We started playing last season in the J4K League in Penwortham. This was a massive learning curve for us, especially as some of the other teams had large resources and reputations, which meant we had to do our learning game by game.

We started, after much deliberation, with a squad of 10 boys. Our initial playing formation was an adventurous 2-3-1; the theory being to use width to get behind teams and get telling crosses into the penalty area. This the players found difficult as they failed to narrow play when not in possession, 'wingers are wingers' was I feel their interpretation! After some discussion it was agreed to play a narrower 2-2-2 system and this had an immediate effect and our results improved.

It has been so rewarding to see the improvements in both skill and team play of the boys, not only those in the team but others who came every week to the training sessions.

We had a fairly successful first year, giving 20 boys the chance to learn football skills and with 10 of these getting their first taste of competitive football matches.

I feel the future looks bright for New Longton Under 8's.