Yet another bright sunny day greeted the Chawton Athletic players as they gathered expectantly at Alton Station.
Deemed by the league to be our home game;despite taking place at Farnham College, Morley Road;the Chawton boys were a little surprised to find no changing facilities and even more surprised to find no referee either. A few telephone calls later revealed the worst and that the league knew we did not have a referee but seemed no to think it useful or important to mention it. Mind you having no referee would have been better than having the one we had last week.
Discussions we taking place as to how to get around this minor problem when a Morley Road squad player accepted the challenge and took up the whistle (more on this later)
Shaun had linesmen flags and a whistle, and we were under way, albeit slightly late, with Bob taking the Captains armband.
Alex had instilled a drive and determination into the Chawton boys and after twenty minutes Chawton were easily passing their way round their opponents. Chances were hard to come by i the opening quarter, Matt doing well to tip over from a powerful drive, getting hands to the subsequent corner before smothering the resulting effort on goal.
Bobby was vocal and controlling the midfield and was looking instrumental in Chawton's forward play and it was the Skipper whose excellent one-two almost fell back into his path.
Chawton were first to the ball all over the park, but it was Morley Road who made the break-through against the run of play, as the right midfielder dribbled and dribbled his way into the box, before cutting back inside and firing past a helpless Matt. It did nothing to dampen the Chawton boys and they immediately went back to the sparkling passing game that had lit up the first half forcing a couple of corners.
As the Chawton midfield took a stranglehold on the game the defencive line squeezed up and a long ball found Matt in no-mans land, misjudging the through ball. The Morley Road attacker did well to lift the ball over the stranded Keeper before passing the ball into an empty net.
Chawton continued to repel the Morley Road attacks with ease, the best half of football the newcomers had put together so far and boding well for the future. The half-time whistle went, Chawton 0 - Morley Road 2.
Alex had nothing but praise for the boys. they knew they were not out of this one and just need to press home the footballing advantage they had felt in the first half.
The second half started similarly to the first, Chawton controlling the game and passing the ball around, but lacking cutting edge and a quality final ball. Lee, Ben, Bob and George all giving their all to push the team forward from midfield. Liam had a couple of snapshots, but Chawton were still failing the test the Morley Road Keeper.
As Athletic pushed on, another through ball caught the back four slightly high and as the attacked honed in on Matt's goal from the angle the square ball found a free man at the back post whose slotted shot just evaded a scrambling keeper. 3-0 to Morley Road.
That strike was difficult to take, Chawton felt that they were only a slice of luck or a a good pass away from registering on the score sheet instead they found themselves a further goal behind.
George was replaced by Paul, who immediately had an impact on the left midfield, YES, the left midfield. Doing well to dispossess the Morley Road midfielder, Paul set off for the byline before crossing inside, sadly the chance melted away.
Matt was untroubled in the Chawton net, confidently collecting corners, crosses and shots, and immediately releasing another counter attack.
Bob let fly from distance then saw a free kick safely gather by the Morley Road Keeper, Si and Liam swapped positions for a while and new Shaun, playing out of position at right back, found himself pushing up to support a very hardworking Ben on the right hand side.
Alas, it was another through ball down the Cawton left that found Morley increasing their advantage as the square ball was deftly lofted over Matt from close range.
Though only 4-0 down the heads had dropped a little and despite more good passing and football, Ben and Paul involved in separate forays forward, Morley Road had time to add a fifth near the end as a misplaced pass led to Matt being rounded and the scoring was wrapped up from close range.
So yet more improvement on last week's performance by the Chawton boys, a 5-0 defeat but probably a slightly unfair scoreline on the balance of play.
There were only a couple of mistimed tackles of any note on the whole game, it was possibly the most sporting game I have played in, a real challenge of two fairly evenly matched sides, refereed excellent by a player. Respect for the "official" was abundant throughout and it is a credit to him and the two sets of players.
Blog man of the match was Bob, an excellent, vocal, calm and influential performance by the Skipper in the middle of midfield.
Apparently no fixture this coming Sunday 5th October, it is hoped, if agreed at Tuesday training, that all of the squad available should meet up at say Anstey Park for a full pitch, grass training session. More details to be announced shortly.
Monday 29 September 2008
Monday 22 September 2008
Wey Valley V Chawton Athletic - Match Report
A beautifully sunny day greeted the Chawton Athletic players as they met for this their second league game of the season.
Feeling slightly more confident after their drubbing last week at the hands of Hartley Wintney, the boys feeling that another week's worth of training had helped iron out some of those organizational issues experienced in their opening fixture.
The team without Seth, Paul, Clark, Jimmer, Robbie, Arj, Vinnie and Phil set off from the train station with 11 but thankfully Martin was soon recruited to boost the squad size to a respectable 12 men.
Arriving at the ground, Alex, whose input into the side as Manager is starting to bear fruit, quickly had us gathered in the dressing room and set about a very uplifting team talk.
Rich, took over the Captain's armband from Matt and Alex laid down the plan for the first half.
A well devised warm up and stretch routine had the Chawton boys ready to go; and so with the young referee ready we kicked off.
Chawton settled excellent, causing problems to the shaky Wey Valley back line in the early exchanges, Matt was a spectator in the opening ten minutes. Rich was holding the line well, with Pat having taken up the left back berth vacated by the missing Seth.
Slowly Wey Valley came back into the game, and from the first chance; a hopeful ball forward; the Wey Valley striker managed to get an early shot away that caught Matt out and could only watch as the ball fizzed in the bottom corner. The shock of a goal technically against the run of play caught Chawton, and the confidence ebbed slightly. A well placed corner saw Wey Valley score again as a header was planted firmly inside the post.
Chawton rallied and Liam and Lee both had good efforts on goal, but sadly didn't test the keeper; it was on the break from another sustained piece of Chawton pressure that lead to the breakaway third for Wey Valley as a through ball behind the defence saw a one on one that Matt did well to get has to but could not stop the ball rolling into the corner. Matt had made a couple of good saves including one smothered attempt as he was rounded again one on one.
The fourth came from a mistake from the normally safe handed Matt as his attempted catch saw the ball slip from his grasp to be headed home, 4-0, it was not looking good for the Athletic.
The 5th came from a corner, and was turned into his own net by an unlucky Matt, this was followed quickly by the 6th another one on one that flicked off of Matt's hip before nestling into the goal. The only thing the ref gave in our favour was when a foul was committed in our box, the grass being so long he could not see the line and after checking with our linesman had no alternative but to give a free kick on the edge of the box.
So half time, Alex had his work cut out to lift the boys, but a very positive chat saw the boys refreshed and ready for the second half as Alex put it at "0-0".
Chawton started the second half a different team, suddenly the ball was down and being passed around and we started to look dangerous, but another ball over the top saw the Wey Valley forward manhandle Shaun off of the ball before slotting past an out of position Matt, a disappointing decision from the Ref who in my opinion had a very poor game.
Too many times he was quick to award free kicks against us for imagined pushes; as two players challenged in the air, but allowed Wey Valley to tug push and pull while the ball was on the ground, I reminded him of that fact and he petulantly moved a free kick all the way back into my six yard box, for which I again reminded him that he was only doing that because he knew full well my complaints were justified, suffice to say he did not hang around long afterwards.
A moment of magic then ensued as Chawton continued to push forward and their hard work and determination was rewarded as Liam smashed home brilliantly from 25 yards, a very accomplished finish indeed from the debutant.
Chawton carried on trying to get their passing going and an excellent interchange released George, whose effort on goal was tipped onto the post and away for a corner by the Valley keeper.
Wey Valley had time to wrap the scoring up as another one on one saw Matt save well only to palm the ball into the path of another striker who rolled the ball home.
Overall a much better performance in the second half with boys having only lost "2-1" in the second half.
Blog man of the match was Liam, who worked tireless both up front and at the back to give Si a breather and of course who slotted home so well to give Chawton their first goal of the season.
Our greatest challenge continues this week as we attempt to find a home pitch, more details to follow.
Feeling slightly more confident after their drubbing last week at the hands of Hartley Wintney, the boys feeling that another week's worth of training had helped iron out some of those organizational issues experienced in their opening fixture.
The team without Seth, Paul, Clark, Jimmer, Robbie, Arj, Vinnie and Phil set off from the train station with 11 but thankfully Martin was soon recruited to boost the squad size to a respectable 12 men.
Arriving at the ground, Alex, whose input into the side as Manager is starting to bear fruit, quickly had us gathered in the dressing room and set about a very uplifting team talk.
Rich, took over the Captain's armband from Matt and Alex laid down the plan for the first half.
A well devised warm up and stretch routine had the Chawton boys ready to go; and so with the young referee ready we kicked off.
Chawton settled excellent, causing problems to the shaky Wey Valley back line in the early exchanges, Matt was a spectator in the opening ten minutes. Rich was holding the line well, with Pat having taken up the left back berth vacated by the missing Seth.
Slowly Wey Valley came back into the game, and from the first chance; a hopeful ball forward; the Wey Valley striker managed to get an early shot away that caught Matt out and could only watch as the ball fizzed in the bottom corner. The shock of a goal technically against the run of play caught Chawton, and the confidence ebbed slightly. A well placed corner saw Wey Valley score again as a header was planted firmly inside the post.
Chawton rallied and Liam and Lee both had good efforts on goal, but sadly didn't test the keeper; it was on the break from another sustained piece of Chawton pressure that lead to the breakaway third for Wey Valley as a through ball behind the defence saw a one on one that Matt did well to get has to but could not stop the ball rolling into the corner. Matt had made a couple of good saves including one smothered attempt as he was rounded again one on one.
The fourth came from a mistake from the normally safe handed Matt as his attempted catch saw the ball slip from his grasp to be headed home, 4-0, it was not looking good for the Athletic.
The 5th came from a corner, and was turned into his own net by an unlucky Matt, this was followed quickly by the 6th another one on one that flicked off of Matt's hip before nestling into the goal. The only thing the ref gave in our favour was when a foul was committed in our box, the grass being so long he could not see the line and after checking with our linesman had no alternative but to give a free kick on the edge of the box.
So half time, Alex had his work cut out to lift the boys, but a very positive chat saw the boys refreshed and ready for the second half as Alex put it at "0-0".
Chawton started the second half a different team, suddenly the ball was down and being passed around and we started to look dangerous, but another ball over the top saw the Wey Valley forward manhandle Shaun off of the ball before slotting past an out of position Matt, a disappointing decision from the Ref who in my opinion had a very poor game.
Too many times he was quick to award free kicks against us for imagined pushes; as two players challenged in the air, but allowed Wey Valley to tug push and pull while the ball was on the ground, I reminded him of that fact and he petulantly moved a free kick all the way back into my six yard box, for which I again reminded him that he was only doing that because he knew full well my complaints were justified, suffice to say he did not hang around long afterwards.
A moment of magic then ensued as Chawton continued to push forward and their hard work and determination was rewarded as Liam smashed home brilliantly from 25 yards, a very accomplished finish indeed from the debutant.
Chawton carried on trying to get their passing going and an excellent interchange released George, whose effort on goal was tipped onto the post and away for a corner by the Valley keeper.
Wey Valley had time to wrap the scoring up as another one on one saw Matt save well only to palm the ball into the path of another striker who rolled the ball home.
Overall a much better performance in the second half with boys having only lost "2-1" in the second half.
Blog man of the match was Liam, who worked tireless both up front and at the back to give Si a breather and of course who slotted home so well to give Chawton their first goal of the season.
Our greatest challenge continues this week as we attempt to find a home pitch, more details to follow.
Thursday 18 September 2008
Sunday 21st September - away to Wey Valley
9:15am meet at Alton Train Station - away to Wey Valley -
Directions to ground.
Turn left down Station Road, under the railway bridge and head out past Omega Park industrial estate. Continue on the road through Worldham and through Kingsley, until you reach a T juntion, turn right then immediately left, follow the road for about half a mile ground on left hand side.
Directions to ground.
Turn left down Station Road, under the railway bridge and head out past Omega Park industrial estate. Continue on the road through Worldham and through Kingsley, until you reach a T juntion, turn right then immediately left, follow the road for about half a mile ground on left hand side.
Monday 15 September 2008
Match Report - versus CSL Hartley Wintney
Chawton Athletic's innaugural season in the Farnham and District Sunday league got off to a shaky start as the new boys were dealt a harsh lesson at the hand of CSL Hartley Wintney.
Buoyed by having persuaded 13 players to be available, sadly Vinny, Phil and Clark were unavailable; the convoy set off from the French Horn in a positive mood and; after only a slight hiccough; found the ground.
Seth named the team, with Shaun and Paul warming the bench, and there was a mad scramble for kit.
A short discussion followed and the honour of captaining the side this week fell to Matt. A slightly ad-hoc warm up followed and then the toss, which true to Matt's cricket captain form, he lost. Chawton defended the goal up the hill in the first half.
From the very early stages, it seemed apparent the CSL were a well organised outfit and their passing game and attacking speed soon had the Chawton defence on the back foot.
Matt saved well early on narrowing the angle and turning a powerful shot round the post, the subsequent corner was dealt with well.
CSL were pouring forward, Si and Seth at left and right back were fighting a losing battle as the CSL wingers constantly attacked the flanks and it was a passing move down the Chawton left that game CSL the lead as a one-two released the ball through a slightly static defence, a square ball found an unmarked forward who swept the ball home passed a stranded Matt, who did well to get enough on it to almost push it onto the post.
Sadly almost straight from the kick off CSL had doubled their lead as a raking ball to the back post saw a superbly struck side-footed volley rifle into the roof of the net, Matt having no chance.
Rich, at centre back then saw the lenient side of the referee as chasing back as the last man he brought down the CSL forward on the edge of the box, a stern talking to only, much to the surprise of everyone, including Rich. Matt organised his wall and waited and held on confidently as it was fired low round the wall.
CSL ominously attacked and after having squeezed another attempt out for a corner, a superb last ditch tackle from Jimmer, CSL benefited from some slightly hesitant goal keeping as Matt half came for the ball, only to miss his punch and the ball ricochet into the goal off of Jimmer for an unfortunate own-goal. 3-0 to CSL.
Bobby and Robbie then both were booked for slightly late challenges as CSL pressed home their advantage.
Si then had to leave the field to be replaced by Shaun as the sheer amount of pressure up the CSL left wing left him exposed time after time.
Chawton, although 3-0 down, were still trying to play football, but were struggling to break down a well organised and much fitter CSL midfield and defence, but were encourage as a good move lead to George bursting through one on one with the keeper only steer his shot wide.
CSL added two more before half time as time and time again the Chawton defence were caught short of a defensive midfielder, Matt having managed to block another two shots. 5-0 at half time.
A rallying call during what seemed to be the shortest half-time I have ever experienced as a player, stirred the passion of the Chawton players but despite having identified several key areas for improvement in the second half the slope only added to their problems as the back four defended higher and higher up the pitch the CSL attackers were released beyond them time and time again.
Chaos rained as the referee started to ignore Si's linesman's flag and CSL added to their tally with more than one generous offside decision to play despite Si flagging furiously. Always a lesson to learn is to play to the whistle, which a couple of times Chawton did not do.
Some better play in the second half saw Chawton manage a couple of good attempts on target, the keeper making a smart save from Robbie's pile driver.
Matt did well playing further from his line, sweeping up any over hit passes, but the pattern of the second half very much followed that of the first, as Chawton pushed on in an attempt to get their passing game going, they were caught up the pitch out of position and unable to assist an already tiring back four.
The goals rained in from all angles, including a very well taken lob that found Matt just slightly too far off of his line, the majority of strikes in the second half seemed to end up being two against Matt and all to easily CSL started to rack up a cricket score, capped by an audacious rounding of Matt which lead to an amusing exchange of views between the disgruntled keeper and the forward (understatement). Rich was fortunate to get away with bringing the very same forward down as he picked his way into the box, the referee either unsighted or taking pity on us waved away the claims.
And so the final whistle, CSL Hartly Wintney 12 - Chawton Athletic 0, not quite the start anybody was really expecting, but then I think that we very much mistook how good the opposition were and more importantly did not quite expect us to require that much improvement to be able to compete.
Plenty of things to work on in training on Tuesday and hopefully a few more players available next week, Vinny, Phil, Clark and Skilts should make for a more balanced squad for Seth to choose from.
Blog man of the match was Jimmer, despite normally being a goalkeeper and despite the scoreline, Jimmer did well at centre back alongside Rich and several well timed tackles saw him take the accolade.
Buoyed by having persuaded 13 players to be available, sadly Vinny, Phil and Clark were unavailable; the convoy set off from the French Horn in a positive mood and; after only a slight hiccough; found the ground.
Seth named the team, with Shaun and Paul warming the bench, and there was a mad scramble for kit.
A short discussion followed and the honour of captaining the side this week fell to Matt. A slightly ad-hoc warm up followed and then the toss, which true to Matt's cricket captain form, he lost. Chawton defended the goal up the hill in the first half.
From the very early stages, it seemed apparent the CSL were a well organised outfit and their passing game and attacking speed soon had the Chawton defence on the back foot.
Matt saved well early on narrowing the angle and turning a powerful shot round the post, the subsequent corner was dealt with well.
CSL were pouring forward, Si and Seth at left and right back were fighting a losing battle as the CSL wingers constantly attacked the flanks and it was a passing move down the Chawton left that game CSL the lead as a one-two released the ball through a slightly static defence, a square ball found an unmarked forward who swept the ball home passed a stranded Matt, who did well to get enough on it to almost push it onto the post.
Sadly almost straight from the kick off CSL had doubled their lead as a raking ball to the back post saw a superbly struck side-footed volley rifle into the roof of the net, Matt having no chance.
Rich, at centre back then saw the lenient side of the referee as chasing back as the last man he brought down the CSL forward on the edge of the box, a stern talking to only, much to the surprise of everyone, including Rich. Matt organised his wall and waited and held on confidently as it was fired low round the wall.
CSL ominously attacked and after having squeezed another attempt out for a corner, a superb last ditch tackle from Jimmer, CSL benefited from some slightly hesitant goal keeping as Matt half came for the ball, only to miss his punch and the ball ricochet into the goal off of Jimmer for an unfortunate own-goal. 3-0 to CSL.
Bobby and Robbie then both were booked for slightly late challenges as CSL pressed home their advantage.
Si then had to leave the field to be replaced by Shaun as the sheer amount of pressure up the CSL left wing left him exposed time after time.
Chawton, although 3-0 down, were still trying to play football, but were struggling to break down a well organised and much fitter CSL midfield and defence, but were encourage as a good move lead to George bursting through one on one with the keeper only steer his shot wide.
CSL added two more before half time as time and time again the Chawton defence were caught short of a defensive midfielder, Matt having managed to block another two shots. 5-0 at half time.
A rallying call during what seemed to be the shortest half-time I have ever experienced as a player, stirred the passion of the Chawton players but despite having identified several key areas for improvement in the second half the slope only added to their problems as the back four defended higher and higher up the pitch the CSL attackers were released beyond them time and time again.
Chaos rained as the referee started to ignore Si's linesman's flag and CSL added to their tally with more than one generous offside decision to play despite Si flagging furiously. Always a lesson to learn is to play to the whistle, which a couple of times Chawton did not do.
Some better play in the second half saw Chawton manage a couple of good attempts on target, the keeper making a smart save from Robbie's pile driver.
Matt did well playing further from his line, sweeping up any over hit passes, but the pattern of the second half very much followed that of the first, as Chawton pushed on in an attempt to get their passing game going, they were caught up the pitch out of position and unable to assist an already tiring back four.
The goals rained in from all angles, including a very well taken lob that found Matt just slightly too far off of his line, the majority of strikes in the second half seemed to end up being two against Matt and all to easily CSL started to rack up a cricket score, capped by an audacious rounding of Matt which lead to an amusing exchange of views between the disgruntled keeper and the forward (understatement). Rich was fortunate to get away with bringing the very same forward down as he picked his way into the box, the referee either unsighted or taking pity on us waved away the claims.
And so the final whistle, CSL Hartly Wintney 12 - Chawton Athletic 0, not quite the start anybody was really expecting, but then I think that we very much mistook how good the opposition were and more importantly did not quite expect us to require that much improvement to be able to compete.
Plenty of things to work on in training on Tuesday and hopefully a few more players available next week, Vinny, Phil, Clark and Skilts should make for a more balanced squad for Seth to choose from.
Blog man of the match was Jimmer, despite normally being a goalkeeper and despite the scoreline, Jimmer did well at centre back alongside Rich and several well timed tackles saw him take the accolade.
Friday 12 September 2008
WHAM!
Ok calm down, I don't mean George and Andrew I refer instead to West Ham, and of course the installation of Gianfranco Zola as the new manager at the Boleyn Ground (ok who though West Ham played at Upton Park?).
Perfect timing for the total management novice to take over, just as XL ;the club's principal partner; lurches into administration stranding thousands of Holidaymakers abroad with no way of making it back home. Still with all those Trolly Dolly's looking for work it should mean that the service improves at the ground and surely some of them must be able to play football so they won't be short of players.
"A West Hammer fan sauntered past a corner shop and spots a video for sale entitled "West Ham - The Golden Years" Enthused, the supporter asks the shopkeeper "How much for the video mate ?""£200 mate" replies the shopkeeper."£200 for a video?" says the fan, "Yer having a laugh!""Oh no" the shopkeeper replies "The video's only a fiver, but the Betamax player will cost you £195"
Not content with knocking the poor old Hammers, I return my attention to Chelsea, now they are fair game whatever is happening.
So Steve Clarke has handed his resignation in at Chelsea, to join his old Blues team mate Zola as his assistant as West Ham, before Chelsea had the chance to reject his resignation, Big Phil had already wished his assistant well for the future, having helped him clear his desk (ok I made the desk bit up) so much for loyalty (that goes both ways) you can imagine the tears (possibly of laughter admittedly) roling down Big Phil's face as he sees his old pal off, "bye lad, good luck with wham"
"Two blokes were walking through a cemetery when they happened upon a tombstone that read:"Here lies John Sweeney, a good man and a Chelsea fan."So, one of them asked the other: "When the hell did they start putting two people in one grave?"
On that note it's nearly the weekend..
Full match report from Sunday's epic league opener away to Hartley Wintney should get posted by midday Monday
Perfect timing for the total management novice to take over, just as XL ;the club's principal partner; lurches into administration stranding thousands of Holidaymakers abroad with no way of making it back home. Still with all those Trolly Dolly's looking for work it should mean that the service improves at the ground and surely some of them must be able to play football so they won't be short of players.
"A West Hammer fan sauntered past a corner shop and spots a video for sale entitled "West Ham - The Golden Years" Enthused, the supporter asks the shopkeeper "How much for the video mate ?""£200 mate" replies the shopkeeper."£200 for a video?" says the fan, "Yer having a laugh!""Oh no" the shopkeeper replies "The video's only a fiver, but the Betamax player will cost you £195"
Not content with knocking the poor old Hammers, I return my attention to Chelsea, now they are fair game whatever is happening.
So Steve Clarke has handed his resignation in at Chelsea, to join his old Blues team mate Zola as his assistant as West Ham, before Chelsea had the chance to reject his resignation, Big Phil had already wished his assistant well for the future, having helped him clear his desk (ok I made the desk bit up) so much for loyalty (that goes both ways) you can imagine the tears (possibly of laughter admittedly) roling down Big Phil's face as he sees his old pal off, "bye lad, good luck with wham"
"Two blokes were walking through a cemetery when they happened upon a tombstone that read:"Here lies John Sweeney, a good man and a Chelsea fan."So, one of them asked the other: "When the hell did they start putting two people in one grave?"
On that note it's nearly the weekend..
Full match report from Sunday's epic league opener away to Hartley Wintney should get posted by midday Monday
Thursday 11 September 2008
Walcott the wunderkind!
What a performance by England yesterday, reminded me very much of our trouncing of Germany and the scoreline could; and probably should; have matched that famous night in Munich.
After a slightly nervy start, England soon settled into a good passing pattern, ensuring Croatia would struggle to retain possession and maintain a threat. One early shot which tested David James was the best it got for Croatia in the early exchanges.
England went ahead comparatively fortuitously as Ferdinand, fit after missing the game last weekend against Andora, strode forwards with the ball glued to his foot, beating at least one Croatian midfielder before releasing the ball to Rooney. Rooney slid a measured ball through the gap to Joe Cole, but the bass was intercepted and ran loose into the Croatian area, a muffed clearance saw the ball smack into a defender and the ball fall at Theo Walcott's feet, he steadied himself before firing home low in to the far corner, an excellent strike from the Arsenal youngster and only a cynical body check that shook the boy wonder had stopped him from motoring into the box as England launched a lightning counter attack, so a satisfying lead at half time for Capello's men.
Fabio, must surely have has less arm waving to do at half time than against Andorra.
The second half started well, Croatia seemed in determined mood to get back on level terms, but the England looked to have the measure of them and kept pouring forward catching Croatia on the break, Rooney was having one of his best games for many a year and Heskey was leading the line very well indeed.
It was Rooney's quick feet that saw him skip by Simunic; who having already been booked in the first half, was extremely fortunate to get away with staying on the pitch for his very blatant block on the Man Utd striker. Lampard's free kick was palmed away by an unsteady looking Croat Keeper.
Minutes later as we were still discussing why Simunic was still on the pitch when Kovac caught Joe Cole on the side of the head with more than accidental elbow, the England man staggered and fell to the ground clutching his head, before getting back to his feet before finally going to ground again, blood pouring from a nasty looking wound. The referee, perhaps finding it easier to make this decision in the middle of the pitch rather than the edge of the box moments earlier, produced a Red Card, 53 minutes gone and Croatia down to ten men. Joe Cole stretchered off to be replaced by Jermaine Jenas.
England immediately stamped home their authority on the game as Rooney fed the ball across to Walcott and he produced a carbon copy finish into the far corner. 2-0 England and looking comfortable.
Jenas took over the Joe Cole left wing spot and did excellently to get to the byline to cut back for Rooney to make it 3-0, it was wonderland, the Croats were a spent force.
Mandzukic was released with ten minutes to go after a suspiciously high foot appeared to catch Terry in the face, the referee played on and the Croatian substitute did well to slot the ball under James, 3-1.
The consolation goal did not dampen the England players' spirits and after a Lampard strike was chalked off by a slightly over zealous referee it was Walcott again to raised the roof.
Rooney's exquisite control, turn and slide rule ball released Walcott who steadied himself before side footing (left footed) past the downcast keeper, 4-1 to England and a hat trick for Walcott!!
After a slightly nervy start, England soon settled into a good passing pattern, ensuring Croatia would struggle to retain possession and maintain a threat. One early shot which tested David James was the best it got for Croatia in the early exchanges.
England went ahead comparatively fortuitously as Ferdinand, fit after missing the game last weekend against Andora, strode forwards with the ball glued to his foot, beating at least one Croatian midfielder before releasing the ball to Rooney. Rooney slid a measured ball through the gap to Joe Cole, but the bass was intercepted and ran loose into the Croatian area, a muffed clearance saw the ball smack into a defender and the ball fall at Theo Walcott's feet, he steadied himself before firing home low in to the far corner, an excellent strike from the Arsenal youngster and only a cynical body check that shook the boy wonder had stopped him from motoring into the box as England launched a lightning counter attack, so a satisfying lead at half time for Capello's men.
Fabio, must surely have has less arm waving to do at half time than against Andorra.
The second half started well, Croatia seemed in determined mood to get back on level terms, but the England looked to have the measure of them and kept pouring forward catching Croatia on the break, Rooney was having one of his best games for many a year and Heskey was leading the line very well indeed.
It was Rooney's quick feet that saw him skip by Simunic; who having already been booked in the first half, was extremely fortunate to get away with staying on the pitch for his very blatant block on the Man Utd striker. Lampard's free kick was palmed away by an unsteady looking Croat Keeper.
Minutes later as we were still discussing why Simunic was still on the pitch when Kovac caught Joe Cole on the side of the head with more than accidental elbow, the England man staggered and fell to the ground clutching his head, before getting back to his feet before finally going to ground again, blood pouring from a nasty looking wound. The referee, perhaps finding it easier to make this decision in the middle of the pitch rather than the edge of the box moments earlier, produced a Red Card, 53 minutes gone and Croatia down to ten men. Joe Cole stretchered off to be replaced by Jermaine Jenas.
England immediately stamped home their authority on the game as Rooney fed the ball across to Walcott and he produced a carbon copy finish into the far corner. 2-0 England and looking comfortable.
Jenas took over the Joe Cole left wing spot and did excellently to get to the byline to cut back for Rooney to make it 3-0, it was wonderland, the Croats were a spent force.
Mandzukic was released with ten minutes to go after a suspiciously high foot appeared to catch Terry in the face, the referee played on and the Croatian substitute did well to slot the ball under James, 3-1.
The consolation goal did not dampen the England players' spirits and after a Lampard strike was chalked off by a slightly over zealous referee it was Walcott again to raised the roof.
Rooney's exquisite control, turn and slide rule ball released Walcott who steadied himself before side footing (left footed) past the downcast keeper, 4-1 to England and a hat trick for Walcott!!
Wednesday 10 September 2008
Chawton Athletic Club Charter
Chawton Athletic F.C.’s aims (hereinafter call “The Club”; is to provide Sunday Morning league football to its members.
RESPECT: The Players and Officials of The Club will at; all times; play with TOTAL respect for the Referee, lines persons and the players and officials of the opposition team. Games will finish with a shake of the hand for as many opposition players as deemed sensible AND the referee. He/She does it for fun, to enable us to play football and for minimal expense. Leave any personal disputes on the pitch.
Encouragement: Nobody plays to make mistakes; they play to be the best they can and to enjoy themselves. There will be times when mistakes are made but we must must try our best to encourage and not to criticize. If something needs to be said right there and then to rectify a problem ensure that you do it as positively as possible, remember nobody likes to feel as though they are being told off.
Ability: It is already apparent that we have a mix of abilities and experience throughout the squad.
Equipment: All players should remove all jewellery (not just tape it up) and shin pads should be worn at all times during the game. Players not adhering to these Football Association rules may find themselves unable to take part in the game.
Fines: Players found to be in breach of this RESPECT directive will be fined by the club (the amount dependent on the seriousness of the incident), all fines for disrespect will go to a charity of the clubs choosing, tba.
Additional Fines: There will be additional (joke) fines for various aspects of the game, these are purely fund raising fines (ie going back into the club) and will be used where deemed suitable.
Home Games: Matches kick off at 10:30am, players are therefore expected to arrive for home games at 9:45am, to ensure that nets are erected and pegged down correctly and that the flags are set out. Players are also expected to assist in the taking down of the nets and the collection of the flags after the games.
Away games: Players should endeavour to arrive at the meeting point no later than 9:15am. Football matches are strenuous and nervy affairs and require a calm collected approach, including a decent length stretching and warming up routine. Rushing straight into exercise will only cause injury.
Warm Ups and Cool Downs: Players should take it in turns to lead warm up and short warm down sessions. A regular routine of stretches should be established, though individuals may wish to do additional specific stretches. Warming down improves recovery time and fitness and prevents future injury.
Availabilities: All players should make sure that their availabilities for the following weekend are known by Tuesday evening. We still plan to meet on Tuesday’s at 7pm to do 4/5 a side and perhaps a little training. If you are unable to attend on a Tuesday please text your availabilities to Seth Lodge on 07786 530732.
Sponsorship and Fund Raising: Currently the team does not have a sponsor and therefore will require the financial assistance of its members. We will of course attempt to keep costs down as far as we can, but pitches and referees all cost money and so sometimes we will all have to put our hands in our pockets until a sponsor or funding can be found.
Selection Policy: The Club shall at all times endeavour to give everybody a fair game, no matter what the circumstances, but until a “Manager” has taken the responsibility of such matters, perhaps it should rest with a small selection committee and derived from those available as of Tuesday. There should be no exceptions to this rule, ie players only making themselves available after Tuesday night selection will start as a substitute, unless a player due to start subsequently becomes unavailable.
Running the line: Everybody needs to know how to run the line, everybody! The referee should instruct the person running the line at the start of the match, and if we swap over he/she may well come over during a break in play to re-issue his/her instructions.
Running the line basics:
· Remain impartial: If we lose because of something we lose because of something, that’s life.
· Remain as in line with the second to last man nearest the goal. The last man would normally be the goalkeeper, but occasionally a defender will go to the line behind a goalkeeper thus making the goalkeeper that man that holds the offside line etc.
· You should be positioned diagonally to the linesman on the opposite touchline and remain in your own half (generally referees will ask you to run the line for your own defence rather than the opposition’s.
· Remember, the player must be beyond the second to last man nearest your goal and in your half when the ball is played, the player must then either receive the ball or become “active” to be flagged as being offside.
· Flagging: If you need to flag for offside, you should stop in line with your second to last defender when the player became offside, the flag should be “cracked” then waved to attract the attention of the referee. Once you have attracted the referee’s attention you should indicate where on the pitch the player was when offside, (near to your touchline point the flag downwards, in the middle point the flag horizontally towards the middle of the pitch, far side point the flag upwards.
· Throw – ins and corners. Again remain impartial, indicate which way the throw is (throw-ins by pointing in the attacking direction of play for that side). Corners point to the corner flag, goal kicks point the flag horizontally to the goal.
· You cannot give (or be given) offside from a thrown in (unless it touches one of your players after it has been thrown, or a corner.
· Please, please try to keep up with play.
· Any further information can be obtained from football rule books at the library or online at http://www.fryclubfc.co.uk/loaf/laws_of_the_game.htm
Most important of all, please enjoy yourselves, if we are successful then all the better, but success may well come from patience and improvement and the desire to enjoy playing.
The countdown begins...
Sunday's maiden league outing for newly formed Chawton Athletic looms large, an away trip to Hartley Wintney should be a decent test of the newcomers.
Tuesday's "training" (in reality the same 4/5 a side kick about as per the previous 7 months) at the Sports centre was attended by unprecedented 13 people, so many in fact that Bob went back home. Some excellent looking new additions to the squad are starting to make the squad look actually very strong, well numbered and more importantly; well balanced.
Sadly I am so great with names that I can't remember many of the newbies name's, am fairly sure there was one Rich in there somewhere.
Roll on Sunday. 9:30am meet at Anstey Park. The AA route finder leads us a different way than I would have gone, but such is life.
Start out at GU34 2NB,Alton
Unclassified
Turn left onto Anstey Road
Anstey Road
Bear right
Unclassified
Continue forward onto the B3004
B3004
At roundabout take the 1st exit onto the A31 (signposted Guildford, Farnham)
A31
At roundabout take the 1st exit onto the A325 (signposted Central Farnham)
A325
At roundabout take the 1st exit onto the A325
A325
Turn left onto Castle Street - A287
A287
Bear right onto Upper Hale Road
Upper Hale Road
Turn left onto the A3016
A3016
At traffic signals continue forward onto the A287
A287
At roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Beacon Hill Road - B3013 (signposted Hartley Wintney, Fleet)
B3013
At roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Beacon Hill Road - B3013
B3013
At roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Reading Road South - B3013 (signposted Fleet, Reading)
B3013
Continue forward onto the A323
A323
At roundabout take the 2nd exit onto the A323
A323
At roundabout take the 1st exit onto the A323 (signposted Hartley Wintney, Basingstoke)
A323
Turn left onto Green Lane (signposted Winchfield)
Green Lane
Arrive at RG27 8DX,Hartley Wintney
Unclassified
17.86
-
Section time 0:35, Total time 0:35
Tuesday's "training" (in reality the same 4/5 a side kick about as per the previous 7 months) at the Sports centre was attended by unprecedented 13 people, so many in fact that Bob went back home. Some excellent looking new additions to the squad are starting to make the squad look actually very strong, well numbered and more importantly; well balanced.
Sadly I am so great with names that I can't remember many of the newbies name's, am fairly sure there was one Rich in there somewhere.
Roll on Sunday. 9:30am meet at Anstey Park. The AA route finder leads us a different way than I would have gone, but such is life.
Start out at GU34 2NB,Alton
Unclassified
Turn left onto Anstey Road
Anstey Road
Bear right
Unclassified
Continue forward onto the B3004
B3004
At roundabout take the 1st exit onto the A31 (signposted Guildford, Farnham)
A31
At roundabout take the 1st exit onto the A325 (signposted Central Farnham)
A325
At roundabout take the 1st exit onto the A325
A325
Turn left onto Castle Street - A287
A287
Bear right onto Upper Hale Road
Upper Hale Road
Turn left onto the A3016
A3016
At traffic signals continue forward onto the A287
A287
At roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Beacon Hill Road - B3013 (signposted Hartley Wintney, Fleet)
B3013
At roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Beacon Hill Road - B3013
B3013
At roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Reading Road South - B3013 (signposted Fleet, Reading)
B3013
Continue forward onto the A323
A323
At roundabout take the 2nd exit onto the A323
A323
At roundabout take the 1st exit onto the A323 (signposted Hartley Wintney, Basingstoke)
A323
Turn left onto Green Lane (signposted Winchfield)
Green Lane
Arrive at RG27 8DX,Hartley Wintney
Unclassified
17.86
-
Section time 0:35, Total time 0:35
Friday 5 September 2008
Chawton Athletic F.C. Fixtures 2008/09
Well, according to http://www.sportstoday.co.uk/ website, the fixtures for the almost mighty Chawton Athletic F.C. are as follows:
Date H/A Opponent Ground
So a change to the published fixtures with Chawton Athletic F.C. taking on CLS Hartley Wintney at home (wherever the hell that's going to be!!) in their opening fixture. CLS faired reasonably last year according to the league tables, ending the season mid-table in 5th place from 8, their record was played 14, won 5, drawn 0, lost 9, goals for 22, goals against 40. An interesting challenge for the (mostly) Alton youngsters (youngsters indeed!).
Date H/A Opponent Ground
14/09 A CLS Hartley Wintney Memorial Ground (fixture reveresed!)
21/09 A Wey Valley Broxhead Common
28/09 H Morley Road Not known yet
12/10 H Royal Exchange Not known yet
19/10 A Royal Exchange Not known yet (Cup)
26/10 A Royal Oak Bordon Rec
01/11 H The Shots Not known yet (Aldershot Park?)
09/11 H Wey Valley Not known yet (Cup)
16/11 A The Shots Not known yet
23/11 H Blue Bell Not known yet
30/11 H CLS Hartley Wintney Not known yet
07/12 H Wey Valley Not known yet
14/12 H Royal Oak Not known yet (Cup)
04/01 A Morley Road Farnham College
11/01 A Royal Exchange Not known yet
18/01 H Royal Oak Not known yet
25/01 A Blue Bell Station Road, Liss, (TBA)
So a change to the published fixtures with Chawton Athletic F.C. taking on CLS Hartley Wintney at home (wherever the hell that's going to be!!) in their opening fixture. CLS faired reasonably last year according to the league tables, ending the season mid-table in 5th place from 8, their record was played 14, won 5, drawn 0, lost 9, goals for 22, goals against 40. An interesting challenge for the (mostly) Alton youngsters (youngsters indeed!).
Back of the net...
So Jimmy Bullard gets a call up to the England squad for the opening game of our World Cup qualifiers away to Andorra. Personally it feels a little like poor old Darren Pattinson's short lived England Cricket career over the Summer, you suspect that when a) Everyone is fit and b) The opponents aren't professional Shepherds, bus drivers and alike; that Jimmy may just be left back out. On the other hand he could get a surprise debut and whip a free kick into the top corner of the "goalkeeper's" net.
Poor lad cause he always seems such a nice lad and a true professional, for those of you who have not witnessed Jimmy's expert approach to everything he does go here
http://www.laughfc.co.uk/wp/jimmy-bullard-tribute/ many thanks to laughfc for the link by the way. There is some excellent stuff on there same as here http://www.the-onion-bag.com/index.php
Keegan walks away from Newcastle, which on the face of it may not mean much, but how many people manage to do that with Joey Barton in the team, well done Nasri by the way; great ankle tap against Barton in the game at the Emirates, and Keegan had the actual balls to have a go at Nasri lol quality bye bye Kev. So a replacement for 'king Kev is being sought, there must surely be an argument to bring Souness back, imagine he and Barton going in for a 50/50 on the training ground!
Andorra v England predictor. Ok so Defoe will probably score a hattrick which will cement his place in the team, leaving Owen def re-considering whether to sign that new contract at Newcastle, my prediction 3-0 to England
Poor lad cause he always seems such a nice lad and a true professional, for those of you who have not witnessed Jimmy's expert approach to everything he does go here
http://www.laughfc.co.uk/wp/jimmy-bullard-tribute/ many thanks to laughfc for the link by the way. There is some excellent stuff on there same as here http://www.the-onion-bag.com/index.php
Keegan walks away from Newcastle, which on the face of it may not mean much, but how many people manage to do that with Joey Barton in the team, well done Nasri by the way; great ankle tap against Barton in the game at the Emirates, and Keegan had the actual balls to have a go at Nasri lol quality bye bye Kev. So a replacement for 'king Kev is being sought, there must surely be an argument to bring Souness back, imagine he and Barton going in for a 50/50 on the training ground!
Andorra v England predictor. Ok so Defoe will probably score a hattrick which will cement his place in the team, leaving Owen def re-considering whether to sign that new contract at Newcastle, my prediction 3-0 to England
Thursday 4 September 2008
Match Report - versus Weybridge "C"
The next attempt to arrange a friendly for Chawton Athletic F.C. finally came to fruition as they met a surprisingly strong looking Weybridge "C" team at a fairly grassy and bumpy Froyle pitch on Wednesday night.
A quick team meeting firstly to learn the names of those players drafted in and secondly to figure out where on earth everyone was playing lead to the following formation.
Matt - Goalkeeper
Martin - Right Back
Rich - Centre Back
Paul - Centre Back
Robbie - Left Back
Clark - Left Midfield
George - Centre Midfield
Lee - Centre Midfield
Ben - Right Midfield
Vinnie - Centre Forward
Bob - Centre Forward
Jez and Wayne - on the subs bench.
The early openings were cagey as you would imagine, the Weybridge looking fairly organized against Chawton's slightly thrown together side, but Chawton started the better much to their own surprise and to their opponents, creating half chances by exploiting the weakness down the wings. Athletic; playing down the slope in the first half, struggled early to weight their through balls, but there was definite encouragement.
The first chance of note fell to the 'bridge though as Matt advanced from his net to close down a through ball only for the striker to beat him to it, time stood still as the expertly executed lob honed in on the goal, but relief all round as the hard pre-season ground saw the ball bounce up and over the bar for a goal kick.
Several further half chances fell the way of Chawton, with the main catalysts being Clark and Ben on the flanks, but another through ball caught the Athletic defence out and Matt had to smartly deflect a close range shot round the post for a corner, which was cleared to safety.
A powerful clearance by George struck Paul in the face and the centre back went down and stayed down, the ref stopping play as the 'Bridge striker was about to pull the trigger.
The game ebbed and flowed, the referee having allowed rolling subs, saw Jez replace George who took over line running duties, Vinny drop back into the midfield and Jez take his place up top.
Then the first goal of the evening 'Bridge worked their way up their left wing and released their number nine, unfortunately his central striking partner had made his way beyond the defence in the middle and as Matt was edging out to cover the square ball the striker rolled the ball into the absolutely huge space he left at his near post, the 'Bridge celebrated wildly.
Chawton kept their heads and their nerves and pushed forward looking for an equaliser, Clark cutting in the from his left wing berth fired a tremendous shot which the 'Bridge keeper did well to palm away, and Jez and Vinny going close when perhaps (from 80 yards away in goal) it looked easier to score.
'Bridge's second goal came from a similar area on the pitch to the first, with the number 9 crashing the ball from close range high into the roof of the net past a stationary Matt (who having been used to playing in 5 a side goals for 6 months let it go thinking it was going over the bar oops).
The referee had his work cut out as a overly-physical 'Bridge set about Bob and Vinny and countless 50/50 decisions seemed to against Athletic, Bridge's niggly fouls were looking as though they could make the game boil over but thankfully it settled down a bit as the half time whistle approached.
No oranges, half a cigarette for the keeper and a quick turn around because of the light, saw Athletic leap from the blocks, now playing up the slope, their through balls were suddenly catching the statuesque 'Bridge defence square time after time, and only last ditch tackles saw the score remain at 2-0.
There appeared to be less for the ref to do in the first half, though suspect he collected a handsome sum if he spreadbet that there would be more than 15 foul throws in the game lol.
The ball was being passed around much better by Athletic with Clark and Ben on the flanks turning their men regularly.
'Bridge were looking fairly dangerous on the counter attack, their passing game working their way around a more attacking focused Athletic midfield, but only a few tame shots were the outcome.
Athletic then made a game of it as Clark spurred on by his dominance of the left wing tore onto a superbly weighted through ball by Rich, taking on before confidently lifting it over the advancing keeper, an excellent finish and the goal of the game (in my book).
Athletic pushed on looking for an equalizer and nearly got it as Robbie struck a post and despite regaining possession the chance was snuffed out.
By now, playing with at least three up front at times so it seemed, Athletic were tiring through the middle and a tackle from behind from a tracking back Bob set up a free kick twenty yards out just to the right of the upright, Matt set a three man wall, and took up obviously the perfect position and did well to palm the resulting strike over the bar for a corner, before claiming the corner with a good catch under a little pressure.
Athletic; through Robbie struck the other post and it looked unlikely to be their night as rebound rolled to Vinnie's feet only for the shot from 8 yards to clear the bar.
There was time enough for Matt to double punch a corner and unfortunately for the 'bridge to grab probably an undeserved third, Martin unlucky not to clear and again Matt was left to watch another close range shot hit the roof of the net.
The final minutes were edging closer, Athletic desperate to pressurize a faltering 'Bridge, but the counter breaks kept coming, Matt saving well twice before palming a shot destined for the corner onto a post late on. The whistle finally went in dubious light, 'Bridges more organized style winning against the slightly more gung-ho approach of Athletic.
Blog Man of the Match goes to Clark, who worked tirelessly up the wing, scored a great goal and generally made mincemeat out of the right back several times.
Quite a lot to work on, mostly fitness wise, but as the season goes on the control, weight of passing and positional understanding will also improve endlessly.
A quick team meeting firstly to learn the names of those players drafted in and secondly to figure out where on earth everyone was playing lead to the following formation.
Matt - Goalkeeper
Martin - Right Back
Rich - Centre Back
Paul - Centre Back
Robbie - Left Back
Clark - Left Midfield
George - Centre Midfield
Lee - Centre Midfield
Ben - Right Midfield
Vinnie - Centre Forward
Bob - Centre Forward
Jez and Wayne - on the subs bench.
The early openings were cagey as you would imagine, the Weybridge looking fairly organized against Chawton's slightly thrown together side, but Chawton started the better much to their own surprise and to their opponents, creating half chances by exploiting the weakness down the wings. Athletic; playing down the slope in the first half, struggled early to weight their through balls, but there was definite encouragement.
The first chance of note fell to the 'bridge though as Matt advanced from his net to close down a through ball only for the striker to beat him to it, time stood still as the expertly executed lob honed in on the goal, but relief all round as the hard pre-season ground saw the ball bounce up and over the bar for a goal kick.
Several further half chances fell the way of Chawton, with the main catalysts being Clark and Ben on the flanks, but another through ball caught the Athletic defence out and Matt had to smartly deflect a close range shot round the post for a corner, which was cleared to safety.
A powerful clearance by George struck Paul in the face and the centre back went down and stayed down, the ref stopping play as the 'Bridge striker was about to pull the trigger.
The game ebbed and flowed, the referee having allowed rolling subs, saw Jez replace George who took over line running duties, Vinny drop back into the midfield and Jez take his place up top.
Then the first goal of the evening 'Bridge worked their way up their left wing and released their number nine, unfortunately his central striking partner had made his way beyond the defence in the middle and as Matt was edging out to cover the square ball the striker rolled the ball into the absolutely huge space he left at his near post, the 'Bridge celebrated wildly.
Chawton kept their heads and their nerves and pushed forward looking for an equaliser, Clark cutting in the from his left wing berth fired a tremendous shot which the 'Bridge keeper did well to palm away, and Jez and Vinny going close when perhaps (from 80 yards away in goal) it looked easier to score.
'Bridge's second goal came from a similar area on the pitch to the first, with the number 9 crashing the ball from close range high into the roof of the net past a stationary Matt (who having been used to playing in 5 a side goals for 6 months let it go thinking it was going over the bar oops).
The referee had his work cut out as a overly-physical 'Bridge set about Bob and Vinny and countless 50/50 decisions seemed to against Athletic, Bridge's niggly fouls were looking as though they could make the game boil over but thankfully it settled down a bit as the half time whistle approached.
No oranges, half a cigarette for the keeper and a quick turn around because of the light, saw Athletic leap from the blocks, now playing up the slope, their through balls were suddenly catching the statuesque 'Bridge defence square time after time, and only last ditch tackles saw the score remain at 2-0.
There appeared to be less for the ref to do in the first half, though suspect he collected a handsome sum if he spreadbet that there would be more than 15 foul throws in the game lol.
The ball was being passed around much better by Athletic with Clark and Ben on the flanks turning their men regularly.
'Bridge were looking fairly dangerous on the counter attack, their passing game working their way around a more attacking focused Athletic midfield, but only a few tame shots were the outcome.
Athletic then made a game of it as Clark spurred on by his dominance of the left wing tore onto a superbly weighted through ball by Rich, taking on before confidently lifting it over the advancing keeper, an excellent finish and the goal of the game (in my book).
Athletic pushed on looking for an equalizer and nearly got it as Robbie struck a post and despite regaining possession the chance was snuffed out.
By now, playing with at least three up front at times so it seemed, Athletic were tiring through the middle and a tackle from behind from a tracking back Bob set up a free kick twenty yards out just to the right of the upright, Matt set a three man wall, and took up obviously the perfect position and did well to palm the resulting strike over the bar for a corner, before claiming the corner with a good catch under a little pressure.
Athletic; through Robbie struck the other post and it looked unlikely to be their night as rebound rolled to Vinnie's feet only for the shot from 8 yards to clear the bar.
There was time enough for Matt to double punch a corner and unfortunately for the 'bridge to grab probably an undeserved third, Martin unlucky not to clear and again Matt was left to watch another close range shot hit the roof of the net.
The final minutes were edging closer, Athletic desperate to pressurize a faltering 'Bridge, but the counter breaks kept coming, Matt saving well twice before palming a shot destined for the corner onto a post late on. The whistle finally went in dubious light, 'Bridges more organized style winning against the slightly more gung-ho approach of Athletic.
Blog Man of the Match goes to Clark, who worked tirelessly up the wing, scored a great goal and generally made mincemeat out of the right back several times.
Quite a lot to work on, mostly fitness wise, but as the season goes on the control, weight of passing and positional understanding will also improve endlessly.
Monday 1 September 2008
Friendly was cancelled
Due to unforseen circumstances; Sunday's scheduled friendly against the Weybridge C Team was cancelled.
We did however manage to get Rich, George, Ian and Matt together for a kick about in the pouring rain, which other than the fact of course that it was pouring with rain, actually went quite well. Huge thanks to Rich's partner/wife who did a marvellous job at collecting the shots that either fizzed past Matt into the goal (rugby posts) of past the post, it was really appreciated especially in view of the weather.
It was useful run out, though has lead to George googling - "selling your soul to the devil" in order to obtain a little more footy skills, I reckon he should go to Alton Sports and check if they have any in stock, they seem to sell a fair amount in their; so why not additional ability!
No major injury worries as far as I am aware after Matt's exceptionally speculative overhead kick which started with a slip, followed swiftly by a turned ankle and a rather unceremonious landing seems to be better than it was last night. Pat's dead leg seemed to be improving when I saw him on Saturday mind you he was on the JD and Cokes by about 8:30pm so probably wasn't feeling an great deal.
So all is looking good for Tuesday night's 4/5 a side at the Sports Centre.
And the so the countdown continues, under two weeks to go until our first league game away to Hartley Wintney, hopefully by then we will actually have the kits and the contact names of all the players.
We did however manage to get Rich, George, Ian and Matt together for a kick about in the pouring rain, which other than the fact of course that it was pouring with rain, actually went quite well. Huge thanks to Rich's partner/wife who did a marvellous job at collecting the shots that either fizzed past Matt into the goal (rugby posts) of past the post, it was really appreciated especially in view of the weather.
It was useful run out, though has lead to George googling - "selling your soul to the devil" in order to obtain a little more footy skills, I reckon he should go to Alton Sports and check if they have any in stock, they seem to sell a fair amount in their; so why not additional ability!
No major injury worries as far as I am aware after Matt's exceptionally speculative overhead kick which started with a slip, followed swiftly by a turned ankle and a rather unceremonious landing seems to be better than it was last night. Pat's dead leg seemed to be improving when I saw him on Saturday mind you he was on the JD and Cokes by about 8:30pm so probably wasn't feeling an great deal.
So all is looking good for Tuesday night's 4/5 a side at the Sports Centre.
And the so the countdown continues, under two weeks to go until our first league game away to Hartley Wintney, hopefully by then we will actually have the kits and the contact names of all the players.
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