SPR 'B' entertained Richmond Town 'A' at Smiths Dock Park knowing victory would clinch the league title. This had been an eagerly awaited fixture since Richmond overturned a virus ravaged SPR 5-0 back in October. And how via their website they've constantly reminded everyone ever since. The boys went out having been told there was no pressure to win, as having already being promoted it would be an added bonus. SPR enjoyed most of the early possession but could not quite deliver the telling ball, it was evident that nerves had set in. However every player was giving their all against a very strong and committed Richmond team. SPR forced a number of corners just failing to get on the end of them. It was from one of these corners that led to Richmond’s only chance of the first half. A long clearance found the Richmond centre forward who managed to get the wrong side of Liam Smith. Just as he was about to bear down on goal the ball was nicked off him and out for a corner by Dominic Hoggart who had somehow sprinted from box to box with Ben Watcham and Callum Hickman not far behind, which typifies the teams never say die attitude. The resulting corner was dealt with and the danger passed. At half time the score was still 0-0 and the boys were told to relax and just play and take the chances that came their way always being wary of being caught on the break.
The second half followed a similar pattern to the first with SPR just shading the lions share of possession. Connor Harvey was busy upfront and just failed to hit the target on a number of occasions. The midfield trio of Ben, Callum and Louis worked their socks off whilst the twin towers of Dom and Liam looked relatively comfortable at the back. Richmond were dangerous on the break but chances were restricted to shots from outside the box, which Macca dealt with comfortably apart from one heart stopping juggling act. Macca does like to entertain. SPR pressed forward looking for the winner and it nearly came from Ben Watcham but his shot agonisingly struck the angle of post and crossbar. Frustration was setting in and there was a bit of over exuberance at times.
The defining moment of the game came with 2 minutes remaining. You have to read it to believe it. SPR were awarded a throw halfway inside their own half on the right. The manager had decided to make a substitution and called (yelled) the ref. Thankfully he was deaf. The throwing was taking SPR raced forward and Connor Harvey was released, broke free and lashed the ball into the back of the net, instead of being stood next to me. What do us coaches and managers know? lol. Connor was then replaced by Liam Atkinson for a well earned rest lol. Richmond still pressed for an equaliser but it was SPR in the dying seconds who nearly added a second through Liam Atkinson. The final whistle went and Smith Dock erupted into wild celebrations. Well done boys, league tables don't lie, take a look at it on Tuesday after school.
In junior football, should all players be given the same amount of time on the pitch during a game, regardless of ability?
Yes, always. Getting kids involved is the most important thing.
Yes, unless it is an important game.
No. Winning is important at all ages, so the best players should play more often.
Win a Liverpool shirt signed by Robbie Keane!
Club Website is a giving away a Liverpool shirt signed by new Anfield star Robbie Keane. Enter our latest competition and you could be a winner with Club Website!
Can you rise to Gerrard's freestyle challenge?
Got what it takes to claim VIP Barclays Premier League tickets? Let's see your skills - show us your tricks and flicks and send in your own video for the chance to win.
Print
