As the new season dawns and the minibus arrives, some are fearful, some excited and most nervous. The boys however, board without any such issues while their parents huddle together for support as far away from the minibus as possible. A couple of brave souls venture nearer and actually survive to tell the tale.

As we depart the noise level rises. Lee and I were sure that this will subside after a few miles. Almost immediately the common question regarding our ETA is asked. The stock answer of 5 minutes is greeted with quizzical looks and the boys return to their noise. 20 miles into the journey Lee and I were sure that this will subside after a few miles. Once again our ETA is requested and the 5 minutes reply is greeted with sighs and as usual somebody asks “ No seriously, how long ‘till we get there?” The stock answer is greeted with groans. The noise resumes. Lee and I were sure that this will subside after a few miles.

Newbury B provided the opposition for our first proper game of the season in a representative fixture.

Gloucester press from the start and create a couple of early opportunities down the left flank and it is no surprise that the opening goal is scored from there. Kelly’s through ball allows Dixon to run in on goal and neatly finish into the bottom corner of the net to give the visitors the lead. Baddhity’s nice drag-back and shot is saved by the ‘keeper before Kelly wins the ball in midfield and Baddhity feeds Hodges who fires in the visitors second.

Newbury come out for the second half in a more determined mood and push forward with purpose. Middlecote and Stokes have to defend well to keep them out. Sadler in the Gloucester goal gets to make a few touches of the ball but is able to retain his virtual spectator status. With the homeside pushing forward more, the yellows exploit the extra space and score five more goals. Dixon’s powerful run down the left leaves Hodges with a tap-in and he completes his hat-trick when Ali sets him up to drive over the keeper’s head. A lovely curling left footed strike from the edge of the area by Kelly and a long-range lob by Middlecote preceded the final goal of the game from Savioli. Good work from Glanville provided the assist on this occasion. Howard nearly added another when he made an incredible run from inside his own half, beating half of the Newbury team in the process but was denied a memorable goal by the very good keeper. A very pleasing start and the coaches were happy with the boys trying to play good passing football at every opportunity and the willingness and desire to win the ball back when not in possession. There will be many sterner tests in the weeks to come.

The noise re-started immediately the minibus key was turned for the journey home. Lee and I were sure that this will subside after a few miles. Childish sniggers broke out as we passed the “Cock Inn” led mainly by eleven-year-old Lee. Cheers rang out as we entered the services. Maths suddenly became popular as the boys worked out what was the maximum amount of food they could buy while leaving as little change as possible for their parents. They all succeeded. Dixon won the title of King of the Scroungers. Gaining a battered sausage from me and bits of KFC from others whether they agreed or did not know. Kelly lost his wallet when he left it unattended. Once his annoyance had reached a certain level I returned said wallet with the usual security briefing as a bonus.

The noise resumed as we boarded the minibus. Lee and I were sure that this will subside after a few miles. With ears ringing we arrived back in Longlevens and Lee and I were glad that all boys were re-claimed. A great first away day if a little noisy. Lee and I are sure that this will subside after a few trips.

Gloucester B:

Sadler, Middlecote, Stokes, Hodges, Kelly, Howard, Glanville, Baddhity, Dixon, Ali, Savioli.