EDS And Arsenal Honours Even

As I predicted yesterday last night's clash between City's Elite Development Squad and Arsenal produced a feast of football, fought out well by two excellent teams both keen to win and both insistent on playing attacking football.

The marker was laid down early on when Gonzales managed to move a well struck shot onto the post.

Passing movements then took over from both sides with them moving the ball quickly back to front, side to side.

The breakthrough came after around 16 minutes when Guidetti found himself clear on the edge of the box and drilled a shot into the back of the net.

Arsenal tried hard to get level but City proved to be too robust for the remainder of the first half, and were just about worth their lead.

The second half commenced in much the same vein. Guidetti was withdrawn and Arsenal started to push forward despite the promptings of James Poole and Donal McDermott, both of whom had good matches for City.

Then around 10 minutes into the second half a real bolt out of the Red. Jat Thomas received the ball on the right, stepped inside and produced a stunning shot which flew beyond Gonzales to even up the score.

The Gunners got on top for about 15 minutes, but City were resolute and two excellent blocks by Ben Mee ensured that Arsenal didn't take the lead. As the second half progressed City got back on top and were unlucky not to take the lead.

Arsenal picked up a couple of yellow cards late on for unnecessary fouls as in the end they held out for a creditable 1-1 draw.

It is clear that the City faithful enjoy going to Ewen Fields to watch the Elite Development Squad with 801 appearing last night despite an evening of Champions League football on TV and despite the fact that this season EDS matches are not free to SeasonCard holders. I know City want to see attendaces regularly hit the 1000 mark and we seem to be getting there. Blackpool are next up at Hyde FC on 5 October.

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