(07-Dec-13) vs Hart Dynamos (A): 0-0

This weekend the Harriers faced a very demanding test against the top of the table Hart Dynamos. Hart have been in excellent form and even though the Harriers won the home fixture it was very clear that the boys would have to be totally focused and maintain their concentration for the entire game. That we would have to face up to the challenge without our most potent goal threat, Noah, made the task even more daunting ( and hopefully Noah will be back on line soon having injured his shoulder – get well soon Noah we need you ).
Right from the start the Harriers showed their mettle and this was probably one of the best defensive displays that we have put together. Dynamos are top of the table for a reason and have a very good team and some very lively forwards who link well together. Total concentration was required and it is no surprise that Man of the Match went to Ollie who tackled headed and cleared everything that came anywhere near him. Of course Max Sebastian Todd had his usual immaculate game and you could hear him throughout organising his backline. Put £10 on him now to be a future England captain ( sadly losing the 2030 World Cup Final to New Zealand 3-4 after a Joe Geoghegan hat-trick for the All Whites – I’d keep the £10 on hold for the last bit ). Of course defence isn’t a two man game and Euan continued his brilliant form and made sure that if the first two didn’t get you then he would. It is no wonder that Euan was trainer of the week – well done.
Having said that the Dynamos were excellent and created a few chances and, once again, we had the redoubtable Oscar to thank for adding to the clean sheet. One flying save was particularly notable for its excellence and probably convinced Hart that it wasn’t going to be their day in front of goal.
The Harriers midfield acted as a shield to the defence as well as keeping the Dynamos occupied at the back and well done Ryan ( who is continuing to show some great touch ), Charlie Morris, Charlie Beeson, Jack, Rowan, Max I and Joe who all did a stint either in the midfield or up front and gave it their all.
Once we had their measure we started to put together some excellent passing moves down the wing and we were unlucky this time that we strayed offside once or twice and couldn’t take advantage.
A very gutsy display and a match played in a very good spirit as well.
All the best for the next three weeks. We’ll be monitoring events in NZ, where Joe is going to a conditioning camp in the Ureweras – home of the man eating wild pigs and occasional threats of armed insurrection.

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