Sunday 11th October 2009
The boys were looking forward to another league match at Dumfries and to keep their good run of form going from recent weeks. The 13s were missing some players who were on holiday but brought new signings Ross Mercer and James Brysland into the squad.
The players, who have worked hard this season, started at a good tempo and were trying to get their passing going but the grass pitch which was very sodden underfoot prevented fluency in the game.
Queen's had to compete today as QOS were direct in their approach play, a tactic we struggled to cope with most of the game. The 13s like to play the ball from the back and build the attack. But in doing so they created some problems when losing possession and decision making with their distribution and they will need to work on this.
The first period QOS scored from a direct long ball over our defence which caught the defence square at the back. Queen's quickly responded with a well taken goal from Jay Hudson after terrific build up play involving several players.
The second period Queen's started well, created several clear chances and could have scored when Ryan Clark, Dominic Boland, Ben Mulholland and Ryan Smith all went close. On another day could have scored but it wasn't to be.
Queen's then gifted a second goal when having comfortable possession at a kick out. They needlessly lost the ball and QOS exploited this. They then then lost a further goal as they lost their shape and the QOS midfield had time to pick a pass over the defence to an unmarked player who coolly slotted home.
This was a cruel blow as Queen's were playing their way into the game and were creating good chances with good patterns of play.
The third period started brightly for Queen's with James Beattie scored an excellent goal when a move started at the left back area, passed through midfield and created space for James Beattie who rifled a shot high into the net which lifted the boys spirits no end.
The 13s continued to play a passing game and there seemed more purpose in their attacking play, creating further opportunities without much success in front of goal.
QOS again exploited the space Queen's were leaving in chasing further goals and caught Queen's with a long ball over the defence which was a disappointing game and shows football can be a cruel game if you don't take your chances.
Ross Paterson Queen's coach said 'We struggled to cope with direct play and need to be able to deal with long balls over our defence but give the boys credit they tried to pass the ball on a tricky surface today.
Overall we are pleased with how the squad are developing and hope they listen and learn from the coaching staff. It is a learning curve for the players as they will face different challenges in the weeks and months ahead that will stand them in good stead for the future, well done'.
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