Connah's Quay U12's 2, Bala Town U12's 1

It was a close game throughout and credit must go to every player who gave 100% for their team. Bala nearly went ahead through Rob Dascalu; who took a free kick 35 yards out and he unleashed a fierce shot but unfortunately it cannoned off the crossbar, with the goalkeeper left stranded.

The hosts did take the lead as the Bala defence dropped off too much that allowed the striker to have time to pick his spot and find the back of the net. Bala’s response was good and took the game to Quay.

Tom Jones nearly equalised with a header, but it went over from a great cross by Andrew Paps. It nearly went worse for Bala as Steff was unlucky to give away a penalty; however, the player missed the target – a lucky escape!! The last action of the half saw Rhys Jones attempting to place a shot from the edge of the box, but it went straight into the keepers arms, following some good exchanges between Jake, Andrew and Gwion.

The second half was the same as the first half, exiting and very close with hardly anything between the two sides.

Bala did appear to move the ball better and were putting the Quay’s defence under pressure, especially through Gethin in midfield who was trying his best to create chances for the strikers.

As the game wore on, it started becoming like a game of tennis as Bala were pushing for that equaliser, but the hosts were counter attacking just as effective, however, neither keeper was really troubled.

Stephen’s pace was creating havoc up front but it seemed there was always one Connah’s Quay defender in the right place to prevent a shot!

With 5 minutes remaining, Bala were finally rewarded for their efforts as another great delivery from Rob’s free kick was flicked on by Stephen for Rhys to smash the ball into the net, to spark wild celebrations!

Even though both teams kept pushing for the winner, it seemed as it would end in a draw, until the referee seemed to have spotted a handball by a Bala player in the box and gave a penalty, which certainly angered and confused Bala. The player made no mistake from the spot to make it 2-1.

With virtually the last kick of the game a hopeful ball was crossed into the box, which Gethincontrolled and flicked it over the defender who clearly handballed it in the air ... nothing given!! The game finished 2-1 to Connah’s Quay.

It would be easy to remember this game for the two key decisions by the referee in the last 2 minutes, but the lads must remember how well they did, in terms of effort, commitment and their overall performance. The man of the match was Gwion who was consistent in his play throughout the game. I personally look forward to see Bala’s response in our next game against Flint at home on the 13th of November.

Report by Owain Williams

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