Following the withdrawal of Suffolk SFA from the English Schools’ FA Inter-County Trophy, Middlesex played a friendly against the Under-14 team from the Barnet FC Academy.
Against a very strong side, the Seaxes played fantastically. Middlesex looked in control of the match from the kick-off, thanks to fast, slick passing accompanied by a high tempo press.
It was not long before Middlesex got their first goal, a defensive clearance by George Abutt fell to Kaleel Green. Kaleel then initiated a fast counter attack, by carrying the ball from inside his half to the final third, before playing a through ball to Kuell Weekes who finished low into the bottom corner. The good football continued and through good combination play in midfield Middlesex scored their second when Luca Rosen struck low into the bottom corner.
Coaches Kamal Romain and Michel Farrell were pleased with the performance, but wanted the players to repeat the performance in the second and third segments of this 3 x 20 minute match. Middlesex started the second period well and Weekes scored his second with a well placed finish into the top left hand corner, after drifting in from the right wing. Middlesex hadn’t finished scoring yet and Miller Lewis made it 4-0 after a neat lay off by Jibril Sharmarke.
As Middlesex entered the final third of the game, the tea’s instruction was to manage the game well and set the target of keeping a clean sheet. The Seaxes were able to extend their lead as Remi Onabanjo found space in the box after numerous blocks from Barnet players, Onabanjo shooting into the bottom right corner.
Unfortunately, Middlesex weren’t able to keep a clean sheet. Former Brent SFA striker Brandon raced through on goal before assisting the Barnet right winger. There was confusion as to whether the shot had actually passed through the side netting, but the goal was given.
Middlesex reacted fantastically, scoring possibly the best goal of the game. A slick passing move which involved 9 outfield players touching the ball and over 10 passes saw the ballreach Kaleel Green who struck hard and low into the bottom left corner. It was a great team goal to round off a fantastic team performance.
The squad’s next challenge is an ESFA Trophy match at home to Surrey. Both Kamal and Michel are encouraged by today’s performance as it gives them confidence that the team will be able to progress into the next round of the cup.
Middlesex Squad:Sasha Damicostovold, James Cowley, George Abbott, Adam Kaffel, Christian St Louis, Millar Lewis, Alfie Essex , Dillion Williams, Remi Onabanjo, Dillon Rajkovic, Kuell Weekes, Diontae Smith, Luca Rosen, Henry Sheehan, Jibril Sharmarke, Kaleel Green.
