Linthwaite were the opponents for the u10s today in their first away game of the season. Shelley started strong and had much of the early possession and playing nice football. Nico Panazzolo made a good run down the right and played a good ball to Kristian Green who narrowly put the ball wide. On came Marcus Howarth who made an immediate impact when put through by Kristian Green, slotted the ball home to take a 1-0 lead. Thomas Travis and Bella Kington paired up well in defence and Luke Cowgill and Paddy Campbell put in a shift in midfield. Coach Sam had now got the team to be calmer on the ball and Shelley were now on top. So it was no surprise when Elliot James, who was brought down in the box, smashed home the penalty to make it 2-0 at the break.
During the break the away teams parents were treated to the vision of Mrs James flashing her bottom to which husband Richard kindly remarked "you wanna take that back Em it's got a crack in it" All good fun!!
Back to the footy and Shelley were now playing uphill. Again we were the stronger team and hard work and good football provided good chances for Shelley with Luke Cowgill Kristian Green and the terrier like Nico Panazzolo all going close. The excellent Bella Kington and Thomas Travis were coping well at the back but were beaten by a great solo goal by Linthwaite who to their credit never gave up trying. Then, to more than match that Elliot James showed super skill and determination to make it 3-1 with a really good solo goal. A goalmouth scramble soon after, with most of Shelley's players involved, saw some great saves from the Linthwaite keeper. Opposite keeper Harry Brook didn't have much to do which is probably testament to Shelley doing well and having most of the possession. So that's how it ended 3-1 to Shelley who put in a cracking performance.
Man of The Match
Nico Panazzolo