Vs Real Ale Madrd (A) County Cup - 13.12.09
FT: Lost 5-2 (Loz, Gurney)
HT: 1-4
A strong squad arrived at Melton for the second week running with only regulars absent being Ben and Easton. Clarky and Clive unavailable.
So i picked an untried defence with Scouse returning in goal, Pad at sweeper behind Harry and Alex Dunne making his debut. Elksy moving into midfield with Embo and Poley.
A very strong bench of Matt, Wag,Kingy, Alex, Haggs and Gurns - wow some bench in my opinion especially when you add Ben and Easton to come.
Ratings and Comments:
Scouse: 5 - not confident and dominant. Will know he can do better.
Andy: 6 - had his hands full but never released with midfield support to get forward.
Woody: 5 - also had his hands full and was left exposed too often but struggled with his opponent.
Dunne: 5 - not the Dunne i know - I did not like the reaction either Al at being subbed!!
Harry: 7 - nowhere near as good as he can be but for pure commitment and effort deserved this rating.
Pad: 5 - not sharp, not as effective as i would like but part of a woeful start but not the only one who did not perform.
Elksy: 5.5 - off the pace and never got to grips with his man physically.
Embo: 6 - quiet.
Pole: 6 - tried hard but never really in the game until moved to left midfield.
Sim: 5.5 - needed a big game from him but never got going - out muscled too often.
Loz: 6.5 - tried hard, crap service earl on did not help but they could not handle him when he got th ball.
Subs:
Gurney: 7 - did well, led the line, linked the play and generally showed his quality. Also note lads he put the work in despite being 58 years old!
Haggs: 6 - did compete but again i want to see slightly more work rate.
Wagg: - little opportunity to impress.
Well done to Alex Cullen, Matty and Kingy for their attitude although it may have been relief they were not called upon.
Right, well where do i start?
Okay selection first - I pick the team based upon watching you lot week in and week out whilst training also is important. So i shuffled the defence and did i get it wrong??? Nope, not in my opinion (and unfortunately for you lot thats the one that counts!!!!) and if I got it wrong i would put me hand up - however, i know the lads at the back from Scouse to the back 5 can do much better and the midfield too were off the pace and not competitive enough in the first 30 minutes.
We found ourselves 3 down and had not given ourselves a chance - poor effort, commitment, work rate and organisation - we lacked spirit and desire in my opinion. They wanted it so much more than us in those first 30 minutes.
Once we switched it to 4-4-2 it got better and Gurns helped the hold up play but second half after a frank exchange of views we showed that we were there equals and probably could have been a good game if we had been at it - Sadly we were not.
I dont normally call individuals out and despite the temptation I wont other than to say - i gave a few a chance to prove a point - earn a spot and show that they warrant the positions they believe they should have in the team.
Other than 3 players today I believe that no one's place is safe and when you look at the bench if i was them i would be asking Why they were not playing.
Together we have had a decent start but we are at risk of throwing this whole season away as out of one cup, work to do in the league after two poor defeats and i believe a lack of effort/commitment is unacceptable.
I can accept poor skills, poor touch, poor finishing but lack of effort and commitment is an insult to the rest of the squad on the side.
Time for characters, commitment and effort - me included so you can be rest assured i will not be shirking my responsibility at training this week whilst team selection will be very tough for next week.
I can assure all the subs and the lads not available that they should get to training as I expect a reaction - we have a really tough game next Sunday with Pad/I having a headache to sort out !!!!
Boys if you read this I am really disappointed in you today please post your view on the forum - time for you all to show a bit of bollocks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Vs Sparta Parva (H) BW Cup - 29.11.09
FT: 9-3 (Loz 4, Embo 3, Andy and Sim)
HT: 8-2
After a two week break off the back of two defeats we had a strong squad although we were missing Kingy, Ben and Waggy.
A few changes from the defeat against Kirby with Poley, Clarky, Pad and Elksy returning. Easton, Alex and Scouse on the bench joined by the fit again Gurney with Matt and Clive on the bench too.
Ratings and Comments:
Clarky: 7.5 decent performance and although beaten 3 times he had no real chance with any of them. All 3 from sloppy defending or poor marking left him exposed but his general game was good and gave us stability at the back.
Andy : 8 competed well and got forward well with some good runs but both wing backs were starved a little of the ball. Got forward well at times and scored with a nice finish in the box although I am sure his block from Sim was goalbound too!!
Woody: 8 worked very hard and was more committed than last time out. Got up won his tackles and his headers whilst he got forward well at times. More at it and what we needed so a decent show by the skip.
Pad: 7.5 competed well and will have benefited from the full 90 minutes. Will know for at least one of the goals he should have done better but his chat at the back was good. Showed he wants a spot and although not as quick as he was he was 100% effort as usual.
Harry: 7.5 combatitive as ever and 100% commitment throughout found his man tricky again at times with the movement but generally okay. Found time to go on a couple of forward runs and is learning every game in a better standard against better opponents.
Elksy: 7.5 not a bad performance although he looked a tad rusty after a 3 week break having missed the Kirby debacle. Just needs to boss the back line more whilst giving himself time to play but gave us a bit of pace we were lacking and will benefit from the 90 minutes.
Embo: 8.5 better than recent weeks with an energetic display. Got forward and back well throughout and also used his head well with some simple passing but I was pleased with his effort today. Scored a hat-trick and good to see him getting forward looked good with the ball alongside Poley.
Haggs: 8 had a solid game and looked more comfortable in midfield than at the back. Dominated physically and they never really wanted to mix it with the big fella. Looked good in his new kit too J
Poley: 8 best performance of the season so far with a controlled hard working display. Showed appetite as well with him even getting back to make a last ditch challenge in our box. Used his head well and kept the ball well in the first half with his passing and ball retention excellent. More about his penalty claim in a bit J!
Loz: 9 (MOM) excellent display with his best performance of the season good movement with them not handling him all first half but he capped his performance by getting into the box and scored 4 goals a couple with his head too and with a touch of luck could have had a couple more.
Sim: 8 a good display by Sim and one of these weeks is going to get a bagful his pace and dribbling were excellent. Hit the post, had a few other good efforts and looked lively throughout it was also good to see him and Loz linking up at times. Most pleasing was to see Sim running at people again with a couple of breathtaking runs which were great to see!
Subs:
East: 6 came on as part of a triple sub when we had taken our foot off the gas but showed effort and worked hard although never had any opportunities to really show his ability.
Gurney: 6.5 good to see him fit and now needs to sharpen up with game time. Came on and led the line winning a few headers and managed to break clear on one occasion only for the keeper to make a good save.
Alex: 6 came on at wing back and made one or two of his familiar charging runs down the right including a couple of decent crosses. However, not 100% since his flu and hopefully the docs will sort him out this week.
Matt, Clive and Scouse not used.
Good to see Wag and Dunny back with us on the touch lines.
Well as Matty said to me I asked for a reaction and in the first half I got one which I was pleased to see.
Playing on the smaller pitch is never easy and first half we kept the ball very well with some simple slick football whilst keeping the work rate high to close them down. Every time we attacked in the first half we looked like scoring and with excellent delivery from set pieces we scored 8 goals could easily have been 12 or 13.
Fair enough they were not the best defensively but we needed to get confidence going and it was very evident as the half wore on.
Disappointingly we conceded two poor goals with the first a midfield runner not marked who stepped in to score and the 2nd was poor with both Harry and Pad having the opportunity to clear but not doing so.
I cannot write the report with asking did anyone see the belly flop or salmon leap by Monsieur Pole in the first half how the referee did not book him I do not know be interested in his explanation as if he had stood up I think he was through on goal!
We talked at half time about maintaining the work rate and keeping the ball moving but the second half was a bit of a letdown. We need to be able to maintain the intensity and not drop off and I think the whole team switched off at half time.
Granted the game was won but we need to put in a full 90 minutes especially against the better teams. Second half Stef set up the defence better and although they nicked one, we looked relatively more solid whilst Sim deserved his goal after it was his run which eventually broke back for him to rifle home.
Generally a good display and nice to get us looking good going forward we still have work to do at the back and ensuring that we cut out the silly individual errors will help.
Training again on Wednesday and with a few away next week who played today I would encourage everyone to make the effort at training.
Vs Kirby (A) League 15.11.09
FT: 5-4 (Loz, East, Embo and Sim)
HT: 2-2
A few changes from the previous week with Ben and Elksy away whilst Wag, Clarky, Gurns, Ed and Clive are injured or unavailable.
Andy and Embo returned to the team with Pad and Poley back but on the bench.
Started with the tried and supposedly trusted 3-5-2 with Haggs sweeping and Andy, Embo and East in midfield.
Ratings and Comments:
Scouse: 6 poor. 15 stone and 6 foot 3 well more like 8 stone and 4 foot 8 on Sunday. Hugely disappointing in a big, big game. Needs to think about being braver and more decisive.
Alex: 6.5 nowehere near at his best and still feeling the effects of his virus he was not helped by the lack of support and communication around him. Stuck to his task but Browny got the better of him overall.
Woody: 6.5 not at his best. Quiet game and never got stuck in like he can and was not as vocal as usual. Part of a disappointing defensive display but will know he can do better.
Kingy: 6 seems to save his worst performances for these guys. Never really got to grips with the movement and not as physical as usual. He was part of a defensive unit including the keeper which never really settled.
Harry: 6 another who was not at his best. Generally was good but at crucial times lost his man and was not helped by a lack of communication at the back. Got bothered by good movement too easily.
Haggs: 6 never really got the shape organised and struggled to organise the lads in front of him. Was it the movement or were the lads not listening or lack of chat or all of them not sure but will know he can do better.
Embo: 7 I think I was a tad harsh on Embo as his performance was not as bad when I reflected. He got forward well at times including a nice finish, however (always a but/however with me!!) I think he can impose himself more and will know he never got as tight or physical as he can apologies BO but imo I believe you have more in the tank!!
Andy: 7 worked hard, made some good runs but never was as physical as he can be. Never stopped going though and one of the few to come off with any credit.
East: 6 broke his duck with a neat finish but disappeared at times whilst in the first half he got forward well he got caught out positionally on a couple of occasions. I know he has more in his tank too!!
Loz: 7.5 (MOM) looked a threat and they could not handle his movement. Controlled the ball well and beat the defenders throughout although starved of quality possession in the 2nd half. Took his goal well and linked with Sim better whilst giving good chat too.
Sim: 7.5 an all round better game with some good runs including two assists and a nice finish so as a striker he can be happy with his performance. I asked him for more before the game and his effort reflected an improvement.
Subs:
Poley: 6.5 when he came on it was carnage but he showed composure on the ball when given it but at times it was like a hot potato so he never got it as much as he or I would have liked but looked good when he came on.
Paddy: 6 sent on to organise and communicate which unfortunately never happened. Not fit and my fault as I should have not played him but will be out to prove a point when next given a chance.
Matt came on at left back and did okay although only a brief outing.
WELL you may not agree but you are all in for a bit of a shock as Sunday was not what we are all about and I am still reeling a bit from it probably the worst I have felt in the last 3 seasons to be honest.
I got some decisions wrong Sunday but am flabbergasted at the naivety and lack of team spirit we showed on Sunday.
I have the nice job of telling people they are not playing and one or two were extremely disgruntled (maybe justified maybe not) but then to watch us out battled by another team so badly is hugely disappointing.
Is it team spirit, fitness, age, partnerships or just arrogance I have some views and I do not mind if you read this and think this is a bit OTT but it some or all of afore mentioned. We have not knitted as a team yet I believe we have the most talented squad in the few brief years that Gutho has been going and every bit as good as anyone in this division.
Believe me when I say that we will NOT win anything or even come close than less we perform for each other and dig in more our defending and work rate was second to Kirby all through the second half and they wanted it more than us.
I think at times in the first half we played some excellent football and showed our qualities going forward and yet we never really got stuck in and battled when we did not have the ball and from 1 through to 9 we were not as committed as we have become renowned for!!
3 weeks ago you beat Moshdock with a bare 12 with a committed, honest hard working display which couple with our quality gave us an excellent result but the last two weeks we have not made things happen and two disappointing defeats to reflect on!!
You may feel this is OTT or HARSH but believe me when I say that I am disappointed in a number of experienced players and I will be watching training over the next 2 weeks with a keener than usual with the subs, Elksy, Ben, Gurns all back in the equation for the County Cup I will have a lot of thinking to do.
Boyz you may be surprised but I care as much as anyone and that was not the Gutho I am used to or expect from you all Gutted now it is down to you all to stick together and work this through as the season had it all to play for but we need to get mean!!
Vs Webbys Wanderers (A) - League - 08.11.09
FT: 0-1
HT: 0-0
A bit more stressful than usual with lots of injuries, absences and thus we were down to a bare 12 which is unusual for us but the roll call excluded Pad (Flu), Wag (little Jack down A&E but thankfully okay), Andy (away), Poley (Away), Embo (Away), Gurns (Injured), Clarky (Away) so we were a bit short on numbers but not quality with Alex and Elksy returning to the starting 11.
We started with a 3-5-2 ; Elks at sweep, behind Kingy and Harry, Wingbacks of Al and Wood with Haggs, Easton (not 100%) and Ben in midfield with Sim up top alongside Loz. Matty the only sub.
Ratings and Comments:
Scouse: 8 - cannot fault him - had an excellent game with good simple handling - only forced into one real save but dominated well and 2nd half his chat was much better. Deserved a clean sheet as did the rest of the defence.
Alex: 7.5 - not 100% after 3 weeks out with the flu virus and would have been sub but for shortage in numbers. However, did well to get through the 90 mins and although a little rusty he did well and got forward well at times with one or two excellent crosses.
Woody: 8 - nice and solid whilst he got forward well. Put in a few decent crosses, competed well and although width was not easy on a tight pitch he had a decent game.
Kingy: 8 - very good with a dominant display against an decent opponent. Rarely beaten once he stood up and part of a faultless defensive display. Was nice and vocal too and is gaining in confidence with every display at centre half and complimented well by Harry.
Harry: 8.5 (Mom) - hardly gave Poultney a kick and did an excellent job with Kingy, Elksy and Scouse so much that they rarely had a chance and deserved to be on the winning side. Good to see him fit, strong and decisive and will take some shifting if he maintains this level of performance.
Elksy: 8 - marshalled the defence well, rarely caught positionally and was committed, uncomplicated and coasted through the game with authority. Probably part of the best defensive play of the season and was adjudged wrongly for the farcical penalty.
Haggs: 7.5 - competed, won his battles but not quite as dominant on the ball as usual but did sit more although ran out of legs a bit in the second half. However, showed his 100% commitment and probably was concious of the dreadful refereeing as he seemed to suffer more than most.
Ben: 7.5 - played in a more orthodox midfield role and competed well in a tight midfield battle. Never stopped working and won his fair share although did not have much time on the ball, still got forward and was unlucky on a couple of occasions.
Easton: 7.5 - not 100% fit although first half he was excellent with some great runs forward but either chose the wrong option or snatched at the chances that came his way. Needs one to go in off his backside but faded second half as he felt his knee more.
Sim: 7 - worked hard and looked threatening but never quite got away and suffered a bit with at times two on 1 against him. Needs to be a bit more forceful to impose himself as they looked scared to death of him but he never quite hit his straps.
Loz: 7 - huffed and puffed a bit like Sim and it maybe a bit harsh as the service at times was not great but has more in the tank (maybe i expect too much from you Perks!!) but i think he can influence the game more. Needs to give and go a bit more but also we never quite got going as an attacking force.
Subs:
Matt: - came on for the last 7 minutes and got stuck in - also not 100% after a tiring game the day before but as ever ran the line for the team and needs to put himself about at training.
Well, here goes - i cannot criticise anyone of you for commitment or effort and without doubt we were the better team throughout. It would be easy to blame the dick of a ref (and I do as it was never a penalty) but on reflection we never quite imposed ourselves like we should have done.
Yes, we missed a few guilt edged chances and had we scored first i have no doubt we would have won but second half we almost waited for something to happen rather than make it happen.
The standard is higher and today was a good gauge of where we stand - signs that we could be a threat in this division but it is about making the right choices, showing a bit of quality in the last 3rd and then taking our chances. I believe as an attacking force we got into good areas on a number of occasions and fluffed our lines if i am honest-either not choosing or executing the pass well or missing a good chance
I was very pleased with the solidity of the team and the back 6 did not deserve to concede and never looked like conceding but well the ref was a homer as we talked about it at half time.
Still, i am frustrated and i am sure you all are too - just feel like we never quite showed ourselves today and i think it would be easy to make excuses but we all know that we have more in the tank than we showed today at times.
We are not going to roll teams 4,5,6 etc at this standard and need to learn to win tight games - you may feel i am being a bit harsh but today was a good reality check and it will be interesting to see the reaction in training on Wednesday ...........plus we have a big game next Sunday against our nemesis in Kirby who we have yet to beat!!
Anyway, onwards we go and i think we know that next week could be an important game in our season so looking for a reaction!!!!!!
Vs Sparta Moshdock (H) Billy Walton Cup 25.10.09 by Pad
FT: 2-0 eat
HT: 0-0
The chance was going to be taken to rest a few and give a few who've not had many minutes an outing. Unfortunately this proved to be a kiss of death as people were dropping like flies!!
Missing, injured or ill: Elksy, Haggs, Alex, Clive, Waggy - Special Mention to Scouse - no other comment!!!
Ratings and Comments:
Clarky: 9 Came in at short notice after a call Saturday night, and performed excellently - Good handling and chat with a couple of fine saves and a clean sheet.
Andy: 9 Fanatasic work rate and effort - showed no signs of the rus from last week.
Woody: 9 Great game from the skip, combative, got forward and back and put his hands up when knackered after 90 mins!
Kingy: 9 Back to his best, with some great chat as well - won his battle and part of a solid defensive performance.
Harry: 9 Another who showed appetite and won his battle solid, uncompromising and back to the standards of last seesion in first full game.
ME: ? Never score myself - I'll leave that for the comments! However I believe I showed there's life in the old dog yet - even if I was dying in extra time!!!!
Embo: 9 Back to the level showed earlier in the season - like you'd never been away!.
Ben: 9 Beginning to show signs again of the levels he hit last season - top effort.
Poley: 9 First start for quite some time, but solid performance and great effort part of an effective midfield - Scored too!!!.
Easton: 9 None stop performance effort and workrate caused them problems and got back to help out at times too .
Sim: 9 Worked hard and pace showed not the easiest game but gave 100% and will be disappointed to come off but did nothing wrong.
Subs:
Loz: 9 Came on and had the impact expected, worked hard, good movement, hit the bar - scored the pen - great effort.
Matty: 9 - Did exactly what was asked and worked hard for the time he was on - not his usual position but showed how vital every squad member is.
Gurns: Inj/Not used.
Well - The good news is that we won! - The fantastic news is how we did it - through workrate and effort working for each other.
It wasn't the prettiest game to watch I have no doubt, but with everyone involved and those coming in having a point to prove it was a superb team performance. They are a very good side and whilst they will talk about missing players - so can we. It was the first time we've beaten them and rest assured they are doing well this season so it was no mean feat.
The shape that was lacking last week was back, the working for each other and hunting in packs was there also. There really isn't much else to say other than WELL DONE!
Now - the gaffers back so on that note - this game is now done and we need to carry this forward to next week.
Post your comments on the forum Boyz!!!
BTW: This time at least I can claim a 100% win record whilst the gaffer was away - so thanks for that too 
Vs Niffy Reserves (A) EW Foster Cup 18.10.09 by Pad
FT: 4-3
HT: 3-2
With no game last week and the gaffer away - The team changed slightly.
Easton, Harry, Waggy and myself on the bench - Unavailable: Matt, Embo, Poley, Clive
Ratings and Comments:
Scouse: 6 Did ok - will admit to being at fault for the first - but couldn't be blamed for any of the others and got off his line well a few times.
Alex: 6 Felt he struggled a little with the big fella in the air and wasn't quie sure what to - but stuck to his task and carried the ball out well a couple of times - looked more comfortable when he moved to RWB.
Woody: 6 Steady game from the skip - without doing anything wrong or spectacular.
Kingy: 6 Didn't quite dominate as well as I'd have liked or give as much chat as previous weeks but a steady performance - we won't mention missing Scouse's pass :-(
Andy: 6 First game back after missing a few a to be honest a little rusty and not as sharp as he'd have liked - still performed ok but below the high standards he sets.
Elksy: 6 Will know himself it wasn't the best performance - although the last half hour was good when we finally got some shape and stopped looking like we'd concede at every opportunity. Will probably feel this is harsh but sweep always gets the blame if defensively it looks bad (trust me I know!!).
Haggs: 6 Scored a goal and will argue didn't do much wrong - but also didn't do as much right as usual - has set some high levels this year and needs to keep to that level.
Ben: 6.5 Actually again not his best performance, but gets a higher score for sacrificing himself for the team 2nd half and 'doing a job' on the number 14 - sometimes ending up as another defender - but contributed to the better shape and last 30 performance.
Loz: 6 Competed and kept trying but still not showing his best - got moved a couple of times and maynot have helped but kept working and got the winner.
Gurns: 8 MOM worked hard up top and talked it as asked. Showed his quality with some good link play, scored, and a constant thorn in their side, more to come as he gets match fit .
Sim: 6 Worked hard and pace showed - needs to listen a touch more and believe in himself - steady performance though.
Subs:
Harry: 6 Came on and helped to make the backline look more comfortable, battled well - more to come.
Easton: 6 - Did exactly what was asked and worked hard for the time he was on.
Waggy: 6 came on and again was part of a team that had more shape - showed some good touches.
Pad - Didn't get on :-/
Well - The good news is that we won!
The bad news is how we did it - we got the early lead and suddenly all thought we wanted to get in on the act and score. The TEAM lost all shape to the point that players were getting in each others way. Defensively we looked poor and I'm NOT aiming the comment just at the defence as a team with no shape defending is made that much harder and whilst it could be argued individual errors resulted in goals - this is a team game and we could have conceded more.
At 2-0 up we should have closed the game out and gone on to score a hatful - instead we let them back in to it and never really settled until maybe the last 30minutes. I know we could have scored more but for their keeper - but that would have papered over the cracks and on the day flattered us. At 3-2 up at half time I remember saying if we don't concede we win but their guys breaks through and scores after carrying the ball far too far without a decent challenge. It seemed the wake up call we needed or the subs but after that the shape got better and we battled back to grab the victory.
I'm not going to point out individuals but I expect the same level of respect that the gaffer gets - and when I'm talking or giving instruction I expect it to be followed. We are a strong squad and need to work together as a collective to get the results and the performances we should. If we don't at some point we are going to slip up and it won't be pretty.
I do want to finish on a positive note - We WON and we battled hard to get the result in the last 5 minutes that itself shows a level of effort and commitment.
This game is done now - let's learn from it and move on to next week.
Vs Birstall Stamford (H) County Cup 04.10.09
FT: 0-0 (AET 0-0) Won Pens
HT: 0-0
A couple of changes from the previous week with Scouse returning and with Andy not 100% Pad slotted into centre half with Alex moving to right wing back.
Gurney and Dunny returned to the bench with Harry, Easton and Matt. Wags unavailable due to illness.
Ratings and Comments:
Scouse: 9 very impressive. Not busy at all but his concentration was very good and made one fantastic and crucial save in the first half of extra time. Deserved a clean sheet with a good confident display, excellent handling, good distribution and the crucial penalty save.
Alex: 8 back to a familiar role at right wing back and had a decent game although a bit starved of the ball in the first 45 minutes. Got forward well second half and moved into centre half during extra time and did well there too.
Woody: 7.5 had a quiet game but he was marking a quality winger who rarely defended which meant he was more defensive than usual. Kept going well and scored a crucial sudden death penalty.
Kingy: 9 (Mom) led by example throughout and was excellent defensively. Once he got to grips with the big target man he battled well and kept him under control very well. Dominated in the second half and so nearly won it with a header which bounced over in extra time. Moved into midfield and did well too.
Paddy: 8.5 very good performance by the old fella. Battled and never gave there striker a kick which considering his rustiness it was all credit that he kept going so long He showed that experience counts for a lot and never stopped talking through the game.
Elksy: 8.5 good stuff Stef a controlled organised defence set up well. Did not get caught positionally and used his pace to good effect. Part of an excellent display with hardly a chance conceded through the 120 minutes of football.
Haggs: 9 a very committed, disciplined, physical performance which for a fatty (Birstalls words in their teamtalk) was a very good performance. Won all of his physical battles and put in a controlled display whilst working hard surprised me with his stamina and did well to last so long.
Ben: 7.5 busy, industrious and worked hard but as yet not quite lighting up the attacking side of our play. However, no complaints with his work rate and effort.
Embo: 7.5 competed well in a physical midfield battle. Contained his opponent but never found much space to play and did not get forward like he can. More to come from this fella in games to come.
Loz: 7.5 worked hard up top and over played slightly at times. However, showed his quality with some good link play and also moved into midfield but never stopped working. Must continue getting in the box though to continue causing a threat.
Sim: 7.5 man marked and at times had 2 or 3 picking him up with them having formulated a plan to stop him. However, he was a constant threat and worked very hard whilst stretching their defence at times, when he did get clear on a couple of occasions he was brought down in full flow.
Subs:
Gurney: 7 first appearance of the season but led the line well and instantly held the ball up whilst playing others in around him. Looked a little rusty but still caused them problems with his physical presence and nearly scored the winner with a good header which was excellently saved.
Easton: 6.5 - much more like it and busy, quick whilst closing down well. Made a couple of very good runs including one with an excellent control and shot which was blocked when goal bound.
Matt came on to help give the defence a bit more legs in the second half of extra time.
Harry and Dunny were unused subs.
Well that was quite a battle against a very good Stamford side who were well organised and had quality players whilst they came with a plan to stop us playing.
I am very proud of the commitment, hard work and effort that you all put in and we deserved to get through although we maybe lacked a bit of our usual attacking quality.
The 90 minutes was pretty even although they never really tested Scouse whilst we dominated possession at times we struggled to get at them although credit to Stamford they matched our effort and work rate.
In extra time we had a dodgy 5 minutes which was where Scouse excelled with a great save to keep it goalless but we re-grouped and in the 2nd half of extra time we could of won it on 3 occasions Kingy headed over with the goal at his mercy, their keeper made a great tip over and also a great point blank save from Gurns.
We showed character with our penalties with the memories from last year firmly banished with a good and deserved shoot out win.
I was really pleased with the work rate, commitment and effort with a few players beginning to hit form whilst we hunted in packs but we defended excellently as a team and the defence in particular were excellent.
Last week we looked a threat but had a mad 20 minutes this week we concentrated and played as a team however, we can improve with a bit more quality passing and maybe we could have had a bit more quality with our final ball. I know harsh but we need to strive to improve and I dont think some of our more creative players quite got going but we looked a good side and things are taking shape!!
However, this game is done and will count for nothing if we dont get through the next round!!
We get back to the bread and butter next week so lets get 3 points!!
Vs St Pats (H) League 27.09.09
FT: 3-3 (Sim 2, Loz)
HT: 3-1
A couple of changes from the week before with the dreaded alarm clock having a say for the second week running!!
Pad in the sticks with Alex back at centre half with a strong bench of Wag, Easton, Matt, Scouse and Poley.
Ratings and Comments:
Pad: 7 not sure if he was best pleased and did not let us down under the circumstances. However, I am sure would have preferred to be used in the outfield did his best.
Andy: 8 had his hands full with a very quick winger whilst at times he was faced with a 2 vs 1 situation. Stuck to his task manfully well and although not as effective going forward he did an excellent job nullifying the winger who was eventually taken off.
Woody: 6.5 struggled and partly due to illness but kept going until the second half when he succumbed to be substituted.
Kingy: 7.5 from the side looked like he had a good game and certainly competed very well with their big target man. Nearly won it with a great run at the end.
Alex: 7.5 similar to Kingy I thought had a decent game with him stopping his opponent and actually he was substituted at 3nil added a bit of pace and did pretty well in a tough encounter.
Elksy: 7 first 30 minutes was excellent and let an error affect his game a bit. However, he has the pace and skill which he showed in the first 30 minutes.
Haggs: 7.5 superb in the first half and flagged a bit in the second. Dominated the midfield physically whilst keeping it simple, linking the play and also making the odd foray forward. A disciplined performance good show Haggs pity your legs went.
Ben: 7.5 busy, industrious and they could not cope with him in the 1st half as he was spare and kept closing them down whilst getting forward very well.
Embo: 7.5 as industrious as ever and competed very well. Had his hands full as he was against an opponent with a good engine did not get forward as much as usual but competed all over the pitch.
Loz: 7 first half looked lively but did not quite get behind them as much as usual but still notched to keep his goal scoring form going. With Sim and Ben in the first half they closed their defence down extremely well. Got a bit lost in the second half especially when moved to midfield and looked tired 2nd half too.
Sim: 8.5 MOM first half was blistering and showed his full potential with two great goals and terrorised them with his running and dribbling plus he was not pushed about. His first was a good header he won which he then beat 3 to score whilst his second was breathtaking pace and a fantastic finish.
Subs:
Easton: 6 did not have his usual impact.
Poley: 6.5 took a few minutes to get going but the last 15 minutes he was quality with lots of simple touches and moving the ball around. We need to get him fit and he will make a difference!
Wag: 6 came on behind the front man and got on the ball to show some nice touches not on long enough to be fair to make a real impact.
Matt and Scouse were unused subs.
Bugger, Bugger, Bugger HOW FRUSTRATING WAS THAT?
Glad I slept on the game before writing this because in essence I would say that the first half performance is as well as we have played, whilst the last 20-25 minutes was excellent too.
Unlike me to be positive I know but we should take them out of this game we dominated the game in football terms, we created a lot of chances, had a couple of dubious goals chalked off, had a couple of dodgy decisions which cost but overall we know we should have won that game.
They are a good side and I think on balance we dominated them but let our standards drop for 10 minutes at the end of the first half and for 15-20 minutes at the beginning of the second.
That team work rate, closing down that I keep banging on about was very evident first half and maybe we struggled to pick it back up after half time.
We need to learn to do that or in parts of the game where we are not as dominant we need to learn to be tighter defensively and a bit more resolute.
I was very pleased with the way we started yesterday and some of the one touch passing and movement was very very good we looked a fast slick passing side and that is a step up on what we have been.
I think all 3 goals were sloppy and whether they were individual errors or collective bad defending the whole team played a part and we need to iron those out.
They will be in the top 3-4 at the end if they keep their squad together and I believe we almost sent a positive message but I for one am not as down as I thought I maybe!!
Frustrated, yes but I do not think we had the rub of the green yesterday and a number of things went against us which would not normally happen.
Heads up a point in the bag and now you have a Cup Game against the mighty Birstall Stamford to look forward to they have written us off as long ball no hopers lets prove a point next Sunday!!
See you at training on Wednesday.
Vs Sparta Parva (H) League 20.09.09
FT: 3-1 (Loz, Sim and Haggerty)
HT: 0-0
A couple of changes from the last game with Poley (Away), Harry (Injured) although we were strengthened with the return of Embo and good to see Gurney and Dunny back in the squad.
Started with Pad in for Alex at centre half, Haggs at Sweeper with Elksy in midfield joined by Ben and Embo with Sim getting the nod up top with Loz.
Ratings and Comments:
Scouse: 8 Improving with every game and that is in terms of concentration and distribution. Good to see and hear him dominating and although not troubled at all he had a good game.
Andy: 6 a bit off colour in two ways today. Looked green on arriving and was not his normal self but that may have been due to the night before.
Woody: 7 not at his best and let his frustration get to him in the first half. Picked his game up a but second half and delivered a great cross for Sim to score.
Kingy: 7.5 looks in danger of becoming a good centre half. Coped well throughout and once he worked out the way to stop his opponent he got on top and did well.
Pad:7 quite a tough first start of the season against two lively attackers. Stuck to his task and was clearly motivated but as expected looked a tad rusty but did alright.
Haggs: 7 6 at sweeper and 8 in midfield. He and Embo got to grip with the game in the second half and credit to him he kept it simple and gave us a bit of quality in the second half. Nice strike to put the game to bed.
Elksy: 7 6 in Midfield and 8 at Sweeper. No doubting his ability but Stef has not going yet this season and has plenty more in his tank. Used his skills better at sweeper today.
Ben: 7.5 another who has not quite got going like he can but today second half looked more the Eddy we know. Made some good runs and got in some good areas with him looking threatening.
Embo: 7 missed a week with injury and looked a little rusty or maybe he is feeling that knee! Still competed well and as the game wore on he became stronger and began to dominate with Haggs towards the last 20 minutes/
Loz: 7 not 100% fit and it showed with him lacking an edge as he has been struck down with Flu all week. However, kept going and scored the equaliser to get us going with an opportunist strike in the box.
Sim: 7.5 not flying yet but showed he wants a place with a committed hard working performance. Got into some good positions and never stopped working with his closing down good scored a good goal and hopefully get him firing.
Subs:
Alex: 7- came off the bench and looked good. Hopefully he will get his alarm clock sorted as when he came on he had an impact with a good display adding valuable pace at the back.
Easton: 6.5 came on and looked good with Sim but his finishing was not of the standard he would expect.
Wag: 6 came on at wing back and did okay. Never let the winger get the better of him and did a good job in the last 20 minutes.
Matt, Gurns and Dunny were unused subs.
I have to say that we played pretty well in the second half and each game is helping formulate things that are beginning to work whilst clearly identifying things that are not too.
I think they were the best team we have faced so far and I think they could provide a few shocks over the course of the season.
Good to see the spirit and character is strong as I think their first real attack of the game led to a sloppy penalty conceded which put us behind for the first time this season.
We were coasting without hitting the accelerate pedal and the goal kicked us into action with us going on to dominate the rest of the game with a couple of excellently worked goals.
I was pleased with one or two in particular who showed they want a place in the team whilst it is good to have such a strong bench especially now that players are back available or fit from injuries.
I have quite a headache for next week as the lads that came on did well whilst one or two very good players have now had off days once or twice too often maybe.
We are beginning to knit and the spirit is good with the celebration for the equalising epitomising that as I think everyone joined in the celebration. We have plenty to come with better performances ahead and I am feeling very optimistic.
Thank you to the lads on the side who were all very good today positive, constructive without sulking so well done all.
Cup next week a few tough decisions may be an opportunity to give one or two a run who have watched a few games maybe or maybe not !!
See you at Training that will help clear my mind a bit mind I maybe in zimmer as I can hardly walk having played 65mins for the Ashby Vets this afternoon (Thanks Clarky!!)
Vs Polska Ressies (H) 13.09.09
FT: 4-0 (Loz 3, Ben)
HT: 0-0
A near full strength squad with the only absentees being Embo (injured), Gurney (injured) and Clive (injured). Ben returned to the squad.
One change from the week before as Poley got his first start of the season in for the injured Embo.
Ratings and Comments:
Scouse: 7 Quiet game but did his job well enough.
Andy: 7 Quiet in the first half although the service was not great. Second half moved into midfield and gave us some energy with him breaking the game up well and adding legs to support the attack.
Woody: 6.5 not at his best today but stuck to his task.
Kingy: 7 competed well but had nothing to mark so had a straight forward game defensively. Vocally good.
Alex: 6.5 another who had a quiet game but got forward well in the second half at RWB.
Elksy: 6 quiet throughout although gave us energy in midfield in the second half.
Haggs: 6 competed in the first half and swept okay in the second half.
Wagg: 6 a victim of a shocking first half performance by the team.
Poley: 6 see Wag.
Easton: 6 stifled of the ball but he was not as lively as usual.
Loz: 7 scored a trick and took his chances very well. Will know he can play a lot better though as he was quiet until he scored.
Subs:
Harry: 7.5 (Mom) - came off the bench and showed something that the whole team lacked in the first half will to win. Not being unkind but not the most gifted footballer in the team but showed what we lacked HEART has been patient and boy did he show he wants his place back!!!
Ben: 7 came on and looked good going forward in the last 20 minutes. Not at his best so far this season but showed his quality towards the end.
Sim: 6.5 came on and livened us up with his pace.
Pad and Matt were unused subs but both know that there chance will come and training starts on Wednesday which will count for team selection.
Blimey you made hard work of that today!!
The best thing that can be said is that we ground out the win.
I hold me hands up I got it wrong and I apologise to Poley mainly as I picked an unbalanced midfield and should have made one or two changes from last week.
You were warned and I will not be making the same mistake again!!
We have a squad of 18 or 19 and some so far have had to watch a lot of football without a chance to play!
There is no excuse for lack of effort or heart and first half the whole team (Scouse excluded) showed a complete lack of hunger and desire. I talked about combinations but it was worse than that first half.
I know if I was any of the subs including Pad and Matt who never got a run I would be breaking my neck at training as places are up for grabs.
Fair play we pulled through and I got the mix wrong from the start but we had enough good players on the pitch first half to get a better performance than we showed.
Anyway I will keep it to that for now food for thought!!
I would expect everyone to have a comment or two on the web this week!! Blame me if you like but have a think Boyz!!
Training resumes on Wednesday 9pm at Winstanley.
Please visit the forum post your views, thoughts on the social and the competition too please.
Vs FC Tumar (H) League 06.09.09
FT: 10-0 (Loz 4, Embo 2, Wag, Sim, Elksy and Woody)
HT: 4-0
First home game of the season against an established Division 2 side FC Tumar.
A near full strength squad with the only absentees being Ben (Hols), Gurney (injured) and Clive (injured). Good to have Matt back in the fold.
Good luck to Mitch who has moved on to pastures new and may be one day we will see him back at the Old Boyz handled himself very well for a young fella and leaves with my best wishes.
Nice to see Gurns and Herbs down to watch and hopefully not too long before Gurney is fully fit to return and maybe we may see Herbs back yet??
Ratings and Comments:
Scouse: 8 Had a good game generally as he was gardening his area for most of it. I would like to give you a higher mark but cant really as you had bugger all to do! Still nearly managed to knock yourself out from the one looping cross that came in!!
Andy: 8 Two games in and has done very well in both games with good energy and was unlucky not to score with a header that hit the bar. Second half was more prominent and got forward extremely well with one or two lung busting runs behind their defence a constant threat throughout.
Woody: 8 improved on Wednesday and got forward very well and his passing and distribution were good all game. Got forward to rifle in a 20 yarder (okay tap in from 2 yards) at the back post to get up and running for the season.
Kingy: 8 decent and better in the second half. In his words marking an octopus that was all arms and legs he did well to keep him quiet all game. Kept it simple and his passing from the back was very good with the odd foray forward but more importantly played well defensively.
Alex: 8 quietly efficient with a few good interceptions but will face tougher tests as the season goes on but has slipped into the centre half role well. Had a couple of good runs forward and as his confidence grows his runs from deep could give us an interesting option.
Elksy: 8 marshalled the defence well and was better than Wednesday. More in the tank though and as he gets used to sitting off more will have time to use his ability even more. Stepped into midfield and looked very comfortable even managing to score from a long range clearance!!
Haggs: 7.5 quiet but then looking at the state of his eye sockets not surprising really. However, when on the ball looked okay but generally marked his man and kept him quiet but other than that was a bit green today!
Wagg: 8 disappointed not to start in the week and put in a good performance. Never one to waste the ball his passing was good throughout and looked comfortable in the role with him getting forward well especially in the second half. Set up a couple and scored can ask no more!
Embo: 9 (Mom) Two games, two goals, two MOMs what a start. Superb throughout, a bit quiet vocally at times (speak up Embo!) but very competitive but showed he can play too. Got up and down scored two fine goals and hardly wasted the ball throughout. Needs to work on his long range shooting but other than that an excellent start to the season.
Easton: 8 an excellent first half as he was a constant threat and got behind their defence regularly and set up a couple of goals. Worked hard, closed them down and showed a hunger for the team. Slightly disappointing second half and the one area he needs to improve is his goal scoring as he had chances that he needs to take.
Loz: 9 another very good performance with 4 goals in this game he will wonder what he needs to do to get MOM!! Still led the line well and got on the ball but still has plenty more to come. However, he is given us something different up top as he can play deep too needs to continue getting in the box to give us that finishing edge.
Subs:
Sim: 7- came off the bench and looked hungry. Made some great runs and deserved his goal although he got in some great positions and either chose the wrong option or had a bit of bad luck. However, did all I would ask and gave me food for thought!
Poley: 7 bit more like the Poley I know and looked good when he came on. Got on the ball, put in the work and sprayed the ball around nicely including getting forward well and had one great strike from 25 yards.
Pad: 7 frustrated like Harry and knows that he has his hands full to get a place back. However, came on was more vocal than anyone and marshalled the defence extremely well although not really tested.
Harry and Matt were unused subs but both know that there chance will come and training starts a week on Wednesday which will count for team selection.
Won 10 nil and still not satisfied I can hear you all saying!!
Well, I know whats ahead and we will face a lot stiffer tests however you can only beat the team put in front of you and we did the job well today. We won it in the first 30 minutes when we got it down and played with them caving in as we discussed at half time.
I think a few of you are yet to hit your straps and the lads on the bench are itching to get involved one or two who came on today have given me food for thought for the next game!!
I am pleased with the attacking football and we look a threat going forward still not got the attacking partnerships quite sorted whilst defensively as a team we still have work to do. Hunting in packs, closing teams down and ensuring that we look tight as a unit will be the tests against some of the better sides.
We face Polska Ressies next week and will be interesting to see if we have improved we beat them in the Cup last year but it was a hard fought game!
Vs Beaumont Town 2009 (A) League 02.09.09
Tough game for the big kick off against an unknown side on a Wednesday evening.
A near full strength squad with the only absentees being Matt (work), Gurney (injured) and Clive (injured).
A 16 man squad was named with Clarky and Darryl asked not to get changed. Never an easy decision but this is a squad game and maturity coupled with an understanding that this is the first game is required.
Five quality substitutes with Pad, Harry, Wag, Easton and Poley all hugely disappointed. A special mention to Harry who took it like a man showed great attitude, ran the line and was positive that he would prove a point just the response I expect No toys thrown, pissed off but amicable did yourself no harm Harry Good man!!
Why have I laboured this point??
Because we have a squad of 18 or 19 (depending upon Herbs) and you are all good players. You will all be given every chance and due to form, injuries, absence I believe everyone has a role to play. It may surprise you all but I take it quite seriously treating you all the same I expect a bit of respect in return even if you disagree!
We are a squad and the season ahead will be challenging but I believe we are well set to be competitive as long as we remain tight as a team No individual will be allowed to spoil that!
So on to the game this evening the hardest team selection I have ever had to make was made and the team was as follows:
Scouse: 8 Decent start to the season good chat, positive and did his job well. I think will feel disappointed to let 2 goals in but to be fair did not stand a chance with either really. Decent start and more to come.
Andy: 8 Good performance although I believe he has more in the tank nice to see Mrs Andy there cheering him on too! I love his energy and has been a refreshing addition to the squad. Did not get the best service 1st half but set up the goal of the game for Poley with a great run and cross.
Woody: 7.5 steady but not quite his normal self although the narrow pitch meant he was starved of the ball a bit. Still kept going well and crossed a great free kick for Kingys bullet header.
Alex: 8.5 excellent especially 2nd half when he was talked to more and the defence did its job. He won lots of quality tackles but his reading and pace in the game were evident especially in the last quarter when he got stronger. A player who has let his football do the talking and earned his place in the team! Now he has to maintain it to keep his place.
Kingy: 8 good effort by the big fella. Overplayed a wee bit in the first half and on another day may have seen red for his challenge. However in the second half was more vocal, kept it simple and was more decisive. Scored a good goal with an excellent header at the far post.
Elksy: 7 6 first half and 8 second half. Bloody frustrated with him in the first half and I know he will read this!! Set us up wrong with the offside trap adopted and him playing as a 3rd centre half meant we were at times exposed or on the edge in the first half. You are too good to cheat and at half time he listened and was superb second half laying the foundation for the whole team to look better. With pace and power in front he knows that the second half is the minimum level he should be setting himself.
Haggs: 7.5 Steady, committed but quiet by his standards. Competed as I would expect the big fella to do but did not influence the game like he can. To be fair second half was better but has more in that BIG tank but competition is fierce.
Embo: 9 (MOM) Superb throughout. Quiet unassuming but a very dynamic performance with some excellent tackles and although Goose won more headers than I would have liked he was very good throughout. I asked him to get up and down and he did that throughout even getting a couple of shots in (mind they were crap!!). Good start Embo.
Ben: 7.5 Got the first of the season and was an irritant throughout although the tight pitch meant there was little space to play and be a pest like usual. However, never stopped working and did exactly as asked by playing right up top to ensure that their defence had no time.
Sim: 7 Pace to burn although the tight pitch meant first half he had little opportunity to run behind and get on the ball. Need him to get nastier, put himself about a bit more and be greedy!! He is getting better with age and this season should be a good test for him.
Loz: 9 Excellent first game and scored a trick on his debut with a header and two close range finishes. However, looked a threat throughout and needs to maintain playing right up top to give us an attacking edge showed he has two great feet and should be setting his targets high for the season ahead.
Subs:
Easton: 7 I can ask no more. Was unlucky not to start as he missed a couple of games having done well in pre-season. Came on stretched the defence, chased everything down and was a pain in the arse with a bit more muscle up top helping. Challenge will be can he get a place and then maintain the work rate with goals required??
Wag: 6.5 another who has played well in the attacking midfield role and was only edged out due to missing games. Quality on the ball showed when he came on and another who will be champing to get his place.
Poley: 7 this boy is quality and he knows (cus I told him) that he has not done as well in pre-season as I would expect. Took it like a man and came on and showed his quality on the ball and took his goal superbly with a great volley and a good run.
Harry and Pad were disappointed bystanders but I expect the right response time to show character.
Generally the second was reasonable and the first half okay. They were decent at times but once we played our game and got on top we looked the better team. When the game starts we need to think and ensure that we react to our opponents , stop them and then impose our game.
I was pleased with the commitment of all 14 and the spirit looks promising although it is early days.
All 16 plus Clarky have a role to play and with 2 or 3 to comeback we should have a good season!
Decent start but we will improve starting Sunday!!!
Sunday 16th August 2009 Pre-Season Friendly Vs BWOB FC Lost 4-1
First 20 minutes were excellent offensively with good energy, commitment and work rate with us closing them down well. This started up top with Loz and Sim closing down very well which was well supported by Wags the midfield and wing backs.
My only criticism would be that we were not ruthless during this good period and maybe rushed our chances - we need to ensure that when we have good periods we make it count as we will not dominate games for 90 minutes this season.
We subsequently dropped our work rate and as they came into the game my biggest criticism would be that we did not look as solid as we should and probably lacked that bit of commitment which is disappointing.
Two poor goals - one from a free kick and a poor second gave us a scoreline at half time that was not representative of the first half - but that is the difference they stuck at it and took their opportunities which we did not.
Second half generally was extremely poor with a disjointed performance with a number of players going through the motion a bit. I can rarely accuse us of a lack of heart and desire to keep going but i was surprised and very disappointed in the last 30 minutes as we almost stopped trying.
Granted they are a good side and a premiership side at that but we did not do ourselves justice.
General observations - defensively we were poor throughout from lack of chat in the first half through to getting caught positionally whilst we conceded a poor fourth goal with weak challenges.
Midfield generally never quite got to grips with the game although to be fair to Embo he did compete well throughout.
Attacking we started well with good energy but we have to be more ruthless whilst Easton worked hard he never really had much support.
Today was a useful reality check and will not have done us any harm because if we were getting carried away we know better now!!
I had pencilled one or two in but they did themselves no favours today whilst the lads away will comeback in the knowledge that they chose a good game to miss!!
We will get it right but i intend to have chat with everyone individually on Wed to let you know where you stand.
See you Wednesday versus West End
