The OML side had a week off from League action, so a friendly was arranged against Marlborough from Div. 3 of the North Wilts League and initially the rain lashed it down. Jordan was missing so Luke dropped into the centre back role for this match that should be quite close given the two side’s results against Bassett Rangers & their performance against Pewsham in the cup.
Marlborough kicked off and went straight through the middle of the Wickham defence almost scoring straight away; fortunately Jack just got the interception in. In the 3rd minute Fraser went down the left cut inside but took ages to get his shot away which was deflected for a corner. In the 5th minute Ollie hit a corner deep into the box. The ball came out to Jordie whose drive was blocked but then Ben hit a rising drive in off the bar for 1-0. A minute later another corner saw Ben volley the ball just over the bar but within a minute the lead had been doubled. Ollie swung a free kick in from the right to the back post where Frazer knocked the ball back for Max to score. Wickham then fell asleep from the centre as Marlborough just went straight through the middle to score. Within 2 minutes the two goal margin was restored. Despite Marlborough pressure Jack coolly won the ball and then laid it out to Aiden. He seemed to shape the pass down the line; but bent it between the centre backs to Fraser to run onto. Having cut in from the wing his cross shot was nicely planted into the far corner off the post. Wickham were using the wings well with the 4th goal coming from a whipped in cross from Ollie which Ben side footed home. The game became a bit of a midfield battle for the next 5 minutes or so. In the 20th minute an attack down the left saw Fraser and Ollie working together with Ollie getting to the by-line before playing the ball into Max for him to score his second. Marlborough pressed forwards again having a good little spell but after 24 minutes Jordie sent Fraser away and clear down the left. He headed straight towards the goal and slotted the ball under the keeper for 6-1. There was one more goal before half time as AO went down the right but went down under a heavy challenge but Ollie retrieved the ball. He played a little reverse pass back to AO who duly scored.
Straight from the centre the ball was played out to Max, he then put a cross in which Harry flicked onto Fraser for him to complete his hat trick. After such a bright start to the half the game got a little scrappy. The visitors seemed to be going down injured almost constantly and because of this, the Wickham lads seemed to back off a little. Two corners around the 10 minute mark caused panic in the Marlborough area but neither could be converted. The 17th minute brought the next goal which was a well worked one built up from defence. The ball was played by Luke, Jack, Steven, Ollie, Ben and then eventually to AO to smash into the roof of the net. The next minute saw route 1 football as a long punt from Ben Grey was allowed to bounce over the defenders which left Ben C a clear run on goal and he duly completed his hat trick. The 22nd minute saw the most spectacular goal as Ollie’s corner was cleared out to Tom some 30 yards out from goal. He steadied himself and then let fly, seeing the ball dip just under the bar for 11-1. A minute later another flowing move from the back saw the ball end up with AO on the right. He switched the ball via Ben out to Max; his shot was parried by the keeper but AO was there to complete his hat trick. With Ollie having swapped with Luke and now playing centre back the final goal I guess was inevitable. Ollie picked the ball up in his own half and just drove forwards. With Max screaming for the ball on the left Ollie just kept going to score himself.
Monday, 29 October 2007
Report: U12 NW vs. Pewsham Youth 28-Oct-2007
Pewsham, who had apparently watched the lads play over the last two weekends, were the latest visitors to the Triangle Field. They had hoped that seeing how the boys played would help them get a result but the squad was now up to full strength with Callum and Bert back. Jon however kept the same side as last week, and they therefore started on the bench alongside Jack Wild.
In the first minute Albie got a cross in that Charlie went for, but their keeper was just tall enough to gather the ball in. In the 4th minute some interplay between Fraser and Duncan on the left hand side eventually saw Duncan get to the by-line. He pulled it back to Albie who took a touch before flicking it over the keeper for 1-0. The lads then played some lovely one- and two-touch football. Pewsham’s plan seemed to be press for everything but the neat little triangles that Wickham were playing meant Pewsham were playing “catch up” football. The 8th minute saw Albie’s corner headed by William, their keeper parried this clear. Duncan’s follow-up shot was blocked on the line and then Olly hit the rebound over. Wickham’s pressure eventually told in the 13th minute as a corner was cleared to Duncan on the edge of the box for him to drill in just inside the far post. Two minutes later, a long throw towards Charlie could only be headed up in the air. The headed clearance came out to Jesse who bent his shot towards the far post. The keeper did brilliantly to get down and stop it from nestling in the corner of the net but Olly was there to tap in the rebound. A minute later and it seemed that Duncan had caught the scoring bug but his shot from the edge of the area came cannoning back off the post. Bert and Callum came on for Aiden and Fraser but Wickham kept on going forwards. In the 21st minute an Albie corner just skimmed off Charlie’s head and wide of the back post. A minute latter Callum hit a drive just over the bar from an intercepted goal kick. With three minutes left Albie latched onto a through ball and knocked it past the keeper and into the net before colliding with him. However, the goal did not stand. In the last minute another cross was met by both Bert and the keeper. William put the ball in the back of the net but again a foul on the keeper was given.
Straight from the centre Albie whipped a cross into the area which just cleared Charlie. Fraser was at the back post but his shot came back off the post. The resulting goal kick was intercepted by Charlie but he dragged his left footed shot just wide. In the 8th minute Wickham scored again. A goal kick found Karl and he played it up to Charlie. He turned and slipped the ball through for Callum to run onto and score. With 12 minutes gone a heavy challenge from Bert conceded a free kick some 25 yards out. Despite the wall being lined up the kick went directly into the far corner. Straight after this Wickham seemed to have scored again. Callum got around the keeper pulled the ball back for Charlie to tap in but for some reason Charlie was given offside. With 14 minutes gone a corner to the near post was played back to Albie and his little chip into the box was tucked away by Fraser for 5-1. In the 16th minute a Pewsham goal kick was headed back by Duncan on the half way line towards Charlie. He held the ball up and laid it back to Karl, who hit a dipping shot over the keeper and into the net. Albie had taken a knock which saw Jack Wild came on for 5 minutes so Albie could receive some attention - this did not stop the flowing football. The 20th minute saw Karl hit a deep corner to Olly at the back. He knocked it into the box where Callum hit a volley straight at the keeper, who made the save. Almost immediately afterwards Charlie became the third person to hit the post from a fierce shot. The final goal, with 5 minutes remaining, was a lovely sweeping move with a bit of danger at the start. Karl stopped a Pewsham attack down the left by clearing the ball across the back to Jack Bolton on the right hand side. Jack played the ball up the line to Albie, who had just returned, who in turn played the ball inside to Charlie. He ran onto the ball before smashing it inside the keeper’s nearside post.
A good victory with a number of contenders for Player of the Day but following an excellent defensive display, controlled attacking down the left and for scoring, the Player of the Day Award went to Olly.
James Davies
Aiden Weeks, Jack Bolton, William Herrington, Olly Sopp
Jesse Bowers, Karl Admans, Duncan Lorrain, Fraser Roberts
Albie Oakman
Charlie de Fraine
Sub:- Bert Cherrill, Jack Wild, Callum Johnson
In the first minute Albie got a cross in that Charlie went for, but their keeper was just tall enough to gather the ball in. In the 4th minute some interplay between Fraser and Duncan on the left hand side eventually saw Duncan get to the by-line. He pulled it back to Albie who took a touch before flicking it over the keeper for 1-0. The lads then played some lovely one- and two-touch football. Pewsham’s plan seemed to be press for everything but the neat little triangles that Wickham were playing meant Pewsham were playing “catch up” football. The 8th minute saw Albie’s corner headed by William, their keeper parried this clear. Duncan’s follow-up shot was blocked on the line and then Olly hit the rebound over. Wickham’s pressure eventually told in the 13th minute as a corner was cleared to Duncan on the edge of the box for him to drill in just inside the far post. Two minutes later, a long throw towards Charlie could only be headed up in the air. The headed clearance came out to Jesse who bent his shot towards the far post. The keeper did brilliantly to get down and stop it from nestling in the corner of the net but Olly was there to tap in the rebound. A minute later and it seemed that Duncan had caught the scoring bug but his shot from the edge of the area came cannoning back off the post. Bert and Callum came on for Aiden and Fraser but Wickham kept on going forwards. In the 21st minute an Albie corner just skimmed off Charlie’s head and wide of the back post. A minute latter Callum hit a drive just over the bar from an intercepted goal kick. With three minutes left Albie latched onto a through ball and knocked it past the keeper and into the net before colliding with him. However, the goal did not stand. In the last minute another cross was met by both Bert and the keeper. William put the ball in the back of the net but again a foul on the keeper was given.
Straight from the centre Albie whipped a cross into the area which just cleared Charlie. Fraser was at the back post but his shot came back off the post. The resulting goal kick was intercepted by Charlie but he dragged his left footed shot just wide. In the 8th minute Wickham scored again. A goal kick found Karl and he played it up to Charlie. He turned and slipped the ball through for Callum to run onto and score. With 12 minutes gone a heavy challenge from Bert conceded a free kick some 25 yards out. Despite the wall being lined up the kick went directly into the far corner. Straight after this Wickham seemed to have scored again. Callum got around the keeper pulled the ball back for Charlie to tap in but for some reason Charlie was given offside. With 14 minutes gone a corner to the near post was played back to Albie and his little chip into the box was tucked away by Fraser for 5-1. In the 16th minute a Pewsham goal kick was headed back by Duncan on the half way line towards Charlie. He held the ball up and laid it back to Karl, who hit a dipping shot over the keeper and into the net. Albie had taken a knock which saw Jack Wild came on for 5 minutes so Albie could receive some attention - this did not stop the flowing football. The 20th minute saw Karl hit a deep corner to Olly at the back. He knocked it into the box where Callum hit a volley straight at the keeper, who made the save. Almost immediately afterwards Charlie became the third person to hit the post from a fierce shot. The final goal, with 5 minutes remaining, was a lovely sweeping move with a bit of danger at the start. Karl stopped a Pewsham attack down the left by clearing the ball across the back to Jack Bolton on the right hand side. Jack played the ball up the line to Albie, who had just returned, who in turn played the ball inside to Charlie. He ran onto the ball before smashing it inside the keeper’s nearside post.
A good victory with a number of contenders for Player of the Day but following an excellent defensive display, controlled attacking down the left and for scoring, the Player of the Day Award went to Olly.
Aiden Weeks, Jack Bolton, William Herrington, Olly Sopp
Jesse Bowers, Karl Admans, Duncan Lorrain, Fraser Roberts
Albie Oakman
Charlie de Fraine
Sub:- Bert Cherrill, Jack Wild, Callum Johnson
Tuesday, 23 October 2007
Report: U12 NW vs. South Cerney 21-Oct-2007
Not quite the longest away trip, to South Cerney, for the year but close. Callum and Bert were missing this week from the normal eleven thus Fraser and Aiden slotted into their places. Cerney were last years Division 2 runners up, and on a small pitch, with ¾ sized goals, this could prove to be a tough game.
Wickham were put under pressure right form the start as Cerney took advantage of the tight surroundings, which they were more used to, although without creating a clear cut chance. Everything was rush, rush, rush with no one taking the time to put their foot on the ball and have a look around. It was the 5th minute before Wickham created a chance as James’ clearance was knocked out to Albie by Duncan. He cut into the box but his shot came crashing off the bar and clear. A minute late the same move brought about a corner which Charlie headed just wide off the far post. In the 10th minute Jack Bolton took a major clattering from Cerney’s no.4 and had to be replaced by Jordan. In the 12th minute Olly took a throw in almost by the left corner flag; this was quickly sent up the right where Albie’s shot was deflected for a corner, which was swung in and came off the post. Finally in the 15th minute another Olly throw in was knocked back to him by Duncan and then played down the line to Fraser. He sprinted away from the defender and as the keeper came out he chipped it into the back of the net. Two great crossed followed shortly after from Fraser but both chances were put just wide. Cerney’s next real attack was in the 24th minute, which saw James come out of his area to clear the ball straight to Albie on the right. He cut into the box and drove the ball onto the bar. The ball looped over Charlie but he got it back and played a lovely reversed diagonal ball into Albie’s path for him to score.
Cerney came on strong in the second half and in the 2nd minute James had to turn around the post a fierce drive from their centre forward. Two minutes later some good work between Jesse and Duncan sent Fraser away but his shot hit the top of the bar and went over. Wickham were now starting to dominate but Cerney looked dangerous on the break.
Wickham needed the third goal to settle things down. In the 9th minute Albie’s cross was headed just wide of the back post by Charlie. The next 5 minutes saw at least as many shots go towards the goal, all drifting wide. Finally with 15 minutes gone a ball out to Albie saw a cross come into the far post where Fraser was free to score his second of the day. Aiden was now replaced by Jack Wild to get some fresh legs on at the back. A minute later a horrible two footed tackle on Jesse saw him carried off with Max replacing him. In the 22nd minute the ball came across to Charlie on the edge of the box and he hit a cracking volley straight onto the bar…great these ¾ goals! A Cerney throw in was then won by Max, the ball was switch to Albie and his shot again came crashing off the bar. Finally, the pressure finally told in the 26th minute as first Albie had a shot saved, and then Jesse follow up was also saved but Max was there to tap the ball in. Finally with a minute left Charlie had got to the by line but instead of crossing it into the middle he laid it back to Max who hit a lovely dipping, bending shot into the far top corner
The Player of the Day award was a difficult one but for a great performance, stepping up into the North Wilts side and never looking out of place it went to Fraser.
James Davis
Aiden Weeks, William Herrington, Jack Bolton, Olly Sopp,
Albie Oakman, Karl Admans, Jesse Bowers, Duncan Lorrain, Fraser Roberts.
Charlie de Fraine.
Subs:- Jordan Shaw, Jack Wild, Max Nicholls.
Wickham were put under pressure right form the start as Cerney took advantage of the tight surroundings, which they were more used to, although without creating a clear cut chance. Everything was rush, rush, rush with no one taking the time to put their foot on the ball and have a look around. It was the 5th minute before Wickham created a chance as James’ clearance was knocked out to Albie by Duncan. He cut into the box but his shot came crashing off the bar and clear. A minute late the same move brought about a corner which Charlie headed just wide off the far post. In the 10th minute Jack Bolton took a major clattering from Cerney’s no.4 and had to be replaced by Jordan. In the 12th minute Olly took a throw in almost by the left corner flag; this was quickly sent up the right where Albie’s shot was deflected for a corner, which was swung in and came off the post. Finally in the 15th minute another Olly throw in was knocked back to him by Duncan and then played down the line to Fraser. He sprinted away from the defender and as the keeper came out he chipped it into the back of the net. Two great crossed followed shortly after from Fraser but both chances were put just wide. Cerney’s next real attack was in the 24th minute, which saw James come out of his area to clear the ball straight to Albie on the right. He cut into the box and drove the ball onto the bar. The ball looped over Charlie but he got it back and played a lovely reversed diagonal ball into Albie’s path for him to score.
Cerney came on strong in the second half and in the 2nd minute James had to turn around the post a fierce drive from their centre forward. Two minutes later some good work between Jesse and Duncan sent Fraser away but his shot hit the top of the bar and went over. Wickham were now starting to dominate but Cerney looked dangerous on the break.
Wickham needed the third goal to settle things down. In the 9th minute Albie’s cross was headed just wide of the back post by Charlie. The next 5 minutes saw at least as many shots go towards the goal, all drifting wide. Finally with 15 minutes gone a ball out to Albie saw a cross come into the far post where Fraser was free to score his second of the day. Aiden was now replaced by Jack Wild to get some fresh legs on at the back. A minute later a horrible two footed tackle on Jesse saw him carried off with Max replacing him. In the 22nd minute the ball came across to Charlie on the edge of the box and he hit a cracking volley straight onto the bar…great these ¾ goals! A Cerney throw in was then won by Max, the ball was switch to Albie and his shot again came crashing off the bar. Finally, the pressure finally told in the 26th minute as first Albie had a shot saved, and then Jesse follow up was also saved but Max was there to tap the ball in. Finally with a minute left Charlie had got to the by line but instead of crossing it into the middle he laid it back to Max who hit a lovely dipping, bending shot into the far top corner
The Player of the Day award was a difficult one but for a great performance, stepping up into the North Wilts side and never looking out of place it went to Fraser.
Aiden Weeks, William Herrington, Jack Bolton, Olly Sopp,
Albie Oakman, Karl Admans, Jesse Bowers, Duncan Lorrain, Fraser Roberts.
Charlie de Fraine.
Subs:- Jordan Shaw, Jack Wild, Max Nicholls.
Monday, 22 October 2007
Report: U12 OM vs. Didcot Casuals 21-Oct-2007
An afternoon game for the lads this weekend but Jordie & Fraser were missing, with Harry also possibly not coming along for this game against Didcot Casuals. James was again drafted in but this week as an outfield player. This should be a close game with both sides having had similar results this season so far.
Didcot kicked off and looked to be the stronger, more organised side. This was maybe not surprising as Jordie was missing and Aiden had therefore been moved up into his midfield role. Declan was caught out a number of times but Aiden was working hard to help cover whilst also going on his up field runs. Jack and Jordan seemed to be coping well in the middle of the defence which was helped enormously by Didcot’s no.10 constantly getting too far forward and getting caught off side. AO and Max were having some joy in getting behind the full backs but the crosses were then either too close to the keeper or just behind Ben. In the 16th minute an innocuous Didcot attack down their right seemed to have been dealt with by Tom. However, instead of putting the ball out he tried a little back heal to create room and gave the ball away by the by line. The forward created himself an angle to shot but Ben made a great block only to see no support from his defenders as an unmarked forward knocked the ball into the net. Aiden and Declan now switched roles but after 20 minutes Tom got a knock in the back and found that he could not raise his arm over his shoulder but he wanted to carry on. In the 25th minute a pumped clearance by Jordan sent Ben away but the defender just closed him down. The resulting corner caused major problems in the area but no one could hit the ball home.
The lads were told to use the wings more and that this was a game they could win, if they really wanted it, but more effort in midfield was needed. In the second minute a free kick just inside the Wickham half was sent forwards by Jordan towards Ben. The ball bounced over him and the defender for Max to run onto. As the keeper came out he played a lovely chip over him and into the back of the net. Wickham were now pressing forwards often leaving just three at the back. A series of corners followed but none could be converted. As Didcot mounted their first real attack after the scores had been levelled a great through ball from Luke sent Ollie away through the middle. As the keeper came out he slipped it past his right hand and into the corner of the net for 2-1. Ben was now replaced by James up front. Some great work between Tom and James in the 12th minute on the left saw AO eventually get the ball in the middle but his shot was well saved. The 20th minute saw Wickham increase their lead as Ollie got a cross in from the left for James to smash the ball goal bound. His shot was saved but Luke was there to put the rebound away. Didcot attacked from the centre and almost walked through the middle of the defence but in their very next attack Jordan had 3 forwards bearing down on him. He forced the ball wide and the shot which came in was well saved by Ben but the ball fell to one of the other forwards for a simple tap in. With two minutes left James was sent away for a 1 on 1 with the goal keeper but unfortunately his touch was just too heavy and the keeper was able to just make the save at his feet. Despite a few panics Wickham held on to a deserved 3-2 victory.
The Player of the Day award was very close but again for his constant effort all day and some driving forward runs it went to Aiden.
Ben Grey
Declan Hess, Jack Wild, Jordan Shaw, Tom Farmer
Alex Olford, Aiden Weeks, Ollie Norman, Luke Evans, Max Nicholls
Ben Cipolla.
Subs:- James Davies, Stephen Enever, Harry Russell
Didcot kicked off and looked to be the stronger, more organised side. This was maybe not surprising as Jordie was missing and Aiden had therefore been moved up into his midfield role. Declan was caught out a number of times but Aiden was working hard to help cover whilst also going on his up field runs. Jack and Jordan seemed to be coping well in the middle of the defence which was helped enormously by Didcot’s no.10 constantly getting too far forward and getting caught off side. AO and Max were having some joy in getting behind the full backs but the crosses were then either too close to the keeper or just behind Ben. In the 16th minute an innocuous Didcot attack down their right seemed to have been dealt with by Tom. However, instead of putting the ball out he tried a little back heal to create room and gave the ball away by the by line. The forward created himself an angle to shot but Ben made a great block only to see no support from his defenders as an unmarked forward knocked the ball into the net. Aiden and Declan now switched roles but after 20 minutes Tom got a knock in the back and found that he could not raise his arm over his shoulder but he wanted to carry on. In the 25th minute a pumped clearance by Jordan sent Ben away but the defender just closed him down. The resulting corner caused major problems in the area but no one could hit the ball home.
The lads were told to use the wings more and that this was a game they could win, if they really wanted it, but more effort in midfield was needed. In the second minute a free kick just inside the Wickham half was sent forwards by Jordan towards Ben. The ball bounced over him and the defender for Max to run onto. As the keeper came out he played a lovely chip over him and into the back of the net. Wickham were now pressing forwards often leaving just three at the back. A series of corners followed but none could be converted. As Didcot mounted their first real attack after the scores had been levelled a great through ball from Luke sent Ollie away through the middle. As the keeper came out he slipped it past his right hand and into the corner of the net for 2-1. Ben was now replaced by James up front. Some great work between Tom and James in the 12th minute on the left saw AO eventually get the ball in the middle but his shot was well saved. The 20th minute saw Wickham increase their lead as Ollie got a cross in from the left for James to smash the ball goal bound. His shot was saved but Luke was there to put the rebound away. Didcot attacked from the centre and almost walked through the middle of the defence but in their very next attack Jordan had 3 forwards bearing down on him. He forced the ball wide and the shot which came in was well saved by Ben but the ball fell to one of the other forwards for a simple tap in. With two minutes left James was sent away for a 1 on 1 with the goal keeper but unfortunately his touch was just too heavy and the keeper was able to just make the save at his feet. Despite a few panics Wickham held on to a deserved 3-2 victory.
The Player of the Day award was very close but again for his constant effort all day and some driving forward runs it went to Aiden.
Declan Hess, Jack Wild, Jordan Shaw, Tom Farmer
Alex Olford, Aiden Weeks, Ollie Norman, Luke Evans, Max Nicholls
Ben Cipolla.
Subs:- James Davies, Stephen Enever, Harry Russell
Saturday, 20 October 2007
Report: U12 NW vs. Stratton Juniors (cup) 14-Oct-2007
It was North Wilts cup duty this week and a change in the starting eleven, as Aiden Weeks came in for the missing Jack Bolton. Having already had a tough game against Stratton Juniors in the League at their place, this was going to be another battle with everyone needing to perform well.
Wickham started confidently with Stratton initially having very few attacking opportunities. The game was being played mainly outside of Wickham’s defensive third but when Stratton did attack the back four looked very solid. There did not seem to be the normal bite which has been present in previous encounters, as both sides seemed to be paying each other a lot of respect. After 10 minutes Wickham had two corners in succession but both times Albie slipped over whilst taking them, so the crosses went a little wayward. Wickham were using both the wings well but were not really creating any clear cut chances. The ball through the middle for Charlie and Albie to run onto were normally cut out by Stratton’s no24 who was having a great game at the back. Finally, with 18 minutes gone, Albie got managed to get through the defence. However, he had been forced out wide and the keeper managed to come out and save the ball with his feet. As the half went on Wickham started to give away a few free kicks in and around the centre circle. With half time fast approaching one such kick created Stratton best chance of the half. A shot came in from some distance, with a Stratton forward in an off side position, which was not given. James could only parry the shot straight back to this forward but he was quick enough to make the double save thus keeping the scores level at half time.
The chat was all about keeping the shape of the side and working for each other…basically keeping up the good work from the first half. Stratton’s big centre forward had been Replaced, which gave William and Bert a different problem to deal with. Callum and Albie worked like mad down the flanks usually only getting corners as their rewards. After 5 minutes they switched wings which did seem to confuse the defenders for a little while. After 10 minute Fraser replaced Callum on the right and almost immediately Jesse seemed to have set him free with a cross field ball, but the defender just got to him before he could get his shot away. Wickham were always looking dangerous from corners and eventually the goal came. Albie hit a corner deep to the back post where Charlie headed the ball back for Bert to smash into the net. The big Stratton forward now came back on but was played as an advanced midfield player, which meant Karl had to mark him. This change, which coincided with Aiden picking up a knock, saw Stratton have their best period of the game. In the next five minutes they had two long range efforts which fortunately both drifted wide of the goal. Aiden came off for Max with Fraser dropping back into the right back position. Stratton did not create another chance after this but with the game being more open Albie had a couple of half breakaways just staying in front of the recovering defender but both also just went wide. Wickham deserved to win this match but you must feel sorry for Stratton. Since winning the U10’s cup their first round opponents in the next two competitions have been a top side, last year losing to Wroughton who went onto the final. Let’s hope the same happens this season.
The Player of the Day award was very close between the two centre backs as they had both done the jobs asked of them well but by one vote it went to William.
James Davis
Aiden Weeks, William Herrington, Bert Cherrill, Olly Sopp,
Albie Oakman, Karl Admans, Jesse Bowers, Duncan Lorrain, Callum Johnson.
Charlie de Fraine.
Subs:- Fraser Roberts, Max Nicholls.
Wickham started confidently with Stratton initially having very few attacking opportunities. The game was being played mainly outside of Wickham’s defensive third but when Stratton did attack the back four looked very solid. There did not seem to be the normal bite which has been present in previous encounters, as both sides seemed to be paying each other a lot of respect. After 10 minutes Wickham had two corners in succession but both times Albie slipped over whilst taking them, so the crosses went a little wayward. Wickham were using both the wings well but were not really creating any clear cut chances. The ball through the middle for Charlie and Albie to run onto were normally cut out by Stratton’s no24 who was having a great game at the back. Finally, with 18 minutes gone, Albie got managed to get through the defence. However, he had been forced out wide and the keeper managed to come out and save the ball with his feet. As the half went on Wickham started to give away a few free kicks in and around the centre circle. With half time fast approaching one such kick created Stratton best chance of the half. A shot came in from some distance, with a Stratton forward in an off side position, which was not given. James could only parry the shot straight back to this forward but he was quick enough to make the double save thus keeping the scores level at half time.
The chat was all about keeping the shape of the side and working for each other…basically keeping up the good work from the first half. Stratton’s big centre forward had been Replaced, which gave William and Bert a different problem to deal with. Callum and Albie worked like mad down the flanks usually only getting corners as their rewards. After 5 minutes they switched wings which did seem to confuse the defenders for a little while. After 10 minute Fraser replaced Callum on the right and almost immediately Jesse seemed to have set him free with a cross field ball, but the defender just got to him before he could get his shot away. Wickham were always looking dangerous from corners and eventually the goal came. Albie hit a corner deep to the back post where Charlie headed the ball back for Bert to smash into the net. The big Stratton forward now came back on but was played as an advanced midfield player, which meant Karl had to mark him. This change, which coincided with Aiden picking up a knock, saw Stratton have their best period of the game. In the next five minutes they had two long range efforts which fortunately both drifted wide of the goal. Aiden came off for Max with Fraser dropping back into the right back position. Stratton did not create another chance after this but with the game being more open Albie had a couple of half breakaways just staying in front of the recovering defender but both also just went wide. Wickham deserved to win this match but you must feel sorry for Stratton. Since winning the U10’s cup their first round opponents in the next two competitions have been a top side, last year losing to Wroughton who went onto the final. Let’s hope the same happens this season.
The Player of the Day award was very close between the two centre backs as they had both done the jobs asked of them well but by one vote it went to William.
Aiden Weeks, William Herrington, Bert Cherrill, Olly Sopp,
Albie Oakman, Karl Admans, Jesse Bowers, Duncan Lorrain, Callum Johnson.
Charlie de Fraine.
Subs:- Fraser Roberts, Max Nicholls.
Wednesday, 17 October 2007
Report: U12 OM vs. Didcot Boys Emeralds 14-Oct-2007
With the last two games ending in defeats it was important to get back to winning ways. The whole squad were available but Didcot only turned up with 10 players. The last time these two teams played each other was at U10’s level where Didcot won 15-0.
Wickham started well enough but in the first two minutes both Ben and Fraser were guilty of hitting their shots too close to the keeper who duly made the saves. With 4 minutes on the clock Aiden picked up the ball in his own half and went on one of his runs. No one got a good tackle in and he scored from the edge of the box. In the 9th minute Wickham attacked down the left. Max hit the ball across to Alex who guided it back into Ben’s path for him to score. Didcot attacked from the centre but Jordan intercepted the ball and feed it though the middle of the Didcot defence for Ben to run onto. He drew the keeper and calmly slotted the ball away. The next minute saw Ben score again as Fraser cross found him unmarked at the back post for a simple tap in. A hat trick in 3 minutes – nice one Ben! Fraser then immediately won the ball from the centre attacking down the left before his cross was again put away by Ben. With Wickham 5-0 up after only 13 minutes Ben was replaced by Harry. A minute later Aiden was off on another run but this time he was clattered in the box so Jordan put the penalty low into the right hand corner. After 19 minutes Ollie never gave up chasing a ball and got a deep cross to the back post which Fraser slammed into the net. Aiden was now replaced by Declan and Max came on for Fraser. Harry was now starting to grow in confidence as he was having is first real run out of the season and it was his pass in the 27th minute which sent max away on the left hand side. After reaching the by-line he cut back onto his right foot and hit the cross to the back post just beyond Harry but perfect for Alex to volley home. A minute later and it was Jack’s turn to go on a run. The centre back turned right winger got a perfect cross in for Harry to open his account for the day. In the final minute a lovely pass from Jordie sent Max racing through on goal. The keeper came out to narrow the angle and made a great save but Harry was following up to put the ball into an empty net.
The half time talk concentrated on the lads continuing to play the same way but not to concede a goal due to everyone attacking. Again in the first two minutes two chances were missing by Alex and Max as the keeper made good saves. There was not the same intensity in the Wickham attacks which I guess was not too surprising. In the 8th minute Max intercepted a goal kick and duly smashed it into the back of the net Two minutes later Harry completed his hat trick (13 minute is a little slower than Ben’s Harry) as he latched onto a max through ball, out passed the defender and slotted the ball past the keeper into the corner of the net. Ben C then replace Harry who came off with the biggest grin you could possibly imagine. One of the reasons Ben Grey never touched the ball in the second half was due to some great defensive work from Jordan and Jack in the centre back roles. They wee both full of confidence today. A looping shot by Ollie from some distance out saw Wickham score in the 20th minute with the final goal scored by Ben following a perfect through ball from Jordie. Wickham had returned to winning ways with a thumping 14-0 victory with the only really problem being the insistence to shot from long distance in the second half
The Player of the Day award was actually quite surprising given the amount of goal that were scored, but it went to Jack for his solid defensive efforts with Jordan pushing him very close for the trophy.
Ben Grey
Aiden Weeks, Jack Wild, Jordan Shaw, Tom Farmer
Alex Olford, Jordie Rowlands, Ollie Norman, Luke Evans Fraser Roberts
Ben Cipolla.
Subs:- James Davies, Declan Hess, Stephen Enever Max Nicholls, Harry Russell
Wickham started well enough but in the first two minutes both Ben and Fraser were guilty of hitting their shots too close to the keeper who duly made the saves. With 4 minutes on the clock Aiden picked up the ball in his own half and went on one of his runs. No one got a good tackle in and he scored from the edge of the box. In the 9th minute Wickham attacked down the left. Max hit the ball across to Alex who guided it back into Ben’s path for him to score. Didcot attacked from the centre but Jordan intercepted the ball and feed it though the middle of the Didcot defence for Ben to run onto. He drew the keeper and calmly slotted the ball away. The next minute saw Ben score again as Fraser cross found him unmarked at the back post for a simple tap in. A hat trick in 3 minutes – nice one Ben! Fraser then immediately won the ball from the centre attacking down the left before his cross was again put away by Ben. With Wickham 5-0 up after only 13 minutes Ben was replaced by Harry. A minute later Aiden was off on another run but this time he was clattered in the box so Jordan put the penalty low into the right hand corner. After 19 minutes Ollie never gave up chasing a ball and got a deep cross to the back post which Fraser slammed into the net. Aiden was now replaced by Declan and Max came on for Fraser. Harry was now starting to grow in confidence as he was having is first real run out of the season and it was his pass in the 27th minute which sent max away on the left hand side. After reaching the by-line he cut back onto his right foot and hit the cross to the back post just beyond Harry but perfect for Alex to volley home. A minute later and it was Jack’s turn to go on a run. The centre back turned right winger got a perfect cross in for Harry to open his account for the day. In the final minute a lovely pass from Jordie sent Max racing through on goal. The keeper came out to narrow the angle and made a great save but Harry was following up to put the ball into an empty net.
The half time talk concentrated on the lads continuing to play the same way but not to concede a goal due to everyone attacking. Again in the first two minutes two chances were missing by Alex and Max as the keeper made good saves. There was not the same intensity in the Wickham attacks which I guess was not too surprising. In the 8th minute Max intercepted a goal kick and duly smashed it into the back of the net Two minutes later Harry completed his hat trick (13 minute is a little slower than Ben’s Harry) as he latched onto a max through ball, out passed the defender and slotted the ball past the keeper into the corner of the net. Ben C then replace Harry who came off with the biggest grin you could possibly imagine. One of the reasons Ben Grey never touched the ball in the second half was due to some great defensive work from Jordan and Jack in the centre back roles. They wee both full of confidence today. A looping shot by Ollie from some distance out saw Wickham score in the 20th minute with the final goal scored by Ben following a perfect through ball from Jordie. Wickham had returned to winning ways with a thumping 14-0 victory with the only really problem being the insistence to shot from long distance in the second half
The Player of the Day award was actually quite surprising given the amount of goal that were scored, but it went to Jack for his solid defensive efforts with Jordan pushing him very close for the trophy.
Aiden Weeks, Jack Wild, Jordan Shaw, Tom Farmer
Alex Olford, Jordie Rowlands, Ollie Norman, Luke Evans Fraser Roberts
Ben Cipolla.
Subs:- James Davies, Declan Hess, Stephen Enever Max Nicholls, Harry Russell
Tuesday, 9 October 2007
Report: U12 NW vs. Shaw 7-Oct-2007
Back to League duties as the U11 North Wilts champions, Shaw, came to the triangle field. Like Wickham, they have also set up a second team this year but with only 14 players signed on they arrived with the bare 11 and without their normal goal keeper.
Just like last week a free kick was conceded wide on the Wickham right but this time it was successfully deal with. The ball was played up to Callum on the left and after getting past his man hit a left footed shot just wide. Two minutes later he was past his man again. This time he played the ball back to Karl who hit a cross to the far post. Albie was there to head back across the goal but the keeper just managed to make the save. Shaw’s plan seemed to be to hit balls over the top and then to chase. In the 7th minute such a cross field ball saw the left winger get free. The whole of the defence game across so as the ball was switched the right winger was totally unmarked. He hit is shot across James and into the far corner. In the 11th minute again the ball went out to Callum, he cut into the box and hit a shot which seemed destined for the top corner but somehow the keeper saved it. This was to be the story of the half as Wickham had the best of some scrappy play but when the shots went in the keeper just managed to make the save. In the 24th minute with both sides giving the ball away in midfield Duncan finally took control of the ball and hit it wide to Callum. With a player on his right he hit the ball low and hard into the middle and it somehow squeezed under the keeper for 1-1. Wickham almost scored again from the centre but the angle got too tight for Albie and his shot went into the side netting.
The guys were asked to calm down and take control of the ball in the second half; to pass the ball around and to do their own individual jobs. With a minute gone Albie was fouled near the touch line. He hit the ball into the box where Jesse rose to flick the ball in. This did calm the nerves a little bit and Wickham started to produce some better football but there was still the ball over the top to contend with. Despite Shaw changing the keeper after the goal the story was the same as finger tip saves were being made. After 13 minutes a ball was beautifully slotted through for Charlie to run onto. As the two central defenders closed in on him he drilled the shot into the back of the net for 3-1. From this point it should have been plain sailing but there was that Shaw ball over the top again. Bert missed the header and William was not close enough to cover so Shaw’s no.9 chipped the ball over the top of James and the bounce just stayed under the bar to pull the score back to 3-2. Shaw changed the keeper again but this time he did not look so confident as he would always use his feet. A minute later Albie was off down the right he cut inside and hit a great dipping shot over the keeper but it hit the bar and came out over Charlie and Callum. In the 19th minute Jesse tried his luck from outside the area and again it seemed to be in but the keeper just managed to make the parry and then grab the ball just before Callum arrived. 22nd minute saw Albie hit a free kick from distance which seemed to be going in at the near post but somehow a defender got up to clear the ball off the line. Shaw were now virtually encamped in the last 3rd of the pitch under the constant Wickham attacks. With 2 minutes remaining, following some probing passing from the Wickham midfield, the ball came out to Albie on the apex of the box. He hit a dipping shot over the keeper and into the far corner to finally make the game safe at 4-2 much to the relief of everyone.
The Player of the Day went to Duncan for his tireless efforts in midfield constantly working to get the ball down and trying to create space for both himself and his team mates.
James Davis
Jack Bolton, William Herrington, Bert Cherrill, Olly Sopp,
Albie Oakman, Karl Admans, Jesse Bowers, Duncan Lorrain, Callum Johnson.
Charlie de Fraine.
Subs:- Jordan Shaw, Max Nicholls.
Just like last week a free kick was conceded wide on the Wickham right but this time it was successfully deal with. The ball was played up to Callum on the left and after getting past his man hit a left footed shot just wide. Two minutes later he was past his man again. This time he played the ball back to Karl who hit a cross to the far post. Albie was there to head back across the goal but the keeper just managed to make the save. Shaw’s plan seemed to be to hit balls over the top and then to chase. In the 7th minute such a cross field ball saw the left winger get free. The whole of the defence game across so as the ball was switched the right winger was totally unmarked. He hit is shot across James and into the far corner. In the 11th minute again the ball went out to Callum, he cut into the box and hit a shot which seemed destined for the top corner but somehow the keeper saved it. This was to be the story of the half as Wickham had the best of some scrappy play but when the shots went in the keeper just managed to make the save. In the 24th minute with both sides giving the ball away in midfield Duncan finally took control of the ball and hit it wide to Callum. With a player on his right he hit the ball low and hard into the middle and it somehow squeezed under the keeper for 1-1. Wickham almost scored again from the centre but the angle got too tight for Albie and his shot went into the side netting.
The guys were asked to calm down and take control of the ball in the second half; to pass the ball around and to do their own individual jobs. With a minute gone Albie was fouled near the touch line. He hit the ball into the box where Jesse rose to flick the ball in. This did calm the nerves a little bit and Wickham started to produce some better football but there was still the ball over the top to contend with. Despite Shaw changing the keeper after the goal the story was the same as finger tip saves were being made. After 13 minutes a ball was beautifully slotted through for Charlie to run onto. As the two central defenders closed in on him he drilled the shot into the back of the net for 3-1. From this point it should have been plain sailing but there was that Shaw ball over the top again. Bert missed the header and William was not close enough to cover so Shaw’s no.9 chipped the ball over the top of James and the bounce just stayed under the bar to pull the score back to 3-2. Shaw changed the keeper again but this time he did not look so confident as he would always use his feet. A minute later Albie was off down the right he cut inside and hit a great dipping shot over the keeper but it hit the bar and came out over Charlie and Callum. In the 19th minute Jesse tried his luck from outside the area and again it seemed to be in but the keeper just managed to make the parry and then grab the ball just before Callum arrived. 22nd minute saw Albie hit a free kick from distance which seemed to be going in at the near post but somehow a defender got up to clear the ball off the line. Shaw were now virtually encamped in the last 3rd of the pitch under the constant Wickham attacks. With 2 minutes remaining, following some probing passing from the Wickham midfield, the ball came out to Albie on the apex of the box. He hit a dipping shot over the keeper and into the far corner to finally make the game safe at 4-2 much to the relief of everyone.
The Player of the Day went to Duncan for his tireless efforts in midfield constantly working to get the ball down and trying to create space for both himself and his team mates.
Jack Bolton, William Herrington, Bert Cherrill, Olly Sopp,
Albie Oakman, Karl Admans, Jesse Bowers, Duncan Lorrain, Callum Johnson.
Charlie de Fraine.
Subs:- Jordan Shaw, Max Nicholls.
Report: U12 OM vs. Benson 7-Oct-2007
It was up to Benson for the OML side this week but with only 12 players available things were going to be tight.
The game started with Benson spending most of the first 5 minutes in the Wickham half. However, a break down the right saw the ball come back to Aiden. He got a cross into the back post where Max hit a volley just wide of the post. Benson continued their attacks and in the 8th minute, after some head tennis in the centre circle, Benson’s quick no.4 broke through and as James came out he chipped it over the top of him for 1-0. Wickham attacked when they could and in the 12th minute Aiden’s throw was hit to Max at the back post. He laid the ball off to Ben who unfortunately shot over. Wickham had their first corner in the 16th minute which saw Ben’s shot cleared off the line for another corner. This second one saw Max volley the ball against the bar with the ball ending up in the keeper’s hands. A quick clearance saw no Wickham player go for the header thus the forward broke through again and again chipped James for 2-0. Two minutes later exactly the same happened except this time the lob hit the crossbar and just crossed the line. After 20 minutes Benson went down the left cut inside but fortunately Jack got across to put the ball out for the corner. However, this was taken short, Wickham failed to move out and when the ball was chipped into the near post James had two forwards on top of him, onside, and they were able to force the ball home. Wickham did get a couple of attacks in before half time and just before the whistle, Ollie gathered in a throw went past two people in the box and forced the ball home.
The half time talk could have been very ugly but Ian initially concentrated on the errors which lead to the goals and then how things could be improved in the second half……... and what a change. The first 10 minutes of the half saw Wickham encamped in the Benson half, but without really creating a clear cut chance. Finally in the 15th minute Wickham got the goal their play deserved. A Benson throw in was won by Ollie who clipped a diagonal ball into Max’s path. He outstripped the defender and hit a drive inside the left hand post for 4-2. With 10 minutes left Steve replaced Jordie but Wickham were still attacking. With 8 minutes to go some nice interplay in the midfield eventually saw the ball come out to Alex on the right. Having gone past the full back he raced towards the goal before firing a shot inside the near post for 4-3. The lads (and parents) now believed they could get something out of the game, but a minute later as Benson put together their second real attack of the half, the whole defence moved across to the right hand side leaving a player unmarked at the back post for a simple tap in. Wickham still pressed and were always dangerous at corners but they could never quite find the finishing touches as both Ollie and Luke had chances which went just wide of the mark. Even at 5-3 down you felt that Wickham could still get back into the game but with three minutes to go this belief was probably killed off. A ball over the top seemed to have been brought under control by Jack and he then received a push in the back and from fully 35 yards out the forward managed to wrap his foot around the ball and lob it up in the air over James and just under the bar. Still Wickham dominated as with 2 minutes left another corner from Ollie came out to Max but his drive just cleared the bar. When Benson did finally clear their lines Luke sent the ball out wide to Alex who, again got past the full back. He cut in towards the goal and as the keeper cam out, slipped it under him to 6-4. There was just time for Benson to kick off before the final whistle went; on what was a great battling second half performance from the lads, where they put right most of what went wrong in the first.
The Player of the Day was very close between the two wingers but by one vote it went to Alex for two cracking goals from the edge of the area and the work he did on the right wing.
James Davies
Aiden Weeks, Jack Wild, Jordan Shaw, Tom Farmer
Alex Olford, Jordie Rowlands, Ollie Norman, Luke Evans Max Nicholls
Ben Cipolla.
Subs:- Stephen Enever.
The game started with Benson spending most of the first 5 minutes in the Wickham half. However, a break down the right saw the ball come back to Aiden. He got a cross into the back post where Max hit a volley just wide of the post. Benson continued their attacks and in the 8th minute, after some head tennis in the centre circle, Benson’s quick no.4 broke through and as James came out he chipped it over the top of him for 1-0. Wickham attacked when they could and in the 12th minute Aiden’s throw was hit to Max at the back post. He laid the ball off to Ben who unfortunately shot over. Wickham had their first corner in the 16th minute which saw Ben’s shot cleared off the line for another corner. This second one saw Max volley the ball against the bar with the ball ending up in the keeper’s hands. A quick clearance saw no Wickham player go for the header thus the forward broke through again and again chipped James for 2-0. Two minutes later exactly the same happened except this time the lob hit the crossbar and just crossed the line. After 20 minutes Benson went down the left cut inside but fortunately Jack got across to put the ball out for the corner. However, this was taken short, Wickham failed to move out and when the ball was chipped into the near post James had two forwards on top of him, onside, and they were able to force the ball home. Wickham did get a couple of attacks in before half time and just before the whistle, Ollie gathered in a throw went past two people in the box and forced the ball home.
The half time talk could have been very ugly but Ian initially concentrated on the errors which lead to the goals and then how things could be improved in the second half……... and what a change. The first 10 minutes of the half saw Wickham encamped in the Benson half, but without really creating a clear cut chance. Finally in the 15th minute Wickham got the goal their play deserved. A Benson throw in was won by Ollie who clipped a diagonal ball into Max’s path. He outstripped the defender and hit a drive inside the left hand post for 4-2. With 10 minutes left Steve replaced Jordie but Wickham were still attacking. With 8 minutes to go some nice interplay in the midfield eventually saw the ball come out to Alex on the right. Having gone past the full back he raced towards the goal before firing a shot inside the near post for 4-3. The lads (and parents) now believed they could get something out of the game, but a minute later as Benson put together their second real attack of the half, the whole defence moved across to the right hand side leaving a player unmarked at the back post for a simple tap in. Wickham still pressed and were always dangerous at corners but they could never quite find the finishing touches as both Ollie and Luke had chances which went just wide of the mark. Even at 5-3 down you felt that Wickham could still get back into the game but with three minutes to go this belief was probably killed off. A ball over the top seemed to have been brought under control by Jack and he then received a push in the back and from fully 35 yards out the forward managed to wrap his foot around the ball and lob it up in the air over James and just under the bar. Still Wickham dominated as with 2 minutes left another corner from Ollie came out to Max but his drive just cleared the bar. When Benson did finally clear their lines Luke sent the ball out wide to Alex who, again got past the full back. He cut in towards the goal and as the keeper cam out, slipped it under him to 6-4. There was just time for Benson to kick off before the final whistle went; on what was a great battling second half performance from the lads, where they put right most of what went wrong in the first.
The Player of the Day was very close between the two wingers but by one vote it went to Alex for two cracking goals from the edge of the area and the work he did on the right wing.
Aiden Weeks, Jack Wild, Jordan Shaw, Tom Farmer
Alex Olford, Jordie Rowlands, Ollie Norman, Luke Evans Max Nicholls
Ben Cipolla.
Subs:- Stephen Enever.
Sunday, 7 October 2007
Report: U12 OM vs. Northway 30-Sep-2007
The OML side travelled up to Marsdon, Oxford to play the expected divisional champions, Northway. Jordan managed to get lost on the way, just like the ref, but just made the pitch before kick off.
The game started with Northway pushing forwards and they seemed to be in the Wickham half for two minutes but a big clearance sent Ben racing away. The keeper came out but his kick only found Luke whose shot just cleared the bar. Northway were the dominant force in the first 20 minutes but Wickham were more than holding there own but they were struggling on the ball through the middle. However, there always seemed to be someone there able to tidy up. In the 20th minute Wickham won their first corner. Ollie hit it into the box and as the defender tried to clear the ball he ended up punching it so a penalty was awarded. Fraser stepped up and hit a powerful shot to the keepers left and into the net. The balance of the half was quite even with both sides having one more corner. Wickham defended the Northway one quite well but Wickham were unlucky not to score from theirs as the ball came flying off the bar, but a 1-0 lead was a great first half performance. The midfield were asked to work together getting the ball down and not to resort to Northway’s tactic of hitting the ball over the top.
Jordie was pulled off with Max moving into the middle and Alex going onto the right. The first real chance fell to Wickham after 5 minute. Fraser picked up the ball in his own half and went off down the left wing going past 3 defenders. He got his cross into the box but unfortunately it was just behind Ben, Ollie and Alex so the chance was lost. Northway were constantly getting themselves caught off side as they continued to play the ball over the top. In the 8th minute from another Ollie corner the Northway defender again handled the ball whilst attempting to clear it
giving Wickham their second penalty. This time Fraser tucked the ball away nicely just inside the keeper’s right hand post but then the ref ordered the kick to be taken again because of Wickham players being in the area. He seemed to be the only one who saw this! This second time Fraser hit the top of the cross bar with three Northway defenders in the box but surprise, surprise the kick was not ordered to be taken again. This deflated the Wickham lads and in contrast boosted the Northway boys. Northway were still getting caught offside but in the 15th minute the ref over ruled the linesman as the Northway forward came back from an off side position to gather in the ball and then turned to run at goal. The Wickham defenders stopped, as did the Northway forward but as he realised no whistle had gone he rounded James to put the ball into the back of the net. With 18 minute gone Wickham made another change to chase the game. Fraser moved up front instead of Ben, Declan came on at right back with Aiden switching to left and Tom moving into the midfield. This almost paid immediate dividends as Wickham played a ball over the top; Max got to the ball first heading it over the keeper, before being flattened, and into the back of the net, but he was given off side. Max needed to come off so Jordie replaced him. With 23 minute gone Northway hit the standard ball over the top to an off side player which was duly flagged for but again the ref ignored the flag allowing Northway to take the lead. Straight from the centre Wickham attacked down the right. Alex got a great cross in but unfortunately the ball hit Luke and went flying over the bar. In the 27th minute the Northway forward again went through from an off side position but this time James made a great save with Declan clearing the ball off the line for a corner. We were now wondering why the ref was even bothering with a linesman! The corner however was a beautiful one to the back post which was powerfully headed in. From the centre Northway won the ball back went down the right and got the cross in which somehow ended up in the back of the net. The game went on for another 10 minutes after this which was absolutely incredible. The lads never let their heads drop which given the circumstances was brilliant.
The Player of the Day was quite an easy one for the parents this week and went to Fraser, who was a constant threat down the left wing all game and he did put away two nice penalties...….but that’s another story.
James Davis
Aiden Weeks, Jordan Shaw, Jack Wild, Tom Farmer,
Max Nicholls, Ollie Norman, Jordie Rowlands Luke Evans, Fraser Roberts.
Ben Cipolla
Subs:- Declan Hess, Stephen Enever, Harry Russell, Alex Olford.
The game started with Northway pushing forwards and they seemed to be in the Wickham half for two minutes but a big clearance sent Ben racing away. The keeper came out but his kick only found Luke whose shot just cleared the bar. Northway were the dominant force in the first 20 minutes but Wickham were more than holding there own but they were struggling on the ball through the middle. However, there always seemed to be someone there able to tidy up. In the 20th minute Wickham won their first corner. Ollie hit it into the box and as the defender tried to clear the ball he ended up punching it so a penalty was awarded. Fraser stepped up and hit a powerful shot to the keepers left and into the net. The balance of the half was quite even with both sides having one more corner. Wickham defended the Northway one quite well but Wickham were unlucky not to score from theirs as the ball came flying off the bar, but a 1-0 lead was a great first half performance. The midfield were asked to work together getting the ball down and not to resort to Northway’s tactic of hitting the ball over the top.
Jordie was pulled off with Max moving into the middle and Alex going onto the right. The first real chance fell to Wickham after 5 minute. Fraser picked up the ball in his own half and went off down the left wing going past 3 defenders. He got his cross into the box but unfortunately it was just behind Ben, Ollie and Alex so the chance was lost. Northway were constantly getting themselves caught off side as they continued to play the ball over the top. In the 8th minute from another Ollie corner the Northway defender again handled the ball whilst attempting to clear it
giving Wickham their second penalty. This time Fraser tucked the ball away nicely just inside the keeper’s right hand post but then the ref ordered the kick to be taken again because of Wickham players being in the area. He seemed to be the only one who saw this! This second time Fraser hit the top of the cross bar with three Northway defenders in the box but surprise, surprise the kick was not ordered to be taken again. This deflated the Wickham lads and in contrast boosted the Northway boys. Northway were still getting caught offside but in the 15th minute the ref over ruled the linesman as the Northway forward came back from an off side position to gather in the ball and then turned to run at goal. The Wickham defenders stopped, as did the Northway forward but as he realised no whistle had gone he rounded James to put the ball into the back of the net. With 18 minute gone Wickham made another change to chase the game. Fraser moved up front instead of Ben, Declan came on at right back with Aiden switching to left and Tom moving into the midfield. This almost paid immediate dividends as Wickham played a ball over the top; Max got to the ball first heading it over the keeper, before being flattened, and into the back of the net, but he was given off side. Max needed to come off so Jordie replaced him. With 23 minute gone Northway hit the standard ball over the top to an off side player which was duly flagged for but again the ref ignored the flag allowing Northway to take the lead. Straight from the centre Wickham attacked down the right. Alex got a great cross in but unfortunately the ball hit Luke and went flying over the bar. In the 27th minute the Northway forward again went through from an off side position but this time James made a great save with Declan clearing the ball off the line for a corner. We were now wondering why the ref was even bothering with a linesman! The corner however was a beautiful one to the back post which was powerfully headed in. From the centre Northway won the ball back went down the right and got the cross in which somehow ended up in the back of the net. The game went on for another 10 minutes after this which was absolutely incredible. The lads never let their heads drop which given the circumstances was brilliant.
The Player of the Day was quite an easy one for the parents this week and went to Fraser, who was a constant threat down the left wing all game and he did put away two nice penalties...….but that’s another story.
Aiden Weeks, Jordan Shaw, Jack Wild, Tom Farmer,
Max Nicholls, Ollie Norman, Jordie Rowlands Luke Evans, Fraser Roberts.
Ben Cipolla
Subs:- Declan Hess, Stephen Enever, Harry Russell, Alex Olford.
Report: U12 NW vs. Newbury 30-Sep-2007
A break from League duties this weekend as Newbury were the visitors in the preliminary round of the Berks and Bucks cup. A level 5 ref. had been appointed so the boys were told to be on their best behaviour otherwise bookings would follow.
In the first minute, following a Wickham attack, the Newbury left winger got past Jack and cut inside. Bert came across and produced a crunching tackle, taking man and not ball to give away a free kick. Was this to be the first yellow card……...…..fortunately not. Despite Wickham lining up the wall the kick was well placed over the top and the ball flew into the top left hand corner despite James getting both hands to the ball, 1-0 down after 2 minutes. This set back seemed to panic the boys. Gone was the flowing football. Everything was rushed, control was nowhere to be seen and when headers were actually attempted two people would go for the same ball. Having said that all the majority of the next 15 minutes were spent in the Newbury half. Three corners came in with two headed over by William and one volleyed over by Callum. Shots were coming in from outside the box which the keeper always deal with, and when the keeper was beaten there were recovering defenders to put off the Wickham players. With 10 minutes gone Newbury had a breakaway which saw James come out and slice his kick but Bert had got back to cover and put the ball out for a throw in. Finally the pressure told as Callum took a throw in and after receiving the ball back whipped a cross to the back post where Albie headed the ball in. In the 22 minute following a defended Newbury free kick, Charlie was sent though. He rounded the keeper and went into the box but cut back onto his right foot by which time the defence had made it back to block his way and the shot went wide. Right on time Wickham had two corners the first cleared off the line and the second eventually cleared.
Wickham were more controlled in the second half passing the ball around much better. With four minutes gone Charlie raced through the middle and got his shot away but the keeper made a great save pushing the ball wide out to the right. Albie got there first getting past the defender before chipping the ball to the back post for Charlie to head in. Two minute later Wickham attacked down the left. This time Olly hit the cross to the back post where Albie’s cushioned header went just over. The next attack saw Albie given off side but the free kick was intercepted by Duncan. He knocked the ball up to Charlie who sent it out right to Albie. Albie cut into the area and got his shot away only for the keeper to make the save but Charlie was on hand to clip the ball over the keeper for 3-1. The next attack saw Albie switch the ball to the left hand side. Callum crossed it into the box and Charlie completed his hat trick with another header. A long ball hit out of defence cleared the Newbury defenders and Charlie ran onto the ball heading it over the advancing keeper and into the empty net but Albie was given off side, so the goal did not stand. With 20 minutes gone
Albie tried to bend the ball into the far post but this turned out to be a great cross for Charlie but the angle was just too tight as Charlie’s shot came back off the post. Shortly after this Albie broke through the centre and after drawing the keeper slotted it inside the far post for 5-1. Wickham continued to press forwards creating chances but the final goal did not arrive until the 26th minute when Jesse gathered in a goal kick and from the edge of the area chipped it over the keeper for a 6-1 win.
The Player of the Day votes were quite close but by one vote Jesse kept the trophy for another week.
James Davis
Jack Bolton, William Herrington, Bert Cherrill, Olly Sopp,
Albie Oakman, Karl Admans, Jesse Bowers, Duncan Lorrain, Callum Johnson.
Charlie de Fraine.
Subs:- Jordan Shaw, Aiden Weeks, Ben Cipolla, Olly Norman, Fraser Roberts.
In the first minute, following a Wickham attack, the Newbury left winger got past Jack and cut inside. Bert came across and produced a crunching tackle, taking man and not ball to give away a free kick. Was this to be the first yellow card……...…..fortunately not. Despite Wickham lining up the wall the kick was well placed over the top and the ball flew into the top left hand corner despite James getting both hands to the ball, 1-0 down after 2 minutes. This set back seemed to panic the boys. Gone was the flowing football. Everything was rushed, control was nowhere to be seen and when headers were actually attempted two people would go for the same ball. Having said that all the majority of the next 15 minutes were spent in the Newbury half. Three corners came in with two headed over by William and one volleyed over by Callum. Shots were coming in from outside the box which the keeper always deal with, and when the keeper was beaten there were recovering defenders to put off the Wickham players. With 10 minutes gone Newbury had a breakaway which saw James come out and slice his kick but Bert had got back to cover and put the ball out for a throw in. Finally the pressure told as Callum took a throw in and after receiving the ball back whipped a cross to the back post where Albie headed the ball in. In the 22 minute following a defended Newbury free kick, Charlie was sent though. He rounded the keeper and went into the box but cut back onto his right foot by which time the defence had made it back to block his way and the shot went wide. Right on time Wickham had two corners the first cleared off the line and the second eventually cleared.
Wickham were more controlled in the second half passing the ball around much better. With four minutes gone Charlie raced through the middle and got his shot away but the keeper made a great save pushing the ball wide out to the right. Albie got there first getting past the defender before chipping the ball to the back post for Charlie to head in. Two minute later Wickham attacked down the left. This time Olly hit the cross to the back post where Albie’s cushioned header went just over. The next attack saw Albie given off side but the free kick was intercepted by Duncan. He knocked the ball up to Charlie who sent it out right to Albie. Albie cut into the area and got his shot away only for the keeper to make the save but Charlie was on hand to clip the ball over the keeper for 3-1. The next attack saw Albie switch the ball to the left hand side. Callum crossed it into the box and Charlie completed his hat trick with another header. A long ball hit out of defence cleared the Newbury defenders and Charlie ran onto the ball heading it over the advancing keeper and into the empty net but Albie was given off side, so the goal did not stand. With 20 minutes gone
Albie tried to bend the ball into the far post but this turned out to be a great cross for Charlie but the angle was just too tight as Charlie’s shot came back off the post. Shortly after this Albie broke through the centre and after drawing the keeper slotted it inside the far post for 5-1. Wickham continued to press forwards creating chances but the final goal did not arrive until the 26th minute when Jesse gathered in a goal kick and from the edge of the area chipped it over the keeper for a 6-1 win.
The Player of the Day votes were quite close but by one vote Jesse kept the trophy for another week.
Jack Bolton, William Herrington, Bert Cherrill, Olly Sopp,
Albie Oakman, Karl Admans, Jesse Bowers, Duncan Lorrain, Callum Johnson.
Charlie de Fraine.
Subs:- Jordan Shaw, Aiden Weeks, Ben Cipolla, Olly Norman, Fraser Roberts.
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