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Kew Association 3rds 0 Nottsborough 3rds 0 08 SEP 07
Nottsborough 3s opened their pre-season campaign with a comfortable draw away to SAL Junior Division 3 Champions Kew Association. Mike McCoy welcomed into the squad newcomers Luke Kelly, Andres Loaiza, Paul Nixon and James Kennedy. A youthful looking opposition promised to offer a stern test to Notts’ fitness levels, albeit on a smaller than average sized pitch.
Notts opened the game with Paul Nixon in goal, a backline of Graham Williams, Sean Rigby, Rob Cootes and Steve Beckett, a midfield four of Andres Loiaza, Chris Gray, Like Kelly and James Kennedy, with Richard Croft and Harry Rugg spearheading the attack. Mike McCoy, Gaz Goldsmith and Matt Beckett were amongst the substitutes.
The opening minutes saw both teams struggling to retain possession on the small pitch, with space very much at a premium in central midfield for Luke Kelly and James Kennedy. Kew were the first to threaten from range, but Paul Nixon was more than equal to what came his way, handling efficiently and safely. Midway through the first half Notts were indebted to a great Nixon save, down low to his right. The ball was swung in from the Notts left to the back post, with the Kew centre forward heading powerfully downwards, but a strong Nixon hand ensured that parity remained. This seemed to wake Notts up and much more of the play was now taking place in the Kew half. Andres Loaiza probed well down the right, interchanging well with Graham Williams at right full back and Richard Croft up front. Several corners were forced, but Notts failed to take advantage from the set-plays. The half petered out with Notts having dominated possession, though without having really tested the Kew ‘keeper.
Half-time saw the introduction of Matt Beckett up front, with Harry Rugg reverting to central midfield in place of debutant James Kennedy. The talk from Captain McCoy was to raise the Notts game, with bad first touches and misplaced passes having plagued a mixed first half performance.
The start of the second half saw Notts continuing to control the game, with Sean Rigby and Rob Cootes affording very little time and space on the ball for the Kew forwards. Full-backs Goldsmith (now on for Steve Beckett) and Williams ensured Notts had outlets to feet and it was from the full back areas where much of Notts play was originating. Unfortunately, the final ball was often lacking, but encouraging signs could be seen in a more dynamic and attacking second half Notts display. Andy Loiaza could consider himself unlucky not to get a goal his hard working performance warranted. The Kew defence struggled to cope with his close control and ability to turn - much of what was good about the way Nottsbrough was channelled through him.
Despite Kew hitting the bar with a powerful shot midway through the second half, Notts continued to play an attacking brand of football down both flanks. Whipped-in corners from Steve Beckett were a continual danger to Kew’s goal, but resolute defending – including a goal-line clearance from a Loaiza shot – would see the game remain goalless.
Substitute McCoy’s mazy run past three Kew players ended with him being tripped just outside the Kew area. Steve Beckett’s laser guided free kick found McCoy, but despite him having the biggest forehead in the SAL he only managed to head over.
With five minutes to go, Steve Beckett had a golden opportunity to win the game, but hit the post when clean through on goal with only the goalkeeper to beat. The final whistle was soon to be sounded and both teams could be content with their efforts, in a well contested game, refereed in a very assured manner.
A good first workout for Notts, who, on the balance of play, will consider themselves unlucky not to have won. Fitness levels will improve and Tuesday’s friendly at Old Salesians will provide further opportunity for players to get match time under their belts.
3’s Earn Point but Fitness and Goals Threadbare 22 Sep
Nottsborough 1 - 1 EBOG
Scorer – Chambo (72)
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After a couple of gentle pre-season strolls, Nottsborough opened their defence of their title with an unconvincing point against a fairly average EBOG side. With the sun shining and the exceptional turf at Tolworth at their mercy, one would have expected the 3’s to come out with verve and vigour, but during spells of the game there wasn’t much voice on the pitch and although the boys in red and black retained the lion’s share of possession, the conviction to threaten in the final third was found wanting.
The 3’s started with Luke and Bernie in the middle of the park, and they both had industrious first halves, with Luke showing some neat skills around the opposition and Bernie with strong bursts forward and, as ever, giving EBOG little change from any 50:50’s. The link-ups with new lad Joel and James up-front seemed to be working in patches, but only James had a decent chance to open the season’s account but he appeared to have left is gyroscope in the dressing rooms!
Chris Gray was busy down the left, but more play was seen up the right hand-side in the first half, with some calm-passing from Graham at right-back through to Crofty out on the wing, who made half a dozen moves through the EBOG defence, and was unlucky not to see more reward from his hard work.
Gaz Goldsmith did go close however on the half hour with an angled lob, only for the ball to hit the base of the post and bounce along the line.
Noony and Rob Cootes were animals at the back and with their pace and aerial domination they will make a solid base for this season’s push. Chamberlain in goal was a bit of a spectator.
Half-time was goalless, so Gaz and Crofty made way for Mitch and Rozzer. On reflection Crofty should count himself unlucky not get at least another half hour after his strong first half display.
EBOG came out in the 2nd half with a little more spirit and began to see a bit more of the ball, and they duly scored on the hour with a fortunate deflection across the box, which found Mitch on the back foot and their left midfielder wheeling away in delight as he slotted the ball low into Chamberlain’s left corner.
The tiring Bernie made way for Rob Moore’s return, and when Cootes sustained a knock Chamberlain went on up front. The equaliser came via a Noony long ball up to Chamberlain, who managed to hook it over the keeping and nod in off the post. All of a sudden there seemed to be more belief and Joel and James were getting hold of the ball more, along with Luke, and Chamberlain headed a perfect cross from James in what seemed to be the winner but the 8-foot keeper tipped onto the bar and also saved the rebound. The opposition crossbar saw some more action from a Rob Moore freekick, again tipped onto the woodwork.
EBOG had a late chance too, but Cootes smothered well in nets considering his injury, and Chamberlain could have won it at the death, but for a poor lob. A point a piece, but it felt like 2 points went amiss.
MOM - Graham Williams for his calm and accurate passing and a few hardy tackles – his enthusiasm and desire needs to be replicated across the team in the weeks to come.
Nottsborough 3s 5 - 1 Old Carthusians 3s 29 Sep 07
Tolworth was again the venue for Notts 3s in this AFA Junior Cup Round 1 match. After a somewhat disappointing start to the title defence a week earlier, the XIV on show wanted to go some way towards restoring belief and confidence with a win. Old Carthusians arrived with a good cup pedigree – as the FA Cup winners of 1881 they certainly have a heritage to be proud of!
For a second successive week Notts had to employ a makeshift goalkeeper. Matt Beckett was the one donning the gloves, having previously worn the number one shirt on four occasions last season. Michael Corcoran and Duncan Watkins were drafted in at full-back positions, with Darville coming in at right midfield and Johnson up front, both of whom had been drafted in from the 4s.
Notts kicked-off in the new black and vermillion Astus sponsored kit and looked in excellent fettle over the opening 15 minutes. With the ball being played thoughtfully along the deck, Notts probed from all areas of the pitch, with Rozzer and Crofty linking particularly well down the left handside. A series of corners and near misses preceded the opening goal, which followed excellent work down the right flank involving Corcoran, Moore and Darville. It was the latter’s deep cross to the back post, converted by the forehead of Rozzer, that presented Notts with the lead – and a thoroughly deserved one at that.
The goal seemed to spark Carthusians into life. Though they had little possession in the ball in the final third of the pitch, there was certainly a degree of intent to their play, switching from one side to the another at ease. But with Noon and Cootes imperious at the back, the Carthusians front line would get little change from their encounter.
Notts continued to build play from the back, through the full backs. However, an unfortunate bobble resulted in a Corcoran mis-placed pass which the Carthusians central midfielder seized upon and shot first time, lobbing ‘keeper Beckett whose flailing arms were not enough to prevent the ball from going into the back of the net. A somewhat disappointing goal to concede, but Notts continued as they meant to go on and persisted to play their passing game. The game became condensed and narrow as the first half progressed, but for a lack of Notts killer instinct, Carthusians could have well found themselves two or three goals down by half-time. An encouraginig first half performance by Notts, with Kelly and Moore industrious in central midfield. Johnson was a constant handful for the Carthusians back line and it would be apparent that his interplay with Darville, Croft and Rozzer would form the base for a positive second half performance.
McCoy really didn’t really have much to say at half-time. Notts quality on the ball was apparent and it was just a case of sticking to the gameplan, making the pitch wide and getting the ball into dangerous positions.
Notts pushed on after the restart, with Carthusians again very much on the back foot. Beckett was very much a spectator in the Notts goal, sweeping his box as and when needed. After 60 minutes Notts regained the lead, Watkins converting a corner at the nearpost. Despite never being under pressure, the goal seemed to invigorate Notts and an attacking brand of football began to surface. With Rugg on for Corcoran, Croft switched to right back. Notts played some very attractive football with Kelly and Johnson prominent. James White soon came on for Rozzer, who can be pleased with an assured performance up front. Notts now really started to get their football going with countless attacks through the middle, left and right. Only a series of fine save by the Carthusian ‘keeper kept the scoreline respectable.
However, good play between White and Johnson resulted in a calm finish from inside the box by Johnson. 3-1 and time for McCoy to bring himself on for the last 15 minutes in place of Croft. More delightful play between White, Kelly and Darville nearly resulted in a fourth, though Darville was soon to put the game out of sight with a sizzling 25 yarder that seemed to simply bewilder the opposition ‘keeper. White then had two opportunities straight after to make it five, as Notts pushed on and on, fitness seemingly at a level where we know it should be. Even Rob Moore appeared energised! And so a Notts fifth arrived, White daintily sliding home from ten yards – a goal his impact performance had warranted.
The game soon came to a close and the Notts 3s can be pleased with their patience and endeavour in an organised display. The pressure is certainly now on to keep the shirt and those involved today will no doubt be pleased with their input. Thanks must also go out to our opponents, Old Carthusians, who battled fairly and honestly over the ninety minutes. Despite the loss, they will surely have enjoyed their day out on the excellent Kingston University pitches and wish them good luck for their forthcoming campaign.
Next week it is back to league basics, with an away match at newly promoted Alleyn Old Boys. Notable absentees will be Matt Beckett, who has aggravated on old ankle problem, (ironically first picked up whilst covering in goal last season) and Rozzer (Tennis finals at the Queens Club). However, the 3s squad does have excellent depth this season, and their absence will no doubt present opportunities to returning players to secure their place in squad in the weeks to come.
Notts: M Beckett; Corcoran (Rugg); Watkins; Noon; Cootes; Darville; Kelly; Moore; Croft (McCoy); Johnson; Pullinger (White)
Alleyn Old Boys 5 Nottsborough 1 06th Oct
Notts 3s may well look back at this game at the end of the season and see it as the one which defined their season. Ultimately, however, the team should not look any further than themselves and this episode will have served as harsh lesson learned. And quickly.
With conditions good for a conducive game of football on an excellent looking pitch, Notts addressed this game in an upbeat manner and looked to continue their unbeaten run to the campaign. An exciting start, with crisp football to the frontmen, was undermined by a poor clearance on the edge of the Notts box by Moore, and the Alleyn's number 4 pounced on the hesitation in the Notts defence to side-foot home from the edge of the box past a puzzled Goodwin in goal. At this point Notts lost their way and contrived to invite pressure onto the back four. An experienced looking Alleyn's outfit knocked the ball around tidily, using their big number nine as a target man when choosing to go direct. Notts, minds now back on playing football after the cheap giveaway of a goal, got back on their game, with Rugg contriving to miss from six yards, albeit due to an excellent save from the Alleyn's 'keeper. Notts continued to press, with Croft and Watkins increasingly prominent from the full-back positions. Indeed Notts were strong down the flanks, with Kelly combining neatly with Watkins and Chamberlain up-front. However, full all their pressure Notts couldn't find the net, despite a flash side-footed effort from Rhodes after a Rugg cross form the right.
And inevitable as it was, Notts failed to capitalise on their period of pressure and Alleyns broke forward and following some confusion across the back-line, a second goal was conceded. A disappointing conclusion to a first-half, which, despite positive passages of play, was largely remembered for indecision and moaning. McCoy made it known in no uncertain terms that collectively the team had to play better.
Onto the second half, Alleyn continued to dominate. Notts' indecision to clear their lines led to Alleyns scoring a third, a mazy run from the centre forward being finished with a deflection off the inside left boot of Goodwin. McCoy immediately acted to move Kelly inside to his preferred central midfield spot, with Rigby on at rightback, with Croft to switching to left midfield. Off came an out-of-sorts Rhodes. The Notts central midfield - lethargic and off-the pace - had conceded far too much ground to their Alleyn counterparts and in doing so exposing the central pairing of Cootes and Noon to undue pressure.
The change at least seemed to get Notts going. With Alleyn now content to concede possession and look to counter, Notts played much of the second half in the last third of the pitch. With Loaiza on for White, who had toiled and grafted without success, Rugg now had his chance to influence matters from the front. Notts played with more urgency, though at times were not still not willing to play the direct ball. With 15 minutes to go, Watkins was crudely brought down in the box by the Alleyn's number 2 and a penalty and yellow card were duly awarded. The Alleyn's 'keeper saved Watkin's spot-kick, but Rugg's follow-up ensured that at 3-1 Notts were not going to give up lightly. And so Notts pressured. A quick Chamberlain freekick was well saved by the assertive Alleyn's 'keeper, who handled excellently throughout. Several clear-cut corner kicks were awarded as goalkicks and so Notts' collective derision grew. A poorly timed tackle on Watkins by the Alleyn's no.4 (incidentally their best player on the day) led to his second yellow card, the first having been picked up for what seemed to be descent earlier on the second half. An opportunity for Notts to push on get a result perhaps? Unfortunately not. McCoy, now on for Moore, with Cootes in at centre mid, soon conceded a painful fourth. Again, following an Alleyn's corner, the Notts defence was slow to come out and the troublesome no.9 picked up the ball on the edge of the box and slotted past Goodwin. This lack of concentration and application at important times has a habit of undermining Notts 3s and with that, the game was effectively ended as a contest. With the clock running down, Notts battled to add an air of respectability to the scoreline, but despite Rugg's and Chamberlain's efforts up-front , no further Notts goal would be forthcoming.
Alleyn's fifth, with the no.9 ten yards offside added insult to injury and a disconsolate Notts 3s traipsed off the pitch at the final whistle knowing they had not done themselves or the club justice.
Manager McCoy will no doubt be looking for a positive response this Saturday at home to Old Esthamians.
Notts: Goodwin; Croft; Cootes; Noon, Watkins; Rugg; Moore (McCoy); Rhodes (Rigby); Kelly; Chamberlain; White (Loaiza)
Match Report Saturday 13th October
Nottsborough 3 – 2 Old Esthameians 13th Oct
Line Up Godwin, Duncan, S Beckett, Cootes, Noony, Moore, Luke, Darvil, Rugg, Rozzer, Crofty
Well the day started well with Godwin and Rozzer turning up an hour early to get an extra bit of training in before the game. And as the team began to arrive you could feel the banter was good in the dressing room, the whole team had last weeks 5-1 drubbing at the forefront of there mind, determined not to let that happen again!!
The game kicked off and you could tell from the kick off that Nottsborough were in no mood to be messing around and the tempo of the team was great we had the back four looking solid, the midfielders putting their foot on the ball and knocking it round nicely and the front two basically running them self's in to the ground chasing everything! And of course Cootes giving it his normal LARGE!
The first action of the game brought a tidy little save from Godwin down to his left, when Esthameian had a shot from outside the box that took a little deflection off Noony!! Then bang out of nothing 1-0 Nottsborough a Godwin punt down field, knock down, then Darvill though ball to Harry Rugg who takes a touch to steady himself then slides it in the bottom corner!! At this point Nottsborough are well in control of the match, however we then give away a stupid free kick about 35 yards out on the left hand side, they fizz in a ball that goes no higher that 6ft in the air yet no Nottsborough defender is there to head it out, their player makes a run to the front post closely marked by Cootes who throws himself at it, sadly it deflects off Cootes - own goal!! The rest of the half is then a 50-50 battle then ends at one apiece
During half time Wood is told he will replace the impressive Crofty. Again Nottsborough start the 2nd half at a great tempo then after about 5 mins Woody, slotted in after a Rugg knock-down from a Beckett GPS guided ball from the halfway line. Inspired substitution. For the next 20 min Nottsborough are slightly under the cosh but deal with the pressure well, Godwin in the sticks is looking assured when they do get through the defence, then out of nothing we give away another free kick out side the area (bout the 7th of the day!!!) Their player absolutely spanks it at Godwin, gets his body behind the ball but just cant hold on to it and it dribbles to the striker closing down on him and he just tucks it away!! Nightmare mistake from a goalkeeper who know he should have done better!!! For the rest of the game both keepers are made to work and the game looks destined for a draw!! Then in the last minute the ball is sprayed wide to Darvill who put in a ball to the back post inch perfect for Woody, who didn't need asking twice to put the header away!!!
3-2 Nottsborogh, Great battle and great result!!!
MoM: Woody
A contradiction lies at the heart of describing this game. Although this victory was borne through team effort, it was crystallised through the efforts of one man - Rob Chamberlain. It needed players to give their all and take the opportunities created - Rob did all this and more. In this case ‘more’ meant getting himself crossed off every Bealonians player’s Christmas card list.
Nottsborough 4 - 2 Old Bealonians (AET) AFA Cup 27 Oct 07
Chamberlain!!!
In an effort to improve the team performance an open discussion was held beforehand to understand what's gone wrong, and more critically how to fix it. The answers came in the form of better communication between players particularly when defending; encouraging each other on the pitch rather than criticising; and being more focussed in the build up to the game, particularly in the warm up. It remained to be seen whether the 4 hour meeting that turned around England’s fortunes in the Rugby World Cup, could be replicated by the Nottsborough 3's in just 10 minutes.
The game itself saw Nottsborough making 5 changes, 1 positional, from the previous weeks’ team. That meant a new centre back pairing, central midfielder and centre forward. Despite this Nottsborough started superbly and had an excellent first 15 minutes which led to the opening goal. A sweeping move that saw play switched crisply out to both wings in the build up, culminated in Rob Chamberlain converting Harry Rugg's cross-sum-shot from close range. Nottsborough continued to play well but a lapse in defensive concentration, allowed their striker to be put through to round Godwin and finish well despite Noon's best efforts. Fortunately this led to a positive response, an indication maybe that the pre-match talk had been taken on board. Nottsborough continued to play attractive football as the wide men Rugg and Croft, consistently took on the full backs and beat them. They were aided by the central pairing of Allen and Butler, who were pressing their opposite numbers when not in possession and then using the ball simply but effectively to get Nottsborough moving forward. Once again a simple ball to Croft saw him deliver a deep cross to Chamberlain whose acrobatic bicycle kick nestled in the bottom left corner of the goal. Nottsborough continued in the ascendancy and a Chamberlain hat-trick header was disallowed for climbing in the box. Much to his chagrin, it wasn't he who was guilty of the offence. Despite this the mood was upbeat at half-time - 2-1.
The second half saw Nottsborough continue to play well but now the opposition had upped their game. Despite having less time on the ball Nottsborough looked comfortable, despite losing Williams early in the second half. However, with around 20 minutes to go, a long ball was unclaimed by Godwin allowing the Number 10 to nod in, a goal he deserved for an intelligent all round display. Bealonians had pulled themselves back into the game for a second time, and as the game petered out in preparation for extra time, they must have that they were in the ascendancy - 2-2.
However fit or hard a team has worked in training, extra-time is as much a test of attitude, as stamina and so it proved. It would have been easy for Nottsborough to have the game wrestled away from them having conceded more recently but that's not what happened. Nottsborough dug deep and attacked the first half with venom. After some clever interplay on the right the ball was whisked into Simon Butler in front of goal. With a defender tight on him he kept his he head and rolled a calm ball to the free Harry Rugg, who buried from inside the box. It was commented afterwards that this match was made for the golden goal rule, as the game as a contest seemed to be settled at this point. The wind came out of the visitors sails and they didn't seem to have the purpose to come back from behind for a third time. In the second half Bealonians pushed forward to try and capture an equaliser. This led to gaps at the back which Nottsborough were keen to exploit. A ball into the box saw Chamberlain and the opposition number 6 challenge for the ball. The Nottsborough forward was to pick himself off the ground first, round the prone defender and slot the ball past the keeper. In a match that said everything about the team, it was strangely fitting that the man who had so embodied that effort and commitment, should round it off with a hat-trick.
So a deserved win and most of all a committed team performance. Only time will tell whether this is the start of a consistent run or a false dawn. However, overcoming a team that defeated us 5-1 in the same competition last season can only serve well for the coming weeks.
Man of the Match - A solid defensive performance, hard-working and creative midfield and a tireless front line in a game with 4 Nottsborough goals. On any other day the award would have gone to the team. However, when you score 3 goals and manage to wind up the oppositions entire back-line 'til they lose their rag you deserve the plaudits. Step forward Rob Chamberlain. As someone was heard to remark afterwards "I'd effin' hate to play against him".
Civil Service 0 - 0 Nottsborough 03 Nov 07
Stalemate in ‘Civil’ Surroundings
On the face of it a good day for Nottsborough 3’s as they gained the first clean sheet of the season proper. However, it’s safe to say that the team felt nothing but frustration at failing to take 3 points. Despite a couple of customary changes, the side was similar to that which had enjoyed such a fruitful payday against Bealonians. A delay in waiting for an available changing room ensured there was no time to warm up our ball skills. However, this didn’t appear to faze the team as they settled into a comfortable rhythm.
Nottsborough had the better of the first half but didn’t create many clear cut chances. Significant and sustained pressure led to a lengthy series of corners being racked up without the keeper really being tested. Both Chamberlain and Pullinger were seeing a lot of the ball but much of it was outside the penalty area. As a result the final ball was either played into an empty box or delayed, allowing the defensive cover to re-organise. An encouraging half-time score line of 0-0 and a relatively untroubled keeper in Steve Beckett hinted at a second half that might reap rewards.
From the kick-off Nottsborough settle into a similar pattern, with Civil happy to hit on the counter attack. Despite having the lion’s share of play, it was Civil who had possibly the most clear cut chance on 65 minutes when Beckett saved superbly at point blank range to keep things level. This seemed to galvanise Nottsborough and they played with a more earnest tempo for the rest of the game. There were a number of half chances the best of which fell to Moore. After Chamberlain ran on to a through ball his shot was blocked by two defenders. As the three players crashed in the box, the ball bounced backwards to Moore who’s first time placement just went the wrong side of the bar and post wit the keeper beaten.
A couple of cards for dissent, one for each side, were the only disappointing aspect of a very clean but hard-fought game. Civil were clearly the happier with the result but they could have sneaked it in the second half as the game wore on. As for Nottsborough, despite frustration with a draws, if they continue to play this well away from home they will pick up more than their fair share of points. If they also carry on unbeaten at home they will be there or thereabouts when the season finishes.
Mind you, as a wise man once said “if its and buts were pots and pans, there’d be no need for tinkers”
S Beckett; Watkins, Noon, Cootes, Rigby; Rugg (Moore), Allen, Butler, Kelly; Chamberlain, Pullinger.
Nottsborough 2 Norsemen 1 10 Nov 07
Nottsborough stretched their unbeaten streak to three with a comfortable win over Norsemen, a team they had failed to beat on each of the past six occasions.
Matt Beckett was welcomed back after six matches out with an ankle injury and he took his place on the left handside of midfield in what a looked more attack minded set-up to the side which drew 0-0 at Civil Service a week earlier. In central midfield last season’s engine room of Moore and Rhodes renewed their partnership, with Rozzer and Chamberlain being paired up front.
Notts started with plenty of possession against a Norsemen side starting the game with nine men. Despite being encamped in the opposition half, Notts were unable to take advantage and the game remained at 0-0 at the point when the two Norsemen late arrivals entered the fray.
However, this did not seem to disrupt Notts’ flow and patient passing moves continued to emanate from the Notts backline, with Watkins again prominent at left back. Despite having the lion’s share of possession Notts couldn’t quite get their foot on the ball in the Norsemen box and a lot of endeavour was to go unrewarded. Chamberlain was crowded out a close quarters with the goal at his mercy and Croft saw a controlled side-footed effort from a tight angle fly inches over the bar. Meanwhile, at the back, Rigby, Watkins, Noon and Corcoran were having a comfortable afternoon, though all had to remain on their guard when facing the roaming Norsemen no.9, who was constant threat throughout.
Notts opening goal from Chamberlain came following a Godwin goal-kick, which was flicked on by Rozzer. Chambo raced onto the ball and with time and space coolly slotted past the keeper. Direct and simple, but the variation in goal type can only be pleasing for a Notts team who have yet to really fire on all cylinders this season. The goal was certainly warranted and came very much with the run of play.
And so Notts pushed on, looking to further assert themselves. Norsemen were struggling to get any shape and surrendered the ball all too cheaply for their liking. Time and again Notts probed down the Norsemen right through Watkins and Beckett, but too often without an end product. On the opposite flank Corcoran and Croft were both productive and efficient on the limited occasion the play was over that side of the pitch. Moore was having a steady game in the middle, with Rhodes dominant in the air against a smaller than normal Norsemen outfit.
Ten minutes after the opener, Rozzer finished in similar fashion to Chamberlain, the flick-on and assist this time coming from Chamberlain. With the score at 2-0, Notts sensed that the game could be put to bed with half-time still ten minutes away.
Godwin was very much a spectator for the first half and despite two efforts that flashed high and wide, he had very little to be worried about. The half-time whistle blew and at 2-0, Notts could be happy with their performance, yet there still remained room for improvement, with greater quality on the ball in the final third required.
The second half saw the now wind-aided Norsemen play with more urgency. Notts held firm and continued to look dangerous on the counter-attack, with Chamberlain and Rozzer both guilty of not putting away chances and with it the game as a contest.
Notts’ shape remained good and the discipline in their play when not in possession of the ball is a real positive to take forward. On the hour mark a last ditch Beckett block deflected the ball onto the Notts bar a following a quick Norsemen break. On reflection, this opportunity was very much the only clear-cut opening for Norsemen during the whole game.
Rhodes was to be replaced by Dave Hallam – fresh from the Vets- and soon after, a tiring Beckett was replaced by McCoy, with Croft moving to left-mid. It was at this point that Notts played some of their best passing football as they looked to countdown the clock. Hallam was a calming influence, with Moore getting on the ball with increasing regularity.
Unfortunately, in a game that was played in good sprit, the Norsemen no.8 was sent from the field with five minutes remaining following a series of over-zealous challenges. Notts themselves accrued a booking through McCoy, whose enthusiasm somewhat got the better of him.
Norsemen grabbed their consolation in injury time – following a goalmouth scramble after Notts failed to clear their lines. A disappointment not to keep a clean sheet after the solid displays of Rigby and Noon, but this is a tight Nottsborough unit compared to a month ago, and a tight defence can only bode well for the future.
2-1 and Notts can be happy that their league campaign is back up and running. Work is still required in the finishing department, but with a greater sense of togtherness and improving fitness levels, it is difficult not to see last year’s Champions pushing on from here after a below-par opening quarter to the season. Two cup games follow over the next two weekends, with Notts very much looking to compete on all three fronts for as long as possible.
Notts: Godwin; Cocoran; Watkins; Noon; Rigby; M Beckett (McCoy); Croft; Moore; Rhodes (Hallam); Chamberlain; Pullinger
Nottsborough 2 - 0 HSBC SAL Junior Cup 01 Dec 07
Nottsborough 3's get another result in the bank
Back-to-back fixtures against the same team are never easy. The familiarity invariably leads to a stalemate, causing both sides to play within themselves. However, for spells of this match Nottsborough managed to break out of this torpor and delivered enough attacking football to run out comfortable winners.
After an extra-time victory against the same opposition in the AFA Cup, Nottsborough 3's welcomed HSBC to Fortress Tolworth hoping to mimic both playing style and result of the last match. Thanks to the increasingly settled nature of the squad, we comfortably accommodated 2 returning faces in Rory Pullinger and Simon Butler. In addition, the bench looked strong with Loaiza, Moore and Rugg.
Nottsborough settled into the first half well but tried to force the game a bit too much leading to misplaced passes in the final third. Although they had more of the possession they didn't threaten with many clear cut chances on a pitch that had held up wonderfully under heavy overnight rain. The HSBC keeper was by far the busier but as we'd learnt 2 weeks ago, he was too good to be beaten by anything other than a quality strike. HSBC themselves were again playing some decent football, with almost all of it flowing through their tall central midfielder. However, with Butler closing him down for the entire half he was rarely able to get his head up to slot balls through the Nottsborough defence. At half-time then Nottsborough had reason to feel good but would have to raise things to avoid a third extra-time game this season.
The second half continued the theme of the first, with attractive football from both sides leading to only half chances at either end. However, the introduction of Harry Rugg changed all that. A game that had been crying out for some intelligent use of the ball now had an exponent of that very art. From his introduction, Rugg was involved in much of what was good about Nottsborough and was involved in the first goal. His ball into Chamberlain was laid back for Watkins to shoot. As he drew back to strike the ball in the box, an HSBC defender got a leg in from behind and took ball and player from behind. As the referee waved play on Chamberlain picked up the ball, drifted across the box and shot into the bottom corner. Almost from the kick off, Nottsborough won the ball back and after some intricate passing the ball was played into Rugg's diagonal run and he slotted calmly past the keeper. It’s often said that a substitute needs 10 minutes to get into a game but on this occasion he needed little more than that to change its course emphatically.
Once the goals had gone in, that was pretty much that. Despite throwing men forward, HSBC didn't look like making up the deficit. Nottsborough continued to be well marshalled at the back by Rigby and played the remainder of the game out without any real scares. Credit though to HSBC who played some good football throughout, which helped make this game an attractive one to watch. A home-tie against Esthameians awaits in January, as Nottsborough march forward on three fronts. The next two outings see a return to the league and Nottsborough need to take 6 points if they are to have any serious ambitions about being thereabouts come the seasons end.
Team: Godwin; Steve Beckett (Loaiza), Rigby, Cootes, Watkins; Croft, Rhodes, Butler, Matt Beckett (Rugg); Pullinger (Moore), Chamberlain Sub (Not used): McCoy
Man of the Match: Despite not even playing half a game the award has to go to Harry Rugg. He turned Nottsborough dominance of possession into goals, an invaluable commodity at any level of the game.
Nottsborough 1 Old Josephians 0 05 Jan 08
Notts 3s progress to AFA Cup Quarter Finals
Following a three week break, Notts 3s returned to action in the AFA Cup against Old Josephian 2s of the Amateur Football Combination League. A stern test on paper, with Josephians well positioned in their own league having recorded five wins from the opening seven matches.
Keen to make up for a disappointing defeat against Weirside Rangers in their previous outing before Christmas, Notts were out the traps quickly. Five minutes in and Matt Beckett was felled on the corner of the eighteen yard box and the inswinging freekick from Darvill was met at close range by Johnson who made no mistake with a firm volley past the ‘keeper. 1-0 and exactly the start manager McCoy was looking for.
Notts continued to stretch the opposition, but without capitalising on their territorial domination. A tidy move down the left culminated in Beckett running onto a Chamberlain reverse pass, but the Josephians ‘keeper made a brave save at the feet of the onrushing Notts midfielder. Corcoran, prominent from right back continued to play quality crosses deep into the box, but forwards Chamberlain and Johnson couldn’t quite get onto the end of the balls aimed at them.
Slowly but surely, Josephians played themselves back into the game and can consider themselves unlucky when their centre forward struck the crossbar from 12 yards, despite being seemingly fouled as he lined up his shot. A let off for Nottsborough and a missed chance Josephians would ultimately rue. Shortly afterwards, and not for the first time this season, Notts 3s were indebted to a superb Godwin save, who dived sharply to his left to keep out a powerful downward header from a Josphians corner.
Half-time and a 1-0 lead to Notts. It followed a feisty conclusion to the end of the half, with Josephians were giving away their fair share of freekicks. Joephians would needed to get on top of their discipline if they were to get themselves back into this game. Notts could be happy with their display, but their football was still too punctuated and there was certainly room for improvement.
The second half saw Jospehians play more of the game in the Nottsborough half, but the backline of Watkins, Cootes, Noon and Corcoran stood firm and was unwilling to yield any openings to their opponents. Moore replaced a tiring Butler in central midfield and this gave Notts the impetus to get their foot on the ball and pass. A confident return from Moore, who can be very pleased with his contribution from the bench.
With Cranny now on for Beckett, Notts pushed for the elusive second goal to close out this tie, but unfortunately it wasn’t forthcoming. However, Notts never looked like losing this game. The game petered out to its conclusion with Notts not only satisfied on securing their passage to the next round, but also delivering a winning start to 2008, erasing the painful memories of 1-0 home defeat to Civil Service on the same weekend last season.
Onwards on upwards for Notts, who travel north to Winchmore Hill in the league next weekend. A three point haul there would be the perfect tonic to a somewhat stuttering league campaign, and additionally complement the cup form, which has undoubtedly been the highlight of the season thus far.
Team: Godwin; Corcoran; Watkins; Noon; Cootes; M Beckett (Cranny); Darvill; Kelly; Butler (Moore); Chamberlain; Johnson. Sub not used: McCoy
Firstly an apology – anybody reading this report hoping for objectivity best look away now. Your correspondent scored the greatest goal of his near 30 year career and has somewhat of a rose-tinted memory of Saturday. However, we’ll come to that later. Of all the grounds in North London, none causes more opinion than a trip to Winchmore Hill. For some it’s good, due to the generosity of the hosts and the quality of football. For others it’s bad simply because it’s such a difficult ground to come away from with a win. It certainly wasn’t the type of fixture to have to change the side but absences meant a new centre back partnership, and Chamberlain having to partner Kelly in the centre of midfield.
Winchmore Hill 1 - 2 Nottsborough (League) 12 Jan ‘08
“Watkins!!!!????”
Despite the rain the pitch had held up well and the sun was out. With a decent crowd, a ref that allowed the game to flow and two teams with attacking intent, this was a game to put your faith back in football. Winchmore won the toss and decided to play into the strong sun. Maybe this was a factor in Nottsborough’s dominant start, maybe not. Whatever the cause, the first half saw some blistering attacking football from Notts and some even more impressive harassing whenever Winchmore took possession. Chamberlain and Kelly were lively from the start, winning the ball and giving it easy. This allowed both the forwards and wide midfielders to move the ball quickly and accurately and create a number of chances. Johnson went close on a couple of occasions, and it’s seemed each one of the other front five had a chance each as well. However, it wasn’t solely one way traffic with Winchmore showing well when attacking but perhaps not as much quality in the final ball.
Nottsborough eventually took the lead on 25 minutes and it was from the most unlikely of sources in an even more unlikely manner. The first Nottsborough corner of the day was cleared by the defence and dropped 35 yards out. With 3 Winchmore players chasing the ball from the box, Watkins had little option than to attack the ball and attempt to win it. However, upon arrival he realised he had more time than expected and was able to line up a shot. As the groundsman steadied himself to retrieve the ball from behind the pavilion, the unexpected happened. The ball sailed arrow-like into the top corner of the net with the keeper’s heroic dive coming up with nothing but hot air. Now, I appreciate that your bull$hit-o-meter is probably straining at maximum at the moment but ask anyone who was there and they’ll confirm what happened. Needless to say, the celebrations bordered on the excessive.
The goal added momentum to the Nottsborough cause and they attacked with even more vigour. One such move saw Croft, Chamberlain and Johnson exchange some slick passes outside of the box. Eventually Croft played a ball into Johnson just inside the area with his back to goal. Eschewing the option of a touch to bring the ball under he hit first time on the half volley around the corner’ and the ball lodged firmly in the bottom corner. A couple of fitting goals, to cap Nottsborough’s impressive first half display.
If the first half was about the velvet glove, the second was a demonstration of the iron fist inside. The sun had got so low that anyone looking upfield was unable to see any of there own players. This factor and a resurgence from Winchmore led to Nottsborough’s play become scrappy but nonetheless resolute. Winchmore carved themselves a couple of opportunities and really got their tails up. Having said that, it wasn’t all one way traffic and Nottsborough had several decent chances. Both Pullinger and Kelly pulled chances wide of the right hand upright, from just inside the area. Watkins received a mishit clearance from the keeper but pulled his chance just wide of the goal. Lightning it seems was not to strike twice today.
Winchmore switched formation to 3-5-2 and really forced the game. Nottsborough brought Butler’s fresh legs into left midfield to try and help stem the tide. However, soon afterwards an excellent ball come in from the other wing and dropped to a Winchmore forward. After bringing the ball down with a lovely first touch, he somehow contrived to drive the ball over the bar. This was a warning for things to come and with about 15 minutes to go Winchmore were awarded a penalty for a pull by Chamberlain. Despite getting a strong hand to the ball, Beckett was unable to keep the penalty out and a dramatic finale was set up.
At this point Rigby made a timely tactical intervention. To match Winchmore in the middle of the park, the tiring Chamberlain was moved wide left and both Butler and Pullinger were pulled into central midfield. Although this allowed a lot of room in the home teams half, it stiffened the midfield and forced Winchmore to play longer balls. This proved to be meat and drink for the back four and Nottsborough held on until the end for well deserved victory.
With 2 cup fixtures to come, it was vital that Nottsborough got a winning result in the league. To do it against a team that will certainly be near the top at the end of the season, made it doubly so. A word though must go to both the opposition who played some great football in a great spirit and to the referee who let the game flow and had an excellent game.
Last word of the day though goes to Mitch – “Dunc, that was a goal to tell your grandchildren about… you can do it when get home tonight.”
Nottsborough: Matt Beckett; Corcoran, Rigby, Owen, Watkins; Darvill, Kelly, Chamberlain, Croft; Johnson, Pullinger. Sub: Butler.
Nottsborough 4 Old Actonians 3 (League) 15 Mar 08
100 e-mails = 4 goals, 3 points and a very happy management team!
Nottsborough 3s returned to Tolworth off the back of two away games that yielded a very respectable four points. However, very much like the week previously, Notts clambered to put together a starting XI, let alone a bench. As it turned out, a great collective behind the scenes effort enabled Notts to turn-up with the luxury of two subs, something that seemed a long way away from the ten players Mike McCoy and Matt Beckett had available to them late on Thursday.
It has been the hallmark of the 3s this season that results have probably been the most impressive in the face of adversity. This weekend was no different, particularly when the visitors were the league leaders. Though the 3s may have been missing senior members, those in attendance more than made sure that the right result would be delivered and with it a continuation of the unbeaten run.
Notts went about their task from the off, looking first to press and condense the play, before using the pace and width of Beckett and Rugg to open up the play. With newcomer Robin Taylor, fresh from the vets, prominent alongside Kelly in the centre, Notts really did dominate the early proceedings. It was no surprise that the high tempo Notts approach yielded an early and deserved goal – a key interception by Corcoran in his own 18-yeard box, was followed by a long the ball played over the Actonians backline. With the opposition’s defender and ‘keeper unwilling to take command of the situation, Johnson nipped in to take the ball and slot home from a narrow angle - great composure from the in-form frontman. And so Notts pushed on. Good interplay down the Notts right led to Johnson being fed to feet in the Actonians box. Holding off two defenders, Johnson spun and delievered a precise cut-back to Leon Roberts who expertly volleyed home into the far post from ten yards. 2-0 and the league leaders were all at sea.
Actonians were not to give up easily, however, and would soon start to play themselves back into the game, with both wingers seeing plenty of the play. But despite their increased territorial advantage and several corners, they were unable to breach the Notts defence, well marshalled by the returning Cootes. The remainder of the half played out without Notts seeing too much of the Actonians goal, not that there was a great need or urgency to do so. Taylor in midfield was commanding and very much the fulcrum around which Notts functioned. The team shape was good and 2-0 at half-time was reward for Notts’ buccaneering style over the opening 15 minutes of play.
The second half saw Notts playing with the wind, but Actonians were more than motivated to address the two goal deficit. A strong start to the second half saw Notts pinned back and defending from their eighteen yard line. Their cause was not helped by Cootes leaving the field off play with a cut to the head. Unable to carry on, Corcoran moved to centre back alongside Noon, Beckett reverted to right back with Andres Loaiza coming on at right mid. Soon afterwards, a debatable goal gave Actonians a foothold back into the game. A ball played over the Notts defence appeared to have been comfortably dealt with by Noon, but a slight nudge by the Actonians lively centre forward saw Noon lose his balance and the OA forward proceeded to hammer the ball through a bemused Godwins’ legs. Good pressure by Actonians, but an unfortunate goal to concede by Notts. It was not a time to panic. Notts continued to pass the ball and patiently looked for openings. Following good play by Roberts, Rugg and Watkins on the left, the ball found its way to Taylor in a somewhat advanced position. A heavy first touch saw the ball move a yard or two ahead of him, but such was the ex-1s determination, he made the ground to get to the ball and unleashed a wicked 25-yarder into the bottom corner that gave the opposing ‘keeper no chance. A great goal and one to (almost) rival Watkins’ effort away to Winchmore Hill back in January.
The two-goal cushion was restored but not for long. Good work by the Actonians right winger saw the ball crossed with pace into the Notts six-yard box and met with a bullet header from the incoming central midfielder – it was a superb header and one which would not have looked out of place in the Premiership. Who says heading is a dying art?!
With the returning James White now on for Taylor, Notts had an additional extra attacking outlet. Dogged defending by Loiaza not only presented possession of the ball to Notts, but also the opportunity to break. Loiaza fed White down the line, who in turn played a cute cutback to Kelly – Kelly played a first time ball for the spinning White to run onto and from an advanced position in the Actonians box White delicately lifted the ball over the onrushing ‘keeper and into the far corner. 4-2 and once again Notts had hit back immediately after conceding.
With the minutes ticking down, Notts still had time to concede a third goal. A fiercely struck shot from 18 yards, on a now slick and slippery surface, could only be parried by Godwin, the ball hitting the Actonians number 10’s arm before rebounding past the Notts goalie and into the net. Again, a contentious goal and one which still gave Actonians hope. A fourth goal for the league leaders would thankfully not ensue and the referee, who was excellent thoughout (and who was admittedly somewhat unsighted through crowds of players for two of the Actonians goals), blew for full-time. An excellent win for Notts and one which was achieved against all the odds - the thirteen players on show can be really proud with their efforts.
Next up is the SAL Cup Final. Notts 3s have a great opportunity to secure silverware for the second successive season. And it’s not so much a case of Mike McCoy wanting to fill his boots, rather more his wish to fill his trophy cabinet….
Notts 3s: Godwin; Corcoran; Watkins; Noon; Cootes; Beckett M; Rugg; Kelly; Taylor; Johnson; Roberts. Subs: Loaiza; White.
SAL Cup Final 29 Mar 08
Nottsborough 1 - 2 Old Finchleians (AET)
Fat Adam Bad scarf. 7/10
Mitch Pacy. 8/10
Paul Noon That’s my boy. 8/10
Si Owen Won headers…buty only against Johnson. 6/10
Cootes Missed sitter. Ran a lot. 8/10*
Lucozade Won tackles. 9/10
Rob Moore Tired in the second half..............of the first ten minutes 29/50 (His real age vs. how old his body looked at full time)
Darvs Missing in action. 9/10**
Harry Rugg Good touch, poor finishing. 7/10
Johnson Wore Cranny’s boots. 5/10
Cranny Wore Johnson’s boots. 8/10*
Subs:
Crofty Scared of full back 5/10
Matty B Boyish good looks 6/10
Duncs Good slide tackle. Swan song. Decent cousin. 7/10
____________________________________________________________________
McCoy Good chat. 9/10***
Steve B Has won the SAL Junior Cup unlike Moore who only has Pot Noodles in the trophy cabinet. Bad chat. 0/10
Rozzer What a goal. Good suits. Drinking game expert. 9/10
Chambo Aggressive. 8/10
Si Butler Watched from a far. 4/10
Smurf Blast from past. 7/10
Jonty Visibly disappointment. 9/10
Appendix:
* - +2 for pulling in Lost Society
** - +3 for sorting Rob Moore’s Bestival ticket.
*** - Steward’s enquiry pending investigation of claims that ‘lady friend was actually ‘paid for’’.
SAL Cup Final (Crofty’s Version) 29 Mar 08
Game started
Cranny missed
Johnson missed
Finches scored a good goal
Everyone paddled about in the mud for 20 mins or so
Subs of Beckett, Croft and Watkins tucked into Jaffa Cakes
Rugg scores vital equaliser
More chances go begging for Notts, Cootes having header cleared off line in dying minutes
20 mins of extra time to be played
Notts Vets getting lairy after drinking the bar dry
Everyone paddled about in the mud for a further 18 mins
Finches scored another good goal
Notts lose
Beckett takes kit again
Team down 2 bottles of Port
Moore beats Noon in sausage eating contest
Cranny and Cootes pull pole dancers
Finito
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