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Nottsborough 2 EBOG 1 SAL Junior Cup Final Saturday 26th March 2011
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West Wickham 1 Nottsborough 2 Saturday 19th March 2011
At nearly 28 I'm one of the oldest players in the team, but even I was a little excited on this Saturday morning. It was a clear blue sky, a crisp spring morning, and a fixture against top of the league on a decent pitch. So, in the Jag, I made the trip through South London, windows down, Heart on the radio - full blast.
In the knowledge the West Wickham First Team didn't have a game, Martin, Pat and skipper Jonno had done a great job to getting a strong squad together, replacing quality with quality. James had come up from the academy and made his debut in net, Dave at RB, Mart and the returning Si in the middle and me, with my left peg (last seen opening a tin) on the left. From right-to-left in midflied we had Jamie, Ross, Jonno and Shawsy, with Leon and Stu up top.
West Wickham started the game at a frenetic pace, flying at Notts. A couple of Notts players admitted they counted the WW players to confirm they only had 11 such was their superiority. In particular the WW full-back and centre half were causing Notts problems...pinging accurate 60 yard balls to speedy forwards, over-loading the left and causing me and Shawsy all sorts of problems.
But they weren't creating clear-cut chances. A combination of last ditch tackles (one in particular from Si stood out for its timing and desperation!) and general organisation meant we were never going to get steam-rolled, despite being on the back foot for most of the half.
When the WW break-through did come it was tough on Notts. James was harshly adjudged to have handled the ball outside the area (in the process of kicking the ball out-of-hand) and the ref awarded a free-kick on the edge of the area. A wild blazed shot was going significantly wide but a deflection off a stray knee diverted the ball home.
WW continued to dominate proceedings but a change of tactics seemed to alter the momentum of the game. Joe (on for Jamie who had pulled his hamstring) switched to the left, and Shawsy went to the right. Joe proceeded to do a great job for the next hour on the WW right-winger (who looked like David Luiz) and had been causing problems, while Shawsy started to get more room and threaten cutting in from the right. And it was Shawsy, cutting in from the right who got the leveller, smashing a superb 25 yard effort in off the bar from the right angle of the box.
It came against the run of play, and when Notts huddled together at half-time shortly afterwards they knew they had got out of jail and would need to up their game just to compete. WW had bossed the half, had won more tackles, more headers and been bang up for it.
The same 11 went back out for the 2nd half and the difference was apparent immediately. Jonno and Ross started to dominate in midfield, and balls that were previously going over-heads were now being met and returned with interest. As a result Notts started to win the territorial battle and it was clear, to the players and the relatively sizeable watching crowd (perhaps 25) that Notts were on top and the game was being played in the WW half.
But chances came and went for Notts with a combination of good defending by WW, interesting refereeing decisions (two very, very clear professional fouls by the WW keeper outside his area against on-rushing forwards going unpunished), and some scuffed shots meaning scores remained tied deep into the second half. At the other end WW were dangerous on the break and James had to be alert to stop a low shot down to his right after a clever flick-on by me!
When the break-through came - in the last minute of injury time, there was a touch of controversy. Jonno won the ball with what can only be described as a "low shoulder" and fired a beautiful long pass over the top to Shawsie. With the defenders temporarily appealing for hand-ball Shawsie raced through one-on-one. With his hamstring popping mid-stride, and the excellent WW centre-half catching him rapidly Shawsie took the shot early, and fired in the volley (it was a difficult bouncing ball) right into the corner giving the keeper no chance.
The final whistle sounded as soon as WW had taken the kick-off and the game was won. Wild celebrations followed from Notts. Not only had they beaten top of the league away, but they had beaten a good team who for 45 minutes had tested Nottsborough and pushed them to the limit.
MOM - going to give it Shawsie. Dreadful at left-wing, but two blinding goals to make up for it.
Nottsborough 2 Old Actonians 0 Saturday 5th March 2011
After schooling Old A's in their own back yard a couple of weeks ago the trip to Tolworth must have been filling them with the same trepidation as (insert inappropriate joke.)
And so it was to pass as after an initial lull Notts steadily grow into the game and dominated from the 10th minute to the final whistle.
In defence Notts welcomed back Dave on the right side and Noony in the middle. Paddy was as ever on the left but sadly in the early phases of the game matched his passing efforts of last week by consistently finding touch down the left flank rather than a Notts shirt. He did however learn from his mistake last week and just filter back into defence this time rather berating the team for his slice so I guess that's a positive?
While the A's were getting some decent possession the defence stood firm and never let them into the penalty area restricting the oppo to a couple of attempted through balls and tame long range shots that failed to trouble the keeper.
In midfield Johnno was as commanding as ever in the air and Ross added a cool composure on the ball that is such the antithesis of his mental state on the pitch it would take Sigmund Freud a lifetime to work the lad out.
Shawsy and Jimbo were looking dangerous on the wings and both even showed an appetite to track back and tackle for the team which was surprising but in a nice, warm feeling inside kind of way.
Up top Leon and Stu Ewin. To be frank they were too far away for me to see what they were up to but I'm told (by Leon) it was all really rather good.
As the half wore on Notts were basically camped out in and around the A's box to the extent that I started looking for sticks to actually build a tent but was thwarted when Paddy stopped slicing the ball out of play snapping branches for me to use.
The onslaught brought cross after cross and while their keeper did what he could we should have scored 4 before half time hitting the bar on more occasions than I can count to and missing other guilt edged opportunities.
Jimbo unfortunately picked up a mysterious injury during the half and rather wimpishly went off while a stricken Noony was manning up after seemingly having his leg broken in a David Busst fashion before getting the magic sponge to stick it all back together and carry on.
Rumours persisted that Leon had earlier gone in for a challenge and received a bloody lip but no-one can back up this story so we can only assume he punched himself in the face. Why? Good question probably has something to do with fish?
And so the half finished. Notts totally in control but nothing to show for their efforts. 0-0 Game in the balance.....just realised the score is at the top of the report so the attempt to build tension really is fruitless.
Notts were at the jugular from the off in the second half having up sticks and moved their camp to the other end of the pitch. More bombes rained into the A's half and yet more chances went begging until after another header had come back off the bar Stewie was in the right place to tap home and give the Notts a well deserved lead.
After this A's seemed to crumble somewhat and Notts pushed their advantage home with some lovely football that saw the ball swapping wings like an African swallow carrying a coconut.
This eventually ended in a ball being fed to Stewie with back to goal he turned well and blasted the ball into the net for a second goal.
Beautiful!
To make the game interesting Notts then decided to give the A's a few free kicks around their penalty area but the quality of delivery just wasn't there and so nothing of note really happened.
By this stage I had managed to build a rather nice 2 bed detached tent with all the sticks found behind the goal and was enjoying a nice cup of tea. Apparently I missed Dave striking a thunderbolt from 20 yards which the keeper saved with ease but was cold so parried out so he could make another couple of great saves.
I also missed Stewie hitting the post after another save from the keeper denying him a hat-trick. Shame, and I mean that.
The final whistle blew and the A's knew they had lost to the better team, which was nice.
Nottsborough 4 Old Westminster Citizens 0 5th March 2011
4-0..... Probably not that bad
Off the back of last weeks impressive victory over Old Actonians where the team played excellently, passing and keeping the ball to a standard that bellied belief on an awful mud bath of a pitch, there was a great deal of optimism entering the game against bottom of the table Old Westminster C’s at Tolworth.
Unfortunately this optimism was as well placed as a Nani defensive header as the game in all honesty was really rather poor. Notts started slowly and quietly and were offering nothing with ball at feet or in the tackle which resulted in OWC’s looking menacing and their fleet footed striker running rings around the defence and midfield. On one of his runs he cut in from their right across the 18 yard box and hit a low drive that rattled off the post and seemed destined to land in the path of another of their strikers only for Corcoran snr to make an impressive last ditch tackle.
This almost spurred Notts into action but keeping possession of the ball was proving difficult as Jimbo excellently displayed when 4 touches on his own near the touchline were not enough to keep the ball in play.
The half dragged on and Notts were lucky not to concede a penalty when the tricky OWC’s forward burst into the box and seemed to have been felled by Martin. Surprisingly the over officious ref missed it and Notts immediately put together their best passage of play resulting in an excellent cross from Johnno unfortunately going begging.
Eventually Notts started putting things together as Johnno was getting more involved in play and Leon found the touch that had seemed to have been lost in the sands of time returning with him cutting a Bergkamp-esk figure playing just off the line.
The breakthrough came for Notts with a period of applied pressure finally paying off when Leon casually waltzed into the opposition area rounding a couple of players before firing home at the far post.
Moments later he thought he had a second with a low drive but the ref correctly ruled for offside as some numpty was standing in the way of the keeper. A little later Johnno missed an absolute sitter after a great cross from Shawsie. Soon after that the half time whistle blew and Ralph declared it as a good half – a surprise to everyone with a heartbeat but you’ve got to applaud his positive (if misguided) outlook on things.
Notts started the 2nd half much stronger and were immediately on the attack, starting to play with the fluency everyone was expecting at the start of the match. The second goal finally came from Shawsie who rifled a shot in off the gloves of the OWC’s keeper who was literally powerless.
A few more things happened Leon got his second of the game with a weak effort at the near post which their keeper watched carefully into the net and then eventually after threatening to score a fourth we finally did so as Stu Ewin put the game to bed.
To be honest I missed most of the second half, lost in a sea of thought about what the world would be like if Ostriches were the dominant species and fought a constant bloody battle against Squids with man an innocent bystander. The main conclusion I drew was that if would badly affect the football calendar.
I was however bought back into the game with undeniably one of the shouts of the season;
Paddy ball at feet in space, plenty of time, lashes it out for an oppo throw. Most people would quietly return to their positions and get on the game but Paddy spitting blood for no apparent reason declares to the world that we need to keep position of the ball better. A fair point to be sure but one that was made at a rather inopportune time. Sadly as I was startled back into reality by this remark I was slow on the quip, but Leon looking as sharp as ever, was right on the ball letting Paddy know the error of his ways.
I think at one point I might have seen a fox.
In the end it was another good result for Notts. Solid enough at the back and all strikers on the score sheet, maybe Ralph was right after all.
Man of the Match - ?????? The ball was pretty special
Old Actonians 1 Nottsborough 3 Saturday 26th February 2011
What’s that coming over the hill....
After the disappointment of last week’s big game being called off the 3s were mad keen to show their title credentials with a difficult trip to Gunnersbury Park to the home of the giants, Old Actonians.
A strong Notts squad turned up, eventually, after a long trip West and the reigning league champions were greeted with one of the smallest changing rooms in the league and the usual bobbly park pitch. Thankfully the torrential rain and wind did nothing to help the conditions.
Emery and Larkin rolled up just before kick off so were demoted to the bench where they were joined by Vaira who had lost his slot after he took himself away on a mid season training camp to Barbados.
After a rubbish warm up and the realisation that their coach was a Wednesdayite, the game started. Notts took control from the off and had the reliable and legendary Bailo in the sticks in his lovely Skins onesy, the Sheffield back four of Collins, Corcoran jnr, Noon and Corcoran snr in front of him who are seeing somewhat of an Indian Summer in Noon and Corcoran snr. The midfield quartet was made up of Shaw on the left, Santry and Goad in the centre and McNeill out right. Both wide men offered genuine width from the start and the centre of the park was won with dogged work rate and great distribution. Ewin and Roberts were the starting pair up top and caused all sorts of problems as Roberts dropped off into the hole and Ewin stayed on the shoulder of their last man.
The early pressure came to fruition after an incredible overhead clearance from Collins – click here to see actual game footage - set off an attack that saw McNeill dance past their left back, who will be having nightmares after he tangled himself up and fell flat on his face, McNeill then squared it to Ewin who had the simplistic of finishes, but after the last game there were some baited breaths – click here - however he made no mistakes and hit the onion bag - 0-1 with 10mins on the clock and it was justly deserved.
Actons heads dropped and were second best to every 50/50 with Goad leading by example and covering every blade of grass, by this point it was mainly mud so that isn't actually that much. The second was inevitable and Ewin slammed the ball in the bottom left hand corner of the goal with a delightful shift and shoot on his left peg.
The half continued much the same with Notts being dominant in every position and playing some of the best football of the season, on easily the worse pitch. The Sheffield back four were solid as always and the midfield were linking well with the front two to cause havoc at every opportunity. Acton couldn't live with the high tempo and quality on show and this was highlighted when McNeill 'smashed it' – click here - off the underside of the bar (and post) to make it 3, cue wild celebrations as the away team were rampant – click here
Bails spent most of the first half spectating but when called upon took the ball as cleanly as always and even came racing off his line for a 50/50 with their wisp of a forward, it's safe to say their lad didn't fancy it – click here to see what could have happened
Corcoran jnr and Noon are forming a great understanding in the heart of defence and when Corcoran snr wasn’t moaning him and Collins were as combative and tenacious as always – click here to see examples - limiting Acton to a couple of off target long range shots.
Half time came and Notts were all feeling pretty happy with themselves but Acton made some changes and went to a 4-4-2 and the second half was a different story.
The pitch deteriorated and the horizontal rain didn't help but Actons gave it a real go and came out chomping at the bit. Notts stood up and to quote a great man 'manned up' – click here to see him at his best - all over the pitch and although had numerous chances to kill the game off, were quite wasteful in front of goal – click here
With about 30mins to go Actons right winger put in a low cross that wasn't dealt with (twice) and their forward slotted it home from about 12 yards - game on.
Vaira came on for Corcoran snr with 25mins remaining and Emery and Larkin joined the fold shortly after. Vaira immediately put their pacey winger in his pocket and Emery and Larkin added some much needed composure to the play.
A rejig in midfield saw Shaw and McNeill lead the line and cause ‘Ultimate Kaos’ – click here to see where Jamie learnt his smooth moves - but somehow couldn't add to the score line.
With the exception of a looping cross that may, or may not have crossed the line – click here to see the incident - and two last ditch tackles from Collins, including one that can only be described as heroic – click here to see the kind of calibre of tackle - Notts remained in control of the game and were the better team throughout and good for all 3 points.
The fourth never came, but neither did their second so who cares?! With a great result away from home, a great spread and news of some other results going Notts' way it turned into a bloody good day at the office!
MoM - there were numerous contenders this week with some lion-hearted performances – click here - but it has to go to Goad who was magnificent from the off and put his body on the line when required.
Old Alleyn’s 0 Nottsborough 1 SAL Junior Semi Final
The crowd of a man and his dog, Shawsys missus and our subs cheered as cup holders Nottsborough 3's progressed through to the final of the league cup after a 1-0 win at Old Alleyn’s. After a tour of the surrounding suburbs in Mitch's fun bus, with a quick stop at the 1950's Olympic velodrome we arrived at their ground, greeted with a decent setup and a nice flat pitch which we knew would suit the 3's total football style and there was much talk about the after match meal which was an absolute treat last year. Preparation was the key and the 3's were out on the pitch in time for a proper good warm up and with the opposition still in the changing room, Nottsborough could tell who was up for it more. A strong side travelled, however Leon had poisoned himself with a home cooked dodgy beef curry and spent most of the warm up trying not to soil himself and this did not bode well for him. With the talented Bailo in net and a reliable 'Sheffield back 4' of Mart, Paddy, Noony and Mitch, this meant the midfield and forward line knew they could express themselves and push forward from the off and that they did with McNeill marauding down the right hand side at any given opportunity, giving their left back all sorts of problems, sending some decent crosses in and linking up well with Mitch who started brightly. Joe also started well on the left and Ross Emery took to his new midfield role well and was distributing some useful balls about. Leon came off after twenty minutes, admitting defeat to the dodgy curry replaced by Ewin. With all the pressure Nottsborough really should have created more outright chances; the only one of note was when McNeill linked up with Shaw who sent a delightful ball across the box but Ewin placed wide. The home side didn't really pose any real problems and their keeper, clearly just out of the mental asylum kept taking to himself all the time. A dodgy off side call by the ref could have proven costly but Noon made a great sliding tackle in the box to deny the advancing forward. Unbelievably after spending most of the first half camped out in the oppositions half, Nottsborough went in to half time at 0-0.
The half time team talk from Martin was a positive one and we all knew that if they kept up the pressure the goals would come, we just needed to be a bit more clinical in the final third. Nottsborough started brightly again and continued to push forward searching for the elusive goal with instructions for the wingers to cut inside more. After 15 minutes, the introduction of Jay to the game had an immediate impact when he passed to McNeill who laid off to Shaw on the edge of the box, McNeill received it back on the left side of the 18 yard box and sprayed the ball across the box in search of Ewin only for the Old Alleyn’s defender to toe the ball in to the goal. 1-0 Nottsborough! Nottsborough continued to to press on and Crofty came on with half an hour to go and made an impression on the game sending some good crosses in to worry the defenders. Shaw was unlucky not to score as he teed himself up inside the box but volleyed narrowly wide. One can only assume it was the effect of his girlfriend on the sidelines that put him off! Nottsborough continued to press but the second goal did not come and meant a nervous last few minutes and Noony made a world class block to deny the Old Alleyn’s forward from putting the ball in to an open goal as the looked to finish off a counter attack.
The ref blew the whistle and there were scenes of jubilation and chants off 'we're off to HSBC!' Overall a solid performance but a few more goals are needed if Nottsborough are going to retain the cup in a few weeks time.
Nottsborough 6 Alexandra Park 3 SAL Cup QF Saturday 29th January 2011
A long trip north saw an excellent Nottsborough 3s progress to the semi finals of the SAL cup in a 9 goal thriller. Having won the cup last year, but lost the cup at the same time (where is it!?) Notts were slow out of the traps and found themselves 1-0 down within 10 minutes. A scrappy punt looped over Corcoran jnr and the 'stocky' centre forward ran on to finish well by lobbing the excellent Notts keeper Tom who is fresh off the Notts academy conveyer belt. Notts responded convincingly with the superb Ross Emry linking with Collins an Shaw to deliever a guilt edge ball for Jimbo at the back post - who did "every thing right" except shoot on target at the back post from 3 yards. Notts soon grabbed the equaliser through a deft Leon Roberts chip after some lovely work down the right through Jimbo. The whole team blew a collective sigh of relief, finally Leon had bagged and finally a chip had come off - high fives all round.
Notts were soon into their stride again after the re start and grabbed a second to calm nerves as Santry dropped das hammer from the edge of the box which rifled into the top corner.
As the half progressed Goad, Roberts and Emry all played their part in releasing the Bald Eagle for his first of the day as he slid in Notts third, after a wonderful free flowing move with Notts working the ball across the pitch before Emry released the killer pass. The 4th was a carbon copy finish by Shaw but a very different build up as The old up and under split the defence and all but sealed the game. Or you would have thought.
Not so - Notts struggled to match their 1st half performance and were forced to defend for long periods of the second half with Corcoran snr rallying the troops and making several good blocks. AP eventually got the goal they deserved with a powering set piece header but substitutes Ewin, Noon & Harper all added energy and quality to a tiring Notts side. At 4-2 it was a game on and Notts were delighted when the Bald Eagle swooped for his hatrick and Santry grabbed a second. AP got a late consolation but the game was won and Notts had sealed a place in the semi finals.
The splendid afternoon was rounded off with Jamie having a misdemeanor with TFL and he's not been seen since!
Old Salesians 1 Nottsborough 3’s 2 Saturday 13th November
…..as the Salesians forward cooly slotted the ball past the oncoming Bailo. 1-0 Salesians. Expecting an introduction to the game? So were Nottsborough 3’s as they took to the field against a surprisingly young and sprightly Old Salesians team in the 3’s equivalent of the Carling Cup. It would appear that an alcohol free Friday night, coupled with a prolonged warm up, is not physiologically sound preparation for a football match. Sadly the Old Salesians gate opener clearly had enjoyed a late one the night before, and as a result several uncomfortable minutes were spent apologising to the owners of vehicles who got in the way of an impromptu game of keepy uppy. Or downy as it tended to be.
It turned out Nottsborough did indeed have 11 players on the pitch, however the team looked somewhat different from previous weeks. In came a refreshed Ross Emery at left back, chomping at the bit after a self-imposed spell in the Priory. He replaced one half of the Houllier/Evans-esque managerial duo who after a quick whip round at the end of last week’s game had been bought a ticket to watch big men chase eggs. Martin and Liam made a solid central pairing, with the reliable Dave Viara making up what Martin said (9 times) was his ‘first choice back four’. Ralph, who has grown in confidence each game, held a central midfield berth next to the ever present Santry, with Tom on the left and the our very own Billy Whizz, Roberts on the right. The line-up was completed by the free scoring duo of Ewin and Shaw, who ‘give the team confidence that the goals will flow each game’, as Martin proclaimed in the pre-match team talk. Cheers Mart. A welcome return to Andreas, and, well, a welcome in general to Jimbo who made up a strong bench.
Once Nottsborough recovered from the initial shock of conceding so early an evenly balanced battle ensued which provided chances at either end. Salesians were keeping the ball well and trying to free their pacy wingers to attack the Nottsborough channels, whilst Nottsborough were having some joy as the midfield linked well with the front pairing. A surging run from Santry culminated in a tantalising cross which Ewin steered narrowly over the bar, whilst a curling early ball from Shaw flustered the Shaka Hislpo lookalike in goal, with Ewin once again unlucky not to prosper. At the other end the defence had tightened up, but the young Old Salesians were a game bunch and were trying their luck from all distances. First Bailo was called upon to strong arm a dipping effort over the bar, then a fine strike from their right winger was (apparently as the big man claims) tipped on to the bar by the fully elongated Bailo. In between these efforts the Salesians right winger had a meltdown after an accidental collision left him sporting a bloody nose, fortunately Emery was close at hand to inform him that a place had just become available at a little retreat he knew…..
Nottsborough reconvened at half time a little fortunate to be only 1-0 down, however they too had had their chances, and spurred on with a determination not to have to admit to Mitch, Paddy and the other absentees that they’d been missed, set out with new vigour for the second half. And so Salesians enjoyed perhaps their best period of domination. At this point Martin decided a change was required, and brought the returning Atkins on for Ewin. The impact was instantaneous, as a neat through ball to the feet of Atkins was quickly manoeuvred by Scandanavia’s top scorer on to the outside of his right foot and duly poked into the corner. Nottsborough were back in it. The away team now piled on the pressure with Roberts risking further deterioration of his ‘Berbatoft’ as he flicked on a long ball to put Shaw clean through. Unfortunately Shaw’s scoring touch deserted him as he struck his shot straight at the advancing Hislop who turned the ball away for a corner. Martin waved his magic wand once more and brought on Jamie McNeill for his 3’s debut. His first touch was to float a delightful corner into the box for Corcoran to rise bravely above his marker and head the ball into the net. 2-1 Nottsborough and the smash and grab was complete. Corcoran did receive a nasty cut to his eyebrow in the process, but for the first time in his life he was thankful of his Denis Healy eyebrows which comfortably soaked up the blood and apparently all the water from the sidelines. Nottsborough however still piled forward. A GBH claim in the box by Shaw was waved away by the ref with his white stick, and Jamie McNeill got the chance to repeat his first fabulous corner shortly afterwards. NASA predict that it will re-enter earth’s orbit sometime in 2017.
Anyone witnessing a 3’s warm up will have noted Roberts’ fascination with chipping an imaginary off-his-line keeper from 45 yards, and to be fair to the lad he practices hard. An overambitious Hislop clearance from near the corner flag landed straight at the feet of Roberts who let out a little bit of wee in the excitement of the moment and his big chance, and with cries of ‘shoot’ echoing in his ears he raised his faithful right peg. The ensuing shot decapitated several worms.
For the final few minutes Atkins was finding plenty of space and looking dangerous, and Jamie McNeill was full of running on the left. The defence and midfield were resolute and held on to ensure that the holders would be in the hat come draw time. So job done, it was off to the bar to celebrate Andrea’s fine ball work, oh, and his winning goal too…..
MOM- massive mentions must go to the two substitutes, Atkins and McNeill, who changed the game with their contributions. Bailo made some crucial saves at important times too. However, sometimes winning football matches is about who wants it the most, and with scant regard for his own good looks, when the ball was there to be won, no one wanted it more than Martin. Birds loves scars too.
Old Westminster Citizens 0 Nottsborough 4 Saturday November 6th 2010
Beautiful blue skies and a nice flat pitch - that's what we would have had if we had played at Tolworth. Instead we were in Mitcham at old Westminster citizens. In fairness the facilities were pretty good and there was a real buzz in the air as Notts recalled the spag bol enjoyed for tea on their previous visit.
A solid (ish) warm up and an inspiring team talk from Corcoran jnr saw Notts fly out of the traps to mediocrity. A complex 'busty blond'
formation 4-1-3-2 didn't suit Notts playing style and the first half was noticeable only for a private 'my touch is worse than yours competition' competition enjoyed by Tom, Stu & Leon. An airshot from Tom and a 'Wilkinson-esque' effort to find touch from the very middle of the pitch by Stu were only topped by an audacious first time through ball by the returning Leon, which split his own defence with phenomenal precision and subtlety, only for yellow boots to be tracked down by Vaira
Mitch thought the defence 'hadn't done too badly' but in truth we were delighted for half time to come and a chance to change formation from the 'busty blond' to the familiarity of the 'squat brunette' (4-4-2). Si came on for Mitch - who by his own admission had been out all night (but not in the good way) and immediately Notts improved.
Pressing by Ralph...... or Tom..... or Shawsie saw a lose pass fall straight into the path if Leon who cleverly evaded both full back and centre back to round the keeper before being hauled down by the GK who was off to eat an early authentic Chinese sweet and sour in the club house. Collins saw the benefits of this ploy remembering missing out on spag bol the previous year (he still talks about this) but the ground had become wet and soft and the opportunity to take slide tackle passing to new heights was too great. Santry's sleazy eyes sent the keeper the wrong way and Notts were 1 up and facing 10 men. The second and third goals quickly followed with first Ewin following up an excellent Tom Harper cross come shot to finish from 5 yards and then the Bald Eagle killed the game with his 8th & 9th of the season to keep the pressure on Ewin snr in the race for the golden boot - both well taken finishes but I can’t remember either. Ball came across - 6 yards out bla bla bla
Bail made a great save in the dying moments with Si recovering from a jaunt up field and Collins saw a volley slide by the post. Former heartthrob J Larkin provided aggression and a goal threat and must takes some of the plaudits for the improved second half performance.
Special mention to birthday boy Santry who was definitely our most hung-over player but bounced back in spectacular fashion at the Fez later that evening, displaying all the characteristics of a modern day footballer playing for Newcastle.
Onwards and upwards for Notts.
Nottsborough 3 Alleyn Old Boys 0 Saturday October 30th 2010
After the longest warm-up in recorded history and, surprisingly, no long-term damage to Leon's body. It was in fact Leon who took centre stage from early in the match as he was asked to stand in for a referee who'd changed his watch a day early.
None-the-less, with an unchanged outfield team from last week's cup win, Nottsborough were sharp out of the blocks, and soon had Alleyn's on the back foot, with the opening goal taking less than 5 minutes to arrive. A quick throw-in and a cross by Tommo on the left from "just inside" the by-line was flicked on by Stu at the near post leaving Shawsy time to chest and toe-poke past Alleyn's previously cocky goal keeper. Video evidence has conclusively shown that the goal correctly stood. Our star striking pair were back to their old tricks immediately.
This stirred a little life from Alleyn's and over the next 15 minutes they battled hard, progressed to some advanced positions, and occasionally found themselves with time to shoot from the edge of the box. However, some effective closing down and ever-safe hands from John in goal kept the visitors at bay without any serious scares.
In contrast, at the other end, goal number two was only a few minutes away. The first of many well won balls by Ralph allowed Jonno to slide-rule a pass through to Stu, who beat a slovenly off-side trap and finished with the composure we've come to know and love. 2-0.
The next 10 minutes was a stop-start combination of ball-hunting and replacement-ref-chasing which generated little from either side to excite our solitary fan. Finally a sigh of relief though, a formal referee appeared for the half's last 20 minutes and Nottsborough began changing up through the gears once more. Some excellent possession and attacking down the right with quality vision and passing from Dave combined with good link up play between Joe, shawsy and stu led to a procession of crosses and corners. All that was left then, was for our top scorer to press home the advantage with the last kick of the period. A half-clearance from Alleyn Old Boys left Shawsy, with a tight angle, a back-tracking goal keeper and the small matter of 25 yards to take his season's tally to 7. 3-0 at half time and a confident looking Nottsborough were well on their way to victory.
You'd be excused for expecting the second half to fall at the feet of Nottsborough, but with the exception of some close range chances which were inexcusably missed, this failed to be the case.
Fresh legs in the forms of Leon and Liam helped add some changes of tactic and bit more guile to the team and Nottsborough looked and remained in charge of proceedings.
However, despite long-range shots from Leon and some well-aimed corners and crosses from the left, the fourth goal proved ellusive. In truth, Alleyn's didn't pose too many threats in the second half, and with the exception of a few set pieces, it's fair to say that the most difficultly experienced by John in goal was balancing goal kicks on his 'Tim Flowers' divot.
Special mentions are made for Ralph who's tireless challenging, heading and sweeping in midfield enabled Nottsborough to dominate and pressurise from from start to finish; also for Jonno Santry who continues to be one of the most elegant and creative players in the league.
Man of the match – Ralph for demonstrating great commitment throughout and helping send Nottsborough back to the top of the Southern Amateur Football League Junior Division 1.
Quote of the day: Cocoran Jnr - “Please Sir, can we play on the first team pitch?” Tolworth receptionist - “No!”
Lineup: John; Vaira; Corcoran Jnr; Corcoran Snr; Collins; Lukins (Liam); Ralph; Santry; Harper; Shaw; Ewin (Leon).
Nottsborough 5 Lloyds TSB 3’s 1 AFA Junior Cup Round 2 Saturday October 23rd 2010
The Notts 3’s arrived for their first taste of the new clubhouse at fortress Tolworth, a cup match providing the ideal opportunity to erase the memory of last week’s league defeat, as managers Collins and Corcoran (jnr) wasted no time in outlining their aspirations to go all the way in the cup this year.
Conditions were perfect if a little nippy at a mild 10 degrees with a light south easterly breeze sure to play havoc with the Santry barnet and saw Si Owen break out the winter thermals (branded of course), only to be eclipsed shortly after by Bailo’s onesie.
After sheltering from a freak hailstorm in their newly adopted changing quarters, Notts took to an impeccable playing surface that would be sure to suit their attractive brand of football.
The opposition - Lloyds TSB from the Junior Division 3 - had won just 1 of their 4 league games heading into the match and seemed intent on using the cup as a welcome distraction.
The home side started brightly though with Stu Ewin and Dave Shaw looking sprightly up front, ably supported by a talented midfield four that including the combative Ralph, making his first start of the season.
Indeed it wasn’t long before Notts gained the advantage with Ewin notching his fourth goal of the campaign. Some good link up play down the right and a deep cross saw Shaw’s knock the ball back across goal to his strike partner Ewin who tapped the ball home (although it appeared he aimed for the keeper) - 1-0.
The early goal was just what was needed and confidence grew throughout the side, with the Corcoran brothers (‘the most successful brothers at attracting female attention in the club’ – direct post match quote) marshalling the opposition’s big man up top, whilst Jono Santry and Ralph effectively broke up the play to feed Tom Harper and former teen heartthrob Jay Larkin out wide as well as the aforementioned handful upfront.
However the hosts were given a scare soon after and after failing to press the ball with any conviction Lloyds levelled the contest. A looping shot from 20 yards dipped at the last, cannoning of the bar only for Lloyds to react quickest to the rebound for 1-1.
Notts refused to panic though and quickly re-established themselves on the match. Full backs Pat Collins and Dave Vaira pushed forward at every opportunity, providing useful outlets for wave after wave of Notts pressure.
With a number of intricate passing moves leaving Lloyd’s struggling to cope, it wasn’t long before the home side restored their lead; Shawsie’s acrobatic overhead kick doing the damage. An excellent save from Bailo from a rare Lloyds counter attack then helped to ensure Notts went in at the break in front. 2-1.
After half time words of encouragement Notts came out fighting once more with second half substitute Joe Lukins making some encouraging forays down the wing, the opposition at times, unable to live with the polished Notts passing. The third goal seemed imminent and eventually came in a less than spectacular fashion.
The plaudits eventually went to Larkin, succeeding where other team mates had failed, the woodwork threatening to deny Notts in a goal mouth scramble before Larkin’s wonder strike from a yard out. 3-1.
Imperious in the air once again, skipper Santry’s feet joined the party not long after as he finished a flowing move to crash the ball into the far corner of the net giving the opposition goalkeeper no chance. 4-1.
To their credit the opposition refused to give in and should have doubled their goal tally but for a lack of composure from their substitute striker. Another long range effort saw a Bailo parry, the Lloyds striker reacting quickest to the rebound only to inexplicably blaze over from 12 yards.
Owen and Liam McNamara came on and steadied the ship for Notts who continued to carve out chances for messrs Collins, Santry, Shaw and Ewin before the latter two combined once again for the fifth and final goal.
After being felled out on the right, Shawsie picked himself up and swung in a vicious left footed free kick which was met by the head of Ewin, the ball nestling into the far corner. 5-1.
A solid performance all round from Notts against unequivocally weaker opposition. At times the football was superb and after a more clinical display in front of goal, the lads can grace the lawns of Tolworth once again next week in high spirits as the league campaign continues.
Line-up: BAILO, VAIRA, CORCORAN (snr) (OWEN), CORCORAN (jnr), COLLINS, HARPER (LUKINS), RALPH (McNAMARA), SANTRY, LARKIN, SHAW, EWIN.
MOM – A special mention to Stu Ewin who weighed in with an excellent performance and another two goals but man of the match this week goes to strike partner Shawsie who worked tirelessly throughout, scored one and played a part in the majority of Notts best attacking play all day.
Winchmore 2 Nottsborough 0 Saturday 16th October 2010
The Notts lads arrived on mass at Winchmore to beautiful blue sky’s and the prospect of a great game of football. The impending down pour five minutes before KO should have been a signal of what was to come as Winchmore flew out of the traps with lots of early possession and pressure. Notts weathered the storm, limiting Winchmore to half chances and speculative shots. As the game grew older Notts began to get a foothold with chances falling to Ewin and Larkin which were not taken.
Notts were thankful of the half time whistle and a chance to regroup.
Calls for more composure and a tightening up of the middle of the pitch were responded to, as Notts had there best spell. A Dave Shaw volley and ensuing scramble from 2 yards saw Notts denied before Lukins burst clear of the defence only to drag his shot wide from 15 yards. Still Notts came with Santry heading over from close range and pressure building from Notts wide areas unfortunately not converted.
Then the hammer blow from Winchmore who had largely been contained in the second half. A tackle cleanly won by Corcoran ricochet off Spencer and fizzed through the Notts defence for the Winchmore striker to beat the impressive Bailo from a tight angle. A scruffy goal against the run of play but Notts should have dealt with it.
Notts now had to chase the game and were close to an equaliser twice as Collins hit the bi line only for his pull back to fizz across the 6 yard box without conversion. Then Shaw sent an acrobatic over head straight into the grateful hands of the Winch keeper. Half a yard either side and it would have been goal time. In fairness I am leaving out a couple of guilt edge chances for Winchmore who were denied twice by the excellent Bailes.
2-0 didn't flatter Winchmore but we had our chances and we didn't take them. The small boxy pitch at Winch suited them and we will relish the return leg at the lawns of Tolworth where we will know only a win will do.
Old Esthamians 0 Nottsborough 2 Saturday 9th October 2010
After a dissapointing result at home to West Wickham last week Nottsborough looked to get back to winning ways. Nottsborough dominated the early exchanges with Bradley causing loads of problems in the Esthamians defence. This pressure finally paid off and after about 15 minutes Patrick played a ball from left back between the Esthamians defence and the keeper. Stu Ewin ran onto the pass, rounded the keeper and rolled the ball into the empty net.
Nottsborough struggled to push on from this position and allowed Esthamians to get back into the match. The 'agricultural' pitch was not lending itself to Nottsborough's usual flowing passing game and Esthamians produced their best move of the match only for John to pull off a great save to keep the score at 1-0 going into half time.
Nottsborough came out much brighter in the second half and looked to take the game to Esthamians and to get the second goal that would kill the game off. Nottsborough created many chances with Andreas and Dave going close, and Spence not so close! Finally, Nottsborough got a 2nd. Stu Ewin ran onto a ball down the right and took an early shot, deceiving the keeper with a precise roll down his shin, off his foot, over the keeper and into the net.
Nottsborough settled down after this but could not find a third. All in all a solid win to keep us top of the league before a crunch match away at Winchmore Hill next week.
MOM was Spence in the centre of midfield.
Nottsborough 1 West Wickham 1 Saturday 2nd October 2010
Nottsborough’s run ends at unclucky 13
After 13 wins in a row the 3’s were looking to beat the club win record they had set last season. Unfortunately, as the following report explains, many factors led to the first draw in 2 seasons which pools players up and down the country would have never predicted.
Squad selection in recent weeks has started to become a problem with nearly 20 players featuring in the opening fixtures. October 2nd must have been a day to be away as we struggled to muster up a bare 11 which included a debut for Stu Ewin (part of the most famous brothers in the club) and another inclusion from the academy.
The Tolworth surface was in perfect condition and was (unfairly so) compared to Wembley. The team welcomed back new GK Mitch for his second appearance who’s quick delivery of the ball started a lot of the attacking moves. Liam had joined Mitch’s(not the GK) brother Martin at the heart of defence with regular full backs Paddy and Dave on either side. They, as always, dealt with the West Wickham attack impeccably whilst playing important roles in keeping and switching the ball. The central midfield partnership of Ross and Jono was reinstated and while the latter headed the ball, the former got the ball down and played. The wings were held by Spen and Tom who enjoyed some space out wide and looked to take on the opposition full backs. Up top was the new pairing of Academy prospect Tom and Clubman Al Ewin’s elder brother Stu.
Notts started very strongly, enjoying most of the possession and creating plenty of opportunities. The Wickham keeper did well to get on the end of the shots but we should have been more clinical with the rebounds. Ross was frustrated to get to a rebound a little early and so find the ball at his waist rather than his feet from 2 yards out. Countless crosses were entering the box but no cutting edge in front of goal was found.
0-0 at half time and the 3’s were very frustrated not to be a goal or two up. This frustration was evident as the team entered the second half looking unusually unsettled. The game became much more even and chances were falling at both ends of the pitch. West Wickham were first to score as a far post cross fell to their winger who neatly controlled and volleyed into the bottom corner.
The team had to now show a bit of fight in order to get back in the game. Some players had better ways of showing this than others. ….
Thankfully the fight back came as Jono played a neat through ball to Tom who waited to release a precise cross to Stu who marked his debut with the equaliser with only minutes left on the clock.
This was a very fortunate comeback and was not deserved after the second half shenanigans. Next week brings a new game, hopefully a full squad and a return to the normal positive 3rd team performance.
MOM goes to the West Wickham number 14 who had a stand out game.
EBOG 0 Nottsborough 1 Saturday 25th September 2010
Notts made the long trek north to Barnet looking to add a further three points to the six from six secured over the opening two weekends of the season. For EBOG, last season's painful 5-3 aet reverse in the SAL Junior Cup final would be motivation enough for revenge - well that's we thought until we realised that most of last year's 3rd team had graduated to become their 2nd team, judging by the personnel on show on the pitch adjacent to us. Nonetheless, Notts knew they would still face a stern test from a side who surrendered a 2-0 lead away to erstwhile rivals Winchmore Hill.
A lack of familiarity with the local geography / North London unfortunately contrived to deprive Notts and Messrs Emery and McNamara of starting berths, with Captains Corcoran Jnr and Collins sticking to their guns and being scornful to any form of tardiness. And therein did lie a level of irony, as Notts as a whole didn't actually turn-up for the first twenty minutes of the game. From the kick-off EBOG were champing at the bit and forcing Notts deep into their own half, shifting the ball quickly from full-back to full-back, before deploying long, angled crosses towards the Notts fullbacks of Collins and Vaira. In fairness, the Notts backline were snuffing these out and dominating aerially, but that was pretty much the only part of the game where the 3s were on top. The Corcorans really did have a tough job on their hands dealing with a six foot - ca. sixteen stone - centre forward, but as always they stuck to their task well. Santry and Lukens were bringing the ball down into play, but were too often crowded out by a determined EBOG central midfield pairing to develop any end product. Beckett and Harper on the wings were struggling for possession and coughing up the ball a little too easily, and with that Roberts and Shaw up front were being starved of the ball and any sight of the EBOG goal. Frustrating stuff.
However, the catalyst for Notts getting into the game was through our own Big Dave - a colossus in nets - who pulled off a string of fine saves to keep EBOG at bay, saving twice at his near post when the EBOG striker had a clear sight on goal. Big Dave's saves stirred Notts and came as a bit of wake-up call. Slowly but surely Notts edged up the pitch, with Shaw and Roberts offering for the ball, and working nice combinations with Santry and Luken. Vaira was developing into the Notts outlet ball, and Notts began to press forward from the back with increased confidence and a level of assertiveness you would expect of a team looking to set a marker down to the rest of the league with three points at EBOG. A marginal offside denied Shaw a chance to put Notts one-up, but the perseverance of the Notts front two breathed further life and confidence into the Notts team. A series of corners to Notts - wickedly inswingers from the left boot of Shaw - put EBOG under considerable pressure. How Corcoran Snr managed his airshot from six-yards with the goal at his mercy is probably still causing him issues now. Notts had rallied well and despite a very lacklustre opening 20 mins, went into half-time somewhat upbeat and eager to push-on and raise the tempo on what was a very good, if not a little slow, EBOG pitch.
With McNamara and Emery warmed up and waiting in the wings, Notts certainly had the armoury to inject fresh legs and impetus. Unchanged at the start of the second half, Notts continued to press territorially. Santry was a magnet for the ball and switching the ball nicely from side to side, full backs Vieri and Collins pushing on and offering width at every opportunity. Shaw was turning the screw and could once again consider himself unlucky to be pulled-up for offside when presented with clear runs on goal. The referee, however, was having an efficient game and allowing the game to flow. Soon after, a mazy Roberts run past five defenders had everything apart from the closing execution of a shot on goal, but the pressure on EBOG was mounting. Emery came on for Beckett and slotted straight in at left mid. The momentum remained with the Notts boys and there was a quiet confidence in the passing and moving that the opening goal wasn't too far away. McNamara came on for Harper and offered energy on the right to provide support for the front two. EBOG were now trying to hit Notts on the break, but the back four held firm with timely interceptions.
The breakthrough came with about 15 minutes to go. A patient 10 pass move culminated in a Roberts defence-splitting backheel to strike partner Shaw. Shaw doesn't normally miss on his left foot - he did this time - but fortunately the keeper parried his first time shot straight back to him and from a very tight angle Shaw slotted the ball home with his weaker right boot for what was a cracking finish. The goal seemed to suck the life out of EBOG, who were perhaps beginning to rue their missed first half opportunities. Roberts meanwhile was flagging with a pulled thigh (from the backheel?!) and reluctantly had to depart stage left. Notts were down to ten men for the second week in a row, but in fairness it was at this point the 3s played their best stuff. Why chase after the ball if you can keep it for yourself? A speculative 25 yarder onto the top of bar aside, EBOG couldn't quite muster the energy or quality to grab the equaliser they perhaps thought they deserved. Collins' series of last ditch tackles put paid to any hope they would have of actually getting the ball anywhere near the Notts net. The Corcorans dominated and will be pleased with another clean sheet from centre back. Santry and Luken were tireless and Shaw just kept on running. Oh, and then there was Big Dave who wouldn't let anything past him. A one-nil away win is as much as you can ask for at this time of the season, particularly against a strong team who will be expected to push for silverware. Notts will improve and familiarity will only serve to underpin this.
MoM – for 3 outstanding saves in the first half to keep us in the game this week’s man of the match is Big ‘Dave’
Carshalton 1 Nottsborough 2 Saturday 11th September 2010
With a slight improvement on last week we had 11 players on time and ready to go. Nottsborough started the stronger with big Dave Shaw and Leon linking up well down the left to release new gas merchant Tom H to cut back dangerously only for Carshalton to scramble away. Notts again stretched Carshalton wide open with Paddy slide tackling 2 wonderful crosses from the left with Mike T jumping like tim Cahill only to be squeezed out.
The break through came on the half hour mark with a wonderball by the mercurial enigma Ross Emry releasing Shawsie to nudge home before the keeper could reach the 'Bald Eagle'. New Skipper Jonno Santry was on top form in the centre midfield dominating with Ross on a pitch that can only be described as the 3rd baldest player on Saturday.
Despite Notts first half dominance Carshalton did apply some pressure which mostly came in the form of giant Rory Delap like throw ins, but thankfully big Dave in goal and big Dave at right back and the post, also surprisingly named big Dave, came to the rescue giving Notts the 1-0 score line they deserved at half time.
The second half started much the same as the first with Notts cutting them open and having 2 very real penalty appeals turned down.
Carshalton did begin turning the screw and Notts lost their way in the second half and heads could have dropped when Carshalton’s useful playmaker fired into the stanchion off a free kick from all of twenty five yards. 'Brothers Grim' Corcoran and Corcoran at centre half had been having good games keeping Carshalton at arms length until that moment. Carshalton had certainly come on strong in the 2nd half and on reflection at this point Notts would have taken a point. But then came the changes that turned the game. New Notts midfielder James Spencer and centre fireworks Joe Lukins came on with Notts digging in and defending an unimaginable number of throw ins. Santry as the only Notts player taller than 5"6 had some work to do and modestly claimed after the match 'i didn't miss a single header'.
With 90 approaching and the thoughts of our waved away penalty appeals, Tom H strike against the bar and debutant Joe Lukins close range miss fresh in the memory - Nottsborough won it. Great work by Spencer down the right released the Bald Eagle once again to swoop in a carbon copy of his first goal.
Notts were definitely good value at 2-1 but had to work hard for it and will need to improve their finishing if they're going to win some more silverware.
MOM of course goes to the bald eagle but special mentions to The whole defence who impressed once again.
Nottsborough 2 Old Owens 1 Saturday 11th September 2010
The defence of the league title begins with a BIG W!!
Nottsborough 3’s started the defence of their league title with a tough opening game fixture against Old Owens at fortress Tolworth. It was a perfect day for football with the sun shining and the pitch looking as good as ever. Preparation for the game wasn't ideal as new joint skipper, Martin Corcoran, was away leaving the tactically inept Paddy Collins to shoulder all the responsibility.and the kit and the balls.
As many of last season’s players have moved up the club repeating last year’s double was always going to be difficult but thankfully the clubs strength in depth and ability to recruit some new very talented players meant the season started with an important win.
With some poor availability and one no show there was the need for some pre game introductions but everyone got on with the job in hand. The starting 11 saw 'Big' Dave in the sticks with a solid back four of Dave Viara (making his official debut) at right back, the stalwart and ex skipper Si Owen partnering 4s player of the season Adam Hamadache, and the trusty, loves a tackle Paddy Collins at left back. The starting midfield saw two more debuts for Mike Townson at right midfield and Liam McNamara at centre midfield partnering new on-field captain Jono Santry in the middle of the park. The quartet was completed with Ben Carder giving the midfield some much needed gas, but not a lot of cover! Up top was Andy Atkins and Shawsie, making an emotional return to Nottsborough. The very strong bench featured two members of the Nottsborough Academy (Tom and Alex) and another new face John LeBriton (great name).
The game started at a good pace with a very strong Old Owens looking very much up for the game....including a lovely little pre game huddle. Thankfully Notts were also bang up for the contest and started the sharper of the two sides and took the lead with little more than 15mins on the clock where some lovely link up play down the left with Collins and Carder presented the ball to Shawsie who finished the move with a delightful chip – 1-0. Notts then seemed to take their foot of the pedal and let Owens back into it as the visiting team had the better of the next 20mins as the extra man in their midfield allowed them to take control - they were however unable to deal with Notts any time the ball went wide to Carder or Townson who were constantly a threat with Carder’s pace (as according to the opposition ‘he has no skill’) and Townson’s pin point crosses. Owens got a deserved equaliser late in the 1st half when there skilful left winger got the better of Viara and very calmly placed it past the oncoming keeper from a tight angle. The rest of the half saw a couple of good chances go begging for Notts who on another day could have gone in at half time with a comfortable lead, but they didn’t, and it was 1-1 – Game On.
Second half was much of the same with both teams playing some good football and creating half chances. With 20mins to go Alex came on for Townson, who was blowing, and Andy, who was having a very good game, made way for Tom - whose first touch made the Owens centre half look very, very silly and got a shot off but their keeper made a very important save to keep them in the game. The game began to get stretched as both teams were going for all 3 points and the eventual winner came from a corner with about 15 to go which saw Si Owen have what seemed like an eternity in the box to take a touch, turn and fire the ball into the bottom corner (he claims side netting, so must of been a miss hit!). Shawsie came off with 10 to go for John, who went to left midfield to give additional cover and Carder went up top. Owens threw everything they had but the Notts back 4 stood up well with some good protection from midfield and gave keeper Dave little to do. Carder hit the post with 5 mins to go on what would have been a carbon copy of their goal. On another day Nottsborough could have scored 3 or 4 but that wouldn't have done justice to what was a very entertaining and close fought game.
All in all it was a really good performance. At times Notts played some really good stuff and were good for all 3 points. This season looks set to be very fun (and hopefully successful) and I can only see us getting better from here. One of the most encouraging things was to see everyone pull together for the last 15 when we were up against it.
MoM - special mention to the back 4 especially Si (who scored his 1 for the season) and Adam who massively helped us out. The top two of Shawsie and Andy also deserve special mention but it has to go to Jono – who controlled the game and lead by example.
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