Under 13 Blue Season 2005/06
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SQUAD |
GOALS |
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Conor Gask |
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Ashley Berry |
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Jordan Rejek |
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Maxi Veness |
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Ryan Turnbull |
4 |
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Jordan Klugman |
1 |
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Jack Chapman |
12 |
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Jack Bailey |
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Jack Flint |
5 |
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Robert Howard |
22 |
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Denholm Kirkham |
21 |
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Alex Lanni |
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Joe Talbot |
1 |
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Josh Smith |
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Joshua Towndrow |
2 |
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Ben Talbot |
9 |
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Date |
Result |
Atyfc Scorer |
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2005/2006 Season Finished |
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23/4/06 |
Saturn 1-6 Arlesey |
DenholmKirkham-3 Robert Howard-1 Jack Chapman-1 Ben Talbot-1 (MoM) Jordan Rejek (MoM) |
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20/4/06 |
Arlesey 2-4 StevenageTown |
Robert Howard-2 Ben Talbot (MoM) Joe Talbot(MoM) |
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16/4/06 |
No Match--Easter |
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9/4/06 |
Arlesey 3-0 Sawbridgeworth Reds |
DenholmKirkham-2(MoM) Jack Chapman-1 Ben Talbot(MoM) |
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2/4/06 |
Arlesey 5-1 Symonds Green |
Robert Howard-4 (MoM) Jack Chapman-1 (MoM) |
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26/3/06 |
Austen Arrowheads 1-9 Arlesey |
Denholm Kirkham-3 Jack Chapman-3 Robert Howard-2 Jack Flint-1 Joshua Towndrow (MoM) |
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19/3/06 |
Stevenage Colts 0-1 Arlesey |
Jack Chapman-1 Alex Lanni (MoM) Jack Flint (MoM) |
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12/3/06 |
Symonds Green 3-1 Arlesey |
Robert Howard-1 |
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5/3/06 |
Arlesey 2-1 Northolt |
Robert Howard-2 |
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26/2/06 |
Arlesey 5-0 Bedwell Rangers |
Denholm Kirkham-2 Ben Talbot-2 Joe Talbot -1 |
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19/2/06 |
StevenageTown 1-1 Arlesey |
Jordan Klugman-1 |
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12/2/06 |
NO MATCH |
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5/2/06 |
NO MATCH |
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29/1/06 |
NO MATCH-- FROZEN PITCH |
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22/1/06 |
Knebworth 2-3 Arlesey |
Ben Talbot-2 Denholm Kirkham-1 Jack Flint(MoM) Joe Talbot(MoM) |
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15/1/06 |
Potton Colts 3-0 Arlesey |
Josh Smith (MoM) Maxi Veness (MoM) |
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8/1/06 |
Arlesey 3-0 Pin Green |
Denholm Kirkham-1 Ryan Turnbull-1 Ben Talbot-1 |
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18/12/05 |
NO MATCH-- FROZEN PITCH |
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11/12/05 |
Arlesey 4-0 Austin Arrowheads |
Ben Talbot-1 Denholm Kirkham-1 Jack Flint-1 Robert Howard-1 |
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4/12/05 |
Sawbridgeworth 1-2 Arlesey |
Ryan Turnbull-1 Jack Chapman-1 |
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27/11/05 |
Shefford Saints 0-4 Arlesey (C-Cup) |
Ben Talbot-1 Jack Chapman-1 Denholm Kirkham-1 Own Goal-1 |
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20/11/05 |
NO MATCH-- FROZEN PITCH |
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13/11/05 |
Pin Green 7-4 Arlesey |
Robert Howard-2 Jack Flint-1 Own Goal-1 |
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6/11/05 |
Arlesey 5-2 Knebworth |
Robert Howard-3 Ben Talbot-1 Own Goal-1 |
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30/10/05 |
B S Athletic 2-1 Arlesey a.e.t |
Denholm Kirkham-1 |
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23/10/05 |
Arlesey 3-0 Houghton Conquest |
Jack Chapman-1 Denholm Kirkham-2 |
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16/10/05 |
Bedwell Rangers 0-6 Arlesey |
Jack Chapman-2 Robert Howard-2 Denholm Kirkham-1 Ryan Turnbull-1 |
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9/10/05 |
BS Northolt 1-2 Arlesey |
Ryan Turnbull-1 Robert Howard-1 |
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02/10/05 |
NO MATCH |
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25/9/05 |
Arlesey 1-0 Barnfield Colts |
Denholm Kirkham-1 |
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18/9/05 |
Arlesey 2-2 Saturn |
Denholm Kirkham-1 Jack Flint-1 |
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11/9/05 |
Arlesey 5-3 Stevenage Colts |
Robert Howard-1 Jack Flint-1 Joshua Towndrow-2 Denholm Kirkham-1 |
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Date |
Report |
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23/4/06 |
Saturn 1-6 Arlesey The season finished on a high for Arlesey Blues when they thrashed their nearest rivals for a promotion spot 6-1. Both teams settled into their stride early on, some neat and tidy football from Saturn, but it was the Blues who struck first. A free kick not dealt with by the keeper and Kirkham headed home. Next Kirkham again found space and his fierce shot squirmed under the keeper’s body and into the net. Saturn kept pushing and probing and with a bit more care in front of goal could have scored a couple of goals but lady luck was on the Blues side (this time). Two goals in quick succession by Chapman and Ben Talbot really put the game beyond Saturn and when Howard scored his normal cracker the game at 5-0 was over. The 2nd half Saturn at last gave an account of themselves and put the lads under some sort of pressure, but Veness and Turnbull kept the gate firmly shut but some slack marking in the Arlesey midfield allowed Saturn to pull one back. The lads did huff and puff but did not really break thru the home defence and seamed to settle for the 5-1 score line but from an in swinging corner Kirkham completed his hat-trick. The last chance was a penalty won by Howard after a powerful run into the box, but Lanni was unable to convert it, the keeper pulling off a fine save. Not a vintage performance from the lads today, maybe nerves had a big part to play but they did enough and barring a miracle secured promotion to the top division. The lads deserve all the accolades that come their way now because this season they have achieved what they set out to do right from the first game last September that was promotion. They are all a credit to the Club and to themselves, a joy to coach and manage as well, excellent season lads well done. Arlesey: C. Gask, J. Talbot, M. Veness, R. Turnbull, J. Rejek, D. Kirkham, J. Towndrow, J. Smith, B. Talbot, J. Chapman, R. Howard, J. Flint, J. Bailey, J. Klugman, A. Berry, A. Lanni |
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20/4/06 |
Arlesey 2-4 StevenageTown With two games left the Blues of Arlesey lost to top of the league Stevenage on Thursday night 4-2. After recent performances the Blues were in good shape and playing well and after 5 mins a ball over the top found Howard unmarked, but with the keeper closing in on him quickly his shot was just lifted over the bar. Then a period of indecision in the home defence gifted Stevenage 2 goals. With the backs to the walls the lads needed to come out of their shells and show what they were made of and they certainly did that, two goals from Howard in a minute put the Blues in the driving seat. The first a low shot into the corner and the second, a well taken lob over the keeper. If only half time had not come so quickly, 2-2 at the break was a fair reflection of the game. The second half was going to plan with Arlesey in control but with neither side creating much until the explosive Howard outstripped the defence but just failed to put Arlesey in front. The last ten minutes were the refs chance to get himself noticed and he certainly did that! Two lads going for the ball, it runs loose, the ref gives them an advantage; the player takes the advantage with the Arlesey supporters hearts in their mouths he shoots wide of the goal. What does the ref do, he awards the away team a free kick and after some poor defending the ball ends up in the net. This was the break Stevenage needed and they soon scored again, but if they were not helped by the ref and all the moaning and groaning done by themselves it may have been a different story. It now goes to the last game of the season to see if the lads can get the promotion spot, it will be difficult but well within their grasp. Arlesey: C. Gask, J. Talbot, M. Veness, J. Rejek, D. Kirkham, J. Flint, J. Towndrow, B. Talbot, J. Chapman, R. Howard, A. Lanni, J. Klugman, J. Bailey, J. Smith, A. Berry. |
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9/4/06 |
Arlesey 3-0 Sawbridgeworth Reds A below par performance from the team today as they were made to battle all the way by a useful Sawbo side, but more importantly the lads ground out three more valuable points to set up the last weeks finale with Saturn & Stevenage Town for the two automatic promotion spots. The first 20 mins saw Sawbo dictate the game but without causing Conor too many problems, Chapman, Howard & Towndrow all had chances to put Arlesey in front but to no avail, with some poor passing, sloppy play & a lack of concentration all over the pitch, half time could not come quick enough. With changes made at half time the boys came out with a more aggressive attitude & after 10 mins they deservedly took the lead, good work by Chapman & Ben Talbot allowing Denholm to finish the move off. Two outstanding saves by the Sawbo keeper denied Arlesey, but with 20 mins gone Jack Chapman found himself in space, he then beat two defenders and his fierce drive across the goal went through the goalies legs. 2 mins later the game was made safe when Denholm's 25 yarder struck the underside of the bar & crossed the line. Not a classic but the three points, more important at this stage of the season. Man of the Match went to Denholm Kirkham & Ben Talbot for all their hard work over the last three weeks, well done lads. |
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2/4/06 |
Arlesey 5-1 Symonds Green Arlesey took on second placed Symonds Green knowing that only a victory would keep them in the hunt for promotion and for the second week running it was their first half display that paved the way for the boys to gain 3 precious points. As early as the second minute a Jack Bailey through ball set Rob Howard on his way down the wing & his pinpoin cross was headed home superbly by the incoming Jack Chapman. 5 mins later Spike Flint pulled the ball down and threaded the ball through to Rob Howard who made no mistake. With 16 mins gone it was Jack Chapman's turn to be provider, his chip over the defence saw Rob Howard run through only for the keeper to save his shot but Rob reacted the quickest to the goalies fumble to tuck the ball away for 3-0. Arlesey were in full control of the match & deservedly went in 4-0 up before half time when Rob went through & unleashed a left foot drive past the keeper for his third & well deserved hat trick. The second half gave Arlesey the strong wind advantage & on numerous occasions they had chances to extend the score, twice Jack Flint was denied by the exceptional Symonds Green keeper, twice Jack Chapman denied, but it was Rob again who got his name on the score sheet, Jack Chapman's knock on seeing Howard chipping the keeper, more chances went begging but disappointingly the Blues defence allowed Symonds Green to pull a goal back. Everyone played their part today but Chapman & Howard's first half performance saw them share Man of the Match. |
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26/3/06 |
Austen Arrowheads 1-9 Arlesey Arlesey kept up the pressure on their rivals for promotion with a first class team display. With a strong wind against them Arlesey came out of the blocks straight away in first gear, pressing Austen on the back foot & the team was soon rewarded when midfielder Denholm Kirkham's quick thinking saw him beat the keeper. No.2 was not long in waiting, again the alert Kirkham outwitting the defence to tuck the ball away. Mr Kirkham soon bagged his hat trick, a flowing move down the right ended with Rob Howard crossing for Denholm to tap in. Jack Flint's mazy run saw him bought down in the box & Rob Howard made no mistake from the penalty. To finish off a superb half for Arlesey, Jack Chapman's cool lob over the keeper enabled Arlesey to go in 5-0 up at half time. Austen probably had their best spell just after half time & was rewarded when slack marking in Arlesey's defence saw an Austen player head past Connor, but Rob Howard soon gave Arlesey the five goal advantage with a well taken goal. Jack Chapman's fine run & drive saw him notch his second & Arlesey's 7th & Jack deservedly was rewarded moments later, when quick thinking in the box saw him beat the keeper for his hat trick and Arlesey's 8th. With time nearly up another run from Chapman & cross was volleyed home by Spike Flint, 9-1 to the team and no more than they deserved. The whole team can be congratulated today, Denholm & Jack's hat tricks a highlight but Josh Towndrow took the eye today, Josh revelling in that central midfield role, well done lads. |
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19/3/06 |
Stevenage Colts 0-1 Arlesey A very cold day for March, so it was hoped the football would brighten up our lives, but how wrong we were. Against 10 men, eventually 9 the Blues could not get going, erratic finishing to say the least kept the score at 0-0 for most of the game. The ref did not help either, disallowing a perfectly good goal from Flint and missing a few fouls along the way. Still the lads should have had a bit more get up and go, more urgency, and hammered Stevenage. Flint in the Arlesey midfield was pulling all the strings and from the chances he created alone, Arlesey should have had the game sewn up before half time but in this division everybody is capable of beating everybody else and the longer the game went on Stevenage felt they still had plenty to play for. Despite a change in formation just after half time the game was just going to peter out for a goalless draw, until a stroke of luck. A free kick from Veness was flicked on by Turnbull and Chapman was at the far post to control the ball on his chest and fire the ball into the top corner. The Blues did keep plugging away and forced the home keeper into some smart saves. Kirkham, Talbot and Towndrow all going close, the Blues defence of Klugman, Turnbull, Howard and Veness were never in any real trouble in a very dull game, Arlesey were lucky to take all 3 points. You would have thought that these 2 teams were just playing out the season with nothing to play for, but 1 team is still trying hard to get promotion, but those that watched the game could not have guessed which one. Lads, don’t let all your hard work just fizzle out, at least all have pride and give it your best shot, you have some tough games to play to reach your target, and that target has not changed for us since September. This weeks M.O.M. was Flint, a little diamond in the midfield, where on his day he continues to dazzle, and Lanni, he keeps giving his all every week, well done lads. Arlesey: C. Gask, A. Berry, J. Klugman, M. Veness, R. Howard, J. Smith, R. Turnbull, J. Flint, J. Talbot, D. Kirkham, B. Talbot, A. Lanni, J. Chapman, J. Towndrow |
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12/3/06 |
Symonds Green 3-1 Arlesey On a Cold afternoon the wheels came off the Arlesey Blues battle for promotion against a solid and determined Symonds Green side. Most of the first half was even stevens but with a bit more determination and self belief the Blues could have scored a couple of goals, with B Talbot going close in the first minute and Towndrow having a good shout for a penalty waved away by the ref. Then the sucker punch came, a goal from nowhere from Symonds Green, a harmless looking cross was watched by 4 Arlesey defenders and a forward nipped in to head the ball across the keeper and into the corner for 1-0 at half time. The second half saw the Blues try to get the equaliser but in pushing forward left gaps at the back for Symonds Green to exploit and they got a 2nd after fifteen minutes. To give the lads credit they kept going, plugging away and got their rewards when Howard outstripped the defence and struck a lovely shot over the keeper. This gave the away supporters something to cheer about and also set up a frantic last ten minutes and with the Blues pushing for an equaliser. Flint having good runs and shots blocked, Chapman and Kirkham also going close, but good defending from Symonds Green kept the Blues at bay. The ref gave a very dubious penalty to increase the home sides lead, but in reality the Blues were not really in the game today and Symonds Green ran out worthy winners. All in all a bad day at the office! One thing that should be learnt today is that everybody on the pitch needs to battle, win the 2nd balls and mark up. This weeks M.O.M’s were Josh Smith & Robert Howard if we had eleven of these players with their attitude and work rate we would have had a different result today, too many players shying away from their responsibility. Well done lads, you have some tough games ahead. Arlesey: C. Gask, A. Berry, J. Rejek, M. Veness, J. Chapman, R. Turnbull, J. Smith, J. Bailey, B. Talbot, J. Towndrow, J. Flint, A. Lanni, J. Klugman, J. Talbot, D. Kirkham. |
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5/3/06 |
Arlesey 2-1 Northolt This is always a tough fixture for Arlesey with rarely many goals in it, and so it turned out today. With 5 minutes gone Flint fires in a free kick that the keeper just manages to hold, next Smith hits a corker, again the keeper saves well. It’s only a matter of time before the lads get their first goal. Playing well and passing fairly well the Blues break down the left from Turnbull to B. Talbot, good control and a defence splitting ball into the path of Howard, who burst forward and plants the ball into the bottom corner. The next 15-20 minutes try as they might, the lads created many more chances from open play and from corners but could not finish Northolt off and make the game a formality, instead, one lapse in concentration and the score was one apiece, something Northolt did not really deserve. With the wind in their faces Arlesey started attacking Northolt again, this time B. Talbot went thru in the first minute, but after some good control and a good turn of speed shot tamely at the keeper. The lads kept probing away but as in the first half good and determined defending and woeful finishing kept Northolt in the game. Ten minutes left and a rare lapse in the Blues defence saw Northolt crash a shot against the Arlesey crossbar, a major let off. Now with time ebbing away and a draw looking likely, a ball over the top of the defence, Howard racing clear to calmly put the ball in the bottom corner to give the Blues the victory that the coaches and supporters feared would elude the Blues this week. A few times this year the lads have kept plugging away and got victories they deserved. This week was a good overall team performance with not any one player really outstanding, but one thing the lads must do a lot better in the coming weeks is try to defend as a team and work harder in midfield, too many times players appear in our penalty box un-marked. One player who does deserve a mention this week is Alex Lanni, a very patient lad who trains well and always plays with a smile on his face, well done lads a great 3 points, this week is another big game! Arlesey Blues: C. Gask, A. Berry, M. Veness, J. Rejek, J. Talbot, B. Talbot, J. Smith, J. Flint, J. Bailey, R. Howard, R. Turnbull, J. Towndrow, J. Chapman, D. Kirkham, A. Lanni. |
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26/2/06 |
Arlesey 5-0 Bedwell Rangers Not a vintage game from the Arlesey Blues, but a welcome 3 points all the same. With the wind against them in the first half the lads found it difficult to play any kind of decent football and subsequently struggled to create many clear cut chances, Bedwell too struggled, but with no pace or guile up front they created few chances also. The lads did manage 2 goals in the first half, one from B Talbot and the other from Kirkham, both with some good pace down both flanks and good crosses. The away defenders struggled to cope and from the resulting goalmouth scrambles both the Arlesey strikers found the back of the net. After a few home truths at half time and with the wind with them Arlesey soon got into some sort of pass and move stride, and to be honest cut through the Bedwell defence at will, although the keeper made some smart saves. The third goal was created by Veness, a long ball over the top of the defence was latched onto by B Talbot and he coolly slotted under the keeper. The Arlesey midfield were pulling all the strings now and the two twins were combining well down the left hand side and from one of the resulting crosses Kirkham pounced once again to increase Arlesey’s lead. The fifth goal was by far the best and it was started by Rejek, his timely tackle and pass found Turnbull whose first time ball released J Talbot and with great awareness struck a curling shot into the bottom corner. A great team goal that should show the lads that by playing pass and move football you will get a lot more rewards. The lads could and should have scored more goals, with Flint, Howard and Turnbull having good shots saved. Just keep up the good work lads; you have got a lot of big games coming up over the next few weeks. This weeks M.O.M. was the whole team, not for today’s result in particular, but just for the way they have trained, listened and given their all over recent weeks, well done you Blues. Arlesey: C. Gask, A. Berry, J. Rejek, M. Veness, R. Howard, J. Flint, J. Towndrow, J. Smith, J. Bailey, B. Talbot, D. Kirkham, J. Talbot, R. Turnbull. |
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19/2/06 |
StevenageTown 1-1 Arlesey With no league game for a few weeks it was a tough game against Stevenage who are top of the league and going well this season. The lads were up for this game and for the first 15 minutes it was nip and tuck with no real chances being created, and a lot of hard work from the Blues midfield to stop Stevenage from playing football but you do not get top of the league at this stage of the season by playing average football and the home side started to play some great stuff, but all over the park the Blues kept their shape and were winning some of the individual battles that were taking place. When they did break through it was Gask in the Arlesey goal who kept them out with a couple of great saves. The Blues did have a few chances, one in particular from B Talbot whose header from a corner flashed inches wide of the post. The 2nd half saw little change from the home team, they kept peppering the Arlesey goal, but their shooting was awful and the Arlesey boys kept everything tight, and from time to time kept Stevenage on their toes with our own attacking flair but could not find the final ball. A few changes were made and a thru ball from the Arlesey midfield found Klugman, whose powerful run took him into the box and he unleashed a rocket across the keeper and into the bottom corner. With the lads 1-0 up Stevenage threw everything forward, but was struggling and then began to argue amongst themselves (always a good sign that you are making it difficult for them). With time up on the clock the ref decided to play a few minutes extra (only he knows why) and 10 seconds left the lads had one lapse in concentration, a long throw into the box and a looping toe poke ended up in the Arlesey net. No time to recover for Arlesey but still a great point away from home against the league leaders. A great team performance from the lads this week, well done you Blues, keep up the good work. This weeks M.O.M. were Howard, a lot of Division 1 teams would love to have him playing for them and Gask and Veness, two very different performances, but equally impressive. Arlesey: C. Gask, A. Berry, J. Talbot, M. Veness, R. Howard, J. Towndrow, J. Smith, R. Turnbull, J. Flint, B. Talbot, D. Kirkham, J. Rejek, A. Lanni, J. Klugman, J. Bailey. |
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22/1/06 |
Knebworth 2-3 Arlesey After last week’s disappointment, it was back to League action with a trip to Knebworth. It was always on the cards to be a tough game despite Knebworth’s league position. Arlesey soon got into their stride and the home side hardly had a kick for the first 20 minutes, the lads played some lovely football, with Flint on the right-hand side, instrumental in every Arlesey attack. It took the Blues 10 minutes to open up the home defence, a great ball by Flint, over the top to Kirkham, his shot was saved but B Talbot was on hand to fire the lose ball in from close range. The home keeper made a couple of smart saves to keep the score at a reasonable level. A first time ball out of defence was flicked on into Kirkham’s path and he hit a stunning shot into the top corner. Arlesey relaxed a little and with half time approaching, the sucker punch, concentration lost, players out of position and Knebworth were back in the game. The Blues were up against it for most of the 2nd half, but the back 5 held Knebworth back with some last ditch defending, Howard and Berry having good games. The midfield was being over run and with a better ball Knebworth could and should have equalised before they did. A corner was swung in and the header ended up in the Arlesey net. Game on now for both teams, with Knebworth looking the stronger and sharper at this stage. This time last year the Blues would have collapsed, this year they have got a never say die attitude and a long free kick from Veness found Kirkham, whose shot was parried and there was B Talbot to fire his 2nd goal from close range. In the last few minutes Arlesey had a good shout for a penalty but it was ignored, but with time running out Knebworth rallied one last time and was awarded a penalty when Veness was adjudged to have handled (but it was 2 yards outside the box). A decision one of the Blues coaches was not happy about (it is left to your imagination as to which one) but from the resulting penalty, Gask made a great save to ensure the 3 points were heading to Arlesey. A good win for the Blues but this weeks coming game is vital if the Blues are still to be in the title race. This weeks M.O. M. were Flint, a truly outstanding game on the right hand side, control, flicks, pace, he had it all (keep it up Mr Flint) and J. Talbot, he had a very good game on the left hand side, well done lads. Arlesey: C. Gask, A. Berry, J. Talbot, M. Veness, R. Howard, J. Flint, J. Chapman, J. Smith, R. Turnbull, D. Kirkham, B. Talbot, A. Lanni, J. Towndrow, J. Bailey |
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15/1/06 |
Potton Colts 3-0 Arlesey QuarterFinal CountyCup For the 2nd year running Arlesey reached the quarter finals of the CountyCup and with no goals conceded in 4 games. A game against near neighbours Potton, the stage was set. The first minute saw the Blues open up the home defence and Towndrow’s shot was well saved by the keeper, then it was all Potton. They created numerous chances and after 20-25 minutes had opened a 3-0 lead and to be truthful the game was won. Most of the lads were not up for a physical battle that local games like this produce and Potton were big and strong, they muscled the Blues out of the game winning all individual battles, the loose balls and 2nd balls all over the pitch and a lot of the time Potton were first to the ball. The half time team talk was a pleasure to deliver and the lads were playing for pride more than anything and although the Blues did create a few chances thru Howard, Turnbull and Kirkham, they found the home keeper in good form and he kept the gates firmly shut. Maybe the occasion got to the lads today or Potton were too physical for the lads or the Blues did not really believe they could win today, what ever the reason the Blues for the 2nd year running did not do themselves justice. The 2 rays of hope were Smith and Veness, who battled and fought for every ball and covered every blade of grass, but you do not win football matches without the help of your team mates, It always has been and always will be a team game. The Blues can now concentrate on next weeks league game and try to climb as high as they can in Division 2. Well done lads a great achievement to reach the quarter finals for a 2nd year running. Arlesey: C. Gask, A. Berry, R. Turnbull, M. Veness, B. Talbot, J. Chapman, J. Smith, J. Bailey, R. Howard, A. Lanni, J. Klugman, J. Talbot, J. Flint, D. Kirkham. |
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8/1/06 |
Arlesey 3-1 Pin Green The Blues gained sweet revenge against Pin Green for an earlier season defeat. After a long Christmas break the lads were not at their best and started the game huffing and puffing with not much purpose to their football. Gradually the Blues got to grips with the conditions and after some near misses and goalmouth action it was Kirkham who raced clear from a long Veness free kick and coolly lobbed the advancing keeper. The Blues went into their shells for a period and this allowed Pin Green to force the play and put the Blues under pressure but when they did break thru, Gask in the Arlesey goal kept the away team out with a couple of smart saves, one save in particular tipping a 20 yard volley over the bar. The 2nd half was all Arlesey, but try as they might could find no way thru, until a partially headed clearance found the unmarked Turnbull on the edge of the box, who unleashed a rocket into the bottom corner. At last the lads settled down and played some neat football, with Howard, Chapman, Lanni and Bailey all having shots saved or blocked, it was left to B Talbot to round off the scoring when he ran down a thru ball, put the keeper under pressure and fired into the bottom corner. A very pleasing win to start the new year off, but still a lot more hard work to do. January will be a big month for the Arlesey Blues, this weeks M.O.M. was Gask for good all round keeping (maybe we are seeing the best of Gask, or is there still more to come), and Chapman, a good all round game today. Arlesey: C. Gask, A. Berry, M. Veness, J. Rejek, R. Turnbull, J. Klugman, J. Smith, R. Howard, J. Towndrow, D. Kirkham, B. Talbot, A. Lanni, J. Flint, J. Chapman, J. Bailey. |
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11/12/05 |
Arlesey 4-0 Austin Arrowheads The Blues played Austin Arrowheads with only a few points between the two and won 4-0 without a vintage team performance. Once the whistle went, the lads got straight at the away team putting them under pressure and found a few weaknesses straight away. Howard and Smith in midfield, supplied the balls for Kirkham and B Talbot to try and strike first, but no way thru (at first). The Blues even tried down the flanks, Chapman and Bailey, both having good runs and crosses cleared by the home defence. The break through came after a cross was partially cleared and B Talbot won the ball and from a near impossible angle found the top corner with a stunning strike. After a series of corners that were scrambled away, one fell to Howard who controlled the ball and unselfishly found Kirkham who from 2 feet out fired into the bottom corner. The 2nd half started with neither team pushing on and looking for a goal, but with the introduction of Flint, Lanni and J Talbot the shape of team changed. The urgency and fluency was back, the home defence was struggling to cope with the Blues domination. Two good runs at different times by Howard resulted in a penalty and a disallowed goal, but the goal of the game was scored by Flint, a strong run, great control, resulted in a neat and cheeky finish. Then, the pass of the game, only a small one, but something we have been working on in training, Bailey inside two defenders, to Howard who made no mistake and sealed a fine win and put a little bit of daylight between 3rd and 4th place in Division 2. Not a great team performance, but a welcome 3 points, this coming Sunday sees the visit of Stevenage, a true test of character for the Blues. This weeks M.O.M. was the whole team for recent performances on Sundays and in training on Friday’s, well done lads keep it up. Arlesey Blues: C. Gask, A. Berry, J. Rejek, M. Veness, R. Turnbull, J. Bailey, R. Howard, J. Smith, J. Chapman, B. Talbot, D. Kirkham, J. Towndrow, J. Flint, A. Lanni, J. Talbot. |
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4/12/05 |
Sawbridgeworth 1-2 Arlesey Arlesey’s long trip to Sawbridgeworth was rewarded with a hard fought 2-1 victory. The game was played in great spirit, with both teams playing some attacking and free flowing football. The half started well for the Blues on the attack from the off and should have been 3 or 4 up but the post, last ditch defending and a missed penalty kept it at 0-0. Then the sucker punch, a goal for Sawbo out of nowhere. The lad’s disappointment was evident, but they still kept playing their pass and move football and cut through the home defence almost at will and after numerous near misses and half time approaching it was Turnbull who controlled a Klugman corner and drilled the ball into the bottom corner for a deserved equaliser. With the Blues heads up, it was all attack in the 2nd half but as in the first half, the post on 3 occasions, good goalkeeping and good defending from Sawbo kept the Blues frustrated. With Flint, Klugman and Smith in the Blues midfield, playing well and the ball going forward at every opportunity, Howard, Kirkham, Talbot and Towndrow all being foiled. Sawbo were glad to get out of their half and relieve some pressure, but all the back four marshalled by Gask in goal made sure there was no way through, but with 2 minutes to go a corner from Veness was met by Chapman who headed into the net for a well deserved winner. In the words of the opposition Manager a 2-1 mauling for Sawbo, who had never met a side to play them off the park as the Blues did for virtually the entire game. From a coach’s point of view, a very pleasing comment to hear, but lads keep your feet firmly on the ground, still a long way to go and some important games coming up. This weeks M.O.M’s were Veness for the second week running, a solid performance and Turnbull’s great goal, great composure and a good defender. It must be said that this week a number of lads were in with a massive shout of M.O.M., Bailey, Flint, Smith, Towndrow, Klugman & B Talbot to name but a few. Well done lads. Arlesey: C. Gask, A. Berry, J. Rejek, M. Veness, R. Turnbull, J. Bailey, R. Howard, J. Smith, J. Klugman, B. Talbot, D. Kirkham, J. Flint, J. Towndrow, J. Talbot, J. Chapman. |
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27/11/05 |
Shefford Saints 0-4 Arlesey (C-Cup) The Blues progressed into the quarter final of the CountyCup with a very comfortable and very pleasing win against neighbours Shefford Saints. From the off the lads were up for the game and soon settled into their Blues stride by knocking the ball around with confidence and style. After 5 minutes the Blues were one nil up with an own goal after a fine ball from Howard at an acute angle. With the Blues nerves settled it was all one way traffic and the lads increased the lead thru Ben Talbot who beat the keeper after a fine thru ball from Bailey. When Shefford did break past the Blues midfield the back four of Berry, Rejek, Turnbull and Veness held firm and played some great football. Ben Talbot whose pace was a big worry to Shefford all half again made a great run leaving 2 defenders in his wake and picking out Chapman who fired in to make it 0-3 at half time. With their tails between their legs, Shefford came out fighting and had Arlesey on the back foot for most of the 2nd half but with no guidance on the pitch all their pressure came to very little, apart from one good chance that Gask in the Blues goal made a terrific save to keep the score intact. The Blues made some substitutions and the game kept flowing very nicely, still confident on the ball and breaking thru the Shefford defence.The only real surprise was Kirkham hadnt scored, but a lovely cross from Towndrow was met with a diving header from the said mentioned player to finally finish Shefford. A very accomplished performance today with Howard, Bailey, Turnbull and Chapman all catching the eye, but some good performances all over the pitch. This weeks M.O.M. were Veness, a very tidy and workmanlike performance and Ben Talbot, great pace, cool finishing and a thinking head, but still a very good all round team performance. Well done lads another hard game this coming week. Arlesey: C. Gask, A. Berry, J. Rejek, M. Veness, R. Turnbull, J. Bailey, J. Chapman, R. Howard, J. Klugman, B. Talbot, D. Kirkham, J. Flint, J. Smith, A. Lanni, J. Talbot, J. Towndrow |
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13/11/05 |
Pin Green 7-4 Arlesey After recent weeks of playing well, this week it was the opposite against Pin Green who were bottom of the league with only one point, but having lost by the odd goal in all their games. I am sure the lads thought that by just turning up, the points were ours, but Pin Green had other ideas and soon opened up a 3 goal cushion and could have scored many more. The Arlesey supporters could not believe what they were seeing, all the lads were in disarray, all over the park and were just waiting for half time to get a bit of a rest from the constant pressure they were putting themselves under by lack of communication, and giving the ball away. Just before the break a great corner by Klugman was headed into the net by a home defender to make it 3-1. After a good half time team talk the lads almost produced a stunning comeback with Howard scoring twice and Flint, with a brave diving header to make it 5-4 and a point was on the cards, but it was Pin Green who finished the strongest and eventually proved worthy winners, 7-4, Howard and Kirkham played well as a pair up front as did Flint in midfield with some excellent thru balls, but today the Blues were not at the races, in hind sight the game against Wymondley on Friday night was too tough a game for the lads and took too much out of them for today’s game. A good test of character will be needed for the CountyCup game against Shefford this coming week, keep working as we have done lads and believe in yourselves. This weeks M.O.M. was Howard again, two great goals and Towndrow, who also worked well in midfield. Arlesey: C. Gask, A. Berry, J. Rejek, J. Klugman, R. Turnbull, J. Towndrow, J. Smith, B. Talbot, J. Chapman, R. Howard, D. Kirkham, A. Lanni, J. Talbot, J. Flint, M. Veness, J. Bailey |
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6/11/05 |
Arlesey 5-2 Knebworth After last week’s disappointment, the Blues were back to winning ways against a strong Knebworth side. With the wind against them it was up to every Blues player to do his job and work hard for the team. It took a few minutes to get into their stride, but when they did, the home supporters were treated to some free flowing football, but it was Howard who settled the nerves, he broke free from his marker, rounded the keeper to put the Blues 1-0 up. Ten minutes later a powerful run and cross from Towndrow found Howard, who pounced for his second, The Blues should count themselves lucky, Knebworth had some fine chances to score but some timely tackles, good goal keeping and indifferent finishing kept the Blues lead intact. With the half about to end a corner was not dealt with and an unmarked player fired it in to give the Blues a timely reminder that Knebworth were not about to lie down. The wind was with the Blues in the 2nd half, they thought it was going to be easy, but it was the away team who shone, and they played lovely football and broke through the Blues defence at will. But again some indifferent finishing kept the lead in the Blues favour. To be fair, the Blues kept plugging away and a good run and cross from Kirkham was turned into his own net by the away centre half. Howard completed his well deserved hat trick when he latched onto a through ball and fired into the bottom corner. The last goal was a timely lob from Ben Talbot who had a good debut after a spell away. The Blues played some great football at times but also struggled at times with defending, maybe an honest reflection on the game for both teams. It was a very entertaining game and a 5-5 draw would have been fair, some very solid performances from a number of Blues players today, this weeks M.O.M. were Rob Howard, a strong, powerful centre forward who worked hard for his team & Jordan Klugman, a workman-like performance, no frills just hard working. Arlesey: C. Gask, A. Berry, J. Rejek, M. Veness, R. Turnbull, J. Chapman, J. Smith, J. Bailey, J. Towndrow, R. Howard, D. Kirkham, J. Talbot, B. Talbot, J. Flint, J. Klugman, A. Lanni |
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30/10/05 |
Bishop Stortford Athletic 2-1 Arlesey (League Cup – a.e.t) The Blues went out of the cup at the first hurdle against a strong and organised top of division one Stortford side. In the first half the Blues were all at sea, never really imposing themselves on the home team and giving them time to play one twos and generally letting them pick out passes at will. But having said all that the back four and goal keeper cleared most things up fairly easily and with a touch more time and composure in front of goal we could have taken the lead. The only goal in the first half came when the away linesman was caught ball watching and Stortford broke through with not one but two offside players and they scored with ease, we all knew the lads could play better than this and so it proved in the 2nd half. Some home truths were said at half time and we saw an improved Blues performance in the 2nd half, 3 at the back, 4 in midfield and 3 up front, gradually the Blues grew in confidence and gradually the chances came, but the home keeper made some last ditch saves and some indifferent finishing kept the score at 1-0 for a long period. The peach of an equaliser came from the Blues hard working left hand side, Towndrow thru to Howard, a fine turn and cross into the box finds Kirkham who coolly finishes. Now Stortford were up against it, and the Blues should have been awarded a dead cert penalty, 2 minutes from the end but the home ref was probably the only one at Grange Paddocks not to see it, even the home supporters breathed a sigh of relief. Into extra time both teams kept trying to play football and search for the winner, just as the Blues thought penalties were looming and with 1 minute to go, it all went horribly wrong, a harmless cross, an unmarked man and the Blues were out, but they still had one last chance, a smashing ball by Berry found Kirkham with seconds to go but he could not finish it off. The lads should be very proud of themselves, even though there were a lot of sad faces at the end, but hopefully it will stand them in good stead for the coming weeks and be a good test of character for the next week’s home game against Knebworth. This weeks m.o.m. were Berry, great defending, a true Captains performance and Lanni who never gave up and was a thorn in Stortford’s side. Arlesey: C. Gask, A. Berry, R. Turnbull, M. Veness, J. Smith, J. Bailey, J. Chapman, J. Flint, J. Towndrow, R. Howard, D. Kirkham, J. Rejek, A. Lanni |
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23/10/05 |
Arlesey 3-0 Houghton Conquest It was a lovely day to play football, no wind and slightly wet, ideal conditions for the blues to put on a good show and the lads did that. From the first minute the blues took the game to their opponents and could have had a clear lead before half time but for some hurried finishing and good goalkeeping. one good move down the blues right which found Lanni, his fine cut back found Chapman thundering into the box and he hit a screamer into the top of the net, no more than what the blues deserved. It took a brilliant save from Gask to keep the score at 0-0 midway in the first half. A very encouraging half time chat sent the boys out for the 2nd half with all guns blazing and after 3 minutes Kirkham broke through the defence rounded the keeper and fired in to the bottom corner. This seemed to be the goal that was needed, from this moment the blues produced the best football they have ever played, you saw talking, movement, tackling, passing, shooting, heading and belief that they could go and win the game with some comfort, The chances flowed one after the other, some last ditch defending and good goal keeping stopping the blues from running away with the game, the 3rd goal was scored by Kirkham with 10 minutes left, every blue player deserves a mention because they all did very well. Howard played admirably and put some finesse into the blues midfield. Lanni played his best game so far. Smith in the heart of the defence played well, as did Bailey and Klugman, but it took two special players to surpass all the other players and get m.o.m. this week. The first was Maxi ( green as grass ) Veness concentration , composure, and a sweet right foot brilliant, and the other was Chapman, a truly exquisite game . Next week the league cup looms for the boys, an away trip to division one leaders B/Stortford Athletic a true test for the boys. Well-done lads a great start keep it going. THIS WEEKS TEAM, GASK,BERRY,REJEK,SMITH,VENESS,BAILEY,HOWARD,CHAPMAN,KLUGMAN,TOWNDROW,KIRKHAM,LANNI |
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16/10/05 |
Bedwell Rangers 0-6 Arlesey The Blues short trip to Bedwell in Stevenage proved to be the most fruitful away day for some time, returning with a 0-6 win. A result which keeps them rolling along nicely, although the scoreline is quite flattering it was very welcome. The first half was very much even between the two teams and it took the Blues quite a time to register their first shot of any anger on the Bedwell goal. It was the Stevenage team, who had the most clear cut chance from the penalty spot, but it rattled the bar, this was the piece of luck the Blues needed and after some good work down the Blues left hand side the ball found the unmarked Howard and he coolly chipped the keeper. The 2nd goal soon came, a corner found Towndrow whose header crashed against the bar & there was Kirkham to scramble the ball over the line with the help of the linesman and ref. In the second half it was mostly the Blues who forced the pace, with Turnbull & Chapman both scoring to increase the Blues lead. Still Bedwell did not give up, and only some safe handling and bravery from Gask in the Blues goal kept the score intact. The boys kept going and a run by Kirkham resulted in a penalty and Howard scored his second with a well taken penalty. The final goal was scored by Chapman and was a joy to watch, some great close control and a class finish into the bottom corner. Although the lads kept plugging away, with Flint, Towndrow and Bailey going close, they could not increase their lead. This weeks M.O.M. were Jack Bailey, a very consistent lad who gives his best every week and Denholm Kirkham, who in today’s form proved what an asset he can be to the Blues. Some hard games to come, but ones in which effort, commitment and teamwork will be required if we want to keep rolling along, well done chaps, a great win. Arlesey: C. Gask, J. Klugman, J. Rejek, M. Veness, R. Turnbull, J. Bailey, J. Towndrow, J. Smith, J. Chapman, R. Howard, D. Kirkham, J. Flint, A. Lanni |
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9/10/05 |
B.S. Northolt 1-2 ArleseyTown Arlesey’s good start to the season continued with a good but hard fought win against Northolt. The first half was very much even stevens with few chances at either end. Northolt’s only good chances coming from the Blues lack of effort in midfield and allowing them to put pressure on the Blues goal, but for some stout defending from Rejek and Berry it could have been more then 1 goal that was conceded. After the disappointment of the early goal it was left to Howard to score a spectacular equaliser, good work from Bailey on the right hand side found Howard in space, he used his strength to turn the defender and unleash an unstoppable left foot shot into the bottom corner, no more than the Blues deserved, but could not find a way through for the rest of the half. After a few subtle changes at half time the Blues started to pick up the pace and make it a bit more uncomfortable for Northolt and slowly started to create more and more chances, but alas could not take advantage of their supremes and after a few goal mouth scrambles and near miss headers up stepped Turnbull to smash a loose ball, high into the net to secure a vital victory. The Blues then played the last ten minutes doing what they have done in recent weeks and ground out a result with some good performances all over the pitch, Bailey, Flint, Klugman and Chapman to name but a few. Although this was not a vintage performance for the Blues, it was a hard fought win, one that took guts, determination and discipline. This weeks Men of the Match were Rejek, who once again was 100% committed and stuck to his task very well and Turnbull, who was a John Terry in the heart of the Blues defence and just for good measure popped up in attack and scored the winner. We keep saying to the lads that without team work and everybody playing to their strengths we would not have made the promising start that we have, keep it up lads, keep believing in yourselves. Arlesey: C. Gask, A. Berry, J. Rejek, R. Turnbull, M. Veness, J. Bailey, J. Chapman, J. Towndrow, J. Klugman, R. Howard, D. Kirkham, J. Flint, J. Smith, A. Lanni |
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02/10/05 |
NO GAME |
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25/9/05 |
Arlesey 1-0 Barnfield Colts CountyCup The Blues made it into the next round of the CountyCup with a narrow but satisfying 1-0 win over a very strong and capable side from Luton. The first half saw the Blues produce some fantastic and flowing football; in fact this was the best the Blues have played as a team for a long time. From the first minute, the home fans could sense this would be a tough game, but every player was up for this game and put pressure on their opponents at the first opportunity, this led to mistakes and from the resulting chances the keeper made some outstanding saves to keep his team in the tie. The deciding goal was scored after some neat control and a great thru ball from Flint found Kirkham, who drew the keeper and lobbed it into an empty net, a great finish from the Blues striker. Rob Howard had a great game up front and had a good chance to put the Blues 2 up, but just dragged his shot wide; the Blues midfield kept probing away but could not find a way thru for the second goal. After a very positive team talk at half-time the second half was very much a cat and mouse affair. When the Blues attacked the away team defended very well and vise-versa, and when the Blues back four were breached, Gask made some smart saves to keep the Blues lead intact. The Blues could have had more goals but goalmouth scrambles and good fortune kept the score at 1-0 at the final whistle. This weeks display from the Blues was brilliant and in the words of one supporter “magnificent and scintillating”, which says a lot for the lads. Team work is a must if you want to do well this year chaps, this week you showed a desire to work and play as a team and this was your best win and display for a long time, keep it up. Although everybody played well, a few lads were outstanding, Veness,Berry and Rejek in defence, Bailey, Flint and Towndrow in midfield, Howard up front, but this weeks Men of the Match were Chapman, who in defence had a truly outstanding performance and Smith in midfield had a very accomplished game – keep up the good work you Blues. Arlesey: C. Gask, A. Berry, M. Veness, J. Chapman, J. Rejek, J. Bailey, J. Flint, J. Towndrow, R. Howard, D. Kirkham, J. Klugman, A. Lanni, R. Fisher |
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18/9/05 |
Arlesey 2-2 Saturn Another point for the Blues, but in reality 2 points were dropped. Saturn, who were the Blues opponents were a very resilient side who kept battling to the end and will be in the top 4 or 5 if not higher, come the end of the season. The first half was very even with chances at both ends but the better ones falling to the Blues. Arlesey’s first goal was created by Jack Flint who controlled a ball out of defence on his chest and crossed a first time bullet into the path of Denholm Kirkham who bravely headed past the keeper. Saturn kept playing some good football but were kept at bay by the Blues defence, expertly marshalled by Smith and Howard. The Blues had some other good chances but some woeful finishing from various players should have seen the game dead and buried. After a well earned break at half time it was straight back into the action and Saturn were up for it straight from the off and were pushing for an equaliser, but every time they broke through they found goalkeeper Conor Gask in outstanding form making some brilliant saves, the best one pushing a shot onto the bar from 20 yards. Saturn did level the scores when a dubious penalty was given and converted to make it 1-1. The Blues kept battling away and were rewarded when Kirkham was crudely bought down outside the box, from the resulting free kick Flint for the second week running fired into the top corner to make it 2-1. With 10 minutes to go, the boys should have held out, but players were awol for the 2nd week running and conceded a late equaliser. This weeks Men of the Match was Robert Howard who at the heart of the defence was a true Blue and had a magnificent game, and also Conor Gask in goal who this week played a truly brilliant game to keep his team in the game. Come the end of the season this will be seen as a very good result, but still some of the lads need to stand up and be counted and accept criticism in a good way (not a negative way) and learn to fight for each other from the first minute to the last, remember, win as a team, work as a team and sweat buckets for the team. Arlesey: C. Gask, A. Berry, M. Veness, R. Howard, J. Smith, J. Flint, J. Bailey, J. Chapman, J. Klugman, J. Towndrow, D. Kirkham, A. Lanni, R. Fisher. |
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Arlesey 5-3 Stevenage Colts The New season began in good form for the Blues, having never beaten Stevenage Colts before; this 5-3 win was just the start we wanted. For the first 15 minutes the Blues had all the play and should have opened the scoring earlier, but for hurried finishing and good goalkeeping the Blues were kept at bay. Then a good ball from Bailey found Howard, who smashed the ball into the bottom corner, this should have been the kick-start we needed, but the lads at the back went to sleep twice and it cost them goals both times. For the last few minutes of the half the lads panicked a little and stopped playing football and looked at times an average side. After a good old fashioned team talk at half-time the lads played a lot better in the second half and within the space of 10 minutes were 3/2 up, firstly a classic strike from Flint from 20 yards out into the bottom corner and secondly a good run and cross by Flint was met by Chapman and his flick on found Towndrow who made no mistake in putting it away. Pressure from the midfield put Stevenage under the cosh and after a goalmouth scramble, who should pop up but Kirkham to get his season up and running for our fourth goal. Still Stevenage were not finished and our defence went awol for their third. The fifth goal was the best of the lot, although it was a long ball out of defence, it was pounced on by Towndrow and his cool finish by lobbing the keeper was brilliant. Some good spells in the game, but a period of bad concentration and lack of communication could have cost the Blues the start they deserved. This weeks Men of the Match were Jack Bailey for his tireless work rate and good all-round football and Jack Flint, whose composure on the ball and skill was a joy to watch. A good start, but still a long way to go to reach the level that is and will be expected this season, well done lads. |
Manager Terry Smith
