It has been a tricky start to the season – but this was a rare occasion when all the players were available.

We start with a mention to Kelan who went to support the Kestrels. He had an impressive game – scoring 2 great goals in their 2-2 draw.

As for the game against a strong Loxwood team – the Hawks were off – fierce and competitive – pushing forward and causing concerns for the Loxwood defense. Before long, a smart finish by George saw the Hawks take the lead. The team were then put under pressure but chances appeared at both ends.

An assured performance in goal by William R – reading the game well and pulling off some amazing save. A particular smart moment saw William watching the ball trickle along his line following a crashing shot against the post and jumping bravely to hold onto it despite incoming Loxwood attackers. The defence continued to hold strong – with Lucian and William providing a steady base to build from. Woody was busy on this side and stood up to the test. Despite efforts, a bustling charge pushed through the middle of penalty area and Loxwood were level.

The next 30 minutes saw Teddy and Keiran continued their all out combative natures in the middle of the pitch – I say middle, but they covered the entire pitch! With instructions to work together – they formed a formidable pairing and kept the Hawks engine working hard.

Arthur and Aaron on the wings trying to push forward. An opening appeared for Aaron and he struck the ball – only for it to go marginally wide with the keeper beat. Another moment saw George round the keeper but he was just unable to get his balance right before a desperate Loxwood defender threw himself in the way saving a certain goal.

Arthur continued with quick feet – trying to release George at every opportunity. Harry was introduced and he was determined to work hard down the left wing before being moved to the right. He listened well to instructions and was making efforts to support the defence and also push forward. Showing a relentless effort, Harry was determined not to let anyone down.

Arthur was chasing everything today – even when he would not be first to the ball, he chased and did not let up. Not giving time to their defence and also trying to feed his attacking teammates – a very selfless display today.

Into the last quarter and a surge by Loxwood saw them score 2 goals in 3 mins. The Hawks rallied hard and were winning free kicks around the Loxwood penalty area. Then, a moment of pure magic – Coach Ian shouting instructions for the team to leave the free kick to Teddy and his trusted Right foot. He calmed himself and struck a beautiful kick – round the wall and into the top left corner – unstoppable !!! A moment of pure magic – that alone would justify the cost of entry today !

Whilst not the result we wanted, there were a lot of positive to take from the season and especially today. Mentions to William R and Woody – both played a half in goal and then contributed to the defensive duties. Woody is in his debut season and his rise has been spectacular – adapting and learning quickly. Having the steady Lucian and William B has meant the team have a base to build from. The battling pairing of Teddy and Keiran are starting to form a special partnership in the middle. Aaron, Harry and George never stop running – remembering to drop back to support the team.

The changes to a 9-a-sided pitch is taking time and with the games are coming thick and fast we have sharp learning curve ahead. You can see the foundation now- the team need consistency and time to grow and the coaches have every faith in the players.