Hampton Caught!
WRFC U17 Hurricanes 5 – 0 Hampton Youth
Sunday 18th October
The high-flying Hurricanes entertained Hampton Youth who were caught out by a second-half onslaught. After the usual slow start, the Hurricanes continued to play much of the half in the same vein. Worplesdon seemed unaccustomed to playing against a very hard-working and a more physical side as Hampton. Luckily for the Hurricanes, ‘keeper Horton was in superb form, on three occasions coming well out of his area to clear danger in addition to a stunning save at the feet of Hampton’s striker looking certain to score.
Worplesdon showed glimpses of the fluent football of recent weeks and took the lead with a low shot from mid-fielder Clarke, just reward for his work-rate alone! For the first time this season, the Hurricanes weren’t having everything their own way!
Half time came with Worplesdon 1-0 up but without any oranges for the boys ( c’mon parents, you’re slipping….).
Early second-half exchanges showed that the Hurricanes were gaining control, the introduction of Alderton in midfield giving more time and options in attack. Reluctant to ‘get stuck in’, two good corners from Foster and Dennis went unchallenged. Rodrigues and Royle came close as the play switched freely from side to side as Worplesdon were seeking a second.
Royle came close again!
Any tension was eased with a spectacular 30 yard strike from Alderton, 2-0!
Attacks from the Hurricanes now came thick and fast. Hampton were saved by the bar as Foster lobbed the ‘keeper, most of the goalmouth scrambles had gone Hampton’s way until Foster added a third from close range.
Things were really improving as Worplesdon actually scored two goals from corners. Alderton darting in unmarked got his second with a precise header and Habgood rose brilliantly at the far post with a powerful header.
Ending 5-0, this week’s game was enhanced by Hampton who played throughout with great spirit and strength.
The game was brilliantly marshalled by the Hurricanes stand-in ref, Tim Dennis, complete with shiny whistle and multiple footwear choices to cover any weather condition or any colour clash.
Tim was singled out for praise from Hampton for his performance – but not his attire.
One quote from a highly knowledgeable Worplesdon fan: ” ….the best ref’ we’ve seen at Onslow for years”!
The slightly soft under-belly of the Hurricanes was put to the test today….however the quality and variety of their passing game was good enough to out-weigh any frailties.
The U17’s are watched by ever increasing numbers, there are now more grand-parents (quiet ones), siblings and dogs than ever. We at the Hurricanes welcome you all, regardless of age, two legs or four….or even legless.
Come to our next game at home v West Byfleet Scorpions, 25th October, 10.00am ko
See you Sunday…. bearing fruit !
Well done lads.