Metrogas v Phoenix in Kent Youth League action

Phoenix under 16s returned to league action this week and were determined to continue their unbeaten run.

They started quickly - something they've not always done this season - and moved the ball around well, applying some early pressure.

The first clear cut chance came from good work down the left between James Ash, James Dyer and Charlie Hanmore who swung a cross into the box. Tom Dolding met the cross on the volley but it went wide.

The opening 15-20 mins continued in the same vain. Phoenix working some really good openings but failing to score. An Archie Roast header and a long range Jamie Hutchins piledriver coming closest.

James Dyer was next to come close to finding the breakthrough and his effort met with a great save by the Metrogas keeper.

Just before half time, both sides would hit the woodwork. Metrogas broke clear in probably their only attack of the half and their strikers low shot hit the post. In response at the other end, Jamie Hutchins hit another long range effort which hit the bar.

As the half-time whistle blew, Phoenix were left frustrated that they had been unable to score despite dominating possesion.

Half Time - Metrogas 0 Phoenix 0

The second half continued much the same as the first. Phoenix passing and moving well, Metrogas giving the ball away but trying to engineer some attacks of their own. When they did get chances, Tom Monty was there to snuff them out.

The first change of the afternoon saw Dylan Silva - returning from suspension - replace David Balogun.

Around the 55 minute mark, as Phoenix frustration continued, James Dyer conjured a moment of magic. He receieved the ball centrally and weaved his way left unleashing a fierce shot past the Metrogas keeper. Metrogas 0 Phoenix 1

Phoenix now looked to settle and sew the game up but couldn't get the vital second.

Further changes were made as Archie Roast went off to see Olly Bonniface make his league debut, followed by Nathan Lea coming on to replace the injured James Ash. Ryan Basham was also brought on for Tom Dolding as Phoenix shuffled the pack.

All the time the score was only 1-0 there was a danger of points being dropped but despite the numberous changes, Phoenix managed to see the game out and take all 3 points.

Full Time - Metrogas 0 Phoenix 1

Match Report: Paul Hanmore

Starting XI: Tom Montgomerry, Jack Wall, James Ash, Euan Corbett-Smith, Charlie Hanmore, Ted Green, Archie Roast, David Balogun, Jamie Hutchins, Tom Dolding, James Dyer

Subs: Dylan Silva, Olly Boniface, Ryan Basham, Nathan Lea

Next up for Phoenix is a home league game against FC Elmstead as they build towards 2 potentially season defining games against Bromley (League) and Dartford (Kent Cup Semi Final).
Weather permitting obviously!!

#COYP