U14 Hawks Boys beaten by a bigger, strong Marlow team

Oxford Hawks U14 boys arrived in Marlow knowing the team that beat them in the cup was very different to today’s line up. However the squad has been so cohesive so far this season there was a belief that team work and the sort of passing play seen in other games this season would mean a close battle was on the cards. Marlow did not disappoint: they were physically bigger and stronger and attacked from the opening whistle. Defensive work by Lucius James and Oliver kept us in the game, opening up counter attacks however after 13 minutes Marlow scored a great team goal. After several further saves from Callum, plus some strong defence and interceptions Marlow scored a second goal just before half time.

In the second half Hawks boys improved their forward play and had several forays into the Marlow D. Marlow then scored a third goal on the counterattack. Some intensive and well balance end to end play then developed as the Hawks boys Instead of dropping their heads fought on. Particular notable performances in the second half came from Jack for his hard work and great line runs (earning him MoM), Robbie for keeping high and giving options when we did get the ball into an attacking position and Nick Mahon for tirelessly running the left wing to create some good opportunities. Eventually the boys were rewarded with their first short corner of the match in which Ned struck a clean ball into the goal.

The squad are looking forward to getting back to some training now after back to back matches for 6 weeks. We can then review basic skills of keeping the ball, not allowing the opposing team to steal it and increasing our outcomes in the attacking D. Overall the first half of the season has been really positives with 9 games played, 6 wins 1 draw and 2 losses.

Squad

Lucius Allen, James Blenkinsop, Callum Chapman, Jack Firoozan, Ned Gordon, Oliver Lovibond, Nicholas Mahon, Sebastian Mulford, Charlie Quarterman, Matthew Rogers, Robbie Scragg, Harry Troughton, Tim Webster

Player of the match: Jack Firoozan

Scorers