In horrible weather, including strong winds and driving rain, Euxton Blacks showed real determination and skill to beat the current league leaders. Playing up the slope and into the full force of the wind Euxton's first job was to defend and they did well. At times getting the ball out of their own half was a challenge but after a tough first 10 minutes , in which it must be said Aarbaaz was never forced to make a save, they started getting their passing game going and after one good move Daniel finished with a cool shot to give Euxton the lead. This seemed to build the boys confidence even more and they never looked like losing their grip on the match. Before the break the lead was doubled after more great work led to a poke home from Dylan from a tight angle.
 
Leading 2- 0 at half time despite playing into the worst of the conditions was a magnificent return for the boys and the side went into the second half full of confidence. During the next 20 minutes the game was played almost exclusively in the Astley half with only the occasional foray into Euxton territory. In increasingly difficult conditions some good football was played with the passing from Euxton at times really pleasing. Astley contributed to a good game with determination and no lack of skill of their own but the pressure on the Astley defence told with another goal from Dylan and one from Jack to make it 4-0
 
The pleasing thing was the way the boys mixed being as determined as the conditions demanded, whilst playing good passing football. There were a number of strong contenders for man of the match - Dylan with 2 goals and tireless running , Luke with a determined defensive performance (forming a good partnership with Ben) Jack with an energetic display despite a cold and Daniel who not only scored the important first goal but also helped his defence out with a great goal line clearance. In the end the popular choice went to Ben who combined some good tackles and positional play in defence with a new found confidence to run and dribble with the ball turning defence into attack.
 
This match showed the boys what is possible for them - the passing and movement continues to develop and the attitude was spot on. When that is the case you tend to enjoy football even the most challenging of weather!