The Invincibles Are No More

Much like Manchester City, the Clissold Rangers under-8s team is unbeaten no more. Despite a valiant second-half effort to close the deficit after slipping in two early goals, the boys fell short of the mark against a very good team in rather chilly conditions.

There was some disappointment at the end, but the boys worked their socks off and needn't be too down-hearted. They are lion cubs each and every one of them.

Remy, our keeper, was solid for most of the game and pulled off some great saves, while Samuel was outstanding in the middle of the park, making several swashbuckling runs and keeping his composure despite the odd shirt tug. One tackle he made had the parents drooling.

In the long run it will be good for them, because among the many things that makes a man (or woman) is the ability to stare defeat in the face and say "Don't you dare write me off. I WILL RETURN!".

In footballing parlance they call it bouncebackability and next week represents an opportunity to put things right.