Under 9 Sporting - Results & Match Reports

2007 - 2008 Season

Results

9 March - Nuneaton Borough Blue (H) 0-5 (L) more

2 March - Grove Farm Sharks (H) 0-6 (L) more

24 February - NCYP Leopards (H) 2-0 (W) more

17 February - Market Bosworth (A) 3-1 (L) more

3 February - St Nicolas Chiefs (A) 5-0 (L) League Cup more

20 January - Weddington Thistle (A) 4-0 (L) more

6 January - Weddington Thistle (A) 4-0 (L) more

8 December - Nuneaton Borough White (H) 0-0 (D) more

2 December - Weddington Thistle Tigers (A) 7-1 (L) more

25 November - Chetwynd Dragons (H) 1-3 (L) more

18 November - NCYP Leopards (A) 2-3 (W) more

4 November - Market Bosworth (H) 0-6 (L) more

28th October - Grove Farm Sharks (A) 4-1 (L) more

7 October - Weddington Thistle (H) 0-3 (L) more

30th September - Nuneaton Borough Blue (A) 7-0 (L) more

23rd September - Nuneaton Borough White (A) 1-1 (D) more

16 September - Weddington Thistle Tigers (H) 0-5 (L) more

9 September - Chetwynd Dragons (A) 3-0 (L) more

Match Reports

9 March - Nuneaton Borough Blue (H) 0-5 (L)

Champions elect dont have it all their own way

Sporting v Nuneaton Borough Whites
Well today see’s the last match of the season. A progressive season I think we can all say, as there have been more positives to take than the previous initial campaign.
Today’s game will be a tough one. Nuneaton Borough Whites are top of the league and are looking like the Champions, so Sporting will have to be at their best if they are to avoid a heavy beating.
Nuneaton kick-off to cheers, as the Sporting entourage try to encourage the lads to give one final push and get a good result. Feisty challenges early on by Sporting let the league leaders know that they will be in a battle today if they are to claim all three-points.

Nuneaton’s quality is beginning to give them the upper hand and an early corner gives them the opportunity they require. The ball drifts into the middle which causes uncertainty in the Sporting area, as the ball comes out the ball is looped back in towards goal where Jordan comes out to catch, unfortunately with the breeze his misjudges the ball and it sails over his outstretched hands and into the back of the net.

A pity that, as Sporting have started industriously and that early goal by Nuneaton has knocked a bit of the stuffing out of the sporting side.

There’s no time to wallow in pity for conceding a goal, as Sporting immediately come back on the attack and force a corner. Mitch flights the ball in but the big defenders at the back for Nuneaton hack the ball clear, this is where they are dangerous as Sporting struggle to get back and handle their strength and pace.

As the Whites move down the field Sporting drift back into their ‘let’s not mark anybody’ mode and they leave two of the White’s centre forwards unmarked six-yards from their goal, and they don’t need a second invitation to hammer home goal number two.

Goal number three comes shortly afterwards, although there was nothing anyone on the Sporting side could do about this. A fine shot from long distance nestles itself into the top corner of the goal leaving Jordan helpless to prevent the goal. Defensively we were just outfoxed by a talented player who scored a very good goal.

So at three-nil and little over half-way of the half gone, things were not looking promising. Even though Sporting were battling away, they could not get a grip in midfield and Ryan was taken off as he was anonymous throughout that initial period. Jack came on to bolster the midfield and to try and stem the tide from another tidal wave of attacks.

Even though for a period sporting kept Nuneaton at bay, it was inevitable their pressure would tell. Another period of sustained pressure towards the end of the half saw goal number end up in the back of the Sporting net. A good save by Jordan, as he came out and dived at the feet of an onrushing Nuneaton striker, but saw the ball ricochet into the path of the second striker to tap the ball home for a half-time score of four-zip to Nuneaton.

At half-time, words of wisdom and encouragement were issued out to the lads.

Oh well, the second half begins again with Ryan coming back on for his second stint and Lou taking a break, Adam comes on and goes upfront for Dan as we look for some aggression up top.

With Sporting looking for the impossible comeback, this half is more to do with damage limitation rather than a dramatic fight back but who knows.

The second half begins much as the first finished, with Nuneaton pressurising the Sporting goal and only fine goalkeeping by Jordan is keeping the scoreline the same. Sporting are definitely in the second half and even though they are playing most of the game in their own penalty area they are keeping Sporting at bay. This is with a mixture of fine play, missed chances by the Whites, fine goalkeeping by Jordan and battling qualities which have, at times of the season been lacking.

Dan comes back on for Ryan again and immediately gets stuck in. Two fine tackles and harassing prevent Nuneaton attacks and he is leading the way and showing the rest of the team how to battle and stop the opposition. Jamie and Dan have been quiet today at the top side of the pitch due to having to spend the majority of the game in their own half, but at times they do break and cause Nuneaton problems.

This half belongs to Jordan who is putting in his best half of the season so far, defying the Nuneaton strikers virtually on his own.

Finally Jordan’s resistance is broken as Nuneaton finally score goal number five. Again sloppy defending leaves players totally unmarked in the box and the ball in swept home, the story of the season!

The referee blows the whistle and calls time on Sporting’s second season. A five-nil defeat against the league leaders was in some way a result for the lads, especially after trailing four-nil at the half, but many lessons need to be learnt from this season.

As we look forward to the summer and the tournaments ahead, I expect some of the lads with grow, hopefully in thought as well as physique as we need them to come back (if they choose to) more clued up to what is expected of them. A lot of hard work is ahead of them if they are to progress further in their third season.

The Parents man of the match award for the finale was Jack, although Jordan’s performance in goal must certainly have ran him close.

Let’s hope everyone has a good relaxing off-season and that when the time is right to come back and play, let’s hope the lads are ready to put in a good stint and put in the hard work necessary to improve.

Have a good summer to you all!!

This is Mr Poison Pen signing off until next season ……………….

Match reports are written by Andy Wisniewski

Managers View

This was very much a game of 2 halfs. The first half was pretty much a horror show just like the week before. After the break though I thought we played some super stuff and to keep a team as talented as Borough down to 1 goal was a super effort. Overall I think we've had a super season though I for one am looking forward to Sundays without a game for the next few months just to recharge the batteries. Well done everybody

Opposition watch

Nuneaton Borough will be worthy champions. They play the game in the right spirit, they are given encouragement from the sidelines and most importantly, they are allowed to go out on the pitch and enjoy themselves. We all wish them luck for next season.

2 March - Grove Farm Sharks (H) 0-6 (L)

Sporting taken to the cleaners

Sporting v Grove Farm Sharks
The lads come into today’s game with the confidence of a fine 2-0 victory last week against the Leopards. Whilst that victory was good at both ends of the pitch, this week’s game was sure to provide a sterner test.
Grove Farm was just above Sporting in the table and although it was another opportunity for the team to gain some much need points, it was also a time for concentration and to keep their focus.
The conditions of today’s game were not favourable to either team as there was a swirling wind circling around Milby which would not make playing good football any easier.

With the referee not turning up, Eddie stepped in as an emergency. After removing his cap and jumper he strode off into the middle to begin the game with a manor of authority.

Grove Farm starts the game on the attack forcing the Sporting defence back on their heels. This game will certainly need Mitch to marshal the defence if they are to gain anything from this. The midfield will need to help Mitch and the back-line and also help the strikers up the field so they have an important part to play in today’s game.

Shortly after a fine defensive block by Mitch Grove Farm strike the first hammer blow of the morning, poor defending (where have we said that before?) by Sporting allows the opposition striker a simple chance to open the scoring, and that chance is taken with aplomb as he sweeps the ball past Jordan in the Sporting goal, 1-0 to the Sharks.

Instead of that waking the team up, it appears to have little effect as once again the Sharks bite into the Sporting defence, a high-ball is not dealt with by Jordan the striker buries the ball into the back of the net, 2-0.

The midfield is not helping the team in any shape of form, they are wandering around aimlessly and not helping either at the back (where it’s needed) or in the top half of the field, although those moments are particularly fleeting early on. They need some shape in their play as their tendency to follow the ball like sheep is continuing in this game and this needs to stop.

With only around six-minutes gone and Two-down already, the game was already drifting out of the reach of the lads. A tackle in midfield causing an injury to one of the Shark players and there is a long delay as the player receives treatment. This is a chance to get on some instructions for the lads, but will they take heed of these?

Before half-time Sporting continue their poor defending as we move into the realms of ‘assist of the season’ as we contrive to clear a ball that is going wide and out of play straight back into play and right under our own crossbar where we confuse ourselves leaving the Grove Farm striker a simple task of tapping the ball home for goal number three.

Eddie blows the half-time whistle with Sporting three-down, poor defending and a complete lack of any midfield help were contributory factors in the scoreline. The strikers had little if no chance up front as the ball was constantly in the Sporting half and the crumbs that Jamie and Dan were offered were not enough to gain anything out of that half.

A very poor, disappointing display that will need to be improved if the side are not to be totally embarrassed by a Grove Farm side who have played neat and tidy football in that first half, but were helped mainly by Sporting who tended to pass more to them than their own players!

Ryan and Ben come on in the second-half for Lou and Jack respectively, to see if we can get a bit of stability in the side.

Once again though, the second half begins with Sporting on the back foot and only a good save by Jordan at the feet of the Shark striker prevents an early fourth for the visitors.

Sporting is playing better in this half, they are more aggressive in the middle and with Ryan putting himself about a bit, and we are beginning to win a little more ball. Ben too is improving the backline, his pace and reading of the game is helping on the right side of the back-line.

Even though the play is better, there is still very little penetration from the Sporting forward line and this is giving too much work for the defenders.

From a corner Grove Farm hammer in goal number four to really rub the salt into the wounds.

The wind seems to be having no effect of the Grove Farm players as they are playing the ball on the floor, whilst Sporting are chasing shadows.

Shortly before the end of the game the visitors get another goal. A high ball in is not dealt with by the Sporting defence and in pops goal number five. Once again a goal that in reality could and should have been prevented, but this is indicative of what has gone on all season.

Eddie blows the whistle to end the game, a poor performance. The side lacked any real drive or intent and were soundly beaten. The midfield was anonymous and let the side down by not helping either the defence or the attack, whilst the attack were starved of the ball and could offer little to help the plight of the side.

In the final game of the season Sporting need to show a little aggression, composure and passing ability, but probably more importantly, they need to show some passion and that they care about what they are doing.

The Sporting crowd have been behind the team all season, and although we have seen an improvement from time to time, too often the lads have drifted back into the ‘sheep’ mode where they just follow the ball and not look around at the three opposition strikers that are left totally unmarked in the middle.

Today’s game was something that is best forgotten as the Sharks chewed us up and spat them out today and left us floundering around looking for scraps!

Match reports are written by Andy Wisniewski

Managers View

This was very much a case of 'after the lord mayors show'. I expected more fight against a team who, at the start of the season would have been one that I thought we would be closer to in the final standings. Our biggest problem here was the inability to work for each other although this did improve after the break. It was unfortunate that all players chose the same day to have an off day but as we emphasised at the end of the game these lads are still only 8 and 9 and we need to remember that before making any harsh critisism. They have given plenty of enjoyment over the season so one bad game should not be taken out of context.

Opposition watch

Grove Farm have improved dramatically over the season. If they continue to develop at the current rate I think they could be challenging for silverware next season. Well done to all players and coaches for this great effort.

24 February - NCYP Leopards (H) 2-0 (W)

First ever home win cements 7th place

The lads come into today’s game with a great opportunity to put previous lack lustre performances behind them. NCYP Leopards are struggling at the bottom of the league and are realistically one of the sides that Sporting should be able to beat. The conditions are windy but not cold so the boys have no excuses today!
The game begins with Sporting looking to put an end of their losing streak, with the Leopards the visitors it’s a great chance for the lads to get that much needed victory.

Sporting start the game with intent, they immediately put the Leopards back on their collective heels as Jamie and Dan surge forward, the midfield of Ryan and Lou and ably backing up their strikers as the pressure grows straight from the off.

Shortly after the start the amazing happens, Sporting score and go a goal up! Surely the quickest goal of the season for the lads as Dan picks the ball up mid-way through his own half and runs through and past three Leopards defenders before smashing the ball gleefully past the hapless keeper, 1-0 to Sporting and the celebrations are as much on the touchlines as the pitch.

The fans have been waiting through frost, wind and rain to see the ball hit the back of the net so this was certainly an occasion to celebrate.

No time to get carried away as the game is restarted with the Leopards desperately trying to keep Sporting out once again. Jamie and Dan are working well in tandem together and are causing all sorts of problems for the defending side. All the chances are falling for Sporting and before long the lead is doubled as Jamie scores arguably the goal of the season so far.

A fine through ball from midfield reaches Jamie about 20 yards from goal, he moves to the right and is making life more difficult for himself as the angle gets more acute, but he strikes a rasping drive into the top left hand corner of the net for goal number two. A stunning strike from the young striker which will surely give me the much needed boost in confidence required to hopefully go on and score some more goals in the remaining games of the season.

The Leopards are really struggling to get in the game, but occasionally show some glimpses of their attacking prowess, but luckily for Sporting that’s all they are, glimpses. Jordan (for the first time this season) has nothing to do and spends his free-time shouting at his defenders to keep them alert on the odd occasions that the Leopards attack.

Midway through the half Sporting are rewarded a free-kick just off the edge of the box. Ryan steps up to strike it with some venom. His first drive strikes the wall and his second does the same, so the Leopards manage to survive one of Ryan’s blockbusters. A little earlier Ryan had struck a full-on volley that almost knocked one of the Leopards midfielders into orbit, just wish it was a little closer to goal as he would have tore the net out!

The half concludes as it had begun, with Sporting the dominant force pushing the Leopards back towards their own goal, but a fantastic scoreline of 2-0 was the end result as the lads trotted off for some much needed refreshment at the half.

Craig and Martin issue some reminders that the game isn’t all over yet and they need to keep their concentration levels high and watch what they are doing at the back as they don’t want to give away a silly goal and give the opposition any encouragement.

The second half begins much like the first, this half Sporting are playing with the wind with them which such be an advantage but it depends how they use the elements. The Leopards come into the game in the second half and have their fair share of attacks, but defensively we are standing firm with Mitch leading the defensive line well and excellent marshalling by Jordan in goal keeps the lads on their toes.

Jamie and Dan are really matching up well together, they seem to know where each other are going to be and are progressing into an excellent partnership. They just need to be a little more clinical and go directly for the goal as sometimes they delay their passes and shots and let the opposition defenders get back at them, but this will all come with growing up and experience of playing.

Surprisingly the second half is short of goal-mouth action, both teams cancel each other out and a lot of the game is played in the middle of the park. The Leopards give as good as they get in the second half which shows their character considering the position they are in the league, whereas Sporting show their determination and fine play as they continue to play good football on the ground.

The referee blows his whistle to bring the game to a conclusion and Sporting can celebrate a victory. Defensively they were sound, Mitch and the rest of the backline were excellent, the midfield were solid and helped both the backline as well as help setting up chances for the strikers, so all in all a fine display and an excellent victory.

Not all games will be as straightforward as this, but all victory’s breed confidence and hopefully this one will do the same.

Mitch was quite rightly voted man of the match for fine defensive performance; let’s hope this continues for the remaining two games of the season.

On a final note, Ryan may not have had his best game for a while but he had other things on his mind as his Aunty sadly passed away the previous Wednesday. He played his part in the victory and wanted to dedicate the side’s victory to her.

Match reports are written by Andy Wisniewski

Managers View

This game was always a potential banana skin. To think we went into the game as favourites added a lot of pressure, certainly on the sidelines. Apart from the first 2 or 3 minutes I think we looked quite comfortable and the way we passed the ball around was very encouraging. I thought we kept our shape very well throughout which meant we didnt give the opposition much of a chance in an attacking sense. 2 successive home clean sheets (albeit 3 months apart) mean that we are getting things right at the back, and with our goal tally now in double figures the future is looking very promising indeed.

Opposition watch

The Leopards deserve a lot of credit for making this a very enjoyable and skillful game. They never let their heads drop and will come back next season as an entirely different proposition. We wish them well

17 February - Market Bosworth (A) 3-1 (L)

Unhungry Sporting made to pay

We arrived at Bosworth in freezing temperatures, half expecting the game to be called off. On examining the pitch, it was frozen in places but with a bit of patience and a delayed kickoff time, we decided to play.

Sporting lined up with some positional changes as an experiment to see how players would adapt in different situations. This meant Lou playing the holding midfield role, Jamie being brought into the midfield with Adam having a go up front.

It took the lads a bit of time to get used to this new setup and it wasnt long before Bosworth went ahead with a goal which we had plenty of chances to clear but the tackles never came. This was to be the pattern for the first half and only a fine goal-line challenge from Ben prevented Bosworth from doubling their lead.

Our attacks were few and far between but we finally tested the keeper midway through the half when Adam hit a fierce shot with was fielded by the keeper low down. The hosts scored a second just before the break but I must admit, I dont remember anything about it.

HT 2-0

Some harsh words were said at half time as we were performing well below our potential. Would these words have the desired effect, only time would tell. Jack and Ryan came on to replace Lou and Daniel.

The second half started as the first had ended with Bosworth well on top. It took a smart save from Jordan to keep the score down when he dived bravely at the strikers feet after spilling the initial shot.

Jamie was getting stuck in in the middle of the park as he adapted to his new role very well. Bosworth added a 3rd goal as the half went on and we were staring down the barrel.

Strangely this brought us to life and we started to knock the ball around like a top of the league outfit and Bosworth were struggling to contain us.

Mitchell went on one of his menacing runs from the back and unleashed a power shot which was deflected beautifully into the back of the net giving us renewed optimism. The lads now believed in themselves and were extremely unlucky not to get a penalty soon after when a Ryan thunderbold struck and outstretched hand but this was waved away.

At the final whistle it was hard to sum up this performance. 20 minutes of struggling, followed by 10 minutes of super football. Ben was voted man of the match for an outstanding performance.
Match reports by Craig Buck

Managers View

This was another disappointing performance as the players seemed really up for the game before we started. We need to start working much better for each other as walking back as the other team is attacking is not good enough. As bad as the first 20 minutes were, I thought we showed a lot of battle to get back into the game in the last 10 minutes. Yet again we managed to proved that there is no other team in the league that celebrates a goal quite like we do. Next weeks game is a must win fixture if we are to reclaim our rightful position of 7th. We will need to pull our socks up and battle if this is to be made a reality. We have now scored against 6 of the other 8 teams in the league which shows me that we are going in the right direction. If we could stop them scoring at the other end then things would start to look rosy.

Opposition watch

Bosworth yet again proved to be one of the friendliest clubs in our league. They are a very competent team who knock the ball around well. If they win their games in hand I fully expect them to be challenging for promotion come Easter time.

3 February - St Nicolas Chiefs (A) 5-0 (L) League Cup

Battling performance but well beaten

On a very windy day with Arctic cross winds, the lads took their first tentative steps in this years cup competition. As the crowd gathers on the touchline, scarf’s and hats were the order of the day as the biting wind ripped into the gathering spectators.

The game kicked off with Sporting hoping to advance in this year’s cup competition, but it would be a stern test against the Chiefs who looked a bigger and more imposing side. Immediately the pressure began on the Sporting goal and only tigerish tackling prevented an early goal with Jordan coming to the rescue at his near post.

Sporting was seeing little of the ball in the early stages, and were struggling to get out of their own half. The wind was against the lads which didn’t help and the Chief’s were keeping the ball on the ground and passing it well, negating the wind and looking impressive.

Before long the pressure told, a fine through ball found the Chief striker on his own from the edge of the box and he gleefully despatched the ball past Jordan in the Sporting goal, 1-0! A disappointing goal to give away as defensively we were all over the place and the marking was non-existent.

Before long the agony increased at the Chief’s doubled their lead, again slack marking and a lack of any tackling left Chief players unmarked to score again, 2-0.

Jordan was doing his best to keep the score down and was coming out of his goal to dive at the opposition feet. The rest of the side were unusually absent, they seemed to be running around the ball instead of going to it and their performance was highlighted when the Chiefs slammed home goal number three from close range, again questions have to be asked about the Sporting defence, as players were left unmarked in the penalty area.

The biting wind does nothing for the Sporting supporters and the performance on the field is doing nothing to warm them up. We are following the ball around like proverbial sheep and leaving the opposition players totally unmarked.

Just before the break we surrender another goal, once again (sounding like a broken record) the defence doesn’t clear the ball and we are punished in the worst possible way, by another goal.

A nightmarish first half is finally bought to an end, Sporting have put in possibly their worst performance of the season with what can only be called a heartless performance. No tackling, no direction, no marking …….. no idea!

Craig does his best to gee up the troops, but I think we all know that the second half is going to be more like limiting the damage and to try and win the second half rather than a mighty comeback.

Dan and Jamie upfront have been starved of the ball, and it was quite unusual to see our forwards in the opposition half.

The side needs to defend as a team and attack as one, but in that first half they were all just chasing the ball like sheep, and not marking the opposition.

The second half begins in an even more calamitous state, with Sporting running past the ball, missing it and not challenging. The Chiefs are peppering the goal at will, and once again only brave resistance by Jordan keeps the opposition out.
Ryan is totally out of sorts and is just not getting involved in the game. In fact none of the players are really making a concerted effort to get back in the game. The wind stills howls and it looks as though its blowing the ball constantly down towards the Sporting goal.

There is a little more fight in the Sporting side but once again, we cannot get out of our own half and finally the pressure tells as the Chiefs scores goal number five, a thunderous drive off the underside of the bar gives Jordan no chance.

Finally the referee puts the team and supporters out of their misery as he blows the final whistle, 5-0 and really it could have been a lot worse. It was a poor Sporting performance and really, they can’t complain about the scoreline.

This was an example for the side, and one that they should learn from. You cannot just turn up and expect to play, the lads need to be prepared to put the effort in and battle and this week that certainly didn’t happen.

Oh well, the dreams of Wembley are over for another season! No game next week, then its back to the league again. Let’s hope for a better performance from the boys in their next outing.

The parent’s man of the match was Jordan for a spirited display that kept the scoreline down, well played that man!

Match reports are written by Andy Wisniewski

Managers View

I thought on the whole we gave a good account of ourselves against a very good team. Our biggest problem was the man marking as the Chiefs were a very mobile side who always seemed to find the extra yard of space at crucial times. Once we have learnt to read the game better we will be a much more competitive team. On a personal note I was very pleased with Jordans performance today. As his biggest critic he must dread the drives home as I always analyse where he can improve.

Opposition watch

The Chiefs have had a tricky season but are a very talented bunch of lads. They play football the right way and enjoy what they are doing. I thought their movement was excellent and they thoroughly deserved their place in the next round. We wish them well for the future.

20 January - Weddington Thistle (A) 4-0 (L)

Superb performance with no reward

Well the recent miserable rainy weather had left today’s game in doubt up to the morning of the game, but as the game was given the go ahead all descended on the Old ‘Ed’s rugby ground for the second successive game. The lads were hoping for a turn-around in luck from their previous meeting, a 4-0 return.
The puddles of surface water in and around the pitch gave concern for those associated with both sides, but as the teams gathered together for the kick-off we were to see what the lads could do.

The game kicked off with Sporting going straight on the attack, both Dan and Jamie caused the Demon defenders problems last time and we hoped this would be the case again, except that a few goals might fly in the back of the net.
Sporting dodge an early bullet when slack defending leaves the Demons with three players unmarked homing in on goal towards Jordan’s goal, but luckily for Sporting the Demon’s are wasteful and shoot wide. Early on and Sporting defenders are marking fresh air and leaving Demon strikers on their own, this needs to be stamped out if goals are not to be conceded.
After a further bout of mixed possession it’s the Demon’s who are first to strike, a move down the right side of pitch leaves Weddington’s strikers heading towards the goal, they shoot and it clips Jordan’s leg and drifts towards the goal, but strikes the post, alas it’s the Demon’s strikers who are quickest to react and they clip the goal into the back of the unguarded net for the first goal of the game.
The game is relatively even, but the occasional lapse in concentration leaves opposition players unmarked in dangerous areas on the pitch, and this is bringing danger to themselves, apart from that this concentration issue the side is certainly getting stuck in and Ryan, following on from his MOM performance in the last game is getting stuck in again is at the heart of everything that Sporting are trying to do. He also has a bad blister on his heel so was actually doubtful for today’s game which makes his battling performance even more impressive.
A succession of corners for the Demon’s brings danger, but fine defending by Sporting keeps the trouble at bay with Ryan clearing off the line at one point after another dangerous attack.
A fine run by Lou down the right side of the pitch sends the defenders spinning like tops, he goes inside and out before getting a cross in that is gathered by the keeper, but it was unlucky as both Dan and Jamie were in the middle waiting to gobble up any mistakes made by the Demon keeper.
A fine tackle in the defence third by Ryan sets him on a run and he powers past two Demon players, cutting over to the left side where he passes down the line for Dan and Jamie to chase, but unfortunately the Demon defenders clear the ball out of play.
The referee blows the half-time whistle, so 1-0 down at the break but it’s a game that is very even, there is little between the sides. The emphasis on scoring is apparent as the chances are beginning to be made but once again as in any level of the sport it’s the sticking the ball in the net that is the hardest thing to do.
Jack comes on for Dan for the start of the second half with the instructions to run the channels and try and get in behind the Demon defence.
Before long Jack finds himself motoring towards the Demon goal, he strikes it well what looks like a goal-scoring attempt but somehow the keeper manages to keep the ball out. Very unlucky but hopefully the start of things to come!
Unfortunately the hopes of levelling the game are quickly dismissed as the Demon’s go straight down the other end and double their lead. A cross shot misleads Jordan who appears to dive over the ball as it comes past leaving the Demon striker the chance to tap it home from close range.
Once again Sporting refuse to let this get them down and they battle back, with Jamie, Lou and Jack going through again and forcing the keeper into action, with Ryan sitting in the middle breaking up the play and acting as the enforcer. Unfortunately though, as has been the problem over the past three games the ball with just not go in the net.
As the previous game verses the Demon’s, another two goals are scored, bringing the score to 4-0, poor defending and hesitation at the back bring about this rather lopsided score-line even though the score definitely does not represent the battling qualities and the effort put in by the side, they certainly do not deserve to be four-down and the certainly are not four goals inferior to this Demon side, but as they say ‘that’s football’
The rain continues to drift down as the referee blows his whistle to bring the game to an end. Four-nil to the Demon’s but it’s certainly a game that they can take heart from and its only a matter of time before the floodgates open and some team takes a good battering.
After watching the side for the past season and a half you can see the development of some of the lads and with each game they are coming on, playing with more confidence, gaining more idea and knowledge of what needs to be done in certain areas of the pitch, and what to do from set-plays etc.
The teams development has come on leaps and bounds since its inception into the league when if truth was told, they looked a million-miles away from ever scoring a goal let alone winning a game. Those times have now changed; they now look a dangerous outfit, more balanced and more solid.
A little more concentration at the back, with the players not being drawn towards the ball and leaving the opposition unmarked close to goal, and more awareness of what is around them will bring about more consistent performances at the back.
The team must remember that they should attack as a team but also defend as a team; hence any mistakes made by individuals must not be dwelt on and accepted, but then they need to go down the other end and make up for it as a team.
Ryan was voted the parents man of the match again for the second match running, and much deserved. He has come on 200% from the timid, miss-kicking daydreamer that first made his appearance in the side early last season.
Jamie has also made a big difference to the attacking side of the game and his pace has bought Dan on as they compliments each other’s style of play, with Dan more of the poacher and Jamie the runner from the ‘hole’ going into the opposition box causing chaos.
In fact the whole side looks more solid and they now look like they are ready to really make a go of the league. Maybe next season as they begin to ‘find themselves’, grow as players and begin to gain that awareness required, they can really push on and start winning on a consistent basis as opposed to the very odd game.
Overall, in very poor conditions it was a good performance that was not evident by the eventual score-line, but certainly we are now seeing more consistency in performance and can now look forward to the next game with optimism. That game is scheduled to be a cup game against the Chiefs on the 3rd February.

Match reports are written by Andy Wisniewski

Managers View

Our second visit to the Old Eds in as many weeks was very much a case of deja vu. I thought we matched the home side in almost every aspect of the game. The only difference was that they have become acustomed to winning which breeds confidence. We, on the other hand need to get into the habit of winning, once we have acquired this confidence then watch us fly as I'll go on record now and say with a bit of confidence, we are as good as any team in this league. I got comments from the opposition today praising how much we have improved over the season. I can sit here and say things like this until I'm blue in the face but when personnel from other teams notice how well we are improving then that is the biggest tribute to these players. We still need to sort out silly mistakes at the back, these will be addressed once we finally get back to a normal Saturday training session. We now have 2 weeks until our next game which will hopefully give us the time we need to work on these shortcomings.

Special praise must go to the referee, I thought he was superb from start to finish. The league should come and watch this guy in action and use his methods as a blueprint for all junior referees who are not always the most approachable,

Considering the state of the surrounding area, the pitch was in great condition and both sets of players contributed to a very enjoyable match.

Opposition watch

As it has only been 2 weeks since we last played Weddy, my opinion of them hasnt changed since the last game. Although the scorelines were the same I think they realised they were in a much tougher game today.

6 January - Weddington Thistle (A) 4-0 (L)

Meaningless game gives lads a good workout

A crisp Sunday morning met the lads for their first game after the Christmas break. A battling performance in horrendous conditions before Christmas gave the lads and the Sporting supporters some cause for optimism going into the second half of the season.

The game kicks off from right to left with Sporting looking to gain the early upper hand. Ryan sets the stall out for Sporting with a fine challenge in midfield; a good pass leads to the first attack of the game. The Demon’s rally back and begin to get into the game and before long the pressure tells.

A bit of a goalmouth scramble leads to Sporting clearing the ball straight against a Demon forward and the ball dropped into the back of the net. A very unlucky goal to give away and it was Martin and Craig who had to give the lads encouragement and ensure they kept their heads up after such an unlucky start.

Jack and Dan are playing well, a good combination and a strike by Dan, which narrowly goes wide. Sporting is battling back after that early setback.

Unfortunately the story of Sporting’s losses comes to the forefront again, when a lack of any tackling lets the Demon’s forward line walk through the Sporting defence and score their second goal of the game. Another disappointing goal to give away, considering Sporting have had as much of the game as the Demon’s it was disappointing to concede another goal.

Ryan is having a good game in midfield and is taking his fine performance prior to the Christmas break into this game. He’s tackling and getting involved in the game, which earlier on in his career at Sporting was things, he certainly wasn’t doing.

The Demon’s go close again when they shoot into the side netting, Sporting need to get tighter on their opposition and not let them get such an easy ride.

Once again a good tackle by Ryan starts Sporting on the attack again. Jamie and Dan are causing the opposition all sorts of trouble but they just can’t get the ball in the net.

Mitch comes off for Lou after he receives an injury. Ryan drops back into the back-line while Lou moves into midfield.

Sporting are bringing pressure on themselves by making some silly decisions, especially when taking goal-kicks, when instead of clearing downfield they try to play out of the area and lose the ball. They need to consider where they are kicking the ball and what the consequences might be from their actions before doing so.

Lou has a great run down the field as the game comes to the end of the first half. His run brings about a corner, which unfortunately is driven behind for a goal kick.

2-0 to the Demon’s at half time, so plenty of work to do. Craig and Martin try to instil some confidence and belief in the lads that there is something in this game for them. It’s a strange game, very even yet the bug-bear is once again that we just cannot stick the ball in the onion bag and this was to come back and bite us once again in the second half!

The second half begins with the Demon’s kicking-off but its soon Sporting who is on the attack and within minutes Dan has a great chance to score. He goes through and is one on one with the keeper but he shoots straight at the keeper when it looked such a good chance to bring a goal back.

Sporting are now all over the Demon’s. Jack, Jamie and Dan are pushing the Demon’s defence right back into their own area but once again they just can’t score.

In a moment of comedy Ryan takes Mitch out of the game with a wild swipe at the ball and connects fully with Mitch’s shin. Who need’s opposition hatchet’s when you’ve got Ryan on your side!!

Totally against the run of play the Demon’s score again, once again poor defending leads to a simple goal, 3-0.

The lads do not let their heads drop and once again come on the attack, as the game drifts towards its climax, Jamie has two identical chances as he goes clean through one on one with the keeper, one from a great defence splitting ball by Mitch and the other a fine pas by Jack but instead of getting closer to the goal and drilling the ball home, he elects to shoot from distance and the keeper gladly palms the ball down to keep his clean sheet intact.

This happens twice and could so easily have bought Sporting right back in the game, but then (as usual) another defensive lapse lets the Demons score goal number four.

The referee blows his whistle to end the game at 4-0 to Weddington. A very strange game that tells nothing about the actual game. Even though the lads lost four-nil, they could quite easily have won it 3-2! Three great one on one chances in the second half could have won the game, because the two goals the Demon’s scored in the second half were only defence lapses. So as much as the scoreline shows a one sided game it could not have been further than the truth!

It was a good battling performance by Sporting, which really never gave them the reward they deserved. Ryan was given the man of the match award for another strong promising display. Lets hope this battling performance is the start of the things to come. A little more composure in front of goal and we can score two or three goals each game. Here’s to the next game and hopefully a victory!
Match reports are written by Andy Wisniewski

Managers View

The result of this match didnt mean a thing to me, we were never going to win the cup so in my opinion, this was always going to be treated like a friendly in preparation for the continuation of the league programme. With this in mind I think the workout we had today was very valuable. We were very rusty in the first half but after the break I thought we were the better team for long periods and the 2 second half goals gave the scoreline a very flattering look. The game highlighted a few things that still need work but overall I was quite pleased with the overall effort.

Opposition watch

Weddington are developing into a very useful side who demonstrated some nice touches. It would have been interesting if we hadnt gifted the 2 goals as to how they would have coped with their backs to the walls. We visit them in 2 weeks for a league fixture which I feel we will run them closer.

We wish them well in the next round.

8 December - Nuneaton Borough White (H) 0-0 (D)

Clean sheet and dirty shirts

The lad’s final game before the Christmas break was to be played in horrible weather, it was freezing cold and lashing it down, and there were considerable doubts about the game actually going ahead. Some of the parents got there slightly earlier than was required and were made to regret that decision as the wind howled in and rain drifted down.

Eventually everyone arrived and the lads were put through their paces, trying desperately to keep warm in a game which could shape the second half of the season and leave the lads in good spirit before the Winter break.

Nuneaton Borough Whites were today opposition and Sporting were in with a genuine chance of claiming all three-points. After last weeks disappointing result, this was the teams chance to show what they could really do.

The game kicked off in atrocious conditions, this reporters brolly almost flew out of my hands on numerous occasions! Immediately from kick-off Sporting showed their intent and went on the attack, the partnership between Dan and Jamie is really bearing fruit and today is no exception as they put the Borough defensive line on the back foot. A fine drive by Daniel narrowly drifts past the post and gives the goalkeeper something to think about.

Both teams are trying to play football which is credit to both sides as the conditions are certainly not helping to play good football.

Lou is battling well in the middle of the pitch and Ryan is making his best performance of the season, tackling hard and using his strength to move the opposition players off the ball. His passing has improved and in the worst conditions of the season, he is having his best game.

Nuneaton are having their share of possession but Mitch is marshalling the troops well at the back and Jordan isn’t seeing too much action. The game is being played in the middle of the pitch with not too many shot ‘raining’ in at the goals, but as the game approaches the end of the half both Dan and Jamie have chances ably supported by Lou but unfortunately the ball just won’t go in the net.

As the wind and rain continues, Craig and Martin try to get the lads to have more belief and get that victory. Nuneaton are just about a match for Sporting and the game can go either way, but hopefully it will be Sporting who will get those three-points to take into the second half of the season.

The second half begins with again Sporting showing their intentions from the off, with Ryan taking a break from the action its up to Ben and the others to push forward and pen Nuneaton into their own box to get that all important break-through goal. You feel that the first goal is vital today as with the conditions playing their part a goal could kill any hopes the other team would have of a come-back.

Jordan makes his first real save of the day as the ball loops into the air, he dives forward into the mud to claim the ball at the feet of the Nuneaton strikers, and quickly kicks the balls out down field. Ryan comes back on and immediately gets his foot in, Jamie and Dan are all over the Nuneaton defenders like a rash and its only the killer touch in front of goal that is stopping that decisive goal from being scored.

With the minutes drifting by, the game looks to be ending up as a goalless draw, with both sides cancelling each other out. While the conditions are poor, this has been a very good game with both sides keeping the ball on the floor and trying to play football.

Finally the referee blows the whistle to end the game, I suppose defensively we can be happy as it was the sides first clean-sheet of the season, so Jordan and the rest of the defence can feel very happy with their performance, while up-front Jamie and Dan were suitably aided by man of the match Lou, who gave his all and never stopped running. I must say that Ryan certainly gave Lou a good run for his money in the man of the match stakes in what was his best performance of the season.

After the game everyone huddled in the lock-up out of the rain and the lads were congratulated on their performances and were given an early Christmas present of a feast of chocolates!

The first half of the season has certainly showed promise. There are a lot of positive things to build on and the strike partnership of Jamie and Dan can only improve as the season goes on. Defensively Mitch, Ben and Adam have been improving, whilst in midfield Ryan is improving by the game and Lou is beginning to find an end product to all his industrious play, so there are certainly a lot of positives.

A little more aggression, better concentration and the willingness to tackle and get stuck in are some of the slightly negative things, but all these things can be worked on and improved as the season progresses.

Overall though, a good first part of the season, with lots to enjoy and lets hope the second half of the season brings even more to enjoy!!

Merry Christmas to you all!!
Match reports are written by Andy Wisniewski

Managers View

At long last our very first clean sheet, I never thought it would happen. Todays performance was dogged rather than fluent but the conditions dictated that. In the first half I thought we gave the opposition far too much space and we defended too high up the pitch. Fair play to the lads though, they listened to what they were told at half time and I thought we were more comfortable in the second half without really threatening a goal ourselves. I think each player takes a lot of credit from this game, especially the back line who have watch the attacking players get the plaudits in recent weeks, this time it is their turn to be the heroes.

Opposition watch

I thought Nuneaton Borough were a very competent team, they posed us more problems than in the first game and without some superb defending and goalkeeping I think they could have easily notched up their first win of the season. We wish them well for the remainder of the season

2 December - Weddington Thistle Tigers (A) 7-1 (L)

Anyone for water polo?

As we arrived at Weddington School it was still uncertain at to whether this fixture would take place. Massive pools of water in both goalmouths meant that in its current condition there would be no game. The pitch was however cleared to the satisfaction of the ref and the game was able to proceed.

Right from kickoff Sporting must have been wishing the referee had cancelled the game as Weddington were allowed the freedom of the pitch to walk right through us and score a real soft goal. From this point onwards we could have let our heads drop and embarass ourselves. As the lads have proved in recent weeks though, we are better than that and immediately we forced the home side onto the back foot. The front 3 of Jack, Daniel and Jamie were causing all kinds of problems and only some fine last ditch tackling was keeping us out. At the other end of the pitch Ryan, Ben and Mitchell were having to be at their best to keep the lively attackers out while Jordan was showing impressive handling in the tough conditions.

Finally the Sporting pressure reaped its reward as Daniel let fly with a screamer which cannoned into the net off the far post with the keeper beaten all ends up. Sporting continued to pose problems and only another last ditch tackle prevented us from taking a deserved lead.

As we were enjoying our freedom in the oppositions half, it was almost as though the defence had switched off as before we knew it we had been well and truly gazumped with a quickfire trebble, at least one could be blamed on the conditions

HT 1-4 but how???

At the start of the second half Adam replaced Ryan with Ben moving into midfield while Lou replaced Jack who had worked his socks off. This half saw the home side start to dominate and while we had the odd breakaway the conditions were starting to play a bigger part and 3 more unanswered goals flew in to make the scoreline very harsh

FT the closest 7-1 game I've seen

Match report written by Craig Buck

Managers View

We played superbly for the first 10 minutes of this match depiste going a goal down in the first minute we came back really well and thoroughly deserved the equaliser. Personally I think the condition of the pitch sapped our energy faster than the opposition which possibly expained the final score which I think probably flattered Weddington although they are a talented team.

For me the conditions were summed up when I got home, Jordans boots were actually swimming with water and his body was covered in mud which had managed to get through 2 layers of clothing. On taking the conditions into considderation I think we can be proud of our performance today. We have played 2 of the top teams in the past week and given both of them the fright of their lives, we are now playing some attractive football and that is the most pleasing aspect for me. Well done everyone

Opposition watch

Weddington by their own admission were extremely concerned in the opening 10 minutes and I think if we could have got to half time level we could have nicked something. They are a very talented side and will be up there at the end of the season. Personally I think there quality of football deserves a better playing surface but we cant be picky about where we play. A special mention goes to the Weddington parents and coaches who worked so hard to ensure the game was played by mopping up the surface water in the goalmouths.

25 November - Chetwynd Dragons (H) 1-3 (L)

Awesome effort just not enough

St. Nicolas Sporting v Chetwynd Dragons

A bright morning greets the two sets of teams as they take to the pitch. After last week’s victory against the bottom side, it was now a chance for the side to try and take on one of the stronger sides of the division.

The Dragons were currently third in the league only kept from second spot on goal difference, so we knew that this game would be a real test of character for the lads, and it would also give some indication as how far last weeks victory had bought them on.

The Dragons kicked off from right to left as this reporter seen it, immediately Sporting pressure the ball and go on the attack deep in Chetwynd territory, a fine shot by Jamie see’s the ball narrowly go wide, but a promising start to the game.

Mitch and the rest of the Sporting defence are getting stuck in and at this moment in time you cannot tell which side is currently third and which is third bottom, as Sporting are certainly giving as good as they are getting.

Formation wise and tactically they are an improvement on the early part of the season where they appeared like rabbits caught in the headlights, now they seem more organised and more aware of what is going on around them.

Chetwynd have a spell on top and only a few fine saves by Jordan keep the score level. The Dragons have a few big lads in their side and in the end Sporting are finally unstuck by a 20 yard thunderbolt. The ball breaks out the Sporting box after a Dragon clearance and just when it looks like the danger is cleared, the ball is drilled back and it flies into the back of Jordan’s net.

A fine goal, but maybe a few questions need to be asked in the Sporting defence as they appeared slow to come out and try and get a block in but nevermind, it was time to put that disappointment behind them and try and get back in the game.

From the kick-off Chetwynd tried to push their advantage home, but Sporting hold strong and push on themselves, Dan and Jamie are causing all sorts of problems and before long a fantastic move by Sporting ends with Dan slotting the ball past the helpless Dragon keeper. A much deserved goal and it goes to show just how much confidence the team has gained since last weeks win.
As the half comes to an end, both sides have their chances, but the game remains level at the break, with Sporting probably the slightly better side in terms of the footballing ability.

Craig and Martin give the half-time team talk, and try to emphasize the need to keep concentrating and remember their jobs on the pitch.

Ryan comes on at the break for Ben, and slots into the middle of the park while Jack replaces Lou.

Sporting kick-off the second half and are penned back straight away, it looks as though the Dragon’s have been told to push on and get the victory. Mitch and Adam are defending valiantly with able help from the midfield, Ryan and Lou are still keeping the Dragon midfield at bay, but in the end the pressure is too much to bear and the Dragon go back in front.

Once again, a lack of concentration at the back can be held accountable for the goal going in. This is something that needs to be stamped out, because the lads are now showing the development, which everyone has seen in them from the start, they just need to cut out the silly mistakes.

Jamie and Dan are still leading the Dragon defence a merry dance and Lou is certainly helping, running around like Willo ‘ the Wisp and making the defenders awkwardly turn in positions of danger. We just can’t get that equalising goal, and once again the quality of the Dragon’s come to the fore as they score the third goal of the game to pretty much see the game out.

Once again, a lack of concentration at the back was evident as Chetwynd walked through us, there were two players left unmarked and this was enough to get the goal.

Sporting storm back and a thunderous drive by Mitch strikes the post, and Jack off balance drives the rebound wide, when he looked to have a great chance of putting some pressure on the Chetwynd defenders in the last few minutes of the game.

As the referee looks at his watch and blows the whistle, a look of disappointment on the lad’s faces is soon changed when they are told how proud everyone is of them. Undoubtedly their best performance of the season against suck a capable side, they really need to stand up and take a bow, it was an excellent performance against a very good side.

The organisation of the side was vastly improved of that of recent games. They now looked like a side that could cause problems for the opposition and score goals. Lets hope that they can take this extra confidence and belief into another very difficult game against Weddington.

Here’s hoping for a performance as good as today’s but hopefully this time will full concentration and I believe we can get a result that could really turn the season round.

Match reports are written by Andy Wisniewski

Managers View

Personally I thought this performance was better than last weeks historic victory. Each player actually believed in their ability today and gave the opposition a real fright. You wont see a better team goal than the one we scored today. I am really excited by the Daniel/Jamie partnership up front. Bearing in mind Jamie was only making his 7th appearance today, I thought the ball the put through for the goal was class. Defensively we were also solid and we actually made some super tackles today which was pleasing for Martin and myself as this has been missing in recent weeks. Had Mitchells shot not cannoned back off the post with 5 minutes to go then I think we would have been more than cabable of snatching the draw our performance deserved. Each player can feel very satisfied with their performance today. Well done!!!

Opposition watch

Chetwynd are right up in the mix where I predicted they would be. Their first goal was an absoloute screamer which I dont think an Under 11s keeper would have got near. I think they will be glad to have got out of this game with the 3 points as we gave them the fright of their lives.

18 November - NCYP Leopards (A) 2-3 (W)

History made as Sporting win at the 26th time of asking

Well as everyone arrived at the old Etone Sports grounds they were greeted by gusty wind and heavy swirling rain. The pitch itself was sodden underfoot with the goalmouth carrying standing water. It was unclear as to whether the game was actually going to go-ahead, but the lads turned up one by one to warm up just in case.

Finally the referee turned up and inspected the pitch. By this time all the players and parents of both sides had turned up, so the pressure was on the referee as now we were here, we certainly didn’t want to go back disappointed, although a hot drink and a pair of gloves would have been welcome to this intrepid reporter!!

The go-ahead was given, so the lads began to do their pre-match warm up in the knowledge they were going to get a game of football. With the rain still lashing down the players were given their pre-match team talk by Craig and Martin. This was a game the boys really had to win, as the Leopards were bottom of the table and were there for the taking.

Sporting Kick off and immediately go on the attack, the Leopards defence will certainly know they are in a game today. Jamie’s is straight on the attack and his and Dan partnership up top is certainly the bright point of the season so far, they seem to be developing a good understanding which is important if the team is to score goals and get some much needed points on the board.

From a Sporting corner, the ball breaks to Dan who buries it in the bottom left hand corner of the goal for the opener. The crowd on the sideline cheer as the goal is scored. Wet, cold and miserable we may feel but a Sporting goal always warms the cockles!!

The Leopards are struggling to contain Jamie and Dan and a few minutes after the first Sporting goal comes number two, a fine thumping drive by Jamie from 10 yards out see’s the ball fly past the Leopard keeper and into the back of the net. This is dreamland for Sporting, this is the first time in the clubs short history that the team has lead by two-clear goals and the this was the chance we needed to take, and by ‘eck the lads were taking it.

As usual with Sporting though, nothing is as simple as it first appears. After being on the break and obtaining a corner, Mitch’s cross is cleared by the Leopards who spring into action and with the Sporting defenders left upfield the two man defence is left exposed and the inevitable goal is scored. 1-2 with Sporting still holding the advantage, but lack of concentration and lazy defending adds unnecessary pressure to the side and now for a few minutes the team is on the back foot.

A lack of aggression in the tackling is once again a major concern as even though the Leopards are bottom of the league we are letting them dictate the play and are at times hanging onto that one goal lead. The precarious lead is still in tact when another bout of Sporting pressure brings Dan his second goal of the half, another fine strike that leaves the keeper helpless and regains the two-goal advantage for the lads. Surely with half time approaching a invigorating team-talk by Martin and Craig will instil in the lads the need to concentrate.

Defensively, apart from the lapse for the goal we are pretty comfortable, Mitch and Ben at the back are doing what they need to do to keep their opponents at bay while the midfield is more than holding their own. Ryan and Lou are getting their foot in and winning the ball for the forwards to do their jobs.

At half-time in the pouring rain, Sporting have a two-goal lead to hang onto, lets hope they can keep up the good work and take all three-points.

Substitutions are made at the half, with Ryan and Lou off, with Jack and Joseph replacing them.

The second half begins as the rain continues to fall. The Leopards try to pounce immediately in the second half and they are pinning Sporting back in their own half and an early strike leads to a goal, 2-3 and the pressure is beginning to tell. Sporting are now panicking, sliced clearances and miss-kicks are causing concern on the sideline as the shouts of encouragement are echoing in from the parents.

The game continues in the relentless rain, Sporting have chances to break but too often the ball is lost in midfield as players try to walk the ball through the quagmire of a pitch instead of playing the simple pass up field. Dan and Jamie are in fine form and look dangerous each time they go forward but if they haven’t got the ball then there is nothing they can do.

As the pressure becomes more and more, Ryan comes on to replace Joseph to shore up the midfield. Its all hands to the pumps now as the Leopards are pushing Sporting back into their own box, shots reign in and either by luck or good judgement the ball manages to get cleared or just evades the goal.

Jordan is covered from head to toe in mud, but the one goal lead remains and the hot shower to come afterwards will feel that much better with the first three-points of the season in the bank.

Finally the referee, who had a very good game under such trying circumstances blows the final whistle to be greeted by cheers from both sides of the pitch but particularly the Sporting contingent who can at last celebrate seeing a win.

The players congratulate each other on a hard fought victory and as they shake hands in the pouring rain they all huddle round to listen to the coaches give them the praise they richly deserve.

So three-points for Sporting, lets hope this is the start of things to comes!!

Match reports are written by Andy Wisniewski

Managers View

This result gives me such a good feeling, these lads can now go to school on Monday and tell all their friends they have been part of a winning team. For me personally it lifts a lot of pressure, especially when our other 3 teams at this age group win for fun. Each and every player deserves a massive amount of credit for todays result in conditions what can only be desribed as Arctic. Hopefully we will now have the confidence to push forward for the rest of the season and make 7th place the very minimum we can achieve. For the statisticians amongst you our first win has taken 26 games (previously 2 draws and 23 defeats), 117 goals conceded to which we have replied with 7 of our own. Add this to a lot of hard work and dedication by each player, parent and coach and I dont think anyone will begrudge us this moment. St Nicolas Sporting take a bow!!!!

Opposition watch

I have a lot of time for clubs like the Leopards, as they are in exactly the same position that we found ourselves in last season. They will learn key lessons from this season which, although they may not realise it at this moment, will turn them into better players in the long run. Looking at some of their previous scorelines you would think they were lambs to the slaughter but they played some very good football and had me worried in the final 5 minutes. Special praise should go to their goalkeeper who I thought had a magnificent match. Well done to the Leopards, we wish them well in their pursuit of their first win

4 November - Market Bosworth (H) 0-6 (L)

Beaten by a very good side

St.Nics Sporting v Market Bosworth

A crisp foggy morning greets all the Sporting stalwarts and they make there way to the pitch for today’s game. Market Bosworth are the visitors for today’s game and the lads are hoping to put on a good performance and hopefully gain their first three points of the season.

Sporting kick-off from left to right in the first half and immediately a fine blocked tackle by Ryan sets the tone for the game and Sporting move forward with purpose, only to be met with stubborn resistance by the Bosworth defenders.

Bosworth seem quite a big team, especially at the back so it could be a difficult day for the Sporting forwards to try and break them down.

Adam has replaced Jordan in goal, as he is still not fully fit and before long a goalmouth melee ensues, but fortunately Adam is there to pick the ball up and start Sporting on another attack.

The first five minute of the game are good, solid defensively and sprightly going forward, let’s hope this performance can be maintained as we are giving as good as we are getting at the moment.

Ryan again is involved in the thick of the action and a good defensive clearance gives away a corner but it could have been so much worse. Fortunately the corner comes to nothing and Sporting clear, once again good play by Ryan who seems to be up for the game. He battles well in midfield and sends Jamie running at the Bosworth defensive line, but as has been the story all season the ball is cleared and the excitement of the Sporting diehards is short-lived.

Then, against the run of play a freak goal is scored, Bosworth attack down the right side and a shot is fired in from an angle, everyone stands still including Adam in goal and the ball nestles into the corner of the net for 1-0 to Market Bosworth. Very unfortunate for Sporting after such a good start, alas it’s been the story of the season so far, good start, then sloppy goal which sets the lads back on their heels.

Sporting, take this in their stride (after all they should be used to it!) and push downfield forcing a corner, alas the corner is cleared and Market Bosworth break downfield, menacingly towards the Sporting goal. All the defenders are standing there watching from the initial corner instead of getting back to help defend. Adam stays routed to his line and Bosworth sweep the ball past him for goal number two.

A disaster, straight from a Sporting corner Bosworth score the second. The defenders really need to pick up their game and challenge, make stronger tackles and generally be more aggressive.

Minutes later and Bosworth are given a very generous penalty kick. Nobody watching the game can understand why!!!

The remainder of the half Sporting try to retain the ball and build on the good early play they had at the start of the game. A few Sporting corners are reigned in on the Bosworth goalmouth but these are cleared and the whistle blows for half-time. A half which started with so much promise fell away badly.

Martin and Craig issue a stern team talk, as far too often the side just didn’t bother to tackle and ended up watching as Bosworth walked straight through them to stick the ball in the back of the net. An improvement is imperative if any positives are to be taken from this game.

The second half begins with Joseph replacing Ryan, Jordan comes on for Adam, who in turn replaces Jack in defence.

Obviously the stern half-time team talks counted for nothing as once again Bosworth walk through the static Sporting defence to slot home goal number four. This is turning into a poor performance after such a good start to the game.

The team is being overrun, there is very little aggression in the tackles, the lads are spending more time watching the game than getting involved in it and this is where the problem lies. It’s all very well doing well in training, but if the good work ethic etc isn’t bought into play on a match day then what’s the use.

A marauding run by Dan ends with him shooting wide, when one on one with the Bosworth keeper, a chink of light for Sporting, but it’s a little late in the day.

Before long the nightmare continues, Bosworth strike the post with a fierce shot, but the relief is short lived as Bosworth inflict another hammer blow to the static watching Sporting defence. Sloppy defending again gives the Bosworth strikers far too much time and space and they effectively walk the ball into the net.

Jamie and Dan are doing what they can upfront, but the pace and control just isn’t there and their attacks are easily snuffed out by a solid Bosworth defence.

Jordan has to be on top of his game to keep out the rampant Bosworth forwards, and he has to take one in the face for the team as he bravely saves from a Mitch deflection. The ball flies into Jordan’s face but at least it’s better than flying into the net!!

Moments later, it’s six, a big swinger from the touchline loops up into the air and straight over Jordan’s head and into the back of the net.

The final whistle blows, with Sporting decisively beaten.

Craig and Martin give their post-match team-talk and try to find some positives in an otherwise disappointing showing. There were a few positives, Ryan got stuck in and showed that he can tackle when he makes the effort. Dan and Jamie have shown that they have the making of a decent partnership, but just need to make the correct decisions when edging closer to goal. Apart from that, there is a lot of work to do before Sporting can claim their first win of the season.

Ryan was voted parents man of the match for his battling display.

Match reports are written by Andy Wisniewski

Managers View

Today I was really pleased with how we started the game. For the first 5 minutes I thought we were the better team but a fluke goal seemed to knock the wind out of our sails and Bosworths class shone through. We showed a lot of character after this point and with a bit more luck, could have nicked a goal or 2. Our next game is the one we must win.

Opposition watch

Bosworth are a side I like a lot, I thought they were a very good team last season and they have progressed nicely this term. I fully expect them to be in the top 3 at the end of the season. To top it all off, they are extremely nice people too. We wish them well for the remainder of the season

28th October - Grove Farm Sharks (A) 4-1 (L)

Down to the bare bones but what an effort

Game 6 of the Supanova league took us to Stockingford school to meet our opponents Grove Farm Sharks. The Sharks had experienced a mixed start to the season winning 2 and losing 4 of their first 6 games. This was always going to be a tricky match for us as we were missing Jordan and Ryan to injuries and Jamie to a prior commitment. These absences meant Adam reverting to goalkeeper for the first time this season in a competitive game with Jack playing the anchor role in midfield giving Joseph more license to attack and support Daniel who was playing the unfamiliar role of striker.

Not for the first time this season we took to a pitch that is considerably smaller than what we are used and going downhill in the first half, we knew we would have to take our chances when they arrived. Direct from kickoff Mitchell launched a shot down the pitch which the keeper gathered fairly comfortably as we signalled our intentions. Sporting actually started the brighter of the 2 teams and a rasping 20 yard half volley from Ben flew narrowly over, if it was on target it would have been a certain goal. This however spurred the home side on and they took the lead with their first real attack with the forward slotting past Adam from close range.

Sporting continued to battle well and Jack and Lou were trying to apply pressure in the middle of the field but the Sharks were slowly getting on top and it needed a splendid diving save from Adam to keep the score down. Just before the half time whistle, the second goal came. A Sporting attack broke down and rather disappointingly 3 of our players just stood and watched the home side attack and easily beat the exposed Adam

HT 2-0 playing very well but switched off at vital times

Sporting began the second half playing uphill, this is normally a disadvantage but in previous games we seem to have preferred the extra challenge of the pitch. The game continued to be a fairly even affair but again, Sporting shot themselves in the foot with some naive defending just when it seemed as though we were going to get back into the game. At 3-0 it was as good as over.

At this point, something must have clicked in the players minds, maybe last weeks friendly victory registered as we started to play some of our best football of the season. Daniel was proving a real handful up front and Jack and Lou were starting to play excellent supporting rolls. With 5 minutes to go Daniel chased what seemed to be a lost cause but manage to win the ball off the defender before planting a delightful lob over the keeper and into the net via the far post for one of the best goals you will see at this level.

With our new found belief we started to look like we could actually get something out of the game. With the added pressure we were applying we were still unable to find a second goal and in the final minute the home side broke away to give the scoreline a somewhat unbalanced look.

FT4-1 Closer than the score suggests
Match report by Craig Buck

Managers View

I have nothing but praise for my players. Apart from the usual critisism of being too friendly, we gave everything today. Each player can be proud of their peformance. The last 10 minutes showed exactly how far we have come in the past 15 months, we were actually thinking what we were doing and the passing and moving was a joy to watch, The icing on the cake was a wonder goal but this really was a good all round team effort.

Opposition watch

Grove Farm impressed me a lot, I thought the 2 lads at the back were very skillful and dealt with a lot of tricky high balls very well. With a bit of consistency they will easily be a top half side.

7 October - Weddington Thistle (H) 0-3 (L)

Massive improvement, but just no luck

The game starts with Weddington kicking off, but good hassling by Sporting lead to the lads pressurising the Tiger's goalmouth, Dan and Jamie again look dangerous and move deep into Tiger territory, but the story of the season continues as the ball is cleared.

Its a good start to the game, and Ryan reinforces the possesion with a fine shot which narrowly goes wide.

The Tigers take over the ball and only a last minute tackle by Mitch saves the day, but the ball drifts out of play for a goal-kick.

Sporting are playing this game with more tenacity which is good to see, both sides are showing some tackling prowess. Jordan dives to his right to save the ball at his near post to keep the scored level.

The defending is better this week, after last weeks debacle, although there are still times when the side starts daydreaming!

As the half continues the Tigers begin to take more control of the game and show there position in the league, and a tame shot by the Tiger forward drifts past Jordan who appears to dive over the ball? The opening goal is always an important one, especially in one that Sporting have started so well. In the past the players have let their heads go down after the first goal has gone in so Martin and Craig have their work cut out to try and ensure this isn't the case today!

Adam is having a storming game, fine tackling and strong play is leading the defense and keeping them in the game. Ryan makes a fine tackle in the middle of the park and his pass down the line leads to Dan and Jamie putting pressure on the Tiger goalmouth but the keeper clears.

Just before half-time comes goal number two, indecisive goalkeeping leads to the Tiger forward slotting the ball past Jordan as he begins to come out, stops then comes again. Two-nil down just before half-time leaves the team with an uphill task to get something out of the game.

Once again though the players are just too nice, they are letting the Tigers players walk passed them without as much as a tackle. Unless the lads take on what Martin and Craig have tried to drum into them then they are not going to get anywhere.

After a good start unfront, the attack is relatively toothless, its too easy for the opposition to keep our strikers at bay. They need to start defending from the front and harry the defenders into mistakes so the midfield can pick up the pieces and feed the strikers to score the goals required.

Just before the break, Sporting should have got right back in the game, fine attacking play by Lou gives Dan the chance to score, he goes past two Tiger defnders but istead of squaring the ball to an unmarked Jamie on the goal-line elects to shoot and the ball is deflected wide by the Tiger keeper for a corner. This another example of playing the simple ball, a square pass to Jamie on the goal-line would have resulted in a tap in and a goasl that would have got Sporting back in the game.

Half-time, two-nil to the Tigers. A better performance by Sporting but once again slack defending and little mistakes have cost the side. The heads did drop a little but the half-time team talk encourages the lads and gets them ready for the second half. The come back is something that will be difficult but with a bit of spirit anything was possible.

In the second half, Jack comes on for Dan and Joseph is on for Ryan.

The second half begins with the Tigers passing through Sporting, short incisive passing and something that Sporting need to eradicate otherwise it could be a goal-slide.

Sporting have started started to pump the long ball down the field, bypassing the midfield, for a minute I thought I was watching Liverpool with their Wimbldedon approach until they begin to get the ball on the floor and start passing.

Jamie is getting stuck in and is tackling back and showing the rest of the side what to do. The referee is for the second week running giving some very strange decisions, a free-kick goes to the Tigers for nothing, luckily it leads to nothing.

Eventually in comes goal number three for the Tigers, slack marking leave three players totally unmarked in the area and they are able to walk the ball into the net. A dissapointing goal to give away, especially after the good showing in the first half, but now is not the time to give in and Sporting are about to show the most battling part of their season so far.

A clear pull back on Jamie was completely missed by the referee, which surely should have lead to a sending off. The last defender pull Jamie's shirt right back and stopped the attack, but amazingly the referee never even gave a free-kick!

Seconds later, Jack is clean through, he goes past two before getting the ball stuck under his feet. Sporting are getting closer and closer but still the ball will not hit the back of the net!

Much better defensively in the second half, great tackling and tenacity by the side. Even though they were on the end of a three-zip scoreline there was a lot more to take heart from, and a lot more for Martin and Craig to work with. For the first time this season the side actually got stuck in, tackled well and attacked with gusto. If it wasn't for some bizarre refereeing decisions, poor decision making and just plain bad luck Sporting may well have scored a few goals. Cut out the silly defensive lapses and a victory is not far away at all.

There is no game this Sunday, but a good training session on Saturday will hopefully give the team a good platform to build on, and take that into the following week. Sporting have played the top three teams in the league and even though they have been sounbdly beaten can take heart out of their other performances and we will hopefully get those first three points of the season in the next game!

Adam was quite rightly awarded the man of the match award. He tackled with tenacity and vibrancy, he got around the pitch well and
defended excellent. Well played Adam, one of the best performances of the season!!

Match reports are written by Andy Wisniewski

Managers View

Well done to the lads today, they took on board last weeks harsh critisism and gave an excellent, more determined performance. We still need to work on various things as I thought Weddington didnt really have to work too hard for their goals as we served them up on a plate. We certainly didnt get the rub of the green decision wise but we cannot use that as an excuse. Things are coming together nicely at the moment and I expect us to be far more physical and far stronger after the half term break.

Opposition watch

Weddi impressed me today, their movement was good and they played the game in the right spirit. Duncan has worked well wit these lads and they deserve a lot of credit.

30th September - Nuneaton Borough Blue (A) 7-0 (L)

'Nice' Sporting given harsh lesson

Sporting kicked off on this very small pitch; Mitch fired a drive in immediately from kick-off which was dealt with by the Blue’s keeper (even though they were all playing in Yellow???). His kick downfield caught Sporting out and the forward was able to stroll through a static defence to plant the ball past Jordan for the first goal of the game.

The early part of the game was dominated by the Nuneaton Blue’s who seemed to be attacking at will. The defence was on its toes from the very off and were beginning to creak under the pressure, another attack quickly followed leading to the first corner of the game, fortunately the ball is cleared down the pitch. Sporting finally muster an attack and it’s the new signing Jamie, who in tandem with Dan force the ball forward and put the Blue’s defenders back on their heels. Jamie goes past three of the defenders before the ball is half cleared by the keeper, the ball falls to Dan who strikes it goal-wards only for himself and the Sporting contingent to see the ball fly the wrong side of the post.

At the other end fine defending by Mitch prevents another dangerous attack, but as the ball drifts out for a corner Sporting know that they must keep their concentration up if they are to prevent any more damage to the scoreline. Once again, a poor corner this time leads to Jamie and Dan again going forward and terrorising the Blue’s defenders, but alas again the attack leads to nothing.

From out of nothing, the Nuneaton Blue’s double their lead, again its defensive frailties that let the side down. Too often the side are left watching the opposition instead of getting a tackle in, there is no marking and no awareness of unmarked strikers in their area. Two nil, soon becomes three, the same story again defensive lapses are killing the side, while the midfielders are not helping back and are standing still waiting for someone to do the job for them.

On a pitch that is so small, Sporting are expected to put on a far better performance but a complete lack of conviction and confidence in their own ability is stifling their performances.

The half time score of 3-0 to the Nuneaton Blue’s is a little unlucky, as Sporting have certainly played their part in a fine attacking game. Jamie and Dan upfront are playing very well and with a little more luck could quite easily have scored three between them themselves. The problem for the past two seasons has been sticking the ball in the net and once again that is evident. We seem to have a mental block when we get near the goal and that will only change when we score a few goals, but to do that we need to step up to the plate and be a bit more aggressive in the tackle, because at the moment we are letting sides dictate the game to us and we don’t stamp any authority on the match, this needs to change.

Second half substitutions are made, Ryan comes on for Joseph, and Ben comes on for Adam.

Sporting begin the second half attacking again, we are challenging and harrying the opposition for the first time in the game and causing the Nuneaton side to start thinking about how to defend. Jamie and Dan are now helped by the willing runner Lou, who runs at the opposition defence, but once again we cannot stick the ball in the net.

In midfield Ryan gets stuck in and harries well before unleashing a forward pass for the attackers to chase, unfortunately the ball is cleared. The Sporting defence are once again caught fat footed and Jordan is forced into a fine save. Once again though concentration and awareness are sadly lacking in the teams defending, they should attack as a team and also defend as a team.

A fine run by Dan leads to what I thought was a clear penalty when the Nuneaton defender brings him down, but for some reason the referee who gave a few strange decisions throughout, gave a free-kick?

Mitch stepped forward and rifled the ball, but it struck a defender and eventually after a bit of a melee was eventually cleared for a corner. The ball was swung in but again was cleared by the Nuneaton defenders. Sporting just needed that opening goal to give them some confidence.

Shortly after another fine run by Jamie almost results in his first goal for the club, but a slightly heavy second touch gives the goalkeeper the chance to come out and clear the ball downfield. From the clearance more static defending leads to goal number four, then shortly after come number five. Time after time the lad’s defensive frailties are being exposed. Too many times opposition players are being left on their own in the box to score at left, with no retaliation whatsoever.

As the game comes towards its climax, the final nail is put in the Sporting coffin. Goal number six flies into the net as once again the Sporting team look on in horror.

The lads troupe off and are gathered round by Craig and Martin to give a few home truths to the players. A very disappointing performance by the lads, the work they do in training seems to have totally been forgotten come matchday and that is something they need to sort out and quickly.

Summary
A better second half performance by Sporting, with a bit more energy shown. Dan battled hard and was deservedly given the revised ‘Man of the Match’ award, while there were too many others who seem to be wandering around watching the game instead of being part of it. The lads need to pay more attention to what their job on the pitch is, they need to show some aggression towards winning the ball and more importantly they need to help out their team mates and not expect someone else to do the job for them.

There appears to be a lack of awareness of what is going on around them on the pitch. Too many times the lads drifted towards the player with the ball like a pack of sheep, leaving three opposition players completely alone in the penalty area to tap the ball home for countless goals.

A lot more thought needs to be made by the players on the pitch, this is not playtime at school, Craig and Martin have put a lot of their time and energy into trying to help the lads improve and become a team, but too often they are being let down by a ‘couldn’t care less’ approach to the games. There is only so much the coaches can do before leaving it up to the lads to carry their roles onto the pitch and give themselves, the coaches and all the parents watching something to be proud of. At the moment everyone appears a little dispirited, this will only change once the attitude of the players themselves change, otherwise it gets to the point where Craif and Martin will begin to feel they are wasting their time and efforts.

Next game is against Weddington Thistle, so lets hope for a revitalised performance and a major improvement by the lads

Match reports are written by Andy Wisniewski

Managers View

Today I was disappointed with the result and our ability to battle for the ball. We should have been up for this game after last weeks point but, as on may previous occasions the opposition have been allowed to walk straight through us and score soft goals. On a pleasing note we looked useful in the opponents half for the second game running and were very close to becoming the first team this season to score against them. On reflection, maybe I'm being a little bit harsh on the lads but I've seen them go into crunching tackles in training which makes it even more frustrating when they dont do it in games. It is now down to Martin and I to install some self confidence into the squad.

Opposition watch

Rob has done a great job with his squad and they look a very well tuned oufit who will prove hard to beat. I thought we were able to penetrate their back line fairly easily at times so they may need to do a bit of work in that department. Having played both Boro teams in the past week it is obvious to anyone watching that so far these kids are getting overlooked in any partnership that may exist. Without going into detail here both Boro under 9s manager have been given a raw deal in terms of venues and both must be credited for doing the best they could when faced with difficult situations.

23rd September - Nuneaton Borough White (A) 1-1 (D)

Up and running but it could have been all 3 points

Matchday 3 took us to George Eliot School to play against Nuneaton Borough White (formerly Whitestone Sports). Boro, like ourselves had lost their previous 2 games without scoring so there was a lot at stake for both sides. We arrived to find the pitch in a terrible state, in fact their were not even any markings for goal areas, etc, a factor that also concerned the home management. Numerous discussions later and we were ready to kick off.

Sporting immediately went on the attack and for a change, spent the opening exchanges camped inside the oppositions half. Daniel and Lou were causing problems down the flanks and Jamie was giving the home defence a torrid time on his debut up front. For all our territorial advantage, it became aparent that goalscoring would be at a premioum as there was no space for our tricky players on the small pitch. Mitchell, who had been pushed forward into a defensive midfield role was ably pinging passes from deep and it was from one of these that Daniel escaped the last defender but unfortunately saw his powerful shot expertly pushed aside for a corner. From the resulting flag kick Jamie was inches away from scoring a debut goal but the ball flew agonisingly over his head. At this point, the back line of Jordan, Adam and Ben were having a relitively quiet morning. That was soon to change as against the run of play a rare Boro attack saw their forward put Ben under pressure and the ball cruelly flew past Jordan into the net to stunned silence from the Sporting contingent. Surely lady luck wasnt going to deal us another cruel defeat when we were dominating proceedings. This team though are made of stronger stuff than that as we continued as most of the half had gone. Some fine build up play by Lou and Jamie again put Daniel through and again the keeper made an excellent block but this time it came back out to Daniel who gleefully rammed the ball home before leading the celebrations.

HT 1-1

At the start of the second half Jack replaced Daniel and Joseph came on for Adam with Mitchell reverting to his normal defensive position. We were now going downhill with the wind in our favour, surely these 2 factors would take us to the promised land of our first ever league win.

The trend of the first half was continued as Sporting spent long periods of the half in the oppositoin half. Jamie, Jack and Lou were all raining in the shots, unfortunately they werent on target and the keeper wasnt called on to save the day. At the other end of the pitch, Boro were proving tricky on the counter attack and some fine last ditch tacking by Adam, Mitchell and Joseph meant they were having to take long shots that Jordan was happy to see sail wide of the target.

At the final whistle, it was a relief to have finally got off the duck and also pleasing for the players who had put so much effort into the game. I have a feeling the first win is just around the corner.

FT 1-1
Match report by Craig Buck

Managers View

Today has lifted so much pressure off our entire squad. Last season it took us 16 games to score our first goals and get our first point. I think on the balance of play nobody could have argued if we had nicked the victory but at the same time we left ourselves exposed at the back and could have easily come away pointless which would have been very harsh. Each player can hold their heads high today as they have all played their part.

I think all players from both sides, plus the referee must be congratulated for making this an excellent game to watch on what can only be described as the worst pitch I have ever seen.

Opposition watch

Nuneaton Borough White are a team who I consider to be on a par with us and todays game has strengthened that belief. Although I thought we were the better team for long periods, there was always the threat from the oppostion. It will be interesting to see what Nuneaton Borough do for teams of our age as currently these lads are still waiting for the correct kit and a decent pitch to play on. We wish them well for the remainder of the season

16 September - Weddington Thistle Tigers (H) 0-5 (L)

Andy's Angle

Welcome to gameday two of the 2007-2008 season, with St Nics looking to get back on the title trail after last weeks unfortunate 0-3 outing to the Chetwynd Dragons. Last weeks game saw an unjust scoreline and a good performance and this week the lads will look to bounce straight back.

Training has been good and confidence is high, so let’s get on with the game.

Sporting kick-off from right to left (as I saw it) and immediately the Tigers went on the attack. This first attack lead to the first shot of the game and a fine save by Jordan at his near post. The breeze was quite strong and there was a chill in the air, so the lads would have to be at their best to keep a chilly crowd entertained and give the ladies something else to talk about rather than their displaced hairstyles!

The early exchanges are quite even, each side giving as good as they get but at the moment there is a stalemate. As the game continues it becomes evident that Sporting need to sort out their defence, they are continually leaving Tigers players completely unmarked in the area and time and time again they are having to trust lady luck to stop them conceding the first goal of the game.

Jack and Dan are both seeing lots of the ball up the top of the field while Lou is being very industrious around the pitch, getting in tackles and running at the Weddington full backs. A fine bit of defending at the other end of the pitch stifles out another Tigers onslaught as they are now beginning to claim the upper hand in the game.

Cries of encouragement from the Sporting entourage tries to bring out the best in the lads, but for some reason today they seem to be lacking something. They just seem to be off the pace and on the edge of the game. Even though they are battling hard and trying they just seem to be on the outside looking in, very hard to explain, but hey …….. I tried!

A fine midfield tackle by Ryan leads to him hitting the channels with his pass, Lou and Dan chase down the ball only for it to be cleared by desperate Tiger defending. The three attacking players are all seeing a lot of the ball, without actually getting close enough to the Tigers goal to cause them any discomfort.

Finally the breakthrough comes, poor defending by Sporting, which was the story of the game lead to too many Tigers players being left unmarked and in the end the ball was swept into the net, with the Sporting lads all standing there looking at each other.

Communication and responsibility are the order of the day in these circumstances, the lads cannot look at and blame each other as it is a collective responsibility between the lot of them. They attack as a team and they should also defend as a team.

Shortly after the goal, the Tigers try to make their dominance count, and only a great save by Jordan, which leads to a corner, keeps the score-line down.

Alas shortly after, the lead is doubled, once again very poor marking and defending lead to Tigers players being left all alone while Sporting mark space instead of opposition players and the ball is swept home for number two. Once again a lack of cohesion amongst the defence and midfield lead to nobody marking anyone and making it far too easy for the opposition to score again.

At half time Joseph and Ben come on to replace Ryan and Adam to try and instil a bit more aggression in the ranks.

Early Sporting pressure in the second half gives encouragement to the onlookers, and as Ben strides forward to shoot, everyone anticipates a goal, but alas the shot is dragged wide and we still continue to search for that first goal of the season.

As the second half drifts on, Sporting resort back to the kind of defending that was evident in the first half. Too many players on the edge of the game not taking responsibility and defending correctly and in the end this leads to the Weddington Tigers punishing Sporting another three times.

As the final whistle blows, and a 0-5 return on the scorecard, the lads troop off the field, shake hands with the opposition and gather round for Martin’s after match chat. He tries to pick the positives out of the performance, but really this game was a harsh lesson and a dose of reality for the lads. They need to take stock of their own performances and acknowledge that this is a team game and they must play as a team, and particularly defend as a team.

Too often during the game, players switched off and seemed happy to let others take the responsibility for marking the opposition players instead of stepping up themselves and fighting for the team. If the team is to progress this season, then they must make a concerted effort to improve.

They need to think about what is around them, show more awareness, give more in general team play, show some creativity, and take a lot more responsibility in what they are doing. Only THEN, will Craig and Martin’s hard work go some way to be justified in the lads performance on the pitch.

Match reports are written by Andy Wisniewski

Managers View

Without sounding like a stuck record, our shortcomings were exactly the same as last week. We are simply being too nice to our opponents. We need to have more determination and want to be first to the ball, when we get the mental aspects of our game sorted then the physical side will take care of itself as there is so much potential in this squad. Jamie will be available for selection next weekend which will mean more competition for places which can only be good for our progression.

Opposition watch

We know all about the Tigers due to our 2 friendlies last season. They are are very competent team with quality players in key positions. I think I am probably right in saying they are the only team in our division who has a title winner from last season which is a massive advantage. I expect the Tigers to be up near the top for the duration of the season but they will need to watch out for inconsistent performances which could ultimately trip them up, a comment I know they agree with.

9 September - Chetwynd Dragons (A) 3-0 (L)

Sportings heros beaten in close encounter

The first fixture of a new season took us to Stubbs rec to face Chetwynd Dragons. Chetwynd had enjoyed quite a successful season last year so it would prove to be an interesting test for Sporting as they attempted to find their feet in the Supernova league this season.

With only 7 players at their disposal due to prior comittements, Sporting knew this was going to be a tough baptism and the first 5 minutes of the game did nothing to prove this theory wrong. The Dragons almost appeared to be camped inside our half with the backline of Mitchell and Adam, ably supported by Joseph using all their know-how to keep out the shot happy strikers. Midway though the half it took a fine last ditch tackle from Mitchell to keep the opposition out when it looked for all money like the first goal of the season.

As the half went on, we started to enjoy more attacks which ultimately proved our downfall. A fine breakaway by Daniel and Ben was cut out just as Jack was about to pull the trigger, this allowed the Dragons to hit us on the counter attack with the forward easily beating the exposed Jordan.

HT 1-0 probably a fair reflection but the signs were promising

The trend in the second half was very similar to the first with Jordan being the busier of the 2 keepers but his hadling was exemplorary and we were looking quite comfortable. With the game still hanging in the balance, Mitchell confidently brought the ball out of defence and just when it looked as if he would player a killer pass to either Daniel, Ben or Jack he was brought to the ground with a thud for a fruitless free kick.

Towards the end of the game it became aparent that it wasnt going to be our day as a mix up between Jordan and Adam allowed the Dragons to score a very lucky second goal direct from a corner and then with the final touch of the game they scored a nice solo goal which was probably a little harsh on the lads.

FT 3-0 but plenty of positives to look back on

Managers View

Todays performance was very pleasing for a number of reasons. Its never easy playing a fixture with only 7 players, even more so when its the first game of the season and fitness levels are not quite 100%. I thought the lads battled back well after a slow start, and, with a bit more conviction could have got something out of the game. We will need to be more hungry and decisive in future. If we can get this hunger then we will start climbing the table

Opposition watch

Before the season started I expected Chetwynd to be there or thereabouts. After todays match I still believe this to be the case, they have some useful players who can cause problems but the shots to shots on target ratio will need to be improved if they want to be a strong contender for silverware.

Well done to both sides