TSC U14s returned to action with a trip to runaway league leaders, Primrose Hill. The task ahead appeared to be a big one as the hosts had lost just one game all season having scored over 100 goals in the process.
The opening stages of the game went according to pre match script in terms of possession as Primrose Hill camped inside the TSC half but were unable to find an opening score. A big part of this was the hard work of the TSC players who, despite a clearly obvious size and strength disadvantage, worked hard to make things difficult for the home side on the ball. The back four of Sam Williams, Rob Taylor and Josh O’Brien were once again superbly marshalled by the ever improving James Henley who led by example throughout. Josh O’Brien made crucial and courageous challenges in what was arguably his best game to date and TSC had the ever reliable Andy Clarke to thank for a couple of excellent saves between the sticks. Sam Hutchinson and Jake Wharton worked hard to hold the ball up to give some temporary respite for the hard working TSC defenders although TSC’s raids into the Primrose half were few.
The inevitable opening goal came for the home side with twenty minutes on the clock. Given their strength and dominance, Primrose Hill could easily have added to their tally but they were met with a defiant TSC team whose challenging and determination was led by a magnificent James Frank who, despite being the smallest player on the field, made challenge after challenge against an opponent twice his size ! Spurred on by Frankie’s tenacity, TSC looked to have held out to a single goal in the opening half, only to be denied by a late Primrose Hill goal to give them a two goal lead at the break.
Jake Wharton took a knock late into the first period and was replaced by Adam Walters who ran his socks off up front. TSC went further behind as they failed to clear a loose ball and spectators wouldn’t be forgiven for thinking that the home side would be adding to their century plus season’s haul as TSC legs tired. What followed was a magnificent TSC fight back ! Jordan Fogg showed good technique and awareness to set John Lorimer away on the left. Lorimer forced his way past two defenders and from the tightest of angles, squeezed the ball into the Primrose Hill goal. Luke Hutchinson won the ball in the centre of midfield and threaded a pinpoint pass to his namesake, Sam who used pace to outrun the Primrose Hill defence before coolly slotting the ball past the advancing keeper – trademark Sam – showing what he is capable of with a bit of belief !. TSC pushed players forward in the last five minutes in the belief that their efforts would be justifiably rewarded. John Lorimer took a knock late in the game and, a player down, TSC were exposed as the home side restored their two goal lead and run out eventual winners by four goals to two.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH
Many candidates for a gutsy and determined performance. The vote goes to James Frank who not only showed bravery in the challenge but equally as important, inspired his team mates against tough opponents. Well Done Frankie !

COACH’S NOTE
A tough game against physically strong and able opponents who showed why they were at the top of the table. Once we had overcome this psychological factor and played the football we all know the team are capable of, we proved that we are a match for any team. It’s a matter of belief and confidence ! Well done to all of you today for a spirited and gutsy performance and a never say die attitude !