U12's Bag a Win for their First Home Game

After a tough start to the season with 3 away matches, the U12's finally got a home game against Ridgeway Rovers.

Starting the first half downhill and with the wind behind them, the midday kickoff clearly suited as they started brightly, getting some great early chances.

It wasn't long before William, playing at left midfield today, won the ball back in the Ridgeway half and put a great cross into their box. The clearance went straight to Ellis who was waiting 20 metres out who needed no second invite and unleashed a right foot shot straight into the right side netting.

In previous matches, this would be the cue to stop doing what they were doing and stand off the opposition until they scored. Not this time! 'Side continued to press Ridgeway, closing down the space quickly and getting plenty of possession as a result. Eventually, the ball fell to Milo, playing at left back today, in acres of space. Not seeing a lot on, he unleashed a beautiful dipping shot which the goalkeeper misjudged. 2-0 to 'Side

Goal number three came from a William cross, poked home by striker - Ariyan. Floated in from the corner the ball was blocked by Ellis and fell right into Ariyans path. His poacher instincts kicked in and a little toe poke and it was in the back of the net.

Just before half time, Ellis and Ariyan combined again for Barkingside's 4th goal. A cross from the left was again picked up by Ellis who knocked it down to Ariyan for another poachers "toe poke".

The second half saw a bit of a shuffle of the pack with various substitution's and changing of position. This saw Ridgeway come back into the match, now with the slope and wind in their favour. Barkingside started to back off and lost their shape a bit conceding two goals in fairly short succession. Were we seeing a repeat of the Leicester comeback of yesterday?

Not this time. 'Side rallied, regained their composure and started to compete and win the ball again. Several near misses from Joe, Ariyan and Sam penned Ridgeway back although they were still dangerous on the break.

Final score 4-2 to Barkingside and a lot of very happy players and parents..