2008-2009 Season
Full Season Report 2008/09
Well another season over and it has been quite a season - it seems an age ago that I watched our last pre-season friendly and we entered Division 3 with a great deal of optimism.
We had had a very good pre-season and I believed that we could hold our own and may surprise a few only to find that we started with a defeat and a draw (I will get it in now - Pad was in charge
If you had asked me then would I have taken two defeats till the end of the season in the league, whilst also taking 4 points off the Champions I would have snatched your hand off - but that is exactly what you have all achieved!!
We have welcomed a few new faces into the squad this season with the addition of Easton, Harry and later during the season Mitch, whilst Gurney returned to the fold full time (well nearly as he was rarely on time) which was a great addition to the front line.
All three have been great additions and bought into the ethos whilst I believe the spirit has got stronger with a togetherness which is part of the club and makes us difference from a lot of the teams we face.
Highlights
I think the games versus Throops home and away were excellent games and for long spells in both we were the better team on the day. I think that showed that this mystery style of football we get labelled with is a load of Tosh as Throops are the best footballing team we have faced in the last 3 years and on those occasions we matched them and at time outplayed them.
Also the games versus Western and the league game versus West End when we also put both teams to the sword.
The BW Cup run was also good experience as we beat a number of good sides but definitely beating Legion was a very good performance. A clean sheet against a Div 1 side with a thoroughly deserved victory.
A personal highlight was also the Chinese meal which was a highlight because of the turn out and to see all the players with families enjoying each others company was also excellent made even more special than 1 or 2 of our Big Boys could not see off the entire buffet!!
Disappointments
Not too many but on the pitch I think the games versus Kirby home and away with the latter especially disappointing. We never really played against them in either game and unusually we were outmuscled and never showed the spirit but it was a one off.
The only other game I was really deflated about was the Balloonatics game when we outplayed a good side in the County Cup only to lose on penalties you did not deserve that Boyz as were the better side.
The decision by Kiff to leave was also a disappointment as I have enjoyed his company and involvement since he joined us at the beginning of 07/08 he will always be welcome back and showed his character by assisting us in the game vs. West End near the end of the season.
I have missed Eddie Trickett and Clive Richards too which hopefully will be put right next season if they recover from their respective knee surgeries.
Well I know a few of you like it and some of you hate it but I am going to comment a few lines on each of you and your performances this season:
Scouse
Blimey, what a place to start! Seriously he is improving with age and with a bit of belief and a tad more bravery will become an outstanding keeper. Has had one or two Scouse moments but generally has been more consistent this season. When on his game he has proved that is as good as any keeper we have seen had a nasty injury which he showed courage to comeback from so quickly. Well done fella.
Alex
Wow, how this young fella keeps on improving. Has been a star all season not just with his consistent performances but with the maturity he has shown in playing a variety of roles (Right Wing Back, Centre Half, Centre Midfield). Still lacks confidence at times but a real pleasure to have in the squad and never ever causes me any issues at all. Great Season Young Fella More to Come Next Season!!
Woody
The old fisherman carries on trawling out consistent performances (I know that was terrible he he !!). This has been an interesting season for Tommy and he has had a few challenges with his confidence but his ability and character have seen him through. Has played LWB or Left Midfield and I still have yet to see many or any better left sided players in other teams than our Woody competition has been good for him as in the latter stages of the season was back to his best.
Kingy
Another player who has had to change his game massively. 3 years ago when we started he was a marauding goal scoring midfielder who now finds himself as a big horrible centre half. Thats the benefit of my input (Sorry Kingy lol). However, we agreed pre-season that this would be his role and you know he has taken the mantle on to become an excellent centre half which will if chooses prolong his career for several years to come. Has been outstanding and will only get better with age at centre half. Another who is a pleasure to play with as he never complains even when I moan at him!!! Top Man Kingy.
Harry
I am going to be dead honest here, when we trained pre-season I said to Pad that I really liked this fella (and boy was he a hard case) but was not sure he could play. Has he proved me wrong or what as he has got better with every game whilst at times has set the example to the rest of the team with his effort and commitment. He is a forwards nightmare quick, strong and mean whilst never frightened to be confrontational. Great Season Harry looking forward to 09/10!
Pad
Well he will be glad the season is over so as he only gets nagged at by Aimee! He has had a good season and rightly earned his place during the season as first choice Sweep. Testimony to his commitment, hard work and winning qualities he knew his place was not a certainty and showed the determination to earn his spot. Has been the voice at the back and part of an excellent defence throughout the season. He already knows that he faces a battle next year but I expect a typical Pad response (louder grunting ahead!). Come back to pre-season in shape (not round!!) be warned!! (Could not help but have a little moan lol).
Matt
I have included Matt at the back because I genuinely believe that he will be a cracking centre half. Has been frustrated at lack of opportunities in the latter weeks and understandably is considering his options. However, read this Matt you have been fantastic since you joined and WHEN fit you are every bit in the mix for a starting place (you proved that vs. Bees Knees). I would love you to comeback and put in pre-season and then assess but whatever you decide I will always respect you whilst being thankful for you being part of Gutho Old Boyz.
Haggerty
The big man has had a tremendous season. He has earned a place in midfield and ensured that he is only at the back in emergencies (partly cause he is not backward in showing his displeasure at playing in defence). Has put in a number of all action displays and not sure how many he scored but must be near to double figures (stats need updating Kingy!!). He is hated by many teams and that is because he mixes it but under-estimate his skills at your peril as he shown that he has two great feet whilst being pretty brave (not as brave as Harry though !! LOL Bite Coming). Would be tremendous if he could lose a little bit of pud and as we go up to Div 2 my challenge is for Haggs to comeback a stone lighter!! Great Season Big Man!
Dave
The old man of the squad, the league and probably football across the county (could not resist Dave!). Has had his season blighted by niggling injuries but when fit has been a valuable member of the squad. Scored one of the most crucial goals of the season with the winner versus AFC Beaumont and still has football left in his legs. I appreciate him no end as he has helped me a lot especially during the run in so if chooses to move on I will be gutted but I would understand you are a long time retired (I know about that!) on behalf of the Old Boyz thanks Dave top fella!
Elksy
This boy can play and he will get better especially if he continues to listen and improve. Started a bit slowly and fell out with me a bit as he was not used at his previous club to having to earn his place and do a job for the team (even if that is not in a position he wanted to play in). Earn your start, play well you keep it and Boy did he buy into it. Has been fantastic whether at Sweep or in Midfield and I have not seen a better midfielder than Stef all season. Needs to not let his head get down, lead by example but has been tremendous throughout Well done Stef hopefully many seasons ahead in a Old Boyz shirt.
Herbs (Skipp)
Horrible, brutal and uncompromising whilst adding a mature leadership to the team. I know he was feared by a lot of midfields this season and despite his fear has easily coped with Div 3 football this season. Has led the team very well and been an integral part in getting us going and competing in games at times when we have stuttered. Missed him in the run in and was especially evident vs. West End when we missed him keeping Haydn in check I know he was frustrated and he is a crap watcher!! I would ask that all of you as players give him a hard time as he is considering hanging his boots up how stupid would that be. 34 is not old fella and you will regret it so Mrs Herbert can expect me bending her ear and when you all read this I expect you all to give him hell at the presentation. Well done Skipp!
Ben
Quality, silky, skiful but bloody tough too. Just a few words to describe Ben this season as he has been tremendous. Was not available early on but once we got him in the team he has been very consistent and has also helped by playing in a few positions although undoubtedly has been the best attacking midfielder in the league I may be bias (tough shit if you are reading this from another club!!) but he beats people for fun and although he has not scored as many as he would like he has created havoc in most defences. Also competes well for a little un and has been good to have him available most weeks thank you Mrs Edwards!! Well done Benny see you next season (from the start).
Easton
Always looked a decent player in spells when at Black Dog. I think it is fair to say he has been frustrated at times as he has been subbed a fair bit but he has actually improved through the season tremendously. Has pace to burn and a good engine with a great eye for the goal. Had to get used to the formation we play and the importance of 100% effort all game but took on board the comments to become a valuable member of the squad. Has a great character and has fitted in really well with some crucial goals whilst he loved the 3-4-3 as it meant no defending (Lol). Challenge for next year will be to cement his place whether it be up top or in midfield or
..maybe wing back (he he!!). Well Done East!
Maggy
Mark, Waggy, Maggy or Mr Versatile call him what you like but a great character and great company. Another that never complains and just gets on with his job. Had a mini-crisis early in 09 with confidence but this boy is another like Hag who can play. Good with both feet, deceptively strong whilst rarely gives the ball away his versatility means he gets taken advantage of at times (my fault again!!) but is a very important member of the squad. Set pieces and dead balls in the run in have been fantastic and he finished the season in great form. Well done Mags get a good pre-season under your belt to make one position your own (wont stop me changing my mind tho lol)
Pez
Not started many games and due to work has not been available too much but still put it in when he was available. Managed one game in the sticks when Scouse broke down and to be fair had a decent game. Made a few sub appearances and his running the line will go down in history ask Pad about Blackbird away.
Mitch
Joined us mid-season and is only 16 maybe 17 now but the kid has talent. Spent a lot of time on the bench but scored a lot of goals and showed that he is going to be a decent player if he keeps listening whilst learning from the older players around him. A good pre-season will help as it will give him the chance to earn a place and I am sure will be pushing Gurns, Sim, Wag and Easton for a place up top. Good addition to the squad who has fitted in very well (we just need to keep him away from Haggerty the beer monster!). Well done Mitch big season next season!
Sim
A decent season and had 2 or 3 games where he was unplayable especially Balloonatics where he was awesome with his pace, strength and work rate. I think he has a lot more in his tank and needs to become a bit more selfish and ruthless. Needs to get nasty and be consistent so that he earns his starting spot next season will be interesting with the competition we have. However, showed he can adapt by playing very well at RWB in a couple of games. Decent season Sim and another who is a lovely kid whilst he never moans or complains get ugly next year mate I expect a big season from you in 09/10!!
Gurney
First full season with us and had a fantastic season with him demonstrating how to lead a front line whilst still finishing as top scorer. Still has pace but it his movement and deceptive strength that has caused defences a problem throughout the season. Very unselfish and links the game so well with his ability to move defenders and leave gaps for others to run into. Has a tendency to not be selfish enough as his finishing is excellent but his goals to game ratio has been superb throughout the season. Has helped Sim and Mitch no end which I am sure he will do again next season.Well done Gurns great to have you in the squad and look forward to more in 09/10.
So there you have it another fantastic season has drawn to a close and together you have achieved something very special with the promise of more to come next season.
The final act of the season is on the 14th June at Whestone Gorse Farm for the family day including presentation. I expect everyone to make the effort to be there as a lot of time, money and effort has gone into organising this event. We are not charging for tickets so I expect wifes, partners, kids, family and friends to be dragged along with plenty to keep everyone entertained.
Well played, have a rest, recharge the batteries and be ready for pre-season in July with the promise of plenty of friendlies and remember everyone starts again so no ones place is assured!!
Gaffer
Half term report
I am our harshest critic and I know you all think that - fair enough I can live with that because I know how good we are and can be. I can criticise you but I will not have some **** from another club suggest we are rubbish.
I believe that we have a squad of 19 or 20 players who are as good as anything in the alliance league (outside the prem maybe!) and I want to take this chance to put down a half season comment for everyone individually cause I do not want to come 2nd again and I am even more fired up now to make sure we do not throw this decent start away.
Just a few thoughts and comments:
Scouse - very good start to the season which was unfortunately spoilt by injury (hot dogs were good though!!). When you concentrate and are focused not a better keeper in the league. Need to punch your weight a bit more around your area but a good start now believe in yorself mate.
Alex - suffered with a bit of confidence early in the season but has grown through the season. Needs to keep his chin up at times but gives a great out ball at RWB and will get better especially with the more games he plays.
Woody - Mr Dependable and very consistent and rarely let's himself or the team down with his efforts or his performances. A good season so far with his fair share of goals and has a lovely sweet left foot which when matched by commitment gives us a great threat down the left.
Kingy - good season so far and a very good footballer who is having to learn to hump it at times as good defenders do. Has been steady and at times gives us some good ball carrying skills into midfield - just needs to be selective 
. However, started out at centre back to help the team out but has got better with games and so far has earned his place with good performances.
Pad - the old boy at the back and not at the fittest in his long career but his will to win remains. Not the quickest or the silkiest but has showed good leadership, desire and team spirit with his performances so far. Whether it be in goal or sweeping Pad has showed there is life in the old dog yet. Needs to keep of the pies for the remainder of the season so he can keep organising the lads at the back.
Harry - pre-season I was not sure what I was going to do with this fella as he looked like he had two left feet but was a top bloke (never easy to deal with a situation like that!). However, I have to say he has really impressed and is a proper centre half (Horrible!!) with a good turn of pace and boy does he love a tackle. Fantastic so far now he just he needs to keep it going and .........keep away from Hags on a Sat night (so he turns up every week).
Herbs - Captain and has been very good so far. Not a better midfield warrior in the league and good enough to keep playing for a few years yet. Has shown so far he has huge desire to win and consistently covers every blade of glass whilst I would hate to play against him as he is another who likes a tackle. I feel there is even more to come and his experience in the run in will be invaluable in the big games.
Elksy - new to the club and found my selection policy a bit frustrating (not the first and won't be the last). However, has showed great quality when he fitted into the team's system and has become an important member of the team. Showed both at sweeper but even more so in Midfield that he is a quality player especially when he keeps it simple and moves the ball. Good work Elksy now show it in the big games too!
Haggerty - the big man. What can I say that has not been said before - a beast, a monster, you get the idea but has been very good so far with him earning his favoured place in Midfield. Never doubted his ability as he two great feet and likes to mix it but I did doubt his fitness. Still could improve that but his desire and will to win makes up for it and so far so very good......needs to understand that there may be times he will have to play at the back which he hates but hey!!
Waggy - a quality footballer who has two great feet and is a real team man which means he gets shifted around all over the place (My fault!!) and has already played sweep, keeper, midfield, wing back and up front. By his own standards will know he has not been at his best but I have no doubt as he showed today when he came on that he will find his form.
Easton - new to the club and a top lad who has fitted in extremely well and another who may question my selection but cest la vie. Has worked extremely hard so far and has scored some very good goals especially in the 3-4-3 formation. Has been a great addition to the squad and hopefully is enjoying his football after joining us from Black Dog. So far so good but I think there is more to come and will be keen to secure a regular starting spot!
Ben - not been available as much as he or I would like but not without good reasons. Quality and plays the attacking midfield role very well as shown last season and is beginning to run into form at a crucial stage of the season. Gifted with two very quick feet who can break and beat players for fun from midfield but also his work rate and tackling back are exceptional which can go unnoticed (not by me!) - good stuff now we need you available for the big games.
Dave - started the season injured and as I write this is struggling again but a great bloke to have around the club. Had done well to get fit and deservedly had earned a starting spot. Not the quickest or most mobile but the old fella can play with quality feet who rarely gives the ball away whilst never over playing. Important to have his experience available and will play an important role when fit again.
Pez - not been available much but early in the season when available was another that showed age is not barrier with good performances. To force his way in is not going to be easy but if we can get him at training and consistently available he is another that will look to grab his chance. Good to have around as he never moans and will always run the line (even if he never puts his flag up).
Mitch - new to the club and only joined just before Xmas but the boy is lively (well we need to keep him away from Haggs - beer monster) but has shown already that will be fighting hard for a starting spot. Has had an impact in every game he has been involved in so far whilst improving with each game too. 2nd half of season should prove interesting up front.
Kiff - 40+ goals last season and he likes doing one and one thing only - scoring goals. Has been good enough to so between the sticks where he was outstanding (if he wanted he could play at any level in goal he wanted) but really hates it and wants his No 10 shirt back up top. Still in double figures and a natural finisher who knows where the goals is.....been unlucky with injury but I am sure will be bending my ear to get his place up top.
Sim - double figures so far and has had one or two storming games (balloonatics - he was awesome) and has benefited from watching, listening and linking up with Gurns but ........I believe there is loads more to come from Sim. Absolutely frightening pace who will scare defences to death but just needs to ge his head up and get into the danger area a bit more. An okay first half of the season which shows how much more he is capable of!!
Gurney - a great addition to the team and is a fantastic finisher who when he has his game head on is absolute quality because he has pace, deceptively powerful whilst can finish with either feet or head. So far has a good return per game played so we need to keep him fit and if so he should be looking to secure his spot and could easily get another 20 goals over the second half of the season if motivated to do so!! You know Gurns!!
Matt - frustrated and fed up but none the less still a valuable member of the squad. Loved by all and shows great commitment by turning up every week which only makes his frustration greater but will be welcomed back into the fold when fully fit. Still in good shape and will hopefully get his ankle right before too long!
Well if you read through all my bollocks above you will get the gist - we have a great squad of players which I believe is as good as anything in this Division and all credit to you when we are not at 100% we still grind out the results.
I think the team spirit, commitment and ability is the best I have been involved with on a Sunday and I want to pay credit to you all so lets get our heads back on it, put it in at training and on the pitch and show a few doubters that we are to be feared.
That is as much praise as you will get out of me at this stage. Now let us go and put Desford to the sword next Sunday - I cannot wait for the return game with Bees Knees and will remind you of his comments nearer the time (still fired up now even though I have written this!!
).
Up the GOLDBOYZ - as Delia once said "Lets be having you"
Season 2007/08
As we near the last game of the season I thought it time to do an update and review the season.
This is the second season for the Gutho Old Boyz with hopefully many more to come and I have to compliment all the players as this season has been fantastic both in terms of results but also team spirit.
I have updated the player profiles to reflect my comments having had a full season with the current crop.
As I review the season I thought I would talk about my personal highlights:
Youngsters
Sim, Alex and Dave Ashford! Good to see a couple of youngsters join the club and they have both fitted in very well. I am sure at times they look at the rest of the old fat farts in the dressing room and wonder what they are doing! Seriously, both have been good additions and have improved tremendously over the season.
Commitment
All season the team has fought and been extremely committed. At times we have bullied teams and to hear a team from New Parks complaining at the end of a game that they were bullied was quite refreshing.
Goal of the Season
138 goals with one game to go so lots to consider. I promised to give the tea total slim lined footballing god a mention so other than his good looks, humor and charm I have to say the 50 yard strike from the half way line was not only a fantastic strike but also crucial as 2 nil down vs Throops it sparked us into life to make a storming comeback. Other great goals include:
Wags vs. Hat & Beaver (A) Blistering 25 yard strike off the bar and in to put us 1 up.
Sim vs. Black Dog (A) - received the ball close to the touchline and beat 4,5 or 6 on a run before slipping the ball past the Keeper.
Dave Ash vs. Kibworth (H) 30 yarder into the top right hand corner. Passed it in!!
Goalscoring
After struggling to hit a barn door in 06/07 this season has been fantastic for goals and to have scored 138 goals is a tremendous team effort.
A special mention to Wag, Sim and by no means least Kiff who between them have scored over 80 goals. No team wins anything without goalscorers and we are lucky to have 3 excellent and very different strikers.
A special mention to Kiff who has been tremendous all season and does not always get the credit he deserves. Has taken his chances very well and has led the line tremendously all season.
Dressing Room Banter
We have some real characters in our dressing room and the banter/spirit has been excellent all season. From the old men in the dressing room of Ash and Pad who give as good as they get to the more louder members of the team Haggs, Adie and the clown with the gloves who provide the humour (both on and off the pitch!) the spirit has been tremendous.
Funniest Moment
Some individual moments of brilliance have made me smile with Haggerty flattening Woody in the midfield in one game, Pad stopping mid run to pull his sleeves up!, Scouse getting lobbed (Sorry fella!), Matt running the line and sent flying by a sniper bag on the touchline, Clive blasting wide from 5 yards but Herbs deserves a mention as his goal scoring prowess is like none other I have seen.
I have set him a target of 2 for next season
.shots on target!!
Thanks
A few words of thanks to the following who help keep the club running effectively:
Pad for his support and covering my absence which has not been easy this season.
Kingy for keeping you all out of pocket and making sure the club funds are kept in check.
Ash for doing the dirty job of washing the kit week in and week out not a nice job but has done this every week.
Scouse for all of his time managing the admin, making the phone calls and helping me with the league.
Mrs Scouse for the fine food that she preapares for our home games.
Andy Martin, Paul King, Martin Trickett etc - for the support on the touchline.
Finally, an emotional thank you from me for all of you for making this season one to remember. Every one of you has put in great effort, commitment and shown good team spirit and it has been a pleasure this season picking the team. You have made my job very easy and I have thoroughly enjoyed watching the football you have played and you all deserve to enjoy the season we have had!!
Hopefully you will all attend and enjoy the Awards evening and as importantly I hope all of you comeback next season when we will deservedly be in Division 3.
Thanks Lads A fantastic Bunch!! - Gaffer
Update - April 2007
As we approach the end of our first season I would like to pass on my thanks to all of you for your excellent commitment. The spirit of the club has certainly began to build since the New Year and I would like to think everyone has enjoyed their football despite the set back in results - as Bez constantly reminds me with our full strength side we are a match for anyone in Div 4 and I believe we have proved that at times.
As the season draws to a close it is time to consider putting the boots away and forget about the waistline (not you Pad!!) before pre-season arrives.
I would ask you all to carry on next season as I think we have built a good base - I think all of you have something to offer including Browny (don't hang your boots up - long time retired!! consider a bit part and help run the admin/treasury). We have excellent facilities and I believe with a bit of effort we could attract a few new players which would make us stronger for next season (also means I won't have to play - I know Scouse don't say it!!).
Think on Boyz and help build a future for the Gutho Old Boyz!!
Welcome to the Guthlaxton Old Boys FC website and to the Gaffers Report!!
Well we are 12 games into the life of Gutho Ol Boyz with hopefully many more games and seasons ahead. The beginning of any new side is a tough one but I have to say that the season to date has progressed very well and although results have not always been positive I cannot question the commitment of the lads so far!
We started our pre-season with a make shift squad and now well into the season I believe our squad has settled down which despite a few injuries, stag weekends and imminent weddings/new arrivals I am sure the 2nd half of the season will be even more enjoyable and hopefully results will follow.
I would like to mention a few people who have assisted me in getting the club off the ground:
Paddy (Skipper and Assistant Manager) - Great support both in terms of on a Sunday but also in assisting me with finding kit, twisting Aimee's arm to be Secretary, listening to my constant moaning and introducing the club to Narborough & Littlethorpe.
Aimee - For organising Paddy and I especially as I am hopeless with paperwork, the role of Secretary is a thank less task but an important one! Aim's role as Chief Chef and running the bar is very much appreciated and I have no doubt that we have the best facilities on a Sunday morning which are made even better with our own food and bar.
The Guv'nor (Wendy) - the amount of time I have spent organising and chasing admin, the league, players etc would not have been possible without my good ladies support and that is very much appreciated.
Ken Brown - For assisting us by running the line and when needed for reffing in emergencies. Every club needs a good clubman and Ken is up there with the best - especially when disallowing last minute goals (Keep up the good work Ken).
Mrs Lock - Matt's missus who washes the kit every week and anything else that we care to chuck in the kit bag - mostly strange items that Matt wears!!
I intend to periodically update the site with report and progress but hopefully all players, officials and visitors to the Gutho Old Boys FC website will find it interesting, amusing and worth another visit.
I intend with Paddy to organise a club committee ovet the coming weeks with the purpose of developing the club further but also to consider social events, maintaining the website, fundraising and generally increasing the profile of GOLDBOYZ FC.
