SVR Development Team Match Reports

Match Report by Ed Jones...

A tough start for the Dev team today going down 0-7 to an experienced Clevedon side, but a much improved 2nd half performance really showed the potential we have. We looked threatening every time we attacked and passed the ball around well. We defended resolutely, particularly in the second half, and everybody gave their all. POTM this week was Eli who was everywhere today, but well done to everyone and a big thank you to all of the parents who came to support the boys.

Match report by Ed Jones...

An excellent performance from our Dev team today at Winscombe.

The team showed a lot of grit and determination in a very even contest, to eventually come out on top. 

Winscombe took an early lead but great work from Jack on the right wing, getting a good cross into the box, was finished at the far post by Rhys for his first of the season. Both teams had further chances to score in the first half, but it was Winscombe that seemed to have the upper hand in the last 10 mins of the half, with our boys doing well to resist the pressure to hold out and go in at 1-1 at half time.

We started the second half brightly, with good runs down the right by Rhys and Elvis, and eventually the pressure told with Hunter finding the net after the Winscombe goalkeeper failed to hold onto the ball. Back came Winscombe though, and they grabbed an equaliser after we were caught short at the back, to make it 2-2.

The game was still very even at this point and could have gone either way with key saves by Dylan, and vital tackles from Eli and Henry preventing any further Winscombe goals. However, we grabbed the lead in the last 6 mins when Henry's shot was blocked in front of goal by a defender but fell to Elvis who tucked it away smartly to put us 3-2 up!

Winscombe went looking for a last ditch equaliser, but in the dying embers we hit them on the break; Toby cut in from the right, onto his left foot, and with the last kick of the game smashed it home from distance, to make it 4-2.

A great game and some super performances: Dylan was solid in goal and made some key saves; Eli was superb in the heart of defence with key interceptions and tackles throughout the game; Elvis was busy up and down the field both in defence and attack; Jack D battled hard in defence and created numerous chances with some great crosses when he got forward; Tommy made some key tackles to break up play in midfield; Hunter was a threat going forward and linked up well with Rhys who was particularly threatening in the second half with powerful runs down the right; Dylan A made some timely clearances in defence when he came on; Xav really put himself about particularly in the 2nd half when he came on and grew into the game; Theodore was really effective in midfield when he came on with important challenges and through-balls; the brief cameos from Toby and Henry M-J in the final 10 mins of the game showed their effectiveness and helped steady the team to secure our first win of the season.

POTM went to Eli for his consistent efforts in defence, keeping his position and ensuring numerous Winscombe attacks came to nothing.

Match Report by Ed Jones...

An incredible game for our Dev team against Wedmore!

Wedmore scored with the first attack of the game and followed this up with two more in the first 8 mins, to make it 0-3, and it looked like being a very long morning for our boys.

However, a bit of a switch around in who was playing where and we started to tighten up and have some success going forward. A couple of missed open goals could have put us right back in it, but eventually Hunter’s long range strike gave the Wedmore keeper no chance, and we started to believe! Jack D also saw a fantastic effort hit the angle of the goal as we pressed for a second, but we went in at half time 1-3 down.

The boys confidence was up though and we came flying out of the blocks in the second half. Xav was put through on the right and he steadied himself before thumping it home for his first ever goal! This was followed by a deserved double from Jack D who worked tirelessly throughout, pushing the team forward. We were now ahead 4-3 but Wedmore threatened again as they pressed for an equaliser, and only a superb goal-line save from Dylan (aka ‘Big D’) kept us ahead. However, we always looked dangerous going forward and Rhys finished off a move involving great play from the two Jacks, to make the final result 5-3. What a come-back!

A great display then from every player, despite being without a couple this week: Big ‘D’ was his usual solid self, particularly in the 2nd half, with some key saves and clearances; Jack F had a brilliant 2nd half when he moved into midfield and was the orchestrator of many attacks; Jack D played like a classic box to box midfielder, making crucial tackles, carrying the ball forward and scoring goals; Hunter was unlucky not to grab more goals but scored one cracker, then played really well in defence in the second half; Rhys made so many powerful runs to carry the ball forward and get crosses in, Wedmore struggled to cope with him and he got a deserved goal; Xav did a great job playing up front, particularly in the 2nd half, and scored a super goal; Dylan A came on from the subs bench and put himself about with some good tackles; Theodore also came off the bench and really helped to steady the ship when we were 0-3 down, he worked really hard making key tackles and passes. POTW though went to Tommy who I moved back into defence when we were struggling early on and he was outstanding there, making important tackles, clearances and interceptions to stop Wedmore in their tracks; he basically gave us the platform to turn the game around!

Well done to all, a really enjoyable game.

Match Report by Ed Jones...

A very tight game for our Dev team against a strong Portishead seven, which included 3 boys from their team that was in the Bristol league last season, hence why we included some of our ‘Whites’ team players in our starting line-up.

SVR started well and created a couple of good chances early on with good through-balls from Henry and Bobby. Unfortunately, those chances weren’t put away and Portishead started to get into the game and started causing our defence some problems. Finlay, in goal, pulled off a couple of good saves before Portishead managed to get in behind our defence and give him no chance, to make it 0-1.

However, we battled back, and Toby was put into space to slot the equaliser, as the game continued to be very even. Chances came at both ends but just as it looked like we’d go in level at half time, with the last kick of the half from a cleared corner, one of the Portishead players hit a speculative, long-range shot, which just dipped under the bar, over the outstretched hand of Finlay! 1-2 to Portishead at half time.

Portishead came out after the break full of confidence and for the first ten minutes of the second half we gave them too much space and time on the ball, allowing them to increase the lead to 1-3.

However, this seemed to kick-start us again and we got our shape back and started to push forward once more, forcing a number of corners. A great through-ball from Theodore put Toby through and his classy finish pulled it back to 2-3 with around 8 mins left. 

Unfortunately, despite giving our all, we couldn’t seem to find another way through the Portishead defence as they tightened up and battled to stay ahead. At the final whistle, some of our lads were absolutely devastated having gone down 2-3 after putting in so much effort, but ultimately, they should be very proud of their performance going down to the strongest Development team in the Dev Series; this Portishead team was as good as many of the Woodspring teams we come up against.

Players: Finlay was superb in goal, making a number of excellent saves and doing all the basics really well; Eli and Tommy did a solid job in defence with some key tackles, blocks and interceptions; Bobby, Henry and Toby worked their socks off in the midfield, trying to create chances up top but also getting back to cover, tackle and block; Rhys ran and ran all morning, battling away up front; Xav came on up front in the first half and chased and harried the opposition, and came on again in defence towards the end as we threw players forward; Zach came on from the bench in defence and worked hard to keep the opposition out with some key tackles; Theodore, though, was named POTM for coming off the bench and making a real difference, making it difficult for the Portishead midfielders as he snapped away at them in the tackle, and making decisive runs into the opposition final third - he even got himself an assist from his great through-ball for our second goal!

Well done to them all.

Match report by Paul Savill...

A thrilling game saw victory cruelly snatched away from SVR. 

The visitors enjoyed the majority of possession in the first half and shortly before half-time broke the deadlock with a long-range effort to take the lead. In fairness it was probably deserved but there had been enough to show that Swiss could cause them problems and a fantastic second half display from the home side did just that. Goals from Cillian and Kit put us ahead and dogged determination from all of the players kept Portishead frustrated. As we approached the end of the game the away side had a series of back to back corners which we defended brilliantly. However, just as it looked like we would come away with a well deserved win, misfortune struck and with the ball pinging around the box it ricocheted off of Elvis to hand Portishead a late equaliser. 

While the players will have been disappointed not to hold on to the win they should all be incredibly proud of their individual and collective performances. It was a real team effort that saw confidence grow as the game went on. Captain Elvis was a standout, linking up brilliantly with Jacob at the back and despite the late drama he left the field with the same smile and enthusiasm he displayed throughout the game which was wonderful to see. 

Player of the match went to Cillian. His first start of the season, a brilliant goal, and a fantastic midfield display.

Match Report by Ed Jones...

A tough game for the Dev team today away at Yatton. 

We started well and looked threatening but were then hit by two sucker punches as Yatton opened up a 0-2 lead. We battled on and Jack, Xav and Seb all went close but we couldn’t seem to find the net. Yatton grabbed another before half time to go in 0-3 up.

However, the boys showed their grit in the second half with first Jack D making it 1-4 and then Seb firing home, after Yatton had extended their lead, to make the final result 2-6. It was a great second half display, in which we matched Yatton all over the pitch, defended a lot better and created chances at the other end. If we’d been a bit more clinical in the first half the scoreline would have been a lot closer.

Dylan made some really good saves in both halves and was unlucky with a couple of the Yatton goals; Eli and Elvis worked tirelessly at the back to prevent further Yatton goals; Jack D, Seb and Rhys created chances for each other and for Hunter up front, with Jack and Seb being rewarded for their hard work with goals. Hunter read the game well and got an assist for a superb through-ball for Jack’s goal. The subs all played their part with Xav, Jack F and Theodore all getting stuck in and working hard for the team. 

POTM this week was Eli who played like a sweeper, with so many covering tackles and blocks.

We are improving each week as a team, as the boys are working together and for each other more and more. With continued focus and effort in matches the performances will improve further and the results will come. We just need to eliminate the periods of the game where we switch off!

Well done boys!

Match report by Ed Jones...

A frustrating day for the Dev team today against Backwell after having so much possession and leading at half time, we eventually ended up losing 2-3.

It took us a while to get going but falling behind seemed to kick us into action and Jack D, Jack F, Theodore and Elvis started to move the ball around and create problems for Backwell. Jack D smashed home an equaliser and then right on half-time, great work by Jack F and Elvis produced an opening which Elvis finished off to make it 2-1 at half time.

Our heads were up and we seemed to be in control. However, we then seemed to slump back into the same style of play at the start of the 2nd half that we had shown early in the first half, making mistakes and giving the ball away. We gifted Backwell an equaliser and then they produced a very neat finish to make it 2-3.

We pushed forward again with Hunter and Jack D creating chances and only a couple of fine saves by the Backwell keeper kept them in the lead. 

The boys continued to press right to the end but went down eventually ran out of time, unable to find the net again.

Some great effort and pleasing performances though…

Dylan was solid as ever in goal, but had no chance with the Backwell goals. Eli was all energy with some good tackles and clearances. Zach had a superb game, tackling, blocking and playing some great through-balls. Elvis worked hard in midfield and was rewarded with a goal. Jack D was particularly effective in the 2nd half, putting Backwell under pressure and driving us forward. A great goal too. Theodore made some great runs and linked up well. Dylan A got involved from the start and put himself about, helping out in defence. Tommy worked hard when he came on making some important challenges in midfield, Hunter linked with the midfield effectively and Jack F had a massive impact when he came on, taking control of the game in the first half.

POTM this week went to Zach though, for a terrific performance in defence.

Match Report by Ed Jones...

A super effort from the Dev team today against Burnbridge in the Development Series.

We started the game slowly and Burnbridge put us under a lot of pressure in the first 10 minutes, creating some very good chances but failing to score, with most of their efforts going over the crossbar!

We defended resolutely though, and with our first proper attack we took the lead, with Elvis firing home after Seb’s through ball had put Jack into space. However, we didn’t hold the lead for long as Burnbridge’s pressure eventually told to level the scores. We had a couple of further opportunities as the half wore on, but failed to take advantage, so went in at the break with the score at 1-1.

The second half started with both teams pushing to take the lead and it was Burnbridge who capitalised on a lapse in concentration in our defence to go 1-2 ahead. But the never say die attitude of our Dev team was on show again today and we bounced back once more, with Jack D put through one-on-one with the Burnbridge keeper to smash it home for 2-2.

It was such an even contest and really could have gone either way, but with 7 minutes left a corner on the was deflected off a Burnbridge defender to the edge of the box, where Tommy was waiting; he swung a leg at the ball and it looped over everyone, including the Burnbridge keeper, into the back of the net to make it 3-2!

With the minutes ticking away, Burnbridge had one last, great chance to equalise when their left midfielder crossed into the box, past all of our defenders to the 3 Burnbridge players waiting in front of goal, but somehow they managed to put it wide - it must have been the imposing figure of ‘Big D’ in goal! And so we hung on for the win.

A great team performance today: Big Dylan did really well again with some important saves, particularly in the first half; Zach had another great game on the left of defence and looked secure and confident on the ball; Elvis was everywhere, key tackles, great support and he bagged another goal; Dylan A made his presence felt in defence with some really important tackles; Tommy was box to box, putting himself about with some vital tackles and passes, and of course he got the winner; Seb was solid in midfield, creating chances with through-balls and breaking up opposition play with key tackles; captain Jack D led the line with energy and was particularly effective in the second half with another good goal; Theodore was effective off the bench and was involved in the move that put Jack in for his goal; Rhys made some of his trademark runs when he came on and was always a threat, with Burnbridge finding it difficult to deal with his physicality. Last but not least was this week’s POTM, Hunter, who came off the bench to play a position he isn’t used to, namely central defence, and he did a fantastic job, looking secure and confident with some important tackles and big clearances. It was really hard to pick a POTM this week as every player played a key role today and together they produced a good win.

Match report by Ed Jones...

A very exciting match for the SVR Dev team away at Worle Reds today.

Worle took a very early lead with their first attack, our defence not closing them down quickly enough and the Reds striker gave Dylan no chance.

We then got our act together and started creating chances, with Toby, Henry and Seb all having shots on goal either blocked, saved or just going wide. However, after more pressure forced a string of corners, Toby delivered a dangerous ball into the box which Henry tucked away neatly to level the scores. Henry then promptly returned the favour, playing Toby in to fire us ahead.

Just before half time, Henry was once again the provider, but this time for Jack D, who sprinted onto the through-ball to beat the Worle keeper. So we went in at half time 3-1 up.

Early in the second half, great work by Zach put Jack D in for his second to make it 4-1. Worle pulled a goal back, but we then went through a period of complete domination, with wave after wave of SVR attacks; Jack D set Toby up for his 2nd, Bobby made space for himself and blasted home, and Henry made it a hattrick of assists to set up Jack D for his own hattrick!

With two minutes left we were 7-2 up and understandably took our foot off the gas, and with all but one of our SVR Whites ‘helpers’ off the field Worle managed to score two in the last two minutes, albeit with their 3rd goal scored after a clear handball that wasn’t given. On another day, that might have mattered, but today we were happy with the 7-4 win against one of the strongest teams in the Dev Series.

Dylan didn’t have a huge amount to do today, but pulled off a couple of good saves; Eli played well in defence and even better when he took Bono’s role temporarily in defensive midfield, he even came close to grabbing a goal for himself; Zach did some great defensive work and got an assist for setting up Jack’s 2nd; Hunter came on from the bench into defence again today and did really well with another solid performance; Elvis also came off the bench and did a stint in defence, working hard with some important interceptions and support play; Bono was everywhere playing in defensive midfield, mopping up any dangerous Worle through-balls expertly and he also got himself into some great attacking positions when we were in control; Henry was outstanding in midfield, with a goal and three assists which could easily have been more due to his unselfish distribution; Bobby came off the bench and enjoyed himself, creating havoc in the Worle defence and scoring a great goal; Seb was solid in midfield making some key tackles but was also creative, setting up his team mates and he came close to scoring on a couple of occasions; Toby was awesome up front, with some great work down both flanks, great crosses and clinical finishing for his two goals; Jack D came off the bench and played like a true goal poacher, finishing really well when put through on three occasions and also grabbing an assist today. Being a Dev game I have to give POTM to a Dev squad player and this week it is shared between Eli, for his energy and total commitment to the cause, and Jack D for his finishing in a high-pressure game.

Well done to all the boys, what a great effort!

Match report by Ed Jones...

Well done to all of the Dev team players for their efforts today at home to Backwell. 

Backwell started the game the more positive of the two teams and penned us back in our half for the first ten minutes. However, our defence stood solid and when we made a couple of attacking changes SVR started to create chances and threaten the Backwell goal. Rhys broke the deadlock with a break down the right and a shot which beat the keeper at his near post. So we led 1-0 at half time.

We continued to press after the break and soon Rhys had good second after some excellent work by Jack D who broke down the right and crossed for Rhys to poke home.

Jack F then scored the goal of the game when he gathered the ball from a Backwell goal kick, beat two defenders and blasted it into the top corner to make it 3-0.

We were cruising a bit at this point (even affording to miss a penalty) and promptly switched off, letting Backwell get a shot in which Big D had no chance with. However, we stepped it up again and Xav poked home a cross to make it 4-1, with his second of the season!

Again we went in to cruise control with 7 mins left and allowed Backwell in to score two more, making it a rather edgy last couple of minutes, but we held on to win 4-3.

Big D was solid between the sticks making some crucial saves towards the end as Backwell pressed for an equaliser. Zach played really well with some superb tackles, blocks and interceptions. Dylan A worked hard when he was on and made some key tackles and clearances. Elvis was all action at both ends of the field and made some important tackles and blocks. Theodore ran his heart out and looked threatening when he came forward. Rhys had a huge impact when he came on, running the channels and scoring two great goals. Jack F also made an impact off the bench, getting stuck in, in midfield, playing some great through-balls and taking defenders on; and there was that fantastic goal!

Jack D was another impact sub, giving us the forward impetus when we needed it, making life difficult for the Backwell defenders. He got an assist too. Eli came on for a brief cameo and gave the opposition something else to think about, also helping out at the back. POTM though went to Hunter, who was superb at the centre of defence, keeping Backwell at bay for the majority of the match. Great stuff!

Match report by Ed Jones...

So, the Dev team went into this game on the back of three straight wins in the Development Series, but we knew Clevedon Utd away would be a tough encounter with them having beaten us 0-7 in the first fixture of the season.

Confidence was high though and we started brightly with a couple of surging runs from Rhys and Elvis, and plenty of the ball. 

Most of the attempts on goal in the first half came from Clevedon but they were either high, wide, blocked by good defending, or found the safe hands of Big D in goal.

The SVR boys created some chances too but we looked like we’d left our shooting boys at home for this one.

Clevedon eventually found a way through our stubborn defence and led 0-1 at half time.

It had certainly been a tight first half and we lacked a bit of a cutting edge. Fortunately, we had drafted in late replacements for two of our original squad who couldn’t make it, in the shape of Bobby and Henry from the Whites. Coming on in the second half, they immediately had an impact, giving us forward momentum and suddenly we looked the more threatening team.

Confidence grew, with Eli, Zach and Elvis all getting forward to pile on the pressure, and it was Zach’s through ball to Bobby which allowed him to find space on the left and fire past the Clevedon keeper on his near post to level the score.

It wasn’t long before we took the lead as we surged forward in numbers; this time it was Henry, who hit a shot form outside the box, only to see it come back off the foot of the post but fortunately rebound into the path of Xav, who poked it home for his third of the season!

We made more changes to give some players a breather, but this worked against us as we were caught out at the back and Clevedon levelled the score with 5 mins left.

However, straight from the re-start, we pushed forward once more and the ball fell invitingly for Henry outside the box again, and this time he made no mistake, lashing it into the bottom corner, giving the Clevedon keeper no chance.

We comfortably held out for the remaining time for a super 3-2 win!

On to the players…

Big D had his most solid game of the season today, dependable and brave; Zach was all energy, working hard all game, making some important tackles and also making some good attacking runs; Tommy defended superbly with a number of great blocks, tackles and clearances; Eli the captain led by example, strong in defence and dangerous going forward; Dylan A came off the bench and once again got important tackles and blocks in; Elvis played in midfield and defence for different parts of the game and was awarded PoTM for his outstanding contribution in defence and for his link play with the attack in the second half, he worked his socks off; Rhys was strong as ever going forward but also made a number of key defensive challenges; Xav made a nuisance of himself in the opposition penalty area and grabbed himself the ultimate goal-hangers goal; Sam came off the bench for his debut and worked hard, winning some important challenges in attack and gaining valuable match experience; Bobby and Henry obviously had a huge influence on the game but it was the confidence they gave to the rest of the team, filling them with belief and allowing them to have a real go at Clevedon which was the key to this victory. Revenge was sweet!

A great display from all the boys today, in a tough match. Well done!

Match report by Ed Jones...

A disappointing result for the Dev team today, going down 0-7 to Winscombe, bringing to an end a run of four wins on the trot.

Winscombe were a well organised unit and were superior in all departments today, making it difficult for our boys to get forward and threaten, and we spent the majority of the game pinned in our half. We battled hard and there was some great defending on display, but ultimately the pressure told and we conceded. Our boys didn’t seem to have the same resolve that they have shown recently and struggled to hold their shape, and with lots of mistakes creeping in under pressure,  we gifted Winscombe numerous opportunities to score. We were just not at the races today.

Big D made some good saves but faced a barrage of shots and couldn’t keep them all out; Charlie made his debut as a sub goalie and gave it his all, doing really well considering this was the first match he’d ever played; Eli, Tommy and Zach all worked hard tackling, blocking and challenging in defence, but found the Winscombe attack too hot to handle today; Elvis ran his socks off and covered every blade of grass on the pitch; Rhys made some of his powerful runs but couldn’t find a way through to goal today; Sam came off the bench and made some important tackles; Jack D ran and battled up front but was given some rough treatment by the Winscombe defence and although he had more success in the second half, he couldn’t find his way to goal; Xav came off the bench and huffed and puffed but was living off scraps up front.

A day to forget for the Dev team then, just one of those days, but they’ll come back stronger from this and I’m sure we’ll see them back to their best next week.

Match report by Ed Jones...

Worle Reds are always a tough team to come up against in the Development Series; they’ve been in it for 2 seasons and are a good side and very experienced at this level. For this match every single SVR outfield player was a new recruit for this season, playing their first season in a team. So, potentially a big mis-match here, but the SVR boys coped very well, matching Worle, particularly in the first half and caused them problems when we went forward. 

We defended stoutly throughout the match and but for a couple of mistakes and an own goal, the scoreline would have been a lot closer, as the difference between the teams was certainly not worthy of the 2-6 final score.

Big D produced his usual solid effort in goal, making some good saves and distributing the ball well.

Eli gave a lot all game both in defence and in attack and was close to scoring.

Hunter played the captains role at the back with some key tackles and clearances.

Zach worked really hard in midfield battling hard for every ball and linking up well when we attacked.

Elvis gave everything once again in the centre of midfield and also put in a shift in defence.

Rhys added pace and power on the left of midfield and got himself into good attacking positions on several occasions.

Charlie and Dylan came off the bench in the second half to help in defence, and both made some goods tackles and clearances in their time on the field, gaining more experience.

PoTM though went to Jack D, who worked his socks off all game, battling away up front to win the ball, creating chances with some great crosses, and scoring both of our goals.

So, a very promising display from the boys, so much better than last weekend’s game, showing effort, determination, a never-say-die attitude and looking like a proper team. Worle really knew they’d been in a game and with more tough games against Portishead and Yatton to come before Christmas, the boys need to keep playing with the same intensity and effort.

Well done to them all!

Match Postponed

Match report by Ed Jones...

The Development team faced Yatton today for the second time in this season’s Development Series. Having lost 2-6 in the first meeting, we were all keen to produce a better result this time out.

The game started in a very end to end fashion and this pattern continued for the entire game, with Yatton threatening at one end and SVR breaking away to cause problems up the other end. Both sides were struggling to find the net, with Jack D and Elvis both going close and Sam also almost getting on the end of a half chance on his first start this season. In defence, Tommy, Eli and Kyran (in his first start too) battled hard to keep Yatton out, with Big D also making a couple of key saves. Unfortunately, Yatton eventually found a way through with 8 mins to half time, and this is how it remained until the break.

We needed to find a way back into the game and so a couple of changes were made at the break, including bringing on Henry from the Whites for a boost going forward and it was Henry’s great through ball that set up Jack D to fire home the equaliser. Shortly afterwards we took the lead when Eli’s powerful corner was inadvertently put into the net by Yatton defender. 

It looked like we would hold on for the win but with 7 mins left a mistake let Yatton in again to make it 2-2, and that is how it finished.

With regards to the team, Big D was solid and made several good saves; Eli was up and down, all over the pitch, made some great tackles and got forward whenever possible; Kyran, on his debut, made some good tackles and clearances and showed great promise; Dylan A came off the bench and made several important tackles; Elvis played a key role both in midfield and defence and was Mr Reliable today; Jack D was all action going forward, causing Yatton all sorts of problems and scored another good goal; Jack F came off the bench and showed his dribbling skills again going forward and also did well in defence; Sam worked hard up front and gained more valuable experience; Xav came off the bench and got into some good positions up front, but chances didn’t really come his way today; Tommy was excellent in defence today, making a whole host of crucial tackles and interceptions which is why he was today’s POTM. Henry gave the team some support in the second half and provided the extra attacking thrust we needed to get back into the game.

So a big Well done to all of the boys today in a tricky match, with a much better result against Yatton than last time out.

Match Report by Paul Savill...

A battling morning of football in Backwell this morning as the SVR Dev Team competed in their first 9 v 9 game. 

The boys started brightly and competitively despite early pressure from the home side. Dylan A and Tommy made some brilliant defensive tackles with support from Jack F, but unfortunately it was wasn't enough to hold back the Backwell attack and in the 8th minute they managed to get the better of our defence and slot past Dylan H to take the lead. 

Swiss continued to press with Tao, making his SVR debut, always looking to get on the ball and make something happen supported by Hunter, Jack D and Xav. 

Despite getting in to some great positions we couldn't get our shots away and rest the Backwell keeper. 

Remy and Kit came on for Hunter and Xav and almost immediately Rem took a ball to the face and had to come back off as blood streamed from his nose. Shortly after Tao also came off having been on the end of a fair but crunching challenge. 

As treatment took place for our injured subs Backwell swept forward to give themselves a two goal lead to take into halftime. 

We mixed things up for the second half switching to a 2-2-3-1 formation. Backwell kicked off and immediately Jack F and Elvis, shielding the back two,  closed down the attack and moved the ball out to the right to Tao on the half way line. With half the pitch Infront of him, as well as half the Backwell team, Tao went on a mazzy run to the edge of the opposition box before firing in a shot that the keeper had no chance of stopping. What a way to mark your debut and get your team back into the game. 

With Swiss holding their shape brilliantly the Leopards struggled to find a way through. Elvis covered every blade of grass and Jack F was a one man brick wall as our attackers pressed forwards for an equaliser. Elvis had several brilliant chances, with one shot going just wide and another curling shot saved brilliantly by the keeper. 

However with a much stronger bench the home team made a raft of changes that gave them fresh legs and impetus. Exploiting a gap out on the right they pushed forward and regained their two goal lead. 

Kit then attempted to lob the Backwell keeper after spotting them off their line. As they backtracked they managed to get fingertips to the ball as it dipped - for a moment it looked as if they had only managed to tip it into their own goal but in reality it was a great recovery as they pushed the ball over the crossbar. 

But it wasn't long before Kit did find the net. Remy won the ball in midfield, used his pace to get into space before cutting the ball across the box for Kit to run onto and smash home. 3-2 and it was game on with fifteen minutes to go. 

Again Backwell played their trump card and made four substitutions in one go and again it paid off as they scored a fourth. 

Swiss continued to battle and apply pressure but unfortunately ran out of time as the final whistle blew. 

Despite the scoreline it was a really impressive performance by the Dev's - especially in the second half where every player committed to their position. 

There were some really great performances - Tao, Tommy and Elvis were the spine of the team. Dylan A worked really hard Dylan H made some great saves and distributed the ball really well. Jack D was energetic, picking up several positions. Hunter battled up front and at the back. Remy and Kit used their pace brilliantly. Xav worked really hard up top and was unlucky not to get a goal but player of the match was Jack F who was absolutely brilliant from the first whistle to the last - closing down, winning the ball and making some brilliant passes. An absolute standout performance.

Match report by Ed Jones...

A tough outing for the Dev team in our last Dev Series match of the season. This was the rearranged match at Portishead Jaguars that had been postponed due to the weather back in December. It should be noted that both Portishead Jaguars teams who took part in the Dev Series this season are strong and will be combined into one Woodspring team for next season. 

So, a difficult game, but, particularly in the first half, our boys competed really well, caused the Jaguars problems and played some decent football. Although the opposition were on top for most of the first half, we dealt with the majority of their attacks with a combination of good blocks and tackles from our defenders and big clearances from Walter. Charlie also made several really good saves. Eli and Jack also came back to help out the defensive effort, but we struggled to find a way past the Portishead defence when we did get forward and Jack’s one effort on goal which was well saved meant we went in at the break 0-2 down, but still in the game.

We tried to be a bit more adventurous after the break, with Walter making several marauding runs forward and Jack, Sam and Eli all having attempts on goal and we threatened with some dangerous corners, but it just wouldn’t go in on the day. It also meant that our increased efforts to push forward to get a goal left us more open at the back and Portishead scored three quick goals to make it 0-5 before a period of sustained SVR pressure. They then added another 3 late on as we tired from our attacking efforts, and the game ended with a 0-8 score line to Portishead, which I felt didn’t really reflect our overall performance, as we had competed throughout, but Portishead were clinical in their finishing today.

And so to the players…

Charlie played tremendously in his first full game in goal, making a string of great saves and distributing well from the back. Zach worked his socks off in defence, making some excellent tackles and blocks. Kyran was solid at the back, particularly in the first half and made some key challenges. Elvis came on from the bench and showed his versatility once again, helping out in defence this week. Eli was up and down the field all game, working hard to help the defence in the first half then using his pace to make some good runs in the second half and getting into good attacking positions. Rhys had a quiet first half as nothing really came his way, but came to life in the 2nd with some strong runs and setting up some chances. Jack D came off the bench and was our biggest threat in attack, unlucky not to get on the score sheet today. He also did a lot of pressing and defending from midfield. Jack F also came off the bench and looked good going forward creating attacking opportunities. Sam was busy up front, pressing the opposition defence and got into good positions, but it just didn’t run for him today in terms of goal scoring chances. Walter, though, was PoTM this week as he was outstanding throughout, putting his body on the line in defence, clearing our lines repeatedly with huge clearances, and setting up several chances in the second half with his runs, throw-ins and corners. I felt he was the best player on the pitch today.

So, well done to all of the boys today, in spite of the result. Great effort all round and they kept going to the very end. 

Match Report by Ed Jones...

A frustrating start to the Dev Cup for the Thunder team this morning. A very even first half ended 1-1 after Rhys had equalised the opening goal from Yatton. The defence had battled hard and relied on some good saves from ‘Big D’ to prevent Yatton taking a bigger lead, but we always looked dangerous on the break and Hunter, Xav and Rhys were linking up well. 

In the second half, Yatton re-took the lead 5 mins in but we got another equaliser almost immediately when the Yatton keeper dropped a cross right in front of Hunter, who tapped home. At this point, we were playing well and fancied our chances. However, Yatton stepped up their game and a couple of unforced errors presented them with a 4-2 lead, their winger then scored a superb solo effort and one more from a very narrow angle right at the death, meant that we had conceded 4 in the last 10 mins and somehow ended losing 2-6. Although they probably deserved the win, I felt that 6-2 rather flattered Yatton as our boys had held their own for 40 mins. Unfortunately, we had switched off after our 2nd equaliser, lost our shape a bit and that cost us.

Big D had a tremendous game in goal despite conceding 6 and made a number of excellent saves. He was deservedly PoTM. Tommy, Dylan, Kyran and Elvis all defended well in their stints at the back, particularly in the first half. Hunter, Zach and Rhys worked hard in midfield and Rhys was particularly effective when making runs down the wings. Xav battled away up front, laying the ball off well to the wings and using his size to good effect to hold the ball up.

Well done to all the boys for their efforts today. We’ll bounce back in the next Cup match.

Match report by Ed Jones...

A tremendous victory for SVR Lightning in the Development Cup this morning, away at Winscombe.

We started strongly, knocking the ball around with confidence and it wasn’t long before we took the lead when Henry smashed home a loose ball in the Winscombe area. However, Winscombe had the chance to equalise almost immediately when a penalty was awarded for a trip on their striker. What our opponents hadn’t banked on though was Charlie, in goal, being more than up for the challenge, and he promptly saved the spot kick to keep as in the lead.

We started to take control of the game and were 2-0 up when Toby, off the bench, hit a long range effort towards goal and Jack stuck out a leg to add the finishing touch. Henry then whipped in a dangerous corner which the Winscombe defence couldn’t deal with and turned into their own net, 3-0. A couple of minutes before half time another ball played into the Winscombe box fell to Sam, who stabbed it home for his first goal for SVR! 4-0 at half time.

We started the second half strongly with powerful runs from Bobby and Toby, and continued to create chances. Winscombe had changed their keeper though, and this one was proving to be harder to beat. Winscombe also attacked with more purpose after the interval and were far more threatening, but were thwarted on several occasions by Walter, Eli and Finley, who tackled, blocked and intercepted everything. 

We continued to press and Bobby was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet with several attempts that just wouldn’t go in today. However, he did produce a fantastic bit of skill for the goal of the game, going on a jinking run into the Winscombe box on the right before lifting a beautiful cross over the defence for Toby to smash home on the volley, 5-0.

Winscombe did get some reward for their effort, finally beating Charlie to make it 5-1. 

With a few minutes left, Toby fired home from a narrow angle to make it 6-1 and that’s how it finished. A great result.

Charlie was great in goal today and seems to get better every game. He made a number of good saves today, other than the penalty save.

Finley was strong at the back, making important tackles and moving the ball forward well down the right flank.

Eli was captain today and led by example, with some great defensive challenges and strong runs forward.

Bobby came off the bench and looked dangerous every time he got the ball in attack, and was unlucky not to get a goal or three today. He also got back to help out in defence on numerous occasions.

Henry played with great skill, scored a good goal, caused the own goal, set up another and had some chances to add to his tally.

Toby came off the bench and looked dangerous and creative throughout the match, scoring two good goals and assisting for another; he caused Winscombe all sorts of problems.

Jack was all action and combative today, working hard to move the ball forward and keep us on the front foot. He got his reward for his efforts with a goal.

Sam worked really hard in attack to press the opposition and put them under pressure. He made some good tackles and scored great goal.

PoTM today though went to Walter, whose performance in the heart of defence was outstanding - he was strong, brave, skilful and played a sensible game, breaking up Winscombe attacks and getting us moving forward again. Superb!

Well done to all of the boys on the Lightning team today - they were a delight to watch!

Match Report by Paul Savill...

What an absolutely incredible morning of football down at Hamgstones Pavillion as our SVR Dev side charged to an empathetic victory over a Yatton side that included several players that have caused all of our teams problems in the past. 

The focus of our players was exceptional from the moment they arrived. They knew they were in for a busy morning as we only had 8 players available for the game. We spoke about keeping calm, playing our positions, making positive passes, utilising space and having awareness of what was happening across the pitch, but the main objective was to trust each other and play together. 

Swiss were on the front foot immediately from kick off with our from three of Kit, Theodore and Xav playing some fantastic combination passing to tear through Yatton and put them under pressure forcing an own goal from a bamboozled defence within two minutes. 

As soon as the game restarted Swiss continued to show their intent, pressing Yatton and forcing a corner. In truth Kits delivery wasn't the best, but it swept low beyond everyone before being gifted to Elvis who drilled it home to make it 0-2 to to the visitors - we hadn't even played five minutes. 

The rest of the half continued in this fashion. Elvis was rampaging between both boxes driving us on and winning everything. Theodore was an absolute wing wizard. Kit used his pace to full affect and Xav pulled the Yatton defence apart with his movement.

At the back Hunter and Dylan A were solid and put the home attackers under so much pressure that anytime they had a sniff at goal they couldn't keep their composure and fired high and wide. The shots they managed to get on target were collected with ease by Dylan H. 

Remy had come on to slot into midfield to give Xav a rest as Kit pushed forwards, and like his brother Remy used his pace to great effect. The score remained 0-2 and Swiss were in total control. 

We switched things up at the start of the second half, moving to a back two with Kit partnering Hunter and Elvis dropping into midfield with Rem and Theodore. 

Once again we were on the attack and with only four minutes of the second half played Xav slotted home to extend our lead. 

This soared Yatton into action and they started to find a bit of rhythm, and a little bit of good fortune as we allowed them the overload in our area and they pulled a goal back from close range. However this just gave our lads a second wind and renewed determination. 

We reshuffled again with Elvis partnering Dylan A at the back and Kit going back into the middle of the park and within a few minutes Swiss had regained their three goal lead. Remy put on the afterburners to keep a loose ball in play and played an fantastic pass to Kit who buried his shot. 

By this point Yatton were out of ideas, and we're restricted to two chances for the remainder of the game, both of which were kept out by smart saves by Dylan H. 

Elvis and Dylan A stuck to their jobs at the back and Hunter and Xav both had a turn in central midfield, showing real determination and composure to win the ball and make some brilliant forward passes. 

There was a slight moment of controversy as Yatton scored a second as they continued to play on from a throw in as we made a substitution and our players waited for the change to take place. The ref claimed not to have been aware, despite signalling for the substitution to take place. To his credit the goal was chalked off and was possibly fair given that play was stopped in the first half when Swiss were in a fantastic attacking position, due to an injury to a Yatton player after a crunching, but fair, tackle by Kit. The whistle wasn't blown and play continued until the ref called a halt. However upon the restart their was no drop ball and Yatton had what was in effect a defacto free kick from where play had been stopped. 

More positively, Theodore continued to win every ball he went for and made a series of marauding runs down the wing highlighting his pace and more importantly his control which he's been working on with determination in training recently. 

With only a few minutes to play Kit blasted the ball into the top corner after a perfectly weighted pass from Xav. 

The win was totally down to the unified team spirit and determination of our players in a performance that was possibly the best I have seen from any side this season. Everyone of our boys was brilliant and they all gave everything and individually deserve their flowers. However in a game of stand out performances the POTM award deservedly went to Theodore who was as sensational as he was unplayable today. In what was the crowning highlight of the morning the unanimous agreement and congratulations from his team mates, many if who did more than enough to have picked up the accolade themselves, was fantastic to see.

Match report by Paul Savill...

It was a goal fest down in Burnbridge this morning, but unfortunately the majority of the fifteen goals were scored by the home side. 

The game was rapid from kick off and Swiss had a chance to get a goal directly from kick off, however Burnbridge were quick on the break and stormed up the pitch to get an early goal with less than two minutes gone. 

Swiss replied within two minutes with Kit putting us level. It was absolutely end to end and the goals kept coming. By the ten minute mark Burnbridge were back in front with Swiss pulling level again, this time through Remy, and we still hadn't played fifteen minutes! 

Another three goals came before the thirty minutes of the first half were up, but sadly it was the home team who scored them all to give themselves a three goal cushion as we headed into halftime. 

The Swiss lads had absolutely worked their socks off and were up for the second half and for the first ten minutes were by far the better team, playing some fantastic football. Zach and Kyran were like a brick wall at the back. We had given B'bridge too much space in the first half and by holding resolutely to their positions Our two defenders kept everything away from Big D. Eli had moved into midfield with Remy and Rhys and all three of them were dynamic in their tackling and attacking runs, working brilliantly with Kit who was playing upfront now. 

Then with eleven minutes of play without any goals the floodgates opened and it was B'bridge who added to their tally, finally getting the better of our defence for the first time and beating Charlie who had taken over in nets from D for the second half. Completely agrieved by this Swiss upped their game and started to power through the opposition midfield and putting their defence under pressure and within two minutes we were back on the score sheet again with Eli scoring the goal of the game with an outstanding long-range finish that left the keeper no chance. 

In truth we had a string of opportunities to score more, their keeper made two brilliant saves from Remy's close range shots, Kit was unlucky to see a shot go just the wrong side of the crossbar and Rhys hit the post. Once again Swiss had the upper hand for a ten minute period with everyone running their socks off and working together. Remember, this is a team that had never even trained all together, let alone played a match. 

But yet again B'bridge were the team to find the net and put themselves 7 - 3 up with 53 minutes of the scheduled one hour played. Again Swiss came back immediately with Remy grabbing his second goal of the morning 7 - 4...

But the home team hit back, again, immediately to restore their four goal lead and they followed it up with their ninth goal of the morning on the hour mark. 

We expected to hear the full-time whistle but the ref decided to keep play going. Their had been a few stoppages (as well as a bit of time wasting by their keeper) but with the game effectively over I was surprised he kept going. The B'bridge players kept going too and nabbed a tenth, but still the final whistle didn't come and still Swiss kept at it, determined to push hard until whenever the end came. 

The home supporters were jubilant to say the least and it was one of their own who seemed to decide that a foul had been committed in the box and that a penalty should be rewarded. The B'bridge players certainly agreed and the ref seemed to give in to the demands. 

Charlie was incredibly unlucky not to keep the spot kick out and it really wasn't what our lads deserved. The ref continued to play on for another two minutes, seemingly because the B'bridge players were calling for one of their own to get his hat-trick! However, after sixty six minutes of pulsating football the final whistle finally came. 

The deflation in our players was as obvious as their exhaustion and we made very sure to remind them that this friendly was about a lot more than the scoreline. 

Big D made some brilliant saves, with a highlight being some amazing closing down off of his line when one on one with a B'bridge attacker. 

Zach was excellent, making some absolutely brilliant tackles and sticking resolutely to his job, growing in stature throughout the game. 

Jack F was at his marauding best when he played in midfield, closing down and always looking to play the ball forward to start an attack. 

Kyran partnered Zach brilliantly at the back and scrapped for everything totally undeterred by whoever was scrapping back at him. 

Charlie was great in his brief stint in midfield in the first half and made some excellent saves in the second. I was particularly impressed with how he made sure he uses his hands to gather the ball and slow down the play. 

Sam used his pace brilliantly, winning the ball, making really good passing decisions and was so unlucky on at least two occasions not to get a goal when he moved upfront towards the end of the game. 

Remy was his tenacious best today, the first to press and put pressure on any attacking play, took his two goals well and was unlucky not to get at least a hat-trick. 

Kit was identical (imagine that) in his tenacity and as always commited to get up and down the pitch working for the team from whatever position he was in at the time. 

Rhys was an absolute powerhouse at the back and in midfield - Crunching tackles, bursting runs, fizzing shots and total commitment. Really deserved a goal. 

Eli was equally as good, again at the back and in midfield, never giving up on any ball, always looking to make something positive happen and covering every blade of grass. That goal was so well taken and deserved. 

A rough result but a brilliant performance full of individual and collective positives as well as things to work on and learn from. 

Impossible to pick an individual POTM and in the end I couldn't possibly not give it to Rhys or Eli and they deservedly shared the accolade.

Match Report by Ed Jones...

A fantastic Dev Cup match this morning between Dev Lightning and Dev Thunder in Round 2 of the League Stage! What a battle it was.

Thunder came blasting out of the blocks full of running and linking up well with Tommy, Alex and Elvis putting dangerous balls into the Lightning box for Hunter and Xav to chase, and soon it was 1-0 when Elvis played a great through ball for Hunter to fire home. It was then a second assist for Elvis who then slipped the ball through for Xav to fire home, giving Charlie no chance, to make it 2-0 to Thunder with just 10 mins played.

However, this seemed to awaken the beast, as Lightning started to get back into the game, with Eli, Jack D and Rhys all making storming runs, putting the Thunder defence under greater and greater pressure. Eli came close on a couple of occasions and eventually fired home to make it 2-1. Game on. It then became very end to end with both teams trying to get another before half time but there was no more scoring before the interval.

Both teams made some changes in player positions for the second half but it was Lightning who struck first with Jack D rounding off a swift counter attack to level the match at 2-2.

Both teams looked dangerous every time they attacked and it was impossible to pick a winner at this point, but then Jack D made a break down the left, cut inside and fired past Big D to turn the game on its head, making it 3-2 to Lightning.

Thunder then threw everything into attack to try and bring the scores level, only to find themselves 4-2 behind as Jack F played it forward to Sam who took one touch before blasting it low into the corner with just 3 mins left. Surely that was the win secured for Lightning? Well Thunder had other ideas and a brilliant through ball from Alex to Hunter a minute later led to Thunder’s 3rd and Hunter’s 2nd of the game, 4-3.

There was just a minute left when another long ball gave Hunter the chance to level it but he just lost control when one on one with the keeper and Charlie gathered to see out the last attack of the game. Terrific entertainment!

All the boys were superb today and so committed…

For Lightning: Charlie was really solid in goal, made some good saves and his distribution was excellent; Kyran had the best performance I’ve seen from him so far, getting really stuck in with vital challenges and holding his position really well; Eli was all action, all over the field and was unlucky not to get more than one; Rhys made his usual powerful runs forward, getting into good positions to deliver crosses into the box, but also getting back to help out in defence; Jack F was great on the ball and made a number of key passes; Sam worked really hard up front and got into some really good positions, and was rewarded with a great goal; Jack D was Lightning’s POTM though, driving the team forward to get back into the game, scoring two and also helping out in defence.

For Thunder: Big D made several good saves and was a commanding presence at the back; Dylan A had a terrific game, with loads of key tackles and clearances; Alex combined well with the Thunder attack and created so many chances today with great skill and reading of the game; Hunter took on an attacking role and got into some great scoring positions which resulted in him scoring two, finishing both really well; Elvis played really well in midfield, particularly in the first half, where he got two assists in setting up Hunter and Xav; Xav played the centre forward roll really well, once again, holding up the ball and laying it off to others and he also took his goal superbly; POTM for Thunder though was Tommy, who thwarted so many Lightning attacks with last ditch tackles and blocks and he held his position alongside Dylan in defence really well, he was so reliable today. Well done everyone!

Match report by Ed Jones...

A very entertaining Dev Cup match today between SVR Thunder and Backwell Leopards.

The first 10 mins were very even with both teams pushing to get the opener but resilient defending from both teams prevented any clear cut chances. However, after the first set of substitutions were made we took control of the game, with first Henry and then Toby firing home.

Backwell hit back almost straight away though to keep the game tight.

Henry grabbed his second with a neat, left-footed finish to put us 3-1 up at half time and we looked well on top at this stage.

Backwell battled back at the start of the second half and pulled two goals back in quick succession to level the scores and despite having chances through Rhys and Elvis we then found ourselves 3-4 down with only 6 mins left to play. We didn’t give up though and with Hunter pushing forward to add some extra attacking threat, we managed to create a chance in the Backwell box, with Elvis finding time and space to slot home the equaliser!

It finished 4-4 which gave Thunder their first point in the league stage of the Development Cup.

Solid, battling performances all round from Big D in goal, Dylan, Tommy and Hunter in defence, great energy from Elvis, Rhys, Zach and Kyran in midfield and great pressing from Xav up front. Kyran was awarded MoTM for his best performance of the season, making a string of important challenges, moving the ball upfield well and showing great vision to make key passes throughout the game. Special mention to Toby and Henry who gave Thunder a 15 min ‘White’ boost in the 1st half with their cameos.

Match report by Simon Webster...

A hard morning for Lightning who came up against a strong Portishead Team. It was great to have the opportunity to coach the Lightning team with Paul today and I was really impressed with how the players have developed over the course of the season. They kept playing right to the end as a team and kept their shape really well despite being frustrated by the scoreline. 

Charlie was PoTM for some fantastic saves. One in the first half was very impressive where he saved a fierce shot from point blank over the cross bar! 

Every player should be proud of the way they played. Zach, Hunter and Kyran held their defensive positions really well and put some good tackles in against some skilful players. 

Rhys, Eli and Jack battled hard all game trying to break through the Portishead midfield and defence and did get some reward in the second half where they linked up with  well with Sam who caused the Portishead defence a number of problems with his speed and agility.

This game was a forfeit by SVR Thunder as we did not have enough players available and could not arrange a different date with Worle. Worle Reds were therefore granted a 3-0 win and 3 points in the league stage of the Dev Cup.

A tough morning for our Lightning Dev team up against one of the strongest teams in the Dev Cup, who are certain to finish in the top four.

Our boys battled hard throughout the game, but ultimately came up short, with Clevedon really taking their chances to produce a big scoreline.

However, Lightning finished the League Stage of the Dev Cup in 8th place, after two wins from four, and so will compete in the Silver knockout stage, with a semi-final against Worle Reds.

Match report by Ed Jones

A disappointing end to the Dev Cup for Thunder, despite dominating the majority of this semi-final. On the day we just couldn’t put the ball in the Burnbridge net.

The first half was quite even and Burnbridge probably had the better of the chances and took one of them, a really scrappy goal, to lead 1-0 at half time. SVR then dominated the second half with Jack D, Henry and Toby all going close and the Burnbridge keeper being kept busy. However, Burnbridge managed to score a second and despite the extra help from the bench (from some Whites and Blues players) we couldn’t find a way back as the opposition defended bravely.

Big D made some very good saves in the first half but didn’t have much to do after half time such was Thunder’s dominance.

Hunter was excellent in defence and got us moving forward with some big clearances.

Dylan battled away at the back with some good tackles and blocks.

Tom W also made numerous big clearances and blocks.

Elvis was his usual busy self, getting forward to support the attack as well as back to defend.

Jack D was full of running and was a constant threat to Burnbridge.

Theodore made some great attacking runs and put himself about.

Xav came of the bench and used his size and strength to good effect.

Henry and Finley came off the bench to add a bit more going forward, and played some great football. Toby and Bono also had cameos to try and rescue the game and helped us dominate the second half, but ultimately Burnbridge deserved their win.

POTM went to Hunter for his all round effort.

Well done to all of the Dev players in the Dev Series and Dev Cup this season.

Match report by...Paul Savill

What an awesome performance this morning from all the boys in a pulsating end to end encounter. 

I know they were all disappointed not to make it through to the final but they deserve so much credit and should all be proud from the collective and individual performances. 

The link up play and communication across the board was fantastic, especially from a group that hasn't played together previously - You wouldn't have known it to watch them. 

⭐Remy - What a performance between the sticks. Throwing himself at everything, he stopped more than double the goals we conceded. The opposition players and coaches were all full of praise for him, as were his teammates. Any keeper would have been proud of some of those stops, especially the one he made on the goal line when the ball had already gone past him. 

⭐Eli - Has created the inverted centre half position and played it brilliantly. Making deep runs up the pitch, looking to stop every attack and running his socks off to get back into his starting position. Made some really excellent passes and never gave up. 

⭐Zach - Like his centre back partner he was given licence to get forward and he made the most of the freedom and really made the most of his late change of position when pushed up into midfield, battling hard and looking to protect the defence. 

⭐Kit - As always, full of running up and down the pitch. His clearenses and vision to play the ball into space for the forwards to run onto were excellent. Made a number of darting run down the wing with his pace and shored up the back line when we were being put under a barrage of pressure. 

⭐Herbie - The epitome of tenacious. Throwing himself into every duel, running endlessly and so positive in his forward play. He made a number of excellent passes that cut through the Worle midfield and was so unlucky to hit the side netting with an absolutely thunderous free kick. 

⭐⚽Rhys - A captain's performance by any measure, leading by example and constantly communicating with, and encouraging, his team mates. Again, battled with total commitment, read the game brilliantly playing off the shoulder of his marker and finding space to run into. Set Kache up brilliantly and slotted away his penalty with ease after being taken out by the opposition keeper. 

⭐⚽Kache - What a player. Had the ball glued to his feet at points this morning and used his power to hold off the multiple players that tried to stop him in his tracks. Made a number of attacking runs, including for his goal when he left two defenders in his wake before coolly slotting past the keeper into the bottom corner before instigating a mass SVR hug in the middle of the pitch. 

⭐Sam: Worked so well this morning against some really tough defenders and didn't give them an inch. His movement and positioning were fantastic and he really gave the Worle defence a different properistion to contend with. Really unlucky not to get a goal that would have been thoroughly deserved. 

⭐🏆POTM: Jack F - Absolutely faultless in midfield when he came on, playing the game at his own pace and using the ball with real creative intention. Got himself in the mix of the midfield tussles and made a real difference to our attacking threat from the moment he stepped onto the pitch. 

Match report by Ed Jones...

Hard luck to the Stripes team this morning. The boys battled really hard all game and competed with Priory throughout. A few mistakes cost us and Priory took their chances, but there certainly wasn’t a 0-7 difference between the teams and the scoreline doesn’t really tell the whole story. We played some nice football for periods of the game and had some chances but couldn’t quite turn pressure into goals. Another learning experience in preparation for next season. Well done to them all for the effort they showed today.

Today’s POTM was Zach for his battling play throughout, both in defence and midfield. A great performance!