Following lasts week defeat and loss of captain (Sam) Dover U13s faced a tricky first home test against a strong Folkestone Invicta.
Folkestone started strongly and led by powerful runners upfront raced in to a early 2-0 lead. With home fans fearing the worst Dover rallied to come back strongly as the half wore on. An industrious CM led by Regan and Bobby started to hustle the Folkestone players out of possession. On the flanks Jay in particular showed tremendous pace and work-rate winning numerous tackles and closely shackled Folkestone’s attacking threat.

Upfront the returning Alfie harried the Folkestone backline and carried the ball forward on numerous occasions to relieve pressure on the defence.  As Dover increased the pressure Folkestone gave away a series of free kicks. With some better luck Georges freekicks may have been finished off with a goal that Dover deserved. Half time came with the game in the balance and the next goal was going to be crucial for the match. A pumped up Dover came out for the second half but again were caught out by a swift Folkestone counter attack. Undeterred Dover didn’t let their heads drop and continued to work hard. New captain George held  his position well and began to encourage his teammates. Markus and Joss did some great defensive covering to keep the score at 2-0 as the game began to get stretched. Then, midway through the second half Derrys industry, (epitomised the determination Dover carried to get themselves back in the game), was rewarded as he dispossessed the Folkestone defender before giving to Alfie set up Regan to score Dovers first goal of the season. Dover continued to press in the final moments and Alfie went close twice forcing good saves from the Folkestone GK.

Despite the loss Dover will go into next weeks game with their heads held high knowing they are now showing the foundation of a teamwork and togetherness.