Report

For the first time in many weeks, the sun was shining and the scene was set for some pre match photos ahead of our final game of the season (any good ones for the website folks?) The match was played at Broomfield even though it was Wilvale’s home fixture as the opposition did not have a pitch available.  

The key risk for Blaze was that they took the match too lightly as Wilvale had only won one game all season and were already relegated. Having said that, management took a calculated risk in leaving out Safe Hands Harris in favour of Tip ‘em Over Thomas who seemed very happy to succeed  “not quite so keen” Macsween as Blaze’s reserve keeper.  

Blaze started on the front foot but the Wilvale keeper made some good stops behind a resolute defence before the breakthrough came after 15 minutes – Ingrouille turning in a cross from Macsween. But it wasn’t long before Wilvale were back in it as the Blaze defence were caught out by a long ball from the keeper - as Paterson and Thomas were deciding which of them should take responsibility to clear, the ball was smashed into the back of the net on the half volley. It was a fine strike which deserved to level the match. But Blaze were undaunted and Macsween who had looked a threat from the start added two fine goals before half time. Some changes followed around the interval - Ingrouille was replaced by Sarhan and Elsted and Springthorpe made way for Hills and Monsell (although each of them were having a fine match). 

After the interval Monsell and Dixon went close as Blaze were driven on by the busy Hills who was showing some nice touches, until a kick to the ankle temporarily removed him from the fray. It was only when Springthorpe and Elsted returned to the field for Dixon and Macsween that Blaze found more penetration and added further goals. Some of the passing and build up play involving these two and Hills was excellent. Springthorpe got his reward when he cut in from the right and placed a neat shot across the keeper for his 5^th of the season. Elsted then unleashed a howitzer from the edge of the box to take him into double figures before Monsell found a fine pass across the box (or was a cross Tom?!) to tee up Elsted for his brace. 

6-1 did not flatter Blaze who played the better football throughout, and some of their best of the season  in H2. Springthorpe took the Man of the Match award for his inspired performance.

Blaze will probably finish 5^th in the league, having lost only 3 of their final 11 matches (two of those to the runaway champions). As we wished Wilvale well for next season, management and parents headed to the clubhouse, chests puffed with pride to celebrate the players achievements and take on some much needed fluid – it was a warm day after all !

Management would like to say a massive well done to all the lads this season. It has been a hugely enjoyable experience for all involved. The improvement shown by the lads on the pitch has been amazing and they should all look forward to next season with confidence!