2011-2012 Match Reports
22nd January V Thurmaston HOME 0-2
Unfortunately again today we were struggling for that little bit of luck that you need in this division.
Pre-match team talk was given and all the lads looked up for the challenge of making up for the 5-2 defeat at their place earlier in the season and we wanted to try and put their keeper under pressure from long range shots as we felt he was their weakest link and really wanted to force an error.
We changed the formation so we had 5 at the back using 2 wing backs ,Matt on the right and James on the left.
For the first half we contained them defensively with great defending from the back 5 and Ewan taking control as we asked.
They were kept to long range shots of which Max dealt with pulling an excellent save but as a collective the defence of Will ,Matt ,Kane ,Ewan and James seemed to be keeping them at bay.
As we said before the game we believed that the high wind would have an impact on the game and the conditions with the wind true to form got a little worse in the 2nd half when we were playing against it.
As much as we tried to get into the Thurmaston area they as a defensive unit pretty much broke down our moves and with 15 mins to go got the break through with a well worked goal .
We really tried our best to put the keeper under pressure band when we did he looked more than a little suspect with good work Towanda ,Baylea and Reece we just as said before lacked that little bit of luck in front of goal.
With 5mins to play they got their second of the game after we failed to clear our lines against the wind they shot from long range to end the match as a contest.
We have over the last few games blamed the results against us on many things like bad luck and bad decisions by the Referees in particular a decision to give a perfectly good goal as off side when we played Harborough at home when even the linesman apologised for his mistake which resulted in us losing the game 1-0 but I think we have all been surprised by the quality of sides we have been playing week in and week out ,we haven’t been turned over by any of the teams in this division and are giving everyone a game but my thoughts personally are that we will take so much from this season into next and if we can learn from our mistakes we will be a successful side I don’t think any of the coaches can really believe how even the smallest of mistakes can be punished but again that tells me of the quality we are facing most weeks.
Report by Matt.
St Andrews:
1. Max Rogers 2. Mubba Mevember
3. Kaine Elsworthy
4. Ewan Rossington (12)
5. Will Halfpenny(14)
6 James Hill
7. Baylea Kemble-Creed ©
8. Dan Downes
9. Reece Green
10. Matt Cavers
11. Towanda
Subs:
12. Nakhedi Shomai Replaced Mubba Mvemba
14. Callum Simmons Replaced Daniel Downes
Sunday 2nd October V Loughborough County Cup
(Nakhedi 1, Ewan 1,Joseph 1)
After last Sundays superb game at Sileby today was going to be a different game altogether, round 1 of the county cup, we had drew Loughborough who were not going to be a push over, the boys had it in their heads it was going to be a walk in the park something both of us tried to remove.
With Daniel Downes sidelined thanks to an leg injury, the Andrews handed a first start of the season to Reece Loseby in a 4-4-2 formation. The back four were unchanged .
After a fairly even opening period, Nakhedi's first goal in the county cup for the club on 21 minutes was added to from a superb corner from Ewan.
The Andrews stretched the lead from a delightful strike form the captain Joseph from outside the box.
This was a difficult game but shows the Andrews determination tyo grind out results, Loughborough had chances and did really well in taking the game to the Andrews, you certainly would not know they were divisions apart.
Darren and Matt would like to remind all parents for the meet time, 30 minutes prior to KO, the team sheet has to be with the ref 15 mins prior to ko and once handed in cannot be changed, this really does affect our warm upm for the lads.
Report by Darren
St Andrews:
1. Max Rogers 2. Mubba Mevember
3. Kaine Elsworthy
4. Ewan Rossington (12)
5. Will Halfpenny(14)
6. Joseph Whitsey©
7. Baylea Kemble-Creed
8. James Moran
9. Reece Green
10. Reece Loseby (15)
11. Nakhedi Shaomi
Subs:
12. Matt Cavers (10) replaced Reece Green
14. Calum Day (5) replaced Mubba Mevember
Sunday 25th Sept Sileby(Away) 2-1
(Ewan 1 ,Callum 1)
Before i start the write up on this game i think you had better go and make a cup of Tea coz this is gonna be a long write up.
Here goes.
When i bought Max along to St Andrews it was our first season in an 11 a side league and we were put in a relatively low division we beat all the teams in an unbeaten season and we won the invitation cup.
We were then promoted 3 Divisions into Division 2 ,both myself and Darren thought it was too much to quickly and we would have settled for survival but instead finished 4th ,this was deemed high enough to give us promotion to the top division ,again we felt it was a season too soon but had no choice.
After the first 3 games against the top 3 teams in the county last year we have just played the runners up at there place and beat them 2-1 and i cant believe the character and mentality these boys have shown today as we have won our first 3 points in what is looking more and more like a very exciting season ahead of us.
We turned up today probably not as disciplined as we have in other weeks and my first thoughts were that we may struggle as the lads seamed to be not very focused and caused harsh words from both Darren and myself. Because it was an afternoon KO we already knew that we were bottom of the division before we even kicked a ball and I told the lads this and that seemed to give us the kick up the whatsit to get our minds on the game.
We played Sileby on the first game of the season and were very unlucky not to have won but ended up losing with the final kick of the game ,we owed this team today and we knew we could do it in the right frame of mind.
We started very brightly and matched them in every department
But with a team like Sileby you have to stay focused and not give them anything.
We opened the scoring after winning a free kick about 30yrds out and we asked Ewan to put it on them ,Ewan stepped up and hit his free kick goal bound and with so many goals conceded already this season from long range shots it was nice to see us score from one but that’s not taking anything away from Ewans shot as it was a scorcher .
We changed Dan and James’ position as we felt that James was being man marked so to release him we put Dan up front.Dan works so hard for the team and was pestering there defence and keeper but after 20 mins Dan got hurt challenging the keeper but was up on his feet after a couple of mins ,pretty much from the re-start the same thing happened but this time Dan was hurt Quite badly in fact at first we thought he had broken his leg but he managed to leave the pitch and we continued the game. I felt that we were the better team and were putting them under a lot of pressure but without scoring a second then with some fine play close to the goal Joseph was unfairly tackled and Callum Day coolly despatched the resulting penalty HT –2-0
Our half time team talk was different from the last couple of weeks as we were winning and needed to protect our lead we told them that we needed to clear our lines and not concede ,unfortunately after 10 mins they worked the ball into the centre of the area for there forward to slot the ball home 2-1.
We really needed to show some character to stop them scoring again and they were then the better team for the next 10-15 mins putting us under a lot of pressure.
With some excellent defending from Kane,Ewan,Baylea and Will
And also the Midfield putting in a real shift we contained them and with the last 5mins looming we had a couple of chances to wrap the game up with Nakhidi ,Reece Green and Mooba all coming close and we both felt that if Mooba had scored it would have been the cap on an almost perfect performance from him as he ran the wings and competed for the whole match in a fashion we now expect from him.
As a team I felt that Max did an excellent job with his dominance
Dealing With the long through balls ,his handling and im sure everyone will agree his kicking off the floor was excellent.
The rear guard was again very committed with Baylea leading the line and giving there forwards no change at all and clearing the ball or control and pass his descision making was again fantastic ,Kane was like a brick wall at times with tough tackling
And with his pace ,wasn’t easy to get by and Ewan and Will really doing an excellent job containing the threat down the flanks.
Will has fitted in extremely well and its like hes played for us for years.
The Midfielders again worked tirelessly with James pretty much covering every blade of grass out there Reece had his usual steady game and showed some fantastic close control.
Mooba has had his best game today in an Andrews shirt and Joe is really growing in the role of skipper with his positive thinking and talking to the rest of the team.
Up front Dan had to come off injured but it was through comitment to the position and we all hope his injury clears up swiftly and of course Callum ,Callum has an exceptional capability of reading the game and played some fantastic through passes that split there defence wide open.
On the bench Matt came on at half time and got stuck in and was moved into 3 different positions and did what he could in all 3, Nakidhi came on and was a pain for there defence and was unlucky not to have scored.
I have to give a special mention to Reece Loseby as his attitude is absolutely spot on ,even though he hasn’t had much match time he continues to work hard in training and is always there ,I apologise to Reece as we couldn’t put him on as things were so tight but he is pretty much the epitome of the team ethic we are insisting on.
This was the first win of the season and Both myself and Darren are very proud of the lads today because you must understand we are also new to the top flight and we have to learn as much as the lads but I can say after today……………………….
Welcome to Division 1 boys you’ve earnt the right to play in it and hopefully we will have the season your hard work deserves.
Thank you to all Parents for their continued support its very important to us as you are as much a part of the team as the squad.
2011-2012 Match Reports
Sunday 18th Sept Alexton(HOME) 2-5
(Nakhedi 2)
Today we welcomed the County Champions from last season in what was to prove our biggest test yet.
In no doubt we have realised that we can compete at this level and with a little more luck it wont be long before we get our first points of the season.
We started the match with the belief myself and Darren are trying to instill in the boys and by no means did we go out there thinking we couldnt win this game.
We controlled the first 20mins but just couldnt convert our possesion into goals.We hit the post and shaved the bar with good efforts but again failing to score.
It seems like groundhog day as they drew first blood with a long range effort going in just under the bar but we didnt let our heads drop and continued with the same effort as we started but the half time score was 0-1 against the run of play.
Its hard to give a team talk at half time when all you can say is "Just keep doing what your doing and we'll score" as we are saying the same every week as we cant fault the lads effort and commitment.
Unfortunately they became stronger in the 2nd half and really got there passing game going and before long they were 2 then 3 nil up. Still we kept going and Nakhedi was bought on as a sub and straight away put there keeper under pressure resulting him in dropping the ball for Nakhedi to pull a goal back.
We then conceded pretty much from the kick off with a very good finish from there forward .We thought our boys heads would drop but again they pushed forwards and Nekhedi again put there keeper under pressure causing a fumble to score another .,we sensed that we could get somthing from this game but we had a great shot well saved by there keeper then we again shot ourselves in the foot by conceding another late long range shot giving us a final score of 2-5 .
I thought again the lads have done well with the defence and the keeper working hard but we do seem to not be having the run of luck that we could do with at the moment and need to learn that we have to close the shots from outside the box down and get ours on target because if we got points for hitting the woodwork we would be sitting at the top of the table.
We have played the 3 best teams from last year in our first 3 games so we cant get too down about us having no points it just seems that we are playing teams who know how to play at this level and we possibly need to learn a little quicker.
But im sure at this rate our first points wont be long in coming.
Just keep believing in yourselves boys.
2011-2012 Match Reports
Sunday 11th Sept Mountsorrel (AWAY) 4-2
(Dan 1 ,Reece 1)
Again todays match was very much a tale of Bad Luck.
We Visited last Years other Runners up taking confidence from the previous weeks performance and again took the game to our opponents .
We started brightly but again was hit by a wonder strike which went in off the bar and this seemed to make our heads drop a little and both myself and Darren sensed that we might be suffering from the pressure this division puts you under and they managed a well worked goal and made it 2-0 after about 15mins.
Then for some reason we all started to wake up again and started to take the game to them once again with us resulting in scoring a fine goal from Dan hitting it hard from the edge of the area ,this then boyd us on further and within 2 minuets
Baylea rose at a corner and headed the ball goalbound and the ref thought it had gone in and gave us a goal but to then disallow it after realising the ball had gone over not in.
We have to say that this was one of the worst refereeing performances i have ever seen and he had lost all respect and control of the game by half time HT 2-1.
We started the 2nd half very strongly and were the better side but again we were punished from a break and there striker put his shot on the inside of the post for it to bounce over the line giving Max No chance.
Pretty much straight from the Kick off we went up to there area and managed to pull one back through Reece Green with James going close on two occasions we really felt we were going to get a reward from this game but unfortunately once again we had an unstoppable shot just creaping under the bar giving us the final score of a 4-2 defeat..............but things are still looking encouraging ,keep it up lads.
2011-2012 Match Reports
Sunday 4th Sept Sileby (HOME) 1-2
(James Moran)
Todays match was the first match of the new season and we welcomed last years runners up "Sileby"
As im sure everyone was aware that this was our first match in the top flight and we thought we were in for a really tough ride with our first opponents.
We have been preparing the lads for this all pre-season telling them that we are now playing with the big boys and the importance of attitude and basic football requirements as talking etc are going to be important this season.
Like most teams in the top division we strengthened our squad and would like to welcome Reece Loseby ,James Moran and Kane for this season.
From the kick off we took the game to Sileby and grew in confidence as each minuite passed and before long were in total control of the game passing the ball well down the flanks.
Unfortunately they were awarded a free kick 25yrds out and there forward with pretty much their first shot on goal hit it well and it dropped in just below the bar ,its unfortunate that when playing in full size goals at this age group ,if you place the ball just below the bar its always going to be a goal as the height of the bar is to high even for a tall keeper like max.
Even though we were a goal down we still continued to run the game with the defence now lead by Baylea dealt with all they could muster.
Half time 0-1
Our half time team talk just consisted of keep doing what your doing lads ,we're the better team and a goal will come.
I must say that Callum Day probably had his best game in an andrews shirt and was at the centre of all our forward moves .
After hitting the bar ,the post and everything else except the back of the net we managed an equaliser from a free kick which was put into the centre and headed home by james on his league debut for us.
We continued to run the game with the visiting coaches wanting the final whistle to blow as we thought there was to be only one winner.
We continued at the back to work well with good comunication and strong defending as a unit but unfortunately gave away a corner in the last min which was sent across the goal returned back and nodded home by the away skipper.
With 30 seconds to go we didnt have long enough to respond and ended up losing 2-1 completely against the run of play ,even there coaches could,nt beleive they won the match and were very complimentary to us on our performance.
The after match team talk was quite sombre as myself and Darren were as disapointed as the lads were with the result but as we pointed out we had just pushed last years runners up all the way and they should all be very proud of how they played.
Its a big season for us this year and we really need to be playing like this every week but if we do we will be fine in this division.
I cant single any player out for praise with this performance as every player showed true determination for the cause.
Even Reece Loseby who on this occasion didnt get a game was
immaculate in his attitude as he understood we couldnt change things when it was so close.
Well done lads ....keep it up
2010-2011 Match Reports
MarchSunday 5th v Royce Rangers (away)
Royce 2 Andrews 1 (Nakhedi)
Todays match was quite a strange one from arriving.
Max took ill in the early hours but decided to give it a go but during the warm up decided that he couldnt play and in fact was too poorly to even stay and watch so straight away we had to change things round as we needed a stand in keeper.
Baylea decided he would give it a go and put on the keepers shirt.
Unfortunately the first bit of work he had to do was pick the ball out the net in the first minuite ,but had no chance after they broke and a fine finish.
After the goal it was all Andrews ,with the whole team pushing forwards and playing well, Dan again pretty much covered every blade of grass ,Reece ,Callum and joe all worked hard in midfield with the usual solid performance from Ewan and Aston at the back.
Matt is playing very well at right back and with a fine run forwards
set up a shot for Will which was saved but Nakhedi followed up with a tap in to make it 1-1 at the break.
Even though we ended up losing this match it was a really good performance all round because we went there to play football but they only hoofed the ball forward and kept about 7 players back defending all the time and as we pushed harder for the winner their big hoof caught us out and they took the lead.
Again lads we cant be too down hearted as we were the better team on the day but just couldnt get the luck in front of goal .
A special mention goes to Baylea who took the keepers position on and had a good game making a couple of good saves in the second half and also his kicking was excellant ,its not the best position to play unless you are experianced but he did really well.
Again the man of the match award was hard but Ewan just shaded it by winning everything that he had too.
Unlucky today boys you will play worse than today and win by a large margin.................but thats football
1. Baylea Kemble-Creed
2. Aston Jackson
3. Matt Caver
4. Ewan Rossington................Man of the Match
5. Mubba Mevember
6. Joseph Whitsey
7. Reece Green
8. Dan Downes
9. Callum Day (Capt)
10. Nakhedi Shaomi
11. Will Allerdyce
Subs:
12. Calum WarrilowReport By Matt Rogers
February
Sunday 20th V Stoke Golding (HOME)
Eagles 2 Stoke Golding 1 (Nakhedi ,Baylea)
Todays match was the home match against last weeks opponents Stoke Golding and we were lucky to be playing on the main pitch which is always nice for the lads.
We started the match with a 3-5-2 Formation with starts up front for both Nakhedi & Rayan as Will was away and also a start for Calum Warrilow at Left Back.
Obviously with only 3 at the back we had an attacking formation but did leave us a little open at the back which at first we nearly paid the price as Stoke had the first couple of early chances with Max doing well with some fine handling when under pressure.
Soon after we started to settle with the formation and played pretty much most the game in their half pressuring the Stoke Goal but not quite being able to find the finish.
The midfield was winning most of the early ball with both Reece and Joseph working hard out on the wings.
Mid way through the first half after some fine work from the midfielders ,Nakhedi was played through with just the keeper to beat and with a great finish put us in the lead.
We now were definately in control of the match and it was only good defending that stopped us running away with it ,and on the stroke of half time a great run from Joseph lead to a shot across goal which Baylea ran on to to score the second.
In the second half even though we were still in control saw Stoke putting our 3 man defence under quite some pressure at times but with Ewan ,Aston & Calum Warrilow all in excellant form dealt with.
We had the ball in the net twice in the second half but was ruled to have either fouled their keeper or was offside and with Dan back to his best form and Callum Day putting in another excellant performance we could only see us scoring more goals but with 5mins left the Stoke forwards managed to break and score to make the last few mins a bit nervy .
But everybody dug in and really put a good shift in ,to hold on to the 2-1 scoreline.
Overall the lads all played really well ,Max made an important save to keep it 2-1 Calum ,Aston and Ewan all worked hard and defended as a unit and making some great challenges when under pressure.
Reece ,Baylea,Callum Day,Dan and Joseph were all in fine form to give us several attacking options but Dan just shaded man of the match.
With Nakhedi ,Rayan and in the second half Abdullah all creating problems for the opposition.
Another fine display from the boys has put us a point behind the leaders but the teams below have games in hand over us so we really need to win our remaining 2 matches.
But again to see how far we have come since last season we have more than achieved what we wanted too at the start of this season.
WELL DONE AGAIN LADS......1. Max Rogers
2. Aston Jackson
3. Calum Warrilow
4. Ewan Rossington
5. Reece Green
6. Joseph Whitsey
7. Baylea Kemble-Creed
8. Dan Downes................Man of the Match
9. Rayan Solanki
10. Nakhedi Shaomi
11. Callum Day (Capt)
Subs:
12. Abdula Farah
Sunday 13th V Stoke Golding (AWAY)
Stoke Golding 1 Eagles 7 (Calumn Day 2 ,Dan Downes 2 ,William Allerdyce 2, Reece Green )
Today’s game was one that on the day no one was really looking forward to on arrival.
The pitch was not the best as it was on a slope with the goals leaning backwards ,the weather was cold ,wet and very windy which we felt was going to spoil the way we like to play football.
Andrews started the game kicking downhill but for the first 15mins couldn’t really get a grip on the game with the wind blowing across the pitch and Stoke Golding probably had the better start keeping us pretty much in our own half.
Both Parents and coaches had resigned themselves to believe that we were in for a very poor game of football with the conditions having a major factor and I think most people would have been happy just to have got back in their warm cars and gone home.
After 20 mins the lads suddenly started to play a bit and had a couple of chances with Will breaking down the left side creating problems for the Stoke defenders then after winning a free kick 6 yards outside the Stoke area Calumn Day who is really growing as the team skipper ,struck the sweetest of free kicks into the top corner giving the keeper no chance .This seemed to really give us the lift we needed and before long we were in total control of the game and with some fine close ball skills and trickery Dan took on the stoke defence and slotted the ball home to make it 2-0 with pretty much the final kick of the 1st half.
The 2nd half carried on where the 1st half finished with Andrews in total control. The defence looked solid, Max dealt with everything he had to , dominating his area and communicating well with his defence and the back four of Reece ,Ewan ,Aston & Mubba all looking strong in pushing forward with Aston and Ewan winning everything Stoke could throw at them.
The midfield were winning their individual battles and managing to rip apart the stoke rear guard on many occasions with Dan & Joe pushing forwards & Calumn releasing Will & Baylea to attack.
Will had yet another fine game for us and has really settled in becoming a very valuable member of the team and Scored 2 goals by showing strength and great finishing.
By this time there was just a question of how many goals we were going to score and after a lovelly through ball from Baylea ,Dan scored his second goal again with a very cool finish.
With a fine individual effort from Reece and a poachers goal from Callumn for his second ,the game was all but won but Stoke managed to score a consolation goal right at the end to scupper the clean sheet the defence & Keeper so richly deserved.
All players showed good spirit playing in awful conditions with Nakhedi, Abdula & Rayan coming on ,also coming close to scoring.
This has now put us 2nd in the league after winning 5 out of the last 6 games and has made sure of an exciting end to the season.
The parents and especially the coaches all went home with smiles on their faces ,especially when you think that we were promoted by 2 divisions from where we were last year and competing with the top teams with a possibility of promotion to the top division this season…………
…….Well Done lads.
St Andrews:
1. Max Rogers
2. Aston Jackson …………Man of the Match
3. Reece Green
4. Ewan Rossington
5. Mubba Mevember
6. Joseph Whitsey
7. Baylea Kemble-Creed
8. Dan Downes
9. Will Allerdyce
10. Abdula Farah
11. Callum Day (Capt)
Subs:
12. Nakhedi Shaomi
14. Rayan Solanki
Report By Matt Rogers
January
Sunday 2nd V Meltom Foxes
Eagles 1 (Baylea 1) Melton 0
November
Sunday 14th V Royce
Eagles 0 Oadby 3
Sunday 7th V Oadby
Eagles 1 (Matt 1) Oadby1
The game began at a canter but with the Andrews having the better run of the ball, we looked tired and were making silly mistakes but were still on top, against the run of play it was Oadby who opened the scoring on 21 minutes, Oadby headed home after the Andrews failed to deal with the corner.
In a game which the Andrews had most of the play but without ever really threatening the home side's goal, it was a rare on target strike which eventually got us back into it, Matt broke on the edge of the box saw a gap and slotted home. This seemed to lift both team and the remaining 20 minuts of the second half was a much better game to watch, with 15 minutes to play we gave Rayan his debut, the meer size of him seemed to rattle Oadby, it finished all square and to be honest was probably the right result. We are now undefeated in 3 so lets keepm this good run going.
St Andrews:
1. Max Rogers 2. Aston Jackson
3. Josh Patel
4. Ewan Rossington
5. Mubba Mevember
6. Reece Green
7. Baylea Kemble-Creed
8. Dan Downes
9. Will Allerdyce
10. Matt Cavers
11. Callum Day
Subs:
12. Nakhedi Shaomi Replaced Josh Patel
14. Rayan Solanki Replaced Will Allerdyce
October
Sunday 24th V Blaby
Eagles 2 (Callum 1, Dan 1) Blaby 1
St Andrews:
1. Max Rogers 2. Aston Jackson
3. Conor Dunkley
4. Ewan Rossington
5. Mubba Mevember
6. Reece Green
7. Baylea Kemble-Creed
8. Dan Downes
9. Will Allerdyce
10. Matt Cavers
11. Callum Day
Subs:
12. Nakhedi Shaomi Replaced Matt Cavers, Matt back on
14. Calum Warrilow
15. Josh PatelReplaced Mubba Mevember
Sunday 17th Thurmaston
Eagles 4 (Will 2, Reece 1, Dan 1) Thurmaston 1
A much needed win for the Andrews.
The Andrews took the lead in the early stages of the game through Will Allerdyce after some hard work from the midfiled and the wings, Baylea sent a through ball right down the centre of the Thurmaston defence for Will to run onto, Will took the pass well ran at the defence and smashed the ball home. Thurmaston pulled a goal back almost immediately with a free kick which expossed a weak wall from the Andrews. Further chances came and went for both sides before the Andrews took the lead again through a great shot from Will 2-1 at the break.
After the break the Andrews pushed forward well with the whole team working hard at winning 1st balls and pushing on at the Thurmaston keeper, the Andrews midfiled had the better run of the ball and were making it hard for Thurmaston to win the ball back.
The ball found its way to Reece after some great work from Mubba on the left and Reece had one thought and it was to go for goal, after what seemed to take ages Reece got the ball on the right where he wanted it and smashed the ball home 3-1.
Thurmaston were not out of the game it was only the strong defencive work of the Andrews back 4 which kept us in the game Mubba, Ewan, Aston and Conor were working as a unit, with the midfiled and wings tracking back and helping out when needed.
Conor made an awesum tackle in the box, which Matt later described as one of the best he had ever seen in both youth and mens football.
Now chasing the game even more, Thurmaston were pushing forward in numbers, Dan picked up the ball 30 yards out and he was off on one of his runs and placed a shot inside the near post with the keeper well out of the picture 4-1, a well deserved win for the lads but the hard work must continue.
St Andrews:
1. Max Rogers 2. Aston Jackson
3. Conor Dunkley
4. Ewan Rossington
5. Mubba Mevember
6. Reece Green
7. Baylea Kemble-Creed
8. Dan Downes
9. Will Allerdyce
10. Matt Cavers
11. Callum Day
Subs:
12. Nakhedi Shaomi Replaced Callum Day
14. Calum WarrilowMubba Mevember
15.Josh Patel Replaced
Sunday 10th V Oadby
Eagles 3 (Mubba 2 Namhedi 1 )Oadby 4
Sunday 3rd V Glenfield
Eagles 1 (Bay 1) Glenfield 4
A convincing win for the Glenfield team over an Andrews side which looked good going forward, but had distinct shortcomings in the middle of the park.
Glenfield took the lead in the early stage of the game, further chances came and went for both sides before referee Mr Lillystone awarded a penalty which Glenfield took, the Andrews keeper Max went the right way diving to his left but the spot kick was slotted home.
Baylea managed to score from open play shortly afterwards, only for Glenfield to go further almost immediately.
Now chasing the game even more, the Andrews were pushing forward in numbers and leaving a huge cap in the centre of the park, Max had to be at his best to pull off a number of important saves and blocks to prevent the visitors from opening the gap even more.
The score did not reflect the way we can play, we can take some positives from the game but to be honest we really need to make changes with immediate effect.
St Andrews:
1. Max Rogers 2. Aston Jackson
3. Calum Warrilow
4. Ewan Rossington
5. Sam Smith ©
6. Reece Green
7. Baylea Kemble-Creed
8. Dan Downes
9. Will Allerdyce
10. Matt Cavers
11. Mubba Mevember
Subs:
12. Will Allerdyce Replaced Calum Warrilow
14. Conor Dunkley Replaced Matt Cavers
15. Josh Patel Replaced Reece Green
September
Sunday 26th V Barrow
The Andrews went to Barrow not knowing what to expect, Barrow top, the Andrews bottom, but playing very good football.
The Andrews looked up for a challenge and started well having equal run of the ball, Barrow found themselves behind to a 16th minute Ewan lob 1-0, both teams were finding it difficult against industrious defences.
We were playing well and winning good 1st time balls, Barrow got in behind the defence , the Barrow attacker was brought down in the box and were awarded a penalty which they converted well 1-1.
Both teams were playing good attacking football, and it was Barrow who forced a mistake in the Andrews defence and Baylea slotted home an own goal 2-1.
The second half was only four minutes old when Barrow won a corner, no one picked up the picked up a loose attacker in the box and unleashed an unstoppable right-footed shot from 10 yards. 3-1
The Andrews were not outr of the game and were playing good football and making strong tackles Mubba won the ball and sent a great ball in for Dan to race onto, Dan slotted home well 3-2, the fifgt back was on. The lead lasted just eight more minutes as again Dan was running 1 on 1 with the Barrow defence, Dan again slotted the ball home from a narrow angle making the score 3-3.
The Andrews were edging the game slightly with strong takling and great fighting spirit, Matt struck a long range effort which bounced just in front of keeper for a late cornerhands.
Neither side created any more goalscoring chances and the final whistle bought cheers from both sets of supporters, a great game of football from both sides.
St Andrews:
1. Max Rogers 2. Conor Dunkley
3. Calum Warrilow
4. Ewan Rossington
5. Josh Patel
6. Reece Green
7. Baylea Kemble-Creed ©
8. Dan Downes
9. Callum Day
10. Matt Cavers
11. Mubba Mevember
Subs:
12. Nakehdi Shaomi Replaced Conor Dunkley
14. Aston Jackson Replaced Josh Patel
15. Sam Smith NOT USED
Sunday 19th
Eagles V Magpies
Eagles 11 ( Dan 3, Bay 4, Nakheid 2, Callum 1 Josh 1) Magpies 2
Sunday 12th V Braunstone
Andrews 2 (Dan 1, Will 1)Trinity 3
The Andrews was the scene of a see-saw battle which went right to the end.
The start of the new league was finally here, late signings were clear to play so we had some difficult decisions to make regarding the 14 man squad. We have been placed in a higher league than we really wanted and this season is going to be extremely difficult for so many reasons, picking the squad is only 1 of them.
Braunstone started well and scored almost instantly, we were stunned. We kicked off lost the ball and Braunstone had scored again, now we were in shock and all over the place. Again we kicked off and after a 6 shorts minutes found ourselves 3-0 down, the boys were in a mess and we really did not know what to do for the best, make a change or hold our nerve and believe in the lads, we decided on the latter, Ewan was playing out of position a decision we made with only 5 minutes to kick off, this seemed to be effecting everyone, we kept our nerve and settled down, we started to defend well and were gaining confidence after a really shaky start, however Braunstone were strong and kept us pinned in our own half for much of the opening twenty minutes, so it was somewhat against the run of play when Reece Green's ball into the box found Dan in space ,Dan held off a defender, then rounded the keeper, the keeper had his shirt but nothing was given, Dan beat the keeper with his speed, took the shoot only for Trinity to save on the line, this seemed to lift us.
We had several good chances, in the later part of the half but the away side went in 3-0 at half time.
The Andrews then came out in a more determined mood at the start of the second half and after a couple of half-chances, it was Dan who grabbed a lovely goal the lead now 3-1.
We then capitalised on some hesitant defending to grab a 2nd from Will, now for the 1st time in the game we were on top.Trinity were a very strong team and some meaty tackles were coming in, the ref had seen enough and booked a trinity player.
With time running out, and only two minutes of normal time remaining, we had a shoot off the bar, time to win two corners, but these came to nothing as the final whistle went. We learnt a lot from the game and hope to build on this during the season, obviously not all the players we have signed will be selected for each game, this is a tough league and we must think about the 14 man squad as a whole and not always about individual players as we have in the past, we said this year we would not make substitutions for the sake of it, we do understand some parents and players will not like this or agree with it but we explained this at the start of the season and we are standing by this decision.Well done boys you showed some character today.
St Andrews:
1. Max Rogers
2. Conor Dunkley
3. Calum Warrilow
4. Ewan Rossington (12)
5. Sam Smith © (14)
6. Reece Green (15)
7. Baylea Kemble-Creed
8. Dan Downes
9. Will Allerdyce (16)
10. Matt Cavers
11. Mubba Mevember (6)
Subs:
12. Will Allerdyce (16)(Mubba Mevember)
14. Aston Jackson (4) (replaced Conor Dunkley)
15. Josh Patel (5)
Sunday 5th V Beaumont
Another good crowd was in attendance at the Beaumont ground for this regular clash. The Andrews started the game on the front foot and after 7 minutes our early pressure nearly paid off when we hit the bar. We contiuned with early pressure winning most of the 1st time balls and had Beaumont pegged back their own half. Beaumont were not giving in and soon were 1-0 up, they hit us with a long ball over the top into the far right corner of the pitch, a high cross came in and we were caught ball watching and Beaumont scored with an excellent header.
This seemed to kick us into a higher gear and we continued to dominate play, Beaumont did their best break up play but we passed the ball around the field well but we seemed to lack any consistency in the goal mouth, we just could not score. Beaumont then decided to revert to the long ball game which had an immediate effect as their attacker was one on one with the keeper but saw his shot go wide, almost instantly they were through again one on one with the keeper but this time put it in the back of the net. A lovely piece of passing play by the Andrews provided a chance for Baylea but he wasn’t able to get enough power into his shot and the keeper saved comfortably. Half time came and although we were behind, we had the better chances of the half and looked well placed to mount a comeback.
The 2nd half started pretty much the same way as the first half and we seemed to be having a good spell coming close once or twice, then another long ball was played and Beaumont raced onto the end of it and put it away to make 3-0. Now Beaumont were in command and the long ball was causing us major problems, it wasn’t long until Beaumont were on the end of another long ball and clean through when they was chopped down our defender, but to the everyones surprise the referee waved play on. The game then to’d and fro’d with neither team really taking command and a lot of scruffy play was taking place. We were awarded a free kick just outside the area when Reece Green was brought down. Baylea stepped up and was unlucky to see the free kick saved just on the line.
We continued to push with the last five minutes of time approaching Dan Downes found himself on the end of a great ball, took a shot and scored just inside the far post. We pushed hard right until the final whistle but Beaumont ran out 4-1 winners.
St Andrews:
1.Max Rogers
2. (12)Ewan
3. Calum W
4. Aston Jackson
5. Josh Patel
6.(2) Conor Dunkley
7.Baylea Kemble-Creed
8. (14)Sam Smith©
9. (15)Reece Green
10. Matt Cavers
11.Dan Downes
Subs:
12. Nakhedi Shaomi (for Calum W)
14. (2)Conor Dunkley (Aston)
July
Braunstone Tournament
Andrews V Braunstone 0-1
Andrews V Highfield 1-0 Dan
Andrews V Wigston 1-0 Callum D
Andrews V Beaumont 0-1
Sunday 18th July v Barlestone 3-0 (Baylea, Dan 1, Alfie 1)
Sunday 12th V Glenfield (Dan 1, Baylea 1)
2010
April
Sunday 1st May V Beaumont (Baylea 2)
Tuesday 27th V FC Khalsa (Joseph1 , Baylea 2, Dan 1)
Sunday 25th V Beaumont CUP FINAL 3-2( Joseph Matt, Tom)
The day had arrived, the coaches nerves were very bad, but the boys seemed up for a game, the set up of the day was explained and it was all by the book. The warm up went well with the boys looking good. It was off to the changing rooms for the team talk. The boys were lead out by the match officials all looking smart, both teams were introduced and it was time to kick off. We had the early pressure and were winning the 1st time balls, although both teams seemed a little cautious, we were settling quicker. We were making good strong passes and pressing the Beaumont box well, Reece found Joseph in lots of space on the wing and Joseph set off on a run, Joe then sent in a ball from distance which sailed into the top corner, and was a superb long range goal, it may have been intended for a cross ( not according to Joseph) but non the less a stunning opening goal. We know Beaumont well by now and knew they would be right back at us, they did just that and broke down our left, Mason the big hitting midfielder, let a shot go and the ball took an awkward bounce and went in, the boys showed great team spirit and rallied round Max as shown in the photo's. We went straight back into our passing game and again push Beaumont hard, we had some great passing work involving Matt and Connor from the right and it was this combination including a neat ball from Dan who set Matt up, Matt was cool and calm and smashed the ball home, just about the whole team ran to Matt to celebrate, 2-1 at half time. To us half time came at the wrong time as we were all over Beaumont and pushing for a 3rd, after the break it was a different story, we were under pressure and having to defend deep, Beaumont got the equaliser and to be honest they deserved it. Now as Dave used to say it was squeaky bum time going into the last 12 minutes or so, Beaumont were pushing hard and having the better run of play, we were looking stretched, Matt Mark and I made a change to the right wing as Matt had ran himself into the ground,Matt always works hard but today he was superb in every tackle and every run. The change went well its always nerve racking when we make changes when everyone had played so well, we had a few chances go close, as did Beaumont, Aston somehow managed to jump higher than he ever has and head a ball off the line, we then broke away and Joseph found Baylea on the edge of the box, Baylea passed to Reece who fed Tom in from the right and Tom hit home, with only a few minutes left. The next few minutes seemed to last for ever and both teams had chances, but the Andrews held on and took the Invitation cup. The boys desereved this win, we had a hard run to the cup final beating some very good teams, this finished our season in style, what more can we say, Double winners boys !!!!
Thursday 22nd V Riverside 4-3 (Josh 1, Reece 2, OG 1)
The 1st game of the summer cup, this whole tournament has been trouble since we agreed to enter it, game changes etc. We had played Riverside many times and it was always a good game with the Andrews slightly on top with wins. We started well enough but soon were under pressure, they scored an early goal which seemed to really knock Stefans confidence. The boys would now have to put up a real fight to get back into this, we were playing long balls over the top which is not our style and we seemed to be panicking. Riverside then got another and we found ourselves 2-0 down something we are not used to. To the lads credit they then stepped it up and took the game to Riverside having 3 or 4 shots just wide, hitting the bar and eventually scoring via Josh 2-1 at half time. We were back in it but Stefan's confidence was not good when under attack, however his kicking was superb and he began to gain confidence and then he pulled off a stunning save to keep us in the game, this lifted the lads and Stefan, Riverside then got in behind the defence and got a 3rd against the run of play we were 3-1 down. This would now show what spirit the lads had and they showed it, we started to battle and dug in and got a great goal from Reece after a fantastic searching ball from Matt 3-2. The next 5 minutes or so were all us, corners, throws all for us had Riverside penned in, Dan played a through ball to split the defence, Baylea passed out to Reece who finished with style making it 3-3 with 5 minutes to go. From the off we chased the ball down well, Joseph found Baylea on the left wing ( STRANGE WE KNOW ) Baylea took on 2 and let fly with a shot heading for the top corner, the ball started to move wide and was going out for a goal kick when the Riverside defender headed it and it went in for a OG, you have to feel for the lad especially that late on, we won 4-3 but it was a very tight game but non the less a good win for the boys as it showed they can fight back from being behind.
Wednesday 14th V Thurlaston INVITATION CUP 3-2 (Dan 2, Baylea1)
The semi final game we had been waiting for, the boys seemed up for a game the warm up was good and all seemed focused not like Sunday. The game kicked off and both teams settled into it, it was Thurlaston who had the better of the opening exchanges and were winning balls and using the wind well, our defense were holding out but were under pressure, as the game went on we started to get back into it and it was the Andrews who took the lead from a through ball from Joseph to Dan to latch onto and he slotted home well, we could breathe a bit better now ( well apart from Reece who was having some sort of panic attack). The game continued in this way with both teams creating chances, the Andrews held out with 7 minutes to go Thurlaston equalised, to be fair it was what they deserved. The game then went to extra time, it was then we had some good runs with the ball and we went into a 3-1 lead with goal from Baylea and Dan. Thurlaston were not out of it yet and with 2 minutes to go they scored. The game ended 3-2 with the Andrews running out winners. It was a great game and the Thurlaston parents and players were fantastic unlike the week before. The final is now SUNDAY 25TH V BEAUMONT at Ansty Nomads ground which promises to be a great game, well done lads.
Sunday 11th V Wigston 3-1 (Dan 1 Bay 1, Reece 1)
The Andrews went into the game protecting an un beaten run in the league, the game started slow for us and we were not off to the fast start we normally play at. Wigston however looked a very good side and were beating us to most balls and playing with real passion, it was Wigston who deservedly took the lead after we were caught sleeping at the back. This was a shock to the boys as it was not something they were used to, it was not until the 20th minute that we started to play and get back into the game, just before half time we scored making it all square at the break. The 2nd half was much better, we were playing football again and making good neat little passes, before long we had the lead and were settling into the game, half way through we scored our 3rd to seal the win. This was not an easy game and maybe it was the wake up call the boys needed ready for the cup game.
Wednesady 7th V Barwell 1-1 Eagles 4-3 penalties INVITATION CUP (Matt 1) (Penalties Conor, Reece Matt Baylea)
As we arrived at Barwell the pitch was in good condition but on a big slope, we had a plan of the starting line up but we had to make some last minute changes as we were 2 down although we knew Reece was on his way. We won the toss and decided to kick down hill in the 1st half with the wind as well as the slope on our side, the game was end to end stuff with neither team really having an advantage, i did how ever have a disagreement with the lino who seemed to be flag happy at times, this then set the tone for the evening, to be honest we should have realised something was not quite right as the Barwell manager never came across to say hello. It was the Andrews who finally got the break from a great switch from Joeseph for Matt to get onto, Matt ran the ball well coming in from the wing and taking a great shot high into the goal. We held onto this lead until just after the break, we had a miss communication between centre back and keeper and Barwell took advantage of the mistake and slotted home 1-1, the game stayed at 1-1 with more controversy, lots of comments from the away fans and their lino again, both teams picked up a booking which to be honest was coming although I do not know how Reece was supposed to get out of the way of a keeper , as Reece was running down hill and tried to jump over him, anyway the ref was having a good game. The extra time was upon us I thought we had scored but again their lino flagged for a foal and it ended 1-1. Now the dreaded penalties, this has to be the worst way for any team to go out. We spoke to the lads and gave them the option of whi wanted to take 1, up stepped 7 ofthem, we decided on the order of Alexander, Reece, Conor, Matt Baylea, my blood pressure was going through the roof at this point. The lads who stepped up did a fantastic job and we managed to score 4 of the 5 penalties, Barwell scored 3 so we went through 4-3, you have to feel for the 2 Barwell lads and 1 of ours who missed but I am glad we won, well done boys, the semi is next Wednesday 14th.
Wednesday 31st V Lutterworth 5-1 Invitation cup (Alex 1, Josh 1, Dan 1, Baylea 1, Nakhedi 1)
The 1st game of the invitation cup and a good test for the lads as we were playing Lutterworth who are top of Div 4 south so it would be good to see the levels of another league. The boys started well and were on the attack from the the whistle, we were looking sharp and quick to the loose balls, the pitch was holding up well after the rain, we played some neat passing football and after a loose ball in the box from a shot from Dan ,Alexander managed to slot home from close range. We continued dominate play and not long after Josh got a well deserved goal for our 2nd of the night, things were looking good and our nerves( coaches) were settling down. Lutterworth were no means down and out and played some good football as well, our defence stood strong with some great work from them all, from a goal kick we won the ball on the left wing and some neat little work from Nakhedi set Dan of on a run for him to take an excellent goal 3-0. We were now in control but still playing some nice fast football with Matty linking well with Josh and Reece, it was by no means one way traffic but we had Lutterworth penned in, the midfiled were hungry for the ball and were winning a lot of them, Reece put a through ball for Baylea to chase and he took it well for our 4th of the game. Nakhedi was not to out done and was having a great game on the left wing, cutting in and chasing everything down, Nakhedi scored the next goal making it 5-0 with 5 minutes to go. The defence were having a good game as was Max in goal, with 2 minutes to go Lutterworth were awarded a penalty and they put it away well, Max was not far from it, all in all an excellent display which puts us in the quarter final, lets hope you play this well next game.
March
Sunday 28th V Enderby 16-0 (Reece 2, Nakhedi 3, Dan 4, Baylea 2, Josh 2, Conor 1, Alexander 1, Sam 1)
Well boys with a win today you will win the league was the opening pre match talk,we were in danger of getting a little to confident given the last score when we played Enderby. The lads were a little slow to start not our usual fast out the blocks pace, we soon settled into a nice pace and started to play some neat football, Baylea was soon onto a lovely little ball from Aston and took on the defence, Baylea linked with Reece who had found space to support Baylea, Reece cut in and hit the top corner 1-0 4 minutes. Now what happened next was something special, Nakhedi has been off for some time with a serious chest infection, he was not match fit and had only trained for 2 sessions before this game, but today he was on fire, he was a constant pain on the left wing his 1st goal was taken well from a neat 1 -2 with Dan 2-0 0. Dan was also on fire today and was his menacing self , he was playing high up the field today in a support role for our attackers, (well that's were we told him to play), Dan had other ideas and wanted part of the action, Dan was soon in on the action as he took on 3 defenders, won and scored low to the bottom left 3-0. We continued to up the pace and with some quick feet Baylea was through on goal only to be brought down in the box and was given a penalty, Baylea stepped up to take the penalty, he struck the ball and went for power straight down the centre, the keeper did well and got to the ball, but the ball had enough momentum to go over the line 4-0. You have to feel sorry for the Enderby lads and I dont mean that in a patronising way, they were 4-0 down with only 9 minutes gone, all credit to them they battled on and there heads did not go down. Now the special bit Dan had already scored 1, in the next 6 minutes we scored 4 goals, Dan scored the next 2, 6-0 with some neat passing from all the team giving Dan his hat trick this hat trick came with only 19 minutes played, not to be out done, Nakhedi then scored the next 2, giving him his hat trick 8-0, we still do not know how he got to the last goal as the ball looked like it was going out only for Nakhedi to get to it cut it back and slot home, it may have been helped a little by the defender but it was going in anyway. This is getting a little hard to write now as I was running out of room to note the scorers, Josh was next on the score sheet, Josh deserved this goal he works tirelessly up front and it's his excellent control and his ability to pick of passes that has helped Baylea and Reece score so many goals this season. The next goal was a really hard hitting goal from Sam, Sam has been returning these types of balls on a weekly basis and getting closer each time, his goal today was from outside the box, and it just dropped under the bar giving the keeper no chance at all, there was nothing he could have done. The next goals came from Baylea, Josh, Reece Conor, Alexander and Dan making it 16-0. The boys played well and Enderby did much better in the 2nd half. Well done team a great win, although we have won the league with 2 games to play, its not over yet, it would be great to also say unbeaten in the league , to do this we still have to play as we have not yet won anything!!, well done, DIVISION 4 C CHAMPIONS 2009-2010
Darren
Sunday 14th V Beaumont 4-3 (Reece 1, Baylea 2, Sam,1)
During the warm up for our most important game of the season so far we found out Matts groin was hurting , Max's toe was giving him trouble , Conner's foot had been hurting, added to the fact Cal hurt his foot the other day as well. . .great start !!! Anyway big game for us today with a win needed against the only team that could possibly stop us winning the league. We had already drawn against them earlier in the season and to be fair we were lucky then ! so we really needed to be on our game today.
The game started well for us and we were well in control, with Baylea's pace up front troubling their defenders, Dan and Reece controlling the midfield and our defenders were coping with the few Beaumont attacks.After working the ball through to our forwards , Reece pounced on a loose ball just on the edge of their area and slotted the ball home, leaving their keeper desperately scrambling over towards the left side of his goal trying to save it, the ball seemed to take an age to go in 1-0. We went 1-0 up early in the previous match as well then went sleep but not this time we kept our heads and kept the pressure on them reducing them to a couple of chances and 1 corner !! still working the ball well when Reece put a ball into the box and it hit a Beaumont players hand "penalty" . Up steps Reece and he just put too much on it as it crept by the outside of the left hand post. Head in hands Reece looked distraught but he didn't let it affect him for long as within minutes he was running at the Beaumont defenders again. Our defence was still looking solid with Cal and Conner's injuries not affecting their performance . Sam was controlling the back line well .Another attack by us saw us break down the left wing and Joe whipped in a lovely cross which Baylea conected with his left foot (yes left foot !) ,ball in back of net 2-0. By this time i thought we were well in controll only for us to switch off as our defence stood still and watched Beaumont cross ball in from their left and make it 2-1.To be fair that ws their only real chance and we gave it them ! Half time was approaching when we we gained a corner which Matt took he floated the ball in and it ended up at Sam's feet who put his boot round it and beautifully lobbed the keeper !! 3-1.In control again or so we thought as just before half time Beaumont attacked us down their left again, as the ball was crossed in it was just a bit to high for Sam as it scimmed off his head and fell to a Beaumont player who slotted it in the net 3-2.So half time was here with Beaumont going in on a high.Thinking they could get back into the game , and within 5 mins of the 2nd half starting they did when they made it 3-3 ,we got sloppy at the back and let them in . The management teams stress levels were peaking now, although we were pretty much in control of the match still,with Beaumomt more worried what we could do to them than vice versa. A couple of dodgy off side descisions went against us ,which Nick let the Ref no his thoughts on the matter !! The Ref must of listened as within a few minutes their linesman was flagging our forwards again only for this time for the Ref to wave play on. The defining moment eventually came about half way through the 2nd half , the ball worked well out to Reece on the right wing who put a pass through to Baylea who was making a run in to the box, as the ball came across Baylea he hit it first time straight into the net 4-3. Think maybe he had help from me as my right foot swang at the same time as his !!!! As the minutes ticked away a was edging further and further on to the pitch shouting instructions to keep it tight at the back, no more of our defenders going up for corners now ! Minutes left just enough time for Beaumont to have two more attacks , for only Dan to pop up from no where and save the day .Final whistle blows what great game . . .great relief its over ! two points now needed to win the league from our final 3 games. Whole team was excellent well deserved win, bit too close for comfort for us coaches liking though..
Mark
Sunday 7th Enberdy 18-1 (Bay 6, Matt 3, Dan 3, Josh 2, Tom 2, Reece 1, Cal 1)
A difficult match report to write, we knew that Enderby were struggling in the league but at the same time we knew we needed to improve on our goal difference, as the other top 2 teams had already played them twice. Mark Matt and myself had a concern that we would become greedy and go for individual goals rather than team goals, thankfully the boys played their normal football, passed it well and looked for the right ball each time, they played as a full team, Josh scored our fastest goal ever, 31 seconds, I see no point in dragging this one out, the boys played well, we managed to give some boys who have not been getting full games a full run out, the goal that Enderby scored was a very good goal, but to be honest when they played the ball through we had no one in our own half, the lad took the ball on and took a shot from distance which went into the top corner. Make no mistake the game on the 14th will be a different task altogether, well played boys.
Darren
February
Sunday 14th V Glenfield 5-1 ( Baylea 3, Reece 1, Conor 1)
This was the top of the table clash with St Andrews in 2nd spot. The boys had a great training session the day before and really seemed up for the challenge, the coaches were the nervous ones Darren Mark and Matt all extremely anxious. From the off the game was played at a high tempo, with the Andrews having the majority of possession in the early stages and putting the Glenfield defence under pressure. Our midfield were running the game and sending balls in behind the back four for Baylea to chase with Josh in support, before long Reece had sent a ball right through the back four and sliced it wide open, Baylea was on to it producing a turn and shot worthy of the premier league to take the lead and slotted home 1-0, a great start. St Andrews continued to dominate play Matt and Dan were having a great game and linked well as were Baylea and Reece, Reece’s ability to find Baylea on the run was superb today, it was this excellent linking play which led to Baylea’s 2nd of the game.
Both teams continued to play good football but it was St Andrews who had the upper hand and were hungry for the 3 points, the St Andrews defence were also playing well and standing firm, the Andrews keeper sent the ball out from a goal kick which found Matt who found a lovely little pass to Joseph on the left wing, Joseph cross found Josh who’s control was excellent, he passed on to Dan who found Reece and showed the ability of a professional player and smashed the ball home 3-0 at half time.
Glenfield were not out of it yet they upped their game, putting increasing pressure on our defence, which held strong they managed to get a superb shot away only for Max the Andrews keeper to make an equally superb save. The Andrews defence were on form with Aston and Sam running the centre defence , Conor was having his normal game playing with confidence. Our midfield regained control of the game and Reece again was menacing on the right, his cross this time found Baylea who took on the defence and scored his hat trick and our 4th.
The Andrews then made a change putting Conor on the right wing as his energy is endless, Matt sent a long searching ball up field for Conor to chase, to be honest it looked out of his reach, but somehow Conor was on the end of it and taking on the Glenfield left back who he beat and smashed the ball home, the smile on Conor’s face showed how much he wanted that goal.5-0. Glenfield went on to score a late consolation goal.
The game ended 5-1, both teams played well and it was a good match for the supporters of which there were many, both teams shook hands at the end of an excellent top of the table match and neither team gloated or refused to shake hands, Glenfield players, managers and parents were gracious in defeat and not a bad word was said, a big thank you to all as it was a superb game in all respects.
Darren
Sunday 7th February V Netherhall 4-1 (Dan 2, Recce 1, Josh 1)_
After another week layoff due the bad weather we were able to get back to action .
Our games against Netherhall are always a heated affair since we played that at 7 a side, the boys knew they were in for a tough day, We got off to a good start with some excellent passing and movement and looked the better team in the early exchanges.
After good work from Calum and Joseph on the left we took took the lead through Dan who slotted in coolly at the near post.1-0 the Andrews.
The boys stuck to their task and Netherhall players and manager were getting frustrated and making some hefty tackles and giving the ref some grief, Dan kept our noses in front with another one of his trademark goals 2-0 the Andrews. We continued to battle well and working together and had Netherhall penned into there own box, we came close with a great shot from Matt which the keeper managed to turn round the post. Joseph took an in swinging corner for a goal mouth scramble only to be denied by the keeper again. The next corner came in much the same and we thought Baylea had scored, then came an almighty goal line scrap and the boys were convinced the ball crossed the line but it was not to be.
The next goal however was definitive, and it was Reece who provided it with a great looping shot. The tackles from Netherhall were getting out of control and the ref was having a difficult game as it seemed all awards were going our way much to the annoyance of the whole Netherall set up, to be honest these were the right decisions Stefan picked up a knock to the knee from one of these tackles and needed to be replaced the 1st half ended 3-0. Due to Stefans injury we had to but Alexander in goal for the 2nd half, remember he has not played in goal this season but always was an exceptional as a keeper for us. After the break the boys stuck to their task and defended really well, and were solid in midfield, but Netherhall started to up the anti and got more and more into the game, pushing for a goal, Alexander stood to the task well making some very good saves, however we responded again and we pushed hard for another goal and Matt and Baylea linked well and Baylea’s shot found Josh lurking in front of the keeper to slot in our 4th. Netherhall pressed hard for the last 5 minutes forcing a free kick which they converted 4-1.
With 3 minutes to play, the Netherhall centre forward found himself 1 on 1 with our stand in keeper, Alexander showed he was up to the task and made a fantastic save which was 1 of several
The referees whistle went and we ran out 4-1 winners, it’s a shame the Netherhall players did not show the respect that we all should now be sticking to now with the FA RESPECT campaign, yes the game was heated but it was a good game however the few Netherhall players who thought it was funny to swear and stick 2 fingers up to myself and our players as we were leaving is a real shame. It is worth mentioning 1 Netherhall player who I think names is Alfie shock my hand and most of our team showing the true spirit of the game, well done today boys great game, next week we have Glenfield and its a top of the table clash.
Darren
January
Sunday 17th V Kingsway 5-0 (Baylea 2, Alexander 1, Reece 1,Dan 1)
Considering we had not played for a while we played very well, the boys had worked well in training and really wanted to get back playing games. The games started on a very heavy pitch which did stop the ball when it hit a wet patch, the team showed good strength and were winning the 1st time ball, Baylea was 1st on the score sheet after he got on the end of a great cross from Jospeh and vollyed the ball home. The boys dominated the game from the midfiled and before long Dan was running with the ball straight at the defence who could not handle him, Dan went into the box and slotted home calmly 2-0
Darren
2009
December
Sunday 12th V Khalsa 6-0 (Baylea 1, Josh 1, Reece 2,Dan 1)
A very wet, heavy pitch met us on a cold but sunny morning, the pitch was not in the best shape but at least it was playable. We kicked of but not as fast as we normally are, we were being cautious and not really linking the play well, the passes were a little sloppy and we were not settling down. After 10 minutes or so we started to find our stride and were getting in behind the defence and had a few shots on goal which the Khalsa keeper did well to stop. We soon had the lead with some great play on the right wing from Matt who found Baylea on the edge of the 6 yard box to slot home. We then settled us down and we started to play some nice passing football, but the pitch was cutting up and the ball bounching everywhere, Josh soon had our 2nd again after a corner from Matt. Khalsa, were having a good run as well and it was Stefan making several 1 on 1 saves that kept us in the game. The boys looked in control of the game and just before half time Reece got through on the left and managed to squeeze the ball in, again not long after this Reece again found space and got his 2nd and our 4th, making it 4-0 at half time. The 2nd half started well but we had taken our foot of the gas and were playing passing football, Baylea had a few chances to put the game beyond Khalsa but the Khalsa keeper was doing a great job. Khalsa continued to push and after we were caught out of position at the back it took a fantastic tackle in the box from Dan that kept the score as it was, Dan then had the ball in the opposite box and took a well deserved goal making the final score 5-0. The last 8 minutes were hard work as we were down to 10 men, both Sam and Matt had picked up knocks and could not continue, all the boys had a good game and our defence held strong, well done boys this win puts us in 2nd going into the xmas break unless Beaumont play Sunday 20th !! I will keep you posted.
Sunday 29th V Beaumont 1-1 (Reece 1)
What a fantastic game of football, real end to end stuff, to be honest we were not at our best, but managed to hold on to a draw. We had our chances but so did Beaumont both teams came close but it was us who took the lead through a ball out from Dan to the wing, Reece got on the end and smashed the ball home, Beaumont then got one back just before the break. In the 2nd half it was Beaumont who had the upper hand and we defended for large parts of the game, we then had our chances and we also came close, the game ended 1-1 and to honest it was a fair result, we have them again next week at home and I am sure it will again be a great game.
Sunday 22nd V Wheatstone 7-1 (Baylea 3, Josh 2, Dan 1, Reece 1)
A cold a very windy morning at Wheatstone, the boys seemed up for it once we got them all there!, We started strong and attacked Wheatstone from the off, we were awarded an early penalty but I think our nerves got to us and the keeper saved, this did not affect the team and the boys showed a lot of support to the player who had the shot saved, before long we had the 1st goal Baylea took the ball well and slotted home, we kept the pressure on and not long after Josh got a well deserved goal. Josh was going through a goal drought so he really deservedthis goal, Baylea then got his 2nd and our 3rd and we were on a roll. The boys were playing very well and were in control, our defence then got a little to confident and we nearly got caught out, however we managed to get back and won the ball, Josh then got his 2nd making it 4-0. The game was now beyond Wheatstone but they did not give in and all credit to them they continued to push, this left a big gap at the back and Baylea got his hat trick making it 5-0, not to be out done Reece and then Dan got 1 a piece, it finished 7-1 after our defence got the ball caught up in our feet and managed to put the ball in our own net, a good run out for the boys, well done and well played
Sunday 15th V Glenfield
Sunday 8th November V Netherhall
October
Sunday 25th V Kingsway
Sunday 18th V Lutterworth
Sunday 8th V Netherhall
A great Sunny morning for a game of football, it was the remembrance game so a minutes silence was observed by both teams, player and supporters which is touching to see. The game started well enough with us having a good run of play, the early pressure was good and we were controlling the game, the goal was coming as we came close on several occasions. The boys were playing neat football and passed the ball around well, we were strong in the tackles and 1st to most balls, we were awarded a 6-0 win with 2 goals each from Baylea, Nakhedi and Joseph, a good all round display, weel done team.
Sunday V Thurmaston 3-4 (Baylea 2, Reece 1)
What a game we had today, Thurmaston are a fantastic team who we have close links with, the manager Mark is a great bloke and his son Max and Baylea get on well, this was a last minute game as Enderby called off on Saturday, Mark called me after some whispers via Rich (Sam's dad) and before long we had a game. The boys played well from the off and took the game to Thurmaston, a few of the lads were getting caught out of position but we were holding our own, it was end to end football and we came very close to taking the lead, but it was Thurmaston who edged it with some neat play and they managed to put in a well taken goal. The boys did not give in a responded well and after some grat work from Matt, Dan and Reece Byalea went in for a 50/50 ball and managed to get their just ahead of the keeper and snatched a goal back. It was then all Thurmaston and they raced into a 4-1 lead at the break, the wind was with them and they took full advantage of it. We came out for the 2nd half full of fighting spirit and quickly got a goal back, Reece won a free kick which Conor took, it was a great free kick from Conor that Reece chased onto and slotted home ( thats my bet won with my mum then was heard from Reece ) later we found out that he was betting about watching wrestling. We continued to push hard and we got another 1 back from a great taken goal from Baylea 4-3, we seemed to have the upper hqamd at this point and were pushing hard for the equaliser but despite having some great chances we just could not hit the back of the net, it finished 3-4 but was a great game of football and both teams played very well.
Sunday 1th V Lutterworth 1-2 (Baylea 1)
This fixture was always going to be hard with so many or our starting 11 away for various reasons, Josh then became ill and could not play so this left us no subs. The boys that did play played very well, once again we had a strong start and attacked the Lutterworth goal from the start, Alfie went close and had his shot cleared off the line, from where I was standing it looked like the player was behind the line but it was not given, we then 3 more good shots saved and it looked like being one of those games. Lutterworth were a good strong team and have scored 25 goals in 3 games so there attack speaks for itself, they pushed hard as well but Dan was always back helping out a weakened defence and to be honest we were dealing with the attacks well. Dan was having a great game along with Reece and Baylea but we were struggling in the wide areas and up front, Dan latched on to a loose ball and sent Baylea through to chase what looked like a no win ball as the keeper had come for it, Baylea had other ideas got to the ball a fraction before the keeper and sent the ball over him high into the top corner and we had the lead 1-0. We went into the break on top but not really being able to get the next goal. Lutterworth continued to push and they got a goal which was an excellent shot after the defence stood off and allowed them to run across the box and take the left foot shot, a very soft goal to conceed. Both team then had several chances to seal the game and with 2 minutes to go Lutterworth snatched it. With our normal team I do not think Lutterworth would have coped with us, having said that most of the team today played very well and gave 100%, a few of the lads have got to get involved more, and as we now have a bigger squad we can select and change and both Mark and Darren feel we need to start selecting rather than just taking lads because they are signed on.Well done boys you gave it your best shot
Sunday 11th V Kingsway 4-0 (Josh 1, Reece 1, Baylea 1, Dan 1)
This was a very good game to watch from a neutral point of view, we started very strong and attacked from the off coming close several times in the 1st 10 minutes, the team looked fit and were 1st to the loose balls, Kingsway did not look bad and the 1st half was well matched, with both teams having good runs with the ball but it was the Andrews who took the lead, Josh managed to turn a free kick but we are not sure with what part of his body, back, neck or shoulder any way it went in and it was 1-0 at half time. The 2nd half was much better, we were playing strong attacking football and were looking for the goals, before long we were 2 up with a well worked goal from Reece . Kingsway were not out of it far from it and had several shots just of target, however our passing game was good and the tempo fast, Reece was getting crosses in close to the keeper and Baylea latched onto a great cross to convert with his left foot, 3-0, we then started to get over confident and at times a little greedy, we got behind the Kingsway defence several times only to shot directly at the keeper, when a simple through ball would have seen us score 2 or 3 more, as it was Dan managed to grab 1 making us 4-0 winners, it was a very good game with the boys looking fairly good, but as we said it could have been 6 or 7 if we had just put that last pass in. Anyway we are not maoaning (well not much) it was a good score and a good win which has taken us to 3rd in the table and we have played less games than the 2 above us.
Sunday 4th V Glenfiels County Cup 1-4 ( Bay1 )
September
Sunday 27th V Wigston Youth 2-1 (Matt 1 Joseph 1)
At last our first league game, it was not the team I wanted to play as we had just played them in the cup, now knowing our boys and the way they tend to think" we beat them once we can beat them again attitude" I knew we would be in for a hard game and we got just that. We still played well and to be honest I thought we were in control we made very hard work off it, again we slipped back into trying to play through the middle, something I thought we had left behind. We did pass well but kept getting caught in position in the middle in the last bit of the pitch, add to that, the fact that we thought we could walk the ball into the goal each time made it difficult we did however win a penalty but unfortunately hit the bar. Once we got them in at half time and I explained the fact that they had most possession and we were doing all the hard work we just needed to release the ball a little earlier and take the shot we looked better. The boys then lifted the game and before long got the goal a well taken shot from Matt, not long after that Jospeh was brought down in the box and we won a second penalty, Joseph wanted to take it and wnet on to score his second penalty of the season. We then switched off a little and Wigston got in behind us and grabbed one back. Wigston did not give in and very nearly got the equalizer, but Max somehow managed to get to it and tip it over. Both goal keepers managed 1 on 1 saves wit Stef making an excellent stop just before the break. So a good win but we could have made it easier, so lets remember this lads for the future.
Saturday 19th V The Magpies 13-1 (Bay 6, Matt 4,Tom 2,Joseph 1)
As we had our Sunday game cancelled at the last minute we agreed to a friendly with Jons team, a little last minute but at least it gave the boys a run out and helped out Jon. Again the boys were strong in most areas of the pitch and used this as a game to try new things. All the boys played a part even the lads who have not yet signed. The desire to win was good and we worked hard on good 1st touches and the way we received the ball, the goals were well taken by the 4 players but we did not gloat. Jon is having a hard time at the minute and its not nice for the boys to be on the end of another thumping, I hope we helped him iron out a few issues but at the same time our boys did well and we were able to work on a few things we would not normally be able to do
Thursday 17th V Wigston youth 4-1 (Bay 2, Matt 1, Alexander 1)
A great all round performance from the lads today, they passed the ball well and worked for each other, the communication was good between all and Sam was excellent at the back bringing the defence out. We looked fast to the ball and really wanted to win everything, we were caught out a few times with the long ball over the top but Dan was quick to rescue most times. Dan's energy and speed are truly amazing he did not stop running today. A great start to the season and league cup .
Sunday 6th VMagpies 12-1(Baylea3,Joseph 3, Josh 3, Dan 2 Alexander 1)
Another very good game for the lads, they knew what we wanted from them and they went out and played very well, the passing was good as was the team work and movement off the ball, the work we did in training on Saturday seemed to work with the balls in the air being taken whith much more comfort. The goals are coming from a range of players which is always good for 11 a side, 3 of the boys bagging hat tricks, our defence and midfield looked strong with Matt and Dan running the centre mid and playing wide balls well for the wingers. We need to remember the Magpies are a new team so we cannot get carried away, hopefully we will get a league or cup game soon!!
August
Sunday 30th V Shepshed 8-2 (Baylea 5, Dan 1, Joseph 1, Matt 1)
After some confusion at the start with the amount of players that Shepshed had we kicked off with 10 v 10, the pitch was a liitle smaller than we had been used to to. We had a good talk to the players in training on Saturday about commitment and putting effort in the games and how disapponited we were with some of them from the Beaumont tournament, this was again spoken about before we kicked off. We have brought in 1 more defender to trial as we feel we are still a little weak at the back, we have 3 defenders but really do need 1 more to strengthen that area. We had decided to take all 16 squad players and that all would play some part in the game. As the game kicked off we looked a little nervous and quickly smashed a ball up field for no real reason, however soon after we settled well and we started to pass neatly and with confidence, Dan and Matt were running the centre midfield with strength and commitment and were first to most balls, the play was wide as we wanted and it seemed the boys had listened to how we wanted to play,(passing football), Dan was soon on to a through ball from Matt and broke through the defence from deep and slotted home a very good goal. The game was still well balanced but with the Eagles team passing well and showing real passion and determination in winning the ball, Baylea was playing as a lone striker as we were only playing with 10 and was working well with Matt and Dan through the middle, Matt was having a great game and his strength was getting the better of the midfield and was playing balls through to Baylea with precision, Baylea then went on to score the next 4 goals, the service he was getting was 1st class from the wingers and the centre mids. Shepshed hit back with a goal after we had been caught out by the off side trap making it 5-1 at half time.
We made 5 changes at half time as we said we would, we continued to play well and kept the pressure on, Stefan who had played the 1st half for us agreed to help Shepshed out as their own keeper had to go at half time, Stef went on to have a superb game keeping out several shots from his own team, this was a great credit to Stef as he could have gone out and not played his best, he played as he would play for us, something we feel is very hard to do so well done Stefan for that. Stefan could not keep out every shot, the Shepshed defence was struggling to keep us out and we scored another 3 goals 1 each for Matt and Joseph and another for Baylea. The rest of the team also did very well with Conor and Cal looking strong at the back, Conor's energy continues to amaze me, he was up with every attack and back defending when he needed to, Sam made his debut along side Aston as centre backs and both had fantastic games clearing everything that came their way. Dan Curtis also came on in the 2nd half for his 1st game of competitive football and also did well. Alfie is also continuing to gain confidence and was really getting stuck into tackles which is great to see. Max is also now settling in well and continues to improve the more he gets to know the lads. The game finished 8-2 which is a great confidence boost for the team as this was the last friendly before the league kicks off. Lets not get carried away, we still have things to work on but hopefully the boys will now go back to giving 100% in games as this result shows if they work hard the results will come.
Saturday 22nd Beaumont Tournament.
The Beaumont tournament is always a tough one to enter and today was no exception, with team dropping out the day before the format had been changed and went from a 1pm finish to a scheduled 4pm finish, something we were not expecting. The format was nbow a straight league with no knockouts and we were to play 6 games, Groby, Aylestone, Beaumont,Anstey, Harborough, St Andrews Magpies, 1st up were Anstey, we were slow to get started and conceded an early goal through some sloppy defending, once the goal went in we did up the tempo with some very close chances which we should have buried in the end we ended up losing 1-0, in the match debrief we asked why players were out of position and doing things we had asked them not to do, a few replies were my dad was telling me!. Next up were Harborough, the boys looked much better in this game much more organised and nearly all stayed in position and we passed the ball well, something we know we can do we scored 3 very good goals in this game but were very nearly caught out three times with the defence half a sleep 3-0 win. The local rivals were next Aylestone park, we know Aylestone are a very strong Division 2 team, we were told by Mark (Aylestone Manager) he has borrowed 5 of Hinckley team winners Div 1 last year, perfectly fine and in the rules, although we lost 2-0 we felt the boys did very well against such a strong team, we held them till right near the end and they scored two very good goals. Beaumont were next and this is where things went wrong, most of the defence did not seem to want to play, they were out of position, did not chase the ball and did not seem interested, the midfield and wingers were working extra hard tracking back and fighting for the ball, the attackers were then drawn so deep that they were almost defending as well, at the end of this game we had a good talk with the lads and some parents, as this was not acceptable and we would not accept it in future, if this was the attitude then we would bring in more players and would pick teams from a larger squad (something we do not want to do or we feel would work as other Andrews treams have tried it) however we will if this continued. The next game would be a real challenge as it was Groby, they were top and had only let in 2 goals from the previous 4 games. What a game it was, it was very slow to start almost walking pace but then it got going all the boys were excellent, fighting for each ball, looking for the pass and working from the back out, it was end to end football and very even, it was great to see a TEAM game, Groby were then given the softest penalty decision I have seen, even a ref at the side of me watching said it was not a penalty, the ball had hit 1 of our players hand as he was turning away and the ref said penalty as he had controlled it!, anyway they scored from it and this rocked the boys, from the kick off they scored again and it was unfair as the game had been excellent. The boys heads did not drop as before and they really fought back and after a battle in the penalty box we slipped the ball through from the Baylea, who found Dan who filled the ball on for Alexander to finish, shortly after the ref blew for full time, this was the fighting spirit of last year something we have got to get back, our next game is away at Shepshed and we will be looking for a big improvement in attitude. The last point is as managers we have to make the decisions and yes sometimes we will get things wrong but we are the managers, we have always welcomed comments from you but we have to ask you do not coach the boys when a game is taking place, it confuses them if you are telling them to do different things to what we are and can easily un balance the team structure for that game, please continue to encourage them but do not give them instructions and we are always here to listen to any suggestions you may have.
Sunday 16th V Glenfield 4-5 (Josh 2, Bay 1, Dan 1)
What a great game of football this turned out to be, St Andrews were in control the first half and it was Glenfield who were in charge the 2nd half. We again started very well and were fast out the blocks, we wanted the ball and chased everything down, we got the early goal a well taken through ball and Josh was again on the end of it to slot home. We were playing with confidence and passing well, our movement both on and off the ball was good and shortly after we were 2 -0 up after Baylea latched on to a loose ball and hit home. Glenfield were having some good runs with the ball and getting in behind us but Stefan was having a very good game making some great saves. We are still not up to full strength with 2 of the lads on holiday so we were playing out of our normal formation with Dan dropping in behind his normal midfield position, this did not stop him getting onto the score sheet making it 3-0. Glenfield were not being out played by us we were working the ball well in the last 3rd, again they got in behind us and despite a save from Stef the ball fell at the Glenfield attackers feet who slotted home 3-1.We made our only substitution, our new keeper Max made his debut and the second half started well enough although we were looking tired at the back and getting caught out more and more on the break, the midfield and attack were still hungry for more goals and Josh got on the end of a great ball and made it 4-2. Once again Glenfield continued to apply pressure and we sat back and allowed them to have far to much of the ball, we both felt as though our boys thought we had won it now and slowed the pace right down, Glenfield however had different thoughts and really wanted to play and win and again scored with a great free kick which we defended well at fist but then did not close them down from the rebound 4-3. Now it was getting a little to close for comfort and I think we started to panic, too many of our players wanted to try and score from well outside the box and were either shooting far to early and snatching shots or trying to go passed to many players and loosing it, we forgot who well we had done in the first half simple by passing. Glenfield got their 4th after a mistake at the back gave our keeper no chance. Our heads did not drop and we pushed hard with Bay, Matt and Joseph coming very close, again we got caught out by a high ball, we rushed in and mis judged the bounce and they were in for the 5th. We said at the start it was a great game of football and despite the last 10 minutes it was a fantastic game to watch, we just lost our way a little through some basic errors, but if Rio Ferdinand can make them (England game) I am sure we will, it worth mentioning that our midfield and wingers were working very hard covering at the back, there are still a few players that need to get a lot more involved as again we are in a very competitive league. We will have Alexander back early from his holidays this Saturday so we can resume our normal shape, we are looking forward to the Beaumont tournament this Saturday as it will give us a good run out with at least 4 games.
Tuesday 11th August V Wheatstone 6-0 (Josh3, Joseph 1, Ricky 1)
A good start to the pre season friendly's with a 6 -0 win, we are still sort of a few players with holidays but managed to put 13 together with 2 borrowed from other St Andrews teams. We were slightly concerned with 3 of the lads carrying slight knocks and injuries so wanted to play in safe and use the subs. The boys got off to a good start with Baylea setting Josh up very early on, the game was played at a pretty quick tempo to start and we passed the ball well we looked fairly good on the attack with Josh getting his 2nd from a well worked attack through the middle with all wingers, midfield and attackers involved, again not long after this Josh got his hat trick and to be honest it was game over. Wheatstone continued to play but we were a little to strong, the Wheatstone linesman was very fair and awarded us a penalty after Dan was brought down in the box, Joseph as captain stepped up to take it and smashed the ball home well. We made a few changes just to check on the boys carrying injuries and Ricky our borrwed sub from the under 10's broke through and slotted home, it was now 5-0 at half time. In the 2nd half we really eased off and Wheatsone came back at us Stef made 2 or 3 good saves which seemed to wake us up again, we were attacking well and had several good shots saved by the Wheatstone keeper, not long after a Wheatstone defender turned the ball into his own net which was un lucky for them as they were defending well at this time. The game finished 6-0 and all the lads came through well with no further knocks. We need to work on our movement from corners and throw ins as we did not have many ideas when it came to these. We now have Glenfield on Sunday who seem stronger on paper so the hard work now begins, well done boys a great start.
08-09
June (Judge meadow summer league)
Wednesday 3rd June V Beaumont 5-1 (Bay 3, Josh 1, Nakhedi 1)
Well after some very last minute phoning around we managed to get 11 players, we were up against Beaumont who were 1 place above us in the league but who we know are a very good side. We told the boys to play the last game with confidence and go out with a bang. We looked good in the very bright orange kit so felt good !!!. We started quite well and seemed to be getting the run of play, the boys were strong and 1st to the ball, Matt was having a very strong game along side Jack in the middle and looked happy as his strong tackles were winning the ball, Jack was also playing well and worked well with the rest of the lads, he just gets on so well with all of them, we were using the wings and getting high up the field, before long Josh's skill had held the ball well, found Baylea and slotted him through for him to chase and Baylea took the goal well, what a confidence boost for the lads going 1-0 up. From the off we were chasing down the balls and putting Beaumont under pressure, not long after this Matt had won a tackle in the middle moved the ball well for a one two with Alfie, Matt then sent Baylea and Josh through, both linked well with Jack and Baylea slotted home for his second. Beaumont looked good and were strong and quick but our defenders of Harry, Aston, Alexander and Cal were having a great game, Stefan was also looking much more confident when the ball was coming through to him. We again worked the ball from the middle via Jack and Matt who were both having fantastic games, they got the ball to the wings and out to Nakhedi on the right, who went straight towards goal with some neat skill and put the ball in the back of the net for his 1st and our 3rd, we were now in control and were looking the best we had done for some time, Beaumont did not give up and hit back with a goal, which to be honest we should have dealt with, 3-1 at half time. Dan had now got here via a taxi and it was only fair to bring him on although no one really desereved to come off, we started very strong but so did Beaumont and it was them who were getting more of the ball, the defence and midfield stood strong and dealt with the threats well, Dan was having a fantastic game at the back giving us some stability, skill and speed, it was Dan who won a challenge and worked the ball to Alfie who took on 2 and won, Alfie found Jack who was playing superb mopping up loose balls, attacking and chasing back, Jack found Baylea, who found Josh who played it to Matt who thumped the ball up for Baylea and Josh to chase, Baylea took on the keeper and put the ball home for his hat trick and our 4th. Both me and Mark were now starting to relax and enjoy the game, even the Beaumont managers were joining in!!, Josh who had been fantastic with his passes was not to be out done on the scoring side and had come close 2 or 3 times, he now had the ball on the edge of the area, had 2 defenders around him but he kept calm and beat both of them, the keeper had come out, Josh then took him on, won the challenge and neatly slotted home for our 5th. This was a great game and we deserved a win, we are not getting carried away with the result and still know there is a long way to go but its a great confidence boost for the lads, so a big well done from us.
May
Thursday 31st May St Andrews Tournament
What a fantastic day of weather, todays tournamnet was always going to be tuff, with several very strong division 1,2 and 3 teams entering. We started well but could not really get going,we lost the 1st game but to be honest gave a good account of ourselves, we lost 0-2 to the eventual finalists so it wasnt to bad. The next game was not so good, again we started well and had Barrow penned in, Barrow who are a very strong team came back at us and hit us with 3 very quick and very good goals. Next up were Birstal who we have played twice in the last few weeks, again Birstal are a strong team, the boys had just had a strong talking to by me and Mark and we told them to go out enjoy the game and pass the ball like we did at 7 a side. This game was much better, the passing was quicker and we were battling for possession, we were attacking well and were un lucky to concede a goal, but we continued to play and Birstal for the 1st time knew they were in a game. Next up were Daventry, this again was a great game and we had them under pressure and played much better, the passing was more accurate and the passion seemed to be back, we had several close calls on the off side but just could not get the goal 0-0. Next was Shepshed and we really started to play, we wanted a win and were working the wings well and attacking from both sides, the confidence seemed to be coming back, we had several good shots saved by the Shepshed keeper but eventually got in with a shot from Nakhedi, the boys desperately needed this goal and win as they have had some very hard games off late both in the summer league and the tournament, but credit to them they always seem to be positive.
Wednesday 20th V Thurmaston 1 -4(Josh)-
(Judge meadow summer league)
Although we lost 4-1 we really dont feel the score reflected the game, we could have took the lead very early on but from our attack Thurmaston broke with speed and got a lucky goal that came off a defenders leg, this un settled the lads a little and 3 minutes later Thurmaston got another again a lucky goal but well worked, the ball managed to creep under Alexanders body. The boys attitude was different tonight, they did not let it get to them, they battled and really took it to Thurmaston, we were 3-0 at half time and to be honest were giving Thurmaston to much respect, we moved things around and the 2nd half were much stronger, Josh equalised with a great strike, Baylea, Dan and Jack came close but it was not to be, Thurmaston caught us on the off side trap and slotted home a great goal. As I said at the start we played much better and with confidence, also we had 2 players missing so we had to borrow Jack who is a great player (pitty we cant sign him) and we gave Pascal a run out to have a look at him, so not bad really, Joseph should be back in light training in 2-3 weeks so all in all not a bad night, well done boys.
Wednesday 13th VRiverside 2(Josh 1, Bay 1)-1
(Judge meadow summer league)
A much better game tonight, the boys played as a team with good linkage play from back to front, the new partnership of Baylea and and Josh up front seemed to have worked with both strikers getting on the score sheet, Dans new role of playing just off the back four also seems to be working, with the use of Conors speed at the back, we were in control of the game at 2-0 and started to ease off a little, this proved to be costly as Conor went on a little run it left us short at the back as we were only playing 3 in defence and Riverside hit us on a break. As we have said we are using this league as a chance to see what we have got and who can play where and we have now picked our team, see team page. Hopefully this game will see our turning point, but we will not have a season like last, 11 a side is much harder and we cant be expected to win each and every game like last season. As parents you have to stick by us and give us the support you always have, as without you we cant move forward
Sunday 10th May 1-1 Dan, 0-0, 0-3, 1-1 Bay (1-3Penalty's)
The tournament started well with some strong tackles and good play form the team, we were drawn in what looked a strong league but hopes were high after our first game ended 1-1. The next 2 games were not as good, we seemed to switch off and allowed the other teams to play the ball, and were really struggling, it was almost like the 11 a side mentality had set in, after loosing 4-0 in game 2 we had a good chat with the team and it seemed to go in. As game 3 kicked off it was better but as it progressed we again sat back, and allowed the other team to play, we did however get several good shots on goal, now we know that Jon was trying out a new keeper and to be honest he was very good, so the 2 shots he saved would have probably gone in, but the Swifts were playing well and had more hunger and more fight for the ball, they got in twice behind our defence and Alexander made 2 excellent saves. The lads then had a roasting of me a Mark and we told them how disappointed we were at the way they were playing, this seemed to make a difference for the quarter final, they played a division 1 team from Nottingham and played fantastic, great movement, great fight for the ball, and great passion, something that had been lacking all tournament, we went behind but it did not bother the lads and they continued to play and had more shots than Cliffton, we equalised with 4 minutes to go, the tempo was then really high and again we created chances and very nearly won it with the move of the tournament but unfortunatley the shot was wide, so penalty's it was. Dan Matt and Bay stepped up but it was not our day and we went out 3-1, we must continue to play like we did in this game in our 11 a side games and things will come together.
Wednesday 6th MayV Oadby 0-5
(Judge meadow summer league)
The change to 11 a side is proving much harder than expected, the boys have lost a lot of confidence of late and are struggling to play as a team, whilst we knew it would be hard, we did not expect it to be like this. The game tonight was very hard, we battled in some parts but gave up in others, we know they can do it and we know they can play together its a matter of getting them back in the right frame of mind, and maybe playing teams in divisions several higher than us has back fired, but we will not give up and will keep going as we know that before to long it will gel again, as Leicester city say, please keep the faith.
April
Saturday 25th April Shepshed 7's
Wednesday 22nd V Birstall 0-3 JM Summer league
Well tonight did not go as well as we had hoped, we knew Birstal were a strong team as they had knocked us out the cup, however the only difference we could see tonight was the fact they were a lot faster to the ball, we looked sluggish and did not seem up for the task. The boys did battle and were matching Birstal in the first half, Bistal then got 1 shot off on target which was quick and it beat Stef, from where me and Mark were standing which was right next to the lad when he shot it looked more off a cross but the lad knew where Stef was standing and cross come shot flew in the top corner. We never really recovered from this, again we made a few changes to have a look at 2 more players but the changes didnt really work or help, Alexander was fantastic in goal making 3 or 4 1 on 1 saves his lightning quick reactions saved us tonight. We are pretty sure of our team now so the next few matches we will be concentrating on those lads, Jon has also decided to stay at under 11's and run a 2nd team so any lads we do release have a chance of staying at the Andrews which we all think is a good idea.
Wednesday 15 th V Anstey 3(Conor 1, Dan 2)-2
JM Summer league
This was a much better game for us and the fact we only took 2 subs we think helped, the boys started strong and were using the size of the pitch well something we had struggled to do in the previous 3 games, we were more or less camped in the Anstey half and were having some great ball play but Anstey were defending like an army, against the run of play Ansty hit us on a break ansd what looked like a soft shot somehow managed to sneak through Stef's arms. The fighting spirit we had shown at 7 a side was back tonight and we were soon on level terms from a nice goal just before the break from Conor, again almost instantly Antsy scored and it was 2-1 at half time. The 2nd half was even better than the 1st, we were again playing nice passing football and really working for the ball and using the wings, soon after the re start Dan slotted home and it was 2-2. The boys seemed to have the energy tonight and were winning a lot of the 1st balls and we were putting pressure on Anstey, Baylea hit the bar even if it was off his knee, Alfie hit the post and it seemed as it was going to finish 2-2, then up popped Dan after finding some space in the box managed to lay the ball off to I think Matt who played a neat 1 -2 and Dan finished well. The game ended 3-2 and it was the lift the lads needed.
Saturday 11th V Thurmaston 2 (Bay 1 Joseph 1)-6
Again the game today started well with both team playing nice flowing football which was good to see. We are still trying to decide on the final team so were making quite few changes which seemed to unsettle the team, the 1st half ended 1-1 after a great goal from Joseph hitting the top corner from the wing which is what we had been trying in training so that was nice to see working, we still seem to be lacking in direction of passes when the game gets going and are playing very narrow, the offside hit us hard today but I stand by asking a young lad to run the lines, its very hard to do but at least he is trying and helping, Thurmaston scored 4 quick goals (although 3 off side Mark the Thurmaston manager even agreed so its not just me) and that shocked the lads, but as we have said before it will take while to pick the eventual team and for them to settle, we aim to have selected the lads by April 25th and will speak to all the players and parents soon after this.
Combined report V Wigston1 (Dan)-4 & Barrow Saturday 1-4 (Dan)4th Sunday 5th
The idea of these 11 a side friendly games is to have a look at all the lads new and old and to make a fair assessment of who we want to take forward to the 11 a side. As we have said we can only name 14 a game and myself, Mark and Dave have taken advise form the other 11 a side managers and will be making the following decision, we will have a main team of 14 then 2 squad players making a total of 16, at present we have 21 to choose from so we have some very hard decisions to make in the next few weeks, we have been placed provisionally in Division 2/3 so we really need to take the strongest team we can, after all we are in a competitive sport. The lads who do not make it will be given options of staying with us and try to bring on the skills, or we will help find them another team.Now on to the match report,
We have just had 2 very hard games at 11 a side, we knew it would be hard taking on new players and moving to 11 a side. The boys did really well on Saturday as some had not trained together let alone played together, our passing was not bad, but it did not have enough power to make the intended target, we felt the 1st half was very good and was more or less all us, however Wigston had played several 11 a side games and started to get hold of the game, we were caught out over the top twice which resulted in 2 goals, our midfield were strong but just could not seem to find the attackers, which we thought would happen, the biggest change is the size of the pitch and it will take several more games before we get this right, the summer Judgemeadow league will be good for this, the main thing is not to worry we said at the start we are not bothered about the 1st 4 or 5 results we just want to see them play and be able to make some decisions. We feel the lads did well but on reflection 2 games Saturday and Sunday probably was not the best of ideas, but at least we have got 2 games under our belts, well done team.
March
Sunday 29th March V Alexton 1-1(Baylea 1)
What a game we had, both teams could not be caught in the positions we were in so the game was in danger of being a little flat, gladly this was not the case. The team were on form, we were attacking and not standing back, we were getting shots in, as were Alexton but to be fair we were taking the game to them, they knew they were in a game,The first half was pretty even,with both team creating chances, but we felt we just edged the first half. The 2nd half kicked off and again both teams were playing attacking football, Alexton were getting the upper hand and took a great chance left footed and scored, we cant moan at this as it was a great game and at that point they were on top. The boys heads did not drop, they continued to play and were right back in it, Dan hit the bar and Joseph had a shot just wide, with 5 minutes to go, Stefan launched one of his great kicks which Baylea got his head on and with a little flick found the corner. The game finished 1-1 which for 1st V 2nd was a good result and it was a great game. Now comes the 11 a side 11 AND WE CANT WAIT.
Saturday 21st March V Westfield 3-0( Cain 1, James 1,Dan 1)
After John from Alexton had to call the Sunday game off I rushed around trying to find a team who could play at short notice, Jamie from Westfield was quick to take the offer, it was a beautiful day and the Andrews looked good as so many teams were playing plus the academy still on space was short, the warm up went well and again as it was a friendly James and Cane got to play. We explained to the boys at the start of the game that it would be their last 7 a side friendly so go out play some football but enjoy it, well we started to wonder if this was going to back fire because they seemed to be enjoying it a little to much, the relaxed play meant we were almost a sleep and getting caught out and 2nd to most balls in the first 15 minutes but somehow still seemed to be in control ( well in the players minds anyway). At the break we had a few words which didn't seem to make a really difference but again we were in control and were playing neat football but it was all a bit to quiet, the attacks were good and we were getting into the box well but the Westfield keeper was having a very good game, the first goal came from a great cross from Joseph which Alfie managed to get on the end off, the keeper palmed the ball away and James followed up extremely well 1-0. We then brought Cane on for only his 2nd game, he looked strong and was really energetic and was causing all sorts of problems, he got his reward with a fantastic goal which he struck at pace and left the keeper no chance. We were cruising now and Mark and I had settled and began to enjoy the game, Westfield continued to push and put Stefan under pressure, ( Stefan had his own agenda today with 4items on it.
1) Head the ball, 2) Try and score with those incredible goal kicks every time, 3) give me and Mark a head ache, 4) make 2 or more goal line saves but look up and smile each time, Stefan did all this and keep a clean sheet. Not to be outdone, Dan scored another great goal and then decided he wanted to go in goal, so as it was our last 7 a side friendly we let him. Joking aside the boys did well and it gave them the run out before the big Alexton game out last of the season, go out boys and play the sort of football we all know you can play.
Sunday 15th March V Bushby 4-1 (Matt 2, Joseph 1, 1 og)
After last weeks game we wondered how the boys would play today, as it was a friendly it seemed only fair to let the 2 that are not signed for us have a part to play unfortunately Cane could not make it, so it was over to James, we tried a different approach and mixed the normal staring 7 up. The boys started a little slow and the tempo was quite relaxed for a while, we were on top but only just when a great corner came in from Alexander, the small hit a Bushby player and went in for an own goal 1-0,.The next 15 minutes was better and we were getting to grips with the ball and played some neat football and attacked well but could not get the final touch for the next goal, we had stopped playing the long ball over the top as we had done in the first 15 and were having much more success this way. The last 15 was a lot different, we passed the ball well had complete control and were un lucky not to score early on with Joseph hitting the bar and Bay hitting the post, shortly after this good spell up popped Matt and smashed the ball into the back of the net. This gave us a lot more confidence and we played some neat 1-2 passing balls and the movement off the ball was also better, Bushby also played well and pushed us hard and were rewarded with a well taken goal after we made quite a school boy error at the back. Matt continued his good run of form and hassled his way through the defence and hit home another good goal. Joseph who has ben consistent this season was playing well down the left and was finding more and more space, he capitalised on this with a through ball from Dam and slotted home, the final score was 4-1 which was only down to the last 15 minutes of simple passing football, well done team
Sunday 8th March V Khalsa 0-0
Well I do not know where to start, todays game was awful, I have never seen such blatant cheating before in any football match, I had been warned before the game from the Allexton coach but never expected anything like the treatment our boys got today. Anyway putting all that pushing, shoving, tripping etc out the way, we felt our lads played fantastic today, Khalsa only seemed to have 1 weapon and that was momo, he was kept quiet by Dan and Matt and a few others but mainly those 2 as he was coming down the left, the 1st half I felt we had the edge and we came close on several occasions, Khalsa did push forward but we delat with the threat well, our defence of Cal and Josh were doing a great job in the 1st half. The 2nd half was a different affair, Khalsa came out with a different game plan and the pushing etc began, the lads were not put off by this and continued to try and play football but there is only so many trips etc you can get over, the ref was having a difficult game and was under pressure from the home supporters, I do not agree with this but it happens at times, how ever I do not feel he should have let as many bad tackles, trips and pushes go as he did, never the less the lads stood strong and the end result was 0-0, a massive well done team you did not drop to the same level of the other team, you are a credit to the Andrew's. I did report the game to the FA and have had a reply from Khalsa, guess what they denied it all, oh well we have done our bit in hopefully stopping this sort of thing happening again.
Sunday 1st march V Harborough 3-0 (Bay 1,Dan 1, OG1)
Well a much better game today, after our last game we needed to up just about everything and we did just that, the whole approach was different, the attitude was better and we worked hard for each and evey ball. The boys passing was neat and at times excellent, they all worked for each other and covered for each other, the goals from Bay and Dan were well worked and came from some neat football, Joseph again had a good game along the left wing but I feel sometimes we are too easy to tackle, Jo moved to the right in the 2nd half and it gave us that different edge. We are pleased in the way you changed your attitudes. Our fitness levels are still not what they were before the weather hit and we made substitutions at regular intervals so the lads did not run out of steam, something we will continue to do as and when we feel the need. Well done for today lads.
February
Sunday 8th February V Barlestone 1 -3 (Matt, 1)
Well we deserved what we got today, our play was static, the pitch was quiet and the boys looked drained, I know we have had a break with the bad weather but we just looked un interested for the main part, when we realised we were behind it was too late to do anything about it. Barlestone came with a game plan and it worked, they beat us fair and square, the one and only highlight was Matt's fantastic free kick which put us back in it for about 3 minutes, oh well boys a lesson learnt i'm sure you will play better next time.
Sunday 1st February V Lutterworth 5-0( Jospeh 2 Bay 2 Josh 1)
What a great game of football , the boys played extremley well today from start to finish, they were sharp, fast and looked like they wanted to win,the game play was very nice, the passing neat and the movement slick, the run of the ball seemed to go our way and we played, we feel, some of the best football for a while. The time in the gym had done its job and the short physical stuff seemed to pay off, we had worked them hard in training and this seemed to carry on into the game. All the boys did well and picking the man of the match was difficult as they all worked hard for each other, with 3 games to go we are sitting in 2nd place so the hard work is not over yet, we need to keep our concentration and play every game like its a cup final, well done team a great display of football.
January
Sunday 19th JanuaryV Medbourne 3-1 (Dan 2, Alfie 1)
After a long drive into the Leicestershire Northampton border we arrived at a beautiful little village of Medbourne, the pitch was in excellent condition and the weather although windy was not to cold. The game kicked off and we were looking good, we were on the attack from the start with Joseph coming close early on, the pitch was long and wide so really suited a passing game, both teams were passing the ball well and it was a pretty even 1st 10 minutes. We started to edge the game but Medbourne although bottom of the league were defending really well with the whole team getting back behind the ball, we continued to attack the goal, with Connor hitting the post from a corner, Matt Bay Dan and Joseph all coming close but we just could seem to break the deadlock. Dan was brought down clearly inside the box, the ref got it wrong and gave a free kick out side the box, he did not make them stand 10 yards away and allowed them to charge down the shot just as Dan struck it, the ball came back to Dan home who then side stepped the defence and smashed the ball home. This was then the pattern of the game, the ref after this was awful, We seemed to up the tempo then and really attack the Medbourne goal but again the defending was excellent, Medbourne then got in behind us and managed a shot on target, Alexander got back and stopped the ball on the line, the ref decided that it was a goal, I really do not understand how he could have given it or even seen it as he was only just passed the half way line, we continued to battle and after some great build up play and some individual skill from Dan he managed to slot the ball home. Baylea then came back on and combined well with Matt who crossed it back in, Bayleas shot hit a defender and Alfie was on the far post and with a little bit of neat foot work found a way through and taped the ball in 3-1, this really was a hard game with some excellent defending by Medbourne, the boys really did have to dig in to grind out a win, but fair play to them all, they did just that and never gave up, great win boys and well done.
Sunday 11th January V Mowbray 2 -1 (Bay1 Matt 1)
A cold a windy Sunday morning greeted us at Melton and after some freezing conditions the pitch was wet and surprisingly boggy, we had not played for 3 weeks so were a little short of match fitness, but on a positive note we were back at full strength, Josh back from a lengthy spell on the side lines was looking fit and healthy and Connor back from missing the last 2 league games again looked hungry for a game. We knew Mowbray were strong from the home game but felt if we played the passing football we all know we can play we felt we could edge a win. We started strong and looked good with the midfield having good runs with the ball, we tested the keeper early on with several shots from distance, Melton were playing well but the defence looked strong and held off well, Connor and Cal were linking together well and Alexander was looking very sharp and commanding the backs with his normal louud instructions. Dan, Matt and Joe were having some great ball play and it was Matt who linked with Dan and Joe to slot Baylea through who lobbed the keeper on the edge of the box making it 1-0. To Mowbray's credit they came back straight at us and won a corner which we did not defend very well and let Mowbray run across the goal and equalise on the stroke of half time. We felt we were just edging the game and continued to play well, the boys had noticed that the Mowbray keeper was coming off his line quite a lot and started having long shots, this paid off as Matt hit a screamer into the bottom left hand corner 2-1. The boys continued to play passing football and looked very good, we made several changes during the game instead of our normal half time changes and this seemed to work as everyone kept their energy levels up, so well done to all, Cal looked much more comfortable in defence today, good to see Josh back looking trim and lean and played very well, Alfie had another good game especially in the 2nd half and considering Matt was carrying a heavy cold he did very well, looking forward to our next game, well done team.
December
Sunday 21st December V Mowbray 1-1 (Dan 1)
After a pitch inspection and the fact that Mowbray had come along way we decided to play, the pitch was thick with soggy mud and not ideal or suited to our passing game, never the less we had decided to play. The game today was pretty even with not a lot of chances in the first 5 minutes, we then started to get on top and created a few good moves, we came very close and hit the post and had several shots just wide. Just before the break we were awarded a penalty and Dan stepped up and slotted the ball home1-0. After the re start Mowbray had the better chances and were on top as we allowed them to play the ball and were getting caught out at the back, not having our normal right back defender there really made a difference, any way Mowbray managed to somehow slide the ball home after Stefan had made a great stop from a close range shot, shortly after this Baylea was brought down in the box but this time we did not get the decision. The game continued this way with us having more of the play, we seemed to loose a lot of our quick passing today and we were holding onto the ball for far to long, something we don't normally do, maybe the lose of shape affected us but 5 or 6 time we could have released the ball alot quicker and I feel we could have scored more this way. The result of 1-1 was to be honest a fair one as both team had about the same amount of play and chances, this leaves us in 2nd place at the moment and looking good, have a good break and come back refreshed for the hard part of the season, maintaining 2nd spot and pushing for 1st place.
Sunday 7th December V Khalsa 4-0 (Dan 1, Bay 2, Joseph 1)
Well we thought last week was cold, after quite a lot of debating it was decided that the ground was soft enough and safe enough to play, the Khalsa set up were not so forthcoming, we managed to get the game kicked off after Khalsa had wanted to put it back even further, as it turned out they were waiting for another player. The game kicked off and it was pretty even stuff with neither us nor Khalsa managing to break, we then started to settle and play some neat passing football, this was great to see as we were quite a few players short. We were now playing well and making some very good breaks into the box, Bay, Matt and Joseph came close. Dan was having a very good game and was controlling the midfield well, Dan then got a great ball through from Matt who was playing out of position at the back and smashed the ball into the back of the net, this seemed to put more energy into the boys and we were working very well as a team and holding Khalsa at bay, soon after Baylea had the ball on the edge of the box, made a neat little turn and smashed the ball home 2-0. From the start we were again fighting for the 1st ball and winning most of them, the boys were playing at a fast pace and passing very well we won a corner and Bay again got himself into a good position and managed to work his way through and slot the ball home even if it was with his hip 3-0. Khalsa were also playing well but our midfield were in control, Joseph was also having a good game and getting closer and closer, he was working very hard and was soon rewarded with a goal 4-0. The game finished at 4-0 which was a good result and the boys had a great game and really worked hard for each other, khalsa were a strong physical team but we stood up well a few boys came away with a few bruises but all in all, we did well, our next game see us against Melton who are again a very good and strong team, hopefully we will have everyone fit, well done boys.
November
Sunday 30th November V Bushby 5-1 (Bay 2, Dan 1, Cain 2)
The cold weather hit today but we managed a game, we arrived and was greeted by a very friendly manager but a very cold wind, the pitch was in very good condition and the boys seemed ready given we did not paly the week before. The game had a friendly rivalry as Dan was playing against his uncle and was desperate to impress and score. The game kicked off and the boys looked good, we were passing well and the movement for each other was working, the main difference from a few weeks ago was the fact we were closing down quite quickly something we had lacked previously. The Busby team were also playing well and holding their own. Baylea broke the dead lock after 8 minutes with a very well taken cross from Matt 1-0. Shortly after the re start Bay again slotted the ball home again from a well timed ball from Matt 2-0, Matt was having a very strong game along the right wing and his ball control and play making was excellent. We were playing are normal 3 x 15 minutes so at the break brought on Cain to make his debut for us, Cain was doing well and after a few minutes managed to get on to the end of yet another pass from Matt and smashed the ball home 3-0. Bushby were not to be out done and continued to battle well and their heads never went down. The boys carried on playing some very nice football and the movement was creating a lot of chances with Matt, Bay , Dan and Alfie all having shots but the Busby keeper was having a very good game. The amount of chances we were creating started to get to us and before long instead of passing across the gaol and setting others up we began to get a little ball greedy with several of the boys taking shots when others were in the clear, having said that we were playing very well. Soon after Dan picked the ball up in the middle of the park an ran to the edge of the box, shot and finished well 4-0. Again Bushby carried on playing very well and again did not give in, their persistence paid off and hit a neat goal. After the re start Cain came back on and managed to bag himself another well taken goal, it has to be said all the boys had a very good game from the keepers to the attack, we now have Khalsa on Sunday and I hope we play as well and we work for each other as we did today, well done team.
Sunday 16th November V Harborough 5-0 (Matt 2, Conor 1,Bay 1,Alfie 1)
A great return to league action today, although out the cup this was behind us and the team were focused on today's game, we were strong from the start and were doing just what we had asked of them. The Harborough pitch is a big one and was in excellent condition, this suited our game play, with 2 minutes Matt had broke down the right from a nice lay off from Conor, Matt found Bay who sent it back and from range Matt had a go at goal and sent the ball rocketing into the top corner. From the re start the ball was away down the left with all our team involved, the passing and laying off today was very good. Our passing continued to cause Harborough problems and before long Matt had scored another, 2-0 at half time. After the re start we were again attacking down the left with Joseph who was causing all sorts of issues and problems more or less every time he got the ball, his crosses were raining in on the Harborough goal, Harborough had changed the keeper at half time and the 2nd was under a lot of pressure, Conor picked the ball up on the edge of our area and ran with it the whole length of the pitch, skipping over 3 or 3 challenges, he got the ball near to the by line cut it back in and sent a fantastic floating ball in for Bay or Jo to attack, some how from the tightest of angles Conor put the ball in the net 3-0, we were now starting to cruise and this still worries me, after a few strong comments from us Dan picked the ball up in the middles went on a surging run had a great shot only for the keeper to parry the ball into Matt's feet who struck it well and Bay finished it with the slightest of touches 4-0. Dan continued to have a great game as did all the others Calum looked more like his old self and Josh was having a great game also. Alfie having come on at half time was really getting into the game, his skills were taking him passed players and making well timed passes, Alfie was soon also in on the goal mouth action and neatly slotted home for our 5th. The game ended at 5-0 and it was a good performance from all the lads, with Mowbray up next week, we will have to at the top of our game as I am sure they will be, well done boys.
Sunday 9th November V Birstal 1-3 (Conor 1)
Well the winning run had to come to an end sometime and today was the day, although not because of a bad game far from it, the boys did well and I thought in normal circumstances we deserved a draw. We battled well but were not as quick as we normally are and were being beaten to a lot of the 1st balls, the passing was still good and we were working hard. The 1st goal was unlucky as it came off Alexander's punch and went in, we came back at them and had 3 or 4 good chances, but we just could not get to the final ball, then up popped Conor again from Matts corner who got a shot away and found the net. Just before the break Birstal got a 2nd which was to be honest a gifted goal but no one was to blame we are a team and a few of us need to remember that!. The 3rd was an excellent strike from Birstal taking the final score to 3-1, but again we hit the bar and the up right from Dan and Bay, we had 1 goal mouth scramble with several rebounds and we missed a penalty but after all we felt it was a good game, it was however turned a little sour by the rudeness and the abuse shown to our ref by the Birstal coach, which was totally un called for and not needed especially at mini soccer. The minutes silence was a great tribute and we felt the lads did it justice and showed GREAT RESPECT, back to the league now and hopefully back to winning ways.
Sunday 2nd November V Medbourne 8-2 (Conor 3, Bay 4, Dan 1)
These match reports are getting harder to write, todays game was excellent, the boys really did battle and play well, we went behind fairly early on but our heads stayed up and played the passing football we know we can do and it was this passing football that led to to the equaliser,we had won a corner which was floated in at just the right height for conor to head home perfectly. We were playing well and getting shots in but it looked like being one of those games as we just could not get the 2nd goal. The boys did not give up and from a cross from Matt Conor was again in the box to head home. The game was now getting good and with the Birstal manager watching (we have them this week in the cup) Dan went on one of his electric runs and finished with a well taken goal 3-1 at half time. After the break and a few changes we got our 4th again from Conor and again a header, Conor had his first hat trick and all from headers 4-1, Medbourne were not giving in and continued to play well and managed to get a goal back, Dave who was on the line gave the goal as none of us could see which we all felt was the honest and right thing to do 4-2. This goal seemed to stir something in the boys and they really started passing well, working for each other and attacking with Conor swapping with Matt, Conor set Baylea up for the 1st of his 4 goals all coming in what Mark says was about 5-6 minutes, the game finished 8-2 which was a fantastic result for the lads, all the team did well with both keepers pulling of great saves, Matt looking very strong as a right back, Alfie continues to gain confidence and play well and Joseph with his natural left foot will always cause problems, Josh is an extremely versatile player and had a great game, Cal came back on after a few minutes break and made 2 very good tackles, its the cup game next and lets hope the boys play as well as this as we know they can, well done team great game.
October
Sunday 26th V Wheatstone Acorns 6-4 (Josh 1, Alfie 1,Bay 2, Dan 1, Cal 1)
A good win for the boys today but we feel they made hard work of it and really should have won by a bigger margin, having said that Wheatstone dug in deep and came back at us really well. We were a little slow out the blocks and for the first few minutes and looked shaky. As it was a friendly we started with a different like up to what we normally do and it took a while to settle,Wheatstone went ahead with an early goal, but to be honest we really should have closed them down quicker. We kept our heads and before long were back in it with a well taken shot from Alfie, who I have to say is playing really well at the minute which is great to see , a few moments later Joseph had a shot which the keeper could not hold and Josh slotted home 2-1 at the break. We were playing 3 x 15 minutes so everyone got a good run out and could play in different positions. We brought on Bay and Matt who both made a good impact, Matts strength is always a plus point for us and Baylea's eye for goal, Baylea then scored 2 very good goals in quick succession which took the score to 4-1, we were now well in control, after a couple more changes from us things started to turn, we sat back and allowed Wheatstone to play and have the ball our defence started to go walk abouts as we feel they wanted a shot on goal, we stood off the tackles and Wheatstone came back with 3 goals making the score 4-4 which they did deserve. On to the last period and we again made changes and looked stronger and more settled, we went back to passing the ball and working for each other, Dan then scored a really well taken goal 5-4, we then won a free kick and Dan stepped up and took it only to be denied by the bar. We continued to push and won a corner and at last Calums perseverance at corners paid off as the ball broke free for Calum to slot home 6-4. This was the final score and as I said earlier we really should have won by a lot more, but we sat back and allowed Wheatstone to play which is what they did, well done team a good win.
Sunday 19th October V Lutterworth JY Whirlwind 1-0 (Bay 1)
A great result today for the Eagles, the 1-0 score line to be honest does not do it justice, we were on top for most of the game, playing very good passing, attacking football, the linking play between all was very good, especially between Conor and Alexander down the right, the defence was strong with Josh mopping up anything that came his way. We took the game to them right from the start with shots from all our front players, Conor and Josh were also in on the act from the corners with Josh coming so close I really thought it had gone in, Conor also hit several and was having a fantastic game, over lapping, making well time runs. Half way through the 1st half Baylea put the ball away giving us time to settle. Dan not tyo be out done made several surging runs into the box only to be denied by an exceptional Lutterworth keeper, Alfie also got 3 or 4 shots on target but again was denied by some very good defending. In the 2nd half it was much the same but Lutterworth and several good periods after we had made the change. We again came close on several times with Dan having a great free kick tipped over the bar, Alfies shot saved well and 2 or 3 from Bay, we really should have been awarded a penalty as the Lutterworth keeper came on two footed, studs raised and took Bay out, I do not think in anyway he meant to hurt Bay but it should have been a penalty, anyway 1-0 it finished and was another great game to watch , well done boys.
Sunday 12th October V Blaby Blades 3-1 (Bay 2, Dan 1)
A fantastic morning for football unlike last week, lots of sunshine and very warm, we knew this was not going to be an easy game, we played Blaby before, it was our first game as a team and they beat us 5-0. We won the toss and started well, we were well on top really from the off and were attacking the Blaby goal, it was an onslaught but we just could not convert the shots. We continued this way with most of the action coming down the left hand side, Joseph was having a storming game and getting in crosses and shots nearly every time he got the ball, before long Dan was on the end of a yet another scrambled ball, Blaby cleared. Dan then picked up a pass from Matt, who laid it off to Baylea , who then sent it back to Dan who went on a fantastic run and slotted the ball home 1-0. From the re start Blaby started well and from Conors clearance sent a shot in from the half way line and equalized after about 2 minutes1-1, we really should have been 3 or 4 up at this point as the amount of goal line clearances were amazing, we started to think it was going to be one of those days. The 2nd half started well and we were again attacking but Blaby were coming back at us more this half, the boys continued to fight well and re gained possession, Baylea then sent Matt off down the right, who passed back to Bay who's shot was again saved on the line but this time the goal mouth scramble led to Baylea putting the ball away 2-1, Blaby again came back us even stronger but we stood up well. The passing continued well and found Alfie on the edge of the box who placed his shot well but the Blaby keeper got down and tipped it round the post, we continued to push hard and Dan got the ball through a great pass from Joseph, Dan broke into the area and was brought down and the ref gave us a penalty. The normal shouts from the boys started to me and Dave about who was going to take it ( before I had even started to think about it Dave was striding up the pitch shouting and pointing at Baylea to take it). Bay struck the penalty well and sent the keeper the wrong way 3-1. Blaby did not give in and continued to push hard, they crossed a ball in which caught Matt on the arm and the ref gave the penalty, which to be honest was the right call, Blaby stepped up but put the shot wide. The game finished 3-1 and I have to say it was the best game of football I have seen our boys play, a massive well done to you all it was a fantastic result.
September
Sunday 21st September V Allexton 4-2 (Baylea 1, Matt 1)
After some confusion as how to get in we finally arrived at the ground, the warm up went well the boys looked sharp and we felt good, the game started at a slow pace and we felt we were slow to some balls, Allexton were not all over us but they were quicker, this didn't last for long and soon we were reacting a lot sharper and quicker, we were passing well enough and trying to attack which we had told the boys to do. Allexton took the lead through a pretty good goal, we did not allow this to bother us and continued to fight for the ball, pass well and the attack was getting nearer, before long after a corner Baylea connected ALL BE IT WITH HIS HIP AND THE BALL SNEAKED IN 1-1 at half time. The 2nd half was going well and we seemed to be getting the upper hand, we had more possession and were battling hard for the balls we didn't win, against the run of play Allexton scored with a long floating ball which Stefan just could not see because of the sun, he did his best and he managed to get his hands to it, but it still went in, this left Stef in a little pain as he had looked directly at the sun. Allexton had the wind in the sails then and before long we conceded a pretty soft goal they should never had got the shot off but at 3-1 we still did not give in, we continued to battle but again Allexton scored another soft goal. We were now 4-1 down something we are not used to, our heads did not go down, we continued to fight hard and we had 2 shots some how cleared off the line, Matt then found some room on the right won 2 or 3 tackles and had a shot from outside the area which rocketed into the back of the net. Full time was nearly up but again we attacked and both Bay and Conor came close, but it just was not to be. The final score was 4-2 but it was one hell of a game, well done boys do not let this bother you, we can't win them all.
Sunday 14th V Harborough Rampage 2-0 (Bay 1, Dan 1)
Arriving at what can only be described as a large venue we finally found parking, some better spaces than others, the amount of money being spent at Harbourough ground is extortionate. The pitches were fantastic all be it the grass was a little long. Once we had found the harborough team we settled in to the warm up and the boys looked keen and sharp. The game kicked off and we were straight in, the passing was good and sharp and almost straight away Joseph had tested the keeper with a great cross come shot from the left, this continued with us attacking mainly down the left but with some fantastic passes and switching the play from Matt, not long in Joseph had another shot which the keeper could not hold and Baylea was on to it and slotted home, Harborough were under pressure and we were getting quite a few shots in but the keeper was fantastic and kept them in it. This continued but with Harborough getting in good counter attacks and seconds before the break Alexander pulled of a great finger tip save to push the ball over the bar, at this point we were starting to stand of Harborough a little to much. At the break we made a few changes and told the boys to tackle faster and not allow them to much space, they did just that, Matt was on fire again with fantastic passes and work rate that only he seems to know were his energy comes from, Alfie was also having a great tackling game and giving us another option out on the left. Dan was also starting to move up from a deep position and twice took on several players beat them and got the ball into dangerous areas only for the keeper to some how spoil our day. Dans frustration was starting to show and just as Dave and I said have a shot Dan did just that and smacked the ball home to make it 2-0. This was a great result for us and takes us into round 2 (proper), we said that knowing our luck we will end up with a division 1 or 2 team, the draw was Monday night and guess what, we have drawn adivision 2 team Blaby Blades, as Mark and Dave have said Bring em on
August
Sunday 31st V Beaumont Lions 2-1 (Bay 1, Joseph 1)
Cup final day and boy was I nervous as were Mark and Dave, the boys however didnt seem fased by it, the warm up was focused like any other game. We kicked off and were looking good and sharp, the passing was accurate and we were getting to the ball first, Baylea was being man marked by big Joel which to be honest worked in our favour as Baylea had a shadow, so Joel was being kept out of our area. We attacked well and were getting shots in and Bay and Joseph came close in the first few minutes. Beaumont were also strong and playing good football and it was end to end action. Again the midfield of Matt, Dan and Joseph looked good and strong and with Baylea playing off them the ball was getting through, before long we broke via some real battling from Joseph and Matt who won us a corner, Matt delivered the ball in well, the ball broke at the back post, Bay had lost his shadow and put the ball away 1-0. The game continued this way with both teams having chances. Just before half time Beaumont got a goal back with a great goal from their top scorer Olivia with an over head kick. At the re start it was pretty much the same, tense and nerve racking but the team stayed focused and we got another goal from Joseph who headed home, the midfield were starting to run the show but were also looking worn out as they had ran for and won pretty much everything. The game was alomst over and we were doing well, in the last 2 minutes we could have gone 3 or 4 up with Dan having a good spell, and Joseph and Bay hitting the bar, the final result which I felt was a fair one was 2-1, it was what a cup final should be like, equal end to end action, but we were the eventual winners and YOU DESERVED IT, WELL DONE lets keep it going for the season that starts next week we can't wait.
Sunday 24th V Enderby Foxes 7-0 (Bay 4, Joseph 2 Dan 1)
The semi final and we drew Enderby, the last time we played them we won 5-0, since then they had lost a manager and a few players, so we really didn't no what to expect. The weather was good although the grass was very long so would affect the passing of the ball. The boys warmed up and were ready for the game. Enderby kicked off and we were straight in, Matt noticed what Enderby were about to do, shoot from the off and Matt was straight there to charge it down, our passing was good from that point and within 3 minutes Joseph had found the net with a fantastic strike from just outside the box 1-0. Again from the spot Matt charged the ball down, Dan was on it like a whippet, who found Bay, who found Matt who crossed, Bay caught the edge of the ball and took the sting out of it for Joseph to slot the ball home for his 2nd 2-0. This time Enderby changed tact but Bay was straight in there and won the ball, Enderby got the ball back and were attacking, Conor stood strong and won the ball and as he was playing at right back decided it was his turn to do what Sinead used to do and go on a run, Conor had won the ball just outside our own box and took on 3 or 4 Enderby players and ran with the ball all the way to the other box, he crossed the ball in to Baylea who was on the edge of the box for Baylea to smash a screamer into the top corner 3-0. We were now playing with confidence and the ball control was very good and the team looked composed. We won a corner and it was Cal's turn to go up, as the ball came in Calum took it on the volley and shot just wide, from the goal kick we won the ball and were again attacking with strength, but Enderby broke and got the ball up field and forced a corner, we got the ball back after some neat defending and the ball broke to Bay who was on the edge of our box marking, Bay ran the ball and took on and beat 3 Enderby players, Matt had caught up with Bay by then and took over, Matt then crossed back and found Baylea the ball came across the goal for Baylea to slot home 4-0. At this point we were getting a little to confident for my liking and everyone started going up for the corners, leaving us exposed at the back and twice Enderby broke leaving us a lot of chasing to do, Stefan was forced into making 2 saves this way but he kept a clean sheet. Half time came and we made a few changes, Alex for Stef, Dek for Cal, and Josh for Conor, again we started strong and were passing well, Josh was tackling well and picking of the passes to sent our midfield through Joseph broke away and had a great shot which the Enderby keeper got to but could not stop, as the ball went over the line Dan was there to make sure 5-0, Joseph thought he had his hat trick but Dan was claiming the goal. The defence was much busier this half and although doing well we were exposed and as Enderby got through on the right Alexander had to make a great diving save. The game continued this way and the mid field were controlling the centre of the park, this led to another well worked attack and fed Baylea in for his hat-trick 6-0. Again Enderby came back at us and forced Alexander into a fantastic save which he was at full stretch to get to which he did, from the goal kick we were again on the attack and the midfield were fantastic and Matt was having a fantastic game he passes were spot on and again he found Dan who found Bay to slot home for his fourth and our seventh. This was the final score and to be honest was right we had played very well, however we cannot get complacent as the final against Beaumont is going to be a totally different game, Beaumont are strong and physical something we will have to get to grips with early on, but a big well done for today.
Sunday 17th August V Barlestone St Giles 3-1 (Bay 2 Joseph 1)
A fantastic game today, we looked much better, still a few shaky moments but overall a pleasing game. We tried to play passing football and in the most we did just that, we had a goal disallowed as the ref felt it came of Baylea's arm, (he swears it came off his chest) but there was no way Alex could have been sure so the correct decision was given. Our first goal was scored by Baylea after some neat midfield work by Joseph, Dan and Matt, our 2nd goal was a great well taken half volley from Joseph who very nearly scored a 2nd straight after from a header. Matt's corners and crosses continue to improve and our third goal scored by Baylea was from a well delivered corner by Matt. The game was really over by now but Barlestone continued to battle and scored very late on after a mistake at the back led to a shot from in side our box which they took well. Apart from that little mistake which we will work hard to sort out, this is the style of football we have worked hard over the last year to play and lets hope it continues. This result puts us top in our league of this cup but we will have to wait until Friday night to see who finishes 2nd in the other league. The semi final promises to e a great game, well done boys
Sunday 10th August Beaumont Town Tournament (Matt 1, Dan 1)
The fixture list looked interesting with some strong teams entered, we had the tough start with Groby and Beaumont Lions are first 2 games, the team started very well, good flowing football, good passing and good shots on target, Groby were also very strong and it was end to end action, the final score being 0-0 which to be honest was a fair result, next up were the big guns of Beaumont Lions again we started strong and showed our intentions and were attacking the goal well, we were soon rewarded with an excellent goal from Matt and we took the 1-0 win. Next up we St Andrews Swifts, this looked the easiest of all our games, we warned the team not to be complacent as the new look swifts were hungry for a win after a string of defeats. What happens, the boys got a little to confident (dare I say Cocky) and Jons team dug in and really wanted to beat us and thats exactly what they did we lost 1-0. Next up were the even bigger guns of Aylestone who put 5 passed us in a friendly the week before, after what can only be described a big roasting the team rose to the challenge and showed us the type of football we know they can play, we looked good and pushed Aylestone hard and the game finished 0-0. We were now lying in 3rd place and had to play Beaumont panthers who were in 2nd, we had to beat them by 3 goals to get to the final, we went into the game full of confidence and took the game to them, we attacked the goal and defended well and not long in Dan put a screamer into the back of the net, we were the only team to score pass them, as the game ended we were tied into 2nd spot with the panthers only to miss out on goal difference, if we had drew or beat the Swifts we would have had the final, never mind it just goes to show you have to respect all the teams and today we were punished for not doing that, overall a great tournament, much better football and well done team things are slowly improving.
Saturday 9th August V Westfield 2-1 (Bay 1 Matt 1)
After a shaky start last week in our first outing we were a little nervous, the weather was bad, wind and rain, just the normal British summer. Anyway the shaky start continued and after what I think was 1 minute we were 1 nil down, not something we are used to or like. The team were not down though and started to play the type of football we played at the end of last season, before long we were back in it with a great free kick from Matt.Both teams had chances but the better ones were falling to Westfield but our boys stood up well, Baylea had a shot stopped on the line which looked to have been taken over the line by the keeper, but the ref did not have a clear view and could not give it, we continued to create chances with better football and not long after the break Baylea popped up with what proved to be the winner. The nerves seemed to have settled and we looked a little bit like our old selves from last season.
Saturday 3rd August V Aylestone Park 0-5
We were not sure to have this game as we were several key players missing including both keepers, anyway against better judgment we decided at least it would be a run out prior to the tournaments. What a bad decision this proved to be, Aylestone park are a strong team at the best of times and played very well, we did play some neat fottball at times and picked ouyt some good passes but with several key players out we were out played, the defence were under pressure from the start and it was the first time without Sinead and it seemed to rattle them. The main point taken from the run out was ther fact despite loosing 5-0 they never dropped the heads and they played like a team working for each other.
Sunday 29th June V Harborough
What a way to finish the season, to be honest we were well to strong for Harborough, we played some very neat passing football and kept possession most of the time. Harborough goal keeper did well as did there number 6, (its good to see girls defending like Sinead) but our midfield and attack ran the show, THE MIDFIELD OF MATT, DAN, ALFIE, JOSEPH SUPPLYING BAYLEA WAS FANTASTIC, I felt a big credit to Harborough was when they were really up against it, they kept going and most of the heads were held high. The score line of 15-0 was amazing but I don't think we will get many of these, the whole team were strong and Alexander enjoyed himself on pitch, the scorers were as follows
Dan 1,2,
Bay 3,4,5,6,7,10,11,12,15
Alfie 8,
Joseph 9,
Alexander 13,14
Sunday 22nd June V Hinckley
A cracking game of football today, every player worked together and played as a team. We started well, looked strong and up for a game, we took an early lead via Baylea with some excellent passing which set him up, the game continued well and we were putting the pressure on and attacking the Hinckley goal well with Matt hitting the bar twice and Joseph once, Hinckley came back at us but our defence and keeper stood strong. The 2nd half started well and before long we were 2 nil up with a great goal from Daniel, again lots of passing led up to it, the midfield continued to get the ball and played some great crosses in, Baylea Matt and Dan were trying their luck with headers with Baylea and Dan coming very close, Matt was having a great game and got his rewards with a well struck goal 6 minutes from time. The team were not done and continued to press hard with Bay and Alfie again coming close, Matt was not happy with one and struck another great shot and finshed well, the final score 4-0 to be honest it could have been 6 or 7 but the Hinckley keeper had a fantastic game and pulled of f 3 or 4 great saves, again well done and 1 more to go till we break for the summer.
Sunday 15th Asfordy Tournament
What a way to end our last tournament of the season, looking at the teams it seemed we had again been put into a very strong league, we had drew Stoneygate blues as well as 4 other strong teams, but we are now used to this. The first game was Asfordby and it got off to a bad start with what had to be the first shot of the game going straight in, we had barely moved and were 1 down, the team did not let this bother them and hit back very quickly with a great goal from Baylea which we think every player touched, this continued and we came back strong to win 3-1 with Baylea getting at hat trick. Then came Clifton who we were told had finished 2nd in Division 3 and we fought out a 0-0 but we hit the bar Dans great free kick and the upright twice so we felt a little un-lucky. Next up were Mowbray bears who again had had a great league and were unbeaten in 8 again we battled well and took the lead from Alfie who was in a great position to slot home, just before the fianl whistle they managed to get 1 back and it finished 1-1.Next were Stoneygate blues who we had never beaten we have played them twice in recent tournaments and had a draw and a lose, we started strong but it was Stoneygate who scored with an excellent goal, again the teams heads did not go down and we equalised with 2 minutes to go with a cheeky chip from Baylea. This result left us in 2nd place and we were in the quarter final. This time we drew Mowbray cubs who had beaten us 2-0 at Fleckney, it was great game with end to end football with both teams creating chances but at full time we were at 0-0, now it was extra time and sudden death, we both came out with attacking football and it was us that got the golden goal with a goal from Joseph . The semi's caused some confusion but after a discussion with the organisers we got Melton foxes, this was another great game lots of chances and we got the break through via Baylea set up by Joseph who it has to be said was having the time of his life he was on fire today. The final our 3rd one this season from 5 so not bad going for our first season, this turned out to be a battle, Thurmaston were strong and very physical, there players were arguing every decision, they attacked well but we held our own and attacked as well. Thurmaston got the goal but it was more of a goal mouth scramble than a well taken goal, we continued to press but it was not to be, never the less it was a fantastic achievement to get that far and the team fully deserve a pat on the back WELL DONE.
Sunday 8th June Oadby Tournament
The weather was fantastic the venue was excellent and the team were ready for a challenge, we knew the fixture list a week before and as we were 1 of only 2 teams outside the top 3 divisions we were in for a few tough games. The team did really well from the off with some good defensive work as well as good attacking football, the first game was end to end, we had two very good shots on goal and very nearly scored, the 2nd game was against the tournament favourites Oadby owls, this turned out to be our game of the tournament, Oadby had just beaten Riverside 5-0, Riverside were in our league last year so we thought we were in for a tough game. The game was fantastic end to end and we were creating chances, the whole team battled well, defended together and generally worked for each other, at the end we went down 1-0 which was a fantastic result and it turned out to be the only goal we let in all tournament, the next 3 games were also very good, we continued to play well and gave a strong account of ourselves, by the end of it the team were worn out and looked a little down, but we have to remember you cant win the all and to reach 2 finals in tournaments and win 1 of them in our 1st year is truly amazing, again well done to you all it was a pleasure to watch.
Sunday 24th May V Riverside Hawks
Well the good run continues and we seem to be gaining confidence each and every time we play, again we played 3 3rd's as it's a good way to try new idea's and play players in different positions. The 1st started well with good flowing football and we were attacking the Riverside goal well, we were creating plenty on chances but again were not converting them. The flowing football continued and we piled on the pressure, our defenders were coming up for the corners and to be honest looked like scoring, again Matt's corners were precise and I really do not know how we were not 3 or 4 up as we must have had 6/7 corners but before long the attacking football paid off with some great passing from the defence out to Joseph who ran the line well and found Baylea who finished with venom. The heads were up and soon we were off, Matt worked the ball well from the half way line with Alfie crossing to Joseph who found space and put the ball away with conviction 2-0 was the 1st 3rd result. We made 2 changes for the next period and we continued to play well, fast passing, looking for each other Dek was having a great game at left back and was pushing forward each time he had a chance, Sinead was also running with the ball and getting into forward positions, Alfie was looking strong and crossing really well, it was Alfie's next cross over to Joseph who set up Baylea on the edge of the box, Bay took it well went through 3 of the Riverside defenders and set himself up to score his second and our 3rd of the game. The teams spirit was now well and truely up and before long we were attacking the Riverside goal but this 3rd finished 3-0. We made a couple more changes for the last 3rd and told the team to play the football we know they can and to slow things down and the goals will come, this worked and the passing and flow of the football was excellent, a cross from Joseph found Dan, Dan was 6 yards out took one touch and hammered the ball home 4-0. I know I have not mentioned our keeper Stefan at this point but he had not had a great deal to do, but a shot came in and he delt with it well, he cleared the ball up field which found Baylea, Baylea was on is own 1 on 1 with a defender who he beat and thumped the ball into the back of the net 5-0, this was turning into a very confident display of football. We were now into the last couple of minutes and again had a corner, I had told Sinead to go up for it, the ball broke and Sinead fed it back in for a shot from Cal, the Riverside defence had put it out for another corner so Sinead stayed up, I looked back to say to Cal go up if you want, but he was not in defence, he had decided he wanted another go at goal and was already in the box, the corner came in and Cal got a shot off and very nearly scored, but again we got a corner, this time Matt put the ball at a perfect height for a header, right on the penalty spot, as the ball came across Sinead was there jumping for a header, Sinead connected with the ball and in it went 6-0, a great time for a defender to pop up and score. I keep saying we cannot get carried away with these wins but I also think we should be celebrating a great run of results and form, so again well done team.
Sunday 18th St Andrews Tournament
What an eventful day, what a high and what a result for the team, our motivation speech before we started was" get out there fast, be first to the ball and play like you do in our normal games don't give yourselves more to do than is needed, well they did just that. Aylestone park were strong and were playing good passing football, they were however looking to poach a goal by leaving one camped in our box. This did catch us out for a minute or two but Cal and Sinead were quick to realise what was happening, we were fast with our passes, quick to the ball and were showing a real fighting spirit, we were shooting at the goal and was on target, this clearly rocked Aylestone. We had a corner awarded to us and Matt went across to take it, he put it really close to the keeper and in the confusion the ball went straight in, we continued to battle and we very nearly got a 2nd through Dan and then Bay but 1-0 it finished. The 2nd game was against Riverside Hawks, again we were fast out the blocks winning most of the balls and fought for everything, we scored not long into the game through a well taken pass from Matt to Bay who finished well 1-0. We were playing very well and hit the target about 10 times but the ball would not go in the net, it really should have been 5 or 6 nil but we settled for 1-0. Game 3 was against borough Alliance, again we started strong and were attacking well from the off, we took the lead early on through Dan.We continued to play attacking football with the defenders coming into the game and also attacking from set pieces and corners, we were well on top and controlling the game well, Borough managed to pull one back from a huge goal kick which confused us some what and the ball managed to find it's way through, shortly after this Borough again had a great shot which Alexander managed to parry away but the ball continued towards the line, I really don't know how Alexander managed to get back to the ball but he did and just pushed it away before the Borough attack followed up, the game finished 1-1. The table was now very close with us and Borough on 7 and Aylestone on 6. The next game was against Thurmaston Hawks who we played at Huncote, we gave our little speech about the semi final place at stake and play your socks off. As the whistle went we were attacking and controlling the ball well, we were also holding the ball for each other and looking for the pass, we got an early goal through Alfie which settled us down, shortly after we were 2-0 nil up with some neat passing from all involved the ball found it's way to Alfie who finished passed to Dan who was not about to waste the chance and he put the ball away neatly. The game was into it's last few minutes but we continued to push forward and just before the final whistle we scored via some great passing and Dan slotted home. We had made it to the semi final, we had to wait for the other game to finish to see where we ended up and who we would play. Aylestone defeated Borough which left us top and before long we realised we were playing Riverside Kestral who were from our league. The team talk was much the same, look for each other, pass the ball, attack the goal and make sure we all defend. The game was excellent, good football from both teams good shots from both teams and it finished 0-0 and the dreaded word of penalty's came up, we strongly believe that we should not push or force anyone to take a penalty in this situation so we asked for names. Dan was first and scored, then it was Joseph, Matt and Dek who all had shots saved, Riverside were also struggling and with just Bay to take it was level at 1-1, now it was simple if Bay scores we are through, at this point I am not sure who was watching, who had turned away and who actually knew that if Bay scores we win, we didn't say a word, Bay took the penalty and scored what a relief we were through on penalty's and had got rid of the feelings of two weeks a go. On to the final, again we had to wait as the other game had gone to penalty's eventually Wigston Youth won, as the game started it was clear this was going to be a physical game, the team did well, stood up to the strong tackles and gave as good as they got , again it was end to end stuff with neither of us able to get the goal, 0-0 at full time. As extra time started it was much the same, both teams had chances but again it was 0-0 and the penalty word again came up. Same rules apply we got the names and we decided on the order,
1) Dan takes the penalty and the keeper saves, Alexander saves 0-0
2) up steps Alfie stikes it well and scores, they shoot wide 1-0
3) up steps Cal keeper saves, they score 1-1
4) up steps Alexander and scores, Alexander saves 2-1
5) up steps Bay, again it's all on him again if Bay scores we win, he struck it well and scores, the whole team went wild and so they should, this was a well deserved win, the hard work they have all put in has finally paid off, a mention should be made to our supporters at this point who were also wildly celebrating, to win a tournament at the end of our first year together is FANTASTIC.
Sunday 11th V Harborough
Again an excellent result for us, our only concern was the amount of time it took to get the score at this, we were dominating the game from the start and took an early lead from a lob from Dan which Bay got in front of the keeper and distracted him and the ball snuck in, after this we were taking shots from way outside the box and putting them under pressure, at half time we said (I know this is contradicting) have a few more shots from inside the box ( well at least they listen to what we say). I only say this because a few weeks ago we were saying they had to have more shots from outside the box and today they were doing, but forgot about the close range ones. Anyway back to the game, we continued to harass the Harborough goal and soon after Baylea slotted home 2-0, we started to allow Harborough back in with some sloppy passes and before long they had a goal back 2-1. In the 3rd part we said to go back to the passing game we are now starting to do well, slow it down, look for the passess and hold the ball, they did just that and we were off, a couple of minutes in Joseph had a shot from just inside the box and put it low into the corner 3-1. From the start Bay was in passed to Matt who set up Dan to finish superbly from the left of the goal 4-1. Alexander was now starting settle in his new position and was soon rewarded with another well taken goal 5-1. Josh was now on and was holding the ball really well and brining people into the game, he laid of a pass to Alfie who cut in on the left extremely, found Josh again who took tha well deserved goal 6-1, we were so pleased with the result, you again played some very good football from the keeper right up to the attack, we need to be careful we do not get carried away with our recent run of results and keep a level head, having said that what a great game of football and a big well done to you all
Monday 5th May Huncote Tournament
Where do I start I really cannot find the words to express how the 3 of us feel, we are ecstatic with the way you all performed, when it mattered you all dug in, yes we were slow to start and took time to settle in, once you had done this and played the kind of football you have shown you can play you were all fantastic. The quarter finals were when you all really found the top gear with 2 great goals coming from Matt and a thumping long range shot from Matt the type he hits in training week in week out finally went his way, I had a comment from Baylea straight after the goal was " I ducked when he hit it and I still felt it go passed my head there was no way I was getting in the way of that". The semi final was again a great gamewe hit them early with a great strike from Baylea and it seemed to really rattle them, then shortly after Baylea scored after wrong footing the keeper then it happened, the ref made or rather didn't make the call which was a clear penalty to us, one of the Hinckley players caught the ball let go and the ref turned away, one of our parent who shall remain nameless (thanks for the donation hush money I think it's called!!!)made a comment about the decision and we got a warning, seconds later we had a goal kick which then got changed to a corner, someone else (who shall also remain nameless) made a comment about and we were on the verge of being removed from the tournament (IT'S A GOOD JOB CRAIG WAS NOT THERE!!!!!). Anyway back to the game minutes later we had won and Hinckely were not happy especially the assistant manager, I have to say the manager was fine and it was fantastic of him to come across to our lads and congratulate our team a really sportsman.
The final it's worth mentioning at this tome that Hinckley had beaten us in the 1st game and we were now up against Stanton who had also beaten us, this time we were out of the blocks like electric and we wanted this cup, Alexander pulled of a match saving save and we went up the other end and Baylea tucked away a neat little goal, the next 11 minutes was fantastic football real end to end action, we had a few more shots on goal and very nearly went 2 -0 up, Stanton then hit the bar from a fantastic shot, but with seconds to go they managed to score, we kicked off quickly as to be honest we were on top, as soon as we had kicked the ball the final whistle went and it was the dreaded penalty shoot out. The 3 of us talked about who should take the penalty's and the order was decided and it was a unanimous decision.1st up was Dan and scored so did Stanton, 2nd up was Matt and Scored Stanton missed, 3rd up James but unfortunately missed Stanton scored, 4th up was Stef unfortunately he missed, 5th was Baylea scored now it was all on Stanton and they scored so it was 4-3 to them on penalty's but still a fantastic afternoon and a great result for us, I am sure if at 3pm we were told we would get to the quarter final let alone the final we would have been happy but to take it to penalty's is a fantastic result and the 3 of us as I said at the start are over the moon WELL DONE TO YOU ALL
Sunday 27th April V Cosby
As we were 3 short of our normal team this week with Alex at Coerver, Baylea and Connor at Twin lakes we had a chance to shuffle things around again. We started the game well, good passing football with everyone seemingly fitting in well, Alfie did well up front as did Josh in the 2nd half, we were not as sharp as we were against Enderby but we were controlling the game well, the shots were steady and we worked the ball well from our own half. Dan was his normal menacing self which paid of half way through the 2nd half with a well taken goal set up by Josh, we continued to play well with the changes and all the players were getting a lot of ball play. Calum nearly scored twice from well delivered corners from Matt and Joseph, Dan again broke clear with a great pass from Joseph and took the goal well. We followed in on nearly all of the shots which was great to see, the defence stood strong when they needed to with Sinead watching several balls run out and let Cosby do the running, Matt and Joseph came close in the final few moments but we settled for the 2 -0 win, well done again team we know you can do it so lets have a great tournament at Huncote.
Sunday 20th April V Enderby
I have struggled to find the words to write this report, what a performance, what a display, what a game. We arrived at Enderby and the first thing that all 3 of us said was that's a big pitch this is going to suit us, I then went and said my hello's etc to Gav the Enderby manager, had the chat about where we had each finished in the league, he then went on to add "the boys have had a great turn around since Christmas we have not lost", my thought then was oh great. We had worked extremely hard in training and wanted them to put this into practice on the pitch. The whistle went and we started strong, great tackles, first to the ball in all area's and it wasn't long before we had a shot at goal and it was from outside the box!, was training about to pay off?, The game was at a fast pace and we were passing the ball around the park well, we were through on goal after a great cross from Matt found Baylea just on the edge of the area, he took the chance and hit it well, it hit the cross bar with force and went in 1-0, a great start after 5 minutes. It stayed like this for the next 5 minutes or so with several long crosses from Matt, Alfie and Dan putting the Enderby defence under a lot of pressure, this paid off with another well taken goal from Baylea set up by Alfie 2-0, this was how the first half finished, we had decided to play 3 15 mins sections to give all the team a run out, we made the changes and the game carried on, it seemed we had the game sorted but the team did not slow the pace, the next goal stared from the back, with a good solid clearance from Dek which found Joe who found Dan who set up Baylea for his hat trick 3-0 this was good football, long crosses and shots from all angles by Joe, Matt, Dan ,Bay and Connor, Enderby looked shaken. The last period we made the changes again and the players from the first half looked fresh and eager, Sinead then decided she did not really want to stay at the back and made 3 or 4 very good runs right up the pitch and passed the ball right to the running feet of our team several times. The next goal was again worked through the midfield after a great won tackle from Connor, Matt, Cal and Bay were off at this time but were shouting like three crazed nutters at the side of me, Dan took on I think 3 if not 4 of the Enderby team passed across the box to Alfie who had got himself in a fantastic position, he took 1 touch to control it got the ball where he wanted it, had a quick look at goal and fired home 4-0, I was starting to feel for Enderby who were shouting at their own ref. The last goal was fantastic football, it looked like a training ground exercise we had been doing the day before, Alex passed the ball to Cal who passed to Sinead, who had a great run to just passed the half way line, she then passed to Joe who found Dan who burst into space passed the defender and struck the ball well and with pace into the back of the net 5-0, I could go on and on but really this was a whole team effort, the football was a pleasure to watch, the team worked very hard in training, we did wonder on Saturday afternoon if we had pushed them to hard, but they listened to everything we told them and they put it into practice, Now I must mention Alexander who did not have agreat deal to do his defence of Sinead, Calum, Connor and Dek were so strong, the only time he touched the ball was when he had to run and fetch it from behind his goal, but to his credit he never lost concentration and was always shouting, supporting and giving his commands. A big well done team a great game
Sunday 13th April Fleckney Tournament
What a long day this turned out to be, although very well organised and well planned we feel the day was too long, this is the longest of all the tournaments we are entering, anyway as a team we started strong and played very well, we hit the uprights twice and the keeper made 4 good saves (just our normal run of bad luck in front of goal), the Fleckney keeper was outstanding throughout the day, not letting in a single goal!!!. The 2nd game was again very good, strong play, passing well at times and getting the ball in the box, one thing we still need to do more of is having some long range shots and putting the pressure on for the re bounds, we like to try and take the ball in close and try our luck that way. The next two games were not our strongest, we seemed to lose our way a little, having said that we didn't do to bad as these were division 2 and 3 sides and we only went down 1 - 0 and 2 - 0. The last 2 games were excellent good strong play, good attacking football and good shots on goal, lady luck still was not with us as the ball just would not go in the net. All the team did very well and it gave us the chance to try out new and different positions, something we could not do it the league, so overall, there were a lot of positives to take from this and will help us move forward.
Saturday 22nd March V Hinckley
Well what an end to the season playing in snow, today's game was a great end to our first season, we played very well in the first half, winning the ball first time and we looked like a team that wanted to win, again we passed the ball around, looked for each other and gave support in all area's, Matt played very well and made some excellent through passes, Baylea latched on to one which tested the keeper early on. Joseph battling on the left was crossing the ball well and Bay and Dan were trying to get on the end of them, our first goal came from a corner which Dan headed in. The 2nd goal was well worked from the centre between Dan, Bay, Matt and Joseph, the ball then fell at Dan's feet he side stepped the Hinckley defender a put the ball in the top left hand corner, another cracking goal by Dan. The 2nd half was late to start due to the sudden on set of a blizzard, when we did kick off Hinckley were much quicker to the ball than we were and it took us a while to get back into it, in our minds we had won at half time and that was it, all credit to the team though they soon got stuck in and we won the game 2-0. The defence played very well and Connor had a great game as right back, Alexander was strong with the few saves he had to make, his commands and communication with his defenders was excellent as usual, well done team a great end to our season, it puts us in 5th place in the league which we feel is a tremendous effort and result for our fist year in such a strong and difficult division, lets keep it up for the forth coming tournaments.
Sunday 2nd March V Syston
We knew we were in for a tough game today as Syston were playing for top spot, when the whistle went I was pleased to see the team got straight in there, the fighting spirit was again on show, we were winning most of the balls and had some great chances very early on, Baylea found himself through on goal 2 or 3 times with only 1 defender and the keeper to beat, Syston broke quick but they also got back quick, this did cause us a few problem as Baylea seemed to be on his own on each attack. Anyway just before the break Syston got a corner and took it quick and short, and somehow managed to sneak the ball in, this was the only time in the first half we were not quick to defend and they took the chance well. We took the centre kick and again were straight in their half, this time Baylea took a great through ball from Matt beat 1 player and found himself again with two defenders to beat and he did just that and placed the ball between them all and hit the back of the net 1-1 at half time. The 2nd half was much of the same with both teams equally pitched, our defence and midfield were strong, Dan had another excellent game but found himself playing very deep which was leaving Baylea on his own, this has worked for us in the last couple of games but we feel its time to push Dan a bit further up the park again. The winning goal was superb a great shot from the Syston number 6 a real belter hats of to him. We feel we raised the bar again and played really good footbal, we cant wait for our last two games now, lets finish on a high, great game guys.
Saturday 23rd February V Birstal
Today we we robbed, the Birstal ref got a decision wrong, myself Sarah and the Birstal assistant manager all saw the ball cross the line and he commented about the goal, the ref then said no goal as all of the ball did not cross the line, I stand my decision to challenge the ref as the 3 of us know what we saw, whilst I accept the ref's decision is final and respect its a hard job to do but today he got it wrong and did not want to listen to even his own team. Any way rant over back to the team, the 1st half was not one of our best, we were sluggish and 2nd to every ball and were not chasing the 2nd balls, this made life hard for all of us, the midfield were not breaking with the striker as we did so well the week before, but we hung in and kept the score at 0-0 at half time. The 2nd half was much better, the work rate was faster, we started to work as a team and pass the ball and Birstal looked shaky, they put in some hard tackles which again I felt should have been dealt with by the ref, Dan got an elbow in the nose, 2 footed tackle on Bay and Joe and then the main one, the ref's decision (sorry lack of it) to award us a goal which was struck by Cal or Bay they both are claiming it!!!. We carried on battling then came a Birstal goal all be it a very lucky one, the team did not let this get to them, they battled and were rewarded with a goal scored by Dan and set up by Bay, this goal came out of sheer determination and the whole team were involved in the build up, all credit to the team as you did not allow awful refereing to dampen you spirits a well deserved draw.
Sunday17th FebruaryV Riversaide
What a game, what a battle, what can I say, a well deserved win against a very strong team, the team stood strong and played neat football, we showed a hunger and a passion to win the ball from the start, Calum had a great game getting stuck in to everything even when he was on th floor, putting Alfie on the left wing worked well as he was cutting in and swinging the ball into the box , Matt had a great game standing strong in the tackles and really fighting for everything that came his well. Dan ran the centre midfieled like a power house and getting the goal we all deserved, Baylea showed skills in many area's taking on there rather large defender and forcing the Riverside keeper into 2 very good saves. At the break we really could not change anything as we were working as a unit, after a while to give Alfie a break who had not stopped running we brought on Joseph, with his natural left foot he soon had the ball in the box and ran the left wing well, Dek then came on for Sinead who had managed to contain the Riverside attackers with her usual never give in attitude, Dek made 2 strong tackles even though he was still suffering with an ear infection, Alex made 2 finger tip saves and looked very strong and confident today. This was our best game and we would hope this continues, the team have the ability and the speed and are now looking to move up the table, GREAT WIN TEAM A BIG PAT ON THE BACK TO YOU ALL . Sunday 3rd February V Royce Eagles
After a great game on Saturday expectations were high, we arrived eventually at Oakham after around an hour of travelling, the conditions were cold but not to bad. We kicked off and to be honest seemed to be playing Royce of the park, Baylea went close early on but Royce are a very quick team on the counter attack, this proved to be our un doing as Royce broke from the midfield and scored a well taken goal. Again we kicked off and were playing good football and passing the ball well, Alfie Baylea and Dan all had shots but some how did not score, again Royce broke away got behind our defence and again scored another very good goal. This was now war and a battle started between Sinead and there forward number 11, it came to a head after the No 11 gave Sinead a good shove whilst a team mate took a corner, as Dave started to shout the ref Sinead had other ideas and really didn't want dad getting involved so one look at him and a shove back which nearly knocked the lad over that battle was well and truly won by Sinead, the ref had a few words with both of them, but from that moment on there was no way he was getting by Sinead again, this she managed to do for the rest of the game. Pushing and shoving apart we felt we were un lucky and deserved a draw, something the Royce manager agreed with, but this was a great test for the team and they showed true fighting spirit and that they can contain and compete with the top teams in our league, one day soon we will get a little luck.
Saturday 2nd February V Lutterworth
This was one of if not our best game yet, the whole team deserve a pat on the back, they worked hard for the ball, looked for the passes, held the ball up well and took the Lutterworth players on when needed, the flowing football was there as were the shots when we got near, the team have worked well in training, they have practiced hard and seem to be putting it all to good use now in games. Our midfield of Matt Alfie Dan and Joseph worked as a solid unit moving the ball across the park with rhythm, the striker of Baylea worked hard for the ball and was passing out wide and waiting to receive it back, setting up 2 goals, Matt great corner led to Dan's hat trick and well deserved it was to. The defence of Sinead, Calum and Dek looked good as they covered for each other when needed. Alexander didnt really have much to do until the dying few minutes where he made 3 very good saves and kept a clean sheet. Our new lad Conor is doing well and starting to settle in and find the positions, all in all a well deserved win, as Lutterworth were no push over, well done team
Saturday 26th January V Wheatstone
After a 7 week break due to xmas and bad weather we finally got a game, and what a game it turned out to be, the pitch didn't look too bad after the amount of rain we have had and the sun was out. As the game kicked off we didn't look match fit or very sharp and after 5 minutes went behind to a goal we really and normally would clear, we didnt deal with the loose ball well and we paid the price as Wheatstone took the lead, however after a couple of minutes we seemed to wake up and were soon back in it with a well taken goal from Baylea, not long after that Joseph worked his magic along the line a d a few good touches via Alfie and Matt Baylea scored another, at 2-1 we looked a lot more comfortable. After the break we started to take control, some very good passing through the midfield soon had the score at 3-1. The game I thought at this point was starting to really swing our way Alex made a few very good saves and from a goal kick we ran the ball into their net and soon after that we had the ball in the net again 5-1, we were really pleased at the way the team had started to play, all the hard work in the gym working on passing and moving seemed to be sinking in, this type of passing scored our next goal, a pass from Alex to Sinead, Sinead amazing vision and accuracy saw Baylea make a run, the pass was perfect to his feet Baylea took it well and went onto score giving him his double hat trick, we feel without question this was the move of the match. Wheatstone then scored a consolation goal but we were not done there, Dan had been chipping away at the goal and had two very good shot saved minutes earlier, Dan broke from the right and neatly took the goal. The final score 7-2 a tremendous game by all the team, well done team lets keep this up.
Sunday 2nd December V Netherall
Again the weather was not at its best, the pitch did not look great and before we even agreed to play myself and Mark spent 10 minutes walking the pitch to check for glass as there was quite a lot of broken bottles about 20 ft from the touch line, thankfully we did not find any. Just as we kicked off it started to rain quite hard, but this time we were prepared, the team were well dressed and up for a tough challenge. We started well enough and were attacking the ball and playing well, Netherall were also up for a challenge and it was them who took a 1 goal lead after 8 minutes, I felt we were un lucky at this stage. The team did not drop their heads and continued to battle, holding this score at half time. We made 2 changes at the break but these 2 became injured and we swapped back to our starting line up, the team did well having 2 very good shots on target but the ball would not go in the net, again we were caught out and Netherall scored. The final score being 2-0 but I felt we deserved a draw as we battled for the full 40 minutes.
Sunday 25th November V Harborough
The weather was alot nicer than last Sunday, although cold it was a nice sunny morning, we arrived at the Andrews to a full house, we had high expectations for the game as the training on Saturday had gone so well. The game kicked off and for the first few minutes we were a little slow to the ball infact we were standing off and allowing Harborough to every ball, we soon settled into a nice pace and before to long we were rewarded with a goal, Baylea had the ball in the net but the ref had blew the whistle for handball and given us a penalty, I decide to give Alfie a go due to the amount of penalty's he scores in training and to hopefully lift his confidence, he did not disappoint he delivered a well taken penalty, Alfie took his time kept his head and scored low to the left, as the game went on we started to take control, we played some neat football, looking around taking our time and not rushing to play, we were taking shots from outside the box as we had worked on in training Dan scored twice to give us a 3-0 lead at half time Alexander had made an outstanding save to keep the score at this. The 2nd half started much as the first did we were again a little slow to the ball but we still had control, a few of our players were now lining up to take shots, Baylea managed to get to most of the goal kicks first but the ball just would not go in, Joseph also had 3 or 4 attempts at goal but again it just would not go in,then after a shot from Joseph there was a mad scramble in the box and Matt reacted quickest to slot the ball home. The game finished 4-0 to the eagles and I feel it was w well deserved win, well done team.
Sunday 18th November V Hinckley
Today we played in what can only be described as appalling conditions, the cold shouldn't bother us with the correct clothing but combined with the wind and driving rain I really do have to question whether we should have played at all and if I really should have called it off but with this being new to me I wasnt aware of the procedure, of course I take responsibility for this. As managers we feel we were totally unprepared for how cold it was and how much it was going to effect the kids, as managers we have to take responsibility for that, during the winter months we think it will be advisable for the kids play in black or blue tracksuit bottoms a sweatshirt or something similar with what ever kit we are playing in on top and with gloves if they want of course this is not compulsory it is only a request. Back to todays game, again at times we played good passing football from the back and around the middle section but we seemed to hold on to the ball once we got near the goal, this is the main area we feel is missing, we need to start getting the quick passes and shots in once we get near the opposition box, we are taking to long to release the ball or take a shot something we never used to have an issue with, again we feel the cold had a major role to play in this, apart from this we are still doing well, we were unfortunate with losing 2 players early on and then having to go the rest of the game with players who were so cold and who really wanted to come off ,but credit to the whole team and the supporters even though we lost you are all still winners for doing what you did today, again we will work on the killer finishing in training and come back with a good display of football next weekend.
Saturday 10th NovemberV St Andrews Hawks
The Eagles had a great game today, we were good on all parts of the park, we helped each other and played well as a unit, we scored 4 good goals and to be honest we could have scored a couple more. T he 2nd period seen us take our foot of the gas and stopped running at the Hawks. We passed the ball well at times and covered the pitch well, we really hope this continues. There are a few areas we need to work on in training and will be doing so on Saturday, but a big well done to the Eagles you all did well
Sunday 4th November V Royce Eagles
As coaches we all said what a good game this was, the team showed how well they can play when under pressure and did not loose there composure at all, the game was finely balanced and we felt and change would have upset this, as managers sometimes we will have to make these decisions. The first half was played at a very quick tempo which to be honest seemed to suit us, we went close on 3 occasions with Joseph, Baylea and Matt all having shots saved and in the last few moments of the first half Alexander made a fantastic reaction save that kept us in the game. The 2nd half began the same way, fast and furious again we played some excellent football again we had shots from Dan, Bay Matt and Joseph saved but eventually Dan got the ball in the net. The game ended 1-0 and we feel it was a deserved win, well done to the team and also to the 3 who did not get on as we say we are a squad of players.
Sunday 29th October V Syston
Today's match was one of the better games we have played and although we lost we played to a good standard. We fought hard for the ball and managed to string together quite a few neat passes, the midfield looked good for most of the game and at half time with the score at 2-2 we felt we were the better side. The 2nd half again started well with flowing football but Syston scored 3 simply superb goals the shots were from well outside the penalty area which we could do nothing about, Sinead had her best game of the season so far, Alexander made some great saves, his best was the 1 on 1 and Alex came out on top of that one. Daniel had a great game getting his hat trick. Again a good performance by all, we did not drop our heads which resulted in a battle until the end, well done team.
Sunday 21st October V Enderby Foxes
Well a much better performance all round, we looked like we normally do, fighting hard for every ball, not dropping our heads if things did not always go to plan, playing the ball well, looking for the passes, the only thing we could have done better is talking to each other, letting each other know where we are, we will work on this more in training. The friendly gave us a chance to try a few things out, Matt as a striker in the first half and then right back in the 2nd, a bit strange we know having Matt as a striker gave us the option of pushing Dan a bit further up which seemed to work as Matt set up the goal, in defence he gave us the big kick up field that we sometimes need, we felt Matt did an excellent job in both roles, our midfield worked very hard again and are starting to stand up to the shoulder barges that we keep coming across, the defence did well as did Alexander in goal. The goals came from Dan in the first half and a headed goal, yes a headed goal from Baylea in the 2nd half, again we played some good football but more importantly we played as a team which was what we needed to do, a BIG well done team keep it up.
Sunday 14th October V Riverside
Well team what can we say, we did not play to our full potential. The start of the first half was not bad we had Riverside on the back foot, we sent 2 shots just wide and they were only just wide and we were playing nice football, then we gave away a penalty and it all went down hill from there, if we go behind in the way we did we cannot let our game suffer otherwise we will be punishied as we were. Riverside on the day were a better side who played well and wanted to win every ball as we normally do, they were first to the ball and passed well, when we did get the passes together and got the crosses in and the shots on target they lokked shaky but we then stood back and let them clear this is not the eagles. All in all it wasn't a good game but we think you all know that,but was I disapointed NO, I was annoyed because you ARE A BETTER TEAM than you showed , never mind, football is a funny game and we are not the only team to lose a game, it's not the first and it wont be the last one we loose either but we will not lose one in that way again!!!
Sunday 7th October V Glen Villa
Well its about time we had a big win with all the hard work the team have been putting, we played so well and it was a well deserved win the 5 0 score was a credit to the Eagles. We played some very neat football for several long spells, the passes were accurate and the talking was much better. The defence played extremely well they protected our goal and Alex did not have a great deal to do, the shots that did get through Alexander was aleart and made the saves. The midfield controlled the game and fed the attack competently.The goals came from Matt (1)Joseph (1) and Baylea (3) and all were well taken, we looked like a team who wanted to win. Well done to you all and a big thank you to the parents for all your support.
Sunday 30th September V Birstal
What a fantastic game we had, the team played with real belief from the start, the passing was very good, each and everyone of the team passed with confidence, looking for each other, holding the ball well and running with it. The front section worked together with real determination and the defence looked strong and confident. The first half saw us all over Birstal but we just could not seem to find the net, the Birstal keeper was fantastic, we went behind to a very good goal. The team did not give up or drop their heads, they continued to fight and more importantly play well and before long we were level with a fantastic goal from Alfie. After the re start we again wanted each ball and played some neat football and we did not have to wait long for another goal. Overall this was a very good game and Birstal were no push over, we had worked hard again in training on passing and shooting something which you could see had worked during the game, Well done team keep it up. Sunday 23rd September V Thursmaston Magpies
We felt there was a marked improvement in the team today, good passing, running with the ball, putting names to the passes and generally showing an awareness of the football field. We looked liked we wanted the ball from the start and were hungry to do well. We asked for the midfield to try and get some shots in from outside the area, something we did really well, Matt, Joseph, Dan (our new lad) and Baylea had some great shots and this put the pressure on Thurmaston, eventually we broke the deadlock with a well taken half chance from Dawn, it's these half chances that make all the difference. We kept the pressure on and had a free kick hit the bar, several shots just wide and 2 good saves from the Thurmaston keeper, unfortunatley right at the end we took our fingers off the pulse and gave away a soft goal, all in all a very good game and a big improvement, well done Eagles
Sunday 16th September V Asfordby Tigers
This game was a hard game for the Eagles team, after another break in playing we seemed a little slow to start, we were 2nd to most balls in the first half and did not have the normal fight in us, we went behind to a goal which somehow went in from the corner kick, and then to a penalty which Asfordby converted well, I still say Sinead played the ball first but I am sure if it were the other way round we would have been shouting for the penalty. The 2nd half was much better, we came out fighting and looked like we wanted the ball, we were getting to the ball first and making some very good surging runs but against the run of play Asfordby again scored a well taken goal, this woke us up and we hit them with 2 goals in less than 2 minutes, now they were rocked and in the last few minutes of the game we hit the bar, the upright and had 1 saved on the line, we really thought we had got a draw but it was not to be, the team showed the fighting spirit we are becoming known for, maybe we need to keep playing the friendly's to keep our momentum up.
Sunday 2nd September V Netherall
At last the start of the season, the players were up for it from the whistle, we attacked from the off, all the team battled for the ball and we played very good football, we were holding the ball, making passes, over lapping each other,this resulted in an early goal, the goal was set up by Joesph (on his right foot) and was tapped in by Baylea. Just before the break we were caught out by a long ball over the top from their goal keeper and the ball some how found its way in, not long after that we were again caught out in the same way. After half time the defence had re grouped and with help from the midfield kepT the long ball out. The team never let their heads drop and played extremely well, we equalised with a great shot from Baylea which went into the top corner. Netherall won their league last year so to hold them to a 2-2 draw we feel is a great achievement. We hope this is a taste of things to come. WELL DONE EAGLES.
Sunday 26th August
This was a very good game for us, we looked good as a unit from the goal keeper up to the striker, we were starting to hold the ball and look for the players making runs into space, shots were going in from outside the box, something we worked on in training, we felt this was a very good strong performance all round. The 1st goal was from Joseph a well hit left footed drive from outside the area giving the acorns keeper no chance, the 2nd was a well earned shot from Matt who has worked tirelessly for several games now and was rewarded with a goal today. What a way to finish our pre season, this has lifted the team. We are now looking forward to the start of the season WELL DONE TO YOU ALL.
Saturday 19th August
Beaumont Town Tournament
We arrived on a cold and windy field with lots going on, after eventually finding the correct pitch we set up camp, the fixtures were well spaced out which seemed to work well. Our first game against Wheatstone went well, but it seemed we were a little slow out of the blocks, the defence worked very well with the midfield and we fought out a 0-0 draw. The 2nd game was very hard against Syston foxes, they were very strong in the tackles but again we worked hard as a team with the defence having to fight all the way, again we drew 0-0 which was a good result. Game 3 was excellent we had drew Beaumont town and to say their lads were big was an understatement, this did not bother our team, we had an excellent game coming close several times, we showed the fighting spirit we had before the summer break, again we held them to a 0-0 draw. These results put us through to the next stage and we ended up with Alexton and Newparks, just before we were due to kick off I was told they had put in 17 goals in 3 games!!!!. The Eagles played the best I have ever seen them play, we came close to scoring twice, in the end we lost 3-0 but I feel this was still an excellent result, Allexton went on to win the tournament.
Sunday 12th August
Eagles 2 Kingsway Celtic 5
After a 4 week break it seemed the players were a little slow out of the blocks, the team did not have there normal fighting spirit in the first half and were out of shape, Kingwsay were 3 - 0 up at this point. The 2nd and 3rd halfs were much better and we started to fight back, Matt and Baylea scored 2 well taken goals which brought us right back in it, but again Kingwsay scored to make it 5-2 dispite not having Alex Calum did an excellent job and made some good saves. We are not to dissapointed as after a break it has to be expected some what, lets hope we are back in shape and fighting fit on Wednesday for the game against the hawks.
Sunday 17th June
Eagles 1 Cosby Colts 0
A hard fought battle today and we feel a deserved win, again the Eagles played as a team with a lot of the players starting to read the situation and the game and not rushing in getting the ball and then panicking, the passes were well timed, the tackles were hard and most of them fair.The goal keeper did not really have a lot to do but thanks to Tom kept a clean sheet, the defence again were strong and fearless, the midfield kept the ball well and the attack getting the goal we needed . Lets hope this is a sign of things to come when the season starts in September, well done to you all a well deserved WIN .
Sunday 17th June
Eagles 5 Hawks 2
Well what a game, we trained hard on Saturday with a lot more put on what we can do in games and the positions we should be in, this seems to have worked, the whole team were on fire, they played their socks off, each and everyone of them were fantastic. We played like a team, but with indivual units working together looking for each other, overlapping, waiting for each others runs and most importantly the passes were reaching the player they were aimed for. The defence of Alfie and Sinead were strong in tackling and standing their ground, the midfield of Chad, Dekland and Dawn were excellent in attack but also chased back to defend most of time stopping the attack before it got to our defence and the up front partnership of Matty and Baylea were electrifying with Matt bagging two well taken goals and Baylea getting a hat trick, we used a goalkeeper who believe it or not hadn't played in goal before and was an absolute star even saving a penalty well done Dom. We feel the final words of this write up should be the ones said by Dave, IT WAS THE BEST FATHERS DAY PRESENT EVER!!!!
Sunday 10th June
Eagles 0 Epworth 8
What can we say, we were beaten by a very good side from division 5, again the team did well with some good tackling, but Epworth forest were excellent. We have learnt a lot from the game and will be working on a few things in training, we must have more shots on goal and be faster we first time shots, We should not be deflated but take this as a positive with new ideas to work on. The Epworth team and manager were a friendly bunch and Darren and Phil had a good chat with him afterwards.
Sunday 2nd June
Eagles 0 Loughborough FC 1
This was our best game yet, we played very well as a team, good passing, looking up to see where each other was, we looked like a team who had been playing together for a while. Unfotunately the result went against us with a decision that neither Darren Phil or the extra coach helping Loughborough had heard of , but any way they had a direct free kick which was superbly taken and resulted in their goal, apart from that we matched them all the way with more shots on goal than they had but we could not find the net. All of the players did really well with some strong tackles going in and fighting for every ball, we feel a win is not far away and with us still only playing a handfull of games this is encouraging. Thanks again to all the fantastic support from the parents, maybe we should take the players bell boating more often, we thought it would tire them out but they had more energy than normal!!
Saturday 19th May
Our first tournament and again we feel that the teams did extremely well. Just before we were due to kick off we were told that 3 teams from our age group had not turned up, so Darren and Phil offered to field two seperate teams with Sunny the under 8's hawkes manager taking the team when Darren and Phil were busy with other half, both teams did very well and finished 3rd in each league with both teams getting a win, although Darren and Phil's team was by default, Sunny's however was a 1-0 defeat of Wigston youth, the goal scored by Nikeidi was well taken. We feel we are doing well and need to keep up the run of friendly's to keep the momentum going.
Sunday 13th May Eagles v Enderby Town 11.00am kick off AWAY
Eagles 1 Enderby 5
Again what a good game, we must remember that we are a new team and still learning how each other plays, the fun element was again there and the ref said to us at the end "it's nice to see a team play with smiles on their faces" which to us is as important as the football itself. We played very well with some good tackles, impressive passess and communication with each other,our goal was from Baylea set up by Joesph and Matt, it was a shot come lob of the keeper, but who cares it went in. The score really did not represent the way we played. We hope you are all looking forward to next weekends tournament, it will be hard work as we are playing at least 4 games, thats more in 1 day than we have played so far. All the players should eat pasta, rice and greens all week to get their energy levels up!!!! We bet they wont. Again big thanks to the parents who continue to help and support. Darren and Phil.
Sunday 29th Eagles v Enderby Town 11.00am kick off HOME
Eagles 1 Enderby 1
What a game we had, Phil and Darren are really pleased with the improvement from last week, the team seem to be gelling, partnerships are starting to be formed but most of all they all seem to be having fun with it. The continued support from all parents is tremendous a few can still shout above the rest of us put together (Dawn Beki and Donna)!!. Calum and Sinead took balls to the face but got up and played on, Sinead also won just about every ball she went in for, Bayleas goal was very good with an expert supply from Joseph, Phil and Darren thought we had won it in the dying seconds as Dave Sineads dad, standing behind the goal (out of ear shot of the women who were screaming by this point!) jumped for joy as Bayleas shot looked like it was going to curl into the top corner, but somehow the Enderby keeper got a hand to it and pused it over, Dave later said he did not know how the keeper managed it, it really was an excellent save. Lets hope this continues.Again 110% was given by each and every player. Alex, what a keeper with some outstanding saves to keep us in it, Alfie, Calum, Nakhedi and Sinead a strong defense really starting to gel. The midfield of Matt (who covers the whole pitch every game), Chad and Dawn with some fantastic tackles and Declan who surprises from the left, the two strikers Baylea and Joesph (with his amazing left foot) who work like they have played togther for years, which resulted in our first goal from Baylea a curling shot which sneaked into the near corner. They should all be proud of what they did today as we certainly are.
April
Sunday 22nd Eagles v Blaby Kick off 11 am HOME
Eagles 0 Blaby 5
This was our first game the whole team played really well, we held them to 0-0 in the first half but unfortunatley they beat us in the 2nd, Phil and Darren were really pleased with how the whole team played and it was an encouraging start and all players gave 110%
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