YOUNG GUNS FC UNDER 7's 7-A-SIDE MINI-TOURNAMENT

21ST JULY 2007

The Weather was kind as the Guns invited their Chingford neighbours Ridgeway Rovers and Ryan FC to a Triangular series of matches that would take in 6 games (7 minutes each-way) with all 3 teams playing each other twice, followed by a penalty shoot-out competition and the Presentation.

With both visiting teams fielding strong sides at this age group, it would be a real test for the Guns but none-the-less good experience and a great opportunity for new players Harry and Philip to make their Guns debuts (against their former teams).

MATCHES;

v. Ridgeway Rovers

The Guns competed very well in this 1st encounter against a well organised Ridgeway side who passed the ball well and quickly. Dylan gave the Rovers the lead midway through the 1st period with a good finish after a strong run down the right flank. The 2nd period saw the Guns threaten the Rovers back-line with Adam leading the charge but he could not find the pass at the crucial time. Jem battled gamely to hold the ball up but lacked support. Rovers added a 2nd late on.

v. Ryan FC

The Guns great rivals with whom we have had some great matches over the past couple of months are a Team with some very good individual players who are developing quickly into a very strong side at this age group. In this 1st encounter Lucas and Dylan were able to dominate the game taking Ryan into an early lead, with the Guns looking out of sorts we found it hard to keep up at times. The 2 Toms battled gamely in defence with some strong challenges and Philip made a great goal-line clearance against his former team. Guns former player Montel was denied a goal by a fine save from Sam. When the Guns did threaten Teddy cleared up well for Ryan.

v. Ridgeway Rovers

Ridgeway were in fine form this game and with the Guns confidence low lay siege to the Guns goal. Daniel really battled well in this game and showed promising signs for the future. Harry against his former team was also more involved but in the end Ridgeway's class shone through with their finishing clinical.

v. Ryan FC

With Ryan defeating Ridgeway 2-1 and drawing the other match, a Ryan victory would give them the Title, anything less and it would be Ridgeways. The Guns saved their best till last and produced their best performance of the day by a long shot and on the balance of play probably deserved a draw. Ryan took the lead early doors with a soft goal but from that moment till the end it was mainly Guns with Syd really influential on the left flank with Harry S moved up front putting the Ryan defence under pressure. Syd went close twice, 1st with a stinging drive that left Teddy winded and then was denied on the follow up by a great save from Johnny in the Ryan goal. Although we again were defeated this was a great performance and a good way to end the competition.

PENALTY SHOOT-OUT COMPETITION

With all players from all 3 teams participating, the Goalkeeping duties were shared by the 3 keepers. The Guns did well in this competition with some really confident penalties taking 5 Guns through to the next round. Sam performed well between the sticks against Ryan's players with only 3 making it through. Ridgeway were dealt the hardest task as with the outstanding Johnny in goal very hard to beat only 1 Rovers player went through to the next round.

The Final round saw 4 players left with Sydnie and Philip still flying the flag for the Guns with Johnny now in goal for all 4 finalists penalties. Sydnie stepped up 1st and buried a stinging drive into the bottom corner (pictured right) and with Johnny saving the remaining 3 kicks meant that she took the Title.

The Presentation ceremony closed the day off where Ridgeway and Young Guns received their runner/up medals and Ryan FC their winning trophies from Match Referee Tony Dorling who I'm sure everyone in attendance would agree officiated superbly throughout. Sydnie also collected the trophy for the Penalty Shoot out Winner with the Young Guns squad receiving their Trophies for playing their first season of football.

Goalkeeper Sam Boast (pictured right) with his Team Player of the Season Award which he deservedly won for his excellent attitude and contribution to the Team.

Our Friends at Ryan and Ridgeway who we wish well for the coming season 2007/8.

Thanks to both Teams and their Supporters for their part in a really good days football.

We hope you had an enjoyable morning and look forward to seeing you next Year.

WELL PLAYED EVERYONE!