The first week of preseason faded into the second, with each day testing their resolve. The tough morning runs led into intense strength and conditioning sessions, followed by tactical drills under Coach Shaw's keen eye. He rarely gave praise and often criticized sharply, pushing every player, both young and old, to their limits.
Training became a battleground, with Mason's rivalry against the U16 captain, Jake, capturing everyone's attention. Every 50/50 challenge felt like a mini-war, pitting Jake's size and experience against Mason's fierce determination. While Jake often came away with the ball, Mason forced him to earn it every time, a fact that Coach Shaw certainly noticed.
Meanwhile, Callum struggled with a frustrating lack of goals. He faced bigger, smarter U16 defenders, and the half-chances he used to seize were now elusive. He made his runs but often got pushed off the ball just as he was about to shoot, with his frustration mounting after each missed opportunity.
Ethan committed himself to improvement. He stayed late after training to work on his agility and first touch, aware that saving even a fraction of a second could give him the space he needed. He learned to keep his head up, processing the game quickly to stay ahead of physical challenges.
After two weeks of intense competition, the first pre-season friendly arrived. It was an away match against a local academy, and excitement buzzed in the changing room. This was the first real test, the opportunity to earn a starting spot for the upcoming season.
Coach Shaw stood in the center, clipboard in hand. "The work you've done so far means nothing if you can't show it in a game," he stated, scanning the room. "Today, I want to see players who can perform under pressure."
He began to read the starting lineup. When he reached the midfield, he paused. "Starting in the holding role, Jake. And next to him… Mason."
Mason kept a straight face, but Ethan noticed him clenching his fist. He had made the starting eleven. However, Ethan's name was not called. Neither was Callum's. They were named as substitutes. The message was clear: they still had work to do.
From the bench, they observed the first half. Crestwood's starting team was strong and well-organized. With Mason and Jake leading the midfield, they were solid defensively, winning almost every battle. They controlled the match but found it hard to create clear chances, their play feeling a bit rigid and predictable. At halftime, the score stood at 0-0.
As the second half approached, Coach Shaw looked to the bench. "Matthews! Reid! Warm up."
A few minutes later, he called them over. He fixed his gaze on Ethan. "We are solid but predictable," he said quietly but firmly. "The game is there to be won. Go and change it."
Ethan and Callum stood at the sideline, the fourth official raising the electronic board. They exchanged a look that conveyed the importance of the moment. The whistle blew for their substitution. This was their chance. Their audition wasn't over; it had just reached its crucial point.