A lesson in the need for good communication

Pukekohe Senior Mens 4th team went down 4-0 to top of the table Western Springs Screaming Eagles this weekend.

Once again we had players moving to fill spots in other squads, as is our role, this time 4 players to the 3rds with JR from the 3rds joining the 4ths due to kick off time clashes.

This required some restructuring of the team which caused early lapses in communication between players not as familiar with the football of those around them as they have been in previous weeks.

These lapses resulted in all three goals in the first half where the ball was left to others when responsibility to take control of the situation was required. Poor decision making, passing and running to support all fed from the miscommunication and corresponding uncertainty.

The three nil score line at half time flattered the opposition but I think it was an excellent educator for future games particularly as the 3rds, 4ths and 5ths will seldom put out exactly the same core squads as we move around where needs must.

The need to take ownership and responsibility will be an underlying flavour for future trainings.

The second half saw a greater level of talking and but for a very dubious penalty decision would have ended scoreless.

It was pleasing to see the improvement in communication in the second half as the movement of new players continued through the half as it had in the first but this time without the associated disruptions.

While the footballing skills and understanding are still a work in progress, some strong performances by JR, Thomas Sutcliffe, Martin Bennett and Geoff Dodd in particular show some promising signs for the future.

Player of the day was Geoff Dodd while despite his developing fitness produced excellent touches and commitment throughout the game.

Team: Colin Case, Martin Bennett, Peter Sutcliffe, Roly McKenzie, Corey Sims, Dave Wadeley, Craig Morgan, Peter Wild, Geoff Dodd, Thomas Sutcliffe, Jamie Oliver, Russell Speight, Shane Craig, JR

Final Score: Western Springs Screaming Eagles 4 - Pukekohe 0

Next Fixture: Away v Onehunga Sports, 2.45 pm Waikaraka Park

Just a note:

Well done to Gavin Speight, Rhys Newton, Roly McKenzie and Thomas Sutcliffe who acquitted themselves well for the 3rds. I saw most of the game and all 4 players performed well particularly young 15 year old Gavin, who came up against some pretty wily old characters. Hard luck guys, it was a very even contest with a mishit shot, the only goal being the difference in the tight top of the table clash.