Sandgate U12 Blades - League Champions
The Blades secured their third title in four years (across three leagues) when they added Surrey to their previous Slough and Thames Valley successes.
A depleted squad with no subs available, worked hard in the heat against Raynes Park on a carpet of a pitch. In training the day before, the squad meeting focused on putting the team objective above personal glory. Working hard for your team-mates and if necessary sacrificing your normal game.
All the players were aware of the significance of the match and wanted to continue the winning streak. However, they also knew that a point would be enough to take the championship with five games to spare.
The boys played with their brains as well as their feet and reached half-time at 0-0. The work rate never dropped, deploying a high press and being careful in possession. Chances from open play were limited but Sandgate just edged those stats. Mid-way through the second half Harris struck a peach of a free-kick into the back of the net via the far post and the diving 'Keeper. Raynes Park, who needed the win to guarantee second place and with it promotion, came back strongly but the Blades defended well as a team. One overindulgence in possession in the Blades' defensive third gave the Home side a free-kick. The ball was delivered into the box and was forced over the line at the far post, 1-1. The Blades' first draw in two seasons.
This was a great match: strong tackles, intelligent play and hard work from both teams. A fitting way to clinch the title. The Blades next team objective: to gain as many points as possible from the final five games.
Congratulations to the whole squad.
