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Second XI
Old Esthamians 1 Winchmore Hill 2
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Tuesday 14 April
With Manager Jack Newton absent (occupied
with the only thing in his life more important than football) it
fell to skipper Tim Corrick to organise the team. As a result, the
Hill fielded what is best described as a scratch side, which
included a few debutants, several youngsters and only 2 defenders.
The first half saw little quality and was
a relatively even affair which ended goalless.
Old Esthamians scored early in the second
period after a quickly taken free-kick caught Griff by surprise.
The Hill responded excellently and showed
real character to get back in the game. The youngsters were key to
the comeback. Steve scored from inside the box to level things up
and with about ten minutes to go Joe Bennis struck a great shot from
the edge of the box to give Hill the lead and ultimately the 3
points.
In the circumstances this was a really
good win with some impressive performances from the kids.
Winchmore Hill 1 HSBC 5
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 18 April
As the season draws to a close your correspondent has decided to
share a few of the management lessons necessary for a successful
season in the SAL.
•
Establish a settled side
•
Never ever change the back 4
•
Distribute the organisational tasks
•
Establish effective communication links.
On
Saturday we played HSBC at Firs Farm. The game was truly awful;
Winchmore fielded 11 players who were exposed easily by a tough,
uncompromising Bank side. 3 of the players were unfit to play, 2 are
no where near the required standard and the others played poorly.
Paul Naylor decided to mark his annual retirement with a tremendous
strike on the volley, a goal that proved to be a false dawn masking
a dreadful team performance.
The Reserves are a pale shadow of the buccaneering side that
dominated early season, the challenge is to ensure the squad
demonstrates greater resilience next year.
Now for the champions...
6 changes tomorrow
2 changes in the back 4
Must remember the balls
Got to get the kit off the line
What was the number of that bloke from the 4s?
Old Owens 2 Winchmore Hill 1
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Tuesday 7 April
After
the disappointment of Saturdays result against HSBC another changed
lined up arrived at Owens in a more relaxed frame of mind. In came
Broad, Brenan, Bennis and Bell to strengthen the line up. Louis made
his debut at Left back as well.
The twos started well and playing against the wind tried to get the
ball down and play some decent football. Owens had a strong line up
and even had a first teamer or two in the squad!
Unfortunately against the run of play Owens opened the scoring after
a speculative shot from outside the box flew into Griffs top corner.
1-0
We continued to pass the ball well and the usual sense of panic
appeared to have disappeared. For some reason Owens keeper picked up
a back pass and Newton taking the kick quickly presented Bennis with
an open goal, unfortunately the ball bobbled (that’s what he says)
and he smashed it over the bar.
So into the second half and the Hill were still looking the better
side. Broad was killing the Owens full back but that goal just would
not come. The final nail into the seasons coffin was a rare Owens
break which led to a low cross and Kokkinos shin padding the ball
past Griff,
2-0.
It gets worse! With about 30 mins to go Cooky was caught with a
stray arm and the smallest cut in the world on his nose produced
more blood then a Spanish bull fight! It was also probably broken so
he left the pitch leaving us down to 10 men.
This however seemed to spur us on and within a few minutes Broad had
struck a post from a header, other crosses and shots had come close
to getting us back into the game.
Finally a breakthrough, a penalty was awarded and Broad placed it
home. 2-1
Time though had run out and we were left with another defeat albeit
a much improved performance from everybody.
HSBC 4 Winchmore Hill 0
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 4 April
After
the great result against Polytechnic spirits were high on the way to
down to HSBC.
Again hit by numerous changes I think the line up was Griff, Steve,
Joe, Cookie, and John Hallam midfield four of Kokkinos, Mark Ogunwe
Tim Corrick and a young Redbridge trialist, and up top Gyles and
Newton. Joel was our one and only sub.
With the pitches looking as amazing as always there appeared no
reason why we could not carry on the recent run of good form.
Somebody obviously forgot to tell HSBC, who for 80 mins destroyed
our hopes of staying in the title race. For the first 10 mins the
twos looked pretty good, keeping the ball well and Gyles going very
close to opening the scoring.
From there it all went wrong, a hopeful cross was controlled well by
the HSBC striker and his shot was right in the corner giving Griff
no chance. 1-0
The score stayed the same and we started the second half desperate
for a chance to get back into the game. A break forward was just one
pass short of putting Kokkinos through on goal, 20 seconds later we
were 2-0 down. Somehow the big number 9 picked up the ball on the
left wing ran the entire half of our pitch and placed the ball home.
Poor defending can be the only answer.
As we pushed on to salvage something HSBC punished us by scoring
another two and a deflated team were left to think about what could
have been. Good luck to HSBC in their battle for survival. And fair
play to the oppos centre half ‘Woody’ who not only played well, also
managed to organise the HSBC subs to look after his 7mth old baby
son! Naylor, Newton and Hackworthy take note!!
To be fair to everyone the effort put in by the side was not at
fault. Not taking our chances and what appears to be the inability
to come back from a goal down has been the weak point of the side
this year. On top of that constant changes in the line up has made
it an impossible job for Newton. Beating the top sides in the league
has unfortunately not been enough to keep the title hunt alive. The
ability and spirit to battle out results against the so called
weaker sides is needed for this squad to advance.
Winchmore Hill 4 Polytechnic 2
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 28 March
An excellent performance got Hill’s season back on track and put a
dent in Poly’s title aspirations. Rafa “don’t talk about last week”
Newton welcomed back Cooke, Ogunwe and Kokkinos and gave a debut at
right-back to Cookie’s 17 year-old brother John Hallett. Still
missing were G (golfer’s flu), Naylor (babysitting/groin), Steve
(preparing for his first legal binge drink), McHale (lost on the
tube?) and Taylor (hamstring).
Hill started strongly, denying Poly time, winning the 50-50s and
passing well. This time though, they also took their chances. After
five minutes, the excellent Hallett whipped a cross to the back post
where Newton headed well into the bottom corner with the keeper only
able to parry the ball into the net. Within minutes, the Hill’s
pressing again unsettled the right side of Poly’s defence. Gyles
chased a bad back pass and after a scramble with the keeper, flicked
the ball across the unguarded goal. Kokkinos, unlike Lineker in
Mexico 86, didn’t worry about a possible collision with the post,
and dived in to head home.
Hill were off to a flyer and Poly were stunned. Newton was having
one of his best games of the season holding up the ball and laying
it easy to the supporting midfield who then looked to utilise Gyles’
pace. Bell was beating the right-back with ease and new signing
Ogunwe, playing only his second game in two years, was driving
strongly from centre-midfield. After 25 minutes, Hill got a deserved
and excellent third. Newton flicked on a throw-in just inside the
Poly half, Gyles collected, turned and slipped a perfect ball inside
the right-back to Jamie ‘Tequila’ Bell who drilled home first-time.
Poly then came into the game as their forwards dropped deep, but
most of their attempted through balls were intercepted by the solid
Hill defence. The rotund striker’s frustration showed as he
performed an embarrassing (slow) dive on the edge of the area, but
was laughed off by the ref. He made amends a few minutes later with
a strong diving header after Poly had made space too easily for the
cross. There were still time in the first half for Poly to have a
goal ruled out for offside after a mishit shot was collected and
buried from close range.
The pattern of the second half was Poly possession interspersed by
Hill counter-attacks (one of which saw Gyles turn his defender with
a sublime piece of chest control). Most of Poly’s play came in front
of the Hill defence, usually through the number 10 who, seemingly
oblivious to his team’s losing predicament, seemed more focused on
how many times he could feature in next week’s Soccer AM Showboat!
Poly had a few well-hit shots but Griff’s handling was excellent,
while Hackworthy and Cooke were soaking up the pressure. One counter
saw Ogunwe break and play a clever through ball to Newton who
volleyed into the bottom corner while Poly stood appealing for
offside. With about 15 to go, the new Poly right-back cut in
unchallenged and drilled a good left-foot shot into the bottom
corner to keep the game alive. Fair play to Poly, who never gave up
and finished with four upfront leaving their defence one on one with
Newton and sub Louie, who was denied twice by the keeper in the
closing stages.
So Hill maintained their 100% record against the league’s top three
teams; dropped points against the lower teams have proved costly,
but with the same attitude, teamwork and performance this can be
rectified next week against cash-strapped HSBC.
Winchmore Hill 0 Carshalton 5
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 21 March
Losing 5 - 0 at home does not merit a report; it requires a
response. Your correspondent guarantee it.
Carshalton deserved to win 10 - 0; Winchmore Hill deserved Porthcawl.
DO NOT ask me ANY more questions about the game.
(Carshalton Report) Compares Jack to Phil Mitchell...
West Wickham 1 Winchmore Hill 1
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 14 March
There is nothing worse then when what is (on paper) a very good draw
actually feels like a defeat! The twos were left with that feeling
after Wickham grabbed a last minute equaliser on Saturday.
Shock horror!! Not as many changes to the side this week. Joe
Taylor, Chris McHale, and Paul Naylor are still out injured. Back
came Jamie Bell, not AWOL anymore!!! and there was a debut for Mark
Ogunwe (still feeling it in his legs 5 days later).
Keeping with 4-4-2 the line up was Griff, G, Joe Hackworthy, Adam
Cook and Alan as a back four, midfield four of Tony Kok, Tim Corrick,
Mark Ogunwe and Jamie Bell leaving Jack and Keith Gyles up front.
The Hill made their best start to a game since before Christmas.
Short, quick passing, plenty of movement and a much-improved general
attitude saw us dominate the first 25 mins. Though no great chances
were made we were well in control and looking very much the
favourites.
Wickham are however one of the strongest teams in this league and
they soon got back into the game, catching the Hill on the break and
creating a couple of very good chances. Unfortunately for Wickham
there big number 9 (AKA John Carew) was unable to hit the target
when given two clear opportunities from a maximum of 6 yards!!
The back four with a little help from the ageless Tony Kokkinos
managed to keep Wickham at bay and we went into the half time break
all level at 0-0.
We started the second half as we did the first and finally the
breakthrough came. Bell cutting in from the right moved the ball
onto TC (Corrick) who in-turn put Tony Kokkinos through and his miss
hit shot bobbled in off Wickhams centre half! 0-1
The second half appeared to go on forever, Hills only other decent
chance fell again to Tony Kokkinos whose shot was tipped around the
post.
As legs tired, Wickham pushed on for the equaliser and the
inevitable happened. Once again we came unstuck to a long throw in
as a flick on fell to the strikers feet who turned quickly and
clipped the ball into the bottom corner. 1-1
The final whistle went within a few minutes and we had to settle for
the draw.
This was our best performance for a long time and one we have to
continue for the next seven games if we are going to stay in with a
shout for the title.
East Barnet Old Grammarians 2
Winchmore Hill 2
Southern
Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 7 March
More changes again to the twos line up this week. It appears that we
are never able to gain any continuity, which makes consistency even
harder to achieve.
Joe Taylor, Chris Mchale, and Paul Naylor are all out injured and
Jamie Bell still AWOL.
Bring on the youth, in came Saltch and Mohammed who’s combined age
match Tony Kok!!. Back came Alan from his week off and also Cookie,
looking slightly orange.
The line up therefore was Griff (consistently number 1), G, Joe
Hackworthy, Alan, Cookie, Tony Kok, Tim Corrick, Steve and Saltch,
leaving Newton and Keith up front and Mohammed on the bench.
Those of you that have had the joy of playing on EBOG’s centre pitch
will know the difficulties we faced, to actually try and pass the
ball is almost impossible! Add to that a strong wind and a ref that
was clearly not able to control the game; the match really became a
lottery.
To be fair to EBOG’s they played the conditions far better then we
did in the first half. With the wind behind them they pumped the
ball forward and it continued to cause the Hills back four problems.
The opening goal came from a long throw which we did not deal with,
the big number 9 flicked the ball on and Griff pushed the ball onto
the bar only for the rebound to fall at the feet of the other
striker, 1-0.
The half continued in the same vain, and for the first time this
season the back four failed to step up and deal with the situation.
A lesson for us to take however I am sure it will not happen again.
Another quick attack from EBOG’s ended with the G and Joe holding up
the opps’s centre midfielder on the edge of the box, he then fell
over and the Ref blew for a penalty, There really is nothing else to
say about this decision! 2-0.
The half time team talk was positive and with the wind behind us a
renewed confidence began to flow through the team. Starting at the
back, headers and tackles were again being to be won, the midfield
began to dominate and Newton and Gyles looked far livelier now the
ball was actually going forward.
Cue the come back, a clearance under pressure was charged down by TC
and the ball floated into the back of the net, sweet, 2-1
More pressure and the EBOG back line were looking nervous. A ball
through the middle bobbled about, Newton latched onto it, beat the
defender and drilled a low shot into the bottom corner, even sweeter
2-2.
There was only one team looking to win the game from this point and
we pushed forward (with the help of the wind) to take the game.
Newton (goal scoring confidence renewed) almost sealed the win with
a drive from way outside the area, which smacked the crossbar, other
half chances came and went with the final pass again just not quite
happening.
Final score 2-2
Not that I like to moan! But this game really is one to be
forgotten, what we can take from it is the positive second half
performance, two goals and 100% effort to get something from the
match. Draws elsewhere in the league keep us in the hunt; West
Wickham away next week is now the focus.
Winchmore Hill 1 Old Esthameians 0
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 28 February
The
twos pulled off another 1-0 victory to keep their title hunt alive.
More
changes were made to the side as Adam Cook (topping up his tan in
the Lake District) Alan, (likewise in Ireland!!) and Jamie Bell were
all absent.
Back to a 4-4-2 Griff in nets, G, Joe Hackworthy, Joe Taylor and
Steve as a back four, midfield four of Tony Kok, Tim Corrick, Danny
Brenan and Paul Naylor, with Chris Mchale and Keith Gyles up front.
After the first 20 mins neither side had made much headway; Old E’s
were controlling the midfield though chances were limited at both
ends.
Unfortunately for the Hill Joe Taylor’s hamstring went and he was
unable to continue. Whilst we battled on with 10 players, Newton
kitted up and McHale came back to play as an emergency centre half.
The
breakthrough came when the E’s keeper made a hash of a shot and
McHale up for the free kick calmly turned and clipped the ball into
an empty net. 0-1.
The second half is best described as a battle! To be fair to E’s
they kept the ball very well, made some great opportunities but less
selfishness in the final third would have caused us far more
problems.
Some last
ditch tackles, clearing headers and a vital ‘right footed’ clearance
from G saved the twos and gave us another clean sheet and 3 points.
A word
for McHale who even with one leg and playing out of position showed
the grit and determination needed by the entire team to continue the
run we are on. Also thanks to Danny for helping us out and putting
in a solid performance, we hope to see him back for the final games
of the season.
Old Salesians 1 Winchmore Hill 0
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 21 February
After trudging across the marsh land to the only playable pitch, the
Hill were aware that the next 120 mins could make or break our
chances of success over the remaining 10 (Yes Ten!) games left to
play.
Going back
to a 3-5-2 formation, which has recently been effective the Hill
started with Griff in nets, a back 3 of Joe Hackworthy, Adam Cook,
and Alan Donohue, G using his pace at left wing back, Steve on the
right, Tony Kok, Paul Naylor and Joe Taylor as the 3 centre
midfielders, leaving Keith Gyles and Chris Mchale up top. Newton and
Bell were on the bench but ready for action.
The
first 30 mins flew past, with the Hill looking the stronger team.
The best chance fell to Paul Naylor who, not renowned for his
heading ability came flying in at the far post and planted a free
header onto the post with great accuracy!!
More half chances came and went and half time arrived very quickly.
Salesians started the second half continuing with their tried and
tested long ball out to their left-winger (who was their main threat
all game). Another attack from the left resulted in a corner for
Salesians, which led to their goal, when the corner was not dealt
with and was fired in at the far post, 0-1.
The Hill tried to get the equaliser but attacks were thwarted and as
panic set in the actual quality of our play began to deteriorate. A
penalty appeal was waved away and chances were once again not taken
in front of goal.
Winchmore Hill 1 Old Salesians 0
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 21 February
After a 15 min break the third quarter kicked off. A new ref allowed
the game to flow and we pushed on to get the 3 points we all knew
were now a must.
Keeping a more solid formation with the introduction of Newton up
front and Bell to the left hand side we continued to try and pass
the ball on an increasingly difficult surface. Longs balls also were
causing Salesians trouble and we continued to pump the ball into the
danger area but last ditch tackles and clearing headers continued to
frustrate the twos.
At last a breakthrough as a penalty was awarded to the hill for
handball. Hackworthy scored from the spot and at last we had
something to build on.
A great save from Griff and some resolute defending kept Salesians
at bay and 3 vital points were very close.
Then the moment that ruined what was already becoming a bad day for
all. Salesians left back fell awkwardly into a tackle and it looked
like a broken leg at the very least. With only a minute on the clock
the ref sensibly called it a day and the days spoils were shared.
Good news was to follow that it was ligament damage only and we send
our best regards and hopes for a speedy recovery.
In
difficult conditions and circumstances we can be proud to have come
away with at least one win. Taking 3 points keeps the twos in the
hunt for the title. 6 points would have been great but realistically
in this league there is very little between any of the teams
A home
game on Saturday to look forward to, bring the correct attitude,
hunger and desire and we can still achieve success this season.
Old Parkonians 1 Winchmore Hill 0
AFA
Middlesex & Essex Intermediate Cup
Saturday 14 February
What’s football?
Again it was a few weeks since the Reserves had played a game and,
although no excuse, not ideal preparation for a Quarter Final of the
Cup.
The Twos arrived at Parkonians with a strong and full squad for
Newton to choose from. Reverting to 4-4-2 the team was Griff, G,
Alan Donohuge , Joe H and Joe Taylor at the back, a midfield four
of Kokkinos, TC (Tim Corrick), Dec, and Jamie (Bell) with Newton
and Mchale up front. The bench was very strong seeing the return of
Paul Naylor, Steve and Keith Gyles.
Everything started well, keeping the ball and moving it quickly from
left to right gave Dec and Jamie plenty of space to attack the gaps
and get into shooting positions. Opportunities came and went, with
the best a great run form Kokkinos sliding the ball through to Jamie
on a diagonal run. Unfortunately the bar saved Parkonians. Dec was
roaming behind the front two and easing into space on the edge of
the box but his shots did not beat the keeper. On a different day I
am confident to say we would have been well ahead before the break.
Confidence appeared high at half time and we agreed a goal would
really kill them off, but as happens so regularly in football, it
was not to be.
The second half performance is something we all need to go away and
think about. I will not dwell on what happened (as it is still
making me angry) but in short we were not fit enough, we
overcomplicated every forward move, we allowed them to break and
score an easy goal. Late pressure was not enough and the final
whistle ended the Twos 2008/2009 cup aspirations for another season.
A dressing room ‘discussion’ aired many points that we can work on
for the rest of the season and it was obvious to see that most of
the team are passionate about achieving success.
As a sort of veteran of the Twos I hope this performance will be a
lesson to all. Yes, we have lost a couple of key players to the
first team, but believe me this is still one of the strongest second
team squads I have ever been involved in and definitely one of the
best squads in this standard of football.
Take confidence in this. We are the second string at one of the best
amateur clubs in London. Get fit, bring back the momentum by winning
again this Saturday, and let’s have a real go at winning the league.
Civil Service 0 Winchmore Hill 2
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 24 January
Back
to winning ways!
The
twos got their house in order on Saturday and sent out the message
that we are serious about success this season.
As always changes were made to the starting eleven. Newton decided
to make best use of his available men and play a 3-1-4-2 formation!!
Yeah we didn’t have a clue what he was on about either!!
With Joe Taylor returning alongside Joe H (Hackworthy) and Cooky in
a back 3 it meant a move for the evergreen left back G (Mark
Godsalve) into the Claude Makelele role!! A midfield four of
Kokkinos, TC (Tim Corrick), Dec, and Jamie (Bell) left Newton and
McHale as the targets up front. Again, no sign of Steve, Hass, and
Naylor. Dan Putt had taken his highlighted hairstyle to the ones
bench!!
Hill started slowly, a couple of defensive errors by Joe H nearly
gifted Civil the lead but luckily Griff was at his best and Cooky
and Joe T were performing excellently as centre halves come full
backs!!!.
As the half progressed Hill became the stronger side, moving the
ball quickly and accurately, chances were soon made. Civil’s back 3
are not the quickest or tallest and Newton and McHale were both
winning the ball with ease. A move which started at the back ended
with Dec in his ‘free role’ racing at the Civil back line, a simple
through pass and a great run from Jamie left him with only the
keeper to beat, 0-1
Into the second half, the match was still pretty even, Civil had
some opportunities but nothing troubled Griff too much. The Hill
continued to press and Dec, revelling in his attacking role smashed
a shot from outside of the box, which came back off the crossbar.
The killer blow was another decent move, which ended in McHale
taking the ball past the keeper, then back past the keeper and
chipping into the open net 0-2.
The final whistle was a welcome relief as fitness levels dwindled,
more and more free kicks were given away and we sat deeper and
deeper inviting Civil attacks.
A good result, another clean sheet and the discovery that G can play
in another position, though he was left wondering if he would
recover in time for his midweek swim!!!
Winchmore Hill 0 West Wickham 1
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 17 January
The old saying of Good news and Bad news was apparent on Saturday at
the Paulin.
Good
news,
Huge congrats from the whole team to the Gaffer for the safe arrival
of Baby Samson. Well done to Lucy who did all the hard work and we
hope to see the boy at the club soon.
Bad
news,
the twos threw away their unbeaten league record to a very average
West Wickham side.
Once again there were changes to the side. The gaffer otherwise
engaged, Joe Hackworthy injured, plus Naylor, Steve and Hass missing
in action.
Starting with a 3-5-2 formation there was nothing between the sides
for the opening 30 mins. The Hill were stronger in the tackle, solid
at the back and winning the midfield battle. The first decent chance
fell to McHale when a miss-kick from the keeper left the goal at his
mercy; off balance his shot was just off target.
Then the moment that changed the match, Declan threw his handbag at
the Wickham left back and was given a straight red from the
overzealous ref. To be fair to Dec it was no more then a swing of
the arm to get the player to let go of his shirt but as they say on
Match of the Day if you raise your arms you are asking for trouble!
So starting the second half with 10 men 3-5-2 became 3-4-2 and
Wickham started to keep the ball well, using the extra man to their
advantage. Ultimately this led to their goal when the ball was
worked from left to right and then back to left and bang! A free man
scores from only a few yards out giving Griff no chance at all.
The lads showed great character for the rest of the match and kept
the ball well. Some fantastic overlapping from Alan (making up for
his brother!) led to a couple of chances but it was not to be.
For our first game in 5 weeks the performance was not bad. Fitness
levels were better then expected, as always we were strong at the
back with G, Alan and Cookie all in good form. The midfield and
forwards worked hard and won their individual battles.
The problem, which I think the entire squad agrees with, is making
the right choices in the final third. We have to improve this; else
what could be a great season for the twos could become a season of
major frustration.
Winchmore Hill 1 Nottsborough 0
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 25 October
Your correspondent doesn’t ask much from a team:
1.
Polite responses to communication efforts
2. Positive winning attitude
3. Black boots to be worn by all players (without exception)
4. A decent cup run.
5. No one comes the Paulin and takes 3 points
6. Some originality? Please....
The Hill faced an undefeated Nottsborough side in what set out to be
one of the toughest fixtures they would face all season. There were
a number of changes to the squad from the previous week with Kris
McHale coming in up top, Stuart Broad coming straight from heathrow and
Joe Hackworthy returning to reform the best looking central
defensive partnership in the SAL.
Hoping to put the previous weeks malaise behind them, the Hill began
the game in lively fashion with the McHale carving through the
opposition defence to shoot just wide. The emphasis of the game then
began to switch with Nottsborough beginning to dominate possession,
though the Hill's defence stood firm and they were unable to create
any clear cut chances. This remained so until a lapse in
concentration at a defensive corner, Nottsborough took a short
corner not too dissimilar to a 'Hill special' and their winger
struck a fierce shot from an acute angle under a despairing
challenge, fortunately it struck the outside of the upright and went
wide.
With the wind in their faces the Hill were struggling to move the
ball forward into the final third, the defence perhaps sitting a
little too deep.
HT 0-0
Positive discussions in the changing room meant Hill began the half
with a real purpose, attacking with the wind the Hill wrenched
control of the game, with the combative TC and Dan Putt beginning to
boss it in the middle and Ben Turner and McHale working more closely
together up front.
With 25 minutes to go sidelined player manager Newton threw on the
returning Stuart Broad and with less than 10 minutes to go he made
the decisive contribution feeding the dangerous McHale who beat the
keeper whilst holding off the Nottsborough defence to finish
clinically. Hill led 1-0 with 8 to go plus stoppages.
Nottsborough knew they had to throw everything into it, and began to
pour forwards but the Hill's defence soaked everything up, summed up
by the "Thou Shalt Not Pass" attitude of Alan Donoghue at right back
whose robust challenges halted many a raid down the Nottsborough
left (one of which earned his customary yellow card). There was no
way through for Nottsborough even the balls that made it into the
box were met with a Hill head or a firm punch from the Hill keeper
Griffin. The ref gave the opposition every chance when he played an
exorbitant amount of stoppage time (a point eloquently made from the
touchline by Newton), but Hill weren't going to concede today.
Full Time 1-0 to the Hill - Great Result, Great Performance
Carshalton 1 Winchmore Hill 1
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 18 October
Your
correspondent doesn’t ask much from a team:
1.
Polite responses to communication efforts
2. Positive winning attitude
3. Black boots to be worn by all players (without exception)
4. A decent cup run.
5. Outfield players to understand baby blue gloves are not
an acceptable match day accessory
6. Some originality?
Hill made the long journey to Carshalton last saturday hoping to
maintain their 100% start to the season. Lining up against their
opposition, it appeared at first glance there had been some
confusion with the pitch allocation, Carshalton's forward line
consisted of Phil Jupitus and Jimmy Cranky (the post match grub was
looking promising).
As usual there were a number of changes to the line up, top scorer
Stuart Broad was unavailable with the youth of Dominic and Jamie
coming in on the right hand side and Declan moving into central
midfield.
The game opened with Hill trying to play the attractive brand of
football of the last few weeks, passing out from the back and
through midfield. However it was when using longer diagonal balls to
the pacey Dominic where Hill were looking most dangerous.
The game then began to get a bit niggly, with tackles being traded
and the 18 stone Carshalton centre forward quite literally throwing
his weight around. One such tackle earned the big man a yellow card
and a polite observation from TC referencing his portly frame. Not
to be out done, Alan Donoghue launched into a mistimed tackle
himself and the ref wasn't going to miss another opportunity to get
his book out (this was no time for Mills and Boon though - so away
went the book and he brandished the yellow card instead).
Misfortune then struck as veteran Hill centre forward Newton pulled
up mid sprint with a reoccurrence of his hamstring trouble, with
Keith Gyles still unavailable due to injury, the player manager had
to battle on. This interrupted Hill's flow and the passing game
which had proved so effective in the past was now turning into
threat. One instance of this led to the first goal, Hill attempted
to pass the ball from the back, but as a pass went a stray the
bustling Carshalton centre forward latched onto it and into the box,
rifling a shot into the net giving Griff no chance in goal.
Carshalton led 1-0.
The Hill had to rally and up their determination, they did this as
tackles went in and the game became scrappy again until
the hardworking midfielder Declan Donoghue found himself with space
just inside the opposition box, he dispatched his shot into the
bottom corner for his second goal in as many games. HT 1-1.
During the half time talk the Hill vowed they had to their
determination and aggression if they were to take all the 3 points.
But the second half proved to be as scrappy as the first with both
teams battling with the blustery conditions and the Hill effectively
down to 10 men despite the best efforts of Newton.
The game ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw, performance level will
need to be upped next week.
Winchmore Hill 2 Old Owens 1
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 11 October
Your correspondent doesn’t ask much from a team:
1.
Polite responses to communication efforts
2.
Positive winning attitude
3.
Black boots to be worn by all players
4. A
decent cup run.
5. The opportunity to turn back time
6. Avoidance of Friday night temptation.
The reserves increased the pressure on the table topping Owens by
beating them 2 -1 on Saturday. The Hill started hesitantly this week
and deserved to go behind after 20 minutes. The goal reminded the
boys that they are in form and our midfield started to assert
themselves.
Stuart Broad continued his assault on the Golden Boot chart by
slotting home a penalty that ensured Winchmore finished the half
level.
The second half saw us in the ascendancy; the boys are playing a
brand of football that is nearly drawing praise from the fans.
Chances were created, and spurned, before debutant Declan Donahugh
converted at the far post. Dan Putt and TC (Tim Corrick) by this
point were dominating the oppositions 1st team rejects and the back
four, including youth team veteran Steve, were comfortable.
Next week brings the short journey to Carshalton where the boys will
be looking to continue our recent form.
Old Westminster Citizens 1
Winchmore Hill 3
AFA Intermediate Cup
Saturday 4 October
I apologise in advance for this match report which will be much like
a Jack Newton pre-match email to his players: makes little sense to
most readers, worth a look but doesn’t really tell you what you need
to know.
Winchmore Hill 2nd XI have made a decent start to the
season and were keen to ensure this continued against Old
Westminster Citizens in the AFA Cup. Knowledge of what the Hill
should expect against unfamiliar opposition was limited. The only
information that could be garnered from the squad was a valuable
input from Gee, and I quote “played there once, can’t remember the
ground but we had spaghetti bolognaise afterwards, which was
quality”.
The early signs were encouraging as we arrived in the deepest
suburbs of South London, we were delighted (and surprised) to
discover that we had a full team, a washed kit, the medical bag,
some footballs for the warm up and our lucky mascot (the
ever-welcome and constructively-critical Frank).
To be honest we didn’t start that well, the free-flowing football of
previous games was as distant as our Manager was this week (a
wedding in Bath apparently). In the early exchanges Old Westminster
Citizens had a couple of half-chances but we managed to keep them at
bay as our defence remained resolute. Three changes at the back from
last week’s team probably contributed to some early disorganisation.
We welcomed Alan Donoghue back from potato picking, new lad Andy
Griffiths in goal (after impressing in the 3s) and Adam Cook (via
the infamous Andy Russell trapdoor).
The Hill grew in confidence as the match progressed and started to
get the ball down and play. Dan Putt struck a decent free-kick just
over the bar and shortly after Keith Gyles broke the deadlock as he
stabbed the ball home from about 12 yards after Tony Kokkinos had
controlled the ball well and was just about to pull the trigger
himself.
We went in at half-time one goal to the good and confident that we
could improve on our first half performance. Keith Gyles had to be
replaced due to a back injury (reports that this was afflicted by
carrying home a substantial commission earned from hedging against
Lehman Brothers were unconfirmed). This brought youngster Steve
Adjuao (who has impressed with recent performances from the bench)
in to the game at right midfield - that’s right midfield Steve - not
right back!
Shortly after the break we stretched our lead as the ‘man in form’
Stuart Broad concluded a mazy dribble from the left flank by sliding
the ball past the keeper from an acute angle. 6 goals in 4 games is
a decent return for the thirty-eight (yes, 38) year old.
As the game went on the Hill began to dominate and Ben Turner
extended the lead after Dan Putt (another excellent performer over
recent weeks) broke up play in the middle of the park. The ball
dropped to TC who released Broady down the right who then squared to
Ben for an easy tap-in to extend his scoring run.
The Hill continued to push forwards and Steve nearly brought a
fourth goal after skinning about 5 players and then rounding the
keeper, only to then collide with Ben Turner 2 yards out in front of
an open goal. An early October goal of the month contender was not
to be.
To be fair to Old Westminster Citizens they persevered and did come
back in to the match in the later stages. The Hill wisely reverted
to their pressure-relieving ploy of kicking the ball towards Old
Westminster Citizens’ right back who was having a shocker and seemed
determined to use his shin pad to deflect the ball in to touch any
time the ball went near him.
Eventually OWC managed to get a consolation goal as the ball was
allowed to bounce between keeper and defence and their forward slid
the ball through Andy’s legs. This was the first goal we have
conceded in 4 games but should not be seen as a poor reflection on
our goalkeeping debutant who made a number of good blocks and also
distributed the ball well.
We were content to return home having gained a 3-1 win, which
extends our winning run. Although the highlight of the day was the
look on Gee’s face when he was offered a second helping of the local
speciality, you guessed it…spaghetti bolognaise.
We have put in some impressive performances over the past few weeks
and remaining in the both cup competitions beyond September is a
welcome change. However Old Owens visit the Paulin Ground next week
for a league fixture and the true potential of this team will be
tested much more thoroughly. We would do well sticking to what has
brought us recent successes: trying to play decent football whenever
possible, working hard in defence and taking our chances in front of
goal.
Winchmore Hill 5 Old Edmontonians 0
Amateur Football
Alliance
Middlesex/Essex
Intermediate Cup
Saturday 27 September
Your correspondent doesn’t ask much from a team: -
1.
Polite responses to communication efforts
2.
Positive winning attitude
3.
Black boots to be worn by all players
4. A
decent cup run.
5. The opportunity to turn back time
Your reserve side continued their exploits in the cup at home to Old
Eds. As any manager will tell you a settled back 4 creates stability
and cohesion, essential for a decent season; so only 2 defenders
changed this week.
The midfield and the front 2 were unchanged and quickly established
a rhythm of getting the ball and giving it away. The first half
ended with both the remarkable – Newton notching – and the
unremarkable – Newton selecting himself to take a penalty and duly
sending it wide.
The second half was much better, Stuart Broad and his midfield
comrades destroyed any hope of an Eds comeback. Broad is on fire at
present and picked up a well-deserved hat-trick, Gyles weighed in
with a goal that was even uglier than our guest goalkeeper.
The defence sorted their act out to ensure another clean sheet and
the next round beckons.
Goffs
Old Boys 0
Winchmore Hill
6
Amateur Football
Alliance
Intermediate Cup
Saturday 20 September
Your correspondent doesn’t ask much from a team: -
1.
Polite responses to communication efforts
2.
Positive winning attitude
3.
Black boots to be worn by all players
4.
A decent cup run.
With these key messages in mind the reserves arrived at newly
founded Goffs Old Boys to find the changing rooms locked and the sun
blazing.
Goffs were very welcoming and will be a positive addition to AFA
football; they didn’t however have to allow our midfield to have the
run of the game, but thanks anyway.
WHFC’s favourite side was solid and methodical throughout and
deserved the 6-0 victory. The scorers were Turner, Godsalve!, Broad
(golden boot 08/09?), OG, Putt and birthday boy Hackworthy.
Selection was hard this week, decisions were made on the basis of
passes received by yours truly when in goalscoring positions.
Therefore I’ve decided to pick only myself for this week!
We move on gentlemen with the same attitude and target.
Polytechnic 0
Winchmore Hill
1
Southern Amateur
League
Intermediate Division One
Saturday 13 September
Winchmore Hill 2nds started their league campaign off with a trip
down to Chiswick to face Polytechnic with a new manager in charge,
Jack Newton.
Things started well for Newton with a well organised trip down to
Chiswick with the plan to meet at Waterloo to get the 1.07pm train.
Several of the team included Newton himself decided to ignore this
plan and go straight to Chiswick, Charles ended up meeting at
Piccadilly Circus and Stu Broad got on the wrong train, only TC, G
and Tony managed to stick to the plan!
Newton started his managerial career at Winchmore Hill with a
controversial team selection. But the team looked strong. The game
started at a fast pace, but after 2 minutes was delayed when the one
of the Polytechnic strikers had a tooth knocked out and the next ten
minutes was spent with 22 players on hand and knees looking for it!
When the game resumed Polytechnic looked a very strong and well
organised side and were causing the hill a few problems, but the
strong defence dealt quite comfortable with all threats with Carts
in goal controlling his box and defenders very well. Samson and
Brannigan looked solid at centre back and handled the lively
polytechnic strikers well. Towards the end of the first half Hill
started to come more in to the game and had more of the ball, but
both teams had very few chances in the first half and it finished
0-0.
Half time saw Jack Newton demand more intensity from his players and
making his first tactical change and bringing Stu Broad on. 2
minutes into the 2nd half Ben Turner picked the ball up on the left
and cut inside and squared the ball to Stu Broad, who beat his man
and fired in to the bottom corner from 25 yards. This put the Hill
1-0 up, it looked as if Newton’s team talk had done the trick as
Hill looked more positive and lively and controlling the game more.
However, very few clear cut chances were being made by either side,
but G in the hill defence decided the game needed livening up, and
played in the 4 foot 5' Poly forward, who fortunately had his route
to goal hampered by the long grass and fired wide.
Ben Turner for Hill had a good chance when he picked the ball up on
the edge of the box beat his man and fired goalwards only for the
ball to get a deflection and fly wide, this was the last chance for
Hill and Polytechnic had little more to offer apart from a few
desperate attempts to get an equalizer.
So the game ended 1-0 to the Hill, and a great start to Newton's
reign and to the 2nds league campaign. Lots of positives from the
game against a very strong Polytechnic side.
Hills trip home from Chiswick was again well organised and after a
drink in Clapham, the plan was to walk to the tube station which
according to TCs phone was only a 10 minutes walk, eventually after
a 40 minute hike across Clapham common we got to the tube station
and safely home!
Winchmore Hill 0 Norsemen 0
Friendly
Saturday 6 September
Your
correspondent doesn’t ask much from a team: -
1.
Polite responses to communication efforts
2.
Positive winning attitude
3.
Black boots to be worn by all players
The Reserves began
and completed their preparation for the season by answering 2 out of
3 requests. They are available; you just have to go looking for them
in a sports shop as opposed to the out of town jumble sales.
We played a Norsemen side containing a smattering of decent players
in a game that couldn’t have been less competitive. Our reserve side
contains a lot of promise, assuming you are an advocate of a third
Winchmore vets side? Seriously, we have some very promising
youngsters who have pledged to break into the senior side, some
established faces and some of the most interesting looking
footballers I have ever seen. Please watch this space for reports on
our progress.
Oh yes, the game. We were solid, we all tried hard. New boy Dan Putt
won both worst haircut and MOM on his debut. 0-0 solid but
uninspiring. Thanks to Nick Watts for his efforts to kit all sides
out, to Rob Burwood for organising the fixtures and to Mark Godsalve
for making his manager look quick.
Winchmore Hill 5 Wandsworth Borough 0
AFA Intermediate Cup
Saturday 1 November
Your correspondent doesn’t ask much from a team:
1. Polite responses to communication efforts
2. Positive winning attitude
3. Black boots to be worn by all players (without exception)
4. A decent cup run.
5. No one comes the Paulin and takes 3 points
6. Please, please, please - some originality?
The centre pitch at the colleseum saw the second XI in cup action in
early November for the first time in Chairman Gyles lifetime.
A comprehensive performance by the Hill saw the boys depart the
pitch at half time 1-0 to the good following a goal by man of the
moment Stuart Broad.
Encouraging words by the gaffer whose hamstrings were tightening by
the second saw the Hill take control in the second half.
Further goals followed for the excellent Dan Putt, Ben Turner and
that man Broad again made the game safe. Griff, Al, Joe, Hass and
Gee had an afternoon stroll with the keeper only having to make one
save of note.
Jamie and TC were spraying the ball around the park…one such pass
finding the gaffer who promptly attempted to nutmeg his marker. His
marker won the ball then promptly nutmegged the gaffer…twice. Time
to be subbed off and a quick 30 minute cameo for the returning
Naylor.
A fine performance by the boys who continue to impress the packed
touchline at the Paulin.
Crouch End Vampires 3 Winchmore Hill 4
AFA Middlesex & Essex Intermediate Cup
Saturday 8 November
This week’s hack has seen most things in 12 years of SAL football,
but a trip away to Crouch End in the cup produced a game that none
of us expected.
The game was delayed for the late arrival of Lord Gee from Tunbridge
Wells who had no time to apply his deep heat as he strode on to the
pitch to join his team mates. The gaffer went for the tried and
trusted 4-4-2, with three subs looking forward to an afternoon of
expansive football.
Unfortunately the pitch would not allow this, several days rain, two
cross country races and some trail biking had created a challenging
playing area.
Danny Putt started the afternoon in fine form, two minutes on the
clock and a burst into the penalty area lead to a double tag team
scythe which meant a penalty. Three minutes on the clock, the
penalty missed, Putt off injured for Tony K.
Twenty minutes in and the Hill have conceded as many goals in the
match as they had all season....3-0 to Crouch End. Direct football,
poor defending and good finishing contributed to the scoreline.
A post was struck by TC but the Hill had little answer to Crouch End
who were out manoureveing and out muscling the boys.
The gaffer chose his words wisely and loudly as he made his point
with the use of industrial language.
The response was instant with Jamie and TC starting to impose
themselves, Steve, Hassan, Al and Gee remembering how to defend and
Ben and Jack working the Crouch End back four. You felt that a goal
was coming, but ten minutes into the second half the Hill conceded a
penalty. You began to feel that it was just going to be one of those
days. But...Griff pulled off an outstanding save to stop a 4 - 0
deficit. The final 30 minutes of the game and Hill decide to start
playing. Ben plays in Jack for a tap in. His reward - he is hooked
by Frank for Henry who is making his second team debut....Ben is
then hooked by Frank for Nails. The changes lead to more impetus and
also means that Stuart Broad is pushed up front. His contribution so
far, to miss a penalty and generally look fed up. Suddenly he is
seeing the ball and Broad plays in Henry to round the keeper and
finish confidently. Tony K plays in Broad and he finishes from an
acute angle. 3 -3 and the momentum has changed. 90 minutes are on
the clock and the gaffer is urging us to finish the game off...30
minutes of extra time would mean he missed his train to Cardiff. A
midfield tussle and the ball breaks for Broad and he plays a defence
splitting pass. A controlling touch by Naylor, a dink over the
keeper, cue 14 man celebration by the corner flag.
Barley time for a restart and the game is over.. Hill have nicked it
4-3.
A few positive words from the gaffer and we exited Crouch End with
another cup game to look forward to.
Winchmore
Hill 1 Civil Service 1
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 15 November
The reserves old rivals arrived at the Paulin for what was a tight,
competitive and entertaining game. Over the last few years under the
leadership of Naylor, Randall and Wainwright the games against Civil
have always been full of incident, goals and a good indication of
how the twos are performing.
Newton’s new look twos went into the match full of confidence
remaining in both cups (a miracle!!) and well positioned in the
league. As usual changes were made from last week. Back in came
Hackworthy, Kokkinos, and Declan (via the trap door of the first
team). Without the unavailable Putt and Bell it was still a strong
looking squad with the rejuvenated Naylor on the bench alongside an
unlucky Steve, and new boy Pablo.
The gaffer deciding that it usually takes us at least 20 mins to
wake up introduced a new warm up ensuring we were ready from the
off, and low and behold it worked!!
The Hill facing the kop end were straight into their flow, short
simple passes, plenty of movement, support and options all over the
pitch, meaning every tackle, header and second ball, much better and
what we all talk about and agree is the only way to play. Tactics
endorsed by a famous quote from Brian Clough “it’s a simple
game, pass the ball to a player in the same shirt and we will be
ok!”
Chances fell to Hackworthy from another excellent G corner however
Joe took his eye of the ball and missed the target.
Kokkinos went on a mazy run from the left, did the same trick
3 times (his only trick!) and found himself free in the area only to
strike the ball at the visitors centre half. Declan also went close
on a couple of occasions getting on to the end of every Newton
flick, a tactic that was unsettling the oppositions defence.
However as per usual it was left to Broad to show the rest of the
team how to do it, cutting in from the right beating a couple of
defenders and smashing the ball into the top left hand corner from
outside of the area, a fantastic goal from a player right on top of
his game.
The remainder of the first half was pretty much Hill domination with
the oppo having little of the ball and making no inroads into the
Hill’s solid defence.
At half time there was little to say other then to carry on and
finish the game by scoring again!!
The second half began with the Hill coming under unnecessary
pressure by giving away the ball and silly fouls in dangerous
positions. Civil’s attacks became more frequent as they chased an
equaliser but the Hills defence winning every header, tackles and
keeping a good shape nullified any progress made. Alan (my MOM) and
Hass were excellent and Griff so far had little to do.
The game became a stalemate and the clocked ticked down with little
occurring other then the odd counter attack from the Hill which with
more care could have clinched the all important second goal. The
closest attempt coming from G, who struck a fierce free kick that
was well turned over by the keeper.
Cue the match changing moment, with a minute left on the clock
Naylor and Declan took a free kick deep into civil territory and
kept the ball gaining another from a frustrated civil defenders
foul, however instead of adopting the same tactic the ball was
played into the keepers hands giving civil one last chance to
attack. The ball was worked down the left hand side and TC
intercepting a pass was unfortunate to give away a corner. With
every Civil player bar the keeper in our box the inevitable
happened. The corner flicked off two Hill players and landed
somewhere close to being over the line. The ref was adamant it had
crossed the line and complaints from the Hill were pointless.
From kick off the final whistle blew and Hill were left feeling like
the draw was a defeat.
Still unbeaten and playing well, the only thing to remember from
this game is to focus for 90+ mins, continue to play the same way
throughout the game and to remember at 1-0 up, the game is only a
couple of seconds from being taken away from you.
Roll on next week.
Winchmore Hill 1
Bealonians 2
Amateur Football Alliance Intermediate Cup
Saturday 22 November
Your
correspondent doesn’t ask much from a team:
1. Polite responses to communication efforts
2. Positive winning attitude
3. Black boots to be worn by all players (without exception)
4. A decent cup run.
5. The rebuilding of Fortress Paulin
6. An understanding of the necessity of sacrifice
Now we have a real season.
Last weeks last gasp equaliser for the hard-working Civil side was
followed by a comprehensive defeat for the reserves. Bealonians
deserved their victory, Winchmore deserved nothing.
Dan Putt scored a goal against the run of play and then departed
with a recurrence of his injury. Andy Griffiths again demonstrated
why he will soon be challenging Carts for the top job, Apart from
that performances were insipid (type it into google Paddy).
The boys now need to demonstrate a desire to put things right. The
effort levels have to rise, individual preparation for games has to
improve and the gaffer has to ensure he has the right personnel. If
not it will be time to raid the increasingly successful 3rd eleven
in order to get the season back on track.
A gloomy report written by a gloomy man, watch this space for a
change of tone next week.
Winchmore Hill 4 East Barnet Old Grammarians
1
Southern Amateur League
Intermediate Section Division One
Saturday 6 December
After a week off, following a disappointing defeat in the cup the
twos were back in action at the Paulin ground.
Relegated to the bottom pitch (it really is that small) it was time
to get things back in order.
The twos started strongly, showing no difficulties in coming to
terms with our new 3-5-2 formation.
Early pressure from the Hill paid off when TC, racing (yes racing)
into the box, received the ball after a Newton dummy and placed the
ball past the keeper, 1-0.
Straight from the restart Hill continued the pressure and the
excellent Danny Putt strolled through the centre of the pitch and
from outside of the box delicately chipped the keeper (reminded me
of the great Glenn Hoddle!) 2-0 it all seemed to easy so far!
EBOGS rallied and had a couple of efforts on goal which were dealt
with by our guest keeper Chris Grey. As most of you know there is
never a dull moment with Chris in nets, so cruising at two nil he
decided to give the oppo a sniff of the game, EBOGS version of Roy
Delap sent a throw into the heart of the Hills area and Chris
unopposed caught the ball, then dropped the ball at the feet of the
luckiest man on the pitch 2-1!
Hill showed good character to put this behind them and continued to
pass the ball around the best you can on a Subuetto pitch! From a
free kick on the outside of the box, Putt played the ball low into
the box, Dec miss controlled it and the returning Has (aka Shergar)
tapped the ball into the net. 3-1
The second half was dull! Nothing of note happened until Dec hit a
deflected shot to make it 4-1 Final score.
All in all a good performance in difficult conditions and a valuable
3 points to keep us in the hunt for the title.
Strong at the back, controlled in midfield and hard work from the
forwards ensured this victory. More of the same next week please.
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