On Saturday 14th October saw Rodborough Youth Football Club Under 9’s host a small mini tournament with Malmesbury and Cotswold Rangers attending Archway for a morning of football.

The tournament consisted of Rodborough Revolution, Rodborough Renegades, Malmesbury Youth and Cotswold Rangers. Each team play three 14-minute games in a round robin format.

The morning started with an ominous looking rain cloud over head, the winds started to pick up and the rain threatened but never fell. There was an autumnal feel in the air that added to the occasion.

Cotswold Rangers players started to arrive and with a small while to go before the game, their parents assisted the Rodborough coaches in setting up the goals and putting the finishing touches to ensure everything was ready. Many thanks for the help and assistance.

The competition gave each team valuable experience at the 7-a-side game with this being the first season for the players in this format.

The football flowed and each team contributed to an excellent morning of football, all of which was enjoyed by players, coaches and spectators a-like.

The mornings football concluded with the RYFC Under 9’s head to head of Revolution vs Renegades. In a fiercely fought contest both teams looked for the for the goal that would give the other team bragging rights. Both teams played good football but could not find a way through. The game ended as a draw.

In addition to the tournament a 6-a-side game was arranged to give other players a good run out between an Under 9’s hybrid team and Malmesbury. Played in great spirits by both teams resulted in an entertaining match.

“Rodborough were magnificent hosts for a great mornings football. The developing players had a good run out and opportunity to practice against a well-matched team, which is so important for them. The more confident players had 3 terrific close tournament matches against quality opponents. Overall - a great morning” Nick Scraggs - Assistant Coach Malmesbury YFC Under 9s

“What’s important for the players at this age is to play appropriate opponents in a supportive and developmental atmosphere. Rodborough supplied both in a great morning’s football. Look forward to playing many times over the coming years.” Matt Cheetham - coach Malmesbury YFC under 9s