20/09/2009. Rothwell Aztec v South Rushden Rebels.

The Rebels suffered their 1^st league defeat against a very strong, skilful and committed Aztec team. However after a slow start the Rebels matched their opponents in many areas of the pitch and left the field with their heads held high.

Our 15-man squad was: Ali, Adam P, Matt, Sam, Oli, Harry P, Ed, Aidan, Will, Reece, Lakey, Bolts, Connor, Greeny and Lewis.

Aztec started the game very strongly and only some good early saves from Ali prevented them from scoring. The boys looked like to have weathered the early pressure when Aztec took the lead on 15 minutes. Ali looked liked he had made another excellent save from a cross shot. However the shot was well hit and despite Ali getting a strong hand on the ball it dribbled into the far side of his gaol for 1-0.

5 minutes later it was 2-0. Aztecs best player picked the ball up 25 yards from goal, jinked past a defender before smashing the ball past Ali from just outside the area for an excellent goal.

All the boys deserve credit for not letting their heads drop and fighting their way back into the game. Good defending and goalkeeping ensured the score remained 2-0 at halftime.

The 2^nd half was more even. The boys played some excellent football, looked more solid in defence and battled well in midfield. Unfortunately we could not find the final pass to create a really good opening for the goal the boy’s deserved.

Final Score 2-0.