Seven matches, seven clean sheets, seven goals, seven magnificent players, seven MOTM awards! The Under 9 football tournament at Cheadle Hulme School has heralded an exciting future for football at Bridgewater Prep. in the coming three years. The sun was a welcome addition to a brilliantly organised event against some stiff opposition.
Bridgewater’s first match was against Scarisbrick Hall who were coached by the former Everton captain Alan Stubbs. Bridgewater had prepared meticulously for the first game and attacked the opposition for the full eight minutes of the game. The highlight of the game was a stunning finish from Zane who rifled the ball in to the top corner whilst seemingly off balance. Bridgewater won 3-0.
Our second game was unfortunately cancelled due to Stonyhurst not arriving on time so after an opportunity to eat and hydrate the team lined up against Bury Grammar. This game was very different, with Bury showing impressive aggression in their challenges and were well drilled. The star of the Bury team was a right winger who apparently plays for Salford FC. Roshan took no notice of this reputation and produced an outstanding defensive performance which nullified Bury’s threat and earned Roshan an MOTM award and the thanks of his team mates who earned a very competitive 0-0 draw.
Westholme frustrated Bridgewater in the next game by flooding their penalty box to the point where Bridgewater rained a plethora of shots on the Westholme goal to no avail. MOTM was Tyler, who showed wonderful close control and dazzled the Westhome right back on numerous occasions.
Bridgewater had a relatively easy 1-0 victory vs. Cheadle with Max showing some lovely touches and great improvement in his distribution.
The game against Stockport Grammar was a feisty and compelling game. Although it ended 0-0, Mr. Rooney was very proud of his team for standing up to a powerful opposition. Albie was outstanding in this game showing leadership, aggression, skill and perseverance.
Our rivals Bolton were next on our fixture list. The team played with determination and skill and managed to break the deadlock with a well taken goal. Bolton were determined to find an equaliser but Freddie was equally determined to keep the opposition out with some excellent saves. Well done Freddie. This was a sweet victory!
Our final game against Merchant Taylor’s was won 1-0. Theo showed some delightful touches in his MOTM performance.
The team were shattered at the end. They had played fantastically well and earned a lot of respect from the opposition and on-looking England internationals and world darts champions. Magnificent!