tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53886626639863390762024-03-13T18:22:39.781+00:00The Travelling FanStevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.comBlogger285125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-2848085104088565052014-06-16T21:31:00.001+01:002014-06-16T21:31:04.406+01:00World Cup Food Off - Monday 16th June<p><font face="Verdana">Previous: </font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/world-cup-food-off-thursday-12th-june.html"><font face="Verdana">Thursday 12th June</font></a> <p><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/world-cup-food-off-friday-13th-june.html"><font face="Verdana"> Friday 13th June</font></a> <p><font face="Verdana"> </font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/world-cup-food-off-saturday-14th-june.html"><font face="Verdana">Saturday 14th June</font></a> <p><font face="Verdana"> </font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/world-cup-food-off-sunday-15th-june.html"><font face="Verdana">Sunday 15th June</font></a> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">GERMANY vs PORTUGAL (5pm)</font></u></strong> <p><font face="Verdana">Germany – <strong>Herman Ze German</strong></font> <p><font face="Verdana">The classic London based diner, (probably, actually no, definitely) my favourite place to eat out in the capital. Their wurst is the best and you can even have schnitzels if you are that sort of person.</font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QpoGahX9z8A/U59T4GZW-II/AAAAAAAARPs/XCwVGu4N9OQ/s1600-h/IMG_4459%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4459" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="148" alt="IMG_4459" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-U9F8kVdPC3g/U59T5ICwZJI/AAAAAAAARP0/7CaMJmqrTIw/IMG_4459_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">Portugal – <strong>Prawns and Spinach in Peri Peri Sauce</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Nando’s – home of the peri peri sauce and originally from Portugal. Rather than crack some chicken in there, went slightly left field and gone with prawns. Portugal has a coastline! Makes sense!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-L3AM2zIO5rs/U59T59mjjEI/AAAAAAAARP8/EXOHzq_LKW8/s1600-h/IMG_4464%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4464" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4464" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ucH_QKDrMds/U59T6mlrcoI/AAAAAAAARQE/EEKQCXac_d4/IMG_4464_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>Verdict: </strong>Herman Ze German smashes this dish. While the prawns (<em>I wasn’t that hungry</em>) were ok, its not a bratwurst and some sexy fries.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Germany Win (£5 @ 10/11)</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">IRAN vs NIGERIA (8pm)</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Iran – <strong>Koobideh with Cucumber Salad</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Another wrap based dish, this one is a favourite on the streets of Tehran, apparently. Using minced meat and other bits and pieces, this is a potential contender to compete with the classic Greek kabab. Potential.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0_GO0ZmREj8/U59T77XfJCI/AAAAAAAARQM/r_Lnt7t-KjI/s1600-h/IMG_4449%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4449" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4449" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uG_tmaq7dCw/U59T8nOf7dI/AAAAAAAARQU/16LsV8vWmMU/IMG_4449_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Nigeria – <strong>Nigerian Chicken & Tomatoes</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">While many Nigerian recipes are plantain happy, this African style stew is a decent change from the usual to come out of this region. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-C0p6OtmbwTw/U59T9ovk5SI/AAAAAAAARQc/GctwRAO02Lw/s1600-h/IMG_4457%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4457" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4457" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KX93TPObHQk/U59T-QCyoWI/AAAAAAAARQk/NqTbt7m1F3w/IMG_4457_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>Verdict: </strong>The Koobideh is a strange one. The spices don’t add too much to the meat and so it comes off quite dry. Don’t worry Donner Kabab, you are still the king. While the Nigerian stew is probably the least exciting dish I made for the tournament, it does enough to scrape past.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Nigeria Win (£5 @ 10/11)</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">GHANA vs UNITED STATES (11pm)</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Ghana – <strong>Kentumere</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Fish and Spinach in tomatoes. A popular dish in Ghana that needs the charcoal effect to get it properly done.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ho__BRiFsh0/U59T_Ha9KeI/AAAAAAAARQs/lOsMSBg-zNg/s1600-h/IMG_4466%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4466" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4466" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-r8Jek6DuKts/U59T_6d0b9I/AAAAAAAARQ0/GiODgqsgl2g/IMG_4466_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">United States – <strong>Phili Cheese Steak</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">So much big food I could have done for this. The burger, the wings, the grease. Went with a (slightly) healthier option of the Phili Cheese Steak although packed it full of fatty goodness.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-n_fPUloF08o/U59UAesMQsI/AAAAAAAARQ8/Ttnc4DUqjnk/s1600-h/United%252520States%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="United States" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="United States" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-F3YNU8BtzXw/U59UBRlblRI/AAAAAAAARRE/7pFhEAtvB5M/United%252520States_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>Verdict: </strong>Normally, I always will pick the healthier option, however this dish from the States was so good. Power wins on this occasion.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">US Win (£5 @ 2/1)</font></p> <p><u><font face="Verdana">Previous Winnings</font></u></p> <p><font face="Verdana">£18.72 from Sunday</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">£5 on Switzerland vs Ecuador Draw @ 21/10 – Lose = -£5</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">£5 on France @ 3/10 – WIN = <strong>£6.50</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">£5 on Argentina @ 1/3 – WIN = <strong>£6.67</strong></font></p> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">TOTAL = £26.89</font></strong></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-23550085502162417982014-06-15T13:49:00.001+01:002014-06-15T13:49:40.438+01:00World Cup Food Off – Sunday 15th June<p><font face="Verdana">Previous: </font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/world-cup-food-off-thursday-12th-june.html"><font face="Verdana">Thursday 12th June</font></a> <p><font face="Verdana"> </font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/world-cup-food-off-friday-13th-june.html"><font face="Verdana">Friday 13th June</font></a> <p><font face="Verdana"> </font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/world-cup-food-off-saturday-14th-june.html"><font face="Verdana">Saturday 14th June</font></a> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">SWITZERLAND vs ECUADOR (5pm)</font></u></strong> <p><font face="Verdana">Switzerland – <strong>Cheese & Beer Fondue</strong></font> <p><font face="Verdana">The Swiss classic of a fondue, with a twist of sticking a whole load of beer in. Add some baguettes to dunk/dip/dive into the cheesy mixture and I struggle to see how much more Swiss you could get.</font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sr71_Y5JLBQ/U52WNTZH3PI/AAAAAAAAROE/BK1ryxy-8ao/s1600-h/IMG_4302%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4302" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4302" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9a3UgRdzTro/U52WOeEF92I/AAAAAAAAROM/3XvRhtv42GI/IMG_4302_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">Ecuador – <strong>Stuffed Avocados</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Another country that loves its Plantain so not that much choice when coming to Ecuador. Stuffed Avocados with egg, ham and other bits and pieces was a decent, healthy option – the complete antithesis to the cheese and beer.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZitlrYqXyu8/U52WPgALEPI/AAAAAAAAROU/vhLQKGLWetk/s1600-h/IMG_4306%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4306" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4306" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sfR5bVVqas4/U52WRDACTEI/AAAAAAAAROc/hPAB8CHBjws/IMG_4306_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>Verdict: </strong>Both of these were heavy going! There is only so much cheese you can eat before you feel sick and the same with avocados. Sort of suggests that they will cancel each other out.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Draw (£5 @ 21/10)</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">FRANCE vs HONDURAS (8pm)</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">France - <strong>La salade au Saint-Marcellin (@ Les 3 Brasseurs)</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Before you judge me for having a salad in France, with the range of exceptional food I could have had, I would like to point out it had been a heavy weekend! The salad also came with a lot of local products from the Lille area so was perfect.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0vt6VNqSWK8/U52WSFPOzTI/AAAAAAAAROk/dYHiwUb1r1Y/s1600-h/IMG_4440%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4440" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="IMG_4440" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-oUQ2Irq1otM/U52WTdchCeI/AAAAAAAAROs/XyC6Oxr9JUQ/IMG_4440_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Honduras – <strong>Baledas</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Honduran flour tortillas with beans and cheese. Simple, quick and can use a range of ingredients to spice it up a wee bit.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UDzVonGmK0E/U52WTykvd8I/AAAAAAAARO0/O2w9qzT1XFM/s1600-h/IMG_4441%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4441" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4441" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6xb0JJzsnR4/U52WUpNqtgI/AAAAAAAARO8/P3dOoN4yKdc/IMG_4441_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>Verdict: </strong>The Baledas were awful. Partly due to one recipe suggesting to put butter beans in which are dreadful. The class of France will see them through this.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">France Win (£5 @ 3/10)</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">ARGENTINA vs BOSNIA (11pm)</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Argentina – <strong>Argentine Chicken and Rice</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Steak is so 2000s for Argentina, its all chicken over there now! A simple dish with some good spices and some lemon thrown in for good measure. Probably could have done something more explosive, but it may not have ended well.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yJyIpVca78w/U52WVSGCQeI/AAAAAAAARPE/ZqCNKhyQ-58/s1600-h/IMG_4444%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4444" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4444" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6qpJt8bDqog/U52WWYeAoNI/AAAAAAAARPM/MZ97ipr08mw/IMG_4444_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Bosnia – <b>Ćevapi</b></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">A Bosnian kabab that combines some bizarre ingredients such as cottage cheese into it and turns it into a taste sensation.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hn6Y41Wf7HM/U52WXIl3vyI/AAAAAAAARPU/JsUzvFlN6kI/s1600-h/IMG_4456%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4456" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4456" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FTtf1KgrWTI/U52WYHXJ8uI/AAAAAAAARPc/w5fXcHDccbc/IMG_4456_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>Verdict: </strong>Such a close call. The Bosnian kabab is one to be feared, while the stylish chicken and fried lemon is also very good. While I do want to say draw, I felt better after the Argentine meal. So they just nick it.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Argentina Win (£5 @ 1/3)</font></p> <p><u><font face="Verdana">Previous Winnings</font></u></p> <p><font face="Verdana">£20.22 from Friday</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">£5 on Col vs Greece Draw @ 23/10 – Lose = -£5</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">£5 on Uruguay @ 4/9 – Lose =-£5</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">£5 on Italy @ 17/10 – WIN = <strong>£13.50</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">£5 on Japan @ 2/1 – Lose =-£5</font></p> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">TOTAL = £18.72</font></strong></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-89273512566796143782014-06-14T10:29:00.001+01:002014-06-14T10:29:55.424+01:00World Cup Food Off – Saturday 14th June<p><font face="Verdana">Previous: </font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/world-cup-food-off-thursday-12th-june.html"><font face="Verdana">Thursday 12th June</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"> </font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/world-cup-food-off-friday-13th-june.html"><font face="Verdana">Friday 13th June</font></a></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">COLOMBIA vs GREECE (5pm)</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Colombia - <b>Chuzos de Res</b> <strong>& Arepas de Queso</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">With two countries who love a good wrap based dish. It was the South American version up first, with home made Arepas with cheese (a cheesy type bread) and beef skewers marinated in spices and olive oil.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DaSO82zvrw0/U5wVjgn6M1I/AAAAAAAARL8/9L3Yhj9KBeo/s1600-h/IMG_42212.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4221" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4221" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0BTKL1OHoUQ/U5wVkcg5T5I/AAAAAAAARME/MdliY1h4wmg/IMG_4221_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Greece - <strong>Grilled Pork Souvlaki & Tzatziki</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">The king of wraps, if such a thing exists. The Souvlaki with spicy pitta bread and home made Tzatziki – potentially the greatest dip in the World. A formidable combination.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jY40mYjQ4Mk/U5wVlS5Z6SI/AAAAAAAARMM/a-_BYuT2JIc/s1600-h/IMG_42472.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4247" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4247" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OtyINJEJfyw/U5wVl9un8kI/AAAAAAAARMU/SWjchQCLGgk/IMG_4247_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>Verdict: </strong>Such a tough, tough clash. Colombia’s beef skewer is a taste sensation. But the spicy pittas, the souvlaki and the tzatziki, see Greece take a win, but then I can’t let this Colombia dish lose either. A draw.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Draw (£5 @ 23/10)</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">URUGUAY vs COSTA RICA (8pm)</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Uruguay - <b>The Chivito</b></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Yes, I know its basically a sandwich. But it’s THEIR sandwich. With a lot of meat. And some other token non-meat options such as egg and pepper.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9et3PgBe31w/U5wVmsoE-dI/AAAAAAAARMc/DwoIwoQoRSU/s1600-h/IMG_42882.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4288" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4288" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-C1PbSrCNOfI/U5wVnaGgMAI/AAAAAAAARMk/EdoAORQaeWw/IMG_4288_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Costa Rica - <b>Bistec Encebollado</b></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Steak and Onions. Not much else. No ambition in Costa Rica it seems.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cuwG6Gfx1Ao/U5wVn01b0WI/AAAAAAAARMs/AnSajnPpgxQ/s1600-h/IMG_42892.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4289" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4289" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4LUJndAyUSc/U5wVou5B6aI/AAAAAAAARM0/bnsrVHVnnu0/IMG_4289_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>Verdict: </strong>Both dishes are extremely basic, but Uruguay’s sandwich with so much on it, (Easily a MANwich) actually tasted damn nice. Next time a bigger ciabatta is needed and it becomes the perfect sandwich. Comfortable victory.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Uruguay Win (£5 @ 4/9)</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">ENGLAND vs ITALY (11pm)</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">England – <strong>Cottage Pie</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">The classic pie was always going to be the dish to be used, just what one? As I couldn’t be bothered putting a pastry together, the lazy cottage pie option was taken.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nHTX4W7uuZw/U5wVpKz35bI/AAAAAAAARM8/NnNnUVuJK6k/s1600-h/IMG_42972.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4297" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4297" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jxxPIbJC0O8/U5wVpwM5-5I/AAAAAAAARNE/uYstlHa0eUU/IMG_4297_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Italy – <strong>Home made Pizza</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">What else was it going to be!?</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DS6j3Xtx7_o/U5wVqr545vI/AAAAAAAARNM/OwsOkBM_DNg/s1600-h/IMG_42952.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4295" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4295" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-r14G7wHPsOw/U5wVrfcudkI/AAAAAAAARNU/-4QIzOz94xM/IMG_4295_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>Verdict: </strong>If I ever do make a cottage pie again, more mash was needed. Hence the confused stew/pie/splodge on that plate. A pie was never going to beat a pizza though. When has a pizza ever let you down? (<em>One at 3am from a dodgy takeaway doesn’t count!</em>)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Italy Win (£5 @ 17/10)</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">IVORY COAST vs JAPAN (2am Sunday)</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Ivory Coast - <strong>Poisson Braisé</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Being a country next to the see, fish was always going to be one of their main meals. This one, grills (or sticks on a charcoal grill for an authentic taste) the fish after rubbing in a spice mixture to give it a good flavour.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Lm6ZVP0V2q4/U5wWCU-pWJI/AAAAAAAARNc/eEPlCYgjcBE/s1600-h/IMG_4273%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4273" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4273" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rB7vJMYR5sE/U5wWC0F-n3I/AAAAAAAARNk/eFfJgFl_BmA/IMG_4273_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Japan - <b>Japanese salmon & avocado rice</b></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Basically a sushi dish without the pain and hassle of trying to roll all of the sushi up into neat little balls. The avocado added something a bit different to the normal type of sushi.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_xRr7O_1vAY/U5wWDq4ckkI/AAAAAAAARNs/Kh54nEOKGUg/s1600-h/IMG_4277%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4277" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4277" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-L5XmyS1nnbk/U5wWET98TEI/AAAAAAAARN0/bY1D7q1sb38/IMG_4277_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>Verdict: </strong>Both dishes have their flaws sadly. Ivory Coast’s was too watery after the liquid in the fish came out and Japan’s was too heavy going after a while. That being said, Japanese food done well is normally exceptional and even here, Japanese food done averagely still pips the Ivorian effort.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Japan Win (£5 @ 2/1)</font></p> <p><u><font face="Verdana">Previous Winnings</font></u></p> <p><font face="Verdana">£6.50 from Thursday</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">£5 on Mexico @ 13/10 - WIN = <strong>£11.50</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">£5 on Spain @ 5/6 – LOSE = -£5</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">£5 on Chile @ 4/9 – WIN = <strong>£7.22</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>TOTAL = </strong>£20.22</font></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-86149024612110344532014-06-13T20:30:00.001+01:002014-06-13T20:30:00.682+01:00World Cup Food Off – Friday 13th June<p><font face="Verdana">Previous: </font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/world-cup-food-off-thursday-12th-june.html"><font face="Verdana">Thursday 12th June</font></a></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">MEXICO vs CAMEROON (5pm)</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Mexico - <b>Chicken enchiladas with red mole sauce</b></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">While it could have been easy to go with a bog-standard enchilada or fajita, the red mole sauce made this slightly different the usual bog standard Mexican. The red mole sauce being mainly chocolate and tomatoes.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-M9Y9B0dzgTw/U5tQ9o9TJkI/AAAAAAAARKQ/SlySANiopXA/s1600-h/IMG_33722.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3372" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3372" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-P-_m2Nmy1mY/U5tQ_RXjFDI/AAAAAAAARKY/Lxatc6979uI/IMG_3372_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Cameroon - <strong>Brochettes a la Camerounaise & Sese Plantains</strong></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">While the Brochettes with a Cameroon sauce is a simple skewer with beef and peppers, the plantains were an interesting for me. Is it a vegetable? Is it a banana in disguise?</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-G7CC6nZhW-M/U5tRAxH2R6I/AAAAAAAARKc/AZwu1sbX-0w/s1600-h/IMG_34392.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3439" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3439" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PATKlpTzBos/U5tRBvmr7-I/AAAAAAAARKk/C5wGcIm3wWs/IMG_3439_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>Verdict: </strong>Mexico were always going to look good here with Mexican being the king of food. Despite it being a disappointing meal (in part to my poor cooking), nothing could prepare me for Cameroon. The skewers were fine. Good solid marinade. But then came the plantain. Possibly the worst thing I have ever eaten. Looks like a banana but tastes of shame. Comfortable Mexico win.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Mexico Win (£5 @ 13/10)</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">SPAIN vs HOLLAND (8pm)</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Spain - <b>Chorizo, potato & cheese omelette</b></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">The omelette is a classic and with a Spanish twist of chorizo to add even more depth to the dish.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DkdpLLMiFA0/U5tRD-EetyI/AAAAAAAARKw/tx06EusQo5s/s1600-h/IMG_34682.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3468" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3468" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TW7fuu3AYJI/U5tREnWZMGI/AAAAAAAARK0/uDRoxeTXNlk/IMG_3468_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Holland – <b>Spekpannenkoek & </b><b>Appelstroop</b></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">A bacon pancake with apple sauce is a Dutch classic (apparently) with the sauce meant to be a treacle based one for maximum coverage.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-N672870taHE/U5tRFUl93qI/AAAAAAAARK8/Ttqw8UrVHZg/s1600-h/IMG_34842.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3484" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3484" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-yixTWjYipU4/U5tRGKrfumI/AAAAAAAARLI/e9_TfOnMBco/IMG_3484_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>Verdict: </strong>Yes, that is a pancake. Maybe I have inadvertently created a metaphor for the Dutch World Cup campaign. A shambles. Even the apple sauce was too watery. Spain, solid and did the job. Like they should do for the game in Salvador. I made that Dutch dish back in February and it looks even worse now. Terrible.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Spain Win (£5 @ 5/6)</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">CHILE vs AUSTRALIA (11pm)</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Chile - <strong>Chancho a la chilena &</strong> <b>Salsa de ají colorado</b></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">A sexy dish of slow cooked pork, with a salsa sauce and finished off with some veg and rice. Early contender for dish of the tournament. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Zr-_8lecrdY/U5tRIXQI3zI/AAAAAAAARLQ/vt2Kn_B4-iM/s1600-h/IMG_34942.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3494" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3494" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-N0Kb_vj5-pU/U5tRLSvy3-I/AAAAAAAARLY/ri0re0opMoQ/IMG_3494_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Australia - <b>Kangaroo Burgers & </b><b>Bush Tomato Chutney</b></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Aussies love their meat. And what more Australian meat is there than Kangaroo? (Maybe apart from Koala but that is hard to find in London) Make it into a burger and “stick it under the barbie” to make it proper Australian.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dbzMHlWCnvY/U5tRMjqYPII/AAAAAAAARLg/N5Qxtz9XOwg/s1600-h/IMG_40672.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4067" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4067" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-I7mxC6aBx1I/U5tRNuFXwzI/AAAAAAAARLo/je_4womuosw/IMG_4067_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>Verdict: </strong>If you’ve never had Kangaroo meat, there is really nothing wrong with it. Quite tender and a decent taste and it goes well with the Bush Tomato Chutney. However, when you put it against the might of that slow cooked pork and the salsa sauce, the sexyness comes through. Is Australia sexy? Are Kangaroos sexy? No to both.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Chile Win (£5 @ 4/9)</font></p> <p><u><font face="Verdana">Previous Winnings:</font></u></p> <p><font face="Verdana">£5 on Brazil @ 3/10 – WIN = <strong>£6.50</strong></font></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-90292397956357763332014-06-12T20:25:00.001+01:002014-06-12T20:25:40.453+01:00World Cup Food Off – Thursday 12th June<p><font face="Verdana">Way back in 2013, it was a simple idea. Cook a meal from every country who are at the World Cup and then see how much money I can win (or lose) through the power of food. The idea evolved over time as some restaurant trips were also included and 32 meals later, with the opening day of the World Cup and the opening games, it’s time to begin:</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">BRAZIL vs CROATIA (9pm)</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Brazil - <b>Ensopadinho de Carne</b></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">A “classic” dish that is basically stew and one that is hearty and wholesome.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qeWI8ZYW5_M/U5n-pk1F_6I/AAAAAAAARJo/602L6Ilg95U/s1600-h/IMG_3347%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana" color="#29105d"><img title="IMG_3347" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3347" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YY0aNxRDuq0/U5n-qsTX81I/AAAAAAAARJw/Xj7FVvitfn0/IMG_3347_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Croatia - <b>Croatian Dalmatian Red Risotto</b></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Nicknamed “Fisherman’s Risotto”, this dish had fish, fish and more fish.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lDm788pgzW8/U5n-rcVcSdI/AAAAAAAARJ4/_DFyIIcgFKU/s1600-h/IMG_3365%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana" color="#29105d"><img title="IMG_3365" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3365" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4n1y19HMDts/U5n-sBo-EXI/AAAAAAAARKA/vXGFz1bUBTE/IMG_3365_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>Verdict: </strong>Croatia started off really well with the shrimp, squid and mussels combining with the sauce well but, like the football team, Brazil kept it steady and the dish probably came out on top. But only just. Brazil to come from behind and win.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Brazil Win (£5 @ 3/10)</font></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-60307923976438975452014-06-11T23:19:00.001+01:002014-06-11T23:19:13.623+01:00World Cup 2014 Predictor-Fest<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OmauOvt_p0U/U5jVmeXMzDI/AAAAAAAARJA/cAiXb9-Tpt0/s1600-h/FIFAWORLDCUP2014LOGO2.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="Web" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="244" alt="Web" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SFXt-NgLOGQ/U5jVnZSFkvI/AAAAAAAARJI/vJQEQOqApvs/FIFAWORLDCUP2014LOGO_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="151" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font></p> <p><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2010/06/world-cup-2010-predictor-bandwagon.html"><font face="Verdana">World Cup 2010 Predictions (they weren’t good) HERE</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">So another four years has passed. And as Brazil vs Croatia kicks off the 20th World Cup, I will add my predictions to the millions that are already out there to try and guess which one of the 32 will actually go on and win the thing. Ignoring my sweepstake picks (<em>‘Mon the Chile!</em>) and my complete satisfaction when England throw it away, again, take a read and go and bet on the opposite. You’ll make good money.</font></p> <p><u><strong><font face="Verdana">GROUP A</font></strong></u></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Brazil</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Croatia</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Cameroon</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Mexico</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">--> Brazil on home form should see a comfortable 9 points from 9, without even breaking too much of a sweat. That leaves the small conundrum of who gets second. A team that loses to Scotland twice in qualifying shouldn’t even be at the tournament so that rules out Croatia. (You can’t rely on Luka Modric for everything!) Mexico were utterly awful in qualification, although results this year have improved slightly. So that leaves Cameroon. And before you laugh yourselves away. A team that has no expectations, have little problem with the climate and could have one last hurrah for that generation. The hurrah will be short lived however, have you seen Group B? </font></p> <p><font face="Verdana"></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Winners: Brazil, 2nd Place: Cameroon</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">GROUP B</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Spain</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Holland</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Chile</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Australia</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">--> Poor old Australia. Getting lumped in a group they have little chance of even taking a point from, never mind qualifying out of. With Spain not the Kings they once were, it could be a proper fight for the 2 qualifying spots from B. However, you feel they have enough in them to top the group with Torres normally finding form at tournaments and Diego Costa looking a handful, if fit. Holland for me are the ones to crash out. Despite cruising through qualification, this team lack experience at the back and may not have the temperament in a potential ‘winner takes all’ final group game vs Chile. Also, Chile have Mauricio Pinilla in their team. Job done.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Winners: Spain, 2nd Place: Chile</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">GROUP C</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Colombia</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Ivory Coast</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Japan</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Greece</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">--> Some bizarrely weak groups at this year’s tournament, started by Group C. Colombia will miss Falcao massively, however with James Rodríguez and Jackson Martínez in their lineup, it should be enough to win this one. I cannot see Japan doing anything here, so watch them win the Group now. Greece, having had their nosebleed in 2004 are back to normal and will exit here too. That leaves Ivory Coast who I have big hopes for. Some world class players, and players that are in form too. They should finally have enough to make it out of the Group Stage.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Winners: Colombia, 2nd Place: Ivory Coast</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">GROUP D</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Uruguay</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Costa Rica</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Italy</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">England</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">--> Not sure Uruguay will go as far as some people are making them out to be (the Final?!), but they should cruise through this group. Have enough up front to rip the other 3 defences to pieces which means it looks like Italy vs England is the decider. (<em>Sorry Costa Rica</em>) I can just see England scraping through that, although the firepower of Immobile and Balotelli just make me seriously consider this one.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Winners: Uruguay, 2nd Place: England</font></p> <p><u><strong><font face="Verdana">GROUP E</font></strong></u></p> <p><font face="Verdana">France</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Honduras</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Switzerland</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Ecuador</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">--> Having tipped France for an early exit in 2010, I can’t see them making the same mistake this time, especially with Didier Deschamps in charge which should see them top the group too. The other 3 I actually can’t split, with Switzerland likely to be steady and lacking in the goals again, that could give Ecuador and Honduras a chance. However, Switzerland are the top seeds in this group and if they can keep Josip Drmic fit and in form, then 2nd place should be achievable. What a key first game for them though!</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Winners: France, 2nd Place: Switzerland</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">GROUP F</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Argentina</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Bosnia</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Nigeria</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Iran</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">--> What Argentina needed to get them settled into the tournament was an easy group that they can’t possibly throw away. Group F is pretty much perfect then as apart from Bosnia (who don’t have any World Cup pedigree anyway), they face a woeful Nigeria and an Iran side just happy to be there. Putting a strikeforce of Messi, Aguero, Lavezzi and Di Maria is just unfair, so 100% for Argentina. Bosnia have the quality of Sejad Salihović and Vedad Ibišević (before we even consider Džeko!) to easily pick up 2nd place.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Winners: Argentina, 2nd Place: Bosnia</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">GROUP G</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Germany</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Portugal</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Ghana</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">USA</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">--> Not massively sure what point Germany coach Joachim Löw is trying to prove by only taking one striker to Brazil. 36 year old Miroslav Klose will no doubt be in the goals again, but if he gets injured, then what? They do of course have one of the most exciting midfields at the tournament and a rock solid defence so should easily make it through the group. Portugal have Ronaldo, but then scratch beneath the surface and you have the makings of an average team. Having to qualify for the play-offs after finishing below Russia in the group also just adds to the feeling they aren’t going far. Ghana have always made it out of the Group and you feel they can do the same here again. Especially if it comes down to the final game.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Winners: Germany, 2nd Place: Ghana</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">GROUP H</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Belgium</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Algeria</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Russia</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">South Korea</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">--> Belgium, who are everyone’s “dark horses” have a decent draw to make the QFs, especially with an easy looking group such as this. That leaves the extremely interesting battle between Algeria and Russia for 2nd. (South Korea barely deserve to be here so will be bottom) Russia have the class and the tactical nous through Don Capello to just pip the Algerians.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Winners: Belgium, 2nd Place: Russia</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">2ND ROUND</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">- <em>Brazil</em> vs Chile</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">- <em>Spain</em> vs Cameroon</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">- <em>Colombia</em> vs England</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">- <em>Uruguay</em> vs Ivory Coast</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">- France vs <em>Bosnia</em></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">- <em>Argentina</em> vs Switzerland</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">- <em>Germany</em> vs Russia</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">- <em>Belgium</em> vs Ghana</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Wins for teams in italics. All but one of the Group Winners I see making it past the 2nd Round. Brazil should have enough flair and home support to see off Chile, while Spain will also have enough attacking talent to dismantle Cameroon’s aging defence. Colombia vs England will be a tight one if it happens, but the lack of experience in key areas vs the Colombians will probably see them out. Uruguay likewise, on a home continent, should beat the Ivorians. The only real shock I can see is Bosnia beating France. There is always one at this stage and the Bosnians have some quality to see off France. Belgium vs Ghana is also my tip for game of the tournament. Sexy football all round.</font></p> <p><u><strong><font face="Verdana">QUARTER-FINALS</font></strong></u></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><em>Brazil</em> vs Colombia</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><em>Spain</em> vs Uruguay</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><em>Bosnia</em> vs Germany</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><em>Argentina</em> vs Belgium</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Potentially the best QF line up at a World Cup ever if this happens. Brazil, again have the fans behind them to just see off Colombia, who will miss Falcao too much at this point. Spain’s attacking threat should also be enough to beat Uruguay, but goals goals goals in that game. Yes, I have tipped Bosnia to beat Germany. There is something exciting about that team and with a large chunk of them playing or played in Germany, they’ll know what to expect. Argentina should easily see off Belgium. The Red Devils crashing out against the first big team they come up against.</font></p> <p><u><strong><font face="Verdana">SEMI-FINALS</font></strong></u></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><em>Brazil</em> vs Bosnia</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Spain vs <em>Argentina</em></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">While Brazil should finally end Bosnia’s dream World Cup debut, the Spain vs Argentina game is one that is likely to go all the way. However, a defence that has not looked the rock it once was, may be Spain’s undoing against that rampant Argentine defence. Also, Messi has clearly been saving himself during the last few weeks of the La Liga season, so what better chance to turn it on than against the country he plies his trade in.</font></p> <p><strong><u><font face="Verdana">FINAL</font></u></strong></p> <p><font face="Verdana">- Brazil vs ARGENTINA</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">I tipped Brazil to win in 2010 and they crashed out at the QF stage but I see a shock with Argentina winning it in Brazil. A squad that has the games to build it up to the Final and an attack and defence that you feel is stronger than the home side. Brazil have been here before remember. 1950 – when they bottled it at home. It can happen again…</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Top Scorer - Lionel Messi (Argentina) –> While the top scorer rarely comes from the team that wins it, for Argentina to get as far as I think they will, they’ll need Messi to smash them home. Aguero will help, but the magic will come from the wee man.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Surprise Team – Bosnia –> Have a relatively ok draw once they get out of the Group as they will fancy their chances against whoever comes from Group E and then anything can happen from the QFs onwards.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zoHkWqtI67c/U5jVoK-mLfI/AAAAAAAARJQ/Z_69eGvNITE/s1600-h/BPV-brazil2014logo%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="BPV-brazil2014logo" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="100" alt="BPV-brazil2014logo" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nQ7F85atFCM/U5jVopktmkI/AAAAAAAARJY/nsM_Xp_Ylbo/BPV-brazil2014logo_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-87956782524950312302014-05-26T21:38:00.001+01:002014-05-26T21:38:19.664+01:00Windsor vs Frimley Green (19/04/14)<p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>Match 231</strong></font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#ff0000">Ground #: 183</font></strong></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>Stag Meadow </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>Combined Counties League (Level 9) </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>3pm </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>£6</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>£2</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>165</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Windsor FC 5</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Day 13’, 24’, Jones 39’, Jeffery 88’, Lucas 90’ </font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Frimley Green 0</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Taylor s/off 83’ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000"></font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">____________________________________________________________</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Easter always brings out a great load of games over the extended weekend and gives fans the chance to see their team lose twice in quick succession. For the neutral, the grand choice of games gives them a hard choice. After last Easter’s major excursions out of London to Oxford and Worcester, it was time to stay a bit more local. Having lived in Windsor as a young wee boy (c.1995!), it was a trip back to the royal town and down to the Meadow.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8pvt-hC07y8/U4Ol-xy8RvI/AAAAAAAAREc/glzL6NFeE6Y/s1600-h/IMG_40062.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4006" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4006" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JBN-caJGRcM/U4Ol_9QODtI/AAAAAAAAREg/rNzn1X2Hfxw/IMG_4006_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Windsor<strong> </strong>is a town and unparished area in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead in Berkshire. It is widely known as the site of Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of the Royal Family. The early history of the site is unknown, although the site may have been settled many years before the medieval castle was built as there is ample evidence of Anglo Saxon settlement in the area. Windsor Castle was originally built by William the Conqueror in the decade after the Norman conquest of 1066, a timber motte and bailey structure. The town of New Windsor, as an ancient demesne of the Crown, was a privileged settlement from the start, apparently having the rights of a 'free borough' for which other towns had to pay substantial fees to the king. New Windsor was a nationally significant town in the Middle Ages, as its prosperity came from its close association with the royal household. The repeated investment in the castle brought London merchants to the town and provided much employment for townsmen.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TmE_Pc-JEf4/U4OmA-s869I/AAAAAAAAREs/KxAWNop4v_Y/s1600-h/IMG_4008%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4008" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4008" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4kZYK2-i2vY/U4OmBzsUKwI/AAAAAAAARE0/Mb9nNZ9VkdY/IMG_4008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">The town however began to stagnate about ten years after the Reformation. The castle was considered old fashioned and shrines to the dead were thought to be 'superstitious'. The early modern period formed a stark contrast to the medieval history of the town. Most accounts of Windsor in the 16th and 17th centuries talk of its poverty, badly made streets and poor housing. Shakespeare's play <i>The Merry Wives of Windsor</i> is set in Windsor and contains many references to parts of the town and the surrounding countryside. The substantial redevelopment of the castle during Queen Victoria's residence from 1840, as well as the coming of two railways in 1849, signalled the most dramatic changes in the town's history. It catapulted the town from a sleepy medieval has-been to the centre of empire with many European heads of state coming to Windsor to visit the Queen throughout the rest of the 19th century.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5foymfpji0U/U4OmCWzK2lI/AAAAAAAARE8/aA_62e2XZl8/s1600-h/IMG_4010%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4010" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4010" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uw9drwzJ0EE/U4OmDXNAJaI/AAAAAAAARFE/r-OrNNB2de0/IMG_4010_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Windsor FC are only 3 years old in their current state after the former club, Windsor & Eton FC folded during the 2010/11 season. Mounting debts for the former club, despite a promotion to the Southern League Premier in their final full season, saw them finished off and the new club started the 2011/12 season down in the Combined Counties League. After a decent first season where they finished 2nd in the league, chairman Kevin Scott came back from the 2012 Olympic Games to remove the playing budget as “the club had already lost its way.” Despite most of the playing staff leaving, new boss Mick Woodham came in and led Windsor and their new young team to a very decent 6th place finish. If they can continue this upward trend, Windsor may well find themselves back at their original level in the not too distant future and in a far better financial state than their previous form.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-he2Ri-hpykE/U4OmEFhp6_I/AAAAAAAARFM/nq9ToxTwJI8/s1600-h/IMG_4011%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4011" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4011" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NaxSZhJjPzA/U4OmFAf9rTI/AAAAAAAARFU/rax7R4mPHLg/IMG_4011_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Stag Meadow is found on the southern edge of Windsor and is part of The Great Park that wraps around the town. The ground was placed there in 1911 after an order from the Monarchy that stated an area of The Great Park should be for football. Therefore, an extremely scenic ground that also offers some decent facilities for this level. A Main Stand straddling the halfway line dominates the place, while opposite this is a fully covered standing terrace. With some uncovered terracing around the pitch and a small clubhouse down in the far corner of the ground, Stag Meadow could easily go back to hosting football from a far higher level if Windsor FC ever get there again. Considering some of the dross that is at Level 9 currently, this is one of the best grounds at this level.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SZKFv2z7wn8/U4OmF1LlYlI/AAAAAAAARFc/NlcUh0blCiI/s1600-h/IMG_4015%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4015" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4015" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-m_Sv-b1B6rw/U4OmGZBfjbI/AAAAAAAARFk/u2dHticWxRQ/IMG_4015_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Being one of the best grounds at this level was just as well, as Windsor were nowhere near the promotion spots going into this game. A dreadful run of form had seen them win in the league in 7 attempts and had lost the last 4 games. Despite the lousy form, they were still in 6th place, although a long long way behind runaway league winners South Park. They had however won their first trophy under their new form in the week leading up to this with victory in the Berks & Bucks Senior Trophy win over Reading Town. With a place in the top 5 up for grabs, there was still a good amount to play for The Royalists.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-j2mLvIbTNb0/U4OmHO2uz3I/AAAAAAAARFs/e5nEXWSqZCc/s1600-h/IMG_4016%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4016" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4016" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qOKgWQdq4q8/U4OmH79rgiI/AAAAAAAARF0/2V8G9nezLwE/IMG_4016_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">In town for this clash were the mighty Frimley Green who hail from Surrey. Down in 11th, they were only 7 points behind Windsor, which was a fantastic achievement from the club that won the Combined Counties 1st Division last season. The two clubs had met way back in October, when Windsor romped home to a 5-2 win. However, with Windsor in poor form and Frimley looking to finish as high as they can, this game wasn’t meant to be a forgone conclusion.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fG-JsIpi9I0/U4OmIwE_haI/AAAAAAAARF8/UsCyavY-ePk/s1600-h/IMG_4021%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4021" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4021" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IljYqYawrtE/U4OmJXU9LfI/AAAAAAAARGE/hNQg9byUFrQ/IMG_4021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">That’s really what it was however, as Windsor tore the Green to shreds. With the away team only turning up with 12 players, it didn’t take too long for Windsor to open the floodgates. When Matt Day crashed the ball past Stuart Norman on 13 minutes, you feared for Frimley and they did well to only keep it at 3-0 at HT. With Day adding another and Kane Jones ending the game as a contest on 39 minutes. The second half was a complete procession with Windsor happy to kick the ball around and Frimley Green getting nowhere near testing Carl Dennison in the home net. Frimley could not deal with Windsor’s #11, Kyle Lucas all game and after Joey Taylor was sent off late on for a daft 2nd yellow, Lucas set one up and scored in injury time to give Windsor a bit of gloss that their domination deserved on the day.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-45MTEYMFnCk/U4OmKNIoIgI/AAAAAAAARGM/MOOXP7pyriQ/s1600-h/IMG_4022%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_4022" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_4022" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Z5vKpNEGlfY/U4OmK7xPhEI/AAAAAAAARGU/AadSYc-s3Uo/IMG_4022_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Windsor managed to keep this up for the close of the season as they only lost one of the last 5 to secure another 6th place in the league. However with club captain Dan Hicks moving up a level to join Marlow, Windsor may find it tough again with no budget to try and have a tilt at promotion for 2014/15. Frimley finished 12th for an excellent season back at Level 9 and will look to try and go a wee bit further for next season. Having caught them on a barethread day, and with only 7 fit players who actually started, it is maybe a tad harsh to label them as completely rubbish. Having lived just a 5 minute walk from the ground way back in the early 90’s, it is nice to finally see the place and is well worth the trip down. On a nice day, the excellent setting and the good quality of football that Windsor play make this a recommended visit.</font></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/WindsorVsFrimleyGreen190414"><font face="Verdana">Photos from Windsor vs Frimley Green</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>6/10 (fizzled out in 2nd half)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>5/10 (seems the norm for Combined Counties League)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>7/10 (great setting)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>4/10 (the home fans did try)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>5/10 (standard stuff on offer)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme: </strong>4/10 (decent stuff but had better for £2)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: Isaac Jempeji – </strong>6/10 (fussy, but wanted it played the right way)</font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jI99vqT9Huw/U4OmLcGJbRI/AAAAAAAARGc/kg2A5cAzsNo/s1600-h/Win%252520vs%252520FG%252520prog%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="Win vs FG prog" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="Win vs FG prog" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5Wj4scdrk5k/U4OmMJj6mXI/AAAAAAAARGk/3VBbynNDwcE/Win%252520vs%252520FG%252520prog_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="179" border="0"></font></a> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DBOsO9QbyXQ/U4OmNG1wFqI/AAAAAAAARGs/lh7O6_psMkY/s1600-h/Win%252520vs%252520FG%252520stub%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="Win vs FG stub" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="139" alt="Win vs FG stub" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-s4qdhtC1BbM/U4OmODCrz7I/AAAAAAAARG0/aQ6cjhatO2g/Win%252520vs%252520FG%252520stub_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-89484887962146168902014-05-04T10:02:00.001+01:002014-05-04T10:02:27.029+01:00Cadbury Athletic vs Feckenham (12/04/14)<p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>Match 230</strong></font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff0000"><strong>Ground #: 182</strong></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>Cadbury Recreation Ground </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>Midland Combination 1st Division (Level 11) </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>3:07pm </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>Free</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>None</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>43 </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cadbury Athletic 2</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Carline 45’, Mooney 60’ </font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Feckenham 1</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Bennett 88’ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000"></font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><font face="Verdana">You have those moments in life where you might catch the image of something, or see something just for a fleeting moment and you think, wow! While I’ve seen </font><a href="https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=jennifer+lawrence&safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=lq3&rls=org.mozilla:en-GB:official&channel=fflb&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=Sl9lU7zhOcbZPYC1gaAP&ved=0CAgQ_AUoAQ&biw=1600&bih=781"><font face="Verdana">many pictures of Jennifer Lawrence</font></a><font face="Verdana"> since that first glance, for example, and always thought the same, I remember seeing a picture of a fantastic ground at uni. The quirky place of the Cadbury Recreation Ground with a brilliant classic pavilion type building. A ground that had been on my mind for some time (a different part of my mind to where Jennifer lies I might add), was in sort of danger to have no football played on it again for some time soon if Cadbury won the league this season. I wasn’t missing this again, not on my watch. </font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pihmsl6Tdqo/U2YAo1nYYNI/AAAAAAAARB4/B8qodZiN3q0/s1600-h/IMG_39742.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3974" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="244" alt="IMG_3974" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0u1hOh1o0q8/U2YAqGBawXI/AAAAAAAARCA/wHE8ZfCIteY/IMG_3974_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">In 1824, John Cadbury began selling tea, coffee and drinking chocolate in Birmingham before joining forces with his brother Benjamin to become the “Cadbury Brothers”. After going into decline, John’s sons Richard & George took over in 1861 with a new focus on chocolate. The major breakthrough came however in 1878 when the brothers decided to move the factory to the countryside, 4 miles outside of Birmingham. With better access for milk and cocoa to the estate, it was renamed Bournville and George built a “model village” around the factory to “alleviate the evils of modern more cramped living conditions” which included the playing fields. From then, the rest is history with Dairy Milk (1905), Flake (1920) and Crunchie (1929) all being released to take Cadbury’s from strength to strength.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KpmqXHgnvqk/U2YAq-HI0RI/AAAAAAAARCI/4afpNU8dQ2o/s1600-h/IMG_39752.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3975" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3975" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2YuKTd249O0/U2YAsN_uhkI/AAAAAAAARCQ/TQy6vaH2DPw/IMG_3975_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>Mondelez's Global Centre of Excellence for Chocolate Research and Development</em>)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Cadbury’s Quaker roots changed in 1969 when they merged with Schweppes and took a more capitalist venturer approach to business. With acquisitions such as Peter Paul, Cadbury' Schweppes were a key player in the global food and drink industry. However a demerger was announced in 2007 as well as the closure of the old Fry’s Somerdale Factory in Keynsham. Cadbury’s as we know it were no more after 2010 too, with Kraft eventually getting through a hostile takeover to acquire the company. Kraft then split into two, with the confectionery business becoming Mondelēz International. (The name was brought by Kraft employees with <b>Monde</b> being French for <i>world</i> and <b>delez</b> an alternative to <em>delicious – </em>a clear reason why you never let employees name a company!)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vg9ujcdUw9A/U2YAtKJKSRI/AAAAAAAARCY/w77ULV0DCe4/s1600-h/IMG_39762.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3976" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3976" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LeM56Qewq9U/U2YAt_mJuBI/AAAAAAAARCg/o2amGY1DTog/IMG_3976_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Despite the history of the Cadbury brand, Cadbury Athletic were only formed in 1994 and joined the Midland Combination 3rd Division. The club was affiliated with the Cadbury's factory based in Bournville, using the company's logo as its badge and even playing in the Cadbury's corporate colours of purple and white. Despite their short history of only 20 years, the Athletic have been up and down all the way through the Midland Combination in that time, even making the Premier Division in 2005. However, a lack of floodlights at the Rec meant they had to share with local club Pilkington XXX, but played FA Vase and FA Cup football in that time. Going ok in the Premier Division, the club felt the need to drop down back to Division 1 after 2011/12 and finished 3rd in the 1st Division last year as they sort out potential ground problems.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0huMR5iyG6Q/U2YAuxa5KCI/AAAAAAAARCo/e4fQziJMPU4/s1600-h/IMG_39712.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3971" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3971" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-x0Ies8GBOWc/U2YAvXs4avI/AAAAAAAARCw/qqoUD5GGlFk/IMG_3971_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">I would politely describe Birmingham as an absolute shithole, however just a 10 minute train ride away is the beautiful town of Bournville, which I recommend a visit to. The Cadbury Recreation Ground is right next to Cadbury World (<em>I had given up chocolate for Lent this year so it would not have been wise to visit</em>) and was really worth the trip. Set in brilliant scenery around the old factory, the highlight of the place is the old, classic pavilion that dominates the place. With some stunning rooms inside such as the Memorial Room and a balcony on the 1st floor to provide an excellent view of the pitch, it is a classic building. With a small terrace area running down the side of the pitch too, it is a far better place than I was even expecting. The pitch at the Playing Fields apparently has links to Wembley Stadium too as it is one of 4 pitches in the country to use the same Northumberland turf that is used at the National Stadium. Go and visit.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mdZcbyRQLvQ/U2YAwLRIGTI/AAAAAAAARC4/oHnmn5TLUL0/s1600-h/IMG_39782.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3978" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3978" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vqbbV6rcAnM/U2YAwmQqEWI/AAAAAAAARDA/xcUqp97V8cI/IMG_3978_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">On the pitch, Cadbury are doing fine as well and were seeing this game to try and Boost their title chances. (<em>1st chocolate pun!</em>) Before this game they were top of the league, only on goal difference from Aston, but had 5 games in hand over them. They were easily the strongest side in the league being the highest scorers and meanest defence and were just 14 points away from the title, under the assumption that all of the chasing sides won their remaining games too. What made this game even more daunting for Feckenham, was that Cadbury had not lost in the league since August, when they were defeated at Phoenix United. The small village in Worcestershire had their team 9th out of 15 for this clash, but again had games in hand over some of the sides around them and so could cause a few problems for Cadbury.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LOnMZdKMCDs/U2YCDOKmpcI/AAAAAAAARDM/8JxRd-YqvuI/s1600-h/IMG_39852.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3985" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3985" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-q0xZSPWTgh0/U2YCD35lDII/AAAAAAAARDU/eMghOzjkR7E/IMG_3985_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Every game in the country it seems kicked off at 3:07pm on this date to mark the 25th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster and the minute’s silence was perfectly observed. With the game underway, Feckenham instantly showed the threat they were going to be as an early free kick from them was fired just wide. Content to break up play in the middle of park and then counter, Cadbury struggled at first to deal with this but slowly managed to get some momentum going and should have taken the lead on 10 minutes. A weak header away from a Feckenham defender saw Anthony Clarke put clean through but he fired his shot well wide with a shot befitting of Level 11. The pace of Clarke and Dean Lea were causing the Feck problems as their defence were being to Flake away. (<em>Another choco pun!</em>) It did look however that it would be 0-0 at HT, but right on HT Lea skipped away down the right and while his cutback at first was blocked, the rebound fell to George Carline who lashed in.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GmbZudT2chs/U2YCEvWw1cI/AAAAAAAARDc/v5UwQb7Vhbo/s1600-h/IMG_3995%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3995" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3995" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1uWV4742GRQ/U2YCFVQRf1I/AAAAAAAARDk/YtzFy8zkTx0/IMG_3995_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">You felt Cadbury only needed one more goal to make the game safe as Feckenham hadn’t really resembled an attack force since early on. Lea was still causing the away team problems down the right as he pulled off all sorts of Twix. (<em>I know its a Nestle bar!</em>) Cadbury’s main threat however was from corners as Carline had a header cleared off the line from one on 52 minutes, but Feckenham were to regret giving a needless corner away on 60 minutes. From the cross, Ben Mooney powered an easy header home to make it 2-0 and looked like game over. While Cadbury for the final 30 minutes did try and make it 3, the intensity of the game had gone and it looked like it would play out to 2-0. However, Feckenham did pull a goal back late on as Cadbury went to sleep when a cut back from the left was deflected in. While it gave the final few minutes a bit more interest than there would of been, Kenny Sanders in the Cadbury goal wasn’t tested again. A good win for the league leaders, and certainly wasn’t a Picnic. (<em>Last one I promise</em>)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pcNs3fdCUyU/U2YCGII73AI/AAAAAAAARDs/Og3unEaNUdo/s1600-h/IMG_3996%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3996" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3996" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-D_XCzy6fVYI/U2YCGm1XZKI/AAAAAAAARD0/7-LcT43Qm-c/IMG_3996_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Cadbury were only needing a few points now for the title as rivals began to lose games in the chase to catch them. They confirmed the title, ironically at Feckenham a few weeks later with a 1-1 draw. In the end, they won the title by a comfortable 11 points and should now take their place in the Midland Combination Premier next season. With a confirmed groundshare at Alvechurch now in place, only Cadbury’s Reserves will be playing here next season. Will the first team be back? Maybe one day and hopefully with floodlights as this place is a real gem.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Dp-FK2YUln0/U2YCHUK4LHI/AAAAAAAARD8/qViGY-0_jKE/s1600-h/1398888199_8648%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="1398888199_8648" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="1398888199_8648" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MuZ3IzLU8_4/U2YCIBLwQgI/AAAAAAAAREE/UJJCFFHqvvA/1398888199_8648_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>Champions!</em>)</font></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/CadburyAthleticVsFeckenham120414"><font face="Verdana">Photos from Cadbury Athletic vs Feckenham</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>6/10 (fizzled out in the 2nd half)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>10/10 (was free!)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>7.5/10 (such a great place)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>4/10 (ripples now and again)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>7/10 (home made rolls and a decent cup of tea)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme:</strong> N/A – do issue now and then but not today</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: Tom Staten – </strong>6/10 (did the job fine)</font></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-27625988130441199632014-04-27T22:12:00.001+01:002014-04-27T22:12:05.235+01:00Bromley vs Eastleigh (08/04/14)<p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>Match 229</strong></font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#ff0000">Ground #: 181</font></strong></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>Hayes Lane </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>Skrill South (Level 6) </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>7:45pm </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>£5 (concession)</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>£2.50</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>1,011</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Bromley 1</strong></font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Swaine 45’ </font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Eastleigh 2</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Wright 17’, (pen) 58’ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000"></font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000">____________________________________________________________</font> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Fate has a weird way of working itself out. This game was meant to be played back in October when Bromley were riding high and looking like an unstoppable force in the Skrill South, it might have been a routine home win. Then however, down came the rain, in came the fixture congestion and Bromley had struggled while seeing Eastleigh rise above them in the league. This rearranged clash was now an all out title battle. Bromley having to win to keep it alive. Of course I was there.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xOTj14cwMNU/U11yYpBdMdI/AAAAAAAAQ70/0uVuLB9aD10/s1600-h/IMG_39332.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3933" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="244" alt="IMG_3933" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Lld2QYzKabY/U11yZbV_HFI/AAAAAAAAQ78/3nYVlW2_ZIs/IMG_3933_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Bromley is a district of south east London that was historically a market town until 1965 when it became part of Greater London. Bromley is first recorded in a charter of 862 as <i>Bromleag</i> and means 'woodland clearing where broom grows'. At this time the King of Kent, granted land to form the Manor of Bromley. It was held by the Bishops of Rochester until 1845, when Coles Child, a wealthy local merchant and philanthropist, purchased Bromley Palace and became lord of the manor. The town was an important coaching stop on the way to Hastings from London, and is referred to in Jane Austen's <i>Pride and Prejudice</i>. It was a quiet rural village until the arrival of the railway in 1858 in Shortlands, which led to rapid growth, and outlying suburban districts were developed to accommodate those wishing to live so conveniently close to London. It still maintains the commuter feel today as the multiple routes from Bromley into London makes it an attractive place to live.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xyKOKoXC6A8/U11yaMYlxnI/AAAAAAAAQ8E/6EOZywlhbWw/s1600-h/IMG_39352.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3935" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3935" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cKcMMO5t5oI/U11yby973jI/AAAAAAAAQ8M/MZkcyira0-w/IMG_3935_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Bromley FC were founded in 1892 and played friendly games against mainly local opposition sides in its first season. Their first competitive football came in the South London League, which was won at the first attempt. However, they moved frequently between leagues in those early days with 2 seasons in the Southern League were followed by a spell in the London League, winning the Division Two title in 1897. They finally settled down in 1952 after rejoining the Isthmian League and became a yo-yo club for the next few decades with highlights of winning the League twice, tempered with 4 relegations over this period. In 1988, they finished 2nd, behind Yeovil Town (<em>look where they are now!</em>) but after a romping start in 1999, where Bromley took 13 points from their first 15, they then promptly only won 4 out of the next 37 and went down.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DBWoOKWkHo8/U11ycjKNrgI/AAAAAAAAQ8U/T2QA67P7CwA/s1600-h/IMG_39382.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3938" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3938" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-D-R1ZwiSkeE/U11yde23j7I/AAAAAAAAQ8c/JVBHIhmxdns/IMG_3938_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">While continuing to plod along in the Isthmian 1st Division, the introduction of the Conference South in 2004, saw Bromley effectively drop another league down to Level 8 which was the lowest in their history. They sorted this out quickly however with a play-off win in 2005, followed by another one in 2007 to start 2007/08 in the Conference South. They’ve been there since, never really looking like challenging for a promotion spot, with an 11th place finish the best they have had so far, until this season.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4cUrgthDE_g/U11yd7G-H_I/AAAAAAAAQ8k/siwOHm0v_GE/s1600-h/IMG_39422.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3942" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3942" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kd2EJvT7BUY/U11yeoi5RiI/AAAAAAAAQ8s/_ccuFaqKoPY/IMG_3942_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Bromley were doing so well at the start of the season, however their complete loss of form in March, </font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2014/04/staines-town-vs-bromley-250314.html"><font face="Verdana">including a late late defeat at Staines Town</font></a><font face="Verdana">, has seen Eastleigh now jump above them in the table. Their form since that Staines defeat hadn’t improved with a draw at Eastbourne Borough as well as a 1-0 defeat to fellow play-off rivals Havant & Waterlooville. They were now coming into this game down in 3rd, only a point behind Sutton United. If the Ravens were not going to win the league, they may as well try and guarantee home advantage in the play-offs.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yGcneO8fL9M/U11yfP3P4YI/AAAAAAAAQ80/eE3LuuTxoo0/s1600-h/IMG_39432.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3943" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3943" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-okIEMhrOnaE/U11yf9mxiQI/AAAAAAAAQ88/ysg2lEignKs/IMG_3943_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">A really decent crowd had packed into Hayes Lane with over 1,000 watching this clash. The ground is one of my favourites this season with it being a mish-mash of stands and terracing. Down the far side is an uncovered, large terrace that offers a fantastic view of the whole place, while a good sized seated stand is opposite this, named The John Fiorini Stand, the former match secretary who sadly died in 2001. Behind both goals are covered stands, including one that is a true classic with wooden benches. It has been home to the club since 1938 and while it looks old, it has some modern touches that make this a fantastic ground.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WVG13mpZgog/U11ygdtgI5I/AAAAAAAAQ9A/HSIpk5lKX7Y/s1600-h/IMG_39482.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3948" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3948" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--e3zUdElJnw/U11yhOxG8rI/AAAAAAAAQ9M/FghVBftQ8J4/IMG_3948_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">So Eastleigh had travelled down with a fair few, and going into this game well clear at the top, anything other than a home win would essentially ensure that Eastleigh would be playing Conference National football next season. The Spitfires do have their detractors however with many pointing to the major financial backing that the club get compared to others in the league. Bridle Insurance Limited took over the club in 2011 and part of a 5 year plan was to get Eastleigh into the Football League. Still on target, they have signed some players with major Football League experience such as Stuart Fleetwood, Ben Strevens and Ross Flitney. With this much financial power, it probably isn’t a surprise to see the club where they are. Are Eastleigh the next Rushden & Diamonds however? Only time will tell.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-us-Eg4Q6xJ4/U11yh2KASvI/AAAAAAAAQ9U/SyCgKPWVOew/s1600-h/IMG_39512.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3951" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3951" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZkcTLyUczb4/U11yic21B5I/AAAAAAAAQ9c/L1Q4ZMNf58U/IMG_3951_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Bromley knew that just playing for a draw would have been no good to them and so straight from KO, went at Eastleigh. Bradley Goldberg fired a shot off the bar within the first minute as you felt Eastleigh would have to weather some sort of SE London Alamo. Credit to Eastleigh then, for not only keeping the pace of the game up, but having a good go back at Bromley. Some difficult crosses had Bromley’s goalie Joe Welch struggling but the home side could have snatched the opening goal when Brendan Kiernan fired a shot that Ross Flitney had to save well. A goal was coming though and when Ben Wright collected Craig McAllister’s flick on to loft the ball expertly over Welch, Eastleigh could start to party. Eastleigh now were also peppering Welch’s goal as the whole defence did not look comfortable to deal with the attack. Despite this, Bromley were level right on HT. A daft free kick was given away and a perfect set piece in from Joe Anderson saw captain Rob Swaine power a header home. Maybe some life in the title race yet! </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-uis-AdNzfO8/U11yiyaymCI/AAAAAAAAQ9k/1-vuJ_x9_Sc/s1600-h/IMG_39522.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3952" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3952" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4wWBnYi9Lv8/U11yjrWemII/AAAAAAAAQ9o/Pr0NVmgVIi4/IMG_3952_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Eastleigh sensed for the 2nd half that they could finish this game off and tried to blow Bromley away by bombing forward early on. After some early decent chances, Eastleigh made the breakthrough on 58 minutes. A great run into the area from Daniel Wishart had Dean Pooley everywhere and as the home defender stuck out a lazy leg, Wishart was bundled over. Clear cut penalty. Ben Wright fired home the penalty and the title looked safe again. Bromley looked stunned but Welch kept the game alive as he brilliantly kept out Jai Reason’s glancing header. Bromley though began to put the pressure on Eastleigh to try and save themselves with the ball pinging around the box quite often. However, Flitney was rarely tested and so Eastleigh had done it. All but securing their title with that win.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eGWXywCGGAQ/U11ykM1b4XI/AAAAAAAAQ9w/SLaHqXEUvbw/s1600-h/IMG_3954%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3954" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3954" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1pAyIs9b2kk/U11yk5z5CUI/AAAAAAAAQ98/eYf6sCv6YTs/IMG_3954_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">It was only a matter of time and promotion for Eastleigh was confirmed on Good Friday with a 2-1 win vs Basingstoke Town. Conference National football for them for the first time in their history and it will be interesting to see how they do. The past few seasons, the Conference South winners have done fairly well before sinking back towards the way the came. Can The Spitfires buck the trend? Bromley continued to plod along with very little form in the league, seeing Sutton United looking like securing the 2nd place spot. However, it came down to the final day of the season and going to Sutton’s final game, I would be on hand to see how it panned out. Get to Hayes Lane for football sometime soon though. It’s even better under the lights.</font></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/BromleyVsEastleigh080414"><font face="Verdana">Photos from Bromley vs Eastleigh</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>5/10 (tense and nervous all round)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>7/10 (good standard Skrill South admission)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>8/10 (classic ground)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>7/10 (packed in and both sets of fans made good noise)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>5/10 (was standard stuff from memory)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme: </strong>4/10 (slick and glossy, but lacked any real articles)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: David Rock – </strong>7/10 (got on with, good calls)</font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sCCm6GxwooA/U11ylQgbLeI/AAAAAAAAQ-E/nY3V79ETtzs/s1600-h/BFC%252520vs%252520EFC%252520prog%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="BFC vs EFC prog" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="BFC vs EFC prog" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-J0Rsb5RGkC0/U11ynbyXEaI/AAAAAAAAQ-M/R5fEGY3MF_s/BFC%252520vs%252520EFC%252520prog_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="170" border="0"></font></a> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KKv7mIX1CpE/U11yoL3comI/AAAAAAAAQ-U/rFQIIxzadPQ/s1600-h/BFC%252520vs%252520EFC%252520stub%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="BFC vs EFC stub" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="BFC vs EFC stub" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vBYhtw9iNgY/U11yooxlIcI/AAAAAAAAQ-c/ja0TIH-99F4/BFC%252520vs%252520EFC%252520stub_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="227" border="0"></font></a></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-54876189018507293912014-04-25T23:01:00.001+01:002014-04-25T23:01:13.334+01:00Road to the London Senior Cup 2013/14 (Semi-Final)<p><font face="Verdana">Despite finishing exams, work ironically had now ramped right up meaning that despite the Cray Valley (PM) vs AFC Wimbledon tie being played nearly a month later than advertised, it was another tie I had to miss. The Dons had managed to cruise through the Semis with holders Bromley pulling out, meaning the Football League club had a brilliant chance to pick up their 1st London Senior Cup.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DxdMUNZHdb0/U1rbG-uCXII/AAAAAAAAQ30/Ok-gJC4sozI/s1600-h/369a29d50fce5939e0943dc247e5acdf.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="369a29d50fce5939e0943dc247e5acdf" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="369a29d50fce5939e0943dc247e5acdf" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_aVidcqezMI/U1rbHl9JFvI/AAAAAAAAQ38/Gw7ZNVacCrE/369a29d50fce5939e0943dc247e5acdf_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>Meet the Millers</em>)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">With Wimbledon taking a reasonable squad down to the Badgers Sports Ground, it was fully expected that the Dons would smash through the Southern Counties East League side to reach the final. As it happened, when Jim Fenlon diverted the ball into his own net to give the Millers the equaliser, it looked like Cray Valley (PM) would take another scalp in this competition. However, hearts were broken deep into extra-time as Egil Kaja Overton fired home from the edge of the area and send Wimbledon to Imber Court in May.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bEWgK7Pde8s/U1rbIbJzbWI/AAAAAAAAQ4E/RzfLhnEcP5s/s1600-h/CVPM%252520vs%252520AFCW%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="CVPM vs AFCW" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="139" alt="CVPM vs AFCW" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xwzY_Bk13hQ/U1rbJhw5rII/AAAAAAAAQ4M/90aHUQJVqIw/CVPM%252520vs%252520AFCW_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">There, they will meet the Metropolitan Police as they dispatched of Wingate & Finchley to recreate the 2009/10 final which the Rozzers won on penalties after a bizarre sounding 4-4 draw. Like the plastic that I am, having missed the 3 previous rounds, I’ll be there on May 6th for hopefully another brilliant final. I’ll get the police puns ready now.</font></p> <p><u><font face="Verdana">ROAD TO THE LONDON SENIOR CUP 2013/2014:</font></u> <p><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/thamesmead-town-vs-greenhouse-london.html"><font face="Verdana">1ST ROUND: Thamesmead Town 2-2 Greenhouse London [Thamesmead win 6-5 on penalties] (Bayliss Avenue, Att: 22)</font></a> <p><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/road-to-london-senior-cup-201314-2nd.html"><font face="Verdana">2ND ROUND: Tooting & Mitcham United 2-0 Thamesmead Town (Imperial Fields, Att: 64)</font></a> <p><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2014/01/road-to-london-senior-cup-201314.html"><font face="Verdana">QUARTER-FINAL: Tooting & Mitcham United 1-1 Cray Valley (PM) [Cray Valley win 7-6 on penalties] (Imperial Fields, Att: 96)</font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">SEMI-FINAL: Cray Valley (PM) 1-2 AFC Wimbledon [After Extra Time] (Badgers Sports Ground, Att: 202)</font></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-50860266017895948722014-04-18T10:11:00.001+01:002014-04-27T11:27:28.143+01:00Bristol Rovers vs Morecambe (29/03/14)<p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>Match 228</strong></font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#ff0000">Ground #: 180</font></strong></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>Memorial Stadium </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>English League 2 </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>3pm</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>£10 (concession)</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>£3 </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>5,647 </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Bristol Rovers 1</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Mohamed 90’ </font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Morecambe 0</strong> </font></font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000"></font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><font face="Verdana">For reasons largely due to exams, it had been over 4 months since I had seen the Morecambe boys in one of their Southern tours. However, their trip to Bristol had been one I pencilled in from when the fixtures were released back last summer. With Rovers (emphasise the Bristolian accent) on the move soon from their hybrid football-rugby stadium, it was another good reason to go west and watch Morecambe pick up another (hopeful!) 3 points.</font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cltocNaCPiU/U1Dr9dAYXsI/AAAAAAAAQyA/MnkNNv80qYE/s1600-h/IMG_38852.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3885" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3885" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PTjJk_bReEo/U1Dr-P2t-6I/AAAAAAAAQyI/BRH8lVgKzIY/IMG_3885_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Despite living near it for long enough, I had never been to Bristol for football before, so. Bristol is a city in the south-west of England and is the UK’s 8th most populous city. Archaeological finds believed to be 60,000 years old, provide "evidence of human activity" in the Bristol area from the Palaeolithic era. Despite it being an area of only small Roman settlements, the town of <i>Brycgstow</i> ("the place at the bridge") appears to have been founded in c.1000 and by c.1020 was an important enough trading centre to possess its own mint. By the 12th century Bristol was an important port, handling much of England's trade with Ireland, including slaves and also became a centre of shipbuilding and manufacturing. By the 14th century Bristol was one of England's three largest medieval towns after London, along with York and Norwich.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ak3XOie5i30/U1Dr-hTNRhI/AAAAAAAAQyQ/D46AVSib8TY/s1600-h/IMG_38902.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3890" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3890" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RSg3LQVM-NU/U1Dr_QgU-fI/AAAAAAAAQyY/JnLyNsl1u88/IMG_3890_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">By the 16th century however, Bristol traders had concentrated in developing their trade to Spain and its American colonies as illicit goods became an essential component of the city's economy. This continued later on with the slave trade and saw the city’s economy downturn through wars with France and the abolition of the slave trade in the 1800s. However, Bristol (along with most of the SW) have Isambard Kingdom Brunel to thank for the building of the Great Western Railway to help the region grow. Today, the city is still growing and developing through new regeneration projects around the old docklands and harbour areas.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rTDERDygGt4/U1Dr_2xBKtI/AAAAAAAAQyg/0LnsYnoBAM8/s1600-h/IMG_38912.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3891" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3891" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-khiZihtdB9Y/U1DsAqA6lkI/AAAAAAAAQyo/xGWUSwJa47w/IMG_3891_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Despite modern football fans thinking City are Bristol’s main club due to their high level of playing, Rovers were founded in 1883, 11 years before City. Founded as Black Arabs FC, after a few changes they became the Rovers in 1889. Starting out in the Southern League, they remained there until 1920, picking up the league title in 1905. Then joining the Football League in 1920/21 into the new Division 3, they have remained a FL ever since. Rovers best finish was achieved in 1956 and 1959 when they finished 6th in the 2nd tier, which would today achieve a play-off place crack for the top flight. It has been a recent struggle for them however, despite a brief appearance in League 1 in 2007 to 2011, the money seems to have dried up and performances have not been good. Sat in mid-table, Rovers were in relegation trouble all throughout last season until John Ward came in and picked them to safety. It hasn’t been a good few years for the football of Bristol.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7QR-GuX-1W4/U1DsBNMHsHI/AAAAAAAAQyw/l7BW7dE2Z5Y/s1600-h/IMG_38942.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3894" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3894" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6aRixDgy6FE/U1DsB5UiczI/AAAAAAAAQy4/nVXXjYskFak/IMG_3894_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">The Memorial Stadium is probably one of the reasons why the money has dried up for Rovers. It’s not a terrible ground, but it does feel like a rugby ground. Built by Bristol Rugby, Rovers played at their old Eastville until 1986 when they were forced to leave it for financial difficulties. After some hiatus in Bath for 10 years, they finally return to the Mem in 1996. Firstly as tenants, but as Bristol Rugby also suffered, Rovers stepped in. The main stand in the ground (<em>pic above</em>) is the West Stand which has the combined executive areas and seating. Opposite this is the smaller East Stand as well as terracing, including the small area in the corner for away fans. This is uncovered so I can imagine this would be a delightful away trip in winter! The big Blackthorn Terrace is a covered standing terrace for the home “ultras” (<em>those proper farmers!</em>) while the South Stand behind the other goal, is a temporary stand that has now been there some time. Much more suited to some tennis event to drink Pims on, rather than have a pasty and pint to watch League 2 action.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-niN5RZYHngU/U1DsCjdzNfI/AAAAAAAAQzA/9mJs8jivBhY/s1600-h/IMG_38932.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3893" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3893" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4EJRJf0ioZo/U1DsDlN5LrI/AAAAAAAAQzI/UZBioZl-Wk0/IMG_3893_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Rovers recently got the go-ahead from the planning authorities to sell the Memorial Stadium to Sainbury’s to part-fund a new ground near the University of West England campus. This is scheduled to open for the start of 2015/16 season, which means it will probably be hosting football probably no earlier than 2017. Amazingly, the ground is to hold 21,000 when first built, however considering Rovers average attendance is around the 5-6,000 mark, this will leave a lot of spare space. But good luck to them. Another visit west will have to come in the future then!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WGBVehbV06w/U1DsEZt-XrI/AAAAAAAAQzQ/UMf40RIGayA/s1600-h/01032810579775002.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="0103281057977500" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="139" alt="0103281057977500" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ms-WZ19I9z4/U1DsFqNVfmI/AAAAAAAAQzY/IQvf9WRxKXw/0103281057977500_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>The new UWE Stadium – looking like EVERY other new stadium design</em>)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Despite John Ward propelling the side up the league last season, he has not been able to repeat the trick this time out. Only signing free players or loans, they got off to a bad start with only 1 point from the first 9. Having never been higher in the table than 11th all season, they were coming into this game down in 20th, only 3 points away from the relegation zone. It wasn’t much better for Morecambe either. Amazingly, since that win at Mansfield in November, the Shrimps have only won 4 out of the last 20 games which had seen them tumble down the table and were right in the shit too. You felt only 1 more win would be needed, maybe have a draw on top of that due to the number of teams down there, but games such as this one were matches we really had to win.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--PNj8HqPWX8/U1DsGV20LPI/AAAAAAAAQzg/MgLG8_OTM-Q/s1600-h/morecambe2013savewide2351239644_1600%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="morecambe-2013-save-wide235-1239644_1600x900" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="139" alt="morecambe-2013-save-wide235-1239644_1600x900" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zwifgSvChjQ/U1DsHNTew9I/AAAAAAAAQzo/dLVEN8XKKdY/morecambe2013savewide2351239644_1600%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>Steve Mildenhall tips a shot over the bar in Morecambe’s 2-1 win over Rovers back in December</em>)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Rovers had made a brave call the day before the game with John Ward moving up to the Director of Football position and Darrell Clarke, the former Salisbury City boss, coming in. While he would have wanted an excellent start, the first 45 minutes of the game were frankly shocking with Rovers resorting to rugby tactics to smash Morecambe off the park. Morecambe though, still looked in control with Andy Fleming and Tony Diagne both firing wide. Rovers looked a hopeless team, but with no real punch for Morecambe upfront, this looked night and day that it would finish 0-0. In fact the entertainment was being provided by the subs warming up in front of the away fans as they were dancing and being more entertaining than the 22 on the actual pitch.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6OJnzit-Ek8/U1DsH2rrWgI/AAAAAAAAQzw/ys27BIGkc-w/s1600-h/IMG_39002.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3900" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3900" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-I8s-ED6RWZI/U1DsIl4b7SI/AAAAAAAAQz4/tI2NtYk0CYA/IMG_3900_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Rovers did improve for the 2nd half and actually gave it a real go. While Morecambe did eventually bring Kevin Ellison and Jack Redshaw on, the service up to them wasn’t forthcoming and so they were fairly ineffectual. With the current bottom two of Northampton and Torquay losing both of their game though, 3 points would be absolutely massive in terms of the relegation battle. Morecambe couldn’t create anything to test Mildenhall and we came into injury time. A sloppy ball in midfield allowed Alefe Santos to run at us down the right. Tony Diagne made absolutely no challenge to try and stop the ball coming in which allowed the floated cross to be perfectly met by West Country journey man Kaid Mohamed to head home. Heartbreaking.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-o-5EPsZKLmo/U1DsJYWhfKI/AAAAAAAAQ0A/L1VcIhrzm8c/s1600-h/IMG_39012.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3901" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3901" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-s_9U0J5FAXw/U1DsKP-6vtI/AAAAAAAAQ0I/mUtDT5dN7wc/IMG_3901_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">If this was one of those games were both teams lost, you probably wouldn’t be able to argue with that. An abysmal 90 minutes that barely deserved a goal but sadly it came. Morecambe since this game lost to Mansfield at home before putting a fine performance away at Fleetwood to come back with a 2-2 draw. The relegation battle however has tightened up with only 4 points separating 7 teams. With 4 games left against Scunthorpe, Hartlepool, AFC Wimbledon and Bury, Morecambe have it in their own hands to stay up, but will need to put in far better performances than they did for this game. It hasn’t got much better for Rovers either, with them now only 2 points off the relegation zone, it really is squeaky bum time.</font></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/BristolRoversVsMorecambe290314"><font face="Verdana">Photos from Bristol Rovers vs Morecambe</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>2/10 (best left forgotten)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>7/10 (normal concession prices are good to see)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>5/10 (not a dreadful place but can’t see me coming back)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>4/10 (both sets of fans entertained themselves)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>7/10 (very good pasty)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme: </strong>7/10 (detailed and reasonable enough)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: Simon Hooper – </strong>4/10 (slightly better than useless)</font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uZVRDDbb6eo/U1DsKw4ggfI/AAAAAAAAQ0Q/CBwF-APkN9k/s1600-h/BR%252520vs%252520More%252520prog%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="BR vs More prog" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="244" alt="BR vs More prog" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ACE9OpNE3Zg/U1DsLbGTJhI/AAAAAAAAQ0Y/6OpT0LCXoBE/BR%252520vs%252520More%252520prog_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="169" border="0"></font></a></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-25272651112349225552014-04-08T08:02:00.001+01:002014-04-27T11:26:31.988+01:00Staines Town vs Bromley (25/03/14)<p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>Match 227</strong></font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#ff0000">Ground #: 179</font></strong> </font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>Wheatsheaf Park </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>Skrill South (Level 6) </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>7:45pm </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>£6 (concession) </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>£2.50 </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>212 </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Staines Town 2</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Dos Santos 16’, Theophanous 89’ </font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Bromley 1</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Waldren 41’ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000"></font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><font face="Verdana">The beauty of the clocks going forward and the advent of the Spring season is that midweek football looks extremely more appealing again. Rather than standing in a ground and just trying to keep warm, you can actually enjoy the football and the surroundings. It was also timed perfectly to see the conclusion of the interesting looking Skrill South promotion chase as candidates #1, Bromley, were at Staines. </font> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-C4mFRy6BYKk/U0OespLfUFI/AAAAAAAAQoc/akF_oj0b6y0/s1600-h/IMG_38542.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3854" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3854" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--DsjJnMMMpY/U0OetlzS6XI/AAAAAAAAQok/xhdbOvP-7X0/IMG_3854_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Staines-upon-Thames (or Staines) s a town on the River Thames in the borough of Spelthorne in Surrey. There has been a crossing of the River Thames at Staines since Roman times as when the Emperor Claudius sent the Romans into Britain in AD 43, they settled in Staines the same year. Soon afterwards the first Staines Bridge was constructed to provide an important Thames crossing point on the road from Londinium. The name Staines comes from the Old English, and means "the place at the stones". Between 1642 and 1648 during the Civil War, there were skirmishes on Staines Moor and numerous troop movements over Staines Bridge. The parish remained largely agricultural until the mid-19th century when it was a regular staging post with coaching inns. More modern history includes produces linoleum and Lagonda cars, but it is now more famously known for the character Ali G and his Staines Massif. It is also rumoured that Ali G’s popularity was a major reason for the town council changing the name of the place to Staines-upon-Thames to try and reduce the association with Sacha Baron Cohen’s character. </font> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gymJb1Sekdc/U0Oeu5XGvDI/AAAAAAAAQos/2U47bjgZ8yQ/s1600-h/AliGfingers590x3502.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="Ali-G-fingers-590x350" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="146" alt="Ali-G-fingers-590x350" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LI6gPbARLsc/U0OevSblhOI/AAAAAAAAQo0/7EwAI1UgjT4/AliGfingers590x350_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>Any caption here would be too easy…</em>) </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Staines Town FC were founded in 1892 and played under various names such as Staines FC, Staines Albany and Staines Lagonda until they folded in 1935. Just before WW2, however the club reformed and were founding members of the Hellenic League in 1953. After doing well in both the Spartan League and Athenian League, they joined the Isthmian League 1st Division in 1973. After a quick promotion to the Premier Division, Staines spent a good 9 years up there before being demoted in 1984 due to ground grading rulings. Despite, coming back up, the club were relegated for the first time in their history in 1993 and then became a yo-yo club for a short period while their ground at Wheatsheaf Park was being worked upon. </font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XRzU31habG4/U0OewAm2LPI/AAAAAAAAQo8/Ggup308mBF4/s1600-h/staines2.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="staines" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="131" alt="staines" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dFNJGlzWts0/U0OexI0Od1I/AAAAAAAAQpE/3uyIousKo30/staines_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>Wheatsheaf Park’s old Main Stand – taken from the </em></font><a href="http://worldgroundhop.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/Staines%20Town"><em><font face="Verdana">Hopping all over the World blog</font></em></a><font face="Verdana">) </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Staines came back to a refurbed Wheatsheaf in February 2003 and won promotion back to the Premier Division that season. After play-off heartbreak the season before against AFC Wimbledon, Staines secured promotion to the Conference South in 2009 beating Carshalton Athletic where they have been ever since. Despite a good start in their first season at this level, finishing 8th in 2009/10, the Massive have faded over time and finished last season down in 18th, just 3 points off a relegation spot. </font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BBdWRY02Qxs/U0OexsM2dsI/AAAAAAAAQpM/wgcaJC4vngc/s1600-h/IMG_38582.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3858" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3858" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-o3TSz1USVYQ/U0OeyOwFqWI/AAAAAAAAQpU/l84SHQRcrY0/IMG_3858_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Wheatsheaf Park is said to be one of the most modern in the Skrill South (although, stated by a Staines fan) and it does look fairly impressive after its refurb in 2003. The Main Stand (<em>see above</em>) is the stand out part of the ground with its impressive views whilst also having a bar and Directors area attached onto it. Part of the upgrade at Wheatsheaf Park included the building of the </font><a href="http://www.thethamesclub.co.uk/"><font face="Verdana">Thames Club</font></a><font face="Verdana"> gym so the surrounding area and car park was extremely busy long before KO. Opposite the Main Stand is a smaller, low tiered covered terrace that is split into 3. Blocked by the dugouts for a large section of the ground, it wasn’t a particularly popular place to stand with even the Staines MASSIVE choosing to situate themselves in the Main Stand. Behind both goals were uncovered terraces with a few steps. Should Staines ever go up, these would be the first sides of the ground to be developed, although with one backing onto houses, it seems unlikely they could do that much. </font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GXMUiXBVgYU/U0Oey1iVk7I/AAAAAAAAQpc/dRGV_eXM1yk/s1600-h/IMG_38592.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3859" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3859" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-eqzRzYPd-Tw/U0OezjV9KaI/AAAAAAAAQpk/TxBRnW-R4qM/IMG_3859_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Having narrowly avoided relegation last season, Staines were looking fairly comfortable going into this game to not have a nervous April fighting the drop. Being in 12th position, 14 points away from the relegation zone, Staines could play out the final few games in midtable. Something they may have gone for at the start of the season. Although with the playoff pack seemingly all trying to avoid the final play-off spot, a late serge from Staines, with a game in hand could help them nab an unlikely place. Managed by former Wimbledon legend Marcus Gayle, he was trying to breed a young side in the league and while it looked beyond them this season, they could be ones to watch in the coming years. Especially as he clearly has been given time by the owners to make his mark. (<em>A manager given time!?</em>)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3ZmhJwX5p-g/U0Oe0S2g8pI/AAAAAAAAQps/61Z6z1LZgZg/s1600-h/IMG_38622.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3862" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3862" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3YVxAlzyNr8/U0Oe1Nvy2QI/AAAAAAAAQp0/lEhiamc-7qg/IMG_3862_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">This match was due to be played in February, right in the middle of the floods that turned large parts of Britain into Atlantis and the programme was this rearranged game was the original one with an insert. The original insert showed Bromley, top of the league, with an 11 point gap. At one stage it was 15 points as they looked dead certs to win the league and be playing Skrill Premier football. However, a shocking March which saw them lose 4 in a row to Sutton United, Chelmsford City, Dover Athletic and Farnborough along with Eastleigh’s fantastic form which has seen 1 defeat in 9 saw Bromley lose the top spot in the table the weekend before. Yet, in another twist in the South title race, Eastleigh came to Staines and could only manage a 0-0 draw to give Bromley a 1 point lead at the top. Eastleigh though, still had two games in hand.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-TSHJjKyEWao/U0Oe12xXxtI/AAAAAAAAQp8/zHAxCrYceUY/s1600-h/bradwhite%25255B2%25255D.png"><font face="Verdana"><img title="bradwhite" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="160" alt="bradwhite" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-p-wyjZixMkE/U0Oe2pcnoPI/AAAAAAAAQqE/5mIxtUBEmK4/bradwhite_thumb.png?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>Happier times from Bromley with the late win at Whitehawk in December</em>)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Despite the big difference in places between the two sides, from kick off it was clear that they were both evenly matched. Bromley obviously needing the win went for it with Staines happy to sit and soak up pressure before countering with the pacy wingers. Chasing the game too much seems to have hurt Bromley in recent matches and it did so again on 16 minutes after Sanchez Ming bombed forward down the right and his dangerous ball saw the Bromley defenders stand still to watch Jerson Dos Santos stoop a header past Joe Welch in the Bromley net. Bromley really really went for it from then as Staines seemed unable to get the ball forward that their early promise showed. The Saaf London club had a few sights on goal before equalising just before HT when Danny Waldren slid in from Ali Fuseini’s cross. A point was not good enough for Bromley and you felt the 2nd half would be a key 45 minutes in the title race.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MGpAYb82qG0/U0Oe3RE6o_I/AAAAAAAAQqM/5sepKy6OnJo/s1600-h/IMG_3867%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3867" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3867" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jEUHkoGuGTA/U0Oe4LbXwiI/AAAAAAAAQqU/EPZhi3UXZ1Y/IMG_3867_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Bromley continued where they left off by peppering the Staines goal and forced Staines goalie Jack Turner into some excellent saves. One thing however the home defence did do well for the 2nd half was keep Bromley top scorer Bradley Goldberg quiet as he could not get into the game. Staines however with 20 minutes to go brought on Bajram Pashaj to try and get something better than a point that the club were barely hanging onto. Pashaj had already made a few darting runs late on as Bromley were throwing more and more men forward to try and snatch the winner that would be so crucial. Yet, it happened. On 89 minutes Bromley launched forward only for Staines to counter. Someone needed to bring Pashaj down and take the yellow card but they just kept back-pedalling as Staines got closer to goal. When someone did try and make a tackle, it was too late. Pashaj had already fed Staines top scorer Louie Theophanous who skipped past one tackle before firing a late winner against his old club. Staines were delighted as Bromley couldn’t believe they had actually lost this. Yet another twist in the title race.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UC3maapNuXY/U0Oe460fIaI/AAAAAAAAQqc/59lu6kP3bro/s1600-h/IMG_3873%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3873" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3873" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-s1aV4o6rRoA/U0Oe5QH1uJI/AAAAAAAAQqk/zuyZn6AxIv8/IMG_3873_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">With Eastleigh winning that night 6-0 against Dorchester, they went back to the top of the league. However, both sides have not been on top form recently since this game with Bromley labouring to a 1-1 draw at Eastbourne Borough before a 1-0 defeat at Havant & Waterlooville means they are 6 points behind Eastleigh who have a game in hand. The Eastleigh boys haven’t been in great form themselves however and with the major crunch game between Bromley and Eastleigh coming up, that will probably decide if the title race is still on. Don’t forget Sutton United though as their usual end of season excellent run has seen them launch up to 2nd, only 5 points behind the leaders.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-doednXnwOXY/U0Oe6FC3DZI/AAAAAAAAQqs/u8YZMKy0Uig/s1600-h/IMG_3875%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3875" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3875" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AaRIkuIPtkU/U0Oe6tG-ZkI/AAAAAAAAQq0/4W9Ax7n7_4Y/IMG_3875_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">I’m still not sure how Staines won this game but it was entertaining to watch. A lovely club who gave me a more than friendly welcome are now only 4 points outside the play-offs after starting an eight game unbeaten run. Could they actually achieve it? Level 6 has given me some dreadful games and grounds in the past, but the quality really looks to have improved over the recent seasons. This was another one that wasn’t an exception. Booyakasha!</font></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/StainesTownVsBromley250314"><font face="Verdana">Photos from Staines Town vs Bromley</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>6/10 (entertaining right till the end)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>8/10 (better concession value than a fair few grounds below)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>6/10 (smart enough and does the job)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>6/10 (Bromley boys back in numbers and in noise)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>3/10 (clear candidate for worst burger of the season sadly)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme: </strong>3/10 (a shell that contained an insert within an insert. At least it was right up to date)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: Andrew Laver – </strong>5/10 (a yellow card might have calmed the game down slightly)</font> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-U2tgaRfk6TY/U0Oe7jY7mAI/AAAAAAAAQq8/KK-V9_PhJLI/s1600-h/ST%252520vs%252520BFC%252520prog%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="ST vs BFC prog" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="244" alt="ST vs BFC prog" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-epo906hcRQM/U0Oe8aNJHHI/AAAAAAAAQrE/AJdHJB0Q6ZI/ST%252520vs%252520BFC%252520prog_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="176" border="0"></font></a> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fgjfqresAuc/U0Oe9PmoXxI/AAAAAAAAQrM/-CvY7CFX3V8/s1600-h/ST%252520vs%252520BFC%252520stub%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="ST vs BFC stub" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="156" alt="ST vs BFC stub" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2rs3l914uSg/U0Oe9wdUpDI/AAAAAAAAQrU/YDhzPEJkl3M/ST%252520vs%252520BFC%252520stub_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-17471056314633635692014-04-04T22:33:00.001+01:002014-04-04T22:33:31.900+01:00Poland vs Scotland (05/03/14)<p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>Match 225</strong></font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#ff0000">Ground #: 178</font></strong></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>Stadion Narodowy </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>International Friendly </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>8:45pm</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>£12 </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>Free (VIPs/Press Only) </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>41,652 </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Poland 0</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Scotland 1</strong></font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Brown 77’ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000"></font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><font face="Verdana">International friendlies are never ones to get the fans excited. Some of those “exciting” destinations that Scotland have been to in recent years include Koper, Cardiff, Molde and Larnaca. Racking up the points as a TA Member though means you need to do the less glamorous games to watch the sexy ones as Scotland go for Euro 2016 qualification. Therefore, Scotland’s first game of 2014, in Poland was always one I was going to attend. Szkocja w trasie! </font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OroRhp05m6U/Uz8k71B7kGI/AAAAAAAAQlc/T1zQ_ZVVvBY/s1600-h/IMG_36542.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3654" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3654" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oGLYIumFCoM/Uz8k84g7B1I/AAAAAAAAQlk/bAguhgiYvfc/IMG_3654_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">With the game taking place at the newly built National Stadium it was off to the Polish capital. Warsaw is the largest city in Poland, lying on the Vistula River and the 9th most populous city in the EU. Warsaw is an important economic hub in Eastern Europe and is known as the “phoenix city” because it has survived so many wars throughout its history, such as the major rebuilt after WW2 when 80% of its buildings had been destroyed after the Siege of Warsaw by the Nazis.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-36IWb1mF824/Uz8k9extMeI/AAAAAAAAQls/MYi5cqi7gDc/s1600-h/IMG_35772.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3577" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3577" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-o2w36JCIiSs/Uz8k-eBZFfI/AAAAAAAAQl0/7JKrWeT1WCA/IMG_3577_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">I’m normally not one to slate places completely, but I did find Warsaw a strange place. The painstaking rebuild has been completed to a brilliant quality, but even in the Old Town you can see that it’s not truly “old” compared to say, Zagreb. The layout is also strange with a square and Communist feel that sort of sadly detracts from the place. Me and the Missus left there thinking we hadn’t actually done that much in the two nights we stayed there, but then, that wasn’t that much to do. Krakow (our 2nd stop on the Poland tour) was far more lively and I am awaiting a quick return there to catch the Wisla Krakow vs Cracovia derby.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CEdnrfd_ky8/Uz8k_DNle-I/AAAAAAAAQl8/JX8IZemOkaM/s1600-h/IMG_36612.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3661" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3661" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KfQS_WWgfjA/Uz8k_i7XoWI/AAAAAAAAQmE/BRfjY6ekuEs/IMG_3661_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Poland’s national side have always been noticeable on the international stage since their first international back in 1921. (A 1-0 defeat to Hungary) Plodding through friendlies easily enough, they qualified for the 1938 World Cup and gave Brazil a fantastic game in the 1st Round, losing 6-5 A.E.T. After WW2, they did qualify for the 1958 World Cup, only to pull out. However, Polish football rocketed forward with the appointment of Kazimierz Górski in 1970. Winning Olympic Gold in 1972 at Munich before the brilliant 3rd place at the 1974 World Cup. After eliminating England in qualifying, they dispatched of Argentina, Haiti and Italy in the Group Stage before the 2nd Group Phase. After wins over Sweden and Yugoslavia, only West Germany needed to be beaten to pick up a likely World Cup win (<em>calm down Holland</em>), a late Gerd Müller goal sent W.Germany into the final and Poland had to settle for 3rd place after beating Brazil.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana"></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana"></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana"></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2KmXfXAD2bY/Uz8lAdcP2yI/AAAAAAAAQmM/o-uJQo9mrFQ/s1600-h/WC74_21S2.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="WC74_21S" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="173" alt="WC74_21S" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dPjOvr-DH0M/Uz8lBOzNFwI/AAAAAAAAQmU/VOYRiqNGUFE/WC74_21S_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>Jan Tomaszewski saves a Uli Hoeness penalty in that W.Germany game but 0-0 isn’t enough…</em>)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">The 1978 World Cup saw Poland disappointingly crash out in Round 2 with a group containing Argentina, Brazil and Scotland’s destroyers Peru. 1982 however got Poland back into the 3rd best side in World football at the World Cup in Spain. After that tournament however, the great players such as Zbigniew Boniek and Grzegorz Lato retired and 1986 saw an earlier exit before complete tournament wilderness until 2002. Poor performances at Japan/Korea as well as at 2006 WC and 2008 Euros as well as their own home tournament in 2012 saw them enter into the 2014 World Cup qualifiers not in the best spirits.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-z_xk0O2s7JA/Uz8lBmIwd3I/AAAAAAAAQmc/mYp4IT8D1h0/s1600-h/poles_2667532b%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="poles_2667532b" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="154" alt="poles_2667532b" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XeeDaNolEWs/Uz8lCV0fSFI/AAAAAAAAQmk/N-Ojfpay8qo/poles_2667532b_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Despite a decent looking group containing England, Ukraine, Montenegro, Moldova and San Marino, the Poles slumped into 4th position, a massive 8 points behind 2nd place Ukraine. Their away form was what let them down with no wins apart from the guaranteed San Marino points and saw them drop far down the rankings. They have class in their side though with Bundesliga hotshots Robert Lewandowski and Jakub Błaszczykowski able to grab goals from any situation, but the rest of the squad do appear to be run of the mill players which was highlighted in the recent WC qualifiers. This friendly though had been spiced up by the recent Euro 2016 draw that tied Scotland and Poland to meet again, so this friendly took on more significance than when it had first been announced in December.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AiEPY7GG3pQ/Uz8lDOadspI/AAAAAAAAQms/ISxb7XSTGVw/s1600-h/IMG_3490%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3490" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="139" alt="IMG_3490" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-T0UOJmem6WQ/Uz8lDkpRNnI/AAAAAAAAQm0/QbRhUZU5ilA/IMG_3490_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>Oops!</em>)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">The National Stadium in Warsaw has only recently been restored to former glory after being reopened (and reconstructed) for the Euros in 2012 mentioned above. The old Stadion Dziesięciolecia on the site closed in 1983 as even then the stadium was dilapidated with no funds to fix it. Then the stadium became Jarmark Europa, the largest open air market in Europe with a major black market presence apparently as locals named the place the “Russian Market”. While the National Side played on, with major games at Silesian Stadium in Chorzów, the Euros coming into town, meant that along with the National Stadium in Kiev, Poland’s major showpiece needed upgrading too.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bWepytt1bGc/Uz8lEMAT80I/AAAAAAAAQm8/G08TKczNf7M/s1600-h/506b98e22016e25134a7ec14fabe73a2%25252C641%25252C0%25252C0%25252C0%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="506b98e22016e25134a7ec14fabe73a2,641,0,0,0" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="506b98e22016e25134a7ec14fabe73a2,641,0,0,0" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1aLIfVyHQ6Q/Uz8lE455fBI/AAAAAAAAQnE/MDo7k4RytU4/506b98e22016e25134a7ec14fabe73a2%25252C641%25252C0%25252C0%25252C0_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>The old Stadion Dziesięciolecia</em>)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">What replaced it, is possibly the best professional stadium I have ever been to. An imposing structure that you can see through the city and looks even better at night all lit up in white and red. Inside, a brilliant bowl that provides excellent views all around with concourses that just ooze space. It’s hard to describe as the ground is similar all around and some of the football purists may not like the slick look. But this is a brilliant venue, made even better for this game with the roof closed so both sets of fans could get their noise heard.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QeRxAXzN2ho/Uz8lFtddUiI/AAAAAAAAQnM/TrQP0_aJQ5Y/s1600-h/IMG_3666%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3666" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3666" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WStOmpdVQuY/Uz8lGagN_GI/AAAAAAAAQnU/WF91ET-XZoo/IMG_3666_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">For the game, both sides were missing key players as Poland lacked the Bundesliga hotshots due to injury, while Scotland also were missing Robert Snodgrass and James McArthur who could have added another dimension to the squad. The game from the start was dirge, as international friendlies ALWAYS are this time of year. One of the extremely pleasing things to see though was the confidence Scotland had to knock it around the park, whilst not creating much, it kept the ball away from Poland and irritated the home fans. Poland missed their creativity as they looked distinctly average, although Ludovic Obraniak forced David Marshall into an excellent save to tip his long range effort over. Arkadiusz Milik also forced Marshall to react to a long range effort as this seemed to be the only route that they were going to score with. As it happened, Scotland nearly snatched an unlikely goal just before half time when Wojciech Szczesny had to cut out a cross from Alan Hutton with players lining up to score. It wasn’t great, but we weren’t behind at HT!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aKjKphwNiKI/Uz8lG5Lje1I/AAAAAAAAQnc/AhcUCX0UODA/s1600-h/IMG_3683%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3683" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3683" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1M2y89FL68o/Uz8lHnjrRdI/AAAAAAAAQnk/B9Nc0sRPde0/IMG_3683_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Scotland knocked the ball about again for the 2nd half as Darren Fletcher coming on added even more stability to the midfield. However, without something really creative, we did miss someone to push through the home defence. Poland couldn’t either however as long shots weren’t even getting on target now as Marshall had it easy. That should have changed on 58 minutes however when Kamil Glik had a free header from a free kick but powered it wide of the post. And despite 0-0 looking safe, Scotland grabbed a brilliant winner on 77 minutes. Ikechi Anya had whipped a ball in which was only cleared to the edge of the area where Scott Brown lashed a half volley into the top corner which Szczesny didn’t even move for. Poland, stunned, tried to rally, but created very little late on as Scotland’s excellent form continued to make it unbeaten in 5 games!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YIvqQ7cKM_s/Uz8lIa_qrII/AAAAAAAAQns/FS4o0NPDGNU/s1600-h/IMG_3686%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3686" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3686" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-iaEKVNwhNrc/Uz8lI3eXGuI/AAAAAAAAQn0/y1sj-nACgFE/IMG_3686_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">So another country visited with Scotland and another win! Whilst Poland will be very different for the qualifying match back in Warsaw in October, so will Scotland and I’m quietly confident we can take the 2nd qualifying spot to get to the Euros. Warsaw is a strange city, but has a fantastic National Stadium that I can only recommend visiting. I’ll have to be back, I missed the Pepsi Arena (the home of Legia Warsaw) and the purchase of their famous green shirt. It was an impressive performance from Scotland and as leaving the ground to get the bus back into the centre of Warsaw, I could hear the Tartan Army leaving with the sounds of “we’ll be coming! We’ll be coming down the road!” On this improvement of performance, we actually might. Get ready France.</font></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/PolandVsScotland050314"><font face="Verdana">Photos from Poland vs Scotland</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>3/10 (international friendly, in March, this was never going to be good)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>8/10 (£12 is great value for internationals)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>9/10 (a brilliant stadium, except for the lack of alcohol in the ground)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>8/10 (roof helped keep it in)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>7/10 (was decent grub and as throughout Poland, well priced)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme: </strong>N/A – programmes were only available to press and VIPs and have currently gone for £50+ on eBay. I might get one, one day.</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: Alain Bieri – </strong>7/10 (little to do really, did it fine)</font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZbaekyIxMCE/Uz8lJh5GmtI/AAAAAAAAQn8/qTWMmIHHHik/s1600-h/Poland%252520vs%252520Scotland%252520stub%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="Poland vs Scotland stub" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="95" alt="Poland vs Scotland stub" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BVk0v7GvZbQ/Uz8lKGnEPrI/AAAAAAAAQoA/_9eMtu-rxIg/Poland%252520vs%252520Scotland%252520stub_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-10958942308695486842014-03-24T22:11:00.001+00:002014-03-24T22:11:55.793+00:00AFC Hornchurch vs Grays Athletic (01/03/14)<p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff0000">Match 224</font></strong> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff0000">Ground #: 177</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>Hornchurch Stadium</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>Isthmian League Premier Division (Level 7)</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>3pm</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>£7 (concession)</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>£2.50</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>341</font></font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">AFC Hornchurch 1</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Coyne 52’</font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Grays Athletic 2</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Nouble (pen) 10’, Carlos 34’</font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000"></font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">____________________________________________________________</font> <p><font face="Verdana">After another exam session that wiped football off the agenda for a few weeks (well it makes a change from the weather!) it was back to a Saturday free and one for football to get involved with. While games didn’t massively stand out, a ground that I had been keeping an eye out on for some time was hosting a proper Essex derby. Getting my fake tan and pejazzle sets on, it was off East, to glorious Hornchurch!</font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DOQlQ4FQYDI/UzCtdZpCqyI/AAAAAAAAQc0/Ts9uts_AyQE/s1600-h/IMG_3522%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3522" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3522" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vPBraJ5Q05A/UzCteQAQpQI/AAAAAAAAQc8/7QQtuUVTuGs/IMG_3522_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">Hornchurch is a suburban town in East London and part of the London Borough of Havering. Hornchurch originates from around the 12th Century when Henry II gave 1,500 acres to the hospice of St Nicholas and St Bernard, Mountjoux, in Savoy as a gift. A church was established in Hornchurch, but the monks were forced out during the 14th Century when a new law banned foreign land ownership. The lands were then given to Lord Chancellor William of Wykeham who made major renovations to the church. He subsequently gave Hornchurch to endow New College, Oxford, which still owns all the local church lands and buildings. During both World Wars nearby Hornchurch Airfield was an important RAF station; it was known as RAF Suttons Farm during the Great War, with its HQ as far away as Upminster Hall. During the Second World War, the airfield was known as RAF Hornchurch, and was home mostly to a number of Spitfire squadrons. During the First World War a large vacant country estate called Grey Towers on Hornchurch Road was commandeered by the Army Council as a military depot. In January 1916 it became the first Command Depot for the New Zealand Contingent in England but was found to be more suitable as a Convalescent Hospital Camp for New Zealand Servicemen, and was run as such until June 1919. Like most suburbs of London, Hornchurch had been entirely rural until the arrival of the railway which spurred huge property development during the early 1900s. Whole estates were constructed such as Emerson Park to the north. Development was fuelled further by the arrival of the electrified District Line during the 1930s with housing developments south and west of Hornchurch in places such as Elm Park.</font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aBSK9qsFtAw/UzCte_FQ-xI/AAAAAAAAQdE/-mmI_xxA_kQ/s1600-h/IMG_3524%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3524" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3524" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RSLNufwUErs/UzCtfg2t7KI/AAAAAAAAQdM/IvwYQYeymYg/IMG_3524_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">AFC Hornchurch are only 9 years old, having been formed in 2005 following the demise of the previous Hornchurch FC. The previous incarnation of the Urchins date back to 1923 when Upminster Wanderers were formed playing in a local park at Upminster. After the Second World War, the club joined the Spartan League and played in Division One East for several years before being promoted to the Premier Division. 1953 saw the club move to the Hornchurch Stadium for the first time and change its name to Hornchurch & Upminster before dropping Upminster off the name altogether in 1961. On the pitch, they were up and down with an occasional trophy but an excellent FA Vase run in 1974/75 helped it gain promotion to the Isthmian Leagues. Plodding along nicely there, a fire at the clubhouse in 1989 led to years of struggle in the lower leagues until 2000/01 saw a promotion back to the Isthmian League. At this point, the club were restructured with an investment company taking over and the Hornchurch Stadium radically redeveloped into a 1000 seater ground. However, in 2004/05 when backers Carthium Ltd were declared bankrupt, despite 3,500 in the ground the season before for a FA Cup tie against Tranmere Rovers, Hornchurch FC were no more and the AFC suffix was in use again.</font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TBPn-t2FS5A/UzCtgW2eQjI/AAAAAAAAQdU/8XcoK-b1kmQ/s1600-h/IMG_3526%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3526" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3526" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5MTx_IvckvA/UzCthBota4I/AAAAAAAAQdc/7nlMCW2Vy0g/IMG_3526_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">The new Urchins started in the Essex Senior League in 2005/06 and with a larger fanbase than most, cruised through this league back into the Isthmian. Momentum was on their side now and a second league win in 2 years was secured the following season with the Isthmian Division 1 North title picked up. Always there or thereabouts at the top end of the Isthmian Premier, Hornchurch finally made the step up to the </font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/tooting-mitcham-united-vs-afc.html"><font face="Verdana">Conference South in 2011/12 through the play-offs after just missing out to Billericay Town for the title</font></a><font face="Verdana">. Conference South was a different monster though and all that hard work lasted just one season for the Urchins as they were promptly relegated in 20th place, just 1 point away from safety.</font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-J73F7Z2L4GM/UzCthj7DCeI/AAAAAAAAQdk/kEiN22E-H_8/s1600-h/IMG_3532%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3532" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3532" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RAn5W5GTxkg/UzCtiR0TwYI/AAAAAAAAQds/VfodO0E4HPg/IMG_3532_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">The Hornchurch Stadium has been the home of the Urchins since 1952, a short walk away from Upminster Bridge station. While the running track added in 1956 will instantly dishearten a lot of football purists, the view on the whole is actually quite good around the ground. Down the sides of the pitch are a substantial amount of covered terraces and seated stands with a small uncovered terrace in one of the corners. While unsurprisingly, the view behind both of the goals is poor due to the curve in the running track, the bar overlooking the ground also provides some excellent views across the pitch where a few stood to take in the game. Isthmian League grounds are radically different which I suppose adds further to the charm of this league. This is one of the better athletics grounds that I’ve been to and just adds further to the variety of the Isthmian.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sLR7Y4A-eOo/UzCtjCmy41I/AAAAAAAAQd0/Tjr-fv9MPcE/s1600-h/IMG_3535%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3535" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3535" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2rmwAiPTvJ0/UzCtjnQj3rI/AAAAAAAAQd8/6tuWvtUodwA/IMG_3535_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">With Hornchurch looking for an immediate return to the Conference South, it was no surprise to see them up there in the top 6. Coming into this game in 4th, they were well in the play-off hunt, having a 3 point lead over 6th place Bognor Regis Town. While it looks like the top 3 of Dulwich Hamlet, Maidstone and Wealdstone will battle it out for the title, another 3 way fight was brewing for the final play-off positions too. With Kingstonian (in 5th) and Bognor Regis having winnable games, it was vital the Urchins kept up the play-off push. In town from even deeper Essex were Grays Athletic who are a world away from 2005/06 when they were top of the Conference looking at a Football League place. Now without a permanent residence and floating just outside the relegation zone (albeit with at least 5 games in hand over teams around them), times do look tough for The Blues, having won promotion the season beforehand.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-a_a1ko-6P3k/UzCtkZUZAdI/AAAAAAAAQeA/f-cFKNYsOlQ/s1600-h/IMG_3543%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3543" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3543" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uGfoWJ-Gckw/UzCtk0Ok0QI/AAAAAAAAQeM/PUJVwVRxzJ4/IMG_3543_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Despite a 5-1 win for Hornchurch at Grays back in October, the away team were backed by a pretty large and vocal following in the corner and saw their team make a decent start against a nervous looking Hornchurch. The home side had been fired a warning as early as the 3rd minute when Leroy Griffiths cut inside and fired a shot off the post. With Grays constantly pushing forward, they won a penalty in the 10th minute when a shot was fired at Elliot Styles and handball was given. It looked harsh, but Joel Nouble fired past Inigo Echepare for a 1-0 lead. Shellshocked into some action, Hornchurch pushed forward with a couple of half chances created before they were stunned again. Griffiths again tore down the left hand side to cut the ball back to Grays’ top scorer Joao Carlos for his 11th goal of the season. With the home fans irate at referee Graham Kane for a series of petty fouls, their mood wasn’t lifted in stoppage time when Michael Spencer fired a shot high and wide.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OfQhNODdRRs/UzCtlqZgs-I/AAAAAAAAQeU/Wvgrl6UrY8M/s1600-h/IMG_3546%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3546" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3546" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5p64jdhXKoQ/UzCtmZfZDiI/AAAAAAAAQeY/2gcXebyOdSg/IMG_3546_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Hornchurch went at Grays for the vast majority of the 2nd half as the away side sat back on their two goal lead. The tactic looked comfortable as George Purcell fired a shot aimlessly high, however on 52 minutes Billy Coyne ran at the Grays defence and fired a low shot past Lloyd Anderson from well outside of the area. Suddenly, they didn’t look as comfortable as Grays resorted back to the performance their league position suggested they would. Spencer had a shot deflected over the bar before Purcell had a shot cleared off the line as it looked only a matter of time before Hornchurch grabbed an unlikely looking equaliser. Grays weren’t playing well and Craig Pope tried to play a pass only he knew what for which set up Purcell, but his shot was saved again. Towards the end of the game, with Grays clinging on now, Hornchurch resorted to pumping long balls forward which might have worked in injury time when Ryan Kirby brought down Stefan Payne through on goal. It looked like a red card, but only a yellow was shown. To add even more anger to Hornchurch, the free kick bounced around the box for Payne to hammer the ball home for a dramatic equaliser! Only to be ruled out for offside. It wasn’t meant to be their day.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VAiN86IO0SY/UzCtmz4oHxI/AAAAAAAAQek/fGavi_9qizs/s1600-h/IMG_3551%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3551" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3551" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-M7aaulGlOtA/UzCtnvlRx_I/AAAAAAAAQes/q5qgEX8ElpM/IMG_3551_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Grays showed their various types of performance for this one as an extremely comfy 2-0 lead at HT should really have been wiped out by a wasteful Hornchurch side. Since this game, Hornchurch have picked up a decent 10 points from 15, including an impressive 1-0 win over Maidstone Utd. It leaves them down in 5th, just 2 points off 6th and with Lowestoft Town now joining the play-off fun, it will be a squeaky April for Hornchurch, but with a winnable looking run-in, they should make it. Grays unsurprisingly have ripped into their games in hand and now sit 16 points clear of the drop zone and with another 3 games left to go, there is the smallest of chances they could produce a brilliant late play-off surge. This was my first game in quite some time and was a decent one in a league I really should be visiting more often. Athletics grounds aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, but this one is decent enough and is worth a visit.</font></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/AFCHornchurchVsGraysAthletic010314"><font face="Verdana">Photos from AFC Hornchurch vs Grays Athletic</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>6.5/10 (tale of two halves!)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>7/10 (fine amount for a concession to pay)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>6.5/10 (yes it’s an athletics ground, but its a good one)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>7/10 (fair nose from both sides)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>8/10 (The Hornchurch Burger, i.e – a shed of meat, went down well)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme: </strong>7/10 (was a decent effort, have seen clubs charge £3 for this amount of content)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: Graham Kane – </strong>6/10 (let down slightly by his linos)</font> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9JKyZOSbgtA/UzCtobtZK6I/AAAAAAAAQe0/3nAuQo2R1Do/s1600-h/AFCH%252520vs%252520GA%252520prog%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="AFCH vs GA prog" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="AFCH vs GA prog" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--K00U3mrPQc/UzCtpAP8PYI/AAAAAAAAQe8/NXwC4JLK8g4/AFCH%252520vs%252520GA%252520prog_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="171" border="0"></font></a> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nMYRH_eVf5g/UzCtp4e9xNI/AAAAAAAAQfE/mK7HPb5Do2E/s1600-h/AFCH%252520vs%252520GA%252520stub%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="AFCH vs GA stub" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="144" alt="AFCH vs GA stub" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YkkN3gsPS90/UzCtqTMhRqI/AAAAAAAAQfM/EiBUiFdxU_k/AFCH%252520vs%252520GA%252520stub_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-73630972822150292062014-02-15T22:05:00.001+00:002014-02-15T22:05:11.399+00:00South West London Chargers vs Torfaen Tigers (01/02/14) [RL]<p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>RL Match 9</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#ff0000">RL Ground #: 7</font></strong> </font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>Dukes Meadow (normally used by Chiswick Rugby Club) </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>Challenge Cup 1st Round </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>2pm </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>Free </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>None</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>102 (h/c)</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>South West London Chargers 12</strong></font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Tries: Puna 1, Wojciechowicz 1</font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Goals: Coughtrey 2</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Torfaen Tigers 6</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Tries: Roberts 1</font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Goals: Brown 1</font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><font face="Verdana">That glorious British weather. A country that is already much maligned for its piss poor climate was really getting battered by the recent storms. While it is a minor point when people’s houses are being swept away and Somerset does it’s best Atlantis impression, this weather is not good for football. </font><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25953774"><font face="Verdana">As Conference bosses voted against bringing 3G pitches in</font></a><font face="Verdana"> as some clubs haven’t played for weeks, my planned game was washed away and so another sport was required. Good old rugby league, “is there grass?” “is there beer?” “game on.” Good lads. </font> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wwji_DCzSWY/Uv_kdqONv_I/AAAAAAAAQRo/C-kta0RPf_M/s1600-h/IMG_33792.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3379" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3379" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ncersyYk3Vc/Uv_keYPM6HI/AAAAAAAAQRw/w-LnjR3wgho/IMG_3379_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">The Chargers currently play their home games at Chiswick RU in South West London. Chiswick is a district of the Borough of Hounslow and was first recorded in c.1000 as <em>Ceswican. </em>The name “Chiswick” is of Old England origin meaning ‘Cheese Farm’ and originates from the riverside meadows and farms that are thought to have supported an annual cheese fair in the area. Chiswick grew up as a village with its inhabitants practising farming, fishing and other riverside trades. By the early nineteenth century the fishing industry in and around Chiswick was declining as the growth of industry and the invention of the flush toilet were causing pollution in the river. Fish began to die out and the river became unsuitable as a spawning ground. Locks upstream also made the river impassable by migratory fish such as salmon and shad. The population of Chiswick grew almost tenfold during the 19th century and the area is a mixture of Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian housing. Suburban building began in Gunnersbury in the 1860s and in Bedford Park in 1875. During the Second World War, Chiswick suffered a number of bombing raids. Both incendiary and high explosive bombs were used, and there was also damage from falling anti-aircraft shells that had not exploded as intended. The first V-2 rocket to hit London fell on Chiswick on 8 September 1944, killing three people, injuring 22 others and causing extensive damage elsewhere.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-x7F2j8ebMm8/Uv_kfI4EJGI/AAAAAAAAQR4/9-ooo01ETpY/s1600-h/IMG_33802.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3380" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3380" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-D2UuwWP7kh4/Uv_kfuO609I/AAAAAAAAQSA/UuyEfpjdexQ/IMG_3380_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">South West London Chargers were formed only last year as a result of the merger between South London Storm and West London Sharks. Picking Clapham Common as a training base, the Chargers entered the RL South Premier last season (essentially Level 4 in the pyramid) and won the league by a point with a narrow victory against 2nd Hammersmith Hill Hoists. The Chargers ensured the perfect season by winning the London Cup as well and will look to defend both of them when the league starts again in April. Entering the Challenge Cup for the first time (although both Storm and the Sharks did, a 2nd Round appearance for the Storm being the best record), the Chargers trying to improve London’s dismal record in this competition.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-F02mR9tkjSI/Uv_kgTdGZeI/AAAAAAAAQSI/pZDtrgSBdz8/s1600-h/IMG_33872.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3387" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3387" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Gup0TpTEpRs/Uv_khIgHv0I/AAAAAAAAQSQ/bgI7StqisIs/IMG_3387_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">The Chargers play their home games at Chiswick RU’s Dukes Meadow ground, which was formally used by the West London Sharks. Chiswick currently play in rugby union’s (boooo!) London North West 2 league which is Level 7 in the RU pyramid. A basic ground which has the clubhouse on entry and then grass standing around the side of the pitch. Close to Barnes Bridge and the Fuller’s Brewery on the other side of the Thames, Dukes Meadow is a ground in a scenic area that on a great summer’s day, would be an excellent place to watch rugby. (The proper version!) The weather was fairly poor throughout the match and the lack of cover wasn’t great (view from the clubhouse overhang was blocked by the crowd!) but the place does the job for the likely low crowds Chiswick RU would have.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GpbGIBOxHDc/Uv_khjjkouI/AAAAAAAAQSY/NvhsvrmlO0s/s1600-h/1523016_10152196594787943_1727257669_o%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="1523016_10152196594787943_1727257669_o" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="1523016_10152196594787943_1727257669_o" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KKSLoi3s8Rg/Uv_kiUzESTI/AAAAAAAAQSg/vNIBiW-JQ9k/1523016_10152196594787943_1727257669_o_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana"></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">In town for the cup tie were Torfaen Tigers, from the South Wales Premier which they won last year. Currently playing at Cwmbran RU’s Kings Head, the Welsh boys would be a good match for the Chargers with both sides being league winners in 2013. Neither side had started their seasons yet and it showed when the game kicked off, with unforced errors all over the gaff. Chargers, however were backed by a good partisan home crowd and were putting the Tigers under constant pressure. Despite both sides never finishing their sets due to daft mistakes, it always looked like the Chargers would open the scoring first. They did on 23 minutes after good work from Nathan Coughtrey allowed Terance Puna to power his way over. The missed conversion attempt highlighted how tight this game would be and with the Chargers unable to score a 2nd try, you did wonder if the London side would regret it. Despite offering very little for most of the first 40 minutes, the Tigers nearly equalised on the counter attack, but the home side held firm.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NxYcFezeROU/Uv_kjKMcfcI/AAAAAAAAQSo/xjV4-jEwrv8/s1600-h/IMG_3391%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3391" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3391" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zQTDfz2s8zE/Uv_kj0q00wI/AAAAAAAAQSw/tx3ssiqXzdg/IMG_3391_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">The Tigers were understandably far better in the 2nd half as they began to push the Chargers defence further back. They also had the added bonus of a strong breeze to assist them going forward and so their 5th tackle kicks were causing the Chargers more problems than usual. The reason they weren’t adding more points onto the board was silly misplaced passes or handling errors with dropped the pressure. It was one of those handling errors which sent the Chargers on their way to the 2nd Round. From a scrum, the ball was worked out wide to Tala Petelo who put David Wojciechowicz away down the wing and he cut inside to get over the line with around 65 minutes played. Coughtrey added the conversion and even scored a late penalty to put the game well beyond the Tigers. You felt that the Welsh team deserved at least some points on the board and with the very last move of the game, a lovely long ball out to Gareth Roberts who had the easy task of going over the line. Luke Brown added the conversion but that was it and the Chargers were through to the 2nd Round.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Hx-hqNtil5U/Uv_kkXZJojI/AAAAAAAAQS4/B47XfR3Yp1g/s1600-h/IMG_3406%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3406" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="139" alt="IMG_3406" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xxLiXQkfNXA/Uv_kk-VbjtI/AAAAAAAAQS8/dJ45pR1xzWE/IMG_3406_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">On the balance of play you feel that the Chargers deserved to win, but it was a great cup tie and an excellent way to open my rugby league viewing for 2014. The Chargers have another home tie for the 2nd Round when National Conference One side Milford Marlins come down from Derbyshire. A tough game for the Chargers and you would expect the Marlins to win, but with home advantage, you never know… A decent day out considering it looked sport was well off when Havant & Waterlooville lost another weather battle. Good luck to the Chargers for the rest of the season, London rugby league isn’t dead. Despite what you read!</font></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/SouthWestLondonChargersVsTorfaenTigers010214RL"><font face="Verdana">Photos from Chargers vs Tigers</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________</font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>6/10 (entertaining cup tie that was always in the balance)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>10/10 (it was free)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>4/10 (basic, but scenic venue by the Thames)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>5/10 (occasionally backed by the home crowd)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>N/A – didn’t eat at game, burger van didn’t look too appealing</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme: </strong>N/A – they don’t issue</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: Craig Kay – </strong>7/10 (did the job and let play flow as much as he could)</font></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-40001586956246969402014-02-03T20:32:00.001+00:002014-02-03T20:32:46.133+00:00Brightlingsea Regent vs Bodmin Town (18/01/14)<p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>Match 222</strong></font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#ff0000">Ground #: 176</font></strong></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>North Road</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>FA Vase 4th Round </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>3pm </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>£6</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>£1 </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>562 </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Brightlingsea Regent 3</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Holman 5’, Kelly 60’, Gould 88’ </font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Bodmin Town 1</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Broomfield 52’ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000"></font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">____________________________________________________________</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">When the FA Vase reaches the national rounds, the ties that really stand out are ones that pit teams from different leagues together. No way on earth would an Eastern Counties League side ever play against a Southwest Peninsula League side in normal circumstances. Yet when the Vase sent SW cracks Bodmin Town on a 325 mile trek to Brightlingsea for the 4th Round, this was a tie that stood out. A first viewing of the Eastern Counties League and a first viewing of SW non-league football for me since 2011.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-19skoql-PFo/Uu_8q3A-FGI/AAAAAAAAQLs/hfTXh8O4Fmg/s1600-h/IMG_32932.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3293" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3293" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8BcL6aAh-AA/Uu_8sZHkWCI/AAAAAAAAQL0/gonU6gd3YkY/IMG_3293_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Brightlingsea is a coastal town in the Tendring district of Essex, situated at the mouth of the River Colne, on Brightlingsea Creek. Named in the Domesday Book as <i>Brictesceseia, </i>the medieval town grew up around two centres, firstly around the parish church and secondly close to the shore where a port had developed. Trade was in oysters, fish, copper and locally made bricks. The Cinque Ports were a confederation of the five most important ports on the coast of the English Channel. They had obligations to provide ships and men to fight for the king in time of war but were compensated by lucrative exemptions from taxation. Brightlingsea became a limb (or subsidiary) port for Sandwich although these days it is a purely ceremonial affair. </font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-N3jXK2Q7TV4/Uu_8tCPQh0I/AAAAAAAAQL8/f5t_A0JQf3M/s1600-h/IMG_32942.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3294" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3294" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-U4D51gXKr9k/Uu_8t9n615I/AAAAAAAAQME/Bn0eoH-1pFk/IMG_3294_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">The port came to prominence again in the 1984-85 Miners' Strike where attempts were made to import coal through the Port. However the efforts of picketing miners prevented coal imports through Brightlingsea. It yet again came to national prominence in 1995 with an attempt to use the port again for a controversial cargo. Dubbed the "Battle of Brightlingsea" it comprised a series of protests against the live export of animals from the town for slaughter in Europe. During a nine-month period, over 150 convoys passed through the town and 250,000 animals were exported. 598 people were arrested by the police, of whom 421 were local residents but the campaigners eventually won and the live exports ceased. </font> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VqHH6bWndbo/Uu_8utHJrnI/AAAAAAAAQMM/IzUmN4J3xYY/s1600-h/IMG_32952.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3295" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3295" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8OFNIplm_Vc/Uu_8vd3ZPRI/AAAAAAAAQMU/xe_HlEra4do/IMG_3295_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Brightlingsea United were founded in 1928 by a merger of Brightlingsea Athletic and Brightlingsea Town. Playing their early football in the Essex & Suffolk Border League, they moved into their current North Road ground in 1929 and the Premier Division in 1931. After yo-yoing between the various divisions of the E&SBL over the years, Brightlingsea joined the Essex Senior League in 1972 and won the title two years running in 1989 and 1990 to join the Eastern Counties League for a new challenge. Promoted to the Premier Division in the first season, the upward trajectory suddenly stopped and were promptly relegated in 1993 before resigned from the league altogether in 2003. The resignation caused by a lack of proper changing facilities at North Road. </font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8TOrir6X6sM/Uu_8wep1FHI/AAAAAAAAQMc/Yi_uDVndLL0/s1600-h/IMG_32982.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3298" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3298" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PeKc4A_s0NU/Uu_8xKYkLDI/AAAAAAAAQMk/mYpfa4vWMGY/IMG_3298_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">In 2005, a new chapter started with Brightlingsea United merging with youth team Regent Park Rangers. Back in the E&SBL, Regent won Division 2 at the first attempt and achieved a double promotion from Division 1 a season later. In 2011, nearly 10 years after resigning from the league, Regent were back in the Eastern Counties League after winning the Premier Division of the E&SBL. Under the guidance of boss James Webster, the Regent found their upward trend again and came 3rd in the Eastern Counties League 1st Division last season to be back in the Premier Division for 2013/14. </font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2FNswmYst3c/Uu_8yJYMLOI/AAAAAAAAQMs/pY5xSrd-vNc/s1600-h/IMG_33012.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3301" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3301" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-koB2J18FpGQ/Uu_8y6uT5ZI/AAAAAAAAQM0/4b6FYc5rhfA/IMG_3301_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Regent’s North Road has been home to them for some time and still retains a basic look that it has most likely had throughout its history. A clubhouse with a changing room annex dominates the place and provides a good bit of standing cover for the usual 80 odd that normally attend Regent games. On the clubhouse side is a typical plastic stand that is usual sadly at this level today. Needing a minimum number of seats to achieve certain grading regulations, these quick fixes are never normally aesthetically pleasing or suit the ground well and this stand was no different. While the rest of the ground is hard, uncovered standing, Brightlingsea had used the money generated from the Vase run already to reach national news. Purchasing a similar uncovered plastic stand off eBay from the Isle of Wight, <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25758243">the club’s £5,000 fee for the stand managed to buy them national coverage from the BBC</a>. The ‘eBay Stand’ (<i>name it this lads!</i>) has been plonked in the far corner of the ground next to the far car park to help Regent achieve another grading criteria and provide a tangible memento of this season’s Vase run for the future. </font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qh3HJAvUdw8/Uu_8zR3hbbI/AAAAAAAAQM8/X1c-SwWfmHc/s1600-h/IMG_33062.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3306" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3306" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Uh2MRQJWBG0/Uu_80VsAhSI/AAAAAAAAQNE/mk1iN3XGC4s/IMG_3306_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>The eBay Stand</em>) </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Before this season Brightlingsea in any form had never really had much of a Vase history, with only a 3rd Round appearance in 2012/13 being their furthest quest. Yet, having already seen off Felixstowe & Walton United (1-0), Stanway Rovers (3-0), Team Bury (1-0), Takeley (2-1) and then Colney Heath after a replay, they were already breaking new ground by reaching the 4th Round. They welcomed the might from the West Country in Bodmin Town to North Road in what was for me, the best looking tie of the Round. Bodmin have local pedigree being joint top of the Southwest Peninsula League and </font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2010/11/dawlish-town-vs-bodmin-town-131110.html"><font face="Verdana">having previously seen them take down a higher level side in the Vase (albeit just over 3 years ago!)</font></a><font face="Verdana"> coming to Brightlingsea wouldn’t phase them. Having already dispatched of Bemerton Heath Harlequins and Kidlington, this game would be tougher, but I fancied Bodmin.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-avYTWg_Vvwk/Uu_8051G97I/AAAAAAAAQNM/n4V6uaVGamk/s1600-h/IMG_3311%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3311" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3311" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mWyA0M0vO7w/Uu_81-QGuVI/AAAAAAAAQNU/0krvt61fw0g/IMG_3311_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">What I didn’t expect was Bodmin (who had made the long journey the day before) to actually not turn up for the opening spell of the game. Brightlingsea had already caused panic in the Cornish defence, but when a Ricky Griggs’ free kick was whipped in, up went Bodmin keeper Kevin Miller (yep, </font><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Miller_%28footballer%29"><font face="Verdana">that one</font></a><font face="Verdana">) and a home defender. Miller appeared to be unfairly challenged and a loose ball was flicked on and headed home by Jake Holman for a dream start. From where I was, it looked harsh on Bodmin, but Miller is tad bigger than his professional days so possibly could have used his strength better. Bodmin were all over the shop and only desperate defending and luck kept Regent out from adding a 2nd. Bodmin did get back into it but their anger with the ref increased when Chris Wright had an effort ruled out for offside. Despite beginning to impress forward, the Cornish team still could not defend crosses at all and Holman had a header from a corner smack the bar as Bodmin needed to regroup at HT. Intriguing tie.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7BS9CMb2fhw/Uu_82n2i5II/AAAAAAAAQNc/32isJlaPQCc/s1600-h/IMG_3322%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3322" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3322" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eaGSXqHEYuQ/Uu_83RxUnuI/AAAAAAAAQNk/jxqSOcUC6KQ/IMG_3322_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Regent had looked ropey at the back and Bodmin needed to get at them for the 2nd half. They did from the off and grabbed an equalizer on 52 minutes. Danny O'Hagan received the ball on the right and just ran at the Regent defence. As they parted like the seas, Seb Broomfield collected the ball and drilled a low shot past Daniel Beeson in the swashbuckling manner I remember Bodmin to be. Regent looked stunned and as passes went astray and Bodmin began to push further forward it looked good for the Cornish side. So of course they fell behind 8 minutes later. In possibly their first foray up the field in the second half, Regent won a corner. The cross was drifted towards the goalie and Miller missed it completely to allow Phil Kelly to head into an empty net. Bodmin looked stunned now and despite a rally back into the game, they never again looked like threatening Beeson. Regent confirmed their place in the 5th Round with a late goal as Josh Gould arrived first from a free kick to head in. This time Bodmin were finished as Regent deservedly went through.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mXjDaip4E4g/Uu_84fUKecI/AAAAAAAAQNs/WxRxpfBoUtc/s1600-h/IMG_3326%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3326" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3326" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NxTd50KQ_FY/Uu_85KF9_1I/AAAAAAAAQN0/AIB45U3gbUU/IMG_3326_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">On the way home I did think that whoever met Regent in Round 5 would go through and that will fall to </font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/dunston-uts-vs-west-auckland-town.html"><font face="Verdana">2012 winners</font></a><font face="Verdana"> Dunston UTS. They are a lovely club and have come extremely far, but they don’t have the quality to trouble the Northern League side, especially up in the NE. Good luck to Regent for the future though – brilliant hosts and dealt with their big day well. Bodmin were a shadow of the side I remember them as and with the fears that some of the extreme ends of England are starting to become detached from the pyramid, (do you blame them for not going up in the current economy) the quality is starting to suffer. This was a long trip, but as with most Vase ties, one that was very much worth it. If only this rain would piss off eh!</font></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/BrightlingseaRegentVsBodminTown180114"><font face="Verdana">Photos from Brightlingsea Regent vs Bodmin Town</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>6/10 (war of attrition rather than quality)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>7/10 (paid more for Vase ties so good work Regent)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>6/10 (basic, but hopefully doesn’t become a plastic stand fest)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>7.5/10 (good noise from the home fans)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>6/10 (fair bacon roll)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme: </strong>5/10 (looked professional, but light on content)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: Paul Forrester – </strong>5/10 (so fussy and couldn’t let it flow)</font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3AsDFMqMzk0/Uu_853LxhAI/AAAAAAAAQN8/H95cBZBliuk/s1600-h/BR%252520vs%252520BT%252520prog%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="BR vs BT prog" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="BR vs BT prog" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UnA0-MEnk00/Uu_86mUxhRI/AAAAAAAAQOE/knTtj3roUcw/BR%252520vs%252520BT%252520prog_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="170" border="0"></font></a></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-18067686851465401282014-01-28T19:26:00.001+00:002014-01-28T19:26:31.230+00:00Road to the London Senior Cup 2013/14 (Quarter-Final)<p><font face="Verdana"><em>One day more, another day, another destiny</em>. A midweek trip to Tooting to watch this Quarter-Final clash in front of less than 100 people would have normally appealed. However, a trip to watch the outstanding Les Misérables was always going to win so the QF tie was missed.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RKYnSjem9mY/UugEUNKB69I/AAAAAAAAQLA/6AuuVHDI3Zs/s1600-h/IMG_32732.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3273" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3273" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EPgEWC2HToE/UugEVd8ZifI/AAAAAAAAQLI/szDVLQAlOoY/IMG_3273_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>Can you hear the people sing?</em>)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Tooting’s victory over Thamesmead in the previous round saw them face Southern Counties East League side Cray Valley Paper Mills. Slap bang in midtable and 12 points behind leaders Ashford United suggested that The Terrors should comfortably make the next round. It seemed that way too on 4 minutes when Zenio Aiken-Simon fired into the roof of the net. However, having already beaten Barkingside and Welling United (who both play in leagues above them), Paper Mills came back strong and after creating many chances Laurent Hamici finally equalised for the Paper Mills on 79 minutes. No more goals came and </font><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJsm-FrzYVc"><font face="Verdana">so it was penalties, which someone has to miss and that was Tooting’s Zenio Aitken-Simon</font></a><font face="Verdana"> to send the mighty Cray Valley (PM) into the Semi-Finals.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wwpIDWb3mWs/UugEXcLGIDI/AAAAAAAAQLQ/7utUkzhPWlQ/s1600-h/maxresdefault%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="maxresdefault" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="139" alt="maxresdefault" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tnTiH8vo6ug/UugEYs8HfmI/AAAAAAAAQLY/XpxIvJbDMVk/maxresdefault_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>Tooting take the lead</em>)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Cray Valley (PM) now await the winners of the AFC Wimbledon/Cray Wanderers vs Bromley QF. Brilliantly, this Semi-Final has been scheduled to take place on 5th March when I’m in Poland. So it’s another tie that I’m likely to miss unless it’s moved. It’s going well…</font></p> <p><u><font face="Verdana">ROAD TO THE LONDON SENIOR CUP 2013/2014:</font></u> <p><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/thamesmead-town-vs-greenhouse-london.html"><font face="Verdana">1ST ROUND: Thamesmead Town 2-2 Greenhouse London [Thamesmead win 6-5 on penalties] (Bayliss Avenue, Att: 22)</font></a> <p><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/road-to-london-senior-cup-201314-2nd.html"><font face="Verdana">2ND ROUND: Tooting & Mitcham United 2-0 Thamesmead Town (Imperial Fields, Att: 64)</font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">QUARTER-FINAL: Tooting & Mitcham United 1-1 Cray Valley (PM) [Cray Valley win 7-6 on penalties] (Imperial Fields, Att: 96)</font></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-27569220486151723522014-01-24T20:43:00.001+00:002014-01-24T20:43:22.565+00:00Macclesfield Town vs Sheffield Wednesday (04/01/14)<p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>Match 221</strong></font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#ff0000">Ground #: 175</font></strong></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>Moss Rose </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>FA Cup 3rd Round </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>3pm</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>£10 (concession)</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>£3 </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>5,873 </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Macclesfield Town 1</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Williams 72’ </font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Sheffield Wednesday 1</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Johnson 25’ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000"></font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000">____________________________________________________________</font> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">A final castaway to a Saturday evening, set at times that neither side’s fans could get home from. Teams playing weakened sides as </font><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25579811"><font face="Verdana">they see the competition as a hindrance</font></a><font face="Verdana"> and going to Brackley Town and losing. (Hello Gillingham!) TV execs picking dreadful Premier League based ties that fail to take into account the romance of it all. It hasn’t been a good recent history for the FA Cup and the fear is clearly there that the competition is on its arse. The 3rd Round draw this season wasn’t the best either with very few standout ties. Step forward however, plucky Macclesfield Town who hosted struggling Championship side Sheffield Wednesday. The town got behind it too – with the game a sell out and thanks to Macc Phil (who I’d seen the Macc attack with at Wimbledon, Bradford and Barnet) we’d be there. The magic of the FA Cup. </font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c-_IZyA7sdk/UuLQDzBk4uI/AAAAAAAAQIE/XV1nocP7jGQ/s1600-h/IMG_32152.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3215" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3215" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cVvvxb2gTMQ/UuLQE8PBemI/AAAAAAAAQIM/HYoNA5D6vSY/IMG_3215_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Macclesfield is a market town within the unitary authority of Cheshire East, and the county of Cheshire. The Domesday Book records the town as "Maclesfeld" and in 1183 it was referred to as "Makeslesfeld”. The English Place-Name Society gives its name as being derived from the Old English name, <i>Maccel</i> and field meaning `Maccels' open country'. Macclesfield was granted a borough charter by Earl Ranulf III of Chester, in the early 13th century and was the administrative centre of the Hundred of Macclesfield, which occupied most of east Cheshire. In the uprising of 1645, Charles Stuart and his army marched through Macclesfield as they attempted to reach London. The mayor was forced to welcome the prince, and the event is commemorated in one of the town's silk tapestries. Macclesfield was famously once the world's biggest producer of finished silk with 71 silk mills operating in 1832. Macclesfield is the original home of Hovis breadmakers, produced in Publicity Works Mill (commonly referred to as "the Hovis Mill"). It was founded by a Macclesfield businessman and a baker from Stoke-on-Trent. <i>Hovis</i> is said to derive from the Latin "homo-vitalis" (strength for man) as a way of providing a cheap and nutritious food for poor mill workers. </font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lhC7-hz-IF0/UuLQGYEA1AI/AAAAAAAAQIU/rEmxWP6Z9eI/s1600-h/IMG_32182.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3218" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3218" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lhWsiUrPNqU/UuLQHMn2PUI/AAAAAAAAQIc/ew9A1AYnvbY/IMG_3218_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Macclesfield Town (now referred to as the Macc Attack for the rest of this post) were first formed in 1874 and started out playing rugby union rules. (<i>Some clubs would argue they still play by these rules today…</i>) They played under a combination of names until football resumed after World War 2 when Macclesfield Town FC Ltd were created and the Macc Attack were truly born. The club joined the Cheshire County League and saw their first real successes in the early 50s and 60s, which saw league titles and reaching the FA Cup 3rd Round for the first time in 1968. The club were also founding members of the Northern Premier League (along with currently FL sides Wigan, Morecambe and Fleetwood) and won the competition in the first two seasons. Despite the excellent early start, the Macc Attack were relegated in 1980 when the stronger teams in the Northern Premier League founded part of the Alliance Premier League (or the Conference). It took Macc a while to get up to this level, but they rebuilt and achieved this in 1987. </font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-C8HpT1_Osyc/UuLQIOR7AaI/AAAAAAAAQIk/Vcuqr-EGYnQ/s1600-h/IMG_32172.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3217" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3217" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ma1EaOAg988/UuLQJJ_O8MI/AAAAAAAAQIs/HHfSsxl2EIk/IMG_3217_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Again, Macc Attack started off well in their new surroundings but started to struggle and so Sammy McIlroy was brought in as manager. McIlroy changed the club for the better as a positive approach was taken and they won the Conference title in 1995 but could not take promotion due to Moss Rose having too few seats. They won the title again in 1997 and could finally take their place in the Football League after work had been done on Moss Rose. McIlroy kept them going and Macc Attack were runners up in Division 3 so gain a 2nd successive promotion. This was as good as it got however as Macc started on a downward trend and after Ince nearly took them down back to the Conference (sound familiar?), years of fighting </font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/bradford-city-vs-macclesfield-town.html"><font face="Verdana">against the drop could not be avoided in 2011/12 as Macc returned to the Conference.</font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-c_vWiwBg5rI/UuLQJycb47I/AAAAAAAAQI0/lfblKTDUvoI/s1600-h/IMG_32192.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3219" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3219" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wlE2zixStz0/UuLQKii8q9I/AAAAAAAAQI8/16oUUd7O9Vw/IMG_3219_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Moss Rose is a ground that is clearly under the “old-school” category for the Conference. Being Macclesfield’s home since 1891, the ground is dominated by the large Main Stand which reeks of being from a bygone era, but actually only dates from 1968. With no supporting pillars in the way of it, views from the Main Stand are excellent with terracing around and under it. Opposite the Main Stand is the more modern Henshaw’s Stand from 2001. An all seater stand that also has the hospitality areas at the back to give the ground a more modern look. Behind the first goal is a strange seated and terrace combo of the Star Lane End. The seating actually in front of the terracing as it was added on later to ensure the Macc Attack complied with Football League rules. Finally, just to add to the old school feel of the ground was the uncovered, large terrace behind the goal. </font> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uw-c7H8n6wI/UuLQL8On1vI/AAAAAAAAQJE/-a93A3FpzV8/s1600-h/IMG_32202.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3220" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3220" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9qZsyk_d6U0/UuLQMUsmozI/AAAAAAAAQJM/etUFyYhOcaU/IMG_3220_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">The Macc Attack had a cup run last season that was only ended with a narrow defeat to the eventual winners Wigan. The board used the money and the last remaining pennies to try and push towards promotion but it didn’t happen. Giving ex boss Andy King too much money for no return means the club are now suffering financially with the board desperate for extra investment. Despite a slow start, September saw them start a run (</font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/barnet-vs-macclesfield-town-240913.html"><font face="Verdana">including a win at Barnet</font></a><font face="Verdana">) and Macc were now making a play-off charge in 11th place. This season’s cup run had been kind, all home games with Vauxhall Motors battered (7-0), Swindon battered (4-0) and Brackley Town just scraped past (3-2) to set them up nicely for this. Wednesday were good opponents. Having a dreadful time in the Championship, they were hovering just outside the drop zone and with a caretaker boss in charge since the sacking of Dave Jones. This was going to be a proper cup tie.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oVxMyLpvIOw/UuLQNScypKI/AAAAAAAAQJU/bMD9pvtl7Js/s1600-h/IMG_32252.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3225" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3225" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-S-8lcj1jQNY/UuLQOYhXlKI/AAAAAAAAQJc/dSeZE1y3SIo/IMG_3225_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">With the grey skies (<em>when is a classic cup game played in the baking sun!?</em>) threatening rain, Wednesday made some of the early running before the Macc got right into it. Possibly not liking the up and at them approach, Macclesfield were unlucky not to take an early lead when Joe Connor’s header was cleared off the line. Macc were pushing forward when they stupidly got done on the counter. From their own corner, Macc tried a training ground move that within 10 seconds had allowed Wednesday to win a contentious corner. Big Reda Johnson was unmarked from the cross and powered a header past Rhys Taylor for a 25th minute lead. Macc Attack were rocked and Wednesday were unlucky not to be 2 up before HT as Taylor made an outstanding save from Jose Semedo. Wednesday did not look impressive and so everyone knew Macc had a chance in the 2nd half if they went for it.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-aoYxYKggCgM/UuLQPAKs59I/AAAAAAAAQJk/Yt9GquOQmaE/s1600-h/IMG_32312.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3231" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3231" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4BuLqgP6Rvk/UuLQQAdrTZI/AAAAAAAAQJs/tAo02i5e3F0/IMG_3231_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Macc really did go for it! Winning more and more possession, they began pushing Wednesday back and creating more chances. Firstly, Chris Holroyd had a header from a corner cleared off the line with Wednesday keeper Damián Martinez beaten again. Scott Boden was then put through in the clear but Miguel Llera managed to track back and stop the chance before he could get his shot away. A frantic half saw Macc keeper Taylor make another fine save from a Jeremy Helan strike before Martinez did even better to keep out Danny Whitaker’s half volley. The pressure Macc had put on a team 3 leagues above them had been a fine effort and they were finally rewarded on 72 minutes when Steve Willilams stuck out a leg to divert a long ball in. Moss Rose was bouncing at that equalizer as Macc really really went for it! Neither keeper was particularly tested in the final 20 minutes though as a replay was required. (And probably the right scoreline on the day)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sza0Ec6JVxI/UuLQRGJg7dI/AAAAAAAAQJ0/r8VWWHag_o4/s1600-h/IMG_3233%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3233" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3233" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ffJ7RZzPOp4/UuLQR0ebomI/AAAAAAAAQJ8/w6RZhQQ9x4Q/IMG_3233_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">The replay at Hillsborough earnt Macc a fine pay day in their quest to close the financial hole they have and an away crowd of around 1,500 also boosted this. In the end, Wednesday did have too much for them but not without a scare as Scott Boden’s penalty cancelled out Chris Maguire’s opener. Scott Kay then had a glorious chance to put Macc in front but his shot struck the bar before late goals from Jacques Maghoma, Jermaine Johnson and Miguel Llera put Wednesday through to Round 4. A mightily brave effort over 180 minutes from the Macc Attack though.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-k-qqaRinCCU/UuLQSvmbO3I/AAAAAAAAQKE/DiPkm2QuoGg/s1600-h/IMG_3234%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3234" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="IMG_3234" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ekn4ID4E1eg/UuLQVytC7kI/AAAAAAAAQKM/NC85JQGOnHY/IMG_3234_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Wednesday’s “reward” for this win was an away tie at Rochdale. A difficult and unglamorous game is probably not what they would have wanted. It is a winnable tie for them however and with Wednesday still in top form with a hammering over Leeds (6-0) and a credible draw at Burnley (1-1), a Round 5 tie likely awaits them. Macc have also been boosted by the tie and packed house at Moss Rose. Financial difficulties still await them but with form ok and the club just outside the play-off race, the next few months will be very interesting for Macc. While the occasions are rare, the FA Cup still means a lot to enough people to show it still has a place in today’s game. Just remember that when you next watch a dull TV FA Cup tie, it still matters. It did to the 5,873 fans for this game.</font></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/MacclesfieldTownVsSheffieldWednesday040114"><font face="Verdana">Photos from Macclesfield Town vs Sheffield Wednesday</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>7/10 (just lived up to expectations)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>7/10 (good work by Macc for this)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>6.5/10 (looks tired in places, but still a great place to go)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>7/10 (full house and was rocking)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>N/A – didn’t eat at the ground, lengthy queues anyway</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme: </strong>6/10 (good amount of material for a Skrill League programme)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: Lee Mason – </strong>5/10 (just got a lot wrong)</font> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tA2iD6OxJFI/UuLQXPgCniI/AAAAAAAAQKU/mGaasBcP1dI/s1600-h/MT%252520vs%252520SW%252520prog%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="MT vs SW prog" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="MT vs SW prog" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3IEPeFwhVI0/UuLQX_fNI1I/AAAAAAAAQKc/MBBhbU4DdnA/MT%252520vs%252520SW%252520prog_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="167" border="0"></font></a> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gU_KND5NJ6s/UuLQY9DwR4I/AAAAAAAAQKk/iYvEPCipJho/s1600-h/MT%252520vs%252520SW%252520stub%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="MT vs SW stub" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="169" alt="MT vs SW stub" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6EQyXTT0NGc/UuLQZl1T6GI/AAAAAAAAQKs/pEF2bYKYW0E/MT%252520vs%252520SW%252520stub_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-38877694384783144822014-01-15T21:24:00.001+00:002014-01-15T21:24:56.271+00:00Edinburgh United vs Harthill Royal (28/12/13)<p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>Match 220</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#ff0000">Ground #: 174</font></strong> </font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>Paties Road Stadium </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>East Region Juniors South Division </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>1:30pm </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>£4</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>None</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>23 (h/c)</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Edinburgh United 7</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Gordon (pen) 5’, Mitchell 14’, 16’, McMillan 57’, 70’, 75’, Robertson (O.G) 86’ </font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Harthill Royal 0</strong> </font></font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000"></font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000">____________________________________________________________</font> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Another Christmas and another week in Scotland allowed me to have a fairly vast choice of games for the festive period. </font><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25442132"><font face="Verdana">Having put myself through 90 minutes of shite at Tynecastle on Boxing Day</font></a><font face="Verdana">, the next Saturday it was back down to grassroots level. With the weather trying to recreate some sort of Atlantis style island on the UK, a list of 12 games were created and then the worst game of weather bingo was played on the Saturday morning. With choice #1 at Benburb falling early on, Edinburgh United were lucky #2 as their clash against Harthill Royal went ahead. </font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UAiIpZYkaJ8/Utb8gUzklgI/AAAAAAAAQBw/t5eExT8jNSg/s1600-h/IMG_31962.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3196" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="244" alt="IMG_3196" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-x14ZgRJZ4mk/Utb8hIQw-pI/AAAAAAAAQB4/zPmkMV1ZrPE/IMG_3196_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>Shit pitch bingo</em>) </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Edinburgh United plays in the Colinton area of Edinburgh which is situated in the south-west of the city. Originally sited within a steep-sided glen on a convenient fording point on the Water of Leith, Colinton's history dates back to before the 11th century. The nearby 15th century Colinton Castle was destroyed by Oliver Cromwell during his invasion of Scotland. Following repair, the castle was subsequently partially demolished by the artist Alexander Nasmyth in order to create a picturesque ruin. Other notable figures with connections to Colinton include: Robert Louis Stevenson who spent the summers of his childhood at the manse when his grandfather was the village's Parish Minister and the philanthropist James Gillespie. Between 1909 and 1915, the War Office constructed Redford Barracks to the east of the village. The barracks represent the largest military installation built in Scotland since Fort George in the Highlands although they are now earmarked for disposal as part of the defence spending review. The village was the location for numerous mills producing textiles, snuff, and paper and it is thought that the first banknotes produced by the Bank of Scotland were printed on paper manufactured in Colinton.</font> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wPxH3ZKmBEE/Utb8hy43E8I/AAAAAAAAQCA/6Nrlh0SaHR0/s1600-h/IMG_31802.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3180" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3180" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DQOr6l8ojvw/Utb8irLadgI/AAAAAAAAQCI/4OkA176PjgI/IMG_3180_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">Now that The Spartans have withdrawn their Junior team into the East of Scotland League, Edinburgh United are the only side in Edinburgh now to play in the Junior Leagues. Formed in 1985, from a group of players at North Merchiston Juveniles, United won the East Region Division Two in their first season but with only a few hardcore spectators, have struggled to push on. Instead, spending most of their time in the lower divisions of the East Juniors. They finished last season in 15th place but the small reshuffle in the East Region last season seems to have galvanised United and they went into this game in 2nd place.</font> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0738wSPhOpU/Utb8jMMWkcI/AAAAAAAAQCQ/47Oi7h3ezLc/s1600-h/IMG_3183%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3183" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3183" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Dk8V0XhUZEA/Utb8kGiz4dI/AAAAAAAAQCU/j_QWX3pAeMI/IMG_3183_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">With a brilliant 7 away wins from 7 in the league so far, they were only 3 points behind leaders Dundonald Bluebell. Dundonald had won 2-0 at United in September, with the crunch return game to come later in 2014. For this game however, they welcomed a team who were struggling as Harthill Royal came to Paties Road. With only 3 points all season, they were clearly bottom of the league and a huge 7 points behind 13th place Rosyth. Harthill were rumoured at the end of last season to be thinking of taking an absence just to sort themselves out on and off the pitch (much like Bankfoot Athletic in the North Division), but they persevered and stuck at it.</font> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Zh2DpkZiygw/Utb8k_XFTJI/AAAAAAAAQCg/hq-JNQsx-IM/s1600-h/IMG_3187%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3187" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3187" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2kyxyLJC6tA/Utb8loQyaII/AAAAAAAAQCo/gV8zM1CmFAA/IMG_3187_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">A short(ish) walk from Slateford station, Paties Road Stadium is a decent venue for this level, settled very much in suburban Edinburgh. A large covered stand with seating benches straddles one side of the pitch and provides much needed cover for when the weather (like for this game) is absolutely perishing. The rest of the ground is grass standing with no old school grass banks such as those at Linlithgow. A simple enough venue, but set in the pleasant place that it is, Paties Road is somewhere that I would be happy to visit again, especially in the summer. (It was far too cold to head away from the stand and round to take pictures of the stand from the far side!)</font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kZnlZ79mZrs/Utb8mMvdteI/AAAAAAAAQCw/Ujd8J4ws_Rg/s1600-h/IMG_3188%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3188" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3188" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-X4Ic0zhOFhc/Utb8m-EReEI/AAAAAAAAQC4/dmRQDPjSNKY/IMG_3188_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">For a team that has conceded 46 goals already this season, Harthill needed to keep it tight early on and try to hit United on the counter attack. This plan lasted just 5 minutes as a mazy run from Kayne Paterson saw him brought down in the area and Chris Gordon easily dispatched it past Davie McGuiness. From then on, Harthill showed why they were bottom of the league as United cut them open at will. It didn’t take long for United to add more goals as Kenny McMillan romped down the left on 14 minutes and his cross was spilled by McGuiness to allow Kris Mitchell in for an easy finish. Harthill then from that kick-off laughably gave the ball away which allowed Mitchell to again score from a McMillan cross. 16 minutes and it was already 3-0, oh dear. Amazingly, Harthill managed to survive until HT conceding no more goals but this might have been more down to United relaxing than the Royal getting better.</font> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ypEjY74eKfk/Utb8nhFeJOI/AAAAAAAAQDA/hDuSe_CFRfQ/s1600-h/IMG_3191%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3191" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3191" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JeccQ_vCcv4/Utb8oDjV77I/AAAAAAAAQDI/GxTjQjqzkrE/IMG_3191_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">To be fair to the Royal, they must have received some bollocking at HT because they looked a much more determined outfit at the beginning of the half. They even had a few half chances to give the United defence something to think about, especially United goalie Ross Combe who must have been perishing after not needing to do anything for the first 45 minutes. Harthill then had all their work undone on 57 minutes as a simple long ball forward completely took out their defence. This allowed McMillan to get forward and fire home for #4. With the game now quite open as Edinburgh looked to boost their goal difference, they added another 3 goals before full-time. McMillan completed his hat-trick with two close range finishes, the 2nd being a header while stooped on the floor. The final goal scored right at the death sadly epitomised Harthill’s performance. A low driven cross was diverted in by Colin Robertson as no danger looked on. United declaring at 7.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nS0o4BaFejk/Utb8o45KYqI/AAAAAAAAQDQ/EtwcWHVgark/s1600-h/IMG_3193%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3193" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3193" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-mhOVZF04F1s/Utb8pSXUR3I/AAAAAAAAQDU/cc4jQAXY73w/IMG_3193_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">United have kept up their surprise form so far this season as the games after this one has seen them beat Dunbar United 6-3 before another away win, this time at Haddington Athletic. This continued good form along with Dundonald Bluebell seemingly losing some bottle means United currently sit in the nose bleeding position at the top of the pile. Harthill’s next game saw them grab a famous point with a 2-2 draw against Lochgelly Albert to leave them now only 9 points behind Rosyth. A return visit in the summer to Paties Road Stadium is a must, mainly to enjoy the far side and hopefully a tighter game! It was good to see another new ground up in Scotland, but it was far too cold to really enjoy it as the bovril was nearly spilt through shivering! An extremely cold way to end watching football in 2013.</font></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/EdinburghUnitedVsHarthillRoyal281213"><font face="Verdana">Photos from Edinburgh United vs Harthill Royal</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>4/10 (too onesided and far too cold)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>7/10 (fair amount for Junior football)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>5/10 (basic, but scenic ground)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>3/10 (the Harthill ultras tried their best to encourage their team)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>6/10 (good pie)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme: </strong>N/A – did issue earlier in season but a fall-out in the committee stopped it</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: Paul Crosbie – </strong>7/10 (don’t think he had much to do)</font></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-68833909222093071312014-01-06T20:23:00.001+00:002014-01-12T21:32:34.287+00:00Tottenham Hotspur vs Anzhi Makhachkala (12/12/13)<p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff0000">Match 218</font></strong> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff0000">Ground #: 173</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>White Hart Lane</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>Europa League Group Stage</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>8:05pm</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>£20</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>£3.50</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>23,101</font></font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Tottenham Hotspur 4</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Soldado 7’, 16’, (pen) 70’, Holtby 54’</font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Anzhi Makhachkala 1</font></strong></p><strong></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Ewerton 44’</font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000"></font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">_____________________________________________________________</font> <p><font face="Verdana">Despite living in London now for over 2 years, there was still one professional ground that I had still not managed to get to. It was strange too, my best friend at uni supports Spurs, my housemate supports Spurs and my girlfriend’s Dad supports Spurs. All roads lead to White Hart Lane it seems! The time had come then to finally get there.</font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1aAjbdbAQtY/UssQVPZ6T9I/AAAAAAAAP-U/c7e9vJJCH9U/s1600-h/IMG_30902.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3090" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3090" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-l7l6kG7gwCo/UssQWH8TQwI/AAAAAAAAP-c/oIsrbDyyrhQ/IMG_3090_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">Tottenham is an area of North London in the London Borough of Haringey, England, situated 8.2 miles north east of Charing Cross. Tottenham is believed to have been named after Tota, a farmer, whose hamlet was mentioned in the Domesday Book; as <i>Toteham</i>. When the Domesday Book was compiled in 1086, about 70 families lived within the area of the manor, mostly labourers working for the Lord of the Manor. A humorous poem entitled the Tournament of Tottenham, written around 1400, describes a mock-battle between peasants vying for the reeve’s daughter. From the Tudor period onwards, Tottenham became a popular recreation and leisure destination for wealthy Londoners. Henry VIII is known to have visited Bruce Castle and also hunted in Tottenham Wood. While it was a semi-rural and upper middle class area until the 1870s, today the area has been fully absorbed into London (helped by the various transport links that run through the area). They also love a good riot in Tottenham, with the deaths of Cynthia Jarrett and Mark Duggan in 1985 and 2011 being the cause of some serious disturbances between the population and Met Police.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jFCJCRsgxqY/UssQW0iAyGI/AAAAAAAAP-k/GsSi3WoFeBc/s1600-h/IMG_30842.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3084" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3084" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Op2kQ8VrMS8/UssQX5Yop2I/AAAAAAAAP-s/GGUEl9GDJuc/IMG_3084_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Tottenham Hotspur’s history is far too much to write in just a single paragraph or section, but I got </font><a href="https://twitter.com/BillyRadstock"><font face="Verdana">Billy Radstock</font></a><font face="Verdana"> to pen a few words to try and explain the Spurs:</font> <p><font face="Verdana">“<b>Tottenham Hotspur – a love excelling</b></font> <p><font face="Verdana">Tottenham Hotspur Football Club is situated in North London, an area it shares with Arsenal Football Club. The latter re-located from Woolwich, in South London, in the first part of the 20th century and was elected to the First Division in 1919, on the resumption of football after World War 1, and at the expense of Tottenham. Not surprisingly this injustice was resented by all Spurs fans and is still something of a sore point to this day. Arsenal fans may quibble about the exact boundaries of London, and whether Tottenham was actually in Middlesex rather than London, but common sense and natural justice will tell any normal person that Spurs are the genuine North London article and Arsenal a bunch of South London interlopers.</font> <p><font face="Verdana">Tottenham are the only football league team to be named after a Shakespearean character (Harry Hotspur), the only non-league team to win the FA Cup (in 1901), and the first British team to win a European trophy (The Cup Winners Cup in 1963).</font> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QVI7OKqvThE/UssQYdzenxI/AAAAAAAAP-0/Nxl1HUsZK2w/s1600-h/IMG_3092%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_3092" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="244" alt="IMG_3092" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-d2u2PWgInKQ/UssQZMt3wKI/AAAAAAAAP-8/PiJIK2xu75E/IMG_3092_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0"></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Tottenham’s teams have become associated with free flowing attacking football, this stemming from Arthur Rowe’s ‘push and run’ team of the 1950s and Bill Nicholson’s double winning side of 1961. To this day Spurs managers are judged against this criteria; the team has to play with some style. Most Spurs fans would rather not win the Premiership if it meant we had to play boring defensive football that no-one would like or remember. In this context the ultimate Spurs hero would either be the prolific drinker, smoker and goal scorer Jimmy Greaves, or the mercurial Scottish ball player Alfie Conn, who lit up a dark time for Spurs fans when we were relegated in the 1970s, although the magnificent lion hearted Dave Mackay has some claim to be rated the greatest of them all.</font> <p><font face="Verdana">Tottenham’s home ground, White Hart Lane, is famously difficult to get to and away from, and now has a reduced capacity of 36,000. Plans are afoot to build a new stadium nearby. Visitors to the stadium can alight at the nearest tube station, Seven Sisters, and walk along the attractive continental boulevard known as Tottenham High Road. Tottenham fans enjoy this promenade greatly, particularly on winter days when it is cold and raining.</font> <p><font face="Verdana">Spurs last won the league championship in 1961 and will probably never win it again, as Chelski and Man City hoover up all the quality players, but we don’t really care. We want to see some decent football, played in the Tottenham way, with a bit of success occasionally, perhaps in the Champions League. Not much to ask really...”</font> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Hve6ck6uLMQ/UssQZ_fMQzI/AAAAAAAAP_E/RWIDDV1g4A8/s1600-h/IMG_30932.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3093" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3093" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Qc1WHtWaKh4/UssQaioviVI/AAAAAAAAP_I/crEwXYjadTA/IMG_3093_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">White Hart Lane is a short distance (ish) away from their pals Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium but could not be more different. White Hart Lane being the old school ground that despite being modernised several times, still retains that character that is massively missing from the red bowl up the road. 3 of the 4 stands have undergone major refurbishment since the 1980’s which has also included the introduction of two “Jumbotron” video screens above either goal. We were situated in the West Stand which was apparently “the prawn sandwich brigade” section according to a season ticket holder. With some decent views over the pitch, the compact nature of White Hart Lane means this was an excellent ground to finish the London Professional scene on. (Until someone gets a new ground! Or the Olympic Stadium…) </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mOcJkOjtc1g/UssQbj4776I/AAAAAAAAP_U/FJkpPTA-ntA/s1600-h/IMG_30952.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3095" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3095" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eLYPrdvRJM0/UssQcUTYwQI/AAAAAAAAP_c/Wg6rAyQUkWg/IMG_3095_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">While many clubs started this season with a period of transition, you feel in the Premier League at least, none were in more than Spurs. After the World Record sale of Gareth “likes a dive” Bale (<em>I’m not letting that disgraceful 15 minutes from him in Cardiff 2012 ever go</em>) for a ridiculous amount, boss AVB decided to star in a real life Football Manager game. In came Paulinho, Nacer Chadli, Roberto Soldado, Étienne Capoue, Vlad Chiricheș, Christian Eriksen and Erik Lamela for the nice sum of £105m. With a completely new team comes some time to adjust and while the early form saw Spurs challenging for the title, defeats to West Ham, Newcastle and a complete embarrassment at Man City means AVB is a man under pressure. They were 6th in the league in this game, but these new signings weren’t meant to achieve that, they had to be much higher.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0VWSmNQGTO8/UssQdEe7K_I/AAAAAAAAP_k/CAv5CGlA0jc/s1600-h/IMG_30942.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3094" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3094" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-k6tzJFdDPwk/UssQdl0p5dI/AAAAAAAAP_s/DzSFyFbHwNc/IMG_3094_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Another piece in Spurs’ current state of transition is the announcement (and seemingly the start of the construction too as I walked past it) of their new ground right next door to White Hart Lane. While the Lane has been home to Spurs since 1899, its current capacity of 36,240 means it is smaller than many of their rivals and could see them missing out on potential revenue. While they lost the right to move to the Olympic Stadium (do West Ham really need a 60,000 stadium? Really!?) they have proceeded with a project called the Northumberland Development Project which should see Spurs move into a new 56,250 capacity ground in 2016.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RwjmRHJaz40/UssQeftfVCI/AAAAAAAAP_0/D9yktXhcELY/s1600-h/NDP_Night2.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="NDP_Night" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="175" alt="NDP_Night" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Bt-Lv6X8o_g/UssQfJx4ktI/AAAAAAAAP_8/npjN3Ff5eIc/NDP_Night_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>That looks remarkably like The Emirates Stadium…</em>)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">While AVB was under some pressure in the league, this game against the Russian Premier League side should have provided some respite with Spurs having already secured top spot in the group and their opponents Anzhi Makhachkala bagging 2nd. Spurs were one of only 2 teams in the Europa League Group Stage (as well as Red Bull Salzburg) that were going into this game with a 100% record so far. With the easiest group in the competition, Spurs were expected to cruise through and having already done the double over Sheriff Tiraspol and Tromsø, only Anzhi now could deny Spurs the 100%. It would be tough for the Russians as Anzhi’s days of mass spending have long finished with owner Suleyman Kerimov no longer wanting to heavily finance the team. With big names such as Samuel Eto'o, Willian, Lassana Diarra and Christopher Samba sold on, Anzhi are struggling in the league and currently sit in bottom place. With no wins to their name and 5 points away from safety, they need a big 2014 in the league to pull themselves out of this one with 11 games to go.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mk0jM6nHiNU/UssQgIWfzNI/AAAAAAAAQAE/t-pxxZEaDw0/s1600-h/IMG_31002.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3100" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3100" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Hz-VxG0wKHI/UssQggaZ43I/AAAAAAAAQAM/UKsg86mPHzY/IMG_3100_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">While Spurs may have expected a coast in the park, Anzhi came out and showed they could cause problems up front. In fact, Spurs had their defence to thank for getting back and covering Ilya Maksimov before he could get his shot away when through on goal. While up front, Anzhi looked ok, defensively they were hopeless and when Andros Townsend was brought down, the resulting free kick was whipped in and met by Soldado who gave Spurs the lead after just 7 minutes. Spurs could relax now, play some nice football and try to reduce the pressure on AVB for the upcoming Liverpool game to be played that Sunday. This nice football was too much for Anzhi as a slick passing move just 6 minutes later saw Lamela play Soldado in again and he found the bottom corner to make it 2-0. If any of the crowd still thought Anzhi had a chance in the game after the 2nd goal, that should have gone on 40 minutes when Townsend was through on goal, but his shot was lifted over Yevgeny Pomazan and wide of the goal. Spurs under AVB however, have had a habit of conceding daft goals and did the same right on HT when an Anzhi corner seemed to hit Brazilian defender Ewerton and go in. Game back on then!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LidJeWTIFPo/UssQhQ-11SI/AAAAAAAAQAU/vOaZEO-lViE/s1600-h/IMG_31042.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_3104" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3104" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6QeuTYgT6Io/UssQiB89VuI/AAAAAAAAQAc/etUpOhNDydQ/IMG_3104_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Anzhi started the 2nd half well causing Spurs more problems at the back and winning a series of corners. With nothing to show from them however, Spurs effectively killed the game off on 51 minutes with a piece of class. Having not properly cleared a corner, despite having about 3 attempts to do so, Anzhi saw the ball played back in by Townsend where Lewis Holtby controlled the ball perfectly before lifting it past the keeper with his other foot. Brilliant. Anzhi were going to struggle to score once again, never mind twice and when Jucilei stupidly brought down Ryan Fredericks in the penalty area, Soldado stepped up to complete his hattrick and make it 4-1. With the hattrick hero brought off, the game slowed right down for the final 20 minutes as everyone knew it was up. Anzhi did force a couple of decent saves from Friedel, but never really looked like getting back into it as they suffered their largest ever European defeat. Spurs, along with Salzburg (who beat Danish side Esbjerg) maintained their 100% record for the group and things looked good for AVB!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-L3gln77md80/UssQixOvF2I/AAAAAAAAQAk/gO5DM-rH6mI/s1600-h/AVBsacked2.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="AVB sacked" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="244" alt="AVB sacked" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_pb_CZ1RGug/UssQjoYSFdI/AAAAAAAAQAs/4ATssIdsnEM/AVBsacked_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="201" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Well actually, it got sour, rather quickly. A 5-0 defeat to a team inspired by that racist was the final straw for Chairman Daniel Levy as AVB was punted. </font><a href="http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/premier-league-paper-round-avb-pays-price-getting-023928268--sow.html"><font face="Verdana">This has caused mass debate in the (normally useless) football media</font></a><font face="Verdana"> as the journalists try to decide what just went wrong for a manager who now will surely struggle to get a top job in this country again. Coach Tim Sherwood took charge for their next two games and his decision to play attacking football seems to have paid off as he has been bizarrely given the job until the end of 2014/15, despite some top names being linked with the job. His first objective will be to try and get in the slipstream that Man Utd have created on their way back up the league to join the fight for the title and European spots.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Hn6my_Fb8HM/UssQkk5bhWI/AAAAAAAAQA0/O6IrzMeF-a4/s1600-h/DniproArena2.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="Dnipro Arena" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="Dnipro Arena" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-v6541cHs2ks/UssQldLm2eI/AAAAAAAAQA8/2Lup_h9fZq4/DniproArena_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>Dnipro Arena – Spurs next leg on their Europa League journey</em>)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Spurs reward for their Group K win was a Round of Last 32 tie against Ukrainian side Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk. Despite me being certain they had, Spurs have never played them and so a trip to the Dnipro Arena awaits them in February. For Anzhi, I said at the game whoever they drew would knock them out and so that falls to Belgian club Racing Genk. Spurs should they get through that tie with Dnipro (they should) will face the winners of PAOK or Benfica as they go for the Champions League qualification spot that winning this tournament brings. Considering how many people I could go to White Hart Lane with, I’ll be back there, probably many times before Spurs move across the road. A ground with good views, good atmosphere and occasionally sexy football (strikingly similar to watching Hearts actually), its worth the visit.</font></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/TottenhamHotspurVsAnzhiMakhachkala121213"><font face="Verdana">Photos from Tottenham Hotspur vs Anzhi Makhachkala</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>7/10 (reasonably decent for neutral)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>7/10 (nice of Spurs to reduce the prices)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>7/10 (excellent ground)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>6/10 (good noise from a small block of Spurs fan)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>5.5/10 (pies that break apart are not pies, sort it Spurs)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme: </strong>6.5/10 (was ok, but crossing that £3 mark for a programme is a no)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: Stefan Johannesson – </strong>7.5/10 (was good and even consulted the mysterious penalty box official for the penalty)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7CT69ZJLNkY/UssQmDUOSjI/AAAAAAAAQBE/5yix7KYsW54/s1600-h/SpursvsAnzhiprog2.jpg"><img title="Spurs vs Anzhi prog" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="244" alt="Spurs vs Anzhi prog" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GN_zNaR_j_E/UssQmqZsalI/AAAAAAAAQBM/rPCzsODHUJg/SpursvsAnzhiprog_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="168" border="0"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-j1SulfsykiY/UssQnZlEnuI/AAAAAAAAQBU/czg0umME90I/s1600-h/SpursvsAnzhistub2.jpg"><img title="Spurs vs Anzhi stub" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="128" alt="Spurs vs Anzhi stub" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HB8jtHWt35s/UssQoGBUNQI/AAAAAAAAQBc/VAuMcckv1Rc/SpursvsAnzhistub_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></a></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-73991690516255399092013-12-23T17:54:00.001+00:002013-12-23T17:54:18.934+00:00Mansfield Town vs Morecambe (30/11/13)<p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff0000">Match 216</font></strong> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff0000">Ground #: 172</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>Field Mill</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>English League 2</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>3pm</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>£13 (concession)</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>£3</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>2,753</font></font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Mansfield Town 1</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Dyer 17’, Clucas m/pen 75’</font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Morecambe 2</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Redshaw 51’, Ellison 85’</font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000"></font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000">_____________________________________________________________</font> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Normally my away trips following Morecambe are all down in the South. Rarely getting anywhere near the glorious North and all it has to offer. Maybe it was exam stress or some other mental capability that I lacked for a brief moment, but when I saw the first free weekend I had after the exams Morecambe were at “nearby” Mansfield it seemed like a brilliant idea. Only the 141 mile trip then!</font> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-b5tTkNc5Kvo/Urh4KD9GMRI/AAAAAAAAPhc/D_YUcjneSKE/s1600-h/IMG_3030%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana" color="#29105d"><img title="IMG_3030" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3030" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EY1GIeYdwPo/Urh4L3ej_MI/AAAAAAAAPhk/FAAXR2H3f6A/IMG_3030_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">Mansfield is a town in Nottinghamshire, surrounded by a pocket of steep hills within the Maun Valley, the town is around 12 miles north of Nottingham. Settlement in the Mansfield area is known to date back to Roman times, with a villa discovered in 1787 between Mansfield Woodhouse and Pleasley and a cache of denarii coins found near King's Mill in 1849. After the end of Roman occupation, the early English royalty are said to have stayed there, with the Mercian Kings having used it as a base for hunting in the nearby Sherwood Forest. The Domesday book compiled in 1086 has the settlement recorded as <i>Mammesfeld</i>. By the time of King Richard II signing a Warrant in November 1377 granting the right for the tenants to hold a fair every year for four days, the spelling had changed again to <i>Mannesfeld. </i>Access to the town between the 16th and 17th centuries was via several inns and stable yards with many known to date from medieval times. Several timber-framed cruck buildings were demolished in 1929 and another in 1973 which was documented by a local historical society during its demolition and was dated at c.1400AD, or earlier. Other glorious Tudor houses on Stockwell Gate, Bridge Street and Lime Tree place were also sadly demolished to make way for new developments before they could be viewed for being listed properties. The majority of buildings remaining are from the 17th century onwards.</font> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mvWWOEsUEzA/Urh4NqUwdgI/AAAAAAAAPhs/9cwOJ2wBWsM/s1600-h/IMG_3027%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana" color="#29105d"><img title="IMG_3027" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3027" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BhxBpIz2Zt8/Urh4O6X6n4I/AAAAAAAAPh0/8E7BeBl99rs/IMG_3027_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">Despite football being played in the town before their birth, Mansfield Town were founded in in 1897 under the name of Mansfield Wesleyans. The club played friendlies up until the 1902/03 season, when it joined the Mansfield and District Amateur League. When the league dropped its <i>Amateur</i> tag in 1906, the church abandoned the club, which changed its name to Mansfield Wesley and moved into the Notts and District League. In 1910, the club changed its name to Mansfield Town (despite Mansfield Mechanics being the bigger and better of the clubs) before spending the next few years trying to gain promotion to the Football League. They finally achieved this in 1931 when they were elected to the Southern Section of the Third Division. They spent most of their time floating around the basement with very few forays into the 3rd tier once they had been relegated to the new Fourth Division in 1959/60. Despite some good FA Cup performances over this time, their 77 year spell in the Football League ended in 2007/08 when a 1-0 defeat at home to Rotherham sent them down.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mu6vgR3GC7E/Urh4RtrWTKI/AAAAAAAAPh8/PDdkJ1eEB-s/s1600-h/IMG_3034%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana" color="#29105d"><img title="IMG_3034" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3034" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CilHTCWRutk/Urh4TOBj5ZI/AAAAAAAAPiE/RmRY9wSv4Xg/IMG_3034_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Time in the Conference is always hard for teams and Mansfield took to their surroundings no differently with some early seasons of treading water. An FA Trophy Final appearance in 2010/11 when they lost to Darlington on penalties seems to have kicked the club to push on however with a 3rd place finish in 2011/12 before pulling off some brilliant 2nd half of the season form in 2012/13 to pip Kidderminster to the title by 2 points. Paul Cox seemed he could do no wrong this season either and when Mansfield beat their near neighbours Chesterfield 1-0 on September 28th, they were riding high near the top of the league. Since then, it hasn’t gone well. No wins in 9 in the league and 5 straight defeats since picking up a 0-0 draw against Bury in October. With the Stags tumbling down the table, Cox needed a win and fast before they were back in the Skrill League.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2O7wBwhvydM/Urh4VXnv1dI/AAAAAAAAPiM/OzUPEi_v6BE/s1600-h/IMG_3040%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana" color="#29105d"><img title="IMG_3040" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3040" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uQcC20jzi6Y/Urh4WyRwfAI/AAAAAAAAPiU/CpOPVLp-T34/IMG_3040_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Field Mill (<em>or the One Call Stadium if you like sponsorship</em>) is a ground that is too good to be hosting Level 5 football you feel if they were to drop. A ground that underwent major renovation at the end of the 90s, it is dominated by the two tiered Ian Greaves Stand that opened in 2001. The home fans also have the smaller Quarry Lane End behind one of the goals which is the bog standard singled tiered stand that features around many of the Football League venues. Opposite this is the North Stand, that while was traditionally a home supporter area, they have been moved to allow away fans in. A stand with decent views and being fairly close to the pitch is a plus, although the lack of proper concourse to eat your pies and drink your beer is a bit of a down, especially as the entrance of this stand backs onto the retail park next to Field Mill. The Bishop Street Stand which runs down the other side of Field Mill is currently unused due to safety reasons and blocked out with advertising. With the ground being noticeable (and walkable) from the train station, its worth a visit!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6xUwptIjiUE/Urh4Y_s6FcI/AAAAAAAAPic/JBxXKhj-qU0/s1600-h/IMG_3041%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana" color="#29105d"><img title="IMG_3041" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3041" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-M2F3H3sLOtw/Urh4aUd8JHI/AAAAAAAAPik/QblTse4uMmI/IMG_3041_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">The problem with going on such a good unbeaten run is that when it ends, it can take a team a bit of time to get back into the groove. Since that 9 unbeaten in the league run was ended by Cheltenham, Morecambe have been slightly ropey as they try to stay in the play-off hunt. Defeats to Accrington, Rochdale and Oxford as well as Southend dumping us out the Cup have been partially offset by decent results against Burton and York. Still, this was an important game for both sides as neither were in any great form and all it needs is one win for you to rocket back up the table on a run. (Or so the cliché goes…)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WDy3ZFUtRIA/Urh4b-EQ3vI/AAAAAAAAPis/04KMKqcfUrQ/s1600-h/IMG_3042%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana" color="#29105d"><img title="IMG_3042" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3042" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yYBL4NjCknY/Urh4dREUsAI/AAAAAAAAPi0/KR6NtJ_77ns/IMG_3042_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">One noticeable feature that I had seen and read about too to Morecambe’s performances this season, is a lot of the time, their 1st half performance is wank. That happened here too as Mansfield started off well with Ollie Palmer dragging a shot wide after 11 minutes. Falling asleep isn’t what the Shrimps needed and on 17 minutes it happened and it was 1-0. Despite being described by the Mansfield match report as “a moment of magic” (man, what shite must you normally watch here!?), a long punt upfield from Chris Clements caught Chris McCready out which allowed Ross Dyer to run in behind and fire under Barry Roche. Surely we wouldn’t be the team that Mansfield broke their duck against!? Morecambe improved, with Kevin Ellison looking as lively as ever but Mansfield were a threat, especially on the counter-attack. Towards the end of the half, winger Colin Daniel threw himself to the floor like a twat in the box, but referee Lee Collins wasn’t interested. (Remember that…) It had to improve in the 2nd half, it had to.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KOOWw2su6SM/Urh4fv88LFI/AAAAAAAAPi8/6_q6arBJ6Mk/s1600-h/IMG_3047%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana" color="#29105d"><img title="IMG_3047" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3047" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TSjWTVnptEc/Urh4hhYYWuI/AAAAAAAAPjE/4DQ-pKYLDrs/IMG_3047_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Big Jim sent on Andy Fleming and the returning Jack Redshaw from injury and Morecambe looked a completely different side. Mansfield couldn’t cope and the equaliser came within 6 minutes. Martin Riley tried to clear the ball only for it to hit Stewart Drummond and allow the Morecambe midfielder to collect the ball in the corner of the area. For a brief second, Drummond turned into Johan Cruyff as his swivel and cutback perfectly found Redshaw to smash home from 5 yards. Mansfield were rocked and had Padraig Amond shown a bit more control when he fired a shot wide just moments later, it could have been the complete turnaround. Mansfield recovered though and for the final half of the 2nd half, the game was really in the balance. </font></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Dzuctkn3oG0/Urh4jizuxOI/AAAAAAAAPjM/82CRACj5h8w/s1600-h/IMG_3053%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_3053" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3053" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gVrJKuOTYgw/Urh4krKHmtI/AAAAAAAAPjU/mH0wr57rMEo/IMG_3053_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></a> </font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Roche made a great save from Palmer while Drummond managed to miss from 8 yards as it was anyone’s. Then when Morecambe were done on the counter after 74 minutes, the 102 away fans feared the worst. Daniel sped off into the penalty area and Roche sped out, we all knew what was coming. Was it a penalty? Tough one, I’m thinking no, considering how convinced Roche was and how Daniel had previous for diving in the box (<a href="http://www.stagsnet.net/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=21740">home fans weren’t sure either!</a>) while Mansfield were angered that Roche wasn’t sent off, “despite the fact he was the last man.” (Considering how poor the Mansfield match report is, I’d take it with a pinch of salt) It didn’t matter anyway as Sam Clucas’ penalty was dreadful and Roche pushed it wide. I think at this point Mansfield knew it wouldn’t be their day and with 5 minutes remaining, a Redshaw cross caused havoc, Ellison arrived to loop a header over Alan Marriott and give Morecambe an unlikely victory. It still needed some brilliance from the defence and Roche in injury time as Ellison picked up a dislocated jaw from that header, but we held on for a brilliant 3 points.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-n9nOm2ONCPE/Urh4mklCcrI/AAAAAAAAPjc/vXP2zU1Prw0/s1600-h/IMG_3052%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana" color="#29105d"><img title="IMG_3052" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_3052" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-APOtAe-Nq4s/Urh4nwkPAtI/AAAAAAAAPjk/n4h6ObD4ktc/IMG_3052_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Mansfield need a positive result and soon, especially for Paul Cox as a dire 0-0 draw at Wimbledon before conceding 2 in injury time in a 3-2 home defeat to Accrington means, the Stags could be facing a quick return to non-league. It was a friendly enough place with a relaxed atmosphere so would recommend a visit. Especially while they are on this form! Morecambe continue to amaze and frustrate with defeats to Cheltenham (again!) and Scunthorpe coming either side of a win vs Bristol Rovers. With the remaining away games for the Shrimps this season (+ the hope of getting to the Globe in 2014) it is probably Bristol Rovers that will be the next new ground that I see the Shrimps at. And who knows, a play-off place could be really up for grabs then!</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/MansfieldTownVsMorecambe301113">Photos from Mansfield Town vs Morecambe</a></font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>6.5/10 (late, positive drama boosts it up)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>7/10 (reasonable price for this league)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>6/10 (decent, but cold)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>4/10 (Mansfield!? Why no songs!?)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>6/10 (pie was ok)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme: </strong>6.5/10 (actually a decent FL programme)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: Lee Collins – </strong>6/10 (was it penalty? should have been a red?)</font> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lPbqI8sOMEw/Urh4qdXHi7I/AAAAAAAAPjs/YJowYjzwYMo/s1600-h/MT%252520vs%252520More%252520prog%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana" color="#29105d"><img title="MT vs More prog" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="MT vs More prog" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6KnkAUBtEsA/Urh4tKx_m-I/AAAAAAAAPj0/wp8IXnr9keQ/MT%252520vs%252520More%252520prog_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="172" border="0"></font></a> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LInb0OyKDuo/Urh4wTP8HaI/AAAAAAAAPj8/apdjgo9XvjM/s1600-h/MT%252520vs%252520More%252520stub%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana" color="#29105d"><img title="MT vs More stub" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="151" alt="MT vs More stub" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qnJB7E8g5O8/Urh4xtFPG9I/AAAAAAAAPkE/OSaj1v1EVpE/MT%252520vs%252520More%252520stub_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-81328352221036813972013-12-22T21:23:00.001+00:002013-12-22T21:23:11.208+00:00Road to the London Senior Cup 2013/14 (2nd Round)<p><font face="Verdana">It was typical, picking a trophy that was played out over the season with some sparse gaps and (on the whole) in midweek, I was sure I could get to every game through the tournament. Therefore when Tooting & Mitcham organised their 2nd Round clash against Thamesmead just a week after playing their 1st Round game, that bad luck struck again. It’s not that I <em>couldn’t </em>make it, but returning from exams and a holiday meant it was probably best I didn’t go.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-H0TcSc0Mm6g/UrdYJYumyXI/AAAAAAAAPg0/AwD0xDawYds/s1600-h/Mitcham%252520tram%252520stop%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="Mitcham tram stop" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="225" alt="Mitcham tram stop" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--PfYixXne3w/UrdYLlcFXEI/AAAAAAAAPg8/03gwdca4U4Q/Mitcham%252520tram%252520stop_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(THIS IS MITCHAM)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Had I gone, it wouldn’t have been my favourite trip of the season. A competition that hardly inspires the masses at the early stage, </font><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/tooting-mitcham-united-vs-afc.html"><font face="Verdana">a ground I’ve already been to</font></a><font face="Verdana"> and the away team playing their under 21s. In the end, the result wasn’t a particular surprise. Tooting & Mitcham played a weakened team too, but had far too much for the Mead with goals from Frankie Sawyer and TJ Nkoma gave the Terrors a 2-0 win.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Gk7cUqhWWi8/UrdYNjZwCKI/AAAAAAAAPhE/35AJr9HewMw/s1600-h/TM%252520vs%252520TT%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="TM vs TT" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="137" alt="TM vs TT" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JMoj3lOyq5I/UrdYPaUH1bI/AAAAAAAAPhM/gjdONzq0nc8/TM%252520vs%252520TT_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>Action shot from the game – not my pic, </em></font><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/myr13/sets/72157638127131474"><em><font face="Verdana">taken from Flickr</font></em></a><font face="Verdana">)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Brilliantly, Tooting are now through to the Quarter-Finals where they will play Southern Counties East League side Cray Valley (PM). They have managed to currently schedule the game for the 14th January, a night that I cannot make. So hoping for a postponement or just to slightly move the game, otherwise it will be enough round missed!</font></p> <p><u><font face="Verdana">ROAD TO THE LONDON SENIOR CUP 2013/2014:</font></u> <p><a href="http://thetravellingfan.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/thamesmead-town-vs-greenhouse-london.html"><font face="Verdana">1ST ROUND: Thamesmead Town 2-2 Greenhouse London [Thamesmead win 6-5 on penalties] (Bayliss Avenue, Att: 22)</font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">2ND ROUND: Tooting & Mitcham United 2-0 Thamesmead Town (Imperial Fields, Att: 64)</font></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-52448121661094895532013-12-20T22:54:00.001+00:002013-12-20T22:54:09.147+00:00Clapton vs Barking (19/10/13)<p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>Match 215</strong></font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#ff0000">Ground #: 171</font></strong></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>Old Spotted Dog</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>FA Vase 1st Round </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>1:30pm </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>£6</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>£1</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>119 </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Clapton 0</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Barking 1</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Reynolds 42’, Oshilaja s/off 72’ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000"></font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Having not tied myself to a particular cup run through the FA Vase this season, it allowed me to pick out any interesting games that might come along. For the 1st Round, an East London derby stood out as Clapton hosted Barking. With the Old Spotted Dog being the oldest football ground in the capital and one that I had wanted to see for a while, it was quite obvious where I was heading for FA Vase 1st Round Day. Add the fact about the new ‘Clapton Ultras’ that had made quite an impression upon people from the start of the season, this had the makings to be an excellent cup tie. </font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SP26M4U2j_c/UrTKWYvSYRI/AAAAAAAAPeI/KpiVvNbFCEQ/s1600-h/IMG_25752.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2575" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2575" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zuD-dLpzJxw/UrTKXfJlPyI/AAAAAAAAPeQ/sym8vaRE1PE/IMG_2575_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Clapton FC is based at Forest Gate which is a residential area in the London Borough of Newham, 7 miles northeast of Charing Cross. Its name is derived from a southern gate of Epping Forest which once stretched continuously down from Epping to the main Roman Road linking Camulodunum to Londinium. Fragments of the forest remain throughout north east London such as the heathland of Wanstead Flats. The Forest Gate led into Epping Forest and was erected to prevent cattle straying from the Forest into the High Road. The area remained rural until the 19th century. From the 18th century a number of wealthy city dwellers had large country houses in the area and many of them were Quakers, the best known of these were the families of Gurney, Fry and Lester. Forest Gate formed part of the County Borough of West Ham since its creation in 1886. The county borough was abolished to form part of the present-day London Borough of Newham in 1965. </font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lkkd6rKHI5Q/UrTKX8KCE6I/AAAAAAAAPeY/BJ11RadVsuE/s1600-h/IMG_25852.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2585" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2585" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LX5YQjCUmP4/UrTKYnGkWFI/AAAAAAAAPeg/KTdk8e8lTI8/IMG_2585_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Clapton FC has a wide and varied history since their formation in 1878 as Downs FC, based in Hackney. After a name change a year later, Clapton moved to the Old Spotted Dog ground in 1888 after it had been vacated by St Bartholomew's Hospital. They were also the first club in the UK to play in continental Europe in 1890 when they hammered a Belgian XI 7-0. (<i>Obviously well before Lukaku, Fellaini et al</i>) After becoming founding members of the Southern League in 1894, they struggled in Division 1 and left a season later when clubs started to become professional. Clapton’s reputation as an amateur club was there to see when they reached the FA Amateur Cup Final in 1905 before winning the competition a year later. Now members of the Isthmian League, the trophies started to flood in for the Tons with Isthmian League winners twice and another four Amateur Cups to add to the other County FA cups they had also won. </font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zysF8YKy-F4/UrTKZf52q4I/AAAAAAAAPeo/tHtzl_84Sdk/s1600-h/IMG_25882.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2588" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2588" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bTnNkM8VLek/UrTKZ_QDoiI/AAAAAAAAPes/dLYfqoQl4sg/IMG_2588_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">If you wonder why you have probably never heard of Clapton then, it’s because a slow decline kicked in from the mid 70s and the club has never got anywhere near to its previous glory days. Floating around in Division 2 and 3 of the Isthmian League, the club dropped out of that league in 2006 when they finished bottom of Division 2 for the 2nd successive time. Now members of the Essex Senior League, the club had struggled for some time with a lack of volunteers, fans and reasonable players. Finishing in the bottom 2 of the ESL for the last 7 out of 8 seasons, the club even looked like dying at one point and losing the Old Spotted Dog ground. Now a small recovery has kicked in with some new volunteers, a decent looking squad and the intriguing nature of the Clapton Ultras. </font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NBI-XricZBY/UrTKau93bvI/AAAAAAAAPe4/sDUBRlsnChw/s1600-h/IMG_25962.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2596" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2596" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PCTPSFHTW44/UrTKbTRifpI/AAAAAAAAPfA/d4GKx4TktAg/IMG_2596_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><a href="http://claptonultras.tumblr.com/"><font face="Verdana">The Clapton Ultras</font></a><font face="Verdana"> (or Scaffold Brigada) were an interesting bunch for me and one of the main reasons why I selected this game. Wondering if they were a parody at first, it seems the Ultras are here to stay and provide an excellent atmosphere home and away at Clapton’s various games. With their number around 20-30 (at least for this game) they are also providing Clapton with some good admission money and cheering their lads on to some impressive results this season. With the team expected to struggle around the bottom again, the new atmosphere around the club has seen them rocket up the table and were coming into this Vase tie in 7th place, a massive 17 points off bottom club London Bari (who currently groundshare at the Old Spotted Dog). Clapton had even pulled off the impossible this season as a win at Stanway Rovers in the FA Cup meant they had won a tie in the competition for the first time since 2005/06 when Stotfold were the unlucky side. </font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kY_CZx4aeQQ/UrTKcG6l_9I/AAAAAAAAPfI/5DfqLnf6oOk/s1600-h/ClaptonUltras2.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="Clapton Ultras" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="164" alt="Clapton Ultras" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jBJfde_1Zto/UrTKc46AJII/AAAAAAAAPfQ/hWahcoujAK0/ClaptonUltras_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>Clapton Ultras display during this game – </em></font><a href="http://claptonultras.tumblr.com/"><em><font face="Verdana">taken from their Tumblr</font></em></a><font face="Verdana">) </font> <p><font face="Verdana">The Old Spotted Dog was a ground that I had also been looking forward to seeing but sadly, it does show its age now. From the entrance of the ground where the Old Spotted Dog pub (which has been </font><a href="http://savethespotteddog.org/"><font face="Verdana">closed since 2004</font></a><font face="Verdana">) is boarded up to the overgrowing weeds around the place, it does need a bit of TLC. In terms of facilities, there is a fairly small sized clubhouse when you first enter the ground and a smallish stand right on the halfway line down one of the sides. Opposite this is the scaffold standing ‘terrace’ which is the Ultras territory and has been brilliantly plastered in Clapton Ultra stickers and other AMF signage. The rest of the ground is pretty basic, although there is a small terrace behind one of the goals if you can fight past the weeds and large plants to get there. Considering the pictures I had seen of the place when the large stands and terraces were up, it’s a shame what the Old Spotted Dog has now become. It is 125 years old this year however (</font><a href="http://www.ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/tube150"><font face="Verdana">much like another London classic</font></a><font face="Verdana">) but it has seen better days.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HLFt-SaBt1g/UrTKdkcQK3I/AAAAAAAAPfY/-iIjsgcrR0k/s1600-h/IMG_2599%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2599" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2599" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zbL61bFsFs0/UrTKeSUtPGI/AAAAAAAAPfg/Q_ofQ-7hVNc/IMG_2599_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">In town for this East Laaaaaaandon clash were the Barking boys from just up the road. Having not seen them since I crossed the 100 grounds mark, I was interested to see how they had progressed, considering they played extremely well the time I saw them. A close game was likely considering Barking were in 6th place, 1 point above Clapton with a similar record in the league. Barking had entered the Vase in the previous round with a decent 5-1 away win at Northampton Spencer in the 2nd Qualifying Round which is the same round; Clapton had also started with a 1-0 win over Wotton Blue Cross. With similar records, and this being a derby, the game looked like it would be too close to call.</font> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-etmfZSg6DYk/UrTKe97f_EI/AAAAAAAAPfo/Vydt95dHL_I/s1600-h/IMG_2604%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2604" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2604" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9Gay13g32uA/UrTKfgcPChI/AAAAAAAAPfw/2viDpWQ5teM/IMG_2604_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Backed on by the great atmosphere created by the Ultras, Clapton did start the game off fairly well with some decent early runs. A noticeable number of Barking fans were also here and getting behind their side well before the poor rainy and windy weather started to drag the game down into a slog. Barking kept their heads though and began to batter the home side and create chance after chance. First up to miss was Dumebi GB-Dumaka who didn’t realise the time he had for his chance and fired it wide. Barking passed up more chances through Ben O’Brien and Jay Abberley before a wonderful passing move down the left saw Ricky Mackin unbelievably fire wide from about 6 yards out. You had to wonder if Barking would regret the amount of missed chances they had wasted but on 42 minutes they made the breakthrough with a simple move. With Clapton pushing up, James Barlow launched a long diagonal across where Lamar Reynolds collected it and ran off and towards goal. With Pepe Diagne not coming off his line, Reynolds fired past him with ease and silenced the Ultras for all of 5 seconds. Interesting 2nd half to come then!</font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-r4GyPMh2JPw/UrTKgbZmi-I/AAAAAAAAPf4/CJ_fOAAEkOw/s1600-h/IMG_2610%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2610" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2610" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rfvbVy64sZI/UrTKg_jEXoI/AAAAAAAAPgA/1g_k7SsTgXg/IMG_2610_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">Clapton still had no answer to the Barking onslaught for the start of the 2nd half as chances were still being fired at Diagne’s goal. The home side nearly did hit the ultimate sucker punch on 55 minutes when Raphael Duyille forced Barking debutant Damos Horvath into an excellent save. This seemed to spur Clapton and their fans on as Horvath was being called into action a lot more having been a spectator for the first 45 minutes. A team always gets one glorious chance to equalise during the game and Clapton’s came midway through the half from a Barking free kick. Trying to take it too quickly, Barking only found a yellow shirt as the ball cannoned off a teammate which set up Clapton’s Tom Jeffes but the striker fired the ball over the bar as another chance went begging. With this being a derby, it had hotted up on the pitch, despite the poor weather and when Barking’s Ade Oshilaja reacted badly to a challenge, it did kick off. After some cards were shown, Oshilaja must have been desperate to be off the pitch as he flew into a ridiculous challenge and was promptly sent off for a 2nd yellow. Barking played out the final 18 minutes with ease and could have scored more as they qualified for the next round of the Vase.</font> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-r8veLMuomUg/UrTKho8kpSI/AAAAAAAAPgI/cxfsdks_Rpc/s1600-h/IMG_2619%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2619" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2619" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nBsRFquB9Eg/UrTKiVgy1gI/AAAAAAAAPgQ/bbc44b51IqQ/IMG_2619_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">Barking were the better team on the day, but I did feel if they were drawn against anyone half decent they would be found out. In Round 2, Barking were away at SSML side Ampthill Town who promptly beat them 7-0. Enough said. The Clapton Ultras were in good voice for this game and are a great addition to the non-league football scene in London and the South-East. It did feel like this was the hipster club with people bringing flags, great chants and a great atmosphere to the game. I will make the effort to try and get to a Clapton away game in the season to see the Ultras out on the road. As for the Old Spotted Dog, as much as the history of the place rivals any ground, it’s just a shame to see what it has become now. Maybe, just maybe, one day the Dog will be back to its best.</font></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/ClaptonVsBarking191013"><font face="Verdana">Photos from Clapton vs Barking</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>5/10 (lost its bite)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>6/10 (normal price for Vase ties in the Capital)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>4/10 (it needs work)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>8/10 (excellent stuff from the Clapton Ultras)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>N/A – didn’t actually see any</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme: </strong>3/10 (8 pages for £1 isn’t on)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: Peter Nagy – </strong>5/10 (was a wee bit fussy)</font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-onDWJ2_TUuE/UrTKi8xox-I/AAAAAAAAPgY/6nZKLtM_RIA/s1600-h/Clap%252520vs%252520Bark%252520prog%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="Clap vs Bark prog" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="Clap vs Bark prog" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FVaWojs4Jts/UrTKj2oFXqI/AAAAAAAAPgg/mB5tAb65q4E/Clap%252520vs%252520Bark%252520prog_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="177" border="0"></font></a></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-64098261316379492392013-12-06T21:08:00.001+00:002013-12-06T21:41:16.831+00:00Thamesmead Town vs Greenhouse London (15/10/13)<p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>Match 214</strong></font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#ff0000">Ground #: 170</font></strong></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>Bayliss Avenue </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>London FA Senior Cup 1st Round </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>7:45pm</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>£5</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>Free Teamsheet</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>22 </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Thamesmead Town 2</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Goldsmith 15’, Fairweather-Johnson 71’</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Greenhouse London 2</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">Augustin 58’, Pike 73’ </font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>(Thamesmead win 6-5 on penalties)</strong> </font></font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000"></font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><font face="Verdana">For the past few seasons, I had tried (tried being the main word) to follow the FA Vase from 1st Qualifying Round through to the Final. Not to ruin a good thing, decided this season to try and branch out a bit and follow another cup competition all the way through. The London FA Senior Cup was the cup of choice (<i>what do you mean you’ve never heard of it?!</i>) and after the draw for the tournament came out, the sexiest looking tie was clearly Thamesmead Town vs Greenhouse London. (<i>what do you mean you’ve never heard of them!?</i>) </font> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-aAPrdQrA1Ag/UqI8hLU61hI/AAAAAAAAPXQ/exhjuP6ts_A/s1600-h/IMG_25132.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2513" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2513" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-He9G49P3HJE/UqI8h1Gnk6I/AAAAAAAAPXY/YM8Ajau8Pc0/IMG_2513_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Thamesmead is district of South East London, located in the London Boroughs of Greenwich and Bexley. It is situated 9.4 miles east of Charing Cross between the established towns of Woolwich and Belvedere. Most of the land area of Thamesmead previously formed about 1,000 acres of the old Royal Arsenal site and there is some evidence of prehistoric human occupation of the area: flints, animal bones and charcoal were found in 1997. After the Roman era, river levels rose again and the area reverted to marshland. Between 1812 and 1816, a canal was built by convicts to take materials such as timber from the River Thames to Woolwich Royal Arsenal. Much of this canal has been filled in, but part remains in Thamesmead West and is now called the Broadwater. Much of Thamesmead was initially built by the Greater London Council (GLC) for rent to families moving from overcrowded housing in south eastern parts of Inner London. The first residence was occupied in 1968, but already there were rain penetration problems. The pre-1974 parts of Thamesmead are a mix of modernist town houses, medium-rise and 12-storey blocks system-built in concrete, which have featured in various films due to their 'rough urban look'. When the GLC was abolished in 1986, its housing assets and the remaining undeveloped land were vested in a non-profit organisation, Thamesmead Town Limited (TTL). </font> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_vJ-K_amOvA/UqI8ifF_SJI/AAAAAAAAPXg/0NE-GcGsEJM/s1600-h/IMG_25172.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2517" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2517" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-r85_06uTLck/UqI8i2-H6jI/AAAAAAAAPXo/iDiKUCUIHLs/IMG_2517_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Thamesmead F.C. was formed in 1969 as a community team for local youngsters. The club merged with Southlake FC in 1973, and by 1979 were fielding a Saturday team, playing on park pitches at Crossways. In 1980 the club entered the London Spartan League and dominated the intermediate divisions in the early 1980s, but were unable to gain promotion to the Senior Division until they gained senior status. At around this time, they played matches at the Meridian Sports Ground in Charlton. In 1985, the club changed its name to Thamesmead Town FC, and later that year they relocated to Bayliss Avenue. The club finally gained senior status during the summer of 1987 and were accepted into the London Spartan League Premier Division for the 1987/88 season. The club joined the Kent League in June 1991, where they remained until 2008, when they won the title after pipping VCD Athletic. The Mead went fairly well in the Isthmian League 1st Division after a ropey start and after finishes of 18th, 7th, 17th and 10th, they pulled out a 3rd place finish last season to enter the play-off lottery. After beating Witham Town, they also overcame Maldon & Tiptree in the Final to achieve promotion to the Isthmian Premier for the 1st time in their history. </font> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kIgAoeKS3kU/UqI8jhn8XpI/AAAAAAAAPXw/PtPzm61OUPo/s1600-h/IMG_25222.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2522" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2522" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZxTlJnOqXZc/UqI8kIYixlI/AAAAAAAAPX4/Hjk_c-K7Yoo/IMG_2522_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Bayliss Avenue does remind me of smaller versions of Dulwich Hamlet and Tooting & Mitcham with a large Main Stand that dominates the place with the rest mainly uncovered standing. Having undergone refurbishment works starting in 2009, the Arena opened in its current form in July 2013 along with a large clubhouse and training pitches the other side of the building. The Main Stand has excellent elevation to the pitch with a few rows of seating built in to also complement the smaller plastic seating stand behind the goal. While the rest of the ground seems undeveloped and fairly basic, Thamesmead’s attendances don’t require anymore work to be done currently in terms of other terraces to be built. </font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OH0xmfEziWQ/UqI8kraV7iI/AAAAAAAAPX8/QzrrvVlZ_ok/s1600-h/IMG_25252.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2525" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2525" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7c3YlKdbPww/UqI8lYQeN-I/AAAAAAAAPYI/r82BXb9QkAM/IMG_2525_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Thamesmead in their debut season at Level 7 had unsurprisingly struggled and were currently 23rd out of 24 going into this cup tie. 5 points off safety, with only 2 wins to their name against Cray Wanderers and East Thurrock United. Last season in the London Senior Cup, Thamesmead were unhappy at something and so manager Keith McMahon decided to play only the Youth Team in this competition. Had I known that, then another tie would have probably been chosen, but it was too late. The Mead Youth were up against Essex Senior League side Greenhouse London who were also struggling in their surroundings. 18th out of 20 in the ESL, Greenhouse were at least 5 points clear over bottom club London Bari as they tried to avoid the Essex Wooden Spoon. (<i>Probably some dodgy innuendo there</i>) </font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wlwZ685v6qU/UqI8lzAurlI/AAAAAAAAPYQ/cmQRzn5Tbp0/s1600-h/IMG_25312.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2531" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2531" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-r49dGlJ5VX4/UqI8meGO4nI/AAAAAAAAPYY/9vvcXFTgtmM/IMG_2531_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Greenhouse with more 1st team experience in them started off the better team as they went at Thamesmead and created some good chances. Their first real chance came after only 10 minutes when Andrea Mantovani forced home goalie Daniel Carpanini into a great save when he curled a shot from the edge of the area. Despite the promising start, Greenhouse did find themselves 1-0 now just 5 minutes later. A lucky break in the area saw the ball fall to Harry Goldsmith who fired past Mason Durrell into the bottom corner. Then something happened which I had never seen at a football match before when the floodlights failed! Fearing that the game would be abandoned, the referee gave Thamesmead time to get the lights back on and the game got under way again after 10 minutes. The rest of the half saw Greenhouse batter the home side, as Mantovani again forced Carpanini into two brilliant saves as Greenhouse showed they certainly weren’t out of this tie yet. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-agwzah_LTCI/UqI8m6xiOCI/AAAAAAAAPYg/5xebPPj4AUg/s1600-h/IMG_25372.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2537" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2537" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Om30ucWKdc0/UqI8ncsOM-I/AAAAAAAAPYo/8efB3hIJ8a4/IMG_2537_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana">(<em>awkward moment as the players await the lights to come back on…</em>)</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">The 2nd half was slightly more open as both sides were creating chances with the goalies both being kept busy by some shots coming in. The next goal was only going to come through a defensive area and as the Thamesmead defence fell asleep at a corner and Ashley Augustin lashed home into the roof of the net. The game opened up now and Thamesmead looked like they had won the tie on 71 minutes (well I hoped at least anyway!) when Thamesmead opened up Greenhouse and a cross from the left was powered home by Theo Fairweather-Johnson. Fearing extra-time though, I needed Thamesmead to hold on. They lasted 2 minutes. Greenhouse hit the Mead on the counter attack down the left and Billy Pike was put through on goal to fire past Carpanini. A manic final 15 minutes saw both sides create chances, but as the night got colder, both sides couldn’t grab a winning goal so it looked like extra-time sadly.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gZp-iwZiT5U/UqI8oBbNBxI/AAAAAAAAPYw/3_ByXGuiwKA/s1600-h/IMG_2540%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2540" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2540" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gNzxqVuQq6c/UqI8oiTu3bI/AAAAAAAAPY4/jnXHfnzHE_Y/IMG_2540_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Thankfully, the managers of both teams saw sense and allowed the game to go straight to a penalty shoot-out. It was entertaining enough as Harry Goldsmith missed Thamesmead’s first penalty to give Greenhouse the advantage early on, but Tony Cookey’s dreadful blast over the bar made it level. Even after Greenhouse’s goalie stepped up on penalty #5 and slotted home, a miss from Daniel Martinez on the 7th round of spot kicks allowed Jonathen Murray to score the winning penalty.</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Penalty summary:</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Greenhouse London (took first) –- Thamesmead Town</font></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Reynolds scored -- Goldsmith saved<br>Mantovani scored -- Fairweather-Johnson scored<br>Honesty scored -- Hibbert scored<br>Cookey over -- Murphy scored<br>Durrell scored -- Carlse scored<br>Alexander scored -- Ayomoni scored<br>Martinez wide -- Murray scored </font> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pOJxYzCPflU/UqI8pep1EXI/AAAAAAAAPZA/PB89x01-RhY/s1600-h/IMG_2558%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2558" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2558" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-IOkn6_UH4qM/UqI8qOAR6oI/AAAAAAAAPZI/FeUYGzo08bg/IMG_2558_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> </p> <p><font face="Verdana">Despite the small number of people who made the effort to watch this game, (<em>England were on TV to be fair, if people are that desperate to stay in</em>) the 22 hardcore fans were treated to a decent cup tie. Along with some very able players that were on show, hopefully some of these guys can play higher up the pyramid one day as they would easily be capable. The winners of this tie were then away to Tooting & Mitcham United in the 2nd Round as they overcame Haringey Borough in their tie. Bayliss Avenue is a compact, but pleasant enough ground that will still hopefully be hosting Isthmian Premier League football next season so good luck to them. I was impressed by Greenhouse London too as they didn’t deserve to lose this, I will be looking out for them in the future!</font></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/ThamesmeadTownVsGreenhouseLondon151013"><font face="Verdana">Photos from Thamesmead Town vs Greenhouse London</font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>6/10 (entertaining enough cup tie)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>7.5/10 (nice to reduce the prices)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>6/10 (simple enough, but does the job for Mead)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>2/10 (22 people in the ground…)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>N/A – didn’t eat any</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme: </strong>N/A – teamsheet only</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: Dele Sotimirin – </strong>6.5/10 (good encouragement and kept control)</font> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GuuC8b8zFyA/UqI8qhLiRkI/AAAAAAAAPZQ/ppFIz_F6xHs/s1600-h/TT%252520vs%252520GH%252520prog%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="TT vs GH prog" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="244" alt="TT vs GH prog" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JeJ-dNr6Y9E/UqI8rPn5O6I/AAAAAAAAPZY/7cKVlQ8MTJk/TT%252520vs%252520GH%252520prog_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="176" border="0"></font></a> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wy9ZVV6pP5Q/UqI8rxZx_YI/AAAAAAAAPZg/lyevWrtKdaU/s1600-h/TT%252520vs%252520GH%252520stub%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="TT vs GH stub" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="172" alt="TT vs GH stub" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fTWiyck3Xmk/UqI8sX73ulI/AAAAAAAAPZk/VUoKH8-vTEI/TT%252520vs%252520GH%252520stub_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><u><font face="Verdana">ROAD TO THE LONDON SENIOR CUP 2013/2014:</font></u></p> <p><font face="Verdana">1ST ROUND: Thamesmead Town 2-2 Greenhouse London [Thamesmead win 6-5 on penalties] (Bayliss Avenue, Att: 22)</font></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388662663986339076.post-39783422264452823792013-12-01T22:05:00.001+00:002013-12-01T22:05:19.727+00:00Woking vs FC Halifax Town (12/10/13)<p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>Match 213</strong></font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong><font color="#ff0000">Ground #: 169</font></strong></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Ground: </strong>Kingsfield Stadium </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Competition: </strong>Skrill Premier </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Kick Off: </strong>3pm</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Cost: </strong>£10 (concession)</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Programme: </strong>£3</font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Attendance: </strong>1,552 </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Woking 0</strong> </font></font> <p><font face="Verdana"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>FC Halifax Town 0</strong> </font></font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000"></font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana" color="#ff8000">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><font face="Verdana">For all Shaymen, the 11th June 2008 is a dark day for the club as the old Halifax Town AFC were dissolved. That being said, the new club have come a long way in a short time with this being their first season back in National leagues. With my girlfriend being from Halifax and our friend working there, this was the obvious highlight to the Shaymen’s season that we needed to see. (<em>I have wanted to make a “could Halifax play their Cards right?” but I won’t</em>) </font> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cXoYKhokfjA/UpuyctwhznI/AAAAAAAAPUo/Cdm3QYrUSyM/s1600-h/IMG_24522.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2452" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2452" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KVmFx9hBJp0/UpuydQsSQDI/AAAAAAAAPUw/myxVOHWd5kc/IMG_2452_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a><font face="Verdana"> </font> <p><font face="Verdana">Woking<strong> </strong>is a large town and civil parish that shares its name with the surrounding local government district, located in the west of Surrey. Though Woking's earliest written appearance is in the Domesday Book, it is mentioned as the site of a monastery in an 8th-century context, as <i>Wochingas</i>. In the Domesday Book it appears as <i>Wochinges</i>, being held in 1086 by William the Conqueror. A building was first recorded on the site of Woking Palace in 1272 with Henry VII taking the manor from his mother and began the process of converting the manor house into a palace. His son Henry VIII continued this process when he succeeded his father in 1509, and the palace became a favourite residence of the king. However, Sir Edward Zouch who abandoned the palace and built himself a new manor house. Thereafter the buildings fell into decay and the original park surrounding the palace was turned over to agriculture. H. G. Wells wrote his book <i>The War of the Worlds</i> whilst living on Maybury Road in Woking in 1898. Many scenes from the story are set in Horsell and the surrounding area. Today, through the power of the railway, the town is part of the London commuter belt but features some top level businesses within the place and surrounding area such as the McLaren F1 team.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LTVDavdEIAo/Upuyd52tV9I/AAAAAAAAPU4/7VvsKNdkxCE/s1600-h/IMG_24582.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2458" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2458" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-upwvcu3YawU/Upuyeat3wyI/AAAAAAAAPVA/JndgpoUwsso/IMG_2458_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Woking FC were formed in 1889 and joined the West Surrey League in 1895, winning their first title that season by 1 point. However, within 21 years of being formed, the club was in danger of folding for financial reasons. The turning point came when, in January 1908, Woking played Bolton Wanderers in the First Round of the FA Cup. Despite losing the away game 5–0, the club made it into the national news. Bolton Wanderers, also impressed, travelled to Woking for a friendly match the following season, which kept the club solvent. In 1911 the Club joined the Isthmian League, maintaining their place in the top division for 72 years and finishing as runners-up to Wycombe Wanderers in 1956–57. The club then went into decline, culminating in a first-ever relegation in 1982–83. By the end of the 1984–85 season the club had plunged to Division Two South of the Isthmian League. They turned it round however and were back in the Premier Division of the Isthmian for 1989/90.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-znW70kALYOk/Upuye3DZTzI/AAAAAAAAPVI/eYHPbV0KCW4/s1600-h/IMG_24562.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2456" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2456" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1AYZQhqz3m0/UpuyfTgYkHI/AAAAAAAAPVQ/tB2e5QCDJfI/IMG_2456_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">The club kept on the up though and Promotion to the Conference was achieved in 1991–92. This started the club’s most successful period under boss Clive Chapple with 3 FA Trophy wins in 4 years and 5 successive Top 5 finishes in the Conference. By the late 90’s however, Woking started to drop and were beginning to look over their shoulders in the league and the bank with financial difficulties. Long-time fan Chris Ingram bought the club which was then taken over by the Supporters Club in 2002 to remove those doubts, but relegation couldn’t be avoided as the Cards dropped to Conference South in 2009. It took them a couple of attempts to get back to the Conference National but Woking won the Blue Square South in 2011/2012 with ease, finishing 9 points clear of 2nd place Dartford. It was a decent first season for them back in the Conference National last season, finishing comfortably in 12th and only just missing out on “England’s best part-time club” which Dartford took by 4 points.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-plSQbxHmQMk/UpuygBnv52I/AAAAAAAAPVY/QziH4cgD_V8/s1600-h/IMG_24682.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2468" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2468" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9LP-Pk79vN8/UpuygmvNnpI/AAAAAAAAPVg/Zzg3JbkF7fs/IMG_2468_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Kingsfield Stadium is a quirky venue, with the ground being dominated by the large Leslie Gosden Stand behind one of the goals. The rest of the place could not be more different with a medium sized covered terrace behind the other goal that provided some good views. Down one side of the pitch is the customary uncovered terrace that seems to be a common feature at grounds like this before the mashup of stands and terraces over the opposite side. Having been to a few Skrill League grounds, Kingsfield is a fine venue that competes well with the others I’ve been to and makes a good addition to the league. Even the clubhouse on site is spacious and had a good atmosphere with the large number of Halifaxians (<em>do you call them that? Pie Eaters according to the Urban Dictionary is something completely different…) </em>that had travelled down from Yorkshire.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aKVgI3RpC1Y/UpuyhH8ABMI/AAAAAAAAPVo/JEHCH8tePkE/s1600-h/IMG_2469%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2469" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2469" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-o6MXhjzxWr0/UpuyhnUmFBI/AAAAAAAAPVw/TGN7E7Ztpok/IMG_2469_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">Hearts of hearts though, you wondered how many of them expected anything from this game. From the opening game of the season when they were away at Cambridge United on TV, and had 2 players sent off before losing 5-1, their away form has not been good. 5 away games since Cambridge and the best Halifax had was a 2-2 draw at Macclesfield Town. With 4 defeats, including a painful 4-3 reverse at Luton Town when they were 3-1 up. They were coming to a club however that had a dreadful home form, as Woking were suffering from 2nd season syndrome quite badly. With 6 home games before this, Woking had only won one of them and as a result found themselves in 21st position. They were on a wee run though, unbeaten in 3 so this was a tough game to call.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-l07C4UbQazk/UpuyiIrZf8I/AAAAAAAAPV4/4yoskZLYoRk/s1600-h/IMG_2475%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2475" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2475" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sZVGekiaWaw/UpuyirZHZbI/AAAAAAAAPWA/zYKIBTkSvVk/IMG_2475_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Verdana">The game really wasn’t a thriller. In fact, it was one of those games to put you off football for a while. Normally, that’s ok when I suffer alone for 90 minutes but it’s a different matter altogether when your girlfriend has to suffer with it too. Woking being the home team, were dominant from the start with former Premiership player Kevin Betsy in particular looking dangerous. Defender Scott McManus just couldn’t deal with him and so cross after cross came into the box but nothing could be converted. The Shaymen did come back into the game with Simon Ainge missing a chance in the area midway through the first half. It was back to Woking bombarding the Town goal, but they still could not really test Halifax goalie Matt Glennon.</font> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OnU8AQswd-4/UpuyjfTA6-I/AAAAAAAAPWI/FLVlPkqhZ6M/s1600-h/IMG_2487%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2487" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2487" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5AsO_L88JnE/Upuyj-coQnI/AAAAAAAAPWM/Wo1ZasD4dtg/IMG_2487_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">The second half was a more even affair, but still not one to be included in my top games of the season. In fact, the longer the game went on, the more obvious it was becoming that it would finish 0-0. The two main chances came right at the death as both sides should have opened the scoring. Woking were up first when Marc Roberts brought down Giuseppe Sole on the edge of the box and the free kick from Josh Payne curled onto the crossbar and away. Then Halifax had their golden chance when Lee Gregory took the ball around Woking goalie Sam Beasant but slipped before he could get the ball away and allowed Beasant to get back in time. No goals in the end, and it never really looked like we would get one either.</font> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zZtcje0n2gE/UpuykfWijOI/AAAAAAAAPWY/g18-n2gHaTI/s1600-h/IMG_2491%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="IMG_2491" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2491" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mGOHc3tB4Fk/UpuykyLj8rI/AAAAAAAAPWg/zbuqpllh81k/IMG_2491_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">Considering the respective form of both sides, the final result wasn’t really much of a surprise then! Both sides have continued in the same way since this game with Halifax still not picking up an away win in the league, but their impressive form at The Shay means they are looking comfortable in 11th. Woking are up to 19th, but being only one point outside of the relegation zone means it’s likely to be squeaky bum time in 2014 for them. On the way back to Woking station I asked my girlfriend what she thought of the game, “it was ok” was the response but with a look of disappointment on her face like a father who had just been told their son was a Hibs fan. Sometimes you go to games with people who then get why you love doing this so much because they see a thriller. This game wasn’t it.</font> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/116357394027178563092/WokingVsFCHalifaxTown121013"><font face="Verdana">Photos from Woking vs FC Halifax Town</font></a> <p><font face="Verdana">_____________________________________________________________ </font> <p><strong><font face="Verdana">Match Ratings:</font></strong> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Match: </strong>3/10 (wouldn’t have scored even if playing now)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">-<strong> Value for money: </strong>7/10 (good cost of concession tickets)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Ground: </strong>6.5/10 (bit of a mish-mash but still good)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Atmosphere: </strong>5/10 (little bit now and again)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Food: </strong>5/10 (standard burger)</font> <p><font face="Verdana">- <strong>Programme: </strong>6.5/10 (normal Skrill League quality)</font> <p><font face="Verdana"><strong>- Referee: Richard Martin – </strong>6.5/10 (got on with it)</font> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tsoCayx-A0Q/UpuylUTX-VI/AAAAAAAAPWo/YNYDDFh89zw/s1600-h/Wok%252520vs%252520FCHT%252520prog%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="Wok vs FCHT prog" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="Wok vs FCHT prog" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gaOgLVM-Adg/UpuymKT_T1I/AAAAAAAAPWw/UxBMaWUTUmk/Wok%252520vs%252520FCHT%252520prog_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="170" border="0"></font></a> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kXPgGHColZM/UpuympRn0hI/AAAAAAAAPW4/Kl_eYKLwEqQ/s1600-h/Wok%252520vs%252520FCHT%252520stub%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Verdana"><img title="Wok vs FCHT stub" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="189" alt="Wok vs FCHT stub" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rVdc1zmgtCY/UpuynescsTI/AAAAAAAAPXA/DCKzsl8zcYo/Wok%252520vs%252520FCHT%252520stub_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0"></font></a></p> Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01435448111757571472noreply@blogger.com1