WALLINGTON LITTLE LEAGUE - OLD  MATCH REPORTS
SEASON 2005/2006 and 2006 / 07

 

 

Reports From Day 10 Of League Season 2006 / 07

 Before getting into the reports I have to start by saying that I have had a super day today. We drew our
Inters game and it was a super game at that but the best thing about today for me was finishing our
involvement early and sitting by the Cafe and meeting up with many of the other teams and managers
as they cruised through on their way to their sponsored walks. It was great to see the commitment of
everyone and the enjoyment on many faces too. I really feel privileged to be involved with this league
and to have the chance to work with the kids and all the others who enjoy all we do too. Well done to
all who did the walk today and good luck to all those who are doing it next week. 
This was the last day of league competition for the first half season and next week we are hit by
Cup fever with the League Cup quarter finals being played.
If any of the teams who have received a bye through to the semi-finals are playing a friendly game
please let us know at the website so we can list it.

Under 8s

Mini Jets 2 v 0 Little Rangers
Once again I have had the phone call from Mini Jets helper Keiran and he  has given me some details
of what sounds like a very exciting game. I also bumped into the management duo of Little Rangers,
Jason and Mark and even though their team couldn't manage a second successive win they too were
not too down as their team had put in a big effort.
The goal scorers for Mini Jets were Cameron and Tilly and once again Cameron and Ross had
shared goalkeeping duties and both kept half a clean sheet. The man of the match award was
shared by Tom and George . Little Rangers put in a good team performance and were very close
to levelling it up at 1-1 just after the opening goal but it was thwarted by a superb last ditch tackle
by Ryan for the Mini Jets.
It was 2-0 at half time and although the second half was goalless it was thrilling stuff with both 
sides having their chances.

 

 

Our next report from the Under 8s comes from Faye proud parent from the Wallington Lions:

Maroon Dragons 1 v 4 Wallington Lions

With Simon the Manager for the Wallington Lions not being able to attend the match today, would the
 lions be able to hold up to the pressure without his leadership?  Fortunately for the Lions Megan and
Gary stepped up to the job.
Straight from the whistle the Lions were up and away. A quick clearance from defenders Charlie, David
 and Steven, with a great team effort they soon took the lead - brilliant passing and a great shot into the 
goal from Daniel.S, score 1-0 Lions.  The Dragons were keen to get their record back after their almighty
 win the week before. The Lions regrouped and some clever passing allowed Luke through to make it 2 goals to the Lions.  The Dragons constantly pushed the Lions but the goals just kept on coming from the Lions Strikers, a great goal from Hamzah, well deserved.  The second half continued in the same vein 
with both teams attacking strongly but the defences holding firm. Arianthan’s fresh legs held the 
team well, Aiden made some amazing saves, with his rapid diving techniques, an astoundingly skilled goalie.  With only a few minutes left on the clock, you could not keep the Dragons down for long and their efforts were at last rewarded the ball was in the Lions net.  The ball was thrown into the Dragons box and almighty George went through two players to seal the 4th goal for the Lions.  A minute or so later, the 
whistle went for full-time to seal a famous victory for the Lions, 4-1.

This was a terrific game of football with both teams showing full commitment and plenty of skill. 
 The Lions thank Gary for helping Megan on the sideline, they certainly heard his Lion’s Roar.


Many thanks once again Faye.

Under 9s

The first report in the Under 9s this week comes from Woodcote Dynamos manager Steve:

Woodcote Dynamos 1 v 2 Green Bogeymen

Having secured the first half of the season the previous week, the Dynamos approached today’s game without any real pressure. In light of the style of football the Bogeyman play, it should have been a feast 
of football for the fans of both teams. Whilst the game had chances a-plenty, it never hit the heights of the previous weeks excellent performances from both teams. That said, it was an attacking game played in
 a good spirit The early part of the game was all Greens and a defence short of Chris (ill) and goalkeeper Lewis struggled to fend off waves of Green attacks. However, just as the Light Blues seemed to have got themselves back into the game and started to move the ball around, they were brought back to earth by a thundering goal from well outside of the box from Brad. The ball was past first half stand-in keeper Harry before he even had time to set himself. This spurred on the Light Blues to better things but the defence missing both of the “twin towers” of George & Joe, the Greens coped with everything thrown at them and even when the chances came, George in goal looked to be in total command. However the chance of an equaliser before half-time seemed to be on the cards with a penalty but with one penalty taker on the 
bench and the other in goal it fell to Charlie to take the duty. A well-struck penalty (low and to the corner) narrowly slipped by the post. Second half saw Cameroon to play his first game in goal for over a year and 
a switch around at the back, moving to a (wait for this, it’s a good one) 2-1-2-1 formation. Passing
 triangles seemed to be immediately easier to find and some good work between the front three of Lewis, Kieran and Jay, fed well from the back by Harry. Shannon and Bradley seemed to be coping well with the Greens attack, although on a couple of occasions they appeared stretched by extra people getting
 forward from midfield. A series of four corners for the Light Blues reinforced the territorial dominance 
and the some of the vociferous Greens supporters appeared to be getting edgy. With good penalty claims
 on both sides the game opened up to and it was clear that the next goal would be all-important. Both Cameron and George made excellent saves but the Greens looked to be the better at clearing their lines 
and getting the ball away from their own third. The second came after, what seemed like the umpteenth
 time, the Light Blues appeared to stifled the attack but the clearance fell to Liam who drifted past the lone Shannon and struck it into the roof of the net. However there was no time for the Bogeyman to rest on their laurels as the Dynamos finally broke through the defensive wall, with Kieran passing to Lewis who fed Jay who coolly struck it past George to make it 2-1. With just over three minutes to go, the Greens supporters were doing their best Alex Ferguson impression and studying their watches for every passing second.
 There was time for George to save at the feet from Harry and last ditch corner in which the Dynamos 
tried to throw all seven players in the box. However the equaliser wasn’t to be and the Greens celebrated
 a well-deserved win. Apologies to the Mean Machine, we did our best to make this an honest game
 but in reality the Greens players and supported wanted it much more than we did on the day. 
Congratulations to Frank, Steve, the Bogeyman and their supporters for a great first half of the season. Lastly, congratulation to the Dynamos players and supporters. Hope everyone has enjoyed it as
 much as I have and lets look forward to starting an extended cup run next week. 

Thanks for that Steve and well done to you and your team on a super first half season.


Our next report comes from Dave of the Spitfires:

Spitfires 2 v 2 Mean Machine

What a fantastic end to the season with the Spitfires embarking on a record breaking (for them) 
undefeated run of 2. This was real end to end stuff and not for the lighthearted. Following a drenching
 at the previous days training we lost no-one to pneumonia, which is a bonus and Ethan made a
 welcome return after a few weeks out.

First half was unbelievable from the Reds. After the first attack of the game by the yellow which brought
 out a top drawer full stretch diving save from Terry in goal they did not really get a look in as the Reds mounted wave after wave of attacks. The pressure on the Yellows goal was relentless and I have never 
seen so many corners in a match, let alone in a half, let alone FOR the Reds. It was brilliant.

Stephen, Callum and Ethan patrolled and controlled the back, Captain Luke was our man up front and Charlie and Matthew were the engine room getting up and down the pitch all half. Great passing moves, hassling , well timed tackles...it really was the training session coming good. And the speed of attack
 was exhilarating (for us anyway).

The first goal came from Matthew, who powered in a perfectly flighted corner (one of about a hundred 
we had) from Luke. It was a great brave goal - I mean how many headed goals do you see....and our 
team have scored 2 of 'em. He could have had another in an exact carbon copy but the defender just got
 in in front of him. Luke was playing up front on his own for the majority of the game with the whippet
 Charlie storming up in support. Young Stephen at the back was often seen marauding away in the 
oppo's penalty area in his most offensive game yet - he was playing well. Callum is unbeatable when 
he concentrates.....and he concentrated today. So strong in the tackle and a hefty shot on him to boot!.
 Ethan was very measured in his tackling and threw himself back into the thick of things like he was never away. Matthew did not stop running all half and was really committed in his tackling and got whacked
 a few times for his trouble. Terry did not have much to do, but the shots that came his way were handled
 very well and he even got a couple of shots in at goal himself with his huge goal kicks.

The second goal was a little fortunate, but thoroughly deserved.....and defence splitting pass was chased down by Luke. As the goalie and defender converged the mere presence of our top scorer caused panic
 and the attempted clearance was bundled into his own net by the defender. Unlucky but I think we deserve 
a bit of luck. In all honesty if we have been 5 up at half time I don't think anyone would agree that we were 
not worth that. We did not want that half to end but no more goals came and half time was 2-0 and I think 
we all needed a break!!

Archie came on for Charlie for the second half. The trouble was they had 2 good players waiting in the 
wings to come on. We talked to the boys about watching them but our notorious slow starts came back
 to haunt us again as 2 quick fire goals from the Yellows brought the scored level. Matthew kept the engine running and was playing headers and volleys on his own for a while (I think he got dizzy). Luke was working harder and harder to relieve the defence as the Yellows cranked up the pressure and looked the more likely to score. It was such a turn around that we really wanted this half to end....though when we attacked a 3rd 
goal for us seemed highly possible. Archie marked the dangerous winger out of the game and out in
 another excellent performance, finding time to get forward in the attack as well. He has really come on
 in the last 2 games and stepped up a gear. Yet again he silenced a danger man.

The game finally ended in a draw and I think everyone enjoyed it - even the ref said it was good to watch.

So we finished 5th this year - a tremendous achievement compared to last year. First half of last year we
 had 1 point and 1 goal I think. This year we have won 1 and drawn 3 and scored so many goals I cant remember them all. Such an improvement and the boys should be very proud of themselves. There is 
nothing better than seeing you team score and go off and celebrate, even if you lose the game. These 
guys have dug in even though we have been losing, bettered themselves and come out better players - 
and they will improve more. So next season watch out you light blues...the title may be ours!!

Man of Match Matthew - Roy Keane personified - never stopped running, never gave up - an excellent performance though everyone played really really well today

GK Terry
Def Stephen . Ethan . Callume
MID Matthew . Charlie (1st half) . Archie (2nd half)
FWD Luke (Capt)

Well done the crowd too. As ever our supporters are there through thick and thin, very fair though very loud. And well done John in guiding us to our best finish yet.


Thanks again Dave.


Under 10s

Reports to follow - Hopefully

 


Inters

Cobras 1 v 1 Blue Sundays
All of us at the Blue Sundays were hoping for a win to give us a chance on finishing 4th in the table and
as we were up against the Cobras who have not had the best of seasons I suppose we were favourites
for the game but the Cobras are as I have been saying for a long time much better than their table 
position indicates and today they underlined that.
This was a thrilling game with end to end action and non stop excitement.
For the early periods of the game it seemed that Blue Sundays were going to get control of the  game
but the early pressure they put the Cobras under did not provide any goals thanks to some great 
defending and goalkeeping. Indeed Daniel in goal for the Cobras was once again on top form and
looking as though he would be hard to beat. After surviving the early attacks from Blue Sundays the 
Cobras started to get forward themselves and on one of their ventures forward they were awarded a
penalty and it was converted well to put them into a 1-0 lead. That lead though was only to last about 
a minute as the Sundays were quickly back on the attack and the wizard of dribble, Conor took the
ball in and out the Cobras defence before unleashing a fine shot which went into the goal of the 
underside of the crossbar. Despite attacks from both sides the two teams went into the half time
break level at 1-1.
The second half was just as exciting and both teams seemed likely to score but there were to be 
no more goals although a goal did look certain at one point when pint sized Sundays striker Harry
was faced with an open goal after lots of hard work but saw his effort come back off the post and
the ball then went to team mate Luke who saw his shot come back of the other post. The Cobras
then had a period of attack to end the game but they could not find the net either and a draw 
seemed to be a fair result on the day.
There was one super save from stand in goalie Sam for the Sundays in the second half which was
a real champagne moment and some excellent last second interventions by centre back Charlie for
the Sundays too but there were many highlights in this super game.
Man of the match medals for Blue Sundays went to Charlie, Harry, Robbie who had a superb game
in midfield and Ryan who continues to improve and impress. Player of the month awards went to
Keanu who has been a star in goal but was unable to play due to injury today and to Alexander 
who has been superb all month and has played in nearly all positions so far this season.
The Cobras were magnificent today and probably deserved more than just a single point but they
seemed well satisfied with that. Sam really does have a super team who look likely to continue their
improvement as we go into season two in just a couple of weeks time. Yusef was superb again today
and seemed to be everywhere and Daniel was once again a star in goal. Harry was always a threat
when on the ball too but as I have indicated it was a super all round Cobras team performance.
In fact this was two teams playing super football and providing fantastic entertainment for a very
noisy crowd who seemed to enjoy every minute of this pulsating encounter.

Park Rangers 2 v 0 Dynamos
They may have been just too far behind their opponents to catch them in the table but today belonged
to the Park Rangers as they just out pointed a very talented Dynamos side.
This was a thrilling end to end game between two excellent sides who look set to have more thrilling
encounters in the second season when it gets underway but for now it's honours even with one victory
each.
Super stuff from two super teams.

Vipers 4 v 0 Wasps
Maybe the score does not tell the full story as the Wasps did push the Vipers all the way but it was 
the Vipers who came out on top and confirmed themselves as first half season champions with this
good win.
An attack as early as the first minute looked certain to give the Vipers the lead but a superb save from
keeper Chas kept the ball out of the net and from then on this was a tight encounter with both sides
having their chances in the first half but no goals coming. The teams went into the break level at 0-0 but 
in the second half it was the Vipers who got the upper hand and eventually ran out 4-0 winners.
Well done to Chulain of the Wasps who was voted their player of the match but it was a super team
performance from the Wasps to give the Vipers a real tough game.
The Vipers now know they have a hand on a trophy and only the second half season will reveal whether
they will get the champions trophy outright or face a play off but for now they should be rightfully proud
of all their first half season efforts as they have been tremendous opponents for all to play.
Hopefully Vipers manager Adam will be in touch with a report to give you some more details of this
exciting game.


Mains
Emerald Elite 3 v 1 True Blue
Once again it was younger brother Lewis who got the better of older brother Aaron in this battle of the
brothers, episode two.
True Blue were the team who took the lead when stalwart striker Charlie calmly slotted home the opening
goal but it was goals by Nathan, Adam and Nigel which earned the full two points for the Elite.
Nigel in particular was outstanding for the Elite but again a fine all round team performance earned those
points. Both keepers, Callum for Elite and Chris for True Blue had super games and prevented more 
goals.

Real Maroon 2 v 1 Royal Dynamos
The Real Maroon faithful were given a nail biting end segment to this game as the Royal Dynamos 
attempted to come back from a 0-2 deficit and they nearly succeeded but the Maroons held on for
an important victory which put them into a very important second place in the table.
According to Real Maroon manager Woody it was like the siege of the Alamo towards the end 
of the game but the Maroons held on despite a fantastic effort from the talented Royal Dynamos.
The goal scorers for Real Maroon were Simon and Joe and praise for battling through injury goes
to Ben who after skipping training due to a knock managed a full game and worked hard for the team.

Scorpions 6 v 1 Hornets
This was the victory that made it 10 out of 10 for the very impressive Scorpions and they deserve
much praise for not only their results but also their attitude to the game too.
We bumped into them warming up for today's game and they looked very profesional in their 
matching tops and doing their warm up routine. It looks like they give every opponent their due
respect and take each game seriously taking nothing for granted. They really looked on song
and ready for action today and although the first season title was in the bag they were not taking
this game easily. I know with our lot that if they win a game they think they can take on the World
so keeping their feet on the ground is a tough job but the Scorpions seem to be mastering that.
It sounds like they put in another super display and only some good defending from the hard working
Hornets team and fantastic goalkeeping by Philip kept the score down against a team still in top form.
The Hornets are a very decent side who will no doubt have better results in the second half season 
than today's but they still deserve praise for digging deep and keeping the damage down.
With the slate wiped clean and a new season starting in two weeks it will be interesting to see if
the Scorpions can keep up the pace and continue with the very good results.
This was the victory that made it 10 out of 10 for the very impressive Scorpions and they deserve
much praise for not only their results but also their attitude to the game too.
We bumped into them warming up for today's game and they looked very profesional in their 
matching tops and doing their warm up routine. It looks like they give every opponent their due
respect and take each game seriously taking nothing for granted. They really looked on song
and ready for action today and although the first season title was in the bag they were not taking
this game easily. I know with our lot that if they win a game they think they can take on the World
so keeping their feet on the ground is a tough job but the Scorpions seem to be mastering that.
It sounds like they put in another super display and only some good defending from the hard working
Hornets team and fantastic goalkeeping by Philip kept the score down against a team still in top form.
The Hornets are a very decent side who will no doubt have better results in the second half season 
than today's but they still deserve praise for digging deep and keeping the damage down.
With the slate wiped clean and a new season starting in two weeks it will be interesting to see if
the Scorpions can keep up the pace and continue with the very good results.
This was the victory that made it 10 out of 10 for the very impressive Scorpions and they deserve
much praise for not only their results but also their attitude to the game too.
We bumped into them warming up for today's game and they looked very profesional in their 
matching tops and doing their warm up routine. It looks like they give every opponent their due
respect and take each game seriously taking nothing for granted. They really looked on song
and ready for action today and although the first season title was in the bag they were not taking
this game easily. I know with our lot that if they win a game they think they can take on the World
so keeping their feet on the ground is a tough job but the Scorpions seem to be mastering that.
It sounds like they put in another super display and only some good defending from the hard working
Hornets team and fantastic goalkeeping by Philip kept the score down against a team still in top form.
The Hornets are a very decent side who will no doubt have better results in the second half season 
than today's but they still deserve praise for digging deep and keeping the damage down.
With the slate wiped clean and a new season starting in two weeks it will be interesting to see if
the Scorpions can keep up the pace and continue with the very good results.

Sunday 19th November 

 

Under 8s
Mini Jets 4 v 1 Wallington Lions
A big thank you to Kieran of the Mini Jets who has given me some details of this game.
According to him this was an exciting match where both teams played their part.
By half time Mini Jets were 3-0 up but in the second half the Lions dug deep and came back at them
and the final score was a 4-1 win to the Jets.
Goal scorers for the Mini Jets were Ross, Jack, Tilly and Cameron, Ryan had a super game as did 

Tom who made several fantastic tackles to keep the Lions from scoring in the first half especially.
Two of the goal scorers, Cameron and Ross both had a half each in goal and did brilliantly in that
position too. 
For the Royal Blue Kieran thought Daniel was outstanding but to be honest he felt that both teams
played extremely well to make this a very exciting game.




Under 9s

Our first report from the Under 9s comes from Woodcote Dynamos manager Steve:
Woodcote Dynamos 2 v 1 Super Mighty Maroons
After last weeks defeat by the Mean Machine, the Dynamos couldn’t afford another slip up against the Maroons as this would have left both teams on the same points with the Maroons top courtesy of their
 head to head advantage. You know that when you turn up to play the Maroons, you better be ready to 
play because Ray and his team will always give you a tough game and this was no exception. Sometimes
 the Dynamos start slowly. Today was different as we failed to start at all for first ten minutes. Midfield continued where we left off last week with too many players bombing on and leaving the defence totally exposed. The battle of the “J’s” - the two midfield generals, Jay for the Dynamos and Joe for the Maroons, had the latter coming out top in the initial stages – pulling the strings and getting into dangerous positions which the Light Blues struggled to contain. When the first goal came, it was from an excellent three-man passing move as the MMS carved open the Light Blue defence and was finished coolly, into the corner 
of the net (sorry did not get the scorers name). After the goal, the Light Blues started to get their act 
together and the game began to get into a pattern – Lots of long balls, lots of competitive tackles in the midfield, both teams looking to capitalise on mistakes and whilst both keepers seeing a fair amount of
 the ball, neither were challenged into making any serious saves. The Maroons defensive three marshalled
 by the excellent Jacques was proving difficult to breakdown but towards the end of the first half, the Light Blues had a couple of chances including long range efforts from Bradley and Jay and the best chance
 falling to Christian skying one over from inside the box. With the score remaining at 1-0 at the half, a 
change of personnel combined with a tactical change saw the Dynamos start as rejuvenated force. 
The move to bring attacking midfielder Christian back as midfield screen to release the other two
 midfielders from any defensive duty immediately seemed to pay dividends. Some improved passing 
and communication saw the game start to swing towards the Light Blues in terms of overall pressure. 
Centre forward Kieran was beginning to find space behind in the Maroon defensive wall and on the left 
wing Harry was starting to link up well with the other midfield. Most of all Christian appeared everywhere – breaking up any attacks from the Maroons, closing off the supply to their midfield but still having the
 energy to join up into the attack. The equaliser when it came was a scrappy affair. Following a couple of corners, Kieran (I think) took one from the right and it was stabbed home by an outstretched foot. Not surprisingly, its been claimed by Jay who was by now beginning to boss midfield. Soon after another
 corner from the other side was partially cleared to (I think) Kieran who’s hammered shot was diverted
 into the net by an unlucky Maroon defender. Football’s a cruel game especially when you consider that
 the Maroons defence are normally so organised. For much of the remainder of the half, the Dynamos appeared to have taken the sting out of the Maroons game and it was only in the final three or four minutes that they mounted any sustained pressure. However there was still enough time late on when one of 
Maroons blazed over right at the death. Lastly, I’d just like to say that this game was not only played in 
the right spirit, it was supported in the same way as well. Rightly, the Maroons fans got right behind their
 team in the first half when they were on top and sometimes it can be hard when you see your team lose 
the lead and then go behind. However, they continued to cheer on the team and were a fantastic example 
of what Little League is all about. MOM for the Dynamos was Christian who played an absolute blinder 
in the second half, closely followed by all the defenders (Chris, Cameron, Shannon & Lewis in goal).

Thanks Steve, sounds like it was a cracking game.

The next report from the under 9s comes from The Chief Bogeymeister, Frank:

Mean Machine 1 v 3 The Green Bogeymen

Apologies for being late again this week. Busy , busy, busy...
Anyway, I'm about to go into a meeting with a bunch of, what the aussies (ashes start tomorrow) would
 call, whinging poms. So for a bit of therapy thought I'd relay my current rant to the world (well the WLL website).  
First congrats to Steve and his team on their victory in the first half of the season. Their second half domination on Saturday probably deserved a victory, however I know we would have liked a punt
 at them next week for the title. Oh well, we've been targeting the second half of the season anyway....
So, the match.
First of all a message to Liam: Sorry Liam but if you want a proper write up of your goals you need to 
score in the second half when I seem to be able to remember more of what is going on! I do know that
 Liam scored twice, once I think following up a shot (possibly from Brad) and the second set up from a 
great tackle in midfield from Joe who immediately passed to Brad, who fed Liam to make it 2-0. If I've
 got that wrong I'm sure I'll be told later.
We had discussed the need to be up for this game from the first whistle and it was very pleasing to
 see a fantastic team effort this week. Having refed the first game I could see that the pitch would play 
a part and was please to see Liam and Jake looking for richochets in the box. In fact it was the Mean Machine who benefited most in the second half when a well struck shot bounced off the pitch at an 
extreme angle completely wrong footing Alfie in goal and making it 2-1. Although the MMs didn't seem
 to be at the top of their game 2-1 is a dangerous score. However Dan (who replaced the tough tackling 
Joe at half time) and George carried on the good work ensuring our aim of sending Alfie home bored
 from the lack of shots to save was achieved!
Joel had come on at half time for Toby, giving the MM defence a different (size) problem and he scored 
a third goal, flicking the ball over his head and crashing it into the back of the net. I was on the other side
 of the pitch and although the boys have tried to explain how he did it I'm still trying to work it out!! Fantastic stuff.
So its the Light Blues next week without the manager (stag weekend in somewhere or other), the Guv is stepping into the breach. No pressure Guv but it's a victory I want to hear about on my return or the 
Chairman may have to reconsider your position!!
 

Thanks Frank

 

Our next report from the Under 9s comes from Dave of the Spitfires:

Spitfires 1 Wallington Warriors 1
First game up and it was a real 4 pointer, with the bottom 2 teams going head to head to avoid coming
 sixth (not last or bottom, but sixth). We were down to the bare bones due to illness and absentees
 whilst the RBs had a couple of subs. Terry and Matthew were against forced to pull on the goalkeeping jersey, Stephen and Callum at the back, Luke and Archie in midfield with Terry and Charlie
 up front - not that positions matter for us anyway as when that whistle goes all positioning goes to
 pot and they start running round like madmen.
Terry and Luke started off the game at one hell of a pace as we really got stuck into those RBs.
 This high tempo spread through the rest of the team and the self confidence grew. Although we 
started to boss the game we never really had many shots at goal but it turned out to be a real humdinger 
of a game. Matthew was the first keeper to be called into action with a strong pair of hands to deny the first shot, and then getting up and blocking the follow up point blank thunderbolt from the 
RBs captain - great save. Stephen was even more ferocious than usual, and there is no better sight 
than seeing him hurl into a challenge full throttle and knocking everyone over (including himself).
 Totally fair and totally committed - great stuff. Callum played his usual game of thunderous clearances, followed by deft touches to get himself out of trouble. Archie had his work cut out keeping tabs on their
 main playmaker and nullifying that threat, but he can run forever and was just the man for the job. Luke was orchestrating the midfield and Terry was hurtling down the wing and across the centre and making himself a real pain. He got into some great positions and if he finished as well as he did in training he would have 
had a hat-trick. Charlie, our whippet winger and long throw specialist was cutting in, crossing, tackling
 and running himself into the ground. Good performances all round and we were looking really good.

Of course, that was the point where we fell behind. Indecision at the back in the penalty area led to a goal being stabbed in for an undeserved lead and our boys had to pick themselves up again. But they are 
good at that (we have had enough practice) and we stormed back and nabbed a fortunate equaliser.
 Luke shot from the far corner of the penalty area and the ball ended up in the back of the net.
 A trifle lucky but it was about time we had some. Just enough time for Matthew to pull off another fine 
save from a smart shot on the edge of the area and half time came. 1-1

Terry and Matthew swapped and the game restarted. They both had good halves in their new positions. 
It was real end to end stuff. Archie's player was coming more and more into the game but he dug in, 
and got down to his task and really made an impact. Chances were few and far between in the second
 half, a good number of corners and we did make the goalie get dirty with some blocks. We must learn to follow up on the shots - we concede so many goals like that and it is about time we scored some instead.

This is the only match I can remember where I wanted it NOT to end. I really thought we were going to 
edge it but full time came and honours were even. A great advert for Little League football. Two teams
 going for it and not a foul in sight. Well done to both teams.

Man of the Match

Everyone played really well today but this weeks accolade goes to Archie - sacrificed his attacking flair to cancel out their star man. Great job!

Thanks Dave


Under 10s

Our first report from the Under 10s comes from Chris the manager of the Royal Blue Birds:

Royal BlueBirds, 2- Sam, Emilio.

Beddington Reds, 1- Shane.

  On a cold but bright Sunday morning I decided to get down the park early and set up the goals
 expecting nobody to be there, but to my surprise most of my team were up and ready, which to me
 showed a sign they were desperate for the win. So once the goals were in order, the corner flags in the 
spot, the referee and linesman sorted and don’t let me forget the bins out, this clash kicked off. Chances
 for both teams fell and both teams came close to opening the scoring, Emilio and Sam playing some
 nice football, Connor out on the left side of midfield closing down the play were all in the mix. Sam had 
made a darting run after about 10 minutes but just couldn’t create an angle to finish. Some unlucky play
 for the Reds, with Billy coming close with a drive over the bar, and with Johnny Boy in goal making some good saves. Time was ticking by and with the goal kick from the Reds falling to Beth she then flicked the
 ball over the top, Sam made the run and smashed the ball past the keeper who was unlucky as he
managed to get a shoulder on it but it was to powerful. So 1-0 to the Blues and they were playing for 
each other, the work rate was up and we were looking strong. Connor made a good run and drove the
 ball into the side netting and another chance fell to Emilio with a twist and a turn he curled it in to the far
 post and made the keeper dive for it. Beth was holding the defense together and everything that came to
 her was controlled and cleared to one of her teammates. Michael and Lefty were doing there part for the team and made some decent passes and cleared the balls they thought were dangerous to. So at half time we were 1-0 up and looking strong. So I ringed the changes in Harry and Kelvin for Sam and Connor. So
 with everybody refreshed and ready, Jason the ref blew for the second half, it didn’t take long for the Reds 
to get back into the game and with a mistake at the back little Shane took his goal with pleasure flicking 
the ball over John and making it 1-1, a well taken goal. So with it being all equal the pressure was on, it
 was a bit scrappy and both teams were in control, Harry, Kelvin and Emilio making some decent play
 but couldn’t finish, Harry with one on target then had 4 perfect corners cleared, the Reds then had there chances with John keeping the Blues in the game. Beth made some good tackles and battled well with Shane who was creating havoc with his pace. Well with a couple of minutes left it was all anxious moments 1-1 not a bad result but we would have preferred the win, Shane again made the run onto a ball through the middle and with Beth on his back he was slowing down, she made one tackle, then slipped and made another, to my surprise she then took on three players and slotted the ball through to Emilio who unleashed
 a superb toe punt through the keepers legs to make it 2-1 and with that nearly the final kick of the game the whistle was blown. Well what can I say a great performance form both sides. Hopefully next week we can perform again against The Maroons.

 

Royal Bluebirds.

GK; Johnny Boy,

LB; Lefty,

RB; Michael,

CB; Beth-Captain,

CM; Connor,

CM; Mills,

CF; Sam.

Subs- Kelvin and Harry

 

Man of the Match- Everybody played extremely well and fought for every ball and also helped each other out, but with his twisting and turning and was unlucky not to get more than one goal I have given the trophy to Emilio (the toe punt king).

 

Thanks Chris.


Inters

Park Rangers 2 v 3 Vipers
This was a super game and I couldn't do this justice in just a few words so hopefully Vipers manager
Adam may be in touch with a report to put a bit of meat on the bones for you.
This was end to end stuff and even though the Park Rangers led twice it was the battling Vipers who
came back to get the all important victory. All five goals were fantastic efforts and it really was a game
to enjoy for those lucky enough to be on the sidelines. 
Goal scorers for the Vipers were Faolan, Jordan and Ben, I don't know the names of the scorers for
Park Rangers but they too were super goals. 
I can't finish without mentioning the super goalkeeping of Oliver for the Vipers, he was outstanding but
the keeper for the Rangers had a cracking game too.
Two great team performances from two great teams.

Dynamos 2 v 0 Blue Sundays
Another thrilling game to entertain the large crowd on this cold but sunny morning.
The Dynamos were the dominant team in the first half but the first attacking move came from Blue Sundays
when Alexander looked certain to score but saw his effort come back off the upright but from then on
it was the Dynamos on the attack. This week however the defence stood firm for a long time and the
Blue Sundays team held their shape and battled on well. It was starting to look like the siege at the Alamo
at times with Keanu in goal in the role of Davy Crockett. This lad may be new to the role of custodian this
season but he is doing a fine job and just seems to stick something out to keep the ball from hitting the
net at the last second. He seems so calm and unflappable too and has been a terrific find for us this season.
Alex, Charlie, Jake and Sam were the dream back four, digging deep and working hard. Ryan was working
his socks off in midfield and often found himself as sweeper having to clear at the last moment. This was
becoming a heroic defensive display. It was 0-0 at half time but we had to try and get out of our box.
Half time saw us introduce Luke who we have missed badly for the last couple of matches and Harry who
has been dynamite up front for us this season so we still fancied our chances. 
Then the opening goal came for the Dynamos when the ball was slammed home just as Keanu thought he
had it safely in his grasp and the deadlock was broken. The Blues then went looking for an equaliser and
they had their best period of attacking play and very nearly had a penalty but it was judged that the foul
was committed inches outside the box and nothing came from the free kick. The Blues battled hard
but a goal would not come and then it was the Dynamos who added a second to wrap up the game but
still the Sundays kept trying to pull one back and the defence was cut down to two players as they went
in search of a goal but it was not to come.
This was a super game with lots of action and plenty to enjoy for all. Congratulations to the Dynamos who
keep the pressure up on the Vipers with this important win but they may need to hit the scoring trail in a big
way next Sunday to improve their goal difference to really aid their cause. Dynamos are an exciting side who
play cracking football with a lovely attitude and have a manager who is as passionate and keen as the 
players themselves. 
The Blue Sundays were left a little down to have lost but not too upset as they know the quality of the team
they have played and knew they had acquitted themselves extremely well against them.
Man of the match awards for the Blue Sundays went to Sam who was everywhere, Keanu who was an
inspiration between the posts and Jake who was a rock alongside Charlie at the back. 
Well done to all involved for a super game.

Wasps 1 v 0 Cobras
It was a tight affair when these two last met and so it was again today. 
The Wasps just edged it with a fine early goal but I'm not sure of the scorer, it may have been Tyrone.
 But from then it was end to end stuff and amazing that no more goals came.
Chas had a super game in goal for the Wasps, this lad has played everywhere this season and always
does a good job for the team.
The Wasps go on to face a Vipers team in need of the win to be sure of the first half season championship
but they too know that a win would give them a fantastic 4th place finishing position so they have much to
play for themselves.
The Cobras go on to face the Blue Sundays against who they put in a super performance last time so
they will fancy their chances of a good finish to this half season too.



Mains


Royal Dynamos 0 v 4 Scorpions
I don't know much about this game other than the Dynamos kept the score to just 0-1 at the half time
break and put in a valiant display against their talented opponents who were achieving 9 wins from 
9 games.
Royal Dynamos manager Chris told me that he was extremely proud of the effort put in by his team 
which looks even better when you realise that they had just the 10 players for this game. In the end
the Scorpions got their scoring boots on to run out convincing winners but others who saw this 
game assured me this was a cracking game to view with both teams playing their part.

True Blue 1 v 4 Real Maroon
Firstly congratulations to Lewis who did a fine job from what I have been told refereeing his first game.
It was True Blue who held the lead at half time by a single Charlie W goal and it looked likely that 
the win could be going their way but the half time team talk must have done the job for the Maroons 
as they came out ready to battle in the second half and gradually took command.
Scorers for Real Maroon were Ben, Joe, Matt and Daryl. Apparently Matt's goal was a superb volley
and Daryl's goal was a super effort too. There was great play from Joe especially who really shone
in this game and both goalies did well. Chris for True Blue made some important stops and the 
super keeper for Real Maroon, Daniel just seems to get better by the game and had another cracking

game for his team.
Among the man of the match medal winners for True Blue was Charlie S who celebrated becoming
a brother this week by putting in a superb personal performance. Others worth a special mention
for True Blue were Thomas and Ryan who again worked their socks off for the team.
Next week's game between Real Maroon and Royal Dynamos is virtually a decider for that all 
important second place in the table.

Emerald Elite 2 v 0 Hornets
This was another super win for the Emerald Elite who have progressed amazingly from that team who
were took apart on the opening day of the season and this was a very good team performance.
Goal scorers for the Elite were Nigel and Nathan who scored an amazing wonder goal with a super
lob over the keeper from a long way out.
The Hornets battled bravely and had long periods of pressure including a string of corners but the
Elite defence worked well and kept them out.
Jamie had a cracking game at the back for the Elite and really seemed to enjoy himself as did 
first time keeper Callum.
Well done to both teams for a cracking display and well done to the Elite for rising up to that all 
important 4th place in the table.
This was another super win for the Emerald Elite who have progressed amazingly from that team who
were took apart on the opening day of the season and this was a very good team performance.
Goal scorers for the Elite were Nigel and Nathan who scored an amazing wonder goal with a super
lob over the keeper from a long way out.
The Hornets battled bravely and had long periods of pressure including a string of corners but the
Elite defence worked well and kept them out.
Jamie had a cracking game at the back for the Elite and really seemed to enjoy himself as did 
first time keeper Callum.
Well done to both teams for a cracking display and well done to the Elite for rising up to that all 
important 4th place in the table.
This was another super win for the Emerald Elite who have progressed amazingly from that team who
were took apart on the opening day of the season and this was a very good team performance.
Goal scorers for the Elite were Nigel and Nathan who scored an amazing wonder goal with a super
lob over the keeper from a long way out.
The Hornets battled bravely and had long periods of pressure including a string of corners but the
Elite defence worked well and kept them out.
Jamie had a cracking game at the back for the Elite and really seemed to enjoy himself as did 
first time keeper Callum.
Well done to both teams for a cracking display and well done to the Elite for rising up to that all 
important 4th place in the table.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                            
                                                                                                                            

Sunday 12th November
There were scheduled to be some very important games today, those standing out were the Mean Machine
against Woodcote Dynamos in the Under 9s, Scorpions v Beddington Reds in the Under 10s and
Vipers v Dynamos in the Inters.
Hopefully in time we will have reports for all these and more but the day did start a bit unusually for those
of us on the Inters pitch as there was a goal missing when we first arrived but thanks to the keen eyes
of Wasps manager Alan it was found hidden in the undergrowth and thanks to a few strong lads it was
re-positioned and the action could go ahead.

Under 8s


Our first report from the Under 8s comes from Faye who is becoming a regular contributor
with reports from the games of the Wallington Lions:

Wallington Lions 1 v  4  Beddington Celts

 1st Half

STRIKERS – Daniel.B., Daniel.S (Captain), Luke – DEFENCE, Charlie, George, David – GOALIE, 
Aiden SUB, Hamsa, Steven.  2nd Half - Steven, Hamsa and Arianthan come on.

 

With Beddington Celts at the top of the table the Lions were roaring from the start.  The opening ball is kicked, the Celts are straight on the attack, little Charlie is leading the defensive line well, and saves the Lions from an early goal.  Luke shoots, the ball hits the top of the bar - but Daniel.S. and Luke are not 
giving up that easily with many great runs between them its not long before a goal appears from Luke
 for the Lions, well done Luke.  The two Mohican midfielders for the Celts are making it hard for the blues, 
but Aiden does a smashing job in goal saving many shots. George is coming on really well in defence and enjoys getting stuck into challenges, David helps him out despite the Celts heading towards the Lions goal. Charlie breaks up the attack by kicking the ball out – great defensive work. The half-time whistle is blown 
and the score is 1-0 to the Lions

 

The game changes dramatically in the 2nd half. With Steven and Arianthan bought on for the Lions their
 fresh energy keeps the Celts searching for their 1st goal of the game, but within minutes of the restart a
 early goal is scored by Cameron from the Celts   The Celts dominate the 2nd half with captain Pete going
 on a mazy run through 5 Lions players and finishing with a fantastic strike.  Hamsa performs well in goal
 with 2 brilliant saves but the shots just keep coming, with the Celts scoring twice, they are certainly a team that deserves to be the top of the league.  Well done Celts.

 

 Thanks Faye

 

Here is a report on the same game sent in by Peter from the Celts:

 Wallington Lions 1 v 4 Beddington Celts

This was a good result for the Celts, as this had been the first time they have been behind in a game, 
and they came back very strong, in the second half. A special thanks to all the boys and girl who observed
 the one-minute silence with great dignity.  
  From the kick off, the Celts started strong, with a couple off forays into the Royals half. Zak put his shot
 just wide of the left hand post, and Jake had a shot just going by the right hand post. The Royal Blues
 then started to get into the game, with Daniel being the instigator of most of their attacks. Their first
 attack, came down the right hand side, with a shot going wide of the right stick. The next push up field, resulted in a good shot on target, but the Celts keeper Jamie made a great save to force a corner.
 From the corner, the ball went into the Celts box, who were unable to clear, and the Royals put the
 ball into the back of the net, 1-0 to the Royals. From the kick-off, the Celts pushed forward again, 
with a good cross into the box from Peter, he found Cameron, who put the ball just to the left of the post. 
The next Celts advance, was halted when Cameron was fouled. Jake took the free kick, which just whistled past the right hand post. The Royal Blues, came back again, and caused the Celts a couple more scares, with one ball being played into the box, and pinging around, before Zak was able to clear. The other chance that came to the Royal Blues, was another goal mouth scramble, with Jamie finally being able to pick the ball up,
 and stop the danger. The half time whistle blew, how would the Celts re-act to being 1-0 down, having 
never been in this position before.

 Second Half:

Substitutes, Elliott on for Samuel, Abbie on for Jake, and Ben on for Zak. From the start of the second half the Celts 
looked a different team, John’s team talk seemed to do the job. The Celts won the ball from the kick off, Ben passed to Peter, who planted a ball into the box, Cameron just took the ball on his chest turned and bang it was in the back of the
 net, what a goal, and the score 1-1. From the kick-off the Celts win the ball, down the right wing goes Ben puts the
 ball into the danger zone, Peter shot, but the ball went wide of the left post. From the goal kick Ben won the ball, 
off down the wing he goes, knocks the ball into the box, and Cameron gets on the end of it, shoots and beats the keeper
 at the near post, another great goal, and now its 2-1 to the Celts. The Royals tried to get their game together, but good tackling in midfield from Abbie, Peter and Ben broke down any of their possession. Then came one piece of magic, 
Ben won the ball in midfield, he went don the left wing passed one player, passed another, then a lovely bit of skill, he
 rolled the ball under his foot, flicked it with his heel, to get past two more players, shot and it flew into the net, just
 brilliant, 3-1 to the Celts. The Celts just kept up the pressure, Ben and Peter combining well down the right wing, 
giving Peter the chance to shoot, but the Royals keeper made a good save at the near post. Another attack, this time
 Ben gets the ball into the box, Cameron shoots, but the Royals keeper makes another good save, putting the ball out
 for a corner. Peter floats a ball into the box, and finds Ben, who gets a great header on it, and it flies into the top right 
hand corner of the goal, 4-1 to the Celts. The Celts have one more chance, Elliott played a good ball into Peter, who 
went down the right wing, he puts a cross into the danger zone, and the ball hits the cross bar, and goes out for
 a goal-kick. The full time whistle blew, and the Celts go marching on.

 

       Thanks Peter

 

 

 

 


Under 9s

Our first report sent in for this age group comes from Woodcote Dynamos manager Steve:

Woodcote Dynamos 2 v 4 Mean Machine

A bright Remembrance Sunday, started with me sparing the team my First World War story about my 
Great Grandfather who fought in one of the battalions formed when the football league closed for the
 duration of the war. Anyone who had anything to do with the game joined up with one of the Middlesex Regiments and it became known as the First Footballers Division and they fought in the Somme – 
No idea what he did football -wise for him join the regiment – Groundsman? Worked on the turnstiles? Leader of the Corinthian Casuals version of the ICF? Who knows? History lesson over. 
Today it was  the Mean Machine and the Dynamos turn to do battle, with both teams running into form 
with the first half coming to a conclusion, albeit with a three-point gap between the two. Effectively,
 if we could seal a victory today, the first half of the season would be nearly in the bag. The game started brightly for us and we took the game to the Yellows. Early pressure was turned into a goal by a neat turn
 and shot by Harry who turned up on the right side of the box from his left-back position. Total football.
 The Mean Machine gradually started to get their game together but I felt we were passing the ball well
 and we looked at our most comfortable. However, this was soon going to turn into cold comfort as, from
 their first corner, the Yellows equalised from a mistimed header from Harry, cancelling out his first one
 at the other end. Worse was to come about three minutes later as a poorly cleared corner was delivered straight to a Yellow player just outside the six-yard box. A crisply taken first time shot was hammered 
straight into the corner. [Managers note: Work to be done on defending set pieces!] With the first half 
ebbing away, the Light Blues played some of their best football as they probed for the equaliser.
 One of the best moves culminated with some work down the left involving Bradley and Kieran and a
 cross met by Christian arriving late in the box being crashed against the bar. With the game poised
 at 2-1 at the break, there was everything to play for.
 Half-time substitutions saw Bradley and Christian replaced by Jay and Chris. The change seemed to have paid an immediate return as straight from the kick-off, as Jay from the edge of the box squeezed the ball into the near corner for the equaliser. 
At this point I was expecting us to kick on and take the game to the Mean Machine but our opponents
 had different ideas and immediately went about restoring the lead. The Dynamos midfield had struggled
 to get to grips with the game and the Yellows always looked a yard faster and seemed to win most of the loose balls. As the game opened up, we looked stretched in midfield and anything cleared from the back seemed to come straight back at us. With Chris and Shannon competing well at the back, we never 
looked entirely at ease throughout the second half. This sense of unease may have also been down to the accuracy of the shooting from outside of the box, with about strike rate of about six out of seven on target. Lewis in goal for the Dynamos made a couple of decent saves, diving full length to his left and pushing one onto the bar. However, he won’t be happy with his attempt for the Yellows third – a fairly innocuous shot from the edge of the box (I can say that because he hasn’t stopped moaning about it since he got home).
 With the game slipping away, the Yellows put the result beyond doubt with an unstoppable free-kick from about twenty five yards which Lewis got a hand to but not enough to stop it from hitting the back of the net.
 No way back from there and the game petered out with the Mean Machine more than worthy 4-2 winners. 
All in all, a bad day all round for the Dynamos with simply too many mistakes and too many players below their best. We certainly missed Charlie leading the line, and although Bradley did a good job in the 
first half, after the break, we lacked a real presence up front. Cameron had a good game playing a man marking role but which in retrospect was probably a tactical error on my part. Christian was as usual hard working and terrier-like. The biggest problem seemed to be in midfield where we lacked shape and
 energy and with players waiting for the ball to arrive. MOM would be a joint award between Cameron
 and Christian. At the moment, we seem to either start off like a train and grind to a halt or start slowly
 and work ourselves into top form during the game. Lots for the management team to think about over the next week and the mid-season break to Spain will have to be put on hold and will probably be replaced
 with double training and sprints up a sand hill with backpacks full of bricks :-) One last word on our opponents today and in particular their management team. Their style on the sideline is silent and deadly
 and clearly the kids react to this. Their discipline and positional play is excellent and this is almost entirely 
off their own backs as they seem to organise each other on the pitch. Hats off to Shirley for getting the 
Mean Machine playing some great football and really working as a team. Next week, we’ve got 
Ray’s Mighty Maroons so there is no time to lick your wounds and feel sorry for yourself in this
 League. 
Roll on next Sunday.


Thanks Steve, Sounds like a super game.

Our next report comes from the Chief Bogeymeister Frank:

The Green Bogeys 3  v  2 Wallington Warriors
Well, first of all I want to know what Steve Keys thinks he's doing rambling off on all those tangents in
 his report. That is my role and I'm not having him encroaching, Pardew style, into my technical area.
 Words will be said. Just to wind him up (Jose style)  I have to say I saw a lot of very close efforts from 
the Mean Machine that could have / should have flown in that don't get much of a mention in his otherwise 
fine (long) report!! A super performance by the yellows and the SMM on the way back into form again 
(its all to play for). Indeed, having refed both the other games this week I feel I can bring a unique 
perspective on the days events. The minutes silence was certainly an education. Before each game 
a diferent explanation was given (mainly by me) for the reason we were all standing in silent memory. Anyway, fortunately the kids seemed to know what was going on and were extremely respectful during
 their respective silences.
So on to the important stuff, three games unbeaten for the Boogies. I have to say the first half was a bit 
like an England game, pretty poor from our perspective. Joel, made two great saves only to see his comrades idily watching as the Warriers followed up to smash the ball in. Luckily they were also 
smashing them in for us at the other end. A rather unlucky warrier seeing the ball fly into his own net for 
our only real effort of the half. We seem to be getting into a pattern of letting other teams get ahead before realising that "ITS SUNDAY MORNING AND WERE SUPPOSIDILY PLAYING FOOTBALL"!! So it was
 half time and we'd just managed to hang on to a rather flukey 2-1 deficit. Team talk: we've come back
 before and we'll come back again. Stop playing like bogies and start playing like The Green Bogies!
With a combination of Matt playing a more disciplined role at the back and Brad and Liam adding some extra strength up front we managed to turn things around in the second half. First a massive goal kick 
from Joe found its way to an onrushing Liam who calmly ghosted through the Warrier defence and 
slotted home. Cue more premiership celebrations (Liam you're watching too much TV). Joe also set up
 the third goal, switching play brilliantly to an unmarked Brad, who from way outside the area chipped it 
over the keeper for a cool and skilful finish.Two goals that deserved to win any match. However, with
 virtually the last kick of the game the Royals broke away, dispite my pleas for Joel to rush out he stood
 firm, narrowed the angle and the ball flashed passed the post. More great decision making 
(keep ignoring me and we may yet win the league).
So only the Mean Machine and Dynamos to play and we'll have gone half a half season undefeated...
The good news is I'll be away for the dynamos game (again) giving us every chance of a result in that one!!


Thanks for that Frank.

Our next report comes from Dave of the Spitfires and gives us a full house of under 9s reports:


Spitfires 0 v 6 Super Mighty Maroons
The pitch looked resplendent, smooth like a snooker table the perfect plateau for our boys to strut their
 funky stuff. Training the previous day had been average to say the least but we hoped for a better performance on the pitch ....mainly to stop me saying 'I told you so'

Matthew started off in goal for the first half and conducted himself very well, making 2 fine saves, one from
 a rasping drive that was heading for the top corner and one from point blank range stopping certain goals....well he was in goal so its what do you would hope from a keeper! He had no chance against the
 2 goals in the first half, both were very similar, low drives across the box - both good finishes, but the
 first goal came from OUR throw in and the second was a severe bout of 'crapdefendingitis' with nobody making the tackles. And if you give these Maroons time and space then it is only a matter of time before
 they ripple the onion bag.

Stephen and his partner in crime Callum were our tough tackling no nonsense defenders. They both
 played very well in the circumstances and it often looked like the Maroons had more players on the 
pitch than us - it was the Alamo all over again....and I am not talking car rentals. Stephen was driving
 forward as best he could and Cal was showing deft touches to get himself (and us) out of trouble.

Luke and Archie marshalled the midfield. Archie used all his marathon running skills to chase down ball
 and man a-like, whilst Luke provided our main attacking threat. At times he was our exuberant defender
 (a bit like Higuita, the Colomian goalkeeper who saved against England with that Scorpion Kick). Throughout training he practises the overhead kicks at goal...I constantly tell him that he will never get a chance to do that in a game....then he promptly went and saved 2 efforts at our goal....WITH OVERHEAD KICKS!! I guess I will just shut up at training and let them get on with it!

Charlie buzzed and whizzed around, and started our attacks with quick throws, maintaining his recent
 good form and Mitchell lurked up front, looking moody and mean like James Bond!

Terry came on as keeper for the second half, and only made one real mistake. The other goals that
 went in were inevitable as our mini marvels just got overrun. 2-0 at half time and we had a chance but
 when that 3rd goal went in I think all our heads dropped. One of Terry's legendary kick outs fell
to Mitchell who burst through, steaming down on goal...but he snapped at the chance and it was gone.

We must defend better as a team, not just leave it up to the boys at the back. 6-0 at full time and a 
well deserved (and welcome I am sure) win for the under 16 Maroons 
(I am sure they are teenagers...have you seen the size of 'em!!).

So c'mon boys, give your wonderful fans something to shout about and get back to 
winning way - Royal Blues next in a real 4 pointer..we can do it!!

Team

GK Matthew (1st half) / Terry (2nd half)
DEF Stephen, Callum
MID Archie, Luke
FWD Mitchell(capt)/ Charlie

M-O-M Stephen for his valiant defending in the face of overwhelming odds - well done

Thanks Dave, keep sending them in, hope the results get better though.



Under 10s


Our first report in the under 10s for Sunday 12th November comes from
 Scorpions manager Jason:

 

Scorpions 4 v 1 Beddington Reds

 

The last game of the day saw the top 2 battling it out as the push to decide the first half league winners
 takes shape.  Having regained top spot last week after a much needed win against the Eco Warriors,
 the Scorpions were keen to stay top and all but end the hopes of the Beddington Reds.

 Joshua was back in Goal (and was Captain this week), the back 3 of Andrew, Kyle & Billy. 
 Jonathan & Harry were in Midfield (and both having to work hard for the whole game with 
Alex being absent) and Declan up front.

 The game started with both sides being a bit tense (well there was a lot at stake) but the Reds seemed quicker to the ball.  Their main threat was coming down the right hand side with several good crosses
 coming in from that side but they were overhit (maybe the pitch needs widening?).  The opening goal 
came from that side for the Reds, a low hard cross that took a wicked bobble right in front of Joshua and
 just crept over the line before Kyle could clear.  It seemed to be the spur that we needed as 
Jonathan & Harry both started to get more into the game after slow starts.  We gradually started to take control of the midfield and pushed forward looking for that all important equaliser.  With a corner on the left, Billy whipped in a lovely cross which took a deflection off a defender and went in. 1-1.  They all count!!! 
 From there on, we kept going forward, Declan, although playing up front, was coming deeper to win the 
ball and using both sides of the pitch to try and create the chances.  The second goal was created by a stunning run from Kyle, who collected the ball in his own half, went past 3 or 4 players (I lost count), went
 into the penalty area, and with everyone waiting for the finish, he crossed the ball for Harry to tap home
 into a empty net from 2 yards. 2-1.

 

Half time saw Kyle & Andrew make way for Gerald & Leon and a little bit of shuffling required in the back
 3 with Billy switching to the centre and Leon out on the right.  Well done Kyle & Andrew, a great half.

 

The second half saw the Scorpions really take control of the game in Midfield, Jonathan & Harry not letting the Reds settle on the ball and always looking to play passes out wide for Gerald on the left and Leon on 
the right.  The quality of the play was wonderful to watch as they kept on with the passing game that we
 have worked so hard at in training.  The third goal came after a throw on the left, the ball thrown in to Jonathan who passed in to Harry who hit a low shot into the net to make it 3-1.  As the game wore on,
 the Reds had a few half chances to try and claw their way back in but some great defending saw their chances kept to a minimum, but the game was ended when, have broke from midfield, Jonathan played Declan into a great position on the left who crossed for Harry to again tap in from close range and 
complete his hat-trick.  4-1.

 

Man of the match this week went to Jonathan, who never stopped tackling and passing and running,
 all game, a great performance and well deserved.  A great team performance from everyone.  Well Done.

 

Thanks for the report Jason.

 


Inters
Blue Sundays 2 v 4 Wasps
This was a super game to start the action off on the Inters pitch and quite fitting that the man who found 
the missing goal should be awarded with a fantastic win which his team fully deserved.
Early on it looked like the Blue Sundays were getting on top and when Alexander scored his first Inters
goal to send the Sundays 1-0 up it looked the possible start of a few goals for his team but it was not to
be as Wasps refused to give in and they battled their way back to equalise before the half time break.
It seemed to be a fair half time score as the Wasps were definitely coming back into the game as the
half had progressed. In fact only two superb reflex saves from Blue Sundays keeper Keanu had kept
the score down. Also a fine goal line clearance from Sam stopped what looked like a certain goal for
Wasps early on too so there was still plenty to play for here.
The second half saw Wasps look more organised and they started to assert and the goals came and
by the time Alexander knocked in his second goal of the game the Wasps had already scored 4 and
looked to have the game in a vice like grip and so it proved. There were some desperate attacks from
Blue Sundays but the Wasps were not going to let this victory slip from their grasp. 
It was a super all round team performance from Wasps and they really deserved the full 2 points today.
Manager Alan looked extremely proud of his team and rightly so, they showed today that on their day
they are more than a match for anybody.
Blue Sundays looked a little disappointing today but maybe the Wasps in top form had a lot to do with
that. Sometimes a team can play so well that they stop you  playing well and that seemed the case 
today. The normal deadly duo up front of Conor and Harry never quite got firing today and the midfield
struggled a bit at times too. Saying that Alexander played well and did brilliantly to score two goals
today and Charlie was awesome at the back in the second half having done a decent job in midfield
in the first half. Keanu once again was superb in goal and has been a real find in that position.
Another bright spark today was Sam who again looked excellent at right back for his team.
They now know that there is a lot of work to do before we come up against the Dynamos who are
a team at the top of their game at the moment.
Man of the match medals went to Charlie and Alexander for Blue Sundays.

Cobras 1 v 7 Park Rangers
The Cobras were in this for a long time and scored a cracking goal along the way but Park Rangers
once again looked good today and showed some class at times in this very exciting match.
I was impressed by the many individuals who stood out today but equally impressed by the good 
passing game played by both sides and some of the moves that Park Rangers put together were 
excellent. Indeed at times Cobras showed that they too can play a super passing game.
Park Rangers looked strong from the start and they quickly put Cobras under pressure and it was 
about 5 minutes in when the opening goal came for Rangers after the ball was well delivered from
a corner and it was slotted home. Just after that another fine attacking move from Rangers resulted
in a super reaction save from the excellent Cobras keeper to keep the score at 0-1 for them.
The second goal came about 6 minutes later and it was a beauty from Sam who hit the ball sweetly
from about 5 metres outside of the area and it went over the keeper into the back of the net, it was
a super strike. 
The next goal for Rangers came from a Lightening break when a Rangers player was left clear 
after a super ball over the top and he calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner of the net 
leaving the keeper little chance. The next goal for Rangers came from Mark who cut in from the
left expertly to slam home the ball for his second of the game. Park Rangers went on to score
2 more goals before the break to go into half time 6-0 up.
The second half saw the Cobras dig deep and battle well and they never looked like giving in as
they battled for every ball. With a little more luck with the offside trap they would surely have had more
goals than the one that they did score but this was a very special goal indeed. It was hit sweetly from
a metre outside the area slamming into the bottom corner of the goal giving the Park Rangers keeper
very little chance of getting to it and this goal was well celebrated by the plucky Cobras.
By this time though the Park Rangers had already extended their lead to 7 so it was only a consolation
but a stylish consolation at that.
The final score was a super 7-1 win for Park Rangers which keeps them in the hunt at the top of the
table and they know that should they beat Vipers and Dynamos who they have to play still then the
dream of the first half season championship is still alive. 
This was a cracking game with both teams playing their part well.


Vipers 0 v 2 Dynamos
This proved to be every bit as exciting as we hoped it would be and the top two teams put on a display
to be proud of and for all to enjoy.
The first half was goalless but full of action and the balance of power seemed to move back and forth
from team to team. 
The second half saw two goals from Dynamos to earn the win but I could not do this game justice in
a report there was just so much action and excitement. 
There was a super goal line clearance from Vipers all rounder Anthony who had a never say die
super game for his team. For Dynamos, once again Mitchell was a giant at the back confirming
the promise he has been showing recently. In goal for Dynamos Daniel made several super saves and
just showed confidence which his defence fed upon to help them along too. There was one super
long range effort from Faolan which very nearly ended in the net. For Dynamos too there was Jay who
battled away endlessly up front and was always a problem for the very capable Vipers defence.
But to be honest there were two cracking teams who both put in superb team performances for
all to enjoy. It really could have gone either way but it was two super goals from George which 
sealed the victory for the Dynamos pushing them even closer to the Vipers at the top of the table.
This was a super game and there is every chance that Vipers manager Adam will be sending
in his take on the proceedings soon.
A big thank you goes to Lee who reffed his second game of the day here to help out.
Well done to both teams, this was a corker.

Mains
True Blue 1 v 1 Hornets
From what little I've heard of this one this was a super game which could have gone either way.
This was a much improved effort from True Blue after last Sunday's tough game against Scorpions.
They dug deep and battled well and their goal was a super effort from Charlie who is starting to
find his form now. Another player who had yet another good game for True Blue was Ryan who
never gave in and battled endlessly.
One of many to stand out for Hornets apparently was their keeper Phillip who pulled off several
great saves.
All in all this was a good game which everyone seemed to enjoy.

Emerald Elite 1 v 2 Royal Dynamos
 Emerald Elite 1 v 2 Royal Dynamos
Emerald Elite 1 v 2 Royal Dynamos
 This was an important win for Royal Dynamos as they kept up the pressure for that all important
2nd place in the table and they ran out deserved winners.
They were 2-0 up when the Elite pulled a goal back to set up a thrilling finish but they held on well
for 2 important points. Nathan had a super game in goal once again for Elite but they just missed
out by that all important odd goal in three.


Scorpions 3 v 1 Real Maroon
Like the same match up in the Inters this too was a superb match which everyone who witnessed seemed
to enjoy.
Real Maroon kept the pressure on the super Scorpions who were looking for the two points which would
sew up the first half season championship and they held their excellent opponents at 1-1 with just
about 20 minutes left. Though as we are getting used to the Scorpions then dug deep to grind out 
another two goals to win the game 3-1 but there was much more to this game than just the bare scoreline
suggests.
The Real Maroon defence were bolstered up for this tough task and they held out well for long periods
of this very exciting game. In goal Daniel once again had a super game and up front it was Tom P who
continued his scoring streak to add another to his season's tally. Other Real Maroons to stand out
were Sam F and Charlie B but this was a super team performance as indeed was the effort put in 
by the super Scorpions who sealed their first half season championship with this hard fought victory.
From what I have been told this was a game to savour, a real classic.
We'd like to send our thanks to Alan who kindly reffed this game for us, thank you Alan for adding to
your already very busy day, it is really appreciated.


                                                                                                                                                           
                                                                                                                                                                

 

 

Sunday 5th November 2006

Under 8s

The first report from the Under 8s for this week comes from Peter of the Beddington Celts:

 Maroon Dragons 1 Beddington Celts 4

This was a good game from the Celts point of view, with Ben getting his first Hat trick, and Peter
 scoring yet again. The dragons also played well, and showed some signs of brilliance, they just need 
some belief in their own abilities, to get the best out of their team.
First Half

From the kick off the greens pushed up front, some good passing between Ben, Zak and Jake, gave
 Jake the chance to break away, he took the ball into the box, and shot just to the right of the post.
 From the goal kick the Celts won the ball, another good pass from Jake to Ben, and off he goes down the right wing, then cuts inside passed one player then another, and shoots with his right, giving the keeper no chance, and scores a great goal, 1-0 to the Celts. From the kick off the Dragons came alive going down
 the right wing, a good cross into the box, found a Dragons player, but good tackling from Elliott, cleared the danger. The Celts went on the counter attack, with Ben running up the wing, passing inside to Zak, Zak put the ball into the box, Jake and Abbie both went for the ball it bounced high and the unlucky Dragons 
defender handballed it, penalty to the Celts. Up steps Ben, and places the ball into the far left corner of 
the goal, giving the keeper no chance of saving it (his penalty taking is just so precise). Great goal and 
the Celts have a 2-0 lead. The Dragons started to apply more pressure, and put some good moves
 together, but good tackling from Omar, Elliott, and Ben meant that all the attacks broke down before,
 causing a problem for the Celts Keeper. A goal kick from Jamie, found Zak, he went around one player passed to Ben who shot just wide. The last attack of the half came when Abbie won the ball, tackled one dragon player and two of her own players knocked the ball to Jake who shot, but the keeper saved it.

 Second Half

Substitutes for the Celts Cameron on for Zak, Samuel on for Omar, and Peter on for Jake.

 

From the start of the second half, the Dragons came back into the game, making the Celts defence 
work hard. Samuel and Elliott making some telling tackles, and clearing down field. One clearance
 from Elliott found Cameron free, he went into the box, just about to shoot, when a great tackle from a Dragons defender forced a corner. Ben took the corner, the ball whistled into the box, but no one on the 
Celts team could get on the end of it. From the throw, the Dragons continued to push up front, some good play from their midfield, and the ball came to a forward who shot just right of the post. The Dragons then
 kept up the pressure, forcing the defence to keep working hard, the Celts did have an advantage, the ever-present Ben was also snapping at the Dragons heels. Another corner to the Dragons, good delivery
 into the box, but no one made good use of it, Abbie helping out in defence tackled well yet again, and 
played the ball to Ben, off down the wing he goes again (makes me tired just watching him), he puts the
 ball into the box, Peter shoots with his right, a fantastic dive from the keeper, and you think he’s made a great save but the ball just trickles over the line, 3-0 to the Celts. At this point the Dragons heads start to 
drop, but Sean is shouting encouragement, to keep them going. Up field the Dragons go, some good tackling from Ben and Peter, keep the ball from causing any danger. Peter then breaks down the right puts
 a great ball into Cameron, he goes to go around the keeper, and yet another good tackle from the defence, forces a corner. Peter takes the corner right into the box, but no one makes use of it, throw-in to the 
Dragons, from the throw in Peter wins the ball, and passes it to Ben, and with a bit of magic, he swivels
 round shoots, and the ball hits the back of the net, great goal and yet another contender for goal of the season, (Glad I’m not the judge). Dragons take the centre, and go on the attack, another good tackle 
from Ben, forces a throw-in. From the throw-in, the ball finds a Dragons player, who shoots at goal, Jamie makes what I thought was a good save, but the power in the shot, still makes it go into the top of the net, 
great strike good goal, 4-1 to the Celts. From the centre the Celts go on the attack, Cameron passing to Abbie, who played it to Peter he crossed the ball into the middle of the park, and you’ve guessed it, who 
was there, Ben, he shoots and forces the Keeper to make another good save. The final whistle blew,
 another good win for the Celts, to keep this great run going.

A special thank you to Maria for refereeing this game, it was quite easy really.    

 

 

 

Our next report from the Under 8s comes from a first time reporter who is Faye a parent from
the Wallington Lions:

Wallington Lions 1 v 0 Little Rangers


The line up for Wallington Lions:

1st half team                  2nd Half

Daniel .s –        Striker                          Sub

Hamsa –           Sub                              Striker

Luke –             Sub                              Striker

Aiden –            Defence                        Sub

Charlie –          Defence                        Defence

George –          Midfield                        Midfield

Daniel.B –        Goalie                          Goalie

Steven –           Striker                          Midfield

David –            Defence                        Defence

 

Thankfully it’s not to cold for the spectators today and the grass has been cut for this game.  The first 
kick off goes straight to the Little Rangers, piling the pressure on to the Wallington Lions.  Aiden comes
 in with a brilliant strike on goal for the Lions narrowly missing the goal.  With the match going 50-50 to 
each team super Steven saves the Lions from the near miss from the Little Rangers.  Charlie is holding 
the team well in defence a superb player with natural positioning.  After a long run through the yellow players, backed up by his team Daniel.S takes a shot on goal the goalie comes out and makes a cracking save. 
 The Lions are still pushing strong and the Little Rangers are fighting back, Aiden takes a 2nd shot on 
goal this time hitting the post, good shot Aiden, your goal will come soon.  Little Rangers step up the
 pace, jack the striker for Little Rangers fires a few good shots on goal.  Kurt takes the free kick for 
Little Rangers straight through the Lions wall David and George keep the ball clear.  Daniel.S makes 
a run down the middle with 2 yellow players hot on his tail; he shoots and scores 1-0 Lions!  The Little Rangers are coming back strong and won’t lose this game without a fight, Aiden takes his 3rd shot on 
 smashes the ball towards the goal, but with a gust of wind the ball is taken over the bar. The half time whistle is blown.  
2nd Half - Daniel S and George are subbed, Luke and Hamsa come on.  The Little Rangers will not give
 up easily and bring on little Cameron, their secret weapon!  Charlie marshals the defence well despite pressure from the Little Rangers striker Kurt who is looking to level the score.  Lots of fancy footwork is coming from Hamsa, and Luke makes some cracking runs down the line, it could have been 2-0 to the Lions.  The Little Rangers take a few more shots on goal but Daniel.B makes some brilliant saves,
 keeping the score 1-0 to the lions the final whistle is blown.  Lions manager Simon looks very happy 
and is glad the Lions are out from their run of recent bad luck.  Brilliant team work from both sides. 

 

Super report Faye, many thanks and keep them coming.

 

....................................................................................................................

 

Under 9s

The first report from this section comes from Charlie of the Spitfires:

SPITFIRES  2  V  5 WOODCOTE DYNAMOS