Challenging game

Wessex Youth U16 1 – 1 Milborne Port U16

My most challenging game to date. Not because of aggression or bad behavior, more because of the intensity and importance of the game.  A top of the table clash, both sides unbeaten, the game started at 100 miles an hour, and pretty much carried on at this pace for the whole 80 minutes.

Plenty of incident – first goal (Milborne Port) came as I played advantage: that was good. Wessex equalised before half time, breaking swiftly (with the wind) turning a defensive corner into attack, the striker coolly beating the keeper in a one on one.

As the second half wore on, the temperature rose as both sides sought a winner. Disallowed a home team goal: keeper had spilled the ball, but regained it whilst sprawled on the floor. Home keeper kicked it from his hands into the net. The last 15 minutes became a little tetchy as players grew tired and frustrated and mistakes crept into their game. I’m sure I didn’t get everything right (I don’t think you ever would) but do think that I was pretty much on top of the game – both physically in space, but also mentally, imposing my will on the game, despite the occasional howls and cries from the large (20 or 30?) supporters (of both sides) when they didn’t agree with my decision. There were times when it was necessary to take the heat out of the game, delay a re-start a little, just for everyone to calm down.

I think 1-1 was a fair result, either side could have nicked right up to the final whistle. Felt I handled a tough, hard fought game well and as I sit here and reflect a few hours later I don’t doubt any of my decisions and don’t think I missed anything.  Feeling the warm glow of the satisfaction of a difficult job well done.