Kew Association Youth 3-1 Netherne Falcons, 24 Jan, League Cup
by Stuart Whitwell

Kew Under 16s started the second half of the season with real purpose, with a squad of 13 who have been putting in some serious training. Although it was about 6 weeks without playing, Kew played some fantastic football and deservedly came out as 3 to 1 winners against a strong Netherne Falcons team.

The team work, communication, passing and movement was terrific and all players were on top form. Excellent brace of goals from Grant and a first class stunner from Charlie Turner backed up by a strong midfield and defensive resolve. George Bradley in goal produced a fabulous performance to thwart Netherne’s attack, the full backs of Alex and Harry supported attack and marshalled their wingers with great effect. Ed Lovern and Charlie Grady in central defence were immense and squeezed the play to keep the pressure on all match. Central midfield displays from Michael, Max, Matt and Eddie out-competed and gradually subdued the opposition’s attacking options and created excellent opportunities for our attacking players. Jack and James worked the flanks with real flair and kept up the pressure all game.

We have now earned a semi-final appearance at Ashford Town main stadium. A real credit to themselves and Kew football club.

Old Rutlishians 2-6 Kew Association Youth, 20 Sep, League
by Chris Self

Kew Association Youth Under 16s started their league campaign away to Old Rutlishians and quickly took advantage with Grant Archibald scoring two goals within the first five minutes. Old Rutlishians then got one back, against the run of play. After twenty minutes, after some good passing from Kew and good individual skill from Grant, which allowed him to cut inside and score, it looked like Kew would run away with the game. New boy Charlie went close on a couple of occasions and Jack Bailey coolly converted a penalty following a hand ball in the area. Unfortunately poor defending from a free kick allowed Old Rutlishians to score, making it 2-4 at  half time.

After the break, Old Rutlishians came back into the match but never really looked like scoring.  Grant made it safe with ten minutes to go, with Charlie adding a sixth before the end. This was a good team performance, cemented by a strong defensive display by the back three and a safe and secure goal keeping performance from George. The enterprising attacking play of our midfield 5 created numerous opportunities as they took the sting out of the opposition and imposed themselves on the game, while the front two of Grant and Charlie posed a constant threat. Grant had a fine game scoring four goals and Harry O'Neill again impressed with a fine display at right back, and then when asked to play in midfield.

Goal scorers: Grant Archibald 4, Jack Bailey 1 and Charlie Turner 1.

Man of the Match: Grant Archibald

Rating: 6 out of 10