HT Rangers

Rangers’ (U8s) end of season report 

This truly was a season of two halves. In 2010, we started out with heavy defeats to Harefield and St James’ Hawks on home soil. Smaller losses then followed to King’s Church Amersham. It all added up to a season and a half without a win. Then came the New Year.

It was as though a new Rangers emerged: organised, disciplined, fluid in the centre of midfield, ruthless up-front. Opponents against whom we had previously floundered, were now swept aside as Rangers turned on the style to notch up an unbeaten run of four wins and a draw in 2011.

The defence, marshalled by the ever-dependable Rhodri Pepperall and Alex Milligen, became assured and resilient, as was Jack Farmer whose courageous saves and explosive drop kicks became potent elements in our defensive and attacking artillery. Henry Davidson proved solid and impassable at right back with Patrick Eley mopping up doggedly and skillfully on the left side of defence. Tim Caroe demonstrated courage and versatility, switching between goalkeeping and defence as the team had need. Karthik Sadanand moved seamlessly between defence and midfield, winning possession and switching play.

The heart of midfield suddenly found fresh vigour, with Will Kennedy adding bite and resolve on the left, bolstered by the silky skills and sweeping passing of Louie Mangan. Jacob Small provided further strength in midfield with mazey runs and delicious goals, qualities mirrored by Kiel Starkey whose season and finishing just seemed to get better with each game.

Our strikers were now unleashed to attack: Freddie Richardson’s attacking instincts propelled him to get on the end of a string of opportunities to notch up some outstanding goals, with Ben Lodge peppering in goals from inside and outside the box: his deadly corners were also regularly flying directly or ricocheting wickedly into the opponents’ net.

But our final game, it summed up our 2011: what a transformation! In September we suffered a 7-0 home defeat to the superb Harefield U8s: but our final match resulted in a comfortable 3-0 win, topped off by thunderous goals from Louie and Jacob. Jack Farmer even saved a penalty that could have threatened our lead. Rangers were not to be denied, however, and the season ended on a real high: the team’s hard work in training had paid off handsomely.

Of course, this has been underpinned by the parents whose fulsome and dependable support has been so helpful both for the boys as well as the coaching team. Warmest thanks are due also to Tim Lodge for his constant devotion to the team, and to Dale Pepperall and Dave Mangen who helped coach and encourage the boys throughout this season. But here’s to next season … Come on, Rangers!

Richard Lodge
HT Rangers Team Manager