Archived Match Reports

2008/9 Season

Taverham v Thorpe – League Cup Final

Attleborough Town FC

9^th May 2010

The final game of the season had arrived, and we prepared to take on Thorpe for the third time this season, in the League Cup Final. The boys and an army of loyal supporters made their way to Attleborough, knowing that one last great performance would see them pull off a fantastic ‘double’. A neutral referee took charge, and the weather was dry, although windy and cold.

We kicked off with the winds at our backs, and with every intention of gaining immediate control. As both teams found their feet, play was even and fiercely contested. A couple of early crosses from Thorpe’s speedy winger were cleared, whilst at the other end Stevie got past his full-back, and crossed. Both Will and Jack just failed to connect. We then won a free-kick wide on the touchline, 35 yards out. Charlie delivered a great kick at their keeper, who misjudged, with Will on hand to guide home, although Charlie was subsequently awarded the goal. We then pushed on again, and this time from a Stevie cross Jack just missed the post with a slight touch. Dom and Sam were now in control at the back, having had a tough opening few minutes, with Freddy also defending well. Mark went on a great run down the left, and crossed where again Jack shot just wide. Thorpe then counter-attacked and from a bobbly ball in from their right, we failed to clear and a striker nipped in to beat Oliver from close range for the equaliser. Thorpe were still looking long to their winger, and he was causing Mark a few problems. From another ball in, Dom challenged strongly. From the resultant corner a Thorpe player leapt well, but Oliver gathered his header confidently. Thorpe then crossed again from their right, this time Stevie blocking well with another corner for Thorpe. Oliver again saved comfortably from another Thorpe header. We continued to try and play, Brad having a run on the left, and again we were unlucky to see Stevie’s shot charged down. From the corner, Dom jumped well and headed down, but the keeper saved well. Danny then challenged well in the midfield, and Charlie smacked the loose ball in over the keepers head for a superb second for him and the team, restoring our lead. As the half wore on, James came into midfield in place of Danny, and immediately won a good tackle. He played in Will, onto Jack, and then wide to Stevie whose cross was only just too short for our onrushing forwards. Right on half-time, we won a free-kick on the half-way line. Once again Charlie delivered a superb ball into the danger zone, this time straight into the top corner for his hat-trick and our third, possibly a little flattering, but good for us nonetheless! Half-time:- 3-1.

The second half began with Reuben replacing Brad. We were now kicking into the wind, and this suited us better as the ball wasn’t running away from us. Dom & Sam were really dominating at the back now, with Thorpe not getting near our goal. At the other end, Charlie was having a superb game, and twice set Stevie away down the right with great balls. The first cross was cleared away, the second for a corner from which we couldn’t get a head to the ball. Thorpe shot wildly over from distance. James was doing well in midfield with Charlie, and he won a challenge and again set Stevie free. This time Jack got on the end of the cross, seeing his half volley go just too high. We were playing with a lot of confidence now, Oliver sweeping up any over-hit balls from Thorpe. Another attack down our right, Freddy feeding Reuben who then played a lovely through ball to Stevie, saw the cross headed out to James who hit a tremendous volley from outside the box which saw the keeper somehow make an outstanding save to deny him a certain goal. Thorpe then played a neat ball out wide and crossed, where the attacker turned and shot from close-in only for Oliver to make a great block with his legs. We then put on Tom at right back to replace Freddy, for a rare but well-timed appearance, just reward for being with us since he was 6! We continued to dominate now, Jack sending Stevie away with a superb cross-field ball over his shoulder. Stevie ran on and beat his defender, only for the keeper to block well. Almost immediately the same two combined in a similar fashion, this time Stevie seeing his cross well defended by Thorpe. At the other end, a slight mix-up saw an attacker in a great position, but he volleyed high from just outside the box, this turning out to be Thorpe’s final chance of the game. We made our final changes, Danny back on to centre half, Sam switching to left back in place of Mark, with Brad returning wide left in place of Will. We looked rock solid defensively now, Dom especially strong in the tackle and in the air. Charlie again set the play up well, and after a one two with Reuben sent a lovely ball wide to Brad. He cut in, beat his defender and was fouled. Jack blasted the resultant free kick wide. Oliver then fed Tom quickly, and he moved the ball into Charlie. Charlie then found Stevie wide, who passed onto Reuben, Jack then received the ball, and was quick and strong to cut into the box between two defenders. As he was about to shoot he was then brought down, but astonishingly the ref gave nothing. James was then penalised, harshly, for a challenge. As we waited for the kick to be taken, everybody was stunned to see the ref produce a straight red card for James – 5 minutes from the end of the game. We reshuffled, Reuben dropping into midfield, and Jack playing as our lone striker. The free-kick was easily cleared. From another Stevie cross, Reuben then turned his marker and shot in one movement, unlucky to see the ball miss the far post by inches with the keeper well beaten. At the other end, Oliver confidently controlled another loose ball, this time setting Sam away down the left. He found Charlie, who again switched play superbly. Stevie, as he had done all game, got past his full back, and this time the ball found Jack who had peeled away from his marker and gleefully, and carefully side-footed home for our fourth, and now certain victory. Despite being down to ten men for the last 5 minutes, we saw the game out comfortably. At the whistle, the boys calmly celebrated a great win, and also the second part of a well-deserved double. Full-time:- 4-1.

Man of the Match:- Charlie Gibbons.

Holland Trip - April 2010

The newly crowned ‘A’ league Champions left Taverham early on Monday 12^th April for the much anticipated trip to Holland. We were based at a Centerparcs resort called De Kempervennen, approximately 40 minutes outside of Eindhoven.

With no game to play until Tuesday evening, both boys and parents took the opportunity of enjoying the facilities, the rapids proving a popular pastime! Our first game was against a team called DBS. We came out 6-1 winners, with both Jack and Stevie grabbing hat-tricks.

Wednesday saw us travel to Eindhoven for the day. We had a fantastic tour of the ‘Philips Stadion’, home of PSV. The boys were more than happy to offload some of their Euros on PSV kits, before making their way into town – via McDonalds for some! In the evening, our fixture was against Unitas 59’, which we think must be Dutch for ‘giant men’! When your opponents can drive and drink beer, it’s fairly obvious they’re not 14!! A 9-2 defeat ensued, with goals from Jack, and a wonder strike from Danny.

Thursday dawned, the week was passing by way too quickly. A relaxing day saw the boys again in the pool, followed by a BBQ at villa 769! We were so lucky to be enjoying fabulous weather, non-stop sunshine being the order of the day. We were against RKVV Bergeijk tonight, and thankfully their team was much the same size as ours! Another victory, this time 2-1, with Reuben finding the back of the net, and Danny grabbing a last minute winner.

Back to Centerparcs, we all gathered for a last night celebratory meal, before making the long journey back to Taverham on Friday 16^th April.

A big thank you to our teams’ parents, plus their friends and families, for all their hard work and generosity with our fundraising events. Also to the boys themselves – it’s been fantastic to watch you play this season, and you have deserved every minute of your success. I know I speak for us all when I say how proud you have made us !

Photos

Taverham v Dereham – 21^st April 2010

A sunny but cool evening saw us welcome Dereham for our final league game of the season. Yet again many changes were necessary, with Will playing in goal due to Oliver’s wrist injury, James starting right midfield, Stevie switching to the left, and Reuben joining Jack up front. Dereham were in need of a victory to help their chances of finishing runners-up.

We kicked off down-hill, and straightaway it was clear that the terrible playing surface would make playing good football difficult, although both teams were trying. Early on we caught their back four very square, Jack racing onto a lovely through ball from Charlie, only to pull his shot just wide – on a good surface we would have backed him to score. We then again got behind them, this time the linesman’s flag halting our progress. At the other end, the clever Dereham forward was causing problems with his movement, and after a neat one, two he also pulled his shot just wide. Mark had started well at left-back, and won a superb tackle on the edge of our box to thwart a Dereham break. He then received a good, quick throw out from Will, advanced down the left, and was unlucky to see a good cross evade everyone. Jack then again outpaced their static defence, and narrowly missed the post, although credit to the keeper for standing big and narrowing the angle. Dereham then attacked again, this time a rasping shot from an angle was well saved by Will, who palmed round for a corner which came to nothing. Jack then won a free-kick, and from an angle hit a dipper, bouncing just in front of the keeper. He held on to the ball at the second attempt, with none of out attackers near enough to tap in. Charlie then blasted over from distance. Dereham were still causing problems at our end, and although looking offside, their attacker shot wide when well placed. As half time approached, we looked as though we may rue our missed chances. However, Charlie challenged strongly 25 yards out and, unfortunately for their keeper, he allowed the ball to travel through his arms and legs for a very soft opener. Almost immediately the whistle blew. Half-time:- 1-0.

The second half began with Dereham now having the advantage of the slope, with us looking into the falling sun. Will came out and cleared well from a long through ball. Danny and Charlie were now getting more of a grip in midfield, and we were looking stronger at the back. Stevie and James had swapped wings, but were finding the pitch difficult, as was everyone. James then broke down the left, set away by a great Danny pass. He did well to make ground, and crossed nicely where Jack challenged, the ball broke to Stevie and we were unlucky not to make more of the opportunity. We then won a free-kick wide on the left. Charlie swung in a dangerous cross, Danny unsettled the keeper who took his eye off the ball, which ended up in the back of the net to make it 2 nil. Dereham still looked capable, but we were now restricting them to play outside our area. They did hit the outside of the post from a bobbled effort. Danny then set Jack free on goal, but yet again he missed narrowly when really well placed. Time was now passing, Dereham were losing their discipline, and we looked likely to go on and score more. However, one long ball undid us yet again, and their attacker ran through unchallenged to slip the ball under Will for a soft goal. From kick off, Charlie and Dom got in a muddle, and it took Will to react quickly to avert a disaster of our own making. Danny then had to come off, with Oliver replacing him, pushing up front alongside Jack, with Reuben dropping into midfield. Play became ever more scrappy, Dereham desperate for an equaliser. We had a half chance which was cleared, and then Dereham broke forward where a free-kick was awarded. The initial shot was charged down well, but from the follow up, a massive deflection saw Will completely wrong-footed for the equaliser. Dereham’s tails were up, but the rest of the game saw no further chances from either team. Full-time:- 2-2.

Taverham v Catton – 10^th April 2010

A fine Saturday morning saw us welcome Catton for the return fixture. With Sam unavailable, positional changes had to be made, and once more James was our only sub. The boys were well aware three points would give them the League title!

We kicked off up the slope, and immediately got the better of the play. Stevie started strongly, and had the measure of his full back, twice getting in crosses which were well cleared. Brad then did well down the left, and from a good pull back Will shot just wide. Dom and Danny were looking very solid in the centre of the defence, Oliver was talking well, and both Freddy and Mark were looking to join the attack at every opportunity from their full back positions. Charlie and Reuben had started well in midfield, Charlie finding Stevie who advanced, then delivered a superb cross where Reuben somehow headed wide from an unmarked position, six yards from goal. Almost immediately, after more good work from Charlie and Brad, Jack flicked onto Stevie who was six yards out and free. Stevie chose to shoot first time, again missing the target. Catton had shown nothing to this point, and it seemed just a matter of time before we went ahead. Freddy, Reuben and Stevie then combined well down the right, and from a good cross Jack was unlucky to see his volley fly just high. Again, we broke down the right, and this time Will missed with a free header from only six yards. Was it going to be one of those days? At the other end, Catton had their only shot of the half which went weakly wide. Half-time:- 0-0.

Talk at half-time was of continuing as before, and turning our dominance into goals. From kick-off, play developed into more of a midfield battle, neither side prepared to give anything away. Jack and Will continued to work hard up front with little service, whilst at the other end Oliver was still a virtual spectator, thanks to a superb defensive display. Stevie and Freddy combined well down the right, and from the cross we were just unable to get a touch into the net. Brad then did well with help from Mark, but again the cross came to nothing. Charlie then played in a lovely corner which caused alarm in the Catton defence but still no goal. Catton broke away on a very rare attack, and the forward did well to turn Dom and Danny and shoot powerfully just wide from an angle. At the other end we still had more of the possession, but were finding chances harder to come by in this half. Jack fired a free-kick over the top, and we had a couple of shots charged down. Time was ebbing away, could we find the all important winner? Mark did well, receiving the ball from Oliver and making ground before slipping a lovely ball into Brad. He in turn did superbly, beating two men and driving to the goal-line where he pulled back and found the onrushing Reuben who gleefully smashed into the top corner for a long awaited, but much deserved goal. Could we now keep our discipline for the last 5 minutes? Having looked comfortable keeping possession, a free-kick was awarded deep in Catton’s half. They broke, seeing Jack racing back making a good challenge, but also conceding a corner. The ball in was good, but neither defenders nor attackers could make contact, the ball slipping out for a goal kick. Finally, having played a long 43 minutes in the second half, the whistle blew to jubilant celebrations from the home players and supporters. The boys had made certain they were Champions of the ‘A’ league, and deservedly so after a fantastic season. Full-time:- 1-0.

Man of the Match:- The whole squad!

Thorpe v Taverham – 28^th March 2010

The sun was shining for our afternoon visit to Thorpe. This was a really important game, and following our recent defeat to Jex, and draw against Sprowston, it was vital to put in a good performance. Danny was able to return after injury, with James and Reuben starting as subs.

We kicked off, and it became apparent straight away that the boys were back to their determined best. Dom & Sam looked commanding at the back, Charlie and Danny were dominating the midfield, Brad & Stevie looked dangerous out wide and Jack & Will were posing the Thorpe defence problems. Mark was foraging forward, and he played in Jack who in turn slipped the ball to Brad. Not for the first time, he outwitted his defender, and put in a telling cross where Jack was just unable to connect. Stevie then got the ball wide form a lovely Charlie ball, beat his man and again just failed to find the onrushing Will. Freddie was looking confident at right back, and he made a couple of good early tackles. Oliver was commanding his defence well, and sweeping around when necessary. We nearly took the lead when, from a long throw by Stevie, Jack flicked on and Will guided his header past the post. With Charlie and Danny continuing to win the midfield battle, the signs were good, and again Will just failed to score with his head when beating the keeper to the ball. Stevie and Jack then combined well down the right, Jack beat his marker and cracked great shot which the keeper just managed to save, the ball just evading Will who was so close to a tap in. Oliver and Freddie then combined well to thwart a rare Thorpe break. The only thing missing for us was a goal. Brad again beat his man, and crossed superbly over the keeper where the defender did really well to save a certain goal for the onrushing Will. Jack got his head to Charlie’s corner but was stretching and couldn’t quite direct it on target. Dom & Sam continued to look comfortable together, Dom back to his ball-winning best and Sam very confident in his covering. As the half drew to a close, we were unlucky to go in level, having created 3 or 4 really good chances. Encouragingly, we had restricted Thorpe to a couple of long shots. Half time:- 0-0.

Charlie continued to shine, with Danny complimenting him in midfield. We strived to get forward, the wind again making things difficult. Mark and Brad were working hard down the left, Stevie and Freddie down the right, Stevie whipping in a cross which again Thorpe defended well. Jack then received the ball in the box from a superb Charlie ball, turned his man and shot into the side netting. Dom & Sam stayed strong, Oliver collecting well anything played over the top. Stevie then fed Jack again, once more he turned and again the ball ended up just wide, this time earning a corner. Despite pressure being applied, Thorpe somehow managed to scramble the ball clear from under the bar for another corner, this one coming to nothing. Thorpe were showing a little more adventure this half, a couple of crosses flashed across our box, but no attacker was able to finish. The game was there for us to go for, and Mark and Brad combined to earn a throw in deep in their half. Stevie launched it in, Jack held the ball up well and laid back to Will who smashed home for a deserved 1 nil lead. The confidence was really pulsing through us now, and Danny almost set Jack free on goal, the defender making a last ditch effort to intercept. Charlie then won a free kick, and from 30 yards was really unlucky to see his shot smack the crossbar with the keeper beaten, Thorpe again scrambling the rebound to safety. Jack then got between two defenders strongly, this time just missing the far post from an acute angle. With time running out, we still looked strong defensively. A Thorpe corner was headed high, the ball coming back off the bar and we cleared away. We broke immediately, Charlie finding Jack wide. Jack played in Will superbly, but with a free run on goal, Will’s first touch just took him too wide. Oliver then blocked well when one on one with an attacker, after which we saw the last few minutes out comfortably to record a well-deserved, hard fought victory against a sporting Thorpe side. Full-time:- 0-1.

Man of the Match:- Charlie G

Taverham v Sprowston – 20^th March 2010

A fine Saturday morning saw us welcome Sprowston for the return league game. Again injuries meant a change of personnel – James replacing Danny in the centre of midfield, and Will on the right wing instead of Stevie who was not fit to start the game. Tom joined Stevie as sub.

We kicked off, and Charlie instantly sent Brad away down the left. He beat his man but saw his cross cut out. Will then broke free and delivered a good cross into the box which Sprowston did well to clear. We had started brightly, and after 4 minutes took a deserved lead - Sam combining with Will who then crossed, Jack challenged the keeper and reacted quickly to smash home for one nil. Sprowston were relying on getting the ball up to their big striker as quickly as they could, and this was causing the defence a few problems. We attacked again, this time Mark and Brad doing well down the left, ending with Charlie shooting just too high. Jack also flashed a shot just wide from another good team build up. After 13 minutes we doubled our lead, a good corner from Charlie headed clear to James who controlled well before firing home a lovely volley from the edge of the box. We had started well, and looked threatening going forward, but still looked apprehensive at the back. Charlie and James began to lose their grip of the midfield, and Brad was struggling with his back. Stevie, although not fully fit, replaced Brad. Sprowston now had more of the game, and from a simple through ball their attacker went between Sam & Freddy to have a free run on goal, beating Oliver and making the score 2-1. Another long ball from Sprowston saw their striker collect out wide. He faced no challenge as he cut in and hammered a superb shot into the top corner from distance, giving Oliver no chance. Sprowston were now right back in the game. We then saw Stevie do well to beat his man, and he cut in and was unlucky not to find the onrushing Will. Mark then fed Reuben, who in turn passed to Jack. Jack then played a lovely one two with Will and was unfortunate to suffer a bobble when looking likely to score for what would have been a great goal. Half-time:- 2-2.

The second half began, and it was obvious that Sprowston were looking to find their main striker at every opportunity, not surprisingly with the problems he had caused in the first half. However, we again began the half well, and from a decent move involving Mark and Reuben, Will shot home from outside the box although the keeper could maybe have done a bit better. Would this now see us push on again? Down the slope now, most of the possession was in Sprowston’s half, but still we looked decidedly shaky any time the ball went near the big attacker. Both his pace and skill were excellent, but still no tackle was made to unsettle him. A long ball into the channel saw him collect with ease, and without being tackled he shot home from an angle to draw level again. Tom was brought on to replace Freddy. Charlie and James were not winning their midfield battle at all, and time and again were outfought, leading to more pressure on our defence. From a Charlie corner, the ball was headed onto the crossbar, and somehow Sprowston then managed to clear off the line twice in quick succession despite massive pressure from us. Sprowston then broke, and the big front man yet again escaped his defenders too easily, this time unlucky to see his angled shot hit the far post. This was now anyone’s game, as despite our possession they looked dangerous on the break. With time running short, Jack broke down the right, cut in and was unlucky to see his shot just go wide of the far post. It was looking like one of those days now and more so when a looped through ball from Reuben saw Jack go clear, he beat the keeper and turned to celebrate a possible winner only to see the linesman not award the goal. A reaction from Jack, however instinctive, resulted in Freddy replacing him, with Charlie pushing up front. The rest of the game passed without incident. Full-time:- 3-3.

Man of the Match:- Mark S

Jex v Taverham – 14^th March 2010

A dry and bright but windy day saw us travel to Thorpe High for our away fixture against Jex. It was a struggle to field a fit eleven players again this week, although Dom was back following his lay off due to a back injury. The situation worsened when Oliver took a blow to the face during the warm up, and was unable to play. Will manfully took the gloves to deputise. This meant James was our only sub.

We kicked off with the wind behind us, and it was clear this would be a big factor in the game. Both teams were trying to play, but the bumpy surface and wind made this difficult. Jex were looking to get their speedy forward away at every opportunity, but Dom and Freddy were coping with well. Charlie and Danny were battling hard in midfield, and Reuben and Jack were working well up front. We were first to threaten, a lovely Charlie free-kick seen late by the keeper but scrambled clear. From the corner we again failed to connect. After a rare long shot from Jex, which was safely gathered by Will, he launched a long, wind-assisted kick down field. Jack read it well, the ball sailing over the defence, but the keeper just got to the ball first. A lovely move down the left saw Mark feed Brad who did well to earn another corner. This time, Charlie’s excellent knock in was headed home by Reuben for a 1 nil lead. This inspired us to attack again, and Jack brought a good save out of the keeper following good work from Danny and Reuben. Charlie was then desperately unlucky to see his long-range free-kick smack the inside of the post with the keeper well beaten, Jack only just too high with a clever follow-up. We needed to capitalise on this good spell with the elements in our favour, but just couldn’t get a second goal. Mark then beat his man and fed Brad who played the ball to Jack. He turned well and slipped Reuben in, but with just the keeper to beat failed to score. At the other end, Jex were finding it hard against the wind to get near our box, resorting mainly to long shots. Will was largely untroubled, but doing well in a strange role. As the half drew to a close, we still pressed for the security of a second goal. A shot from Stevie was well blocked, and again Jack reacted first. He turned tight on the goal line, and played a brilliant cross into the middle where Brad looked destined to head home, but somehow the Jex defender got there first to clear his lines. Half-time:- 0-1.

Jex kicked off, and immediately broke down the left where Sam did well to make a decisive tackle. Jack was looking very isolated up front, with three Jex defenders in close attention at all times. Stevie and Mark were both clearly struggling, so changes needed to be made, but this was difficult with only one substitute. After a couple of long range efforts had gone high, Jex played a long ball over our defence where Dom looked to have the situation covered. However, the forward showed good speed and strength to get to the ball first, and lobbed high for the equaliser. We were now under a bit of pressure, Jex getting forward too easily, although not really forcing Will to make difficult saves – his handling when required was very good. This was emphasised when he punched a far post cross clear under heavy pressure. We then made a change, bringing Freddy off, Danny dropped to centre back, with James joining Charlie in midfield. Jex were out-battling us and we needed to see if these changes would help. Although Stevie especially was struggling, he was determined to carry on. Not long after, another through ball saw Dom challenge an opponent, the result being a penalty awarded. The Jex forward stepped up and finished well to give them a 2-1 lead. We were really up against it now, with boys struggling, but it would be a test of character. Jack did well on the odd occasion we got the ball to him. He turned his marker in a wide position, cut in and crossed well where Reuben was very unlucky to see his left foot volley flash wide. This was in honesty our last real effort of the game, Jex finishing the stronger. Freddy came back on before the end, to replace Dom, who had felt his back injury flare up. Full-time:- 2-1.

Man of the Match:- Will

Lakeford v Taverham – 7^th March 2010

Back to the league after last week’s cup exploits, and a visit to Eaton Park for our away fixture against Lakeford. Thankfully no rain this week, in fact the sun was shining, although still bitterly cold. Injury meant no Dom, and Jack, Danny and Stevie were all struggling with illness. Will and Tom started as subs.

We kicked off, and the play was frenetic as we took our time to get to grips in midfield. However, it was us that broke first, Charlie putting Stevie through on goal, narrowly missing when well placed. Danny, Freddy, Sam & Mark were dealing comfortably with any Lakeford threat, 2 long shots sailing high and wide. We then had a throw near their box, Stevie launched one in, Jack got a flick and Brad was first to react to slot home to make it one nil. We immediately won back possession, and Jack was unlucky when challenging the keeper for a through ball. Lakeford were restricted to shooting from 30 yards, completely untroubling Oliver, or the defence. Mark was now linking well with Brad, who also looked sharp wide on the left. From a couple of corners, Charlie delivered excellent balls but yet again we could make nothing of these. Danny then won a good header when defending a rare Lakeford corner. As we broke, James combined well with Charlie who in turn found Brad. He slipped the ball inside to Jack who beat his man well but was upended, with a penalty rightly awarded. Jack strode up confidently to send the keeper the wrong way for a deserved 2 nil lead. Charlie now got into full flow, and twice sent Stevie through with lovely balls, both times Stevie just failing to hit the target with the keeper nowhere. Stevie then played Jack through, and again a well hit shot just flashed past the post. Lakeford continued to shoot from way out, not for one minute causing us any alarm. As the half drew to a close, another superb set piece from Charlie saw the keeper make a point blank save from Reuben, but yet again we reacted quickly, Brad again knocking in the rebound to put us 3 goals up.

Half-time:- 0-3.

They kicked off, and immediately tried to find their speedy striker, who they had brought on for the second half. Although quick, he also reverted to shooting from way out – unless one dipped late there was no way they would trouble Oliver, who yet again was having a quiet afternoon. Sam and Mark continued defending well, and also got forward whenever possible. Danny and Freddy were very comfortable in the middle, with Charlie and James dominating midfield. Stevie and Reuben were working hard, whilst Jack was clearly struggling but soldiering on manfully. Play developed into a midfield battle, as although we continued to play, Lakeford had tightened up defensively. They had their share of possession, but still insisted on the long range shooting strategy, not hitting the target very often. We brought Will on for Stevie who had run himself ragged whilst ill, and he slotted in well on the right, linking with Reuben and Sam. From a rare Lakeford break, they won a corner which was headed goal-wards where Oliver managed to push upwards, with the striker heading over under pressure from Oliver – the first time they had had a half-chance even from anywhere near our box. We then got a grip once again, and played some good football, but with Jack struggling didn’t create too much second half. Our final change saw Tom come on at centre half, Danny pushing into midfield, and James earning a well-deserved rest. As play fizzled out, Oliver made his one and only real save of the afternoon, comfortably tipping wide a shot from an angle, with the resultant corner coming to nothing. Another game over, another welcome victory, and another clean sheet. Full-time:- 0-3.

Man of the Match:- Brad A

Taverham v Sprowston – Cup Semi-final – 28^th February 2010

It was back to the cup again this weekend, with an eagerly anticipated semi-final against Sprowston. An early afternoon kick off was the order of the day, in absolutely atrocious weather conditions.

We kicked off into the wind and driving rain, and up the slope, but the boys were straight into attacking mode. Reuben fed Brad wide, and he made a lot of ground before a good tackle led to a corner. Charlie played a nice ball in, but this was cleared by our opponents. Sprowston then broke down their left, with their attacker cutting in, but Oliver was well positioned to scoop up the cross. He immediately set Mark away with a good throw, and he found Jack, who in turn switched play wide to Stevie. He then beat his man and crossed dangerously, where the Sprowston defence again cleared well. From another Charlie corner, Stevie rose well but headed just over. Danny & Sam looked solid at the back, with Mark again in great form. The pitch was deteriorating quickly, but both teams still tried to play football. Brad again got free and crossed along the six yard box, but no-one was there to tap in. However, eventually our pressure paid off - Danny played a lovely ball up to Jack, who shielded well and moved wide right with the ball. He got past his opponent and crossed superbly where Will rose and headed expertly into the corner for a deserved one nil lead. Despite our solid possession, Sprowston did look dangerous on the break, and Oliver saved well from a shot. The resultant corner was cleared by James. We attacked again, and this time Stevie got clear but shot wide. In the conditions this was a decent game between two evenly matched teams. As the half drew to a close, both sets of players were visibly tiring on what was a quagmire of a pitch. The Sprowston keeper saved well from Will, tipping over his shot after good play from Jack. Half-time:- 1-0.

The second half began with Freddy replacing James. We were now kicking down hill with the elements behind us, and immediately went on the attack. A cross from Stevie eluded everyone. Sprowston then attacked on the counter, but Oliver was quick to sweep round and clear. Brad and Mark then combined well down the left, with Brad pulling the ball back but the danger was cleared. We now had the lion’s share of possession, but couldn’t break the Sprowston defence for the second goal we needed. Freddy intercepted well, and then went on a mazy run, ending with a cross that was cut out. Sprowston broke, but again we defended well to prevent a shot coming in. Oliver then found Mark who yet again went on a run, playing in Brad who earned a corner. Another good ball from Charlie saw a scramble in the goalmouth which was eventually cleared. From the breakaway, Sprowston played long to their attacker who showed good strength and speed, cut in from wide and hammered into the roof of the net from 25 yards for a great equaliser, Oliver having no chance. This really was game on now. We continued to dominate possession, but too often the final ball was cut out. Jack was working hard as always, and did well to make an opening but shot high. He then broke down the left, cut in, and hammered a shot just wide. A nervous 10 minutes were looming. Sprowston, on a rare break, nearly took the lead, when the attacker got clear and tried to round Oliver who superbly won the ball to save a certain goal. We attacked again, this time Danny getting forward to hammer a long shot just wide. With time running out, Sprowston played a long ball out of defence. The attacker ran on to the ball, and hammered a fantastic shot destined for the top corner, which Oliver superbly tipped over. The corner was cleared, and the referee blew the whistle for the end of normal time. Full-time:- 1-1.

Extra time began, and Stevie was replaced by James. This was not just a footballing battle now, but a battle of wills and our boys knew they had what it took. We kicked off into the elements yet again. Play was now difficult, but it was Sprowston who threatened first when the attacker wriggled free, but under pressure from Sam shot over when well placed. We then attacked, with Charlie finding Jack well. He then turned and rifled a shot which hit the keeper then the post, earning a corner. From this, we again hit the post, this time from Will after a scramble. Sprowston then attacked, but Oliver was once again up to the task, saving comfortably. As the first period drew to a close, it was still even stevens.

We turned round, and with the wind at our back finally got on top again, play virtually confined now to the Sprowston half. From a lovely ball from Mark, Jack controlled in the area and slipped when turning. However, he was quick to his feet, and somehow slotted in from an acute angle to make it 2-1. Seven minutes remained, and Stevie came back on to replace a tired Will. Sprowston were also very tired now, and no wonder after such a tough battle. Charlie knocked in a great free-kick from which we almost scored. Reuben then had a clear chance, but missed his header from a couple of yards. Freddy then set Jack free down the right, and he did well to make ground and earn a free-kick, using up valuable time. From a final Charlie kick, Reuben was on hand to nod in our third. Almost immediately the ref blew for the end – a great result after a really good battle. All credit must go to Sprowston, not only for the part they played in a great match, but also their graciousness in defeat, players, coaches and supporters alike. Final score after extra-time:- 3-1.

Men of the match - Oliver Inwards / Mark Smith

Taverham v Diss – 14^th February 2010

A bitterly cold, windless morning saw us greet Diss for our return fixture. Injuries and absence saw a major reshuffle, with Sam and Danny moving to the centre of defence and James to right back. Reuben dropped back into central midfield, with Will pushing up behind Jack.

We kicked off straight on to the attack, and the boys instinctively looked to get the ball wide to the better surface, where Brad and Stevie’s skill and pace immediately caused problems. From a lovely James pass, Stevie made ground and shot high. Then Charlie combined with Reuben, who sent a lovely ball inside the fullback to Brad, who beat another defender and crossed where Stevie again arrived late and just went too high. Charlie delivered a couple of lovely corners, the first of which saw Jack head into the side netting, the second scrambled away. From another good move involving Mark and Charlie, the ball was played to Jack who laid off for Will to strike a tremendous shot into the top corner from outside the box to make it one nil. Our opponents then enjoyed a good spell, Oliver somehow turning over a good header after good work by Diss. After weathering a brief storm, Sam and Danny gained control at the back, along with Mark and James who were both joining the attack well. Jack then cracked a long range shot against the bar, and had a free-kick well saved by the keeper, whose handling and shot-stopping were good. It was 20 minutes before we broke through again, this time Jack shooting hard and low through a crowded area, where perhaps the keeper was unsighted, for our second goal. Stevie then headed just over, and Charlie was unlucky with a shot just tipped wide by the keeper. Another lovely ball out wide by Reuben sent Stevie away, who beat his man and whipped in a cross which the onrushing Jack superbly volleyed left footed into the corner, a great team goal for number three. Jack then turned provider, whipping in a lovely far post cross which bounced high, only for Stevie to scissor kick in off the underside of the bar – a great finish to make it four. We continued to attack, but Diss held out for the whistle. Half-time:- 4-0.

We talked about maintaining shape and to keep getting wide, which the boys immediately put into action. Brad was again enjoying running with the ball, with Stevie also now coming into the game much more. Danny intercepted a through ball, and made ground before playing into Charlie, who in turn hit a delightful ball out wide for Stevie to again run forward, this time seeing his shot well saved. On the other side, Brad did similar, beating his man before crossing, but no-one able to convert. Tom came on to replace Mark, with Sam switching to left back. We continued as before, pressing for more goals. Oliver was unthreatened in our goal. Eventually persistent pressure paid off and Brad reacted quickly in a goalmouth scramble to flick in our fifth. Will then scored his second, our sixth, with a hard low finish after more good work from Reuben and Charlie in midfield. Charlie then tried his luck from distance, unlucky to just miss the angle of both post and bar. More good work from Sam and Will saw Brad sprint clear, with his shot well saved. However, Jack reacted well and slammed in a half volley from an angle for seven nil. We then put Stevie in centre midfield, moving Will out wide with Reuben having a rest, and Mark pushed up front. Mark soon saw a good effort blocked, searching for his first goal of the season.

Oliver, again talking well with little to do otherwise, threw out to Sam who immediately fed Mark, just inside his own half. He turned, beat two men and continued running with the ball. Just when you thought he would pass, he beat the final defender and now, with just the keeper to beat, coolly went round him and slid the ball into an empty net. What a way to open your account for the season! Almost immediately, Brad slammed in an excellent strike from 15 yards for our ninth. Although a bit of time remained, we were unable to score again, despite having a couple of chances, Jack memorably hammering over when well-placed. The game came to a conclusion, another 3 points from a hard fought match. Full-time:- 9-0.

Man of the Match:- Reuben W

Taverham v Lakeford – Cup Quarter Final – 7^th February 2010

After a postponement due to the bad weather, it was finally time to welcome Lakeford to East Tuddenham, for our League Cup Quarter Final clash. There had been no matches played on our pitch since before Christmas, but it was still very heavy. The weather was cold and wet.

The match began with Will and Reuben playing up front – Jack starting as sub. From kick off we started well, getting the ball wide early to Brad and Stevie who both looked dangerous. Charlie fed the ball wide to Brad, who did well to earn us a corner. From a great kick by Charlie, no-one could get their head to the ball. Stevie then got to the by-line but crossed too near the keeper. Despite the heavy pitch, both teams were looking to play. Sam and Danny then combined well to send Stevie flying down the right, and his cross flew across the six yard box with no-one able to get a touch. Lakeford then broke into our half but their long shot went well wide. Not learning from that, Lakeford then broke again through the middle, and this time we were punished by a 30 yard lob which Oliver had no chance of saving. This was the first time all season we had gone a goal down, and it was up to the boys to react positively. We continued to try and play - Will and Reuben almost combining to get through on goal. Their keeper then tipped a shot over the bar from Will, and Stevie shot high when well-placed. After 25 minutes, Jack replaced Reuben, with play mainly confined to the midfield. From another dangerous corner from Charlie, Jack saw a flick cleared off the line. The half then drew to a close without any further alarms at either end. Half time:- 0-1.

Talk at half time was all about continuing as before, and being patient. From the restart we played Brad in, who again battled well to earn another corner. Another great corner, but still we could not find a Taverham head. We kept the pressure on, and from yet another Charlie corner, Jack controlled and volleyed in one movement which the defender did well to block onto the bar for another corner. This was cleared, but we attacked again, this time Charlie seeing his drive kneed onto the bar by the keeper for another corner. Again this came to nothing. From a rare Lakeford break, they went wide and eventually shot into the side netting with Oliver comfortably covering the danger. Danny won the ball in midfield, and played a short ball to Charlie who hit a glorious long ball inside the full-back to the onrushing Stevie. He in turn smacked a vicious first time cross into the area which evaded everyone, including Jack who just could not quite reach the ball for a tap in. We were having so much of the play, but could not find the back of the neck. Was it going to be one of those days? James replaced Danny in midfield, and Reuben returned up front for Will. Dom and Freddie were dealing comfortably with the Lakeford threat, with Mark and Sam getting forward at every opportunity. Oliver was now a virtual spectator, but sweeping when needed and commanding his defence well. Another good ball in from Stevie saw Reuben challenge, with Jack the first to react and slam a shot into the back of the net. Finally, we had our deserved equaliser. It was nearly all one-way traffic now, and our boys were keeping their discipline, and continuing to search for another goal. A great move between Charlie, Dom and Sam saw the ball passed to Stevie, who lobbed a dangerous looking ball into the area. Jack had peeled away from his marker, and duly headed the ball into the back of the net to put us in the lead. Lakeford tried to respond, but with the defence looking strong, and Charlie and James in midfield, there was no way back. We continued to attack, their keeper making two more good saves from Jack after good work by Mark and Brad. We comfortably saw out the remaining few minutes, and gained a much deserved win. Full time:- 2-1.

Man of the Match:- Dom P

Hellesdon v Taverham – 24^th January 2010

After an enforced Christmas and New Year break, our first game of 2010 arrived, and saw us travel the short distance to play Hellesdon. The boys had not been idle though, and were fit and raring to go. It was a cold day, and we only had one substitute available due to other commitments.

We talked beforehand about how important it was to get into them straight from the kick off, and immediately we looked to play, and were keeping the ball well. Danny and Charlie didn’t take long to get going in midfield, and the defence were virtual spectators. Following a lovely move involving James, Charlie and Reuben, Stevie crossed for Jack who forced a good save from the keeper. From the resulting corner, Dom just failed to get in front of the defender. Sam linked well with Brad, who beat his man and crossed, and this time Danny was unlucky to see his powerful drive carry just over the bar. Hellesdon were pinned into their own half, and again we played the ball out wide, this time to Stevie, who forced a corner. Yet again we failed to score from another excellent ball in from Charlie.

After 5 minutes, Brad played a delightful ball into the left side of the area, which saw Jack swivel and shoot in one movement, the ball nestling in the far corner of the net to make it one nil. We attacked again straight from the restart, this time Stevie seeing his shot just go wide. Then from a scramble in the box, Danny was on hand to steer the ball home for our second. Almost immediately, Charlie won the ball and fed Reuben, who played the ball into Jack on the edge of the box. Again he turned his defender, this time curling a superb left foot strike into the top corner for three nil. We were totally dominant, and looking likely to score with every attack. The Hellesdon keeper was having an excellent game, and twice in succession tipped over from Sam and Charlie. He also did well to keep out a Stevie shot. From their only venture into our half, Hellesdon broke but found Oliver well positioned to clutch a tame shot. He immediately threw the ball out to Stevie, who in turn played in Jack on the overlap. Jack then laid the ball off to James who crossed superbly where Reuben was unlucky with a header, again great football. We then attacked quickly again, James playing a good ball to Reuben who volleyed first time to Stevie. Stevie in turn volleyed a great ball into the path of Brad, who finished superbly, but the goal was disallowed for offside. Two minutes later we again had the ball in the net after a flowing move involving Danny, Charlie, Stevie and Reuben, but once more the decision was offside. James then steamed in to connect with a powerful drive from which the keeper made yet another excellent save. From another left sided move involving Sam and Brad, Jack got on the end of Brad’s cross, and eventually the ball was hammered over the line by Danny for his second and our fourth. Immediately, Charlie fed Reuben who shot, bringing out another super stop by their keeper. However, Jack appeared from nowhere to gleefully hammer the ball in for his hat trick and our fifth. Right on the stroke of half time, Reuben attacked a good Charlie cross, with Sam volleying in well for another goal. Half time:- 0-6.

The second half began, with Ben coming on to replace James. We continued from where we left off, in complete control, especially in midfield, where Charlie in particular was having a great game. Brad and Stevie were constantly beating their opponents, and putting in some dangerous crosses, and we could have scored many more had the Hellesdon keeper not been in such fine form. Dom and Freddy were always looking to get involved, and behind them Oliver was talking well and sweeping on the rare occasions he was called into action. James came back on, this time into midfield, replacing Reuben, and Charlie pushed up front with Jack. James immediately won possession and released brad, who drove hard, but just wide of the far post. Brad then hit the post, the ball running across the line and out of play. Eventually we got the reward we deserved, and another lovely ball out wide from Charlie, saw Stevie beat his opponent and cross superbly for Jack, who had a simple volley for his fourth and our seventh. We carried on with our pressing game, and kept Hellesdon largely in their own half. When a long ball did catch Freddie and Dom square, Oliver was there to calmly play the ball wide to Sam. He then set off on a good run, laying the ball off to Brad who yet again got to the byline, crossed well, and this time saw a Hellesdon defender pressured into an own goal for our eighth. We reorganised again, replacing Danny with Reuben who switched with Charlie. Almost immediately, Jack laid the ball back to Reuben, who from 25 yards thundered a superb volley into the top corner for the ninth. Stevie then beat his man for the umpteenth time, and at last was rewarded when his powerful cross shot found the far corner of the net to make it ten nil. The referee actually gave us an extra goal somewhere, so although nobody knows who scored it, the official result was…Full-time:- 0-11.

Man of the Match:- Charlie G

Sprowston v Taverham – 12^th December 2009

Our final game of 2009 saw us away against Sprowston, the game taking place on a Saturday morning.  With Jack away in France, Reuben took up the main striker role, with Steve playing just behind him.  The pitch was in excellent condition, and the weather was perfect for December football.

From the kick off we immediately took control of the game, Charlie and Danny winning everything in the middle, and Stevie looking to get Will away at every opportunity. They had a couple of big lads who looked lively, but we continued to press, forcing several early corners, although these came to nothing. Charlie, Danny and Stevie all had shots which went over, while they were offering no threat to our goal - Sam, Freddie, Dom and Mark all in good form. Brad got into the game, beating his man but just unable to find a Taverham head. From a lovely move down the right, started by Oliver, through Sam then to Will, we won a throw-in deep in their half. Danny then Stevie flicked on, the ball eventually dropping to Reuben, who from an acute angle thundered a great volley into the roof of the net for a deserved 1 nil lead. Charlie then knocked in 2 more excellent corners, again none of our boys were able to capitalise. From their first break, Sprowston’s winger powered down the right, but crossed with none of their players close. We broke again, and good play from Sam and Will saw us earn a corner. Charlie again smacked in a lovely ball, and this time a defender conceded an own goal under pressure from Dom to put us 2 up. We continued to dominate, lots of good build up play, but the occasional ball being too straight and running out of play. Stevie then played a great ball out to Will who crossed only to see a defender do well to deny Reuben. Sprowston then broke, and in only their second attack of the half forced a corner from which we just about escaped, neither Oliver nor the defence being positive enough to make the ball theirs. We again attacked through Sam who was having an absolute stormer, and he beat 2 or 3 opponents before playing in Will who won a corner. This time, we attacked the ball, and Dom volleyed a stunning goal for his first of the season, 3 nil to us. We saw the half out comfortably, our opponents really on the back foot.  Half-time:- 0-3.

The second half began, and we knew we had to continue as before.  James came on to replace Reuben, with Will playing up front. We again went straight on the offensive, James starting very strongly alongside the hard working Danny. Brad was definitely in the game more now, beating his defender and crossing well with Charlie just unable to direct his shot on target. Mark was now getting forward well, joining in attack after attack along with Sam from the other full-back berth. Oliver was a virtual spectator, for the third week running. We soon made further changes, Ben on at right back, Sam moving into the middle of defence replacing Freddy, and Tom entering midfield in place of Danny.  Our pattern of play remained unchanged, Sprowston unable to get out of their half for long periods. We had a couple of shots well charged down, then Stevie broke superbly, beating three men, cut in and was very unlucky to see his shot just rise over the bar. We then swapped Tom and Sam, the latter continuing (third position of the day) to excel, dribbling well, beating two opponents then seeing an effort charged down. When the ball fell, he was very unlucky to see the keeper make a great save from his left foot volley.

We changed a few positions again, but the pattern of play remained the same, with us attacking at will.  However, it took us until 10 minutes before the end to get our fourth goal – Charlie getting on the score sheet.  Another comfortable win and clean sheet, a great end to the year.  Full-time:- 0-4.

Man of the Match:- Sam

Taverham v Lakeford – 6^th December 2009

Our last home league game of 2009, saw us entertain Lakeford.  The wet weather had played havoc with the pitch, but the game went ahead with a strong wind into the bargain.  We were almost at full strength, Danny starting as sub following his broken wrist.

Once again we made a quick start, Charlie getting a grip of midfield, and Reuben, Will, Stevie and Jack all looking a real handful for the visitors defence.  Will did well down the left and crossed, Charlie shooting just over.  Stevie then made a great run down the right having been sent away by Sam, beat two players and delivered in a good cross which saw Jack unlucky to have his shot blocked.  Dom and Freddy were in command at the back, Oliver a virtual spectator.  Stevie then played a lovely ball down the line for Jack to chase.  He outpaced the defender and sent in a lovely cross which saw Will steam in at the far post, and cleverly volley over the keeper for one nil.  We again went straight on the attack, this time Mark and Will combining to send Jack away down the left where he out muscled his defender, and shot well for the keeper to make a good save.  Oliver’s only saves were from long distance, a mark of how well the defence was playing.  James then fed Will, who played a superb one two with Reuben before cutting in and firing home his, and our second of the match.  Lakeford were then gifted a corner which came to nothing – they were still showing little going forward.  Danny replaced James in the middle, and we continued to play good football going wide.  Will and Stevie were working hard, and Jack was holding the ball up well.  Charlie then knocked in a superb corner which Stevie got on the end of, but his header was just too high.  The half came to an end with us on top looking comfortable.  Half-time:- 2-0.

The second half began, and we knew it was important to keep our concentration.  The game became a midfield stalemate, the pitch beginning to take its toll on all the boys.  We still looked to get wide, Brad coming on left side, Will replacing Reuben in the middle.  Sam set Brad away, and he did well to force a corner.  Yet again, despite a great ball in from Charlie, no-one could get their head to what was a great chance.  Charlie and Danny continued to win the midfield battle, the former playing a through ball for Jack to chase.  As the keeper came sliding out, Jack went in hard and the ball came free, where despite being held back he was strong enough to hit it in to put us 3 goals up.  We made our final change, Ben coming on to replace Sam.  The game again slowed down.  Oliver made his only save of the game deep into injury time, with Dom on hand to clear.  The ref blew for time, and another 3 points were safely in the bag.  Full-time:- 3-0.

Man of the Match:- Will M

Taverham v Jex – 29^th November 2009

Today we welcomed Jex to East Tuddenham, the team in second place behind us in the league.  The boys were expecting a tough game, but their confidence was sky high after some great results.  Again the pitch was heavy after a lot of rain.

As is normal now, we started brightly, immediately attacking down the left through Mark and Will, who clearly had the beating of the full-back.  Charlie then played a nice ball wide to Jack, who beat his defender and whipped a lovely ball across the six yard box which no-one could quite reach.  James had started really well, and fed Stevie down the right with a great ball – he crossed but again it just missed our forwards.  Jack then won a free kick 25 yards out, and was unlucky to see his curled kick hit the bar.  We were having all the play, and Jex were unable to get out of their own half.  After another lovely James ball, this time Reuben played Stevie in wide, and he returned to Reuben who slipped through for Jack to finish well over the keeper for our first goal – no more than our play deserved.  Jex were still relying on the long ball, and Oliver was sweeping well behind a comfortable looking Dom and Freddy.  We continued to press, and were looking for a second.  Will did brilliantly to beat two defenders and was through on goal.  His shot hit the side netting when a cross into the box would have been a better option.  Will then broke again, and this time his cross just eluded Stevie.  We were playing some really good football, but could not get another goal.  From a very rare break, Jex won a corner.  Despite numerous sessions on defending set plays, we again conceded when the ball floated over Oliver to an unmarked attacker, who headed home the equaliser.  A poor goal to give away.  This certainly lifted Jex, who stepped up the pace, without threatening from open play.  Oliver dealt comfortably with a couple of long range shots as the half drew to a close.  Half-time:- 1-1.

As in all the big games this season, when the pressure is on, the boys are not found lacking.  Dom and Freddy were looking strong now, with Oliver talking well and sweeping when required.  Almost immediately, a great ball from Will sent Jack clean through on goal.  He shot with his left foot, which brought a smart save from the keeper who then reacted to Jack’s follow-up with a fantastic stop.  Unluckily for him though, the ball fell to Will, who finished well with his left foot from an angle.  Mark and Sam were now getting forward more from full-back, which was good to see.  From our next attack, Sam fed Stevie who curled a lovely ball into Jack.  With the big defender tight to him, Jack turned well and hammered home a superb shot from outside the box to make it three one.  We really were playing well now.  Brad came on to replace the hard working James, with Stevie moving into central midfield.  He immediately broke down the right, earning a corner.  Yet another superb ball from Charlie went begging – still a disappointing facet of our game.  Sam then fed Brad who took on a couple of defenders, cut in onto his left, and unleashed a great left foot strike which was destined for the top corner until their keeper again somehow saved at the expense of a corner.  We were totally dominant now, and from our next break Jack was set free by Dom, and saw his shot well saved, however Reuben was there to quickly hammer home our fourth.  We continued to press, and with Jex now losing their discipline, we were looking for more goals.  On a very rare break, their attacker was through, but shot straight at a well positioned Oliver.  Jack then forced the keeper into another superb save, again somehow reaching the ball and tipping it round for a corner, which came to nothing.  Oliver then made a good diving save, with Mark helping to clear the danger well.  Straight back on the attack, Jack forced another excellent stop from the keeper.  With time running out, and all the boys understandably tiring on such a heavy pitch, play slowed.  From a Jex cross, we again stood rooted to the spot to allow another free header which again resulted in a goal from a set play, definitely something that needs working on.  Time ran out, and we had emerged deservedly victorious after a good battle.  Full time:- 4-2.

Man of the Match:- The Whole Team!

Taverham v Harling – CUP – 22^nd November 2009 

After a bye in the first round, today saw us taking part in the League Cup, at home against Harling. The pitch was in better condition this time round, having been treated to a ‘trim’ midweek, and luckily the rain kept away whilst the boys were playing. Danny was absent having broken his wrist, with Charlie replacing him in the centre of midfield.

Straight from kick off Harling launched the ball long, where Sam cleared with his head. Immediately we attacked, Charlie setting Stevie free down the right. His great cross somehow eluded all our onrushing attackers. We had to be wary of their quick and strong centre forward who looked capable although lacking any support. Just 5 minutes had passed when Mark fed James, who then played a nice ball out to Will, who cut in and hit a shot which the keeper couldn’t keep out for one nil. We again attacked, and this time Stevie shot just over. At the other end, their forward outpaced Freddie but Oliver narrowed the angle well to save for a corner, which came to nothing. Straight on the attack again, this time we had a goal to show for more good play, as Jack G smacked in a rebounded shot from Will. We were already very dominant, all the play in their half, and it was no surprise when after a couple of close shaves we scored again. This time, Jack G timed his run perfectly onto a lovely ball from James, and without breaking stride hammered into the far corner from outside the box for 3 nil. Oliver then caught well from a corner, immediately setting Mark away with a good throw. He fed Will who after receiving the ball back from Reuben, beat his defender and crossed, forcing the keeper to make a good save, before Stevie hammered home with his left foot to make it 4. We now made several changes, Ben on at right back, Brad on right wing and Jack L into midfield for Mark, Freddie and Charlie respectively. As half time approached it really was one way traffic, and Jack G netted his hat-trick and our fifth with a good finish, beating two men and finding the top corner from an angle. Brad completed the first half scoring, Will sending Jack G away down the left who cut in and crossed for Brad to tap in. Half-time:- 6-0.

After an excellent first half performance, it was important that we continued in the same vein at the start of the second half. Dom was now getting the ball down well and joining the attacks, and we went close again through Stevie and Brad, and then Will was unlucky not to score after cutting in well. We brought Freddie, Mark and Charlie back on, and continued the assault on Harling’s goal. Play was being spread well from flank to flank, both Brad and Will still looking strong and dangerous. Oliver then cleared long, which saw Jack G beat the defender and keeper to the ball only to see his lob just miss the far post. Charlie then shot from distance as we looked to score again. On a very rare Harling foray into our half, Oliver almost got caught in 2 minds, but eventually took the ball safely. Mark was still combining well with Will, as were Ben and Brad on the right. Eventually our pressure told, and Jack G headed our seventh, just reward for the continuous pressure we had applied. We went close again on two or three occasions, but could manage only one more goal - Jack G beating Reuben in a race to the ball and hammering home – his 5^th, our 8^th. A really fantastic, all round team performance, to see us in the draw for the next round.  Full-time:- 8-0.

Man of the Match:- Mark S

Taverham v Norman – 15^th November 2009

Today saw us entertain Norman at East Tuddenham.  Thankfully it was a dry and bright day, although the heavy rain had left the pitch in a really poor condition. 

We kicked off in a positive mood, and immediately tried to go forward. It was clear from the early stages that Norman were determined to give us a game, with their defence getting stuck in. Sam played a lovely ball wide to Stevie who galloped down the wing but couldn’t pull the ball back. We were trying to play football, but the pitch was making this difficult. Will and Mark then combined well down the left to set Jack free, he turned his defender and was unlucky to see his shot hit the far post. However, he was very alert, and beat the keeper to the rebound, where the ball fell for Stevie to tap in for one nil. Oliver was commanding play from his area, and was then called on to make his only save of the game, tipping round a good shot from the Norman forward. We immediately went on the attack again, with the ball being played forward - Jack was strong against 2 defenders, eventually being brought down on the edge of the box.  From the free-kick he rifled one in to the top corner to put us 2 goals up. Sam was playing really well, as was Dom, and we were attacking at will. With 10 minutes of the half remaining, Charlie came on to replace Freddy, with Danny dropping back into defence. We straight away attacked again, and this time Reuben smacked home our third. Norman were defending for their lives, many times throwing themselves in the way of goal-bound efforts, with the keeper in particular having a great game. We continued to attack, and time and again Norman managed to deflect the ball away from their goal which was under siege. Half time:- 3-0.

Brad came on for Stevie, and Ben for Danny who had hurt his wrist at the end of the first half. Sam moved into the centre of the defence. We continued in the same vein from kick off, determined to add to our tally. Will was linking well down the left with Mark, and getting to the by-line well. Jack was working hard up front, holding the ball up well and switching play whenever possible. Brad immediately came into the game, getting past his defender and crossing well, where Reuben was unlucky to see yet another shot blocked. From a great Charlie corner Reuben headed but was foiled by the keeper, who also then saved well with his legs from Brad. Charlie was really having an impact with his range of passing, and was unlucky to see a goal-bound effort yet again blocked by a Norman defender. From only their second attack of the game, Norman broke and Oliver did well to narrow the angle, forcing the forward to shoot wide of the near post. We went straight back to the other end, where Reuben headed in after superb cross-field play from Will and Brad to make it 4 nil. Stevie then replaced Jack, with Freddy returning in the middle, Sam going to left back with Mark coming off.  Stevie fed Brad, and received a return ball, cut in and cracked a shot which the keeper saved superbly with his legs. More excellent play from Will, then Jack who switched to Brad, saw Reuben smack a header towards the top corner where, just as we were all about to applaud an excellent goal their keeper somehow flew across his line making a fantastic save at full stretch. We then made our final changes, Jack replacing Reuben and Mark coming on as a straight swap for James. We continued to use the wide balls well, with only the final ball lacking, understandably so on such a poor pitch. With time running out, Will headed well to score our fifth goal. Jack went close, again the keeper saving well. Sam then opened his account for the season, heading in well from another excellent corner from Charlie. He then almost added his second immediately, hitting the bar with a delightful lob-volley from outside the box with the keeper beaten this time. We continued attacking right to the end, but were defied time and again by the excellent goalkeeper and his committed defenders. Full-time:- 6-0.

Man of the Match:- Dom P

Taverham v Mulbarton – 8^th November 2009

The rest of November sees all our matches at home, and today we played Mulbarton for the second time this season.  Thankfully after last week, it was dry, although the ground was heavy under foot.

Straight from kick off we were on the attack. James and Danny combined well to set Stevie free down the right. He sped past his full-back and crossed just too deep for Will. After more good work down the right, involving Sam, Stevie again raced clear, looked up and found Jack in the middle, who hammered home for the first goal.  Dom and Freddie along with Sam were looking strong, although the Mulbarton attacker looked clever without any support. Another good move, this time down the left, saw Will cut in and just fail to find a forward. Will then broke again, and this time Stevie controlled at the far post and blasted into the far corner for our second. Almost immediately we attacked again, Danny & James combining well with Reuben, with the ball eventually falling for Jack to again finish well for our third. As has happened before this season, we dropped our concentration at the back, Mark getting caught the wrong side of his attacker, and Oliver’s hesitation resulting in the forward lobbing well to make it 3-1. We then won a corner, and when the ball returned to Charlie he whistled a superb ball to the back post where Jack was unlucky to see his reaction header fly just wide.  After 20 minutes, and with Mark out of sorts today, we put Sam at left back and brought on Ben at right back. We continued attacking, Stevie looking particularly dangerous with his speed and work-rate down the right. From another cross, Reuben was on hand to make it 4 with a well-placed shot. Yet another Stevie cross then found Will at the far post for number 5. Danny and James were really enjoying the midfield battle and were linking well with each other and the front lads, playing good football on a poor surface.  As the first half ended, Jack was on hand again to rifle home our sixth for his hat-trick.  Half-time:- 6-1.

The start of the second half saw us carry on where we left off, with a couple of changes – Charlie and Tom coming on for Reuben and Freddy.  Immediately James fed Stevie with a lovely ball out wide. For the umpteenth time, he beat his opponent and crossed superbly, and Danny was unlucky to see his header fly just too high. Will was now more in the game, being fed well by Sam and Danny. James continued to impress with his tackling and running with the ball, continually finding the impressive Stevie, and  from another run and superb cross, the keeper somehow managed to keep out a Will volley at the far post. We then brought off Danny, dropped Charlie back into the midfield, and Reuben again went on behind Jack. Play was again building well down the left, and when the ball broke 25 yards out, Charlie hit a speculative shot which just evaded the keeper for our seventh. Mulbarton never gave up, and their striker continued to impress with his running ability with the ball on the few occasions he received it. Twice he cut in from the left, and was unlucky to see no-one on the end of his cross, then to see Oliver comfortably save at the near post.  James played the ball out left to Will, who got his head up and fed Jack on the edge of the box. With support at hand, Jack cleverly turned his defender and smacked a great left-footer into the far top corner for our eighth, another well-worked team goal. Danny and James both let fly from distance, and their keeper was doing well to keep us out. Charlie was then unlucky to see a snap shot just go wide, while Will rose really well to meet a terrific corner from Charlie, and flick a header goal wards which was somehow cleared off the line.  Stevie then yet again galloped down the right, and this time cut in to smash home his second of the game, really well deserved. Will then rose well yet again from a Stevie cross, and was this time rewarded with a good headed goal. Shortly before the end, Jack received another good through ball from Charlie and completed the scoring with our twelfth and his sixth, two double hat-tricks in successive games.  Full-time:- 12-1.

Man of the Match:- James S.

Rocklands v Taverham – 1^st November 2009

After a couple of home games, it was time for us to travel to Rocklands, for our away fixture against the newly promoted side.  A good pitch greeted us, but also atrocious weather, heavy rain and a blustery wind signalling winter’s arrival.

Straight from kick off, with the elements in our favour, we attacked their goal. The keeper made a couple of good early saves, but was powerless after 4 minutes when Jack drove in a rebound after a good shot from Brad. Almost immediately Rocklands broke, and a long ball saw their tall striker outpace our defence down the right. He cut in and shot from an angle, and somehow found the corner of the net to equalise. It would be interesting to see our reaction now, and as expected we went straight up the other end, where Jack looked as though he was fouled in the area, but got up, swivelled and hit a tremendous shot over the keeper from an angle to restore our lead.  It really was one way traffic now, Dom & Freddie recovering their poise following the Rocklands goal, and along with Mark and Sam dominating the battle and joining in the forward play of the team. Danny & James were really covering the ground well in midfield, also getting forward to both have shots. From a good ball into the box from Brad, Danny got his head to the ball to make it 3. It was now a case of keeping up the disciplined football, and not trying to do too much.  From almost our next attack, Freddie won the ball on the half way line and beat two men before firing a superb shot over the keepers head, maybe via a tiny deflection, for our fourth. Sam was getting forward well and linking superbly with Stevie, who was constantly getting past his full back and making dangerous crosses. From a well worked move involving Sam, Stevie and Jack, Reuben was there to slot the ball home, for five. Rocklands were struggling, albeit against the wind and rain, to make any impression now, although they battled manfully on. Oliver rolled the ball to Sam, who in turn found Danny, who played the ball wide to Stevie. Stevie then made ground and finished emphatically for our sixth. Despite the conditions, the football being played was of the highest order. A lovely through ball behind the defence from James saw Jack react quickest, and he rounded the keeper for his hat-trick and our seventh. Then, on half time, Reuben headed in well to score number eight.  Half-time:- 1-8.

We would be kicking into the elements now, so the defence and Oliver needed to be aware of this. Ben came on for Sam at right back, with Will replacing Brad on the left. Straight from kick off we returned to the offensive, Mark linking well with Will who was unlucky not to get on the end of a one two with Reuben. Stevie continued to work hard down the right, and Ben was feeding him well. The Rocklands keeper made a couple of good saves, but we also fell into the trap of trying to shoot from anywhere. Once we regained our composure, the flowing football returned, and from another goalmouth scramble Jack was on-hand to smash in his fourth and our ninth, getting there just ahead of a waiting Will. Danny and James were loving the midfield battle, and were constantly driving at the Rocklands defence. Both went close from distance, as did Stevie. Reuben was then on hand from a corner to net his hat-trick, our tenth. As requested, the boys were still competing and playing great football, with Oliver a spectator. Mark was coming more and more into the game, and several times set Will free down the left. Will was now getting into his stride, and after a great one two with Jack calmly finished at the near post for the eleventh. Another nice ball into Jack from Dom saw Jack spread the play wide to Will, who beat his man, got his head up and returned the ball to Jack who turned his man and finished superbly left-footed into the top corner for our twelfth. Almost immediately, another break by Mark & Will saw the ball with Jack, who was fouled in the area for a penalty. All the boys immediately called for Oliver to come and take it, which he duly dispatched for our thirteenth. As time wore on, we continued to play great football. Sam returned at left back for Mark, and Brad came on on the right with Stevie switching to the centre for Reuben. Almost immediately though Stevie suffered a knock, so Reuben returned to the fray. Moving into the last 10 minutes, we still went forward relentlessly, and after good work down the left by Sam, Will struck his second and our fourteenth. Will then went on to complete his hat-trick following another goalmouth scramble, with Jack completing the scoring near the end, his sixth and our sixteenth. With Oliver freezing from standing around, he and Freddie swapped places for the final 5 minutes. Freddie was tested immediately, and caught well. He then came sliding out like a seasoned keeper and won the ball at the feet of an attacker. Oliver slotted in seamlessly at centre back.  A resounding victory against opponents who fought to the end. The football played in the conditions was excellent.  Full-time:- 1-16.

Man of the Match:- Jack G.

Taverham v Thorpe – 25^th October 2009

Another big test today saw us entertain the reigning champions. We were almost at full strength, Tom the only absentee.  A fine, dry, autumn day greeted us, perfect for football.

Straight from kick off, the boys were into their stride, forcing Thorpe onto the defensive. With Charlie and Danny dominating in the middle, Stevie and Brad were seeing lots of the ball down either wing. Stevie raced past his opponent and put in a great cross which we couldn’t convert. Brad also got to the by-line, again just failing to find a forward.

Stevie then played Jack in out wide, he beat his defender and put in a great cross from which Charlie was unlucky to see his shot go just wide. Jack then beat two defenders and delayed to see his shot charged down for a corner. Thorpe were struggling to get out of their own half.

Another good ball from Danny saw Stevie beat his opponent yet again and cut in, hitting a fierce shot which the goalkeeper saved well, however, Jack was first to react and hammered the ball home for a deserved lead. Almost immediately, Brad played a lovely ball to Reuben whose shot was again very well saved by the keeper. Jack then had a header cleared off the line from a corner.

At the other end, the defence was dealing well with the little Thorpe were offering. However, from a breakaway, a cross came in leaving the forward with a free header, he hit the bar and then headed again unchallenged to level the score. Yet another poor goal to concede.  Half-time:- 1-1.

The second half saw a more even start than the first, although again we looked dangerous going forward. Mark was getting better as the game wore on, making numerous interceptions then bringing the ball forward well. Sam, Dom & Freddie were also strong and in control. Danny was now looking much more central to the play, winning the ball and using it well, next to Charlie who was really dominating things. Reuben and Jack continued to work hard up front.

Stevie broke down the right for the umpteenth time, and shot just wide. Thorpe broke and Freddie got caught the wrong side of his opponent, but Mark made a great tackle to clear the danger. From the corner, Dom headed clear to Brad who played a lovely ball down the line to Jack. He in turn turned well, and played a lovely ball out wide to Stevie who ran clear of his defender yet again. This time he cut in and hit a fierce shot which the keeper let in at his near post, 2-1 to us. A really well worked, fast moving goal.

Brad was injured, so Will took his place. We still felt we needed another to settle the boys. This nearly came when Stevie again got past his defender and this time, instead of shooting pulled the ball across to Jack who shot over from a good position.

We moved into the last quarter of the game, with play becoming more even again. Thorpe created a couple of half chances with intelligent through balls.  Oliver made a great save from a fierce shot, and the defence were alert to clear the danger – Sam stopping it from crossing the line. Thorpe then won a free kick 30 yards out. The ball was chipped into the box and amazingly our defence froze as three forwards found themselves clear on goal. A forward got there before Oliver, but lifted his shot over the bar, which was a real let off.

Mark then played a nice ball out wide to Jack who did well to hold it up and win a corner. Charlie swung in a beautiful corner which swirled into the net with the keeper under pressure, our 3^rd goal. We dealt comfortably with the match in the last minutes, and we had beaten yet another team we had not beaten before.  Full-time:- 3-1.

Man of the Match:- Freddy S

Taverham v Hellesdon – 18^th October 2009

Finally, we got to play our first home match of the season.  With the boys all recovering from their assorted knocks, our only absentees were Jack G who was with the Academy, and Mark who called off at the last minute.   Jack L, Tom and Stevie started as subs.

Hellesdon kicked off, but straight away it was our boys that were on the offensive, looking to capitalise on the fact that the visitors had suffered a couple of heavy defeats.  Sam and Brad linked well down the left, which ended up with Will scuffing his shot when well placed.  We took the lead early on, Will crossing the ball to leave Brad with a simple tap in.  Charlie soon made it 2, following some great work by Reuben.  We were totally dominant, and Reuben again got the ball through to Charlie, whose shot went just over.  Danny and James were very strong in the centre, and this was enabling some good football to be played.  Sam and Brad continued to combine well, and Charlie again got involved to lay off the ball to James who shot powerfully wide.  We were having all the possession, and it was no surprise when Reuben made it 3 nil, after a great cross from Brad.  Stevie and Tom came on to replace James and Will just before half time, which came with us 3 goals ahead, and in total command.  Half-time:- 3-0.

It was carry on as before at the start of the second half.  Stevie was looking good down the right, and a great cross resulted in a corner for us.  Charlie swung the ball in, but nobody could get their head on it.  We then got our fourth, Stevie capitalising on a defensive mix up to put the ball in the net.  Reuben hit a powerful free kick which came back off the wall.  Time to change things around, and Will, James and Jack L replaced Ben, Freddy and Brad.  On the few occasions Hellesdon made it into our half, the defence was strong, and Oliver was largely redundant.  Stevie had a shot that looped over the top of the goal, and Danny shot over from another Charlie corner.  Jack L shot well from a Stevie cross, and James did well which resulted in Will hitting a fantastic volley which deserved a goal.  The Hellesdon keeper was playing well, and made a couple of great saves from Charlie and Reuben.  Sam headed wide from another corner.  The 5^th goal came from Will, although it may have come off a Hellesdon player.  Hellesdon were awarded a free kick when Oliver clipped their striker just outside the box, but this came to nothing.  With the Hellesdon players tiring, and their heads dropping, it was always likely that we would increase our goals tally, and we scored 3 goals late on, via Charlie, Stevie and Reuben. Full time:- 8-0.

Man of the Match:- Charlie G

Diss v Taverham – 11th October 2009

Straight from the kick off we were having most of the play.  The midfield were looking busy, and from a Reuben throw, Jack G crossed to Will whose shot went across the goal with no-one to finish it off.  With the pitch being small, a big kick from Olly saw Jack G hit a shot which flew over the bar.  On a rare attack, Diss were awarded a free kick, but this was headed wide.  We continued with our pressure, and from a Charlie corner Jack G scored with his right foot to put us one up.  Straight away Diss equalised, a defensive mix up between Olly, Dom and Freddy gifting them the opportunity. 

It wasn’t to be long before we took the lead again, this time Reuben scoring following another long kick from Olly.  The midfield was battling well, with Will and Reuben combining especially well.  Ben came off to be replaced by James, who slotted in at right back.  From a Jack G cross, Brad hit a shot which the keeper did well to keep out.  The resulting corner saw Jack G hit a powerful shot over the bar.  We were having periods of good pressure, and Reuben headed the ball just over before Brad scored to make it 3.  After this, Will made a strong run down the right, and Danny put the ball just wide, and Charlie had a shot on goal saved.  Half time score:- 1-3.

It was carry on as before at the start of the second half, and following some good work from Jack G, Danny made it 4-1 to us.  It really was all Taverham now, Charlie had a shot cleared off the line, and Jack G took the ball round the keeper but was unable to finish.  At the other end, Diss shot wide, before they managed to score a second goal – their striker doing well and staying strong to put the ball in the net.

Other than the two goals they scored, Diss were very rarely troubling the defence, and it was no surprise that our good play continued.  Dom and Reuben combined well and Jack G hit a shot over, Brad headed wide, and a Danny shot was well saved by the Diss keeper.  Our fifth goal came from Will, a good finish following great work from Jack G and Danny.  Ben came back on to replace Reuben, with Will now playing up front.

One of the Diss defenders took the ball off Brad as he was about to fire in a shot.  Will took the corner, and Charlie put the ball in the back of the net to make it six.  There were some borderline offside decisions which on another day might have gone our way.  Great play from Jack G saw Mark have a shot.  We then had a series of corner, most of which came to nothing, apart from one which saw Jack G hit a powerful shot wide.  Diss had a couple of late flurries into our half, but Freddy tackled well under pressure, and Olly made a good save late on.  Final score:- 2-6.

Man of the Match:- Dom P

Old Catton v Taverham 4th October 2009

Yet another away, afternoon fixture this time at Catton.  With no rain to speak of, the pitch was again bone hard, although the day itself was pleasantly sunny.  We had lots of changes, due to various injuries and absentees, and the boys knew they would be in for a battle against Catton who are always big and strong.

Straight from the kick off we exerted pressure in their half.  The game was being played at a frenetic pace, and with the hard pitch, good football was very difficult.  Dom and Tom looked comfortable in open play, but from a corner, Catton utilised their superior height and Oliver had to make a good save high to his left.  We then built well down the left, Mark finding Brad who was unlucky to see a good cross cut off by their keeper.  Jack G and Reuben were linking well together, but the surface was seeing the balls carry through to the keeper on numerous occasions.  Catton again threatened from a corner, this time heading over when well placed.  After 20 minutes, Jack G quickly closed down their defender, nicked the ball off him and ran into the penalty area, finishing well with a firm strike to give us a deserved lead.  Catton made a rare attack down the left, crossed into the 6 yard box where the attacker looked to have slipped.  Amazingly, the referee pointed to the spot, and although getting close, Oliver couldn’t quite reach the well placed penalty kick.  We went straight on the offensive, with Will and Brad both working hard.  From a Freddy throw, Reuben flicked on to Jack G, who back heeled superbly into the net to make it 2-1 to us.  Soon after, Jack G latched onto a lovely through ball from Charlie, cut in on the left, but fired the ball just past the far post.  Half time:- 1-2.

The second half kicked off, and the game fell into a predominately midfield battle.  Mark and Charlie were coping well, and with Dom and Tom now winning more of the aerial battle, we were looking comfortable.  Jack G sent Will away, but the linesman flagged despite Will being in his own half when the ball was played.  Catton had a couple of long shots which were deflected for corners, but our boys had listened well at half time, were all making good headers clear.  We still continued to look dangerous at the other end, but the pitch made constructive football difficult.  As a team we were competing really well, with Catton unable to make real progress, other than from long throws or the occasional corner.  Towards the end, Brad and Mark combined well to set Jack G free down the left.  He skipped past a defender and headed for goal.  He passed to the onrushing Will, who was unlucky to see the ball bobble at the crucial moment.  Play became fairly midfield based after that, and with no further scares, we saw out the game for our first victory against Catton since playing 11 a side football.  Full time:- 1-2.

Man of the Match:- Jack G

Dereham v Taverham – 20th September 2009  

It was another warm September morning, for our away fixture against Dereham.  Other commitments meant only 11 boys were available, so we had no subs.

Before the game we talked about getting into them from the first whistle, and straight from kick off the boys got into their stride.  The defence were commanding and determined, and Danny and Stevie were running things in midfield.  With Jack and Reuben both looking sharp up front, it was only a matter of time before we took the lead.  From an excellent flowing move, Jack went clear of the defence and made it 1-0 with his left foot.  Almost immediately, a great Reuben flick from a long kick by Oliver put Jack clear again, but this time he rushed his shot and the keeper saved.  As was to be expected, Dereham retaliated, and Oliver tipped the ball onto the post from their first foray into our half.  They looked threatening down the left, but we were defending well and not giving them an inch.  They did put the ball in the back of the net, but it was disallowed for offside.  Will and Jack were sending in some dangerous balls which Dereham were struggling to deal with.  As half time approached, it seemed only a matter of time before we scored again, but it wasn’t to be.  Half time:- 0-1.

At the start of the second half, Will was finding more space out wide.  Dom and Freddy continued to dominate along with Sam and Ben.  From a well worked move between Danny and Stevie, Jack raced clear, but hit his shot straight at the keeper, earning a corner.  We failed to get on the end of a great ball in.  We were making lots of chances, but not capitalising on them, and there was always the danger that Dereham would get back into the game.  Oliver made a good one on one save, and Dereham had a good 10 minute spell without creating much.  Danny and Brad were suffering with injuries, but with no subs had to struggle on.  A brilliant back heel from Reuben saw Jack in the middle of the goal, just 10 yards out.  Amazingly, he blasted over the bar when it seemed easier to score.  Stevie then went on a great run, but was fouled on the edge of the box.  Another great ball in saw a superb opportunity wasted.  Just when we thought it was going to be one of those days, Reuben scored when the stand in keeper made an error, two nil and totally deserved.  We continued to dominate and create chances, but were unable to score again.  At the other end we defended superbly on the rare occasions they threatened, and restricted them to long shots.  Right on time their winger got free, but Oliver stood tall and parried away well.  Final score:- 0-2.

Man of the Match:- Sam J