The day after visiting Loftus Road for my first youth game of the season I headed to another. This evening’s match was played out at Tithe Farm, as Rayners Lane hosted Langley FC in the Fa Youth Cup. Fixtures such as this allow groundhoppers to tick off stadiums they previously would not have been able to visit. However, this is not the case for me, having visited previously with my local club Harrow Borough. Who will not be competing in the tournament for a reason unknown to myself. One of many decisions I disagree with this season.
Starting off my youth cup journey for the season was the guest who took the lead at Tithe Farm this evening. Passing play through the pitch before a wonderful strike from just outside the box. Keeper left standing still. Then came a counter attack from Rayners Lane who looked to get back into the game. Helped by getting the goal to level the match. One two passing from the host created a chance for the wide player to find his teammate at the back post. Very good header gave the keeper no chance! Soon after Langley were back in front, quick play let them break away from their opponents before sliding the ball across the box for an easy finish. An explosive number 9 from the guest gets their third of the evening, seems to be having a simple match against the oppositions full back. No competition between the two players. Rayners Lane look out of the game already. Langley won a free kick from just outside the box which they converted, creating a small cheer from the spectators. Clear frustration and anger began to be visible from the bench, management and subs options realise the game is over. No way back now for them now! One more for Langley followed. Ball Shot from the visitors left the keeper scrambling, only just crossing the line. Players looked in confusion as the officials awarded the goal. Questions were asked after the whistle was blown for the break.
Half time then came. Dominating performance from Langley so far, scoring freely at the Lane. Very well organised from back to front, with a clear plan of action set out. One aspect noticeable to spectators was the repeated attempt to pass the ball short from free kicks allowing a cross into the box. Room for many more goals. Just like an earlier goal from their opponents Langley score through passing across the box from very near range. The seventh goal went in to the net not long later. Grabbing it from a cross that was hit out wide. Langley players are buzzing, and rightly so. Through to the next round in style. Before the fixture was up Langley scored again. Score stands at eight one to the travelling team.
In conclusion a confident performance from the guests. Langley walk away with a very easy win. Rayners Lane embarrassed themselves from start to finish. Travelling players looked capable of playing at a higher level, for a better club. However, the team spirit is obviously high amongst the group which is lovely to see in football.
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