AFC Bournemouth
The under-12 and under-16 AFC Bournemouth Ability Counts teams got their season off to a great start at the weekend in their First Hampshire League Fixtures.
The youth age groups of the Ability Counts section of AFC Bournemouth’s Premier League and BT Disability programme play monthly league fixtures in the local Hampshire Divisions. The teams represent the Cherries in tournament style fixtures, proudly wearing their Cathedral City sponsored AFC Bournemouth kit.
As the squads looked to build on the previous year’s successes, new additions have been made to the squads and three players made in their league debuts in both the under-12 and under-16 games. Tommy Johnson, who was making his debut for the Under 12’s, also scored his first league goal in his team’s opening game of the day.
AFC Bournemouth Reds under-12s remained unbeaten all day, winning four out of four games. The side played some great passing, playing out from the back and working the ball up the pitch, which created plenty of chances.
AFC Bournemouth Blacks under-12s were also successful in their four fixtures, reaming unbeaten throughout and picking up two wins and two draws.
AFC Bournemouth Reds under-16s faced new league opposition from Basingstoke. The game saw some good spells of possession for the Cherries and they came away with a very impressive 4-1 win.
Meanwhile, on the neighbouring pitch, AFC Bournemouth Blacks under-16s were excellent throughout their fixtures, finishing unbeaten with three solid wins. They played some fantastic football throughout the day, with nearly all of the squad getting their name on the scoresheet.
Kate Shephard, Ability Counts Co-ordinator spoke of her delight following the day.
“The effort and sportsmanship from every player was fabulous,” she said.
“A number of players were playing their first games today and there were some nervous faces at the start. By the end of the day, the nerves had disappeared and I am proud of each of them after their hard work.”
