The match kicked off on a windy morning in Gloucester, and Rodborough went straight on the offensive. Battling against a physical opposition, Rodborough created lots of chances but struggled to convert. Against the run of play, Tuffley Whites got the first goal in the 12th minute after an uncharacteristic defensive slip up, however, the boys got their heads up and continued to attack. Lots of good passing play followed, with Alex C controlling the game from the back and frustrating the Tuffley players. A number of chances went begging before Rodborough’s first goal came from a 20th minute corner. Zaid A looped the ball over the Tuffley defence and found Joe W who smashed it in the net. Superb goal! Sam TS made a couple of good saves at the other end, to leave it 1-1 at half time.

The second half began in a similar manner to the first with lots of chances. Rodborough’s second goal came after Theo M passed to Brenden W who took on several players before striking the ball high above the keeper. Tuffley had some chances of their own but Bradley H, marshalling Jack D and Barnaby F in defence, dealt with them. Drama came towards the end of the match when Oliver R chipped the ball into the Tuffley box only for their defender to raise his arm to it. Penalty! Jack M stepped forward, but the Tuffley keeper made a great save. Showing the resilience that typified this team, the ball fell to Jack M less than a minute later and this time he made certain, scoring Rodborough’s third and final goal.

As mentioned, the theme of this match was resilience. Not only were Rodborough playing against a good physical side, but also had to contend with some very blustery conditions. At time’s it felt like the goals weren’t going to come and to go a goal down against the run of play was tough. However, making lots of chances resulted in 3 good goals and a well deserved win.

Man of the Match, as voted for by the Tuffley players, was Theo M for dominating the mid-field.

Coaches man of the match was Barnaby F for working hard despite bearing the brunt of a number of heavy challenges.

A huge thanks to Tuffley Whites for a good game and good luck to them in their coming fixtures.