In what was the teams final pre-season friendly before the MJPL season starts on Saturday, The lads took on a Charlbury Under 15 Side - fresh from winning league and cup last season.
The game was played in 4 x 20 minute periods, as the night drew in on a fine Septembers evening!
We took a big squad to the game this evening and ensured everyone played at least 2 x 20 minute spells.
The physical threat from the older Charlbury players was clear to see from the outset.
However we started the game strongly, and our pace upfront and in wide areas was a constant threat.

The opening goal arrived early in the 8th Minute. Some good passing in midfield led to Cian finding space on the right wing and floating in an excellent cross which Finlay headed into the goal 0-1.

Aidan was marshalling the defence impressively, and the threat was being snuffed out each time Charlbury came forward.
The next big chance also fell to United - and once again Finlay controlling a high ball dead, turning and smashing the ball against the post.

The second period started with Charlbury doing some attacking. Nathan reacted brilliantly on 2/3 occasions to make some fantastic saves to keep the team in front, the pick being an excellent double save.
United were always a threat though and when a foul was committed just outside the box on 26 minutes a brilliant long range effort from George flew over the keeper and into the top corner 0-2.
A little bit of panicking in defence led to a couple more opportunites for charlbury - but last gasp defending and brilliance from Nathan in goal kept the score 2-0 at the end of the period.

The third period was probably the teams most impressive spell. The team completely controlling the game. Charlbury never got into Uniteds half, and an inevitable third goal came in the 51st minute. Industrious work from Luke who played a lofted ball forward, Cian beating the keeper to the ball to volley into the net 3-0.

Into the final quarter and another big raft of changes altered the shape of the game. Charlbury growing into and sensing a comeback scored after a bit of defensive indecision let the striker into slide past Nathan.
The final meaningful action of the game was a disallowed goal, Tyra playing Finlay through one on one with the keeper. He made no mistake - but the linesmans flag was up for a very marginal call.

An excellent performance, and the boys should go into Saturdays league opener full of confidence!