Monday, 31 December 2007
New Year, New Posts
We're back from being away at Christmas. I will put in the rest of the match reports in the next couple of days.
Saturday, 22 December 2007
History Repeats Itself
I'm adding in all the previous match reports at the moment. They will appear with the right dates, as if I had posted them at the time. Look in the blog archive to find them.
Some of the early reports are a bit Harry-centric, but the rest of the team do get plenty of mentions. Even Pebble. Some are also not too detailed (especially the ones when I wasn't there !), but all the matches will be covered at least as far as the result.
So far I have gone back to the 7th October match vs Westoning. More later.
Some of the early reports are a bit Harry-centric, but the rest of the team do get plenty of mentions. Even Pebble. Some are also not too detailed (especially the ones when I wasn't there !), but all the matches will be covered at least as far as the result.
So far I have gone back to the 7th October match vs Westoning. More later.
Friday, 21 December 2007
Wednesday, 19 December 2007
Christmas Number One
We were briefly back at the top of the league last week, but with Ampthill winning their game in hand whilst we were playing the cup game, and Sundon also winning, we are in third place at the end of 2007 - approximately the halfway mark of the whole season.
However, we have played 2 games less than Sundon and provided we beat Ampthill at home, we have the matter in our own hands.
However, we have played 2 games less than Sundon and provided we beat Ampthill at home, we have the matter in our own hands.
From the table, we can see that there is beginning to be a slight breakaway by a group of 5 teams at the top. At the bottom, there are really 4 teams battling it out for the two relegation spots.
Monday, 17 December 2007
Sunday, 16 December 2007
Penalty Clause
After league action last week, today it was back on the cup trail.
We had exited the League Cup to high-flying St. Joseph's, and now faced similar opposition in order to progress in the County Cup. Bushmead Rovers "A" are well-placed in the 2nd division and have lost just twice this season. They would be tough to play at their Luton home.
The pitch at Icknield Way was slightly exposed on the crown of a small hill. However, just before kick-off, the wind dropped and the sun decided to shine on the players. The conditions seemed to bring out good play from both sides.
It was quickly apparent that Bushmead were a talented team. The passing and ideas from midfield created a lot of chances, but the high standard also brought the best out of the visiting team.
In fact, Brickhill opened the scoring with a rare treat - a headed goal by Angus, from Elijah's corner. Still, the lead was brief when Bushmead equalised - from a corner of their own - and quickly added a second with a fizzing shot direct from a narrow angle on the wing.
Bushmead had two or three outstanding attacking players - each time they had the ball it looked like a scoring opportunity. As a result, they soon added a third - a classic cross followed by an emphatic shot away from the keeper's reach.
It was clear the home side were superior but the one hope was that they were vulnerable to continued forward pressure. Just before half-time, Ewan picked up the ball deep in his own half and ran the length of the pitch, beating several challenges. In the box, he managed to find a pass to Fred, who was able to tap in. 3-2 down at half time and back in with a chance.
The respite was short-lived. Soon after the restart, Bushmead opened up our defence with precision crosses and extended their lead to 4-2 then 5-2, and appeared to have done enough.
Nevertheless, we did not give up. With some fresh legs on the pitch, we attacked. Sustained pressure from Elijah, Dominic and Fred opened up a chance for Niall who found the net.
Still, at a 5-3 deficit, defeat seemed likely. Bushmead broke clear again and their excellent #4 shot for goal. Harry managed to stick out a leg, but the ball quickly rebounded to the same player who got a good head on it. Harry recovered, jumped and made a solid catch. The immediate danger of falling three goals behind was averted.
This seemed to turn the match somehow. Now the home side missed a couple more chances, and left the door slightly open.
Brickhill seemed to believe they had a chance. More counter-attacking produced a powerful shot from Romao. The opposition goalkeeper stopped it, but dropped the ball on the line. Fred had continued to run towards goal and was able to trickle the free ball home through the keeper's legs. 5-4.
The referee signalled 4 minutes to play.
With nearly an hour played, the tempo was as strong as ever and it seemed there could easily be two or three more goals at either end. With 90 seconds on the clock, though, it was Josh who was able to take advantage of another combination move involving Dominic, Elijah and others.
Five all ! The cheering on the touchline was euphoric. It might have been the FA cup final.
To lose now would be so, so cruel. Harry fumbled a long-range shot, but recaptured the ball at the second attempt and launched one final assault. Fred picked up the ball on the half way line and found Josh on the wing. Brickhill players surged into the box to receive Josh's weighted cross. With just 10 seconds remaining, Dominic's outstretched foot just failed to make contact and the ball ran past the post ... into Extra Time !
To level from 5-2 down against a team this strong already felt like victory, but clearly a win was possible. However, early in the first period, Angus was judged to have shoved their impressive #11 as he defended a free kick. To the disbelief of the away supporters, and bemusement of some of the home crowd, the referee pointed to the spot.
Harry dived decisively, and correctly, to his right but the penalty was well-buried in the corner and Bushmead regained the lead, ominously. Nevetheless, before the debate over the decision could fully die down, we forced a corner and a second ginger-head found the goal. Dominic this time. 6-6 !
As the second 10-minute period of added time started, it seemed very possible that we were headed for a penalty shootout. There was action at both ends, however, and Elijah appeared to be brought down as he ran onto goal. This appeal was denied, and at the other end Brickhill had to defend deep to keep the score level.
Possibly, though, we had a slight possession advantage and were often in the opposition area. Josh found Fred on the edge of the box and the referee saw an opposition elbow where it shouldn't have been. Penalty !
Ewan threw the ball to Elijah, who hadn't been on target now for over 120minutes of football but who knows how to score under pressure. Sandra couldn't look, but she needn't have worried as Elijah made a precision strike, off the inside of the upright.
75 seconds to defend ! One more attack from Brickhill sees the clock run down to 40 seconds. A promising attack by the opposition ended in a goal kick. Carefully and slowly taken, 10 seconds left. The kick is charged down by Bushmead who press to the edge of the box again and, suddenly, their #4 appears to be brought down.
The referee looks, decides, and blows the whistle ... not for another penalty, but for full time ...
BUSHMEAD 6 - 7 BRICKHILL (aet) is the final score in what is easily the best match and best performance of the season, and an outstanding win. Well done !
We had exited the League Cup to high-flying St. Joseph's, and now faced similar opposition in order to progress in the County Cup. Bushmead Rovers "A" are well-placed in the 2nd division and have lost just twice this season. They would be tough to play at their Luton home.
The pitch at Icknield Way was slightly exposed on the crown of a small hill. However, just before kick-off, the wind dropped and the sun decided to shine on the players. The conditions seemed to bring out good play from both sides.
It was quickly apparent that Bushmead were a talented team. The passing and ideas from midfield created a lot of chances, but the high standard also brought the best out of the visiting team.
In fact, Brickhill opened the scoring with a rare treat - a headed goal by Angus, from Elijah's corner. Still, the lead was brief when Bushmead equalised - from a corner of their own - and quickly added a second with a fizzing shot direct from a narrow angle on the wing.
Bushmead had two or three outstanding attacking players - each time they had the ball it looked like a scoring opportunity. As a result, they soon added a third - a classic cross followed by an emphatic shot away from the keeper's reach.
It was clear the home side were superior but the one hope was that they were vulnerable to continued forward pressure. Just before half-time, Ewan picked up the ball deep in his own half and ran the length of the pitch, beating several challenges. In the box, he managed to find a pass to Fred, who was able to tap in. 3-2 down at half time and back in with a chance.
The respite was short-lived. Soon after the restart, Bushmead opened up our defence with precision crosses and extended their lead to 4-2 then 5-2, and appeared to have done enough.
Nevertheless, we did not give up. With some fresh legs on the pitch, we attacked. Sustained pressure from Elijah, Dominic and Fred opened up a chance for Niall who found the net.
Still, at a 5-3 deficit, defeat seemed likely. Bushmead broke clear again and their excellent #4 shot for goal. Harry managed to stick out a leg, but the ball quickly rebounded to the same player who got a good head on it. Harry recovered, jumped and made a solid catch. The immediate danger of falling three goals behind was averted.
This seemed to turn the match somehow. Now the home side missed a couple more chances, and left the door slightly open.
Brickhill seemed to believe they had a chance. More counter-attacking produced a powerful shot from Romao. The opposition goalkeeper stopped it, but dropped the ball on the line. Fred had continued to run towards goal and was able to trickle the free ball home through the keeper's legs. 5-4.
The referee signalled 4 minutes to play.
With nearly an hour played, the tempo was as strong as ever and it seemed there could easily be two or three more goals at either end. With 90 seconds on the clock, though, it was Josh who was able to take advantage of another combination move involving Dominic, Elijah and others.
Five all ! The cheering on the touchline was euphoric. It might have been the FA cup final.
To lose now would be so, so cruel. Harry fumbled a long-range shot, but recaptured the ball at the second attempt and launched one final assault. Fred picked up the ball on the half way line and found Josh on the wing. Brickhill players surged into the box to receive Josh's weighted cross. With just 10 seconds remaining, Dominic's outstretched foot just failed to make contact and the ball ran past the post ... into Extra Time !
To level from 5-2 down against a team this strong already felt like victory, but clearly a win was possible. However, early in the first period, Angus was judged to have shoved their impressive #11 as he defended a free kick. To the disbelief of the away supporters, and bemusement of some of the home crowd, the referee pointed to the spot.
Harry dived decisively, and correctly, to his right but the penalty was well-buried in the corner and Bushmead regained the lead, ominously. Nevetheless, before the debate over the decision could fully die down, we forced a corner and a second ginger-head found the goal. Dominic this time. 6-6 !
As the second 10-minute period of added time started, it seemed very possible that we were headed for a penalty shootout. There was action at both ends, however, and Elijah appeared to be brought down as he ran onto goal. This appeal was denied, and at the other end Brickhill had to defend deep to keep the score level.
Possibly, though, we had a slight possession advantage and were often in the opposition area. Josh found Fred on the edge of the box and the referee saw an opposition elbow where it shouldn't have been. Penalty !
Ewan threw the ball to Elijah, who hadn't been on target now for over 120minutes of football but who knows how to score under pressure. Sandra couldn't look, but she needn't have worried as Elijah made a precision strike, off the inside of the upright.
75 seconds to defend ! One more attack from Brickhill sees the clock run down to 40 seconds. A promising attack by the opposition ended in a goal kick. Carefully and slowly taken, 10 seconds left. The kick is charged down by Bushmead who press to the edge of the box again and, suddenly, their #4 appears to be brought down.
The referee looks, decides, and blows the whistle ... not for another penalty, but for full time ...
BUSHMEAD 6 - 7 BRICKHILL (aet) is the final score in what is easily the best match and best performance of the season, and an outstanding win. Well done !
Sunday, 9 December 2007
A Magnificent Seven
By the time we started in today's match, Brickhill had actually slipped to 4th in the league. This was deceptive because - fortunately - Ampthill lost on 2nd December. However, because other clubs have played more matches, they have been able to climb past both Brickhill and Ampthill.
The situation is still good if we return to form and win matches !
Today we were away at nearby Kempston which has been a good ground for us historically. We started well enough -Elijah scoring from outside the box with a bold shot into the top corner. Fred added a second, getting on the end of a clever long ball from Greg. Then the rain started. Conditions were not ideal, but both teams continued to play quite brightly.
Brickhill put together some good movement and the dismal performance from the prior week looked quite distant. Luke added a third before half time.
In the second half, the rain was incessant - Harry found that his sunhat doubled as a good all-weather defence. Dominic bundled home a goal to make it 4-0, and now it was really a question of the margin of victory.
Kempston did make some good runs, but most of these were neutralised by the Brickhill defence who were quick & strong. Harry also made some good saves. However, one low shot to the corner did make it through. 4-1.
Greg and Fred made it 6-1 and then we were awarded a penalty for shoving in the box, which was well converted by captain Ewan. It appeared Fred had made his hat-trick - but his tap-in from Romao's excellent lob was judged invalid. He then found the back of the net again, disallowed for offside !!
KEMPSTON 1 - 7 BRICKHILL the final score. A step back in the right direction.
The situation is still good if we return to form and win matches !
Today we were away at nearby Kempston which has been a good ground for us historically. We started well enough -Elijah scoring from outside the box with a bold shot into the top corner. Fred added a second, getting on the end of a clever long ball from Greg. Then the rain started. Conditions were not ideal, but both teams continued to play quite brightly.
Brickhill put together some good movement and the dismal performance from the prior week looked quite distant. Luke added a third before half time.
In the second half, the rain was incessant - Harry found that his sunhat doubled as a good all-weather defence. Dominic bundled home a goal to make it 4-0, and now it was really a question of the margin of victory.
Kempston did make some good runs, but most of these were neutralised by the Brickhill defence who were quick & strong. Harry also made some good saves. However, one low shot to the corner did make it through. 4-1.
Greg and Fred made it 6-1 and then we were awarded a penalty for shoving in the box, which was well converted by captain Ewan. It appeared Fred had made his hat-trick - but his tap-in from Romao's excellent lob was judged invalid. He then found the back of the net again, disallowed for offside !!
KEMPSTON 1 - 7 BRICKHILL the final score. A step back in the right direction.
Sunday, 2 December 2007
Making Heavy Weather
Back to the league today. We started the day still in 2nd place by one point, but with a couple of other teams breathing down our necks - albeit they have played more games. At home to Leighton Town: mid-table team who have been beaten 5 times in 9 games. Furthermore they had only 11 players - it looked on paper like a simple proposition.
Right from the whistle, though, it did not look like going to plan. Leighton did have the advantage of playing with a considerable wind, whilst the sometimes-heavy rain presumably affected both sides the same. Brickhill did not look composed. Whatever the reasons, the game seems to be played pretty much at one end. Leighton created 5 scoring chances in the first 5 minutes and in that sense, Brickhill were lucky to be only one down - the goal came after just about 3 minutes. At the other end, Leighton's goalie had really nothing to do.
In the second half, Brickhill did not seem able to take any advantage from the change of ends, or the improving weather. A defensive error saw us fall 2-0 behind and there did not seem to be much in the way of a comeback. Briefly, this looked like changing when birthday-boy Elijah nailed a beautiful floated free-kick over the wall and into the top corner. However, almost immediately, Brickhill conceded a third goal and a fourth towards the close.
It was a poor performance and a rare home defeat was a fair result.
BRICKHILL 1 - 4 LEIGHTON
Right from the whistle, though, it did not look like going to plan. Leighton did have the advantage of playing with a considerable wind, whilst the sometimes-heavy rain presumably affected both sides the same. Brickhill did not look composed. Whatever the reasons, the game seems to be played pretty much at one end. Leighton created 5 scoring chances in the first 5 minutes and in that sense, Brickhill were lucky to be only one down - the goal came after just about 3 minutes. At the other end, Leighton's goalie had really nothing to do.
In the second half, Brickhill did not seem able to take any advantage from the change of ends, or the improving weather. A defensive error saw us fall 2-0 behind and there did not seem to be much in the way of a comeback. Briefly, this looked like changing when birthday-boy Elijah nailed a beautiful floated free-kick over the wall and into the top corner. However, almost immediately, Brickhill conceded a third goal and a fourth towards the close.
It was a poor performance and a rare home defeat was a fair result.
BRICKHILL 1 - 4 LEIGHTON
Sunday, 25 November 2007
An Uphill Struggle
Away at St. Joseph's (Luton) today, on a bright but chilly morning. The home side are undefeated in Division 2 of our league, and have a strong reputation as well. It was always likely to be tough.
There was some consternation as to whether we would have enough players, but with Sam, Josh and - finally - Luke showing up, we had 13 out of 15. Then, there was an unusual incident when Angus realised he had forgotten his shorts ! The referee came to the rescue by allowing him to play in his tracksuit. The fallback position was for his dad to put the scissors to work !
On to the match. I had expected a high scoring affair - Brickhill had scored 48 goals in 7 games and St. Joseph's are obviously a strong team. However, the effect was that the two teams somewhat cancelled each other out.
The Luton team had a large possession advantage it seemed - distinctly aided by their playing down the slope in the first half. It was clearly hard work for Brickhill to make progress but they defended staunchly and did create two clear-cut scoring chances - Elijah shot wide when clear on goal, and Luke's cross cut open the defence. However, it was St. Joseph's who finally broke the deadlock in injury time - a ricochet from a corner found the net.
Still, it seemed like with only a one goal deficit, and the advantage of the hill in the second half, that Brickhill could come back. Indeed, they pressed and pressed and made several chances - but the opposition defence was also solid and on at least one occasion the crossbar intervened.
With 20 minutes of the 2nd half gone, Brickhill unfortunately conceded a second goal and this always looked like deciding the match. In fact, St. Joseph's added a third with the last kick of the match. The defeat ends our run in the league cup, but the score flattered the winning side. Their coach commented that it was their hardest match all season. Back to the league next week.
ST. JOSEPH'S 3 - 0 BRICKHILL
There was some consternation as to whether we would have enough players, but with Sam, Josh and - finally - Luke showing up, we had 13 out of 15. Then, there was an unusual incident when Angus realised he had forgotten his shorts ! The referee came to the rescue by allowing him to play in his tracksuit. The fallback position was for his dad to put the scissors to work !
On to the match. I had expected a high scoring affair - Brickhill had scored 48 goals in 7 games and St. Joseph's are obviously a strong team. However, the effect was that the two teams somewhat cancelled each other out.
The Luton team had a large possession advantage it seemed - distinctly aided by their playing down the slope in the first half. It was clearly hard work for Brickhill to make progress but they defended staunchly and did create two clear-cut scoring chances - Elijah shot wide when clear on goal, and Luke's cross cut open the defence. However, it was St. Joseph's who finally broke the deadlock in injury time - a ricochet from a corner found the net.
Still, it seemed like with only a one goal deficit, and the advantage of the hill in the second half, that Brickhill could come back. Indeed, they pressed and pressed and made several chances - but the opposition defence was also solid and on at least one occasion the crossbar intervened.
With 20 minutes of the 2nd half gone, Brickhill unfortunately conceded a second goal and this always looked like deciding the match. In fact, St. Joseph's added a third with the last kick of the match. The defeat ends our run in the league cup, but the score flattered the winning side. Their coach commented that it was their hardest match all season. Back to the league next week.
ST. JOSEPH'S 3 - 0 BRICKHILL
Sunday, 18 November 2007
Stot-Fold
Away to Stotfold Juniors in the 2nd round of the County Cup (we had a bye in the 1st round). Stotfold play in a different league altogether, so we had no direct point of comparison. In their own division, they had played & won 4 games, and not conceded a goal at home.
However, they are playing in the 4th (and bottom) division of their league. All in all, we fancied our chances.
We took the lead after 70seconds, through Luke. It wasn't all one-way traffic, but Luke added a second, and Dominic also scored. It was 3-0 at half-time and could have been much more if we'd been able to stay onside.
In the second half, Stotfold really fell away and Fred scored a hat-trick, with two for Elijah as well. As often in these matches, it wasn't as though the other team were hopeless. We were just better organised, and made less mistakes. Their goalkeeper was actually very good, despite the scoreline. A first clean sheet for Harry !
STOTFOLD 0 - 8 BRICKHILL
Next week we play St. Joseph's (Luton) in the league cup. They are in a division directly above us and doing OK, so we can expect a genuinely tough fixture there.
However, they are playing in the 4th (and bottom) division of their league. All in all, we fancied our chances.
We took the lead after 70seconds, through Luke. It wasn't all one-way traffic, but Luke added a second, and Dominic also scored. It was 3-0 at half-time and could have been much more if we'd been able to stay onside.
In the second half, Stotfold really fell away and Fred scored a hat-trick, with two for Elijah as well. As often in these matches, it wasn't as though the other team were hopeless. We were just better organised, and made less mistakes. Their goalkeeper was actually very good, despite the scoreline. A first clean sheet for Harry !
STOTFOLD 0 - 8 BRICKHILL
Next week we play St. Joseph's (Luton) in the league cup. They are in a division directly above us and doing OK, so we can expect a genuinely tough fixture there.
Friday, 16 November 2007
Stadium Way
When this post was supposed to be written, England's prospects of qualifying for Euro 2008 looked bleak. By contrast, England U21 has played 4, Won 4 and conceded no goals in their quest for a Euro 2009 place.
Friday 16th November, and we set off (about 25 people from Brickhill + siblings + parents) to see England U21 vs. Bulgaria U21 at Stadium MK.
A good time was had by all - first there was the amusement of trying to locate the stadium on the satnav - it's too new to be on the map it turns out. We knew it was close to IKEA but TomTom thought the nearest IKEA was in Lille, France.....
Then there was the traditional abandoning the car on the dual carriageway (*) when the traffic at KO minus 20mins slowed to less than walking pace, and the fun of trying to find all those seats that are supposed to be together but actually seem to be all over the place and it always looks like someone else is already sitting in your seat.
* or in Adrian's case, in a mud-pit miles from the entrance.
Next there was the ritual trying to buy a burger during half-time. Harry, Fred, Dominic and David actually attempted this several times before, during and after half-time. Apparently the catering at MK Dons is not really suited for 20,000+ attendance.
Harry's main memory is probably of touching the match-ball when some wayward shot came to us 20-rows up.
It was a good match. England U21 eventually came away 2-0 winners including a 2nd-half penalty won by lightning Theo Walcott, scored by James Milner and very poorly captured on mobile phone video by Harry. We all managed to find our cars again, and a burger on the way out. Success all round.
Friday 16th November, and we set off (about 25 people from Brickhill + siblings + parents) to see England U21 vs. Bulgaria U21 at Stadium MK.
A good time was had by all - first there was the amusement of trying to locate the stadium on the satnav - it's too new to be on the map it turns out. We knew it was close to IKEA but TomTom thought the nearest IKEA was in Lille, France.....
Then there was the traditional abandoning the car on the dual carriageway (*) when the traffic at KO minus 20mins slowed to less than walking pace, and the fun of trying to find all those seats that are supposed to be together but actually seem to be all over the place and it always looks like someone else is already sitting in your seat.
* or in Adrian's case, in a mud-pit miles from the entrance.
Next there was the ritual trying to buy a burger during half-time. Harry, Fred, Dominic and David actually attempted this several times before, during and after half-time. Apparently the catering at MK Dons is not really suited for 20,000+ attendance.
Harry's main memory is probably of touching the match-ball when some wayward shot came to us 20-rows up.
It was a good match. England U21 eventually came away 2-0 winners including a 2nd-half penalty won by lightning Theo Walcott, scored by James Milner and very poorly captured on mobile phone video by Harry. We all managed to find our cars again, and a burger on the way out. Success all round.
Sunday, 11 November 2007
Four Square
Remembrance Sunday. There is a minute's silence before kick-off, which is well respected.
This is a tough game. Away to league-leaders Ampthill who have a one-point advantage. The home supporters are even tougher than the opposition team! There is considerable touchline dissent as to the decisions of the line judges and the referee.
The match itself is close. Brickhill manage to take a 2-goal lead, but there is action at both ends and, with a late goal chipped over Harry, Ampthill are only 4-3 down at half-time.
The second half is edgy. Ampthill claim an equaliser with 10 minutes to go and then it becomes very tense. Clearly, if we can find a winner then we will reclaim the league top spot. However to lose, would open up a 4-point deficit.
Most of our supporters will settle for a draw, and urge the referee to blow for time. Suddenly, Ampthill seem certain to score, but somehow we clear off the line. There is time for one more attack from the good guys, and it almost looks like a fairy-tale finish as Josh curls one from the edge of the box. However, it is a foot too high and a few moments later, the game does finish 4-4.
That keeps us clearly in contention - with the home fixture later in the season likely to be equally as crucial.
AMPTHILL 4 - 4 BRICKHILL
This is a tough game. Away to league-leaders Ampthill who have a one-point advantage. The home supporters are even tougher than the opposition team! There is considerable touchline dissent as to the decisions of the line judges and the referee.
The match itself is close. Brickhill manage to take a 2-goal lead, but there is action at both ends and, with a late goal chipped over Harry, Ampthill are only 4-3 down at half-time.
The second half is edgy. Ampthill claim an equaliser with 10 minutes to go and then it becomes very tense. Clearly, if we can find a winner then we will reclaim the league top spot. However to lose, would open up a 4-point deficit.
Most of our supporters will settle for a draw, and urge the referee to blow for time. Suddenly, Ampthill seem certain to score, but somehow we clear off the line. There is time for one more attack from the good guys, and it almost looks like a fairy-tale finish as Josh curls one from the edge of the box. However, it is a foot too high and a few moments later, the game does finish 4-4.
That keeps us clearly in contention - with the home fixture later in the season likely to be equally as crucial.
AMPTHILL 4 - 4 BRICKHILL
Sunday, 4 November 2007
It's Sunday, so it's football. At home to Houghton Regis. Pebble, our de facto mascot, is back after missing a couple of matches. Another dog-owner (with a huge beast in tow) stops to admire Pebble and by listening in, we learn that our favourite small dog is known to the Kennel Club as "Blue Perfection".
Houghton are playing in blue, but although they get off to a 2-goal lead, it is eventually Brickhill who are closer to perfection. 6-3 the familiar scoreline. Although our six goals do include one own-goal and two penalties (apparently we have never managed to score a penalty before !)
BRICKHILL 6 - 3 HOUGHTON
Houghton are playing in blue, but although they get off to a 2-goal lead, it is eventually Brickhill who are closer to perfection. 6-3 the familiar scoreline. Although our six goals do include one own-goal and two penalties (apparently we have never managed to score a penalty before !)
BRICKHILL 6 - 3 HOUGHTON
Sunday, 21 October 2007
Bad News Travels Fast
Harry was on holiday when news reached us that Brickhill lost in the league to SKF Youth. The 4-3 defeat means Ampthill are now the only undefeated team in the league, and can overtake us if they win their game in hand.
This result, disappointing as it is, is perhaps not as surprising as Lewis Hamilton's failure to secure the F1 world championship. Kimi Raikkonen coming through to win after being 17 points behind with 2 races to go proves that, in sport, anything that is not actually impossible is - indeed - possible.
BRICKHILL 3 - 4 SKF YOUTH
This result, disappointing as it is, is perhaps not as surprising as Lewis Hamilton's failure to secure the F1 world championship. Kimi Raikkonen coming through to win after being 17 points behind with 2 races to go proves that, in sport, anything that is not actually impossible is - indeed - possible.
BRICKHILL 3 - 4 SKF YOUTH
Sunday, 14 October 2007
Cup Cake
I was not able to be at the cup match today at home to Barton Rovers in second round of the County Cup (bye in the first round) but I can report Brickhill won 3-2. We had been trailing 2-1, but finally equalised to force extra time. Apparently it was headed for penalties before we found a winner later in the second period of added time.
A great result against a higher-division side.
BRICKHILL WANDERERS 3 - 2 BARTON ROVERS YOUTH (aet)
A great result against a higher-division side.
BRICKHILL WANDERERS 3 - 2 BARTON ROVERS YOUTH (aet)
Sunday, 7 October 2007
Yellow Perils
At home to Westoning today. Checking my facts pre-match, I found that the opposition were not, in fact, unbeaten this season. However - with 3 wins from 4 - they were clearly a strong side. Their strip of yellow shorts and blue shorts was a violent visual clash with Harry's usual kit, so it was a quick change into the spare orange jersey before the start.
We were missing a couple of players through absence, and injury, and also missing our mascot "Pebble". Some superstitious players were a little concerned about the omens. Brickhill seemed tired in the first half and Westoning, by contrast, were very lively. There were chances at both ends before the yellows broke the deadlock to take a 1-0 lead after 12 minutes.
They added to this a few minutes before half time. There could have been more goals either way, but 2-0 down was the situation at the break. Brickhill looked downhearted and it appeared we could be heading for a first defeat.
However, the situation changed with the first home goal. Niall created a scoring situation for Elijah who found the very corner with a confident left foot. Niall scored himself just 90 seconds later, with a brilliant solo effort to level things up. Now the mood was reversed completely.
Elijah soon ran onto a long ball and took Brickhill into the lead, although his bravery was rewarded with a painful collision as well as a goal. Brickhill now plainly had the better of the game - perhaps the stamina training is paying dividends. Ewan, with a fourth goal, made the lead much more secure with less than 10 minutes to go, and finally Greg added a 5th to secure the win.
BRICKHILL 5 - 2 WESTONING
5 wins from 5 - how long can it continue ?
We were missing a couple of players through absence, and injury, and also missing our mascot "Pebble". Some superstitious players were a little concerned about the omens. Brickhill seemed tired in the first half and Westoning, by contrast, were very lively. There were chances at both ends before the yellows broke the deadlock to take a 1-0 lead after 12 minutes.
They added to this a few minutes before half time. There could have been more goals either way, but 2-0 down was the situation at the break. Brickhill looked downhearted and it appeared we could be heading for a first defeat.
However, the situation changed with the first home goal. Niall created a scoring situation for Elijah who found the very corner with a confident left foot. Niall scored himself just 90 seconds later, with a brilliant solo effort to level things up. Now the mood was reversed completely.
Elijah soon ran onto a long ball and took Brickhill into the lead, although his bravery was rewarded with a painful collision as well as a goal. Brickhill now plainly had the better of the game - perhaps the stamina training is paying dividends. Ewan, with a fourth goal, made the lead much more secure with less than 10 minutes to go, and finally Greg added a 5th to secure the win.
BRICKHILL 5 - 2 WESTONING
5 wins from 5 - how long can it continue ?
Sunday, 30 September 2007
Unlucky for some
Top vs Bottom clash today. Bedford Park Rangers had scored only one goal in their previous three matches, and had nul points to show for their efforts. However, warming up for the match, they looked up for it. The attitude of the coaching staff and the boys was top-rate, also.
In the match, though, it was one-way traffic. It was hard for the non-expert to tell exactly what was wrong: certainly the energy and commitment seemed to be there, and they didn't seem to get downhearted. Also their goalkeeper seemed very sound (it didn't appear as though he could have conceded 13 in one game, and 22 in three games).
However, Brickhill created more chances, and converted more of those. It wasn't pretty, but they led 1-0, then 2-0, then 3-0. One for Elijah and two for Fred at an early stage. BPR got one back, but were 5-1 down by half-time.
In the second half it was hard to keep count, and in the end it was a crushing 13-1 victory for top-of-the-table Brickhill. Hat-tricks for Elijah and Niall. Two each for Fred and Luke. Ewan and Greg were also on the scoresheet. BPR were gracious in defeat.
As you might imagine, there wasn't much for Harry to do although BPR might have had one or two more goals if their luck had been better.
100% record from the first 4 games certainly ensures Brickhill carry a clear lead into the next game - their first home match. Westoning, who will be much tougher, are the opposition.
BEDFORD PARK RANGERS 1 - 13 BRICKHILL
In the match, though, it was one-way traffic. It was hard for the non-expert to tell exactly what was wrong: certainly the energy and commitment seemed to be there, and they didn't seem to get downhearted. Also their goalkeeper seemed very sound (it didn't appear as though he could have conceded 13 in one game, and 22 in three games).
However, Brickhill created more chances, and converted more of those. It wasn't pretty, but they led 1-0, then 2-0, then 3-0. One for Elijah and two for Fred at an early stage. BPR got one back, but were 5-1 down by half-time.
In the second half it was hard to keep count, and in the end it was a crushing 13-1 victory for top-of-the-table Brickhill. Hat-tricks for Elijah and Niall. Two each for Fred and Luke. Ewan and Greg were also on the scoresheet. BPR were gracious in defeat.
As you might imagine, there wasn't much for Harry to do although BPR might have had one or two more goals if their luck had been better.
100% record from the first 4 games certainly ensures Brickhill carry a clear lead into the next game - their first home match. Westoning, who will be much tougher, are the opposition.
BEDFORD PARK RANGERS 1 - 13 BRICKHILL
Sunday, 23 September 2007
A close won thing
A third consecutive trip to Luton today - this time to face Sundon Park Rangers. When Harry & I arrived 45minutes before kick-off, Sundon already had a full squad of 16 (the maximum allowed) in highly organized pre-match training. Obviously they meant business, and wanted the opposition to know it.
When our 2 Sams arrived with just minutes to go to kick-off (having been talked in by mobile phone), we had our full 15 available. The match, in fact, was underway a minute or so before the official 10:30 time-slot.
The first half was not a thing of beauty. Brickhill quickly made a defensive error and fell 1-0 behind, only to find an equalizer within 60seconds - either Angus or Fred may claim the goal. Greg added a second after 12 minutes, to see Brickhill edge in front.
Unfortunately, we conceded either side of half-time to be 2-2 at the break then very quickly 3-2 behind.
Now, it seemed, Brickhill woke up and Ewan made it 3-3 with a powerful strike which Sundon's excellent keeper couldn't stop. And almost immediately, Elijah sprung onto Sam's long ball to make it 4-3.
Brickhill's trademark 6-3 victory looked possible when Greg scored his second header of the game (5-3) and then with a few minutes to go, Elijah made a break from the half-way line and was one-on-one with the keeper. It seemed he must score, but the goalie kept his cool.
Instead, Sundon now found a 4th and it was a nail-biting conclusion to the match as they pressed and pressed for a way to level the match. 3 corners in the last minute of the match were somehow all defended and the whistle finally signalled a 5-4 away win for the Hawks who will have a great chance to make it 4 wins from 4 next weekend against struggling Bedford Park Rangers.
SUNDON PARK RANGERS 4 - 5 BRICKHILL
When our 2 Sams arrived with just minutes to go to kick-off (having been talked in by mobile phone), we had our full 15 available. The match, in fact, was underway a minute or so before the official 10:30 time-slot.
The first half was not a thing of beauty. Brickhill quickly made a defensive error and fell 1-0 behind, only to find an equalizer within 60seconds - either Angus or Fred may claim the goal. Greg added a second after 12 minutes, to see Brickhill edge in front.
Unfortunately, we conceded either side of half-time to be 2-2 at the break then very quickly 3-2 behind.
Now, it seemed, Brickhill woke up and Ewan made it 3-3 with a powerful strike which Sundon's excellent keeper couldn't stop. And almost immediately, Elijah sprung onto Sam's long ball to make it 4-3.
Brickhill's trademark 6-3 victory looked possible when Greg scored his second header of the game (5-3) and then with a few minutes to go, Elijah made a break from the half-way line and was one-on-one with the keeper. It seemed he must score, but the goalie kept his cool.
Instead, Sundon now found a 4th and it was a nail-biting conclusion to the match as they pressed and pressed for a way to level the match. 3 corners in the last minute of the match were somehow all defended and the whistle finally signalled a 5-4 away win for the Hawks who will have a great chance to make it 4 wins from 4 next weekend against struggling Bedford Park Rangers.
SUNDON PARK RANGERS 4 - 5 BRICKHILL
Sunday, 16 September 2007
Same Again
Match 2 of the Chiltern League campaign today, and the 2nd of many Sunday morning trips down the A6. A majority of the teams are based in and around Luton. Bushmead were the opposition today, playing at the Sixth Form College.
The official website is not yet carrying results, so we are somewhat in the dark about Brickhill's exact standing in the league. There were rumours of some big scores last week, so in all likelihood someone is further ahead than our +3 goal difference.
All 15 squad players were available today (both physically and administratively), although both Romao and Sam were wearing #5 on their shirts due to late delivery of the new kit. The referee was consulted, and agreed to allow both to be on the pitch simultaneously if need be.
It turned out to be an excellent match, played in good spirit by all. Brickhill were generally better placed throughout, but the result was never a foregone conclusion.
New signing Josh opened up the scoring with his first competitive goal for the club. In truth, it was a cross not a shot, and the keeper should have held onto it. However, they all count. It looked like 1-0 might be the half-time score, but a flurry of action started with a Bushmead counterattack, and Harry was beaten by a very composed finish.
Now, Brickhill countered with a well-worked goal from Greg and then a beautiful volleyed effort from the edge of the area which gave Bushmead's goalie no chance at all. A second goal for Josh, and 3-1 up at the break.
In the second half, play was a little scrappy. Brickhill failed to take their chances and Bushmead pulled a goal back from a corner which wasn't defended at the back-post. One for the coaches to work on.
The opposition were now creating a number of chances and 3-3 looked likely, but goals from another debutant (Dominic), and from captain Ewan made the score 5-2. It still was not over, though, and sustained pressure from the home side resulted in a 3rd goal for them.
Finally, though, Brickhill closed out the game with a side-footed finish by Greg from Elijah's corner. 6-3 the final score - for the 2nd match in a row. Certainly if they win every match 6-3, the title is secure !
BUSHMEAD 3 - 6 BRICKHILL
The official website is not yet carrying results, so we are somewhat in the dark about Brickhill's exact standing in the league. There were rumours of some big scores last week, so in all likelihood someone is further ahead than our +3 goal difference.
All 15 squad players were available today (both physically and administratively), although both Romao and Sam were wearing #5 on their shirts due to late delivery of the new kit. The referee was consulted, and agreed to allow both to be on the pitch simultaneously if need be.
It turned out to be an excellent match, played in good spirit by all. Brickhill were generally better placed throughout, but the result was never a foregone conclusion.
New signing Josh opened up the scoring with his first competitive goal for the club. In truth, it was a cross not a shot, and the keeper should have held onto it. However, they all count. It looked like 1-0 might be the half-time score, but a flurry of action started with a Bushmead counterattack, and Harry was beaten by a very composed finish.
Now, Brickhill countered with a well-worked goal from Greg and then a beautiful volleyed effort from the edge of the area which gave Bushmead's goalie no chance at all. A second goal for Josh, and 3-1 up at the break.
In the second half, play was a little scrappy. Brickhill failed to take their chances and Bushmead pulled a goal back from a corner which wasn't defended at the back-post. One for the coaches to work on.
The opposition were now creating a number of chances and 3-3 looked likely, but goals from another debutant (Dominic), and from captain Ewan made the score 5-2. It still was not over, though, and sustained pressure from the home side resulted in a 3rd goal for them.
Finally, though, Brickhill closed out the game with a side-footed finish by Greg from Elijah's corner. 6-3 the final score - for the 2nd match in a row. Certainly if they win every match 6-3, the title is secure !
BUSHMEAD 3 - 6 BRICKHILL
Sunday, 9 September 2007
First of Many
Today was Brickhill's first game in the Chiltern League, 3rd division. In this match - away at Luton Borough - Sandra only had 11 league-eligible players due to late registrations, so a full turnout of those 11 was needed simply to avoid starting the season with a fine for not fielding the correct number of players!
Karen & I were away overnight, so Harry went to the match with Cameron. We managed to arrive in time for the 2nd half. By then, the score was 1-1. Brickhill had opened the scoring, but had played most of the half with 10 men when Fred picked up an injury and could not continue - no subs available.
They later conceded an equaliser to a fluke deflection, but had apparently had the better of the chances overall despite the one-player handicap. Playing uphill in the second half, Brickhill quickly fell behind to a super strike from the edge of the area. It looked like the match may start to fall away from them but a few minutes later, a well-worked opening resulted in Elijah hammering in diagonally into the far corner from just inside the area. 2-2.
Fred now felt able to return to the game, and was immediately involved in a move that saw Brickhill take the lead with a lovely pass-and-volley goal for Niall. 4-2 was the score soon - a tap-in for Greg. All the pressure was from Brickhill who were relishing their superiority. Elijah defeated the offside trap with a quick burst into the box and fashioned a beautiful chip past the unfortunate Luton keeper. 5-2.
With about 10 minutes to go, the win looked secure. However, Luton were very quick on the break and soon found an opening to pull one back with a well-finished strike from their powerful No.12. At 5-3 down, Luton may have had a chance but a goal-mouth scramble resulted in a 6th and final goal for the away side.
LUTON BOROUGH 3 - 6 BRICKHILL
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