12 months ago, Mellor U16s recorded a memorable away win over Timperley; and after last week’s disappointment against Stockport, the boys (and their parents) were hoping history would be repeated. However, the morning didn’t start particularly well …. as we were short of a referee, two coaches, a gum-guard, (look away now Vicky) a vital knee-brace and seemingly any “oomph” in our players. On the basis of the warm-ups, the 20 players in the Timperley squad must have thought we’d be a walk-over.

Anyway, the first quarter saw a lot of loose play from MC but, in spite of this, we managed to score first and thanks to some good goal-keeping from Brandon we only conceded one goal.

After a good team-talk from Dan, the boys upped their game in the second quarter. A combination of better passing, better catching and movement off the ball saw MC take a good 6-3 lead at half-time.

In the second half, Timperley came back strongly and matched MC almost goal for goal. There was solid defence from Tom, Will and Louis and, apart from a few heart-stopping moments when they left gaps or players unmarked, they played as a solid unit – with great support from Isaac’s long stick and the other middies. Miles won more of his share of face-offs and apart from the occasional lapse into football, he put in some good runs. As ever some great “assists” from Joe and Elliot.

The third quarter saw two goals apiece with Cameron securing his hat trick and Josh getting his second. 8-5 at the end of the quarter. The final quarter went the same way – goal for goal at either end. After a shaky start in goal, Jonathan was now playing well and stopped some good Timperley shots.

MC were still guilty of some poor passing and decision-making but, to put a positive spin on this, it was incredibly sporting of the boys to keep giving Timperley the ball so they could try and get back in the game ! I know the Mellor and Cheadle parents on the touch-line applauded this ….?!?

Goals from seven different MC players (Matt, George, Cameron, Josh, Miles, Joe, Jonathan) …which shows how the quality is spread right across this team.

Final score, 11-8 to MC – a well-deserved victory.