Another tough weekend of fixtures had the Panthers up against two of the best teams in the league this weekend. The Panthers faced Ashmore Park Rangers and Shire Oak Acorns.
Wyrley Panthers v Ashmore Park Rangers Friendly Match
Before the game, the Rangers’ coach informed the Panthers’ coaches that they were the only team to have beaten his side this season. He also added that his team enjoyed playing against the Panthers, as they would always be guaranteed a tough match. The coaches were obviously pleased to hear such comments and the lads showed this toughness during the game. The Panthers twice took the lead, the first being scored by Rio Parkes-Mahoney, who netted his first ever goal with a sublime finish. There was a huge roar from the sidelines when the goal went in, as Rio has really deserved his goal lately. The Panthers continued to play with real passion and deservedly took the lead again later in the match, another goal for the dubious goals panel, as it appeared either Louis Beesley or Ashton Cooper got the final touch. With only seconds to go it looked like the Panthers would hold out, however, slack marking at the back post let in a Rangers player late on. The Panthers should be proud of their performance and knocked the ball about confidently in this game, but the lesson learned is that we must concentrate until the final whistle is blown.
Wyrley Panthers v Shire Oak Acorns Friendly Match
In the previous game against the Acorns the Panthers had an off day and succumbed to a heavy defeat. The Panthers were more determined and committed this time around and although they were put under some heavy pressure at times during this game they should be proud of themselves to have only conceded a couple of goals. Again, the midfield and defence were resolute and several brave challenges were made. The Panthers also had a few chances at the other end, but could not find a breakthrough. The game was certainly an improvement on last time out and the Panthers showed they can compete with the best in the league on these performances.
Today’s squad was missing a few players and consisted of: Sam Scott, Louis Beesley, George Whitehouse, Josh Mason, Ben Herrington, Rio Parkes-Mahoney, Ben Maginness and Ashton Cooper.