Ross Juniors Colts Under 9s took on FC Phoenix last weekend. The game started fairly evenly, but then an intricate dribble through the Ross defence led to Phoenix’s first goal.

Colts responded with a quick break, William passed the ball to Alfie, who couldn’t get the ball past the Phoenix goalkeeper. Charlie and Callum were having a good game in defence. Then Isaac, in the Colts goal, tipped a Phoenix shot on to the bar, diving to his right.

Alfie’s tenacious play led to a scramble in the Phoenix box, which no one could convert, and Charlie’s corner and then another cross both caused confusion in the Phoenix defence, but Ross couldn’t put the ball in the net.

Following good distribution by Isaac, William had a long-shot saved and another shot by William was saved by the consistently good Phoenix keeper. Ross ended the half well with more attacking play and some good shots.

The second half started, and Callum brought the ball out from the left back position to Alfie, but William could not get the ball on target. Phoenix then went down the right and a good cross fell to the unmarked forward who put the ball away.

William and Ollie combined to create a good opportunity and William again tested the goalkeeper. William and then Charlie took good corners for Colts and a Phoenix break led to a good save by Isaac. Alfie made good progress down the left and Callum and Owen were typically doing a good job breaking up the Phoenix attacks.

After good pressing Alfie shot just wide and although the play was fairly even, Phoenix managed to squeeze the ball home for another goal.

Whilst wins have generally alluded Colts, they have made progress on the pitch and every player, many in their first season, has improved significantly. The boys have been in a very tough league with some very good teams, Phoenix being one of them. However, their results have generally improved in the latter part of the season. They hope that with a few additional players next season, some good things might be seen from the team next season, when they will be Ross Juniors Under 10s Colts.