It was just another day in the books today, with the routine continuing to tick over. Same routine, with an extended scouting video session to make sure the team was ready for the game tomorrow.

After warming up and playing a few 8v2 circle games we went into 11v11. Kenny named his likely 11 for tomorrows game, and then named another 11 to line up how Longford was likely to lineup. I was in the Longford line up, playing with 3 center backs and 2 wing backs. Unusual for me having only ever played with 2 center backs and a back 4. However the point of the exercise was for the team playing tomorrow to work through how they will play and understand the movement that needs to be made to be effective against the team. Safe to say they were frustrated, however it was a productive exercise, and it was also the first real opportunity I got to see the Manager, Kenny truly step in a speak tactically and offering technical and tactical guidance. I was just glad to be taking part in that part of training instead of being off with the younger boys playing 4v4, and I made sure that although I was there to mimic Longford’s shape and style, I still did what I can as a defender to continue to prove myself and my ability.

After training 5 of us headed back down to the waterfront where the markets were still there and boats still moored. We each found different places to get lunch from the markets. I got a delicious Spanish paella and some french creamy potatoes with bacon bits. Not a bad lunch, but most impressively topped off with a plate of Dutch pancakes with Nutella and strawberry jam. I hope Dad wasn’t too jealous! We wandered the whole waterfront and back to a little coffee shop where we got coffee and tea, before we finally headed home.

A casual evening at the house, keeping track of various Europa League qualifying games in which teams from the Irish leagues were playing in.