SQUAD

GOALS

Liam Oatley

3

Sean Fell

Reece Maycock

Adam Day

Trevor Tafe

Jake Phillips

10

Charlie Marshal

1

James Hare

5

Daniel Panico

3

Jamie Hyde

16

Jordan Grindal

29

Dominic Buck

Danny Giammarco

6

Own Goal

1

Date

Result

Atyfc Scorer

2005/2006 Season Finished

2/4/06

Baldock 1-0 Arlesey

James Hare (MoM)

26/3/06

Letchworth 1-2 Arlesey

Jamie Hyde-1

Jordan Grindal-1

Sean Fell (MoM)

19/3/06

Arlesey 4-0  Sawbridgeworth

Jordan Grindal-2

Jake Phillips-1

Own Goal-1

Charlie Marshal (MoM)

12/3/06

NO MATCH

5/3/06

NO MATCH

26/2/06

Manuden Juniors 5-5 Arlesey

Jake Phillips-3

Jordan Grindal-2

19/2/06

Arlesey 3-2 Eternit Colts

Jake Phillips-1

Jamie Hyde-1

Jordan Grindal-1

Sean Fell (MoM)

12/2/06

NO MATCH

5/2/06

Arlesey 0-2 Potton Colt Whites

29/1/06

WymondleyPark 4-3 Arlesey

James Hare-2 

Jamie Hyde-1

22/1/06

Potton Colts Whites 3-1 Arlesey

Jordan Grindal-1 (MoM)

15/1/06

Sawbridgeworth Blues 2-1 Arlesey

James Hare-1

Daniel Panico (MoM)

8/1/06

Arlesey 4- 4 Baldock

Jamie Hyde-2

Daniel Panico-1

Jordan Grindal-1

James Hare (MoM)

18/12/05

NO MATCH-- FROZEN PITCH

11/12/05

Arlesey 1-2 Stotfold

Jordan Grindal-1

Charlie Marshal (MoM)

4/12/05

Arlesey Sky's  4-1 Eternit  Colts

Jordan Grindal-1

James Hare-2         

Liam Oatley-1        

Adam Day (MoM)

27/11/05

Arlesey 5-1 B.S Jets

Jordan Grindal-3

Danny Giammarco-2

Charlie Marshal (MoM)

20/11/05

NO MATCH-- FROZEN PITCH

13/11/05

Hatfield Youth F.C  2-14Arlesey

Jordan Grindal-5    

Jake Phillips-4      

Jamie Hyde-2         

Liam Oatley-1 (MoM)    

Charlie Marshal-1

Danny Giammarco-1

6/11/05

Arlesey 3-4 Letchworth Reds

Jordan Grindal-2 (MoM)

Jamie Hyde-1

30/10/05

Arlesey 7-1 B S Rovers

Jordan Grindal-3 

Jamie Hyde-2          

Jake Phillips-1     

Daniel Panico-1

23/10/05

Arlesey 6-2 B S Jets

Jamie Hyde-2     

Jordan Grindal-1   

Danny Giammarco-2

Daniel Panico-1

16/10/05

B S Rovers 1-5 Arlesey

Jamie Hyde-1         

Liam Oatley-1     

Jordan Grindal-3

9/10/05

Arlesey 2-2 Manuden Juniors

Jordan Grindal-1 

Jamie Hyde-1

2/10/05

Arlesey 1-3 Stotfold

Danny Giammarco-1

25/9/05

Potton 2-1 Arlesey

Jamie Hyde-1

18/9/05

NO  MATCH

11/9/05

Arlesey 2-8 Wymondley

Jordan Grindal-1 

Jamie Hyde-1

Date

Report

25/3/06

Letchworth 1-2 Arlesey

Revenge is a dish best severed cold or so they say. The long awaited return match against Letchworth had finally arrived and as British Summertime begun, we were blessed by the warmest day of the year.

The boys seemed up for the challenge, but how many times this season have we started a game full of expectation. Arlesey immediately took the game to Letchworth straight from the whistle and we saw plenty of the ball. We contained Letchworth to their half and the odd attack which never troubled Liam in goal. Then midway through the first half, Jamie Hyde was put through the middle, with only the keeper to beat he side footed to the keeper’s right .The keeper stuck out his leg, and the ball ballooned up clipping the underside of the bar before hitting the net. Jamie put Jordan Grindal through two minutes later and Jordan calmly slotted to the keepers left, Two Nil Sky’s and no more than they deserved. We continued to create chance after chance yet failed to finish any of them. The defence stood firm although like previous games continued to let the ball bounce before putting in a challenge and this allowed Letchworth the opportunity to get back into the game.

On a day when the back four was playing well as a unit, a rare mix up resulted in a corner. Letchworth took full advantage of their opportunity as the well-taken corner ended up in the back of the net. With about five minuets to go before halftime, Letchworth seemed spurred on by their goal and were trying to use the wind and slope to their full advantage. For the first time in the game, we looked a little shaky and we really needed the halftime whistle to blow so we could regroup and settle the nerves. (Of the supporters, Manager, and coaches)

Sky’s continued to dominate the second half creating many chances, but like the first, failed to score and put the match out of Letchworth’s reach. Letchworth never really looked like scoring in the second half, so it become a nervy last five minuets as we had missed so many chances and it only takes a second to score. At the final whistle, the excitement was clear. However, it was slightly dampened, as the Letchworth manager made no attempt to congratulate us on our victory. Although we were not altogether surprised, so I don’t know about cold, but it certainly was sweet.

Man of the Match:  Sean Fell   (Defended well looked solid)

Team:  Liam Oatley, Adam Day, Reece Maycock, Sean Fell, Dominic Buck, James Hare, Charlie Marshall (C),   Danny Giammarco, Daniel Panico, Jake Phillips, Jamie Hyde, Jordan Grindal, Trevor Tafe

19/3/06

Arlesey 4-0  Sawbridgeworth

What a great weekend. It all kicked off on Saturday when I celebrated my half-century and the party continued into Sunday as Sky’s beat Sawbridgeworth 4 – 0 at home. Fulham got their first victory over Chelsea since 1979, oh well two out of three’s, not so bad. At least the linesman will never need glasses, because he already has x-ray vision. Ok, it was handball, but neither he nor the ref could have seen it! However, I’m not bitter (much) it is only a game after all.

Anyway, back to a game that Sky’s finally won by playing somewhat better than the Champions did. Although like them, we are still not playing as a team.

Down to a bare 11 due to illness and having lost away to Sawbo already this season, I for one was somewhat skeptical as the game kicked off. We looked a little shaky, passing was going astray, tackles missed, and it looked like Sawbo could take the lead at anytime. That was until Danny Giammarco woke up and put in a well-timed tackle that won the ball and resulted in an injury to his knee. After some magic water, Danny was up and started to play stronger, winning tackle after tackle. This somehow woke the rest of the players up and it wasn’t long before Jordan Grindal scored his first of two. It was some time into the second half before Jordan slotted home number two after three players all tried to latch onto the same through ball. I think everyone held their breath as a total mixed looked on the cards and even after scoring, the two forwards were still morning at one and other, such is the glory of scoring. Sawbo always looked dangerous as they played the long ball over the top with our defenders letting the ball bounce almost afraid to head it.

At halftime, the manager demanded much of the same in the second half and reminded players of their positional play and it was stressed to the defenders that they must challenge for the ball and win it first time, yes that means using your head. The pitch had dried out nicely although somewhat uneven in places this coupled with the wind made it imported for the back line to remain focused.

Jake Phillips netted number three with a wicked right foot shot that flew into the far corner. This was a far better performance than we had seen in pervious games, and was put beyond Sawbo’s reach when Jamie Hyde’s cross from the left was headed into the goal with a perfect header by a Sawbo defender.

Nice Birthday present boys, thank you.

Man of the Match:  Charlie Marshall   (Covered every blade of grass)

Player of the Month for February: Sean Fell

Team:   Adam Day, Reece Maycock, Sean Fell, Dominic Buck, James Hare, Charlie Marshall (C),   Danny Giammarco, Daniel Panico, Jake Phillips, Jamie Hyde,       Jordan Grindal.

26/2/06

Manuden Juniors 5-5 Arlesey

Always seems to be cold and windy when we travel to Manuden and this weekend was no exception, but with the excitement of this10 goal thriller, it was easy to forget the cold wind.

Liam Oatley returned to goal keeping duties following Adams departure and within minuets of the start was called upon to make a number of saves. His handling was excellent and did wonders for his confidence. Sky’s took the lead with an inspired bit of coaching from the self-acclaimed special one. Trevor Tafe midway into the Manuden half was about to take a throw in and as one of our strongest throwers was looking to throw it long down the line. What happened next was something straight from American football when someone calls a play. I had noticed Sean Fell drifting forward totally unmarked in the middle and said to Trevor “look at Sean, look at Sean”. Trevor was still looking to throw it down the line. However, he changed his mind at the last minute wrong footing the defenders and threw it in field to Sean. His control was excellent and he played a perfect long pass through to Jordan Grindal. There was only going to be one outcome once Jordan got beyond his marker, one nil Sky’s as he beat the out stretched keeper. Manuden were shocked and were quick to respond, but it was poor defending that lead to the equalizer. In fact, defensive errors lead to all five of Manuden’s goals. Their fifth being by far the worst, everyone got sucked to the ball leaving two players totally unmarked at the back post.

Manuden took a 2-1 lead before Jake Phillips headed in at the far post from another great cross from Jordan Grindal. We were 3-2 down at halftime yet manager Kevin Phillips did not think the game was lost. Despite Manuden being 2^nd in the league, the boys were taking the game to them and with loads of encouragement went out positive for the re-start. It all looked bad when Manuden broke early and went 4-2 ahead. Not to be out done, up steps the special one again and suggested that we swap Jake and Daniel Panico over, with the left footer playing on the right and vice versa. With the wind blowing strongly, it was hoped that if they could get inside their markers and shoot the wind would then assist and bend the ball. Well what can I say! straight from the centre, the ball was passed out to Jake who came inside his marker and fired a brilliant shot into the far corner. The special one or the tinker man? You decide, either way (watch out Jose).Game on, both teams then battled hard with both goalkeepers making a number of fine saves. The save of the day must go to Liam, when he tipped a wicked shot over the bar. I for one, if honest, thought he was beaten. Jake rounded off his best performance for weeks by getting his hat trick, again coming in from the left.

All that hard work looked undone when we stupidly let Manuden in for  their 5^th with only a minute or so to go. From the centre the ball was finally launched forward in a vein attempt to snatch an equalizer. Jordan Grindal latched onto it, who else would you want on the ball in the dying seconds. He made no mistake and clamly slotted it pass the keeper to earn Sky’s a hard earnt point.

Great game to watch and throughly entertaining, well done to both teams.

Man of the Match this week goes to two players:

Jake Phillips (Great hat trick and a far better performance)

Liam Oatley (His handling was perfect and not at fault for any of the goals)

Team:-  Laim Oakley, Reece Maycock, Sean Fell, James Hare, Trevor Tafe,        Danny Giammarco, Daniel Panico, Jake Phillips, Charlie Marshall (C),  Jamie Hyde,          Jordan Grindal, Dominic Buck.

19/2/06

Arlesey 3-2 Eternit Colts

Things were looking grim in the Sky camp; our performances had gone into free fall after loosing a string of games we should have done better in. It was time for some changes, after some head scratching a new positional line up was put onto paper. Players were moved about and a diamond formed in midfield spearheaded by Captain Charlie Marshall. James Hare was to play a deeper central role, with the two wider players Jake Phillips and Daniel Panico tucking in a bit, as we often didn’t gain from the width they gave us. It was also thought that Liam Oatley’s performance at the heart of thedefence the previous week suited his style of play and was given a sweepers role just dropping off the other three.

Well, Manager Kevin Phillips thought long and hard and agreed the changes. So I have now become the self acclaimed special one as we watched Sky’s finally getting their first win of 2006.  However, it wasn’t all plain sailing as we went 2-0 down with our new sweeper system being at fault for the second goal. Liam played too deep when the other three had pushed up and played two players onside. Yet this was new and these things were expected, this was explained to him at halftime and he understood that he needed to read the game more. He started the second half a lot more in control until an injury to keeper Adam Day forced him to put on the goalkeepers jersey. Despite being 2-1 down at the break we had played the better football and had more of the ball, but confidence was lacking in front of goal even though Jake Phillips had scored a good goal as he rifled it into the far corner from the right with his left foot. Midway through the half Jake and Jordan Grindal combined well together on the right and Jordan whipped in an amazing cross, it just required somebody to get on the end of it. Jamie Hyde was the only Sky player in the box. I for one held my breath as the ball flew towards his head and everyone went mad as he headed it into the far corner. The excitement on the player’s faces was clear and the supporters just looked at one another as if to say, did we just see a Sky player head the ball?  Not something we are known for I know. This was a game when many players did get stuck in, Trevor Tafe winning many aerial battles. Sean Fell had another outstanding game in defence and was a worthy winner of Man of the Match. Reece Maycock as always made some timely tackles and even had a long range shot that was eventually saved easily by the keeper after being held up in the wind. Danny Giammarco replaced Charlie Marshall in the second half and put in a strong performance with some great passing. At half time Charlie went off to the watch his beloved Chelsea play, his uncle Karl Duguid who plays for Colchester started the game at right back and went on to win star man in the sun and I quote “Captain Fantastic led from the front”. Now we know where Charlie gets his talent from, luckily for us Chelsea fans the blues finally got it together. Anyway back to a more important game. Dominic Buck on for the injured Adam was getting stuck in, when his first shot was blocked he tried again, again it was blocked but time it fell kindly for Jordan Grindal who spun and fired home from really close range. 2-3 this was an amazing turn round, the whole team played so well that Liam Oatley for the last 10 to 15 minuets or so that he was in goal never touched the ball.

Well done boy’s that was a great performance, we must now work harder for the next victory.

Man of the Match:    Sean Fell (Some excellent timely tackles and a strong performance)

Team:   Adam Day, Reece Maycock, Sean Fell, Charlie Marshall (C), Trevor Tafe,           James Hare, Danny Giammarco, Daniel Panico, Jake Phillips, Jamie Hyde, Jordan Grindal,     Dominic, Buck, Laim Oatley.

5/2/06

Arlesey 0-2 Potton Colt Whites

After a great game last week against the current league leaders and properly the league winners, it was hoped we had turned the corner and could get back into out winning ways.

Oh dear how wrong were we to think that as it soon become clear it wasn’t to be. As I may have said last time we played Potton they have improved this season and sadly it seems we have stood still. This time they didn’t look for the long ball over the top which we had set up for but played some nice football. Sean Fell started where he left off last week and had another outstanding game. Liam Oatley playing a deep midfield role soon found himself at the centre of everything and revelling in it. Hehad an brilliant game and was a worthy winner of the Man of the Match award. With Captain Charlie Marshall hit by the bug, Reece Maycock took the captains armband and marshalled his defence well (no pun intended).

Potton soon got the break through and opened up the scoring and it wasn’t long after that they were 2 nil up. To be honest we never looked like scoring, the desire to win from last week had again disappeared and we were back to a handful of boys trying and the rest! Well I just don’t know. Daniel Panico just back from illness tried his best but you could see he still wasn’t right and hadn’t shaken it off totally.

We had a good shout for a penalty turned down when it appears the ref was the only one who didn’t see it. All our players in the area appealed, the Potton defence and the goal keeper froze even the Potton linesman to his credit flagged. Play on was the call, it was just a shame nobody smashed it into the net during those seconds of stillness as the handball took place right on the line. Still we would never have got a draw out of it away there wasn’t time.

Supporters Man of the Match: Liam Oatley (Took full advantage of being in the starting line up and had a brilliant game)

Team: Adam Day, Reece Maycock, Trevor Tafe, Sean Fell, James Hare, Daniel Panico, Jake Phillips, Jamie Hyde, Jordan Grindal, Dominic Buck, Liam Oatley.

29/1/06

WymondleyPark 4-3 Arlesey

Following on from two back to back defeats we headed into this game, if we were honest, expecting to loose having lost 2-8 in the opening game of the season against the current league leaders.

It soon become clear that today may not be our day when a lucky corner caught the strong wind and ended up in the back of the net at the far post. Then just to rub it in, a cross or should I say a hit an hope or as we use to say a good old up and under flew into the net over the keepers head, again held up on the wind. Two nil up and to be honest not looking anything like a team that are so far undefeated, they looked shaky in defence when put under pressure and Sky’s were doing that to everyone’s surprise. Against the run of play Sky’s found themselves 3 down and we all hoped that we wasn’t about to see them get a hammering.

As coaches you sometimes wish our football was like the Americans and you could call a time out. Because despite being 3 down they were playing the better football, they just needed to be told that and have faith in their ability and not forgetting some luck. When you’re on a bad run you need a little bit of luck and we weren’t getting any their goal keeper was pulling of some amazing saves.

Halftime came without further lost and the boys seemed very upbeat as they went out for the start the second after being told how well they were playing.  The parents done the boys proud in the second half and really got behind them to which they responded. James Hare netting twice to get us back into the game, sadly a lack in concentration saw the home team re-gain the 2 goal advantage. Yet Arlesey continued to put Wymondley under pressure and it did seem that this was something they weren’t familiar with, as mistakes were being made. But lady luck and some more outstanding saves by a very good goalkeeper kept them in front. That was until Jamie Hyde was the first to react to a loose ball at the near post and neatly flicked in over the keeper, it did go in off the top of a defenders head. However, Jamie said after the game “that if Andy Gray had seen it he would have given it to me because it was going in anyway” and we wasn’t about to rob them of his delight.  Sky’s being cheered on by a now highly excited crowd played some of the better football in the last ten minuets of the game but sadly the all important equalizer didn’t come.  At the final whistle you could tale Wymondley knew they had just hung on for their narrow victory.

Supporters Man of the Match: Charlie Marshall (Always in control and covered every blade of grass)

It was also decided that this week a second Man of the Match should be awarded as there was someone else who had an outstanding game.

Managers Man of the Match: Sean Fell (One of the best games he’s had in a Sky shirt never missed a tackle)

Team: Adam Day, Reece Maycock, Trevor Tafe, Sean Fell, Charlie Marshall, James Hare, Danny Giammarco, Jake Phillips, Jamie Hyde, Jordan Grindal,

22/1/06

Potton Colts Whites 3-1 Arlesey

Well again what can I say, this was another below standard performance by a team that we know can play a lot better than they are at present.

This was another game Sky’s were expected to win and after an enjoyable training session on Tuesday last weeks defeat seemed a distant memory. We did witness a few flashes of magic but these were few and far between. However, we didn’t have to wait long before we found the net. Potton had a good opportunity to get the opening goal but failed to take it; we went straight down the other end and showed them how to do it when Jordan Grindal was put through by Jamie Hyde. 1-0 to the Sky’s and everything looked good, but sadly the wheels fell off again and we failed to get that all important second goal before Potton equalized. From that point heads dropped as we then played with 11 individuals and not as a team. The passing was poor and when it was made far too late, Sky’s have certainly lost they way at the moment and it’s now up the Manager and Coaches to turn it around but this can only be done with the help of the players. We have come too far as a team to let it all slip away now.

Potton went on to win 3-1 although their goal keeper did make some important saves but having said that so did ours, so it was a game we never looked like getting anything from after Potton equalized.

Man of the Match:    Jordan Grindal (Keeping his goal tally going)

Team:   Adam Day, Reece Maycock, Sean Fell, Charlie Marshall (C), Trevor Tafe, James Hare, Danny Giammarco, Daniel Panico, Jake Phillips,Jamie Hyde, Jordan Grindal. Dominic Buck, Laim Oatley.

15/1/06

Sawbridgeworth Blues 2-1 Arlesey

Well what can I say, this was a below standard performance by a team that can play at least 99% better than what we had to endure today.

I could start off by saying we arrived at the wrong venue like I understand the under 14’s had earlier in the day, because no one informed us of the change. I could also say it was down to playing the first half with a size 5 ball. But sadly that sounds like sour grapes. No it was pure and simple the team just didn’t perform and it was the worst game many of us have witnessed since the team was formed.

This was a game Sky’s were expected to win and after an enjoyable training session on Tuesday when Dominic & James had impressed the manager so much they were both in the starting 11. From the whistle things looked good as Sawbridgeworth looked very wobbly at the back. After about 10 minutes James Hare repaid his manager by opening the scoring with a well struck goal.  That’s when the wheels fell off and no matter how much shouting came from the sidelines it wasn’t going to make any difference. Having said that there were a few flashes of magic but we had to wait until the second half for those and by then we were 2-1 down. We had a scramble in the goalmouth which resulted with Sawbridgeworth clearing off the line. There was Reece Maycock winning the tackle of the day out on the right, good job it was perfectly timed that’s all I can say. (Brilliant Reece lets see more of that). Then Jake Phillips picked up a loose ball 6 yards out, struck it on the turn only to see the keeper block it on the line. And finally with the last kick of the Match Jamie Hyde hit the post from a corner, 6 inches the other way and who knows it could have bounced of anyone.

But that would properly have been a total injustice to Sawbridgeworth as they had worked hard and always looked like they could win.

Maybe it’s that time of life as they reach their teen years I don’t know, but over half the team could have stayed at home as it seemed they had little or no interest. While a handful run their socks off.

Man of the Match:    Daniel Panico (One of the handful that ran his socks off)

Team:   Adam Day, Reece Maycock, Sean Fell, Charlie Marshall (C), Trevor Tafe, James Hare, Danny Giammarco, Daniel Panico, Jake Phillips,Jamie Hyde, Jordan Grindal. Dominic Buck, Laim Oatley.

8/1/06

Arlesey 4- 4 Baldock

On a great weekend for football with the FA Cup in full swing for the big boys, we saw Liverpool using their 2^nd get out of jail card in a cup game and little Burton holding Man U for a lucrative replay. Arlesey Sky’s also staged a come back of their own against a very much improved Baldock side.

Baldock soaked up the Sky’s early pressure and it was clear that this wasn’t the same team we played last year as they were a lot stronger. We then witnessed a contender for Sky’s goal of the season. Baldock were on the attack when Charlie Marshall stepped in to stop the attack. His quick feet took him pass the forward and he played a sweet pass out to the left straight into the path of Jordan Grindal on the halfway line. Jordan who had pulled free of his marker found space to run at the defence and with a perfect left foot cross which bent straight into the run of Jamie Hyde. Jamie controlled the ball with his chest which took him past his marker and into the box one on one with the keeper. As the keeper advanced Jamie shaped his body to go left and calmly slotted the ball to the right, wrong footing the keeper.

But as I’ve said, Baldock look a much stronger side this season and Sky’s lead didn’t last long. With some good play down their right flank the ball was finally crossed into the box and ended up in the back of the net off a Sky defender. Lucky goal it may have been, but no more than they deserved and it wasn’t long before Baldock scored their 2^nd.

Half time couldn’t come quick enough for Sky’s, but not before we were awarded a indirect free kick in the box, which eventually flew over the crossbar as Jordan laid it back to Jamie. When asked, the Ref informed Jamie that in his opinion he never had the ball under full control when fouled. (Hope that’s right Paul).

At half time our very own special one Kevin Phillips made some changes and sent the team out with some new instructions. Well, will it work?  Within minuets we found out when Baldock made in 3-1 and it looked like we were staring defeat in the face. But the boy’s did listen and it wasn’t long before Jordan smashed one in from just inside the box and shortly after Daniel Panico was on hand to tap in from close range to level the match 3-3. Jamie was again on the score sheet when he got his 2^nd. What a come back with less than 10 minuets to go it looked like 3 points were in the bag as the boys did what their manager had asked. But no, we failed to shut up shop and continued to push forward looking for number 5 when Baldock who last year would have just folded at this point surged forward and with a well taken goal squared the match with 2 minuets left on the clock.

What a thoroughly entertaining game that was, both teams giving their all. Sky’s improvement from last year’s home defeat at the hands of Stotfold and Baldock’s vast improvement from last season is a credit to both managers. Well done both teams.

Man of the Match:    James Hare (Did exactly what it said on the can (sorry the manager asked of him)

Player of the Month for December: Charlie Marshall. Well done Charlie.

Team:   Adam Day, Reece Maycock, Sean Fell, Charlie Marshall (C), Trevor Tafe, Laim Oatley, Danny Giammarco, James Hare, Dominic Buck, Daniel Panico, Jake Phillips, Jamie Hyde, Jordan Grindal.

11/12/05

Arlesey 1-2 Stotfold

Following on from last weeks win over Eternit Colts; could sweet revenge be dished out to Stotfold for our defeat earlier in the season?

Having won our last 3 games scoring 23 goals and conceding only 4 in the process expectations was high in the Sky camp.

As the game kicked off Stotfold showed the hand early, as their back four stood in a line no more than 5 metres from the edge their penalty area and never ventured any further forward standing like soldiers on duty. That left our two forwards free to roam around the pitch in front of them with all the space they could dream of, it only seemed a matter of time before the ball was played up to them and we would be one nil up. But no it wasn’t to be, we all forgot it was the dreaded 12:30 kick off and we never seem to want to play when it’s a late kick off. Don’t know why maybe the boy’s have too long to think about the game and today was no exception. Within 10 minutes we were one down when despite having numbers behind the ball we failed to clear our area, a Stotfold lad was out numbered 4 to 1 yet still managed to get to the ball and find the net.

Maybe this was the wake up call the boys needed and they would start to play some football because as yet they looked more liked a side that had never played together before. There was again no talking, there were boys that seemed that they had no idea where they were playing and what to do. In a word it was a total mess and thing were about to get a whole lot worse when Stotfold made it two nil after 15 minutes.

Stern words from Manager Kevin Phillips at halftime seemed to have the desired effect as within minutes Jordan Grindal pulled one back. Sky’s continued piling on pressure and Adam Day in goal had very little to do in the second half. I wouldn’t say Stotfold held on for the win as their back four continued to defend like regimental soldiers; it was more a case of Sky’s not putting up much of a fight despite having a lot more of the ball.

Fair play to Stotfold they came and done the job they needed to do to get the win and now seem like Sky’s bogey team. Their goal keeper made some good saves thought-out the second half but all in all this was a very poor Sky performance.

Man of the Match:    In my opinion no one played that well.

Team:   Adam Day, Reece Maycock, Sean Fell, Charlie Marshall (C), Trevor Tafe, James Hare, Danny Giammarco, Daniel Panico, Jake Phillips,Jamie Hyde, Jordan Grindal, Dominic, Buck, Laim Oatley.

4/12/05

Arlesey Sky's  4-1 Eternit  Colts

Following a gruelling night shift, ok an easy night shift, luckily. It was home for two an a half hours sleep, because this was a game that couldn’t be missed; this was a very important game for Sky’s season. Eternits had opened with seven straight wins so far this season and it was a game that needed the full attention of all the players if they were to get anything from it.

Sky’s got straight into the task set by Manager Kevin Phillips and for the first quarter of the first half had far more of the ball than the visitors, but Eternits are a good side and it was important that we made this pay. Jordan Grindal settled the nerves when he opened the scoring, yet within minuets Eternits had pulled themselves level.

James Hare playing in the centre of midfield found himself receiving the ball on the edge of the box and quickly dispatched it into the top corner 2-1 Sky’s.

James made it 3-1 before the break with a great looping header beyond the keepers reach.

Half the task had been done and it was now down to some hard work to secure the all important win as we knew Eternits were not about to give up without a fight. As the second half started Eternits came out all guns blazing. Adam Day between the sticks was kept extremely busy and made a number of excellent saves to keep Eternits at bay. It looked from the sidelines that Eternits were capable of turning the game around as we were on the back foot for long periods. Eternits poor finishing and some last ditch tackles in the six yard box by the Sky defence kept the score at 3-1 until Liam Oatley picked the ball up out on the left, his run took him into the box and as the keeper came out to meet him calmly slotted it into the far corner 4-1 and game over.

That was one of the best games Sky’s had played this season and it was well worth missing some sleep for. However, there is still room for improvement as you are capable of better, but congratulations boys for a good all round performance.

Man of the Match:    Adam Day (Some excellent saves in the second half)

Team:   Adam Day, Reece Maycock, Sean Fell, Charlie Marshall (C), Trevor Tafe, James Hare, Danny Giammarco, Daniel Panico, Jake Phillips,Jamie Hyde, Jordan Grindal, Dominic, Buck, Laim Oatley.

27/11/05

Arlesey 5-1 B.S Jets

On are final trip out to Bishop’s Stortford this season Sky’s came away with a win taking all three points from Jets.

As the game kicked off Sky’s immediately took the game to the home side and pinned them in their own half for about the first three minutes, but Jets defended in numbers if not a little nervously as Sky’s piled on the pressure. Goal machine Jordan Grindal opened the scoring on five minutes and within ten Jordan had found the net again making it 0-2 as Sky’s continued to pressure the Jets goal. Reece Maycock took a heavy knock as he made a challenge out on the right and signalled to his manager that he needed to come off. Up stepped Dominic Buck to replace him and despite not starting many games this season it certainly didn’t show, as he put in one of the best performances I’d see from him. Danny Giammarco made it three when his on target shot was deflected pass the keeper.

Just before the break Jets thought they had pulled one back when Sky keeper Adam Day who was having very little to do fumbled a shot which resulted in a bit of a goal mouth scramble, as he went to grab the ball for the second time it spilled out of his hands and the Jets players shouted goal. The referee looked across at the linesman for help as he was unsure if the ball had crossed the line (now I know how it feels for the Premiership lino’s) because it all happened so quick, I had the goalkeeper in the way the goal line was so faint you could hardly see it and didn’t get a full view of the ball or the line and just like the pro’s had a spilt second to made a decision as the game continued.

Jets were spurred on by that and continued to battle in the second half as they played down the slope and never gave up despite conceding two more goals. Jordan Grindal after scoring ten yes 10 in the last three games showed way he is Arlesey Town Youths top goal scorer by getting his third, Sky’s forth, not to mention his forth hat trick of the season. Danny Giammarco added the fifth when his headed goal made it his second of the game. Jets got no more than they deserved when they finally caught the defence flat footed and broke away to get a consolation goal. Jets worked hard and never let Sky’s think the game was won until the final whistle.

Man of the Match:    Captain Charlie Marshall (Lead by example and battled hard)

Team:   Adam Day, Reece Maycock, Sean Fell, Charlie Marshall (C), Trevor Tafe, James Hare, Danny Giammarco, Daniel Panico, Jake Phillips,Jamie Hyde, Jordan Grindal. Dominic Buck, Laim Oakley

6/11/05

Arlesey 3-4 Letchworth Reds

Arlesey Sky’s winning streak came to an end at the hands of Letchworth Garden City Eagles Reds who have just been dropped down from Division One. On a wet and windy day Sky’s performance was nowhere near that of previous weeks and to be quite frank was well below what is expected by the Manager and Coaches as well as the parents that had stood out in the rain.

Despite a marginally better performance in the second half and scoring twice the damage had already been done with a score line of 1-4 at the break. There seemed no desire to win until the score reached 3-4 but by then it was all too little too late.

Letchworth playing with the strong wind in the first half scored within minutes when a corner was unchallenged and brilliantly headed home. Then again within minutes of them taking the lead the defence was stretched as Letchworth played a long ball straight through the middle and our defence was so flat footed they were never in a position to catch the boy as he homed in on goal. By now the talk on the sidelines was how come they have been dropped down from division one to four, yes they have been losing by some crazy scores but that is a big drop and was always going to be a talking point and as they stretched their lead to three the talk and speculation continued.

Then Jordan Grindal found their weakness with one of his trademark goals, coming in from the left of the area he unleashed a powerful left foot shot that the keeper was powerless to stop. Despite a few minutes of pressure Sky’s looked nowhere near a team that was about to turn the game around and Letchworth restored the three goal cushion before the break.

It was hoped that with the wind behind them in the second half Sky’s would take the game to Letchworth and turn on the style that we had seen in previous games. Jordan got his 2^nd of game yet this still didn’t put that fire in their bellies and that desire they needed. Letchworth continued to try and play the long ball but was getting tired up front and the balls were being well over hit. Jamie Hyde properly scored the cheekiest goal of the season. After some good work down our left Jordan crossed the ball into the area. With Jamie on the six yard line the supporters held the breath but his poor control saw the ball balloon up into the air off his foot, full credit to him though as he rose above the defender and headed over the keeper into the net. It was hoped that this was that little bit of luck you need in football yet as I’ve already stated Sky’s didn’t have the desire to get any points from the match.

Sky’s as we know can play a lot better than this and many of us look forward to the return match.

Man of the Match:    Jordan Grindal (Two more fine goals to add to his tally)

Team:   Adam Day, Reece Maycock, Sean Fell, Charlie Marshall (C), Trevor Tafe, Laim Oatley, Danny Giammarco, James Hare, Dominic Buck, Daniel Panico, Jake Phillips, Jamie Hyde, Jordan Grindal.

30/10/05

Arlesey 7-1 B S Rovers

After a really bad start to the season Arlesey Sky’s now can’t seem to stop scoring goals as a highly entertaining game saw them put 7 past Bishop’s Stortford Rovers, that’s 18 in three games and only 4 against. Yet this was by no means a walk in the park and the Sky’s had to work hard for the win as Rovers never gave up and always looked capable of scoring. Some timely tackles by Reece Maycock, Sean Fell, Trevor Tafe and the hard working Charlie Marshall in defence kept them at bay with Adam Day in goal playing at times playing like a 5^th defender sweeping up all the over hit passes as the wind blew across the pitch.

Dominic Buck and James Hare in midfield worked extremely hard, although it took some stern words from the manager before the pair of them woke up and came to the party. After that, James was unlucky not to have found himself on the score sheet a couple of times and Dominic made some excellent tackles and some good long passes which resulted in the pair of them putting in strong performances and James picking up the Man of the Match award. Daniel Panico and Jake Phillips were rewarded for their hard work as they both scored; Jake rifled one into the far corner from edge of the box and Daniel was the first to the ball as it bounced around the penalty spot.

With a halftime score line of 2-1 it was clear we needed to make the most of the wind in the second half. Liam Oatley and Danny Giammarco worked hard in the middle throughout the second half. Jordan Grindal capped another good performance with yet another hat trick. But competition for leading goal scorer this year is strong as Jamie Hyde scored another 2, taking his tally so far this season to just one behind that of Jordan’s. I’m not sure what the record for the number of hat tricks scored in a season is, (know doubt the statisticians among you could answer that) I would guess it was properly set by Jamie Osborne. Jordan seems keen this year to re-write the records.

Bishop’s Stortford Rovers are no doubt very disappointed to have conceded 12 goals in two weeks as they didn’t have a game last week; yet they are a credit to their manager as they battled hard and fair and never gave up nor dropped their heads.

The sky’s now look forward to their next game which can never seem to come quick enough when you are this form but keep your feet on the ground boys and take one game at a time.

Man of the Match:    James Hare (Did exactly what the manager asked of him, after he woke up)

Player of the Month: For continued improvement for the 2^nd month running and against some really strong opposition goes to Jamie Hyde. Well done Jamie.

Team:   Adam Day, Reece Maycock, Sean Fell, Charlie Marshall (C), Trevor Tafe, Laim Oatley, Danny Giammarco, James Hare, Dominic Buck, Daniel Panico, Jake Phillips, Jamie Hyde, Jordan Grindal.

23/10/05

Arlesey 6-2 B S Jets

Following on from last week, Arlesey Sky’s again go goal crazy as they put six past Bishop’s Stortford Jets.Without being unkind to the Jets, this wasn’t the much improved performance that we were hoping for. For periods of the game we moved the ball around well with some good inter play between midfield and the forwards. But yet again we failed to play as a team for the entire 70 minutes got caught offside far too many times and began to argue instead of encourage when things went wrong.

The game started briskly with Sky’s having a number of chances to take the lead, some poor finishing coupled with some good goal keeping by the Jets keeper kept the score at 0-0 until midway through the half. Jamie Hyde finally breaking the deadlock and getting his 5^th of the season, we then witness the shot of the day from the edge of the box when Jake Phillips hit a corker; sadly for him straight at the keeper. After some persisted pressure Jordan Grindal made no mistake when put through and slotted home number 2. Following a corner over on the left Daniel Panico was on hand to poke in number 3 as the keeper could only push it into the side netting.

At half time manager Kevin Phillips told the back four that they needed to pick up their number 17 as that’s where he saw the threat of a goal coming from and the forwards needed to stay onside as we had lost count the number of times they had been caught. Within minutes of the re-start Kevin was right as the Jets made it 3-1 when their number 17 scored when put through the middle. A three goal cushion was restored when Danny Giammarco scored his first of two. The Jets made it 4-2 before Danny got his 2^nd making the three point’s safe with a great finish. Jamie finally wrapped it up with number 6 after missing a number of easier chances throughout the game. That wasn’t the best Sky’s have played and we know they can all play better and as I’ve already said that’s not taking anything away from Bishop’s Stortford Jets who battled hard in every position throughout an entertaining game.

Well done boys, back into our winning ways.

Man of the Match:    Captain Charlie Marshall (Lead by example and covered every blade of grass on the pitch)

Team:   Adam Day, Reece Maycock, Sean Fell, Charlie Marshall (C), Trevor Tafe, Laim Oakley, Danny Giammarco, Daniel Panico, Jake Phillips,Jamie Hyde, Jordan Grindal.

16/10/05

B S Rovers 1-5 Arlesey

Arlesey Sky’s turn on the style as they come away worthy winners at Bishop’s Stortford Rovers 5-1. There were some stern words from both the manager and coach before the start and it seemed to have the desired affect or it was the fact we were playing in a changed kit looking more like a cross between West Ham & Villa. Who knows but it worked.

Within 10 minutes Liam Oakley was brought down as he surged into the box from the left, penalty was the cry and the ref pointed to the spot. Jamie Hyde stepped up and must have thought it was crossbar challenge as the ball clipped the top of the bar as he went for the top corner. Was it going to be another one of those days? Within 4 minutes we got our answer, some good play again down the left saw Jordan Grindal do exceptional well by keeping the ball in and getting in a left foot cross  which was meet at the far post and headed home by Jamie Hyde 1-0 Sky’s. It was the first time this season the boy’s had been in front and you could see the joy on their faces and we didn’t have to wait too much longer for number 2 either. Within 2 minutes we again raided down our left flank this time it was Liam Oakley doing well and battled hard to win the ball. What happened next only Liam knows the answer and he wasn’t telling!! was it a cross or a well struck and directed shot? Who cared, it was number 2 and maybe that little bit of luck you need when things aren’t going right for you. For the remaining 20 minutes we held our own with some fine goal keeping by Adam Day keeping the home team at bay.  Half time couldn’t come quick enough as we started to think the game was won and Bishop’s Stortford become stronger.

A good halftime team talk saw the boys get back on top and on 8 minutes scored number 3. Sky’s continued to push the game, comfortable at the back despite missing captain marvel Charlie Marshall as they dealt with the home team’s long ball game. We were awarded another penalty following a handball, this time Jordan Grindal was given the task by Kevin Phillips and he re-paid him by thumping low into the bottom right hand corner. Almost from the kick off Jordan pounced on a lose ball and dribbled pass a number of players with the ball seemingly stuck to his foot before unleashing a formidable shot that fired into the far corner.

It’s a long way to travel and the parents that did were more than happy with the team performance. Sadly the back four got caught napping in the dying minutes as Rovers stopped us coming away with a clean sheet.

That was a very much improved performance and you should all be proud, well done boy’s but that is only the start lets get back into our winning ways.

Man of the Match:    Jordan Grindal (Hat trick hero)

9/10/05

Arlesey Sky 2-2 Manuden Juniors

Leading scorer Jamie Hyde rises at the far post to hit the net again and last terms leading scorer Jordan Grindal finds his shooting boots as Sky’s earn their first point of the season.

Adam Day had been restored back in the Sky’s goal by Manager Kevin Phillips in a bid to recreate last season form; it seemed to have had the desired affect after going behind twice, the Sky’s found some of the team sprit that had been sadly missing in previous games and battled hard. For long periods of the game it was end to end stuff with both teams making the goal keepers work. Manuden played to their strengths by playing the long ball through to their very fast strikers which we couldn’t match and resulted in both of their goals.

This was a much improved performance yet there is still a long way to go, one comment I heard from one of their coaches as I was walking along the line was that we wasn’t playing as a team and he was right. However, when they did the goals were very good, some fine play down the left put Danny Panico into area his first touch took him wide and his miss hit shot was met at the far post by Jamie Hyde who headed into the roof of the net 1-1. Manuden quickly restored their lead after the break when a through ball caught our defence flat footed. Within 5 minutes Jordan Grindal was surging into the area and fired the ball past the keeper to draw us level again.  Manuden battled hard for the win but some strong defending by Man of the Match Danny Panico who had dropped into the middle of the back four kept them at bay.

Well done boys, that was far better; now we must go forward and get the first win.

Man of the Match:  Danny Panico  (for a great 2^nd half performance in defence)

2/10/05

Arlesey 1-3 Stotfold

After our humiliating home defeat against Wymondley in the seasons opener and our early exit from the cup at the hands of Potton last week it was time for the boy’s to stand up and be counted, for our trip to local rivals Stotfold. Kevin laid down his game plan and although three players were missing; on paper we still had a strong enough side to get our first win of the season. He also stressed that despite going to school with many of the players for the next 70 minutes they didn’t know them. Straight from the kick off it was clear that Stotfold had a game plan of their own and that was to play the offside trap as their pushed up quickly at every opportunity. On Stotfold’s first venture forward our goalkeeper spilled the ball as he hit the ground after catching what seemed an easy catch from a shot come through ball and a Stotfold lad slotted into an empty net.

To their credit the boys didn’t drop there heads and continued to battle, yet many seemed unable to grasp the offside rule and were caught time and time again despite instructions being shouted from the touch line.  We had a number of chances to pull level but lacked that killer touch in front of goal, coupled with some fine goal keeping by the Stotfold keeper we were unable to score. Liam redeemed himself in goal when he made two fine saves, one almost identical which lead to the goal yet this time his handing was faultless. Into the second half just one down and it was still all to play for but sadly for Liam the wheels fell off again within minutes of the re-start. Stotfold attacked down their left flank the boy cut inside and a cross come shot was only parried into the danger zone by Liam and again slotted into an empty net.

Sky’s on occasions looked like the side they were last term but this only came about when instructions were shouted at individuals who then lifted their game for all of a couple of minutes. Stotfold added to their tally before new signing Danny slotted the ball in at the far post from one of many corners following some long awaited movement in the penalty area.

Technically for periods of the game we were properly the better side. However, Stotfold played very well took full advantage of our errors and made us pay.

Man of the Match:    Jake Phillips (Who worked tirelessly down the right)

September’s Player of the Month:  Jamie Hyde   (Leading goal scorer)

25/9/05

No report sent to web editor

18/9/05

No report sent to web editor

11/9/05

Arlesey 2-8 Wymondley

The much awaited season kicked off today with a home match against Wymondley. The game started brightly if only the weather had been likewise; maybe it was the cricket fans praying for rain that gave us the damp start. From the kick off both teams seemed keen to get the all important opening goal. Skies’s had a number of early chances but were unable to take them. Wymondley on the other hand took their chances well and were two nil up at the break, this could easily have been six but for save brilliant goal keeping by new signing Liam between the sticks.

Manager Kevin Phillips gave his normal positive half time talk trying to install that little bit of sparkle that was missing. The visitors struck again shortly after the break and heads quickly dropped throughout the team. But suddenly Jordan popped up in the box and scored our first goal of the season, hopes of a come back looked good when Jamie arrived at the far post to force the ball over the line after a quickly taken free kick 2-3. Wymondley were more determined and were not about to let the game slip and quickly restored their two goal advantage. Heads dropped again and suddenly we lacked last season’s team sprit as the visitors picked us off at will. With Wymondley 6-2 up they conceded a penalty, but when you’re not playing well even a penalty is hard to score. After a save by the keeper the referee spotted some encroaching and awarded a re-take, but we couldn’t even take advantage of that as the keeper saves again.

Wymondley scored two more making this the worst league defeat Skies had faced. All three new signings Danny, Trevor and Liam had very good games and seemed to have settled in well, with Liam picking up Man of the Match for some brilliant saves despite having to pick the ball out of his net 8 times.

So come on boy’s you’re better than this, you have proved it over the last two seasons. Pick yourselves up dust yourselves down and put it down to experience.