Tunbridge Wells U16s 1-2 Bromley
After last Sunday’s win in the Cup, it was time for a return to league action for the triumphant Tunbridge Wells U16s - and as mentioned last week, this was always going to be a stern test. Past encounters have proved to be very close, and this was no exception.

As the first half got underway, ball-possession was pretty even, although The Wells had a spell where they didn't seem to be able to play to feet, and consequently made hard work for themselves. This allowed Bromley into the game, and several silly free kicks were conceded.

After 15 minutes, Tunbridge Wells began to string their passes together, though, and on 23 minutes the best move of the game so far saw the Bromley defence cut wide open, culminating in Jack Harris going through one-on-one with the keeper, and rounding him before slotting the ball into an empty net to see the home side a goal to the good. In spite of some Bromley pressure, that was the way things stayed to half time.

As the second half began, Bromley came forward, swinging a cross over as a Wells defender collapsed to the floor (unseen by the official). The ball was knocked on, and with The Wells keeper and defender failing to deal with the danger, the ball ran free for a simple tap in. 1-1: Not the start Tunbridge Wells wanted.

Having made changes, The Wells began to dominate proceedings, and were playing some very good football on a pitch which was becoming increasingly sticky. Although the home side was creating chances, they were not put away. On 65 minutes, they created their best chance, only to see the ball bounce back off the post, and the game seemed to be heading for a draw.

With only a couple of minutes left, though, a foul throw (unseen by the official) from the right saw a long ball knocked out to the left and a Bromley forward raced on to it and tucked it into the net to secure a 2-1 win for Bromley.

“This is a dent to the side’s league ambitions as a win would have seen them go top,” remarked U16s Coach, Darrell Cousins afterwards. “Nonetheless, as a manager I couldn't have asked for anything more from the lads. They gave me everything, and sometimes football is like that. We have played worse than that this season, and won games.

“We have a game away to Phoenix Sports next week, and are still in the hunt for the title, as well as being in a Cup Final. The lads must keep their heads up - they have achieved so much this season, but it’s not over yet! Come you Reds!