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Nottsborough 1 Old Wilsonians 0 League Saturday 8th May 2010
Nottsborough retain the title !
Nottsborough Coach Brian Williams was asked before the game what chances there were of his team retaining the title. His reply was that it required everything to go their way, but that he would be tempted to put a fiver on it. In the end that bet would have worked out but that does not tell half the story !
On a damp cold day at Marvels Lane (priceless name considering) Nottsborough were preparing for one of the most important games of the season and both centre backs Parker and Sutcliffe were missing. They had to start the game with 10 players as the two teachers had been at an “Open Day” where attendance was compulsory. At five minutes past three their car duly arrived and 10 minutes into the game Nottsborough attempted to get both players on the pitch, asking a partially fit Ben Hickes to come off in the process. Here Nottsborough hit a major problem as Ref. Steve Redfearn pointed out that neither player was named as sub on the team sheet and insisted that only one player could come on, and that Hickes should stay on the pitch. Now by the letter of the law I am sure the Ref is right but this is amateur soccer and Rich Parker who had driven for over an hour was denied a game of football because of a very pedantic decision. I should point out here that the Wilson’s skipper jogged over to say that his team had no problem with the change. Nottsborough therefore were denied one of their most influential players in a most important game and Hickes who is a right back had to have an excellent game at centre back (hamstring straining) against a very tall Wilsonian forward.
Those first ten minutes were very tense as Wilsonians flew at Nottsborough with crisp football on a very slick surface. Corners were rife and goalmouth scrambles common. Somehow Nottsborough organised themselves and with eleven on the pitch started to take the game to Wilson’s with the type of neat progressive football that has seen them scoring lots of goals in the last two weeks. For this game there was no Chris Apaloo who was outstanding at Actonians. Skipper Matt Kerr again electing to play himself up front alongside Ben Hughes. Alex Ewin was again on the bench as his recovery continues, but there was no Nick Stavri. The defence had no Matt Rolfe or Rich Parker. To be fair Wilson’s had several key players missing as well but they played very well on the day and Nottsborough’s league title is only retained because Dan Ashley made three brilliant saves in the last 20 minutes.
By the mid-point of the first half Nottsborough, through Chris Kerr and David Howson, were gaining at least parity in midfield against two good Wilson’s players. This meant that quite a bit of the ball was getting out to Nathan Violet and Ben Carder, who were regularly swapping wings. On 30 minutes the Wilson’s keeper had to make a very good save as Nottsborough opened up the defence and Ben Hughes slammed a shot against the on-rushing keeper. Now it was Nottsborough who were forcing corners through the width in their play and it was Wilson’s who had to defend well in order to take the game into half time at 0-0, which was not enough for Nottsborough to retain the title.
With no changes the game resumed and although Nottsborough were still slightly in charge Wilson’s looked dangerous on the counter and centre backs Arren Sutcliffe and Ben Hickes were having to work very hard to keep things tight. The first change of the half was made by Wilson’s who replaced two players, whilst Nottsborough replaced right back Steve McMillan, who had another good game, moving Matt Kerr to right back and putting AFA Rep player Alex Ewin up front. This change meant that the ball started to stick a bit more up front whilst Kerr provided a lot of energy on the overlap on the right. It was a very good move that lead to the only goal of the game. Carder did superbly on the left to regain the ball and then keep possession. Howson was involved in passing to Ben Hughes on the left wing. At last one of the “Cruyff turns” worked and Hughes was running along the by-line behind the defence. The pull-back was low and firm as was Violets side-footed left footer from 12 yards. On 62 minutes Nathan Violet put Nottsborough ahead as the ball flew low into the keepers left hand corner. Violet’s 14 goal of the season, 11 since Christmas, in what has been a very good comeback from Nottsborough’s playmaker.
The remaining half an hour or so saw both defences do very well but either side could have scored two or three. With Ewin holding and passing the ball well Nottsborough looked good going forward. Hughes flashed a shot over the bar, Kerr should have done much better as a corner came out to him on the edge of the area, and both Chris Kerr and Dave Howson failed to get shots on target. At the other end do not think for one moment that Wilson’s were giving Nottsborough a free ride. Dan Ashley, who has kept 14 clean sheets this season, was asked to make three superb saves in order to keep Nottsborough’s title hopes alive. He flew to his right to turn away a firm 25 yarder and then produced a blinding save to turn away a thumping shot from the edge of the area. From a corner a free header was at last allowed and I am not sure how Ashley kept this one out as a purely reflex save allowed Hickes to hoof the ball clear. In the last 20 minutes or so Sutcliffe was immense in holding together a defence that was un-recognisable from the ones that took the field in either the AFA Senior Final or Surrey/Kent final.
At the end of the game the Nottsborough coach got his players together in the changing-room to congratulate his players on what had been a good season regardless of any trophies. When a phone started to go off in the “valuables” bag there was immediate interest as the Nottsborough 2’s were playing at West Wickham. The news was good as Nottsborough’s big rivals West Wickham had beaten Old Salesians 2-0. Two parts of the bet had come through ! Another phone call to Dan Ashley reported that Broomfield had been two up against Winchmore Hill, but Winchmore had got a goal back near the end but the game was still being played. When the third leg of the bet came in the Nottsborough changing room erupted. Nottsborough had retained their title on goal difference ! Surely one of the most exciting ends to a season in a long time.
In February Nottsborough had 10 points from 8 games and were next to bottom of the league contemplating relegation and not retention of their title. The games to come saw them make two Cup Finals. In one they did not turn up, and in the other they were very unfortunate to lose. It says a lot for the Nottsborough camp that they managed to take 28 points from 12 games when they had lost Matt Negus to America and suffered no end of injuries to key players. With several 3’s players promoted they have put a winning streak together taking 12 points from the last 4 games and crucially finding their scoring boots to go with the best defence in the league. This is Nottsborough’s third SAL title in four seasons in what has been a golden period for the Nottsborough club.
Ashley; McMillan, Hickes, Sutcliffe, Cullinan; Carder, Kerr C, Howson, Violet; Kerr M, Hughes; Subs Ewin, Santry. Not allowed – Parker.
Man of the Match could easily have been Sutcliffe who has been immense this season, or Violet who got the vital goal, but in this instance it has to go to Dan Ashley who proved his worth when it counted.
Old Actonians 2 Nottsborough 6 League Tuesday 4th May 2010
Football Alive Hanwell !
Hanwell Town was the venue for this Tuesday evening clash. The big, wide pitch was in very good condition considering a hundred games have been played on it this season. The conditions suited both teams who both went for attacking football in what was a very open and entertaining game. Old Actonians had a stronger side than in the fixture last week, but to be fair were still a few players short of their full side. Nottsborough were little changed. Matt Kerr replaced his brother in central midfield with Ben Hughes coming in up front. Steve McMillan continued at right back with SAL Rep players Nick Stavri and Alex Ewin on the bench, alongside an injured Dan Ashley and Ben Hickes.
The game started with Nottsborough knocking the ball around the back confidently with Steve McMillan looking good at right back. Arren Sutcliffe produced a huge raking pass out to Ben Carder on the right flank, but the first goal came through a move on the other side of the wide pitch. Gary Cullinan passed down the left channel to Chris Apaloo who held the ball up and laid it back to Nathan Violet. His cross was deep beyond the back post and Dave Howson tackled the keeper to bundle it in on 9 minutes. The third goal in three games for the SAL Rep player who is just loving being back in midfield.
Nottsborough were looking in charge and the night seemed to promise more goals. The only problem was the next two went in the wrong net. I am not sure that even Steve McMillan knows what he was doing with a square ball that was so misplaced it almost left Actonians lone striker with a clear run at goal. Although Parker and Sutcliffe rescued the situation, Violet’s stray pass let Actonians in again and from the resulting cross the home centre forward beat White’s right hand and found the net to make it 1-1. Old Actonians were re-vitalised and were sweeping forward through midfield and finding space on the flanks. A low cross from the left should have been cleared by Cullinan who had read the situation well. However the ball sliced off his foot and was pumped back into the box where an unmarked number 9 turned and once again beat White’s dive for a 2-1 lead to the home side all within the first 20 minutes.
Fortunately an equaliser was not long in coming. A violet corner failed to beat the first man and was cleared for another corner. This time Violet’s corner was an in-swinger right onto the edge of the six yard box and Matt Kerr headed down onto his knee and firmly into the net on 25 minutes. Goal number 3 arrived soon as a McMillian throw in down the right was laid off first time by Violet. A first time cross from McMillan found Chris Apaloo all alone on the 6 yard box and he poked home past a keeper rooted to his line on 31 minutes. Actonians then played some really good stuff and last minute blocks from Howson, Cullinan and Parker averted shots on goal. Tom White twice had to go low down to his left to turn shots around the post and a hectic half ended with the away side leading 3-2 in a very close game. In the last minute of the half a spectacular goal line clearance denied Ben Hughes the chance to increase the lead as his speed took him clear and his poke past the keeper looked destined for the back of the net.
Actonians threw the kitchen sink at Nottsborough for the first 15 minutes as Parker and Sutcliffe defended superbly to keep the away side in the lead. White competently held a strong shot above his head and superbly cut out a dangerous cross. The turning point arrived on the hour when Nottsborough scored with their first attack of the half. A big kick from Tom White found Apaloo 15 yards inside the Actonians half and he held it up before turning to thread a through ball to the pacy Ben Carder who raced into the box and shot across the keeper and in off the far post on 60 minutes. Carder’s second goal in two games as he shows he is getting used to 1’s football after a season in the 3’s. This goal settled Nottsborough down and although Actonians kept coming Nottsborough were keeping a much better shape in midfield. Actonians still had chances but their shooting was not matching their bright approach play. The fifth goal effectively ended the game as a contest. A free kick was awarded on the left after Hughes got fouled. Violet’s deep swinging cross was again around the 6 yard line and Matt Kerr rose high to head in on 66 minutes. Nottsborough now made changes with Nick Stavri on for Ben Hughes and Alex Ewin coming on for the last 12 minutes. This was Ewin’s first game for a month in which he has missed 8 games.
Both teams were creating chances and not taking them. White’s scuffed goal kick left an Actonians player with a one on one and he put the ball over the bar, whilst another very good chance was driven wide. At the other end Violet was left with a free run at goal but opted to shoot from outside the area and straight at the keeper. Stavri ran through two or three tackles but his toe poke finish was deflected wide by the keeper. Stavri had another great chance after a smart move involving Apaloo and Carder but the shot hit a defenders trailing leg and deflected wide. Finally Nottsborough produced their best goal of the night. Dave Howson won a challenge just inside his own half and out on the left and played the ball inside to Stavri who cleverly turned and played a superb reverse pass to Howson on the overlap down left wing. The ball was whipped across for Chris Apaloo to side foot home from 8 yards out on 82 minutes. The third goal in three games for the Nottsborough clubs leading goalscorer who has scored more than 20 for the 3’s this season.
White; McMillan, Parker, Sutcliffe, Cullinan; Carder, Kerr M, Howson, Violet; Apaloo, Hughes; Subs Stavri, Ewin, Hickes.
Man of the Match for Nottsborough Chris Apaloo who scored two and was a handful all match.
Nottsborough 3 Polytechnic 1 League Saturday 1st May 2010
Poly needed a win to be absolutely safe and Nottsborough needed a win to maintain any hope of retaining their SAL Senior title. Poly had a much stronger side than was on view at Chiswick a month ago, and Nottsborough retained almost all the side that did well against Old Actonians on Tuesday. The only absentee in Matt Kerr’s men was right back Ben Hickes, whilst Ben Hughes and Nick Stavri returned to swell the crowd. Third teamer Steve McMillan made his first start in an unaccustomed right back spot and once again showed he has the ability to make the step up.
The pitch was in superb condition and it was matched by some excellent football from both sides as the season drags its way into May. Nottsborough were passing the ball around the back with Arren Sutcliffe producing some superb 30 and 40 yard passes out to Nathan Violet on the wing. Nottsborough’s play was all about width. Polytechnic had a contrasting style of neat inter-linking and lay-offs between their striker and the 5 midfielders. It all made for quite compelling viewing.
Nottsborough took the lead on 20 minutes as their passing game started to open up the Poly defence. A flowing passing move released Ben Carder on the right and his pace took him into the Poly penalty area. His driven cross/shot was heading for the near post angle and the Poly keeper could only parry the ball into the top corner of the net for young Carder’s first goal in the first team. The first of many I think if he keeps working at his game.
This goal settled Nottsborough down and they began to play like the Nottsborough of old. One very neat movement down the left ended with Violet’s shot being blocked superbly by a Poly defender. Although Poly looked dangerous on the counter there were few direct shots at goal except for two very good blocks from Rich Parker and Arren Sutcliffe and a couple that flew over Tom White’s bar. The best team goal from Nottsborough this season virtually settled the match. Both the Kerr’s, Gary Cullinan, Chris Apaloo and Nathan Violet were involved in the build up involving several neat passes and the eventual pulled back cross was thumped into the top left hand corner by Dave Howson on 30 minutes.
This was a good first half display from Nottsborough where the build up play was not quite matched by the finishing. Nottsborough were solid at the back with Gary Cullinan having another good game. In the centre of midfield Dave Howson and Chris Kerr were doing superbly against their 3 opponents and Chris Kerr especially was the link for some very good Nottsborough passing. Rich Parker found time for one buccaneering run forwards beating three men and putting in a dangerous cross and was very keen to tell his coach that he was wasted at the back. Not so, young Parker !
The second half was not as good as the first as both teams tired a little in what was a very open game. Poly made a change putting another man forward and this gave them a bit more threat going forward. Nottsborough were still creating chances but not making them count. Matt Kerr had two good shooting opportunities, but the first was straight at the keeper and the second brought a good two handed save from the Poly keeper diving to his left. Nottsborough also decided to make a change introducing Ben Hughes up front with 25 minutes to go with Matt Kerr dropping to right back. This change seemed to work as Hughes won a penalty with 20 minutes to go. Nathan Violet stepped up and buried the ball in the left hand corner on 70 minutes. Violet’s twelfth goal in this campaign. Another good return for the wide midfielder. Nottsborough were getting a bit casual in all areas of the pitch and a Parker mistake let in a Poly player for a shot that was well blocked by Tom White. Nottsborough were defending too deep again and a free kick conceded 25 yards out blotted the Nottsborough shut-out campaign. This free kick was neatly dispatched into White’s bottom left hand corner and Poly were back with a sniff. Although Poly looked dangerous on a couple of occasions it was Nottsborough who should have extended their lead as Hughes failed to take a good chance and then Nick Stavri, on for Chris Apaloo for the last 15 minutes, failed to find Hughes when there were no Poly defenders in sight. Stavri had got the ball in the Poly net earlier but the ball had apparently gone over the by-line before Stavri cut inside and lashed the ball home.
The goal difference is now twelve and if all three top teams finish level Nottsborough will probably retain their title. This will require two wins from Nottsborough this week and they will be trying their best. It will require defeats for Winchmore against Broomfield and Old Salesians against West Wickham. We will all know by next Saturday evening.
White; McMillan, Parker, Sutcliffe, Cullinan; Carder, Kerr C, Howson, Violet; Kerr M, Apaloo; Subs Hughes and Stavri.
Man of the Match for Nottsborough could be either Sutcliffe or Parker or Chris Kerr or Howson. I am giving it as a joint award to the two central mid-fielders who worked hard and distributed the ball well in the most open game I have watched this season.
Nottsborough 5 Old Actonians 0 League Tuesday 27th April
Nottsborough bounce back !
At Tolworth the lawns were resplendent in the evening sunshine and the first team pitch was in superb condition despite three weeks without rain. Both teams harboured outside chances of the league title and both teams were making bids for who had the most missing. Actonians were missing a keeper and a couple of key defenders, whilst Nottsborough were missing their 3 main strikers. Skipper Matt Kerr had Dave Howson back and added a third 3’s player to the mix with club leading scorer Chris Apaloo promoted. Without any recognised 1’s striker Matt Kerr played himself up front and the new strike force proved a threat all game.
The first half was rather short on quality as both teams treated the ball a bit like a hot potato and the passing simply was not good enough. The fact that Actonians were playing their third team keeper was to prove the deciding factor. The lad looked nervous and within 20 minutes he was picking the ball out of the net. A long ball down the middle was headed back by an Actonians player, but the keeper was coming out anticipating the balls flight path. Unfortunately the keeper slipped and the ball rolled into the net for a very soft opening goal. Worse was to follow 5 minutes later as the keeper clearly was short of confidence and as he attempted to pass out from a back pass he merely presented the ball to Chris Apaloo who made it 2-0 on 25 minutes. Old Actonians looked a threat on the counter-attack but their last ball was generally not up to their approach play and Dan Ashley did not have a shot to save. Nottsborough twice went close to increasing their lead as a Violet cross was headed narrowly wide, whilst Apaloo should have added to his tally as he broke clear but stabbed the ball wide when faced with the Actonians keeper.
When Nottsborough made it 3-0 on 60 minutes the game was virtually over. A very neat reverse pass from Matt Kerr sent Nathan Violet through and his low drive found the net. Corners were proving a bit of a problem for Actonians and Sutcliffe flicked a header from a Violet in-swinger onto the face of the crossbar minutes later. The ref deemed a toe poke from an Actonians defender to be a back pass and Nathan Violet added a second on 70 minutes when finding a gap from 10 yards from a tapped free kick. Nottsborough brought off both Kerr’s and sent on Steve McMillan and George Bowman. Chances continued to come for the home side but strangely there were not enough shots at what was now an exposed keeper. Apaloo, Carder and Violet all could have added goals before Dave Howson got the fifth on 82 minutes when his cross shot was deflected over the Actonians keeper and just inside the far post. These five goals may have come too late but if Nottsborough can get to 38 points they may still be there or thereabouts and 39 points will be required.
Ashley; Hickes, Parker, Sutcliffe, Cullinan; Carder, Kerr C, Howson, Violet; Kerr M, Apaloo; Subs McMillan, Bowman.
Man of the Match for Nottsborough Nathan Violet scored two and involved in plenty of other good moves. A good second half from the home team where at last we began to see some decent passing and lots of width.
Old Wilsonians 4 Nottsborough 1 League Saturday 24th April
Hectic season catching up !
Nottsborough went to Old Wilsonians on Saturday knowing that 4 wins out of the last 5 games could still retain the SAL title. However with half a squad missing how realistic was this ? The result of this game rather provides the answer.
Matt Kerr only had 12 men for this game, played on the reserve pitch, on what was a very warm day. With all Nottsborough’s other teams playing for league titles there was not a lot of room for flexibility. However the 3’s did release Ben Carder and Steve McMillan who have been doing very well all season. Also retained was 2’s leading scorer George Bowman. No team without players like Matt Rolfe, Dave Howson, Ian Cooper/Matt Negus, Alex Ewin, Ben Hughes can realistically fill the gaps when playing twice a week on rock hard pitches.
The much-changed Nottsborough line up did pretty well in the first half and were within 20 seconds of keeping it scoreless. Chris Kerr gave away a free kick with needless chatter, to a rather pedantic referee, and from the resulting corner Oz was left with a free header at the back post. The same post that a Wilsonians player had struck earlier in the half. Nottsborough’s best efforts were a strike from Carder that was wastefully high after his pace got him into a good position from an excellent Violet pass, and a header from Stavri that was headed off the line. This strangely was given as a goal kick by a ref who was beginning to lose the confidence of the Nottsborough players.
With Sutcliffe struggling with a knee injury Nottsborough were conceding space in the second half and Wilson’s doubled their lead from a corner early in the half. Nottsborough were back in it on the hour when Nathan Violet fiddled his way past two poor clearance attempts and slipped the ball home. Nottsborough were beginning to play good football with Matt Kerr moved up front as another player Nick Stavri went off injured. 3’s midfielder Steve McMillan was on and he started to make his mark with soe hard work and one or two very nicely picked passes.
Having got themselves back in the game Nottsborough then shot themselves in the foot as they allowed the Wilsonians number 10 to get in behind them for a good finish despite the shouts for offside which were misplaced, unlike the shot. This player, who I have not seen playing for Wilsonians before, looked a very good acquisition. Dan Ashley then made a complete hash of a pass out to his full back presenting the ball to the same player who could not miss and suddenly Nottsborough were 4-1 down.
To be fair to the Nottsborough players they kept trying to play good football and they produced one superb move which ended with Carder being put through the middle. Unfortunately his left foot strike was just too high. A few minutes later and he was firing narrowly wide of the far post and it would have been a very good start if he could have got a goal on his debut. With Parker pushing into midfield Nottsborough kept trying to the end but the punishing fixture schedule is starting to take its toll.
Ashley; Hickes, Parker, Sutcliffe, Cullinan; Carder, Kerr C, Kerr M, Violet; Bowman, Stavri. Sub McMillan
Man of the Match for Nottsborough goes to Matt Kerr who has had an awful lot of organising to do in this ridiculous season and yet still had time to lead his team with great character and endeavour.
West Wickham 0 Nottsborough 2 League Saturday 17th April 2010
For the third time this season Nottsborough found themselves walking from West Wickham station to Corkscrew Hill. Against what was almost a full-strength home side Nottsborough effectively only had 11 men as Matt Kerr did not really want to risk his injured calf muscle. With all other Nottsborough teams going for league glory there was virtually no room for manoeuvre for skipper Matt Kerr, although the 2’s were able to release George Bowman and he made his first team debut. The Nottsborough back line was unchanged from Tuesday and once again they were able to keep a clean sheet. In midfield Chris Kerr, Howson and Violet were retained with Bowman slotting in to a right midfield position. Up front Stavri and Hughes were the only forwards available, apart from Bowman.
What a day it turned out to be. Not only was it very warm, but the heat seemed to be turned up on title candidates Winchmore Hill and Old Salesians. This win for Nottsborough puts them right back in the hunt to retain their title with some extra-ordinary results elsewhere bringing defeats for the title favourites.
Nottsborough started this match in terrific style and were at the West Wickham back three from the kick off. Most of the Nottsborough pressure won corners and free kicks rather than chances, but Currie, Gibson and Freeman were being stretched as Bowman, Violet and Howson were finding room frequently and too easily. Bowman made one surging run past two tackles, and also won a huge challenge on the half way line with Currie. Violet very cleverly got down the byline beating two challenges, but Stavri was not able to get a touch on his firm cross. Slowly but surely West Wickham started to assert themselves but it was as they were getting back into the game that Nottsborough took the lead. A fine cross-field ball from Violet picked out Stavri and the SAL Rep player showed a touch of class by lifting the ball over his marker with his first touch and tumbling over as Freeman caught him whilst trying to recover. Ref Richard Melvin saw it as a penalty and Violet thumped the ball into the corner to give the away side a deserved lead. It was mostly from dead ball kicks that Nottsborough looked likely to extend their lead but the home defence cleared most things well. At the other end Nottsborough’s centre backs Parker and Sutcliffe were keeping things tight but West Wickham ended the half by going close on two occasions.
West Wickham were attacking downhill in the second half and it was largely one way traffic for 20 minutes as Nottsborough could not retain the ball up the hill. Although West Wickham had a lot of the ball they did not get one chance on target and the Nottsborough defence was able to withstand the pressure and at last start to pass the ball out through midfield. With Kerr and Howson working very hard in midfield West Wickham started to make mistakes. Stavri was given possession 40 yards out and with a free run on goal. Unfortunately his first touch was not good enough and although he got to the ball ahead of the home keeper his lob did not carry enough weight and Freeman was able to clear the ball out of the open goal. The clinching goal for Nottsborough came on 75 minutes as Ben Hughes managed to get the bouncing ball under control, turned inside Gibson’s challenge and volleyed a quite superb second from 25 yards which gave the home keeper no chance as it swerved and dipped.
West Wickham made several changes whilst Nottsborough had to stick with what they had. Although West Wickham pressed, it was Nottsborough who could have extended their lead on the break. Howson stormed through but was ruled offside, whilst Stavri had another one on one with the keeper and once again failed to control the ball sufficiently well and again a defender was able to get back and clear the ball. The match ended with the Nottsborough defence in charge and holding on whilst ref Richard Melvin played 6 minutes of added time. Things were not looking good before this game for the away side who were missing Rolfe, Cooper, Matt Kerr, Ted Datta, Ewin and Curasco. To get an away win at old friends West Wickham really was a great effort and then the league results from around London were just a bonus.
Ashley; Hickes, Parker, Sutcliffe, Cullinan; Bowman, Kerr C, Howson, Violet; Stavri, Hughes.
Man of the Match for Nottsborough could have been either Parker or Sutcliffe who I thought were outstanding. Hickes did well again as did all the midfield players. I am giving it to Gary Cullinan who once again showed what a composed and effective player he is and Nottsborough are lucky to have two such good left backs.
Nottsborough 0 Weirside 0 League Tuesday 13th April 2010
“Officials see No penalties”
The first of the many Tuesday night games, and the lawns of Tolworth looked superb in the evening sunshine. This currently has to be the best pitch in London. Both teams did their best to do it justice and with the ball rolling smoothly some very good football was put together. After their aberration on Saturday this was a welcome return to passing football from the Nottsborough outfit. Not that it was anything like a full Nottsborough team. Missing from the back four were Matt Rolfe and Dave Howson, the latter sneaking a game in his old midfield spot. Out from the midfield were skipper Matt Kerr and Ian Cooper. Missing up front was Alex Ewin, whilst Nick Stavri did not start due to an ankle injury, although he did appear for the second half.
Apart from the pitch, the main talking point of the evening was how Ref Peter Kosciolek and linesman Richard Melvin missed a “nailed on” penalty which even Weirside players and supporters acknowledged, and another strong penalty claim. Simon Curasco clean through on goal, on the hour, slipped the ball past the keeper and was just about to roll the ball into the empty net when the Weirside keeper rapped him across the shins with his arm and brought him crashing down. The Nottsborough players were astonished that a penalty was not given and their reward a booking for Stavri when a penalty and sending off for the keeper were the correct decision. Ten minutes later a very similar incident occurred with Curasco this time running along the by-line and turning away from the keeper and finding the keeper wrapping his arms around his legs in trying to get at the ball. Once again Curasco was stopped from rolling the ball into the empty net. Talking to the Weirside players in the bar afterwards they were happy to acknowledge at least 1 penalty but felt this was about the first time they had had any luck all season.
Weirside arrived at Tolworth with a full squad of 14 and were in good spirits after their win at Broomfield. Nottsborough were naturally down after the AFA Final and with a large number of players missing another “shock” was possible. However it was Nottsborough who started best and could have been two up in 3 minutes as they missed a great shooting opportunity in the first minute and the Weirside keeper made a good save when Curasco was through, blocking a very firm shot with his legs. The remainder of the half was very even as Weirside looked dangerous on the counter but Dan Ashley only had 3 long range shots to deal with, whilst Ben Hickes made three very good challenges to avert dangerous situations.
I think it would be fair to say that Nottsborough battered Weirside in the second side playing some of their best football for many weeks with Chris Kerr and Dave Howson real dynamos in midfield, whilst Nathan Violet found space on the flanks. Weirside strangely settled for a point very early on in the half and I could not quite work that out as surely they needed three points. Maybe Nottsborough just did not let them see a three point opportunity although Nottsborough had to defend one or two free kicks towards the end that the officials were happy to give. The Weirside keeper, having got away with it, produced two superb saves in the second half, the best being a flying leap to his left to keep out a Violet shot. Despite all their misfortune on the evening Nottsborough should have settled the points 10 minutes from the end as a cross from the left evaded the keeper and from a yard out Curasco headed the ball over, admittedly under pressure, when it seemed easier to score. At the final whistle there was a bit of petulance from the Nottsborough players which we did not need to hear, but this was just the audible frustration felt from Saturday and the loss of two points in their attempt to retain their league title. All of this was forgotten in the bar afterwards, as officials and players from both sides shared a pint and discussed the evening. Most sides will drop points in this hectic finale and it has all become a bit of a lottery. The league really has to look at why one team has finished its fixtures while others have 6 or 7 games to play. Also why one side can just play on Saturdays whilst others also have to play games every Tuesday for a month. It really is very amateur and not particularly fair since we all know it is not easy to put out sides for midweek games, let alone three sides on a Tuesday night.
Ashley; Hickes, Parker, Sutcliffe, Cullinan; Cox, Kerr C, Howson, Violet; Curasco, Hughes; Sub Stavri
The whole of the Nottsborough back four were good on the night with Parker and Sutcliffe sealing things up. Kerr and Howson worked their socks off in midfield whilst Violet almost found the key to unlock Weirside on several occasions. My Man of the Match for Nottsborough Ben Hickes, some great challenges and interceptions.
Winchmore Hill 3 Nottsborough 0 AFA Senior Trophy Final 10th April 2010
“A Very Disappointing Day”
These club reports are always written with an element of bias and it is hard to imagine a day where more things could have gone wrong for Nottsborough. However please note that the better side on the day won, and Winchmore deserve the title.
The week leading up to the final started in poor fashion with Alex Ewin declaring himself unfit, this being the man who scored a hat trick in the semi final. After 25 minutes Matt Rolfe went down with a nasty ankle injury and had to be replaced. This was a blow because he was doing well against Andy Barrell and although Nottsborough were coming under increasing pressure from Winchmore, on a very dry and bumpy pitch, they were coping pretty well. Early on Ben Hughes got in behind the Winchmore defence and his low cross was well cleared. It was not long after Rolfe’s departure that Winchmore took the lead with a rather scrappy goal following a series of corners and long throws. Once ahead Winchmore looked a good team and Nottsborough went into their shells.
Nottsborough started the second half much more brightly and Stavri saw his effort blocked for a corner following good work down the left by Violet and Howson. However when it looked as if Nottsborough might be making a game of it, tragedy struck with a “Paul Robinson moment”. The excellent Parker made his one mistake of the day by rolling a pass back to Ashley and not keeping the pass away from the goal. On such a bumpy surface the inevitable happened and Ashley struck fresh air and the ball rolled into the net for a very soft second for Winchmore. When Sutcliffe got caught in possession inside the box the man of the match Andy Barrell latched onto the error and thumped it into the roof of the net for the third. Three behind Nottsborough, having made changes, at last started to look like a team that deserved to be in a final with skipper Matt Kerr putting his heart and soul into it despite a calf injury and Ian Cooper playing one or two excellent passes. Chris Kerr, who has not played for six weeks, was getting on the ball and Simon Curasco was winning some balls up front. Curasco thumped the ball home with 10 minutes to go following a sweeping Nottsborough move. Unfortunately the linesman had his flag up but it must have been tight. Several times Nottsborough got behind the defence with Violet pushed up front, but Winchmore were also looking threatening on the counter.
It was quite a strange game with Ashley rarely being called into action, yet conceding three goals. Attempts on goal were pretty equal albeit many of Nottsborough’s being after they went behind, but Winchmore had much the better of the first half. Nottsborough just did not perform on the day and have not lost by three goals in a long time. Winchmore made much the better use of the conditions, got their tactics right, and took their chances.
Ashley; Hickes, Rolfe, Sutcliffe, Howson; Kerr M, Parker, Cooper, Violet; Stavri, Hughes; Subs all used Kerr C, Curasco, Cullinan.
Man of the match for Nottsborough was one of either Ian Cooper, Matt Kerr or Rich Parker. A very disappointing performance all round.
Nottsborough 3 Broomfield 1 League Saturday 3 April 2010
The recent AFA cup semi final saw a very strong Broomfield side come within minutes of knocking Nottsborough out of the competition. This time round both teams had a few players missing but it was Nottsborough that largely dominated the tie and, but for some poor finishing, could have run out very comfortable winners.
Nottsborough started the game well and were ahead inside 15 minutes. Nathan Violet did some great work to get behind the Broomfield defence and picked out Matt Kerr who slotted home neatly from 10 yards.
Rather than consolidating their lead Nottsborough allowed Broomfield too much time to play in midfield and the visitors were soon back on terms. The equaliser was not dissimilar to Nottsborough’s effort - a quick break with the ball pulled back across the penalty area and a simple finish leaving Ashley with little chance.
Nottsborough created several other chances in the first half, the best falling to Alex Ewin who headed wide from 6 yards when he should have done better.
The second half saw Nottsborough totally dominant in possession and territory. Broomfield were courageous in their attempts to pass the ball out from the back but Nottsborough’s pressing style began to take control. Again several good chances were created before Ian Cooper ran through and finished well on his left foot.
Nottsborough then squandered a number of further opportunities before Nathan Violet secured a deserved three points with five minutes to go.
Eight league games left and all still to play for.
Civil Service 0 Nottsborough 1 League 27th March 2010
With the “Heads of The River” races on and the memory of horrendous traffic between Barnes and Poly just two weeks ago, I travelled early and was the first to arrive at the Civil Service ground. The pitch looked bumpy and there were several local residents “kicking in” to one of the goals. When Nottsborough were asked to warm up off the pitch to protect the surface I had to suppress a smile, especially when the Civil Service boys immediately started “kicking in” at the other end.
Nottsborough were down to the bare bones for this visit to Chiswick. Matt Kerr was next to arrive at the ground and his news was not good. As well as Ted Datta (broken leg), we were also missing Chris Kerr (back) and Ian Cooper (groin). Away were Matt Negus (working in America), Ben Hughes (yet another holiday), and Nathan Violet. Nottsborough therefore were down to 11 including Jono Santry who had agreed to come up from the 3’s. With Nottsborough 2’s also depleted and playing a Cup Final there was no chance of taking from the 2’s.
Civil Service needed a win to have any chance of defeating the drop, whilst Nottsborough needed a win to get back into some form of contention to retain their title. In truth this was a pretty forgettable game. Dan Ashley had one routine save to make, Sutcliffe almost let in their striker and one shot from distance passed over the bar. The very tall number 9 for CS caused some problems but had little support. Jono Santry had a long distance effort wide and Stavri almost got in behind the defence after good passing between Cullinan and Howson. Alex Ewin produced the one moment of class in the first half when he lifted the ball over two defenders but thumped his volley straight at the CS keeper. 0-0 at half time.
The hair-dryer was definitely on in the Nottsborough dressing room at half time and they emerged in more competitive fashion with Cullinan and Howson again doing well down the left whilst Parker and Kerr tried to get some measure of control in midfield. It was the Nottsborough defence who however stood out for the first 20 minutes of this half as Civil Service raised a head of steam. Matt Rolfe certainly stood out as he raised his own head of steam with a dramatic dash for the loo, having of course obtained the ref's permission.
It was the Nottsborough defence who however stood out for the first 20 minutes of this half as Civil Service raised a head of steam. A heavy shower and a real pick up in the breeze raised the tempo of the game as the rain helped the playing surface and suddenly the pace of the game picked up. Civil Service saw a thumping shot from 30 yards fly narrowly close to the angle of Ashley’s goal. This strangely prompted Nottsborough to attack into the conditions and at last they looked dangerous. Another good move between Cullinan and Howson saw the latter’s cross flicked over the bar by Ewin’s quick header. This raised tempo produced one more chance and this was enough to steal the game. Ewin twisted and turned on the right, when an outstretched leg got the ball away Ben Hickes evaded a tackle and right on the bye-line deliver a great cross to the back post. On the angle of the 6 yard line Dave Howson volleyed the ball back across goal and in off the far post on 78 minutes. Nottsborough had taken a lead they barely deserved.
Civil Service flew into attack as they could see they were going down. There were one or two dangerous moments and CS won several corners and free kicks in those last 10 minutes. Dan Ashley had to plunge to his right to make a good save in the last few moments whilst centre-back Matt Rolfe won a very good header and made a great interception. Ben Hickes also got in a good clearance. The excellent referee finally brought an end to a very disappointing game for Civil Service and we wish them well for next season. For Nottsborough this was the fifth successive away win and another step up the league and with 10 games still to play a hectic April and May ahead.
Ashley; Hickes, Rolfe, Sutcliffe, Cullinan; Santry, Kerr M, Parker, Howson; Ewin, Stavri.
Man of the Match for Nottsborough could have been Matt Rolfe who had a solid game or Gary Cullinan who did well in his usual Easter promotion to the 1’s. I shall give it to Dave Howson for a committed performance and one good volley.
Old Salesians 2 Nottsborough 1 AFA Surrey/Kent Senior Cup Final 20th March 2010
Nottsborough Rue Missed Chances !
The Bank of England ground was the setting for this Surrey/Kent Cup Final and, despite heavy overnight rain, was in good condition for what was an entertaining Cup Final won by a goal that deserved to win any Cup Final. Old Salesians came into this match without talisman skipper James Ayres, whilst Nottsborough were without Rep player Chris Kerr, Ben Hughes and Ted Datta who was there on crutches. Salesians lined up in a 4-3-3 formation whilst Nottsborough played 4-4-2.
Nottsborough began the game very brightly with Violet and Ewin linking nicely. Ewin got behind the Salesians defence but could not find Stavri for the first strike at goal. This came from the lively Matt Negus, playing his last game for Nottsborough. From 25 yards Negus tried his luck and his shot was narrowly over the angle. Later in the half Negus repeated this effort and once again was not far away. After the lively opening the game stagnated and the ball spent quite a lot of time in the air. This was because the pitch was hard under the very wet surface and both teams were reluctant to make mistakes. Salesians took the lead about 10 minutes before half time when Nottsborough failed to clear a good cross in from the left. The ball was won beyond the far post and Nottsborough allowed two sharp short passes to find Michael Ayres and he hammered the ball past an exposed Dan Ashley. Salesians might have extended their lead just before half time as Nottsborough once again allowed too much room but a Salesians forward stabbed wide.
After a good half time chat Nottsborough came out a different team, taking the game to Old Salesians. Within 5 minutes they were level as Violet threaded a lovely pass behind the Salesians defence to Matt Negus who had made a great run from right to left across the area. His low ball across the six yard line was met by skipper Matt Kerr on 50 minutes who thumped the ball into the roof of the net for the equaliser. Within a minute Nottsborough should have been ahead as last weeks concussion did not stop Alex Ewin flicking on a great header to put Nick Stavri clear of the Salesians defence. Stavri strode on into the area but a slight bobble as he was about to shoot put his effort over the bar rather than into the net. Nottsborough were now playing very confidently and looking likely to take the lead when disaster struck. With what to be fair was one of Salesians few attacks of the second half Nottsborough once again did not deal with a bouncing ball on the edge of their area. Hickes and Sutcliffe had chances to clear the ball but a Salesians forward got to the ball at just the right time and hammered a wonderful goal into Ashley’s top left hand corner.
Would Nottsborough be able to come back from this one? Sadly not, but it was not for the want of trying, and they created several chances to take the game into extra time. Nick Stavri, who had been ill all week, was withdrawn and Ian Cooper sent on in midfield with Negus moving up top. Nottsborough kept getting behind Salesians defence, especially on the right, but in succession Negus, Matt Kerr and Alex Ewin could not quite find the right ball. They did win a whole succession of corners and free kicks however. Violets deep delivery to the far post saw Sutcliffe with a clear heading chance but somehow he missed it. Ewin had a free header on the edge of the six yard box but headed over. There were two mad scrambles. The first on the floor found Nottsborough unable to get a clear shot on target, the second saw a header cleared off the line and a follow up header bounce off the face of the bar to be cleared for another corner. Finally with the game moving into the last 5 minutes Nottsborough put together their last good move and Violet was put clear by Ewin. Violet rushed his finish when he could have gone much further in on goal and the ball slipped past the far post.
Nottsborough were left to rue their missed chances as the least they deserved from this game was a further chance in extra time. The team that takes its chances wins games and that was the case here. Last season Nottsborough used a defeat in the Surrey/Kent Cup Final to go on and take the AFA Senior and SAL titles. Let’s see what happens this season.
Ashley; Hickes, Rolfe, Sutcliffe, Howson; Kerr M, Negus, Parker, Violet; Ewin, Stavri, Sub Cooper. Not used Cullinan and Kerr C.
Man of the Match for Nottsborough could have been Dave Howson who likes the Bank of England. However I am giving it to Matt Negus who had a terrific game in midfield looking the most dangerous Nottsborough player
Polytechnic 0 Nottsborough 3 League 13th March 2010
Away form continues !
The success Nottsborough have achieved over the last three seasons has been in part due to the ability of the team to find a way of winning away matches. This was another case in point. Any hope that the overnight rain might have softened the surface were removed on first sight of the pitch. The surface was firm, bouncy, and the ball rarely rolled smoothly across the surface during the whole game. This created a match where the players were rarely in control of the ball, and where consequently challenges were ill-timed and where one Poly player rather lost the plot.
Nottsborough started the match in confident fashion, took the play to Poly up the slight slope, and forced corner after corner as the half went on. The finishing left a lot to be desired but it is difficult for players when they do not know where the ball is going. Violets persistence set up a really good chance for Matt Kerr on 10 minutes and not for the first time the ball flew over the bar. Alex Ewin, who was looking sharp after his hat-trick the previous week, ran at the Poly defence and then put Stavri clear on the left. Stavri put the ball over the bar from a great position. Ewin came very close to giving Nottsborough the lead when his header, from a Violet corner, looked to be going in until a head diverted the ball over the bar again. Nottsborough must have forced 10 corners in the first 30 minutes.
It was at this point that Nottsborough experienced their second nasty injury in consecutive weeks. Alex Ewin went up for a flick-on header near the half way line. A Poly defender, clearly trying to get at the ball, came powerfully through from behind but unfortunately was a fraction late. His head crashed into Ewin’s temple and the Nottsborough player was “out” before he hit the ground. Once again a delay ensued as Ewin quickly regained consciousness but could not get to his feet. Eventually he was helped groggily to the touchline where Nottsborough had to decide whether an immediate visit to A&E was necessary.
This was not the only incident of the first half as a Poly player was alleged to punch a Nottsborough player off the ball. There was a coming together and a number of players became involved, most trying to pacify matters. The ref John Spoerry, who really needed assistants on this big pitch with double touchlines (why do groundsmen do this?) halted the game and spent a lot of time talking to the two players involved, and then both Captains. Things calmed down after this but there was an edge there that I have not seen at Poly before and the Poly player let himself, and his club, down with his antics after the game.
The final main incident of the half was that Nottsborough finally took one of the many chances they created in the first half. The Poly sub, who was very helpful with Alex Ewin and showed a lot of concern as did almost all of the Poly players, commented that Nottsborough ought to be four or five up. In the end they had to settle for 1-0 at half time as a Violet deep cross found Ian Cooper volleying into the far corner from 15 yards on 40 minutes. It was not a surprise that a volley opened the scoring as that was easier than striking a rolling ball. This goal came after Poly almost took a shock lead when their very lively left winger got behind the Nottsborough defence, rounded Ashley, but his goal-bound shot was cleared away by substitute Gary Cullinan, who replaced Alex Ewin.
In the second half Poly started to get much more into the game. Their central midfield started to find space and some of the old Poly was there to see. They were getting the ball down and starting to spread play. Unfortunately they could not find any way of getting behind Nottsborough’s centre backs Rich Parker and Arren Sutcliffe who were in commanding form and very much on the front foot. Gary Cullinan and Ben Hickes were both doing well at full back, whilst Dave Howson had moved forward into midfield where his busy hustling approach won Nottsborough plenty of the ball as Cooper began to feel the effects of an old injury. The star player for Nottsborough in midfield was Matt Negus and it was he who increased Nottsborough’s lead on 56 minutes. Violet fed Cooper and his cut back was steered home into the keeper’s right hand corner by Matt Negus from around the penalty spot. Yet another important goal, his third in three games, from the departing Nottsborough dynamo.
Really there is not a lot to report about the rest of the game. It was largely contested in midfield. Violet and Stavri formed the Nottsborough strike-force. Lots of skill, but not a huge amount of pace with Ewin off and Hughes away. Poly kept playing but did not look like scoring. Neither in truth did Nottsborough, until the Poly keeper who had a good game until this point, allowed a cross ball from Violet to slip from his grasp and Nick Stavri on 81 minutes was left with a simple tap in which eventually rolled into the bottom corner. 3-0 probably represented a much more accurate picture of the game although the second half was very even.
Ashley; Hickes, Parker, Sutcliffe, Howson; Kerr M, Negus, Cooper, Violet; Ewin, Stavri; Sub Cullinan.
Man of the Match for Nottsborough could have gone to any of the back four who all played really well. It could have gone to Violet who had a hand in all 3 goals. My vote goes to Matt Negus who covered huge amounts of ground and scored the all-important second goal.
Nottsborough 5 Broomfield 4 AFA Senior Trophy Semi Final 6th March 2010
Comic Book Hero’s !
Many readers of this report, if there are many, may be too young to have read comics as a young lad. This AFA Senior Semi-Final at Old Parkonians ground was something out of “The Victor” or “The Tiger”. Roy Race firing in goals where a curving arrow followed the path of the ball as it whooshed into the roof of the net. Or Tubby Morton, who overcame an ample girth to bowl devilish spin that bamboozled tall elegant batsmen. Nottsborough 3-1 down with 12 minutes to go, equalised in the last minute of normal time. Somehow they found a way to win the match in extra time despite being down to 10 men following the nasty injury to Ted Datta which forced an almost 30 minute halt in proceedings. Broomfield must be wondering just what happened.
Unlike last week the pitch did not require forking to remove water, but somebody’s tractor had certainly done a couple of laps of the centre circle. There seemed to be a bigger, flatter pitch next door, but no matter this one was good enough. Nottsborough started well and took the lead early. A good ball from Hickes up to Matt Kerr saw the Nottsborough skipper fouled near the touchline wide on the right, just beyond the angle of the penalty area. Nathan Violet swung a free kick into the stiff breeze and Alex Ewin made a run across the near post. Ewin missed the ball, and so unfortunately did the Broomfield keeper, as the ball found the net direct from Nathan Violet’s free kick on 9 minutes. This prompted Nottsborough into a confident passage where Rolfe and Parker opened play up nicely and two chances were created for Alex Ewin. The first cannoned into the keepers legs and the second, after a lovely ball from Violet, was blocked for a corner.
Broomfield got back into the game around 25 minutes when they equalised. Matt Negus, trying to get through tractor marks, failed to find Dave Howson on the left. The Broomfield right-sided player advanced quickly and his low cross into the area found a striker to complete a simple but oh so effective goal. Now it was Broomfield who took over command of the game with Rory Delap type throw-ins fizzing into the goalmouth. This was to be an effective weapon all game. Broomfield were winning the physical challenges and to be fair were also playing a sharper brand of football. Parker had to get back to complete an amazing clearance off the line and just before half time a Broomfield player put the ball over the bar from only 5 yards out although he was under pressure from a challenge from Rolfe. It could easily have been 3-3 at half time but both teams had to settle for 1-1.
Nottsborough felt they had done well into the stiff breeze, but Broomfield were to put this all into context as they completely dominated the middle third of the game. Just after half time “green boots” tricked Sutcliffe by the corner flag and his low cross was cleverly diverted past Ashley on the near post. The Broomfield striker then showed what a potentially good player he is by accelerating away from Howson on the left, cutting in and powering a shot past Ashley into the far corner. Broomfield were 3-1 up and in control. What happened to arrest the inevitable progress of a Broomfield win?
Somehow Nottsborough found a way back into this game when several Broomfield folk were already booking their seats for the final. Firstly I think the Broomfield team settled for what they had and when “green boots” went down with cramp again he had to come off. Secondly Nottsborough made two changes on 65 minutes. The first change was to take off an injured Dave Howson and withdraw Nick Stavri to some amazement from the Nottsborough players. The second change was to go to a 3-5-2 formation that has not been seen at Nottsborough for some time. Substitute Ted Datta had an immediate influence as the Nottsborough middle three of Negus, Parker, and Datta started to impose themselves. The last 20 minutes of normal time was largely one of Nottsborough steadily increasing the pressure as Broomfield defended their lead. Hughes got behind the defence but fired wide from 15 yards. The breakthrough came with 12 minutes to go as Nottsborough won a throw level with the penalty area on the left. Violet found Sutcliffe, way advanced, and his sideways pass on the edge of the area found Negus. A couple of steps forward and Matt Negus fired a shot home via the left hand upright on 78 minutes. Now Broomfield came under pressure and with their keeper looking injured it was Nottsborough who were firing crosses into the box. Ewin almost got a shot on target, Parker tested the keeper from 25 yards and Violet, played in behind the defence by a lovely ball, put in a super cross that the keeper just clawed away from Negus. As the game approached its climax Hughes won a corner on the right. Violet delivered the ball into the 6 yard box. The keeper was rooted but still blocked Ewin’s header but the ball fell to Alex Ewin who volleyed the equaliser in the 90th minute. There was only time for 1 more minute. 3-3 at full time.
Nottsborough started extra time in confident mood. They had played their “get out of jail” card, but they were buying property. The Broomfield players looked very tired and Nottsborough took their chance to go ahead for the second time in the game. Violet played a short free kick into the channel. Ewin picked up the ball and won a corner. Once again Violet delivered the ball into the goalmouth and this time there was no denying Alex Ewin’s emphatic finish on 98 minutes. Football is a lot of if’s and but’s. I feel Nottsborough would have sealed this win at this point until a very nasty injury occurred. Ted Datta, in trying to hammer a shot in just around the penalty spot, collided with the Broomfield centre-back. It was a genuine challenge from both players and it was the Broomfield player that cried out. Everyone feared for the worst, but it was Ted Datta that had broken his ankle badly. A 25 minute stoppage followed as Datta could not be moved. The Broomfield players wisely left the field and re-grouped whilst the Nottsborough players stayed out with Datta who needed warmth and comfort as he was clearly in shock. When the ambulance finally arrived Nottsborough were down to 10 men for the last 18 minutes and Broomfield were revived.
Nottsborough got to half time without alarm but the second half was like the first as Broomfield bombarded the Nottsborough goal with long throw-ins and corners. Something had to give and on 110 minutes the Broomfield skipper got his head on another shell-like throw and looped a header over Ashley despite facing away from the goal. It was either now going to be a Broomfield win or penalties one thought. Queue the final twist as Broomfield started to play some very risky football out from the back. Ewin who had been withdrawn in a 4-4-1 was doing his best to get up and support Hughes and Broomfield were doing their best to offer Ewin another opportunity. Firstly Ewin elected to try and play Hughes in when a shot was possible. Hughes was marginally offside and got booked for his trouble. When the same thing happened a minute later Ewin took on his man on and broke into the penalty area. As the keeper came off his line Alex Ewin lifted the ball over the keeper for the winner on 114 minutes. The Nottsborough team had enough energy to mob their hero and confidently defend their lead as they kept the ball down in the corners of the Broomfield half.
Semi-Finals are not necessarily about how you play but rather about finding a way to win. Broomfield were in charge of this game but conceded the momentum and Nottsborough took advantage with their change of formation. The players had the courage to win despite being out-played in the middle third and then suffering the nasty injury which always affects the other players. The outcome is a third consecutive AFA Senior Final for Nottsborough, a feat that has rarely been achieved in AFA history. The players should be very proud of their achievments.
Ashley; Hickes, Rolfe, Sutcliffe, Howson; Kerr M, Negus, Parker, Violet; Ewin, Stavri; Subs Datta, Hughes.
Man of the Match for Nottsborough is Alex Ewin. Has not scored since November but scored a hat trick in the biggest game of the season so far. Worked very hard all through the game.
Winchmore Hill 1 Nottsborough 2 League 27th February 2010
Nottsborough on the road again !
This top versus next to bottom league match was in doubt following a very heavy shower at midday. Fortunately for Nottsborough the home club worked very hard to get the game on helped by the ref Lee Addison. By kick off time the pitch was completely playable, although the mixture of firm and watery ground made for a game of mistakes.
Nottsborough thought they had a problem at left back coming into this game with Rep player Dave Howson unavailable and excellent replacement Gary Cullinan trapped in France by the wonderful Ryan Air. They should not have worried as Simon Webb, released by the 2’s from their semi-final, had an excellent game. Skipper Matt Kerr has been ill for two weeks and despite being on anti-biotics for a chest infection selected himself. Chris Kerr however was out with a back spasm, something to do with sleeping on a kitchen table ? Nottsborough however lined up with a strong side with Matt Negus playing one of his last games before moving to America and it was nice to see him score the winner. Winchmore Hill were missing their leading scorer Barrell.
In front of quite a large number of spectators the game was pretty dire in the first 15 minutes as neither side wanted to make a mistake. The result was we all got rather sore necks waiting for the ball to come down. Finally Nottsborough listened to their coach and started to get the ball down and pass it. Suddenly Parker and Negus in midfield were starting to open play up despite being out-numbered. Ewin got away on the right and failed to find a completely unmarked Violet. Stavri did the same thing with Ewin clear. A goal for the away side was looking quite possible and it arrived on 24 minutes. Stavri who had been keeping the linesman happy by straying offside decided this time to bend his run and give himself a chance and the linesman no chance. This coincided with Violet finding one of those lovely curling 40 yarders. The ball curled into Stavri who had got behind the defence. The next bit was pure class as the Nottsborough man controlled and turned in one movement. From 25 yards out Nick Stavri chipped the home keeper to find the net high up for a quite superb opener.
I think it is fair to say the away side were on top at this point. Matt Kerr flashed a shot wide of the far post with Ewin un-marked. Rich Parker then brought a good sprawling save out of Carter with a long range skimmer. Violet got behind the Winchmore defence and with Ewin again making a superb run to the back post a bobble meant the ball was on the roof of the net instead of the strikers head.
Most of the threat from Winchmore came from the long throws of Matty Knight, although Alex Ewin had been doing a good job in stopping Knights advancing too far. Nottsborough got a wake-up call just before half time as first they allowed a Winchmore midfielder far too much room from a throw-in on the right and were relieved to see his shot curl wide. Then more seriously a long Knights throw was flicked on by a centre back and their midfielder delivered another flick-on that seemed to be going over Ashley. The Rep keeper made a superb save to put the ball onto the bar and Webb completed the clearance to keep the away side 1-0 up at half time.
The second half, as is often the case, was a different game. Winchmore definitely raised the tempo and began to show why they have been winning so many games. Nottsborough however made the first big mistake of the game and paid for it. Arren Sutcliffe, who was quite superb all afternoon, for some reason tried to keep a ball in play on the very wet touchline 30 yards out. The ball got trapped under his feet and was nicked by the lively Winchmore Hill sub. Somehow this young man evaded a couple of fairly ordinary tackles and a ball into the penalty area found a Winchmore player Ben Head completely unmarked. A simple finish under Ashley and the score was 1-1. This score-line rather flattered Winchmore but in the next 20 minutes or so they made it a far more realistic score-line as they took the game to Nottsborough. Ashley had to go sprawling to his right to keep out a Rod Beya shot who was now beginning to find space. Winchmore were attacking on both flanks with the speedy Seymour now on the left.
Nottsborough decided to make changes with Ben Hickes withdrawn and the policy of protecting Stavri’s back continued. Matt Kerr went to right back to counter the pace down the left, Ted Datta took Kerr’s place in midfield, and Ben Hughes came on up front to offer some pace of his own. Nottsborough were starting to break out of their half and Seymour did really well to get back and clear the ball away from the line when Ewin got the ball behind Carter.
The second big mistake of the afternoon settled the game, although not without a tremendous finale. Carter in the home goal raced out of his area to the right corner flag where the ground was still very wet. The ball was neither cleared, nor put out of play. This was perhaps because Winchmore, and mostly Carter, were more concerned about whether Hughes was offside or not. The linesman clearly thought not. Hughes managed to keep the ball in play, and with Carter now racing back to goal, set up Violet wide on the left and level with the edge of the area. A great cross onto the six yard line saw two Nottsborough players unmarked. The first of these, in the middle of the goal, Matt Negus headed the ball into the bottom left hand corner on 75 minutes with Carter unable to get back in time.
The game really opened up now as Winchmore poured forward with Knights and the young sub on the right and Seymour on the left. There were several dangerous crosses that were dealt with superbly by Rolfe, Sutcliffe and Parker who was now virtually playing as a third centre-back as Winchmore went four up. In what ended up being 6 minutes of added time the previously excellent Mr Addison began to lose his bearings as to where clearances were crossing the touch-lines. Knights was allowed on a couple of occasions to steal at least 20 yards in launching his long throws, which fortunately were being cleared by Webb and Violet, and the big men behind. Gaps were opening up at the other end but Nottsborough could not fashion another chance although their passing helped to run the clock down. Negus had one decent shooting opportunity and Parker found the roof of the pavilion. Finally with Nottsborough clearing another dangerous Seymour cross Mr Addison found his watch and his whistle.
Ashley; Hickes, Rolfe, Sutcliffe, Webb; Kerr M, Negus, Parker, Violet; Ewin, Stavri; Subs Datta and Hughes.
Man of the Match for Nottsborough could have been many players. Ashley for his wonderful save. Webb did superbly on his late call up. Sutcliffe was outstanding. Parker and Negus did well in midfield. Violet produced the two best passes of the afternoon. Ewin worked his socks off and is getting back to his best. Stavri scored a super goal. I’m giving it to Nathan Violet because on an afternoon when not a lot of real football was played he delivered the two passes that made two goals for the away side.
Nottsborough 4 Alleyn Old Boys 2 Surrey/Kent AFA Senior Semi Final 20th February 2010
Nottsborough take their chances !
In the world of finance and markets, ever since the credit crunch, some people have been talking about the “new normal”. The new normal at Nottsborough in recent times seems to have been “keep a clean sheet” and “we are bound to score one”. How pleasing then to see a much more old-fashioned Nottsborough score of 4-2 ?
The lawns of fortress Tolworth were in remarkable condition with some players electing to play in “mouldies”. The Nottsborough skipper Matt Kerr was able to announce a strong squad of 14 but then saw Matt Negus drop out with an ankle injury and there was a big doubt over Matt Rolfe who had barely eaten for a week. This though had the plus of making him look a lot leaner and meaner. The changes meant a start for Chris Kerr and what a smart choice that turned out to be !
Alleyn Old Boys are by no means a great side. However what they brought to this game was a real belief that they could get something out of it, and a real willingness to pass the ball around. For much of this game they had a lot of the ball and played attractively. They took two chances, had a header cleared off the line, and went close very early on. They kept their optimism and belief despite being three down after 25 minutes, and by the hour mark they were back in it at 3-2.
The game started with AOB taking the game to Nottsborough and flashing a volley narrowly wide after a flowing move. AOB were on top but every time Nottsborough got in their half the warning lights were flashing. On 4 minutes Chris Kerr gave Nottsborough the lead with a daisy-cutter inside the far post. Nottsborough broke out of their own half and Violet swept a 40 yarder into the middle for a breaking Matt Kerr. Kerr took a touch and then played in his brother who amazingly appeared to his right. There was still much to do but Chris Kerr got a good first touch and his clean strike put Nottsborough one up. On 10 minutes Nottsborough increased their lead with virtually their second attack of the game. A number of players were involved in a good passing move that ended with Matt Kerr being fouled 30 yards out and to the right of goal. AOB went to sleep a bit at the free kick and Violet played Chris Kerr in for his second goal with an almost carbon-copy finish, low inside the far post.
Nottsborough were now playing with a lot more confidence as Violet and Ewin started to link together. Parker and Matt Kerr were competing well in midfield and the two full backs, Howson and Hickes were starting to get forward. There was however a bit of route one about the third goal as Ashley, not for the first time this season, launched a long kick downfield and several players have mentioned that they took part in what followed. From memory Ewin put Chris Kerr behind the defence and his low cross found Ben Hughes who swept the ball home on 25 minutes. There was every chance at this point that Nottsborough would really open-up and for a while it looked as if Nottsborough might be getting back to their best. Violet was causing real problems and AOB looked vulnerable at the back. Alex Ewin has been a bit off colour lately but he was looking a lot sharper in this game and he very nearly made it four as the keeper blocked his close range shot. AOB were not giving up however. When Nottsborough conceded possession on the half way line the away side took full advantage and a good passing move saw their left winger sweep in a cross that Ashley palmed away. This only fell to an unmarked player and his low cross was bundled home on 36 minutes. It was then a matter of whether AOB could get another back before the break but once again Rolfe and Sutcliffe were doing well to tidy up dangerous situations. 3-1 at half time.
Nottsborough felt that they were in control and that further goals were there for the taking. AOB felt that if they could get another they were really back in it and that is what happened. Nottsborough were playing the ball around nicely at the back but not really getting anywhere when once again they gave it away just inside their own half. Eventually this resulted in a cross into the box which bobbled over Matt Rolfe’s foot and the AOB striker found the bottom corner with a smart strike. For the home side Ted Datta had replaced an ill Matt Kerr at half time and shortly after the Alleyn’s goal Matt Rolfe, who was struggling, was replaced by Nick Stavri. Stavri went up front with Alex Ewin withdrawn to midfield. The substitution was inspired because on 63 minutes Ewin floated in a cross from the right and Nick Stavri put Nottsborough 4-2 ahead. This is the fifth goal Stavri has scored off the bench this season as Nottsborough’s coach Brian Williams tries to manage Stavri’s dodgy back. For this goal Stavri got ahead of his marker and his downward header was just good enough to get past a sprawling keeper.
Nottsborough held on to their lead well enough from this point. AOB rather surprisingly took off their quick winger who had nearly got away earlier in the half. The away side were also picking up injuries which meant that they finished the game effectively with 10 men. Nottsborough were passing the ball around well enough to take the steam out of the game and Chris Kerr might have secured his hat trick near the end of the game as he rather delayed a good shooting opportunity. Earlier Ben Hughes had elected to shoot early rather than take the ball on and his shot went the wrong side of the right hand upright. A similar effort from Alex Ewin, this time with his left foot, also slipped just the wrong side.
This was a lot better from Nottsborough going forward, but they will have to do more in the coming weeks if they are to get anything out of Winchmore Hill or Broomfield. Nevertheless Nottsborough are through to the final of the Surrey/Kent Cup for the second successive year and they deserve to be there after winning at West Wickham and scoring four on Saturday. It has been a strange season so far but nobody can complain about making a Cup Final !
Ashley; Hickes, Rolfe, Sutcliffe, Howson; Kerr M, Kerr C, Parker, Violet; Ewin, Hughes; Datta, Stavri
Man of the Match for Nottsborough Chris Kerr. Out of the side in recent weeks the midfield dynamo was back to his best.
Nottsborough 0 Old Owens 1 League 13th February 2010
Nottsborough return to the League.
This was Nottsborough’s first league outing in 15 weeks in what is becoming a ridiculous SAL season. Ironically their last league outing was at Potters Bar on 31st October 2009, where Nottsborough turned the corner in recording an excellent 1-0 away win. Old Owens may well feel that they have done the same thing in a close, quite exciting, match where both sides can say they had chances, but Old Owens wanted it that bit more.
Nottsborough had their best chance of the game inside 2 minutes when Violet picked out Stavri 10 yards out in the middle of the goal with time to take a first touch and pick his corner. He hit it straight at a very relieved Sullivan. In this early period Nottsborough were playing well and taking the game to Owens. Chances came regularly throughout the half. Chris Kerr just needed to get something on a curling cross that narrowly missed the far post. His brother Matt had Sullivan sprawling to keep out a long range shot and then Kerr junior volleyed inches wide. Sutcliffe, who had another good game had a great heading opportunity but failed to get his powerful header on target from a corner.
Old Owens were not out of the game in any way and looked dangerous with Mann and Breeze working well together. Mann had a strong shot deflected narrowly over before Nottsborough made their first mistake of a frustrating afternoon. They gave the ball away around 30 yards out and Breeze was played into the area. A clumsy tackle brought him down and Old Owens had a penalty. Dan Ashley produced an excellent save to his left to turn this away for a corner. 0-0 at half time.
The second half was much more about what Old Owens were doing as they took the game to Nottsborough. Although Owens had to clear a header away from under their crossbar and Alex Ewin really should have given the home side the lead when put clear by Violet. Ewin attempted to go around Sullivan just inside the area and the keeper did marvellously to get a hand to the ball and divert it away. At the other end Dan Ashley made a fantastic reaction save to deny Mann from 10 yards out. Both Matt Rolfe and Dave Howson had to get in excellent last minute tackles to keep out sharp Owens attacks and the goal was coming when Nottsborough once again gave the ball away 30 yards out. Owens took advantage, advanced and a deflected shot looped over Ashley to give Owens the lead with about 20 minutes to go. Although Nottsborough huffed and puffed they did not create a great deal although Chris Kerr did have the ball in the net in the second half with Stavri mysteriously given offside although Kerr seemed to be nearer the goal. Old Owens in fairness looked much more likely to add to their lead and wanted the game that little bit more.
Nottsborough can only point to the absence of the influential Parker, although they created more openings in this game than in recent Cup wins. Owens are through to the semis of the AFA trophy and maybe this win will start a climb up the table for them. It is Nottsborough who now need to do something about their league form, but is hard when you only get to play a league game every 15 weeks !
Ashley; Hickes, Rolfe, Sutcliffe, Howson; Kerr C, Kerr M, Negus, Violet; Ewin, Stavri; Subs Hughes and Datta
Man of the Match for Nottsborough Dan Ashley. The only one on the top of his form.
Old Minchendenians 0 Nottsborough 2 AFA Senior Cup QF 6th February 2010
Fourth semi in a row !
Nottsborough kept up their record of making it through to the final stages of the AFA Senior Trophy by booking their fourth consecutive semi-final on Saturday. The draw away to Old Minchendenians was a really difficult one as the home side are flying high in the AFC Senior Division. The decision of the home side to switch the game to Firs Farm was an odd one, although seeing their normal pitch outside their clubhouse after the game I can understand why. Firs Farm reminds me of my days in the Croydon Sunday League. Multiple changing rooms, multiple pitches, loads of enthusiastic footballers, lads putting up nets, pegs, goalposts at crazy angles, sloping crossbars. Quite an unusual choice for an AFA Quarter Final, but beggars cannot be choosers in this weird winter.
This was quite a surreal afternoon altogether. After warming up for a considerable time on the farm, both sides were beginning to wonder where the officials were, but eventually at 2.05 they appeared. Do they get fined for late appearance ? The choice of venue really did not suit the home side I felt. They tried to play football all game and it was not an easy thing on a park pitch where the ball was often out of play. The Minchendenian players worked their socks off in the first half and going downhill towards the odd-shaped goal in the first half they put Nottsborough under a load of pressure. They must have forced 6 corners in the first 15 minutes but Rolfe and Sutcliffe were very firm under the aerial bombardment they were getting from the corners and long throws aimed at Tim Chenery the AFA player. At full back Howson and Hickes were sticking to their men very well as it was clear that Minchendenians posed a real threat on the flanks. In midfield Nottsborough were also working very hard with Matt Kerr and Violet supporting their full backs, whilst Parker and Negus battled for supremacy in midfield against a very combative side. The home side had two problems despite all their pressure. Firstly Nottsborough were not allowing them a shot from anywhere other than outside the penalty area, and secondly they were annoying the ref Mr Faithfull. This latter thing is not a good idea and Mr Faithfull was turning scarlet with the rage he was feeling. One really wondered for his good health, but a couple of bookings seemed to settle him down.
Finally Nottsborough seemed to settle to their surroundings by gradually beginning to emerge from their half although much of the passing seemed to indicate that they had only recently formed a team. Minchendenians were looking solid and very competitive at the back until they let a ball bounce and suddenly Hughes was in behind the defence. Did he slip or was he tripped ? Mr Faithfull thought the latter and by now nobody was arguing with him, fearing for the consequences. The home side were right to fear for the consequences because Nathan Violet scored direct from the free kick on 28 minutes with the only shot on target of the first half. The free kick was past the wall and into the bottom corner before the goalie moved. Nottsborough had another couple of dangerous free kick situations in the first half but were letting their imaginations run away with themselves rather than just putting it in the mixer or working the keeper.
Nottsborough were lucky to be ahead at half time and they knew it. They played a lot better in the second half. In the early stages of this half Minchendenians were back at the Nottsborough defence but the two centre-backs Rolfe and Sutcliffe were now in complete command. The game was beginning to open up and the away side were beginning to appreciate the room. Nottsborough increased their lead with a pure route one goal. Ashley boomed a big kick straight down the field, clearing their centre half and the speedy Ben Hughes was behind the defence again on 59 minutes to lift the ball over the keeper and within the confines of the odd-shaped goal. It was not easy on this surface to get shots on target so a 2-0 lead was a big thing. Minchendenians continued to work hard but were now running out of ideas other than long throws and Ashley was picking up quite a few of these. The home side changed their formation in trying to get back in the game and both Alex Ewin and Rich Parker passed up clear opportunities to put the game out of sight. Ewin from a free header on the six yard line and Parker with a volley wide from 10 yards. Nottsborough replaced one Kerr with another with 20 minutes to go and took off the scorer Hughes to introduce the craft of Nick Stavri, who was not fully fit. Kerr and Stavri helped Nottsborough run the clock down well by the simple tactic of keeping the ball.
Nottsborough came away with an impressive 2-0 win. It was a strange performance. Completely competent based on sound defensive tactics. The defensive five all did well. In front of them Parker and Negus were impressive, with the latter back to his best. He was busy, put his foot in, and kept going. Parker got better and better as the game progressed. With 6 clean sheets in the last 7 games Nottsborough have turned their playing style on its head. As the game opened up Violet and Ewin came into it more and the pace of Hughes was a factor in both goals. Nottsborough did look the most likely to score in the second half. A fourth consecutive semi-final awaits against our old rivals Broomfield. There are so many good sides around at this level that four consecutive semi’s is quite a performance. We shall see whether Nottsborough can make it three consecutive finals. The surreal afternoon was completed by a 10 minute drive to the home clubhouse where we were treated very well.
Ashley; Hickes, Rolfe, Sutcliffe, Howson; Kerr M, Negus, Parker, Violet; Ewin, Hughes; Subs Kerr C, Stavri
Man of the Match for Nottsborough Matt Rolfe. He was injured on Thursday and not playing. On Saturday he stood out.
West Wickham 0 Nottsborough 1 AFA Surrey/Kent Senior Cup 30th January 2010
Violet’s first ever header !
Thank heavens the pitch at Corkscrew Hill was playable after a frosty evening with a dusting of snow. Another weekend postponed, or blank because of Rep games or fixture breakdown, would have been hard to take. The pitch however was very firm in places where the sun had not shone, and the surface was difficult enough to make it quite hard to string passes together. A goal in the first 5 minutes was enough to settle the tie, but the play kept you interested right to the end, even if the quality was not all that great.
West Wickham think of this Cup as virtually theirs after a whole succession of final victories, the last of which was over Nottsborough last season, where Nottsborough could not turn possession into goals. It did not take them long to score in this one though ! A throw in from Ben Hickes, was flicked past Simmons by skipper Matt Kerr. Kerr got to the by-line and his firm cross to the 6 yard line was met by the forehead of none other than Nathan Violet on 4 minutes. Violet has never scored with his head in men’s football, but there was no doubting this one as the ball flashed just below the bar beating the flailing arm of the home keeper and thumping into the net. Nottsborough had taken a bit of a shock lead. In the next twenty minutes or so Nottsborough looked full value for their lead and Nick Stavri, who caused problems all afternoon, almost gave the away side a superb second. Being put clear he turned inside Gibson and away from Currie. His left foot shot grazed the left hand post, although the corner given seemed to indicate that a deflection had saved the home side. There was confusion in the home goalmouth on a couple of occasions but Nottsborough could not take advantage.
The game was very evenly contested in midfield with the blond haired midfielder Cornwell showing up well for the home side. It was in attack that Nottsborough seemed to carry the threat with Ewin and Stavri combining well. However there were to be no further goals in the first half as both defences held firm. West Wickham were getting back into the game before half time but their only threat was from free kicks or corners where Rolfe and Sutcliffe stood firm for Nottsborough, as did Freeman, Gibson and Currie for West Wickham.
The second half started with West Wickham winning a whole series of corners. Rolfe had to go off injured for Nottsborough before half time, and the away side were lucky to have such an able replacement in Rich Parker who dropped back from midfield. Ted Datta was on in midfield and did very well in what was a pretty frantic battle. Parker and Sutcliffe did very well in the second half aided by determined and assured performances from Ben Hickes and Dave Howson. Hickes was a bit of a surprise selection, having missed the win against Old Parmiterians, but he had a most assured game winning all the important challenges and passing accurately forward. It would be fair to say that West Wickham were on top territorially for most of the second half but they rarely troubled Ashley in the Nottsborough goal and I can only remember a shot over the bar by Cornwell that resembled a decent chance. Nottsborough repelled the West Wickham arial threat with Alex Ewin heading clear very well on a couple of occasions in the closing moments. Away from the lower end Nottsborough looked more threatening in open play but a Violet free kick that went a foot over the bar was the nearest they came, although Stavri almost stole in along the by-line before he was replaced by Ben Hughes with 10 minutes to go. Earlier Chris Kerr had come on to replace a rather subdued Matt Negus and Kerr was immediately impressive in making himself available and keeping the ball under pressure on the bobbly surface.
Another away win then for Nottsborough and the fifth clean sheet in six games. Another tough away cup-tie awaits next Saturday and a return to the league is further forestalled. It is something like 10 weeks since our last league game in a league where some teams have played four or five more games than others. Crazy and not particularly fair.
Ashley; Hickes, Rolfe, Sutcliffe, Howson; Kerr M, Parker, Negus, Violet; Ewin, Stavri; Subs Datta, Kerr C, Hughes.
Man of the Match for Nottsborough could be Nathan Violet for his first headed goal and his determined play. It could be Nick Stavri who troubled the West Wickham defence all match. It could be Arren Sutcliffe who was part of a very assured central pairing, but I am giving it to Ben Hickes for a very solid all-round game at right back.
Nottsborough 1 Old Parmiterians 0 AFA Senior Trophy Round 4 23rd January 2010
Nottsborough in the hat again !
Nottsborough booked their place in the AFA Senior Trophy Quarter Final for the fourth year in a row at Tolworth on Saturday. However the defending champions were taken all the way by a much improved Old Parmiterians, who will feel they deserved at least a draw in this exciting encounter.
Nottsborough looked a little bit flat starting this encounter and this perhaps is not surprising since it is 7 weeks since they last played. Parmiterians looked a bit sharper, with new AFA striker Lewis Jones showing up well, and it was Nottsborough who had to do the early defending. However the away side could only manage a couple of half chances in the first quarter as the home centre backs Rolfe and Sutcliffe started to settle to their game. Left back David Howson got in one fine defensive header to clear a dangerous situation. Parmiterians main threat was coming down the right and Jay Abberley’s long throws were proving awkward but defendable. At the other end Alex Ewin was starting to find space and when Parmiterians allowed him to turn the home side started to look threatening. Matt Negus produced a lovely ball from the centre circle which allowed Violet and Ewin inter-link to put Ben Hughes clear inside the area. His cross-shot just missed the far post although it appeared to deflect off the Parmiterians keeper. Chris Kerr had a good shooting opportunity but failed to make clean contact. Nottsborough, in patches, were now producing some excellent quick passing but the final ball was missing. Parmiterians came back into it before half time and this time it was Matt Kerr at right back who had to be on his game dealing with the tricky left winger and the good swinging deliveries from the Parmiterian left back. Half time came with no score and a pretty even game.
Nottsborough felt that if they kept passing and moving Parmiterians would tire as they did in the previous season. This was not really the case. In fact for the first 15 minutes of the second half Parmiterians were all over Nottsborough. Matt Rolfe played a very weak pass to let in a Parmiterians player and Nottsborough were very relieved that Howson once again made a timely clearance. Jones then lifted the ball over Sutcliffe and did the same to Ashley in the home goal, only to see the ball bounce wide of the far post. Ashley then went full length to his left to save superbly from a 25 yard skimmer on the damp surface. Another firm drive from outside the area was deflected and fortunately for Ashley it went wide of the post with him completely committed the other way. This spell of immense pressure ended when Parmiterians had a great chance after poor Nottsborough defending and the home side were totally relieved to see a stabbed shot from the corner of the 6 yard box strike the upright and be cleared away.
The home coach felt there had to be a change and striker Nick Stavri and midfielder Ted Datta were introduced. Ben Hughes, who made some excellent runs in the first half, was replaced by Stavri. Chris Kerr, who had been ill in the week, was replaced by Datta. The effect of the changes was almost instantaneous. Stavri lifted the ball over the Parmiterians centre half and was almost in on goal with his first touch. Shortly later a corner was won. Violet played a short corner to Ewin and a short lay off provided Nathan Violet with the opportunity to curl a lovely cross to the far post. Matt Negus probably should have scored with a firm free header but the Parmiterians keeper pulled off a great reflex save. He could do nothing about Nick Stavri’s follow up header that found the back of the net on 69 minutes.
Parmiterians threw caution to the wind and chased the game from this point. Nottsborough were left with huge spaces on the break and could have easily punished the away side which would not have been fair on the day. Stavri had the ball in the net again with 10 minutes to go but was ruled offside. Ewin really should have either found the net or three unmarked teammates in a quick counter-attack. Negus got away on the right and the cross to the back post was almost headed home by Datta. Parmiterians got their heads to a couple of free kicks in the dying moments and they won a hotly disputed free kick 25 yards out in the last minute. The left back made good contact but Ashley was able to grab the ball at the foot of the post. In the end the home defence found someone each time to deny Parmiterians a goal and with their fourth clean sheet in five games move into the quarter final.
Ashley; Kerr M, Rolfe, Sutcliffe, Howson; Kerr C, Negus, Parker, Violet; Ewin, Hughes; Subs Stavri and Datta.
Man of the match for Nottsborough. The back five all did well, Negus, Violet, and Ewin all looked as if they could create something, but Nick Stavri made the difference.
West Wickham 0 Nottsborough 2 AFA Senior Trophy Round 3 5th December 2009
Holders come through difficult tie !
Looking at the draw for the AFA Senior Trophy this looked like the difficult tie of the round, and not many teams would fancy a visit to Corkscrew Hill in Round 3. The AFA computer seems to have a glitch when it comes to these two teams as they are also paired in the Surrey/Kent AFA Cup and four meetings a season is becoming the norm. There have been 13 meetings between these two sides in the last 4 seasons with a further two to come this season. West Wickham lead the series 7-6 courtesy of a penalty decider 2 years ago. Despite all the rain of the previous week the ground at Corkscrew Hill was in superb condition, but I am afraid both sides cancelled each-other out in what was a pretty lacklustre first half.
hSkipper Matt Kerr had the luxury of naming a pretty much unchanged team, although family loyalty was not much in evidence as he named himself instead of his brother Chris for right midfield, preferring to name Matt Negus in centre midfield alongside Rich Parker. The defence that has conceded only 6 goals so far this season was unchanged. Fit again Ben Hughes was preferred to Nick Stavri, to partner Alex Ewin, although Stavri always does well against the home side.
West Wickham still have massive injury problems but they matched Nottsborough in a 45 minute spell that was low on goalmouth incident. Despite being afflicted with injuries and unavailability West Wickham had won 2 out of the last 3 meetings between these clubs. Nottsborough had slightly the better of it, but had only a Negus header that went narrowly over, and two blocked opportunities for skipper Matt Kerr on the far post to show for their slope advantage. West Wickham constructed a lovely move down their right and the low pull back from the byeline could not be turned on target. This was Wickham’s best chance of the half although they did look dangerous from set-pieces. Nottsborough were just starting to look more confident as half time arrived with the score 0-0 and little to keep a decent crowd involved apart from the half time music.
The second half was much better. Initially all the running was made by the away side who started to pass the ball much better and as a result they started to look much more threatening. Parker broke a move up in midfield and played a neat pass wide to Violet. The AFA’s wide man threaded a good ball down the left touchline and Parker broke clear of the West Wickham defence. A low curling cross was between Gibson and the home keeper and Ben Hughes stole in to side-foot the ball home from 8 yards on 50 minutes. For a while it looked as if Nottsborough would add to their lead as Howson, Violet and Ewin started to link down the left hand side, whilst Kerr, Negus and the improving Ben Hickes did the same down the right. Ewin crashed a shot wide of the right hand post, and Negus almost got through as it was now the away side forcing corners.
With 25 minutes to go Chris Kerr was introduced for his brother who was feeling a calf injury. By this time Nottsborough were rather sitting on their lead and West Wickham were starting to enjoy some territorial advantage. The home side brought on SAL striker Matt King, who has been injured for many weeks, in an attempt to give them some cutting edge. However it was the introduction of the young forward with the long throw that began to turn things. The introduction of Stavri for Hughes with 20 minutes to go coincided with a period of end to end play as the substitute cleverly wriggled into some clever positions near the by-line. One nice move on the right finished with Stavri lashing a shot into the side netting with Ewin completely unmarked in the middle. West Wickham were bringing on the big guns with SAL Rep player Neil Currie introduced as Wickham went to 3 at the back. From one long throw a mad scramble ensued and the ball thumped against the Nottsborough bar with Ashley beaten. From another throw Alex Ewin did very well to clear the ball off the line as Nottsborough began to look a little rattled. Midfielder Steve Jones flashed in a long range drive that Ashley saved well at the second attempt, whilst the young sub also had Ashley scrambling across his goal to make a low save to his right.
At the other end Ewin got free on the right as he chased a long ball into the box. Although he toe-ended the ball past the home keeper a defender got back and cleared it away. Nottsborough had brought on Ted Datta for Negus, and the new man did very well breaking up West Wickham play and neatly retaining the ball. Datta has done very well in the successful Nottsborough 2’s team and increasingly looks comfortable at this level. Chris Kerr had been doing well down the right and he it was who sealed the match for Nottsborough in the 90th minute. Violet found himself with the ball on the left touchline and just inside his own half. West Wickham had been throwing men forward and Violet’s through ball put Chris Kerr completely clear and the SAL player raced on to the edge of the area where he lifted the ball over the home keeper for a very well taken goal that sealed a 2-0 win.
Nottsborough had looked a much more confident team after they scored, and deserved to win this difficult tie. West Wickham though had given it a real go in the last quarter and had the defending champions rocking. If Ewin had not made that vital intervention the result might have been quite different.
Ashley; Hickes, Rolfe, Sutcliffe, Howson; Kerr M, Negus, Parker, Violet; Ewin, Hughes; Subs Kerr C, Stavri, Datta.
All the Nottsborough defence did well in a difficult game. Ben Hickes had a good game and Matt Rolfe was very solid as usual. Matt Negus and Rich Parker did well in midfield with playmaker Violet showing up well as the game went on. My Man of the Match for Nottsborough though goes to Arren Sutcliffe who had another very good game.
Old Owens 0 Nottsborough 1 League 31st October 2009
That’s more like it Nottsborough !
It is the longest away day of the season and it often can be very disappointing. It can be transport problems or just because Old Owens are a good team who play good football. There were no transport problems on this Saturday, but Old Owens are still a good team playing good football. This, however, was not the same Nottsborough team that has been struggling to live up to the title of league champions. Put quite simply this was a lot more like it Nottsborough !
Skipper Matt Kerr has had a very difficult time making 4 or 5 changes each week as players have been “paddling their own canoe”. Much has gone on behind the scenes at Nottsborough in the last week and they took a very strong squad to Old Owens. The situation has been crying out for a settled side, and Kerr chose to field an almost completely different back four for this game – in came Ben Hickes, Arren Sutcliffe and Dave Howson. To be fair though this was the back four that largely took Nottsborough to the title last season. There was a surprise in midfield where Rich Parker replaced Chris Kerr. There were no changes up front with both Nick Stavri and Chris Apaloo unavailable. Although there were again 4 or 5 changes they were from a position of strength.
There were no goals in the first half but if I could watch football like this each week I would be happy. Old Owens played patient passing football with 5 men across midfield and looking to exploit gaps out wide. They were a very easy side to watch and several times in this first half they came close to scoring the all important first goal. Their best effort was a thumping shot from Mann which Ashley did well to palm over the bar. Parker, in the side as a more defensive midfielder, also did well to get across to block Breeze when it looked like he would score after very neat inter-passing. Owens forced several corners but these did not pose too many problems to what is now quite a big Nottsborough team. Owens central three all looked good players and Sullivan was instrumental on several occasions in opening the game up.
Nottsborough were a different side from the ones seen at home recently against Winchmore Hill and West Wickham. Not only literally, but also in their approach. Firstly the midfield four were working very hard to counter Owens’s five. Secondly Nottsborough were managing to get three or four men in the area in attacking situations and it was the away side which came nearest to scoring. On 12 minutes Hughes, who looked a different player from the previous week, got completely clear and his lob beat the keeper but also just cleared the bar. Owens were having to defend very well at times as Violet and Negus were finding quite a bit of space and Violet was back to almost his best with two superb swinging crosses. Nottsborough also forced several corners and it was from two of these that they almost took the lead. From the first Ewin’s header back was scrambled away from in front of the goal after two shots were blocked and from the second Ewin beat keeper Sullivan but saw a defender head the ball off the line. 0-0 at half time and both sides looking for the win.
The second half was equally as good but Owens let themselves down with a poor final ball on several occasions. As the half proceeded Owens poured on more and more pressure but this Nottsborough defence is a good one and former skipper Rolfe and Sutcliffe held firm aided by Dave Howson who also had a good game up against a very good Owens right midfielder. The game could have gone either way but it was Nottsborough who took the lead on 69 minutes with a very good team goal. Nottsborough broke up an attack and Parker advanced from midfield with the ball at his feet. He spread the ball out to the left and a great cross found Ben Hughes unmarked 10 yards out and his flicked header found the bottom left hand corner of Sullivans goal. Minutes earlier a great reverse ball had seen Ewin put Hughes away on the right and his thumping cross was put behind for a corner. Nottsborough looked more dangerous in this half and almost settled the game with 7 minutes to go when a cross from Matt Negus flashed across the Owens area and Violet crashed a header against the bar. Violet has not scored with a header since he was 13 but he bravely put his forehead on this thumping cross.
Owens were exerting a lot of pressure on the away side. Forwell and Mann were in combative mood and looking for free kicks in and around the area so Nottsborough had to be very disciplined, with keeper Ashley clearly barking out caution. Ashley set a good example in this game dealing with the crosses and getting in a very good punched clearance from a swinging free kick. Owens pushed Breeze forward for the last quarter and Nottsborough were rather sitting on their lead but defending superbly. In the last minute this was exemplified when Nottsborough allowed Owens out of a corner and a flowing move saw the ball switched to the left. This move was snuffed out by a thumping tackle from Hickes who won the ball and cleared a potentially dangerous situation. Hickes also had a very good game, looking assured going forward, and it was good to see the Nottsborough defence re-united. In front of them the midfield four just about lasted the game after working so hard but the Nottsborough coach declined to bring on Chris Kerr and Nick Green who are both good players. Up front Hughes was a revelation, as Ewin shows increasing signs of returning to form and fitness. On this form, if Owens can find the final ball, not many sides will win at Potters Bar. Nottsborough just edged this one as they created the better chances. They worked hard and the confidence was showing again.
Ashley; Hickes, Rolfe, Sutcliffe, Howson; Negus, Kerr M, Parker, Violet; Ewin, Hughes; Subs Kerr C, Green.
Man of the Match for Nottsborough in my opinion was Ben Hughes who got the only goal of the game but brought others into the game and his pace was always a threat.
Nottsborough 1 West Wickham 2 League 24th October 2009
Not good enough Nottsborough
All of us know that the object of football is to score more goals than the opponent. Nottsborough got it wrong at both ends of the pitch on Saturday. One long ball caught out the defence and they then gave away a shocker from a long throw. Despite loads of possession, and at times swarming all over West Wickham, they did not score until substitute Nick Stavri showed them how with 15 minutes to go.
It is well known that West Wickham have loads of injuries and they turned up at Tolworth with a depleted squad. Nottsborough have been having their own problems with availability and they took the field with a completely different back four from two weeks ago and a completely different front pairing from last week. Despite all the changes both sides put on a game that was very watchable, as they tried to play good football on a surface not quite up to the usual standards but definitely better than at the start of the season.
Nottsborough were into their passing game very early with Nick Green, in an unaccustomed right back position, showing up well. The Kerr brothers were getting on top in midfield against Freeman and Jones, and Matt Negus was finding room out on the right. Crucially for Nottsborough Alex Ewin was finding space and taking another step forward in his comeback. Craig Bonser went close from Nottsborough’s first corner. Although there was lots of pressure there was little to show for it and West Wickham took the lead on 12 minutes when a long ball out of defence saw Dan Haines get the wrong side of Craig Bonser and the strikers pace took him into the area where he slotted very nicely past Dan Ashley who had hardly seen the ball up to that point.
This goal changed the balance and Ashley had to go down sharply at his near post to save a good volley from Haines. West Wickham were showing up well now and making good progress down their right hand side. Ivory and Haines were finding space against the new Nottsborough back line. Generally Craig Bonser did well with the dangerous Haines as the half progressed, whilst Matt Rolfe in his first game for several games began to make his mark with some neat distribution and strong vocals. Nottsborough were still getting a lot of possession. Mark Shadbolt put a cross against the Wickham bar and then West Wickhams new keeper made a superb save from Matt Kerr from just 8 yards as the home skipper thumped the ball towards goal and the keeper not only blocked it but crucially held it as well with Ewin ready to pounce. As the half wore on Ewin had a good shot turned aside by the keeper and Nottsborough despite creating lots of good situations could not find the final cross or shot to make it tell. They were made to pay in a very cruel way. Tommy Williams took a long throw into the Nottsborough area aimed at nobody in particular as West Wickham did not even have a man at the near post. Dan Ashley failed to take command of the situation and Matt Rolfe struggling with the long throw managed to provide the flick on that West Wickham could not provide for themselves. This header fell neatly to the feet of the West Wickham number 7 who was completely unmarked and he bundled the ball home to give a pretty unfair scoreline at halftime of 0-2. West Wickham had defended well with Gibson and Currie doing their jobs well and the forwards making the most of their chances. As stated at the beginning they did not concede and they took their chances – perfect.
The second half was really a lot of the same with Nottsborough finally beginning to look as if they could score and West Wickham defending well and occasionally looking dangerous on the break. The Nottsborough Coach made a number of left-field substitutions in an attempt to find something that worked. Green was replaced by Webb for his first team game in a year, whilst Apaloo (currently in the third team) replaced Hughes, who had got into some good positions but not found the final ball or shot. This is another example of a player who has been out for two weeks finding it hard to play well on his return. The final substitution was the oddest with Violet moved to left back in place of Shadbolt. Nick Stavri came on up front for the last 25 minutes with Alex Ewin withdrawn to midfield. The end-product of all these changes was that Violet started to see a lot of the ball and his distribution is generally good. Long balls forward started to find the willing Apaloo and Nottsborough began to look threatening. Finally with 15 minutes to go Nick Stavri stepped past two challenges and thumped the ball past the keeper from the edge of the area. It sums up Nottsborough’s season so far that Stavri, who has slowly been making a good comeback, turned up for this game complaining of a very stiff neck and thus did not start. Matt Kerr had a good chance from 12 yards out but headed over. Ewin had a heading chance but could not get enough power in and Nottsborough looked dangerous from corners as Bonser almost got enough on a flicked header. At the other end Ivory almost got through after a great little run that saw him flick the ball over two challenges, but not past Ashley. West Wickham held on but not in the way they would have with their full side, and it is back to the drawing board for Nottsborough with a tough game at Old Owens next week.
Ashley; Green, Bonser, Rolfe, Shadbolt; Negus, Kerr M, Kerr C, Violet; Ewin, Hughes; Subs Stavri, Webb, Apaloo.
Man of the Match for Nottsborough Matt Negus.
Nottsborough 0 Winchmore Hill 1 League 17th October 2009
Several people speaking to me in the bar afterwards thought this was a good game. I beg to differ. Neither keeper had a save to make. Chances were few and far between and one goal was always going to be enough. Winchmore Hill came with a good game plan and executed it well.
Nottsborough could not have had a much worse preparation for this game. The win at Weirside the previous Saturday was good and looks even better after Saturday’s results. Hoping to kick on from there, skipper Matt Kerr found out in the week that Rich Parker, Alex Ewin and Nick Green would not be available whilst Ben Hughes was already away. On Friday evening Simon Curasco pulled out and then on Saturday morning Matt Negus called in sick leaving the skipper with just 12 men, one of whom Matt Rolfe is not completely fit. Nottsborough are used to managing this type of situation but when your opponents are as good as Winchmore Hill it is sometimes difficult to get the result you hope for.
Winchmore played most of this game with 9 men behind the ball, hoping the ball to the excellent Beya would stick and then using the pace of their wide players to break. The first half was a stalemate and quite frankly rather low in quality from both sides. Only one decent chance was created when Chris Kerr and Ben Hickes linked nicely to send a deep cross to the back post. David Howson, playing in a now unaccustomed midfield role, got a really good header back from the by-line and David Shaw just failed to get his header on target.
The real chances of this game came in the second half when a little bit more room appeared on the smallest pitch at Tolworth. Beya got clean through on Dan Ashley but put the ball narrowly wide of the left hand upright. The game was won when the usually excellent Arren Sutcliffe got the ball stuck under his feet and Aby Seymour was given space to advance on Ashley and curl the ball home on 62 minutes. Nottsborough swiftly switched to 4-3-3 but did not trouble an assured Winchmore defence too much. Nick Stavri saw a brief sight of goal but his shot was painfully blocked. Matt Kerr had a very good chance to snatch the equaliser when a Violet free kick found the skipper unmarked on the back post but Kerr put his header over the bar from only 5 yards out. Winchmore held on quite comfortably after that as Nottsborough huffed and puffed but rarely threatened as they had to take off David Shaw and could only move a midfielder forward.
Not good enough from last years champions this. Too many team changes each week is making a title defence unlikely. Nottsborough have a strong squad but 4 or 5 changes each week is too much to deal with.
Ashley; Hickes, Bonser, Sutcliffe, Shadbolt; Kerr C, Kerr M, Howson, Violet; Shaw, Stavri; Sub Rolfe
Man of the Match for Nottsborough was Craig Bonser who came in at centre back and was neat and tidy all game with good pace to match the Winchmore speedy men.
Weirside Rangers 0 Nottsborough 2 League 10th October 2009
Nottsborough strikers return
The Nottsborough team had a good dressing room chat about how things were going this season. The result was a very impressive first 30 minutes in which they went 2-0 up and this was enough to secure the points. The return of SAL Representative strikers Nick Stavri and Alex Ewin probably also had something to do with it. Stavri has started only a handful of games in the last 11 months whilst Ewin has not started a game for 6 months. Both men featured prominently in the first 20 minutes but naturally faded somewhat over the 90 minutes.
The three match officials failed to materialise so Ref Richard Melvin took sole charge of this game. The playing surface at Imber Court was firm but the recent rain had helped and fortunately the strong winds of the previous week had gone. Weirside looked lively in the early moments but Nottsborough started to get on top with wide players Nathan Violet and Matt Negus showing up well. Nottsborough took the lead on 10 minutes when bright play down the right involving Negus and Ben Hickes won a free kick wide out on the right level with the edge of the area. Violet’s in-swinger was beautifully placed and Matt Kerr flicked the ball on for Alex Ewin to run the ball into the net. A nice way for the striker to celebrate his return from injury.
During the first 30 minutes Nottsborough looked very threatening and created a number of chances. Nottsborough increased their lead on 20 minutes when a confident solo run by Violet saw him break through the middle and time his pass to Chris Kerr to perfection. Kerr was clean through on the keeper and he literally slid his shot into the bottom right hand corner. In no particular order, but all in that first half hour, Ewin blasted a volley high and wide, whilst a Negus screamer narrowly missed the right hand upright. Following two separate corners Arren Sutcliffe had a shot blocked and his centre back partner Rich Parker repeated the feat minutes later. From a good move down the left, involving the impressive Howson and Violet, Matt Kerr volleyed over the bar on what was a difficult volley beyond the far post.
Weirside got themselves back into the game by continuing to try and play the ball around and their midfield 5 were lively and quite inventive when they got the space. For Nottsborough the two Kerr brothers were having to work very hard to close down Weirside’s middle 3. Nottsborough started to give away free kicks and Weirside came much more into the game before half time although Sutcliffe and Parker dealt comfortably with most things, whilst Ashley in goal calmly patrolled his area.
As is often the case the second half was a different story. Weirside got their act together and started to make a real game of it. They definitely had the balance of play for most of this half although the chances they created were limited and largely came from set plays. Their influential centre back headed narrowly wide from one of these on 55 minutes. Ashley had to go down to save a free kick that, although mishit, was bobbling towards the goal through a crowd of players. Weirside’s best chance came when a good attack down the right produced a cut-back and the chance was volleyed high. Although there were more free kicks and corners conceded, the impressive Parker and Sutcliffe mostly dealt with these although Ashley did come for one good punch injuring Parker in the process.
Nottsborough made changes early in the second half bringing on Craig Bonser for Ben Hickes and Mark Shadbolt for Dave Howson. Not much later Nick Green replaced Matt Negus. It makes such a difference having a strong bench. Nottsborough were under pressure before these changes were made and all three players did well and settled into the game as it moved into the final quarter. Although still under pressure Nottsborough created the best two chances of this half and Weirside have their keeper to thank for keeping the score to two. An intricate passing move starting with Shadbolt, who did well down the left, ended with Stavri hitting a clean shot across the keeper. The ball was definitely going inside the right hand post until the home keeper at full stretch got a fingertip to it tipping it around the post. A superb save! Minutes later Violet tried to take on the home defence on his own and the result was a firm shot through a crowd of players. The Weirside keeper again did well going to his left to make a smart save at the expense of a corner.
There was to be no further score although ref Richard Melvin kept on awarding free kicks and corners to Weirside, even when there was no touch. The man in the middle had a good game overall, keeping up with play well, and being reluctant to hand out cards. Oh for the three officials though.
This was better from Nottsborough although the league may well be harder to win this season. Broomfield and Poly have had a good start, and Nottsborough are not yet back to their best. Nevertheless they only had three points at this stage last season. The squad if anything looks stronger but there has to be more consistency in availability before the team play returns to last season’s standard.
Ashley; Hickes, Parker, Sutcliffe, Howson; Negus, Kerr C, Kerr M, Violet; Ewin, Stavri; Subs Bonser, Shadbolt, Green.
Man of the Match could really have been Chris Kerr for the sheer energy of his performance and a very well taken goal (he really should score more often). I have decided against it on the grounds of free kicks conceded which probably got into double figures - he has a nice smile refs. My award goes this week to Arren Sutcliffe – three games and three clean sheets.
Nottsborough 0 Old Salesians 0 League 3rd October 2009
Penalty Save denies Nottsborough !
This was not a great game. In fact it was frantic and scrappy. Bit like a school playground game when the wind is blowing. A mini gale was blowing across a pitch that was not up to the usual Tolworth standard. The lack of rain meant the pitch was hard and the drainage work done to the pitch has not healed due to this lack of rain. Therefore a hard pitch with soft patches on a windy day spoiled what should have been an excellent game between two of the best footballing sides in the league.
Even so Nottsborough should have taken all 3 points because Ref Gangadeen awarded them a penalty on 22 minutes. Nathan Violet’s spot kick was heading for the corner but Salesian’s Russell Hodges pulled off a great save low to his right. Nottsborough had just held the edge up to this point with Parker and Sutcliffe looking solid at the heart of the home defence. Chances, and indeed any passing football, were in limited supply. Matt Negus was put away not long after the penalty but the young Salesians defender got back to make a great tackle. As the half wore on Salesians looked more dangerous and one cross had Ashley struggling in the home goal and Michael Ayres headed narrowly wide.
The second half was more of the same although both teams had settled better to the conditions. In truth though this was a game where the ball was off the field of play as much as it was on it. Salesians rarely troubled Dan Ashley during this half. There were a couple of routine shots to stop and Nick Haynes had a good chance near the end but struggled to keep his volley low enough to find the net. At the other end there was a return for Alex Ewin after 6 months out and the striker twice had the ball in the net in the 25 minutes he was on the pitch, both being ruled offside. Nottsborough produced one piece of good football down the left involving Violet and Howson and Ben Hughes did really well to get a good cross in where Matt Kerr headed narrowly wide.
This was a pretty even game where Nottsborough probably held the edge on chances created and the penalty should have sealed the three points. The home side are showing signs of returning to form and have all their squad bar Matt Rolfe fit to play. We shall see whether the 4 players selected for the AFA side come back fit; namely Matt Negus, Dave Howson, Nathan Violet and Arren Sutcliffe. Salesians have players getting over injury and will be a real force as the season progresses.
Ashley; Hickes, Parker, Sutcliffe, Howson; Kerr C, Kerr M, Negus, Violet; Curasco, Hughes; Subs Ewin, Green and Shadbolt.
Man of the Match had to be a defender and my vote goes to David Howson with two great tackles near the end standing out.
Broomfield 2 Nottsboough 1 League 26th September 2009
Nottsborough fell to their first defeat of the season following a performance containing far too many individual errors and a freak late goal. The performance was probably worthy of a point - Nottsborough rarely looked troubled by Broomfield other than when conceding possession cheaply in dangerous areas but failed to capitalise on sustained periods of possession in the second half.
Broomfield took the lead on 10 minutes. A cross from the Broomfield left wing travelled to the far post where the unmarked centre forward had managed to avoid the attentions of both Howson and Violet. His free header was excellently taken leaving Ashley with no chance.
Notssborough struggled to retain possession throughout the first half and it took 40 minutes before they put their first string of passes together, the move culminating with Stavri going close from 20 yards.
It was Stavri who equalised with the last kick of the first half, making the most of a yard of space in the Broomfield penalty area.
The second half saw a better Nottsborough display. Nottsborough thought they had a second on 75 minutes but Matt Kerr was adjudged to have fowled before putting the ball in the Broomfield net, much to the surprise and dismay of the Nottsborough players.
The killer blow came in the 89th minute. An innocuous looking throw in was poorly controlled by the Broomfield central midfielder on the edge of the Nottsborough box. The ball travelling away from him and with his back to goal, a hopeful swing of the leg sent the ball looping over Ashley and into the top corner of the net.
The game finished 2-1 and Nottsborough will need to improve in the coming weeks.
Team: Ashley, Shadbolt, Parker, Rolfe, Howson, C Kerr, M Kerr, Negus, Violet, Hughes, Stavri
Subs used: Bonser, Green, Hickes. Goal: Stavri
Man of the match: Negus
Nottsboough 1 Civil Service 0 League 12th September 2009
Nottsborough started the defence of their SAL Senior title with a hard won victory over a Civil Service side that pushed them right to the end. It was a very hot sunny day and the usual lawns of Tolworth were somewhat spoiled by the drainage channels which have not yet fully grassed over. Skipper Matt Kerr will take this win as he was struggling to finalise his team right up until the Saturday morning. Despite training since mid July and playing 5 pre-season matches players seem to be unable to make themselves available when the league starts, have other prior engagements, or pick up injuries. Both sides were at nothing like full strength for this game. Kerr will also be happy that he seems to have picked up several very useful players to add to his title winning squad.
Nottsborough started brightly and the skipper might have done better when a cut back from Violet left him with space but his first time side-foot did not carry enough power to really trouble the Civil Service keeper. At the other end the Civil Service number 9 had a great chance from a corner but headed wastefully over. Back came Nottsborough and Violet was causing the away defence a headache, with one run taking him past 2 tackles but again the shot was not good enough to trouble the keeper. The away custodian was in a lot of trouble with a low Nick Green cross and was lucky to see the ball miss the far post after he allowed the ball to go right through him. The Nottsborough defence were being asked questions by a Civil Service side playing a 4-3-3 formation and Ashley pulled off a great save from another corner although the ref’s whistle had just blown. Space however was appearing behind the Civil Service defence and Mark Shadbolt on his debut took full advantage. Was it a cross, or a cross shot ? No matter it beat the keeper on the near post and smacked into the back of the net off the far post on 30 minutes. This was to be the goal that settled the game.
The second half started well for Nottsborough and Hughes was almost through to make it 2-0. Moments later on 54 minutes he did make it 2-0 but was ruled offside. In fact Matt Kerr’s cross shot, after good work by Violet, was going in so that Hughes’s keenness to finish things on the line was a little mis-placed. Violet really should have done a lot better when he wriggled through but tamely put his right footer over the bar. It looked for the rest of the half as if Nottsborough might regret their wastefulness. They started to sit back and give rather a lot of free kicks away. However it was fortunate that Matt Kerr was able to put together a solid defence at the last minute. In came former AFA skipper Mark Grove to play at right back whilst new man Rich Parker, after one training session, formed what looks like a very promising partnership with the reliable Arren Sutcliffe. Dave Howson made up the back four and celebrated his first SAL Rep selection with a solid performance at left back. As the half progressed coach Brian Williams brought on another new man in David Shaw to replace Shadbolt allowing Violet to return to his normal position as Civil Service piled on the pressure. Although there were lots of dangerous crosses delivered into the box keeper Dan Ashley had a very sound game clearly talking to his defenders and catching cleanly anything that came his way. The impressive Derek Coe brought the game to an end after 4 minutes of added time. Civil Service deserved a point on possession and pressure but Nottsborough had the clearer chances and Shadbolts debut strike earned the three points.
Ashley; Grove, Parker, Sutcliffe, Howson; Green, Kerr M, Kerr C, Shadbolt; Violet, Hughes; Sub Shaw.
Man of the Match for Nottsborough goes to ex Chichester City defender Rich Parker for a calm and solid defensive display.
Nottsborough 2 Old Bealonians 3 Greenland Cup Final 5th September 2009
This final was played at a much improved EBOG. Not the greatest choice however on a day when the Northern Line was closed and so was the M25. Your reporter took 2 hours and 40 minutes to get home. Aah the joys of football in London !
Old Bealonians came into this match minus 5 players from their successful AFC winning side and with 3 players suspended. The team was therefore based on their very good Intermediate side of last season. Nottsborough managed, for the first time in pre-season, to put out a side that resembled their First team. However the spine of the team was missing, with Dan Ashley, Matt Rolfe, Danny Marsland, and Alex Ewin all otherwise engaged.
Old Bealonians won the game deservedly because they had the balance of play and more efforts at goal. They started well and should have been at least a goal up before they scored simply from a corner on the far post on 20 minutes. Nottsborough, who were very bright in the first 5 minutes, eventually emerged fully from their shells as the half progressed. When they strung some passes together they looked the better side but much of the half was spent trying long balls for Hughes and Shaw to get on to. Ten minutes before half time Nottsborough equalised with a very good goal. Matt Negus produced a long cross field ball, Nick Green whipped over a cross to the back of the box, where Violet’s spectacular volley turned into a very good cross for David Shaw to head home on his debut.
Nottsborough started the second half passing the ball well and looking confidant. Three changes were made at half time. Dave Howson came on for Gary Cullinan, Chris Kerr for Nick Green, and Nick Stavri for David Shaw. Stavri as always looks the part and he went very close with an ambitious long volley. On 55 minutes Nottsborough took the lead as Negus took a quick free kick and Nathan Violet found the roof of the net from 20 yards with a deflected shot. Nottsborough were now well on top and it looked like their now neat football was going to set up more goals as Dave Howson made a couple of great runs down the left linking with Stavri.
It was not to be. Nottsborough ran out of a bit of steam, began to sit on their lead, and Bealonians wanted the Cup a bit more. Also Nottsborough rather went to sleep at the back. A nice passage of play from Bealonians saw their dangerous left winger get clear in the box. Smyth looked a clear favourite to claim the ball, but neither held it, nor pushed it far enough away, and the same player popped the ball into the empty net. With 10 minutes to go a good low drive looked to be covered by Smyth, and with everyone expecting a corner somehow the ball had enough force to find the bottom corner. Negus put in one great run to the byline in the dying moments and had he gone over after the last challenge the ref would have had a real decision. Two corners came to nothing and the Cup belonged to Bealonians.
Smyth; Hickes, Bonser, Sutcliffe, Cullinan; Green, Kerr M, Negus, Violet; Hughes, Shaw; Subs Howson, Stavri, Kerr C.
Old Harrovians 0 Nottsborough 3 Greenland Cup semi final 29 August 2009
Nottsborough eased into the Greenland Cup Final with a comfortable win in Harrow. Played on an astro turf pitch, Nottsborough quickly settled and should have taken the lead within minutes of the start when good chances fell to both Roberts and Negus with neither being able to convert. Nottsborough enjoyed much of the possession in the first half but struggled to create any further meaningful chances.
The second half followed a similar pattern but Nottsborough still lacked a cutting edge in front of goal. It wasn’t until 65 minutes when Nick Green picked the ball up 25 yards from goal and drove a fantastic strike past a helpless Harrovian goalkeeper. Nick Stavri scored a second shortly after following good work by Sutcliffe. Ben Hughes put the game beyond doubt on 80 minutes when Stavri unselfishly squared to leave Hughes with a simple tap in.
A comfortable win for Nottsborough secures one more game before the season starts. Notable performances from Sutcliffe at centre back and Shaw in goal, both who flew in from Oz specially for the game, and Matt Kerr who arrived from Ireland shortly before kick off. With several players still missing this was a promising start to competitive fixtures but sterner tests will be faced.
Side:
Shaw, Green, Grove, Sutcliffe, Shadbolt, Negus, M Kerr, Datta, Cullinan, Hughes, Roberts.
Subs used:
Stavri, C Kerr, Webb
Nottsborough 1 Clapham Old Xavarians 2 Pre season friendly 15 August 2009
Following Matty Arnold’s departure the fixture between Nottsborough and Xavarians has become a regular feature of pre-season. On the day Nottsborough produced a fairly lacklustre performance and went down after conceding two very soft goals. A late consolation penalty, well taken by Nick Green, was Nottsborough’s only reward.
Following on from a good win over Meadonians last week Nottsborough hoped to continue their good form. However, a very slow opening 15 minutes from the home side proved costly. Within a minute the Xavarian’s centre forward found himself with time and space from 10 yards but put the ball wide when he should have done much better. This should have been a wakeup call for the Nottsborough side but more sloppy defending saw Nimmo gift Xavarian’s a goal on 15 minutes with a poor back pass that left Roberts with no chance.
Following the goal Nottsborough settled and played some attractive football. Datta was impressive in midfield alongside Howson who was typically energetic and put in some good work. Nottsborough finished the stronger in the first half but lacked a quality final ball and a bit of composure in the final third.
The second half was fairly uneventful. Nottsborough gifted a second goal to Xavarians. This time a headed back pass fell short of goalkeeper Rolfe and the ball was lifted in to the empty net.
Nottsborough won a penalty 5 minutes from the end. Nick Green stepped up and finished emphatically but it was too little too late. A disappointing result but all players had a good run out. Notable performances from Datta and Howson, also Matt Taylor who worked extremely hard up front for 80 minutes with little reward.
Side:
Roberts, Hickes, Rolfe, Nimmo, Shadbolt, Green, Howson, Datta, Morris, M Taylor, Bowman.
Subs used:
Cullinan, J Taylor, Lea, Briggs
Nottsborough 3 Old Meadonians 1 Pre season friendly 8th August 2009
A friendly against Old Meadonians has become a feature of pre-season preparations in recent years and once again on Saturday we welcomed them to a very warm Tolworth. With the weather in the mid-20’s, and re-development on the ground, the match was played way over the hill on the old Maori pitches. The playing surface was still very good however. Nottsborough had a squad of 18, whilst Old Meadonians seemed to be missing quite a few faces. It was a pretty good game however.
Nottsborough had the better of the first half and deserved to be 1-0 up at half time. Nick Stavri who missed most of last season showed he has lost none of his touch when he cut inside the centre back on 4 minutes and picked out the far side netting from 20 yards. Later in the half Stavri beat the keeper again but hit the same post. Matt Negus and Nick Green both made good contributions as Nottsborough controlled the midfield. By half time Old Meadonians were coming back into the game, although their keeper did very well to deny Jo Holden after good work by Negus and Green.
The second half was played a lot more in Nottsborough’s defensive half after they made wholesale half time changes. Only Datta and Nimmo remained from the first half team and Datta once again showed up very well with a hard-working and positive performance. Old Meadonians had several free kick opportunities but failed to test Nottsborough’s stand-in keeper. Meadonians were on top and forcing corners when they got caught on the break on 66 minutes. A very smart break involving Datta and Bowman ended with a lovely low cross from Bowman and a smart finish from Ben Hughes. Hughes was causing Meadonians problems as they switched to three at the back. Turning inside his man he smashed a shot against the cross bar. At the other end Meadonians stand-out player Ed Glover got on the end of a free kick and put his side back in the game with a smart glancing header with 15 minutes to go. Nottsborough won the game with another breakaway when a super through ball put Owen Prosser in a 50-50 with the keeper and somehow Prosser managed to get the ball over the line from a narrow angle despite the great efforts of a Meadonians defender on 82 minutes. There was still time for Meadonians to head a great chance straight at the keeper, whilst Bowman put Nick Green completely clear and his shot also smacked against the bar in the final minute.
First half – Lea; Hickes, Bonser, Nimmo, Cullinan; Green, Datta, Negus, Holden; Taylor, Stavri.
FC Royals 2 Nottsborough 2 Pre season friendly
Another hot day for Nottsborough’s pre-season campaign and this one a stiff test against one of the strongest sides in the London Sunday Metropolitan League. The City of London School pitch is one of the best playing surfaces in London and both teams did their best to play the sort of football to match the playing conditions. FC Royals started very brightly and three times in the first 15 minutes Dan Ashley had to stand tall to block clear chances. FC Royals were moving the ball swiftly in midfield and finding some excellent through balls. Slowly but surely Nottsborough got back into the game as Matt Kerr and Ted Datta got a bit closer to their men whilst Matt Negus and Dave Howson found space out wide. The Nottsborough defence with Matt Rolfe and Craig Bonser started to tighten things up, whilst Ben Hickes and Matt Shadbolt were doing well at full back. By half time Nottsborough had created three great chances of their own as Violet and Roberts started to keep the ball and link well.
Nottsborough made three changes at half time with Briggsy, Nimmo and Gary Cullinan slotting in midfield and right and left back respectively. Nottsborough also changed their tactics as they let FC Royals have the ball at the back closing down sharply when the ball got into their own half. The new tactics paid hefty dividends as firstly Nathan Violet brilliantly beat a couple of men on 54 minutes to slide the ball inside the right hand post. Within 5 minutes Nottsborough were two up as Dave Howson finding room to the left of the goal fired in a low cross-shot that got under the keeper and rolled over the line. At this point FC Royals seemed to almost give up and Matt Kerr and Leon Roberts twice should have put the game out of reach. Further rolling subs took Nottsborough’s concentration off the game and FC Royals snatched a goal back with an excellent far post strike. This really lifted the home side and they got an equaliser with 10 minutes to go as the lively home forwards got back into the game. Both sides had a decent chance to take the game but it ended a draw with Nottsborough ruing those missed chances.
Ashley; Hickes, Rolfe, Bonser, Shadbolt; Negus, Kerr M, Datta, Howson; Roberts, Violet; Subs Cullinan, Briggs, Nimmo
Missing from this game centre-back Arren Sutcliffe, Midfielders Chris Kerr, Nick Green and Danny Marsland (who will miss the whole season), and forwards Alex Ewin, Nick Stavri and Ben Hughes.
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