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THE 2007/8 SEASON IS UP AND RUNNING All the sides started quite well but the Reserves are going through a bad patch and the Fives are out of the AFA Cup but there is still plenty of silverware to go for as we enter November. Remember the kick off times change next week to 2.15pm which will give us all an extra 45 minutes in the bar to annoy Dave. Now that we have the Standard Charter we are actively chasing grants to improve the clubhouse, dressing rooms, showers and pitches. We aim to have an artificial training area and we also want to introduce a Women's Section to play on Sundays. All Match Reports will be under the relevant Team Section -- that's if teams submit them to AC for publishing. This page is historical.
LEAGUE GAME v EBOGS (H) KO 2.00pm WEST WICKHAM 5 EBOGS 0 Saturday 9th December 2006 The pitch was in perfect condition and we were anxious to catch up with our League fixtures -- the visitors, East Barnet had made a poor start to the season but they scored 2 very good goals against us in the AFA Cup and would be capable of hitting the target again if we were below form. As it happens we were not in very good form and it took us almost a minute to open the scoring -- after 42 seconds a perfect through ball from Marcus Elliott gave Ollie Waite the chance to stroll past his marker and put the ball in the net. However, an avalanche of goals did not follow as EBOGS defended stubbornly and we passed the ball badly. We made elementary errors which a better side may have capitalised on but EBOGS are short of confidence and they never troubled our strong defence. Elliott was in a powerful mood and his pace was causing mass hysteria in the visitors defence -- he tore through into the area but was brought to earth by a crunching tackle reminiscent of Tommy Smith at his best. Was it a penalty? Was it a sending off offence? Who would collect Marcus from the bushes where he ended up? All these questions were debated by the ref and the offender for several minutes. My own view was that it was, perhaps, a penalty and it was a clear goal scoring chance but the tackle was clumsy rather than malicious and dismissal would have been harsh. Funnily enough the ref agreed and the resultant free kick was cleared for another corner and the defender stayed on the pitch which gave him the opportunity to try to improve his tackling. Sad to say he failed in his mission but he kept trying to the end. The game meandered on like a slow flowing stream until Waite somehow scored another -- this goal contained elements of high farce as Ollie slipped over in his attempt to score and the keeper followed suit -- Ollie managed to nudge the ball towards the goal and the keeper tried to help him. Between them the ball rolled over the line. A man walking his toy poodle behind the goal witnessed this sad spectacle and said in a loud voice " What the devil is going on here?" His dog took no notice and scampered off chasing a Sainsbury plastic shopping bag which had been caught by a capricious gust of wind and was heading for the cricket square. The dog was about to snaffle the bag when he tripped on the boundary rope and slithered across the fifth team pitch where Geoff Airey promptly despatched him into the bushes in Silver Lane. The crowd clapped appreciatively and Geoff looked for something else to kick. And so the half ended -- it was 2 - 0 and there was no need to say much in the dressing room. The 3 subs didn't even bother to come in and later I asked them why. Dave "Pork Pie" Adams said "What's the point -- you didn't even get the team right at the kick off -- 3 of the blokes who played last week weren't even on the ground yet you told us that there was only one change. So the half time pep talk would probably be fantasy." To be fair the two Owletts and myself had endured a hard time moving house and we were tired and hungry and mistakes were bound to occur. I put Barham back in the team and told Hyppia that he was not needed. Everett switched to right wing back in place of Kemp and the defence and midfield resumed it's normal pattern. I am dwelling a lot on half time because it was much more interesting than the first 45 minutes -- however, we knew that goals would come if we retained more possession and gave the ball to the wide men. EBOGS started the second period quite well and had more of the ball than Wickham and we were indebted to Mark Owlett for saving bravely at the centre forward's feet and later making two great saves to keep the visitors out. Rose was causing some concern to the visitors defence whilst Elliott was closing down defenders with remarkable speed and something had to give -- this is were Clumsy Claud re-entered the game by chopping down Waite in the box and the ref was on the spot to award the penalty. Then Clumsy Ollie allowed the keeper to save his spot kick and a hat trick went begging. Substitutions were necessary and Jamie Askew gave way to Dave Adams on 70 minutes and we immediately put the game beyond doubt when Chris Rose skipped down the left wing, hopped over Clumsy's leg and jumped over the last tackle and curled the ball into the far corner of the net. (quite a lot of adjectives in that sentence). This was an excellent goal resulting from a fine through ball but Rosey still had a lot to do and he did it well. EBOGS were understandably deflated and the 3 - 0 deficit was a bit harsh but it got even harsher when Waite collected the ball on the edge of the box turned his marker moved the ball onto his left foot and cracked in his third. Richard John replaced Neil Owlett and Ollie "scored" another but the lino ruled him offside and who are we to argue? The goal rush was completed by Marcus Elliott who beat 2 defenders and lashed the ball into the bottom corner for a fine goal. There was just time for Russell D'Urso to make his first team debut in place of a rather quiet Everett and the game ended at 5 - 0. We could have had more -- particularly from some good corners from Rose and some precision crosses from Everett but the final headers were off target. It would be remiss of me not to mention Brutus who stormed through this game in his own inimitable way causing havoc and destruction in all parts of the pitch. Thanks to all our spectators for their keen support -- special thanks to Rosey's young brother for attempting to rescue the ball from the brambles assisted by Ernie and his walking stick --- this was even funnier than the toy poodle incident. It was sad to see that Chris's "other half" turned up minus her thigh boots and this behaviour will not be tolerated for future games. Thanks also to the 3 officials who handled a cleanly fought game with both good sense and good humour. Next week we travel to Old Wilsonians for a 2pm kick off -- meet at Gatwick 7pm on Friday evening. WEST WICKHAM 2 v OLD WILSONIANS 0 (A) SATURDAY 16th DECEMBER 2006 KO 2pm REF Roy Rumens The pitch was in perfect condition and we started quite well -- however, Wilson's soon put a stop to that -- they began to make good use of the possession that they were winning in midfield and often looked dangerous. We were not picking up the number 2 and he kept making telling passes to the 2 front men and our defence was often at full stretch. Our only dangerous move ended with Elliott's long range shot missing the left hand post and most of our corners were dealt with very capably by the Wilson's keeper. The ball hardly ever reached Everett on the right flank yet he was always in acres of space as his marker was only interested in his defensive chores and never ventured forward to support their attack. We made no impact down the left and Rose had his work cut out in defence. The home side carved out two clear cut chances which should have been converted but both final shots flew wide and we were somewhat fortunate to go in on level terms particularly as they also hit the bar. We knew that we had played below our normal standard and came out for the second period in a more determined manner. Wadey and Owlett won more and more possession and the service to the wing men improved immeasurably. Waite was leading the line intelligently and something had to give. Adam Wadey opened the scoring on 60 minutes when he converted a hopeful cross from Rose which was half cleared and Adam found the net. This seemed to dishearten Wilsons although their centre forward was having a good battle with skipper Freeman, who once again, refused to be beaten in the air or on the ground. Williams replaced Askew and the home side were hard pressed for prolonged periods before Wadey added a second. Some quick interpassing twice put Waite clear but the keeper showed his class by saving both efforts which were on target -- he narrowed the angle very quickly and looks a good keeper. Kemp replaced Elliott who had run tirelessly for 75 minutes but took a knock on his calf which slowed him down to only 60 miles an hour. Kemp and Williams struck up a good rapport using the ball simply and several low crosses from Kemp somehow stayed out of the onion bag. We ran out 2 - 0 winners and, I suppose, it could have been a lot more in the end -- however, it could have been oh so different if Wilsons had taken their chances in the first period. The second half was a typical Wickham team performance - we were fitter and stronger and a little bit luckier but Wilsons are doing well in their first season in the top division and will have a lot to say in the final analysis. Referee Roy Rumens had a fine game without the aid on assistants and we would like to thank the home side for their welcome and hospitality. Man of the Match --Adam Freeman -- narrowly from Adam Wadey.
KENT SENIOR TROPHY -- QUARTER FINAL Saturday 6th January 2007 KO 1.45pm WEST WICKHAM 4 v HYTHE TOWN 0 The pitch at Corksrew Hill was in very good condition with only a small pool on the penalty spot and some standing water in the goalmouth at the top end. The groundsman's fork soon cleared the water but the officials decided to hold an inquest that would have done The Star Chamber credit --- they took about 20 minutes to decide if the game could go ahead -- had they decided that the pitch was unfit then we would have played Hythe Town in a friendly game. However, common sense prevailed and the game went ahead -- a postponement would have been tough on Hythe as they had travelled a long way by coach and we had trouble in accommodating their squad of 19 in the away dressing room -- fortunately there was only one other home game and they were able to overspill into the outside area. The day didn't start too well for the visitors -- they made three attempts to drive a huge coach down the narrow approach pathway and decided that it was impossible and parked in a nearby street. Their squad, plus management, coaches and physio appeared from out of the hedges looking very like the Lost Tribes of Israel -- they were smartly clad in red track suits and looked ultra professional as you would expect from a semi- pro outfit. None of our squad saw them arrive as they were putting up the nets or eating crisps. Hythe's bad start got even worse from the moment that Martin Lehane blew his whistle to start the game. Wickham were off the blocks like Linford Christie and imposed themselves on the visitors immediately --Hythe were unable to keep any worthwhile possession although their skipper did his level best to prompt them. The power of the Wickham midfield was too much for the Hythe boys and the pace of Everett and Elliott stunned them. They managed to keep us at bay for 20 or so minutes but Chris Rose sent Ash Everett scampering down the left wing, past a bewildered defender and Marcus Elliott smashed his cross into the back of the net -- the keeper had no chance. Hythe settled down a bit but they were constantly forced inside by our wing backs who covered acres of ground closing down potential attacking possibilities. It was no surprise when we scored again after 30 minutes when Kemp's corner found Adam Wadey at the near post and his strength on the ball created a half chance for Elliott from a narrow angle and Marcus forced the ball into the net to make it 2 - 0. We played the last 15 minutes of the half with 10 men as Everett collapsed with dizziness and was sick on the pitch -- we increased his blood sugar level at half time and he was able to resume his torment of the Hythe defence. His absence gave Hythe the chance to get on top which they did but Freeman marshalled his defence very well and some fierce tackling from Paul Barham and Cuzza averted several dangerous situations. By this time the rain was coming down like stair rods but the pitch was holding up well -- the crowd of around 150 or so didn't seem to mind the inclement weather as they were absorbed in the game and the roars that greeted both the goals was exciting to hear. At half time there was little to say except to be prepared for an all out assault on our goal for the next 45 -- this didn't happen and all the action was in the Hythe part of the pitch as Wickham used the slope to their advantage. At this stage Hythe had not had a shot on goal but did look threatening from corners and set pieces -- all their other moves were easily broken up by Jamie Askew, Brutus and Ollie Waite and they were able to provide Kemp and Rose with plenty of attacking possibilities. Chris Rose was giving the right back a hard time and eventually he brought Chris down on the edge of the area -- Mr Lehane awarded a penalty and the unfortunate defender went into his book. Then I remembered I had forgotten to appoint a penalty taker -- Adam Wadey picked up the ball and was not going to let anybody take it off him -- the ref spent an age lecturing the Hythe defender and I wondered could Brutus handle the situation. He put the ball on the spot and smashed the ball into the net with keeper unable to even move -- this was frightening stuff. The crowd went wild (I have never seen anything like it at West Wickham). Hythe kept trying to get hold of the ball but tempers were fraying and their bench was giving the officials plenty of advice. Elliott took a knock on his calf but played on and Sam Kemp should have made it four from close range but the keeper made a brave save. Wickham pressed forward exploiting the gaps left by the visitors who were tiring rapidly and Chris Rose was having another field day and we should have rammed home our superiority in this period. With seventeen minutes left Marcus Elliott was replaced by James Owlett and within 5 minutes James had headed home another following a smooth move down the right wing and a pinpoint cross from Kempy. Hythe never gave up the fight and in the last period of the game Mark Owlett made two fine saves from good headers which looked destined for the back of the net. The final whistle went with Wickham marauding forward looking for more goals but in the end, with a below strength side, I was happy with a 4 - 0 win. Thanks to Martin Giles, the Hythe Town Secretary, for his kind words after the game and best of luck to Hythe for the rest of the season. The game was well controlled by Martin Lehane and his Assistant refs so thanks to them as well.
WEST WICKHAM 1 v WINCHMORE HILL 0 AFA SENIOR CUP SAT 13th JANUARY 2007 KO 1.30pm The pitch was in perfect condition for the tie against old adversaries Winchmore Hill and I always felt that one goal would settle this game -- last season we met in the Quarter Final and the Hill won 1 - 0 with an extra time goal and we only narrowly avoided another extra time session. Jamie Askew scored in the 90th minute but referee Kevin Lowe added six extra minutes to cover several stoppages and a resolute defence saw out the remaining time without mishap. Winchmore were missing some familiar faces and Wickham were without Neil and James Owlett but Ben Scarborough returned to the bench after a three month absence. Winchmore's success has been built on a well organised, strong defence but with Ben Willis now managing the side instead of playing we felt that there could be one or two chinks in their armour. As it was there were very few chinks in the defence --they all appeared to be English. The strong cross wind did not help ball control and the first 45 minutes was a very even contest with neither keeper in any real trouble. Wickham were below the form of the last three games but Winchmore carried little or no threat up front except from set pieces and hopeful long throw ins which Freeman, Currie and Barham cleared with a minimum of fuss. The second half was much better with Everett and Rose taking on the visitors defence and beating them at will but Winchmore are an experienced side and stout defence and excellent anticipation by keeper Carter kept the game scoreless. At the other end, two chances fell to Neil Hurst, who scored the winner here last year, but Mark Owlett comfortably saved the first and a tremendous interception by Chris Rose at our left hand post prevented Hurst from converting a great left wing cross. This was, perhaps, the best move of the game as they cut through our defence with ease -- fortunately it was the only time that they got the better of the argument and Wickham looked more likely to score. It was no surprise that our goal came from the persistence of Chris Rose on the left -- he had been giving their right back a hard time all half and once again he got to the by-line and his cross was netted by Jamie Askew who has returned to form with a vengeance. Maybe the keeper could have kept the ball out but it was a close range effort and we just about deserved to win the game. The officials did a great job and the game was played hard but fair --- Man of the Match could have gone to Chris Rose or Ashley Everett for their inspired dribbling but I eventually settled on Jamie Askew not just for his vital goal but because of his all round contribution in midfield were he set up many attacks. The side worked hard off the ball and gave the visitors very little time or space -- there's no glamour in this work but it creates opportunities to attack and we did this well in the second period. Elliott, Kemp, Waite and Wadey never stopped running and this effort was the cornerstone of our success. WEST WICKHAM
3 v
SINJUN GRAMMARIANS 1 The pitch at Trinity Road was very heavy, which was not surprising, it was also quite narrow and this was not going to help our style of play and I envisaged a tough encounter. There was very little constructive football played in the first half as the home side relied on long balls to their centre forward who held the ball up very well but got little support and I don't recall them having a worthwhile attempt at goal. We found it difficult to move the ball accurately and we needed too much time to get the ball under control on a difficult surface. Wickham were the better side but the Sinjuns keeper handled the ball very confidently and it was a surprise when he failed to hold a strong shot from Marcus Elliott which squirmed through his hands into the net. Elliott and Everett were given very few decent passes and they worked hard closing down defenders which enabled our midfielders to pick up a lot of loose ball but we used it poorly and 1 - 0 at half time was just about right. The home side where very much still in the contest and Wickham were unable to dominate so it was no surprise when they equalised with about 15 minutes to go. The goal was totally avoidable and was the result of some poor defensive work -- the danger should have been cleared but it fell nicely at the feet of an attacker who gave Owlett no chance from about 6 yards. The introduction of Jon Waite gave us some much needed composure and James Williams replaced Sam Kemp in an attempt to give us some more impetus. We had chances in the last 10 minutes to win the game but the Sinjuns keeper began to look unbeatable. In the final minute a good move saw Everett in the clear but his shot skimmed the right hand post when it should have been in the net ---- and so to extra time. The light was pretty poor and ref Mr Morrissey decided on 10 minutes each way instead of the normal 15. We scored two more, one in each half but we should have scored 5 or 6 as Sinjuns tired rapidly and we demonstrated how to waste clear cut chances with only the keeper to beat. Adam Wadey passed the ball into the net after 4 minutes of extra time and Jon Waite headed a magnificent goal in the second period after good work by Everett. Chance after chance went begging -- three times Elliott cut through the home defence only to be denied by excellent keeping and atrocious passing -- in the final minute Williams was manhandled off the ball and Wadey smashed the resultant penalty against the keeper's legs. It could have been 6 - 1 but this would have been an injustice to Sinjun Grammarians who fought hard all through the 110 minutes and I was impressed with their defence and their keeper. Having a blank week last Saturday plus the fact that Adam Freeman and Neil Currie played representative games in mid week did not help our cause but we did improve as the game went on and eventually mastered the difficult conditions. For me there were two highlights in the game --- one, when Ashley deposited the ball in the Bengal Badger Curry House across Trinity Road and secondly, the all action performances of Marcus and Ashley up front -- they never gave the Sinjuns defenders a minutes peace and for me Marcus was Man of the Match. The game was well controlled by Pat Morrisey and was played in good spirit which is typical of the SAL and AFC. I think that the standard of refereeing this season, in the first team games, has been very good particularly as they often have to officiate on their own -- so well done to all of them.
WEST WICKHAM 1 v
OLD SALESIANS 1 Salesians equalised via an own goal when a low corner was diverted over the line by a Wickham defender -- this was a totally avoidable goal and for a 15 minute spell we lost our forward impetus. Salesians never threatened to score again but they battled well and Lady Luck was on their side. We had three clear cut one on one chances which we managed to miss and a late shot by Elliott was diverted past post by their keepers knee when he was well beaten. The keeper had a really good game and we need to show a little more composure, particularly in front of goal, in next weeks AFA Cup Quarter Final against an improving Civil Service side. We didn't play badly and we made many chances but these games happen frequently in football and we will play much worse in some games and win.
WEST WICKHAM 2 v CIVIL SERVICE 1 AFA SENIOR
CUP
SAT 10th February 2007
KO 2pm By 2pm we could probably have used both pitches as the rain stopped about 12.46pm and the water drained away -- the pitch was forked by Dave Buck in the early morning and his work was supplemented by a "forking party" of Freeo, Brutus, Cuzza, Rosey and Skew -- thanks boys. By kick off time the pitch was in good condition but would obviously cut up as the game went on. Games against Civil Service are always difficult as they are a big, strong side and who could forget the two diabolical dismissals which reduced us to 9 men against them last year. For them, this was their Cup Final and they have been playing really well lately chalking up some good wins so a close game was anticipated. The Referee Duncan Elder had a blinder -- he stamped his authority on the game straight away and did so in a manner that did not alienate the 22 players. He was well supported by Derek Horner and Errol Walker on the lines and the game was allowed to flow. The first period was a bit scrappy and Civil Service settled own the quicker and were extremely unlucky not to take the lead in the first 10 minutes. An incisive move saw a good shot from one of their midfielders crash against the bar with keeper Owlett unsighted -- Wickham scrambled the ball clear but it was obvious that the visitors were a much improved side from the one that we beat at home earlier in the season. We had two good chances to score but Sam Kemp was unable to get a left wing cross under control quick enough and was wide with a header after good work from Marcus Elliott on the left wing. Civil Service' s six foot three centre forward was having no luck in the air against Neil Currie but the visitors had plenty more big guys and they were always dangerous from corners and free kicks. Another good move saw their centre midfielder cut through our defence but his shot was blocked but almost immediately they took the lead from a right wing corner which was headed firmly into the net. This was just prior to the break and Wickham did not deserve to go in one down. We began the second half at a much quicker tempo and dominated the midfield action -- Askew, Williams and Wadey were winning more of the 50/50 balls and consequently the supply to the wide men improved. Chris Rose was a constant threat down the left wing and the pressure mounted on the visitors defence. Their number 10 -- a slight, balding guy was outstanding -- his ball control and vision were excellent and it was a good job that Jamie Askew was on top form. The game changed in a 10 minute spell -- first Jamie Askew fired in an equaliser from just outside the box then Neil Currie gave us the lead with a fine glancing header from another short corner. The goals had been coming for some time as Civil Service seemed to be tiring and Askew had almost opened the scoring just after the re-start but the keeper clawed his shot away. Wickham dominated the game for the next 25 minutes and created numerous chances but the visitors defence held up under pressure with their keeper making several notable saves. Ben Scarborough replaced James Williams and Ollie Waite replaced Sam Kemp but desperate defence kept Wickham at bay -- Ollie fashioned a couple of chances from close in which were blocked and the Civil Service defence looked out on their feet -- but they came back strongly in the last 5 minutes and four or five corners put us under pressure. An equaliser looked a certainty when a beautiful ball inside our defender gave their centre forward a free run into the area but out came Mark Owlett to make a brave diving save at his feet. We held our nerve and ran out 2 - 1 winners -- yes we could have won by more but Civil Service also had their chances and the crossbar and The Owlett ensured that Wickham went through to the semi final where we will meet Nottsborough or UCL Academicals on March 10th. We were without Paul Barham and skipper Freeman damaged his shoulder so we have a nervous few weeks ahead of us -- particularly as Ross Simmonds is away ski-ing and Barham is away on business in March. Man of the Match could have gone to Chris Rose, Jamie Askew or Adam Freeman who were outstanding but Neil Currie took the award for his handling of a big attacker who was good on the ground but was unable to beat Cuzza in the air which eliminated a lot of potential danger to our goal -- and he scored.
WEST WICKHAM 3 v WINCHMORE HILL 0 SAL SAT 17th February 2007 KO 2.30pm Table topping Winchmore Hill were our visitors this week as Wickham aimed to extend their unbeaten run to thirteen games. The pitch was in perfect condition and the mild weather conditions were ideal for what promised to be an exciting game. Adam Freeman passed a late fitness test but was switched to sweeper to keep him out of harms way -- Kemp, Williams and Scarborough formed a strong bench but Simmonds was still missing and Neil and James Owlett had a run out with the Reserves. We set off at a fierce pace and played some of the best football that I have seen this season -- the Winchmore defenders were given a torrid time by Rose and Everett and we bombarded Andy Carter's goal and should have scored as early as 6th minute but Elliott's crashing 30 metre drive smacked against the bar with the keeper beaten. Askew, Wadey and Jon Waite completely dominated proceedings in midfield and it was Waite who eventually gave us the lead after 20 minutes when he followed up Elliott's effort which rebounded off the left hand post and he bundled the ball over the line. Not pretty but any goal is a good goal. Almost immediately we should have added a second but somehow the marauding Barham sent his close range diving header into the side netting. Winchmore were struggling to keep tabs on our wing backs and Ollie Waite was cleverly bringing our attacking midfielders into shooting positions. Numerous shots were blocked by an overworked visitors defence but Carter was unluckily beaten by Ashley Everett's long range effort which was diverted into the left hand corner of his net. Jamie Askew and Chris Rose delivered pin point free kicks (and their were lots of them) into the Winchmore box but miraculously their goal survived -- they missed the height and strength of Chaters and Willis but Big Ben couldn't resist the call to battle and he appeared in the second half. The only danger was over complacency and over elaboration and this was made clear at half time -- it was unlikely that we could keep up the turbo charged effort of the first 45 minutes and Winchmore were not going to capitulate easily. True to form the visitors started the second half much better but Freeman, Currie and Barham were seldom in trouble until Neil Hurst crashed a close range shot at keeper Owlett who diverted the ball onto the bar. Hursty put the rebound into the gardens in Silver Lane and will be receiving an invoice for £150 to pay for a new match ball and a broken window. Ben Willis came on to lend height, experience and, dare I say it, weight to the Winchmore effort and he was clearly intent on putting some pressure on our defence. Wadey and Hurst then engaged themselves in a cross field tussle for the ball which would not have gone amiss in Come Dancing -- I thought that they were doing some kind of tango -- it was so attractive that the referee Peter Jago made a note in his notebook of both their names (probably to be passed on to Simon Cowell). Everett took a couple of jolting knocks which only sparked him into more action -- he beat the left back for about the 50 the time and sent a low cross into the box -- Ollie Waite ran across their defence and headed the ball into the top right hand corner -- an excellent and well deserved goal. Scarborough and Williams replaced Barham and Askew for the last 20 minutes and we ran out comfortable winners although Winchmore did bring another fine save out of keeper Owlett at the foot of his right hand post. This was a good performance all round and the fulcrum was Jamie Askew in midfield -- he was always on hand to receive the ball and his distribution was first class. Jon Waite and Adam Wadey were in top form -- comfortable in possession and strong enough to drive forward at every opportunity. We employed four attackers for most of the game because the midfield built us a strong platform from which to attack and I thought that we could have added to our tally before the final whistle but Winchmore stood firm and it ended 3 - 0. Now we have 3 big Semi Final games in a row and with Barham and Waite missing and Freeman doubtful we will be facing a big but exciting challenge. Next week it is Nottsborough in the Kent/Surrey Cup at home so come along and support The Blue Bloods. WEST WICKHAM 4 v
NOTTSBOROUGH 0 We were determined to wipe out the memory of our 4 - 0 home defeat by Nottsborough in the League - we were a little unlucky with injuries in that game but, this time, we had no such problems and ran out comfortable winners. Still without Simmonds, Owlett, Paul Freeman and Willis, we fielded a settled side with a strong defensive unit and pressurised Nottsborough from the kick off. Elliott should have scored in the first minute but he slid his shot wide and the visitors looked strangely lethargic as Wickham won more ball in mid field and were able to show their attacking flair. Ollie Waite put us one up with a shot on the turn which left their keeper helpless and Marcus Elliott gave us a 2 - 0 lead just on half time with a header which beat the stranded keeper. This was a critical time to score the second goal and it rather deflated a very good Nottsborough side who were unable to find any inspiration in the second period. I felt that the final 4 - 0 score line did not really do justice to Wickham's superiority. Marcus Elliott scored a hat trick, something that he has been threatening to do every Saturday since Christmas, and Chris Rose was unlucky when he hit the right hand post following a mazy dribble but many other chances were unconverted as Nottsborough struggled to cope with our all out attacks. To be fair the visitors always tried to play football but it clearly wasn't their day and they were unable to show their true form. The game was played in the right spirit and was well handled by Pat Morrissey and his two assistants. We look forward to meeting our visitors again on March 10th somewhere "up north" -- this game will be like going home for Brian Williams and myself and we will need to leave on Thursday night to make sure that we find the place. Why wasn't the game arranged at Nottsborough or West Wickham? There must be a good reason although it escapes me. Man of the Match Ernie -- he never put a foot wrong. WEST
WICKHAM 0
v WHITSTABLE
0 AFTER EXTRA TIME LOST 5 - 6 penalties Firstly
-- I am very proud of the way the squad played and behaved yesterday at
Whitstable. I deliberately say SQUAD and not team because four players did not
get on to the field but they were still a vital part of the set up and their
chance will arrive in the coming weeks. We had one totally unjustified booking
when a quickly taken free kick hit the retreating Jay Askew who wasn’t 10
yards away – ludicrous – Whitstable had seven booked not for foul play but
for “verbals” borne out of frustration as Wickham were clearly the better
side. Man
of the Match Adam freeman and John
Waite WEST WICKHAM 2 v NOTTSBOROUGH 0 after extra time (0 - 0 full time) AFA SENIOR
CUP
Sat 17th March 2007
KO 2. 30pm Referee Derrick Coe This game was in doubt all week but it was eventually given the go ahead at UCLA on Friday afternoon. Unfortunately the allocated pitch was not the intended one and was not really up to First Team standard as it was too small and on quite a pronounced slope -- it was extremely heavy due to the wet weather and the strong wind added another unwanted dimension to the game. Both sides are full of good footballers but neither could really master the conditions which didn't surprise me. The first half was full of effort but it was difficult for the players to stay on two feet most of the time and nobody could rely on a true bounce so the game was disjointed. Neither side could claim that they produced a goal worthy shot and Wickham had slightly more of the play. Nottsborough had the better of the first 30 minutes of the second half but could not turn their possession into chances -- Paul Barham was missing from the regular defence but Ross Simmonds did a tremendous job with quick first time tackling and his aerial ability was a match for "Awesome". Nathan Violet was their most effective attacker but Kemp tracked back well and forced him on to the flanks which reduced the threat -- he did create one good shooting chance but the final effort was nearer the corner flag. Towards the end of the 90 minutes Wickham's superior fitness began to tell and Everett, Rose and Elliott were finding gaps in their back four and Grove was continuously being exposed and we, at last, looked like scoring with every attack. However, a clean strike didn't materialise until the last kick of the half when Everett's shot struck the left hand post and bounced out of play. It would have been a cruel blow to Nottsborough had we scored as the game had been fought hard and fair with neither side able to dominate. Only when attending Everett's cramp did I realise just how bad the playing surface was -- during the week somebody said to me "I believe that the semi final wasn't much of a game" -- but under the conditions all the players came out with credit in my book. Extra time suited us more than our opponents and James Williams and sub Matt Waite went very close with headers and we could have been 2 -0 up after the first 15 minutes but it remained goalless although Askew had a tremendous volley blocked by Matt Rolfe. The second period was dominated by the midfield strength of Jon Waite, Jay Askew and James Williams and a goal looked likely to come any minute. Both James Wiliams and Matt Waite were narrowly wide with headers with the keeper beaten and Freeman and Elliott had shots blocked. Freeman, Currie and Simmonds had completely negated the Nottsborough attack who were hampered by an injury to Andreas Atkins and finally we scored. The goal was a beauty from Ash Everett who cut in from the left wing and crashed the ball into the top left hand corner of the net -- this was an astonishing goal as he struck the ball with the outside of his right foot. Nottsborough claimed offside but the linesman was in a good position although there must have been some doubt about the decision because one or two defenders lost the plot which is out of character. Things then deteriorated as Wickham stormed forward -- a crude attempt to flatten Elliott as he burst in to the area missed the target -- Marcus scuffed his shot -- the scoring chance vanished and the ref, correctly, awarded a penalty. There was a three minute delay whilst Mr Coe tried to placate the perpetrator plus their keeper and one or two others -- two were in the book and the ball was in the net (courtesy of Mr J Waite). I am sure that the incidents at the end will be dealt with by Nottsborough -- they were borne out of frustration and I am sure that they were almost instantaneously regretted. It was a good clean game but there was a lot at stake and the atmosphere in
the bar was very cordial which is good to report. WEST WICKHAM 3 v
OLD LYONIANS 0 At last a League game -- against the bottom club -- I would firstly congratulate Old Lyonians on their spirited efforts as they played the game without their full complement of players. Their heads never went down and West Wickham hope to see them again in the top division in the not too distant future. Relegation is stirring them in the face but I am sure that Nick Tarlton will make sure that they battle right to the end and you just never know what might happen. They stayed and had a few beers and will always be welcome at Wickham. Unfortunately the game itself had little to commend it as the conditions were very tricky -- the pitch had dried out rapidly and was uneven and the ball bounced around at unpredictable angles and heights and the tempestuous wind added to the players problems. Eventually we scored via a lovely strike from Marcus Elliott -- it could have been quite a few more but Lyons defended stubbornly and their keeper had an excellent game. With skipper Freeman out injured, Barham and Waite helping the Reserves, Matt Waite, Ben Scarborough, Lloyd Willis also out injured and James Owlett working we were somewhat below strength but we were able to give first team debuts to Robin Cross and Joe Ivory -- two very promising youngsters. We only managed two more second half goals via a nice header from Jay Askew from Sam Kemp's perfect cross and another fine goal from Elliott. The Lyons keeper defied the rampaging Wickham forwards and a 3 - 0 defeat was no disgrace to the visitors. Both our new boys did very well and I look forward to seeing more of them in the next 6 weeks. Mark Owlett skippered the side and kept his 12 clean sheet for the First Team -- five in a row to-date so well done Mark. WEST WICKHAM 3 v
HONOURABLE ARTILLERY COMPANY 1 The day dawned bright and sunny but soon started to slip downhill -- by 10am the wind chill factor claimed the lives of two wood pigeons in my garden and the portents for the day looked ominous. At 10.30am I again went into the garden, this time to resuscitate my wife who had collapsed from hypothermia whilst cleaning the mud off the practice balls. BUT things started to swing in my favour when I completed the Telegraph crossword in less than 10 minutes and found my medal from the last final that I played in a Final at Roehampton (I won't mention here, that it was a Sixth Team Final and we lost 4 - 0). I always look for positive vibes on match day and when my wife presented me with smoked haddock and two poached eggs for breakfast the die was cast -- HAC may as well have stayed at home because the Gods had spoken firmly in our favour. I could have done without the next incident which caused pandemonium amongst the squad --- Cuzza was missing -- we were all on the coach waiting when round the corner ambled Cuzz -- without a care in the world AND WITHOUT A SUIT. The skippers face drained of colour -- he knew that the buck stopped at him -- should he refuse to let our sweeper on the coach and send him home to dress properly or should he instruct the driver to go straight to M&S on the way. Either was we were going to get to Roehampton late -- common sense prevailed and The Cuzz was issued with a big fine and off we went. The journey was uneventful -- several of Ashley's kids were sick on Simmo's pinstripe, the driver ran over two cats and we were chased by a police car for exceeding the speed limit. Despite the Roehampton ground being a huge complex with an entrance wide enough to accommodate a Sherman tank, we were refused entry -- so parking the coach outside, we trudged into the palatial surroundings of the Bank of England's Sports Ground -- a magnificent place. As the team know, I always measure and inspect the pitch before I do anything else -- they all think that I'm a nutter (but then so does my wife) -- it's important to know the playing conditions before you finalise the tactics. I was pleased to note that they had reduced the width of the pitch since I played there in 1990 but it was still 85 yards wide -- yes 85 yards wide -- I didn't have the energy to check the length but I could, just, see the goal post at the far end. I was a bit disappointed with the surface in the middle of the pitch as it had suffered from the bad weather and was short of grass and was quite bumpy -- but the wings were in fine condition and this suited our style of play. The dressing room was very lively as Cuzza was getting severe stick from his team mates and then he made another fatal error -- trying to defend his slovenliness and wriggle out of paying his huge fine he made a bad bet. " I bet Barham doesn't turn up looking smart." he said through gritted teeth. "He will" said Freeo," and if he doesn't we will halve your fine." Cuzza smirked -- he knew that Barham would save his bacon. Unfortunately for Cuzz, PB had mailed me on Friday asking me did he really have to dress smartly, I told him "yes" so Cuzz was in the mire, times two. PB had not yet arrived so the players spent their time haranguing Cuzza and waited expectantly for The Clapham Kid to arrive. In he burst wearing a shirt, trousers and a smart sweater -- Cuzza turned white but immediately recovered his composure shouting gleefully "He's got no tie." Barham was oblivious to what was going on -- he just kept on smiling (he smiles almost as much as Macca). Anyway, the squad looked very smart and psychologically we had the upper hand on our opponents who, surprisingly, were not in uniform and no small arms or bayonets were visible. The Manager reverted to his regular formation with Ollie Waite playing in an advanced central midfield role in place of the injured Wadey. Generally the omens had been good so I promised all 14 players a game whatever the situation --I'm not sure that they believed me but they all deserved to play an active part for the way they have performed so far this season. Maya Linter (aged Six), "the mascot with the most" made sure that there was some beauty in the team photos while brother Ben also got in on the act. By now, the wind was extra strong and extra cold and blew straight across the pitch so playing conditions were not ideal but not insurmountable either. The first ten minutes are always instructive and Wickham stamped their seal on the game from the kick off -- we were first to the ball and our attackers chased everything -- HAC looked rattled -- they tried to knock the ball around square, when they eventually got it, but found that Everett, Elliott and Ollie were in close attendance and misplaced passes were legion. We had much more of the possession but gave the ball away too easily via too many long balls to the flanks (one of the things that we said we must be used sparingly). The wind often made control difficult and it was hard to keep passes and shots down. Chris Rose fired in two decent efforts but the wind took them high over the bar -- at the other end Mark Owlett was unemployed. Then, Jon Waite found himself free in the box but failed to give us the lead from close in. However, within seconds Ash Everett picked up the ball on the right wing and put in a low hard cross which Jon Waite headed firmly into the net to give us a deserved lead. Good work by Sam Kemp along the right hand touchline made an easy chance for Elliott but somehow the keeper intervened and the ball ran back to Sam at the near post and his effort was scrambled away. At the other end HAC were finding The Big Four an insurmountable barrier but they did make one good chance but Owlett tipped the resultant shot round the far post. Their centre forward was a big strong fella but Barham wouldn't let him turn when he received long balls and any danger was swiftly nullified. HAC did come more into the game towards half time and played some neat football but once they got intothe final third they were unable to create any real danger. The only point for discussion at half time was "possession" -- we had used too many long balls and continuing to do this would deplete our energy levels in the second period. We began the half in rampant style with Rose giving the HAC defence a hard time on the left and Ollie Waite cleverly linking defence with attack. Jay Askew was menacing whenever he got forward and was on the receiving end of some desperate tackling which failed to keep him in check so Everett and Elliott were seeing a lot of the ball. Then we scored twice in three minutes which was no surprise -- first Chris Rose converted an Elliott cross then Marcus Elliott made it 3 - 0 -- both were clinical finishes after some very good approach work. Then we lost the plot for a bit with everybody trying to get in on the scoring act -- Everett could have increased the lead and their keeper made a great save from Jon Waite as we cut through their defence time and time again. HAC were not going to give up without a fight and they continued to play some good football and they took advantage of our lack of discipline and scored a neat goal from a quick break. They came more and more into the game and skipper Freeman had to marshal his forces and get back to basic defending -- Owlett in the Wickham goal was not amused that his "clean sheet" record of 5 games had been given away cheaply. However, sanity was restored fairly quickly after James Williams was introduced in place of Kemp and Ross Simmonds for Elliott. The HAC keeper made some good saves to keep the Army boys in the game and at the other end their attack created two openings but the final efforts were way over the bar. Stand -in keeper Colin Roberts was introduced at centre forward with 3 minutes remaining but Mr Rigler decide to play 8 minutes added time and "Rockin Boy Roberts" was disappointed not to get on the score sheet. He did, however, manage to direct one easy forward pass into the bushes on the next pitch and send several headers high into the sky -- all well worth watching. HAC lost the plot a bit near the end and some desperate late challenges left Waitey and Freeo limping but this was borne out of frustration rather than malice. Still one guy was extremely lucky not to be sent off when he kicked Adam when the ball had gone out of play -- the ref said that it was very near the end of the game -- so what? He should have gone -- not because we wanted an advantage but because it was dangerous/violent play and could have had serious repercussions. Other than that incident, the officials did very well so thanks to them and Mike Brown and his colleagues at The Bank for their warm welcome and excellent organisation. Then Cuzza "turned up trumps" --- his old man had brought his suit in the car and The Cuzz had been winding the boys up all the time -- he looked just as smart as the rest of them and I noticed a little smirky smile on his face when he was eating his beans -- "no suit my, my *rse" he muttered to himself.
11/11/06 Wickham celebrated Remembrance Day with 5 victories and a commendable away point - the headlines were grabbed by Ashley Everett who scored 4 in the first teams AFA Cup win at EBOGS and Mark Pettyfer who got 3 for the Reserves in their 4 - 1 Cup win. The most dedicated efforts of the day went to Paul Barham who shrugged aside problems on the Underground and arrived at EBOGS by taxi to help the side to victory and Lloyd Willis who was injured in the warm up but played the whole game to help the Threes to victory. The least dedicated awards went to Paul Berry and Dave O'Leary who never even bothered to turn up for the Reserves and Sixes respectively - fortunately both sides won. Amateur clubs like ourselves are built on "team spirit" and love of the game so thanks to Paul and Lloydy for their efforts on behalf of WWFC - to those with less dedication - remember that you are not only letting the club down you are letting your team mates and yourself down. The minutes silence was observed with due solemnity by Wickham and EBOGS and a game to remember followed. The first half saw 4 goals go in - three were excellent. EBOGS went ahead after 25 minutes with a stunning overhead kick from 15 yards by their centre forward but not to be outdone Chris Rose equalised 2 minutes later with a carbon copy goal. Neither keeper had any chance of saving these 2 efforts. We went into a 2 - 1 lead just before half time when Ashley Everett converted a long through ball - bravely lobbing the advancing keeper. Almost immediately EBOGS cut through our defence to equalise and we went in 2 goals each. I must say that I was not in the least bit worried about the outcome as they had some oldish, ponderous defenders who had struggled to cope with our pace and the return to form of Rosey. Chris and Sam Kemp were creating mayhem and in truth we could have been 3 or 4 goals ahead. Skipper Freeman was not happy with some sloppy defending and he politely asked the boys to "get their fingers out" in the second period and win a few more 50:50 balls. His words galvanised Wickham into action and we absolutely murdered the tiring EBOGS defence --- sure we scored seven in the second half but it could have been 10 or 12. Ashley got 3 of them - the third was an exceptional goal as Marcus whipped in a left footed cross and Ash volleyed the ball into the corner of the net. Marcus then hit the keeper's legs when it was easier to score but Ashley whacked in the rebound. Sam Kemp scored direct from a corner, Brutus converted from inside the six yard box, Marcus scored at last and James Williams (making his first team debut) took a return pass from Everett to score a coolly taken ninth goal. EBOGS kept going to the end a got a dubious penalty when Neil Owlett was adjudged to have tripped their number 9 - Mark almost saved the spot kick and then got booked for querying the decision. We played some good football on a difficult pitch with Askew, Blakeney and Wadey dominating the midfield - we pressed hard when we lost possession and our passing was much sharper. The back three of Freeman, Barham and Owlett won everything in the air and tightened up considerably in the second half which meant that Mark had little to do in goal. Both our wing backs had excellent games and the Everett/Elliott combination was frighteningly fast --- but, to be honest, EBOGS were always going to tire and we will have much stiffer times ahead. James Williams played the last half hour and was certainly not out of place while Tommy Meyers played for the last 15 minutes to add to his experience bank.
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The Reserves beat Old Dorkinians in the Kent/Surrey Cup which was what I expected and it was no surprise that Mark Pettyfer was again on the score sheet - this time with a hat trick to give him 11 goals for the season just one behind Ash Everett. Borely Kizamba got the other but I heard that it was only the introduction of Manager Paul Jennings that kick started the victory as it was 1 - 1 with only 20 minutes left. The Threes went to Weirside in the SAL Cup and struggled home 1 - 0 with a goal from Darren Hunter - Willis played whilst injured and Ray Sievey was also crocked in the second half and they virtually played with 9 men for the last part of the game. This was a good win against a First Division side so well done to Macca and his boys as they only had the bare 11 players - they arrived late - had to change outside as the dressing rooms were closed and had to come home without a shower. The Fours came back with all 3 points from Winchmore Hill winning 2 -1 with goals from Joe Ivory and a Pagey Pen - this was a really great effort by the Fours - with only 11 players they beat a side from a very Strong club who won four of five trophies last season in the lower teams. As Dave said - with all the work that the Managers put in to turn out six sides with lots of switching of personnel - they deserved 200 % effort from the players. Well we got it and this made it all worth while. The Fives also did well getting another away point at IBIS which is one of the less attractive places to play football - they led 2 - 1 but had to settle for a 2 - 2 draw - goals came from Geoff Airey and a Paul Gimenez penalty. The Sixes triumphed 2 - 1 in the AFA Cup against Old Finchleians after being 1 =- 0 down - again they only had 11 players but goals from Emrah and Lee Tobin saw them home. Thanks to Alex Tookey for coming in at the last minute and playing a blinder - see you next week Alex. Next week we should have Weasel and Cuzza back from injury but we will be without Lloydy and Ray Sievey. Well done to everybody involved in this weeks games - let's keep up this standard - Saturday's are to be enjoyed and winning adds to the enjoyment. It was good to see the Threes and Fours come back to the club from Weirside and Winchmore along with the First Team. See you all at training on Tuesday --- follow the example of Tom Pardon he trains every week although he is playing mainly in the Sixes - he is getting fit and staying fit. Players in the Fours, Fives and Sixes are allowed to train!!!!
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