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Reports
for Sunday 16th March
The following was sent in by Charlie of the Rovers,
who has been a
real star this year with his constant updates:
Wallington Junior & Youth football League - Under 8’s friendly challenge Cup Final game. Sunday, 16th March 2008:
BEDDINGTON CELTS 1 -V- WALLINGTON ROVERS 1 {‘Trophy shared’}
What a shame about the weather, this Sunday of all Sundays! A morning of Under 8’s friendly challenge Cup Final games for all 6 Teams to enjoy and, for the first time since December, we had to endure some cold disgusting conditions. By the time our game came round at noon the pitch was fairly well cut up and the worse for wear.
Still, away we went and full credit to both sides for serving up a thrilling cup-tie notwithstanding the adverse conditions. I thought the first half was fairly even, the Rovers generally managing to contain the combined strong threat of Donny and Abigail for the Celts, who looked dangerous. For our part, Matthew, Freddie and Alfie all went close. However, about 5 minutes before half time we did not defend an attack with enough conviction and ABIGAIL punished us by firing home.
Into the second half and the Little Royal Blues clearly stepped up a gear and started to get on top. Again Alfie, Freddie, Kyron and Billy all went close. Half way through the second half we got our deserved equaliser when ALFIE powered his way through and rammed the ball into the back of the net. Near time we attacked almost constantly but some back luck, and the conditions, conspired so that Freddie and Kyron just couldn’t quite fire home a winner. Billy did have the ball in the back of the net at one stage, but the whistle had gone for a throw on earlier in the move.
The whistle blew for time, but because of the awful deteriorating conditions (and clearly some of the little heroes were suffering, you don’t often see half the players on the pitch wearing their tracksuit tops as well as gloves and woolly hats!) extra time or even a ‘golden goal’ period was abandoned. A penalty shoot - out was considered but, having regard to the quagmires that resembled the penalty areas, this could have turned into a farce so this idea was abandoned also. Both Teams agreed on a draw and a shared ‘triumph’.
Well done the Wallington Rovers for battling back from a goal down (once again!) and braving the conditions. 13 games – not so unlucky perhaps – unbeaten is some run and deserves recognition. Joe did all that was asked of him in goal, his clearances were first class, but was clearly suffering from the conditions in the second half as we started to press home down the other end. Alfie (first half), Elliott and Joseph were, at the very least, generally very solid at the back. Billy, nominally in midfield, was everywhere and had another tremendous game, leading by example as captain. George had a good first half, battling away and threatening the Greens’ defence on several occasions, Kyron kept up the good form in the second half and went very close to getting a winner on a couple of occasions. Matthew spearheaded our attacks in the first half, looked dangerous when in possession, but, again, was rather affected by the condition near half time Alfie, going upfront after the interval, went on several powerful exciting runs and was a constant menace to the Green’s rearguard, getting his ‘birthday weekend’ goal. Freddie had a great game, was difficult to dispossess, and several times looked capable of winning the game for us with exciting forays into the Celts half. Well done Boys, you fully deserved you medals etc.
Royal Blues Team: Joe; Alfie {Joseph 2nd half}, Elliott; Billy (Captain), Freddie, George {Kyron 2nd half}; Matthew {Alfie 2nd half, up front}.
Reports
for Sunday 9th March
Steve's Ramblings:
It was the final round of friendly challenge matches in the Under 8s
and no
game was more exciting than the last of the day which ended up as a five
goal thriller between the Maroon
Dragons and Wallington
Rovers and there
will be a report to follow sent in by Charlie of the Rovers.
The Under 9s had issues to be settled as the second placing was still
up for
grabs in Season Two.
The opening game of the day was crucial and it was the Green
Gunners who
held their nerve to hang on for a very important 3-2 win over the gallant
Wallington Rangers
which gave them the important second position which
now means they will go into a Play-Off game against the Super Mighty Maroons
for the Outright Second Position.
The second game of the day saw the League Champions and Cup Finalists the
Sky Blue
Diamonds. battle out a thrilling 0-0 draw against the Mini
Jets who themselves were right in the running for second
position at the start of the day.
The final game saw the Super
Mighty Maroons get a good victory over the
Wallington
Lions to send them into next Sunday's Cup Final in fine
fettle.
The Under 10s also had the second position to be sorted out and that
eventually
went to the talented Woodcote
Dynamos after their narrow win over the
Spitfires
who have also had a fine season to be proud of.
The opening game of the day had seen the Green
Bogeymen get a much
deserved and headlining victory over the League Champions Henry
Athletic.
It was great to see the Bogeys get a victory on the final day of Season Two
and they were in jubilant mood when they received their League Medals.
It has been a superb season for Henry Athletic who now have the Cup Final
to look forward to next Sunday against Woodcote Dynamos.
The final match of the day here was an eight goal thriller which ended
4-4 between the Scorpions
and Wallington
Warriors.
This was a super day of action to finish what has been a stand out season
for the talented teams in the Under 10s League.
The Inters also had the second position up for grabs and eventually
this
place went to the Vipers after a very exciting morning of tense football
when the second position had swayed between three teams.
The Cobras
had put themselves in the running with a superb 9-1 victory
over the Cup Finalists the Wasps.
This was an amazing score line when you
consider that the Cobras had scored just the ten goals in their first 19 games
of the season and then score 9 in this their last league outing.
The second game was an important one for the Vipers
who really needed to
win and would have liked to have scored a few goal in the process.
In the end they got the win but only just by 2-1 over a battling Blue
Sundays
side who can be proud of their performance.
The final game saw the Dynamos
needing a win to get that second position
but the Park
Rangers were once again on form and kept their Season Two
unbeaten record with a super 4-1 victory.
Lots of praise has to go to the Dynamos for putting in such a super effort
throughout Season Two but the Outright Runners-Up spot went to the
Vipers who now have a Cup Final to look forward to next Sunday too.
The Royal Dynamos are Cup Finalists and had been Season One Champions
of the Mains League but they were just out of the running for top
sport in
Season Two and it was down to the Scorpions and Real Maroon to battle it
ut for the top position and a Play-Off place.
The opening game had seen the Hornets
and Emerald
Elite battle out a
thrilling 0-0 draw with both keepers having fine games to keep the goals
out.
The second game was equally tight and it was only a goal in the dying seconds
which separated the teams and it was the Scorpions
who emerged 1-0
victors over the ever battling True
Blue and this was enough to give
the Scorpions the top spot in Season Two and a Play-Off spot against
Royal Dynamos.
The final game of the day was another tight affair and this was won by
Royal Dynamos
1-0 over Real
Maroon who have had a fine League season
and still have the Cup final to look forward to when these two re-oppose
each other next Sunday.
Reports sent in:
Under 8s:
Wallington Junior & Youth football League - Under 8’s friendly challenge game. Sunday, 9th March 2008:
MAROONS DRAGONS 2 -V- WALLINGTON ROVERS 3
What a cracking end to the Under 8’s Season ‘B’ ‘round robin’ of challenge friendlies. If the little Royal Blues could stay undefeated today, this would be a great achievement, anything else a bonus. Maria’s Dragons were the opposition, and our bogey team – we just hadn’t beaten ‘em!
The Rovers started brightly, took the upper hand and created several chances. However the ball wouldn’t go in, through a combination of near misses by Matthew, George and Billy, but also some great goalkeeping by Erin. The Maroons threatened on a couple of occasions but Joe, Joseph and Elliott, dealt effectively with any danger. Slightly against the run of play, the Dragoons took the lead. Erin did a massive kick out, it may have been touched/deflected by a Maroons forward, but glanced off Elliott and Joe’s gloves and ended up in our net! 0 – 1 at half time.
The Rovers started the second half as they finished the first, attacking. Alfie and Freddie went close early on, but suddenly the Rovers were 0 – 2 down; a crisp move and shot, giving Matthew no chance. Was this weekend going to be a nightmare, started by ‘Barnsley’? With about 7 minutes to go, FREDDIE smashed home a great shot to give us hope. From then on it was Wallington Rovers almost none stop pressure coupled with dangerous Maroons’ breakaways. The last few minutes were very exciting as the Little Rovers refused to accept defeat. Erin was out on the pitch now, battling away for the Maroons as the Wallington Rovers proceeded to miss several opportunities, plus the ‘new’ Maroons ‘keeper bringing off several good saves. One amazing counter attack had Billy, Freddie, Kyron and Alfie all bearing down on goal, with no Dragon’s defender in sight, yet the Maroons ‘keeper still managed to come out on top!
About 3 minutes from time, ALFIE rammed home the equaliser. I was settling for the draw, thus maintaining our unbeaten run, when ALFIE again finished off an attacking move, deep into extra time, for the Rovers’ winner. I’m sorry for the lack of detail e.g. who started the move/made the vital pass etc. but with all the excitement and encouragement, it’s all a bit of a blur now!
Anyway, a great finish to the ‘league’ season and full marks to both teams for a terrific encounter. The noise created by both sets of parents/supporters in the second half (particularly from the Royal Blue contingent) as they roared their superstars on was magnificent. Several times, spectators/coaches etc. on the Under 9’s pitch turned to see what was going on. Let’s have more atmosphere like that next weekend?
I can only praise the Little Royal Rovers for their never-say-die spirit, even at two nil down their heads never dropped, and they battled on to the end. That’s the 4th time since early December the Wallington Rovers have fought back from at least a goal down to win/stay undefeated.
All the squad were absolute heroes and played well today, giving everything, and I’ve spoken to them/will speak to them individually. I must just mention Kyron, who was under the weather, but dosed up to the eyeballs with Calpol (I think that’ll pass a drugs test?), but, like the rest of the side, tackled, passed, dribbled and covered almost every blade of grass for his teammates. 12 games unbeated and now a ‘fun cup final’ Sunday to look forward too.
Royal Blues Team: Joe {Matthew 2nd half}; Joseph, Elliott (Captain); Billy, Kyron, George {Freddie 2nd half}; Matthew {Alfie 2nd half}.
Reports
for Sunday 2nd March
Reports sent in:
Under 8s:
Wallington Junior & Youth football League - Under 8’s friendly challenge game. Sunday, 2ND March 2008:
WALLINGTON ROVERS 2 -V- HURRICANE REDS 1
Penultimate weekend of the Under 8’s friendly challenge games ‘round robin’ and for the Royal Blues the priority was, amongst other things, to stay unbeaten in 2008. First game of the day and both Teams seemed well up for it!
In fact the Reds started very brightly, attacking mostly down the right wing and causing the Rovers’ defence a few problems. Soon the game settled down and the Little Royal Blues started to create a couple of chances of their own, Alfie and Freddie going close. However, it wasn’t against the run of play when the Hurricanes’ took the lead almost half way through the first half, after some hesitation in the Rovers’ defence.
Near half time, the Royal Blues worked a good move for the equaliser. Kyron won the ball in midfield, slipped a pass to his diminutive partner in crime, Freddie. He, in turn, ‘threaded’ a through ball to ALFIE, who galloped away to drill home low into the corner. 1 – 1.
Into the second half and the Royal Blue Rovers had their tails up, sensing victory. Several chances were created, but Alfie, Billy and Matthew were all thwarted by some very good goalkeeping by the Reds’ ‘keeper and, on two occasions, the woodwork. Eventually, what proved to be the winner came courtesy of a bit of individual magic from FREDDIE, who won possession in a crowded box, twisted, turned and slipped home very nicely.
The Royal Blues needed a third to finish the Reds challenge, but the Hurricanes’ ‘keeper, plus some tenacious defending, kept the Rovers at bay. The Reds had a couple of chances to snatch a draw but little Joe brought off some good stops with safe handing; but then, as is Joe ‘mischievous’ wont, almost give the Royal Blues following a collective heart attack with some unorthodox clearances!
Again, everybody in a royal blue shirt played their hearts out, worked really hard and showed great determination. Just as well, because the Reds also played well, looks well organised, and caused a few problems. A hard earned victory. Well done Boys, 11 games unbeaten.
Royal Blues Team: Joe; Joseph, Elliott {Matthew 2nd half, up front}; Freddie, Kyron {Billy 2nd half}, George; Alfie (Captain).
Under
10s:
Green
Bogeymen 1 v 2 Woodcote
Dynamos
Unlucky Greens. Well, we've said that several times over the course of the season. A spirited second half fight back saw the Bogeymen desperately unlucky not to get a share of the points. The Greens lined up with Tiago in goal, Sammi, Ghavinder and Joel at the back, Toby and Dan in midfield and Jake up front. Not for the first time this season the Bogeymen looked like they were still in bed by the time the game started. Playing against a strong wind in the first half, the Greens were unable to get out of their half and it came as no great surprise when the Dynamos took the lead from a corner that the Greens failed to clear. A few minutes later and it was 2-0 as sloppy defending led to an easy chance for a Woodcote forward. Gradually the Bogeymen got into the game, but rarely threatened the Light Blues. Half time saw several changes with Tiago moving into midfield, Sammi and Ghavinder being replaced by Joe and Tom, Dan replacing Jake up front, with Jake going in goal and Josh coming on for Toby.
The second half was a completely different game as the Bogeymen launched wave after wave of attacks and only some excellent goalkeeping from the Dynamos keeper kept the Greens at bay. Eventually, a through ball from Tom found Dan who coolly slotted the ball past the keeper to make it 2-1. Jake in goal was unemployed and the Bogeymen defenders were able to join the attack as Woodcote were restricted to occasional breakaways. With time running out the Greens made several great chances to equalise but were stopped time after time by the excellent Dynamos keeper who made several brave saves at the feet of onrushing Greens forwards. In many ways the game summed up the Bogeymen's season - slow starters, good in the second half and unlucky not to get something from the game
Spitfires 2 v Wallington Warriors1
As my wife and kids took a lift to the game today, I decided to walk to the park on my own. T’was a glorious walk too, with the birds a singing and the elephants a trumpeting I was in my element, especially as I had one of those new Ginsters badger and bull frog pasties on the go. It was also quite a sad walk for me, as I thought about all the boys and parents alike. I mean we have all been together for a few years now and as a team we have all grown and become very good friends and with only two games left this season, I began to wonder what the future would hold. Hang on a mo, what’s all this? Mighty G getting sentimental, bah, rubbish, enough of such talk and on to the game.
The Barmies were looking forward to a very exciting game today, our past record against the R’bs is a good one, but they have really become a descent outfit during this half of the season so we didn’t want to take any chances. Our main striker Luke wasn’t available this week due to a sore throat. The team medical staff, after many hours of research and thousands of pounds later, thought it might be a virus or tonsillitis or something, but I know different. Don’t worry how much your dad bets you Luke you can’t swallow a pineapple whole mate; so let this be a lesson to you.
The commitment shown from the first whistle from both teams was admirable and both sets of fans knew they were in for one hell of a match. The play was to-ing and fro-ing from one end to the other and it was anyone’s guess as to how things might progress. Carl was everywhere and making some good strong challenges, but then so were many of the R’bs so it was pretty even stuff through the first 5 minutes. Michael had swapped with Wondertel for the keeping duties and looked really good for the most part, but he is a bit of an enigma. Not only is he a Jedi master, but also he is a two-footed one. I wonder if anyone else noticed that he takes goal kicks with his left and drop kicks with his right, weird eh! With the new extra weird set-up we had we were putting the R’bs under a lot of pressure, but they didn’t buckle, oh no, in fact they came at us with a determination that can only be born from little league. This took our lads by surprise and the Blues flew through our ranks after a lovely passage of play to score a fantastic opener. I was gutted, but could do no more than stand back and applaud the great play I had just seen. Now in the past going one down was a real curse for our boys, but not any more, they came back with such gusto that I nearly swallowed my hippo and gibbon sandwich in one go. That café gets better every week. Stevo and the legendary Callumcules were simply brilliant at the back and regularly turned the R’b attacks into Red ones with some sublime passing, they would not be passed, end of story, and so uplifting to see. I think it lifted the rest of the team and Carl and Craig were starting to turn it on in midfield. Because of this we were getting a few corners, but with Michael in goal and Luke laid up with pineappleitis Supermat was hard pushed to deliver the kind of crosses that our boys are used to. However a bit further on into the half, some great passing unleashed Supermat who went on one of his magic runs to score a brilliant equaliser and the team and the Barmies went nuts. Why can’t we do this all the time eh?
Both teams went very close on a few occasions thereafter, but I think the difference in the teams was at the back. Callumcules was amazing as was Stevo and they showed this with a great awareness and were not shy to pass back to Michael who would regularly punt the ball miles. The Barmies and Blues fans alike stood open mouthed at one point when Jedi Michael summoned all of the dark forces that he commands and blasted a seriously fantastical drop kick that almost got us our second goal, only for the Blues goalie to pull off a great save to keep him out. The half time whistle went and the boys trotted off for oranges, some of us trotted off to the cafe and the ref trotted off for what we can only presume was the trots. 2 hours later and with the lads waiting patiently, the ref came back to a chorus of cheers and whistles, obviously in appreciation of the fact that he had won the world chilli eating championships just the night before.
With cable duly laid he blew for the second half to start. This half saw two changes on our part; Stevo and Carl came off and were replaced by birthday boy Josh Cool, and wonder of wonders, Charles Charlie Charles (one of the famous Charles brothers), made his triumphant return after six months of recovery from a nasty case of nastiness that could have cut his international career short. It wasn’t a bad one either as he had a few chances to score. He and Josh added a real urgency to our effort and it was rewarded when, after some tremendous passing, Wondertel cracked home a superb goal to give us the lead. The Barmies were amazed as Tel has spent nine tenths of the season in goal. The R’bs tried valiantly to grab the win thereafter, but the legendary Callumcules at the back was a rock indeed and nearly impossible to pass. He pulled off some wonderful headed clearances proving his bravery and certainly saved us from defeat. On the other hand we could have had about six goals, but for the determination and excellent skills of the Blues keeper. He was fantastic, especially after suffering an injury early on in the game. Well-done mate. The game could have gone either way really, but all things being equal I think we did deserve the win and as ref Tingly Bum blew for full time we were all very grateful for the score line.
Just a couple of things before I go and get wasted. Firstly I would like to say a massive thank you to our independent referee, he has bought a fairness and fluidity to the young lads game that I have never seen before and is to be congratulated. I also think that for one quid per kid a week this arrangement would be most beneficial to all levels of the league and I would seriously encourage that. Secondly to Henry, his assistant and his lads for being a great team to play against, well done all of you, you are a credit to the league and thank you for years of wonderful entertainment.
Thirdly to Mad dog and Slasher for their tireless efforts with our lads, the job they have done is truly outstanding. Fourthly to our boys who week in week out make us all very proud, thank you boys. Lastly but absolutely by no means leastly to the Barmy Army, who turn up every week come rain or shine to boost our little monsters confidence and have stuck by them through all the bad times, (which in our case is considerable) and helped levitate them to the formidable team they are today, well done you ‘orrible lot. I have to make a special mention this week and it goes to the legendary Callumcules, Spartan warrior extraordinaire, he had the best game I have ever seen full of bravery and bloody minded determination and was duly awarded man of the match. Well-done Callum.
Well it just remains for me to go and open the fridge now, so good luck to all the teams on the last game and I’ll see you all next week.
I’m glad I came back to watch this one
Prince Harry
Inters
Dynamos
2 Wasps 0
We had a cracking game today beating the yellows 2-0 and even more our whole
team turning up and playing well together. even though at the end of the 10am
game it was 100% that the royals had won but my boys still didn't
give up the fight for 2nd place and I was very proud of them for that.
Congratulations to the royals for winning the league with a clean no loss
sheet and only 2 draws (one of them 2 us), we have got them next week for the
final game of the season so i no its going to be a hard but fun game of football
for us all, again well done to Lewis and his boys.
Danielle, Inter Maroons Manager
Reports
for Sunday 24th February
Steve's Ramblings:
As usual there was plenty of super football on show down the park this
morning.
The first two games in the Under 8s produced a total of eleven goals but
only one winner with the Wallington
Rovers getting the better of the Beddington
Celts by
3-2 in a thriller. The first game had finished 3-3 between the Light
Brigade and
the Little Rangers.
The final game of the day here saw the Maroon
Dragons narrowly get the better
of the Hurricanes
2-1.
The Under 9s started with a 3-3 super draw between the Wallington
Rangers
and the newly crowned League Champions the Sky
Blue Diamonds.
Then the Green
Gunners earned a nice 3-0 win over the recently in form
Wallington
Lions.
The final game of the day in this age group saw the Mini
Jets triumph 4-2
over the Super
Mighty Maroons and that is enough to keep the Jets in a
very important second position in the table.
The Under 10s was once again the place for terrific action and the day
started
with a mouth watering top of the table clash between Henry
Athletic and
Woodcote
Dynamos which was won 2-0 by Athletic.
This was a super game with action at both ends and a super second goal
scored by Khan with a superbly taken rocket free kick, surely one of the
goals of the season.
The second match in this age group saw the Wallington
Warriors and
Green Bogeymen
battle out an exciting 2-2 draw. The Greens took an early
lead with a well taken goal before the Royal Blues battled back to equalise then
take the lead but only for the Greens to tie up the game at 2-2.
The final match of the day here was a thriller between the Spitfires
and
Scorpions
which was eventually won by the Scorpions 2-1.
The Spitfires had taken the lead when a long range effort had squeezed in
past the unlucky goalie in the first half but the Scorpions battle back to
first equalise then get the winner when Jackie hit a superb long range
free kick into the back of the net.
Both teams played some super football and some of the passing at times
from the Reds was superb but the Maroons were just as exciting too.
This was a nice and competitive match played once again in good spirit
none more evident than when the whole crowd applauded a previously
injured Bradley back on to the pitch after an injury.
This was a super game to finish the action in this age group.
The Inters started off with a bit of a shock as the Blue
Sundays for once
got the better of the Wasps
by 5-3 in a super opening fixture.
Considering the Yellows had earlier put in quite a few goals in against their
opponents this was a big turn around in form and a big first win of the
second half of the season for the Light Blues.
Among the goal scorers for Blue Sundays was Ryan with a thunder bolt free
kick, Robbie, Emilio and Harry.
Another high point was the continued good work in goal from Vishnu who is
making that position his own.
The Yellows still have the Cup final to look forward to this season so I am
sure they will not deny the Light Blues their glory on the day.
The second match in this age group saw Park
Rangers put themselves in
touching distance of the outright Championship with a good 3-1 win over
the talented Cobras.
The final match in the Inters saw the Vipers
keep up the pressure at the
top end of the table with a nice 2-0 win over the Dynamos.
who themselves
are still not out of the race for a good finishing position in the table with
their
two games in hand.
As usual we end with the Mains which commenced today with a match
between True
Blue and the Hornets
which was won in fine style by the
Light Blues 6-0.
The Royal
Dynamos then won 3-1 against Emerald
Elite to keep themselves
in the hunt for the outright Championship in the Mains.
Then the final game saw the Scorpions
just edge past Real
Maroon to
go to the top of the table and create a super finale to the season in this
age group.
Now reports sent in:
Wallington Junior & Youth football League - Under 8’s friendly challenge game. Sunday, 24th February 2008:
BEDDINGTON CELTS 2 -V- WALLINGTON ROVERS 3
With the Little Yellow Rangers grabbing an exciting 3 – 1 win over the Light Blues, with 2 late goals in about as many minutes, right at the end of the match, the pressure was back on the Little Royal Blues to maintain their unbeaten run from last December into 2008 and see who still had ‘bragging rights’ at this level.
It was a lovely mild dry Sunday morning, just right for football. Again, not quite a full squad available, noticeable absentee being all energy/acrobatic Joe – surely not Goodison Park for a reserve game instead of Beddington Stadium?
Anyway, what followed was a cracking match, thoroughly enjoyed by all the spectators, as both teams defended as they knew best, by attacking and counter-attacking at every opportunity. If the Friendly Under 8’s Cup Final in under a month’s time, between these two Teams, is as good as this, then we’re all in for a treat. It was exciting end-to-end stuff, goalmouth incidents, great tackling, running, commitment and determination by both Teams
The Greens were on top early on, and Billy was called upon to make a couple of good saves/blocks as the Green’s threatened to open the scoring. Soon Joseph and Elliott got to grips with matters and defended very effectively, Elliott even managing to go on one great run – John Terry style – out of defence and down the right flank, creating a scoring opportunity for the Rovers. Alfie was starting to impose himself on game and gave warning with an "‘HAVE IT" Peter Kaye special which nearly reached the café! Matthew and Kyron were also becoming more evident with their hard wok, running, tackling and shooting. Midway through the half, following some pressure in the Green’ penalty area, GEORGE latched onto the ball, created a bit of space, and slipped the ball home, for his 2nd goal of the season. However, just before half time, DONNY fired home a left foot cross shot from outside the box for a deserved Greens’ equaliser.
Into the 2nd half, and a great cross from Freddie (or was it Billy?) gave Alfie the chance for a second. Whilst Alfie did not cleanly connect, the ball was still hurtling towards the top corner, but the Celts’ ‘keeper tipped the ball over the bar with a magnificent save. But ALFIE was not to be denied when, a little later, Billy, went on an exciting run and crossed from the left and ALFIE cracked the ball home. Freddie was now on, playing in an attacking midfield role and supporting Alfie, thus giving the Greens’ defence a bit more to think about. But the Beddington Celts, for their part, were pressing hard for an equaliser and Matthew, now in goal, had to be smart and deal with some dangerous chances, together with our defenders, with Billy marshalling play, as we strove to protect our lead. Near time, Billy won possession just outside our penalty area, raced forward then hit a lovely through ball to ALFIE who charged away past the Greens defenders and fired home for the decisive 3rd. However, right on the final whistle, the Greens’ defiantly had the last say when BRENNEN/BRENDON (?) smashed Matthew’s goal kick straight into our net from about 30 yards.
Another hard earned victory, but "a close run thing" as Wellington said. Well done both Teams for a great game. {Thank heavens for my Little Royal Blues enjoyable performances recently, just as well as the senior Royal Blues were pathetic at Wembley 4 hours later! Why did I bother!? I want a refund! Thanks anyway to all who helped bring our game forward 10 minutes or so and for the lift, especially to Maria, John Ellis and Billy’s parents.}
Royal Blues Team: Billy {Matthew 2nd half}; Joseph {Freddie 2nd half, in midfield}, Elliott; George {defence 2nd half, Billy in midfield}; Kyron, Alfie {2nd half up front}; Matthew [captain, 2nd half in goal].
Reports
for Sunday 17th February
Steve's Ramblings:
There is only one place where I can possibly start my round up of the action
from today and that is in the Under 10s where not only was there
some
terrific action but a very special young lady scored her first two goals today
too.
Congratulations to Clare who scored twice during the 3-2 for Henry
Athletic
over Spitfires.
Her goals were greeted by some very loud roars of appreciation
from the crowd as she works tirelessly each week and fully deserves a bit of
glory.
This was the second successive week that these two teams came up against
each other and judging by the noise it was a super game.
Both the other two games in this age group were five goal thrillers.
In the opening match the Scorpions
got the better of the battling
Green Bogeymen
3-2 and then in the final game of the day
Wallington
Warriors beat the table topping Woodcote
Dynamos by the
same score. This was a terrific come back win for the Warriors who were
trailing 2-1 at half time and came back to avenge their cup semi final loss
to the same opponents last Sunday.
In the Under 9s the big news was the win by the Sky
Blue Diamonds over
the Wallington
Lions as this victory confirms them as outright Champions
of this age group with fully three games left still to play.
Well done to Dean and the team on a superb effort this season and becoming
the first team to be confirmed as Champions throughout our league.
Earlier there had been another five goal thriller when the Mini
Jets got the
better of Wallington Rangers
3-2.
The Inters got off to a stuttering start when the first game which was
due
to be a double header was postponed due to the frozen patches on the pitch
but it cleared up enough to enable the last two games to go ahead.
The Wasps and Vipers
fought out an exciting 1-1 draw and this was followed
by Blue Sundays
pushing the table topping Park
Rangers
all the way before the
latter just got the better of them to win 3-2.
In the Mains the opening game saw Real
Maroon retain their top spot with a
good 3-0 win over Emerald
Elite.
The Scorpions
then had a convincing win over the Hornets
and this was followed
by True Blue
pushing Royal
Dynamos all the way before going down narrowly
3-2.
Reports sent in:
Under 8s
Wallington Junior & Youth football League - Under 8’s friendly challenge game. Sunday, 17th February 2008:
LIGHT BRIGADE 0 -V- WALLINGTON ROVERS 2
With the Little Yellow Rangers running riot in the second half of the preceding match, and thumping the Reds 9 – 1, there was always the possibility of this game being a bit ‘after the lord Mayor’s show’ so to speak. However, the Little Royal Blues had their own agenda, the motivation to keep the unbeaten run from last December into 2008 to 9 games without loss.
A lovely crisp clear Sunday morning, the somewhat hard pitch thawing nicely as the morning wore on. Almost a full squad available, noticeable absentee being Elliott, who was whisked off to Manchester! Ahem, surely there are better Cities to spend half term? (Tyron would think so!)
Pretty early from the start the Wallington Rovers established a good grip on the game and started to create chances. Matthew, George and Freddie all went close early on. After about 9 minutes MATTHEW fired us into the lead, intercepting a sloppy clearance and driving the ball back into goal from about 20 yards. We promised more goals, but had a tendency to rush the final ball or shot, but were never the less good value for our half time lead.
Into the 2nd half and more pressure on the Light Brigade’s goal as we rather took control of the midfield, thanks to Billy, Afie and kyron. Joe and Joseph were mopping up anything threatening at the back very nicely. Soon we had a penalty for handball. Billy’s shot was parried out but ALFIE was first to react and drilled the rebound home for our second. Soon after, déjà vu, and another penalty was awarded for hands. Freddie had a go this time, but the shot was held. [NB – next meeting. Why are Under 8’s & 9’s penalties taken so far out? Are they as much as 12 yards out? The distance for a penalty shot at this age/level is too difficult and has little advantage to the attacking side who’ve been offended against.]
2 – 0 was the final score, following a sound determined performance. Everybody played well, individually, and with sheer hard work {including Freddie, who had just about recovered from chicken pox during the week} which contributed so much as part of the overall Team effort. Joe looked pretty unbeatable, Billy was terrific and deserved a goal for his efforts, and Kyron (captain for the day), who I don’t think put a foot wrong, played very effectively. As stated, all were heroes. Keep going Boys!
Royal Blues Team: Joe; Joseph; George; Billy: Freddie, Kyron [captain]; Matthew {Alfie 2nd half}.
17th February 2008 11:00 p.m. fixture.
LITTLE RANGERS 9 V 1 HURRICANES (UNDER 8’s)
Having just witnessed his brother Donny slotting home the only goal in the 10:00am match for the Greens against the Maroons, our own little marksman Freddie was eager to prove he is equally as capable. His chance came barely five minutes into the first half and he took it well, the early goal settled the parents nerves as the Little Rangers took the game to the Hurricanes, chance after chance went begging as the Yellows laid siege to the Reds’ goal, the assembled crowd didn’t have to wait long for the second goal…………….shock horror! against the run of play it’s fair to say the Reds equaliser came courtesy of some goal mouth juggling by the Yellow’s keeper Billy. Unlucky Billy!
The Yellows picked themselves up and again bombarded the Reds’ goal drawing sighs and groans from the crowd as everything they threw at the Reds went wide or was scrambled to safety, Jacob surely could have had his second hat-trick of the season in the first half but the Reds resolutely played to the interval keeping the score at
1-1.
Things get a bit hazy now with my three year old daughter vying for attention over the football: she’d rather get covered in mud or assault her one year old sister than watch her brother play football! Following the customary second half change in personnel the match gets under way, Harry, on for the second half is immediately involved and along with Jacob, Billy and Chet continue to pepper the Reds’ goal………..I look down for a second to administer a ‘Pom-Bear’ into an inconsolable child when up goes the familiar cheer that normally accompanies a goal it’s the Yellows second but who scored it?........... I’m told it was Jacob a cracking shot which set a precedence for what was to come, 2-1 and the Yellows foray forward again….. oh no three year old demands attention again, I just manage to see Jacob conjure up his second and the Yellows third with another great strike. If I’ve got the order wrong I apologise, with the Reds valiantly trying to stem the Yellow flow (am I allowed to say that?) the fourth and fifth goals followed in quick succession courtesy of two fantastic strikes by the very talented Harry. The Yellows continued to press not content with just a win. The ball falls to Billy who makes some room for himself before unleashing a cracking strike past the Reds keeper to make it 6-1. Three year old crying relentlessly now, tried passing her to her mum who’s best coat is already covered in mud but she’s had enough, tried nanny but she’s also had enough, alright then I’ll wrestle with her, pop my head up just in time to see Chet get on the end of one, he hits the ‘sweet spot’ he tells me later, to send a sublime shot across the goal to find the corner of the net, 7-1 and still the Yellows press forward, Jacob receives the ball and goes on another run culminating in another superb strike 8-1 and the completion of a second half hat-trick, still the Yellows haven’t finished and the final word goes to Harry who brings the final score to 9-1 with a brilliantly taken shot also completing his second half hat-trick.
I would just like to say a word or two about the Reds whose heads never dropped throughout the entire match and to their credit played enthusiastically with smiles on their faces to the very end, in every match the Yellows have had with the Reds they have proven themselves worthy opponents, well done the Hurricanes.
Just a quick thankyou to Billy’s mum Stella who resisted the promise to ‘streak’ if Billy scored a goal, we could all go on to enjoy our Sunday roasts!!
I apologise but refute any accusations of nepotism when I reserve a special congratulations to Chet, whilst not being a prolific goal scorer your contribution to the whole game was pivotal and you took your goal well. Also worthy of a mention are both Sam B, Sam H and Jamie who were stalwarts in defence, in the midfield fresh from his well deserved MOM award last week was William who along with Ben contributed ably.
Well done Little Rangers you can still win the second part of the season with displays like this, congratulations on a good team effort to Ben, Billy, Chet, Freddie, Harry, Jacob, Jamie, Sam B, Sam H and William.
Posted by Robin Anjan.
Reports
sent in from Cup Semi-Finals day on Sunday 10th February
Under 8s
Wallington Junior & Youth football League, Under 8’s friendly challenge Cup Semi – Final game.
Sunday, 10th February 2008:
LITTLE RANGERS 0 -V- WALLINGTON ROVERS 2
Cup fever hits Beddington Stadium (but being a Semi – Finals day, known somewhat collectively, as ‘Villa Park’?)! Really lovely mild weather, particularly for February, greeted the hordes as they made their way onto the ‘terraces’.
Again a big under 8’s game today, where was Sky (?), against a very good Yellows side, who’d already seen off Maria’s Maroons in the quarter finals.
Game plan in place, boys pumped up and focused, and away we went! To be fair, the Yellows were the better side in the first half, had more control of the midfield and created several goalscoring opportunities. Fortunately our ‘keeper Billy was in unbeatable form and brought off a number of very good saves and blocks to frustrate the marauding Little Rangers. Although not playing so well in the first half, and not creating too many clear opportunities ourselves, the Royal Blue Rovers are made of stern stuff these days. All the Team dug in deep, competed for every ball and didn’t stop battling. This was full-blooded Cup football and both sides were up for glory.
George, who had a fitness test before kick off as he’d been unwell during the week and had missed training, went close midway through the first half. A shimmy/dummy and George glided into the box but screwed his shot wide. A couple of runs and blocked shots from Matthew and Alfie respectively was about it up to half time. Joseph and Elliott, aided and abetted by Freddie, defended valiantly as the Bananas seemed to get up a head of steam coming up to half time.
Half time meant a couple of inevitable changes. Joe, who was brilliant in goal at training the day before, went reassuringly in goal, Billy came out into his best position in midfield, George went off for a deserved rest and recuperation, Kyron swapped for Freddie in the midfield. Billy, Alfie and Kyron, working like Trojans, started to impose themselves in the middle of the park after the interval and the Yellows were finding it a bit more difficult to get clear attempts on goal.
Possibly still somewhat against the run of play, a few minutes into the second half, the Rovers took the lead. A good move down the left and then MATTHEW cut in and tried his luck from about 15 yards. The shot may have taken a slight deflection but, pleasingly for us, ended up in the back of the net to put the Wallington Rovers one up. The Yellows responded well and continued to compete, making this a real ‘cut and thrust’ cup tie, but the Royal Blues were now starting to impose themselves on the game and, inevitably, as the Yellows pressed forward for the equaliser, started to counterattack more and exploit gaps opening up in the Bananas’ defence.
Alfie fired a couple just wide, one after a lovely intelligent through ball from Kyron, and the Little Rangers’ goalie brought off a couple of good saves from Billy and Matthew. Near time Alfie hit our second to make the game safe. A Yellows’ clearance rebounded off Matthew nicely into ALFIE’s path and he bashed it home for 2 – 0.
Everybody in Royal Blue were heroes, played great and showed great fighting spirit, resilience and determination. It was a great win. Elliott, as captain, defended admirably and said before the match he would be a ‘John terry’. Did he mean John Terry spends a lot of time on the deck in the mud Elliott? Joking apart, well done Elliott for holding together the back line. Elliott was superbly supported at the back by Joseph who was tenacious. If Joseph doesn’t get you the first time, he will the second! Great determination to defend. Joe was confident and very capable in goal in the second half but didn’t have many chances to bring off any great saves as the defence and midfield did such an effective job. Joe’s kick outs continue to improve though. Kyron and Freddie were excellent, closing down opponents, battling and intercepting, but still made time for the occasional defence splitting through ball.
A somewhat unfit George had a very effective first half and, although not fully recovered, was determined to be involved. Well done George. Alfie was almost everywhere, battling for the Teams’ cause, and made several exciting powerful runs to create scoring opportunities. Matthew stayed upfront as asked, looked dangerous, and caused lots of problems with his runs at the yellows defence. Star player for me though was Billy, a great first half in goal, frustrating the Yellows attack time and again, then into his ‘Makelele’ role, doing a great job shielding the defence as well as setting up numerous attacks.
Both our goals had a touch of fortune about them, this was a ‘smash and grab’ victory, but that’s Cup football! Bad luck yellows, you played really well and again showed what a good team you are.
4 more challenge friendly games left Royal Blues, so forget the ‘Cup’ for now. We need to keep our run going, but…well done!
Royal Blues Team: Billy {Joe 2nd half}; Elliott (captain), Joseph; Freddie {Kyron 2nd half}, George (2nd half Billy, in midfield}; Alfie; Matthew.
Under
10s
Spitfires 1 v Henry Athletic 6 - cup semi final
February 10th, 10 am and 115 degrees in the shade, what the hell is going on with the weather. It worries me this global warming thing, what with the tortoises waking up early and the fox’s glacier mints melting, no wonder our lads were at sixes and sevens today. I refer, of course to the hammering we took from the very impressive Yellows today.
It all started off very evenly with neither side really getting the upper hand, all the boys were getting stuck in which was good to see, but with no real shape to speak of from either side, play was very scrappy. This was the most frustrating game I have seen in ages because I know how good both these teams can be, but as the half wore on I could see that the Yellows just might be getting the upper hand. They were beginning to look the more solid outfit and it showed when Antonio latched onto a good pass and dealt very well with an awkward bounce to put number one just over Terry’s head with his knee. After conceding this goal our little Reds seemed to do something quite uncharacteristic, they let their heads drop. This might have been something to do with the occasion, but I rather think that it was because they were all up till 5am playing poker, smoking cigars and drinking Dr Glossop’s amber enema until they all fell asleep. (Excuse number 1). Half time was a tense affair, especially for me as I was in a tent. Sausage fingers was confident of a comeback and so were the rest of the Barmy Army because of Saturdays training. The boys were made to do an entire marathon followed by a 150-mile bike ride to get their fitness up. Perhaps in hindsight it may have been a bit too much for them (excuse number two) but we would see in the second half.
The second half kicked off with the obligatory substitutions and we hoped our fortunes would change. Craig came off for Michael who is a natural lefty, which should give us more scope down the left flank. It wasn’t to be however as the Yellows played out of their skins. As the half progressed we really did get a lesson in football in my opinion, as the Yellows were first to nearly every ball. The 50-50 challenges were not going our way either, testament to the Yellows commitment, and the fact that our lads had lead in their boots, just to build up strength you understand (excuse number three). I think the Yellows got two more goals before we showed a bit of the class that the fans all know we have when Carl played a terrific ball through to Josh who calmly slotted it home for a really nice consolation goal. Why didn’t we play like that through the whole game? We split the Yellows defence wide open with that one. The Yellows came on again, piling on the pressure and there wasn’t much we could do about it. Matthew was in defence with Stevo, but with his predatory instinct kicking in Mat often found himself up front leaving Stevo to look after the back on his own. It proved too much for him as the Yellows came belting through time after time. The legendary Callumcules was not at the game due to a mix up with the kick-off time and turned up with about ten minutes to go. Had he been on the pitch we would have won easily (excuse number four). Roughly 12-0 we think. Carl and Michael battled bravely in mid-field only to be battered by the more aggressive Yellows. The main problem this caused was that Luke wasn’t getting the ball as much as he would like, and oh how we needed him in the clear today. He did manage a couple of shots, but was closed down too quickly and as a result didn’t get on the score sheet, which is amazing for him. With full time looming, the Yellows were banging goals in almost at will, and as our excellent ref blew the whistle, 6-1 was the final score. All the Barmies I spoke to after the game agreed that the Yellows put on a fantastic display of football today and thoroughly deserved their win. The Reds can hold their heads high though, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Last year we would have been happy to go out in the first round so lets take it to them next week and show them what we are really made of eh boys.
The day was not a complete loss though; the Reds did get a one up on the Yellows.
As we arrived at the pitch I was surprised to see the boundary rope already up and the Yellows Management and some fans having a bash at erecting Rubik’s goal. Me and Mad Dog steamed in to the task on our goal, later helped by Warren (Krypton factor champion 1938) and hammered the Yellows by about 10 mins so all was not lost. One of the Yellows dads even came down our end to see our amazing achievement and ask for some help with his erection. We were only too glad to help. We bought two man of the match trophies with us today, you know, just in case we didn’t make the final, and those went to Carl and Josh for their constant battling and our only goal.
Well done to Jason and his team, it was a great performance from you and the game was played in good spirit. Good luck in the final. Hard luck Reds never mind you will always be heroes in our eyes, we are very proud of you all.
Until next week folks when it is rumoured to be hotter than the centre of the sun,
Have a good week
Erno Rubik
Little League goals a speciality
Reports
for Sunday 3rd February 2008
Today was catch up Sunday and the only games played were those that
have been held over for one reason or another but there was still plenty
of action and lots of goals despite being just one fixture in each age group.
Under 8s
The one game in this age group was a friendly fixture which was won by
the
Wallington
Rovers
in splendid fashion against
the
Hurricanes.
It seems that both sides enjoyed the chance to play instead of having a
free Sunday and I am sure all the supporters were thrilled at the opportunity
to stand out in the cold when they could have been in the warm.
Of course I know that most really did enjoy being out and about and to
watch these little players strutting their stuff is a thill and always
enjoyable.
The passion showed by the youngest of our players is always fantastic.
Under 9s
The one game played here was the held over Cup Quarter Final which was
won in good style by the
Super
Mighty Maroons
over the Wallington
Rangers.
They now go on to face the Mini Jets in the semi finals.
Under 10s
This was a league catch up game and what a cracker it was.
The
Woodcote
Dynamos
drew 0-0 with the
Scorpions
just last Sunday but
the game was exciting and competitive and this week these two put on
an even better show and provided great entertainment but once again
not a goal was scored but with action like this who needs goals.
The Scorpions took the game to the table topping Dynamos but they
held out well and threatened many times themselves.
This was a great advert for our league and a very enjoyable game to watch.
Inters
Another Cup Quarter Final was decided here when the
Wasps
got a great
victory over the
Dynamos
who have been have a super
section of the season
lately. Today it was the Wasps who came out firmly on top 7-2 and they
march on to a Semi-Final against Blue Sundays next weekend.
Mains
This was always going to be a tight match between
Real
Maroon
and
the Hornets for a Semi
Final place and so it proved and it was the Maroons
who narrowly squeezed past their opponents 1-0.
The Hornets have been enjoying a great period of the season and battled
bravely but the table topping Real Maroon just prevailed.
Next week it is Cup Semi Final day, check out the latest news page for
the full fixture list.
Reports
for Sunday 27th January 2008
Steve's Ramblings:
Here is a short trawl through the action from today and there were many
talking
points and some super action.
Under 8s
This was an unusual day for this age groups as all three games finished in
draws with the scores increased as each game progressed.
The opening game between the
Wallington
Rovers
and Little
Rangers finished
0-0, then the
Maroon
Dragons
drew with the
Light
Brigade
1-1 and finally
the
Hurricanes
and
Beddington
Celts
ended level at 2-2.
Under 9s
The opening games saw the
Wallington
Lions
continue their recent good form
with a great performance against the Wallington
Rangers.
Both teams went goal crazy and this ended up in a thrilling 4-4 draw.
It has always been a good battle between these two sides and today was
no exception as the excellent Rangers battled it out with the now in form
Lions
to give the onlookers a real treat.
The second game of the day in this age groups saw the runaway leaders of
the table the Sky
Blue Diamonds
dig deep to grind out a 1-0 win over the
very talented Super
Mighty Maroons
in a very tight affair.
The final game in this division saw the Mini
Jets and Green
Gunners share
the points in a very closely fought 1-1 draw.
Under 10s
Please forgive me if I do go on about the opening game of the day in this
section but it was an exceptional match and superb entertainment.
Henry Athletic have had to
work hard lately to keep up their challenge towards
the top of the table and today was no exception as Wallington
Warriors
pushed them all the way and very nearly ended up as victors but the game
finally finished all square at 1-1.
The Warriors were fantastic in the first half and although the Yellows had
their attacks it was the Warriors who had far the better of the action and
on several occasions they broke at speed to threaten their opponents goal
but fine defending from Henry Athletic kept all the attempts out except one
which was enough to see the Royal Blues lead 1-0 at half time.
There was some lovely jinking runs down the left side from the Warriors
but some equally fine tackling from the defenders of the Athletic.
The second half saw the teams switch roles with Henry Athletic becoming
the dominant attacking side and the Warriors forced to defend and did they
defend well. The lad in goal was having his first start in that position for
the Warriors but had an exceptional game making several fine saves as
the Yellows cut through to threaten his goal. The defenders were making
fantastic last ditch tackles too and this was just a spectacle to savour.
Then with under two minutes left Khan found the ball at his feet on the right
side
of the area and for once the defence of the Warriors seemed to hesitate and
just give him too much space, he looked up picked his spot and sent in a
super shot which saw the ball go inside the far post to rescue a point for
Henry Athletic.
This was a game to enjoy and everyone did seem to do so, well done to both
sides for putting in such a fantastic effort.
The second match of the day in this age group was between old rivals
Woodcote
Dynamos and Scorpions
and this was a very tight and tense
affair and in the end remained goalless and each team earned themselves
a point.
Both sides had their chances but there was little to choose between them
and next week when they meet again in a catch up game it will be interesting
to see if either can gain the upper hand.
This was enough to maintain top position for the Dynamos despite playing
a game less than their nearest pursuers.
The Scorpions remain a side good enough to push anyone all the way and
they too are still right in the race for honours.
The final match of the day in this age group saw the Green
Bogeymen again
put in another super display but yet again it was just not enough to earn
them reward as they were just outdone by the bang in form Spitfires
who won this tight match 3-2.
The Spitfires are enjoying a fantastic season thanks to lots of hard work by
players and coaching staff and this result puts them just a point off of top
spot in the table.
The Green Bogeymen must know that they are so close to some great
results but just have not had the luck lately. They have much to be proud
of and are sure to have enjoyed scoring two goals today.
Inters
The opening game was a very tight affair and saw Park
Rangers just
edge out
the Wasps 2-1 to maintain
their top position on top of the league table.
Prolific striker Mark added another two goals to his tally this season to help
his team along the way, the Wasps had taken the lead only to see the Rangers
battle back.
The second game saw the Blue
Sundays who were
once again under strength
start brightly only to be overhauled by an in form Dynamos
side again 2-1.
A big mention should go to Vishnu in goal who had a super game for the
Sundays and is making that position his own now.
The Dynamos are having a super second half of the season and sit in an
excellent third position in the table and still have a game in hand of the
teams above them.
The final match of the day here saw the Cobras
and Vipers
play a double
header to make up for an earlier postponement.
In this game each half became a separate match and the first half was a
very close 0-0 draw and the second half was equally hard fought but this
time it was the Vipers who emerged as 1-0 winners.
Mains
The opening match here saw a real big surprise for many when the Hornets
beat the excellent Royal
Dynamos 2-1.
It may have been a surprise to many but not to everyone as the Yellows
have been knocking on the door lately and this was a result to be proud of.
Their first half performance may have been good enough for a bigger lead
but in the second half the Dynamos came back in force and pushed them
all the way and by the end the whistle was a relief to many Hornets supporters
but this was a fantastic result for Keith and his side.
The Dynamos now slip a couple of places but it is very tight at the top of
this table.
The second match of the day in this age groups saw Real
Maroon get a
3-1 victory over True
Blue and this
was enough to see them go to the top
of the table.
It was great to hear that Anthony was one of the scorers and this hard
grafter really deserves a bit of glory. He was one of the back bone of last
season's National Squad and is an important player for the Maroons but
quite often one of the unsung heroes.
The final game of the day in this section was a four goal thriller
which
saw the Scorpions
and Emerald
Elite share the
points when it finished
2-2.
The Emerald Elite have really had a season to be proud of and are always
competitive and today the pushed the excellent Scorpions all the way.
The Scorpions now find themselves in second place in the table but as
I have already written this is a very tight section.
Reports which have been sent in will follow:
Under 8s
Wallington Junior & Youth football League, Under 8’s friendly challenge game.
Sunday, 27th January 2008:
LITTLE RANGERS 0 -V- WALLINGTON ROVERS 0
Another very early Sunday morning kick off – what’s a lie in?!
This was a big game today, against a very good Yellows side. The outcome of this game could determine how much progress the Little Wallington Rovers have made. A full squad to rotate, and just for a change we kicked off with a maximum of 7 on the pitch!
It’s not very often that Under 8’s football provides a ‘nil-nil’ score line but, as one Dad put it, " after about 6 minutes the game had ‘nil-nil’ written all over it" {must be an Everton fan, of old!?}. The game turned out to be intriguing {if very involved} – or else boring {if neutral}. There were few clear shooting chances or goalmouth incidents. The two well organised, disciplined, teams basically cancelled each other out and the game was dominated by the battle for supremacy in midfield and the resilient defending from both sides.
In the first half our Matthew had a couple of good runs but his shots were blocked. Near half time Matthew broke through but pushed the ball a bit too far ahead when one-on-one with the ‘keeper, who, in turn, made a good block with his feet to clear the danger. After half time Alfie had a fierce shot blocked. There were also a couple of strong crosses from Billy and Alfie, but no-one was on end of them. Joe made a very good save from a good ‘Yellow’ shot near the end and had previously also made a couple of crucial blocks. This made up for nearly giving the Rovers’ management and coaching staff a heart attack in the first half when Joe elected to kick out first time instead of collecting the ball in a crowded penalty area. Still, it made for a thrilling 30 seconds!
Everybody played well and showed great resilience and determination. Alfie was particularly awesome in his ‘John terry’ role in the first half. Billy did a great job shielding the defence ‘Makelele’ style again. Orlando showed some real determination to win the ball and create things, and got in some great tackling. Elliott came on to continue the good work in the middle of the defence, and still found time for a couple of exciting runs down the left. Freddie, Kyron, Joseph and George all performed heroically for the Royal Blues and played their parts well.
Joe was deservedly ‘man of the match’ for another very good display between the posts. He must have saved us at least 10 goals against this season. This, together with all the squad’s heroics, have put us on a 6 games unbeaten run and only 1 defeat in 8. Well done Boys.
Royal Blues Team: Joe; Joseph (Orlando 2nd half), Alfie; Billy, Freddie, George (Elliott 2nd half, in defence); Matthew {Kyron 2nd half}.
Under 10s
Spitfires 3 v 2 Green Bogeymen
Hello everyone, it’s good to be back after my two-week break. It wasn’t all a bed of roses you know as I was away on secret manoeuvres with the S.A.S. Yes indeed it’s a dangerous game hunting rebellious farmers the world over, but we in the Special Artichoke Service are a tough lot and I can tell you that as a result of our superior training, there definitely will be an inexhaustible supply of the things for the foreseeable future.
Well enough about me and my heroic deeds of daring do and on to the main news of the week. Since I’ve been away, our little terriers have had some ups and downs, namely a good win against the R, b’s two weeks ago and a sound thrashing at the hands of the L, b’s last week, but this weeks game beat both of those hands down in the excitement stakes, as all the Barmy Army will attest.
The Greens kicked off and tried hard to take the fight to the Reds, but our boys were having none of it and seemingly began to run rings round them. It was great to watch, our shape was good, the passing excellent, and the commitment gratifying to see. All this made for an easy time of it for our Tel in goal as the Greens were constantly under pressure in their own half. All this pressure was taking its toll and Luke had already had a couple of good strikes before the first clear-cut chance came. Again Luke was the architect of a fine move, which saw him, have a good crack at goal only to see it saved by the Brave keeper. When the rebound came, it was Carl who was there to slot the ball home, normally Mat would be on the case but he seems to have found a fantastic new roll as an attacking defender and he is brilliant at it I have to say. Its nice to see that we can change the field around at will and still get results, testament to the training staff I think. Terry had just finished carving a very lifelike bust of Henry VIII out of solid granite when the next great attack came. Carl and Michael were fighting like tigers in the midfield and as usual Callum was a brick wall at the back, smashing anything and anyone to the four corners of the pitch. Stevo was seizing every chance to move up from defence and have a bash at attacking and I think it paid off cos after some amazing football from Carl and Michael, Stevo received the ball just outside the box and cool as you like slid it through the Greens defence for SuperMat to pounce and give us a well deserved two nil lead. The Greens then stepped up a gear and looked more like the side that they can be and even Terry had to stand up just in case, Luke also went close a couple of times, but as the ref blew for half time, the two goal lead stood and the Barmies were confident that an easy win would be logged, Oh how wrong can eighty thousand people be? Read on and prepare to be amazed.
Half time was an exciting affair with the boys having their pep talk and drinks. I decided to regale my fellow Barmies with my exploits in some of the most dangerous theatres of operation in the world with the S.A.S. The Belgian Congo, Afghanistan, Kosovo and of course the most dangerous of all, Sutton High Street. I could have sworn I had them all spell bound until Sausage fingers hit me round the head, passed me a fag and said "Shut up you boring git and get another brew down your neck". I did as I was told and as the second half kicked off, the Barmies fell awake.
Luke and Carl were off this half and made way for Craig and Josh, no worries eh, we would get a couple more goals and off home for beer and telly. The Greens however had other ideas and right from the off came at us with a speed and skill we haven’t seen from them before. Within two minutes they had got their first goal and we were all agog. Still though we were in the lead, they couldn’t do it again, could they? They b****y well could, and within five minutes they equalised after some fantastic play. For a neutral it was amazing, for me though, it was hell and I was just glad that the gents was nearby, for I was truly worried at this point. The comeback of the century was on the cards, but our boys dug deep and ended the rout with some solid play that seemed to even things up again. Josh was flying round the pitch and really getting stuck in, he had an all round good game and at least two chances to score, he just needs to put on about 7 stone then he’ll be ok (wink). Craig has recently been ill and it showed today, as he is probably the fittest of all the lads, but he was definitely having trouble keeping the pace. He did manage to get a couple of good crosses into Josh only for him to be smashed by a rather large defender. Chances were coming at both ends now and the game could have gone either way. Our defence was strong, with Tel making a couple of great saves, Callum ox like in front of him and Stevo and Mat making some lovely runs up field. Stevo was running on tic-tac power (it’s a miracle drug) and had a fabulous game all round and even got a couple of shots in. Mat was flying from the back too, and Michael took confidence from this and had at least two goes at goal himself, thus logging another good performance, of which his Jedi brethren would be proud. Right near full time, another Red attack saw Josh clear on the left and going for goal, but the Greens defence swarmed all over him in a desperate attempt to stop the inevitable. No chance. Small as he is Josh pulled off a great shot that required a good save from the keeper. He didn’t manage to keep hold of the ball though and an eager defender trying to put the ball out managed to slip in an own goal. Its always a shame to see that but we have gifted sides three or four of those this year so to get one back was not a bad return for our investment. In any case we’ll take the points however they come. All credit to the Greens they really did come at us, it was an especially good performance from them as they haven’t beaten us this year and they were definitely not overawed.
The full time whistle went and the Barmies and Reds alike were very happy to hear it. The Greens were really very good in the second half and the Reds a bit lucky, but then we have had our share of bad luck too so all things even I say. Many thanks to Frank and his team for a great game, also to our new full time ref, very fair and lets the game flow, well done mate. After a very indifferent training session John and Dave always seem to be able to get the best out of the lads, well done guys. Our boys too, thanks you nutters, I need a new valve now. For his amazing sitting down skills, homework, oh, and a couple of wonderful saves, WonderTel was man of the match this week and well deserved. Nice one Smiler keep it up.
It just remains for me to go away now and leave you all in peace. Until next week, take care.
Yours as ever Andy McNab. P.S. if you want anyone artichoked to death, I’m your man. 26p per Lb I got s**t loads.
Reports
for Sunday 20th January 2008
Steve's Ramblings:
Ok, I am back with a short ramble through the day's events down at
Beddington Park.
It was very windy and chilly at times but the rain stayed away which was
a blessing.
Under 8s
The
opening fixture of the day was a big one between the Maroon
Dragons and
Wallington
Rovers and this
was a tight encounter with the teams sharing two
goals in a very exciting draw.
The next match saw the Light
Brigade get the
better of the Hurricanes
then the
final game saw Little Rangers
get a tight victory over the Beddington
Celts.
Under 9s
The stand out result here was the first game of the day when the plucky and
hard working
Wallington Lions
got their first win of the season. They have
been knocking on the door recently with some good performances so this
was a well deserved result against very good opponents in
The
Super Mighty Maroons
who have been having a decent season and have
a new manager at the helm in Joseph.
So well done to the Lions for not giving up and getting that first victory and
the only downside to the day for them was that their inspirational assistant
manager Paul was not their to share the glory, or maybe that is why they did
win, ha ha, only joking Paul. Well done to you, Simon and the team for
digging deep for this good result in this tough season.
This division went goal crazy with 21 goals being scored in the three games
played.
There were high scoring wins for table topping
Sky Blue Diamonds
over the
Mini Jets
and for Wallington Rangers narrowly over the
Green Gunners
in
a seven goal thriller.
Under 10s
The big news here was that we had a new independent referee for this age
group starting and his name is Ricardo and he did a fine job and seemed to
enjoy his first experience of Wallington Little League.
The
Woodcote Dynamos
kept their position at the top of the table with a
hard fought win over the high flying
Spitfires
and with that game in hand
still they are looking good at the moment but this is a very tight age group
and no game is easy to call here. The Spitfires can consider themselves a
little unfortunate as two of the goals they conceded were for them a little
on the soft side but they bounced back well and scored a terrific goal
themselves, they are a quality side this season. As for the Dynamos it's
great
to see them firing again and on top form.
The opening game had already been a very tight affair won by just the single
goal by the
Scorpions
over a plucky and fast breaking
Wallington
Warriors.
The Scorpions had the better of the first half but the Warriors kept them at
bay but twice broke smartly to nearly score themselves. The Scorpions got
the important goal in the second period to earn the points but the Warriors
just kept fighting and were a credit to their management and support. I always
enjoy watching the Scorpions with their passing play but to be honest now all
the teams are doing this and it's a pleasure to witness.
The final game saw the
Green Bogeymen
push Henry Athletic all the way
before going down by just the single goal again.
This was a very close match and both teams deserve lots of praise for
a great display.
I have to commend the play in the Under 10s this season, it is the best I
have ever seen on the Junior pitches.
Some of the passing and unselfishness of players is exceptional as is the
overall quality of play.
No team can be certain of an easy game ever and the players and management
of all the teams deserve lots of credit for that.
The quality of goalkeeping here is fantastic too and this age group is a joy to
watch and I would recommend all neutrals to take in a game or two in the
Under 10s.
Inters
This age groups had an odd day today as there was only the first game fully
completed but that was a cracker.
The
Dynamos
pushed the table topping
Park Rangers
all the way in a thrilling
1-1 draw. Park Rangers were down to ten players but that is a problem that
the Dynamos have had a few times this season.
It was a terrific encounter between two hard working sides.
The second game was only a couple of minutes old when it was halted due to
injury to Jamie of Blue Sundays. It was suspected that he had broken his arm
and as he was unable to be moved the game was abandoned and consequently
so was the game that was due to be played after between the Wasps and
Cobras.
With the lowly stan