TSC U14s played host to a strong Fisburn Boys side in their return to action after the Christmas break. The early exchanges were competitive and credit should be given to both sets of youngsters who set about the game in the right manner. Although there was little to choose between the teams in terms of ball winning and possession, it was the visiting side from Fisburn who posed the bigger threat in their opponents final third. An organised and solid TSC back line of James Henley, Josh O’Brien, Ben Whiston and Sam Williams made good challenges, good decisions and supported well by the hard working midfield players, combined to keep the threat to a minimum. On the couple of occasions that Fishburn found a way through, Andy Clarke showed a safe pair of gloves in the TSC goal. TSC’s chances during the first half were limited to a couple of half chances at best with Jordan Fogg and James Frank having efforts off target. TSC continued to contain their opponents in the opening period of the half and had Andy Clarke to thank for keeping the game scoreless as he was quick off his line to block a good attempt from the Fishburn forward. Having contained their opponents well, TSC re-organised and John Lorimer made and immediate impact picking up a good pass from Sam Hutchinson before smashing the ball over the keeper to give TSC the lead. That lead was doubled on twenty minutes as the unfortunate Fishburn keeper failed to collect the ball allowing Sam Hutchison to challenge bravely for the loose ball. The ball was slowly goal bound but Sam was the quickest up and made sure by helping the ball over the line before any defenders had time to arrive.
Fishburn stuck to their task and applied pressure on the TSC goal in the latter stages, Sam Williams and James Henley having to be alert in clearing loose balls in the penalty area. Adam Walters made some well timed interceptions to close down the left side and it was from his headed clearance that TSC netted their third of the game. Walters’ header released John Lorimer who once again beat the advancing keeper to the ball, rounding him and passing left footed into the net for his second and TSC’s third.

MATCH REPORT BY IAIN LESTER

PLAYER OF THE MATCH
Ben Whiston led by example once more with some superbly timed and tough challenges. He continued this when he moved into midfield but also showed what an intelligent player he is with some good switches of play. On picking one player, it must be said that today was a very good team performance by every player.


COACH’S NOTE
A well played game in all respects. The first half was all about containing a strong and capable Fishburn side which we did superbly with everyone playing their part. In the second half, we showed more purpose going forward and were rewarded with some committed football. We looked like a team that was going to be hard to beat today - a clean sheet well deserved …. Keep it up !