Stockport Lacrosse Club Juniors: Stockport U12s Vs Mellor

Stockport U12s VS Mellor

Cup Match.

Rise like a salmon (blog title guest created by Chris Bland this week)

‘Oh no, not Mellor next’ was muttered by the Stockport faithful’s after the last fixture. There was a genuine fear that despite the best efforts of the boys recent performances, this was going to be a difficult match. Inevitably, this thought was driven by the results from the last few games but putting that aside, and casting an eye back to the away fixture in November, I recall Mellor commenting that Stockport had been their first real test of the season.

In the past couple of games, Stockport have not been starting well, which has created a mountain for them to climb as the quarters have progressed. They seem to have suffered from ‘rabbit in the headlight’ syndrome… and something needed to change.

The game this week was played on the pitch in front of our impressive clubhouse. The weather was bright and there had been a slight overnight frost which made choosing an appropriate jacket, a tricky challenge before even leaving the house! In the end, I went for a padded option with hood- very snug.

All three pitches, at the venue, were hosting games so there was a really good atmosphere all round. Our local neighbours Stockport County had just completed a takeover so we were all wondering (and hoping) if the positivity surrounding the town would transfer down to the U12’s.

Before the ref blew his whistle to signal the start of the game, the only other pressing question was, ‘were Henry’s boots coral or salmon pink?’

Fashion aside, let’s crack on.

I’m not sure what the coaches said to the boys before the face-off but immediately we looked like a different team. There was a better shape from the beginning and we had energy in abundance. A great battling start led to Dan scoring first 1-0. Mellor got one back but a great check and goal from ‘salmon boots’ Henners took back the lead.

The energy and shape continued, and I think Mellor were a little shocked at how competitive the Stockport boys were. This was not going to be a high scoring game and the quarter finished 2-2 with the Mellor (13) getting his second goal. You could feel the positivity within the team and the massed Stockport followers cheered on the boys. This was a vastly better start to a game.

The energy and passion continued from the start. The ball was being passed around and all team members were involved, which was good to see. Tom had a fine shot and was unlucky to hit the post. Dan got a well-deserved second goal followed up by Henners getting a second. The new boots seemed to be working.

This was turning into a physical game which we thought Stockport were winning with plenty of very solid blocks repelling Mellor.

However, Mellor were organised and passed the ball well. They weren’t going to roll over and hand us the win. Instead, they fought on and hit the post before getting a third goal to finish the quarter 4-3. Come on Stockport!!!

Mellor started well and hit the post which was followed by a goal to make it all square 4-4. The defence was still holding its shape and there was some good defensive work particularly by Harrison.

It probably should have been mentioned earlier on, but the team now has some young and inexperienced players but these players looked to be integrating well, which is great to see. The addition of extra players, gives the team more options and with Finn in midfield, the team isn’t relying on 2 or 3 players to make plays.

A rocket shot from Dan put us back in the lead but Mellor was matching us goal for goal and they got another one to finish Q3, 5-5.

The general consensus within the crowd was that we carried on into Q4 with the same energy and structure from the previous quarters, Stockport could really win this match.

However, possibly because of the sheer amount of effort the lads put in during the previous 45mins we seemed to lose the shape (this was probably down to fatigue setting in). The coaches responded to the situation and moved a few players around to get some fresh legs on the field, particularly in midfield. Mellor accelerated almost immediately (perhaps sensing victory) and despite the best efforts of the boys’ they cruised to 5-9 at the finish.

Those of you who were at the game may be wondering why Josh has not been mentioned in this match report. ALL the players played well but we, (the members of the crowd) all thought Josh was outstanding in goal and this was the best we have seen him play.

Despite the Q4 capitulation, this was a very strong showing from Stockport. Going into the Timperley match next week I hope the energy can continue and the boys can get a positive result.

I classed this as a good loss. Great performance and a cracking watch. 5-9 at the final whistle.

Coral or salmon pink, you decide.