The U13s took advantage of another week off league fixtures to arrange a friendly against Sovereign Saints with a close game anticipated.

Raiders started a little 'off it' and struggled to find their rhythm against a very obdurate opponent.

Both teams were struggling to create meaningful chances in a scrappy match as the teams cancelled each other out.

Drew however was Raiders bright spark and started causing real problems for Saints.
A quick ball down the line sent Drew clear and a great cross was not converted with Raiders slow to get in the box.

Saints didn't heed the warning and shortly after Drew ran on to another through ball. This time Brogan did give the cross the finish it deserved and put Raiders 1 up with his first touch after coming on.

The game was still on a knifeedge with Raiders struggling to get on top of the Saints midfield who kept sending balls forward quickly but not able to convert any half chances created as Raiders hung on to go in at half time 1 up.

The second half started in much the same way as the first with chances at a premium and both teams struggling to break each other down.

Saints were looking the more threatening with Raiders repeatedly making heavy weather of defending and lacking composure when wnning the ball as they struggled to clear their lines.

Raiders did manage to break a few times and always looked dangerous from set pieces.

Raiders won a corner and a great ball by Ben saw Stan sneak in at the back post to turn the ball home and put Raiders 2 up. Stan's first ever goal for Raiders!

Straight from the kick off Saints broke through and should have really scored but for some good work by Woody and
Ray.

Saints started to get on top and deservedly pulled a goal back with 15 minutes to go with a scruffy goal that Raiders could have cleared a few times.

Raiders didn't learn their lesson. Ray had already made a great save from close range but couldn't do anything when Raiders once again failed to clear their lines and Saints equalised with a neat finish with 5 minutes left.

Raiders did respond and thought they had a chance to win in injury time when Ben chipped a lovely free kick over the top of Saints defence in to the path of a very well timed run by Drew ...only for the full time whistle to be blown as Raiders were looking to pull the trigger.

2-2 was a fair reflection of the game and whilst not at their best Raiders came out with great credit in a tough match.

Drew picked up man of the match for being the most threatening Raiders player.

On to next week!