We were finally treated to a proper 'Full English' which is a traditional breakfast in England. Eggs, bacon, mushrooms, tomatoes and toast were on offer. The only thing missing was black pudding but I don't think the kids would have been up for that...
The players returned to their dorm rooms to change into their gear for the morning training session and we are out to the fields and ready to start warming up. The boys and girls soccer players participated in various games but nothing too strenuous as they wanted to be in top shape for the afternoon. Plenty of smiles and good banter meant that the kids were enjoying themselves and not getting to caught up in pre-match nerves.
The field hockey players worked on various systems of play for their evening match to ensure that they were ready for their first international challenge. Field hockey is played at a very high standard in England and the developmental program the country has in place is world renown. The players knew full well that they needed to be prepared for the game later that day.
Once training wrapped up, everyone headed to the cafeteria for lunch. The players enjoyed an English take on fajitas although it wasn't nearly as good as the version we have become accustomed to back in America. It did the job though and the players were fueled and ready for the afternoon games.
The boys soccer teams were up first and they were playing against several of Brighton's academy teams along with a county team comprised of the best players from the area. The boys were split into three teams and each team played a full game. The rainy weather finally subsided and the boys were treated to sunny conditions. The wind was a bit rough which made things tricky at times but we easily had the best day thus far weather wise. All of the boys teams competing well and every match was competitive. This was a good test for the young lads and one of teams ran out comfortable winners. Once the games finished up, all of the Seacoast United players gave USA Nike soccer balls to their opponents as a memento which left big smiles on their faces.
Fast forward to the field hockey players who traveled down the road to play their games. The U16s ended up drawing 2-2 against a very competitive county team which was a great result for the players. The U18s went up against a county ladies team and although they lost, the game was very much back and forth which will put the team in good stead.
All of the players will be able to relax tomorrow and recover properly. All in all it was a good day for Seacoast teams who could show that they can handle themselves against international competition.
