THE Slough Schools Football Association (FA) Under 11s District Team produced some fine performances to finish third in the English Schools FA Danone Nations Cup County Finals.
Slough drew once and lost twice but all three games were highly competitive to prove the team was not out of its depth. It is argued that Slough did not deserve to lose in either match and that each was very much in the balance.
There are fine margins in football at this level however and ultimately Slough were punished for any small errors.
Slough suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat against Wokingham in their first match, the opposition scoring with their only shot on target.
Slough enjoyed more possession in the game and played some excellent passing football throughout, but could not capitalise on the chances created and the Wokingham keeper made some fine saves.
Slough then suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of eventual winners Reading.
The young stars gave away two penalties either side of the half-time whistle which made it difficult to get a result from the game.
Despite falling two goals behind there was no further pressure on the Slough goal and the team never gave up, showing great determination.
Slough were able to pull a goal back and were on top at the end of the game but could not convert another chance to salvage a draw.
Slough took on Newbury in their final game and scored first to take the lead. Once again the team dominated possession and played some lovely football.
Slough conceded a goal from a corner in the second half and could not convert any of the other chances they created.
The results mean Slough finished third overall and, although the team will not proceed to the next round, they should not be disappointed as they gave a great account of themselves and played some fantastic football in the process.
Hopefully the players will have grown from this district-level experience and it will hold them in good stead moving forward.
The Slough Schools FA would like to thank all the parents, schools and supporting bodies for helping make this opportunity available for children from Slough and Windsor-based schools.
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