Bullets on friendly crusade

With the season fast approaching and the all-inclusive holidays now out of the way, the AFCMB Bullets made the short trip to Ashby Ivanhoe Crusaders for a well-contested pre-season friendly.

After a few weeks without a game, both sides started brightly, moving the ball well and producing an entertaining end-to-end contest. Ashby took the lead from a well-delivered free kick, with the AFCMB defence waiting for an offside flag that never came. A deflection off an AFCMB defender helped the ball find the back of the net.

The Bullets responded well and, following some excellent build-up play, found a deserved equaliser 1-1 at the break.

The second half followed much the same pattern, with both teams playing some great football despite the warm conditions and hard pitch. AFCMB’s second goal saw the keeper off his line and a rocket of a shot hits the back of the net to make it 2-1, AFCMB extended their lead to 3–1 after another excellent passage of play resulted in the ball rippling the net.

A hydration break midway through the second half gave both teams a chance to regroup, with the heat beginning to take its toll. Ashby continued to push and eventually pulled a goal back to make it 3–2.

The Bullets refused to sit back and continued to create chances right until the final whistle, with the woodwork denying AFC on more than one occasion. Despite the late pressure from Ashby, the Bullets held on to secure a positive 3–2 victory.

A fantastic first game back for AFCMB, with plenty of positives to take from the performance. A special mention to the new players on trial, who fitted into the squad brilliantly. Hopefully, the AFCMB agents can get the pen to paper before the season gets underway! 😉

Goals: Jacob, Jamie and Archie

Great first game back for the Bullets

Player of the Match – Ben 🏆

After a long break and the first friendly game back, every player put in a great shift, making the Player of the Match decision a difficult one.

With so many strong performances across the team, the decision was handed over to the Skipper and Vice-Captain, who selected Ben as the deserved Player of the Match

Making his first appearance in AFCMB colours, Ben certainly didn’t disappoint. From the first whistle, he showed excellent footballing ability, with some great footwork, pinpoint distribution and a constant attacking threat.

Everything that was asked of Ben, he delivered. He also brought a strong physical presence to the game and showed plenty of energy and determination throughout.

A fantastic debut in the famous AFCMB colours and a performance that suggests Ben could be a great addition to the squad.

Now it's over to the AFCMB agents to get that summer signing over the line! 👀📝

Well played, Ben!