Just Champion for Saints!

ASC Saints went into Sunday's final league game needing a point to secure the South Cheshire League U11s Division 1 title.

Having suffered the agony of losing the cup final on penalties just six days previously, this was a big test of character for the young boys. That pressure was intensified by the opponents being Boro Boys, the victors in the cup final!

In the event, Saints played pretty well but the signs of anxiety were understandably never far away. When Boro Boys took the lead from a corner there was an opportunity for the Saints to let their heads drop and accept things. However, they showed great courage and skill to fight back and the equaliser was well deserved.

The half time break was used to settle a few nerves and the second half passed without any further goals...though the Boro Boys shot that hit the post in the last minute did nothing for the Coach's health!

The final whistle signalled big celebrations from the boys and why not? They have played 21 league matches and won 15 of them, drawing 4 and losing just twice. Add that to a five match cup run and it truly is a remarkable season. The 26 matches have seen the boys score 107 times and concede just 24 times.

South Cheshire Youth League Division 1 Champions 2010; ASC Saints

South Cheshire Youth League Cup Finalists 2010; ASC Saints

Every player has played his part too, each doing the job that he is selected to do;

JAMES BLOOMER. James is a very assured centre back but has also done well for us in goal in the early part of season. He rarely "punts" the ball upfield, preferring to pick out a pass to start a constructive move. His tackling and passing have been solid.

JAMES CHAPMAN. James has played mainly on left of midfield this season and done brilliantly. He has lots of skill and he has set up a great many of our goals, as well as scoring 10 for himself.

JOE EVANS. Joe has played almost exclusively at centre back and done it superbly. The way that we play means that if we are caught on the break, Joe is often the last line of defence. His no nonsense approach and excellent heading ability have marked him out as an accomplished defender.

RONAN FARNELL-BUCKLE. Ronan joined us after about 10 games but what a difference he has made! He is a specialist goalkeeper and has pulled off several remarkable saves – his tip over the bar against Boca will live long in the memory. His shot stopping and concentration can not be faulted.

WILLIAM GLEAVE. Will has shown versatility this season playing in defence, midfield AND attack! He has scored goals when in attack (9 in total) but has probably shown his best form when playing at the back. His range of passing, both long and short, is good and often eases pressure on us.

JOSEPH JOULE. Our own Stevie Gerrard! Joseph has played almost entirely on the right of midfield. His surging runs forward have created many of our goals and he has provided strength in the tackle when it has been required. A very solid season. Weighed in with 7 goals too.

FERGAL MADDEN. Ferg has played both in midfield and in defence. His best performance have been when playing as an attacking defender! His strength in the tackle added to his skill and pace have given us an added dimension from the back. 9 goals and plenty of assists is a very good return.

MAX PARRY. Max has played exclusively in attack and so his job has been to score goals...and he has done so 41 times which is a fantastic achievement. His general play has been good too and it has been great to see him setting up as well as scoring goals.

MAX SANDERS. Mr Versatility! Max has played in most positions, always without complaint and with great skill. He has scored 9 goals but it has been his contribution from left side of midfield that have been most telling. Quick feet to go past defenders and good vision to set up many goals.

MATTHEW SHANNON. Matthew has played almost entirely at the back and has done so brilliantly. It's always a great sight to see him tracking back and he rarely misses a tackle. His general passing out of defence has been good and his ability to gel with whoever he was partnered with showed a good understanding of defensive technique.

EDDIE WARRINGTON. Eddie has had a great season and has made the centre of midfield his own. He has often provided extra cover for us at the back whilst being able to carry the ball forward and set us up in attack. His 11 goals are testament to his own attacking prowess and his vision has set up many more.

Audlem Online congratulates Saints on their amazingly successful season. Our thanks also to David Parry for his weekly reports which we are sure our readers have enjoyed throughout the season. Thank you, David.

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