Super Vets Match Reports 2018/19
End of Season Round - up
What they said: It was a slip- not a proper fall. You did well today Roy. I’ve run around a lot today -which is not my game. I’ll play how I want to play. If only our forwards could score. He’s got a very strange shaped head. You fat f**k!! Ooh! You bastard. Get your hands off me! Come on lads- it’s a team game. Not only is their number 10 a good player- he’s good looking as well. 3-0 when you came on Smudge. 3-1 when Tonksy and John came back on! We all have our limitations- and Doyley had a good game. We lost 2-1 last time we were here but we had a much better side that day. 3 of our better players are still changing- as soon as they get here we get them on! The keeper may have had something to do with their second goal. Sometimes you just have to have a shot instead of messing around in the box! Shut it! Shut it!!
Jamie Oliver is a c**t! A complete c**t! Smashed him in every sense! Get on the weights! Hold it Doyley! Hold it Doyley! Hold it!!!...F**king hell! I know it was a foul but he didn’t go down.
Roy,that’s absolute bollocks! He shouldn’t call me a dickhead!
Just f**king finish! If we score the next goal then they collapse completely- but if they get it it’s gonna be a hard second half. No wonder I’ve only got one goal this season.
Out wide! That’s surprising- I never thought I’d see that. It was like Mitch was back working on the railways. Tonksy! You’re playing right midfield! How did he do that? Carabao Cup ball! Carabao Cup ball! I could see that going in. I’ve never seen his willy! I always wondered who picks up guide dogs’ sh*t?
2018-19 Played: 29. Won 10. Lost 13 Drew 6. For: 83 Against 93.
(includes club game against Young Vets.). One clean sheet.
2017-18. Played: 33 Won 15. Lost 11. Drew 7. For 84 Against 68.
(includes club game against Young Vets). Five clean sheets.
2016-17. Played: 30. Won 13. Lost 11 Drew 6 For 70 Against 73. One clean sheet.
7 players over 20 appearances. 10 other players in double figures.
Appearances and Goals
Chris. 28. 3
Mark. 26
Smudge. 26. 1
Steve D. 24. 11
Mike. 24. 30
Roy. 24. 2*. *may include an own goal.
Taj. 22. 6
John. 19. 2
Steve R. 19. 1
Tonksy. 18. 2
Baby. 17
Paul. 16. 13
Scholesy. 13. 1
Graham. 13. 1
Podge. 13. 3
Tim. 13.
Dave. 12
Mitch. 9
Mick S. 6
Charlie. 5
Steve L. 2
Andy. 1
(Other Goals: Own Goals: 2. Dillsy, Yen, Jack, Matt, Scary- one each. )
What they said: It was a slip- not a proper fall. You did well today Roy. I’ve run around a lot today -which is not my game. I’ll play how I want to play. If only our forwards could score. He’s got a very strange shaped head. You fat f**k!! Ooh! You bastard. Get your hands off me! Come on lads- it’s a team game. Not only is their number 10 a good player- he’s good looking as well. 3-0 when you came on Smudge. 3-1 when Tonksy and John came back on! We all have our limitations- and Doyley had a good game. We lost 2-1 last time we were here but we had a much better side that day. 3 of our better players are still changing- as soon as they get here we get them on! The keeper may have had something to do with their second goal. Sometimes you just have to have a shot instead of messing around in the box! Shut it! Shut it!!
Jamie Oliver is a c**t! A complete c**t! Smashed him in every sense! Get on the weights! Hold it Doyley! Hold it Doyley! Hold it!!!...F**king hell! I know it was a foul but he didn’t go down.
Roy,that’s absolute bollocks! He shouldn’t call me a dickhead!
Just f**king finish! If we score the next goal then they collapse completely- but if they get it it’s gonna be a hard second half. No wonder I’ve only got one goal this season.
Out wide! That’s surprising- I never thought I’d see that. It was like Mitch was back working on the railways. Tonksy! You’re playing right midfield! How did he do that? Carabao Cup ball! Carabao Cup ball! I could see that going in. I’ve never seen his willy! I always wondered who picks up guide dogs’ sh*t?
2018-19 Played: 29. Won 10. Lost 13 Drew 6. For: 83 Against 93.
(includes club game against Young Vets.). One clean sheet.
2017-18. Played: 33 Won 15. Lost 11. Drew 7. For 84 Against 68.
(includes club game against Young Vets). Five clean sheets.
2016-17. Played: 30. Won 13. Lost 11 Drew 6 For 70 Against 73. One clean sheet.
7 players over 20 appearances. 10 other players in double figures.
Appearances and Goals
Chris. 28. 3
Mark. 26
Smudge. 26. 1
Steve D. 24. 11
Mike. 24. 30
Roy. 24. 2*. *may include an own goal.
Taj. 22. 6
John. 19. 2
Steve R. 19. 1
Tonksy. 18. 2
Baby. 17
Paul. 16. 13
Scholesy. 13. 1
Graham. 13. 1
Podge. 13. 3
Tim. 13.
Dave. 12
Mitch. 9
Mick S. 6
Charlie. 5
Steve L. 2
Andy. 1
(Other Goals: Own Goals: 2. Dillsy, Yen, Jack, Matt, Scary- one each. )
End of Season Showpiece. Welling – with the pitch well grassed and in good condition.
Crofton. 2-1. (Paul, Mike)
Team: Roy, Mitch, Baby, Chris, Smudge, Steve R, Paul, The Squire, Podge, Graham, Mike, Steve D, Tim. ( Taj- injured but present roaring us on! Mark TK- the gout strikes again but good work as Lino.)
In a Sentence: A good finale to a rather mixed season.
In a Word: Comfortable.
Goal of the Game: Paul- our opener. Graham- after a short corner played the ball across the edge of the box to Paul who deceived everyone striking the ball first time with the outside of his right foot, directing it perfectly into the far corner giving a very good keeper no chance.
OSCDT (Top Passing): Lost our way a bit in the second half and allowed Crofton into the game more by not using the ball so well- but excellent team passing enabled us to dominate the first half.
Good long balls from Baby- especially down the flanks. A range of fine forward passes from Paul created some excellent attacks – including some good chances for Mike.
Top Tackle: Good work across the park and especially at the back, Baby,as ever leading the way. Strongest effort Podge winning a 50-50 against bearded Neil leaving the Crofton man on the turf.
Player’ Player: chosen by Chris: Baby- a strong all game performance- despite attempting to lose every ball used.Paul gets second place for an outstanding first half performance. (Surely there should be a mention for the tireless Squire too? Another non-stop, quality performance.)
Mark’s Man/Men: A fine summer’s evening saw two teams serenade (really Mark?!!) on the Welling United turf. Now back to reality: the Tamps just outwitted the old foe- Crofton Albion with two well taken goals from Paul and Mike. A fine late save by Chris- with his legs- kept the score at 2-1, securing the win.
Moments and Quotes: Roy despite initially refusing to go in goal secures the appreciation of all keeping a clean sheet when between the sticks and then universal sympathy when pulling up lame in his first outfield minute.
Smudge again shows only he can do that: perfectly judged back header – silly people thought the ball just landed on his bonce as he was running back.
Great run by Graham – hotly pursued by a dispossessed Stoney- beating several players before running out of puff and toe poking the ball into touch.
An excellent goal to make it 30 for the season: Baby sends Doyley in down the line, surprisingly good control and decision making as he played Mike in: several turns later a good finish and celebration!
‘I’ve never seen his wildly!’ This leading to a lengthy conversation and setting up Foreskin Tombola!
Crofton’s goal – not a thing of beauty: Graham’s dummy up field gives the oppo possession, the defence expected the offside flag to go up, Chris misjudged it and an empty net could not be missed.
‘I always wondered who picks up Guide dog’s shit?!’
Steve R secures the Best Sports Bag award- far too up market for the Tamps.
That goal made for a nervy last quarter and also made the game seem closer than it was …that, and not taking some good first half chances! Nonetheless a good team performance and strong in the bar too!
Crofton. 2-1. (Paul, Mike)
Team: Roy, Mitch, Baby, Chris, Smudge, Steve R, Paul, The Squire, Podge, Graham, Mike, Steve D, Tim. ( Taj- injured but present roaring us on! Mark TK- the gout strikes again but good work as Lino.)
In a Sentence: A good finale to a rather mixed season.
In a Word: Comfortable.
Goal of the Game: Paul- our opener. Graham- after a short corner played the ball across the edge of the box to Paul who deceived everyone striking the ball first time with the outside of his right foot, directing it perfectly into the far corner giving a very good keeper no chance.
OSCDT (Top Passing): Lost our way a bit in the second half and allowed Crofton into the game more by not using the ball so well- but excellent team passing enabled us to dominate the first half.
Good long balls from Baby- especially down the flanks. A range of fine forward passes from Paul created some excellent attacks – including some good chances for Mike.
Top Tackle: Good work across the park and especially at the back, Baby,as ever leading the way. Strongest effort Podge winning a 50-50 against bearded Neil leaving the Crofton man on the turf.
Player’ Player: chosen by Chris: Baby- a strong all game performance- despite attempting to lose every ball used.Paul gets second place for an outstanding first half performance. (Surely there should be a mention for the tireless Squire too? Another non-stop, quality performance.)
Mark’s Man/Men: A fine summer’s evening saw two teams serenade (really Mark?!!) on the Welling United turf. Now back to reality: the Tamps just outwitted the old foe- Crofton Albion with two well taken goals from Paul and Mike. A fine late save by Chris- with his legs- kept the score at 2-1, securing the win.
Moments and Quotes: Roy despite initially refusing to go in goal secures the appreciation of all keeping a clean sheet when between the sticks and then universal sympathy when pulling up lame in his first outfield minute.
Smudge again shows only he can do that: perfectly judged back header – silly people thought the ball just landed on his bonce as he was running back.
Great run by Graham – hotly pursued by a dispossessed Stoney- beating several players before running out of puff and toe poking the ball into touch.
An excellent goal to make it 30 for the season: Baby sends Doyley in down the line, surprisingly good control and decision making as he played Mike in: several turns later a good finish and celebration!
‘I’ve never seen his wildly!’ This leading to a lengthy conversation and setting up Foreskin Tombola!
Crofton’s goal – not a thing of beauty: Graham’s dummy up field gives the oppo possession, the defence expected the offside flag to go up, Chris misjudged it and an empty net could not be missed.
‘I always wondered who picks up Guide dog’s shit?!’
Steve R secures the Best Sports Bag award- far too up market for the Tamps.
That goal made for a nervy last quarter and also made the game seem closer than it was …that, and not taking some good first half chances! Nonetheless a good team performance and strong in the bar too!
Canning Town. Changing Room Pitch. 05.05. 19.
3-8. (O.G., Podge, Mike)
Team: Roy, Taj, Chris, Baby, Smudge, Tonksy, The Squire, Podge, Graham, Steve D, Mike, Dave, Steve R, Tim. ( Mark TK, Lino and Ref: laid low by gout in the left hand!)
Subbed: Dave, Steve R, Tim, injuries: Taj, Baby.
In a Sentence: A game of two halves…two goalies, two refs and two impacting injuries.
In a Word: Implosion.
Goal of the Game: Refusing to be limited by his role between the sticks Roy again showed his determination to run with the ball at his feet. Surging out on the right he beat one player, beat two and then delivered a slide rule toe poke down the touchline to Mike who followed his close control example- but in the oppo box- before laying the ball off for Podge to slot home. Could it be a late contender for Goal of the Season?
OSCDT ( Top Passing): Good retention and use of the ball in the first half but no stand out passes- apart from Roy’s ‘Hail Mary’ down the line. As ever good long balls from Baby and to a lesser degree from Graham.
Top Tackle: More a game for interceptions and nicking the ball-Dave leading the way here- rather than big tackles. A couple of strong 50-50s from Smudge.
Mark’s Man: A game of two halves…an evenly matched good quality game before the break before crucial second half injuries to Taj and Baby and the introduction of two younger players ( and later a 72 year old! ) gave Canning a very clear edge! Roy in goal was the provider for our equaliser at 2-2 before an unusual Tamps collapse saw the goals against tally shoot up. (If only the almost ever present custodian had been fit………?)
Players’ Player: Good from everybody in the first half and until they were forced off by injuries from Taj and Baby. Strong throughout – even when we were getting battered Mike, The Squire and Podge- with the Squire edging it for determination, leadership and non stop running.
Moments and Quotes: ‘ I could see that going in.’ The Squire on Doyley’s “acrobatic” effort.
Mike’s miss- almost matching his aberration at Erith- free in front of goal took his eye off the ball. Scored a cracker to put us ahead (before the onslaught) though powering past the keeper at his near post. ( A bit of a dodgy celebration again.)
Graham, as our heroic Iron Man, swims, runs and cycles but he can’t fly- that overhead puts him forward as a strong contender for the Man Who Fell to Earth award.
A really enjoyable first half but still plenty to forget…including Roy’s ranting!
3-8. (O.G., Podge, Mike)
Team: Roy, Taj, Chris, Baby, Smudge, Tonksy, The Squire, Podge, Graham, Steve D, Mike, Dave, Steve R, Tim. ( Mark TK, Lino and Ref: laid low by gout in the left hand!)
Subbed: Dave, Steve R, Tim, injuries: Taj, Baby.
In a Sentence: A game of two halves…two goalies, two refs and two impacting injuries.
In a Word: Implosion.
Goal of the Game: Refusing to be limited by his role between the sticks Roy again showed his determination to run with the ball at his feet. Surging out on the right he beat one player, beat two and then delivered a slide rule toe poke down the touchline to Mike who followed his close control example- but in the oppo box- before laying the ball off for Podge to slot home. Could it be a late contender for Goal of the Season?
OSCDT ( Top Passing): Good retention and use of the ball in the first half but no stand out passes- apart from Roy’s ‘Hail Mary’ down the line. As ever good long balls from Baby and to a lesser degree from Graham.
Top Tackle: More a game for interceptions and nicking the ball-Dave leading the way here- rather than big tackles. A couple of strong 50-50s from Smudge.
Mark’s Man: A game of two halves…an evenly matched good quality game before the break before crucial second half injuries to Taj and Baby and the introduction of two younger players ( and later a 72 year old! ) gave Canning a very clear edge! Roy in goal was the provider for our equaliser at 2-2 before an unusual Tamps collapse saw the goals against tally shoot up. (If only the almost ever present custodian had been fit………?)
Players’ Player: Good from everybody in the first half and until they were forced off by injuries from Taj and Baby. Strong throughout – even when we were getting battered Mike, The Squire and Podge- with the Squire edging it for determination, leadership and non stop running.
Moments and Quotes: ‘ I could see that going in.’ The Squire on Doyley’s “acrobatic” effort.
Mike’s miss- almost matching his aberration at Erith- free in front of goal took his eye off the ball. Scored a cracker to put us ahead (before the onslaught) though powering past the keeper at his near post. ( A bit of a dodgy celebration again.)
Graham, as our heroic Iron Man, swims, runs and cycles but he can’t fly- that overhead puts him forward as a strong contender for the Man Who Fell to Earth award.
A really enjoyable first half but still plenty to forget…including Roy’s ranting!
Avery Hill. The Quaggy. 28.04.19.
2-4 (Mike 2)
Team: Mark TK, Mitch, Chris, Baby, Smudge, Taj, John, The Squire, Tonksy, Steve D, Mike, Steve R, Roy, Tim.
Subbed: Roy, Steve R, Tim, Smudge, Mitch, Steve D, John (injured.)
In a Sentence: Winning the second half 2-1 was the least we deserved and was reward for a battling performance against a youthful Avery Hill team.
Goal of the Game: Baby played out to Smudge who passed out wide to Doyley who sent the ball down the line to Mike. Good control before beating the defender and deftly chipping the keeper. Class!!
OSCDT. (Top Passing): Sadly not Mark TK this week……. Best passing seen in the build up to our second goal: Taj and Tonksy combining on the right with the former cutting the ball back from the byline where Mike back heeled it in with a good contact: fancy footwork worthy of Michael Flatley. ( Doyley’s attempt to claim the goal was dismissed as fanciful by the official ruling body.)
Top Tackle: Through pass from AH- runner from deep, Baby read it sliding in and clearing the danger. ( Honourable mention for John who as usual won a lot of ball and was injured in one challenge.)
Players’ Player: Heroic stuff from Chris- not necessarily in the game – though he was pretty solid- but surviving a long evening at the Connaught Rooms and again being a great clubman by sweating out (some of) the booze on the dance floor. Roy had a fine game with an amazing drag back turn with full pirouette and apparently was there to score if Mike hadn’t greedily chipped the keeper- this selfish action counting against him in this category.
So this leaves Baby as the MOM : excellent distribution, fine defence and no threatened violence this week- though he needs to be off the free kicks now!!
Mark’s Man: A tough game where we competed well but were just outgunned by the pacy young side. Lots of positives all round with Mike getting the nod for leading the line and two goals despite Doyley looking to claim the second.
Moments and Quotes: “You lucky c**t!” Baby doesn’t think much of the rebound in the tackle that falls perfectly for the yellow booted forward.( He did shoot straight at Mark who got down well.)
“Good finish.” Smudge shows he’ll give praise where it’s due- even though he doesn’t mind upsetting people.
The Squire does the full 90: the comeback is complete.
“You know what you’re like when you haven’t got your heads on the game!” -expletives deleted. Tim is not impressed by a seeming pre-match lack of focus from too many of the team.
Steve R saves energy by standing still as Dessi speeds by.( We didn’t get close to him for his headed goal either!) It was perhaps a bit more secure on the right when Mitch was there.
Conceding 3 goals in quick succession after we’d weathered the initial storm and were playing the better football was annoying- though we only had ourselves to blame.
As Steve R put it – a mad 5 minutes- but great battling from all AND very good football, build up and control, team work and use of space against long ball and young player pace. Not bad with 5 players in their 60s!!!
2-4 (Mike 2)
Team: Mark TK, Mitch, Chris, Baby, Smudge, Taj, John, The Squire, Tonksy, Steve D, Mike, Steve R, Roy, Tim.
Subbed: Roy, Steve R, Tim, Smudge, Mitch, Steve D, John (injured.)
In a Sentence: Winning the second half 2-1 was the least we deserved and was reward for a battling performance against a youthful Avery Hill team.
Goal of the Game: Baby played out to Smudge who passed out wide to Doyley who sent the ball down the line to Mike. Good control before beating the defender and deftly chipping the keeper. Class!!
OSCDT. (Top Passing): Sadly not Mark TK this week……. Best passing seen in the build up to our second goal: Taj and Tonksy combining on the right with the former cutting the ball back from the byline where Mike back heeled it in with a good contact: fancy footwork worthy of Michael Flatley. ( Doyley’s attempt to claim the goal was dismissed as fanciful by the official ruling body.)
Top Tackle: Through pass from AH- runner from deep, Baby read it sliding in and clearing the danger. ( Honourable mention for John who as usual won a lot of ball and was injured in one challenge.)
Players’ Player: Heroic stuff from Chris- not necessarily in the game – though he was pretty solid- but surviving a long evening at the Connaught Rooms and again being a great clubman by sweating out (some of) the booze on the dance floor. Roy had a fine game with an amazing drag back turn with full pirouette and apparently was there to score if Mike hadn’t greedily chipped the keeper- this selfish action counting against him in this category.
So this leaves Baby as the MOM : excellent distribution, fine defence and no threatened violence this week- though he needs to be off the free kicks now!!
Mark’s Man: A tough game where we competed well but were just outgunned by the pacy young side. Lots of positives all round with Mike getting the nod for leading the line and two goals despite Doyley looking to claim the second.
Moments and Quotes: “You lucky c**t!” Baby doesn’t think much of the rebound in the tackle that falls perfectly for the yellow booted forward.( He did shoot straight at Mark who got down well.)
“Good finish.” Smudge shows he’ll give praise where it’s due- even though he doesn’t mind upsetting people.
The Squire does the full 90: the comeback is complete.
“You know what you’re like when you haven’t got your heads on the game!” -expletives deleted. Tim is not impressed by a seeming pre-match lack of focus from too many of the team.
Steve R saves energy by standing still as Dessi speeds by.( We didn’t get close to him for his headed goal either!) It was perhaps a bit more secure on the right when Mitch was there.
Conceding 3 goals in quick succession after we’d weathered the initial storm and were playing the better football was annoying- though we only had ourselves to blame.
As Steve R put it – a mad 5 minutes- but great battling from all AND very good football, build up and control, team work and use of space against long ball and young player pace. Not bad with 5 players in their 60s!!!
Santos. Changing Room Pitch ( with running track ). 21.04.19.
2-2. (Roy, Mike)
Team: Mark, Roy, Baby, Chris, Mitch, John, Tonksy, Smudge, Mick S, Graham, Mike, Steve D, Taj, Tim (Ref.)
Subbed: Taj, Doyley, Baby, Smudge ( injured), Mitch.
In a Sentence: As the great Jimmy Greaves once ( or twice) said : ‘It’s a funny old game’.
In a Word: Inconsistent.
Goal of the Game: Fine finish from Roy for the opener but the second is the pick: a quick counter attack with Baby bringing the ball forward feeding Graham down the left, ball driven across goal for Mike to run in and strike home. All looked good at 2-0…..hmmmmm.
OSCDT. (Top Passing): Lovely cross from Doyley to Mike at the far post. Booming goal kicks from Baby. But as he’s only an occasional player we have to give it to Graham for his two assists.
Top Tackle: Good reading of the game by Baby meant that he was intercepting rather than needing to make tackles. Tight marking from Chris meant he was nipping in to win the ball at close quarters.
Midfield was where we had to make a lot of challenges with good strength and commitment from all – and especially John, this week’s Top Tackler.
Players’ Player: Several good candidates: Taj coming back on despite his damaged foot , The Squire working tirelessly and leading the team with voice and by example, Baby – a tower of strength as usual, including during a forceful “ coming together” which could have led to “afters” but the team consensus is for John this week.
Mark’s Man/Men: A sweltering day and a challenging game- with the oppo given a little help by the home keeper. Some energy sapping performances with John just getting the nod ahead of Mike who led the line well.
Moments and Quotes: Not enough protection from the ref for Mike?
The oppo’s late equaliser- a misdirected cross from 40 yards out takes a wicked bounce to give Mark no chance . Hmmm. That’s according to President ( and Groundsman ) Graham who opined: ‘ No keeper could have got to that- absolutely no blame to the goalie.’
Mark made a fine subsequent save diving ‘ full length’ to keep out their centre forward’s fierce cross shot.
Graham and Baby both fail to make a challenge on the right winger late in the game.
What a finish by Roy- reading Graham’s corner and surging in to volley home. And late on- not reading that there was no space to dribble between two well positioned defenders and being dumped by a strong and fair tackle.
‘ Carabao Cup ball! Carabao cup ball!’
A badly defended free kick allows Santos back into the game after our blistering start.
Classic Tamps- some fine play but almost snatched defeat from the jaws of victory!!!
2-2. (Roy, Mike)
Team: Mark, Roy, Baby, Chris, Mitch, John, Tonksy, Smudge, Mick S, Graham, Mike, Steve D, Taj, Tim (Ref.)
Subbed: Taj, Doyley, Baby, Smudge ( injured), Mitch.
In a Sentence: As the great Jimmy Greaves once ( or twice) said : ‘It’s a funny old game’.
In a Word: Inconsistent.
Goal of the Game: Fine finish from Roy for the opener but the second is the pick: a quick counter attack with Baby bringing the ball forward feeding Graham down the left, ball driven across goal for Mike to run in and strike home. All looked good at 2-0…..hmmmmm.
OSCDT. (Top Passing): Lovely cross from Doyley to Mike at the far post. Booming goal kicks from Baby. But as he’s only an occasional player we have to give it to Graham for his two assists.
Top Tackle: Good reading of the game by Baby meant that he was intercepting rather than needing to make tackles. Tight marking from Chris meant he was nipping in to win the ball at close quarters.
Midfield was where we had to make a lot of challenges with good strength and commitment from all – and especially John, this week’s Top Tackler.
Players’ Player: Several good candidates: Taj coming back on despite his damaged foot , The Squire working tirelessly and leading the team with voice and by example, Baby – a tower of strength as usual, including during a forceful “ coming together” which could have led to “afters” but the team consensus is for John this week.
Mark’s Man/Men: A sweltering day and a challenging game- with the oppo given a little help by the home keeper. Some energy sapping performances with John just getting the nod ahead of Mike who led the line well.
Moments and Quotes: Not enough protection from the ref for Mike?
The oppo’s late equaliser- a misdirected cross from 40 yards out takes a wicked bounce to give Mark no chance . Hmmm. That’s according to President ( and Groundsman ) Graham who opined: ‘ No keeper could have got to that- absolutely no blame to the goalie.’
Mark made a fine subsequent save diving ‘ full length’ to keep out their centre forward’s fierce cross shot.
Graham and Baby both fail to make a challenge on the right winger late in the game.
What a finish by Roy- reading Graham’s corner and surging in to volley home. And late on- not reading that there was no space to dribble between two well positioned defenders and being dumped by a strong and fair tackle.
‘ Carabao Cup ball! Carabao cup ball!’
A badly defended free kick allows Santos back into the game after our blistering start.
Classic Tamps- some fine play but almost snatched defeat from the jaws of victory!!!
Ashburnham Arms. Tennis Court Pitch. 14.04.19.
Score: 2-2. (Doyley, Podge)
Team: Mark, Dave, Chris, Baby, Mitch, John, Tonksy, The Squire, Podge, Steve D, Mike, Smudge, Steve R, Roy, Tim.
Subbed: Roy (playing for Young Vets), Smudge, Steve R, Tim (Reffing first half ), Dave, Tonksy, The Squire (Reffing second half), Mitch, John, Chris.
In a Sentence: A good contest- with the Ash creating well- especially in the first half when Mark TK kept us in the game- with the draw a fair result; although a couple of mistakes led to their goals.
In a Word: Frustrating.
Goal of the Game: Two good ones and it would be unfair to choose!
The handsome birthday boy-Tonksy- playing right midfield- cut in from wide on the left and danced round several defenders in the area as if it was a training session before slipping a perfect ball through to Doyley whose dummied flick up ( it’s a congenital condition) wrong footed the keeper allowing him to confidently steer the ball in to the far corner.
Podge put us 2-1 up : Baby’s booming goal kick was instantly controlled by Mike before, on the turn, he played the ball through for Podge to run on to and slide past the keeper into the bottom corner. With his right foot too!
OSCDT: (Not top passing ) Smudger: for attempted drag back on the edge of our box- easily read by the oppo who drove on to score comfortably. Watching Inter Viagra player on the touch line, Kevin stared in disbelief and stated: ’ That’s surprising! I never thought I’d see that!’. (Hmmmmmm!)
Top Tackle : Tim’s ‘suicide tackle’ after one of Roy’s no look flick “passes” making it 70-30 in favour of the opposition; Tim put his injured leg in and after winning the ball got it studded- no free kick!
Players’ Player (Chosen by Steve D and Chris )
Chris: Mark- for excellent first half saves.
Steve D: Podge-for the second half and especially a fine goal.
Mark’s Man: A good competitive game with the draw a fair result. Plenty of effort and huff and puff but chances not taken. Podge gets the nod.
Moments and Quotes: ‘It was like Mitch was back working on the railways!’ Smudge comments on our Lino’s frequent flag waving.
Cat almost stopped play – and did on the adjacent pitch.
‘How did he do that?!!?!’ Smudge ‘admires’ Mike’s touch and vision ahead of his assist for our second.
A series of fine saves by Mark- coming out on the advancing striker and even better, changing direction and getting a strong hand to the ball after Baby deflected a powerful strike.
A late equaliser for the Ash as they break away after Roy lost the ball on the edge of their area and Baby, curbing his more normal killer instinct, sportingly refused to take out the eventual goal scorer as he cut in from the touch line.
A fine diving save by the Ash keeper when Mike ran through.
Podge does well- in front of a gaping goal – to hit the bar!
Roy…..he played on the left, he played on the right but most of the time his play was………..!!
‘Tonksy!!! You’re playing right midfield!!’
And even more important than Tonksy getting the drinks in : the Squire’s back – the heart beat of the Tamps and the most polite and charming hard man in Super Vets football.
Score: 2-2. (Doyley, Podge)
Team: Mark, Dave, Chris, Baby, Mitch, John, Tonksy, The Squire, Podge, Steve D, Mike, Smudge, Steve R, Roy, Tim.
Subbed: Roy (playing for Young Vets), Smudge, Steve R, Tim (Reffing first half ), Dave, Tonksy, The Squire (Reffing second half), Mitch, John, Chris.
In a Sentence: A good contest- with the Ash creating well- especially in the first half when Mark TK kept us in the game- with the draw a fair result; although a couple of mistakes led to their goals.
In a Word: Frustrating.
Goal of the Game: Two good ones and it would be unfair to choose!
The handsome birthday boy-Tonksy- playing right midfield- cut in from wide on the left and danced round several defenders in the area as if it was a training session before slipping a perfect ball through to Doyley whose dummied flick up ( it’s a congenital condition) wrong footed the keeper allowing him to confidently steer the ball in to the far corner.
Podge put us 2-1 up : Baby’s booming goal kick was instantly controlled by Mike before, on the turn, he played the ball through for Podge to run on to and slide past the keeper into the bottom corner. With his right foot too!
OSCDT: (Not top passing ) Smudger: for attempted drag back on the edge of our box- easily read by the oppo who drove on to score comfortably. Watching Inter Viagra player on the touch line, Kevin stared in disbelief and stated: ’ That’s surprising! I never thought I’d see that!’. (Hmmmmmm!)
Top Tackle : Tim’s ‘suicide tackle’ after one of Roy’s no look flick “passes” making it 70-30 in favour of the opposition; Tim put his injured leg in and after winning the ball got it studded- no free kick!
Players’ Player (Chosen by Steve D and Chris )
Chris: Mark- for excellent first half saves.
Steve D: Podge-for the second half and especially a fine goal.
Mark’s Man: A good competitive game with the draw a fair result. Plenty of effort and huff and puff but chances not taken. Podge gets the nod.
Moments and Quotes: ‘It was like Mitch was back working on the railways!’ Smudge comments on our Lino’s frequent flag waving.
Cat almost stopped play – and did on the adjacent pitch.
‘How did he do that?!!?!’ Smudge ‘admires’ Mike’s touch and vision ahead of his assist for our second.
A series of fine saves by Mark- coming out on the advancing striker and even better, changing direction and getting a strong hand to the ball after Baby deflected a powerful strike.
A late equaliser for the Ash as they break away after Roy lost the ball on the edge of their area and Baby, curbing his more normal killer instinct, sportingly refused to take out the eventual goal scorer as he cut in from the touch line.
A fine diving save by the Ash keeper when Mike ran through.
Podge does well- in front of a gaping goal – to hit the bar!
Roy…..he played on the left, he played on the right but most of the time his play was………..!!
‘Tonksy!!! You’re playing right midfield!!’
And even more important than Tonksy getting the drinks in : the Squire’s back – the heart beat of the Tamps and the most polite and charming hard man in Super Vets football.
Erith. Away - Queen Mary’s Sports Ground, Perry Street. 07.04.19.
3-1 (Steve D, Chris, Taj)
Team: Mark, Steve R, Dave, Baby, Smudge, Taj, John, Paul, Podge, Steve D, Mike, Scholesy, Chris, Tonksy, Tim (Lino- that’s linesman- not Leader in Name Only: that’s Mrs May.)
Subbed: All- except Baby and Mark.
In a Sentence: The score doesn’t do it justice!
In a Word: Slick! (……and in the new kit too!)
Goal of the Game: Chris. Short corner on the left, played back to Smudge who drove a perfectly flighted cross to the back post where Chris rolled back the years, timed his surge expertly , rose like a (Alex) salmon and buried it with his nut. ( I also don’t mind upsetting people. Mike.)
OSCDT (Top Passing): Mike’s ‘assist’ for Steve D’s opener. A deft touch onto his standing foot and back heeled straight into Doyley’s path. A good first touch and calm finish- the goal drought is broken. ( Plenty of good movement of the ball from all including through balls from Baby and Podge and lots from Paul to those ahead and overlapping outside him….and,……. oh yes, THAT cross from Smudge.)
Top Tackle: Could re-title this category -Top Testicles after very fine work by Chris deploying his nuts to break up a rare Erith attack. More conventionally two other fine defensive moments – firstly, a big coming together with Quick Mick- (and we controversially got the throw on the Ref’s decision ) and best of all, chasing back and sliding in to win the ball just when the young Erith forward looked set to test Mark TK.
Players’ Player: (chosen by Chris). Baby- mainly for his ‘non-tackle’, casually blocking that young – and fairly weighty- Erith forward out wide to ensure there was no late attack. Also some surging runs, including a threatening shot
from 30 yards and excellent cover and sweeping- always in control.
Mike’s Man: To be fair a good few to select from in a good team performance but for me Podge Senior was the man who made things tick and gave us attacking control in an explosive first half.
Moments and Quotes : ‘ That’s how to do a team talk’. Steve R finds another way to take the piss out of Smudge.
‘Out wide!’ Doyley instructing Dave and/or Paul who duly played it straight to Doyley who was in a great position but sub at the time.
Scholesy and Tonksy not quite getting their midfield positions right- both heading left and chasing the ball- including ahead of the Erith goal.(Podge may have had some involvement in this too….)
Dave, despite his concern there was no left midfield in the last quarter, had a good run forward and a great opportunity to shoot….didn’t quite take it.
Good ‘professional job after Erith got back to 2-1: a fine third goal to kill the game: worked down the right with John again beating the full back and cutting it back from the byline for brother Taj to take his time and finish authoritatively. Just where your right back should be!!! Some great covering back from Paul after this AND we kept the ball sensibly so there’d be no late scares- well played all.
A quiet game for Mark TK- no chance with the goal and dealt with everything else comfortably…….apart from a bit of a fumble and desperate chase along the goal line before conceding the corner.
‘Great ball, Paul!’ Doyley acknowledges Paul’s fine cross – but makes no attempt to head it.
And Mike must score….’I reluctantly accept the miss of the season gents!’ Paul’s chip from distance comes back off the bar, Mike’s in the right spot, first touch is fine – but, oh my word! He’s steered it wide – even without the keeper to beat; might have been 3 yards out.
Anyway, no worries he’s still on course for a 30 goal season and it brought much mirth to add to an excellent team performance!
3-1 (Steve D, Chris, Taj)
Team: Mark, Steve R, Dave, Baby, Smudge, Taj, John, Paul, Podge, Steve D, Mike, Scholesy, Chris, Tonksy, Tim (Lino- that’s linesman- not Leader in Name Only: that’s Mrs May.)
Subbed: All- except Baby and Mark.
In a Sentence: The score doesn’t do it justice!
In a Word: Slick! (……and in the new kit too!)
Goal of the Game: Chris. Short corner on the left, played back to Smudge who drove a perfectly flighted cross to the back post where Chris rolled back the years, timed his surge expertly , rose like a (Alex) salmon and buried it with his nut. ( I also don’t mind upsetting people. Mike.)
OSCDT (Top Passing): Mike’s ‘assist’ for Steve D’s opener. A deft touch onto his standing foot and back heeled straight into Doyley’s path. A good first touch and calm finish- the goal drought is broken. ( Plenty of good movement of the ball from all including through balls from Baby and Podge and lots from Paul to those ahead and overlapping outside him….and,……. oh yes, THAT cross from Smudge.)
Top Tackle: Could re-title this category -Top Testicles after very fine work by Chris deploying his nuts to break up a rare Erith attack. More conventionally two other fine defensive moments – firstly, a big coming together with Quick Mick- (and we controversially got the throw on the Ref’s decision ) and best of all, chasing back and sliding in to win the ball just when the young Erith forward looked set to test Mark TK.
Players’ Player: (chosen by Chris). Baby- mainly for his ‘non-tackle’, casually blocking that young – and fairly weighty- Erith forward out wide to ensure there was no late attack. Also some surging runs, including a threatening shot
from 30 yards and excellent cover and sweeping- always in control.
Mike’s Man: To be fair a good few to select from in a good team performance but for me Podge Senior was the man who made things tick and gave us attacking control in an explosive first half.
Moments and Quotes : ‘ That’s how to do a team talk’. Steve R finds another way to take the piss out of Smudge.
‘Out wide!’ Doyley instructing Dave and/or Paul who duly played it straight to Doyley who was in a great position but sub at the time.
Scholesy and Tonksy not quite getting their midfield positions right- both heading left and chasing the ball- including ahead of the Erith goal.(Podge may have had some involvement in this too….)
Dave, despite his concern there was no left midfield in the last quarter, had a good run forward and a great opportunity to shoot….didn’t quite take it.
Good ‘professional job after Erith got back to 2-1: a fine third goal to kill the game: worked down the right with John again beating the full back and cutting it back from the byline for brother Taj to take his time and finish authoritatively. Just where your right back should be!!! Some great covering back from Paul after this AND we kept the ball sensibly so there’d be no late scares- well played all.
A quiet game for Mark TK- no chance with the goal and dealt with everything else comfortably…….apart from a bit of a fumble and desperate chase along the goal line before conceding the corner.
‘Great ball, Paul!’ Doyley acknowledges Paul’s fine cross – but makes no attempt to head it.
And Mike must score….’I reluctantly accept the miss of the season gents!’ Paul’s chip from distance comes back off the bar, Mike’s in the right spot, first touch is fine – but, oh my word! He’s steered it wide – even without the keeper to beat; might have been 3 yards out.
Anyway, no worries he’s still on course for a 30 goal season and it brought much mirth to add to an excellent team performance!
31/3/2019 Oppo: Inter Vyagra Score: 5-2
Scorers: Mike(4), Tonksy
Team: MTK - TAJ, CHRIS, GG, SR - SCHOLESY, JOHN, SMUDGER, TONKSY, SD - MIKE
Sub/Ref: ROYMOND 1st half / MTK 2nd half
MTK's MOM: Mike for 4 goals, again all his goals in the first half (fitness as problem?)
Players MOM: (GG) SMUDGER, kept things ticking over in midfield and a couple of real passing gem's for the first two goals.
In a word: Comftable - In sentence: Another great 1st half, so so 2nd
Goal of the game: Our first, SMUDGER plays and inch perfect ball to Scholesy, he beats the full back and chips an inviting ball to the far stick, Mike on the move powers the ball into the net - 2nd wasn't bad either involving the same three players.
We played some really good stuff in the first half, the ball being moved around at pace(!) and people making the right decisions. As is usual we gave away a couple of sloppy goals and went in at half time 4-2 to the good, it could and should have been more. At half time MTK took over from Roy as ref (he was not feeling too well) and Chris went in goal.
We never really got going in the 2nd half and only had a Tonksy goal to show for a reasonably dominant display, IV huffed and puffed but never really troubled Chris, who didn't have a shot to save. Another win but worrying that again we seemed to switch off in the 2nd half.
Comments: No wonder I have only one goal this season! - Scholesy as yet again he doesn't get a pass from his teamates.
Clear your lines - Tonksy as he fires a shot 20 yards over the bar (hence the surprise when he bagged one in the 2nd half)
That's better, we kept the ball for a good 5 minutes and nearly scored - Oppo's centre back reality: They had the ball for maybe 20 secs and then shot nearly as high and wide as Tonksy
Summary: Two good stints as ref from Roymand and MTK, a second 2nd half clean sheet for Chris and decent beer in the bar.
Scorers: Mike(4), Tonksy
Team: MTK - TAJ, CHRIS, GG, SR - SCHOLESY, JOHN, SMUDGER, TONKSY, SD - MIKE
Sub/Ref: ROYMOND 1st half / MTK 2nd half
MTK's MOM: Mike for 4 goals, again all his goals in the first half (fitness as problem?)
Players MOM: (GG) SMUDGER, kept things ticking over in midfield and a couple of real passing gem's for the first two goals.
In a word: Comftable - In sentence: Another great 1st half, so so 2nd
Goal of the game: Our first, SMUDGER plays and inch perfect ball to Scholesy, he beats the full back and chips an inviting ball to the far stick, Mike on the move powers the ball into the net - 2nd wasn't bad either involving the same three players.
We played some really good stuff in the first half, the ball being moved around at pace(!) and people making the right decisions. As is usual we gave away a couple of sloppy goals and went in at half time 4-2 to the good, it could and should have been more. At half time MTK took over from Roy as ref (he was not feeling too well) and Chris went in goal.
We never really got going in the 2nd half and only had a Tonksy goal to show for a reasonably dominant display, IV huffed and puffed but never really troubled Chris, who didn't have a shot to save. Another win but worrying that again we seemed to switch off in the 2nd half.
Comments: No wonder I have only one goal this season! - Scholesy as yet again he doesn't get a pass from his teamates.
Clear your lines - Tonksy as he fires a shot 20 yards over the bar (hence the surprise when he bagged one in the 2nd half)
That's better, we kept the ball for a good 5 minutes and nearly scored - Oppo's centre back reality: They had the ball for maybe 20 secs and then shot nearly as high and wide as Tonksy
Summary: Two good stints as ref from Roymand and MTK, a second 2nd half clean sheet for Chris and decent beer in the bar.
24th March 2019 Oppo: Crofton Albion
Score: 3-2 Scorers: Mike, Paul, SR
Team: MTK - TAJ CHRIS PODGE JR - ROY PAUL SCHOLESY SMUDGER SD - MIKE
In a word: DESERVED
In a sentence: Excellent first half, so so second!
M0M: Lots of good performances, no standout ones.
Goal of the game: Mike's - Well flighted corner from Scholesy, headed back across goal by SD and finished with an overhead kick from Mike.
Mention to for SR's goal, having won the ball just inside his on half SR surged forward (ED: really??) and then running out of idea's carried out the cries of ''have a swing at it'' and ''lash it'' dutifully swung his left boot at it, it flashed into the back of the net via the post, we were all surprised, none more than SR himself.
Highlight of game: As we are called in for the teamtalk someone notices that we only have 10 players a quick scan reveals that it is Scholesy that is missing, we know he is here but no one has seen him for ages,suddenly a figure can be seen trotting over from the changing rooms, it's Scholesy, he had gone for a pre match bowel movement only to find he had been locked in.(Smudger had specifically said ''only lock him in if we have 12'')
Another of Smudger's teamtalks: At half time ''If we score the next goal they collapse completely (we lead 3-0), but if they get it then it's gonna be a hard second half'' Never were more truer words spoken.
Misses of the match: Shared between Mike and Scholesy - both managed to blast over from within the 6 yards box with the score at 3-0 early in the 2nd half - both balls are still travelling!
Score: 3-2 Scorers: Mike, Paul, SR
Team: MTK - TAJ CHRIS PODGE JR - ROY PAUL SCHOLESY SMUDGER SD - MIKE
In a word: DESERVED
In a sentence: Excellent first half, so so second!
M0M: Lots of good performances, no standout ones.
Goal of the game: Mike's - Well flighted corner from Scholesy, headed back across goal by SD and finished with an overhead kick from Mike.
Mention to for SR's goal, having won the ball just inside his on half SR surged forward (ED: really??) and then running out of idea's carried out the cries of ''have a swing at it'' and ''lash it'' dutifully swung his left boot at it, it flashed into the back of the net via the post, we were all surprised, none more than SR himself.
Highlight of game: As we are called in for the teamtalk someone notices that we only have 10 players a quick scan reveals that it is Scholesy that is missing, we know he is here but no one has seen him for ages,suddenly a figure can be seen trotting over from the changing rooms, it's Scholesy, he had gone for a pre match bowel movement only to find he had been locked in.(Smudger had specifically said ''only lock him in if we have 12'')
Another of Smudger's teamtalks: At half time ''If we score the next goal they collapse completely (we lead 3-0), but if they get it then it's gonna be a hard second half'' Never were more truer words spoken.
Misses of the match: Shared between Mike and Scholesy - both managed to blast over from within the 6 yards box with the score at 3-0 early in the 2nd half - both balls are still travelling!
17 March 2019 Oppo: WELLCOME (Youth)
Score: 4-6
Scorers: Mike, Yen, Scarey(guest), OG
In a work: Duped
In a sentence: They are a vets outfit and a very young one at that!
MOM: MTK (Chosen by Roy the manager)
Not much to say really. The guest players from Toby did not meet with the approval of most of our side and will not be asked back.
We have to make a decision as to whether we continue with the fixture.
Graham had a very decent match as the ref to edit.
Score: 4-6
Scorers: Mike, Yen, Scarey(guest), OG
In a work: Duped
In a sentence: They are a vets outfit and a very young one at that!
MOM: MTK (Chosen by Roy the manager)
Not much to say really. The guest players from Toby did not meet with the approval of most of our side and will not be asked back.
We have to make a decision as to whether we continue with the fixture.
Graham had a very decent match as the ref to edit.
SANCO. Away: King’s Ground Dulwich Village . 24.02.2019.
Score: 3-3. Paul, John, Mike ( eventually!)
Team: Mark TK, Taj, Chris, Steve R, Graham, Roy, Smudge, John, Paul, Steve D, Mike. Tonksy- photographs. Tim – Lino.
In a Sentence: A very strong and satisfying team performance with every player ensuring that we were both competitive and determined and worthy of a very good draw.
In a Word: Solid!! (Just look at those photos: the camera doesn’t lie!!!)
Goal of the Game: My free kick – or my pass for John’s goal or my pass for Mike’s goal. Paul gives a matter of fact account of his telling contributions. (Didn’t Doyley play Mike in?)
Anyway Paul’s strike was reminiscent of Mickey Thomas’ free kick against Arsenal except Paul’s was further out and hit with his right foot. ( Mickey had to beat a proper keeper though!! Also: hope you win your battle MT.)
OSCDT (Top Passing): Would be Smudge’s ball setting Paul free but their Lino put his flag up yet again. So…Paul’s neat turn and perfectly weighted pass putting John through is the standout.( Excellent finish too- who said that was surprising?!!)
Top Tackle: Roy created a couple of situations where he lost the ball but won it back again with a strong challenge. Chris had a several good toe-ins to nick the ball.
Mark’s Man: A superb comeback from 3-1 down to be in the ascendancy in the last 10 minutes to get the draw and even threaten a winner. Everyone pulled their weight ( poundage well captured by Tonksy’s camera )- so the Team performance gets the Keeper’s nod.
Players’ Player: Excellent work by everyone – with special mentions for: Chris – put in a great shift including dealing with their young striker,especially when he came back on in the second half; Paul- busy all over the pitch and hacked down a few times but only responded late on. John- covered a huge amount of ground and got forward well to support Mike and took his goal calmly.
However, we’ve clearly found his best position where he does his best work for the team so Tonksy is this week’s winner.
Moments and Quotes: ‘He shouldn’t call me dickhead!’ Roy explains why he was angry. Doesn’t really explain why the keeper was so upset though.
Smudge describes the circumstances of his ‘diving header’. “Chrissy had called for everyone to come out – Taj and Steve R didn’t - so I went diving forward to head the ball just like Peter Osgood in the 1970 F.A. cup Final replay.’
‘Just f***ing’ finish!’ Smudge’s advice to Mike who did indeed put away the equaliser eventually!!
Taj goes for the coveted Fall to Earth Award emphasising style and delay with a pirouetting dying swan routine that so flummoxed the defender that he didn’t even play the ball enabling Taj to still retain possession. Taj also wins the best photo award with a bit of an ‘eye popper’. Second place to Paul’s attempted midair volley.
A feast of football and a strange crime: Steve R’s kit bag goes missing from the bar;…we know it looks like jumble but…..
A very good team performance and great that Mike could slot the equaliser after tantalising the keeper and defenders: a goal that mattered a great deal to the team and to Mike personally.
Well done Mike, well played al
17-02-19 Oppo: Ashburnham 5-2 Mike(3), Paul, SD
TEAM: MTK - TAJ DAVE DILSY ROY - CHARLIE PODGE sr JOHN SD - MIKE PAUL Subs: SR , DI CHRIS, SMUDGER
IN A WORD: PHEW! IN A SENTENCE: A much needed win. Finally after a run of 6 matches without a win we get one, 4-0 at h/t really killed the game as a contest. The first 15 mins were rubbish, we were moving the ball far too slowly and making poor decisions, after the first goal, a chip from Paul into the far corner, we settled, Mike then proceeded to add 3 more to his tally with three well taken goals, two of which were one on one's where he rounded Big Bazz the oppo's keeper (a feat in itself, not known as Big Bazz for nothing!), half way through the first half SR and DI Chris entered the fray, the highlight of this was the impact SR had on proceedings, aiming his first four passes straight to the oppo certainly got them back into the game and MTK made two saves to keep the visitors at bay.
The second half was pretty much the same as the first, we had lots of ball, made clear cut chances but made poor decisions, Paul thought he had made it 5-0 with a shot that seemed to come off the stanchen inside the goal but was deemed to have hit the bar, it became 5-0 with a well taken goal by SD, rounding off a good move with a precise finish. A brilliant move involving Taj and John was spoilt by a poor finish from the older brother. The Tamps switched off for the final 10 mins and conceded two comedy goals, one involving DI Chris,the other MTK. But a much needed win before our trip to the delights of Dulwich to face SANCO.
Quotes: Roymond to whoever was listening: ''If you have 50/50 with Big Bazz in goal just let him have it, he can be a bit rash with his challenges! Paul answering the above: Roy that is absolute bollocks ''Not across you own penalty box'' numerous people after yet another of SR's passes to the oppo Another SMUDGE masterly team talk: ''myself, Steve and Chris will be on the bench, the rest of you sort yourselves out''
10/02/19 Oppo: Crofton 1-4 Taj
In a word: Embarrasing
In a sentence: If you don't take your chances this is what happens!
Marks MOM: John - Tireless in midfield (if only he could finish)
Players MOM (chosen by Smudger) John for the reason above.
We were certain the game would be off and to be honest when we saw
the state of the pitch it should have been. That is not an excuse as
it was the same for both sides. A first half when the Tamps had probably
75pct of the ball and probably 6-8 chances compared to Croftons 25 pcnt and nil
it was a surprise that it was 0-0 at h/t. The second half was very much the same
as the first, lots of ball but no cutting edge. Crofton had 4 chances and
accumulated 4 goals, Tamps had as many but managed only 1, the game could
have been different if two glaring errors by the ref (Glen) had not in
case one, given an offside when his linesman was insisting the Tamps player
was clearly onside, and when Charlie was tripped in the box but because
he didn't go down a penalty was not given, the scores were 0-0 and 1-1
respectively when these incidents happened. But as it says above if you
don't take your chances this is what happens.
Quotes: Graham ''Hold it Doyley, Hold it Doyley Hold it.......F..cking hell''
as Doyley flicks yet another ball onto no one in particular.
Baby and Paul ''What are you doing'' aimed again at Doyley as he somehow
breaks up a promising Tamps attack which leads to Crofton's all important
second goal.
Smudger to Graham ''You need to tell him what you want him to do'' after the
first Doyley moment.
Glen to the whole Tamps team ''I know it was a foul but he didn't go down'' after
the Charlie incident.
Summary: A game to forget, and bragging rights to the Crofton chaps in the
club bar.
Catford Wanderers Away. 03.02.19
2-2. (Mike, Steve D.)
Team: Mark, Taj, Chris, Steve R, Smudge, John, Charlie, Tonksy, Graham, Doyley, Mike, Scholesy. Tim- Lino.
Subbed: Tonksy- cut short by injury but what a cameo!!! He was dictating the pace! He did a brilliant one – two! Scholesy.
In a Sentence: strong work by all in an enjoyable, competitive game- a fair result.
In a Word: Gritty. (As opposed to the more normal ‘bitty’.)
Goal of the Game: Taj cuts inside and lays the ball out to John who
passes a player and squares to Doyley. Two touch football and Doyley hits the post with the ball coming out to Mike for an easy left foot finish.
OSCDT ( Top Passing ): Some good short passing keeping possession but nothing too special- the pick Scholesy’s well placed ball down the line in the buildup to the first goal.
Top Tackle: Some fine headers to block shots : Steve R,Chris, Scholesy. Strong tackle by John chasing back but the best was Scholesy stretching at at the back post to block and cut off their number 10.
Players’ Player: The whole defence was superb dealing with a lot of pressure but top marks go to-Taj.
Mark’s Man: I’ve had enough of writing about those fancy Dan’s in the middle of the park, those wastrels up front and those supposed rocks who are either playing oppo forward’s onside or failing to make the crucial but easy tackle.And those who just talk a good game- yes, that’s you Smudger!!! This week I’m putting modesty aside: yet again without my crucial saves we’d have been buried! Kept us in the game with a string of quality saves and blocks. Mark TK’s the man!!
Moments and Quotes: ‘Oh, Fuck’s Sake!’ Graham- not the happiest of bunnies today- falls to earth.
Doyley has an interesting practice overhead by the left touchline.
‘The thing is – what did he think would happen even if he had connected with it properly!??’ Steve R voices what everybody else had been thinking.
John bursting through finds that their most effective defender is Doyley who heads neither right or left but just gets in the way.
Taj had a great chance to win it late on……normally the net would bulge.
Some good football played- Mike hit the bar.
‘Is that all you’ve got?’ Tonksy to Steve R about his Aston Martin Vantage.
‘I don’t think I can change my decision.’ The Ref just before changing his mind about giving what would have been a very harsh penalty for handball against Steve R. Who said Tim didn’t have diplomatic negotiating skills?
Well done team! Battled back and Doyley ( eventually) got the ball in the net with an ‘extravagant’ overhead.
Wellcome. Beckenham Cricket Club. 27.01.19.
5-5. (Mike (3),Doyley, Paul.)
Team: Mark, Louis, Chris, Dillsy, Tim, Gary, Paul, Smudge, Yen, Doyley, Mike, Baby, Tonksy, Roy.
Subbed: Baby, Tim, Tonksy, Roy, Smudge, Gary.
In a Sentence: An outstanding first half performance and strongly committed and focused (apart from SD?!!?) throughout, this giving us the resilience to fight back for the draw in the last minutes.
In a Word: Satisfying!
Goal of the Game: Majority. – rather than the goal scorer – selected the second goal: 4 pass move out from the back, taken on by Yen who flighted the ball in for Mike to run in unchallenged and guide the header into the far corner. (Mike preferred his hat trick goal- cross from Doyley,Mike chested it down and drilled it into the corner giving the keeper no chance.)
OSCDT.(Top Passing). Very good use of the ball by everyone in the first half. Yen”s cross for Mike’s second was perfectly executed. Baby hit some fine free kicks. Steve D got very excited about knocking one ball into the box that actually reached Mike. Nice play down the right between Louis and Gary. Paul, as usual, brought others into the game well. Baby’s free kicks are the pick.
Top Tackle: Fantastic commitment from Chris, getting his head firmly onto his opponent’s boot.
Mark’s Man/ Men: Great entertainment and a feast of football – not a game for the faint hearted. A Mike hat trick gets the honours this week although there’s an honourable mention for Doyley’s back.
Players’ Player: Baby has to be close after a very fine and close to fault less performance- strong defence and good use of the ball BUT he arrived well after kick off. Dillsy also had a strong game but also provided the comedy moment running back without keeping an eye on the ball which duly landed on his head before bouncing out of play.So Mike it is – 3 very well taken goals, all other attempts on target and really strong pressure making it difficult for their defenders to play the ball out from the back.
Moments and Quotes: Doyley shows Scholesy how it’s done- going well out of his way to throw himself onto the defender’s leg and ‘earn’ a crucial free kick.
Tonksy arrives late- apparently having gone to the Club.Hmm…given a mixed performance-3-1 up until he came on he’d probably been up late(10.30 p.m.) celebrating Millwall’s giant killing.
Great own goal from Doyley : lined up to head the ball away turned his back to the perfect angle to deflect it into his own net.
Smudger feels his ham string, moments after he’s failed to break up a goal scoring attack.
The Other Goals : First: Cross in from Gary with Mike steering in the misdirected clearance. Fourth: From a dubious free kick Baby knocked it to the back stick where Doyley made amends for his earlier mishap, bravely heading home. Fifth: Another free kick from Baby after Mike had been hacked down, their keeper only parrying the ball over his head so Paul, following in had a simple finish.
Very satisfying to come back to draw and upset several of their youngsters- not Vets let alone Super Vets. Very well done all and a BIG thank you to our guests who played so well- as supposed club stalwarts enjoyed Spain, Barbados, and the end of the tax year.
5-5. (Mike (3),Doyley, Paul.)
Team: Mark, Louis, Chris, Dillsy, Tim, Gary, Paul, Smudge, Yen, Doyley, Mike, Baby, Tonksy, Roy.
Subbed: Baby, Tim, Tonksy, Roy, Smudge, Gary.
In a Sentence: An outstanding first half performance and strongly committed and focused (apart from SD?!!?) throughout, this giving us the resilience to fight back for the draw in the last minutes.
In a Word: Satisfying!
Goal of the Game: Majority. – rather than the goal scorer – selected the second goal: 4 pass move out from the back, taken on by Yen who flighted the ball in for Mike to run in unchallenged and guide the header into the far corner. (Mike preferred his hat trick goal- cross from Doyley,Mike chested it down and drilled it into the corner giving the keeper no chance.)
OSCDT.(Top Passing). Very good use of the ball by everyone in the first half. Yen”s cross for Mike’s second was perfectly executed. Baby hit some fine free kicks. Steve D got very excited about knocking one ball into the box that actually reached Mike. Nice play down the right between Louis and Gary. Paul, as usual, brought others into the game well. Baby’s free kicks are the pick.
Top Tackle: Fantastic commitment from Chris, getting his head firmly onto his opponent’s boot.
Mark’s Man/ Men: Great entertainment and a feast of football – not a game for the faint hearted. A Mike hat trick gets the honours this week although there’s an honourable mention for Doyley’s back.
Players’ Player: Baby has to be close after a very fine and close to fault less performance- strong defence and good use of the ball BUT he arrived well after kick off. Dillsy also had a strong game but also provided the comedy moment running back without keeping an eye on the ball which duly landed on his head before bouncing out of play.So Mike it is – 3 very well taken goals, all other attempts on target and really strong pressure making it difficult for their defenders to play the ball out from the back.
Moments and Quotes: Doyley shows Scholesy how it’s done- going well out of his way to throw himself onto the defender’s leg and ‘earn’ a crucial free kick.
Tonksy arrives late- apparently having gone to the Club.Hmm…given a mixed performance-3-1 up until he came on he’d probably been up late(10.30 p.m.) celebrating Millwall’s giant killing.
Great own goal from Doyley : lined up to head the ball away turned his back to the perfect angle to deflect it into his own net.
Smudger feels his ham string, moments after he’s failed to break up a goal scoring attack.
The Other Goals : First: Cross in from Gary with Mike steering in the misdirected clearance. Fourth: From a dubious free kick Baby knocked it to the back stick where Doyley made amends for his earlier mishap, bravely heading home. Fifth: Another free kick from Baby after Mike had been hacked down, their keeper only parrying the ball over his head so Paul, following in had a simple finish.
Very satisfying to come back to draw and upset several of their youngsters- not Vets let alone Super Vets. Very well done all and a BIG thank you to our guests who played so well- as supposed club stalwarts enjoyed Spain, Barbados, and the end of the tax year.
Charter Diamond. 13.01.19. Hall Place
2 - 4 (Mike, Paul (pen)
Team: Mark, Dave T, Chris, Baby, Steve R, Roy, Podge, Tonksy,
Graham, Doyley, Mike, Paul, Tim (Lino.)
Smudger was missing - hamstring
Complete team lethargy – hamstrung
Even the second half was not won.
Points of Vague interest.
4-0 down very quickly and the keeper had no chance with any of them. Roy perhaps could have done a little bit more defensively in the first half.
Doyley must score! Oh no- a point blank miss.Another contender for an end of season award.
Good opening goal from Mike: good team play down the left, shortball across the box from Roy to Mike who used the defenders to shield a curled shot into the far corner.
Well taken penalty from Paul ( a dubious hand ball) sending the far
too flash keeper the wrong way.
Perhaps the only positive: Great to see the Squire back at the football pitch AND talking about playing soon.
Those who chose to miss this one- you did well!!
Old Tamponians Match Reports. 2018-19.
Club Game. Young Vets. Tennis Court Pitch. 06.01.19
2-7 (Old Vets: 2, Young Vets3, Grant 4.). (John, Jack.)
Team: Mark, Taj, Chris, Baby, Smudge, John, Steve L, Podge, Charlie, Mike, Scholesy, Roy, Tim, Jack.
Subbed: Roy, Tim, Jack, Charlie, Mike, SteveL, Scholesy, Smudge (injured.)
In a Sentence: The score doesn’t reflect the game and how much good football we contributed- without Grant this would have been a properly competitive contest.
In a Word: Galling.
Goal of the Game: On the basis that most people missed it the Ghost Goal is the pick. Played in by Mike the best we can say is that their keeper expected Jack to do more. Players turned away, some shouting about a foul in the build up. A drop and a fumble and Jack apologetically passed the ball into the unprotected goal.
OSCDT: Baby set up our (slightly) better goal hitting a long diagonal ball to the far post slipping and swearing as he did so. Despite- or perhaps because of- this the pass was well struck. John looked as if he’d have lot to do but a defensive mix up allowed him to gather the loose ball and steer it into the unguarded net.
Overall we played some neat football using the ball well, playing out from the back . But for an exceptional last moment piece of defending the pass of the game would have found its target: Smudge seeing Taj at the far side of their box and driving with precision to the back post.Only a Smudge can do that!
TopTackle: Charlie calmly taking the ball from Grant just inside the box: ‘What no one understands is you just need to stand still! 24 step overs later and Grant hasn’t moved. There’s the ball – just keep your eye on it. Away you go! Mooresque!
Man of the Match-chosen by Steve L.: Chris- despite having a nasty virus he was a man mountain in defence plus he is quite rotund. (Perhaps Steve didn’t notice the other class players at the back:Baby ( the oppo Captain’s choice.) and Smudge both had excellent games with the latter in particular initiating and sustaining a lot of our best moves, showing great touch. Class!
Mark’s Man: A pat on the back to our outfield team who competed well in a dogged performance. Lots of positives with my vote going to Mike up front for his closing down and leading the line.
Moments and Quotes: ‘What fucking game was he watching?!!! He needs to go to SpecSavers!’ Mark’s MOM choice is a little contentious.
‘ Smashed him in every sense! Get on the weights!’ Podge in combative mode.
Roy’s no look pass bewilders even more than his mazy dribbles.
The moment of the game Steve L’s shoulder drop and turn.Wow!
Treacherous underfoot: ask Charlie and Steve L. She fell over!
Despite his injury concerns Scholesy had an excellent game and was brutally fouled.
‘ Shut it! Shut it!’ Aggro knows best-as ever.
Taj shows he always gives 100% : a no holds barred challenge on another Chelsea fan.
Secret Santa! Fine gifts from and for all- with Jihadi Taj’s pick ensuring that Baby’s excellent choice goes to the most appropriate recipient. However: ‘Jamie Oliver is a cunt- a complete cunt!’
Club Game. Young Vets. Tennis Court Pitch. 06.01.19
2-7 (Old Vets: 2, Young Vets3, Grant 4.). (John, Jack.)
Team: Mark, Taj, Chris, Baby, Smudge, John, Steve L, Podge, Charlie, Mike, Scholesy, Roy, Tim, Jack.
Subbed: Roy, Tim, Jack, Charlie, Mike, SteveL, Scholesy, Smudge (injured.)
In a Sentence: The score doesn’t reflect the game and how much good football we contributed- without Grant this would have been a properly competitive contest.
In a Word: Galling.
Goal of the Game: On the basis that most people missed it the Ghost Goal is the pick. Played in by Mike the best we can say is that their keeper expected Jack to do more. Players turned away, some shouting about a foul in the build up. A drop and a fumble and Jack apologetically passed the ball into the unprotected goal.
OSCDT: Baby set up our (slightly) better goal hitting a long diagonal ball to the far post slipping and swearing as he did so. Despite- or perhaps because of- this the pass was well struck. John looked as if he’d have lot to do but a defensive mix up allowed him to gather the loose ball and steer it into the unguarded net.
Overall we played some neat football using the ball well, playing out from the back . But for an exceptional last moment piece of defending the pass of the game would have found its target: Smudge seeing Taj at the far side of their box and driving with precision to the back post.Only a Smudge can do that!
TopTackle: Charlie calmly taking the ball from Grant just inside the box: ‘What no one understands is you just need to stand still! 24 step overs later and Grant hasn’t moved. There’s the ball – just keep your eye on it. Away you go! Mooresque!
Man of the Match-chosen by Steve L.: Chris- despite having a nasty virus he was a man mountain in defence plus he is quite rotund. (Perhaps Steve didn’t notice the other class players at the back:Baby ( the oppo Captain’s choice.) and Smudge both had excellent games with the latter in particular initiating and sustaining a lot of our best moves, showing great touch. Class!
Mark’s Man: A pat on the back to our outfield team who competed well in a dogged performance. Lots of positives with my vote going to Mike up front for his closing down and leading the line.
Moments and Quotes: ‘What fucking game was he watching?!!! He needs to go to SpecSavers!’ Mark’s MOM choice is a little contentious.
‘ Smashed him in every sense! Get on the weights!’ Podge in combative mode.
Roy’s no look pass bewilders even more than his mazy dribbles.
The moment of the game Steve L’s shoulder drop and turn.Wow!
Treacherous underfoot: ask Charlie and Steve L. She fell over!
Despite his injury concerns Scholesy had an excellent game and was brutally fouled.
‘ Shut it! Shut it!’ Aggro knows best-as ever.
Taj shows he always gives 100% : a no holds barred challenge on another Chelsea fan.
Secret Santa! Fine gifts from and for all- with Jihadi Taj’s pick ensuring that Baby’s excellent choice goes to the most appropriate recipient. However: ‘Jamie Oliver is a cunt- a complete cunt!’
Old Tamponians Match Reports 2018-19
Catford Wanderers. The Quaggy. 23.12.18.
3-1. (Paul (2), Dillsy)
Team: Mark, Mitch, Dave T, Steve R, Dillsy, John, Taj, Tonksy, Smudge, Paul, Mike, Chris, Graham, Tim.
Subbed: Everybody- except Mark and Steve R.
In a Sentence: A good competitive game with the Catford keeper making a series of top class saves before we pulled away late on.
In Word: Enjoyable.
Goal of the Game: Taj passed it through the middle and their younger centre half tried to obstruct rather than play the ball. Paul was strong enough to withstand the push, run through and drive it low and hard into the gap at the near post.Top finish!
OSCDT: Paul’s perfectly judged chip over the defence for Dillsy to surge through from the left and finish with a firm shot across the keeper. Back in the game!
Top Tackle: Several contenders: Dave T as well as frequently nipping in from behind to nick the ball made a crucial last man tackle when we were out numbered at the back. Dillsy also gets a mention- following a a series of fouls on the same opponent finally got in a well timed slide to fairly win the ball .
However, to cover up the calamity mentioned elsewhere Graham wins this week for a very fine chase and challenge.
Players’ Player: Although we were behind for longer than we should have been there were good performances across the pitch. Steve R although quieter than was desirable early on, organised the defence well and kept everyone going. Dillsy, after a below par performance the previous week and apparently a personal vendetta against their right sided midfielder, contributed strongly in defence and attack, scoring well. Taj played really well in centre midfield giving us discipline and control that we eventually turned into goals. However, with two goals – either of which could have been goal of the game – and a fine assist and excellent passes throughout the game Paul secures the accolade.
Mark’s Man: A competitive game of football, with a touchline fracas, the woodwork struck on several occasions and good performances from everybody Mobile Dave picks up the pre-Christmas spoils.
Moments and Quotes: What a finish! Ball in from the right-Smudge leaves it to Mark who stays on his line and shouts ‘Away!’ leaving Graham to sprint in from the left to power a fantastic first time effort into the roof of our net! Quality! ( The Ref had words with the Keeper though! Sorry, Mark!)
Despite being injured Roy supports the team and runs the line: sadly his reasoned arguments with opposition substitutes and supporters required the game to stop for some minutes whilst calm was eventually restored.
Having ignored one incident where a miskick struck the player’s arm Tim pointed to the spot when another Catford defender moved hand to ball.Chris’s spot kick was well struck but came back off the post. ‘Justice!’ they cried.
Hitting the woodwork: Tonksy, Graham and Taj with the latter also drawing the best of several excellent saves when he pounced on a rebound and powered in a shot that we all thought would bring our first goal. Outstanding Keeper!
‘Sometimes you have to have a shot rather than messing about in the box!’ John shows some frustration.
Their second half Lino is a significant source of frustration with a series of dubious calls and plenty of ineffective positioning.( Mitch showed him how it should be done.)
Defensive moment of the game: Smudge- with another excellent clearance off the line-well played Sir!
At last a win: after four straight defeats and a draw!
Catford Wanderers. The Quaggy. 23.12.18.
3-1. (Paul (2), Dillsy)
Team: Mark, Mitch, Dave T, Steve R, Dillsy, John, Taj, Tonksy, Smudge, Paul, Mike, Chris, Graham, Tim.
Subbed: Everybody- except Mark and Steve R.
In a Sentence: A good competitive game with the Catford keeper making a series of top class saves before we pulled away late on.
In Word: Enjoyable.
Goal of the Game: Taj passed it through the middle and their younger centre half tried to obstruct rather than play the ball. Paul was strong enough to withstand the push, run through and drive it low and hard into the gap at the near post.Top finish!
OSCDT: Paul’s perfectly judged chip over the defence for Dillsy to surge through from the left and finish with a firm shot across the keeper. Back in the game!
Top Tackle: Several contenders: Dave T as well as frequently nipping in from behind to nick the ball made a crucial last man tackle when we were out numbered at the back. Dillsy also gets a mention- following a a series of fouls on the same opponent finally got in a well timed slide to fairly win the ball .
However, to cover up the calamity mentioned elsewhere Graham wins this week for a very fine chase and challenge.
Players’ Player: Although we were behind for longer than we should have been there were good performances across the pitch. Steve R although quieter than was desirable early on, organised the defence well and kept everyone going. Dillsy, after a below par performance the previous week and apparently a personal vendetta against their right sided midfielder, contributed strongly in defence and attack, scoring well. Taj played really well in centre midfield giving us discipline and control that we eventually turned into goals. However, with two goals – either of which could have been goal of the game – and a fine assist and excellent passes throughout the game Paul secures the accolade.
Mark’s Man: A competitive game of football, with a touchline fracas, the woodwork struck on several occasions and good performances from everybody Mobile Dave picks up the pre-Christmas spoils.
Moments and Quotes: What a finish! Ball in from the right-Smudge leaves it to Mark who stays on his line and shouts ‘Away!’ leaving Graham to sprint in from the left to power a fantastic first time effort into the roof of our net! Quality! ( The Ref had words with the Keeper though! Sorry, Mark!)
Despite being injured Roy supports the team and runs the line: sadly his reasoned arguments with opposition substitutes and supporters required the game to stop for some minutes whilst calm was eventually restored.
Having ignored one incident where a miskick struck the player’s arm Tim pointed to the spot when another Catford defender moved hand to ball.Chris’s spot kick was well struck but came back off the post. ‘Justice!’ they cried.
Hitting the woodwork: Tonksy, Graham and Taj with the latter also drawing the best of several excellent saves when he pounced on a rebound and powered in a shot that we all thought would bring our first goal. Outstanding Keeper!
‘Sometimes you have to have a shot rather than messing about in the box!’ John shows some frustration.
Their second half Lino is a significant source of frustration with a series of dubious calls and plenty of ineffective positioning.( Mitch showed him how it should be done.)
Defensive moment of the game: Smudge- with another excellent clearance off the line-well played Sir!
At last a win: after four straight defeats and a draw!
Old Tamponians Match Reports 2018-19. 16.12.18.
Inter Viagra. ( The Barracks). 2-2. (Matt, Taj.)
Team: Mark, Taj, Dave T, Smudge, Steve R, Dillsy, Tonksy, John, Scholesy, Steve D, Matt, Tim. ( Linos: Roy- injured; Chris- wasted )
In a Sentence: Round pegs in square holes: a team playing with over confidence but a distinct lack of energy, urgency and cohesion.
In a Word: Underwhelming
Goal of the Game: Has to be Taj: surging in at the far post to steer in the header in injury time to give us a draw. Heroic stuff.
OSCDT: Top Passing: In a game where several players – most notably Tonksy - favoured the no look pass there was an alarming tendency to not use the ball well. Matt’s flicks seemed to be wasted on our attackers and perhaps because of this they were less accurate as the game went on. However, with his Christmas bonus under threat he put pressure on employer and the caring face of rampant capitalism Steve R with the perfectly flighted free kick that led to the ( very ) late equaliser.
Top Tackle: John as usual won us the ball back well.We could also go to Dave T or Taj for quantity with the former again showing his ability to rattle ankles but whilst given his position we could call it a save Mark’s intervention as Viagra Simon advanced on goal kept us in the game. Seeing the danger and moving surprisingly rapidly Mark got to the ball in the nick of time halting Simon’s progress and clearing the danger: the top tackle!!
Players’ Player: Chris gets an honourable mention: he didn’t get on the pitch but he did turn up and only 20 minutes after kick off. This after a very late night involving Guinness and a lot of whisky. Did brilliantly to get there, make some brave calls as Lino and not vomit.Heroic. Matt also gets a mention: took his goal with authority smacking the loose ball past the keeper – clinical. Looking lean and rather tanned there was speculation that rather than being the manager of East Grinstead he dabbled in the adult entertainment industry; unfortunately our relevant expert Good Graham was working and so couldn’t use his carefully accumulated knowledge to support or squash this scurrilous conjecture. However, this week’s winner is Taj : he got the face saving equaliser, passed to team mates nearly all of the time and covered up the mistakes of others without complaint.Another excellent game from the evergreen maestro.
Mark’s Man/ Men: Hard to choose- Tim played well for the opposition in his fetching orange top ( and was the only winner giving way to the late arrival just before the first equaliser). However, the last second equaliser from Taj earns him the nod.
Moments and Quotes: ‘Where do you want to play?’ Smudger- again proving that he doesn’t mind upsetting people.
‘I’ll play left midfield.’ Dillsy before later revealing he’s playing centre back for Toby.
‘Still got a temperature and no voice’. Mike messages details regarding his latest set back.
Scholesy brought down but no penalty given: on this occasion Chris chose not to raise his flag- unlike on all those ‘offsides’!
Tonksy must score – played in with just the keeper to beat…….oh, the horror!
‘Shambles!’ Roy’s assessment, for once, is accurate.
Great finish from Steve D- perhaps 10 seconds after the whistle had gone for one of his frequent offsides.
‘The keeper may have had something to do with their (second) goal.’ Steve R notes that Mark was caught out by the over hit cross which restored Viagra’s lead.
Inter Viagra. ( The Barracks). 2-2. (Matt, Taj.)
Team: Mark, Taj, Dave T, Smudge, Steve R, Dillsy, Tonksy, John, Scholesy, Steve D, Matt, Tim. ( Linos: Roy- injured; Chris- wasted )
In a Sentence: Round pegs in square holes: a team playing with over confidence but a distinct lack of energy, urgency and cohesion.
In a Word: Underwhelming
Goal of the Game: Has to be Taj: surging in at the far post to steer in the header in injury time to give us a draw. Heroic stuff.
OSCDT: Top Passing: In a game where several players – most notably Tonksy - favoured the no look pass there was an alarming tendency to not use the ball well. Matt’s flicks seemed to be wasted on our attackers and perhaps because of this they were less accurate as the game went on. However, with his Christmas bonus under threat he put pressure on employer and the caring face of rampant capitalism Steve R with the perfectly flighted free kick that led to the ( very ) late equaliser.
Top Tackle: John as usual won us the ball back well.We could also go to Dave T or Taj for quantity with the former again showing his ability to rattle ankles but whilst given his position we could call it a save Mark’s intervention as Viagra Simon advanced on goal kept us in the game. Seeing the danger and moving surprisingly rapidly Mark got to the ball in the nick of time halting Simon’s progress and clearing the danger: the top tackle!!
Players’ Player: Chris gets an honourable mention: he didn’t get on the pitch but he did turn up and only 20 minutes after kick off. This after a very late night involving Guinness and a lot of whisky. Did brilliantly to get there, make some brave calls as Lino and not vomit.Heroic. Matt also gets a mention: took his goal with authority smacking the loose ball past the keeper – clinical. Looking lean and rather tanned there was speculation that rather than being the manager of East Grinstead he dabbled in the adult entertainment industry; unfortunately our relevant expert Good Graham was working and so couldn’t use his carefully accumulated knowledge to support or squash this scurrilous conjecture. However, this week’s winner is Taj : he got the face saving equaliser, passed to team mates nearly all of the time and covered up the mistakes of others without complaint.Another excellent game from the evergreen maestro.
Mark’s Man/ Men: Hard to choose- Tim played well for the opposition in his fetching orange top ( and was the only winner giving way to the late arrival just before the first equaliser). However, the last second equaliser from Taj earns him the nod.
Moments and Quotes: ‘Where do you want to play?’ Smudger- again proving that he doesn’t mind upsetting people.
‘I’ll play left midfield.’ Dillsy before later revealing he’s playing centre back for Toby.
‘Still got a temperature and no voice’. Mike messages details regarding his latest set back.
Scholesy brought down but no penalty given: on this occasion Chris chose not to raise his flag- unlike on all those ‘offsides’!
Tonksy must score – played in with just the keeper to beat…….oh, the horror!
‘Shambles!’ Roy’s assessment, for once, is accurate.
Great finish from Steve D- perhaps 10 seconds after the whistle had gone for one of his frequent offsides.
‘The keeper may have had something to do with their (second) goal.’ Steve R notes that Mark was caught out by the over hit cross which restored Viagra’s lead.
Farnborough Tennis Court Pitch 25.11.18
Score: 3-4. ( Mike (2), Steve D.)
Team: Roy, Chris, Dave T, Podge, John, Taj, Tonksy, Scholesy, Graham, Paul, Mike, Smudge, Steve D, Tim.
Subs: Smudge, Steve D, Graham, Tonksy, Scholesy, John, Mike.
In a Sentence: A seven goal thriller but not a well made goal amongst them – with Mike adding that he feels like he lost a pound and found a penny!
In a Word: Roy contributes: Gutted! Shit second half. That’s not a word Roy but despondent is!
Goal of the Game: Mike’s first for placement following a couple of defensive mistakes. ( However, the raised arm celebration given that we contributed little to setting up the chance was- as it always would be- rather inappropriate.)
Steve D: for self- assisting and finishing – with almost his first touch of the game.
OSCDT: (Top Passing): Paul to Mike. ( Roy knows what he’s thinking about in this brilliant analysis.
Top Tackle: Tonksy- against their midfield. (Again Roy nails the detail- but he may well be remembering last week!)
Graham- this according to Graham- fine sliding tackle in first half preventing their speedy forward from progressing further. (This was possibly Simon the Thespian probably the best groomed Super Vet we’ve played against.)
Players’Player- chosen by Roy: Paul-great goal kicks and passed over the heads of the midfield to the forwards.
Mike’s Man- with Mark injured through an unwise and uncharacteristic involvement in manual work- he needs to remember he’s executive class- Mike takes the slot this week. (Mark also, as the fine linesman, needed to maintain impartiality.) Toss up between Podge and Paul; gone for Podge for his first half organisation ( there was a certain amount of meltdown as the game went away from us)- kept the shape and always looking for that forward pass.
Moments and Quotes
For a far more detailed and alternative perspective see Pat’s match report on the Farnborough OBG F.C. website.
Scholesy: ‘Not only is their number 10 a good player, he’s good looking as well.’
Mobile Dave as part of his game long man marking of their centre forward going strongly through the back but claiming: ‘ I was going for the ball!’ ( When Tim bumped into said forward -Pete- at Wembley he stated that Dave ‘…did a good job’. (Presumably not just on his calf/ankle/achilles.)
Great to see The Squire back to support the boys after his successful op and post op recuperation – but did that half time distraction account for our second half collapse?
Podge running out of places to storm off to.
‘We all have our limitations – and Doyley had a good game.’ Steve R.
‘3-0 up when you came on, Smudge’. ‘3-1 when Tonksy and John came back on.’ Smudge’s reply: he doesn’t mind upsetting people!
Not sure the return fixture could live up to this: defensive mistakes a plenty- particularly at the Farnborough end in the first half- and where was Roy going ahead of the first penalty? (Great save in first half though.) Violent conduct: unusually, a little more than handbags; chances missed at both ends; a rather unexpected half time scoreline; two penalties; a last minute winner…..phew!!!
Score: 3-4. ( Mike (2), Steve D.)
Team: Roy, Chris, Dave T, Podge, John, Taj, Tonksy, Scholesy, Graham, Paul, Mike, Smudge, Steve D, Tim.
Subs: Smudge, Steve D, Graham, Tonksy, Scholesy, John, Mike.
In a Sentence: A seven goal thriller but not a well made goal amongst them – with Mike adding that he feels like he lost a pound and found a penny!
In a Word: Roy contributes: Gutted! Shit second half. That’s not a word Roy but despondent is!
Goal of the Game: Mike’s first for placement following a couple of defensive mistakes. ( However, the raised arm celebration given that we contributed little to setting up the chance was- as it always would be- rather inappropriate.)
Steve D: for self- assisting and finishing – with almost his first touch of the game.
OSCDT: (Top Passing): Paul to Mike. ( Roy knows what he’s thinking about in this brilliant analysis.
Top Tackle: Tonksy- against their midfield. (Again Roy nails the detail- but he may well be remembering last week!)
Graham- this according to Graham- fine sliding tackle in first half preventing their speedy forward from progressing further. (This was possibly Simon the Thespian probably the best groomed Super Vet we’ve played against.)
Players’Player- chosen by Roy: Paul-great goal kicks and passed over the heads of the midfield to the forwards.
Mike’s Man- with Mark injured through an unwise and uncharacteristic involvement in manual work- he needs to remember he’s executive class- Mike takes the slot this week. (Mark also, as the fine linesman, needed to maintain impartiality.) Toss up between Podge and Paul; gone for Podge for his first half organisation ( there was a certain amount of meltdown as the game went away from us)- kept the shape and always looking for that forward pass.
Moments and Quotes
For a far more detailed and alternative perspective see Pat’s match report on the Farnborough OBG F.C. website.
Scholesy: ‘Not only is their number 10 a good player, he’s good looking as well.’
Mobile Dave as part of his game long man marking of their centre forward going strongly through the back but claiming: ‘ I was going for the ball!’ ( When Tim bumped into said forward -Pete- at Wembley he stated that Dave ‘…did a good job’. (Presumably not just on his calf/ankle/achilles.)
Great to see The Squire back to support the boys after his successful op and post op recuperation – but did that half time distraction account for our second half collapse?
Podge running out of places to storm off to.
‘We all have our limitations – and Doyley had a good game.’ Steve R.
‘3-0 up when you came on, Smudge’. ‘3-1 when Tonksy and John came back on.’ Smudge’s reply: he doesn’t mind upsetting people!
Not sure the return fixture could live up to this: defensive mistakes a plenty- particularly at the Farnborough end in the first half- and where was Roy going ahead of the first penalty? (Great save in first half though.) Violent conduct: unusually, a little more than handbags; chances missed at both ends; a rather unexpected half time scoreline; two penalties; a last minute winner…..phew!!!
18/11/2018 West Farleigh
SANCO 28.10.2018 Tennis Court Pitch.
2-3 (Steve D, Mike)
Team: Mark, Steve R, Baby, Chris, Roy, Taj, Smudge, Tonksy, Graham, Mike, Steve D. Tim- Ref. Subbed: Smudge- injured.
In a Sentence: Competitive throughout: the sort of game that makes you keep getting up on a Sunday morning.
In a Word : Gutted!
Goal of the Game: Good play down the right mainly involving Taj and Chris with the latter giving the defender the eye, dropping a shoulder and shimmying by before striking the perfect cross to the far post where Steve D held off the SANCO challenge burying the header (and himself) in the net. Back in the game!
OSCDT: For length and impact Baby’s assist- arguably one of three in the match- almost the length of the pitch, flighted to deceive the defender and allow Mike to chase on and fire home giving the keeper no chance and levelling the game.
Players’ Players! : Birthday Boy Roy generous in the bar with a round for all, also showed generosity selecting Baby- perhaps excusing his prominent involvement in two of their goals-which might hide his own part in their winner losing the ball upfield to initiate their counter attack.
The venerated Vegas duo strongly disagree: Steve R: selects Tonksy for a strong performance involving a lot of running and questionable pride to still be playing at ‘this level’ at the age of 55- and, of course, to upset Smudge.
Graham: arguably makes the best choice : Chris very good work throughout the game and that excellent cross that set up a great last 20 minutes.
Mark’s Man/Men: Disappointing to fall at the final hurdle after a great comeback from 2-0 down and second half heroics. Plenty to chose from with everyone playing their part in an excellent game but Taj gets the nod as Keeper’s choice.
Moments and Quotes: Fine distribution from the back – including Mark’s throw out to Graham skilfully placed through Roy’s legs.
Tim’s best touch of the season : perfectly positioned for the SANCO free kick that Errol kicked into his back.
Some good chances missed: Taj’s lob and side foot; Mike’s powerful drive from outside the box – which rattled the bar; most of all Steve R’s header: Tim had predicted this was Steve’s moment ahead of the well flighted corner- he must score everyone thought as he lost the defender and attacked the ball- but no, powered over the bar from close in. Got to be there to miss them of course but it was easier to score!
Oh yes- mustn’t forget Steve R’s other moment- this week’s victim of shoddy groundsmanship- putting himself right up there in the highly competitive race for this year’s Man Who Fell To Earth Award: a VERY good flat on the face fall. At least it stopped him chasing back to cover.
If only…. We hadn’t missed those chances …( let it go, Steve,let it go)….Dave T hadn’t failed his fitness test walking the dog….Baby hadn’t set up their forward…….Smudge’s hamstring lasted the full 90……Roy had passed to Graham rather than seeking to beat man after man……Great game though!
2-3 (Steve D, Mike)
Team: Mark, Steve R, Baby, Chris, Roy, Taj, Smudge, Tonksy, Graham, Mike, Steve D. Tim- Ref. Subbed: Smudge- injured.
In a Sentence: Competitive throughout: the sort of game that makes you keep getting up on a Sunday morning.
In a Word : Gutted!
Goal of the Game: Good play down the right mainly involving Taj and Chris with the latter giving the defender the eye, dropping a shoulder and shimmying by before striking the perfect cross to the far post where Steve D held off the SANCO challenge burying the header (and himself) in the net. Back in the game!
OSCDT: For length and impact Baby’s assist- arguably one of three in the match- almost the length of the pitch, flighted to deceive the defender and allow Mike to chase on and fire home giving the keeper no chance and levelling the game.
Players’ Players! : Birthday Boy Roy generous in the bar with a round for all, also showed generosity selecting Baby- perhaps excusing his prominent involvement in two of their goals-which might hide his own part in their winner losing the ball upfield to initiate their counter attack.
The venerated Vegas duo strongly disagree: Steve R: selects Tonksy for a strong performance involving a lot of running and questionable pride to still be playing at ‘this level’ at the age of 55- and, of course, to upset Smudge.
Graham: arguably makes the best choice : Chris very good work throughout the game and that excellent cross that set up a great last 20 minutes.
Mark’s Man/Men: Disappointing to fall at the final hurdle after a great comeback from 2-0 down and second half heroics. Plenty to chose from with everyone playing their part in an excellent game but Taj gets the nod as Keeper’s choice.
Moments and Quotes: Fine distribution from the back – including Mark’s throw out to Graham skilfully placed through Roy’s legs.
Tim’s best touch of the season : perfectly positioned for the SANCO free kick that Errol kicked into his back.
Some good chances missed: Taj’s lob and side foot; Mike’s powerful drive from outside the box – which rattled the bar; most of all Steve R’s header: Tim had predicted this was Steve’s moment ahead of the well flighted corner- he must score everyone thought as he lost the defender and attacked the ball- but no, powered over the bar from close in. Got to be there to miss them of course but it was easier to score!
Oh yes- mustn’t forget Steve R’s other moment- this week’s victim of shoddy groundsmanship- putting himself right up there in the highly competitive race for this year’s Man Who Fell To Earth Award: a VERY good flat on the face fall. At least it stopped him chasing back to cover.
If only…. We hadn’t missed those chances …( let it go, Steve,let it go)….Dave T hadn’t failed his fitness test walking the dog….Baby hadn’t set up their forward…….Smudge’s hamstring lasted the full 90……Roy had passed to Graham rather than seeking to beat man after man……Great game though!
Santos. Home: Tennis Court Pitch 21.10.18.
7-1. ( Chris (pen.), Mike (3), Tonksy, Taj, Paul.)
Team: Mark, Mitch, Chris, Podge, Roy, John, Tonksy, Taj, Dave T, Steve D, Mike, Scholesy,Baby, Paul, Steve R, Tim.
Subbed: All except Tonksy, with Roy taking over in goal from Mark who claims consecutive clean sheets!
In a Sentence: Some quality and- eventually- quantity but with the misses as memorable as the goals.
In a Word: Workmanlike.
Goal of the Game: Taj’s header, leaping like a salmon at the back post to power home Paul’s brilliant cross.
OSCDT: Paul’s cross to Taj- one of 5 assists. A really good passing move- involving at least 5 passes- Taj, John, Scholesy, Paul, Tonksy-seemingly setting up the goal of the game- but Mike skied the finish with the goal gaping.
Top Tackle: Mitch-at least 3 good interceptions/tackles coming in from his right back position : an excellent performance.
(Also a mention for Baby’s ‘tackle’ late in the game that drew strong penalty claims from the oppo – ignored by Aggro who likes to keep contact as part of the game.)
Players’ Player: Mike’s choice: The Technician involved in everything ( and some of it good!), popped up with a goal- all-round play was right out of the top drawer. Hmmm! A contentious choice : perhaps Mike’s being modest after his strikes- or at least drawing attention away from his misses. What about Paul’s five assists and a goal?
Mark’s Man/Men: Plenty to chose from including Mitch’s first half efforts but hat trick Mike picks up the gong despite a couple ( only two??!!?) of howlers.
Moments and Quotes: ‘Ooh! You bastard!’ the oppo keeper reacts to Chris’ penalty stroked into the larger side of the goal that the goalie left open. ‘The gloves weren’t wet enough!’ Roy -after the game and his quarter- a good one – in goal.
Dave T’s fledgling Tamps career continues to be eventful – played in several positions, hits the post early on ( and at the right end too!) and has to come off with a calf strain.
Steve D earns several mentions: ‘I can’t see it!’- as he misses a header, does head it and hits the post when it was easier to score, ‘Get your hands off me!’- late in the game handbags- which he started.
Early contender for the annual Earth Moved Award : Chris surging forward, studs caught in the turf and a shoulder thumping fall (worthy of the absent Smudge).
‘Come on lads! It’s a team game!’ Scholesy wanting the ball so he can get on the score sheet.
Other notable aspects: Podge again masterful at the back, slightly noisier but still hitting those cracking passes out to the right setting up John for yet another run forward. Steve R – channeling the spirit of Sergeant Wilson in the second half ‘bossing’ the defence entirely ineffectively.
Another good win and fairly good performance – striking misses from Doyley and Mike (looking strongly like jug avoidance at one point) whilst Baby’s shot went off for a throw in – although his cross had earlier hit the bar. Carved them open second half with good finishes from Taj, Mike, Paul and even Tonksy.
7-1. ( Chris (pen.), Mike (3), Tonksy, Taj, Paul.)
Team: Mark, Mitch, Chris, Podge, Roy, John, Tonksy, Taj, Dave T, Steve D, Mike, Scholesy,Baby, Paul, Steve R, Tim.
Subbed: All except Tonksy, with Roy taking over in goal from Mark who claims consecutive clean sheets!
In a Sentence: Some quality and- eventually- quantity but with the misses as memorable as the goals.
In a Word: Workmanlike.
Goal of the Game: Taj’s header, leaping like a salmon at the back post to power home Paul’s brilliant cross.
OSCDT: Paul’s cross to Taj- one of 5 assists. A really good passing move- involving at least 5 passes- Taj, John, Scholesy, Paul, Tonksy-seemingly setting up the goal of the game- but Mike skied the finish with the goal gaping.
Top Tackle: Mitch-at least 3 good interceptions/tackles coming in from his right back position : an excellent performance.
(Also a mention for Baby’s ‘tackle’ late in the game that drew strong penalty claims from the oppo – ignored by Aggro who likes to keep contact as part of the game.)
Players’ Player: Mike’s choice: The Technician involved in everything ( and some of it good!), popped up with a goal- all-round play was right out of the top drawer. Hmmm! A contentious choice : perhaps Mike’s being modest after his strikes- or at least drawing attention away from his misses. What about Paul’s five assists and a goal?
Mark’s Man/Men: Plenty to chose from including Mitch’s first half efforts but hat trick Mike picks up the gong despite a couple ( only two??!!?) of howlers.
Moments and Quotes: ‘Ooh! You bastard!’ the oppo keeper reacts to Chris’ penalty stroked into the larger side of the goal that the goalie left open. ‘The gloves weren’t wet enough!’ Roy -after the game and his quarter- a good one – in goal.
Dave T’s fledgling Tamps career continues to be eventful – played in several positions, hits the post early on ( and at the right end too!) and has to come off with a calf strain.
Steve D earns several mentions: ‘I can’t see it!’- as he misses a header, does head it and hits the post when it was easier to score, ‘Get your hands off me!’- late in the game handbags- which he started.
Early contender for the annual Earth Moved Award : Chris surging forward, studs caught in the turf and a shoulder thumping fall (worthy of the absent Smudge).
‘Come on lads! It’s a team game!’ Scholesy wanting the ball so he can get on the score sheet.
Other notable aspects: Podge again masterful at the back, slightly noisier but still hitting those cracking passes out to the right setting up John for yet another run forward. Steve R – channeling the spirit of Sergeant Wilson in the second half ‘bossing’ the defence entirely ineffectively.
Another good win and fairly good performance – striking misses from Doyley and Mike (looking strongly like jug avoidance at one point) whilst Baby’s shot went off for a throw in – although his cross had earlier hit the bar. Carved them open second half with good finishes from Taj, Mike, Paul and even Tonksy.
Erith. Home - Tennis Court Pitch 14.10.2018
4-0. ( Smudge, Taj, Steve D 2. )
Team: Mark, Taj, Chris, Podge, Roy, John, Tonksy, Scholesy, Smudge, Mike, Doyley, Steve L, Tim. (Subbed: Tim, Steve L. Smudge, Chris, Roy.)
In a Sentence: An excellent 90 minutes: the best team performance for a good while with everyone putting a shift in,doing the right things earning and getting everything we deserved.
In a Word: Class!
Goal of the Game: Doyley’s first and our third: Smudge’s free kick,nodded down by Mike for Doyley to exchange passes with Tonksy and for the second time in a few games finish with composure and authority killing the game off in the process.
OSCDT: Smudge’s free kick beautifully flighted for Taj to attack-……….. and then Doyley got in the way.
Overall careful and effective passing from all- so much improved from last week- but Podge’s delivery to John initiated a lot of our attacking play. ( Honourable mention for Chris too- bringing the ball out of defence well- and good wins in the air too.)
Top Tackle: A series of hefty hacks from the oppo on Scholesy- clearly a case of getting retaliation in first. Two excellent tackles from Podge in our box, one near the corner flag and even better the perfectly timed slide to deny Michael when he seemed through on goal. A game changer.
Mark’s Man/Men: A first clean sheet of the season would normally see one of the back five get the nod but this great team effort, involving defending from the front showed full commitment from all. The team wins!
Players’ Player: Fine performances all over the park: Smudge nods home,neck muscles bulging, despite still fighting the effects of a migraine (and presumably no Saturday beer.). Scholesy- who set up that goal- dominant in the centre of the park and didn’t fall over once. Taj- strong in defence and extended our early momentum with a quality goal, carefully placed into the top corner from the edge of the box. Mike-not on the score sheet but did so much to trouble their defence, support others and make a series of excellent runs.
However- the clear winner for one of THE great Tamp performances: Podge outstanding in all that he did- and hardly any verbal explosions. Brilliant! Stood firm throughout- just let their best shot strike his forehead.
Moments and Quotes: Tonksy-what was he thinking? Taking showboating to new depths barely connecting with a volley that only he thought might find the net- or was physically achievable.
Mark’s first clean sheet of the season- a good late save, well positioned throughout and good communication.
Roy-made the left back position his own and survived Scholesy’s dodgy pass. Some fine attacking play with John involved tucking inside as well as on the wing.
Steve L- becomes the third 64 year old to play for the Tamps;100% pass completion rate too.
Was it a pen?!?? Surely Aggro could have given it on sound alone when Lob took Mike out so effectively.
Rather satisfying- well done all- and the oppo, post match, recognised our quality. (Doesn’t happen that often!! And doubt if it will last!)
4-0. ( Smudge, Taj, Steve D 2. )
Team: Mark, Taj, Chris, Podge, Roy, John, Tonksy, Scholesy, Smudge, Mike, Doyley, Steve L, Tim. (Subbed: Tim, Steve L. Smudge, Chris, Roy.)
In a Sentence: An excellent 90 minutes: the best team performance for a good while with everyone putting a shift in,doing the right things earning and getting everything we deserved.
In a Word: Class!
Goal of the Game: Doyley’s first and our third: Smudge’s free kick,nodded down by Mike for Doyley to exchange passes with Tonksy and for the second time in a few games finish with composure and authority killing the game off in the process.
OSCDT: Smudge’s free kick beautifully flighted for Taj to attack-……….. and then Doyley got in the way.
Overall careful and effective passing from all- so much improved from last week- but Podge’s delivery to John initiated a lot of our attacking play. ( Honourable mention for Chris too- bringing the ball out of defence well- and good wins in the air too.)
Top Tackle: A series of hefty hacks from the oppo on Scholesy- clearly a case of getting retaliation in first. Two excellent tackles from Podge in our box, one near the corner flag and even better the perfectly timed slide to deny Michael when he seemed through on goal. A game changer.
Mark’s Man/Men: A first clean sheet of the season would normally see one of the back five get the nod but this great team effort, involving defending from the front showed full commitment from all. The team wins!
Players’ Player: Fine performances all over the park: Smudge nods home,neck muscles bulging, despite still fighting the effects of a migraine (and presumably no Saturday beer.). Scholesy- who set up that goal- dominant in the centre of the park and didn’t fall over once. Taj- strong in defence and extended our early momentum with a quality goal, carefully placed into the top corner from the edge of the box. Mike-not on the score sheet but did so much to trouble their defence, support others and make a series of excellent runs.
However- the clear winner for one of THE great Tamp performances: Podge outstanding in all that he did- and hardly any verbal explosions. Brilliant! Stood firm throughout- just let their best shot strike his forehead.
Moments and Quotes: Tonksy-what was he thinking? Taking showboating to new depths barely connecting with a volley that only he thought might find the net- or was physically achievable.
Mark’s first clean sheet of the season- a good late save, well positioned throughout and good communication.
Roy-made the left back position his own and survived Scholesy’s dodgy pass. Some fine attacking play with John involved tucking inside as well as on the wing.
Steve L- becomes the third 64 year old to play for the Tamps;100% pass completion rate too.
Was it a pen?!?? Surely Aggro could have given it on sound alone when Lob took Mike out so effectively.
Rather satisfying- well done all- and the oppo, post match, recognised our quality. (Doesn’t happen that often!! And doubt if it will last!)
Avery Hill. Home. Tennis Court Pitch. 07.10.2018
2 - 4. (Roy/O.G. Paul (pen.)
Team: Mark, Taj, Chris, Smudge, John, Tonksy, Podge, Graham, Steve D, Roy, Paul, Scholesy, Tim (Lino).
Subbed: Scholesy, Tonksy, Steve D, Roy.
In a Sentence: Good effort from all- but lacking precision and quality in passing and positioning.
In a Word: Outpaced.
Goal of the Game: For once we got Graham into a good attacking position on the left. His expert cross looked for Roy who not only unsettled the defence but got a vital touch- although the final one may have been by Avery Hill.
OSCDT: Great bit of team passing that led to Avery’s third goal – Graham with the assist. Fine ball to Roy at the back post from Paul wide on the right. Paul would also have had a mention for playing Tonksy in but Steve D got in the way.Doh!!
Top Tackle: Scholesy- scything Dessi down and provoking quite an angry reaction which was definitely merited as the contact was three feet above the ball.
Players’ Player: John deffo for his non stop running and (fairly) constant threat from the right. Strong shout for a penalty too.
Mark’s Man/Men: Disappointing result: plenty of huff and puff but came off second best. Some good performances and hard work by all but John gets the nod this week, covering plenty of ground, making strong tackles and plenty of forward forages.
Moments and Quotes: Mark TK stands big to successfully intimidate their penalty taker- scuffed wide- and a very good one on one save from the same forward and one from Mark the Bike.
‘You fat fuck!’ Josh to Podge- showing a verbal subtlety to match his approach on the pitch.
‘ We shot ourselves in the foot!’ Tonksy recognises that passing the ball to the oppo is not a good strategy.
Aggro controversially awards a penalty against Chris- to be fair it was far from his best challenge!!
Good noises : Podge screeching like a seagull whilst covering every blade of grass and Roy’s orgasmic gasps when (see WhatsApp statement) being ‘elbowed in the back of the head and kicked a few times’ by Steve H- who also caused the hairline fracture to Graham’s leg: ‘firm but fair’.
Fantastic overhead finish by Steve D – however, the ref had blown for the penalty and everybody had stopped 10 seconds before he finally connected with the ball.
If only….. Roy and Tonksy had hit the target with those rasping volleys…..we hadn’t passed to the oppo quite as much…we hadn’t left Mark the Bike unmarked…Tonksy (according to him) hadn’t been subbed: 0-0 when he went off 2-0 down when he came back on……the weather had been good on Saturday- Baby could have been with us instead of buying more chainsaw carvings. Yes, if only!!
At least Taj has got that one out of his system whilst Smudge is perhaps looking for a more sedate position back in midfield.
It’s playing the game that matters- not the result- might just be the required attitude this Season.
2 - 4. (Roy/O.G. Paul (pen.)
Team: Mark, Taj, Chris, Smudge, John, Tonksy, Podge, Graham, Steve D, Roy, Paul, Scholesy, Tim (Lino).
Subbed: Scholesy, Tonksy, Steve D, Roy.
In a Sentence: Good effort from all- but lacking precision and quality in passing and positioning.
In a Word: Outpaced.
Goal of the Game: For once we got Graham into a good attacking position on the left. His expert cross looked for Roy who not only unsettled the defence but got a vital touch- although the final one may have been by Avery Hill.
OSCDT: Great bit of team passing that led to Avery’s third goal – Graham with the assist. Fine ball to Roy at the back post from Paul wide on the right. Paul would also have had a mention for playing Tonksy in but Steve D got in the way.Doh!!
Top Tackle: Scholesy- scything Dessi down and provoking quite an angry reaction which was definitely merited as the contact was three feet above the ball.
Players’ Player: John deffo for his non stop running and (fairly) constant threat from the right. Strong shout for a penalty too.
Mark’s Man/Men: Disappointing result: plenty of huff and puff but came off second best. Some good performances and hard work by all but John gets the nod this week, covering plenty of ground, making strong tackles and plenty of forward forages.
Moments and Quotes: Mark TK stands big to successfully intimidate their penalty taker- scuffed wide- and a very good one on one save from the same forward and one from Mark the Bike.
‘You fat fuck!’ Josh to Podge- showing a verbal subtlety to match his approach on the pitch.
‘ We shot ourselves in the foot!’ Tonksy recognises that passing the ball to the oppo is not a good strategy.
Aggro controversially awards a penalty against Chris- to be fair it was far from his best challenge!!
Good noises : Podge screeching like a seagull whilst covering every blade of grass and Roy’s orgasmic gasps when (see WhatsApp statement) being ‘elbowed in the back of the head and kicked a few times’ by Steve H- who also caused the hairline fracture to Graham’s leg: ‘firm but fair’.
Fantastic overhead finish by Steve D – however, the ref had blown for the penalty and everybody had stopped 10 seconds before he finally connected with the ball.
If only….. Roy and Tonksy had hit the target with those rasping volleys…..we hadn’t passed to the oppo quite as much…we hadn’t left Mark the Bike unmarked…Tonksy (according to him) hadn’t been subbed: 0-0 when he went off 2-0 down when he came back on……the weather had been good on Saturday- Baby could have been with us instead of buying more chainsaw carvings. Yes, if only!!
At least Taj has got that one out of his system whilst Smudge is perhaps looking for a more sedate position back in midfield.
It’s playing the game that matters- not the result- might just be the required attitude this Season.
Cudham 30.09.18 Old Wilsonians - Hayes Hill
1-5. ( Doyley. Yes, a cool, ( almost ) classy finish!!! )
Team: Mark, Mitch, Chris, Dave, Smudge, John, Tonksy, Paul, Steve D, Mike, Scholesy, Baby, Graham, Steve R, Tim. ( All subbed except Scholesy and Mike; Paul for reasons connecting to health and safety.)
In a Sentence: Even a three week layoff can’t explain that!
In a Word: Disjointed.
Goal of the Game: Can’t even be described as a consolation but it was a good goal : played out from the back with Steve R moving it right, John exchanging passes with Mike and doing well to get past defenders and pick out the well positioned Steve D who had mysteriously kept himself onside. Not only was his first touch good and his poise and composure perfect: eyeballed the keeper and then gave him no chance with an expert finish from the left side of the goal.
Given that this was a strike Doyley had to think about and it was finished so well could be another contender for Goal of the Season!
OSCDT. (Top Passing). For obvious reasons we’ll not cover this category this week.
Top Tackle: Some tasty challenges, fortunately not all of them connecting - including those from Tonksy and Scholesy, leaving the ground with both sets of studs showing but not quite getting to their target. Paul did connect however and the yellow card could have been issued on sound alone.
However, Tonksy wins this week for his effort in thwarting Mike’s surge- just as he was about to pull the trigger- Mike having beaten two defenders and managing to stay on his feet despite being clipped by the full back.
Players’ Player: Dave is worth a shout for scoring with almost his first touch but sadly it was at the wrong end. Graham didn’t put a foot wrong on his return from Iron Man duty and jury service but he only crossed the half way line a couple of times. Smudge thrust back into midfield in the second half had to put the after-after burners on in one chase. John offered a lot and had a very strong last 30 minutes. However, Baby wasn’t on for most of the carnage and made a couple of remarkable goal line clearances when Mark had gone walk about and needed to lie down- and when everybody else had stopped- expected a certain goal. Baby gets it!
Moments and Quotes: ‘Away!’ – a purposeful call from Mark as Scholesy, at the front post, flicks on their corner so the oppo can head home unchallenged at the far post. ‘ That’s why I don’t come back the defend corners!’ he said as we moved the ball back to the centre circle.
We managed a lot of passes without looking but the one to cause amusement was Chris’ to Mark who was head down pulling his socks up – but able to react to our panicked shouts.
Steve D may have shown excellent composure taking his goal- but when aggravated late on missed his opponent both with a swing of his leg and then one with his arm.
Oh well- we did score two of the goals- and got to present their end of season awards to Paul and the Technician; we were also complimented on our excellent linesman ship by the oppo: ‘ It’s refreshing to have linesmen who don’t cheat’.
We play Erith soon……….just saying.
1-5. ( Doyley. Yes, a cool, ( almost ) classy finish!!! )
Team: Mark, Mitch, Chris, Dave, Smudge, John, Tonksy, Paul, Steve D, Mike, Scholesy, Baby, Graham, Steve R, Tim. ( All subbed except Scholesy and Mike; Paul for reasons connecting to health and safety.)
In a Sentence: Even a three week layoff can’t explain that!
In a Word: Disjointed.
Goal of the Game: Can’t even be described as a consolation but it was a good goal : played out from the back with Steve R moving it right, John exchanging passes with Mike and doing well to get past defenders and pick out the well positioned Steve D who had mysteriously kept himself onside. Not only was his first touch good and his poise and composure perfect: eyeballed the keeper and then gave him no chance with an expert finish from the left side of the goal.
Given that this was a strike Doyley had to think about and it was finished so well could be another contender for Goal of the Season!
OSCDT. (Top Passing). For obvious reasons we’ll not cover this category this week.
Top Tackle: Some tasty challenges, fortunately not all of them connecting - including those from Tonksy and Scholesy, leaving the ground with both sets of studs showing but not quite getting to their target. Paul did connect however and the yellow card could have been issued on sound alone.
However, Tonksy wins this week for his effort in thwarting Mike’s surge- just as he was about to pull the trigger- Mike having beaten two defenders and managing to stay on his feet despite being clipped by the full back.
Players’ Player: Dave is worth a shout for scoring with almost his first touch but sadly it was at the wrong end. Graham didn’t put a foot wrong on his return from Iron Man duty and jury service but he only crossed the half way line a couple of times. Smudge thrust back into midfield in the second half had to put the after-after burners on in one chase. John offered a lot and had a very strong last 30 minutes. However, Baby wasn’t on for most of the carnage and made a couple of remarkable goal line clearances when Mark had gone walk about and needed to lie down- and when everybody else had stopped- expected a certain goal. Baby gets it!
Moments and Quotes: ‘Away!’ – a purposeful call from Mark as Scholesy, at the front post, flicks on their corner so the oppo can head home unchallenged at the far post. ‘ That’s why I don’t come back the defend corners!’ he said as we moved the ball back to the centre circle.
We managed a lot of passes without looking but the one to cause amusement was Chris’ to Mark who was head down pulling his socks up – but able to react to our panicked shouts.
Steve D may have shown excellent composure taking his goal- but when aggravated late on missed his opponent both with a swing of his leg and then one with his arm.
Oh well- we did score two of the goals- and got to present their end of season awards to Paul and the Technician; we were also complimented on our excellent linesman ship by the oppo: ‘ It’s refreshing to have linesmen who don’t cheat’.
We play Erith soon……….just saying.
Crofton 09.09.18. Tennis Court Pitch.
3-2. ( Mike (2), Scholesy).
Team: Mark, Chris, Baby, Steve R, John, The Squire, Paul, Scholesy, Smudge, Steve D*, Mike*, Andy*. ( Tim-Lino.). (*=Subbed.)
In a Sentence: The banter in the bar was better than the play on the pitch.
In a a Word: Mixed.
Goal of the Game: Played out well from the back into the midfield – Paul finding space and sending a through ball around the defence freeing Mike who advanced on goal – with usual (?) poise and balance- and with the keeper committing to his left slotted the ball to his right.
OSCDT (Top Passing): Baby launched a number of attacks naming players in the front third and finding them with long raking passes.
John setting up Scholesy for the second goal enabling him to turn sharply and find the net at the far post. Smudge showing customary skill and vision under pressure to calmly take out two defenders and roll the ball to Scholesy. However, setting up two of our goals, having a ‘hand’ in their first, and creating more than a couple of excellent chances Paul gets the nod again.
Top Tackle: In normal circumstances Scholesy would be the winner in this category- either for his crucial sliding tackle to snuff out danger in our box- or for his vigourous thigh high, no-nonsense scythe on Neil. However, Steve R wins for swiftly closing down two innocent young girls in the corner under the guise of saying goodbye to Amy and Megan.
Players’ Player: chosen by Steve R: Some good performances: Baby was excellent at the back again. Mike was prominent with two goals, a couple of glaring misses and an injury. However, The Squire back on his favourite piece of real estate worked tirelessly whilst also baby sitting Scholesy in the middle of the park.
Mick’s Man/Men: In Mark’s absence, the Squire takes over this section:- Scholesy- picked up the art of midfield play relatively quickly, had a cert penalty claim ( even the oppo said so) -and a nice goal.
Andy- great to see him back on the field with soft shoe shuffle as good as ever.
Moments and Quotes
Powerful blast by Mike to open the scoring (Smudge’s cushioned volley lay off enabling Paul to make a fine assist)- the keeper couldn’t see it.
‘Fucking hell boys!’ Tim not impressed with defensive work around their second goal.
‘He’s got a very strange shaped head’. A reaction to one of Doyley’s headers. Please note he didn’t miss an open goal – he reacted to Steve R’s call and headed it across goal.
Some great saves from their keeper- particularly when Mike squared it to Paul and again getting to Doyley’s follow up.
Early season optimism: Smudge: to the defence to help defend Big Al’s long throws: ‘Push up! And let Mark have a run at it!’
Paul, looking for Mark to play the ball to his feet: ‘Just throw it!’
Yes, it was a mixed performance but we have to remember that their keeper had a blinder- without that we’d have been run away winners- and we played a lot of good football passing it well out of defence and through the midfield.
And… ‘If only our forwards could score!’ Smudge- he doesn’t mind upsetting people!!
3-2. ( Mike (2), Scholesy).
Team: Mark, Chris, Baby, Steve R, John, The Squire, Paul, Scholesy, Smudge, Steve D*, Mike*, Andy*. ( Tim-Lino.). (*=Subbed.)
In a Sentence: The banter in the bar was better than the play on the pitch.
In a a Word: Mixed.
Goal of the Game: Played out well from the back into the midfield – Paul finding space and sending a through ball around the defence freeing Mike who advanced on goal – with usual (?) poise and balance- and with the keeper committing to his left slotted the ball to his right.
OSCDT (Top Passing): Baby launched a number of attacks naming players in the front third and finding them with long raking passes.
John setting up Scholesy for the second goal enabling him to turn sharply and find the net at the far post. Smudge showing customary skill and vision under pressure to calmly take out two defenders and roll the ball to Scholesy. However, setting up two of our goals, having a ‘hand’ in their first, and creating more than a couple of excellent chances Paul gets the nod again.
Top Tackle: In normal circumstances Scholesy would be the winner in this category- either for his crucial sliding tackle to snuff out danger in our box- or for his vigourous thigh high, no-nonsense scythe on Neil. However, Steve R wins for swiftly closing down two innocent young girls in the corner under the guise of saying goodbye to Amy and Megan.
Players’ Player: chosen by Steve R: Some good performances: Baby was excellent at the back again. Mike was prominent with two goals, a couple of glaring misses and an injury. However, The Squire back on his favourite piece of real estate worked tirelessly whilst also baby sitting Scholesy in the middle of the park.
Mick’s Man/Men: In Mark’s absence, the Squire takes over this section:- Scholesy- picked up the art of midfield play relatively quickly, had a cert penalty claim ( even the oppo said so) -and a nice goal.
Andy- great to see him back on the field with soft shoe shuffle as good as ever.
Moments and Quotes
Powerful blast by Mike to open the scoring (Smudge’s cushioned volley lay off enabling Paul to make a fine assist)- the keeper couldn’t see it.
‘Fucking hell boys!’ Tim not impressed with defensive work around their second goal.
‘He’s got a very strange shaped head’. A reaction to one of Doyley’s headers. Please note he didn’t miss an open goal – he reacted to Steve R’s call and headed it across goal.
Some great saves from their keeper- particularly when Mike squared it to Paul and again getting to Doyley’s follow up.
Early season optimism: Smudge: to the defence to help defend Big Al’s long throws: ‘Push up! And let Mark have a run at it!’
Paul, looking for Mark to play the ball to his feet: ‘Just throw it!’
Yes, it was a mixed performance but we have to remember that their keeper had a blinder- without that we’d have been run away winners- and we played a lot of good football passing it well out of defence and through the midfield.
And… ‘If only our forwards could score!’ Smudge- he doesn’t mind upsetting people!!
Old Tamps Match Report 2018-19
Avery Hill 02.09.19 Away at Home. Changing Room Show Pitch
2-3. ( Mike, Doyley –yes, he’s back, he’s back, he’s starring in attack…)
Team: Mark, Steve R, Chris, Baby, Tim, Pocky, Taj, Smudge, Roy, Steve D, Mike, Jack.
Subbed: Jack, Pocky (lift engineer on call- avoided a ‘trap in’),Taj- injured, giving all for the cause as usual- had to be serious ( broken ribs? ) for Taj to stay off.
In a Sentence: A hard-working performance from a makeshift side, earning credit in defeat.
In a Word: Determined.
Goal of the Game: Mike. Having conceded twice we kept working and played the ball out of defence with Taj and Pocky combining. Doyley laid the ball out to the right for Pocky to send Mike into the area. Showing the benefits of summer training, Mike held off Mad Dave, who should have done better and rounded the keeper to pass the ball in with his left foot.
OSCDT (Top Passing). Baby set up our second goal with a fifty yard assist which – combining with the centre- half’s hesitation – allowed Doyley to poke home the equaliser to ensure we were level at half time.
However Pocky gets the accolade for that assist, sending Mike in and giving us all the scope to point out Mad Dave’s errors. Play the ball Dave- not the man!!
Top Tackle: It’s that man again- Chris- getting across from the right to complete another sliding tackle to avert danger and take a couple of opponents out.
Players’ Player. (Chosen by those left in the bar). A unanimous decision by the 7 in the club: Baby: excellent all-round game, organised the defence, good positional play AND kicked the ball a long way.
Mark’s Man/Men: A stand out performance from all who played. Good to see Doyley back, Mike score and some great committed defending. Baby just gets the nod.
Moments and Quotes.
‘I’ve run around a lot- which is not my game’.Smudge- on 3 games in midfield. (And he had to put his shoulder back in!). ‘I’ll play how I want to play’. Mark the Bike responds to advice/criticism from teammates. Chris-distinctly under the weather at the end of the game- could have been the heat- or the horrific state of the toilets and changing rooms. Tim’s subtle take out of Grant. Jack -showing skill his Dad can only dream of, juggling the ball in the area away from several defenders. Roy playing on through the pain after a nasty accidental collision.
Good near post reaction save from Mark to keep out Grant’s snap shot. ‘We need to get close all the time’. Steve R’s polite criticism of Tim failing to stop Grant getting his shot away. Taj reacting to teammates’ knowledge about rib injuries: ‘I know- and it’s hurting like nobody’s business now’.
Although we missed a couple of good chances in the first half and their second goal was a look away comedy moment….Baby’s back header to Mark who scrambled in vain….we did really well to make Avery work so hard for their win. Maximum effort in very hot, testing conditions- again,well done all!
Avery Hill 02.09.19 Away at Home. Changing Room Show Pitch
2-3. ( Mike, Doyley –yes, he’s back, he’s back, he’s starring in attack…)
Team: Mark, Steve R, Chris, Baby, Tim, Pocky, Taj, Smudge, Roy, Steve D, Mike, Jack.
Subbed: Jack, Pocky (lift engineer on call- avoided a ‘trap in’),Taj- injured, giving all for the cause as usual- had to be serious ( broken ribs? ) for Taj to stay off.
In a Sentence: A hard-working performance from a makeshift side, earning credit in defeat.
In a Word: Determined.
Goal of the Game: Mike. Having conceded twice we kept working and played the ball out of defence with Taj and Pocky combining. Doyley laid the ball out to the right for Pocky to send Mike into the area. Showing the benefits of summer training, Mike held off Mad Dave, who should have done better and rounded the keeper to pass the ball in with his left foot.
OSCDT (Top Passing). Baby set up our second goal with a fifty yard assist which – combining with the centre- half’s hesitation – allowed Doyley to poke home the equaliser to ensure we were level at half time.
However Pocky gets the accolade for that assist, sending Mike in and giving us all the scope to point out Mad Dave’s errors. Play the ball Dave- not the man!!
Top Tackle: It’s that man again- Chris- getting across from the right to complete another sliding tackle to avert danger and take a couple of opponents out.
Players’ Player. (Chosen by those left in the bar). A unanimous decision by the 7 in the club: Baby: excellent all-round game, organised the defence, good positional play AND kicked the ball a long way.
Mark’s Man/Men: A stand out performance from all who played. Good to see Doyley back, Mike score and some great committed defending. Baby just gets the nod.
Moments and Quotes.
‘I’ve run around a lot- which is not my game’.Smudge- on 3 games in midfield. (And he had to put his shoulder back in!). ‘I’ll play how I want to play’. Mark the Bike responds to advice/criticism from teammates. Chris-distinctly under the weather at the end of the game- could have been the heat- or the horrific state of the toilets and changing rooms. Tim’s subtle take out of Grant. Jack -showing skill his Dad can only dream of, juggling the ball in the area away from several defenders. Roy playing on through the pain after a nasty accidental collision.
Good near post reaction save from Mark to keep out Grant’s snap shot. ‘We need to get close all the time’. Steve R’s polite criticism of Tim failing to stop Grant getting his shot away. Taj reacting to teammates’ knowledge about rib injuries: ‘I know- and it’s hurting like nobody’s business now’.
Although we missed a couple of good chances in the first half and their second goal was a look away comedy moment….Baby’s back header to Mark who scrambled in vain….we did really well to make Avery work so hard for their win. Maximum effort in very hot, testing conditions- again,well done all!
Old Tamponians 2018-19. The Season Opener
Crofton. (Memorial Game.). 26.08.18. The Quaggy
5-4. ( Podge, Paul (2), Taj, Graham.)
Team: Mark, Jim, Chris, Matt, Mitch, Taj, Smudge, Podge, Roy, Scholesy, Paul, Tim, Graham.
Subs: Tim, Graham, Mitch, Podge.
In a Sentence: A fine start to the season: football’s the winner in a nine goal thriller.
In a Word: Comeback !!!!
Goal of the Game: Paul: exquisite chip, perfectly clipped from 30 yards out. ( Early contender for goal of the season.)
OSCDT (Top Passing). Some good set piece delivery from free kicks by Smudge and Paul and from corners by Scholesy. Good vision from Podge trying to play Roy in behind the full back- movement and anticipation didn’t match the pass. Good work by Jim linking with Graham including setting him up for what should have been our sixth goal- beat two players blasted wide from just inside the box. Best today though, take your pick: Paul- freeing Graham for the winning goal or turning sharply to knock the ball to the far post for Taj to bury the equaliser.
Top Tackle: Quite a few robust challenges- a lot of them from the oppo- and some of them legit. Stoney’s take out of Roy drew some smiles. Chris gritting his teeth and accelerating with power to make the perfect slide tackle on Johnny and giving a wave as he powered by.
Players’ Player. (Chosen by Taj.) : Paul for two excellent goals hauling us back into the match and setting up victory with a pair of assists.
Mark’s Man : Well what a start to the season! 4-1 down and the comeback of comebacks. Valuable contributions from all but two classic chips from Paul gets the nod.
Good strong tackles and performances from Chris, Matt and Podge too with Scholesy playing well throughout and very importantly when he dropped into central midfield.
Moments and Quotes : ‘ It was a slip not a proper fall’. Smudge as usual displays a close attention to detail and technical accuracy. Good job losing possession in the last 25 seconds wasn’t costly AND his block on the line was masterful and worth a goal in its own right.
Podge, Martin Peters like risks a groin strain and post collision to volley home Taj’s fine deep cross at the far post. Matt’s power header destined for the top corner -of his own goal- until Mark made a fine reaction save- sadly the lurking forward couldn’t miss.
Quality no nonsense reffing: Glen kept the game flowing and even awarded Scholesy a free kick; Mitch showing his long vision is still effective, adopting a strategic position some distance from the ball.
Graham extravagantly dummying Paul’s drilled cross with an attempted overhead (Roy turned his similar effort into a pass) allowing Taj to smack home the equaliser. Graham beating the cries for offside powering on, rounding the keeper despite the latter’s desperate hack and rolling in the winner. ‘You did well today, Roy.’ Sarah was clearly impressed by those mazy dribbles- presumably even the ones on the edge of our box!
Despite a number of mistakes (which should have seen Crofton out of sight by half time) and conceding at least a couple of soft goals- a determined performance in an enjoyable game played in excellent spirit by both sides. Well done all!
Crofton. (Memorial Game.). 26.08.18. The Quaggy
5-4. ( Podge, Paul (2), Taj, Graham.)
Team: Mark, Jim, Chris, Matt, Mitch, Taj, Smudge, Podge, Roy, Scholesy, Paul, Tim, Graham.
Subs: Tim, Graham, Mitch, Podge.
In a Sentence: A fine start to the season: football’s the winner in a nine goal thriller.
In a Word: Comeback !!!!
Goal of the Game: Paul: exquisite chip, perfectly clipped from 30 yards out. ( Early contender for goal of the season.)
OSCDT (Top Passing). Some good set piece delivery from free kicks by Smudge and Paul and from corners by Scholesy. Good vision from Podge trying to play Roy in behind the full back- movement and anticipation didn’t match the pass. Good work by Jim linking with Graham including setting him up for what should have been our sixth goal- beat two players blasted wide from just inside the box. Best today though, take your pick: Paul- freeing Graham for the winning goal or turning sharply to knock the ball to the far post for Taj to bury the equaliser.
Top Tackle: Quite a few robust challenges- a lot of them from the oppo- and some of them legit. Stoney’s take out of Roy drew some smiles. Chris gritting his teeth and accelerating with power to make the perfect slide tackle on Johnny and giving a wave as he powered by.
Players’ Player. (Chosen by Taj.) : Paul for two excellent goals hauling us back into the match and setting up victory with a pair of assists.
Mark’s Man : Well what a start to the season! 4-1 down and the comeback of comebacks. Valuable contributions from all but two classic chips from Paul gets the nod.
Good strong tackles and performances from Chris, Matt and Podge too with Scholesy playing well throughout and very importantly when he dropped into central midfield.
Moments and Quotes : ‘ It was a slip not a proper fall’. Smudge as usual displays a close attention to detail and technical accuracy. Good job losing possession in the last 25 seconds wasn’t costly AND his block on the line was masterful and worth a goal in its own right.
Podge, Martin Peters like risks a groin strain and post collision to volley home Taj’s fine deep cross at the far post. Matt’s power header destined for the top corner -of his own goal- until Mark made a fine reaction save- sadly the lurking forward couldn’t miss.
Quality no nonsense reffing: Glen kept the game flowing and even awarded Scholesy a free kick; Mitch showing his long vision is still effective, adopting a strategic position some distance from the ball.
Graham extravagantly dummying Paul’s drilled cross with an attempted overhead (Roy turned his similar effort into a pass) allowing Taj to smack home the equaliser. Graham beating the cries for offside powering on, rounding the keeper despite the latter’s desperate hack and rolling in the winner. ‘You did well today, Roy.’ Sarah was clearly impressed by those mazy dribbles- presumably even the ones on the edge of our box!
Despite a number of mistakes (which should have seen Crofton out of sight by half time) and conceding at least a couple of soft goals- a determined performance in an enjoyable game played in excellent spirit by both sides. Well done all!
