the real 3Ds.  The home team dominated the half and gave Delamere no time to get back into the game.  No sooner had the half begun, 3Ds found themselves 4-0 up.  Sub Oli Sturge, slowly but surely improving every week, was on hand to pounce and score from close range.
3Ds fifth goal, was easily the best of the game, and it came from another super-sub, Sol Pegler.  Whilst there are many parts of Sol's game that we need to work on, there is no one in the team with the same level of ability to beat opponents in very tight spaces. Sol danced his way through three tackles before driving in a high and powerful shot into the top right corner of the goal! A brilliant effort at any level.
3Ds sixth goal was another toe poke from Oli after good team work from a number of players. Oli maybe doesn't score many flashy goals, but he scores goals - and that's what matters.
Towards the end of the game 3Ds created several great chances to score (and played some good football in the process).  The Delamere keeper played incredibly well and pulled off some really good saves.
Full time 6-0
Good performance, in the end.  Remember boys - you have your rest when the game is won, not when the game begins. I know that we work on technique and skills, but if you are not prepared to battle and work hard, then the technique and skills don't count.  As a professional player told me: 'Skills Don't Pay Bills'!!! (I think I knew what he meant).

15/1/2011

MARPLE ATHLETIC 2- 7 3D DYNAMOS
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 4. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 5. FLYNN BRADLEY; 6. DEVON MATTHEWS; 7. JORDAN BAILEY; 8. KIAN STEWART; 9. OLIVER STURGE; 10. SOL PEGLER; 11. JAMES FISH; 12. SAM LOVERING; 13. JAMES GREGORY
SCORERS: DEVON MATTHEWS (2); SOL PEGLER (2); CAMERON SOUTHERN; OLIVER STURGE; KIAN STEWART

3Ds maintained their winning run, but in the process lost their record of not conceding a goal.  Whilst the conditions were challenging this was not a particularly good performance from 3Ds. Too many players were playing at half pace, and the longer the game went on the more suspect the performance became.
A driving wind made defending difficult, and made attacking much easier.  3Ds played 'with' the wind in the first half and proceeded to control most of the play.  3Ds raced into a three nil lead after 15 minutes.  Sol grabbed the first two goals - pouncing on 2 good chances to score from close range.
3Ds third goal was bizarre and owed everything to the weather conditions.  The Marple keeper kicked the ball out and 3Ds midfielder Cameron Southern powerfully headed the ball back towards the Marple goal.  The wind took over and lifted the ball over the keeper's head into the Marple goal!  A header from 30 yards out - not bad!
3Ds added a 4th just before the break with Kian scoring from close range.
Whilst 3Ds controlled most of the half, Marple were not totally out of the game and they forced 3Ds back on several occasions. Marple could and should have had a couple of goals.
Whilst the overall performance was below par, 3Ds almost scored their team goal of the season just before the half time whistle with a succession of passes taking the ball from the 3Ds left back position, across the field to the right wing, ending with a brave diving save from the Marple keeper just as Kian was about to shoot.
The second half saw more 3Ds control, but Marple took the moral victory as they battled harder and harder to keep 3Ds away from their goal, and also to create goalscoring chances for themselves.
3Ds quickly made it 5-0 as Oliver tapped home from close range.  Marple grabbed a goal shortly after with some comedy defending from 3Ds.
Devon converted a very confident penalty to make it 6-1, and then Marple added their second goal - with more comedy defending.
Devon added 3Ds 7th goal with another powerful shot.
Full time 7-2.
Yes, the pitch was small; yes, the pitch was a bit uneven; yes, it was windy and cold; but, we didn't really perform anywhere near our best.  The first half was OK, the second half was forgettable.  Flynn, Jordan, William and Kian were the only players to play anything near their capabilities, with Devon getting through a lot of work, but finding the pitch too small and too cramped.  We need to get our attitude spot on, regardless of the weather pitch conditions. We need to keep our standards as high as we can.  Roll on next week.

8/1/2011

3D DYNAMOS 8 - 0 MARPLE ATHLETIC
TEAM: 1. SOL PEGLAR; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. FLYNN BRADLEY; 5. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 6. DEVON MATTHEWS; 7. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 8. KIAN STEWART; 9. SCOTT MOLONEY; 10. JAMES GREGORY; 11. GEORGE WALSH; 12. SAM GAMBLE; 13. OLIVER STURGE; 14. JORDAN BAILEY; 15. JAMES FISH.
SCORERS: KIAN STEWART (5); GEORGE WALSH; OLIVER STURGE; SCOTT MOLONEY.
3Ds got their 2011 off to a wonderful start with a comfortable win over the recently improved Marple Athletic.

Despite the dreadful playing conditions 3Ds completely dominated the game and didn't give Marple a minute's peace throughout the match.
3Ds team, as regular readers might gather, had been mixed up to give players the chance to play in different positions, and to begin to understand what is needed to play in a position that is different from the player's normal position.  For example, James G and Flynn went from centre back to centre midfield and Scott went from goalkeeper to centre forward.  The team changes didn't disrupt 3Ds as they poured forward and tried to play their way through the mud and through the packed Marple defence.

Whilst it took 3Ds 10 minutes to score their first goal, once they had scored there was a flood of goals to follow.
Despite the sticky, muddy conditions William, Kian and George were full of life as they regularly burst through the Marple defence.  Whilst most of 3Ds best moves came through William and George, it was Kian who took most of the glory as he hammered home 5 goals in the first half, contributing in a big way to 3Ds 6-0 half time lead.

Whilst the 3Ds defence had little to do, it was pleasing to see full backs Josh and Michael heavily involved in 3Ds build up play, as Flynn and James (G) did well in moving the ball wide from their centre midfield position.  Josh in particular showed his growing confidence and quality as he regularly overlapped George on the right wing.  3Ds best goal came from a simple passing move between George and Josh on the right wing.  Josh pushed the ball forward into the feet of George.  George, showing how much he has matured and how unselfish his play is becoming, controlled the ball and passed it simply back into the path of Josh who had made a great run down the right wing.  Josh's cross was eventually tucked away by Kian.

At half time, big team changes were made and the players were warned not to let their standards drop because of the scoreline and because of the glue-like pitch.  Despite the Manager's warning, the standard of the performance dropped considerably and 3Ds chewed their way through a disappointing second half. 
Marple bravely carried on, despite going down to 10 men through injury.  Marple defended in large numbers and threw their bodies into every tackle, showing a lot of bravery along the way.
3Ds added only two further goals from the 6-0 half time scoreline.  Both goals came in the last 5 minutes of the second half.  The first was a tap in from Olly after further brilliant work from George and Josh on the right hand side.  The second goal was the goal of the game as Scott (now playing at centre back) dribbled his way through the Marple defence before tapping the ball into the bottom left corner of the net.  Not a bad goal from our regular goalkeeper!
Full time 8-0.
3Ds played very well despite the messy state of the pitch.  William and Kian excelled, whilst George and Josh linked up extremely well on the right hand side.  Flynn enjoyed his time in midfield and showed his usual creativity on the ball.
Good morning's work boys, but we have to keep the standards high from the first minute until the last.
Also, we need to learn that the team matters more than any individual.  Sometimes we will be given jobs to do that we don't like.  But, if that job is for the good of the team, then we need to make sure that we do that job properly.  Keep going boys!
Steve

11/12/2010

MANCHESTER CORINTHIANS 0 - 4 3D DYNAMOS
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 4. DEVON MATTHEWS; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. FLYNN BRADLEY; 7. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 8 JORDAN BAILEY; 9. JAMES FISH; 10. GEORGE WALSH; 11. KIAN STEWART; 12. SOL PEGLAR; 13. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS.
SCORERS: JORDAN BAILEY, GEORGE WALSH, WILLIAM WRIGHT, DEVON MATTHEWS
3Ds produced, possibly, their best display of the season to defeat much respected opposition in the shape of Manchester Corinthians, and in the process climbed to the top of the EMJFL u11s Division for the first time this season. This was a very mature display from the Dynamos as they dominated this match from start to finish.
Prior to the match, the players were asked to achieve 2 things:
- to work as hard as Devon Matthews; and
- to have an attitude as good as William Wright.
The players were told that if they could achieve both things then the result would look after itself.
Due to weather conditions, the match was played on a neutral venue - Curzon Ashton FCs astroturf pitch.  Credit must go to the Corinthians who were under strength, but that didn't stop them turning out a side and playing their part in this match.
3Ds started as they meant to go on, as they forced Corinthians back into their own half for huge periods of the first half.  The pleasing thing was the way that 3Ds approached their game.  They played the game simply, passed to feet, used the full width of the pitch and work incredibly hard for each other.
The most surprising thing about the first half was that it took so long to open the scoring.  When the goal came, it was due to the clever and unselfish approach play of George Walsh,and the trickery and cute finishing of Jordan Bailey.  Having been moved from right wing to centre forward about 5 minutes earlier, it proved a good move as Jordan scored to give 3Ds the lead.
The second half proved to be more of the same as 3Ds cut through the Corinthians defence.  The Dynamos doubled their lead early in the second half when George Walsh scored from his right wing position.  The goal came from great combination play from Kian Stewart and William Wright, as Wrighty crossed from the left wing to find George in space.  George duly obliged by crashing home his shot into the goal from ten yards out.
3Ds third goal came after a period of sustained pressure.  William Wright was the scorer from close range.
3Ds fourth goal came in the last 10 minutes from Devon Matthews.  Devon crashed in a fierce drive from the edge of the Corinthians box to cap a fine personal performance.
Corinthians, to their credit, kept pushing right to the end and had a strong last 10 minutes. They should have scored in the last minute from a corner which 3Ds failed to deal with.
Full time 4-0.
This was a magnificent performance from the boys.  All the hard, and, at times, boring, work in training is paying off.  As nice as it is to play 5 a side all night, that doesn't necessarily give you the skills and mentality you need to be a footballer.  The 3Ds players keep the game simple - find feet; spread the play from left to right and right to left; they make good decisions on and off the ball; they increasingly make their own decisions and, above all, they work incredibly hard and look after each other.
Every single player excelled on the day, but a few players do deserve specific mention.  Josh Reeves produced his best display of the season and have turned a huge corner in his development.  Josh's workrate was first class, his overlapping from full back was pleasing and his willingness to shout for the ball gave his teammates an added advantage when they were looking for options.  Josh needs to work on how to deal with players running at him - an essential skill for a full back.
Cameron, at left back, provided a great back up for William and Sol, with sensible and accurate use of the ball.  Cameron needs to get forward more, and have the confidence to get into the opposition final third.  As with Josh, Cameron needs to work on dealing with players running at him.
Devon and Kian proved an effective midfield partnership and they drove the team forward from the first minute to the last.  Kian needs to think about his duties when he hasn’t got the ball - the longer you can stay 'switched on' in a game, the better your performance will be.
William and George proved that they can play with style and also with common sense, as both of them made good decisions on the ball throughout the match. 
So, did all the players work as hard as Devon and have as good an attitude as William….?  That's for the players and their parents to answer (but they didn't do too bad to be honest!).
Good morning's work boys!
Steve

20/11/2010

TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 4. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. FLYNN BRADLEY; 7. JAMES FISH; 8. DEVON MATTHEWS; 9. LEWIS BURTON; 10. OLIVER STURGE; 11. JORDAN BAILEY; 12. SOL PEGLER; 13. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 14. SAM LOVERING

3D DYNAMOS 11 - 0 DENTON YOUTH
SCORERS: OLIVER STURGE 3; WILLIAM WRIGHT 3; SCOTT MOLONEY 2; FLYNN BRADLEY 2; SOL PEGLER.
As disappointing as 3Ds were last week, they were equally outstanding today as they went on a goal rampage to defeat Denton.   3Ds may also have made a minor bit of history as both of their regular goalkeepers came out of the nets to score goals!
Despite missing several regular players, 3Ds turned on the style in this game to remove the memory of last week's mediocre performance.  3Ds dominated the game from start to finish and never really gave poor Denton a chance to get out of their own half.
Denton caught us on a very good day.  The Denton boys mustn't lose heart. They will improve.  I can remember losing 26-0 as an 11 year old - I know it hurts to lose by big scores.  However, the Denton boys must keep believing in themselves and they will improve with time.
Curiously, it took 3Ds almost 15 minutes to break the deadlock.  Prior to the opening goal, 3Ds had attacked relentlessly but a combination of over-elaborate play, off the mark finishing and some good goalkeeping had kept the scores at nil nil.  When it came the goal was simple, but superbly executed as between our two strikers, Lewis Burton and Oliver Sturge.
10 yards into the Denton half, Lewis slipped a delightful pass between two Denton defenders which allowed Oli the chance to run behind the defenders, and left him with a clear path to goal.  Oli kept his nerves to control the ball and hammer a fierce shot over the head of the Denton keeper into the goal.
3Ds second and third goals were scored by William Wright, who had an outstanding game on the 3Ds left wing.  William showed good patience to keep his position on the edge and to the back of the Denton six yard box.  He then showed good reactions to tap home 2 goals as crosses from the right wing had found their way to William.
Half time 3-0
At half time several team changes were made - most notably Scott Moloney came out of nets to take up a centre forward role.  Sol Pegler replaced Scott in goals.
The second half proved even more one sided than the first half as 3Ds forced Denton backwards.  3Ds proceeded to add another 8 goals to their tally, and in the process played some very mature and attractive football.   Oli managed to grab two more goals to complete his hat trick, and William grabbed a third with a well struck shot from the edge of the Denton area, to complete his hat trick.
Goalkeeper Scott also managed to score 2 goals, as he showed that his talents go well beyond being a goalkeeper.
Further team changes were made, and Sol was brought out of net to play on the left wing.  Sol also showed his quality by grabbing a goal for himself.
Flynn, who was excellent throughout the game grabbed 2 goals; one of which was a header following the best move of the game which had involved several players.
Where it had been hard to find any good performances from 3Ds last week, this week's performance was first class from all the players.  The play from 3Ds was mature and sensible throughout, as all the 3Ds players made good decisions when in possession of the ball.  3Ds kept their positions well, moved the ball across the field with patience and, unlike last week, they played their way up the field - instead of booting the ball upfield.
Flynn had a great game and is really beginning to mature into his defensive role - sweeping up behind his defensive teammates; playing his way out of defence; showing good awareness of simple passes.  Very good.  Cameron and William linked up well on the left, showing great understanding of each other as they regularly swapped passes.  William had his best game for ages and looked very comfortable on the left wing; cutting in on his right foot, but equally willing and able to trust his left foot when needed.
Jordan was at his tricky best, weaving through the Denton team.  Oli deservedly grabbed a hat trick - but he knows that he has to raise his own standards when it comes to how hard he is prepared to work.  Scott was a massive bonus, coming out of goal to score twice.
Josh (who did superbly well getting, and staying, wide, and shouting (if not screaming!) for the ball) had a steady game.  Josh:remember - take 2 touches, don't panic, make your decisions early.  Sam and Michael looked very comfortable in defence when they came on in the second half.
What else did we learn? We need to learn how to get our full backs to 'overlap' their wingmen - we will learn that in good time. We also need to approach the game in the same way that Devon does - use all of your strength and all of your energy to win the ball and keep the ball.  There are still too many players who  don't put their full  energy into every game, and who don't use their full strength to challenge for the ball. Just think how good we could be if we could improve in these areas.
Another clean sheet.  Every good team is based on a sound and solid defence.
A good morning's work boys.  Well done.
Steve

13/11/2010

RESULT: 3D DYNAMOS 2-1 DELAMERE RANGERS
3D'S SCORERS: SAM DARKE WILLIAMS AND GEORGE WALSH

TEAM: 1. SOL PEGLER; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. FLYNN BRADLEY; 7. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 8. DEVON MATTHEWS; 9. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 10. LEWIS BURTON; 11. JAMES FISH; 12. JORDAN BAILEY; 13. OLIVER STURGE; 14. GEORGE WALSH; 15. SAM GAMBLE.

Some games are worth remembering, some need to be forgotten.  This was of the latter variety.  3Ds produced their worst performance for a very long time as they stuttered through a match low on quality and, in 3Ds case, low on effort.
3Ds players decided that they would ignore all they have been taught, and proceeded to do most things very badly indeed. Pass selection was poor; individual effort was badly lacking; offside every other attack; willingness to tackle was missing; a lack of bravery; over playing instead of passing the ball to players in space; foul throws; daft free kicks and, to cap it all, a silly shove in the back to give away a penalty.  Add to that a kick and chase approach to the game, and this was nothing like the 3Ds we've got used to seeing.  The most worrying thing was that despite all these flaws, some of the squad didn't seem to notice the things we did wrong. 

I hope that the above miserable paragraph shows that our match reports are aren't all full of sugar and sweetness. 

The first half was easily the worst that 3Ds have produced for months.  Underlying everything was a poor attitude and an almost total unwillingness to work hard - apart from the odd player like Devon, Fishy and Josh.  We kept the ball in Delamere's half for long periods but the football we played was a combination of boot it long and chase or let's try and plough our way through.  No football, no passing, no left to right, no right to left.
3Ds took the lead after 20 minutes.  Devon crossing from the right for Sam Darke to half volley the ball into the net from 10 yards out.
The second half was just about better from 3Ds viewpoint - we certainly created more chances in the second half.  However, the overall play was still very poor indeed.  Too many offsides, silly free kicks, really bad decision making and the same huge lack of effort.
Delamere's equaliser - a brilliantly taken penalty - came from nothing.  For all their effort, Delamere did not look like scoring.  However, they forced a throw in deep in the 3Ds half and then a 3Ds player did the rest by shoving a Delamere striker in the back to leave the ref with no option but to award a penalty.  1-1.
3Ds responded quite well and soon re-took the lead.  Sub George Walsh saved 3Ds by pouncing on a loose ball in the Delamere goal area to stab home a goal.  Thank goodness for George in the second half.  Even though he did a lot wrong in a far from perfect performance, he at least looked like he loved the game; was prepared to work; was hungry for the ball and looked determined to get 3Ds a win. 3Ds then managed to create several good chances to score, all of which were badly wasted.
Full time 2-1 to 3Ds.
Delamere deserved a point for their efforts.  They had one or two talented players, but what they did have was a team fully prepared to work hard, tackle, head the ball and look after each other.
Josh was 3Ds best player - he worked hard, did the simple things very well, was brave and made good choices with his passes.  Flynn showed quality in the second half, sweeping up everything in front of his goalkeeper. Devon worked incredibly hard - but, in honesty, had a poor game by his standards.  Unfortunately, you cannot take on every opposing player - take no more than 5 touches, pass the ball, get it wide, demand the ball back, trust your left foot.  That is harsh on Devon - he was doing the work of about 4 players to be honest. George, as noted above, saved the team in the second half - despite some poor finishing from him on more than one occasion.  (Sol, in goal, had very little to do, so it's hard to have a go at him! What Sol had to do, he did very well.) Beyond that and you would struggle to find any 3Ds player who played anywhere near their potential.
Oh dear…roll on next week.

30/10/2010

3D DYNAMO'S 0 - 0 HOUGH END GRIFFINS
TEAM: 1. SOL PEGLER; 2. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 3. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 4. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. FLYNN BRADLEY; 7. JAMES FISH; 8. OLIVER STURGE; 9. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 10. DEVON MATTHEWS; 11. SAM GAMBLE; 12. SAM LOVERING; 13. JOSH REEVES.

The 3Ds players learnt a famous footballing phrase in this game, as they 'got out of jail' to earn a point against a very strong and technically gifted Hough End team.  Hough End had the best of the game and gave 3Ds their hardest match so far this season.
Excuses first, 3Ds were missing 6 players from their squad, several of whom would have probably started this game.  However, Hough End would have still presented tough opposition, as they out fought, out worked and out footballed 3Ds for large chunks of this match.  Hough End are clearly well organised and play a very patient passing game; building from defence and passing their way through midfield.  They also work extremely hard and are physically strong and aggressive.

Hough End's approach unsettled 3Ds as soon as the match began.  Too many 3Ds players looked off the pace and failed to be able to raise their game to meet the talents of their opponents.  Another learning curve for 3Ds - without hard work you will achieve nothing; and when faced with players of equal or better ability, you have to raise your own game to meet the challenge.

3Ds player problems got worse almost as soon as the game started, as Fishy had to come off with an ankle injury.
The first half was a very close affair, with very few chances to score.  Hough End played the brighter football, and 3Ds had to work very hard to keep pace.  Devon Matthews worked tirelessly to keep his midfield in the game, whilst the 3Ds defence held firm, with James Gregory and Cameron Southern playing particularly well.  Sol, making his goalkeeping debut at 11 a side, was well protected by his defence.  Sol looked safe in goal and showed excellent use of the ball when bowling the ball out to his full backs.
Even though 3Ds couldn't find their normal rhythm, they did spend plenty of time in the Hough End half.  Sam Gamble and Will Wright played intelligent passes down the left side of the field for the ever willing Sam Darke to run on to. Devon worked overtime to keep Hough End in their own half, and he was clearly doing the work of other 3Ds players who were struggling to get into the game.
HT 0-0
The second half proved very similar to the first - but with more chances for each side. Moving William Wright into the middle of midfield gave 3Ds a stronger shape, and Fishy overcame his ankle injury to rejoin the game in a strikers role.  Fishy gave the forward line a big burst of energy, and it made it harder for Hough End to pass their way out of defence.
Hough End made a chunk of substitutions, with no noticeable weakening in their team.  Credit to 3Ds, even though they weren't playing as well as usual, they  were working hard and making life tough for Hough End.  James Gregory was very strong at the back and gave no room to the player he was marking.  Sam Lovering and Josh Reeves worked patiently and sensibly to keep the talented Hough End left side at bay.
As the game entered the last 10 minutes, both sides had chances to win the match.  Hough End grazed the bar with a high shot, and they should have scored when a well positioned striker lifted his shot over the bar, when it seemed easier to score.  Sam Darke could have scored for 3Ds when he had a 1 v1 chance with the keeper.  3Ds best move of the game, involving Josh, Devon and Fishy, creating a chance for Cameron deep into the second half.  Cameron's clever run and shot in the Hough End box ended with a brave save from the Hough End keeper.
FT 0-0.
3Ds were the happier side to hear the final whistle, and they had had to work really hard to earn the result.  Hough End had had the better of the match without really creating many chances.  Sol, in the 3Ds goals, had a great allround game but had surprisingly few saves to make.
James Gregory had another strong game in defence, tackling and heading bravely, and passing the ball effectively to his teammates.  Cameron and Flynn also played well and contributed to a team effort to protect the 3Ds goal.
Devon was 3Ds best player, working hard throughout the game. Devon will learn to save his energy at times, and not chase the ball into areas that then leaves his midfield position exposed.
Sam Lovering and Josh Reeves made great contributions as substitutes.  Fishy played through the pain barrier to make a contribution for the good of the team.
A hard morning's work, showing that sometimes you have to dig in and work hard to keep the other team out.  Well done boys.
Steve

23/10/2010

WATERLOO 0 - 3 3D DYNAMOS
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. JOSH REEVES; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. FLYNN BRADLEY; 7. DEVON MATTHEWS; 8. JORDAN BAILEY; 9. OLIVER STURGE; 10. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 11. KIAN STEWART; 12. SOL PEGLER; 13. LEWIS BURTON; 14. SAM LOVERING.

This was a great advert for the EMJFL as both sides produced a gripping football match, played in great spirit despite the tricky ground conditions.
Whilst 3Ds were fully deserving of their win (we would say that wouldn't we?) they had to work extremely hard to overcome an impressive Waterloo team who clearly merit their high place in the League table. Waterloo are well drilled and well organised, and their boys try to get the ball down on the floor and pass their way through the opposition.  They made life difficult for 3Ds who produced, possibly, their best display of the season on, definitely, the biggest and widest pitch in the League.

Missing 4 regulars, 3Ds had to reshuffle their team but such is the strength of the squad that the absentees weren't really missed.
The first half of the first half was fairly even, as both sides showed their passing abilities.  Chances were few and far between as both defences worked overtime to keep their opponents away from their goal.
As time went by, 3Ds grew stronger and they gradually pushed Waterloo back into their own half for long periods.  3Ds looked comfortable at the back as James kept his striker away from the 3Ds goal, and both James and Flynn passed the ball out of defence into wide spaces in order to free Jordan and Cameron to attack their full backs.
Devon played with great energy and he and Kian began to control the centre of the field.  Up front Olly (impressive all game) and Sam Darke looked lively and used the ball wisely to bring their teammates into the game.

3Ds eventually took the lead on 15 minutes.  This followed great work from Jordan and Devon on the right of the field.  Devon's low, drilled cross spilled out of the Waterloo keeper's hands in the 6 yard box.  Full credit to both Cameron and Sam Darke as they pounced on the loose ball, with Sam finally whacking the ball into the goal from 2 yards out.  Sam's striker's instinct took over, and he just beat Cameron to the goal.  (This was a shame for Cameron who would have earned £10 for scoring.  Well, not £10 in cash.  £10 off his £500 bill for ruining his mum's wallpaper the night before!) Other chances came and went for 3Ds, partly due to poor finishing and partly due to some very good goalkeeping.
Half time 1-0.

Second half, and 3Ds stepped up their efforts even more.  It was hard to find a weak link anywhere in the team, even though our 3 subs were thrown into the match.  Much of the second half was played in the Waterloo half as 3Ds showed good awareness of space and width, as they spread the play from left to right, and right to left.
Devon continued to impress with his work rate, power and sensible use of the ball.  Jordan, impressive all day, had his best game of the season, with his trickery, skill and crossing ability. He also bought the team time and space with his ability to travel great distance with the ball, deep into the Waterloo half.

3Ds second goal came 10 minutes into the second half when Olly was alert to half a chance in the Waterloo box.  Olly threw his body at the ball and deserved a slight bit of luck as the ball rose over the Waterloo keeper into the goal. 2-0.
Waterloo struggled to get their passing game going but did look very dangerous on the break.  On more than one occasion Scott had to do his 'sweeper/keeper' job to clear danger.
3Ds wrapped up their win with a 3rd goal - this time a long effort from Flynn which the Waterloo keeper couldn't manage to keep out.

Not only was this a great performance and a great win, it came against a very good side. Waterloo appear well coached and well organised - a good team.
3Ds played very well.  It was hard to find a weak link - everyone contributed. Scott didn't have a great deal to do in goal, but when called upon he was alert and made his mind up very quickly. The defence was led brilliantly by Flynn who seems to be getting better game by game - he even used his left foot today!!
Both James and Flynn used the ball wisely when in possession - always making the right decision; keeping things simple - finding feet or space.
Devon produced a non stop display and was the person who started many of 3Ds best moves.
Jordan was impressive throughout the whole game with his skill and trickery on the right wing.
Olly got through his work very efficiently, made the right passing decisions and bought time for his teammates. Sam Darke kept up his progress, and like Olly made good decisions when in possession.  Sam's goal was easy, but good strikers have to get themselves into the position to score easy goals - well done Sam.
Well done boys!  More improvement to come though…..keep listening….keep learning.
Steve

16/10/2010

3D DYNAMOS 5 - 0 DENTON YOUTH
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. SAM LOVERING; 3. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 4. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. FLYNN BRADLEY; 7. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 8. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 9. OLIVER STURGE; 10. DEVON MATTHEWS; 11. JORDAN BAILEY; 12. LEWIS BURTON; 13. JOSH REEVES; 14. KIAN STEWART; 15. SOL PEGLAR; 16. SAM GAMBLE
Another pleasing display from the boys. If last weeks result flattered 3Ds, this week's score is a bit of an understatement of 3Ds control of this game.  3Ds started the game in the right frame of mind and played with the right attitude from start to finish as they produced some superb football for boys of this age.
Denton are clearly a work in progress, as their lads get used to 11 a side football.  The Denton team shouldn't get too downhearted after this game because they never gave up, kept their formation well and had several individuals who played with spirit and skill.  The Denton goalkeeper, in particular, was outstanding - a safe pair of hands, brave and always got his body behind the ball.
3Ds started brightly and pushed Denton back into their own half.  Flynn played well throughout the game, using the ball wisely as he came forward from his centre half position.  Devon and William controlled the midfield and both got themselves into great attacking positions - particularly William who got in 5 shots in the first half.
Indeed, it was William who opened the scoring for 3Ds after 10 minutes with a superb shot from outside the Denton 18 yard box.  William's shot roared over the keeper's head into the middle of the goal.  The goal had been created by Flynn with another break out from defence as he skipped past 3 tackles, before maturely laying the ball off to William, as he was in a better goalscoring position.
3Ds continued to press forward but their finishing proved poor as good chances to score were wasted by a variety of players.  In fairness, some of the 3Ds shots - for example Cameron's fierce free kick - were well saved by the Denton keeper who had a solid game, and kept his team in the match for longer than, maybe, they should have been given the balance of play.
3Ds second goal came following great work from Devon and Jordan as they combined to create a chance for Olly. The Denton keeper did his best to put Olly off, but the striker got his shot in, only to find a Denton defender clearing the ball off the line.  However, Kian was on hand to ram the ball home to give 3Ds a 2-0 half time lead.
At half time, 3Ds were reminded about the need to use their 'weaker foot'.  Far too many players chickened out, to use a common phrase, of using their weaker foot.  If we can get the players to use their weaker foot, just how good could they become??  Using their weaker foot must be a requirement, not something to be avoided.
The second half proved as one sided as the first had done.  However, a brave Denton defence (and some more dreadful finishing) kept the score at 2-0 for a long time. Goals 3 and 4 came from Kian who fully deserved his hat trick for his skill, persistence and trickery.
3Ds 5th goal came from Sam DW, and fully deserved it was.  Sam did not have his best game, but the fact that he never gave up on himself, kept working on his weaker foot and kept trying to make the right choice when he had the ball, meant that he deserved his goal.  Sam learned that, as a striker, you have to work hard to get into the game - and keep yourself in the game.
3Ds deserved their win and there were several great performances: Sam Lovering, Michael Grabowski and James Gregory showed that you don't have to do anything flashy to have a great game.  Each of them kept the game simple, found feet, made the right choices, gave the attackers they were marking no space or time.  Well done boys.  Flynn was outstanding throughout - but how bout using that left foot every now and then???  Flynn was creative, sensible and controlled his defence very well.  His choice of pass was always right, and he showed good awareness of passing the ball into wide positions.  In midfield, Devon showed great energy and dominated the centre field.  A goal or two wouldn't go amiss please Devon!
William was his usual positive self and for a centre midfield player to score and have at least 4 other decent shots is a good return for the day's work.
Olly got 45 minutes play and earned praise for the way he held the ball up, bought time for his teammates and was able to pass the ball on to players in better positions.  Kian was almost unstoppable and his second and third goals in his hat trick were full of speed, trickery and directness.  How bout using that right foot Kian?  Sol had an unsteady start, but by the end of the game he was playing supremely well, with his fast feet and willingness to take on opponents.  Hey Sol - can we improve that first touch? Send the ball left and forward, rather than right and sideways?? Can we be brave and get that body across the defender, rather than drifting off to the left??  We can sort it Sol!
What did we learn - as mentioned above, we need to become willing to use our weaker foot.  Sam DW showed his willingness to do so, and that was pleasing.  If several of the boys (more than I've mentioned above) become willing and able to use their weaker foot, that will take their game to the next level.
Good morning's work boys.

09/10/10

AFC STANLEY 0 - 9 3D DYNAMOS
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. SAM LOVERING; 3 JOSH REEVES; 4. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 5 JAMES GREGORY; 6. FLYNN BRADLEY; 7. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 8. SOL PEGLER; 9. KIAN STEWART; 10. JAMES FISH; 11. JORDAN BAILEY; 12. GEORGE WALSH; 13. DEVON MATTHEWS; 14. OLIVER STURGE; 15. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 16. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI.
As impressive as the scoreline reads, this was a flattering result for 3Ds and harsh on AFC Stanley who, in the first half at least, put up a tremendous fight.  A driving wind heavily influenced the game, with 3Ds perhaps being a bit stronger and wiser in the way they dealt with the weather.
Prior to the match, the 3Ds management made several team changes to give all players the chance to show their talents.  Playing against the wind in the first half, 3Ds produced a relatively poor display by their standards.  3Ds began brightly enough with Kian and Fishy showing their ability to get beyond defenders with their positive running and tricky play.  Kian weaved his way through the home defence on a few occassions whilst Fishy produced several early crosses which the Stanley defence had to work hard to deal with.
3Ds took the lead in the first 10 minutes, through a fine individual goal from Kian - weaving through the middle of the Stanley defence to drive home a low shot into the bottom right of the goal.
The remainder of the half was end to end stuff as both sides looked capable of scoring.  Stanley looked physically stronger and played with good self belief. 3Ds looked a shadow of their normal selves, with several players producing below par performances.  Too often tackles and headers were missed; the play was too narrow and we consistently made bad decisions when in possession.  At the back we looked uncomfortable and took too long to clear danger.
3Ds were a shade lucky to come in 1-0 up at half time.  During the half time break, the players were told that sometimes they needed encouragement, and sometimes they need to be told the truth.  This was a day for some truth, as the players were reminded that if their attitude isn't right, then their play won't be right either.  The players were challenged to produce a better performance.
Whether the Manager's words had anything to do with it (probably not) but 3Ds produced a stunning second half display, and rammed in 8 goals in the process.  In fairness, the wind did seem to grow stronger and Stanley really struggled to get the ball out of their penalty box, never mind their half.
3Ds began to pile on the pressure and Devon produced an all action, powerful display to drive his side forward.  Devon was desperately unlucky not to score early in the second half when 2 fierce shots cannoned off the post.
The game was played in the Stanley half as 3Ds pressed forward.  3Ds pass selection got better, as did their use of the width of the pitch.  In no time at all 3Ds had rattled in several goals - the best of which were probably long range, powerful strikes from George and William.
Late in the half Stanley did push forward but they were unable to grab the goal that their first half efforts had deserved. 
3Ds goals came from Kian, Devon, William, George, Oli, Josh, Jordan and Sam Darke (2).
James Gregory played well throughout the game.  There were solid contributions from Sam Lovering, Josh Reeves (who managed to play in 3 different positions) and Michael Grabowski.  Decent performances came from Sam Darke, Devon, Jordan and George.
What did we learn? Teams will not lie down and give up - we need to earn the right to play football.  We need the right attitude from the first minute of the game.

2/10/2010

3D DYNAMOS 0 - 0 MANCHESTER TIGERS (CUP GAME - TIGERS WIN 7-6 ON PENALTIES)
TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI; 3. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 4. DEVON MATTHEWS; 5. JAMES GREGORY; 6. FLYNN BRADLEY; 7. GEORGE WALSH; 8. KIAN STEWART; 9. WILLIAM WRIGHT; 10. SAM GAMBLE; 11. JAMES FISH; 12. SAM DARKE WILLIAMS; 13. OLIVER STURGE; 14. JORDAN BAILEY

MATCH REPORT:  Apparently, at Barcelona FC, it is forbidden for anyone connected to their junior teams to ask the result of a junior match.  The logic being that at junior level the results are irrelevant, and the development of the players is all that matters.  OK, before you think I've finally lost it, I know that we aren't Barcelona, but the disappointment of this cruel defeat will quickly fade, and be replaced by the memory of yet another big leap forward by the 3Ds boys in their footballing development.
Whilst the 3Ds boys have huge determination to win every match, they know that their long term technical ability and growth as footballers, and people, is far more important than any short term win or loss.
Turning to the game itself, despite the defeat this was easily the most pleasing display of the season by 3Ds. In addition, to turn in such a display against such a good side as Tigers, made the performance even more satisfying.  With apologies if this report becomes a bit one sided, there were times in the game when we made Tigers look very ordinary - and Tigers won't experience many mornings like that.  In truth, were it not for our dreadful finishing, the game would have been wrapped up by 3Ds a long time before the penalty shoot out became necessary.
The game opened with Tigers having the better of the early exchanges.  The 3Ds midfield took time to establish itself and Tigers looked the livelier to the ball in the mid of midfield.  However, Tigers found it hard to make progress in the 3Ds defensive 1/3rd, such was the organisation and calm of the home side's defence.  Michael, Flynn, James G and Cameron had clearly listened to all they were told in terms of positional play, use of the ball and protecting their goalkeeper.
Once Devon and Sam had been woken up by their Manager, 3Ds began to really turn on the pressure.  Fishy produced yet another all action display and proved a constant torment for the Tigers defence.  Up front Kian looked after the ball well with his close control, and William, playing up front for the first time, gradually got used to the striker's role.
The longer the half wore on, the more 3Ds played in Tigers half.  However, it soon became clear that for all their good football 3Ds were finding it impossible to score.  Chance after chance went begging.  3Ds usual failings were there for all too see - overplaying instead of being brave enough to shoot; and sending shots to the middle of the goal (instead of the 4 corners). 
Missed opportunities aside, 3Ds were playing some super football - building from the back, linking with midfield, and showing great appreciation of space on the flanks.  The speed at which the players are maturing is surprising, but pleasing.  Passes to feet (or space); doing things simply and unselfishly; and showing good awareness of the play around them.  All good signs.
Half time 0-0. 
The second half was a superb game of football and whilst 3Ds dominated the majority of the half, Tigers not only showed their resilience in defence, but also their quality late in the half forcing 2 brilliant saves out of Scott.  More of that later.
If the first half had been frustrating for 3Ds fans, then the second half would take that frustration to new levels. The football remained at a constantly high level and Devon, Fishy, William and Kian were very visible in most of the good work that 3Ds were doing.
However, the finishing remained poor and all 3Ds hard work came to nothing.
As the game reached the last 10 minutes, 3Ds began to drop deeper.  The injury to James G meant a reshuffle and Tigers took advantage.  Tigers forced several breakaways with pace, skill and aggression to force themselves into goalscoring situations.  They had 2 excellent chances to score late on, but 3Ds keeper Scott showed that he is developing as a keeper by racing off his line to dive at the feet of the Tigers strikers - successfully pushing the ball away for his defenders to tidy up. Great keeping.
The game ended 0-0 with both sides having given everything in the game.  We went straight to penalties, and Tigers came out on top. Remember boys: placement, not power; corners not middle.
Whilst 3Ds could be disappointed with the result, they could only be pleased with the performance.  Defensively, 3Ds looked organised and solid, with all defenders - including emergency right back, Jordan - playing very well.
After a slow start, the midfield warmed to the occasion and won their personal battles with their opposite numbers.  Devon grew stronger as the game went on; William got through plenty of work; whilst Fishy was a constant menace to the Tigers all afternoon.  The quality of his crossing was first class.
What could we do better? Not much really….apart from our finishing, which was not great, shall we say!  We used the width well, found feet, kept things simple.  Playing so well against a very good side shows the capability we have within the squad.

25/9/2010

MOSSLEY JUNIORS 2  3D DYNAMOS 7

TEAM: 1. SCOTT MOLONEY; 2. SAM LOVERING; 3. CAMERON SOUTHERN; 4. SAM GAMBLE; 5. FLYNN BRADLEY; 6. JAMES GREGORY; 7. DEVON MATTHEWS; 8. LEWIS BURTON; 9. KIAN STEWART; 10. JAMES FISH; 11. SOL PEGLER; 12. JOSH REEVES; 13. MICHAEL GRABOWSKI

Despite missing 5 players, 3Ds produced another good morning's work and a pleasing result into the process.  However, this was not the easy win that the scoreline suggests, as Mossley put up a great fight to stay in the game.

The first half was a strange affair as 3Ds spluttered their way through, producing a very mixed performance.  Indeed, 3Ds didn't really begin to play until the last 10 minutes of the first half.

The early part of the half saw 3Ds marginally the better side, but despite the clever passing of Sam Gamble and the trickery of James Fish, 3Ds lacked balance and they failed to get into their normal passing rhythm.  All too often 3Ds were too narrow - squeezing too many players into too tight an area to really trouble their opponents.  The Management clearly need to re-explain what is meant by 'getting wide', as 3Ds wide players and full backs were pushed too far in field to give their teammates the best passing options.

3Ds took the lead after 10 minutes with an own goal from Mossley - one of the best you will see, as the attempted clearance flew into the top right corner of the goal.  Mossley grabbed an equaliser after 15 minutes with a combination of persistent play from the Mossley player and some less than convincing defending from 3Ds.  Strikers might be able to get away with poor tackling and limited bravery - but not defenders. 

1-1 at half time.  The 3Ds players were politely reminded that their first half efforts were not good enough and that the second half was the chance to go and show that we can play football, compete and work hard.  The players were reminded about the need to use the full width of the pitch. WIDTH = SPACE; SPACE = TIME; TIME = OPTIONS; OPTIONS = CHANCES TO SCORE.

Credit to the players, as the Management message was clearly heard.  3Ds started the second half with double the pace and effort with which they had laboured through the first half.  In no time at all, they had raced into a 3-1 lead following several clever passing combinations and use of the full width of the pitch.  Sam Gamble continued to probe with his wide range of passing, Devon Matthews began to dominate midfield and the left feet of Cameron Southern and Kian Stewart began to torment the Mossley defence.   Goals 2 and 3 came from the skilful and hard working - if a little 'shot-shy'  - Kian Stewart. [Kian - ask your dad what that means. He will explain it better than me.] 

3Ds looked in control, but the players soon learned their first lesson in how games can change very quickly. Mossley grabbed a second goal following a 3Ds defensive mix up to make the score 3-2.  This stirred Mossley forward and they showed great spirit in penning 3Ds back in their own half.  3Ds centre backs Flynn Bradley, impressive all game, and James Gregory, did a great job leading the 3Ds defence to keep Mossley away from goal.  However, 3Ds really struggled to get the ball clear - despite lots of chances to do so.

This is a lesson to learn: even though we try and play football at all times and in all areas of the pitch, there are times when a big clearance of the ball into the opponents half is the only thing to do. Clearances that fall at the feet of the other team's defenders are not good enough.  The ball needs to be cleared over and behind the other team's defenders.  Only then can we have time to think clearly and re-organise. 

Also, when your team is struggling to get the ball clear, it means that the strikers have to work even harder to keep the ball when they get it - 'buy us some time boys!'.

3Ds eventually got the ball clear, and normal service was resumed as 3Ds continued to pass their way through and around the Mossley team.  The last 10 minutes of the game saw 3Ds rattle in 4 more goals to give the score a rather flattering look. 

James Fish helped himself to a hat trick and showed that having the bravery to shoot will usually bring rewards.  The last kick of the game went to Flynn Bradley as he scored with a fine shot from the edge of the Mossley area.

7-2.

A flattering result, but a mixed bag of a performance.  Some very entertaining and clever football, but, in the first half a lack of effort, attitude and width. 

Sam Gamble, James Fish and Flynn Bradley were outstanding throughout.  Devon Matthews and Kian Stewart joined the party in the second half and made good contributions.

11/9/2010

Manchester Tigers 3    3D Dynamos  1

Team: 1. Scott Moloney; 2. Josh Reeves; 3. Cameron Southern; 4. William Wright; 5. James Gregory; 6. Flynn Bradley; 7. Jordan Bailey; 8. Kian Stewart; 9. Sam Darke Williams; 10. James Fish; 11. George Walsh; 12. Lewis Burton; 13. Oliver Sturge; 14. Sam Lovering; 15. Sol Pegler.

It is a consistent theme of the 3Ds approach to football that every training session and every match is a learning opportunity; a place for ideas, experiment and problem solving.  If we learn enough and often enough, the results will eventually take care of themselves.  It's not just the players who are learning either, as a couple of management mistakes of the first couple of weeks will not be repeated again - or so carelessly repeated, if nothing else.

This was another cracking game of football between two very good sides.  It was nip and tuck [1st cliché of the day] throughout and the game could have gone either way.  However, it was Tigers who came out on top, and well done to them for that.

Playing on Tigers immaculate pitch, 3Ds couldn't have got off to a worse start - 1 nil down after 1 minute.  3Ds learning curve began very early!  The goal, a long range free kick, came as a result of 2 new learning opportunities.  The first was how we gave the free kick away and the second was how we conceded the goal.

It is clear that we need, as a team, to develop the skill of coping with attackers who run at defenders.  We need to develop our tackling skills, getting our body shape right, channelling players wide (away from our goal) and picking the right moment to tackle.  This is a technical, not physical, issue.  How we learn from the goal itself will be dealt with by 'father and son' shall we say!

3Ds recovered well, showing that the boys are developing the ability to cope with bad news and mistakes.  3Ds produced good football on both wings with George and Jordan showing their skills.  William and Kian showed their contrasting skills in the middle of midfield, once they had got to grips with their unfamiliar positions in the unfamiliar 11 a side format.  William showed his combative style, chasing the ball down, neat little short passes and his determination to press forward.  Kian, more individualistic, showed his close control and ability to wriggle through tight spaces.  Both boys learned by the end of the game that it is not possible to dribble and pass your way into the opposition 6 yard box!  There comes a point when you have to take the brave decision to shoot.

3Ds forced numerous goal scoring situations, but a combination of solid goalkeeping, near misses, bad misses and overplaying in the Tigers area meant that we had nothing to show for our efforts.

At the other end, Tigers always looked dangerous but very often it was 3Ds sweeper-keeper, Scott, who came out to clear danger.  Scott was decisive and fast in dealing with all such situations, and his distribution from the foot and the hand was superb all day.

Tigers doubled their lead towards the end of the first half.  A brilliant solo run down and across the 3Ds right hand of defence.  Too many missed tackles from 3Ds, but a great attacking goal.

2-0 down at half time, 3Ds made 4 changes.  The most pleasing thing to note from the changes - and how many people actually noticed it? - was that far from weakening 3Ds performance, we actually maintained, if not improved, our performance.  This is a sign that the quality levels are improving across the squad.

3Ds continued to press hard for a goal, but, as with the first half, we overplayed and lacked the judgment to know when to shoot.  However, that's how we learn.

When 3Ds did score, it was from another passing movement that showed that the boys are applying everything they are being told.  The move began from a throw in deep in the Tigers half.  Sam threw the ball into Kian's feet ["find feet!!!"], and the two exchanged passes, before Kian turned inside to the edge of the Tigers box.  Kian played a simple pass to William who steadied himself, beat off a tackle and then rammed a fierce drive into the bottom right of the Tigers goal.

Before 3Ds could seek an equaliser Tigers were running away with their third goal.  3Ds overplayed in midfield (when simpler options were available), Tigers broke free down their left wing and their impressive number 10 clearly 'wanted' the ball more than the chasing 3Ds defenders as he beat off 2 challenges before rounding Scott (who did really well to come off his line and close the angle) and slotting the ball home.  A classy goal at any level.

What do we learn from this? Simplicity is often the most brilliant thing you can do - don't overplay in midfield if you have simple passes you can make.  If you are the player who loses the ball - you should fight to win it back: don't stand and watch others clean up your mess!  In defence, being brave often means no more than getting your body in front of the attacker - something we failed to do.

Even at 3-1 down, 3Ds didn't give up.  We won a penalty (a bit of a soft one to be honest), but we couldn't score from it.  Anything to learn from it?  Yes, we did penalties at the end of training on Wednesday.  15 were taken - 12 went straight down the middle: as did the penalty v Tigers.  Less power, more placement please boys!  Aim for corners - there are 4 corners but only 1 middle in a goal!

Game over - 3 -1 to Tigers - an impressive side with skill and determination.

This was another game where everyone played well and learnt.  Of particular note were Scott (sweeper keeper); James Gregory (simple and effective use of the ball and never missed a tackle); Flynn (leadership and passing to switch the play from left to right); Jordan (captain for the day and skilful and brave in equal measures); William and Kian (reasons noted above!); Oliver ( brave, positive and simple and sensible use of the ball); Sam and Lewis continued their development and made good contributions to the game.

3D Dynamos 4 Manchester Corinthians 3

3Ds: 1. Scott Moloney, 2. Michael Grabowski; 3. Cameron Southern; 4. Will Wright; 5. Flynn Bradley; 6. Sam Gamble; 7. Kian Stewart; 8. George Walsh; 9. Sam Darke Williams; 10. Sol Peglor; 11. James Gregory; 12. Lewis Burton; 13. Sam Lovering; 14. Jordan Bailey; 15. Josh Reeves; 16. James Fish.

3Ds U11s opened their 2010/11 campaign with arguably the hardest fixture possible - a home game against last season's runaway league winners, Manchester Corinthians, who previously operated under the name 'Vipers'.

Both sides served up a superb game of football, and it was a good advert for both clubs, the League and the game as a whole.  Indeed, it was a shame that there had to be a loser.

This was the U11s first ever attempt at 11 a side football, following the belated collapse of the 9 a side league which the EMJFL had tried to set up.  The collapse of the 9 a side league was a blow to 3Ds as we were convinced that the 9 a side format would have been more beneficial to players of this age group.

The 3Ds boys turned in a superb performance from start to finish and showed how well they are maturing as a team and as players, as they adapted to the their unfamiliar 11 a side circumstances.

3Ds took the lead in the first 10 minutes through the combination of George Walsh and Sam Darke Williams - a combination that proved to be a constant thorn in the side (first cliche of the season, and only 5 paragraphs into the report) of the Corinthians all game long.  George and Sam linked up incredibly well throughout the game, having an almost instinctive understanding of where each of them were positioned on the right hand side of the 3Ds midfield/forward line; passing the ball between each other, moving into space and playing with such good judgment in their pass and shot selection.  Sam grabbed the opening goal from close range.

3Ds continued to impress with their 'ball to feet' or 'ball to space' approach to the game.

However, Corinthians were not to be kept at bay for long and they punished 3Ds with 3 quick fire goals, each of which betraying the difficult learning curve that the 3Ds team are on when it comes to defending and taking responsibility.  However, at this age, the players have been told that mistakes don't matter - it is how you respond to the mistake that matters.  3Ds responded remarkably well, and by half time they had drawn level to 3-3.  Sam added a second goal, while George scored with a fierce drive from the edge of the Corinthians box.

The second half proved as entertaining as the first half, but there was only one more goal to show for the endeavour of the players.  Thankfully, the only goal came to 3Ds and it was George who, fittingly, grabbed the winner late into the 2nd half - a ferocious shot that the agile and talented Corinthians keeper couldn't reach.

Corinthians showed their character by piling on the pressure in the last few minutes, but 3Ds held out and took a brillant 4-3 win.

This was a very pleasing display from 3Ds and is credit to the boys for their hard work over the summer (and in previous years).  Flynn Bradley grew in quality as the game moved on, and showed good character in putting an early mistake out of his mind to produce a fine display of leadership and use of the ball. James Gregory showed that he has composure with a succession of sensible and accurate passes to find players in space.  George Walsh showed skill and good attitude throughout the game.  Sam Darke Williams produced a very pleasing display, not only with his 2 goals, but also with his growing maturity and good judgment when it comes to 'buying time' for his teammates and his accurate and simple passing.  James Fish showed well when he came on as sub, and got through a tremendous amount of work, despite being moved into several different positions.

What could we do better?  We continue to learn that talking to your teammates makes a massive difference to the game.  'The shout makes the pass'. 

We also learned that we need to take responsibility.  We take responsibility to create chances to score and we take responsibility to prevent the opposition having chances to score.  Corinthians second goal showed what happens when we don't take responsibility.  Taking responsibility also means accepting criticism, learning from it and avoiding the same mistake next time round.

Well done boys.  A good few lessons learned.