The under-15s have been training well throughout the summer, with good numbers each week despite the holidays. Lots of work has been done on passing and shooting drills alongside some fitness.

Our first game was a stern test against Withdean Whites, a well-organised team who passed the ball around well. In the first 15 minutes Withdean had the better possession, working the ball forward from the back. Their first proper chance came from a good through ball from left to right which their striker hit well the first time into the bottom corner. 1-0 to Withdean. The Raiders responded well and began creating more going forward, and were rewarded after a nice ball over the top of the defense from Lewis found Will who coolly put it away to make it 1-1.
Telscombe now seemed the more likely to score with lots of pressure on their defence and keeper. Josh P looked dangerous up the right wing and drove forward with a great ball across the box for Fernando to put away. Score at halftime 2-1 to Telscombe.

In the second half Withdean responded well and came out strong, but the Telscombe defence was superb at shutting down the pressure. At the other end the midfield was strong in the tackle and spread the ball around well, using the wings and driving forward in numbers. Halfway through the second half Withdean finally managed to find a way through with an equaliser to set up an exciting final 20 minutes. Telscombe wasn't ready to throw the game away and stepped it up, coming back at Withdean with some great chances created. Will was unlucky from the right with a high ball that hit the bar, before another excellent cross from Josh P was hit first time by Billy into the back of the net to make it 3-2 to Telscombe. The final 10 minutes was exciting at both ends, a Withdean player was clear through and only 12 yards out before Harrie made the game's tackle and blocked his shot at full stretch to deny them an equaliser. At the other end the Withdean keeper made two outstanding saves to deny Ethan and then Josh P with the rebound. Final score 3-2 to the Raiders.

Great start to the season, a deserved win against a good side. Every one of the 16 players deserves a huge round of applause for their efforts today, they were all outstanding. Our MOM this week went to Billy for some excellent playmaking in the middle creating lots of opportunities and a well taken goal ??