Gutho Old Boyz FC

Mark "Scouse" McGlinchey - Goalkeeper

Travels from Bradford every week to play and is a fantastic character. Nicknamed Scouse for some reason which mystifies me but an excellent shot stopper who has improved massively over the past 3-4 years. If he believed in himself and may be had a bit a tougher streak would be exceptional as occassionally does not punch his size and weight. Has had an exceptional good second half of the season and cut out the silly mistakes.

Alex Cullen - Right Wing Back

Joined the club this season and took a few weeks to secure a spot but has made right wing back his own. Tremendous pace and has a good engine to get up and down the pitch. As the season has gone on his confidence has grown and has at times looked like a right winger with great skill and pace with him getting forward to deliver excellent crosses from the right. Also shown huge versatility as has played centre- half in 3 big games and done extremely well against tough opponnents. Just needs to be more careful when he has his beer goggles on as falls over too easily!! Well done Alex a great first season - more next year!

Tom Haggerty-Wood - Left wing Back

Not been fishing this season and is an ever present. Very competitive and has been very consistent this season giving the team good options on the left. Gets up and down well and has a quality wand of a left foot which is extremely useful at set pieces. An unsung hero who goes about his role very well week in and week out.

"The Big Man" Haggerty - Centre Half, Sweeper, Midfielder but NOT a Centre Forward

Two footed (well his tackles usually are!!) who is very versatile and is a good footballer. At times can be a bit rash and has been known to put his foot in (I am being kind fella!) but has played at the back or in midfield and looks comfortable in either role. Key player to the team and missed when unfit (injured rather than not fit!!) and has played an important role in making the team more physical. Went tea-total and then struggled with injuries (withdrawal syptoms - I wonder!) but if he can carry on with the weight loss he will undoubtedly be wanting a midfield spot next season.

Eddie Trickett - Centre Half

A quick and bright defender who reads the game extremely well. Had a very good first half of the season and was back playing as well as he was 4 or 5 years ago until injury unfortuantely cut short his season. I have known Ed for many years and I have yet to see many better defenders and personally hope he can recover from this knee knock - do not retire yet mate you are too young.Hopefully will be back pre-season in time for 08/09 as he is an important part of the defensive unit. You are a long time retired - keep working at the fitness Ed!

Paddy - Centre Half or Sweeper

Despite his maturing years he is a an extremely tough competitor and is relying a bit more on experience as the years pass him by. Has performed extremely well at Sweeper this season and when playing regular has that bit of sharpness which he needs so that he can use his experience to read the game. Still life in the old dog yet I would suggest and has been part of an extremely effective defensive unit. Has been invaluable in assisting me this season and has to be patient when other commitments have cost him his place.

Dan Hackett - Centre Half

Not a regular due to work commitments but has been a valuable member of the squad. Another ex-navi who has fitted in very well and has done well when called upon. Committed and physical centre half who is no nonsense in style and played very well when called upon. Hopefully will be back next season and available more regularly. 

Wez Rhodes - Wing Back or Centre Midfield

After a serious injury it was great to see Wez back towards the end of the season. A gritty, tenacious competitor who hates losing and has showed this when he played his part. Great to see him back running around and hopefully we can get him through a pre-season in 08/09 so we can have in the squad for next season.

Dave Ashford - Centre Half or Centre Midfield

First season with the Gold Boyz and I hope not his last - you can play a big part even in Div 3 Dave!! Despite his 46 years has performed very well and given the team that bit of experience and presence which we lacked last season. Likes a bit of a moan usually of he asked to play centrehalf but has been good to have in the team. A very good footballer who uses his experience to get the ball under and plays the easy ball. Also has added his fair share of goals (and Herbs share - good job ).  Should be encouraged to carry on and I would like him to be part of the team for 08/09'.

Adam "Clive" Richards - Centre Half, Centre Midfield or Right Wing Back

Another newcomer to the Old Boyz and has been tremendous all season Very competitive and another unsung player who goes about his job very quietly. Deceptively quick and a very good defender who reads the game extremely well. Has performed in various roles and has done everything asked of him. Despite a nasty injury before Christmas returned to play an invaluable part of  a good defensive unit.

Chris King - Centre Midfield and Emergency Centre Half

Chris is a powerful midfielder who likes to have the ball at his feet and beat a man. Gets forward very well and can be relied upon to score goals from midfield whilst being very competitive and hates losing. Been with the club from the start and puts himslef out for the benefit of the team and has spent the second half of the season playing out of position at centre half where he has performed extremely well. Good in the air with an ability to read the game means he will undoubtedly end his playing career at the back as age catches up with him - I speak from experience  - bit of life on the old legs yet though!

Mark "Herbie" Herbert - Centre Midfielder

Another player in his first season with the GoldBoyz but you would not know it. From his first game for the club has made the midfield spot his own. One of the first names I put down on the team sheet as he is a winner. Not sure of his age but makes me feel tired watching him from the side - a real competitor who has a great engine and wins more than his fair share of 50:50's and adds drive to the team with his energy.. An excellent first season and has shown why he played in the Prem but very unassuming and goes about his job fantastically. Great season Herbs - well done mate.

Matt Mason - Centre Midfielder or Centre Half

Another newcomer this season and a top bloke. Played in two thirds of the games and a valuable member of the squad. A strong industrious midfielder who is very fit and strong who has been very committed to the team all season. I know he would feel disappointed that he has not more opportunities to start more games but has suffered because of the quality of the midfielders performances. Has never moaned once and has ran the line whilst being patient but has always put the team first. Invaluable to the squad and I hope he comes back in 08/09'.

Ben Edwards - Centre Midfielder

Yet another newcomer this season and one word to describe this fella's football ability "Quality". Although only available to start 8 games and has made a lot of his appearances from the bench (due to work commitments) he is double digits for goals scored and has created lots of the goals we have scored. Two footed, quick and very skillful whilst never one to shirk the physical side of the game Ben has been superb when he has been available and a very unselfish team player who adds real attacking quality to our play. Hopefully in Div 3 next year we can a few more starts out of Ben.

Adie Human - Centre Midfield or Centre Forward

Last years topscorer with 7 but a nomadic traveller this season. Has played very at both ends of the season and expecially in the first quarter of the season as he benefited from the quality of the players around him. Great skills and dribbler who regularly creates or is involved in good attacking moves. Since the age of 13 has always been skilfull and sometimes can be frustrating because he wants to beat an extra man but is an extremely talented footballer who has been good again this season. A great character in the dressing room who always has a quip - usually at my expense!

Mark "Waggy" Wagstaff - Centre Forward or Centre Midfield and Emergency Wing Back

Bit boring but yet another newcomer to the club. Worked hard pre-season and has shown like Ben that he is a quality player. Showed great commitment even playing the day after his wife delivered him a son! Has played a variety of positions but has always showed himself to be a talented footballer - two footed and deceptively strong. Also extremely competitive and plays for the team - Waggy has scored some excellent goals this season and played a role in lots more. Quiet and unassuming a player that does not sing his own praises but has been a valuable member of the team week in and week out - Well done waggy!

Simeon Davis - Centre Forward

First season in men's Sunday football and wow what an impact. Had to bide his time and has listened and learned as the season has gone on. Spent the majority of the first half of the season as a substitue and made his presence felt late on in games with his blistering pace - the test was could he step up to play regularly from the start. Second half of the season has grown in stature and has delivered some fantastic performances including notching seven goals in one game. Will play for many years to come and when he develops a bit more strength coupled with a bit more experience will develop into a frightening player to play against. Not finished learning and with a good pre-season and a few meals round Haggerty's I expect even more next season! Well done Sim a very good season!

Matt Kiff - Centre Forward and Skip.

Final newcomer in the regular squad and has been very instrumental in the turnaround for this season with a blistering start and finishing with over 40 goals to his name. Started by playing a key role with his goals but his presence grew as he not only continued scoring but also led the line extremely well. Not the tallest but fantastic in the air and has very good feet if the ball is laid up to him. Even played a game in goal and was awesome keeping a clean sheet and showing why he was a star keeper when younger! Great to have a natural finisher and I think another who will benefit next season from a pre-season and hopefully will fill his boots in Div 3. Led the team by example as Skipper and although he never likes being taken off (I know Kiff!!) has put in real effort for the team. Well done Skipp!

20.04.08 vs Birstall Rangers (A) League

Team:

Scouse, Hackett, Haggerty, Clive, Ash, Woody, Matty, Herbie, Ben, Kiffy and Waggy

Subs: Alex for Hackett (46), Sim for Waggy (60), Kingy for Matty (80)

Final: 3-3

Half Time: 1-3

Goalscorers: A Woody cross that went in off their bloke, a Herbie throw that bounced around the area before the keeper palmed it in and a Haggerty pea-roller that the keeper should have saved 

A couple of changes for the last game of what has been a successful campaign. Matty came in for a straight swap with myself and Hackett, who could only play the 1st half, started at right wing back which meant that Waggy was able to reform the Mitchell Brothers partnership up top alongside Kiff with Sim unlucky to be on the bench.

Scouse: 10  - Played a full 90 but only sobered up for the last five!!!!!! God knows what he'd been drinking the night before but in some respects it worked as he swept up the pieces superbly and to some extent nullified the oppositions use of the long ball. Said he was disappointed with the 3rd but personally I didn't fault him for any goals conceded (makes a nice change )

Hackett: 7 - Unfortunately part of the team that put in a lacklustre first half but to his credit was one of the few that could hold his head up at half time knowing that he'd done his job well.

Woody: 7 - Always seemed to find himself in space out on the left and when giving it to feet was central to the majority of our pass and move football. Appeared to playing wearing lead ankle weights though as stuggled to kick the ball more than 20 yards which meant that all corners were strictly near post

Haggerty: 9 (MOM) - Started off at sweeper but appeared frustrated at what he was seeing in front of him so decided to play in midfield..............5 minutes later we actually made the switch properly as it was clear he'd had enough at the back. Once given that extra bit of freedom/responsibility though he carried the team on with the fightback. Saw a great free-kick cannon off the underside of the bar not given despite Kiffy, Waggy et al claiming the ball was well over the line. Got his reward later on though with the equalizer which was followed by some rather colourful language as part of his celebration 

Clive: 6 - Could easily have caused himself to get a short run out today when he rather aggressively took exception to the refs decision not to award the offside that I was flagging for. Many people tried to calm him down without success, and nor did the flash of yellow from the ref make much difference. Spent the next 5 minutes playing surrounded by red mist which prompted me to send Alex off for a vigorous warm-up. Once he got his head back on it was business as usual. 

Ash: 7 - Started the majority of moves from the back and made use of the space and time his man afforded him. Played as sweeper in the 2nd half and kept things ticking over with his chat.

Herbie: 8 - Full of running as usual but uanble to get his knees muddy due to oppositions Wimbledon game. Had 3 efforts on goal, 1st was with power (wide), 2nd was placement (over), 3rd was a throw in (goal!)

Matt: 7 - A well deserved start for Matt and he proved what a useful addition to the squad he has been. Alongside Herbie the game passed him by for 30 minutes but after the switch with Haggs was a big reason we didn't concede any more. Always covering for others and always talking which is a huge benfit to the rest of the team. Took a knock mid-way through the 2nd period and eventually begged to be replaced as the long grass had sapped all his energy

Ben: 8 - Always involved when the ball was in the final 3rd but was let down by the long grass inhibiting his ability to run at defenders. Intelligent play meant that possession was always retained and his awareness of others positioning resulted in the 3rd goal.

Kiffy: 7 - Led the line and provided opportunities for others with some sublime flicks. A bit quieter in the 2nd half once their defence had decided that the best way to stop him was to kick him.

Waggy: 6 - Got into some great goalscoring positions throughout the 1st half but lacked any conviction with his finishing, perhaps those few weeks at RWB took their toll. Thought he'd scored at one point only to see the keeper pull off a Gordon Banks-esque save. Also thought he deserved a pen in the build up to our 1st and was just about to bollock the ref for not giving it when he suddeenly realised that we'd actually gone on to score!!!!!

Subs:

Alex: 7 - As if he'd never been away, rampaging down the right one minute, coming from nowhere to make a saving last ditch tackle the next.

Sim: 6 - Unlucky not to start but hopefully realised it wasn't any reflection on his own recent performances. Frightened the life out of their back line within minutes of coming on which resulted in them camping out along the 18yd line.

Kingy: 8 with the flag, 6 when on the pitch - An integral part of the defensive unit for majority of the game.................then I came on 

Overall I think we all knew it wasn't good enough today, especially in the 1st half, but personally I think it was a case of after the lord mayors show with the fact we had nothing to play for affecting us psychologically.

Hopefully everyone will be there on May 16th for the presentation evening where we can celebrate promotion in style.

13.04.08 vs SGP (H) League

Team:

Scouse, Waggy, Clive, Haggerty, Ash, Woody, Kingy, Herbie, Ben, Kiffy and Sim

Subs: Adie for Kingy (60), Matt for Sim (70), Pad for Herbs (75)

Final: 5-0

Half Time: 2-0

Goalscorers: Kiff (2), Ben (2) and Adie

No changes to the midweek team other than a tactical change with Kingy witching places with Dave. Pad returning to the bench for the injured alex.

Scouse: 8.99 - could not resist Scouse. Had a good game - not a lot to do but swept well on a couple of occasions and made a couple of good saves with his distribution very good.

Waggy: 8 - worked hard and had a lot more of the ball. Very good distribution and put a lot of quality balls down the line or crosses into the box. Out of position but played very well and unlucky not to score.

Woody: 8 - had plenty of space and used the ball well threading balls forward and linked up well with Ben and Adie to get into good attacking positions. Even got forward to get into a good goalscoring position but lacked Haggerty's finishing!

Clive: 9 (MOM)- man marked SGP's most dangerous player and never gave him a kick. Very tenacious and despite 5 games in a week played extremely well and kept going until the end.

Ash: 8 - might not enjoy it but had a pipe and slippers on as it was very comfortable. Had time to get the ball down and played the ball easy from the back. Could play at the back for several more seasons 

Haggerty: 8 - Another good performance by the big man! Could of got a bit more stuck in at times (- I bet it still hurts now - You Bully). Stepped forward at times but got the ball down and played well especially second half.

Herbie: 8 - as industrious as ever and kept the team going forward. Played a bit deeper to allow Ben to get forward but won his midfield battle and will be pleased with Clive's miss at the end.

Ben: 8.5 - looked sharp and linked the midfield with the attack very well. Second half got the ball to feet more and sniffed out two goals inside the 6 yard box with the first of his very brave to dive in and score.

Kingy: 7.5 - worked hard and lacked a bit of fitness having not played in midfield for a few games. Took responsiblity second half to sit and protect which allowed Ben to get forward. won his physical battle and did well.

Kiffy: 8 - led the line well and good to see him notch a couple of goals with two good finishes. Bit unlucky not to get his trick as a great effort bounced off the post.

Sim: 7.5 - bright spot in the first half stretching their defence and worked hard. Tired a bit second half but softened the defence up with his pace in the first half.

Subs:

Adie: 7 - bright, lively and got the ball down. Took his goal well with a nice 1-2 with Ben.

Matt: 7 - did well at W Back and got forward well even nearly managing to score.

Pad:  Not long on but his midfield days are over - never again! Organised the defence over the last 15 mins and did alright.

Well it was an important game and we needed three points to guarantee a deserved second spot with Mission Accomplished.

First half was a bit workmanlike with us lacking a bit of thought but we came in two up after a good Kiffy header and a brave finish by Ben. The second half was much better using the full width of the pitch and we played much better with more football on the ground.

Lots of good attacking play was finished off by further goals from Kiff, Ben and Adie and could easily have been another two or three but five was comfortable against a very hard working young SGP.

It was a good finish to the home form and only 3 points dropped at home all season so that is especially something to be proud off. We have performed extremely well on our own patch and that will be important next year.

Well, it was my last game of the season Boyz and I have updated my comments and player profiles for you to have laugh at and comment on.

Well done to all of you I have really enjoyed this season and although it does not quite beat playing this is the most enjoyable of the 10 years I have been managing - you are a fantastic bunch and hopefully you will all comeback next season so we can build on this!

Enjoy the game next week but make sure you win!!

09.04.08 vs Lutterworth Knights (A) League

Team:

Scouse, Waggy, Clive, Haggerty, Kingy, Woody, Herbie, Dave, Ben, Kiffy and Sim

Subs: Matt for Sim (70), Adie and Alex not used

Final: 2-3

Half Time: 0-1

Goalscorers: Sim (2) and Ben

Two changes to the team defeated by Throops on Sunday. With Pad unavailable Haggerty returned to the defence whilst Ben returned to the Midfield with Adie on the bench.

Scouse: 7 - not a lot to do and I do not think made a save other than picking the ball out of the net twice. Not at fault for either goal with poor defending leaving him a bit exposed. Distribution was not bad but had a relatively quiet game.

Waggy: 7 - worked hard and got forward on one or two occasions and put in a committed performance. Usual quality on the ball but playing out of position for the team and did a good job. Likes the WING part but not the back bit!!

Woody: 7 - got forward well at times but neither wing back got a lot of the ball going forward. Stuck to his task manfully at the back and had a couple of opportunities to work the keeper but was off target.

Clive: 8 - gave the defence valuable pace and at times intercepted very well. Never gave his striker a kick and was as committed as ever.

Kingy: 7 - very good first half with the defence looking completely at ease. 2nd half let his man get him away from him on a couple of occasions and was not quite as dominant. However, another player putting in commitment for the TEAM as not his position of choice.

Haggerty: 8 - Excellent performance with composure and still had time to go on a couple of rampaging runs. Flagged a bit last 10 minutes although makes a big difference and a fully fit Hags is invaluable to the team.

Ash: 7 - very quiet first half and part of a midfield that did not dominate. Had a battle with the big Knights midfielder and won his share although not at his dominant best. Second half worked harder and put a lot more work around the pitch - needs encouragement like everyone and we can all help him!

Herbie: 7 - as industrious as ever but not at his sharpest but was still covering the ground. Midfield got a bit stretched at times and was part of a unit which did not dominate as is the norm.

Ben: 7.5 - got on the ball at times and scored a good goal. Had a couple of other opportunities and was involved in a lot of the good attacking play we put together. Worked hard and will benefit from the full 90 minutes.

Kiffy: 8 - showed another side to his game again. Hardly had a chance all game but led the line extremely well - winning the vast majority of his aeriel battles and set Sim up for one of his two goals. Worked extremely hard and never allowed the Knights defence an easy time of it. Good effort for the team Kiff!

Sim: 8.5 (MOM) - may have been a bit quiet in the last two games (I am told!) but was as lively as ever and worked hard closing down - left him a bit knackered and had to come off with 20 to go. Took his two goals fantastically with one a clinical run and finish after a hashed goal kick and the second a 25 yard curled finish (40 yards if you are Haggs!!) and scored the first at a crucial time. Well played Sim.

Subs:

Matt 6 - not an easy game to come on in. As industrious as ever but had slippers on and kept falling over. Not easy mate as we got a bit ragged in the last 10 minutes.

 Well I missed the two good games to watch because this was not a good one. May be it was two games in a short space of time but we never really got going and although at times we played some good football it was in small patches.

May be it was partially my fault as we have a number of players not playing in there normal positions and at times we made simple mistakes whilst lacking cohesion. We were slightly off the pace in Midfield in the first half and got very ragged as a team defensively in the last 10 minutes.

Like a few comments made in the dressing room it was disappointing and frustrating and I might be being a tad harsh but it was not the standard of performance we would all expect. I will be interested in the comments on the website.

Enough of the negatives because we ground out the win which is the important thing and it was good to have Haggerty back playing like we know he can after a break through injury. Hopefully we can bandage him up and roll him out on Sunday plus the two lads up front worked hard and had the beating of the Knights defence but the quality of service was not as good as normal.

Felt a bit sorry for Scouse (only a little bit!!) as he had very little to do but stll conceded two!!

One more win needed to secure a deserved second spot and with two games to go we can relax a bit and hopefully play more like the Old Boyz and finish the season with a flourish starting on Sunday - we cannot take SGP for granted as they only lost 2 nil to St.Pats so we are in for a game!

06.04.08 vs Throops (A) League

Team:

Scouse, Waggy, Pad, Kingy, Clive, Woody, Herbie, Dave, Adie, Kiffy and Sim

Subs: Haggerty for Dave (60), Matt for Adie (70)

Final: 3-2

H-T: 2-1

Goalscorers: Kiffy and Waggy

More enforced changes this week, Alex injured so Clive back to partner Kingy, Waggy starting in the unfamiliar wing back role again, Adie in to replace Ben

Ratings:

Scouse: 8.5 - MOM Made a few crucial stops when we were overran at times in the first half, and a couple more in the second half possibly one of his best games this season, shame we didn't get some thing.

Waggy: 7 - Started at wing back but moved into midfield and played better in helping to get more shape in the middle.

Woody: 7 - battled hard at times against two opponents. Got forward well and made a few timely tackles at the other end. Cleared his lines very well and put some quality balls behind the right back for Sim/Kiff to chase.

Clive: 7.5 - very committed as always and more like his normal self second half was more dominant and good vocally and gave his striker little opportunity in the 2nd half.

Paddy: Guys - I never comment on my own performance when doing this - I'm sure you all have your thoughts......I can take it

Kingy:  7 - Not as dominant as he has been but a steady performance - in a role he still dislikes but generally is perfroming well in. Doesn't need reminding about clearing his lines prior to the decisive penalty.

Ash: 7 - found it hard going in the first 20mins. Not all his fault as the shape wasn't working better shape once Waggy moved in.

Adie: 7 - started in midfield as the more attcking option but the shape wasn't working then switched to right wing back and provided good outlet whenever he got the ball to feet. Not his normal position but put great effort in for the team and worked the right hand side very well.

Herbie: 8 - was powerful as always as he competed and won vast majority of his 50:50's. Great engine and like all the lads generally never stopped working.

Kiffy: 7.5 - worked his nuts off against a big Throops defence. Caused problems and won some aeriel battles and always looked dangerous with Sim. Similar to last week in that his work rate and effort were good - needs at time to use his experience and help Sim learn more.

Sim: 7 - never stopped getting into threatening positions, although stuggling a little with a slight pull for some of the game. Not the most physical but competed very well gave the Throops defence no time. Not quite the sparkling form of recent times but still learning and never gave up. 

Subs:

Haggerty: 7 - came on when Dave volunteered save his legs!. Clearly not 100% but came into the middle of the park to add some bite and quality. Showed great appetite (not like you Hags!!) to get the ball down and play whilst also adding some physical presence with some great challenges.

Matt: 7 - worked hard and deserves special mention for epitomising team spirit and commitment never complaining and always willing to run the line when sub - worked hard when brought on for Adie at Wing back.

Boyz another battling performance and I see on the alliance site and from comments after the game that it was another good one to watch - but we've ended up on the wrong side of another scoreline. I can't fault the effort and battling performance but there's just a little something missing, at time today we played some great football, but we were never as dominant or in control as we can be.

I said at half time there were times when we were too busy looking at everyone else and what was wrong rather than focusing on our own games I felt we put this right and were better second half. There were a lot of long faces after the game, and to come away again with nothing is harsh we deserved a point from today and I'm not saying Leon played for the penalty but he sent the request to the ref on a postcard and we fell for it.

The fact is how the season finishes is still in our own hands and we have to take the positives from the last two games and concentrate on winning our remaining games to stop the season finishing on a low note note. Fitness levels should be abck to prior our enfored weather break and the signs of good football are there against arguably two of the best organised teams we've faced. With the gaffer back for Wednesdays game maybe the spark will return and so will the points - come on Boyz!

30.03.08 vs St. Pats (A) League

Team:

Scouse, Waggy, Pad, Kingy, Alex, Woody, Herbie, Dave, Ben, Kiffy and Sim

Subs: Adie for Dave (60), Matt for Kingy (75) and Wes for Woody(80)

Final: 5-4

H-T: 2-2

Goalscorers: Kiffy (pen), Woody, Sim, Dave

A number of changes from the last report with Scouse back between the sticks, a return upfront for Kiff, shift around at the back with Alex moving inside to centre half and Waggy filling in at Right wing back, which meant a return to the starting line-up for Ben. On the bench we were backed up by the returning wanderer Adie, Wes and the everpresent Matt.

Ratings:

Guys - I have to be honest here and say this week it was particularly hard to rate individuals, despite all the enforced changes and a two week layoff - I though we all gave 110%. There were a couple of individual errors, mine included for the first goal, but I want to focus on the positives. We all battled hard and without the layoff, had we met them as we were supposed to I believe it would have been a closer game still and I think we could have taken the points, I firmly believe we deserved a share of the spoils anyway. There were great strikes for our goals (pens don't count!) and the fact that we got stuck in really rattled them. We never let our heads drop and fought as a squad, with equally combative efforts from those who came on.

We need to focus on these good points and take them into the game this week against Throops who will want to avenge the result at our place - 2ND spot is in our own hands now lets not throw it away.

As far as ratings go - I thought it would be interesting for those who read this to actually post your ratings for the team this week - it's a little different, but will be intriging to see what gets posted!

09.03.08 vs Hat & Beaver (A) League

Team:

Kiffy, Alex, Pad, Kingy, Clive, Woody, Herbie, Ash, Matt, Waggy and Sim

Subs: Ben for Matt (60), Hagg for Ash (65) and Gaffer for Sim (85)

Final: 0-4

H-T: 0-1

Goalscorers: Waggy (2), Ben and Clive (I think!)

One enforced change with Scouse in NY so Kiffy donned the gloves and Matty go an opportunity with Wag moving up front. Hags is still carrying an injury and it was good to have Ben back in the squad.

Ratings:

Kiffy: 9 - did not have lots to do but his handling was excellent and had a few long range shots which he collected very well and did not spill anything. Also quick off his line to Sweep and made a crucial save at 2 nil which he did very well to get to and tip around the post. Volunteered to go in and put in a great show for the team despite knowing that he could have been up the other end filling his boots!

Alex: 7 - quiet game by his standard's which was not helped by a narrow pitch and the ball seeming to spend most of the game in the middle.Still defended well and made a few timely interceptions.

Woody: 7.5 - got forward at times well. Not helped by the bobbly surface and but got up and down and despite his man cheating most of the game never gave his opponent a kick. Still found time to have a rant at the ref too!

Pad: 8 - good performance with his usual commitment and made a number of tackles including one or two absolute crunchers. Showed bravery to continue after getting six stud marks on the side/front of his head and a nasty cut/bruise for good measure.

Kingy: 7.5 - steady and despite hating to play at the back is getting better with every game. Won his share of headers and made a few timely interceptions. Had a couple of runs in the second half and you could see his impatience to get forward in the 2nd half.

Clive: 8 - used his pace well at the back and was part of a good defensive unit.  Showed good determination throughout and never gave their top goalscorer a sniff of goal.

Ash: 7 - quieter than normal and the surface did not help with it being quite lively. Never had much space to get the ball down and generally the midfield was bypassed more than normal. Still showed good commitment with him winning his physical battle.

Matt: 7 - struggled to impose himself in a difficult first half. Still showed plenty of energy and won plenty of tackles but will rue a missed chance to score at the back post. Part of midfield that did not impose itself first half but kept going and never let anyone down.

Herb: 7.5 - worked hard but never imposed himself like he has done in recent weeks. Tried to get forward in the first half and one piece of skill set Waggy up who found Sim from 2 yards but the keeper saved. Never let the lumbering No 7 get the better of him but a quiet game by his standards.

Sim: 7.5 - when he had the ball to feet he looked dangerous but had one of those games when the ball would not run in front of goal. Could have had a couple in the first half but was not his day. Still showed his awareness is growing when he found Wag for the crucial 2nd with a good pass timed well for Wag to kill the game.

Waggy: 9 (MOM) - two superb finishes and looked a bit more like his old self. May be because he was playing up front but clearly enjoyed his game and was involved in most of the first half opportunities and used his experience to stand up to the rather large H&B defence. First goal was a great strike from 25 yards (40 if your name is Haggerty!) to crash one in off the bar.

Subs:

Ben: 8 - made a big difference when coming on and made a big difference with his touch and movement. Quality strike for his goal and managed to get on the ball and link play well in the last half an hour. Pushing hard for a starting berth and is available for the next few weeks!

Haggerty - 7.5 - got stuck in and won a lot of tackles. Made his presence felt and managed to get booked even had time to get forward on a few occasions. Tried to claim the 4th goal but I am told by better judges that it was Clive's, Need to try and get him fit as he is an important part of the team.

Gaffer - 0 - had to come on to give the forward line a bit of pace as Sim was tiring so a like for like swap. Still had time to skin the centre half for a cross and a cheeky back heel. Looked tired at the final whistle and managed to pull a groin (I was knackered and do not regret retiring!!)

Got the job done and looked comfortable throughout against a rather limited side (one hoof football from the big queen at the back or the one dimensional fat midfielder). Defended extremely well with a lot of long balls and we were the only team trying to get the ball down and play.

May be it was after the Lord Mayor's show of last week (Or the Haggerty Show) but we never really got going and our passing was not as good as usual but we were efficient rather than exhilirating. The firmer pitches will require us to get the ball down and get about the pitch a bit more or make our passes better - I will need to think carefully about the team make up especially with Scouse returning and Wag doing well up front - who would be a manager!!

A few players raised their games (Pad, Wag and Ben) after being quiet over recent weeks but we will have bigger tests over the next 3-4 weeks with an interesting finish set up.

We have a near full strength squad next week with Scouse, Wez, Hackett and the much travelled Adie set to return at home vs SGP - just missing Eddie for the run in.

We have 5 games to go and with St Pats losing to Throops it is all set up very nicely but we would be mistaken to think too far ahead. We need to concentrate on beating SGP at home next Sunday and not think about our title aspirations as it will take care of itself if we do our job.

Good job today - 5 to go and its when the big boys step up!!

02.03.08 vs Throops (H) League

Team:

Scouse, Alex, Pad, Kingy, Clive, Woody, Herbie, Ash, Waggy, Kiffy and Sim

Subs: Haggerty for Scouse (60), Matt for Dave (80), Gaffer not used (Thank God!!)

Final: 3-2

H-T: 0-1

Goalscorers: Sim (2) and Haggerty

One enforced change with Haggerty not 100% dropping to the bench with Clive returning to Centre Half and Paddy sweeping. Ed and Ben injured with Hackett, Wez and Adie unavailable.

Ratings:

Scouse: 8 - not at his most dominant and went off after a nasty collision with Pad. Luckily it is not too serious and hopefully will be fit for his next available game. Made a few crucial stops when we in a bit of disarray in the first half. Had no chance with either goal especially the second as Pad had clattered him!!

Alex: 9 - outstanding performance for a young lad against experienced centre forwards. Started at wing back but moved across to centre half and played extremely well in helping shore up the back line after a turbulent 25 minutes. Even found time to go on his usual charging runs forward especially towards the end when there were a few tired legs.

Woody: 8 - battled hard at times against two opponents. Got forward well and made a few timely tackles at the other end. Cleared his lines very well and put some quality balls behind the right back for Sim/Kiff to chase.

Clive: 8 - very committed as always and after struggling like all the defence did in the first 25mins became more like his normal self. Second half was more dominant and good vocally and gave his striker little opportunity in the 2nd half.

Paddy: 9 - heroic performance in the second half. Like the rest of the defence in first half was under par and came in for a bit of a half time lashing (sorry Pad - you were better 2nd half mate!). Organised the defence better and then for the last 30 mins was fantastic in goal - couple of great one on one stops when we were chasing the game and swept well with some good clearances. One for the team Pad - well done!

Kingy: 8 - not at his best - may be a little hung over did not help. Looked a little lost in the first 30 minutes but moved into midfield and got more involved adding much needed bite and physical presence. Second half helped close down the midfield and latterly helped out at the back when Scouse went off.

Ash: 8 - found it hard going in the first half. Not all his fault as he was caught between sitting in front (Per the Gaffer!) and getting tight to his man. Second half was better and imposed himself more on his opponent. Kept going well against a very energetic and quality Throops midfield.

Waggy: 8 - started in the hole but was starved of quality ball as we struggled with the Throops formation. Then switched to right wing back and provided quality passes whenever he got the ball to feet. Not his normal position but put great effort in for the team and worked the right hand side very well.

Herbie: 9.5 (MOM) - superb show and in the first half kept us in it at times in the middle of the park with his work rate and closing down. Second half was immense as he competed and won vast majority of his 50:50's. Great engine and set-up the last two goals with a superb pass to Sim for one of the goals. Epitomised the spirit in the second half with non stop action.

Kiffy: 8 - worked his nuts off against a big Throops defence. Caused problems and won a lot of aeriel battles and always looked dangerous with Sim. Similar to last week in that his work rate and effort were first class - chances are not falling at the minute for him but they will if he keeps up the effort will fill his boots over the next few weeks. A great foil for Sim and together they look a threat.

Sim: 9 - never stopped getting into threatening positions. Not the most physical but competed very well including winning flick ons and gave the Throops defence no time. Missed s couple of chances in the first half which he would expect to finish but was brave enough to keep going and getting in the right positions. Two great finishes and the second was an excellent piece of finishing to clip it over the keeper for the winner.

Subs:

Haggerty: 8 - came on when Scouse got injured. Clearly not 100% but came into the middle of the park to add some bite and quality. Showed great appetite (not like you Hags!!) to get the ball down and play whilst also adding some physical presence with some great challenges. Made one or two barn storming runs and got us back into the game with a superb piece of skill to control and score from 40 yards - seeing it was one thing but to finish so well what can I say - quality Haggerty!

Matt: 7 - worked hard and made a few telling interceptions in the last 10 minutes when it was backs to the wall.

Well done Boyz for ashowing superb character and team spirit to comeback from 2 down against a very good Throops side. In difficult circumstances having conceded a second against the run of play and Scouse having to go off the fighting sprit and belief you all showed was superb!

We started slowly and did not react or cope with the Throops formation with 3 up top in the first 30 minutes at all. Once we changed it and although we had Alex and Waggy in unfamiliar positions we were the much better side creating a number of chances especially before half time. We missed two or three excellent challenges and somehow contrived to miss one from two yards but went in one down at half time.

A few harsh words were exchanged at half time and I was glad to hear a few of you arguing with each other (Are you daft I hear to you ask?) - it was good to hear that you cared and wanted it!!

We started the second half well and hit the bar and missed the rebound but I was feeling quite optimistic until disaster with a long ball over the top and lack of communication resulting in poor second with Scouse injured in the process - Pad in goal. Two down and Haggerty on despite being 70% fit.

We then had a good claim for a penalty - ask Kiff he will tell you looked definite to me too! and contrived to get in good positions but it did not look good until Haggerty collected the ball at the half way line with the keeper having cleared only to see Hag take one touch and BOSH into the net from 40 yards.

Back in it and fired up we looked the better side with a great appetitie and looking stronger with Herbs dominating the midfield. Sim then balsted one in from the edge of the box to make it two all. It was end to end with Throops having a good claim for a penalty turned down but on the balance of play it would have been an injustice (Pad - take everything next time mate!!). Sim then ran onto a Herbs through ball to clip a lovely finish 3-2 ! Pad then made a couple of good one on one chances when Throops threw men forward but overall we deserved the 3 points.

Throops are a good side with Leon quality in the middle of the park and very well organised but once we settled we created more chances and richly deserved the win for the effort put in to comeback from 2 down. Will be a tough return fixture but we have a great opportunity to claim second spot but it would be nice if Throops could beat St Pats to make it more interesting.

We have some tough games to play Boyz but the spirit and commitment you showed today made a moaning Gaffer very happy!! - Well done now we move on to Hat & Beaver next week

24.02.08 vs New Parks (H) League

Team:

Scouse, Alex, Haggerty, Kingy, Pad, Woody, Herbie, Ash, Waggy, Kiffy and Sim.

Subs: Hackett for Haggerty (40 or was it 60?), Matt for Dave (60 or 80?), Clive for Waggy (70 or 90?)

Final: 11-1

H-T: 6-1

Goalscorers: Sim 7, Kiffy 2, Waggy and Dave Ash.

One enforced change with Pad returning for the injured Clive with Hackett returning on the bench. Clive made the bench but saving him for next week. Fair play to Matt who took the choice of Pad returning well.

Ratings:

Scouse: 8 - good game making a couple of timely interceptions and saved a couple of good one on one's early in the game. Concentrated well to make an excellent save in the last couple of minutes. Not a coincedence that our recent good defensive show has been at the same time as Scouse listening to advice and concentrating. Good show Scouse.

Alex: 8 - marauding down the right especially in the first half. Had his man in his pocket so much that the player he was marking switched sides. Got forward really well and all game gave us a great pace down the right - put in a great cross for Kiff's first.

Woody: 8 - more like his oldself this week. Fully committed and worked the left handside very well with good link play with Waggy and always looked for the ball to feet. Also put in a few good corners.

Haggerty: 7.5 - struggled with his groin injury but battled on for 40 minutes (probably 60!) but rather than risk tearing it completely rescued before half time. Still marshalled the defence well and had time to go on one rampaging run which nearly created a goal.

Kingy: 8.5 - excellent display. Dominated in the air and won his personal duel with authority. Also played it simple and cleared his lines when necessary. Part of an organised and committed defensive show whilst also very vocal when Hags went off - good to see him using his presence and vocally encouraging and demanding more - well played Kingy.

Pad: 8 - better at centre half with him very much on top of his man and won his duel well. Will be sharper for the game and given me plenty to think about next week if everyone is available. Dropped into Sweep and organised well - just needs to clear the lines a wee bit quicker.

Herbie: 9 -fantastic show in the middle of the park. Was everywhere and the biggest compliment was that they were moaning about how physical Herbs was. Won the majority of his challenges and aerially - and improved on last week with him carrying the ball forward and on one of his good runs put over a great cross for Sim to head home. Top display Herbs - need this level of committed performance next week vs Throops.

Ash: 8.5 - won his headers, passed it easy and scored a goal. He and Herbs are a good duo and compliment each other very well. Another who got stronger and even had time to ride through 3 seperate challenges on one run - may lack a little pace but showed the young Parks players how to pass and move. Big game next week Dave need a comiited show again.

Waggy: 8.5 - quality passing, movement and linked up the midfield with the attack very well. Scored a good goal after a good move with Kiffy and played the ball easy all morning. May not be the quickest but very brave on the ball and rarely gave it away. Played higher up the pitch behind the front two to find space well and played the role very well.

Kiffy: 9 - His best performance of the season by a mile. Led the line superb, worked his nuts off and won his personal battle. Showed that there is more to his game than just scoring. Good to see you working so hard for the team with him closing defenders down, holding the ball up and still had time to finish a good header and belt a 30 yarder in. Must have been involved in 7 or 8 of the 11 goals and used his experience very well with plenty of chat to Sim too. Similar display and effort next week Kiffy and you will be a handful for Throops.

Sim: 9.5 (MOM) -Awesome! Scared the pants of them and linked up fantastically with Kiffy - reading his flicks but also more importantly getting in the box. Scored 7 with a great header, a great volley and one or two other excellent finishes. Once he fills out a bit more in the next couple of years (on a Haggerty diet!!) he could be unplayable. A fantastice performance Sim with 100% effort throughout - rest up this week as I need a similar show next week!!

Subs:

Hackett: 7 - did very well when he came on. Won his personal battles, cleared his lines and the biggest compliment is that the defence looked as strong with him on.

Matt: 7 - got about the pitch, made plenty of tackles and really got stuck in. When you use your weight and energy Matt you are a decent ball winner and hard to play against.Good to see Matty.

Clive: 7 - good commitment as we agreed not to risk his knee and yet when we were a little short still turned up. With his first touch set up a goal and enjoyed his spell in the middle of the park. Good pace and energy.

Very rare for me to have little criticism but this was the best performance of the season. Not just the scoreline bit the manner of the performance was excellent with good comitment against a pretty physical bunch. Maybe they were not the best at the back but we made sure that they paid for it whereas in other games we have missed chances or let teams off slightly. Organised defensively against a tidy strikeforce who were restricted to few chances with Scouse coming through for us at crucial times.

We know we are a good side now we need to prove it against the better sides in the division. We have nothing to fear from anyone at this standard in Div 4 - we do not need to shout about it but get out there next week and prove it! They are really up for it and fancy they can beat us if you read the alliance website - we keep it quiet until the game boyz and I KNOW if you play like you can we may surprise a few people next week.

Superb display today but it is only 3 points and we need to really be up for it next week - be good if everyone could be available even if it means a bit of travelling Sunday morning so I can pick the strongest team based upon the last few weeks performances!!

17.02.08 vs QPR (A) League

Team:

Scouse, Alex, Haggerty, Clive, Kingy, Woody, Herbie, Ash, Waggy, Kiffy and Sim.

Subs: Ben for Kiff (65), Matt for Waggy (70) and Wez for Sim (75)

Final: 5-0

Half Time: 1-0

Unchanged team for the 1st time this season? Reflects the way you all played last week and the only change was on the bench with Ben in for Hackett who was unavailable. Formation to the usual 3-5-2 with Waggy at the front of the midfield with Kingy again playing centre half.

Ratings:

Scouse:  7.5 - concentrated, was decisive and despite a quiet morning did all that was asked of him. Good show Scouse - up the tykes!!

Alex:  8 - had a very good game. Contained the best player on QPR's team but still managed to get forward well and put a few good crosses in and with a touch of luck may have scored. His link play with Sim and Wags was very good.

Woody: 7.5 - a bit indecisive in the first half but 2nd half when well away from me was much better - may be there is a lesson there. Second half delivery from Corners was excellent and got forward well second half. Just need to be bit more confident at times Woods!

Haggerty: 8 - another excellent show at Sweeper and unlike earlier in the season really organising and talking which makes a big difference. Part of a back 3 who for 75 minutes were very disciplined and kept a reasonable strike force very quiet. Well played Big Man.

Clive:  8 - Great competitor and deceptively quick which compliments Kingy and Haggerty. Even had time on a couple of occasions to go on a run forward. Kept his man very quiet and had a very good game.

Kingy:  9 (MOM) - not a centre half he says. Excellent display winning his personal duel but also very concentrated, committed, played it simple and did not dive in. An excellent performance and playing for the team rather than himself. Will take some shifting as the defence looks very sound.

Ash:  7.5 - Not the easiest surface to play on and especially first half did not impose himself but still won his personal battle. Dangerous at set pieces and second half played it simple and kept the team going forward.

Herbs: 8 - Physical game in the middle of the park and Herbs was the best midfielder on the park. Won all of his challenges and never gave the opposition time. Just need to have a bit more confidence at times and go forward with the ball rather than look for a pass thanless it is Dave moaning of course!

Wag:  7.5 - Worked hard but struggled to impose himself on the game. When he found space he put one or two lovely balls through but the two lads up front had better keep scoring because he wants his place back up front and with Matt/Ben champing at the bit places in midfield are at a premium.

Kiffy: 7.5 - Happy 30th fella - Boy you looked rough (rougher than normal) and did well to last 65 minutes with an obvious hang over. Took his goal well at the far post but not as spritely as last week. Disappointed to be withdrawn as Wag scored his penalty but competition for places is hotting up and standards are high.

Sim: 8 - got kicked all over the park as that was the only way they could stop him. Scored the important first goal with a good finish on the stroke of half time. Went on one or two mazy runs and despite a dead leg carried on for the majority of the game - earlier in the season he would have gone off so maturing every week. Just need to keep playing on the last man and with the pitches firming up will be very important over the coming weeks - do not let your head drop when you get kicked Sim - get straight up laugh it off and take it as a compliment!

Subs:

Ben: 7 - did well when he came on both up front and in midfield. Earned the penalty and scored a goal and linked the midfield and the attack well. Quality skills Ben just need you to be there every week fella and Boy will the pressure be on those in the team.

Matt: 6.5 - had a run up front and worked hard. Just need to run around a wee bit less and have a look at times for positional sense but another who is pressing for a place. Got to be ready when your chance comes to take it.

Wez: 6.5 - looking better with every game. A real competitor and will undoubtedly add to the physical edge when he is fully fit and is getting there. Another couple of games and he will want to be starting too and with his ability to play either side will add competition to both wing backs.

First half was bit disappointing and against better sides we could have struggled. We dominated possession and played most of the first half in the QPR territory but final ball, communication and a bit of composure let us down - may be we were trying to force the game a wee bit but not through lack of effort and commitment. Second half was much better and once the second goal went in we relaxed and looked extremely dangerous with set-pieces very good with Woody's delivery from Corners on the right exceptionally good.

With Pad returning and Ed's hopefully not too far away the last 10 games will be interesting and we have an opportunity to open a gap on St Pats as they do not play again in the league next week.

No one's place should be taken for granted as the subs are really pushing and with players to return we cannot let our standards drop. I have a feeling that there will be a few twists before the season finishes and we must stay focused on our game as we are a match for anyone now we are fit and the confidence is up - i heard QPR saying that we were too physical and fit for them so we are getting there!!

Keep it going Boyz - good performance yesterday and we owe New Parks a performance as we threw 2 points away against them early in the season.

See you next Sunday at home!!

10.02.08 vs Black Dog (A) League

Team:

Scouse, Alex, Haggerty, Clive, Kingy, Woody, Herbie, Ash, Sim, Kiffy and Waggy.

Subs: Matt for Herbs (60), Wez for Ash (65) and Hackett for Woody (65)

Final: 11-2

Half Time: 6-0

Goalscorers: Sim 4, Waggy 2, Kiffy 2, Ash 2 and Matt

One enforced change from the previous week with Sim in for Pad and an attacking 3-4-3 formation. Waggy, Sim and Kiffy in the attacking roles with Kingy dropping into the back three due to Pad's absence. Ed and Ben still unavailable.

Ratings:

Scouse:  7 - not a lot to do but distribution was pretty good and first half swept well at the back. Will be disappointed to have conceded two goals the second especially.

Alex:  7.5 - got forward well especially first half and got some good crosses and on one occasion ran the length of the pitch and found himself at left wing! Good show but faded a bit second half but Dog could not handle his pace and dribbling skills - more to come when he believes in himself!

Woody: 7 - tidy and did well against Dog's best player. Did not get forward too much but contained Easton who was not exactly tracking back.

Haggerty: 8 - good show at the back, sweeping well, won his tackles and organised the defence. Distribution and passing has had better days but had a good game.

Clive:  7.5 - combatitive as ever, won his tackles and outplayed his opponent. Will have bigger tests over the next few weeks.

Kingy:  7.5 - got stuck in and held his position well considering he is not a natural centre half. Could be a position he will enjoy in a few years time but did well today and still had energy to get forward in midfield late on.Happy 30th fella!

Ash:  8 - Better performance with good distribution and got forward well to take two chances nicely especially the header. He and Herbs getting back to their pre-xmas level.

Herbs: 7.5 - Normal self getting stuck in and winning his midfield duel. Also got forward well but did not have his shooting boots with him - not sure he owns any actually!! Good show though Herbs would have been a 9 if you could shoot mate.

Wag:  8 - Good show with two good finishes and involved in a number of the goals and linked the midfield and the attack well. Great finish for the first which got us on our way.

Kiffy: 8 - bit more like his old self today and the two goals will get him on the road to more I am sure - hangover permitting next Week - Happy 30th for next week big fella.

Sim: 9 (MOM) - frightening, if he only had a bit of pace would be superb! terrorised the defence all game and one of his goals will be a candidate for the goal of the season when collecting it from a throw 35 yards out on the touchline before skinning 4 and rounding the keeper. Deserves this for being patient and will take some shifting now!

Subs:

Matt: 7 - good show when coming on and did a Herbs by winning his tackles and finished off well by getting his head on a cross to score. Wants a place Boyz so presssures on.

Wez: 6.5 - got about the pitch and on his road to recovery. Good to see him about the pitch and he even started moaning so must be regaining some fitness.

Hackett: 6.5 - slotted in well and apart from missing his first touch completely did well when coming on.

Pretty impressive show today Boyz and it was an enjoyable game to watch. We played some excellent football especially in the first half with good movement and penned them in which once we got a couple up you could see their heads hit the floor. We are still not firing on all cylinders but each week is getting better and with the big games still to come we just need to concentrate on our own game.

With Ed, Ben and Pad to return competition for places will be tough because like Sim this week when you get your chance you have to take it. Matt has shown again today second half that he wants a place too!

Good show throughout the team today and if we can keep competing physically like we have in the last two weeks then with our footballing ability we have nothing to be frightened of.

A word for Black Dog who I thought showed good spirit and kept going until the end.

Well played today Boyz a good 3 points now lets keep the momentum going away at QPR next week.

03.02.08 vs Anstey Hounds (A) League

Team:

Scouse, Alex, Haggerty, Clive, Pad, Woody, Herbie, Ash, Kingy, Kiffy and Waggy

Subs: Sim for Kiffy (60), Matt for Pad (65) and Wez for Alex (75)

Final: 3-0

Half Time: 0-0

Goalscorer: OG, Waggy 2

One enforced change from the week before with Ben unavailable and Ash stepping back into the team. Welcome return to the bench for Wez. Kingy pushing forward into the attacking midfield role with Kiffy and Waggy still up front with Matt and Sim itching to be involved - both have shown patience in recent weeks especially as we have not been firing on all cylinders going forward.

Just a reminder Boyz that we win as a team and lose as a team and that involves all 16-17 players as in the season to date all of you have played important roles be it Woody who has played every minute of every game or Matt/Sim who have been regular subs but never complained!!

Ratings:

Scouse:  8 - decisive, swept well especially first half when up the slope and against the wind. You make such a big difference when concentrating, being decisive and talking. Well deserved clean sheet and a really good performance which was aided by a good show from the back three.

Alex:   7 - more involved than last week and got forward well. Carrying a knock but still got up and down well and outclassed his oponent who never posed a threat.

Woody: 8- good attacking threat - set up the first goal with a good cross which deflected off a defender into his own net. Passing was better and gave us good width on the left.

Clive: 8 - excellent covering at the back, won his pesonal duel and adds valuable pace to the back three. Another good performance and leads by example.

Haggerty: 9 (MOM) - superb, back to his best - especially first half where he dominated and got the ball down playing it easy and distribution was excellent. Even held his position despite me trying to get him to go forward on one or two occasions - much better Hags more like you before Xmas.

Pad: 8 - good show at the back, marshalled and organised the difference very well and played it easy whilst clearing his lines very effectively. Will be missed on this show and will be disappointed not to have kept his goalscoring run going with one chance missed in the first half.

Herbie: 8 - up and down and won his physical battle in the middle of the park and another player who is getting back to his pre-xmas form.

Ash:  7 - decent performance and eased himself back in nicely. Will benefit from the full 90 minutes as it has been 6 weeks since his last full game. As usual gave it easy and a steady head in the middle of the park - will be more dominant as he regains sharpness.

Kingy: 8 - performed well alongside Herbs and Ash and won his personal duel - slotted in well at the back in the last 20 minutes and showed plenty of commitment and the pitch did not help with his dribbling. Just needs to get forward a bit more but benefiting from a run of games. 

Waggy: 7 - better show and rewarded with a couple of goals with the first of his goals an excellent finish. Just needs to be a bit greedier and get in the box a bit more and the goals will flow. Missed a few chances but at least he keeps showing and worked hard off the ball for the team.

Kiffy:  6 - not his usual self and looking a bit down in the dumps. Carried us earlier in the season with some excellent finishing and putting a lot of pressure on himself to keep scoring. Work rate not as high as usual and looked a bit off the pace - will be disappointed with his own return in recent weeks but we all need to pull together and he will get back to doing what he does best. Valuable member of the team and will be disappointed a little with his own reaction at the end of the game - show me I was wrong in the next few weeks Kiffy!!

Subs:

Sim: 7 - scared the pants off them when he came on. I heard their defence arguing who was going to pick him up as no one could get near him. Been extremely patient and came on and gave us real pace, effort and was involved in the last two goals and could have had a couple himself.

Matt: 6 - worked hard and put some good tackles in and as usual showed his usual commitment to the team. Pressing for a place and with Pad away will get a chance to earn his place.

Wez: 6 - great to see him back and as usual as committed as ever. Got up and down, moaned a bit and gave one of their lads his usual calling card - ouch it hurt. Good to have you back Rhodesy!

A good 90 minute performance just lacking a it of cutting edge but the first half we played some good football and were very solid with the midfield and defence dominant.

Second half we went a bit long ball but created even more chances and probably should have strolled to victory. Good to see Wag get a couple and Sim's pace in the last half an hour stretched them all over - must be horrible to see him coming on when you are knackered. Trick though Sim will be to do it from the start if the chance comes along!

The last two weeks although they have not been perfect performances have shown that we have the heart and spirit as a team and want the season to end with a flourish - important to remember Boyz that it is not about individuals but about the team and we must muck in even when things are not going quite right individually.

A special mention to the back three and Scouse as in the last two weeks we have kept clean sheets and been very organised with the opposition being kept quiet. I know they are the not the best team we will play but the concentration and commitment has been excellent and Scouse has shown what he is capable of - now keep it up.

Next week we play at the Black Dog, Uplands Pk Oadby and we owe them one as it was our worst performance of the season and we need to put the record straight - hopefully against 11 of them so we have no excuses!

Well done lads - lets keep it going!!

27.01.08 vs Anstey Hounds (H) League

Team:

Scouse, Alex, Haggerty, Clive, Pad, Woody, Herbie, Kingy, Ben, Kiffy, Waggy

Subs: Sim for Waggy (60), Ash for Haggerty (65), Matt for Kiffy (75), Hackett not used

Final: 1-0

Half Time: 0-0

Goalscorer: Paddy

One enforced change from the week before with Ed out injured and Ben coming into the side with Clive dropping back to centre half. Welcome return to the squad for Hackett and timely with Wez also unwell and Paddy imminently off on his Skiing sabbatical.

Ratings:

Scouse: 7 - indecisive in the first half which could have cost us on a couple of occasions however in the 2nd half played extremely well.Good chat and more decisive with one good interception and an excellent save near the end. Much better 2nd half Scouse - more of the same please.

Alex:    6 -quiet game by Al's standards but still got forward at times. Starved of possession but needs to impose himself on the game a bit more.

Woody: 7 - Good cross for the goal and had a decent 2nd half with a more forceful showing.

Haggerty: 6 - steady and did well defensively with the defence keeping the hounds attack quiet. Needs to watch his discipline and bit like Al needs to impose his game a bit more.

Clive:    7 - Good performance with several good interceptions and one or two great tackles back tracking. Not 100% fit with a knee knock but gave it all.

Pad:    7 - Better 2nd half when playing it simple and organising defence - needs to not overplay but got forward well to score the decisive goal.

Herbie: 7 - Workmanlike as usual. Put in a good shift, worked hard backwards and forwards and was still getting forward well in the last 10 mins.

Ben:     6 - Quiet game by his high standards. Sticky pitch did not help his dribbling skills but still worked hard and created a few opportunities - will feel he could have scored a couple but just snatched at the chances.

Kingy:  8 (Mom) - worked very hard., won a lot of aeriel balls and got forward well at times - one run in the first half was excellent having done all the hardwork just lacked a finish. Switched back well in last 20 to help keep the clean sheet.

Waggy: 6 - not your day fella. Had one of those days when it came of his knee, shin and arse but would not run. Kept going though and worked hard - put one or two dangerous crosses in but did not fall for us.

Kiffy:  7 - chances are not running for him at the moment but still getting into good positions. Was really pleased with his work rate and closed down their defence well and put in a good shift. One of these weeks will get a hatful.

Subs:

Sim: 6 - bit quiet last week but more look his old self with a number of good runs and put their defence on the backfoot. Had a couple of chances and was a bit unlucky to be denied by a good save when clean through.

Ash: 6 - steady and helped close the game down in the last 25 minutes. Never gave the ball away and desperate for his place back. Great attitude Dave and good encouragement on the side.

Matt: 6 - really pleased with him when he came on. Worked his socks off and put in a lot of good tackles - showed good attitude over the past few weeks.

Not the most exhilarating on performances but the work rate and commitment was better than last week - and the main reason why we dragged out the victory. In spells especially first half we played some good stuff with the surface not helping with playing the ball on the ground. Created enough chances through out to have won more convincingly but the whole team needs to chip in to assist the front boys.

If we keep plugging away I am sure the goals will flow, just need a bit of composure and a bit of luck - we are due a bit so I am hoping we get it next week vs Throops.

A mention for the defence as they worked hard to keep a clean sheet - kept a good high line and were assisted very well especially second half by a good performance from Scouse.

We need to maintain the work rate Boyz and the lads on the bench are chewing my ear to get on so you need to play well to keep your place.

We have had enough games after Christmas to get back to putting in 90 minute performances at both ends - we will need to step up a level next week against Throops but I am pleased with the team effort this week.

We deserved a more resounding win but importantly we ground out the win - next weeks a big game and a chance to make a statement !!

20.01.08 vs Willows (H) Stokes Cup

Team:

Scouse, Alex, Haggerty, Pad, Ed, Woody, Herbie, Kingy, Clive, Kiffy, Waggy

Subs: Ben for Haggerty (30), Ash for Ed (60), Sim for Pad (70), Matt and Wez not used.

Final: 1-3

Half Time: 0-1

Cup quarter final and a full squad at strange surroundings as we played the home cup tie at Winstanley in order to get the game played.

Couple of changes from the last games versus Black Dog with Kingy replacing Matty and Waggy getting the nod over an unlucky Sim. Good to see Wez back on the bench and will want to get involved over the coming weeks.

Ratings:

Scouse: 6 - one or two good saves but at fault for the first and I am sure will be disappointed as the first goal was crucial.

Alex:     7 - tried hard especially first half with one or two charging runs. Also showed his flexibility by switching to centre half when we were chasing the game.

Woody: 6 - quiet game, not ideal conditions for the normally industrious wing back.

Ed:        6 - bit off the pace and not as composed as normal especially during first 30 mins. Hopefully the knee knock is not too serious.

Haggerty: 5 - not fully fit and carrying a groin injury in these conditions is easy. May have benefited by watching from the side!

Pad:      6 - committed as ever, organised the lads at the back but short of fitness and more importantly sharpness.

Clive:    8 (Mom) - best blue shirt on the pitch, worked hard, let the fight and gave the most chat - did not deserve to be on the losing side.

Kingy:  7 - dominant in the air winning most of his aeriel duels, but lacking sharpness and got caught on the ball but tried very hard.

Herbie: 7 - battled hard, covered the pitch but in a midfield bog never quite got going like he can.

Waggy: 6 - some good touches, went looking for the ball but struggled to get on the ball.

Kiffy:    6 - quiet,not at his sharpest, scored but missed one or two other chances.

Subs:

Ben:   7 - showed a few good touches, tried to link game but not the easiest surface to play on and not helped by general play of the team.

Ash:   6 - did not really get into the game but difficult when coming on.

Sim:   6 - little supply, ran around a lot but general creativity was lacking to exploit his pace.

What a difference 6 weeks make - if you read the report below we were looking like a side and working hard for each other with lots of commitment and creativity. Fair point that two games in 7 weeks is not ideal preparation but no disrespect to the opposition we have beat far better sides so far this season - the writing was may be on the wall a couple of weeks ago but we were not much better today.

I need to take some of the blame as I tried to stick to the principle that if away you do not get your place back but may be I should have gone with my instincts to pick the more fit and mobile players.

Hugely disappointing and collectively we did not deserve to go through - now we have to show a bit of fire in our belly to not let the season drift away. Be looking around next week to see how many players really want it as we have a lot left to play for with an opportunity to at least finish runners up but boy do we need to improve.

No ones place is safe and may be time to reward a few of the lads who have shown good team commitment like Matt and Sim who were really disappointed not be started or being involved.

May be I am being a bit harsh but I know I got it wrong today but I genuinely believe we still should have performed better!!

02.12.07 vs Fosse (H) League

Team:

Scouse, Alex, Clive, Haggerty, Ed, Woody, Ash, Herbie, Matt, Waggy and Kiffy.

Subs: Ben for Waggy (5), Sim for Matt (15) and Kingy for Haggerty (60)

Final: 8-2

Half Time: 3-1

One enforced change with Clive in for the unavailable Paddy and Kingy returning to the squad on the bench.

Ratings:

Scouse: 7 - relatively quiet game, not much chance with the goals. Good distribution and chat throughout.

Alex:     9(MOM) - great performance, got forward and back, made runs through the midfield - Best performance of the season !!

Clive:    8 - good pace, defended well and got stuck in and made one or two good last ditch challenges. Good show on returning from injury.

Haggerty: 7 - only 70% fit (no change there then!!) - put in a good show considering the big fella is carrying a hammy!! Swept well and got forward on occasions - also looked good running the line!!

Ed:       8 - marked his man out of the game and stood up well in the last 30 mins when faced with a rather quick opponent. Good to hear the chat from the old boy at the back.

Woody:  8 - steady (especially for you Kingy), had a good game, got forward well and like Alex was very effective as an attacking wing back.

Ash:    8.5 - excellent performance from the ol boy. Trying conditions and showed his years of experience - won every header and played it simple and kept going extremely well.

Herbs:   8.5 - where does the boy get his energy from!! Put in loads of tackles - broke the game up well and his passing was very good. Involved in a lot of good play and even had time to get a 30 yard piledriver on target.

Matty: N/A - unfair to mark him due to injury to his knee. Hopefully not too serious because in the early stages had got stuck in and was up for the battle.

Waggy: N/A - burst forward and used his blistering pace only to pull his hammy when clean through - pity because his sprint training with Simmy was paying off. Hopefully fit for next week.

Kiffy:  8.5 - great early finish and went on to get a well deserved hat-trick, Three clinical finishes and goals will flow over the next few weeks I am sure. Linked others in also and played well with both Eddy and Sim.

Subs:

Ben:  9 - close to MOM and played really well when coming on. Dribbling on a terrible surface for fun, made one or two great chances but involved in 4 or 5 of the goals. Took his goal well and pushing for a starting place.

Sim: 8 - played for an hour - scored a hat-trick with the last one a great finish. Ran the Fosse defence ragged who could not handle his pace. Getting better with every week Sim and if you just have a bit more confidence could become unstoppable. Bit too young to be getting cramp but having never had any pace - it may be the muscles cant cope with the mud!

Kingy: 7 - played the last 30 minutes and got stuck in and got forward well too. Scored and showed good appetite - another one desperate to get his place back!

Boyz, extremely pleased and proud of the performance today. Fosse are a good side with a good set of lads and we really played them off the park. Work rate and commitment for each other is exceptional and our football at times is very good - finishing today was also good with chances converted in terrible conditions very high.

Top of the table but with all the hard work ahead of us - we have set the standard now we must maintain it but at 3-2 for 5 minutes of the second half we showed great spirit and appetite to power on and win the game easily even playing the last 15 minutes with ten men.

Hopefully the injuries to Wag, Matty, Haggs and Sim will not be too serious because with Pad back and Kingy/Ben champing at the bit competition for places is fierce.

Great show today Boyz lets do the same against the Owls next week - we owe them one after the game at the end of last season.

25.11.07 vs Humberstone Rangers (A) Stokes Cup

Team:

Scouse, Alex, Pad, Haggerty, Ed, Woody, Ash, Herbie, Matt, Waggy and Kiffy.

Subs: Sim for Waggy (60), Ben for Matt (60) and Clive for Eddie (65)

Final: 7-1

Half Time: 4-1

Goalscorers: Kiffy (2), Waggy (2), Herbie, Alex and Sim

One enforced change with Matty coming in for the unavailable Kingy. Ben and Clive available again and on the bench with Sim.

Ratings:

Scouse: 8 - good concentration and little chance with goal. Distribution good and organised the lads in front.

Alex:     8 - got forward well, took his goal well with an excellent left foot finish. Had his winger in his pocket and got forward well.

Pad:      7 - Steady, unspectacular but efficient. Won his fair share in the air just needs to keep the shape and be slightly more decisive, tired towards the end.

Ed:        7 - Quietly effective, won his personal duel and was tidy as usual.

Haggerty: 7 - Not as dominant as last week, looked tired towards the end but won his duel and distribution .

Woody: 9 - Won all of his challenges, got forward well and put in some good deliveries. Good commitment and

Ash:      8 - Dominated in the air and won most of his 50/50's. Passing not as good as normal but played his part in midfield.

Herbie:  8 - Scored his first goal for the club - great finish (found your range Herbs!!). Worked hard and won his midfield battle.

Matt:     7 - Won his tackles and got stuck in after a long break out. Won his personal duel just needs to get more involved.

Waggy:  8 - Held up play well, took his two goals well and linked up with Kiffy nicely.

Kiffy:    8 - Two more to the total, won the ball well in the air and worked hard. Back to scoring - just need to be a bit greedier when you see that goal Kiff.

Subs:

Ben:  7 - Good show when he came on - set up Sim with a good header and looked very lively. Pushing for his place back.

Sim:  7 - Stretched the game and used his pace, one run beating 4 players. Took his goal well and pushing hard for a place.

Clive: 7 - Good to see him back and held things together in the last 15 mins as the defence tired. Great to have him challenging for a place.

Another good start Boyz with two early strikes settling us down. We played some good football at times and won the majority of the 50/50's. Nice to see Herbie get one on target with a good finish (you could not really miss Herbs!). Looking like a team and working hard for each other with good commitment bodes well for the rest of the season. Good that Kiff is back amongst the goals and between Kiff, Wag and Sim they have scored over 40 goals so the strikeforce looks strong. We have two tough league games against Fosse and Oadby coming up so we need to keep it up.

Not the best team we have faced but we put them away well and dominated for long spells. Lads at the back had a relatively easy morning with more difficult challenges ahead!

Lads on the bench all played well when coming on so competition is fierce especially with Kingy and Hackett back next week.

18.11.07 vs SGP (A) League

Team: Scouse, Alex, Pad, Haggerty, Ed, Woody, Ash, Herbie, Kingy, Waggy and Kiffy.

Subs: Matt for Kingy (70), Sim for Waggy (70) and Hackett for Haggerty (85)

Final: 5-2

Half Time: 4-0

Goalscorers: Kingy (3), Waggy (2)

One enforced change with Ben unavailable and Ed taking his place with Kingy moving into midfield.

Ratings:

Scouse: 8 - Some excellent saves and good to hear him shouting at the defence - maybe could have done better for the first but a good display.

Alex:     8 - Got forward well, made somegood tackles and is getting better every week. Unluckly not to score with a great left footed effort.

Pad:      8 - Organised, got stuck in and ensured the defence stood strong early and late on.

Haggerty: 8 - Very good display, commanding and made some fantastic tackles including a great one on Woody!!

Ed:       8 - Gives us a bit of pace, got caught a couple of times early on but part of a good defensive display.

Woody: 8 - Got forward well, put some good balls into the box and had an allround good game.

Ash:      8 - Unsung hero, marking a good player in midfield won his personal duel up to last 15 minutes when he tired - hey he is 58!!

Herbie:  8 - Superb in first half covered every blade of grass, won his tackles and got the team going - tired a wee bit but a good performance.

Kingy:  9 (MOM) - giving me plenty to think about as linked up well and scored two very good goals and deserved to claim the deflected third.

Waggy: 8 - Excellent performance again, linking nicely with Kiffy and took two chances well especially the second.

Kiffy:    8 - Not running for Kiff at the moment but led the line, worked his nuts off and set up others - keep it up Kiffy I feel a bagful is imminent.

Subs:

Matty:  6 - came on in difficult conditions but got stuck in. Never moans and great for team spirit.

Sim:     6 - saw little ball but still caused problems with his pace. Had one chance but snatched at it.

Hackett: 6 - came on briefly to keep us at full strength.

Boyz, the best performance of the season with a lot of commitment and team spirit shown. Yes, they had their keeper sent off but we had battled well to a 2 nil lead despite a difficult start. I believe SGP have a very good side and will fair well for the rest of the season causing a few upsets so to win handsomely was a good result.

Good to see the front two linking up well and Kingy certainly made an impact in midfield. Places are at a premium and good to see the lads on the side (Hackett, Matt and Sim) supporting in very cold conditions and coming on to put it in for the team. Clive epitomised the spirit by bringing his daughter down to show some support.

Lets keep it up Boyz - Cup next week!! 

11.11.07 vs Lutterworth Knights (H) League

Team: Scouse, Alex, Pad, Haggerty, Kingy, Woody, Ash, Herbie, Ben, Waggy and Kiffy.

Subs: Sim for Kiff (70), Ed for Haggerty (70)

Final Score: 5-3

Half Time: 3-0

Goalscorers: Kiffy (2), Waggy (2) and Ben Edwards

A couple of changes from last week with Pad in for Matty and Ben for Sim. Pad sweeping behind Kingy and Haggerty with Wag up front with Kiffy.

Ratings:

Scouse:  8 - Good game, collected crosses and made a couple of crucial saves at important points in the game. No chance with the 3 goals - just needs to "Calm Down Calm Down" at slow the game at certain times but more like the Scouse we need over the coming weeks.

Alex:     7 - Quietly effective although did not see much of the ball. Never got caught positionally and still got forward well at times.

Woody: 8 - Better show from Woody this week, more commitment and got forward well. Passing was better too.

Paddy:   7 - Efficient, organised well but got tired towards the last 20 mins. Played it simple and the defence looked sound apart from a mad 5 minutes at the end.

Haggerty: 8 - Good show from the man mountain both on the pitch and in the bar doing the card. Made a few superb challenges, played it simple and distribution was good. Did not over play too - good performance Haggy.

Kingy:    7 - Similar to Pad. Efficient, committed - some good chat too. Occasionally over plays but doing a good job out of position. Keep at it Kingy making it hard for me to pick the team.

Ash:      7 - Committed, played a team role which was good to see. Never moaned (okay only a little) got on with his job in a competitive midfield battle against good players. As normal did not overplay and won a fair share of his 50:50's but did not as much ball as he would like but good show Dave.

Herbie:  8 - That's more like it Herbs! Covered every blade and won the physical battles and only flagged in the last 15 minutes when we lost a bit of shape. Well played Herb - vital that you play that to make us tick - passing was better too.

Eddy (Ben): 9 (MOM) - Super show Ben. Linked midfield well with front two and got forward well whilst still putting his fair stint of the donkey work in. Scored the best goal of the game to react quickly to Haggertys excellent free kick to make toast of his marker and bury a great shot home. Well played Ben!

Kiffy:  8 - Led line well, won a lot of headers and scored two to add to his total. Kiffy linked up nicely with Waggy. Could have had one or two more but never stops getting in good positions.

Waggy: 8 - Pushed Ben close for MOM with another good performance. Quality passing and took two of his more difficult chances well especially the 2nd which made the game safe at 5-1. Bit more confidence and could have had 4 or 5 but a good foil for Kiffy. Quality show Waggy - keep it up!

Subs:

Ed:   6 - tough coming on and unfortunately on the pitch when we lost a bit of rhythm and shape. Still won his own battle and gives us a bit of pace at the back.

Sim:  6 - did not get a lot of the ball and we did not put the ball behind them well enough to exploit his pace.Chin up Sim - due a bit of luck next week.

Quick mention for Clive - good to have you back fella and over the next 2-3 weeks will undoubtedly make a difference. Also to Matty who never complained despite not getting on and showed good team spirit by running the line (1st Half anyway) - Keep going fella!!

28.10.07 vs QPR (H) League

Team: Scouse, Alex, Pad, Haggerty, Ed, Woody, Ash, Herbie, Kingy, Waggy and Kiffy.

Subs: Sim for Kingy (65), Matt for Pad (70)

Final Score: 5-1

Half Time: 2-0

Goalscorers: Kiffy, Kingy, Sim (2) and Alex

One change from the previous week with Ben away and Dave Ash returning to fitness. Slight tactical switch with Kingy into the front of the midfield and Pad sweeping behind Ed and Haggerty.

Apart from the first 15 minutes and last 5 minutes that was a good show boys against a good Knights side. Unlike last week attitude was good and team commitment was superb. We looked a good strong team but we must not switch off and must start more aggressively especially as we have a run of three tough games against good sides coming up.

Good to see a few lads watching on the side well done to King Snr, Trickett Seniot, Baker and Andy - always appreciate a bit of support.

Good to get back on track - biggest test next week against 3rd place SGP away (they only lost 3-2 to St Pats) so we can expect a tough game - be a good gauge as to how we will do over the season!

Ratings:

Scouse:   8 - Good game, concentrated and made a couple of good saves at crucial times. Not at fault for goal needless pass back which was not the best.

Alex:      8 - Solid and very effective going forward especially 2nd half . One or two great runs and some excellent balls into the box - ran their left back into the ground - well played Alex.

Woody:  7 - Solid and got forward well - could have had a hat-trick with a bit of composure. Threatening to make Herbie look like a proven attacker!

Ed:         8 - Quietly efficient, stuck to his task well and never gave a dangerous opponent a kick. Good marking performance.

Haggerty: 7 - looked sober! Good solid performance, got forward on a couple of occasions but kept his position well - did not get booked too!

Paddy:    7 -  steady, bit ponderous in the first half and at fault for goal but played it simple 2nd half and got forward on occasions too!

Kingy:     7 - Better performance than last week, enjoys getting forward and scored a cracking goal - just need to give and go at times but looked promising

Herbie:   7 - Steady, efficient but quieter than last week although won his midfield battle. Got forward well 2nd half too.

Ash:       8 - Simple and effective performance. Linked the midfield well and unlucky not to score at a set-piece - use your experience Dave and do not let some frustrations get the better of you!! Vital cog when being positive - you know what i mean Dave!!

Kiffy:     7 - Worked harder than last week and things are not running but never stopped getting in good positions. Scored the important first with a good free-kick and could have had 3 or 4 but for the keeper and bad luck - goals will flow again Kiffy if you keep it up!!

Waggy:  9 (MOM) - the unsung player. Linked the game excellently and involved in 3 or 4 goals and set up lots of chances. Plays it easy into feet and allows others to play. Very good performance Wag - buy a new pair of boots each week - and whilst at the shops buy a pair for Herbs and Woody!

Subs:

Sim:     8 - came on at 2-1 with the game in the balance and made a big impact. Pushing for a starting place with two goals - one scuffed but one nice composed finish. Frightening pace - just needs to compose himself and will be a big threat!! Well played Sim!

Matt:   7 - Tidy and effective. Building up his match fitness and looked comfortable at centre half.

Not a bad show with their star man being the keeper. We just need to close these games out and keep passing and playing it simple. When we pass and move we look a good side but at times we try too much and not the easy ball. I may seem a bit harsh but we will have some tougher games ahead. We have the makings of a good side but we need to stick together and put teams away.

Not easily pleased boyz i know but some good football on Sunday - County Cup next week lets rally round a bit of support and make sure we are up for Greyhound!!

21.10.07 vs Birstall Rgs (A) Stokes Cup 1st Round

Team: Scouse, Alex, Pad, Ed, Haggerty, Woody, Herbie, Kingy, Ben, Kiffy and Waggy

Subs: Sim for Kiffy (55), Ash for Pad (60), Matt for Ben (75)

Final Score: 2-1

Half Time: 1-1

Goalscorers: Ed and Sim

A couple of enforced changes due to Adie's asian trip and Ash not being 100% fit. Slight tactical switch with Haggerty going back to Sweeper with Pad playing centre half, Kingy having the opportunity to regain a midfield berth.

Scouse:   7 - Average first half, could do better for the goal but 2nd half concentrated and made a couple of crucial saves/blocks towards the end.

Alex:       8 - Good energy, used his pace and supported down the right well especially first half. Confidence growing and with a bit more chat from team-mates and a bit more confidence/more games will become even better - Good show Alex.

Woody:  7 - Steady as ever although not as composed as normal with a few passes astray. Still got forward well especially 2nd half and still missed his one sitter and even tried a 20 yarder with his choccy right foot - not bad Woody but like to see more next week.

Ed:         8 - Good performance, versatility showed first half when a free man to play across the back and also get forward. Beat 4 men before drilling an unstoppable drive into bottom right hand corner (stick to this story Trickett). Defended well 2nd half and best defender on the park.

Haggerty: 7 - Steady performance rather than spectacular. Back to sweeper and a bit sloppy in first half. Better 2nd half although did not dominate as has in other games. If he ever turns up sober could be hell of a player!!

Paddy:    6 - Back to centre half reluctantly. First half a bit off the pace and may be only playing as a two did not help. Passing was not as good as it can be but as committed as ever and kept his man from an attacking point of view quiet. Can do better and I am sure will.

Kingy:    6 - Quiet game. Possibly tried too hard as wants to play in midfield. Looked a bit off the pace and passing not up to usual standards. May be having had slippers on at centre-half has not helped - sharpen up Kingy and get back to marauding throught midfield mate!!

Herbie:  9(MOM) - Top man. Off week last week I am told but got the team going in the first half. Won tackles, made passes and supported the attack. Tired in the last 30 minutes but to be expected - if only you could shoot Herbs!! Set the standard now maintain it fella! 

Ben:      7 - Suffered a bit due to the patchy passing from the back and lack of quality in the first half. Still got forward well and 2nd half caused problems when getting more forward. Needs to be a bit greedier and shoot when you see that goal Eddy!

Kiffy:     6 - Quietest Game for us so far. Looked at his pickled eyes when he arrived and wondered if he would last. Sadly his touch, movement and leading the line was not of his normal quality. Not helped by quality of passing first half but we are all allowed a poor game - lets not make it two - I am sure will bounce back next week with a different performance.

Waggy:  8 - A bit of an unsung player. Movement and hold up play especially 2nd half was very good - linked up well with Sim when he came on. Just needs to get in the box and bit more often and have a dig when he sees the goal. Well played Waggy.

Subs:

Sim:      7 - Great to see him get off the mark with a tidy finish. Needs to keep using his pace and getting in the box a bit more but did everything I asked of him when coming on and putting pressure on the lads up front.

Ash:      7 - Not fully fit but came on and steadied the ship in Midfield. Gave it easy and kept the ball - looked a better team with him on the pitch. Shocking miss though Dave but hey you only score with your head usually!!

Matt:    6 - Good to see him back and involved. Put him on at centre half and did okay. Admitted a bit rusty but has the attricutes to put pressure on the lads at the back. Couple more runs would sharpen him up - good to have him back.

Boyz, generally it was an average performance and we seem to be expecting to win games and not at times keeping things simple. We need to up our game because we will have tougher opposition over the coming weeks, however credit to you all because you ground it out and we got through.

Individually some of you went through the motions a wee bit andi would like to think that everyone understands that NO ONE's place is safe.We were missing Clive, Hackett and Craig so with the subs doing well if you have the shirt BOYZ you need to earn the right to keep it!!

Back to the league next week and a tougher game away at QPR - my comments may seem a bit harsh but Boyz I think we have let our standards drop a bit. The ref even said to me that with the players we had that we should have buried them!!

14.10.07 vs Niffy Rangers Reserves (A) Billy Walton Cup 2nd Round - By Pad

Team: Scouse, Alex, Ash, Kingy, Pad, Woody, Haggerty, Herbie, Adie, Kiffy (C) and Waggy

Subs: Trickett for Ash (28), Ben for Haggerty (60) and Craig for Adie (75)

Final Score: 3-2 (lost)

Half Time: 3-1

Goalscorers: Kiffy (P), & Ben

One enforced change with Kingy replacing Hackett from the team last week - Gaffer still sunning himself stateside!

Ratings:

Scouse:      5 - Poor game, lack of concentration, and responsible with some poor handling - a lot better than this needs to show it.

Alex:          7 - One of the better efforts in a poor team - needed more help and examples from the more experienced players.

Woody:     7 - Steady as always.

Ash:           6 - Only on the pitch whilst we had our worst 30 minutes of the season hence the rating.

Kingy:        7 - Difficult game to come into, especially in the unfamilar defnsive role - lacked some talking at times but not a lot wrong.

Pad:           ? - Guys - I can't put my own score down I'll leave it to you to comment

Haggerty:   6 - Not up to the high standards you've been setting - but no-one could claim they were.

Herbie:      6 - Not good enough - especially in the first half - showed you'd been on the lash the night before got better as you sobered up!

Adie:         7 - Last game before his sabatical and one of the few who could claim some credit in an awful first half..

Kiffy:         7 - Starved really of the ball - still managed to get a goal though!

Waggy      7 - Again starved of the ball but kept running till the end.

Subs:

Trickett    7 - Did OK and helped settle it down when coming on at the back.

Ben         7 - Did well when coming on, committed, good goal, definitely challenging for a starting place.

Craig       6 - Came on at a difficult time involved in the 2nd goal

Boyz, I was hugely disappointed by the first 30 minutes display, it just wasn't good enough. Improved slowly in the second half and whilst never coming anywhere near the high standards we've set ourselves this year yet somehow I felt we could have taken it to extra time. We now need to learn from this - we have to earn the right to play, and not just turn up expecting to win. I've seen/heard comments this was just a bad day at the office - well I expect it to be put right, and for those (most) who dropped the ball (I don't just mean Scouse) I want to see the right reaction and the bar raised again this week.

Another special mention to Matt - unused sub again who never moaned once, and only ever gave encouragement from the sidelines, whilst running the line again. Good to see both Clive and Sim supporting on the touchline.

07.10.07 vs FC Kibworth (A) - By Pad

Team: Scouse, Alex, Ash, Hackett, Pad, Woody, Haggerty, Herbie, Adie, Kiffy (C) and Waggy

Subs: Kingy for Hackett (55), Simeon for Ash (60) and Ben for Waggy (65)

Final Score: 11-0

Half Time: 6-0

Goalscorers: Ash 3, Woody 2, Kiffy 2, Adie 2, Waggy & Ben

Three enforced changes with Eds away and Clive injured from the team last week - and me doing Managerial duties while Gaffer suns himself stateside!

Ratings:

Scouse:      7 - nothing to do.....thank god!! - Turned up with eyes redder than the shirt of his beloved Liverpool - but at least he was here - after an hour plus drive.

Alex:          8 - Very steady, still learning with every game. Got forward well and growing in confidence - taking chance to make shirt his..

Woody:     8 - Got forward well scoring two and keeps telling me of 5 assists!! Obviously took on board Gaffers comments last week about shooting!.

Ash:           8 - Hat-trick of hearders from a reluctant centre-half, but keeps scoring from the back - what's a manager to do???

Hackett:     8 - Good steady performance, kept the shape that allowed Dave Ash to wander a bit more :-).

Pad:           ? - Guys - I can't put my own score down I'll leave it to you to comment....just remember I'm picking the team again next week ;-)

Haggerty:   8 - good performance in midfield, played it easy and created time for himself.

Herbie:      9 - (MOM) Terrific performance again from Herbie - dominated midfield, didn't lose a challenge - does a lot of the work allowing others to play.

Adie:         8 - Another good game, obviously enjoying the better talent around him this year and a great stike for one of his two goals.

Kiffy:         8 - Already probably equalled our goals total for last year on his own - our own Mr Goals - disappointed to just get the two!

Waggy      8 - Linked up well with Kiffy again real partnership growing. Did well to get one after looking like couldn't hit a barn door this week :-) - seriously good effort and the goals will come.

Subs:

Kingy      8 - Did well and looked composed when coming on at the back.

Simeon    8 - Sim again looked a threat when coming on - every defenders worst nightmare..just needs a bit of luck to bag a couple, and like waggy the goals will come.

Ben         8 - Steady, committed, good goal, shows the class we have throughout the squad now - challenging for a starting place.

Boyz, Solid performance, always in control, kept our 'foot on the gas' for the most part and dropped in well covering for others to keep shape. We must maintain the high levels and standards we are setting ourselves - remember the squad is very strong and competion for places fierce.

Special mention to Matt - unused sub today who never moaned once, and only ever gave encouragement from the sidelines.

30.09.07 vs West End Utd Res (A)

Team: Scouse, Alex, Clive, Ed, Pad, Woody, Ash, Herbie, Adie, Kiffy and Waggy

Subs: JR for Adie (60), Hackett for Alex (70) and Sim for Clive (80)

Final Score: 6-0

Half Time: 3-0

Goalscorers: Kiffy 3, Waggy, Dave and Clive

One enforced change due to Mrs Hegg having a baby boy on a Sunday morning - Have a word heggarty - seriously congrats as mother and baby are well and luckily junior i understand looks nothing like Daddy (or at least Heggarty anyway!!).

Also congrats to Mrs Waggy also as I understand Wag had a baby boy last Wednesday but at least Wag had his Mrs well disciplined.

Ratings:

Scouse:      8 - not a lot to do but Scouse concentrated very well and was good to hear him shouting and his distribution was excellent.

Alex:          7 - this boy has a great engine. Got forward well and with confidence could make him hard to shift from the team.

Woody:      7 - dependable and worked hard. Got forward well and linked up nicely down the left - Just wish he could shoot!! Took some stiff kickings though.

Ed:             8 - excellent performance. Stepped into midfield on a couple of occasions, distribution good and had striker in his pocket.

Clive:         8 - very good performance, vocal, strong and quick again never gave his striker a kick. Scored a good goal but unfortunately suffered a nasty injury at the end which ref could have avoided by stamping down on reckless challenges. Hopefully Clive will be back soon.

Pad:          9 - at times can overplay but yesterday was back to his best, vocal, committed - played it simple. Organised defence extremely well.

Ash:          8 - good performance in midfield, played it easy and created time for himself - good far post header with 4 deflections for his goal.

Herbie:     9 - Terrific performance from Herbs - combatitive, committed - he and Dave dominated physically. Got forward well - just needs to finish but by far his best show so far with I sense more to come.

Adie:        8 - linked the game excellently. Used his skill and movement very well and unlucky not to break his duck for the season. Good show Adie and admire your spirit in volunteering to come off to let others have a run.

Kiffy:        9 - Mr Goals again - 3 great finishes and the defence could not handle him. Loads of goals in you Kiffy - keep it up mate and fill your boots in the next 2 weeks please!!

Waggy     9 - Gaffers MOM - excellent performance linked up well with Kiffy and proving to be a good pair. But also does a lot of good work playing others in and if he can just become a bit greedier could score more. Well played Wag after a week with little sleep.

Subs:

Craig       6 - Nearly scored with his first touch and bit unlucky not to score.

Hackett   6 - Steady, committed and with a few more games could provide good competition at the back.

Simeon    6 - Only half fit and needed in emergency due to Clive's injury - showed extreme pace even on 1 leg and again unlucky not to score. Great attitude Sim for coming on half fit.

Boys we are beginning to look like a team and with Hegg, Kingy, Ben and Matty to return it will be interesting over the coming weeks - standards have to be maintained otherwise you could lose the shirt.

I expect 3 points on Sunday and next round of the cup when i return - Keep it Up Boyz!!

23.09.07 vs Hat & Beaver (H)

Team: Scouse, Clive, Woody, Pad, Ash, Ed, Herbie, Adie, Heggarty, Kiffy and Waggy

Subs: Ben for Adie (60), Simeone for Waggy (60), Alex for Clive (70)

Final Score: 6-1

Half Time: 3-1

Goalscorers: Waggy 2, Kiffy 2, Heggs and Ben

No more long match reports Boyz so going to do a summary with player ratings from now on - might mean none of you talk to me each Sunday but hey here we go.

Couple of team changes with Alex and Simeone dropping to the bench with Herbie and Pad coming back into the team.

Scouse                 7 - Just the one gaff but 2nd half much better - concentration and chat - Better Scouse!!

Clive                    7 - Quiet game for Clive but usual energy and effort

Woody                7 - Dependable as ever

Pad                      7 - Slightly off the pace at the start but organised and talked good at the back

Ed                        7 - Quietly efficient - kept the front line quiet

Dave                    7 - Looked comfortable and made one great break forward before half-time to put Waggy in for his 2nd

Herbie                  8 - Unsung but effective, adds experience and strength in the middle of the park - Good Show Herbs

Adie                     8 - Excellent on the ball and linked things very nicely in the first half

Heggarty              9 - Not the fittest but the boy can play - good strike for the first and distribution very good. Needs to watch the bookings mind MOM

Kiffy                     7 - Quiet game for Kiff but still gathered his normal two a game. Led the line well

Waggy                  8 - Good show Wags - two excellent finishes whilst linked well with Kiff. Needs to keep it up because Sim is champing at the bit!

Subs:

Simeone 6 - Came on and added pace stretching the defence - just needs to add a bit of composure and the goals will flow!!

Alex       6 - Dependable, just needs to impose himself a bit more but did well when coming on.

Ben        7 - Silky skills and good pace with an excellent finish - competition will be fierce when he is available regularly

Kingy and Nathan - special mention for Kingy - been an ever present (incl pre-season friendlies) up to the last 2 weeks - never got on but ran the line and never complained. We are a team and that is the right spirit -well done Chris!!

Good 2nd half boys - good attacking display with very little given away at the back.

02.09.07 vs FC Kibworth (H)

Team: Scouse, Alex, Woody, Hegarty, Pad (C), Ed, Ash, Herbie, Adie, Kiffy, Waggy

Subs: Ben Eddy for Adie (30), Simeone for Waggy (70), Matt for Herbie (75), Jamie & Craig not used.

Final Score 8-1 Half Time: 3-1

Goalscorers: Birthday Boy Ash 3, Hegarty 2, Kiffy 2 and Alex

First home game against relegated Kibworth who narrowly lost to Anstey 5-4 on the Friday before. A few changes were enforced due to the absence of Clive and injury to Kingy with Herbie and Alex making their full debuts, one other positional change was giving Ash a midfield role with Ed providing that bit more pace at the back.

The boyz started very strongly with good attacking down both flanks with Adie finding lots of room and proving extremely hard to handle with him beating men at will. Herbie and Dave supporting the front two well with Herbs proving to be extremely strong and energetic in the midfield battle. Despite having the vast majority of the first twenty minutes chances were snatched at or missed and my concern was that the missed chances could cost us.

Then along came Dave Ash on his 46th Birthday striding forward 30 yards out to drive a great strike into the top right hand corner 1-Up. The goal seemed to relax the boyz who upped the pace and added further goals with Dave adding another and Kiffy notching from close range. A good first half was slightly spoiled by conceding a sloppy goal. Just before the break Adie injured his knee and was replaced by Ben Eddy who made his Old Boyz debut.

Second half commenced with the Old Boyz on top and the pattern followed the first half with Ben getting on the ball and linking up nicely with the front two. Hegarty strode forward from midfield beat a couple and rifled and unstoppable shot into the top right hand corner to make it 4-1 game over and the boyz could relax. In the last 30 minutes the boyz began to create chances at will with Waggy especially doing his best to keep it at 4!! Further goals were added with Hegarty driving another in from 20 yards and Kiffy adding to his goal tally with a tap in from a scramble. A penalty was won by Ben Eddy with the most competitive challenge between Heg an Ash for the hat-trick chance (Kiffy standing aside - very honourable Kiff). Experience won the day with Dave completing his hat-trick with a good penno into the top left hand corner. The final goal was well deserved with Alex scoring with a few minutes to go having been unlucky with a couple of long range efforts. Further subs were made with Matt and Simeone coming on and again like midweek Sim showed lots of nice skill and proved a threat.

I was extremely pleased with the team performance against a ragged and tired Kibworth (2 games in 48 hours took its toll). The standard has been set with a good display at the back by all three (slight warning - we will need to keep our shape against the better sides!!) with excellent midfield performances by Herbs, Adie, Eddy with good leadership and goalscoring by Dave (Age is no barrier!!). Great strikes by Hegs when stepping forward adds another dimension to the team.The front two who will have better days worked extremely hard and were a constant threat and will have days where they will have less chances and score more. The two wing backs worked extremely well and gave the team great width which is vital in the 3-5-2 formation, a special mention to Alex who 2nd half was outstanding getting forward supporting, crossing and having confidence to take players on - when he gets more confidence could be a vital cog in the team this season if he keeps listening and learning.

Competition could be fierce boys when all are available so if you have a shirt boyz you need to play well to hang on to it!!

Challenge now Boyz is two games in 48 hours against two good sides - we will know by Monday better about the resilience of the squad as we have a few unavailabilities which will test the team further.

Well done Boyz now lets keep it rolling!!

MOM: Dave Ash - what I expect a good example to all this week with a great hat-trick but also playing it easy and showing age is no barrier but that attitude counts for a lot.

DONKEY: Easy - Pad. All the subs and I were in stitches when Pad went on a run which is not that funny but it is when mid stride Pad semi-stopped to roll his sleeves up and then carried on. Quality Pad!!!

29.08.07 vs Fosse (A)

Team:

Scouse, Clive, Woody, Hegarty, Pad(C), Ash, Kingy, Trickett, Adie, Kiffy, Waggy

Subs: Herbie for Adie (60), Simeone for Waggy (70), Matt for Pad (70), Alex & Jamie not used.

Final Score: 4-4 Half Time: 1-3

Goalscorers: Kiffy 3 and Kingy

New Season and a lot of new players as we raised the curtain on the 2007-8 season. New squad arrivals included Clive, Hegarty, Dave Ash, Kiffy, Waggy, Herbie, Alex, Simeone, Jamie, Matt Mason, Eddy (Ben) and Gibbo - welcome to all of the new lads.

We started with a near full strength with the only absentees being Wez (injured), Bez, Gibbo, Hulby, Parsons and Eddy.

Started with the familiar 3-5-2 with Heg sweeping behind the experienced duo of Pad and Ash - combined age of 200+ and 60 stone+ in weight - plenty of muscle and experience.

Fosse kicked off and early exchanges saw the boyz start with good attacking thrust with Adie and Kingy linking things well with Kiff and Wagg. A few early chances were wasted before Kingy broke from midfield to score with an excellent 20 yarder 1 up. Dominating possession it only looked a matter of time before the floodgates would open however slight lack of communication/leadership at the back was causing slight concern.

Fosse won a ball in midfield and slipped ball to feet where Pad was skinned like a banana before the striker accelerated away to equalise 1all. The boyz regained the initiative when Kingy beat half the team to drive a shot nicely off Kiffys backside 2-1 up.Just before half-time Kiffy poached a 3rd goal and we went into half-time 3-1 up. Decent enough first half with good play when we had the ball especially getting Woody and Clive involved with the attack supported well by Kingy and Aidie.

Second half started and the first 15 minutes the boyz hardly go out of their own half with full credit to Fosse for changing their formation and introducing a bit of pace up front and deciding to have a go!! Now was the time for experience and team work to defend properly, keep the ball and hit them on the break but oh dear!!!

3-2 goal conceded after a few scares. I made a sub bringing a starved of the ball Adie off to add a bit of muscle and stamina in Herbie with Kingy up front. With the shape lost and all 50-50's being won by Fosse the signs were ominous and then a long ball with poor marking left Scouse exposed who was marginally beaten to the ball 30 yards out where the Fosse striker expertly lobbed into am empty net - disaster 3 all.

Only one winner from here - we were on the ropes and frustration began to show. Two further subs made to try and wrestle back the initiative Matt and Simeone for Pad and Wag. Prompting by Clive down the right and excellent work by Sim with a great cross led to a superb header by Kiffy (Hat-Trick) put the boys 4-3 up against the run of the 2nd half. Sim was causing problems with his pace and Kiffy looked dangerous but poor defending with a minute to go left a scramble in the box driven home for Fosse to earn a deserved point 4 all.

Good debuts by Clive and Kiffy with generally good play in the first half were spoilt by a very poor 2nd half show - complacency, lack of stamina or too many individuals not taking responsibility?? Not sure but with 16 players on a Wednesday - well done to all the subs and with 2 or 3 returning at the weekend plenty of food for thought.

Not easy for Herbs, Matt or Sim to come on in the 2nd half and they were not helped by the experienced team members - Do i make lots of changes on Sun?

Welcome to Gibbo who will provide plenty of competition up front.

I decided to cool off for 24 hours to write this and would normally try and add a bit of humour but I am still hurting with the 2nd half show so sorry for the crap report - i hope everyone is up for Sunday and whether you play or not I would like to see the team spirit positive and build!! Come on Boyz.

MOM: MATT KIFF

DONKEY: Back 3