Ross Colts U10s took to the field on Saturday determined to revive their early season form. Colts won their first three matches but heavily lost the next three, so taking on Leominster, cup finalists and one of the favourites for the league title, was a daunting experience.

The team took to the field after early rain which stopped just before the warm up. Conditions were good, but Leominster quickly applied pressure and forced an early corner from which a scramble ensued and the ball was put in the Ross net.

After this, the play was entertaining end-to-end football. Alfie and Alex combined and pressured the Leominster goal, but another goalmouth scramble led to Leominster going further ahead. Then a break and a fine shot in the corner led to the score being 0-3.

Competitive play by Owen down the right led to him making a cross which was converted by Alfie. Alex made another break as did Alfie and Ross were the better team for a while but could not add to their tally. Leominster went close after another goalmouth scramble. Then a long shot by William was saved by the excellent Leominster keeper, the Leominster defence had a few more nervous moments but held firm and the game was now a really good competition. Charlie, who was playing the holding midfield role, was excellent, in his best game so far, he made some important interceptions and set play going numerous times. Ross tried to clear the ball from a Leominster attack but the ball evaded the Ross keeper to go in. Half time 1-4.

The rain started to drizzle as the second half started in a competitive manner. Owen and Alfie were combining well down the right. William put the ball wide from a good chance. Isaac then made a great save and Charlie cleared the ball off the line. Owen and Alfie continued to combine well and were very competitive. Ross were playing well but Leominster managed to score against the run of play as the ball bobbled over the Ross keeper in to the net. A pass out from the back was intercepted by Leominster who scored goal number six.

Charlie continued to run the game, Ross were competing against a very good team. Alfie and Alex were combining well and making some good breaks getting some good attempts on goal but could not force the ball home. Alex put a good ball across, but Owen could just not connect. Some more great play by Owen led to Alfie hitting the post and Owen’s silky skills on the left provided a chance for Chris, who just couldn’t apply the finish. The whistle was blown leaving the score 1-6.

The Colts were disappointed with the result, but Leominster took their chances well and are a very good team. However, despite the score line, Ross competed well and were the better team during some periods. They have recently played some of the best teams in the league but hope that they can win again soon. With the attitude most of the players showed on Saturday, their next win should be just around the corner.