STOURBRIDGE under 9s were on top form on Sunday October 13 2013 despite some tricky weather to contend with.

The squad was divided into two groups, with a team sent to the Silhillians Mini and Junior Festival where they played well and made the final stages of the tournament against teams from around the Midlands.

Another Stourbridge under 9s team stayed on home turf at Stourton Park for two games against next-door neighbours Dudley Kingswinford.

The rain and mud made playing conditions difficult but the players passed the ball well and used the full width of the pitch to spread the play.

Players also supported each other well by running and finding space, rather than bunching together on the middle of the pitch.

With contact now part of the rules for the new season players are making good progress in getting to grips with this important aspect of the game, and the squad’s coaches say they will continue to work on tackling in training.

Martyn Smith