Hough End Griffins’ U10 boys got an exciting taste of elite academy football when they accepted an invitation to play at Manchester City in October.
We took a squad of 11 to play the City Girls U10s, who are testing themselves against local grassroots sides as part of their development.
The City Academy, across the road from the main Etihad Stadium, is arguably the finest of its kind in the country, with facilities on a completely different level.
For the Hough End boys, to walk in through the front doors of that impressive campus, into their own dressing room with their name on the front, past the multiple indoor and outdoor pitches, was a taste of the possibilities that football can bring.
On the pitch, the boys rose to the occasion magnificently, matching their elite opponents throughout for skill, athleticism and strength and scoring five times. Every one of them will be able to talk you through the time they scored at The Etihad.
In the end, we were just edged out in terms of a result, but the performance and the experience is what the boys will take away from the trip and back to their weekly training and Respect League games.
Coaches Mun Abraham, Chris Arnold and Graeme McGilliard had great feedback from the City team coaches afterwards, praising the boys’ skills as well as their behaviour and sportsmanship throughout. We have already been invited back for another crack at them before the year is out.
Thanks to all the parents who made the effort during half term week to get their boys to the game, we had more volunteers than spaces in the squad, so thanks to everyone for their enthusiasm. It’s always appreciated.
With a training day at Manchester United’s Cliff ground and now a game against Manchester City this year, the U10s squad are gathering great experience as they continue their football journey. Keep it up, boys.
Hough End Griffins JFC 