Sirius Academy West v South Holderness Technology College 21/9/16
It was the Year 9’s opening fixture of the season and it was one in no bigger competition than the English Schools Cup. South Holderness Technology College arrived with a large squad which looked to provide the boys with a stern test.
Sirius West started with a new look line-up and formation with manager Mr Gordon opting for a diamond formation, in the hope of providing a strong central core from which to launch a controlled and potent attack. Despite a baron spell of goals from corners in previous years, it was from a corner that the West boys took the lead with centre back Ali Alsheriafe latching onto a loose ball after Holderness had failed to clear. The extra support going forward allowed Charlie Shooter and Omali Mukelenge to be constant threats with the ball both at their feet and in behind, with both working hard and came close to getting on the score sheet themselves.
The new look formation gave a solid base which allowed Harry Blackham to be put into a central attacking midfield role, a marked change from his previous seasons as a reliable centre back. This proved to be a shrewd move as Blackham extended the lead to 2-0 to take into half time.
Blackham utilised the free role once again to give Sirius a 3-0 lead shortly after halftime. The commanding position appeared to take some of the concentration away from the Sirius boys with the Holderness striker coming to life and firing his side a lifeline…3-1. It was a nervous 5 minute spell with Sirius penned in their own half with Holderness using the newly found time and space to play, with the Holderness captain getting a foothold in the game and playing some excellent football.
However, Sirius managed to steady the ship and again took back their share of possession with some sharp play the match was all but finished when Blackham completing his hat-trick to make it 4-1. Credit to Holderness who responded quickly to make it 4-2 but in truth the game was never truly in doubt from that point.
Overall and excellent performance from front to back, with the boys adapting well to a new system and several personnel changes in the game.
Goalscorers:
Ali Alsheriafe
Harry Blackham (3)
Next Fixture: St Mary’s (H) Thursday 29/9/16
