The Cobras continued their campaign in the SSTFL U15s Seeder Division, facing their second defeat in a hard-fought contest.
Playing up an age group is never easy, but this determined group of players has embraced the challenge with real energy and enthusiasm. Throughout the match, they stuck to their philosophy of playing out from the back, keeping the ball on the floor – “The Cranleigh Way” – and dominated large portions of the game.
However, Elstead Sharks’ physicality proved decisive. An early first-half header from a corner put the visitors ahead. The second half mirrored the first, with the Sharks doubling their lead from another corner to make it 0-2.
The Cobras pulled one back when a deflected own goal brought them into the game, but despite some good spells of pressure, they failed to capitalise. Elstead responded quickly, restoring their two-goal advantage with a third strike.
Ollie gave the Cobras a glimmer of hope with a beautifully taken, curved shot over the Elstead keeper, reducing the deficit. Just as it seemed like a comeback might be on, Elstead sealed their win with a breakaway goal deep into injury time, making it 2-4.
As one Elstead supporter put it, “Cranleigh’s passing game was inspirational,” and the general consensus was that the Cobras were the better team on the day. But, as they say, “good teams find a way to win,” and Elstead secured their third straight victory of the season.
Next Saturday’s fixture sees the Cranleigh Cobras U14s take on Cranleigh Tigers U15s. It promises to be a must-watch clash.
Final score: Cranleigh Cobras 2-4 Elstead Sharks
Coaches: Nick Bamford, Alex Matthews
Team sponsor: Informed Choice – independent financial planning
About Cranleigh FC
Cranleigh Football Club is an inclusive club and its youth teams welcomes boys and girls of all abilities, with an emphasis on fun and enjoyment. Coaching is based around a variety of games and exercises, following the latest FA models for player development.
The coaching models the club follows place emphasis on equal opportunities for all players, regardless of background or ability, and on participation rather than winning. All players receive equal playing time, are provided with the opportunity to play in all positions, and the coaching focus is on playing the ‘right way’, even if this has a negative impact on results in the short and medium term.
