Report

The final match of the season arrived with AFC needing at least a draw to be confirmed as runners-up to St John’s in the league. Having already beaten Woodbridge twice this season hopes were high. AFC were dealt a blow before the start with news that they were to be without top goal scorer Huey for this crucial match.

AFC lined up with Ollie in goal, a back four of Nathanial, Sam W, Samuel D and Jack A. Midfield was Will, George, Johnny and Jack Y with Jake and Jay up front. Harry and Oli S were on the bench.

Woodbridge are a strong team with arguably the leagues’ best strike force in George and Jason. They were sure to cause problems for the AFC back line.

The match started fairly evenly with both sides pushing forward without either really causing Sam or Oli much trouble in goal for their respective teams. The AFC back line were keeping the deadly duo quiet and jay and Jake were not having too much change out of the Woodbridge back four.

Just before half time Woodbridge went ahead with possibly the first shot on target for either side. A corner was swung over and no body attacked it from AFC and it dropped to the Woodbridge striker who calmly slotted it home.

Half time – Woodbridge Town 1 – AFC Kesgrave 0

The second half started with Oli S replacing Samuel and Harry coming on for George shortly after the kick off after George had suffered from a strong challenge from a Woodbridge player.

AFC were on top now and pressing for the goal which would have taken them to second spot in the league. AFC had a good chance well saved by Sam and the rebound fell to Jake who put his shot wide.

It was tense stuff. AFC had a great shout for a penalty when a Woodbridge player handled in the box. The ref appeared about to blow then changed his mind much to the disappointment of the AFC faithful.

Time was running out for AFC and Woodbridge were not in any hurry. With AFC going all out for an equaliser it left them open at the back and they were punished just before the end when Woodbridge added a 2^nd to take second spot in the league. This is assuming Felixstowe do not overcome St Johns who have proved worthy winners this season.

Full time – Woodbridge Town 2 – AFC Kesgrave 0

So another season draws to a close with AFC not being able to get their hands on any silverware. A decent performance from the boys and a top four position is not to be sniffed at with the strength of U14 football in Ipswich incredibly high. We say farewell to Sam W who is leaving due to school commitments. It should be an interesting close season with perhaps many comings and goings according to the football grapevine. Who ends up where next season remains to be seen but hopefully AFC will come back strongly next season and once again challenge for the honours.

A big thank you to Brendan, Andy and Keith for their hard work and commitment to the boys. It’s not easy running a youth football team and you struggle to keep everyone happy at all times. Another big thank you to Debs and Nicky for their hard work behind the scenes and also to the dads who put out the goals and run the line and the parents who have helped out with the tuck shop. See you next year.