Quite a journey to Woking was in no way dampened as a beautiful sunny morning greeted the lads and a very excited Vipers team (bolsted considerable by the generous Cobras) saw our long awaited return to competitive football as we met Goldsworth Sea Lions in a league game.
 
There was much pre-match nervousness and apprehension as the Smiths arrived on time (following the hire of O’Mara Cabs) and concerns were raised that their unusual punctuality may be a jinx. Just as concerning was the absence of our trusty goalkeeper George during the warm up however after a search party was sent out he was located prior to kick-off.
 
Warm-ups completed, detailed tactical words of wisdom delivered, jumpers removed and football was back in the bright sunshine!!!!
 
The lads started well. In particular Raff on the right with some trickery and wizardry that created early pressure and trouble for Goldsworth who seemed organised at the back in decent numbers. During this period a lot of confusion reigned as their goalkeeper fumbled a shot through his legs to for him to then dive back over the line and retrieve. The ref ruled “no goal” which in the spirit of the game and considering the error may have been fair – no VAR required.
 
The Vipers were creating the majority of the chances. Notable were Cody winning the ball in midfield, turning a phase in play, pushing the ball to Raff who knocked it to Jody in a 1:1 situation. Their goalkeeper was resolute to the challenge though and looked assured. Charlie looped in a long cross. That fooled everyone and just looped over the Goldsworth defence, Loxwood attack and their keeper sailing just over the bar.  Raff remained a menace on the right. and William was industrious as ever over on the left creating a nice balance to our attacking line.
 
Goldsworth came back into the game and were certainly quicker to the ball and retaining possession better in midfield. However, George looking assured in goal and in particular Harry J mopping up a lot of balls with simple clearances it all looked quite manageable. Harry Smith came on for Willem – it was warm out there and after such a long lockdown break this would be a game that would require multiple changes to allow for some rest bite.
 
A Goldsworth free kick was awarded from quite some distance (mid-way to the halfway line) and with the guys probably not set-up as well as Coach Paul would have wanted the Goldsworth lad chanced his arm and looped a long free kick straight over the entire defence, over George and into the top right-hand corner. There really was nothing that could be done about this beautiful shot (I think it was a shot) and you just need to pick yourself up and move on - well that. was the rallying cry anyway! 20 mins gone, 1-0 Goldsworth.
 
The lads were in no way out of this and to be honest on the balance of play you would have expected that the Vipers would be able to play themselves back into it. However, just a minute later and some extremely uncharacteristic play from two of our most reliable players over the years handed a 2-0 lead to Goldsworth. Harry J hit a hard pass back to George who at that speed couldn’t control it properly and blasted it directly into the path of a Goldsworth player pressing. There was still work to do but with George off his line now the Goldsworth player hit it first time chipping George who was stranded. A very nice piece of skill. Deflation. Two goals needed.
 
With their tails up Goldsworth came back into the game and in a crazy 5-minute period it truly was end to end. Jody had a further two 1:1s clear with the keeper who was was just doing enough to keep him out while George redeemed himself with some very brave keeping at the other end. Harry Smith and Willem were was causing trouble everywhere and won multiple corners but the Vipers just couldn’t seem to get someone on the end of anything with that vital touch. The 1st half ended quite flat with the scoreline at 2-0 and Paul had some work to do.

The 2nd half started, and a tactical change was made with Oscar on for William. Harry Smith moved into Williams left. wing position and started the half very bright – continually twisting and turning in the left corner and getting the ball across the face of goal.
 
The midfield continued to struggle to stamp their authority on the game and most chances were being created on the break. A good example of interplay as Charlie won a header, picked up by Harry and Jody just bobbling the ball wide. What did the boys need to do to score?
 
Charlie came off for a rest break, replaced by William and Raff was also rested. Chances continued at both ends and it did start to feel “like one of those days” – as the game was stretched Goldsworth were getting more clear chances and to be fair 3-0 did seem to be on the cards.
 
Notable chances for Loxwood included a stinging shot from Jody, a Jody shot flashing just wide of the post as the keeper was beaten and Harry S not being composed enough and blasting over the bar. That said, the Goldsworth keeper was having a blinder, well positioned and brave with a little bit of luck it was starting to look like his day.
 
The game stretched and it seemed that a 2-0 deficit was going to be a bridge too far however a consolation goal probably was deserved and after another string of chances William came closest after rounding the keeper who was ably supported by a last defender as the ball was cleared off the line. George continued to play well keeping the score to just the two goals – a strong save from their #5 in a 1:1 most noticeable. The final piece of play came from a Charlie attempt that was followed up by William and blasted over.
 
The game was played in a great spirit, officiated excellently by the ref who communicated throughout and gave encouragement to both sides. Well done to all involved.
 
The boys should be proud that they picked themselves back up and worked so hard to the final whistle. This really was a lesson on being decisive in front of goal and taking your chances.
 
Raffety was awarded a well-deserved man of the match on the Loxwood side. Personally, I would say certainly the most improved player in both training and practice matches pre- and post-lockdown restrictions. Well done Raff!
 
Last word goes to Jody and Harry J
​

​Not even the dull overcast conditions at Great Common could dampen the enthusiasm of the  Loxwood faithful, with the mouthwatering prospect of a 'Super Saturday' doubleheader in store for the U12s. With early spectator numbers swelled due to the always welcome additional Vipers vocal support, the entertainment got under way. 

Up first with the Cobras with a local derby against Cranleigh Blues, despite having bragging rights from a pre-season friendly for the Cobras, the emphasis of the pre match team talk was very much to guard against any kind of complacency. The Cobras were missing Ben 'The Warrior' Gwilliam and also the influential Willem due to injury, however they welcomed back Barney and Sam fresh from their escape from Peppa Pig World ;)  ;)

The match started brightly for the Cobras with some great inter play between Sam, Harry and Archie with the Cranleigh keeper having his fingers burnt by a rasping shot, which he somehow managed to keep out and palm away out of danger. In return Cranleigh countered down the Cobras right with Barney saving well from a long range effort. 

The remainder of the half was closely contested and chances were few and far between, with both sets of defences coming out on top. Thankfully Kelsey was marshalling the Cobras backline with great maturity and calmness with timely interceptions and determination in the tackle.. Luc and Marco snubbed out any raids down the flanks and restricted Cranleigh to long range efforts. Lots of endeavour and industry in the middle of the park from Angus, Archie, Dan and Sylvester but without the cutting edge in the final third, with the Cobras not making use of the Great Common slope in the first half.

​All square at the break with all to play for.  A slight reshuffle for the Cobras with Angus going in goal,Fin being moved into a more attack minded role after impressing in the warm up. With the message to 'move the ball quicker' ringing the boys ears the second half got under way.  The Cobras again started the half promisingly with both Harry and Oscar proving a constant menace with their movement and energy. The game started to open up with Archie starting to pull a few more strings and a fine flowing move found Fin in space on the right on the edge of the box and without hesitation he took aim and rifled a fine shot past the keeper high into the net off the far post with the keeper rooted to the spot. A fine goal to open the scoring.1-0 Cobras. 

Buoyed by this the Cobras again stormed forward with early passes now finding Sam,Oscar and Harry in more dangerous areas, causing Cranleigh problems with their pace through the channels. Some further nice work from Sylvester and Archie found Oscar free running through the centre, with a fine turn of pace leaving the defender trailing and with a calm head he beat the on rushing keeper with a lovely rising shot that found its way into the top corner 2-0 Cobras. Another excellent finish under pressure. 

As we know with the Cobras, we always like to keep the supporters entertained and rarely do we make things easy for ourselves. The foot then seemed to have been removed  off the pedal and intensity levels dropped allowing the visitors back into the game. A fine sweeping move down the Cobras left resulted in a deep cross bypassing all the defenders allowing a Cranleigh forward to sneak in at the back post and sweep a shot past the outstretched hand of Angus. 2-1 Cobras. The home support were now starting to sweat...

Cranleigh sensed something and poured forward, some last ditch defending from Marco, Kelsey and Dan proving vital in keeping the Cobras ahead.With time running out and the game stretched Cranleigh left gaps at the back and and quick Cobras counter attack found the every lively Sam free with space to run in on goal. Showing an excellent  turn of pace the defender was left disappearing in the rear view mirror and Sam finished off a superb performance with another excellent finish into the net. 3-1 Cobras and a huge sigh of relief was felt among the home support, a much needed two goal cushion.

Thankfully the remainder of game was managed to the final whistle and another fine Cobras win was recorded. Two pretty well matched teams in a thoroughly enthralling game decided by three excellent goals.

Another great team performance with Kelsey deservedly taking the Coaches choice for player of the day with his outstanding performance at the back and Sam taking the parents choice award for another fine performance up front.

A big thank you to coach Paul and Ken for enabling the game to flow with their excellent refereeing and line running performances.

​A dull football report. It is never dull to report on LYFC and the group of players that we have in both U12 teams. However, after all these years, it has come together and this is a dull report. Why so? Because they just did everything right. It was a shame that Raff, Cam and Max were not present (as they are part of this growth), however this was the most complete performance I have ever witnessed from this group.
 
9 players, no subs, a strong opposition of Woking Town. Every player played their heart out. They demonstrated the “never say die” spirit of the recent defeat to Charlwood but added the skill of Barcelona, the attacking instinct of Bayern Munich and that game management of anyone that has been managed well by Jose.
 
A 4-0 win. How far have this side come?
 
It has been tough at time on this journey. The Vipers went a whole year without winning a game in the not too distant past but on the field never ever let it get their heads down. However now they have clicked. It’s a combination of consistent coaching by Paul, midweek training organisation by Andy, Vinny/Marco helping to train and the support of all the parents – vocal on the day, always there in numbers, always supportive and respectful.
 
Today, quite frankly, Woking didn’t have a sniff.
 
For the record Cody scored from distance with a well-directed left foot shot. Jody hit the top right with a looping chip across the keeper from the left. Charlie had a stunning run on the left-hand side and crossed with his left (how is he so 2-footed?) for debutant Olly to score. Jody hooked one in on his left from the floor to make it 4. All great goals in their own right worthy to win any game.

​The boys managed the game. Cody, Sebby and Harry J assured and intelligent in defence.
 
Charlie, Sam, Olly bossed the midfield.
 
William supposed to be in midfield – but quite honestly this season in every position on the field at every moment.
 
Jody is dangerous always on the break and terrorises defenses with his calmness, speed and accuracy.
 
And George…. Well he is George. I don’t need to comment further.
 
Well done lads, you have had a brilliant start. Keep your heads and this could be special!
 
Coach Paul had this to say in post-match press conference…..
 
“You can be lucky, or you can earn the right to win. This season each week we are faster to the ball, aggressive in the tackle and moving the ball around at speed. We earn the right to win.
So, after another deserved victory, created by each player doing more than their bit, it’s only fair that the plaudits go not to those smashing goals in but each player who works their socks off and creates the team performance that wins us the game.
We are playing really well and every supporter is loving it!! Even missing keys players today with Cam, Raff and Max out they couldn’t live with us. 4 goals scored, 1 clean sheet, Brilliant!”
 
Loxwood Vipers 4 WTF 0. WTF!
 
Last word to Olly and George……
 
 

Despite the best efforts of the weather the Cobras travelled to play Milford to try and get back to winning ways.

The skies remained threatening but the rain had eased with pitch in great condition considering the amount of rain.

The Cobras welcomed back Kelsey 'The Rock' Covey to the heart of defence, returning Ben to the midfield engine room. 

From the start the Cobras seemed to have learned from previous weeks and were on the front foot from the first whistle, playing some nice passing football and testing the opposition keeper early on. 

Both Harry and Oscar S showing tremendous energy and link up play. Cobras early pressure was causing no end of problems for the Milford back line with panic causing a flurry of Cobras corners. A sublime pin point Willem corner found its way into dangerous areas with a scramble the ball was lashed home by an alert Sam. 1-0 Cobras.

With confidence high and the ball being moved around nicely by the Cobras further chances came with Sam again striking a long range effort past the Milford keeper to make it 2-0. Further Cobras pressure found Sam alert in the six yard box following a rebound off their keeper to audaciously 'rabona' the rebound it to make it 3-0. Nice way to complete your 'hat trick'

This was impressive stuff, Cobras changes followed  and it was only then Milford woke up and joined the game. The home side started to assert themselves with a more determined attitude and Barney was finally called into action making several important saves. New boy  Ollie making several vital interceptions to repel the re-energised Milford. There then followed a bizarre passage of play with the home team being awarded two penalties and converting both with Barney desperately unlucky not to keep out the first spot kick. Game on ! 3-2 Cobras.

The half time whistle was welcomed by the Cobras who needed to try and regroup. The message was 'not to panic' , keep the ball moving the chances would come but to up the work rate and win those tackles instead of standing off.

​The second period started with Angus moving to between the sticks, the impressive Luc returning at right back. With Harry S making several impressive jinking runs down the right, it wasn't long until Ben was found by Sam on the edge of the penalty box and with defenders desperately closing him down Ben calmy took aim and found the net with a stunning long range strike. 4-2 Cobras. 

Further Cobras half chances came and went but Milford were always dangerous on the break and the back line of Luc, Kelsey and Fin showed great determination to keep Milford at bay. With ten minutes remaining a long range Milford strike gave Angus little chance and the scoreline was now 4-3.

Sensing something possible Milford poured forward with chance after chance, Angus pulling off a string of important saves and interceptions. The inside of the Cobras post was also rattled with a long range shot and rebound rolling agonisingly back across the six yard box with no one able to apply the finishing touch. 

With the Cobras finding it hard to get out of there own half the away supporters contingent were worried, could they hold on ? In the dying minutes Milford were still creating chances in dangerous areas, thankfully last ditch tackles were won, shots were blocked and Angus was in fine form in goal. 

After what seemed an eternity the final whistle came much to everyone's relief. A gritty performance with great determination shown to get a valuable well earned win. 

Well done to Ben and Harry for some impressive performances backed up with a great team togerthness on show.

​​An absolute thriller at Great Common today as the Vipers toiled through the variable weather conditions against a courageous and well organised Albury side to win 4-3.
 
Prior to the game the weather had been very poor however as warm-up completed, the wind died and it became perfect footie weather on a fast, wet surface. The opening phase was well poised with both teams working hard to string passes together. For the Vipers Harry J was notable with some lovely controlled passing out to the wings from centre back transitioning us from defending to attacking positions. As the game progressed though Albury started to make their possession more dangerous calling on George for a number of saves before they Albury broke through the LYFC defenders who were player watching, After nutmegging Sebby the Albury striker pushed the ball to the far left corner just out of Georges reach. 0-1 Albury. 
Raff came on, and it made an immediate difference. In a Redknapp-esque restyling of the team Paul has moved Raff (Bale like) from his dependable left back position into a more advanced position on the left where he charges up that wing whilst providing service for Jody. A one-two between the pair flashed just past the Albury post and an added impetus was clear., Albury remained dangerous and a shot thundered against the post which would have gone in without the fingertips that George got to it.
 
A long kick resulted in a clear handball, Viper free-kick. From the free-kick the resulting pressure meant the keeper was beaten but an Albury player handled off the line and with no VAR required ref Colin Ramsay signaled for the penalty. Cameron converted calmly. This buoyed the Vipers and William continued the pressure immediately (which he continued throughout the game) to slot Jody through. 2-1 Vipers.
 
Confidence starting to lag Albury switched their keeper. The game was in a pattern and the teams were tightly matched. Cameron had a commanding performance in midfield all game. His winning of the ball and trying to turn play to transition was key. The difference however really showed when the Vipers pressured off the ball. It was pressuring by Jody on the new keeper that resulted in what was a chance of nothing into a desperate clearance. Calm and controlled Raff slotted the ball home first time from distance to make it 3-1. The defence was better organised towards the end of the half and the boys started to show some maturity by managing the game to HT. Time for the Half-time team talk sponsored by Fortnite.

​

​The second half started quite differently with the Vipers starting to take control. Cody and Sam were having no-nonsense in defence, Max continued his form of the last week and Charlie came out of a very sleepy first half to provide a different attacking option which was demonstrated by 2 decent strikes that both troubled the Albury defence. Albury weren’t out of this and on one notable occasion Albury broke offside and Harry J was called into action a couple of times but put the ball safe in his no nonsense manner. There was also a particularly strong run on the left from their number 26 which Sylvester managed out to the corner and out of danger very smartly.
 
Re-enter the man of the moment… William Fielden. Will continued his relentless effort from the 1st half immediately and was covering every inch of the pitch – it was almost like two of him were out there! The linkage of Charlie, Jody, William and Raff were now showing some real danger. However, it was to be a linesman decision that turned the pressure back on the Vipers. Unfortunately, it was our linesman! Marco (Stevie Wonder) Vettese signalled for an Albury penalty for a foul just inside the box which they converted to make it 3-2. That’s Vitesse losing his bonus this week for sure! (Note:if anyone from Albury is reading it may have been a penalty and this maybe tongue in cheek!)
 
Albury were buoyed, the crowd volume increased, the Albury linesman waved his flag for offside…. Then the Albury linesman waved his flag for offside…. Then the Albury linesman waved his flag for offside…. Then the Albury linesman waved his flag for offside…
 
Anyway, on the 15th attempt Jody beat the offside trap (whether he was in his own half or not) as Charlie slotted through a beautifully placed ball that he ran onto and in Jody style there was only going to be one result. 4-2 Loxwood.
 
A 3rd GK for Albury who still remained resolute. The heads never went down and they remained a dangerous prospect throughout. It required some strong Sam and William defending to keep them out and with William covering the ball a shot just flashed wide. The Vipers had 2 quick corners, the first beautifully weighted by William (commented on by the opposing fans) that Charlie met beautifully to header just over the bar. However it was short corner well worked from the Albury side where they managed to sneak the ball in the far post from the right to make it 4-3. The Albury crowd were now rallied, and the excitement grew (in a respectful way!) as the game was coming to a climax.
 
Max made a couple of vital clearances and it was end to end. Notable was a long-range chip from Jody over a keeper that was miles out of his area to see it bounce just wide. The boys saw the game out and I think most were relieved to hear the final whistle for a fair, well fought and entertaining game come to close.
 
There were many notable performances and to be honest the author doesn’t always give his open opinion, but William Fielden should be called out specifically for covering every single inch of that pitch and battling throughout. Additionally, the physical presence from Cam makes a huge difference (literally) in that midfield area. The players gave the award to Raff who as I have commented also had an excellent and to be fair – he is the poster boy of the team J
 
Last word this week goes to Sam and Will (with a special photobomb appearance from George!)... Come on you PIES……..

As a new season opened we celebrated the achievements of the curtailed 2019/20 season, which saw the Cobras finish strongly with a four game unbeaten run and a place in the u12 trophy semi-final only denied due to Covid 19.

Cobra Team awards went to;

Ben Gwilliam for the 'Parents Vote' , an outstanding season, the 'ultimate' warrior,  growing in maturity and some great goals along the way.

Willem Mulden for 'Players Player', 'Mr dependable', always giving it 110% and a great co-captain, great leadership whatever the situation.

Marco Horsley for 'Coaches Award', fantastic progress throughout season, a willing team player with silky skills and a great turn of pace.

Sam Waddell for 'Player of the Year', Great goals, tireless work-rate, quick thinking and bags of tricks.
​
Well done all, let's keep moving forward in 2020/21.
​

Each player could have easily won each award as every week they step onto the pitch, play as a team and represent the parents and the club to the highest level. We are very lucky to have such a great set of players.

Players player - George. A landslide result for a player who demonstrates a level of sportsmanship above all others. Not only is he an amazing keeper but supports his team even when heads go down. Such an honour to have him representing Loxwood Youth FC

Fans Player - Jody. His goals, his work rate and his desire to bring others into the play. Every time he has the ball and bursts through the defence we hold our breaths and wait for the ball to hit the back of the net!

Managers Award - Cody. What a player what a season. First name on the team sheet each week. The desire to win the ball, fight for every opportunity and push the opposition, sometimes literally, into the ground with his work rate is why he stands out. He has secured the left back position and commands the back line throughout each game. Just wait when he learns how to use his right foot!!
​
Well done to the award winners but really well done to all our players as without you they would not be able to achieve!

Match report.
Players: George, Max, Harry, Sebby, Cody, Cam, William, Jody and Charlie - no reserves
 
A bright, sunny morning. Early autumn leaves whispering across the car park as the Vipers tumble out of their cars and walk towards the Dorking stadium complex. Where are we playing?....we ask each other as we trudge towards the outside pitches…wait….a text message flashes in…stop…well, we are not playing on the grass pitches outside - we are playing in the stadium…yes, a proper professional stadium , yes the Stadium of Light! (well, very sunny at least…)
 
Hearts beating faster our players assemble on the astro…the Loxwood fans move into the sunny side of the pitch…coffees and baps are bought from the (professional) stadium café…Coach Paul (aka ‘Hairdryer’) takes the team into pre match training and practice shooting. Our lads are looking really confident, plenty of chat from them as they warm up...the fans too relax in our own way, each of us thinking big time as we gaze around the stadium in wonder. The astro pitch…perfectly formed, perfectly groomed…(in fact, just like Vinnie on a Sat night….)  however, could the Vipers compete at this heady level, we ask ourselves?
​

1 H
Captain Cam leads us off. Dorkinians wearing a jazzy green and yellow outfit….Vipers in classic England white. First 5 mins bodes well. Vipers playing mostly in Dorks half - we are looking promising with a really confident and aggressive start. Dorks GK fumbles a touch on a couple of corners  …mmm….is this our opportunity, is this a weak link? Yes! is the answer as a smart interchange between Charlie, Jody and then to Cody…who powers on to score with a low drive into the left hand corner…0-1. C’mon! - what a start at 6 mins in. ‘Hairdryer’ turns to fans with a big grin  - he’s ‘lovin’ it’…and so are we.
 
More Viper pressure as our defence actually passes to our midfield…who then slips it to our forward line…who then actually pass to EACH OTHER…and yes!...another score 0-2. Charlie finding space, weaving around and then almost a speculative drive… and through their GK legs…poor chap, he is having a mare.  At 8 mins in, Vipers now thoroughly believe. Wave after wave of accurate Viper passing, firm tackling back and running into space from the Vipers defence and midfield…and then our incessant forward movement causes mayhem in the Dorks defence.  They cannot cope as we pile on pressure and the corners. They are actually a decent side with a big forward line….but we are too focused, too driven and too good on the day. Any occasional foray by them down our flanks is magnificently repulsed, mainly by Max on the left who is having a blinder. Great to see & hear too our defensive line talking to each other, working together and then keeping the play firmly in Dorks half. Wonderful stuff. George - mostly inactive is then called on to save a marauding and lone Dorks attack - he flings himself to his left and palms it round the post…phew!…frankly, every Viper is doing their bit. Cam, patrolling the midfield dribbles, checks and then shoots confidently from 30 metres…just over. Charlie confidently and expertly does exactly the same too. Harry, Max and Sebby - all working well together are snuffing out calmly any Dorks attack, Cody, playing powerfully, tracks back to help when required, William, seizing on any midfield loose ball surges towards the Dorks last third with mazy runs, Jody afterburners on, scaring their defence time after time as he accelerates towards their keeper….it’s fabulous stuff. Another goal too …its 0-3. Halftime beckons. What a half…but can we keep it going?
​

2H
Oh yes we can!... is the answer. Vipers are focused and ready to engage. Jody is on fire as he adds another goal too in quick succession. 0-4. Our passing is slick, our mood is determined, Dorks backpedalling everywhere, more goals come along, Charlie strikes from 29.5 meters….their GK leaps like a home loving salmon on the Tweed….but in vain as the ball arcs over his despairing fingers and into the top left…its now 0-6. Viper fans are in another world. Yours truly cannot keep up the scribbling as William then scores a wonderful goal at speed angling it across the GK…0-7. Charlie, head up, strokes in a majestic shot…the GK only get fingertips again as it thuds in…0-8. But …but…what’s this? a rare Dorks surge towards our goal…a too nonchalant & mistimed tackle by our defence and they are in, a rebound off Georgewho couldn’t do anything about it and they score. Its 1-8. It’s a salutary wakeup call - ‘Hairdryer’ stalking the touchline calls it out….and is heard back at Ifold as he does so. Dorks emboldened, now begin to surge towards our goal but our midfield are now awake and respond - they stop the attacks and pass calmly to the forward line…Charlie scores and Jody again as well. Whistle then goes. Its 1-10. 1-10. Let it sink in.
 
A truly electric performance. In years to come as we bounce our grandchildren on our knobbly knees we will rasp…”I ‘woz there when we did the Dorks 10-1”
 
What a match. Take a bow everybody - thank you coaches too as that typical cold & rainy mid-week training is all paying off for sure. C’mon Vipers!

Final word to our debutant Max.....

A much changed Cobras line up gathered at Gosden House School in Bramley on a gloriously sunny morning to take up the challenges against some well drilled and highly skillful opposition.The expectant spectators were in for an absolute cracker of a game.


The Cobras lined up with Barney in goal, Fin, Kelsey and Archie along the back, Dan, Harry, Oscar and Sylvester in the midfield along with Sam playing the lone striker.The Cobras also welcomed to the fold Ollie Godfrey who manged to beat the league registration deadline just in the nick of time.


The game started at a frantic pace, unfortunately the Cobras were caught cold by Albury with a lightening fast break. 1-0 down before the first sips of coffee had been taken...With that 'wake up' call the Cobras sparked into life with both Sam and Harry providing the energy and creativity to create chances but finding the Albury keeper in fine form. Albury proved dangerous on the counter attack with the game pulsating from end to end, thankfully Barney was again in fine form with a string of fine saves.


Chances at both ends came thick and fast, Archie was impressing in the unfamiliar position of left back, Kelsey keeping a 'calm head' and Fin keeping their tricky wing in check. The Cobras finally managed to get a foothold in the game with a couple of quick goals including a fantastic rising shot from Sam after a fine solo run that gave their keeper no chance. This only annoyed Albury who fought back and with some excellent work out wide and taking their shooting opportunities early the game swung back in their favour. The whistle went for the end of a breathless first half with Albury back in front at 4-2.

With a slight shuffle of the pack, Angus took over in goal, Luc slotted back into midfield and new signing Ollie was now given the opportunity on the left side of defence. Albury continued on the front foot, proving strong in the tackle and getting the ball out wide at any opportunity to feed their tricky wingers. More Albury goals soon followed, a combination of their clinical finishing and Cobras unfortunately losing possession in the wrong areas.


At 7-3 down, heads could have dropped and the game could have been over but not these Cobras....a 15 minute period late in the 2nd half was solely Cobras dominance. Oscar re-entered the game and was proving a constant menace, Harry S jinking his way through the Albury defence, a rasping shot which the keeper could only parry and Harry pouncing on the rebound to score. Archie also providing a calm finish from just inside the penalty area. Sam also breaking free and scoring again to complete his hat trick. Further Cobras efforts went unrewarded with a rising shot from Sam on the run rattling their cross bar and Sam also unluckily hitting the post with the keeper well beaten from the penalty spot. At 7-6 a miraculous comeback was oh so close.


After the intense previous period of play, legs and minds were tired, Albury showed their strength and class with further quality goals to make it 9-6, a couple of fine saves from Angus at the end kept the score at that. Cobras goalscorers were Sam W 3, Harry Smith 2 & Archie


An utterly breathtaking game, with so many great goals and wonderful attacking play. The Cobras should be proud of the way in which they didn't let their heads go down and fought back to nearly pull of the unthinkable.Some defensive points still to be worked on but a great performance against a very good Albury side.


Well done to Sam and Archie for winning their awards this week. Well done also to Ollie for coming into the side and showing great determination in his first Cobras game against tough opposition.