KAI RESCUES DRAMATIC POINT IN FINAL SECONDS

Precision Notts Senior League

UNDERWOOD VILLA FC 2 ASTON UNITED FC 2

A trip to Bracken Park was venture for the Bank Holiday Christmas Tuesday fixture, not too far from home so Hazel could drop me off whilst she went shopping with her daughter down from Preston.

The team sheets were got very early and soon the hoppers gathered round and took the photos and wrote them down.

A more than eventful match was to proceed and it was the visitors who were soon in front after 4 minutes, when JORDAN SANDERS hot a low range shot that seemed to strike the post, hit the home keeper before ending up in the net.

On 10 minutes, the hosts should have been level, when they were awarded a penalty, but Jamie Hudson;s poor kick was saved by Chris Camm.

Aston continued to threaten and with better finishing could have gone in at half time at least three goals to the good.

The Second Half began and it was the hosts who were playing better football, but ten they were reduced down to ten men after a remark made by Joshua Hunt to the referee. The referee quite rightly explained to the home bench his decision.

On the hour, Underwood made a triple substitution and almost immediately a home midfielder went down injured and there was a long delay, but the lad continued to play on.

Underwood plugged on and Aston played on the break as the game began to fizzle out, but on 80 minutes, ALEXANDER MANN got the deserved equaliser.

As we headed to the 90th minute, Bradley Scald, already on a yellow card, kicked the ball away at a free kick to see another yellow card and Aston were also down to 10 men.

With 91 minutes on my watch, Aston must have thought they had scored the winner when SHAY WIGGINS nodded in to the clubhouse net.

People were looking at their watches as the game went on and there were a few more chances, in the 12th minute of injury time came a last gasp equaliser by KAI WILSON to give the hosts a share of the points.

I asked the Referee after the game about the added time and he explained that both sides were aware of the delays due to the explaining of the sending offs and the injury and the ball being out of play for long periods, so all credit to the referee Ian Smith for playing the full amount of time

Photos from the match can be seen HERE

BERTRAM HEADS HOME THREE POINTS FOR UNITED

Evostick South Division

BASFORD UNITED FC 2 CARLTON TOWN FC 1

Att: 221

Not seen Basford United First team at their home ground since they were in the CMFL days, infact it was the Groundhop match v the defunct Notts Police FC, though I have visited te ground several times for NSL matches etc.

Hazel dropped me off at Hucknall Tram Station and I traveled 4 stops and got off at Highbury Vale, crossed the line and then strolled by the 2 outside pitches before getting to the turnsitiles. I was greeted by 2 lovely ladies on the gate, Mrs and Miss Munroe and then got me programme and raffle tickets from Santa near the club shop before bumping in to local hopper Michael Pridgeon. We had a chat and discussed how good the Basford programme was and how improved it has become over the season. Went to the tea hut and had a bit of a laugh with the young lady who looked after us on our last visit in the bar.

The game commenced and Basford were soon on the attack and on 7 minutes, the visiting defence dished out a Boxing Day present as they left the ball for BEN HUTCHINSON to run on to and fire Basford in to a early lead.

The rest of the half was quite uneventful with very few chances with both sides cancelling each others play.

The Second Half, I strolled round the dug out side of the ground and stood with Malc Storer and Kev Goodman and Big Mac and on 48 minutes Carlton Town were level when WILLIAM MELLORS-BLAIR fired home.

Basford pushed forward whilst Carlton played on the break and this looked like Carlton could just sneak a winner at this rate as the clock ticked on, but on 78 minutes, a ball floated in from the right was headed home by REECE BERTRAM to give the homesters the three points.

I stayed for a few pints after the match as £1.50 a pint of lager was too good a offer to refuse and as I was leaving the ground, I was asked my choice of Man of the Matchh, to which I gaave it to Ben Hutchinson as he chased the ball down all afternoon, he put in a few dangerous crosses and also opened the scoring.

SUMMERS HEADS IN THE WINTER

Precision Notts Senior League

Division One

ASHLAND ROVERS FC 2 SOUTHWELL CITY RESERVES 1

With Hazel meeting up with her daughter Sarah at Chatsworth House, I looked for a local match and this fitted the bill, just 2 buses away, but the second bus went round every housing estate I never knew existed. A quick breakfast in a little cob shop saw me bump in to Bill the Calverton MW FC joint Manager.

On arrival I was greeted by John Dawn the Chair and Secretary of Ashland Rovers FC and sat and drunk my cuppa and then had a chat with local referee Colin White,  whilst waiting for the team lines, Southwell City Secretary Gerard Law greeted me and wished me a merry christmas and bought me some mince pies.

The game kicked off and play flowed both ends of the pitch and how it was 0-0 at half time was a credit to both goalkeepers keeping their sides a clean sheet.

The Second Half kicked off and a back pass made its way to the home keeper who kicked the ball and it struck CALUM LAW who slotted the ball home after 46 minutes. On the hour, the game was level when a Southwell defender handled the ball to which ADAM MELLORS converted.

On 70 minutes, Ashland gained a corner which was swung in and the visiting keeper remained on the floor, after treatment he had to be rushed to the hospital, as his finger was the opposite way to all his others, I wish him a speedy recovery, five minutes earlier I had been chatting to the sub who I know is a keeper and I dont think he expected he was going to be called on.

This seemed to spur the visitors forward and at this stage their looked like there was only to be one side that was going to snatch a winner, how wrong was I to be, as after 88 minutes, Ashland Rovers were awarded a free kick on the right hand side and it was floated in and seemed to hit 3 players at least before dropping in to the net, half the team were patting AdamMellors and the other half MARK SUMMERS for the header, there is still doubt who got the last touch but Summers has claimed it and it turned out to be the winner in what was a very entertaining game.

Thought Ref Colin White had a good game, as there could well have been some flashpoints but he Stepped in and defused them straight away and spoke to the players on why decisions were being made, his experiance showed, even though some players may well disagree.

At the pub after the game, Ashland Rovers FC kindly donated £20 to the Charitys Blog which Id like to thank them for.

Photos from the match can be seen on this LINK

VILLA DROP VITAL HOME POINTS

Precision Notts Senior League

Premier Division

AWSWORTH VILLA FC 1 AFC DUNKIRK 1

Arrived early in Awsworth as Shawn was doing tramplining with the scouts and Hazel needed to get back at 1.30pm to collect him, so a nice cuppa and a chat with both clubs officials and teams got well before kick off.

I like going to Awsworth as it is a lovely view up on top of the bank to seat and over look the pitch and was soon joined by Awsworths oldest fan Mal who is 80 today.

The game kicked off and the young visitors had quite a few attacks whilst Villa were struggling to put any passes together, infact the young boatmen gave Villa a scare after 28 minutes, where their winger cut in from the left side and curled the ball on to the inside of the post.

After 34 minutes, a back pass was made and the ref gave the decision of a free kick inside the 6 yard box, the visiting keeper gave the ball to the attacker, who passed it sideways and LUKE HODGMAN tapped in to give Villa a 1-0 lead.

The Second Half was a lot more lively with Villa pressing for a second goal but being kept out by the young visiting keeper on at least 5 occasions. Dunkirk were having chances themselves and playing some very good football and on 70 minutes they were level, when a corner from rigt hand side was headed home by CHRIS BONNINGTON.

Just before the end of the game, Villa centre back Lee Stevenson saw red after receiving his second yellow card of the game.

Photos from the match can be seen on this LINK

NOTTS FA COUNTY CUP DRAWS

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE FA COUNTY CUP DRAWS

SENIOR CUP

Quarter Finals

Carlton Town FC v Sherwood Colliery FC

Basford United FC v Kimberley Miners Welfare FC

Rainworth Miners Welfare FC v Real United FC

West Bridgford FC v Teversal FC

INTERMEDIATE CUP

Quarter Finals

AFC Dunkirk v Newark Flowserve FC

Hucknall Town Reserves v Attenborough FC

Nottingham Trent University/Gedling Southbank FC v Basford United Community FC

Sherwood Colliery Reserves v Southwell City FC

JUNIOR CUP

Quarter Finals

MAFC v Bilborough United FC

Mansfield Hosiery Mills FC v Beeston Old Boys Association FC

Awsworth Villa Reserves v Nottinghamshire FC

Southwell City Reserves v Rainworth Archers FC

MINOR CUP

Semi Finals

Aslockton Cranmers FC v Wollaton IV XI

Gedling Southbank Colts v AC Wollaton

CITY HEAD TO QUARTERS

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE FA JUNIOR CUP

Third Round

PREMIUM FC 1 SOUTHWELL CITY RESERVES 4

On County Cup weekend I always look for one of the Notts Senior League clubs playing away from home at a ground Ive never visited and though I was with Dunkirk FC in the early 1990's, I never ventured past the Pelican Ground, ti where I found out at this Grove Farm venue, there is a new changing room area and lots of pitches for Football and Rugby.

The pitch Premium FC use is quite a way from the changing rooms but is fully railed and has dug outs and a lovely flat and well looked after pitch.

After getting both line up;s it was to pitchside, where a minutes silence took place in respect of those who had lost their lives in the plane crash in Columbia.

The game kicked off and Southwell were soon in their stride and after just 94 seconds, CALUM LAW got the ball around the halfway line on the right wing and attempted to float the ball over for a cross, but the ball kept going and dropped in to the net to everyones surprise.

This seemed to spur City on and were denied three times by the Premium goalpost from going further in front, whilst the homesters played on the break, on 18 minutes, the warning signs were there for all to see, when David Oakley saw his shot bounce off the Southwell post. The next Premium attack on 21 minutes, saw the breakthrough, when a mistake by the visiting centre halves left the ball and DAVID OAKLEY made no mistake this time firing home the equaliser.

Premium had their best spell of the game now and Southwell were struggling with one of their centre backs and waiting for the sub to arrive, as soon as he did, he was put on and the visitors re-organised, but on 32 minutes, whilst Premium were on the attack, it broke down and a long ball saw City on the break and a forward was bought down and they were awarded a penalty to which LIAM WILKINSON stepped up and duly dispatched to restore the visitors lead.

Half time came and both camps gave out their instructions that the next goal would be vital to this tie and it certainly was, as Premium had replaced their first half stand in keeper and the replacement was stopping everything thrown at him until a close range effort by CALUM LAW on 69 minutes to make it 3-1.

Both sides still wanted to play football and with time running down on 85 minutes, a long ball found LIAM WILKINSON who dribbled past the oncoming keeper and slotted the ball in to the net past two defenders on the line to make it 4-1.

Overall view of the game: City deserved their win and to progress in to the Quarter Finals, both sides played the game the right way with no arguing, cross words or nasty challenges and both clubs were a credit to their leagues. The ref missed a couple of things but he had a very good game overall.

Photos from the match can be seen on this LINK

THE VILLAGERS REAL WIN

Precision Notts Senior League

Premier Division

RUDDINGTON VILLAGE FC 3 REAL UNITED FC 1

Undecided where to go on Saturday, I finally made up my mind on Saturday Morning and thought I would head to Elms Park, the home of defending League Champions Ruddington Village FC who were hosting inform Real United FC.

On arrival, we was greeted and soon made that special cuppa and had a chat with the locals as well as the management team from the opposition.

I took up my position not far from the dugouts and it wwas the Villagers who were on the attack straight away forcing a corner that was just headed over, then came a long chip that the Real keeper did well to just tip over the bar. From the resulting corner on thed right side after 4 minutes, ADAM McMULLEN rose to head the homesters in to a early lead.

Ruddington continued to press and a last ditch tackle on the line by the Real centre back saved them from going further behind. The visitors then began to carve out chances themselves but some of their shooting was a bit wayward. After 42 minutes though, the bscores were level, when a cross from the left wing saw JOURDAN BLA IR heead home at the far post.

The Second Half had that to and far action to it, with both sides having good chances and both keepers being in fine form, but it was Ruddington who re took the lead on 80 minutes, when TRISTAN RHODES beat the opposition keeper at the near post with a stunning shot.

As Real pushed forward it left gaps at the back and Ruddington on the counter attack forced another corner, this one on the left hand side, to which MICHAEL LESLIE headed home like a bullet.

A very good match played in the right spirit of the game and a credit to both sides.

Photos from the match can be seen HERE

TOWN SNATCH LAST GASP POINT

Notts Senior League

Premier Division

BINGHAM TOWN FC 3 MAGDALA AMATEURS FC 3

Programme: 50p

Att: 87

When ever I go to Butt Field, the home of Bingham Town FC, I always seem to see goals, apart from when I took the Groundhop there of course and today there were plenty including a last gasp effort from the homesters to claw back a point after being 3-1 down.

The game began slowly as I stood with Daron Ward from the now defunct Burton Joyce FC and the first 15 minutes looked like a 0-0 all over it, but on 19 minutes, GARETH BENTLEY fired home through a crowded area to give the visitors the lead. The remainer of the half was fairly level with not many chances for either side.

The Second Half was a lot more lively with Magdala stepping up their game and it came as no surprise on 51 minutes when GARETH BENTLEY doubled his sides advantage.

Bingham began to put a few chances together and were rewarded after 65 minutes when MICHAEL JEPPS swooped and blasted home to reduce the score.

On 71 minutes, on the left wing, a bingham player was pushed off the ball with both hands, with the referees view obstructed, he waved play on and from the move, Magdala gained a corner, from the resulting kick, it was headed from the back post and GARETH BENTLEY nodded home his hat trick.

On 80 minutes, there were a few handbags after a hard challenge, as of normal, a bunch of players from each side ran to the situation shouting, as this stage, a young lady entered the pitch and fell flat on her face and her boyfriend told her to get off the pitch.

This incident seemed to spur Bingham in to life for the first time in the game and began to pour players forward and on 84 minutes, MICHAEL JEPPS got his second goal of the game.

With time running out, a ball played in to the area, ping poned around and ended up in the net, as the Bingham players celebrated, the ref took his time to indicate the goal as he looked over to his assistant, there was confusion of who got the last touch but TOM SPENCER has claimed it, even though most in the crowd of 87 thought it was Harry Simpson.

To view the photos of the match, pls click HERE

YOUNG BOATMEN SO PROUD

FA YOUTH CUP

Second Record

MANSFIELD TOWN YOUTH 5 DUNKIRK FC YOUTH 2

Att: 506

Admission £3

Programme £1

On the way to the Second Round Proper of the FA Youth Cup, Dunkirk the lowest ranked team left in the competition had seen off teams from a higher level, infact in the First Round beating Coventry City to be rewarded with a trip to the One Call Stadium(Field Mill), the home of Mansfield Town FC.

It was good to see a good turn out of supporters from the riverside club, including many of the faces of players from the 1990;s period and also to see their very strong committee on hand at the game.

Many of the players that play for Dunkirk Youth team are from AFC Dunkirk who ply their trade in the Notts Senior League and it was a credit to go along and watch this tie with League Chairman Ian Kirk.

The game kicked off and it was Dunkirk who had the early opportunities as they were on the front foot forcing the home keeper in to a couple of saves, but after 13 minutes and with Mansfield's first real threat ALISTAIR SMITH fired them in to the lead.

On 16 minutes, it was 2-0 to the young Stags when ZAYN HAKEEM cut in from the left and fired home. The Stags were now on fire and on 19 minutes, ALISTAIR SMITH's lob found the back of the net to make it 3-0.

Dunkirk then showed their fighting spirit and all was not lost when on 22 minutes, Harrison;s cross from the right wing was met by the head of JOEL HOWES to reduce the arrears, but not much time for celebrating as ZAYN HAKEEM scored his second and his clubs fourth on 24 minutes to make it 4-1. 

Again Dunkirk pressed forward and again on 32 minutes, JACK WARNER netted from 30 yards out. The Boatman continued to press for a third goal, but it didnt arrive.

The Second Half both sides were a lot more solid in defence, with both sides creating chances to add to thhe scoring, including Dunkirk hitting the post, but after 81 minutes ZAKN HAKEEM secured his hat trick to fire the youngs Stags in to Round Three where they travel down to the capital to face Fulham FC.

A outstanding achievement to Dunkirk FC to get this far in this competition and some very good young players on show for both sides.good 

DNF WIN BATTLE OF UNBEATENS

Notts Senior League

Division Two

ASLOCKTON CRANMERS FC 0 TEAM DNF 1

Att: 20

On a very bleak day, I headed to Bingham Leisure Centre, as Aslockton have problems with no water at the Orston Ground and are due to play at the Leisure Centre next weekend as well.

Whilst I was watching the footie, Hazel was able to treat Shawn to swimming for a treat. I got to the reception and met by both sets of players and soon got the team line ups and took a stroll out to the pitch with the Aslockton Manager, Im glad he showed me where it was as it was a good walkmg distance from the changing rooms.

Back into the Centre where I popped up to the Cafe and grabbed a cuppa and then met Gordon Grimes from Leicester. At 1.45pm I headed back towards the pitch and met local hopper Michael Pridgeon and was soon joined by Rob Campion who was taking photos of the game.

After the minutes silence, the game kicked off and it was the visitors who were cut out the early chances with the Lockton keeper in fine form and grabbing man the match with a series of saves, but after 12 minutes, he could not do anything when SHELDON TUITT fired home.

One of the DNF players dad Malc Brown kindly donated £2 to the Charity Blog, then Gordon donated £5 so a BIG thankyou to you both.

The game continued and it was the visitors who looked more likely to score with the hosts having the odd chance. After the break, the Cranmers did start to carve out the odd chance but DNF looked the better of the two sides, though you could understand why both teams had gone in to the game unbeaten.

During injury time, the host forced a couple of corners but there was to be no last gasp equaliser for them.

Just to add that I felt that referee Shaun Garner had a very good game

A POINT A PIECE AT THE AVENUE

Precision Notts Senior League

Division Two

BASFORD UNITED COMMUNITY RESERVES FC 2 GREYHOUNDERS FC 2

Who really cares about watching England on the tele on a Friday evening, not me, Id rather be out watching a proper game of football and tonight took me down the motorway a couple of junctions to Greenwich Avenue, the home of Basford United FC. Whilst their main team play in the Evo Stick League, they have 2 new teams in the Notts Senior League, Basford United Community and their Reserves, so tonight it was their reserves on show against Greyhounders FC who are based near Grantham in the little village of Aslockton.

Onarrival, I was greeted by both managers and soon got the team line up;s and met the friendly Sam in the clubhouse who put the tele on and Hazel and Shawn sat in there, I was soon joined by club Secretary Tracie Witton and trying to hide was good friend Malc Storer, as I ventured out for the minutes silence, I joined Macca Senior and Malc for a chat and the first half of the game was played at a good rate with some good footie being played and on 22 minutes CHRIS STRIPLING fired the visitors ahead..That lead didnt last for long as Basford got a free kick some 30 yards out on 24 minutes and BUBBA CEESAY blasted home.

As I was venturing towards my half time cuppa, I was greeted to the ground byhome club Chairman Chris Munroe, who kindly donated £20 towards the Charity Blogs total, so a BIG thankyou to Chris, always a pleasure visiting your club.

The Second Half began with the visitors on the attack and after a break, they hot the bar, but then the half went through a bit of a lull stage, with players trying their best but of little chances going either way, but a break down the  left wing saw BUBBA CEESAY slot the ball home to give Community the lead.

On 77 minutes, the ball zipped around the Basford penalty area and landed to CHRIS STRIPLING to strike home the equaliser, much to the dismay of the home players but Im not quite sure what they were appealing for and the goal stood.

O/n reflection a point a piece was possibly the correct result for both sides.

NOTTS FA COUNTY CUP DRAWS

NOTTS FA SENIOR CUP

3rd Round

Teversal FC v Retford FC

Kimberley MW FC v Awsworth Villa FC

Radford FC v Basford United FC

Real United FC v Arnold Town FC

West Bridgford FC v AFC Mansfield

Sherwood Colliery FC v Selston FC

Clipstone FC v Rainworth MW FC

Eastwood Community FC v Carlton Town FC

NOTTS FA INTERMEDIATE CUP

3rd Round

Basford Community FC v Calverton MW FC

Attenborough FC v Linby CW Reserves

Nottingham Trent University FC v Bilborough Town FC

Ruddington Village Reserves v Southwell City FC

Magdala Amateurs FC v AFC Dunkirk

Newark Flowserve FC v Eastwood Community Reserves

Hucknall Town Reserves v Underwood Villa FC

Bestwood MW/FC Cavaliers v Sherwood Colliery Reserves

NOTTS FA JUNIOR CUP

3rd Round

Arnold Samba FC v Rainworth Archers FC

Nottinghamshire FC v Sneinton Town FC

Premium FC v Southwell City Reserves

Underwood Villa Reserves v Mansfield Hosiery Mills FC

MAFC v Selston Reserves

Bilborough United v Woodborough Park Rangers FC

Gedling Southbank A v Awsworth Villa Reserves

Beeston Old Boys v Ravenshead FC

NOTTS FA MINOR CUP 

3rd Round

Gedling Southbank Colts v Asha FC

Netherfield FC v AFC Wollaton

Aslockton Cranmers FC v Beeston Old Boys Reserves

Wollaton IV v Robin Hood Colts

YOUNG MILLERS PROGRESS TO NEXT ROUND

Notts FA Junior Cup

Second Round

THE CORNER PIN FC 2 MANSFIELD HOSIERY MILLS FC 4

Firstly Id like to thank Gary Hoe of the Notts Amateur Alliance for alerting me that the venue for this cup tie had been altered from Westwood to Jacksdale MW.

Corner Pin are a new club this season having formed from some of the ex players from Netherfield Albion thirds and some local players are around the area, whilst Mansfiueld Hosiery Mills are in their first season in the Notts Senior League Division Two with the majority of the players under 18 and coming from their now defunct under 18;s team.

A very lively start to the game as the Millers took the lead after just 3 minutes after a long throw from the left wing found the head of KAMEN BROWN. Within a minute, it could well have been 2-0 when from a similar build up Jamie Bennett headed narrowly wide. The Corner Pin then settled in to the game and showed why they are league leaders of  Division One, when they pressed forward and on 7 minutes, CHRIS RILEY unleashed a 30 yard volley to even things up. This encouraged Corner Pin to up their game and press the Miller back in their half, so it came as no surprise on 34 minutes AARON RILEY put the pinners in front from close range. s my hands were freezing and thinking of than nice warm cuppa on 44 minutes, the visitors broke on the left and LUKE GREAVES evened things up at 2-2.

The Second Half and the Millers seemed to be encouraged by that late first half goal and stepped up their game and some nice moves were denied by the home keeper who replaced a keeper at half time, but on the hour, the referee adjudged that a home defender had tripped a Mills player and KAREN BROWN stepped up and dispatched the kick to give them a 3-2 lead, the home players werent happy about the decision, but in the first half a home defender did punch the ball off the line and the referee wasnt in the position to see it and even the home players laughed about it, so sometimes its swings and roundabouts.

Hosiery Mills were now on top of this tie as sadly some of the Corner Pin players seemed to lose concentration on the game and their heads went down a little and Im sure if they had kept playing their football they are capable of they could have set up a great finish, but a couple of players seemed more intent of chasing the referee around to argue with him.

In the 70th minute, the game was all done and dusted as the ball came out to the right and LUKE GREAVES cut in and fired home.

A good tie with no really bad challenges apart from the odd strong challenge, on a poor maintained pitch, but both sides did try and play football.

Photos from the game can be seen on this LINK

THE ABBEY LANE DRAW

Boston & District Football League

Division One

WOODALL SPA UNITED FC 1 SWINESHEAD INSTITUTE RESERVES FC 1

On the road back from our weeks holiday in Ingoldmells, I wanted to go to a match at a new ground and also a new league and Woodall Spa United FC fitted the bill perfectly as it was about a hour and a half home. I rang the Boston & District League Secretary on Friday evening to check the kick off time was 2.30pm as friend Herbie had text me her phone number.

On arrival at Abbey Lane, I was greeted by a chap who used to referee in the old Notts Alliance days and was soon made a cuppa for me and my wife by a lady who had just arrived at the ground. With the teamline ups gained by both managers, I took up my position at pitchside.

The game kicked off and United had a couple of decent chances to opening the scoring early on but good defending kept them at bay. On 35 minutes, a Institute ball was played out to the left wing, where SANDS caught the home keeper off his line and chipped him to put the visitors ahead.

On 39 minutes, the scores were level at 1-1 when ROBERTSON placed his penalty in to the net after a handball decision. 

At half time, I met the United Secretary who sold me some badges and also a nice cuppa. I decided to venture over to the far side of the pitch for the second half and it was the visitors who looked more inclined to score and take home the points, but brave goalkeeping by the home keeper and some narrow misses kept this match level.

A lovely ground and both sets of players wanted to play football and were a credit not only to their clubs but to their league as well

To see the match day photos please click HERE

ALFORD THROUGH TO NEXT ROUND

East Lincs Combination League

Tim Sales Memorial Trophy

ALFORD TOWN FC 3 MARKET RASEN DEVELOPEMENT FC 0

As I was on holiday in Ingoldmells, I looked round for a local match to go and watch and saw Alford Town fitted the bill. Alford Town play just next to the famous windmill, that I went up many years ago and looked down over the pitch. The homesters play in Division Two of the East Lincs Combination League whilst their visitors play in the division below.

On arrival, a friendly welcome was made and a cuppa was soon made in the clubhouse for me and the wife and soon both sides handed me their line up;s.

The game kicked off and the first real chance fell on 20 minutes to the developement side, when a header went wide. I strolled out the nice stand in front of the clubhouse as the sun came out and Alford began to press forward and on 30 minutes, RICK WOLSTENHOLME was first to the ball to sweep his side in to the lead.

The Second Half saw Alford mainly on the attack with the visitors counter attacking on the break, but not putting much in front of the home keeper to save.

With time running down on 80 minutes, Alford were awarded a free kick on the right hand wing, which was swung in and met by the head of TOM LEMPARD to flash home and double Alford's lead.

The best goal of the game was yet to come and that happened in the 86th minute, as home substitute JAMES COLE smashed home a 30 yard volley to make the final score 3-0.

Both sets of players played some decent football on the day and were both a credit to their league and their clubs.

Click to see match photos HERE

NOTTS SENIOR LEAGUE CUP QUARTER FINALS

PRECISION NOTTINGHAMSHIRE SENIOR LEAGUE CUP

QUARTER FINAL DRAW

Ravenshead FC v Newark Flowserve FC

Nottingham Trent University FC v FC Cavaliers

Cotgrave FC v Aston United FC

Wollaton FC v Clifton All Whites/Basford Community/Awsworth Villa

WOLLATON THROUGH TO QUARTER FINALS

Precision Nottinghamshire Senior League Cup

Third Round

WOLLATON FC 4 TEAM DNF 0

On arrival at Wollaton FC, I was greeted by the Wollaton FC committee and was kindly donated £10 from club Chairman Bill Fishwick, after getting the teams on my way out towards pitchside, I was stopped by Malc Brown who donated £2. Malc's lad plays centre back for Team DNF and he is regular reader of the Charity Blog. May I thank both Wollaton FC and Malc for their kind donations and with the 4 goals scored today tops the £500 mark.

I took up my standing point between the 2 dugouts on the half way line and we didnt have to wait very long for the first goal to be scored when after just 19 seconds Liam Towle slotted home.

Team DNF to their credit with six lads of only 16 years of age pushed forward and could well have been level, if not for a superb save by Helthrope in the homesters net, also a shot that flashed wide of his goal.

After 27 minutes, SAM ROTHWELL was left on his own in midfield some 30 yards out and his low shot found its way in to the bottom corner of the net to double Wollaton;s advantage.

The game flowed end to end and looked like it was going to finish the half at 2-0, but on 42 minutes, a defensive mix up in the DNF defence, saw SEAN CRAVEN steal the loose ball and rifle home number three.

The Second Half saw the visitors come out and play alot better and could well have reduced the deficit but captain Jay Knight cleared off his own line.

In the 87th minute, Team DNF gained a penalty to which their captain Cameron Gray skied over the bar. From the resulting goal kick Wollaton won the ball in midfield and a cross found DAN CHADWICK who back healed the ball in to the net to make it 4-0.

A good game to watch with two good sides taking part and I must say referee Phil Towers had a great game with no cards shown.

Photos of the match can be seen on this LINK

BRICKIES & WELFARE SHARE THE POINTS

Notts Senior League

Division One

KIRTON BRICKWORKS FFC 3 KIMBERLEY MW RESERVES 3

Had to stay local today as Shawn was rock climbing at Walesby with the scouts in the morning and had to be fetched at 1pm and then having to be at church for 4pm to go with the scouts to the Space Centre for a overnight sleep, so Kirton was close enough for me.

On arrival there was a bit of a scare as the Kimberley manager was running late and he had the kit, but it all turned out in the end and kick off got on the way right on time.

I stood and had a chat with the young Welfare keeper's parents and then got a cuppa from Kirton Chairman Tony Marsh and Steve before grabbing the line up's.

I went and had a chat with Danny Staley and Neil Johnson whilst the action commenced on the pitch. It was the visitors who were on the front foot for the first 20 minutes, but after 21 minutes, JAMIE BIRCH on the right wing hit a ball from some 30 yards out that found thhe back of the net to give the Brickies the lead. This seemed to give the homesters some confidence and they pushed forward in search of a second.

On 40 minutes, the scores were level at 1-1, when MATT CLOWES scored his forst goal of the afternoon. 

After 50 minutes, WES O ROURKE captain of Kirton put his side back in front, but it didnt last long as on 55minutes, a cross from left was met by the diving header of LEE JOHNSON to make it 2-2.

Both sides were then pressing forward leaving gaps at the back and chances flowed until the 66th minute, when MATT CLOWES put his side in front for the first time in the game, but had injured himself in the meantime and had to be replaced.

After 72 minutes, record scorer for The Brickies whipped in and got a equaliser to square things up at 3-3.

A point for both sides in a entertaining game that none deserved to lose.

Photos from the game can be seen on this LINK

BOATMEN GIVE STUDENTS A LESSON

Notts Senior League

Premier Division

AFC DUNKIRK 5 NOTTINGHAM TRENT UNIVERSITY FC 1

Firstly I must thank Notts FA official Dave Plowright for the kind offer of a lift so I could attend this midweek game. He would not accept any petrol money I have chucked £5 in to the charity blog total. The Notts FA with the Notts Senior League are filming so many matches throughout the season and using them as training videos for referees throughout the Country and this was one of the games chosen.

On arrival at the ground, I was greeted by the Dunkirk committee and soon got a cuppa and the teamsheet, but then had to chase the Students team at the last minute.

Dunkirk were soon in their stride and were soon ahead on 12 minutes when GORAN SEYMOUR hot a low free kick in to the corner of the net from 30 yards. It soon became 2-0 with young TIM BERRIDGE getting his first of the night after 15 minutes. On 24 minutes, the boatmen's captain PIERCE BIRD got in on the act when he converted and made it 3-0, by now this looked like the scoreline could be anything as the students struggled with a lot of their team making their debuts, but they then began to settle down and came back in to the game with a couple of close chances.

The Second Half began like the first with AFC on the attack and the Uni keeper was kept on his toes a couple of times, a few subs took place for both sides and the tempo of the game slowed down and it was one of the subs that saw the Uni side pulled a goal back on 63 minutes through JOSHUA SMITH.

Dunkirk;s reaction was to go straight back on the attack and after 65 minutes regained their 3 goal margin when TIM BERRIDGE netted his second goal of the game.

Towards the end of the game, Dunkirk wrapped up the game through McKenna Parton to make 5-1.

TOWN REIGN AT THE TOP

Notts Senior League

Premier Division

BILBOROUGH TOWN FC 2 MAGDALA AMATEURS FC 0

Well after many years of travelling round different venues looking for a home, Bilborough Town have finally found a place in the heart of the Bilborough Community at Harvey Hadden Stadium.

I had this game on the cards fro a few weeks now and quite glad I did as the rain was torrential and I was able to sit in the massive stand to stay nice and dry, which is more than can be said about the players of both sides.

Just after arriving and getting a cuppa in a massive cup, Pete Watmouth arrived and we had a chat as Shawn ran round the pitch helping putting the corner flags out for the game. With team line ups got, it was in to the stand.

Magdala begin the game brightly and could well have been three goals in front after 15 minutes, if it wasnt for the Town keeper who was in fine form. On 20 minutes, came the closest we got to a goal in the half, when on a Bilborough attack, the ball was flicked away by the keeper and a shot was bungled off the line and dropped just in front of the goal before being cleared.

The weather got worse with thunder and heavy rain but the pitch looked perfect and both sides were giving their best, but the home side were just edging it on chances. After 71 minutes, Town were awarded a free kick just outside the area and RICKY STREET fired it home.

Magdala pushed forward and again the home keeper in the 82nd minute came to the homesters rescue by pushing the ball past his post.

In the final minute, came the best play of the day, with a slick move which ended with RICKY LAW smashing home from close range to make sure Bilborough went seven points clear at the summit of the table.

Sadly there are no photos from the game, as I seemed to have problems with my camera grrr

HOLWELL MAKE IT COUNT IN EXTRA TIME

FA VASE

Second Qualifying Round

CLIFTON ALL WHITES FC 1 HOLWELL SPORTS FC 2

(After Extra Time)

Holwell Sports of the East Midlands Counties League travelled to Clifton All Whites of the Notts Senior League and snatched a late extra time winner.

The First half belonged to the visitors who really should have had the tie wrapped up and should have gone in at the interval with a three goal lead, but only went in 1-0 through a goal in the 20th minute by CHRISTOPHER HIBBITT.

The Second Half belonged to All Whites who pushed forward and chance after chance went begging along with good defending by the away defence, until STEVE O CONNELL equalised in the 71st minute. Clifton then had a penalty appeal waved away and a corner given.

The game went in to extra time and with weary legs on both sides, the tempo of the game slowed down, but it was Holwell who stepped up their game and looked the more likely team to score.

As the game entered in to the second period of extra time, the home side appealed for a foul but the ref waved play on and a long ball over the top, left KIERAN FOSTER in the clear to fire home the winner.

In the final minute, a few words were exchanged and the referee produced a second yellow card and dismissed the Holwell player to the amazement of most the people in the ground.

A cracking cup tie between two very good sides who want to play football.

A nice gesture by Dave Wigley of Clifton All Whites FC when presenting 2 hoppers who had made the journey to the match, with a shirt and a couple of badges.

PHOTOS FROM THE MATCH CAN BE SEEN ON THIS LINK

VILLA CONTINUE UNBEATEN START

Notts Senior League

Premier Division

MAGDALA AMATEURS 3 AWSWORTH VILLA 7

Att: 38

With Hazel and her family at Chatsworth House for the day, a long day ahead for me and Shawn was in store, most buses from Mansfield to Nottingham take a hour but if you catch the 141 it goes through every village and takes double the time. Shawn was hungry and we popped in to Subway for lunch before having a stroll to the Market Square, they had a event on with all paraolympians and the kids could try out some events, Shawns favourite was being in a wheelchair and playing tennis. We got on the tram and headed for the Roko and we nearly got off at the wrong stop, but got off at Wilford Green and stolled along the road to the ground.

We was met by Matt Harrington and the rest of the Magdala side shortly followed by thee ref Dave Southern and the opponents. I managed to get the team sheets early sso I could relax for the afternoon, or thats what I thought as Shawn was having fun playing with a large tyre at pitchside.

Before kick off, a minutes silence was completed by all and the game was on its way and Awsworth nearly scored after just 40 second with a cross shot just going wide of the post but we dodnt wait very long for the first goal, when JOHN WHITEHURST cut in on the left wing and placed the ball past the advancing keeper. Magdala pushed forward but then left gaps at the back and on 10 minutes, RYAN WHITEHURST volleyed his side in to a 2-0 lead. All credit to Magdala and they forced their way back in to the game through NEIL MORGAN on 13 minutes. On 18 minutes, RYAN WHITEWHURST restored the visitors two goal advantage.

Just then Shawn went off to fetch a ball, next thing he comes back in tears covered from his waist down in thick oil, I thought of going in to the ROKO but he would have trod it all the way in, so had to take his trousers off and his trainers and at half time I took him over to the Car Wash and they sprayed him down and his clothes, the clothes he was wearing dried but not his trousers, so after the matcch, we went back tot he pub and he dried them with the hand drier in the toilets!

Back to the match and on 33 minutes, GOODWIN made it 4-1 to Villa and this game looked like a landslide. NEIL MORGAN playing a captains role for the homesters again pulled a goal back in the 38th minute. Just on the stroke of half time and the visitors were awarded a penalty, to which RYAN WHITEHURST stepped up and completed his hat trick.

Just after Shawn's hosing down and getting back towards pitch side and Villa went 6-2 up 20 seconds in to the Second Half through JOHN WHITEHURST. Magdala then began to play their best football of the game and were rewarded on 50 minutes when ETHAN LESPEARE made it 6-3. The game then went through a bit of a dull period, but on 66 minutes, a clash in the penalty area, saw the home keeper down and a second penalty awarded to the visitors, the home keeper had to be substitued and the first thing that Paul Franks(Ex Notts Cricketer) had to do was save Luke Hodmans's penalty on 66 minutes.

On 88 minutes, a long ball out of defence caught the home players out of position and LEE STEVENSON made it a 7-3 victory for Awsworth to maintain the impressive start to this seasons campaign.

Photos from the match can be seen on this LINK

CLIFTON ALL WHITE ON THE NIGHT

FA VASE FIRST ROUND QUALIFYING

CLIFTON ALL WHITES FC 7 OADBY TOWN FC 0

Oadby Town have a great FA Vase history in the past but it was a pity for them tonight to see them try their best with a very young side get outplayed but on the other hand Clifton All Whites could only beat what is in front of them.

Oadby Town do have a few problems at present, as most of their squad and management walked out of the club recently and the team that was fielded tonight must have been their under 21's.

Before the game, I was greetd by all the Clifton All Whites committee, players and management and then as I was having a cuppa in walked the referee, old friend Rob Rees.

I had taken some boxes of programmes for Oadby Town;s clubshop and soon met the friendly secretary Kev Zupp and we had a chat and he was determined not to be driving the minibus back as he sunk in to a nice pint of cold guinesss.

So it was off outside and ready for kick off, and I popped in to the Ref's changing room to ask if there was to be a minutes silence in respect of Daniel Wilkinson who aged 26 last night lost his life whilst playing football for Shaw Lane Aquaforce FC, as the ref was making his final prepaarations, he asked me if I woulld go in to both changing rooms and ask both clubs, to which they agreed and when on the pitch the silent minute was observed.

The game kicked off and Clifton were on the front foot and after 22 minutes they took the lead, it soon became 2-0 when the visiting keeper fumbled the ball on 28 minutes, I felt sorry for the lad, as his dad was on the mobile at the time and had to tell his mate that his son was having a shocker.

I then went to stand behind the goal and spoke to Joe & Ann Dunstan from Ruddington Village FC, they love their local football and are always out and about, on 34 minutes, a rasping shot came in and it was 3-0.

Half time came and in the Second Half, I went and stood near the two dug outs with Draycott based Hopper Jack Warner who used to live in Ossieland and missed the hop match at All Whites as he was still over there.

All Whites started the Second Half as they left the first and that was on the front foot and on 50 minutes, it was 4-0. A good time to talk to 2 of the Clifton subs, Connor Hardy who I used to teach and had in my school football team when he was knee height and he still calls me sir, even when I tell him, its Rob, but he says its respect, gosh he must buy me a pint one day. The Trist Whitman, who I seem to have known for years when he played for Arnold Town and his mum and grandad used to come along and support him.

The game was drifting on and 68 minutes on the clock and it was 5-0 and getting very one sided and you had to feel for the visitors as they didnt give up. Infact they bought a sub on and he had 2 very close efforts from long range.

The young lads from Oadby by now were tiring and after 86 minutes they conceded again and by the 89th minute, Clifton made it 7-0.

 I do hope that Oadby Town can bounce back in the future as they have some good people involved in their club.

So Clifton All Whites FC now host Holwell Sports FC in the next round on Saturday 24th September with a 3pm kick off which Im sure will be a much tougher match,

RAVENSHEAD COMPLETE EARLY DOUBLE

Notts Senior League 

Division Two

GREYHOUNDERS FC 2 RAVENSHEAD FC 5

Well Saturday morning was a bit of a panic, with the car going in to the garage on Friday bit a phone call at midday saying it was ready to pick up, as we left the garage and we hit the road on the way to Clifton All Whites, we got the message to say that their FA Vase tie had been postponed, as the rain was lashing down all night and all morning.

A quick phone call to Gavin McAndrew of league newcomers Greyhounders FC confirmed where I was going. On arrival, Hazel said she would do the tea bar for them, as she was sitting inside with Shawn. Shawn was full of beans and wanted to help, so Adrian Curzon set him on to filling the water bottle and put out cones down the pitchside.

The game kicked off and it was the Greyhounders who was on the front foot and after 2 minutes JORDAN STINSON fired them in to a early lead. Greyhounders game plan then seemed to desert them as Ravenshead pressed forward and had several good chances but found Andy Cole in the home net keeping his sides lead in tact.

After 19 minutes though came the equaliser through TYLER LAMBERT and soon the visitors were in control of the game, with the home side only having the odd push forward. In the 32nd minute, Ravenshead went in to the lead when SEAN CREER-THORNTON struck home. After 36 minutes, the home defence seemed to go to sleep, as from a visitors throw in, they stood still and allowed TYLER LAMBERT to increase the lead to 3-1.

Right on the stroke of half time, DANIEL PHILLIPS made it 4-1 from 30 yards out.

After half time cuppa, Greyhounders must have had a good chat as they seemed to cone out a different side, pressing straight away and got a goal back on 46 minutes through RICCARDO LEIGHTON through a deflected shot. This gave the homesters a welcome boost and they pressed for the third goal which sadly didnt come from them, in the final minute of the game, the ref gave Ravenshead a penalty, to which their goalkeeper CALLUM MARKS sprinted up the pitch to take and duly dispatch.

Photos from the match can be seen on this LINK

THE STUDENTS WIN ON THEIR AWAY DEBUT

Notts Senior League

Premier Division

NEWARK FLOWSERVE FC 1 NOTTINGHAM TRENT UNIVERSITY FC 4

Nottingham Trent University began life last week with a narrow 3-2 home loss in first ever match at Step 7 and went on the road to Newark Flowserve FC who themselves where in fine fettle having won their last 11 home matches and riding high towards the top of the league.

On arrival I was met and greeted by Flowserve;s Secretary Zoe Murr who is always running round like a bumble bee, she is non stop, apart from when she has a fag of course!

The game kicked off and it was Flowserve makng the early running, forcing the visiting keeper in to making quite a few vital saves, but against the run of play after DYLAN OFSHUDY opened the scoring for the students.

Within a minute, the Hawtonville based club were level, when ELLIOTT KING made it 1-1. Flowserve kept pressing forward, with shouts from the management of, its only time before we get a second, but this wasnt to be, as chance after chance went begging in to the half time interval.

Straight from kick off in the Second Half, the homesters should have taken the lead but the visiting keeper smothered the ball at the last minute, as I watched the game with old friend Herbie.

This seemed to lift the visitors in to action and on 56 minutes, they were awarded a penalty to which JACK MORDECAI duly converted. This seeemed to knock the stuffing out of Flowserve and put the Uni side on the front foot, as their passing  and found space on the pitch was plain to see.

On 64 minutes, The Trent Uni side increased their lead when a shot found its was to JACK MORDECAI who slotted in to a empty net to make it 3-1.

With 5 minutes to go, JOSHUA BARR-ROSTRON wrapped up the points for the visitors.

In the clubhouse after the game, Zoe had served up Pulled Pork and Chips, whilst at the bar, Referee Gavin Rice kindly donated £5 to the Blogs Charity, so a BIG thankyou Gavin. The 3 officials all had good games, esp the 2 Assistants who were very young but made some very wise decisions.

PHOTOS from the game can be seen on this LINK

MILLS AND BILSTHORPE SHARE THE POINTS

Notts Senor League 

Division Two

MANSFIELD HOSIERY MILLS FC 1 BILSTHORPE FC RESERVES 1

Att: 69

With both sides being towards the top end of the table, this game was always going to be tight, on arrival I was greeted by both clubs and officials and in the crowd this evening was Premiership referee Kev Friend.

The game kicked off and Bilsthorpe soon had the ball in the back of the net, but the young Assistant Referee had his flag up for offside after just 3 minutes. Two minutes later and the home club took the lead through a drive by THOMAS HUNT.

Bilsthorpe upped their game and pressed forward and on 12 minutes were on level terms when their captain STUART GRAINGER fired home.

As I walked round the ground I then bumped in to Heanor Town;s Tony Squires and had a chat with him during the 1st half, the midfield on the pitch was winning the battles as chances were few and far between.

The Second Half I sat with the Selston three who had come to watch the match and play swung from end to end with Hosiery Mills just shading the first 25 minutes of it, but seeming to tire with Bilsthorpe looking as they could well nick it, but in the final minute, the Millers drove a ball just wide, so both clubs ended up with a well deserved point.

Photos from the match can be seen on this LINK

SWEETING SECURES WIN FOR COMMUNITY

Notts Senior League

Premier Division

BASFORD UNITED COMMUNITY 2 FC CAVALIERS 1

This was my first visit to Greenwich Avenue since they have laid down the lovely 3g on the pitch and it looks grand, a lot of hard work has been put in by the club over the close season. Also Basford United have set up 2 community teams of youngsters that have entered the Notts Senior League.

Before the match, I met Swifty, the groundsman and odd job man, a chap I have known for knocking on 30 years and also looking as young as he ever did, followed by local hoppers Pete Chappell, Big Mac, Malc Storer and Michael Pridgeon, May I thank Michael for the kind £10 donation made to the Charity Blog for some programmes.

Just before kick off, League Secretary Tracie Witton arrive with her baby grandson, first time Ive not seen Tracie with a cuppa in her hand.

The game kicked off and it was the Community on the front foot and a shot turned round the post saw the Cavs keeper stay down for a while injured. He solidered on for the while match but Eggy was taking all the goal kicks.

Cavs came more in to the game, pushing forward and on 33 minutes IMMAIN SAMUELS shot his side in to the lead. The game flowed from end to end with lots of chances and right on the stroke of half time, EZRA KITUNGANO equalised.

During half time, I went for a cuppa and was called away on League duty to the other game that had been played on the outside pitch meaning I missed the first 5 minutes of the second half in which time EWAN SWEETING had turn the tables round and put the Basford club in front.

The rest of the game could have gone either way as it was a fairly level match, but Basford held on for thir three points.

A few photos can be seen on this LINK

BOLSOVER TAKE POINTS IN LOCAL DERBY

Central Midlands League

CLAY CROSS TOWN FC 1 FC BOLSOVER 5

Att: 190

Having not been to Clay Cross for a matter of four years, it was time to go and see my old mate Mr Clay Cross himself Nobby Clarke. Also with this being a local derby match, it was a good to see some familar faces.

On arrival I was greeted by Lee at the gate and wouldnt take any admission money off me and soon welcomed by Nobby and his committee and shown in to the Hospitality Suite, which they bought out of their share of the money they got from their Bonanza Groundhop match some five years ago.

I then met facebook friend Jonathan Buttery and spent the afternoon sat next to him in the stand, having a god chat about local football, a really nice chap.

The game kicked off and for the first 5 minutes, it was the Millers who were on the attack, but after 15 minutes SCULLY fired home for the visitors. This seemed to gee the team that play on the outskirts of Shirebrook up and they pressed forward for a second goal and that they got after 38 minutes through RUSSELL.

After the half time cuppa, I sat back in the stand and didnt wait long for another away goal, as on 53 minutes PARFITT hammered home. This was going to be a long day for Clay Cross and Bolsover was bossing the game in every department by now, but on 67 minutes POOLE pulled a goal back and gave the homesters a lifeline.

Bolsover though were passing the ball went and on 75 minutes KIMBERLEY made it 4-1 and gone was all hope for the men in sky blue.

Just before the end of the game, Bolsover made it 5 when BELINGER netted to send the visitors fans home happy.

Just a mention to all 3 officials who I felt had a great game.

Id like to thank Nobby and his team for making me so welcome as always. It was superb seeing him again and wont leave it 4 years before I pop back.

PHOTOS from the match can be seen on this LINK

RAVENSHEAD GRAB LAST GASP WINNER

Notts Senior League

Division Two

RAVENSHEAD FC 3 GREYHOUNDERS FC 2

att: 19

A game Ive looked forward to for a while for a couple of reasons, two new clubs that have entered the league, Ravenshead being close to home and finally ex Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa, Sheffield Wednesday and West Ham United FC striker Marlon Harwood plays for Greyhounders FC and a lot of credit must go to him, as he helps sponsor his local village grassroots football club and doesnt ask for a penny in return. A really nice guy who I had the pleasure of having a chat to.

The game began in bright sunshine and both sides were cutting out early chances but it the the homesters who took the lead after just 7 minutes through TOM GOODSON. 

Greyhounders pushed forward and went close a couple of times, but Ravenshead doubled their lead on 29 minutes, when the visiting keeper let slip of the ball and it ended up in the net from LUKE WILLIAMS effort.

Ravenshead then had their best spell of the game and as we were approaching half time, I was stood next to the Aslockton manager and said Ravenshead really need to score a third, just as I said that on 45 minutes, JAKE HARDY reduced the arrears.

During half time, the rain arrived and all through the second half it hammered it down, The goal before the interval seemed to give Greyhounders more belief and it looked more likely that they would equalise and infact that is what they did on 71 minutes, when the referee awarded them a free kick and up stepped JAKE HARDY to fire home from 30 yards.

The game was now on a knife edge with both sides going for the points and as the game entered the 90th minute, Ravenshead gainned a corner on the right and JORDAN PHILLIPS scrambled home the winner.

After the match, Marlon Harewood kindly had his photo taken with my friend Shane O Hara and also signed his autograph for him. I must thank Shane also for the kind £10 donation to the Blogs Charity.

Photos from the match can be seen on this LINK