West Wickham 0   Nottsborough 3                    League                     Saturday 8th May 2010

Emotional Day as Morris Finishes Tenure with Victory

For the last 3 seasons the 2s have been guided by Pete Morris as captain, and he has done an excellent job in creating a real sense of team spirit and winning trophies. Saturday was the last game of his tenure as captain and fittingly it was against a decent team in West Wickham. Morris named a solid looking team with Nimmo in his favoured attacking left back role.

Previous games this season against a young West Wickham have followed a certain pattern: they play a lot of aesthetically pleasing football; we score some goals. This was to be no different. The youngsters were quickly into their stride - with “many people’s choice for player of the season” playing like a blind, one legged fool. Alongside him Greeny was scuttling around the midfield and trying to get a grip on the game. A few attacks foundered against a typically resilient back line, with White making two critical saves to ensure the hosts did not gain a lead. With the hosts looking increasingly confident the Morrismen crafted a counter attack that saw Bowman felled around the edge of the box. Up stepped Morris to slam a left footed drive past the keeper, and mark his last game as skipper with a fine goal. WW again came onto the Nottsborough defence, with little effect, despite some nice build up play. Greeny, when not scuttling like a ginger dung beetle, was at the centre of a couple of good passing moves from the centre of the park that saw the Morrismen finally settle into a rhythm of play and exert some pressure on the hosts backline. The pressure was intensified with a couple of good corners from Briggs, which led to a fine volley from attacking left back Frank Nimmoid towards goal. Well vaguely towards the goal. A second goal is generally the killer in tight games and it duly arrived on 30 minutes as a fine break, led to a ball played across the area to “many people’s choice for player of the season” – inadvertently his attempted tackle curled beautifully around a despairing dive from the keeper and into the far right hand corner for a fine goal.

Half time saw no changes made as Morris was determined to half a rage induced seizure just for old time’s sake. The scoreline made it difficult, but he did his best.

The second half started in a similar fashion to the first. West Wickham were playing the more attractive football – Nottsborough were looking more dangerous. Attacking left back Frank Nimrod was sacrificed after a good game to allow Matt Taylor, who was returning from injury, to make his comeback. Taylor slotted in well alongside McEwan up top, with Bowman moving to left midfield. In truth the game became quite scrappy with no clear cut chances really being created by either side. “Many people’s choice for player of the season” was finally given the shepherds crook, allowing Joseph ‘Jack Wills are now sponsoring me’ to enter the fray, in the most attacking midfield line up ever played by Morris: Prosser/Holden/Green/Bowman. Holden, playing like Michael Essien, assumed the role of destroyer in chief. When not destroying people with his tackling, Joe found time to miss a presentable chance after a good break, and almost knock himself unconscious with a header from a goal kick. Eventful times for the only yacht owner in the squad. A third goal came when a poor back pass allowed Taylor to crown Morris’ reign – and his own comeback – with a fine lobbed goal. On the neighbouring pitch Salesians were being defeated by the West Wickham first string to complete an unlikely title for our 1s – well done to serial trophy winner Matt Kerr and his boys.

So, at the end of the day, all that was left to say was a heartfelt thank you to Big Nose Morris for his excellent spell as captain – with vice-captain Andy Lea delivering a tear-stained speech over a couple of Tesco value sausage rolls. Poignant in every sense of the word.

Team:
White, Collins, Lea, Grove, Attacking left back Frank Nimmoid (Taylor), Prosser, Green, “Many people’s choice for player of the season” (Jack Wills Holden), Skipper Morris, McEwan, Bowman

Goals:
Morris
“Many people’s choice for player of the season”
Taylor

Man of the Match:
Morris. Just because.

Nottsborough 2   Winchmore Hill 1         League                                     Saturday 24th April

Bend it Like Briggsy

The Morrismen are still daring to dream of defending their title, but left it late for the second time in the same week to claim all 3 points – this time against Winchmore Hill at Fortress Tolworth. This victory means that Nottsborough 2s enjoyed an unbeaten league season at home – a fantastic achievement.

The game began on time with the sun beating down, causing to turn puce in the warm up. The team line up was compromised by having no fit forwards available - Prosser and the aforementioned Green were standing in and performed excellently throughout. Richardson, bordering dangerously close to needing a hairband, came in at full back to replace the injured Shadders.

Shane McGowan’s Dad was in charge, and sweating out the Bushmills throughout an energetic opening 10 minutes from the hosts, with Prosser stretching the visiting defence via some determined running and Green doing well in the hole. Unlike most Saturday nights. Chances were not being created, however, despite superior possession as the final pass was often going astray. The midfield, with “many people’s choice for player of the season” showing good form, began to click on 20 minutes and the goal followed soon after. A defensive situation was dealt with and allowed Collins to free the big nippled Abercrombie clothes horse Joseph Holden down the right hand side. The richest man in the 2s delivered a precise ball with the outside of his multi studded boot to Prosser in the inside left channel. Having tamed his hair, Owen duly tamed the ball, and stepping inside a couple of challenges slammed the ball past the keeper to open his account for the day. Other chances came and went as the half progressed by 1-0 was the half time score.

The second half saw Nottsborough start poorly and this provided WH with some much needed confidence. The defensive unit swung into action and cleared most situations up with minimal fuss. However, with 20 minutes remaining a break down the left was not dealt with at all and a halfway decent cross found the substitute lurking on the far post to equalize with a well placed finish. Was this the league slipping away? Not on your life. McEwan, came on for Nimmo and gave the team a platform again up top. This allowed for Notts to build some pressure and this pressure eventually told. On the cusp of the area someone was hauled down – with Dad of McGowan correctly seeing it as outside the area. Cometh the hour, cometh the revoltingly thin central midfield dead ball specialist. “Many people’s choice for player of the season” stepped up and curled a devastatingly accurate shot into the top corner to claim all 3 points.

A close call, but a 6 point week was secured.

Team:
White, Richardson, Lea, Grove, Nimmo (McEwan), Holden, Collins, Briggs, Morris, Prosser, Green. Sub – Webb

Man of the Match:
Owen Prosser – awesome.

Old Salesians 1    Nottsborough 2          League                              Tuesday 20th April 2010

“When the crunch comes, power is the product of force and will, not of rational debate. We have to have a body of trained young men capable of defending our organisation. If people come to crack our heads we will break theirs.” This was the message conveyed by Mark Grove prior to kick off early on Tuesday evening (or words roughly to this effect – the opening gambit is in fact an exact quote from Nick Griffin on power).

Such fighting talk was necessary – Nottsborough were a 9 man team at 6pm (kick off time) and approaching a must win game if the squads title aspirations were to be kept alive for another week. With four games left, the maths are simple – win all four and hope that Actonians slip up in one of their remaining two fixtures. Not an impossibility, as pitches harden, injuries add up and the pressure mounts.

Luckily for Notts the referree was caught up in heavy traffic (yet another kick in the teeth for the unsuccessful congestion charge) and at 6.30, with the ball on the spot Notts were 11. White began in goal, in defence Nimmo switched to right back, Grove and Lea were reunited in the centre and the athletic shadders continued at left back, the midfield consisted of Prosser, Green, Briggs (many peoples bet for player of the year) and Morris, and upfront Holden partnered Dan.

The game began well for Nottsborough, hitting the channels with accurate flighted balls from the back, fighting like mavericks for the first and second ball, and using their passing game to create space for the technical players such as Prosser, Green and Briggs to penetrate. Before long – the chances were created, Dan forcing a smart save from a surprisingly agile keeper at the near post and Grove heading just wide from a corner. As the half wore on the pressure mounted, Shadders undertaking a phenominal amount of work on the left to overlap the industrious Morris and fire crosses in – whilst on the right, Prosser was jinking past defenders as if they werent there – sadly though, the breakthrough didnt arrive. As the half time whistle blew the message was simple, keep defending strongly, keep shifting the ball quickly and smartly, and the chances will inevitably come.

Sadly, Nottsborough began the second half in exactly the opposite fashion, a shaky and nervy turnaround exemplified by Matt Nimmo. Many peoples man of the match in the previous two matches began the second period like a man possessed (by Geoff Capes) – but his misplaced passes were typical of the side as a whole – even Briggs and Green, usually an examplar of a cultured midfield duo (probably even good enough to play semi pro with Andy Richardson) were all at sea.

Inevitably under such circumstances, Eamon was brought on to shore up the midfield area, with Green shifting up front and Dan making way, and shortly afterwards, possibly against the run of play, Nottsborough made the break through. Green jinked his way into the box, turned, and fired past a hapless goalkeeper and defence. The reds had twenty minutes to hold out. Sadly this was ten minutes too long. Nimmo (by this stage wondering if he could make a rudimemtary noose out of his boot laces) trod on the ball and the subsequent phase of play resulted in a contentious free kick to Salesians. One floated ball, one poor shout and one bullet header later and it was 1v1. Nottsboroughs back to back title aspirations were looking dead in the water.

But this team is never ever down and out – remember Actonians away? Remeber the last 7 minutes of the cup final? Remember Briggsy’s 1 year battle against aggressive GW’s? Where there is the will and ability to keep battling and to get the ball into the right area – there will always be a chance – and with two minutes to go – it came. Green slung the ball in the box, a Nottsborough player battled over a bobbling ball and Holden, from a tight angle headed in the loose ball – jubilation – three points – over to Actonians.

Man of the Match – Shadders had a great game and is a huge worry for the coming fixtures with a tweaked muscle, Grove battled hard and slipped back into defence with the assured grace of a seasoned pro, but Prosser takes this football writters award – good feet - good heart – good engine - good hair.

Nottsborough 2  Old Salesians  0                   League                    Tuesday 6th April 2010

Nottsborough Keep Pressure on Actonians

Midweek games can be a lottery if there is a lack of commitment from either team. Good to see then, that the home team mustered 4 substitutes for this home game and that Salesians had much the same team that contested the semi final of Surrey/Kent Cup, which the Morrismen subsequently won. The only real changes to the 2s were the addition of ex professional Robin Taylor in central midfield, in place of the slightly thinner Dr Jonathan Briggs, and Dr Jo Phadnis in for Joe Holden on the right of midfield.

The game started at quite a slow tempo, with the hosts gaining the majority of possession, with Taylor prompting well - despite a four day Easter Egg binge eating contest with himself. Despite having a great deal of possession the Morrismen were struggling to carve out chances as the Salesians centre halves were acquitting themselves well. In terms of attacking intent Salesians were reliant on the pace of their left winger, and the power of their target man – both of which were nullified well by the Notts backline in the first period. A few set pieces were earned in the first 20 minutes as the pressure began to build on the Salesians 5 man midfield, who was working very hard to achieve some form of foothold in the game. Despite their best efforts long range efforts from Morris (twice), Bowman and Hughes warmed the keeper’s palms and ensured that the visitors were on the back foot a little. Just as Notts were settling into a slightly slower rhythm, with the ball being moved around the backline quite well, Bowman struck. Shadders pressured the wide midfielder excellently and won possession in the opposition half. The ball was transferred to Hughes, by the excellent and combative Collins, who lashed a left footed shot the keeper did well to parry. However, his luck was out as Bowman swooped to slide home the ball and open his account for the evening. This enlivened both teams and the hosts played some good football for the remainder of the half, although there was a lack of ruthlessness in some of the passing. Good tackles on two occasions from Matt Nimmo, as well as timely interventions from Lea and Grove meant that Salesians went into the second half a goal down.

The second half started in a similar fashion with the hosts playing some nice football without quite having the cutting edge they needed. In the first good move of the second period Collins won possession – again – in central midfield and fed Grove, who clumped a decent ball down the inside left channel for the Express Train that is Shadbolt to chase. His pace was well used as he whipped in a cross to the far post which Hughes just failed to meet. Again the channel pass was well used as Green – on for Phadnis - was sent scurrying free, but was eventually crowded out by the sheer volume of midfielders. Richardson was introduced for Lea, and he prompted a good passing move that resulted in Morris delightfully releasing the ever rapid Hughes, whose movement was improving. His excellent clipped cross found the head of Bowman, who was just unable to find the net. Next onto the carousel of chances was Hughes, who crashed a goal bound effort the keeper did very well to parry. Importantly the second goal came from the ginger hoof of Green, as he delightfully curled a cleared corner beyond a despairing dive and into the net. The points were at this juncture in the bag it seemed. As always though Salesians rallied and came again, with their energetic central midfielder driving them on at every opportunity. Richardson and Grove did well on a few occasions to prevent goal scoring chances being created, and allowed White to pick up another clean sheet.

In summary this was not a classic performance but it was good enough on the night to win the three points.

Team:
White, Nimmo, Lea (Richardson), Grove, Shadbolt, Phadnis (Green), Taylor (Atkins), Collins, Morris, Bowman, Hughes
Sub not used: McEwan

Goals:
Bowman, Green

Man of the Match:
Irish water carrier Collins did everything asked of him and a whole lot more in being the legs in the engine room.

West Wickham 0  Nottsborough   3           AFA Surrey/Kent Final                27th March 2010

Morrismen Dance All the Way to Victory

Old Dorkinians was the venue for Nottsboroughs second consecutive AFA Surrey/Kent Intemediate Final, and the pitch looked good upon arrival. The weather was a little damp, which probably damaged West Wickham’s suits as they departed their luxury coach at 2pm. The Morrismen took the “just another game” philosophy, and arrived in dribs and drabs, with Joe Holden’s heavy wallet slowing his car to such an extent he arrived 35 minutes before kick off.

With a couple of injury worries in the back 4 it is fair to say that all the damaged limbs were examined fully in the first half as West Wickham settled into a good passing rhythm, and probed all areas of the Nottsborough defensive operation. Fortunately, White handled well under pressure from long shots, and the back four were resilience personified, whilst under examination. The central midfield area was a problem initially as Briggs and Collins were not quite close enough to their men, who were exacting full value with the extra space afforded them. Similarly to last weekend’s league game though, the exuberance of the oppositions game was not leading to clear cut chances, as the more experienced Morrismen dug into their trenches, and bunkered up for the siege. The question was in essence: would youth and flair beat the more steely qualities of Nottsborough?

The first half’s first chance was created by Notts, which in part answered the question above. Briggs slipped a terrific pass into the path of the energetic Taylor, who slipped the defensive cover and advanced on goal. However, with the keeper advancing the ball would not settle on an awkward pitch, and his shot was wayward. This did embolden West Wickham, and on they came. Shadders made a fantastic tackle as the lively forward was played through; Lea intercepted well on a couple of occasions; whilst Webb and Grove made strong tackles with overlaps threatening. In terms of quality Nottsborough really struggled in the first half and were not helped as Joe Holden injured his shoulder when tackling back. Dan McEwan came off the bench and replaced him directly on the right of midfield.

The half time whistle blew with Nottsborough on the back foot and struggling for possession and quality. Doing a Phil Brown Morris kept us on the pitch, whilst Wickham traipsed off to the warm confines of the changing rooms. The extra 2 minutes chat this allowed for was critical as it allowed everyone to have a little chat about what was needed to give ourselves a chance to perform. In truth, like most things in football, it was simple: get a little closer to your man; win the tackle; pass it accurately; and then move to receive the ball again.

Simple but bloody effective. West Wickham tried to carry on in the same vein but found a Nottsborough midfield that was a little more combative, and committed to passing the ball more accurately. This helped relieve the pressure on the back four, and allowed Bowman and Taylor to increasingly flourish, and test the excellent Wickham central defenders. Momentum, gradually edged towards Nottsborough as the game wore on, although Grove had to make two excellent tackles to avert danger – as did central defensive partner Andy Lea. Briggs and Collins were now dominating the battle in midfield, and feeding the incredibly hungry Taylor and Bowman. A couple of shots were fired in from these two before Taylor dashed into the area only to be halted by what looked like a foul. As Taylor emerged from a long, forlorn slide, he turned to see a referee awarding a corner. Pressure was building on the young West Wickham back line and they were beginning to look a little more ragged as the game advanced.

Simple and effective football saw the all important first goal go to Nottsborough. A fine run down the right by Taylor led to a whipped cross which was aimed at Dan McEwan in the centre. The young central defender seemed to be favourite for the ball, and indeed got their first. Unfortunately for him he tried to take a touch when a clearance was the safe option, and his touch betrayed him. McEwan was aware to the possibilities and swept home from six yards to effectively settle the game. West Wickham’s morale seemed to dip as the realization that their first half dominance looked like being in vain. Nimmo, on for Webb clipped a fantastic ball through, which allowed Bowman to slalom past the keeper and pass the ball into the net. Bowman added a third with a glorious lob with a minute remaining to ensure Morris was going to lift the cup at the end of game ceremony.

In summary 3-0 was very harsh on a young, talented and ambitious West Wickham team. However, the Morrismen are a tough nut to crack defensively, and this ability to deal with pressure allowed the late show of clinical finishing to seal the deal a year on from last season’s defeat.

Team:
White, Webb (Nimmo), Lea, Grove, Shadbolt, Holden (McEwan), Collins, Briggs, Morris, Taylor, Bowman

Goals:
Bowman x 2

McEwan x 2

Man of the Match:
The back four all played very well and kept a struggling team in the game for long periods. However, Taylor is my choice as he was perseverance personified and showed more than a little quality.

Nottsborough 4    West Wickham  2             League                                 20th March 2010

The Morrismen were augmented by the returns of Briggs, Morris, & Webb for the visit of fellow title chasers West Wickham. The pitch was in perfect condition for a great game of football – and that’s exactly what we got.

The visitors young team seemed to have been well trained as they established their neat passing game & quickly had the hosts on the back foot. The back four were fortunately on form as numerous tackles; interceptions; clearances; and headers repelled the fluid attacks that were mounting on their shores. The home midfield four were slow to settle and feed the dangerous looking front runners Bowman and Taylor, who had the visitors defence worried in the few opportunities they got in the opening exchanges. However, once they did settle they were good for the entire game.

As the half progressed the extra know how in the comparatively experienced Nottsborough team came to the fore. Some big tackles disrupted the visitor’s rhythm and established a foundation stone upon which to build. The opening goal came out of the blue from a whipped Nimmo cross from the right which caused the visiting right back to panic and head back into his own area, where the predatory Taylor passed it cleverly into the net. Visibly unsettled the young visitors attempted to get their pass and move brand of football going, only to find the Notts backline in uncharitable mood, and well protected by the combative Briggs who was on for the injured Collins. This seemed to encourage the self belief in the hosts to flourish and 1-0 quickly became 2-0 as Bowman exploited a slow defender to charge onto a through ball from Green, round the keeper and pass into the unguarded net. A third followed in similar fashion as Taylor exploited hesitation in the visiting defence to slot home from a tight angle and extend the lead. In truth the hosts were not three goals better but they were a lot more street wise and ruthless, and that was enough.

The second half started with the hosts a little sluggish into their stride. The visitors were encouraged by this seeming lethargy, and received further endorsement as a mistake led to a well taken goal being slotted in from distance. This finally awoke the Morrismen who upped the tempo, and through good midfield work created a few shooting opportunities which were denied by a surprisingly mobile keeper. However, the keeper dismantled all this good work when the totally misjudged a long Grove clearance and allowed the ball to bounce over his head, and turned to see Bowman gleefully tap into an unguarded onion sack. The visitors got a second when Morris partially cleared a needless free kick onto the right foot of their lively forward, who cracked a fine shot past White into the net.

The game ended 4-2 and the Morrismen laid down a good marker prior to this weekend’s forthcoming Surry/Kent Intermediate Cup Final against the very same team. Whether it will be the very same 11 who take to the field to face them remains to be seen and means the Morrismen will have to at least match this performance to win.

Team:
White, Nimmo, Lea, Grove, Webb, Prosser (Morris), Collins (Briggs), Green, Holden, Taylor, (McEwan), Bowman

Goals:
Bowman x 2
Taylor x 2

Man of the Match:
Hard to say any one individual shone but Briggs shades it for me as his arrival saw the midfield take a little more control.

Nottsborough 1    Old Actonians 1             League                                     6th March 2010

Fortress Tolworth welcomed League leader Old Actonians on Saturday, with the newly marked pitch nearest the changing rooms in fantastic condition. Missing for one reason or another from 2s squads of the recent past, were: Mike Kay; Simon Webb; Mark Shadbolt; Andy Richardson; Gary Cullinan; Karl Warner; Johnny Briggs; the unfortunate Ted Datta; Andreas Atkins; and captain Peter Morris. Not a bad team you may say – and you’d be right. The fact that a point was gained is a credit to the 12 – including a visibly ill Joe Holden, and an injured Dan McEwan - who managed to clear their social calendar and play.

The game started with the visitors very quick to settle, with the taller of the two Irish midfielders exerting a strong influence, along with the tall Australian forward, who linked play well all afternoon. The back four were immediately called into action with some much needed interceptions and tackles - with Ralf Goad, returning after a lengthy injury, showing up well in the early exchanges. The first chance fell to the visitors, as a midfield move allowed a small gap to open, followed by a snap shot from the more mobile forward. White dropped gratefully onto the ball for the first save of the day. This enlivened the 2s, with Green, Prosser and Collins prompting a great little passing move that allowed Bowman a snap shot on the turn, which cleared the bar but served as a statement of intent. Bowman was doing a fantastic job in the slightly amended deeper role asked of him, and offered assistance to Holden when the latter started to feel the effects of a stomach virus. A snaking run from Bowman allowed Green some space, and an expert pass freed Holden in the inside left channel with a run on goal. However, the aforementioned virus stole a yard of pace from Joe, who turned inside and was swamped by the defensive cover. Taylor, effectively alone up front, was occupying the 3 central defenders excellently, and was the next to fire a shot on goal, after the 3 defenders were unable to cope with his physical presence. Throughout this period the visitors probed away well, with fine tackles from Lea, Nimmo and Grove all required to avert danger from White’s goal. Half time came, with the game well balanced and well controlled by the excellent Kevin Condor.

The second half started with the visitors again the quicker to hit their straps. They passed their way into position for a shot early on which flew across the goal at a startling rate of knots. A flicked clearance from Lea was the next piece of defensive mastery, as a cross from wide on the right threatened to allow the Australian forward a sight of goal. Holden’s energy levels had subsided to such an extent at this point, that the injured McEwan was summoned to play wide left, despite heavy strapping on a knee injury. Dan struggled manfully for 40 minutes and epitomized the effort given on the day by everyone. A fine move down the left opened up a potential opportunity which Grove did quite well to clear under pressure from the quicker forward. Prosser, Green and Collins worked manfully in midfield to limit the effect of the Actonians central 3, whilst also trying to get us on the front foot where possible.

The game appeared to be drifting towards a draw when Green and Collins hustled, won the ball and set a move going. Taylor and Bowman linked well and found Prosser in the inside left channel. His adroit turn was rudely halted by an outstretched leg, leaving the referee no choice but to point to the spot. In the eye of the storm Green remained calm and stroked the ball home for a barely deserved lead. Actonians were straight onto the attack, causing Lea and Grove into hasty clearances to avert danger.

The equalizer came regardless. A free kick was harshly awarded on the right of White’s goal, but was cleared by Green towards the edge of the box. As the Notts defence moved forward, a midfielder lurked near Lea, who was already marking a forward, and was found by a clipped ball into the box – his glancing header finding the net. The whistle blew and a fair point was earned. A genuine well done to the 12 who played and adapted excellently to a tough game against a team who look odds on the earn the title. With West Wickham and the Morrismen chasing hard though, the pressure is building on Actonians. Question is: can they cope?

Team:
White, Goad, Lea, Grove, Nimmo, Prosser, Collins, Green, Holden (McEwan), Bowman, Taylor

Man of the Match:
Nick Green. Work rate and quality is a rare mix in a midfielder but Green showed both in abundance. Special mention for Holden and McEwan for battling away despite having every excuse to hide for the day.

Old Owens  1     Nottsborough 1                League                                     6th March 2010

Do Morrismen Have Desire to Defend Title?

Old Owens is always a great venue to play at but Notts 2s were unlucky to be moved off the first team pitch as a serious injury meant a previous game was late in finishing. On a weekend where former 2s stalwart Ted Datta seriously broke an ankle in helping the 1s to a 3^rd successive AFA Senior Final, it was a foreboding occurrence. Our best wishes go to both Ted Datta, & the player injured in the Owens 3s game vs Winchmore Hill 3s.

On the team front changes again occurred for the Morrismen – White returning for Renton in goal; Lea in for Nimmo; Taylor in for McEwan; and Collins replacing Briggs. Settled teams win leagues and we are struggling to get the same team on the pitch every weekend as we speak.

The squad of 14 on duty had enough quality, and opportunities, to have sealed the game long before the equalizer was conceded. Plans were a little disrupted as Richardson limped off injured after 3 minutes, to be replaced by Nimmo at right back. The early exchanges were even, with Greene to the fore in midfield and Holden looking lively on the right flank. The two forwards – Bowman & Taylor – were wide awake and running channels very well, without really getting a clear sight of the Andy Hughes in the Owens goal. Similarly, White was almost redundant in the Nottsborough goal as well, with the old partnership of Lea and Grove looking good, with excellent midfield protection coming from Eamonn Collins and the doughty skipper Morris.

The only real chance of the first half was carved out by Greene and Bowman, and saw the latter clip a chip into the arms of Hughes when well placed on the edge of the box. The half time chat focused on the need for a more clinical edge to emerge.

The second half saw the Morrismen finally change out of 3^rd gear and enter fourth. The front six were a little more positive and Bowman and Taylor were able to make efforts on goal early in the half, without ever really stretching the keeper too much. Defensively, Nottsborough were looking good, with full backs Nimmo and Shadbolt finding space frequently, and prompting a couple of good moves. Shadbolt in particular did well to make the touchline on three occasions, with his crosses evading the desparate lunges of Bowman and Taylor.

Just as it seemed that all the pressure would lead to nothing Bowman did what Bowman does: score out of nothing. This time he wriggled free in the box and clipped a truly excellent shot beyond Hughes and into the net to put the Morrismen into the lead – a well deserved lead at that.

Offensively the Nottsborough 2s were doing well, all up to last part of scoring. Taylor did brilliantly to turn in the box, but was denied well by the keeper; a Grove header from a corner was blocked when looking good; a Shadbolt cross – via a heavy deflection – was poked wide by a scrambling Taylor; and substitute Cullinan drove a shot into a covering defender. All looking well for the second goal it seemed and a certain 3 points. However, a couple of mistakes in quick succession saw Owens grab a point at the death, to leave an angry Nottsborough 2s frustrated.

In summary the performance was a perfect microcosm of our season thus far: too many team changes; too many 6 out of ten performances; too many missed chances; and too many sloppy goals conceded.

Team:
White, Richardson (Nimmo), Lea, Grove, Shadbolt, Holden (Culinan), Collins (Prosser), Greene, Morris, Bowman, Taylor

Goal:
Bowman

Man of the Match:
Lea. Solid all day.

 

EBOG   0     NOTTSBOROUGH   1           League                                    20th February 2010

Off the back of two successive reverses the 2s travelled north to face the durable challenge of EBOG.  As is currently the way with the 2s there were changes a plenty in the squad and the starting 11: with Nottsborough legend Matt Arnold starting in goal; Lea back to partner Grove in central defence; Collins replaced skipper Morris; Dan McEwan replaced an ill George Bowman, who made the bench.  Got all those?

Thought not. Richardson and Nimmo completed a strong bench.

EBOG's pitch has something of a reputation for not assisting passing football. However, it was in as good a condition as was possible and offered the chance for the 2s to redress what has been shocking fortnight.  The failings of the last fortnight were addressed in a forthright per match chat saw the 2s fired up and ready to get a title challenge back on track. 

The game started at a very brisk pace, with the hosts arguably the quicker to settle into their stride, taking advantage of a slight lack of belief in some of the Morrismen.  A quick forward led a couple of forays and looked like he may become a thorn in the side of the back 4.

However, with Arnold barking the orders, Lea and Grove settled into the old routine and established a foundation. Collins and Briggs, having been poor in the first 10 minutes, raised the tempo and won some crunching tackles to wrest a semblance of control from the hosts.

Chances, however were not forthcoming.

Gradually, the more creative forces in the 2s began to emerge, with Greene and Holden getting a little more service, and looking dangerous.

McEwan was proving too quick for the home defence, and on 25 minutes he latched onto a pass from midfield, and unleashed a shot which beat the keeper from fully 25 yards, only to crash off the bar and away to safety. Emboldened the 2s began to allow some belief to flourish, which aided their quality a little. 

The back four kept Arnold largely free of work, although he did well to gather a corner under pressure, after a (slowly) backpedaling Grove was forced into a hasty header to deny the target man at the far post. Lea was on top form as well, tidying up the 2nd ball well and making several good interventions. Taylor was the next to go close when he lifted a shot over the keeper - and alas the bar - after excellent work from Briggs and Holden set him clear.  Half time came with the game well balanced, and well controlled by an excellent referee.

The second half began with the hosts again the quicker to settle, forcing Arnold to tip over a searing drive from the edge of the box.

The 2s were a little lucky to escape a penalty as Nimmo looked to have handled in the area under pressure. However, Greene and Holden were determined to keep the 2s on the front foot and their prodigious work rate and good passing was essential throughout the half. Lea was replaced by the very able Richardson alongside Grove, and they too formed a solid last line with Nimmo and Webbe.

Prompted by the midfield four, Nottsborough fashioned a good chance, as Holden skipped to the by line and crossed for Taylor who rolled a shot just wide. Bowman came on at this point for the willing Taylor, and added a little zest up top with his pace.  EBOG were in the game throughout, and, on 60 minutes, again forced Arnold to defy gravity and tip a goal bound effort round the post and to safety.

Games such as this are often decided by either a moment of inspiration or a mistake. As it was these two elements combined to see the 3 points return with the visitors.  Great play by Eamonn and Greene released Matt Nimmo down the right hand side. An early cross flew towards the far side of the 6 yard box, with a keeper and centre half in attendance. However, a moment of hesitation offered a nano-second of opportunity, and an onrushing Joe Holden soared higher than his two opponents and sent a header into the hosts net.  0-1.

Predictably EBOG rallied and threw everything at the Nottsborough defence. The solid wall stood strong and repelled everything that came there way, ably assisted by some real graft from the midfielders. This proved enough to return home with 3 points and some of their confidence restored.

Team:
Arnold, Webbe, Lea (Richardson), Grove, Cullinan (Nimmo), Greene, Briggs, Collins, Holden, McEwan, Taylor (Bowman)

Man of the Match:
In terms of effort, all 14 were worthy of an award. However, the central midfield pairing take a joint award for their efforts.

Nottsborough 3    HAC 0                   Surrey/Kent Cup                      5th December 2009

HAC were the team who denied the Morrismen the Surrey/Kent Cup at Corkscrew Hill in April. This defeat saw the Morrismen perform well below their best, and Saturday offered a chance of redemption. The opportunity was seized with both hands with a good performance on a marvelous playing surface that defied the recent weather.

The pre match warm up was going swimmingly for the Morrismen until returning custodian Tom White stretched and damaged his cartilage. In truth this problem was outweighed by HAC whose keeper did not arrive in time for the allotted kick off time of 2.00pm. In fact he did not arrive until 2.10pm and was barely worth the wait. The game started with Notts firmly on the front foot and looking to cause mayhem at every opportunity. The first came from a dead ball, and Briggs whipped in the first of many fine deliveries but just failed to find an attacking forehead. Playing without the constant pain from an ingrowing penile hair, Briggs was dominating midfield with his high work rate and astute passing. Indeed, it was a Briggs delivery that led to the first goal – a thumping header from Morris after a free kick from the right. “That’s a magic header”, was the modest claim from the Schnoz-meister himself.

This seemed to infuse the team with even more confidence and the passing suddenly looked a little slicker on all levels: the back four started a few moves, that led to good crosses going into the penalty area from both Morris and Holden. This was ‘Plan A’ finally working properly for the Morrismen and the goals soon followed. Holden – after a cross from the left slid the ball home; McEwan – after good approach play from Taylor; and then Taylor himself all scored before half time, as the visiting keeper found himself all at sea. In truth this was not up to the standard of last season’s cup win at Enfield Old Grammarians but it was definitely within the same postcode. The defence protected Tom well; the midfield were industrious and passed well; and the forwards offered an outlet every time and kept the ball well.

Usually the Morrismen would see ‘Plan A’ was working and then immediately try to find an unnecessary ‘Plan B’. For once this was not the case. The work rate remained high; the tackling was spiky and fair; the passing was good and crisp; and the pride in this performance never dropped for a second. The defence protected Tom excellently with all of them winning key headers and tackles as HAC sought some degree of respectability. The midfielders used all buzzed around the pitch like angry wasps and generated a lot of pressure on their opposing numbers, and forced them into numerous mistakes throughout the game. All 3 forwards used did very well with the ball at their feet and ran tirelessly all game. In terms of memorable moments there were few other than Greeny’s first goal upon his return to the Morrismen after a lengthy sabbatical on the 1s bench. A corner was half cleared to the edge of the box where Green was lurking in a Scholes-like manner. One piece of decent control saw the ball perfectly positioned for a right footed drive into the roof of the net past a vainglorious dive from a well beaten keeper.

As performances go it was the best of the season by some distance – especially as it was for the entire 90 minutes this time. The standard for the season has now been set chaps.

Team

White

Webb

Lea (Nimmo)
Grove

Shadbolt

Holden (Prosser)

Briggs

Green

Morris

Taylor

McEwan (Bowman)

Goals

McEwan

Holden

Morris

Taylor

Green

Man of the Match

All 14 players were over 7 out of ten, with a few making it up to 8 out of ten. For me though the rotten penised, rank urchin Briggs was the pick of the day.

Nottsborough 1    Carshalton  0                 League                          28th November 2009

Name:
Nottsborough Second Team

Opposition:
Carshalton Reserves

Report Date:
Saturday 28^th November 2009

Pupils Present:
Mike Kay, Matt Nimmo, Andy Lea, Mark Grove, Mark Shabdbolt, Joseph Holden, Dr. Jonathan Briggs, Nicholas Green, Peter Morris, Daniel McEwan, David Shaw, Matthew Taylor, Simon Webbe

Subject, Comments & marks out of 10
Punctuality: All pupils were on time - 7/10
Warm Up: Not too bad – have done better previously - 6/10
Commitment: All pupils tried very hard - 7/10
Communication: Many pupils were quiet in class - 5/10
Tackling: Briggs, Grove, Shadders, Lea did OK. Generally average - 6/10
Passing: Generally poor. Can improve - 5/10
Crossing: Terrible. Work to be done - 4/10
Final ball: Worst score of the day – awful - 3/10
Finishing: Very wasteful on the day - 4/10

Overall:
Nottsborough second team can and must improve if they are to gain this seasons’ minimum qualification – a league title.

Star Pupil:
Very hard to pick out individuals in this performance. Head boy Peter Morris did better than most despite being below his best.

Nottsborough 3    Merton 0              AFA Intermediate Cup                 21st November 2009

Nottsborough Leave Merton Hurtin’

Merton, flying high in the SAL, arrived at the Royal Lawns of Fortress Tolworth for the Surrey/Kent/Middlesex/Luton AFA Junior/Senior/Medium Cup and found a very strong collection of Morrismen awaiting them. Suffice to say we had Nimmo, Gary and Shawsy on the bench, and the Arren Sutcliffe – and his amazingly massive melon – in the stands.

The game started with the wind howling and the rain threatening. The visitors settled quickly and were soon passing well across midfield and looking a little livelier than their warm up suggested. In truth though, the foreplay from Merton was a little deceiving as they were unable to find much in the way of a money shot in and around Mike Kay’s area. The back four of Webbe, Lea, Grove and Shadders were looking motivated and sharp, and were repelling Merton’s advances competently. From this foundation Briggs and Datta began to up their tempo and hauled the wide midfielders – Holden and Morris – onto the front foot. Merton were beginning to look a little less comfortable now than the opening minutes. Hughes and Taylor began to link well with Holden especially and the Merton back 4 suddenly looked a little stretched. As always in a Cup game, the first goal was all important. More importantly it came from the hosts. A decent move in midfield resulted in confusion reigning in the Merton penalty area – with a ball across the six yard box finally being turned home by Ben Hughes. 1-0 was about right after 15 minutes.

Better was to come as the Morrismen really found their game and slipped into a decent period of play. Grove won a ball from the forward on the edge of the penalty area, slipping it square to Lea. Lea found Webbe in the right back slot, who advanced purposefully towards Holden. Rather than pass to Joe, Webby whipped a fine ball down the inside right channel and found Hughes, who had left his marker for dead. Hughes took a touch to beat the covering defender, and angled a terrific ball across the penalty area towards a rapidly advancing – well for him – Morris who had advanced unchecked into the area. The ball and Morris arrived at the same time and the skipper clipped a good finish past a helpless keeper. 2-0, and the best goal so far this season - a proper team affair. At about this point the glass bodied Andy Lea left the arena to be replaced by the robust – but not rotund – Matt Nimmo. Datta and Briggs stepped on the quality accelerator and really dominated the game up until the interval – ably supported by a very solid looking back-line. Mike Kay did well to block at his near post from the one effort on goal Merton mustered, with Grove completing the clearance on the slide. The game ending third goal was achieved by Ben Hughes, who is looking a complete forward these days. Another decent passing move stemming from Holden and Webbe allowed Hughes a tap in, making it two in the game for him.

The second half began with more of the same as Notts had the wind at their backs now. Wave after wave of attacks were launched by the Morrismen but the quality of earlier had diluted a little, meaning some opportunities for creating chances were being wasted. However, the work rate and commitment did not falter for a second – especially evident in the excellent defending of several set pieces from a large Merton side. Gary came on for Morris and Shawsy entered the fray at the expense of Matty Taylor. Both subs quickly made a contribution – Shawsy shooting wide after a good turn; and Gary doing well in providing a couple of teasing crosses into the Merton area. The only real chance fashioned fell to Hughes, whose acceleration took him clear of his marker and into the area at pace. Under pressure from a covering defender he prodded the ball wide when his first Nottsborough hat-trick beckoned.

The Morrismen did well in this game and deserved the 3-0scoreline, mainly for the quality of their first half performance. The second half saw a few fitness issues emerge but the commitment and desire remained high and ensured a clean sheet.

Team:
Kay, Webbe, Lea (Nimmo), Grove, Shadbolt, Holden, Datta, Briggs, Morris (Cullinan), Taylor (Shaw), Hughes

Goals:

Hughes x 2; Morris x 1

Man of the Match:
A lot of 7 out of 10s across the 14 on parade but Gary Neville/Simon Webbe sneaks it (Brian blurted it out in the bar after) as he was excellent for 90 minutes. That and Brian gave it to him in the bar…

Nottsborough 2    EBOG 1                League                                      14th November 2009

Two Pints of McEwan Please Barman

The lawns of Fortress Tolworth were incredible given the howling wind and torrential rain – well done the groundstaff. The Morrismen arrived on the back of a good performance last weekend, but were denied the influential Datta and Bowman, who were called into the 1s squad for the abandoned game in Dorking. Morris moved to central midfield; Gary to left midfield; Webb moved to left back; Lea was in at centre half; and Nimmo to right back. All change again.

The game started early upon the referee’s insistence and it seemed to catch the Morrismen unprepared, as they started poorly. EBOG were far quicker into their stride and settled well, moving the ball securely around the pitch despite the conditions. The first 20 minutes were all EBOG and it took sterling work from the restructured back 4 to prevent any real chances being created. The Morrismen were struggling to impose a rhythm and pattern but still showed glimpses of quality. Taylor was leading the line well and linked effectively with Cullinan on a couple of occasions. However, no real chances were being created. The referee took a little time to warm up but he made his presence felt with a harsh booking on Grove and he kept all 22 players guessing a couple of times. On 30 minutes Notts clicked into a slightly higher gear and actually had a couple of efforts on goal. A Briggs corner swirled in the wind and found the head of Morris, clearing the goal-line by a yard. However, no goal was given as the referee was unsighted. This was followed by a thumping Grove header from a well delivered Morris corner which crashed against the bar, with Taylor desperately trying to hook it into the net. A second header from Grove, following a great free kick from Shawsy, was ridiculously directed over. The half ended with the back four all making blocks and tackles in a bid to halt the EBOG tide, which was gathering momentum.

The half time chat was positive and focused on the need to get the ball down on the grass and build momentum, rather than perpetually trying Hollywood balls from all areas. The start of the second half saw no great improvement in the performance of the Morrismen, but the green shoots of recovery were becoming evident. Briggs and Morris began to win the battle in midfield; Cullinan was becoming more of a force as he began to look more accustomed to an attacking role; and Taylor was getting better service into feet. EBOG were still knocking on the door though and the back 4, remodeled with Shadders replacing Nimmo who had a tight ham-and-cheese-string. Shadders added some real pace to the backline and offered good support to Cullinan on the overlap, forcing EBOG’s wide midfielder deeper and deeper. Just as the Morrismen were looking like they might actually be finding some form it all went wrong. A needless free kick was conceded just inside our half, and initially looked harmless. However, the delivery caught the wind and deceived Mike Kay in flight and ended up in the net. It did not look great but in truth the conditions were terrible. This at least imbued the Morrismen with a purpose as 3 points began to look a distant dream. The potential for 3 points looked further away as a penalty was condeded. Fortunately, the centre forwards penalty was still on an upward trajectory as it clipped the powerline behind the goal.

Holden replaced Webbe and McEwan came on for Shaw as Morris sought to enliven the team. McEwan was instantly into the action, winning a flicked header that Taylor guided into his path with the goal at his mercy. With almost too much time McEwan froze and prodded the ball wide. It was good to see that his self-confidence was not affected as he looked dangerous every time he received the ball. This potential was realized on 83 minutes when he prodded home after good work by Briggs, Cullinan and Shadders down the left. 1-1 against all the odds. EBOG were clearly upset by conceding and pressed forward looking for the winner. In doing so they tried to force a ball through the inside right channel. Briggs read this intention and slid in to intercept. His great tackle (irony for anyone who’s seen the scab ridden article in the shower) flew to McEwan who was inexplicably in the clear and unmarked. Super Dan eased through the gears to evade the covering defender and slid the ball home to claim 3 points.

In summary this was more evidence of the slightly inconsistent nature of this season’s 2s - with only the back 4 really functioning well as a department. However, following skipper Morris’ battling example 3 points were gained with a gritty display that needs to be improved upon next week. The management team of Morris and Lea deserve credit for making subs at the right time and keeping the dream alive.

Team:
Kay, Nimmo (Shadbolt), Lea, Grove, Webbe (Holden), Collins, Briggs, Morris, Cullinan, Shaw (McEwan), Taylor

Goals:
McEwan x 2

Man of the Match:
All the back four did well in my view but goals win matches. McEwan got 2 and was lively throughout his cameo.

Witan  0   Nottsborough 4        Surrey/Kent Intermediate Cup                  7th November 2009

“You’ve got to hold and give, but do it at the right time. You can be slow or fast, but you must get to the line. They’ll try and hit you, and hurt you, defend and attack.”

As a manager John Barnes has proved to be a useless. As a rapper the man was pure class. Maybe he would have been well served listening to his rap mantra when coaching his team – the Morrismen did on Saturday and it worked rather well!

From the opening seconds the 2’s were at the races – closing down, winning 50-50 challenges, passing quickly and accurately. Witan were a large side, with at least 5 six footers. A little like Haye vs Valuev though, the big men were being tormented by quicker, younger opponents. Datta and Briggs established dominance of central midfield; the back 4 were solid; and the front 4 of Morris, Shaw, Bowman and Taylor were wide awake and running free. The opening exchanges saw the Morrismen take advantage of Witan’s lack of mobility, with the ball going wide to full backs Webb and Cullinan, and wide midfielders Morris and Bowman. The quality of passing was excellent and commitment laudable. Opening goals lay down a marker, and Datta’s imperious shot from 25 yards past a stranded keeper did just that. Taylor was played in down the right channel, but the ball was cleared away by a pressured defender. The keeper was left stranded by the defender and Ted spotted his plight and extracted full reward with a clean strike into the corner. 1-0. There has been a little criticism of the 2s lack of clinical edge but it was not in evidence in the opening 25 minutes. Datta and Briggs were playing like 1^st team midfielders, and will be applying pressure to the incumbents in the 1s on this showing. Taylor & Shaw were lively up top, and led the centre halves around by the nose – rather like cattle. Indeed, Taylor was next on the scoresheet. A flowing move between the back 4 and the central midfield machine allowed Taylor a clear run through the inside left channel. A clean strike past an advancing keeper was inevitably applied and the score changed to 2-0. Witan are clearly not used to being beaten so easily, and like a Russian Bear, came back swinging. They played the ball longer and a few flicked headers were dealt with well by Nimmo and Grove at the back. Kay in goal, sporting a ridiculous moustache to go with his Manuel Almunia hair, was redundant in terms of saves but was again communicating clearly. 45 minutes of really clean football from the Morrismen saw half time arrive. In terms of possession and quality 2-0 was not a fair reflection on play but did serve to highlight what this team could potentially achieve if the killer instinct surfaces.

The second half started in much the same vein. The defenders were winning the ball and passing to the midfield who were, in turn, finding forwards. Proper football in other words. Witan stirred like a wounded animal but were ultimately toothless. A few free kicks were repelled – as were a few attacks – by the back 4. The third goal was always going to be the crucial one and indeed it proved to be. After a sweeping move a penalty was given for a foul on Taylor. Briggs stepped up and clipped the ball past a demoralized keeper. 3-0 was scant reward for this sort of dominance. Morris took the opportunity to use all 3 subs correctly – Shadders on for Cullinan at left back; Collins on for Shaw, with Bowman moving up front; and Lea for Grove at the heart of the defence. Good captaincy as a squad this strong needs to be on its toes at all times.

The final goal was the best finish of the pack. Interplay between the Briggs/Datta axis freed Taylor on the edge of the box. Taylor pirouetted past a defender and slashed a drive past the keepers’ dive. Top of the Pops. The remainder of a game saw some decent play from the Morrismen, with all 3 substitutes doing well. Witan, to their credit, never gave up and finally carved open the Notts defence, only to shoot wide when well placed.

To conclude, a 2^nd team squad that has Shadbolt, Collins and Lea on the bench is strong. However, to transfer this strength into a performance of this quality was more impressive – and that is testament to both the quality of Morris and Lea’s management as well as the will within the squad to do well. Best performance of the season so far by miles but ultimately just another step on the road to improvement.

Team:
Kay, Webbe, Nimmo, Grove (Lea), Cullinan (Shadbolt), Bowman, Datta, Briggs, Morris, Shaw (Collins), Taylor

Goals:
Taylor x 2, Datta x , Briggs x1 (penalty)

Man of the Match:
Enviably quality on display all over the pitch, and arguably cause for Messers Kerr and Williams to have a look at certain players again. 2 goals is often enough to win MoM, but Taylor’s efforts were just shaded by Briggsy who was superb alongside a distinguished Datta.

Nottsborough 5    Fitzwilliam Old Boys  0     AFA Intermediate Cup        31st October 2009

Morrismen are Five-Alive

A very early kick off saw the Morrismen in AFA Intermediate Cup action against an unknown team from the AFC in Fitzwilliam Old Boys. With Brian West in charge it was always going to be a proper game as he is a very good referee, and that was exactly the case. As usual the changes were kept to a maximum: Webbe returned at right back for Tom; Morris axed himself from midfield for Shadders; and Shawsy and Matt Taylor started up top in place of the injured McEwan and the absent Bowman. A bench of Morris and Prosser made it a good 13.

As soon as the game started it was apparent that the Morrismen were a little hurt by the away defeat at Winchmore Hill and determined to set the record straight with a decent performance. The tackling was spiky and intense; the work-rate prodigious; and the quality of passing was befitting of a decent pitch on a glorious day. The visiting back 4 were not especially mobile and Notts soon began to pierce them with regularity – with passes from Datta and Briggs proving penetrative. FOB displayed their only true moment of threat on 10 minutes as a slick passing move carved open a half chance which Kay smothered. This was a new Mike Kay in evidence as he was far more dominant around his box and claimed several long passes very well all game. Back to the Morrismen on the front foot. The inevitable opening goal came from Briggs and was a cracker: receiving a pass from Shadders 25 yards out he touched the ball forward and crashed it past a despairing keeper for a great goal. 1-0. The second came soon after from Matt Taylor – impressing after an injury lay off. A great pass from Datta released Collins down the right, whose cut back evaded the keeper and found Taylor who rolled it into an empty net to double the advantage. 2-0. Nottsborough were now rampant and hungry for more. The third duly arrived as Andy Johnson look-a-like (but definitely not pace-a-like) Shawsy did well to find space on the edge of the box and roll a Shadders pass into the bottom corner – a genuinely classy finish. FOB rallied slightly at this point and tested the resolve of the back 4, who stood as strong as a platoon of angry, hungry polar bears on a cold day. The 4^th goal came 10 minutes before half time from the big, bald head of Shaw as he met a great corner from Briggs at the near post with a thumping header. Taylor, Datta, and Shaw had further chances to increase the lead prior to the break but all were a little guilty of trying the complicated when an old fashioned whack towards the bottom corner would have surficed. The old clinical issue raises its ugly mush again. However, 4-0 and a great passing performance was just reward for their total dominance.

The second half started in the same fashion as the first half ended – Nottsborough in control and rampant. However, the final ball became a little too straight and was accordingly wasteful on more than a few occasions. Chances were created for Shaw & Taylor but they were not as clean cut as the chances fashioned earlier in the game. The plus point was that the intensity of work rate remained and the tackling was fervent across the midfield and defence. Morris came on for Briggs, and Prosser for Taylor on 55 minutes. Both played well and added another impetus at the right time. Prosser wriggled free of the defence and crashed a great shot against the bar with the keeper flapping. The 5^th goal was proving elusive. Shaw was the man to ease frustrations as he collected a Cullinan cross from the left, spun his marker expertly, and slid the ball into the far corner to close down the game fully.

In conclusion FOB were not the best team we have faced thus far this season but they were honest and full of endeavour for 90 minutes. They were a little unfortunate to face the Morrismen when the were still hurting from the Titchmarsh game at Winchmore Hill. Nottsborough did well from 1-13 and fully deserved the win.

Team:
Kay, Webbe, Grove, Nimmo, Cullinan, Collins (Morris), Briggs, Datta, Shadbolt, Shaw, Taylor, (Prosser)

Goals:
Shaw (3), Taylor, Briggs

Man of the Match:
Shawsy scored 3 so takes the prize. Honourable mention to Mike Kay who dominated his area all game and communicated brilliantly.

Winchmore Hill 2    Nottsborough 1            League                              24th October 2009

Morrismen Suffer in Defeat

The Morrismen arrived at the Paulin Ground late. This is worryingly becoming something of a pattern which we will need to eradicate. Either way, team news was that Webb was getting splinters in his ass for the 1s meaning that Tom Rocher made a debut at right back – with original right back Ross Emery running very late; Matt Nimmo came in for dead leg victim Andy Lea; and Briggsy returned to central midfield with Eamonn moving wide to replace Owen. All in all a decent line up.

The game started at a cracking pace as Notts put their thus far unbeaten record on the line. The hosts were experienced – with ex 1s players playing down the spine of the team – and started well. However, with McEwan looking very lively up top Notts appeared as if they may have an edge. On 5 minutes Bowman flicked a ball wide to Dan, who skipped past a faltering challenge and raced to the by-line, resulting in a driven cross the keeper did well to intercept. This threat was not heeded and McEwan planted his foot on the accelerator and eased away from a static backline and found himself one-on-one after a decent ball found his clever run. As the keeper advanced Dan instantly controlled the ball and slotted it into the net with his left foot to open the scoring for the day. 0-1.

At this point Alan Titchmarsh made it apparent that after years of watching Tommy Walsh in tight shorts he had forgotten a little about the game of football – mainly that contact is actually allowed. Morris was penalized for a perfectly timed challenge; Datta was whistled for a great 50-50 win in the centre circle; and Nimmo was hauled up for a good aerial challenge. However, the warning was not heeded and the hero of the housewife made a telling intervention in the game. A clearance from Tom clearly bounced off the host’s winger for a throw in. To the surprise of all he awarded it the other way. From the throw in a flick on was met in the corner of the box by Grove, under challenge from the opposition forward. As the clearance sailed away towards Eamonn, the whistle blew for a dubious penalty. A normally placid Lea moved from calm to incandescent on the touchline. Either way a well struck penalty evaded Mike in goal and secured a 1-1 scoreline. This changed the shape of the game as Notts became a little ragged and were stretched increasingly by the hosts. Good challenges from Gary, Grove and Nimmo were needed to prevent opportunities. At this point Dan’s hamstring went allowing Matt Taylor into the fray – himself returning from injury. The remainder of the half was a frustrating affair as the whistle sounded more often than was necessary and denied the game of a true shape and momentum. It was not a dirty game at all and to signify this was he only booking of the 1^st half was laughable. Tom returned the ball towards the opposition left back for (another) free kick and slightly over-hit the return, apologizing instantly. Out the card came. Hardly a Joey Barton tackle and again the hosts looked as bemused as the Morrismen. Either way the difference was that the hosts played the referee better than us and for that they deserve credit.

The half time talk was necessarily feisty, as reminders were made to get back on the front foot and avoid conceding so many free kicks. The game started at a decent pace but was again fractured and increasingly fractious. The hosts centre forward continued to make his presence felt but was being dealt with relatively well by Grove and Nimmo; Briggs and Datta were doing well in the middle of midfield to secure possession but, as a team, the final ball to Bowman and Taylor was lacking. Emery came on for Eamonn who was struggling with flu. Instantly he added a little quality and drove a ball across goal that evaded a sliding attempt from Morris at the far post. Close but no Montecristo. As the game appeared to be settling into some sort of rhythm with 15 minutes to go all hell broke lose again. Firstly, a straight free kick from hosts was loaded towards the 6 yard line where Grove went down under the challenge of Mr Newton. As the 29 stone combined weight hit the deck a little bit of shoulder damage emerged. During all of this the ball hit the net but was ruled out for offside. Within 5 minutes a well worked move down the right from the Morrismen led to another goal being chalked off for offside. Was a draw written in the stars?

The short answer is no. George Bowman tested the theory twice in quick succession, with shots after good runs. The second of which flew a whisker wide. The hosts then dealt the killer blow. On the counter attack, the hosts freed a quick winger into the vacated channel down the right, leaving Grove struggling to get across. An excellent early cross towards the edge of the 6 yard box evaded Nimmo and isolated Ross Emery with Jack Newton at the far post. Only 1 winner there as Ross was beaten in the air, with the ball bouncing into the corner past Mike in nets. 2-1. The game ended with Notts distraught and almost speechless as they felt they had done enough. In the cold light of Monday morning though it is fair to say that they deserved a draw at best really. Not quite enough of the good things we are able to do were in evidence, meaning we were reliant

In conclusion the hosts played the referee better than the Morrismen and were more clinical with the chances they created. It was all they needed to do on the day.

Team:
 Kay, Rocher, Nimmo, Grove, Cullinan, Collins (Emery), Datta, Briggs, Morris, McEwan , Taylor), Bowman

Man of the Match:
A lot of 6 of 10s in truth with the exception of Gary Cullinan who earned a 7.

Nottsborough 4      Polytechnic 0                League                              17th October 2009

Morrismen Dance To Victory

The Morrismen arrived at Fortress Tolworth seeking some form after a couple of stuttering weekends. The team looked strong with Dan McEwan returning up top – leaving a bench of Nimmo, Holden and Briggs. Fair to say all 14 men were primed for action as the referee started proceedings. Notts tore into Polytechnic from the outset using the power of Friday nights’ ritual chicken slaughter on the pitch to good effect. In truth – even in the opening 5 minutes - a victory felt inevitable as we actually looked like the team we know we can be. Powerful in all areas; combative in the tackle; decent in possession; and communicating clearly.

Chances were being carved at will as the visiting defence crumbled all to frequently. Bowman, McEwan, Datta, Morris all took aim at a decent keeper who was doing well to stem the tide. The White Army were not to be denied as Bowman fired beyond a valiant custodian after good approach play from midfield fashioned an opening. Good finish as well. From the restart the hosts hunted down the ball and created another chance for McEwan who fired wide. A couple of free kicks were won and led to half chances in and around the box straight after and the visitors were visibly wilting in the face of a sustained onslaught. Their occasional advances were repelled well by the back 4 of Webb, Lea, Grove and the improving Cullinan – who fired just wide on 20 minutes after a positive advance from the back. The second goal came with Cullinan as the source. A throw in on the left saw a 1-2 with Grove lead to a crossing chance, which the little, fake leprechaun curled delightfully onto the head of McEwan who did brilliantly to steer a header beyond the keeper for 2-0. The visitors were visibly shacken but stirred enough to stretch the defence – with Lea making a couple of timely interventions to deny them – a couple of times. Kay in goal fielded a few crosses and corners but was generally a spectator. One on one chances for McEwan, Bowman and Prosser saw no more goals and the half ended with Kay making a great standing save after a cross from the right evaded all defenders.

In truth this was as well as the 2s have played all season and 2-0 was scant reward for a genuinely decent performance. On this evidence a few 2s players could be troubling some more esteemed 1s players for a place.

The 2^nd half saw the wind stir up a little which in turn seemed to help the visitors. They changed formation and threw the kitchen sink at the Notts defence – all of whom responded well with notable assistance from Datta and Morris in midfield. Poly tried to test Kay but were restricted to a couple of set pieces that led to headers for a large centre forward, both cleared from the line well by Webb. A couple more chances came and went for Notts and the performance level dipped a little. Poly, encouraged by this, set about trying to get a goal back, but were visibly deflated by another good finish from Bowman who again finished well under no little pressure. 3-0.

As the game drew to a conclusion the visitors became frustrated, which became evident in a few sly kicks and pulls which the referee could have been stronger with. Either way Notts stood strong like Russia and responded in the right way – another goal. It came from an imperious finish from Joe Holden (who had endured a frustrating cameo off the bench), lifting the ball over a despairing keeper and into the net.

In conclusion the first 45 minutes represented a setting of new standards for the 2s for the remainder of the season. Powerful all over the pitch; destructive in the tackle; and decent in possession. The improvement can come in the shape of being more clinical in front of goal when hard earned chances are created; and in making this level of performance last 90 minutes. All in all a satisfying Saturday afternoon. If someone can contact the chicken murderer for every home game that would be ideal!!

Team:
Kay, Webb (Nimmo), Lea, Grove, Cullinan, Prosser (Briggs), Collins, Datta, Morris, McEwan, (Holden), Bowman

Man of the Match:
Tricky one. Datta was effervescence itself; McEwan was lively but needs to finish better; Bowman led the line well; and Morris was as solid as an oak door on a stately home. However, Lea was at his best and is most deserving of the accolade.

Latymer Old Boys 0   Nottsborough 3          AFA Cup                              3rd October 2009

Wind

The Morrismen went to North London in good heart for an AFA Cup tie against an unknown team in LOB. In truth the whole day was a shambles: most of the team were late arriving at the ground; we nearly didn’t have a kit; the pitch was very average; and the weather made a real game almost impossible. On the plus side Morris started his 1^st game of the season and Dan McEwan made his debut from the bench.

The Notts backline and Mike Kay had the very strong wind behind them and were virtually redundant from the outset. The game started at a decent pace with Datta pressing early and forcing some early errors from the hosts. The wait for the opening goal was a mere 12 minutes – Morris connecting at the far post from an in swinging Shaw corner. The rest of the half saw the Morrismen concede no chances to a blunt attack, but flatter to deceive going forward. The wind, in truth, was both running, and ruining, the game.

A good “airing of views” at half time saw a far more determined team emerge. Joe Holden replaced Owen on the right side of midfield and bought some natural composure to proceedings with his good 1^st touch and positive play. Datta was running amok in the midfield, with the hosts failing to match his work rate, and was providing Shaw and Bowman with a more secure line of supply. Shots rained in upon the home keeper (who went down more often than Didier Drogba with cramp) but the all important 2^nd goal was looking elusive. Dan McEwan replaced the hard working Eamonn Collins and added an extra dash of pace and verve to the game. Within minutes of arriving he eluded a paceless backline and prodded wide when one on one. Bowman, Morris, Shaw and McEwan all tested the keeper before Morris added the 2^nd goal arrived via a strange series of events. From a cleared corner Lea turned the ball back into the near post area where McEwan, a defender, the referee and a passing homeless person all lunged for the ball – somewhere along the line a touch occurred and the ball beat the keeper at the near post. Quickly after this McEwan skipped past a tired challenge and hung up a text book cross to the far post, where Bowman arrived to nod against the bar. By far the best move of the game went unrewarded.

A very strange, slow motion penalty award followed which Morris duly smacked into the corner. 3-0. After this the hosts stirred from slumber and forced a corner which Mike did well to palm away as it swirled in the New Orleans style hurricane that was now blowing. The game came to a close with Notts looking like the dominant side – which they were throughout a totally one sided.

In conclusion the day taught us very little about this season’s Morrismen as the weather made a proper game impossible. There was a shut out – but the opposition attack lacked an edge. We scored 3-0 goals – but given the amount of possession we had this could have been more if we were a little more clinical. The most worrying aspect was the time keeping which may symptomatic of a slight touch of arrogance. To get our hands on the SAL Intermediate trophy again we need to leave the arrogance aside and focus on what we are good at – a lot of which was in evidence on Saturday. We worked hard, tackled with conviction, and passed very well in phases. This is a good omen as this weekend’s fixture is an away fixture at a strong Actonians – could be just the challenge we need to show the quality we have lurking underneath the surface. Training Tuesday is where the real season starts.

Team: Kay, Nimmo, Lea, Grove, Webbe, Prosser (Holden), Datta, Collins (McEwan), Morris, Bowman, Shaw

Subs: McEwan, Holden

Man of the Match:
Ted Datta – not the best he has played in the last 3 weeks but his consistency kept us on the front foot all day.

Nottsborough 5  Old Westmindter Citizens 1          League              26th September 2009

Hot Stuff from the Morrismen?

The Indian summer continued at the lawns of royal Tolworth on Saturday.

Owing to excellent behind the scenes work by Chris o connor and rob Jones notts were able to welcome old Westminster citizens for a cup fixture, with changing at the new goals facility as Kingston uni trials were taking place. Students it seems really are lazy as not one could be spotted - presumably they were all in bed nursing debt inducing hangovers.

The game started with the excellent and empathetic Peter Constantine at the helm. The visitors quickly hit their stride and looked as if they fancied an upset was on the cards.  The Notts back 4 were looking quite sharp and looked relatively at ease with the lone striker, who ran hard all afternoon. The first opening was carved out by OWC as a fine ball released their striker onto the edge of the box, on the shoulder of the ageing Grove.  A clean tackle denied him a clean shot on goal, and allowed Gary to complete a clearance towards an energetic Bowman.

Startled by the close shave Notts began to assert a pattern through good forward play from Bowman and the impressive debutante Shaw.  A fine, direct run from Bowman sliced apart a ramhackle backline, and caused panic on the streets of Birmingham. Dudley, Dundee, Carlisle. Etc.

Picking the best option George slipped a classy pass into the path of the ever energetic Owen, who produced a devastating first time finish past a decent keeper. 1-0.

Theoretically this was meant to be the onset of goals and a leisurely procession to the next round. To say this was not the case would be an undresstatement as OWC were never off the pace and equalised with a screamer past Mike Kay in goal.  Seizing on a slight mistake on the right, the lone striker advanced and hit a genuine pearler past the right hand of the despairing dive of the airborne Busted look-a-like Mike Kay. 1-1 and very much game on. What could the hosts do to lift themelves? 

The answer was score quickly. A corner fell on the edge of the box and was poked to Datta by Lea. The bearded, Duracell powered, engine room, maestro spun and passed the ball adroitly past the keeper to re establish a lead.  Lampard himself would have been proud.  OWC never took a backward step all game and came hammering on the door again, with clearances from all the back 4 required in the next 5 minutes, as well as some timely interceptions from a very mobile midfield 4.

With their midfield 5 OWC gave the full backs nimmo and Gary plenty of space. Finally this space was used intelligently and a move started at the back culminated in the wily Shaw prodding the ball into the onion sack to make it 3-1. In truth this was harsh on the visitors who were energetic and organised.  The back 4 were under pressure for. Decent periods and the outnumbered engine room were working hard in the heat.

Half time came hot on the heels of good team defensive play, which was frustrating the visitors.

A positive chat saw the Morrismen emerge for the 2nd half with nothing but a win as the goal.  OWC were again the quicker to settle and tested Kay with a deep cross he plucked from the hot air at full stretch. The 4th goal from the hosts was definitely against the run of play, but highlighted the difference between the teams - ruthlessness. Bowman was scalpel sharp throughout the game and ultimately killed the game off in making it 4-1 after 55 minutes.  Accordingly Morris did the right thing and made substitutions. Webbe came on for Nimmo; Morris for the tireless Eamonn Collins; and Andreas replaced goalscorer Shaw. 

Despite the score OWC were not deflated. The lone striker got free to face Kay but shot wide under pressure from Grove. The new custodian did well to field flicked headers from 2 set pieces - with Lea doing well to apply pressure on one occassion and Cullinan the other. Even more impressive was the one on one block from the newly signed keeper, when a visiting midfielder finally escaped the clutches of Briggs and Datta.

The game was now stretched as the heat applied its consequences to all 22 men. What was needed was cool and calm. Bowman was the very essence of both as he made his man of the match case with the most Germanic of efficient

finishes into the far corner with a strike off his left foot.  5-1 and game over.

The game was closed out to see the hosts through to the 2nd of the Surrey - Kent cup.  OWC will feel the score was harsh on their sterling effort, and they may have a point. Why the difference? Notts were the more clinical certainly, as evident in scoring 5. However, the real distinction was the comparitive defensive efforts, with the hosts far more willing to work harder to protect their goal.  This was a team effort.

In the final analysis the finishing was excellent; the commitment laudable; the defending committed - if not technically perfect; the passing decent in phases; and the fitness faltering. On with the running trainers this week chaps, as it would be criminal to lose a close game because of A lack of fitness.

Team: Kay, Nimmo (webbe 50), Lea, Grove, Cullinan, Prosser, Briggs, Datta, Collins (Morris 60), Shaw (Atkins), Bowman.

Man of the match: Bowman was needle sharp; Shaw made a good debut; Datta was excellent; but Owen Prosser takes the plaudits for a selfless shift and a great finish.

Old Uxonians 1    Nottsborough  6           League                                19th September 2009

Nottsborough Hit Six in the Sun

A very sunny Saturday afternoon saw the revamped Notts. 2s take the trek to deepest, darkest Uxbridge for an AFA fixture vs Old Uxonians. Captain Lea rang the changes from the previous weekend’s win with Grove, Holden, Shadwell & Hughes starting with Emery & Lea dropping to the bench. The pitch was better than appeared feasible and we had a decent referee – game on.

Within seconds of the start Notts. were onto the front foot where they were to remain for the game. Hughes and Holden hassled the opposition into a mistake and Notts. won a throw. Nothing really came of it but it set the tone. Eamonn and Datta – along with Owen and Shadders on the flanks established a strangehold on the midfield that never loosened throughout the game. In the opening exchanges Datta prompted down the channels, allowing Shadders and Prosser to get crosses in that were not converted despite the best efforts of Hughes and Holden. The back 4 were generally redundant in the opening exchanges leaving keeper Mike to enjoy a pot of tea and the 2^nd Busted album.

Irritatingly the opening goal was proving elusive. Prosser, Hughes and Holden all shot wide. A series of corners led to pressure but no efforts on target. A couple of free kicks were fired straight at the keeper. Eventually, Shadders stepped up and administered a fatal blow. A midfield contest was won by Datta who fed Shadders, who tried to pass into a crowded area. As the ball made its way back to him on the rebound Shads spotted a ill-positioned keeper and selected the pitching wedge from the bag to chip adroitly over a stranded custodian. The second goal came from the same source as Hughes contested excellently with the keeper, allowing Shadders a simple header from 4 yards. A spirited, but slightly disappointing 2-0 at the break.

The second half started at a slightly slower pace with Notts having shuffled the pack – Lea on for Shadders who was tired after a 62 mile pre match run. The game needed killing off and the willing front 2 of Hughes and Holden orchestrated the crucial third. A free kick just outside the box, wide on the right was whipped across by Holden into the path of Fernando Hughes, whose side footed finish was the very essence of cool. The defence were called upon a little more in the second half – all 4 standing strong along Mike in goal who cleared excellently under pressure. Briggs (on for Holden) netted the 4^th after good interplay, and added good momentum in the all important berth alongside Duracell Datta. Briggsy shot under the now dispirited keeper with a clean strike. Ross Emery (on for Prosser) created a good chance for Hughes with a deep cross that was headed wide under pressure.

Uxonians showed good morale in claiming a consolation goal after a dubious offside call went their way, leaving Mike no real chance in goal. There was to be no mercy shown though as further goals from Hughes and Datta – both after decent approach play – saw the game end 6-1.

In conclusion this was a half-way decent performance from the Morrismen – under Lea’s stewardship – with the defence and the keeper generally maintaining a watching brief. However, the failure to be more clinical leaves plenty of room for improvement if last season’s standards are to improved upon.

Team:
Kay; Nimmo, Molloy, Grove, Cullianan; Prosser, Datta, Collins, Shadbolt; Hughes, Holden.

Subs:
Lea, Emery, Briggs

Man of the Match:
Eamonn Collins – made the midfield a minefield for the opposition in the 1^st half and then did a selfless stint up front in the 2^nd. Top darts from the only real Irishman in the 2s. Honourable mentions for the tireless Datta and the effective Holden.

Nottsborough 2       Civil Service 1           League                                12th September 2009

Unfamiliar 2's grind out opening day win.

For all the energy, commitment and head count during pre season, the 1's & 2's were faced with an availability crisis for the opening day. But drawing on the depth, experience and commitment of the club a number of people stepped up to the challenge to see all 4 teams claim excellent wins.

The 2's line up was unfamiliar from the title winning squad of last year, but everyone fielded for the 2's on Saturday has more than enough quality to win a regular shirt. But if quality on the day only glimmered in fleeting moments then commitment and determination were ever present.

Now Saturday was reasonably warm for a season opener to say the least. A combination of this, fatigue, and several celebratory beers after the game has crumbled my memory of the game to the bare facts. So here they are.

1st half - neither side really threatening the goal, Notts looking dangerous when they got the ball to strikers feet, CS looking dangerous from set pieces.

2nd half - early 1 on 1 for CS, keeper rounded, great block by Nimmo on the line. Notts hit their stride, goal line clearance, George pounces at close range from resulting corner. 1-0 on the hour.

Heat ravaged decision by Datta to pass the ball back to his own keeper from a drop ball. The resulting GK kick off the floor, way out of goal, was returned with interest by a CS midfielder. Incredible strike from nearly half way that restored parity. 1-1.

Notts dug deep, pressed again, and through a combination of determination, greater fitness, good football (and a bit of luck) saw the winner go in 15 mins from time. A good move in from the right saw Datta free on the edge of the area. The ball to him was played just too far in front, but Datta to his credit stabbed out a right leg blocking the attempted clearance and looping the ball back over the stranded CS keeper.

They all count.

Notts closed out the game with aplomb and good concentration for a very satisfying first win.

MoM. Kev Molloy, Ted and George were the pick on the day, notable performances also from Robin Taylor, Eamonn and Ross. Accolades go to Datta though for a hearty stint in the engine room.

Scorers: George Bowman, Ted Datta

Team: Mike Kay, Webby, Nimmo, Kev Molloy, Andy Lea, Gary, Ross Emery, Rob Taylor, Ted Datta, George, Owen P. subs - Leon, Eamonn.