Game 2

An early start for an 11.00 kick off at Thorp Arch, home of Leeds United's training facilities for their U18 game against West Ham United.

The game was scrappy, but high tempo and despite Leeds taking a lead on 16 minutes, by half time they were losing to the Hammers 2-1. My feet were absolutely killing me as the ground was hard underneath the carpet-like top to the playing surface. I was also sweating profusely as the humidity was hitting the top of the scale.

The second half was slightly less frantic as the pace settled and the Hammers seemed content to rest on their lead. Leeds equaliser and the game's last goal came with less than 10 minutes to go and they finished 2-2. Referee Andy Foster did well to manage the game which threatened to spark a few times. He did, by his own admission, get caught out of position a few times during the game and he seemed to be annoyed with himself about that.

The other Assistant was my fellow RA member, Chewitt who acquitted himself well. As for the author, I had a decent game and even found time for some discussion with the away team club officials. I have officiated at games at this level for Liverpool, Manchester United, Leeds United, Huddersfield Town, Bradford City, Sunderland, Middlesbrough, Newcastle United and Sheffield United, to name but a few. I have always enjoyed the games and at the end of the game, the club officials are always appreciative of the match officials participation.

Today's game burnt 1529 calories with a max hr at 91% and an average of 77% - hard work