Date

After what seems like another long break due to the weather we travel to Yate Utd today. Yate have had a very difficult season so far and are currently rooted to the bottom of the league. Prior to this game they have played one more game than us with 11 games played, no wins, one draw and 10 lost games. They currently have 1 point. Bradley Stoke sit two places above them with 10 games played, three wins, no draws and 7 lost games. Important that we get something out of this game.

1st Half
Yate Utd kicked off the game on a surprisingly sunny afternoon. As both teams settled down into the match play, Bradley Stoke were the first team to get themselves forward. Within the first few minutes James Clayton and James Snook both saw their shots go wide. 

As we entered the 5th minute Bradley Stoke continued to dominate the game bringing the ball up the field. Yate looked a strong physical side at the back and were quick to clear the ball back out. 

As the game progressed Yate made the odd break down the field but the back four of Ollie, Sam, Joe and James made sure that Fraser had little to do. 

On 16 minutes a great run down the wing by James S to the line saw his final ball just saved by the keeper as Ben V ran in for a sure goal. The pressure continued by Bradley Stoke and a couple of corners were won. The first, a perfect corner by Ben M to Ben V who again was close on goal. The second corner was again delivered well but the Yate defence pushed the ball out. 

As the minutes ticked by Bradley Stoke continued to push forward. Both Bens, James and Matt were running at the Yate defence. Will and Kieran continued to battle to turn the final ball into a goal. On 28 minutes James S again made a run into the box but again saw his shot go just wide. 

Yate Utd looked for the odd chance to push forward but simply could not break through. 

On 35 minutes Wesley on : Will off .

As the final few minutes of the first half were played out Bradley Stoke continued to push for the first goal. Yate Utd did win a free kick just outside the box but the defence was again equal to any challenge. The whistle went and ended a positive half for Bradley Stoke. We witnessed some good football at times but just that final ball was the only thing missing. Yate Utd 0 Bradley Stoke 0

 
2nd Half
Wesley off : Will on.

After both managers chose their magic words for the 2nd half, Bradley Stoke commenced the game. Within the first 3 minutes Bradley Stoke again took the game to Yate Utd. Chances were again created and Kye, Ben V and James were all unlucky not to covert the first goal of the afternoon.

As I checked my watch with 8 minutes gone, Bradley Stoke were still very much in control, all we need was that final ball.....................

Within 1 minute, James S went the closest to scoring so far. Another great run down the wing before cutting in and shooting just wide of the post. 

As the minutes ticked by we were beginning to wonder if it was going to be one of those games. Creating the game play, controlling most of the match but simply unable to score that goal.

As the 18th minute ticked by it's worth mentioning again despite the scoreline how well the team were getting the ball up the pitch. The players seemed generally focused on the game and surely the break would come.

On 27th minutes following another surge forward Bradley Stoke were awarded a freekick just outside the box. After some confusion and some guidance from the side lines James Clayton stepped up to take the kick. The goal mouth was packed with players but James simply did not need any of them. He floated the ball high into the air, over the keeper and in to the back of the net. The relief could be felt by everyone who was playing or supporting Bradley Stoke. A great strike and a just reward for a hard battle. Yate Utd 0 Bradley Stoke 1.

It was important that we did not give away this lead and Bradley Stoke continued to push for the 2nd goal.

On 33 minutes Ollie off : Will off :  Kieran on: Wesley on :

As the final minutes were played out Bradley Stoke continued to battle and any attempt by Yate was quickly sorted. In the final seconds it proved very tense but generally Fraser continued to have one of his quietist afternoons in a long while. The final whistle was sounded to the cheer from the players and supporters of Bradley Stoke. A mention to Yate, who despite not having many goal scoring opportunities, battled hard from the defence and midfield. Certainly they were better than their league position shows. Today was always going to be difficult when you play a team that everyone expects you to beat. However, as we know we don't have an automatic right to win and today we carved out 3 points in a well deserved, well played game of football.  Well done to all the team. Yate Utd 0 Bradley Stoke Utd 1.

 Goals 1st Half  - None 

 Goals 2nd Half - James Clayton (27th)

 Yate Utd                       7

  Bradley Stoke Utd       6        

 This weeks award was chosen by Ken  :

 Fanfare Please !!!!!!!!!!

 James Clayton (great goal). Well done to Ben Morgan who should also have a mention. 

 Well Done

 MAN OF MATCH AWARDS......(as picked by parents & friends)

 James Clayton (2), James Snook (2), Kye Worner, Ben V, Fraser Organ,    Will Tozer

It's nice to get the award but don't forget you still need the other 10 players !!!!!!

Any queries or comments please email on:

dave.salter@blueyonder.co.uk

Thanks

Dave Salter