U17 Hurricanes at the Double!
To those who regularly follow Worplesdon Rangers’ finest, (The U17 Hurricanes), a winning margin of 11-0 would not be a complete surprise. What might be slightly surprising that this was the aggregate score over two games against Brooklands Hawks U17….
Sunday 6th December 2015: SPL Premier Division – WRFC U17 Hurricanes 6-0 Brooklands
Top playing bottom had nothing to do with the incline that is Onslow Rec., merely the difference in league position between the Hawks and Hurricanes. Brooklands arrived without a win this season but they came with a game plan based on defence with little attention to offence.
Our newly acquired tape was banned by the fun-phobic referee, who also tried to sabotage Dominic’s quest for Linesman of the Year but Dom is far too experienced to be flustered by changing sides! However, Doug, our tape sponsor was rather upset.
Kicking uphill, the Hurricanes dominated as Horton in goal for Worplesdon was a virtual spectator but for a few long clearances. Aided by a penalty, the Hurricanes had strolled to a 4-0 half-time lead.
The Hawks started the second half with only damage limitation in mind. What Brooklands lack in attacking prowess they more than make up with team-work and determination. The Hurricanes assumed an avalanche of goals would eventually bury the lowly Hawks at base camp end. The ball spent virtually all the second half in or around the Hawks penalty area. Only two second half goals for the Hurricanes was a result of resolute defending and over-elaboration from the Hurricanes.
Scorers:- Foster (2), Rodrigues, Davies, Alderton and Habgood.
Sunday 13th December 2015: SPL Premier Division – Brooklands 0-5 WRFC U17 Hurricanes
The Hurricanes left the not so grassy slopes of Onslow for the plush surroundings of St. Georges’ College, a stone’s throw from ‘Brooklands’. Brooklands has the first purpose-built motor racing circuit opened in 1907, it doubled up with Britain’s first airfield in 1909 which saw the first flight of the awesome Hurricane. 
Worplesdon were seeking another double of their own against the Hawks.
Early pressure from the Hurricanes and fearless defending led to the Hawks being reduced to ten men. An accidental kick to the face saw one defender leave for the local hospital but only after some expert care administered by Worplesdon’s first-aider with his perfectly stocked first-aid kit.
Worplesdon had to adapt to the very narrow pitch and the lack of gradient. A penalty from Foster gave the Hurricanes an early lead.
The Hawks were soon reduced to nine men, one of their midfielders clearly struggling with an injury.
A direct through ball into the area from Binfield was met perfectly by Foster who slotted past the advancing ‘keeper.
Half-time: 2-0 up against 9 men and Horton without a save to make, the Hurricanes had all the possession.
Back by popular demand, the apples re-appeared at half-time and are now fast becoming the fruit of choice for the Hurricanes and linesmen alike.
Bennett on the right and Royal on the left constantly created openings from wide, Hutton, Alderton and Rodrigues making the chances in the central areas. With such superiority in terms of possession, Worplesdon had to score more and despite heroic defending and goalkeeping, Brooklands conceded one each from Bennett and Rodrigues, both from close-range following good passing moves. Given the extra space, the Hurricanes defence got further forward and centre back Williams unleashed an unstoppable shot from the edge of the area.
Worplesdon had achieved another double and remain in pole position.
Brooklands showed brilliant team spirit but, for now at least, remain at the foot of the table and are easily the hardest-working side the Hurricanes have faced.
Scorers: Foster (2), Rodrigues, Bennett and Williams.
Since the start of this campaign, the Hurricanes have played three friendlies, one Cup match and eleven League games. They remain unbeaten, which is a great achievement. The Hurricanes have yet to hit top gear; they just do what is required of them every week, entertaining those watching.
The exhibition match on 3rd January 2016, when the Hurricanes land in the heart of Worplesdon, should give their talents a wider audience.
Whilst on the subject of winning teams, a little known fact….
Worplesdon Rangers already have one trophy this season. At a recent quiz night run by Guildford City FC the Rangers proved, not only do they have the best coaches in local football, but the brainiest! Having been invited by a former parent at Rangers but now a friendless parent at GCFC, our team included the U17’s Manager, First-aider, Fitness Coach, Linesman and other parents from Worplesdon….We won in style!
This year has already been fruitful, lets hope 2016 is equally so.
Big thanks and Happy Xmas to everyone who helps out at the Hurricanes – and those who come to support.
Well done this year lads!