JUNIOR WEEKEND ROUND UP - 17/18 October

Another busy weekend for Rotherfield Junior FC, with plenty of competitive football, impressive performances and valuable lessons across our age groups.

Under-9s

It was a challenging morning for the U9s after their flying start to the season, with both the Gladiators and Knights facing some tough opposition.

The Gladiators battled hard, learning valuable lessons about teamwork, commitment and the importance of working for each other rather than relying on individual play. The Knights also had a difficult morning, with maintaining concentration throughout the game a key area to work on.

There is plenty to take away from the experience, and both teams will continue to develop as the season progresses.  Players of the Match: Finley and Ollie

Under-10s

The U10s enjoyed a trip to the new Wealden Hub to face Heathfield and Horam in a closely contested encounter.

Both sides produced a competitive, fast-paced display, with strong challenges and plenty of effort, but neither could find the breakthrough. Despite the lack of goals, there were some excellent individual performances.

Matty impressed with his ability to control the game, start attacks and break up opposition moves, while Mykola worked tirelessly to get into dangerous positions, coming agonisingly close on several occasions.  

Players of the Week: Matty and Mykola

Under-11s

The U11s faced a tough away test against Chipstead, who arrived in excellent scoring form. Rotherfield made a fantastic start, racing into an early lead and going into the break in front.

The boys came out strongly again after half-time, extending their advantage before tiredness and a change of goalkeeper helped shift the momentum. Despite a spirited performance, the hosts eventually edged a dramatic encounter.

There was plenty of encouragement to take from the display, with opposition parents praising Rotherfield as the best team they had faced, while also describing the boys as a physical side.

Although the result was disappointing, the performance showed how far the team has come. With a little more composure at the back, the rewards will surely follow.

Goals: Wills, Leon, Caelan and an own goal

Assists: Leon, Jack, Reuben and Eaton

Parents' Player of the Match: James

Coaches' Player of the Match: Harry

Under-12s

The U12s faced TW Hurricanes in a tight and competitive encounter that could easily have gone their way.

Rotherfield took the lead through Rupert, who finished brilliantly from an extremely tight angle after an excellent solo run. The game then saw a couple of key decisions go against the boys, with Hurricanes converting a penalty before a strong Rotherfield appeal for handball at the other end was turned down.

Despite the disappointment, the team responded superbly, showing tremendous effort and determination throughout. Luke and Dougie produced some excellent forward runs, Harry and Rupert battled hard in midfield, while Frankie and Callum made important interceptions and clearances at the back.

It was a narrow defeat, but there were plenty of positives to take from a performance full of character and commitment.

Coach's Player of the Match: Kristopher, recognised for his dogged determination and superb defensive work.

Under-13s

The U13s enjoyed a successful away trip to Pembury, producing a solid team performance and keeping a clean sheet.

Gabe and Lexington were on target as Rotherfield secured an excellent victory. A great result on the road for the boys!

Goals: Gabe and Lexington

Under-14s – Rovers

The U14 Rovers travelled to Sevenoaks Town for a competitive, end-to-end encounter.

After a difficult first half in which they struggled to gain control of the midfield, Rotherfield regrouped and produced an excellent response after the break. Better energy, improved passing and some beautifully constructed attacking moves helped the boys fight their way back into contention, with Barney finishing off two excellent team moves.

Unfortunately, Sevenoaks regained control late on to take the game away from Rotherfield.

Despite the defeat, there were plenty of positives. The defence worked hard to limit the opposition's opportunities, while the second-half performance demonstrated the quality of football the team is capable of producing.

With some tough fixtures behind them, the Rovers will look to build on these performances and get back to winning ways.

Goals: Barney

Players of the Match: Paxton and Robert

Under-16s – Razorbacks

The U16 Razorbacks enjoyed a particularly satisfying victory in their first meeting with LG Juniors, having been beaten by the same opponents in both league and cup competitions last season.

Rotherfield took control by establishing a two-goal lead, after which the game became relatively comfortable. The boys delivered a professional performance from start to finish, with every player making an important contribution.

A thoroughly deserved win and a great response against opponents who had caused them problems last season!

Under-16s – Renegades

The Renegades continued their excellent start to the season with a strong home performance against Hawkhurst.

A determined pressing game, effective tackling and good passing helped the team control key moments and take their chances when they arrived. The result keeps the Renegades firmly in the mix at the top of the league, temporarily sharing first place.

Another encouraging performance from a side building real momentum.

Well done to all our players, coaches and volunteers for another weekend of grassroots football. Whether celebrating victories or learning from narrow defeats, our teams continue to show commitment, resilience and progress.