Stratford Town (H) Cancelled

The final game of the season at home to Stratford was due to be played on the 16th of May. Unfortunately, due to a school trip involving 4 of the squad, plus injuries to Jordan and Lucas being unavailable Sporting would only have been able to field a side of 9 players including Thomas who was still recovering from a badly sprained ankle.
So, having consulted with parents Sporting decided to conceed the game. Stratford's Manager and I had tried everything to schedule the game for another day when i could field a team but to no avail.
The lads have had a great first season at 11-a-side and the decision to go to 11 instead of 9-a-side was completely justified. Some of these lads are unrecognisable as footballers compared to the start of the season, they have improved that much.
Finally, we finished 6th in the League, if we'd have been able to play our final game we might have finished 4th, but that's football.
The parents have been wonderful, always supportive. Craig has done a fantastic job as goalkeeping coach and linesman but above all the squad have been a joy to work with, WELL DONE BOYS, GREAT SEASON.
The spirit, progression and development of the boys over this season has given us a great platform to attain even greater things next season, who knows maybe even promotion !!!

Back to top

Hawkesmill (A) 6-0(L)

It's de ja vous as Sporting succumb in second half !

Game 21 of the season and Sporting were looking for one more victory to guarantee a 4th place finish in the league. Hopes were high as Hawkesmill had won the league last weekend by defeating GNP.
Sporting had problems though. Thomas and Jordan were still out injured, Scott was sent home from school unwell so could not play and on the way to the game Ryan, the goalkeeper in place of Jordan, had his fingers trapped in the car door by his dad!!
So, with the bare 11 on the pitch including Lewie in goal the game began. Both teams had early posession and the first 5 minutes were played in midfield. Sporting's defence were doing well to protect Lewie in goal and restricted Hawkesmill to a couple of dangerous crosses which flashed across the goal.
Then on 6 minutes Hawkesmill broke the deadlock. With Sporting unable to clear the striker raced through to bury a shot past the helpless Lewie 0-1
Sporting responded well and had a few attacks of their own. Then on 20 minutes Daniel latched on to a through ball and raced towards goal, after nodding on the bouncing ball it sat up beautifully for a volley on the edge of the box, Dan caught it superbly and looked a certain goal until, at full stretch, the goalkeeper pulled off an absolutely world class save to tip the ball agonisingly past the post, superb save.

Half time 0-1

In the second half Sporting sarted brightly enough but then seemed to lose their shape. The midfield were caught too far up the pitch instead of one player holding which left us exposed to the counter-attack.
On 38 minutes Hawkesmill extended their lead. Again Sporting were too elaborate at the back instead of clearing the danger and the Hawkesmill striker finished comfortably past the returning Ryan. Hawkesmill added number 3 on 40 minutes and number 4 on 43 minutes.
Sporting had a couple of chances of their own but could not find a consolation goal.
With three minutes to go Hawkesmill made it 5-0 and in the last minute completed the second half scoring with number 6.

Final Score 6-0

I couldn't fault the lads efforts today, but with key players out we were always going to find it difficult. The Parents asked me to name today's Man of the Match and despite a close race and competition from Harry i gave it to a lad who played one of his best games of the season, has been battling up front more or less on his own due to our formation so DANIEL got the honour

Back to top

Lemington Hibs (H) 11-5 (W)

Rampant Sporting in 11th Heaven !!

Game 20 of the season and Sporting were at home to Lemington Hibs. Sporting were still without Jordan and Thomas, injured for the rest of the season, Lewie at Old Trafford and Lucas with swimming comittments so went into the game with the bear 11.
Sporting were confident having beaten Hibs 7-0 earlier in the season and lined up in the accustomed 4-3-2-1 formation, or excoset as i like to call it !!
From the kick off both sides looked comfortable on the ball and settled quickley into the game. It was clear from the outset the big Hibs striker, Povey, was going to cause problems with his size and strength.
On 5 minutes Sporting took the lead, although rather fortunately. A move down the right culminated in what looked like a cross from JOSH which was misjudged by the keeper and sailed in off the crossbar 1-0.
Hibs fought back and went close on a couple of occasions, Ryan coming off his line well to smother any danger. On 12 minutes Sporting extended their lead, a great run by Harry resulted in a powerful shot the keeper couldn't hold and FINLEY was on hand to fire in 2-0.
Hibs continued to give as good as they were getting and won lots more 50-50's in midfield than Sporting. Then, on 20 minutes Sporting scored again, a good run down the left saw MITCH hit a wicked cross which flew into the far corner of the net 3-0.
Almost from the re-start Hibs pulled one back, Sporting's defence failed to clear and the Hibs striker bull-dozed his way through before coolly sliding an excellent finish past the on rushing Ryan 3-1.
Within a minute Sporting regained their three goal advantage, following a superb run, and in spite of being fouled as he shot, JAMIE smashed the ball home from 10 yards 4-1
Still the goals kept coming, on 25 minutes Sporting failed to tackle the impressive Povey and he finished past the exposed Ryan 4-2.
From the kick off the ball was played back to Mitch who hit a "Hollywood" pass straight to JOSH who exquisitely lobbed the ball over the keeper 5-2.
In the last minute of the first half some poor defending from Sporting enabled the Hibs striker to advance into the area and finish with deadly accuracy for his hat-trick 5-3

Half time 5-3

The lads came off for a breather and a few words of advice about not being greedy and passing more as a team.
The first 5 minutes of the second half were much the same as the first 5 of the first half, possession shared, good battling in midfield and 100% effort from both sides.
Then on 35 minutes Sporting extended their lead. A powerful run and shot by Mitchell was well parried by the keeper but JOSH was on hand to fire in the rebound for his hat-trick and 13th of the season 6-3
Two minutes later Hibs pulled another back. A cross from the right found the striker in the middle on his own and he calmly fired home 6-4
On 43 minutes Sporting re-established their three goal cushion. This time a slick passing move fed JOSH in the area and he fired in for his 4th and Sportings' 7th 7-4.
Still the scoring wasn't over, a minute later some good work on the left finished with FINLEY firing in his second of the game and 10th of the season 8-4.
Almost immediately the Hibs striker grabbed his 5th of the game, some shambolic defending set up a chance which was never going to be missed 8-5.
On 49 minutes some sustained pressure by Sporting culminated in JOSH firing in his 5th of the game and the audacity to ask me for the match ball !!! 9-5
Sporting weren't finished and kept putting pressure on the Hibs goal. On 52 minutes Sporting were awarded a penalty after two handballs in the Hibs box within seconds of each other. After some discussion it was decided James would take the spot-kick to try and score his first goal for Sporting. James did everything right in aiming for the corner and picking his spot but unfortunately dragged the kick just wide.
A minute later Sporting were awarded another penalty, this time a clear foul on Finley in the box. With James still reeling from his miss and declining the invitation to take it the kick was offered to Scott, another fantastic performer for Sporting all season who had not scored. After striding confidently up to take it SCOTT hit a powerful shot into the net off the inside of the post to wild celebrations by the Sporting lads 10-5.
With 2 minutes to go James got the reward all his efforts, comittment and motivation as the teams' Captain deserved. Having burst through the Hibs defence and whilst being impeaded JAMES hit a powerful shot which deflected in off the defender. 11-5.

Final Score 11-5

Well, this was quite a game. In all my years of playing and coaching i've never seen two players score 5 in a match!! Josh's finishing was superb today, this report has only described the 16 goals scored, it would take me all night to write about the other shots from both sides which were created and saved by the keepers or went wide.
Absolute credit to Hibs today, they battled well and scored 5 really good goals.......and they certainly know how to celebrate them !!
The absolutely unanimous "Parents' Man of the Match" was JOSH for his super finishing and all round contribution to an unbelievable game of football !!

Back to top

Bulkington (A) 1-1 (D)

Super Sporting share spoils in thriller!

Game 19 of the season and Sporting were away against Bulkington at Nicolas Chamberlaine School. With the news that Jordan will miss the rest of the season having broken a finger against Firefighters last week, Jamie stuck in America and Thomas injured Sporting had a number of positional changes to make.
After last weeks' excellent performance the Sporting lads were keen to carry that form on in front of their watching sponsor, John Mohammed. With Bulkington lying 4th and Sporting a point behind in 5th there was lots to play for.
From the kick off it was clear the Sporting lads were up for the game and settled into their shape and passing early with excellent play on both flanks. In the opening 15 minutes posession was shared between the teams and some excellent football played. Josh and Scott were linking up intelligently on the right, Tom and Finley played well on the left and Mitch and Harry were battling hard in the middle of midfield. At the back Lucas won lots of 50-50 balls at the heart of the defence and Captain James looked calm and assured at sweeper. Dan was working hard up front as the sole striker.
On 20 minutes Sporting thought they'd scored. A slick passing move on the right involving Scott and Josh culminated in a super pass into the path of the on rushing Finley who finished superbly. Unfortunately, the referee blew for a debatable off-side against Finley and the goal was ruled out.
Ryan, who has picked up the gloves for the remainder of the season looked comfortable in the Sporting goal and dealt confidently with any danger the Bulkington boys created.
Half time 0-0
At half time the boys were encouraged to keep playing the way they were as we had seen some of their best play of the season so far. Lewie came on to give Tom a rest and slotted into the right wing position.
The second half started as the first had finished, both sides had periods of posession without creating too many scoring opportunities. Then, on 40 minutes Sporting thought they'd scored again. Daniel cut through the Bulkington defence, rounded the keeper and hit a goal bound shot with his left foot. The ball rebounded off the inside of the post and was tapped in by Lewie following up. While Sporting celebrated the goal was again disallowed for offside, apparently by Lewie.
Sporting were rocked by this setback and took a couple of minutes to get themselves together. Then on 46 minutes Bulkington controvercially took the lead. As a ball came onto the pitch from a neighbouring game when Bulkington were about to take a free kick Sporting stopped as Finley retreived it, the ref failed to blow his whistle to halt the game and the Bulkington striker was put through and fired past Ryan. Despite the protests from Sporting's over zealous Manager (me) the goal stood. 1-0
The Sporting boys responded magnificently, time after time the ball was won in midfield and Sporting surged forward.
Within 10 minutes of conceding Sporting deservedly equilised. Having won the ball in midfield the ball was passed to Daniel who brilliantly slotted Mitchell in on the keeper. Calm as you like MITCHELL took it past the goalie and shot into an empty net 1-1
Josh took a knock and was replaced by the returning Tom. The final 5 minutes saw both sides press for victory. Sporting created a couple of half chances and Bulkington had an effort cleared off the line by Scott.
The final whistle went on a really good game and excellent advert for Under 11 football.

Final Score 1-1

A really good game. The lads could not be faulted today, they battled for everything, fought for each other, played some great football at times and were a credit to themselves. We said after the game they have come such a long way this season and were unlucky not to come away with all 3 points, although a draw was probably a fair result
A unanimous decision for the Parents' "Man of the Match", for an excellent performance in goal RYAN was awarded the honour.

Well done boys, a pleasure to watch

Back to top

Fire Fighters (H) 3-1 (W)

Super Sporting back to winning ways !!

Game 18 and Sporting were looking to bounce back from Wednesday's defeat against Hawkesmill. A super morning for football but Sporting were without the holidaying Jamie, injured Thomas and Lucas due to another committment.
Sporting reverted back to a 4-4-2 formation with Daniel and Lewie leading the front line, the same back 4 as Wednesday and a midfield 4 of Josh, Finley, Harry and Mitch. We talked a lot in training and pre-match about competing for the ball, the desire to win it and then play our football. To motivate the lads even more we mixed the kits to look like Brazil for the second time this season !!
From the kick off the lads looked ten times better than on Wednesday, in midfield Mitch and especially Harry and Josh were competing and winning posession.
Sporting created some good early chances and were unlucky not to go ahead in the 8th minute, Daniel slipped through the Firefighters defence and ran 20 yards before having his shot saved when bearing down on goal.
Full backs Ben and Scott were tackling well and winning posession then intelligently passing down the flanks. James was leading the back line well and Ryan was commanding in the air. After 9 minutes and from Ryan's determination to win the ball there was a nasty clash of heads. Fortunately, Ryan was ok after recieving some treatment.
On 10 minutes Sporting opened the scoring, following sustained pressure Mitchell crossed from the left and running in, JOSH hammered home his 10th of the season 1-0.
Sporting continued to press although Firefighters posed a threat on the break, fortunately Jordan was alert to the danger and on a number of occasions came off his line to smother the ball.
On 17 minutes Sporting went further ahead, some confusion in the Firefighters back line was well anticipated and FINLEY shot home from 10 yards out 2-0.
Sporting continued to press, Mitchell in particular had a couple of shots from outside the box which the goalkeeper saved well, the final save a superb tip around the post at full stretch.
On 20 minutes Mitch picked up a knock and came off for a breather with Tom going on. Sporting continued to have the lions share of posession until on 25 minutes an excellent through ball saw the Firefighters striker lift the ball over Jordan to make it 2-1.

Half Time 2-1

The half time talk was a case of keep playing how you are, with a reminder of Wednesday's second half performance ! Mitchell came back on instead of Lewie.
In the second half Sporting continued where they'd left off, determined tackling by the whole team and in particular Josh and Harry meant Sporting won back posession quickly. Daniel and Tom were working hard up front and creating gaps for the midfielders to burst through. This worked brilliantly on 35 minutes with Harry making a surging run into the box and his viscious shot cannoned back off the post.
Ben came off for a rest and was replaced by Lewie returning up front with Tom switching to a more familiar left back position. Sporting continued to create chances, Daniel and Lewie just failed to fire home when well placed and Mitchell hit a right foot curler the keeper parried back out to him and the bounce meant he couldn't keep it down and fired over.
On 53 minutes Sporting re-gained a two goal cushion. Harry had been running the game with his skill and tackling and after winning a number of challenges surged into the Firefighters box. Cool as you like HARRY rounded the keeper and slotted home for a great solo goal and his 4th of the season 3-1.
On 55 minutes Ben returned to the action to replace the injured Finley and went for glory up front !! The final 5 minutes were played out evenly and the final whistle sounded on a really good game of football by both sides.

Final Score 3-1

Sporting were much improved today and the victory sets us up nicely to push for a result against Bulkington next week. All the lads battled hard for the ball and in periods played some excellent and intelligent passing football. A number of the lads were in line for the "Parents' Man of the Match" but for running the game, a great solo goal and faultless performance HARRY was awarded the honour.

Let's try and push on even more next week !!

Back to top

Hawkesmill (H) 2-8 (L)

Disasterous second half costs Sporting !!

In Sportings' first midweek game of the season we entertained Hawkesmill 87 at Milby. Sporting were again without the influence of Jamie and also Finley due to other committments.
Hawkesmill seemed to be the team to beat having played well all season and with games in hand will be contending the League title. However, the Sporting boys went into the game full of confidence after last weeks' comprehensive victory over Rugby Town.
From the kick off it was clear Hawkesmill had some quality players and pace up front. In the early exchanges Hawkesmill were winning all the 50-50 balls and looked hungrier than Sporting. This was confirmed after just 3 minutes. The Hawkes striker out-pacing Sportings' defence to fire home from 15 yards 0-1.
Sporting continued to lose out in the challenges, although the midfield trio of Harry, Lucas and Mitch were trying to get a hold of the middle of the pitch.
After 10 minutes Hawkesmill hit their second. A good passing move culminated in the striker slotting home number two in spite of Jordan's valliant efforts 0-2.
Conceding the second goal seemed to spark Sporting into life and they enjoyed some good posession. First Josh, then the excellent Daniel shot inches wide. Thomas was having some success in the right wing channel and created an opening for Mitch who's rasping drive was excellently parried wide by the keeper. Ben took a knock to the dreaded Metatarsal and was replaced by Lewie with Thomas dropping to right back.
On 25 minutes Sporting got the reward for the pressure they were exerting on the Hawkesmill defence. After gaining a free kick 25 yards out Mitchell composed himself for the shot. As we've seen so often this season he's turning into a great asset from free kicks and with a superb left-footed curler MITCHELL nestled the ball into the top corner of the net. Subsequently he then ran half the length of the pitch to enjoy a pre-meditated goal celebration with James not dissimilar to the TV advert for mastercard !!! 1-2.
Sporting started to believe in themselves, Scott, James and especially Ryan were getting their challenges in and winning the ball. Then on 27 minutes Hawkesmill re-gained their two goal advantage and again the quick passing and pace of the Hawkes strikers undid the Sporting defence and they drilled in their third goal 1-3.
Almost immediately Sporting struck back. A couple of minutes of sustained pressure created a number of chances that just went wide. Then on 28 minutes Sporting scored number 2. Again a foul was committed 25 yards out and it looked ominous as Mitch placed the ball. With deadly accuracy MITCHELL curled another beauty into the other top corner to notch his 20th goal of the season, thankfully this time the celebration was a little more subdued !! 2-3.
Sporting continued to pressurise the Hawkes defence and nearly equilised on the stroke of half time when Josh was unlucky to just shoot over from 12 yards.
Half Time 2-3
The Sporting lads were reminded at half time that they were right in this game, if the chances they created had been converted in the first half the score could have been very different. When the Hawkes defence were pressured Sporting enjoyed their best passages of play. Tom came on and slotted in at left back.
The less said about the second half the better. For some reason Sporting stopped competing. Hawkesmill went back to winning all 50-50 balls, Sporting stood off them and allowed them to play and we simply didn't compete.
Hawkesmill went goal crazy with little resistance and made it 2-4 on 35 minutes, 2-5 on 40 minutes, 2-6 on 45 minutes, 2-7 on 48 minutes and 2-8 after 50 minutes. Sporting huffed and puffed but could not match the desire to win the ball.
Then on 51 minutes Sporting's evening went from bad to worse. Thomas went for a 50-50 ball and sustained a serious injury to his ankle (the same one he broke around 2 years ago). Clearly in a lot of pain, and having ensured he was supported, he was carried off to generous applause from all supporters until an ambulance arrived.
Although the players from both sides were clearly and sportingly concerned about Thomas's welfare the game continued to it's conclusion and Sporting didn't concede any further goals.

Full Time 2-8

This really was a game of two halves. Sporting could quite legitimately have been a number of goals ahead at half time. In the second half we just didn't play at all, too often conceeding cheap posession and not showing the will or fight that Hawkesmill did. Although 8-2 was generous, Hawkesmill deserved their victory.
As with any team following a defeat we need to pick ourselves up and look for three points against Firefighters on Sunday to ensure at least a top 5 finish.
There were a few players who came out of the game with credit and in spite of conceding 8 goals Jordan's bravery, shot stopping and all round performance earned him the "Parents Man of the Match".
Thankfully it appears Thomas's ankle is badly sprained and not broken, and although his season is probably over playing wise, we wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to his vocal support from the sidelines.

Back to top

Rugby Town (A) 5-3(W)

Super Sporting back to winning ways !!

Game 16 of the League season and Sporting were away at Rugby Town. In the first fixture at Milby Sporting had played some of their best football of the season so expectations were high.
Sporting were missing three of their players for the match, Jamie and Tom were still on holiday and Lucas swimming. This enabled Thomas to start in midfield with a 4-3-2-1 formation!!
From the kick off Sporting looked up for the game. Early posession was dominated by the Sporting midfield of Thomas, Harry and Mitch. Josh and Finley both enjoyed some positive runs down the flanks and the back four were well marshalled by the impressive James in his new boots!! Full backs Ben and Scott were winning everything against the wingers and playing intelligently from the back.
After 10 minutes Sportings' passing game paid dividends. A slick move involving Josh, Finley, Harry and finally Thomas resulted in Thomas's slide-rule pass finding Mitch bursting through the Town defence and from 12 yards MITCHELL smashed the ball into the far corner, great team goal 1-0.
Two minutes later Sporting went further ahead. From a beautifully taken free kick by Ryan just inside the Sporting half FINLEY was on hand to fire home for his 7th goal of the season and maintained his record of scoring in the last 4 games.2-0.
Sporting continued to dominate and should have gone further ahead after 15 minutes. A superb corner by Mitch enabled Ryan to have a free header from just 6 yards out, unfortunately the pressure of Ryan scoring his first ever goal for Sporting got the better of him and he failed to nod in !!
Two minutes later, controversy. The referee seemed to see a handball in the Sporting box and pointed to the spot. Not for the first time Mitchell had rather a lot to say to the referee in pleading his innocence and was reprimanded without the use of a yellow card (which saved him from a month being grounded !!). From the penalty Jordan made a valiant effort to save the spot kick and got a hand to the ball but the power of the shot carried it over the line 2-1.
Sporting reacted well and could have gone further ahead before half time. Daniel was working particularly hard and holding the ball up well and Josh and Finley were both playing 1-2's to beat the defenders.
Half time 2-1
The lads came off to encouraging words. Having the wind behind them in the second half encouraged more shooting from distance. Lewie came on to replace the hard working Thomas with Josh dropping into midfield.
Sporting continued in the second half from where they left off in the first. Harry and Mitch were dominating the midfield and Scott was enjoying a superb game at left back, constantly winning the ball and advancing down the wing.
After 38 minutes Sporting stretched their lead. A free kick was awarded for a foul on Harry and as we've seen many times this season MITCHELL curled a beauty into the corner with his left foot to notch his 18th goal of the season, a superb return by anyone's standards for a midfielder 3-1.
Just two minutes later it was 4 and the game effectively wrapped up. Following some sustained Sporting pressure and some pinball inside the Town box DANIEL lashed home the loose ball from 8 yards for his 9th of the season 4-1
The scoring didn't stop there, on 46 minutes Sporting conceded a second goal. Jordan got down well to gather the ball but unfortunately it was kicked out of his hands and the striker slotted in 4-2.
Almost immediately Sporting struck back. Following a super shot by Mitchell from 25 yards the goalkeeper parried the ball into the path of JOSH who shot home for his 9th of the season 5-2.
Sporting still continued to keep posession and pass the ball around, Mr Consistent Scott was enjoying one of his best displays of the season, Ryan was winning everything in the heart of the Sporting defence and James was having a tremendous game at sweeper. Thomas returned to replace Ben at right back.
With 5 minutes left Sporting had a number of chances to extend their lead, Daniel, Harry and Mitchell all had excellent runs and shots saved by the keeper or cleared following a last ditch tackle.
With nearly the last kick of the game Town got a consolation goal after Sporting failed to clear following a Town counter attack 5-3.

Full-Time 5-3

Sporting played some really good football today which should give them the confidence to go into their midweek game against Hawkesmill. From Jordan through to Daniel all the lads played well and some of our passing was the best it's been all season. When we play as a team we really could beat anyone in this league.
A difficult decision for the Parents' Man of The Match, but for another outstanding display SCOTT was awarded the honour

Well played boys lets play as well against Hawkesmill on Wednesday!!

Back to top

Caludon Youth (A) 5-1 (L)

Sporting surrender but at least there was a battle!!

Game 15 of the season and Sporting were in the reverse fixture from last week against Caludon Youth. The lads had worked hard in training this week and worked through developing their skills for the different approach for this game, refered to by me as the "Masterplan"!!
Actually fielding 11 players was touch and go at one stage, with both Jamie and Ben on holiday, Lucas swimming but attempting to arrive as soon as he'd raced and Lewie out with a foot injury Sporting arrived following a nightmare trying to find the pitches!!
The "Masterplan" consisted of switching to a 4-3-3 formation from last weeks' 5-4-1, the thinking being their back 4 defended on the halfway line and one ball through to pacey strikers would give us chances.
Straight from the kick off it was obvious Sporting were determined to put on a better performance than last week. With Harry marshalling the back 4, a tight midfield three of James, Mitch and Scott and Daniel, Finley and Josh putting pressure on the Caludon back 4 things looked promising.
Sporting were certainly giving as good as they were getting in the early exchanges, then with 10 minutes gone disaster!! A very lucky ricochet as Sporting were clearing the ball presented a gift to the Caludon striker and he coolly slotted past Jordan 0-1
Sporting reacted well and enjoyed a period of posession themselves, Josh and Daniel were both slotted clean through but failed to convert, it appeared the tactic and formation were working. Finley took a heavy blow in the back but after lengthy treatment, and admitting he'd fallen off his bike to start the injury the day before, returned to the action !!
Jordan had made a couple of saves and was looking commanding in his box but could do nothing about Caludon's second goal. The Caludon midfielder, as i fondly refered to throughout the game as "green boots" was absolutely controlling the match and on 20 minutes intercepted the ball on the halfway line, advanced to halfway inside the Sporting half and then let fly with an absolute screamer over Jordan and into the far corner, great goal 0-2
Half Time 0-2
The lads were still in the game as in the first half they'd put lots of pressure on the Caludon defence and had been playing on a steep uphill slope. With encouragement they strode out for the second half.
The opening 5 minutes of the half saw Caludon try and control in midfield, particularly with Green boots seeming to be everywhere!!
Then on 35 minutes Caludon went further ahead, probably against the run of play. Sporting were caught not all coming out at the back together and the Caludon striker sprang the off-side trap to poke the ball past Jordan 0-3
Sporting responded well, James and Scott were working harder in midfield alongside Mitch and started to enjoy good posession and put their passing game together. Then on 43 minutes Sporting pulled one back. Mitchell played a slide-rule pass to set Finley free, after carrying the ball to just outside the box FINLEY calmly slotted the ball under the advancing keeper 1-3
The goal also hailed the arrival of Lucas who went straight into the midfield and gave Tom a rest. The game ebbed and flowed for ten minutes with both sides enjoying passages of posession. At times Sporting were lucky not to concede further and some fantastic tackling by Harry at the back saved further attempts on goal. On a number of occasions in the final 10 minutes Sporting were caught trying to play offside but one defender was often playing all the strikers on, something we are still learning and takes lots of practice.
Then, with 5 minutes left Caludon increased their lead and finally killed Sportings hopes off. Sporting were caught in posession and Caludon's winger gratefully accepted the gift and shot home 1-4
In the final minutes Mitch came off and was replaced by Tom. With virtually the last kick of the game Caludon scored a fifth to make the scoreline worse than Sporting deserved1-5.

Final Score 1-5

Today's performance was a vast improvement on last week and 5-1 certainly flattered Caludon. Although the Masterplan didn't quite pay off the lads showed they can adapt to different formations well. Although Sporting are still too nice and don't get stuck in enough at times the lads are still learning, we particularly need to work on our concentration when playing offside so all the defence move out together.
There were a number of good performances today, with a few of the lads in contention for the Parents' Man of the Match. For a tenacious, battling performance at sweeper HARRY was awarded the honour.
No game or training over the Easter weekend so the next fixture is Rugby Town away the Sunday after Easter.

Back to top

Caludon Youth (H) 1-6 (L)

Sporting soundly beaten by classy Caludon

Billed as the most important game of the season so far, Sporting hosted Caludon Youth at Milby. Sporting knew that a victory would blow the top five wide open in the Division and make promotion a real possibility.
With Jordan just passing a late fitness test on his injured arm, Lewie at Man United, Thomas injured and the news Lucas had injured his knee swimming, Sporting were down to the bare 12 available players.
The lads were told today was all about desire and will to win, there was no doubt the boys had the ability to record a victory and went into the game in a 5-4-1 formation.
From the kick off it was clear Caludon were a well organised, quality side. Sporting looked nervous and unable to settle into their game. For some reason the lads were reluctant to compete and sat off Caludon, especially in midfield. If I reported all the Caludon efforts this report would be a Novel !! Time and again Caludon caused Sporting problems. After 6 minutes Caludon took a deserved lead, the striker tapping in following some neat passing through a static Sporting midfield 0-1
There were glimpses of hope for Sporting, the Caludon defence were defending on the half way line and 3/4 times Sporting played good long balls over the top which put in Josh, Daniel and Finley but they were unable to convert.
With 15 minutes gone Jordan dived bravely at the strikers feet and aggravated the arm injury which led to him leaving the pitch last week, although on this occasion he soldiered on for a short while.
After 20 minutes Caludon hit number 2, again passing through a static midfield, Sporting failed to get their tackles in and the Caludon midfielder slotted into the net 0-2
Almost immediately Jordan had to be replaced in goal by Ryan, Tom came on at left back. Sporting saw out the half without conceding further although Caludon hit the post twice and the crossbar !!
Half time 0-2
At half time Sporting were encouraged to believe in themselves as they were still very much in the game. With no further substitutes available Sporting re-organised the players they'd got to bolster a struggling midfield.
The second half kicked off with Caludon picking up where they left off, super passing and moving and creating chances at will. Within 5 minutes of the re-start Sporting conceded a third. Again, Sporting failed to track runners from midfield and they set up the striker for his second of the game 0-3.
After 40 minutes things went from bad to worse for Sporting who conceded a fourth. Again Caludon were able to get through the Sporting rear-guard too easily and the striker completed his hat-trick 0-4
Sporting then enjoyed a passage of posession themselves. Jamie, who had been the only Sporting midfielder showing any fight in the tackle was winning balls and Harry, so often exposed at the back by opponents closing in on goal in numbers, were both trying to get the side going. Unfortunately, this didn't turn into goals as the Caludon keeper was equal to everything Sporting could throw at him.
Then on 50 minutes Caludon hit number 5. Some absolutely comical defending inside the 6 yard box with two defenders waiting for each other to clear the ball allowed the Caludon player a gift of a tap in 0-5
Finally, with 5 minutes to go Sportings' parents had something to cheer. After picking the ball up on the half way line Finley started off on a run down the left. Using his skill and pace he beat three defenders and bore down on goal, then with great skill FINLEY lobbed the keeper from an acute angle 1-5.
In the last minute Caludon rounded off a resounding victory and completed the rout with number six 1-6

Full Time 1-6

Sporting produced their worst performance of the season today. For some reason the desire to play just wasn't evident. Too many gave up and stopped playing or merely watched as Caludon ran all over us. At times it was more like men against boys, but at least we scored the goal of the game with Finleys cracking solo effort. Sporting have come so far this season and maybe i expect too much, desperate for the lads to succeed. As with all teams we need to pick ourselves up from this setback and improve next week.
A couple of lads in contention for "Parents Man of the Match" namely Harry and Jamie but for some great defending initially then some great saves when he had to go in goal RYAN was rightly awarded the trophy.

Back to top

Stratford Town (A) 2-2 (D)

Wind is the factor in a game of two halves

Game 13 of the season saw Sporting away at Stratford Town. Judging from previous results Stratford and Sporting seemed evenly matched and this was certainly true following the game.
Sporting, without the services of Lewie, were otherwise boasting a full squad. Ryan, Dan and Jamie had all recovered well from minor knocks. Sporting fielded a different formation in preparation for games against the leading teams at the top and adopted a 4-5-1. Harry moved to Sweeper, James to marking centre half and last weeks' Man of the Match, Ben, went in at right back. Lucas was the holding midfielder in an effort to maintain the shape we were lacking last week.
A super sunny morning, great facilities at Stratford and optimism was high, the only downside being the strong wind from left to right. In the first half Sporting played with the wind behind them.
Both sides enjoyed early posession and Sporting immediately looked far better than last week in terms of their shape, passing and movement. After a couple of minutes Stratford had a break down the right and whipped a ball straight across the Sporting box which just missed creeping in at the far post. Sporting responded well and got their passing game going, some excellent link-up play between full backs and wingers, neat short passing through midfield and Daniel working hard up front all resulted in creating some early chances.
Then with 10 minutes gone Sporting took the lead. Following some excellent build up play the ball reached the left wing, and after skillfully beating two defenders FINLEY fired a great shot over the keepers head and into the far corner for his 4th goal of the season 1-0
The game ebbed and flowed for the next ten minutes, Jordan communicated really well with his defence to cover any danger Stratford could offer and from diving on the ball in the box it appeared Jordan had aggravated an injury he picked up in training a fortnight ago. However, he confirmed he was fit to play on.
After 20 minutes Sporting struck again, latching on to a loose ball on the edge of the Stratford box, and using the wind well, MITCHELL hit a viciously dipping lob into the far corner for his 16th goal of the season 2-0.
Sporting continued to put pressure on the Stratford defence for the remainder of the half whilst the superb efforts of Ben, James, Harry and Scott ensured Sporting were comfortable at the back.
Half time 2-0
The lads came off to great praise for the way they were playing, the first 30 minutes were amongst the best they had shown all season. At half time Thomas gave the hard working Josh a rest, Ryan swapped with Lucas in the holding midfield role and Tom replaced Scott at left back. The lads knew the second half would be difficult as the wind was relentless.
Sporting started the second half well and had to as Stratford looked to get back into the game. It took a couple of minutes for the subs who had come on to adjust but some excellent reading of the play by Harry and James ensured Sporting protected their lead.
Ben was again having an excellent game at right back as were James and Harry and their distribution was accurate to get the hard working midfield of Thomas, Jamie, Mitch, Ryan and Finley in posession.
Then, on 43 minutes Stratford pulled a goal back. Following some neat play in midfield the ball reached the Stratford striker who hit a super shot past Jordan.2-1
In the next 10 minutes Sporting responded. Keeping the ball down because of the wind Sporting slotted Finley through the Stratford defence twice for one on ones against the goalkeeper. The first time Fin just shot too early and the keeper made the save and the second time he just shot wide. Then, having soldiered on for much of the game Jordan's injury meant he couldn't continue and left the field to a standing ovation. Ryan agreed to take up the gloves in goal and spookily had bought a pair with him!! Lucas came back on to replace Ryan in midfield.
On 50 minutes Stratford equilised. Good passing through the midfield enabled space for their midfielder to cross to the penalty spot for the striker to hammer home, a really good goal which Sporting could have done nothing about.
With the bit between their teeth Stratford pressed for the winner. Josh returned to replace Jamie and Scott replaced the tiring Ben. Time and again Stratford tried to penetrate the Sporting defence but were either met by Harry intercepting or Ryan coming out to gather the through ball.
In the last 5 minutes the game could have gone either way, Mitch had to be replaced by Jamie after a heavy tackle.With both sides enjoying an equal share of posession and some half chances the game reached a fair conclusion.
Full time 2-2

Sporting played some really good football at times today to extend their unbeaten run to 9 games and compared to last week they were 100% better. The defence looked comfortable for most of the game, the midfield worked hard to win and retain posession and Daniel worked tirelessly up front. Hopefully Jordan will be fit to face Caludon Youth next week following the diagnosis of his injury. A difficult decision for Parents Man of the Match but it was deservedly awarded to HARRY for his excellent game in the Sweepers' role.

Back to top

Firefighters (A) 6-5 (W)

Sporting scrape victory in thriller !!

Sporting's third game of 2010 and 12th in the League saw them away against Firefighter Rangers at Woodlands school. For the first time this season Sporting had every member of their 15 man squad available.
Sporting had to make a late change to their starting 11 as Finley was delayed so started with Jordan in goal, a back 4 of Thomas, Ryan, James and Scott. In midfield were Tom, Mitch, Jamie and Josh, with Harry and Daniel up front.
In the opening two minutes it became clearly apparent Sporting's stop-start season due to the weather was having an effect. The early exchanges were dominated by Firefighters as Sporting struggled to find any tackles, shape or passing.
Then, after 3 minutes and against the run of play, a good run and cross by Jamie was expertly glanced into the net by DANIEL, out came the ginger ninja shirt in celebration !!! 1-0
As soon as Sporting scored they reverted back to standing off Firefighters and allowing them to play, it appeared we were watching a team playing for the first time!! After 6 minutes Firefighters dominance in midfield paid off. With the defence failing to clear a cross the striker nipped in to slot home 1-1.
As they have done all season Sporting responded to conceding. On 10 minutes a great run down the left resulted in a fine cross by Harry for JOSH to tap in 2-1. Five minutes later a great solo run by Harry following a defence-splitting pass by James, was rounded off with a good finish as HARRY hammered home his 3rd goal of the season 3-1.
Within two minutes of scoring the third Ryan found an injury he had picked up meant he could take no further part and he was replaced by Lucas.
With 20 minutes gone, and still against the run of play as Firefighters constantly looked liable to score, Sporting hit number four. This time Mitch made a good run and crossed from the left for DANIEL to score his second of the game and 8th of the season 4-1!! Ben replaced Thomas and Lewie replaced Jamie after he had picked up a knock.
After 23 minutes Firefighters got the reward their dominance of posession deserved, again Sporting failed to deal with a cross and the striker tapped in at the far post 4-2
Half Time 4-2
At half time the lads were advised about keeping their shape and playing as a team, for much of the first half they had not competed for the ball and allowed Firefighters to run all over them. With renewed hope the lads went out for the second half, determined to secure victory.
Firefighters came out for the second half and continued the dominance of posession they had shown in the first 30 minutes. Time and again they passed through the Sporting midfield and attacked at pace and in numbers. Almost immediately Firefighters pulled it back to 4-3 and again it was a poor goal for Sporting to concede having failed to put in a number of challenges.
A minute later Firefighters were level, Sporting didn't track runners from midfield and the defence were left exposed and out numbered as the striker netted 4-4
Jamie returned to midfield, Thomas replaced Josh, Finley eventually arrived and replaced Tom. Jamie went straight back into the thick of the action and alongside Harry, started to win posession and pass the ball around. After 43 minutes Sportings' posession paid off and a nice passing move, the first bit of quality we had seen, was finished by JAMIE whose shot found the back of the net for his 3rd goal of the season 5-4.
Firefighters refused to give up and showed tremendous character, wave after wave of attacks followed as Sporting had to dig deep to stop the danger, important challenges and interceptions were made by both James and Ben as the half progressed. Then on 52 minutes Firefighters equilised, again Sporting allowed them too much space and time and the midfielder shot home to wild celebrations from the home supporters 5-5.
Sporting came back again, Finley enjoyed a couple of his trademark mazy runs but just failed to apply the finish, Lewie also came close when bearing down on goal with only the keeper to beat but the defender just got his tackle in as Lewie was about to shoot. This proved to be his last contribution and he was replaced by the returning Daniel.
With 5 minutes to go Sporting surged forward, some neat play wide ended with a cross which was only half cleared to the edge of the box. Ater setting himself MITCH hit a powerful shot which the keeper couldn't answer to and the ball nestled nicely in the back of the net 6-5!!
The final five minutes were frenetic, the crowd were screaming encouragement for both sides, Firefighters were thwarted by Jordan's bravery in diving at their feet in the box and in the last couple of minutes Sporting kept the ball in the Firefighters half with a succession of corners. Eventually, the referee blew the final whistle on a real battle of a game.

Final Score 6-5

Every team has an off day, to have an off day and still score 6 goals, get three points and stay in contention is commendable. The lads really struggled today, we have a number of things we have done really well all season but didn't do so well today and can work on those in training. This result was really ground out and i can't fault the lads' character at all, everytime we have a setback they respond.
A really difficult call for Man of the Match today with Harry, Jamie, Daniel and James all playing well but for a solid defensive display at right back BEN was the Parents' "Man of the Match"

Back to top

Westwood Utd (A) 4-2 (W)

Super Sporting half way to paradise !!!

Game 11 of the League marked the half way point in this season's campaign. Sporting were away at Westwood United, a team we'd beaten 5-2 on the opening day of the season. However, since then Westwood had recorded a couple of good results, including the defeat of Bulkington.
Sporting were without the services of Ryan and Ben due to other commitments. The lads turned up to play and it immediately became apparent the pitch was more like a mud bath than a soccer area, usually a great leveller.
Sporting were confident and started with a back 4 of Thomas, Lucas, James and Scott. The usual midfield of Josh, Jamie, Mitch and Finley. Harry had a free role behind Daniel up front.
The opening 15 minutes saw both teams battling hard and trying to adjust to the conditions. Sporting played some good football with both wingers enjoying some excellent runs and crosses.
Then with 15 minutes gone and against the run of play Westwood scored. Sporting failed to clear on the edge of the area and although it appeared the ball had been kicked out of Jordans hands when he was on the floor the referee allowed play to continue and the striker slotted into an unguarded net. 0-1
As they have done so well this season, Sporting's reaction to conceeding a goal was to step up a gear. Within a minute some good passing through midfield saw the ball reach Mitch on the edge of the box and MITCHELL calmly slotted an angled drive into the far corner 1-1
James, carrying a slight knock was replaced by Lewie and Harry dropped to Sweeper for a short time. Thomas came off for a breather and was replaced by Tom.
Sporting then started to play some really good football. After working well in training over the last couple of weeks they really put what they'd practiced into their play. Throughout the whole team the lads passed and moved and started to calve up the Westwood defence time and again. At the back Scott, Lucas, Harry and Tom were calm and assured.
After 25 minutes Sporting got the reward their football deserved. Following a series of passes Mitchell shot powerfully and the 'keeper could only parry the ball out to the lurking "Ginger Ninja" DANIEL who hammered the ball into the net 2-1.

Half time 2-1

The lads came off to a heap of praise for the football they were playing, and were given the message to continue in the same way to finish the game off. Daniel came off so Harry could push back to his free role and Thomas returned into the back four.
One of the great attributes of this team is that they listen. The second half started with Sporting picking up exactly where they left off, great passing, good movement, wingers beating full backs and all the pressure in and around the Westwood box.
With 38 minutes gone Mitchell made a powerful run down the left wing and after beating two defenders crossed for HARRY to drill home his second goal of the season 3-1
Five minutes later Harry did the same and after skinning 4 players rolled the ball square for JAMIE to hammer home number four 4-1.
Westwood responded to the double setback well and started to put pressure on the Sporting defence, what they hadn't bargained for was the form of Scott. He's consistently performed all season but today his game hit a new level, his tackling, distribution and reading of the game were superb.
Jordan was smothering anything that got through the Sporting rear guard and on a number of occasions bravely dived at the strikers' feet to stop any danger.
With 5 minutes left and the game effectively wrapped up Sporting made a couple more substitutions to ensure all the lads had equal pitch time. This meant some re-organisation at the back and while the lads were doing this the Westwood striker took advantage of a gap and poked home a consolation 4-2.

Final Score 4-2

So, half way through the season and it's played 11 Won 7 Drawn 2 Lost 2.In third place and looking really good for the promotion push in the second half.
The lads showed today just how far they've come already. Any team would have found the pitch difficult to play attractive football on today but great credit should go to the boys not only for the win but also for the way they achieved it. All 13 should be proud of their performance but for an absolutely outstanding display, in three different positions, Scott was awarded "Parents' Man of the Match".

WELL DONE BOYS, SUPERB !!

Back to top

London Road Lions (A) 5-2 (W)

Super Sporting romp home

Game number 10 of the League season after a two month break due to the weather. Sporting thought the full squad of 15 would be available for the first time this season until Jordan went down with a bug on the morning of the game. Fortunately, Ryan stepped between the sticks for the first time competitively.
Having beaten London Road 5-4 at home Sporting already knew plenty about their opponents, good going forward but sometimes suspect at the back. With such a long lay off it was important for Sporting to pick up where they left off and maintain the pressure at the top of the League.
With Ryan in goal, Sporting started with a back four of Scott, Lucas, James and Tom, the consistent midfield of Josh, Jamie, Mitch and Finley, with Daniel and Harry up front.
Following a delayed start the game kicked off with the Lions looking well up for the game and many of the early challenges were won by London Road, although none of the early posession turned into chances. After a few minutes Sporting started to get into their game and enjoyed some good posession themselves.
After 5 minutes Sporting worked the ball through their midfield and found Mitch on the left hand side of the area, after looking up MITCH hit a cracker into the far corner of the net 1-0
Thomas came on after 15 minutes to replace Tom, only his second start following a long period out injured. Although a little match rusty Thomas fitted back into things remarkably quickly and was soon winning tackles and playing well at right back.
The game ebbed and flowed with both sides enjoying their share of the ball. Then, with 20 minutes gone Daniel closed down the defender deep in the Lions half and robbed him of the ball, then expertly fed the ball to Mitch just outside the box. With one touch to tee himself up MITCH hit a sublime shot straight into the top corner 2-0.
Lions kept on battling and some excellent defending by Lucas, Scott, Thomas and Tom plus James clearing anything that went behind them ensured Sporting maintained a clean sheet to half time.
Half-Time 2-0
The lads came off to words of encouragement from the substantial number of spectators who had been enjoying a less than classic yet enjoyable game. Ben replaced Daniel and Thomas pushed up to right wing, Lewie replaced James and went up front, Harry picking up his Sweepers role he was so effective in during the last game.With words of advice about some aspects of their game to improve, and praise in how the lads were looking going forward the team went into the second half determined to finish the job.
Straight away Sporting looked dangerous through the superb Josh and deft skills of Finley on the flanks. After 38 minutes Sporting went further ahead. A through ball saw JOSH burst past the Lions defence and although his first shot was blocked he followed up to lash home his 7th goal of the season 3-0
Five minutes later another through ball enabled Lewie to chase. Having got in front of the defender LEWIE hammered a great shot into the roof of the net 4-0.
Finley was given a breather and Tom returned on the left wing, Josh was rested and replaced by Daniel. Ryan had enjoyed a fairly quite afternoon in goal until with 10 minutes to go Sporting's defence tried to be too elaborate with their play inside their own box and the striker nipped in to dash Sporting's hopes of a clean sheet 4-1.
Three minutes later a mix up in the Sporting defence gifted Lions a second goal 4-2. Almost immediately Sporting restored their three goal advantage and effectively wrapped up the match. Having just returned to the game Finley hit a great shot which the keeper parried, only for DANIEL to hammer home the rebound and flash the "Ginger Ninja" shirt for the 5th time this season 5-2.
With 4 minutes left Mitchell was replaced by Josh. Sporting played out the final minutes comfortably to record their 6th win of the season
Final Score 5-2

It was clear today the lads hadn't played for two months. At times we struggled to maintain our shape and were guilty of watching London Road win the ball. However, once we started playing our football we again looked as though we would score every time we went forward.
No Man of the Match today as all the lads worked hard and contributed to a good victory.

Back to top

Chaplefields Colts (H) 3-3 (D)

Super Sporting show real character

Game 9 of the League season saw Sporting at home for the return fixture against Chaplefields Colts Crusaders. Chaps' had beaten Sporting 7-2 in the first fixture and were sitting at joint first in the League before kick off.
Sporting made a couple of changes from the last game, some enforced through Josh's absence and some tactical. With a revised 5-4-1 formation to cope with the pace of the Chaps' strikers Sporting were looking to bounce back from last weeks' Cup exit. Harry moved from his usual free role to a specialised role of Sweeper behind a back 4 of James, Ryan, Lucas and Tom. Scott pushed further up to right of midfield with Mitch and Jamie in the middle, Finley returned for his customery role at left wing with Daniel the sole striker.
The game started with an absolutely frenetic opening ten minutes. Chaps showed their intentions right from the kick off and looked a formidable side. Sporting battled hard in the opening exchanges but fell behind on three minutes. Sporting's defence failed to clear when given a number of opportunities to do so and ultimately paid the price, Chaps' striker pouncing on a loose ball and drilling it into the corner past a helpless Jordan 0-1
Sporting, as they have done so often this season responded brilliantly, tackle after tackle was flying in and the Sporting midfield were not giving Chaps any time to get their passing game going. Having been told to challenge everything and put themselves about the Sporting lads did just that. With 6 minutes gone Dan chased a ball the defence looked favourites to clear, however, the centre half got the ball stuck in his feet and after robbing him of the ball DANIEL hammered home the equiliser 1-1
With the bit between their teeth Sporting began to really express themselves, Harry was phenominal as a sweeper covering both full backs and supporting his centre halves, Mitch and Jamie were first into the tackle and battling for everything. With ten minutes gone Sportings' pressure resulted in a corner on the right and with a vicious in-swinger the ball went straight in from MITCHELL'S kick 2-1.
Chaplefields were in shock, having won comfortably their first six league games this was unfamiliar territory for them. Sporting continued to compete and the game was turning into a great spectacle. Daniel was working tirelessly up front and both Finley and Scott were creating problems for the full backs trying to contain them.
Then, on 25 minutes Sporting again failed to clear on the edge of their own box in spite of three opportunities to do so and the winger for Chaps' nipped in to slot home 2-2.

Half Time 2-2

The lads came off for a breather and a drink after a fast paced first half. The team talk focussed them on continueing to compete and close down the opponents to stop them playing, then play our own football. The hard working Scott was replaced by Lewie.
The second half kicked off as the first had ended and for the first 12 minutes was played at a frenetic pace, both sides enjoying excellent passages of play in what was turning into the game of the season.
Then on 43 minutes Sporting took the lead. Following some sustained pressure around the Chap's penalty area the loose ball was hammered into the bottom corner by LUCAS for his first goal of the season 3-2.
Sporting continued to have the lions share of the ball and could have gone further ahead on 50 minutes when Finley's shot from an acute angle came back off the post.
In the last 10 minutes Chaplefields desperately pushed for the equiliser, Harry was playing superbly in reading the game and timing his inteceptions to perfection. On 53 minutes Chaps' had a clear cut chance with the striker one-on-one with Jordan who raced out to parry his shot wide for a corner.
Although clearly tiring Sportings lads dug in to protect their lead. Then, with just three minutes left Chaplefields equilised. The skillful striker evaded a couple of tackles around the Sporting box before advancing on goal and slotting the ball past Jordan and into the far corner 3-3.
The final couple of minutes were played out at an equally fast pace as the rest of the game but no further chances were created.

Final Score 3-3

The character these lads have shown this season never ceases to amaze me. When the going gets tough these lads stick together, roll up their sleeves and play for each other. As the Chap's manager commented after the game the lads have an envious spirit and will to win and he was gracious in conceading his team was lucky to get away with a draw today.
These are the sides Sporting need to take points off if we are to be promoted this season and this was a tremendous performance and result.
Although difficult to single out one player today, for a faultless, immaculate performance HARRY was named "Parents Man of the Match"

Let's keep this going at Stratford away next week !! Well done boys!!

Back to top

Lemington Hibs Minors (A) 7-0 (W)

Rampant Sporting in Seventh heaven !

Game 8 of the League season and Sporting were away at Lemington Hibs Minors. The game was touch and go at one stage following torrential rain all morning but it became clear the pitch and conditions were excellent for football by kick-off time.
Sporting were without the services of Daniel and Finley (virus), Ben (away) and Thomas (still injured), so entered the match with the bare 11 players. As it turned out both sides actually kicked off with 9 each on the pitch until those stuck in traffic made it a minute or two late !!
Sporting were in confident mood having won 2 out of their last three games and knew a win today could see them progress to second place in the table. With a slight change in personnel Sporting fielded a back 4 of Ryan, Lucas, James and Scott. In midfield Josh took up his customery right wing position, Mitch and Jamie in the middle and Tom C played at left wing. This left Harry and Lewie up front.
The game kicked off and Sporting were pressurising the Hibs players straight away. Playing against the wind and slope Sporting kept the ball on the floor and immediately settled into their game. Josh and Tom were making full use of the wings and on a number of early occasions beat their full back to provide dangerous crosses.
Lemington were struggling to get the ball out of their own half as Sporting created a number of early chances, Lewie and Harry working hard to try and break through a resiliant Hibs back four. After 8 minutes Sporting got the goal their posession deserved. A Hibs goal kick was well stopped by Lewie and his pass to Mitch 23 yards out looked ominous. After taking a touch to set himself MITCH hit a screamer into the top corner. 1-0
Sporting continued to press and the only action Jordan encountered were some overhit through balls. Full backs Ryan and Scott were exploiting the space they had and linked well with the wingers in front of them, Jamie and Mitch were dominating the middle of the pitch and dictating the game and Harry was causing havoc in the Hibs defence with his skills and running.
Sporting created chance after chance in the first half and did everything but add to the score. The Hibs goalkeeper produced a string of excellent saves to keep them in the game. Some last ditch defending and Sporting snatching at chances kept the score at 1-0
Half Time 1-0
The half time team talk centered on keeping composed in front of goal, playing as a team and staying tight at the back to record our first clean sheet of the season.
The lads went out for the second half committed to finishing the job their first half efforts deserved, although one or two forgot which way we were attacking before the half started !!
In the second half Sporting were rampant. After just five minutes Tom's excellent cross from the left was hammered home by LEWIE 2-0.
Sporting piled on the pressure and again Hibs were restricted to some desperate defending as Sporting were camped inside their half.
On 42 minutes a dazzling run by Harry culminated in an inch perfect cross for JOSH to fire home from 6 yards 3-0.
Three minutes later another great cross by Harry was expertly fired home by TOM for his first goal for Sporting 4-0.
It was now a case of how many Sporting would score and on 50 minutes Ryan fed a great ball to JOSH who cooly slotted home from 8 yards 5-0.
Harry and Lewie then had a number of chances as Sporting looked to increase the score, Lewie somehow managing to fire over from 2 yards out which is probably still puzzling him how he missed now !!
With 5 minutes to go a ball on the right was picked up by Mitch, after evading two tackles and cutting inside MITCH hit another cracker into the roof of the net from the edge of the box with his left foot 6-0.
Finally, with two minutes to go came the moment many had been waiting for, Harry's first goal for Sporting. Picking the ball up midway inside the Hibs half and beating three or four players HARRY then enleashed an unstoppable shot into the far corner to wrap up the match 7-0.

Full Time 7-0

Sporting played really well today, our first clean sheet and a big boost to our goal difference which may be vital at the end of the season. A first goal for the side by both Harry and Tom, Mitch moved into double figures for goals this season, Josh hit his 5th and 6th goals of the season and each of the 11 lads played their part in a memorable victory.
Lots of credit to Lemington Hibs today, they never gave up and showed real character and determination, particularly their goalkeeper who was outstanding today.
A break from League action next week as we see how we'll fair in the Cup but the lads should go into the game full of confidence after that performance.

WELL DONE BOYS, ANOTHER GREAT DISPLAY AND 3 POINTS !!

Back to top

London Road Lions (H) 5-4 (W)

Score flatters Lions as Sporting march on !!

The seventh league game of the season saw Sporting take on London Road Lions at Milby. Sporting were without Lucas and Jamie (holiday) and Thomas (injured but nearing a return). Sporting knew three points today would keep them in third place in the league.
Sporting settled quickly into the game from the kick off. The initial play was mainly in the Lions' half with the midfield quartet of Finley, Harry, Mitch and Josh winning their challenges and passing the ball around. The early Sporting dominance produced an early breakthrough. With five minutes on the clock sustained Sporting pressure led to a succession of corners. From a corner on the right Mitchell's superb delivery was met by a bullet header from Josh which crashed against the cross bar and Daniel was on hand to smash in his third goal of the season......out came the "Ginger Ninja" t shirt !! 1-0
Sporting continued to dominate, Ben, Scott, Ryan and James were looking commanding at the back and linking up with the midfield well. Then on 8 minutes Sporting should have had a penalty. A cross from the right was clearly handled in the box by the Lion's left back, despite Sportings protests the referee waved play on !!
Sporting were clearly knocked by this setback and lost concentration. After 10 minutes a long throw from the left sailed over the Sporting defence and the striker slotted past Jordan from 10 yards 1-1.
Having conceded Sporting moved up a gear and spent the next five minutes putting pressure on the Lions' defence. Time and again Sportings passing game opened up the opposition's back four. Then on 15 minutes Sporting again deservedly took the lead. A good passage of play saw the ball fall to Finley inside the Lion's box, his shot was blocked by the keeper and without a blow-up red Liverpool ball to assist him JOSH stabbed the ball over the line !! 2-1
Sporting continued to dominate and looked by far the better footballing side. Then, as so often happens, a goal was conceded against the run of play. Sporting failed to clear on the edge of their box and the Lions striker gratefully slotted the ball past the helpless Jordan 2-2
This spured Sporting's lads on more and they increased their determination. Less than a minute after conceding and following some good passing involving Scott, Finley and Harry the ball reached Mitch 25 yards out. Having shifted the ball onto his trusty left foot MITCH smashed a cracker into the far corner, great goal 3-2.
Sporting weren't finished and continued to dominate and with two minutes to go to half time went further in front. A cross from the right was again handled by the Lion's left back and this time the referee didn't hesitate and pointed to the spot. After striding forward MITCH confidently side footed the spot kick into the corner 4-2
Half time 4-2
The lads came off for a well earned drink. The half time team talk centred on maintaining the pressure on the Lion's defence as they were giving the ball away whenever we challenged. Ben had a breather and was replaced by Tom at left back with Scott switching to the right.
Sporting started the second half as they'd played the first, dominating in midfield with Mitch and Harry controlling the play. On 35 minutes Sporting went further ahead. Harry had played a 1-2 and dribbled past a couple of players before being chopped down 20 yards out. As we've seen a number of times this season MITCH curled a beauty into the corner in spite of the left back trying to keep it out with his hands ! 5-2 and a hat-trick for Mitch
Sporting kept going and created a number of further chances, Josh, Finley, Daniel and Lewie were all unlucky not to score with shots either saved by the keeper or blocked at the last moment by a defender. Ben returned with 10 minutes to go and replaced the hard-working Scott at right back.
With seven minutes left, and against the run of play, the Lions pulled a goal back. A speculative swing of his boot by the striker just sailed over the back-peddling Jordan and into the net 5-3
Sporting should have regained their three goal lead with five minutes left. A great run and cross from Finley found a clearly on-side Josh 15 yards out who slotted the ball home. After initially giving the goal the referee then consulted with the linesman, who i have to say had been flag happy all morning, and gave off-side despite Sportings protests.
Almost straight away Sporting went on the attack again and nearly scored. A clearance by the Lions defence found Tom 35 yards out who hit a curler with his left foot which the keeper just managed to get to at the last second.
In the final minute a long clearance by the lions to try and relieve the pressure bounced over Sportings defence and the striker slotted his shot past the advancing Jordan for his hat-trick 5-4
Final Score 5-4
The scoreline suggests this was a close game but Sporting throughly deserved to win today and should have done so by a larger margin. All the lads played well and each week they are showing the kind of character, team work and determination that is making them winners.
I have to say Mitchell's left foot is fast becoming as cultured as Liam Brady's (ask your Dad!!), and for his all round contribution as well as a hat-trick Mitchell was voted the "Parents Man of the Match"

WELL DONE BOYS, EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE!!

Back to top

GNP Sports (H) 2-2 (D)

Sporting denied by super stopper !

Matchday 6 in the League season saw Sporting host GNP Sports at Milby. Sporting were looking to keep last weeks' momentum going and secure another three points. Before the game the lads were looking sharp, not only in their warm up but also in their Brazil-like kit !!
Without the absent Josh, injured Thomas and Swimming Lucas Sporting welcomed back Daniel to partner Lewie up front and switched Jamie to right wing.
The first 10 minutes saw the game played in midfield with Harry, Jamie, Mitch and Finley all playing well. The back four of Ben, Scott, Ryan and James all looked composed and were beating the strikers to the ball. Daniel and Lewie were working well up front and trying to exploit space behind the GNP defence.
Then with 11 minutes on the clock Sporting got their reward. Neat passing on the edge of the GNP box by Harry and Daniel saw the ball bounce to FINLEY 10 yards out who lashed it into the net 1-0
The early goal sparked the GNP boys into life and they enjoyed a period of posession. Then, with 13 minutes gone GNP equilised. The ball had been headed clear by Ryan but from fully 30 yards GNP's midfielder hit an unstoppable shot into the top corner 1-1 and Sporting won't concede a goal from a better strike this season.
Sporting recovered from the set-back quickley and started passing the ball again. The midfield trio of Harry, Mitch and Jamie were tackling like demons and constantly robbed GNP of posession. From Jamie winning one tackle he set Harry off on a run down the right, Harry beat three players before crossing into the six yards box only for the goalkeeper to knock the ball away as both Dan and Lewie were set to pounce.
Half Time 1-1
At half time the lads were told to keep playing their football and goals would come, they certainly won the battle for the ball in the first half. Tom came on to give Ben a breather and Harry switched positions with Jamie.
Sporting started the second half confidently after an early GNP attack. Ryan was winning the majority of 50-50 balls against the centre forward and James was "sweeping" brilliantly behind him.
Then with 40 minutes gone, disaster! Sporting failed to clear the ball from their box and the GNP winger hit a shot which Jordan did well to parry, unfortunately the GNP striker was quickest to respond and smashed the ball home, much to Jordan's disgust !! 1-2.
Sporting responded again and moved up a gear. Jamie, playing superbly in midfield, hit a fantastic shot from 25 yards which was dipping under the bar, somehow the keeper grew two feet and just managed to parry the ball against the bar and out, great save. Next it was Finley's turn and he wove his magic down the left before zipping a great cross right across goal, the strikers just unable to add the finishing touch.
Ben returned to give Lewie a rest and Harry moved into a free role. This proved a masterstroke !!! Harry was tackling hard, passing and dribbling and causing the GNP defence all sorts of problems. On 50 minutes from one of Harry's runs, he laid the ball off to Mitch who tried to cut inside from 20 yards but was bought down by the defender. From the direct free kick MITCHELL curled a beauty into the top corner 2-2.
With 10 minutes to go Sporting went all out for the three points. Ryan came off so Lewie could return and Sporting played out the game in a 3-5-2 formation. The Sporting lads threw everything at GNP earning save after save from the keeper. With 5 minutes left Harry went on a dazzling run beating 3,4,5 players and then from 15 yards his goalbound shot hit the backside of the last defender and bounced out for a corner!! It was going to be one of those days !!
Sporting were camped in the GNP half and only some desperate defending denied them the winner. Following a succession of corners the referee blew the final whistle to the relief of the GNP team.
Full-Time 2-2
This was a really well contested and great game of football to watch, by two sides giving 100%. Sporting were unlucky not to win today but from the only two shots GNP had on target they scored, at this stage their first goal has to be a contender for "Goal of the Season" probably followed by a selection of Mitchell's speciality free kicks !!
The Sporting lads gave everything, with the midfield of Harry, Jamie, Mitch and Finley working brilliantly together. Scott, Ben, Tom, Ryan and James all had solid games at the back. Lewie and Daniel worked hard up front but today the rewards of a goal evaded them.
For a great all round performance Harry was rightfully named "Parents Man of the Match"

LET'S GET 3 POINTS AGAINST LONDON ROAD AT HOME NEXT WEEK!!

Back to top

Rugby Town (H) 4-2 (W)

Super Sporting back to winning ways

The 5th game of the season saw Sporting entertain Rugby Town at Milby. Without the absent Daniel and Tom, and the injured Thomas, Sporting were looking to bounce back from last weeks' defeat by Chaplefields Colts. Sporting knew prior to the game that Captain James could only play the first half and Lucas was touch and go to make it from his swimming championship in time to keep 11 on the pitch for the second half.
For two weeks in training the lads have worked hard on passing and moving and the pre-match promise was if they played like Brazil by passing they could look like Brazil next week by mixing the home and away kits !!!
The game started with a couple of changes, Scott, who has been Mr Consistent all season, switched to left back, Ben came in at right back and Mitch switched to his prefered midfield slot.
The lads settled very quickley from the kick off and the shape of the side looked promising. Sporting were challenging for everything and winning possession of the ball. Once in posession they passed well as a team. Were we watching the same lads as last week ?!!!
Sporting converted their posession into early attempts on the Town goal which were close but just off target. Then, with 12 minutes gone Sporting's pressure paid off. A superbly delivered corner by Jamie caused mayhem in the Town area and the ball cannoned into the back of the net off the unfortunate Town defender Own Goal. 1-0 Sporting.
Encouraged by the early breakthrough Sporting started to play their best football of the season. Every player was tough in the tackle and then passed and moved. With 15 minutes gone Sporting struck again. After some pinball in the Town box and from an acute angle LEWIE spun and lashed the ball into the roof of the net, a goal even better than his hero Berbatov's yesterday!! 2-0.
Sporting continued to dominate but with 20 minutes gone Town had a chance to pull one back. The striker running onto a through ball and bearing down on the penalty area. The advancing Jordan made a magnificent save to deny Town a goal.
Sporting again kept playing their football and created chance after chance. After 25 minutes and as a result of one chance which had been cleared off the line for a corner Jamie strode up to take it. His impressive delivery caused panic again in the Town defence and FINLEY was on hand to finish from close range 3-0.
Half Time 3-0
At half time James dashed to his cousins Christening and was replaced by the returning Lucas in between swimming races !! With the lads confidence sky high they were eager to get back out for the second half following some words of encouragement to keep the momentum going.
The first 15 minutes of the second half saw Sporting carry on their form of the first half. Jordan, who for me would be top of the list as the best goalie in the League, was commanding his box. Full backs Ben and Scott won everything to get us in posession, Lucas and Ryan were first to the ball before the strikers, the midfield triangle of Jamie, Mitch and Harry were running the game, wingers Finley and Josh were providing width and crosses and Lewie was giving the Town defence a torrid time up front.
After 38 minutes Town broke away with another 1V1 against Jordan and against the run of play. Sporting needn't have worried, once again Jordan reacted brilliantly to pull off another great save and protect his chances of a clean sheet.
This drove Sporting to step up another gear and on 40 minutes the pressure Sporting were putting Town under resulted in another goal. Following some great passing and movement Mitch unleashed a thunderbolt from 25 yards which was heading for the top corner. Somehow the keeper managed to get a hand to it but could only parry it down for JOSH to hammer home after cleverly following up. 4-0.
Sporting continued to dominate, creating chance after chance. Harry was on fire and desperately trying to open his account for the season, Lewie was unlucky to hit the post when well placed, Josh and Finley were beating the full backs constantly and providing great crosses.
Then for some reason with 10 minutes to go Sporting dropped the momentum, perhaps because they knew the game was already won. Town never gave up and with 50 minutes on the clock Jordan's hopes for a deserved clean sheet were dashed. Sporting failed to clear and Town's striker latched onto the ball. Despite Jordan saving the first shot he could do nothing from the rebound. 4-1.
Then, with 5 minutes to go Town got their second consolation goal following some ping-pong in the Sporting box. 4-2
FINAL SCORE 4-2
Sporting were brilliant today. From Jordan's outstanding goalkeeping, Ben and Scott won everything and set us playing, James, Ryan and Lucas looked tight in the centre of defence, Mitch, Harry and Jamie ran the game in the middle of midfield, Josh and Finley were brilliant on either flank and Lewie worked tirelessly up front and deserved his goal.
It wouldn't have been a surprise if we'd hit 10 today, we created that many chances. It must have been an incredibly difficult decision for the Parents Man of the Match, any of the lads would have deserved it, but, for an outstanding display, again, SCOTT was awarded the honour.

WELL DONE BOYS, NOW LET'S GET A WINNING RUN GOING !!

Back to top

Chaplefields Colts (A) 7-2 (L)

Speedy strikers sink Sporting

On a bright morning, in bright yellow and a great pitch Sporting played their second away fixture of the season. With Thomas still injured, Tom C maintained his place at left back and Sporting welcomed back Lewie and Ryan following last weeks trip to Old Trafford.
All week the lads have been working hard on passing and moving and hopes were high they'd take this into the game. Chaplefields had played 2 won 2 before kick off and are an early contender for promotion.
From the kick off Chaplefields settled into the game, getting their own passing game going early. Before Sporting had organised their marking Chaplefields took the lead. A long ball down the left exposed Sporting and the left winger used his speed to latch onto the pass and curl his shot around the advancing Jordan and into the far corner 1-0.
Three minutes later another long ball caught Sporting flat footed and the striker outpaced the defence to fire home. Six minutes gone 2-0.
At last Sporting started to settle down and played some nice passing football, looking strong going forward with Jamie and Harry battling hard in midfield.
However, after 12 minutes Chaplefields struck again. Sporting were again exposed by a through ball and Jordan made a great save to parry the first shot but could do nothing to stop the Chap's striker firing home the rebound 3-0
After conceding the third goal Sporting started to show their potential. Jamie, Harry, Mitch and Finley were at the heart of all Sporting's good play. Finley set off on one of his trademark runs and as he advanced towards the penalty area he was caught by the Chap's defender. From 20 yards out MITCH hit the free kick which took a deflection before nestling in the back of the net 3-1.
Sporting enjoyed five minutes of posession, with their best passing of the match, unfortunately this couldn't be converted to further goals. With 20 minutes gone Sporting's defence was breached again. Chap's winger went through four players who failed to make effective challenges before cooly slotting home from 10 yards 4-1.
Half time 4-1
At half time the lads were encouraged to compete more, especially following the example of Jamie and Harry. Even though Sporting were three goals adrift they were still in the game. Ben came on for Tom, Ryan replaced the injured Lucas and Lewie gave Josh a breather.
Eight minutes into the second half, and despite Sporting starting to match Chap's for passing and moving, Sporting conceded goal number 5. Yet again the defence was exposed by a through ball which the strikers used their pace to collect and finish 5-1.
Despite conceding Sporting kept pressing to try and get back into the game. They looked sharper and showed great character in responding to the fifth goal. On 45 minutes their endevours were rewarded with a second goal. Finley was fouled 20 yards out on the left hand side of the pitch. With a tremendous curling effort MITCH found the bottom corner 5-2.
Tom came back on to replace the injured James and Josh gave Dan a rest. Sporting looked to try and get further back into the game, Lewie made a number of runs down the right side, only for the attacks to be dealt with by the Chap's defence.
With 10 minutes left Sporting were again caught out by a long clearance. Chap's striker out ran the defence and although Jordan managed to parry the initial shot onto the post the striker reacted first to stab home the rebound 6-2.
Sporting continued to try and play their football and switched to a 4-3-3 with Dan returning up front for Finley. Although Sporting worked hard Chap's wrapped up a thoroughly deserved win with a seventh in the final two minutes 7-2.
Final score 7-2
Hopefully this game will help the Sporting lads learn. For much of the match today their were only 3/4 lads challenging, closing down and battling for the ball. We found it difficult, as many teams will this season, to cope with the pace of the Chap's strikers.
Again Sporting showed great character in never giving up but at 11-a-side they now know you can't hand teams a three goal lead. For an outstanding performance JAMIE was unanimously voted Man of the Match by the parents, well done Jamie.

Keep going lads it's a long season and we're learning all the time !

Back to top

Bulkington (H) 1-2 (L)

Below par Sporting beaten by battling Bulkington

On a super sunny Sunday St Nicolas Sporting played their third League game of the season, entertaining Bulkington Sports. With both sides boasting a 100% record before the kick-off the chance to go top of the league was the prize for the victors.
Sporting, with Ryan and last weeks' match winner Lewie both absent, and Thomas unfortunately injured, still went into the game full of confidence. The pre-match team talk focussed on winning 50-50 balls and competing for everything. However, it soon became apparent that the visitors were full of desire and committment.
The early play was dominated by Bulkington in midfield, with some excellent passing and movement. Sporting huffed and puffed but failed to find their rythum and the visitors settled into the game. It was only a matter of time before the inevitable breakthrough by Bulkington. With Sporting unable to clear, the away side capitalised and threaded the ball through for the striker to finish from 10 yards after just 12 minutes. 0-1.
Sporting worked hard to try and respond but the strength of the Bulkington tackling pegged them back. The visitors threatened on a number of further occasions in the first half and Sporting were relying on the excellent Jordan to keep the score at 0-1. Jordan, who is increasing his reputation as the best goalkeeper in the division with every game he plays, looked brave and agile in commanding his penalty area.
At the other end Finley produced a couple of his trade-mark runs to torment the defenders and was unlucky not to pull Sporting level. Mitchell had a couple of long range efforts on 20 and 26 minutes. The first superbly tipped around the post and the second just flying wide of the top corner.
Half-Time 0-1
At half time Ben replaced Scott at right back. The lads were encouraged to challenge and compete for every ball and at 1-0 down and kicking downhill were still very much in the game.
Sporting started the second half with an immediate attack, unfortunately the Bulkington defence stood strong and snuffed out the danger. As the half progressed Bulkington's movement off the ball was pulling Sporting out of their shape and the passing by the visitors was exploiting the gaps.
Sporting held on and halfway through the second half Finley set off on another dazzling run down the left. Player after player was left standing as Fin cut inside and into the box. Then, bearing down on goal, Finley was brought down by the final defender.......Penalty !!
After a lengthy delay to treat Fin, MITCHELL stepped up to calmly side foot the spot-kick into the corner.1-1.
Bulkington responded to the equilizer with determination. The final 12 minutes were dominated by the Bulkington midfield. Sporting made a number of substitutions and tried to re-group. Unfortunately, the tackle which led to Sporting's penalty finally led to the end of Finley's game and he limped off with 7 minutes remaining.
Then, with five minutes left on the clock Bulkington hit the winner. A perfectly weighted through ball enabled their striker to round the advancing Jordan and coolly slot the ball into the empty net. 1-2.
Sporting tried to push for a second equilizer but Bulkington's defence dealt with all Sporting could throw at them.
Final Score 1-2
After battling hard last week to grind out three points Sporting couldn't match that level of performance today. There is clearly still lots to work on positionally and as we said after the game we still have a lot to learn but i'm sure we'll bounce back from this defeat next week. With Jordan outstanding again and Finley continueing to cause havoc on the wing this game had it's positive aspects but overall Bulkington deserved the three points by showing the greater desire and committment as a whole team over the 60 minutes.
LET'S RESPOND TO THIS SETBACK NEXT WEEK LADS !!

Back to top

GNP Sports (A) 2-3 (W)

Sporting dig deep to maintain 100% start

St Nicolas Sporting played their first away game of the League season in a closely contested affair at Finham Park School. On a super morning for football the lads showed character and committment to secure a precious away win.
The game kicked off with only one change in the Sporting line up, Ryan coming in at centre half to replace the injured Thomas. The game ebbed and flowed for the first 10 minutes with both teams trying to control the midfield. Sporting had a couple of chances to take the lead before conceding the first goal against the run of play. The defence were left exposed and GNP broke away to fire home past the unprotected Jordan 1-0 In spite of creating chances Sporting had Jordan to thank for making two important saves in one-on-one situations, for the second week running Jordan showed tremendous bravery and shot-stopping ability.
With Jordan keeping the score at 1-0, with the help of some excellent defending by Scott, St Nics started to create chances of their own. Ryan shot powerfully from distance just wide, Daniel and Jamie also had half chances.
With 15 minutes gone Sporting drew level. Another mazey run by Finley ended with a perfect cross for JOSH to score his second goal in as many games with a Bent-like bullet header 1-1
Sporting now looked to take control and produced a number of chances, notabley a Finley shot parried by the keeper to Josh 4 yards out who just lost his footing and shot wide.
GNP showed great character and came back at Sporting, winning a succession of corners. Sporting failed to spot a short corner and as the cross came in the ball was expertly glanced home. 2-1
Still the first half action wasn't over and Sporting came back again. Another cross from the left was again headed powerfully by Josh, this time the keeper parried it, only for JAMIE to stab home the rebound 2-2
Half-Time 2-2
Three changes at half time, Tom came on for Lucas to allow Mitch to move into midfield. Ben replaced Ryan and Scott moved to centre half. Lewie replaced Daniel up front.
The second half was a very close affair. With Jamie in midfield and Harry given a free role the shape of the side looked more structured. Sporting soon started creating chances, Mitch hitting the bar twice, once from a 25 yard screamer and the other from a direct free kick which had the keeper beaten all ends up.
With 12 minutes to go Sporting moved up a gear sensing a victory was possible. From a great through ball by Harry, and starting from the halfway line Lewie ran at the keeper. Shrugging of challenges like Wayne Rooney and now bearing down on the keeper LEWIE slotted the ball into the far corner to the delight of the travelling supporters 2-3
GNP didn't give up and pressed for the equilizer right to the final whistle, Sporting defending doggedly to finally seal victory. The final whistle was greeted with cheers of relief as much as euphoria from the parents.
Final Score 2-3
The lads have a confidence and spirit about them this season, today's game was a perfect example of this through them grinding out a result. In spite going behind twice they showed great character for the second week running to take maximum points. Great performances by Jordan, Scott, Harry, Mitch, Finley and Josh blended with solid displays by the rest of the squad mean our ambitions of promotion are well justified.
WELL DONE AGAIN LADS !!!!

Back to top

Westwood United (H) 5-2 (w)

SUPER SPORTING OFF TO A FLYER

St Nicolas Sporting kicked off the new era in the Coventry 11-a-side League in emphatic style. Westwood United finished 5th in the 3rd Division of Coventry Minor Soccer last season and we knew todays game would give a benchmark of the standard we would be playing.
In a very well contested and close first half both teams created chances but both goalkeepers, Jordan in particular, proved unbeatable and brave.
With Thomas, Scott, James and Mitch playing well as a back 4 the Westwood strikers were unable to penetrate the defence with any significance.
Josh, Finley, Harry and Lucas were tackling and knocking the ball around with confidence in the midfield. Daniel, so often on his own in pre-season freindlys was linking well with his strike partner, Jamie.
The well contested first half ended goalless.
Half Time 0-0
A couple of changes at half time, Ryan replaced Thomas and moved into the centre of defence for Scott to switch to right back. Jamie had a well earned breather to allow Harry a free role and Mitch to push into midfield, Tom coming on at left back.
Within 10 minutes of the re-start Sporting broke the deadlock. A good passage of play culminating in the ball reaching JOSH 8 yards out and he burried it Kenwin Jones style into the net. Relief and jubilation on the pitch and the sidelines!!
Sporting looked comfortable for 5 minutes and then Westwood equilised following some pinball outside the Sporting box. Rather than drop thier heads the equiliser was met with a change of gear by Sporting who showed tremendous character by going ahead again within 2 minutes of conceding. Good work on the left saw Mitch find himself on the corner of the box. MITCH produced a looping drive which sailed over the keepers head and into the far corner of the net. A great goal Georgie Boyd would have been proud of. 2-1.
Sporting's confidence was sky high. Having been told to be clinical in front of goal the lads did just that. A dazzling run down the left, beating player after player ended with FINLEY hitting a peach into the far corner.3-1.
Jamie came back on to replace the hard working Lucas and Thomas returned for the excellent Scott. Almost immediately goals 4 and 5 followed. Daniel's link up play and workrate had been superb the whole game and he got his first reward with 10 minutes to go. Turning his man in the area with a superb first touch DANIEL then swivelled and hit a low drive into the corner. The first of what i predict will be many flashes of his "Ginger Ninja" T shirt in celebration followed !!!! 4-1
With 5 minutes left Sporting hit number 5. A fine team move with excellent inter-passing ended with DANIEL slotting in from 6 yards. Out came the "Ninja" shirt again !!! 5-1
With the game now over as a contest Finley was replaced by Lucas to a well deserved round of applause.
With the last kick of the game Westwood got a consolation goal to make it 5-2.
The team left the field to a standing ovation. A performance full of character, strong but fair tackling and excellent football. A great start, let's keep it going away next week at GNP Sports.
WELL DONE LADS

Back to top

End of Season Review

End of the season - end of an era

Back to top

Seasons Stats

Although league tables show who has the most points, I've always maintained that progession is the only thing I have ever been interested in. The graph below shows how we have improved in terms of goals scored/conceeded from Under 8s through to Under 10s.

Back to top