Team News We took a squads of 13 with 3 players away or ill
Helllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllo spotrs fans
This looked like we had eaten to much turkey and Christmas pudding 5 days early .For Lee ,myself and all our travelling supporters this was no where near the performance of last week ,which was outstanding .Once again the inconsistency we have shown on more than one occasion this season was on display .
We allowed ourselves to be bullied off the ball and out played ,We did take the goal well cutting through their midfield and defence with just four passes ,sadly as efficient as that was we did not learn from that and struggled for the hole game .Let's hope we can all have a good Christmas and new year and start again in 2009 with little more passion and desire to want to win .
From Lee myself and players have a good holiday
Gt Bradford's 2 HT Boadicea 0
Gt Bradford's 5 FT Boadicea 1
Quote of the week
'If they hadn't scored, we would've won'
We only had ten players for today's match and three of those had not fully recovered from cold and flu viruses, so we recruited some of the under 13's to make the numbers up. The boys started well but once again we were second to the ball on most occasions, letting Wivenhoe have too much possession on the ball.
They scored first with a shot from distance that flew in, wind assisted, after ten minutes but they couldn't add to their score due to some stout defending and some desperate clearances. With six players from the 13's we were able to swop players around and too their credit all the boys played very well and didn't let the opposition intimidate them at all. To be fair some of the challenges coming in from Wivenhoe were a bit strong, but our boys didn't get rattled and never retaliated, which was very pleasing to see as managers.
Second half we had the wind behind us and this seemed to help our play, as we were hitting it up field, trying to take out their two tall defenders and get Brandon in behind them. Our goal came from a shot from Tanju that their goal keeper couldn't hold and Brandon followed in superbly to nick the ball passed him for the equaliser.
The play in the second half was far more open than in the first half and both teams had attempts on goal, but Ben and our defence managed to keep them out, with Kyle controlling the back four superbly.
It was a great result for us and we felt we could even have nicked all three points in the later minutes of the game, but it was a good point earned with only part of our squad being available.
Well done boys and a special thank you to the boys from the Under 13's and the parents and their manager Graham for letting us use them. They stepped up superbly and were a credit to their team. It only leaves me to wish everybody a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Goalscorer: Brandon Fulton
Before kick off we only had the bare eleven players for this match due to injuries and colds, so were pleased to have Ryan back (not fully fit though) and also Brandon who turned up to make it twelve players. Only five minutes had gone when Ryan was tackled and as a result had to be substituted. He was in severe pain and had to be taken to A & E and as a result is now out of action for some considerable time with a broken foot.
After the challenge on Ryan went unnoticed by the referee Stanway broke through and the resulting cross into our box, was turned into our own net for an own goal. Stanway continued to pressurise us, but we seemed to cope with whatever they threw at us, but just couldn't seem to get control of the ball and every time we won it we seemed to give it straight back to Stanway.
With only eleven players for the remainder of the match we were limited to what we could do and had to change players positions when Craig got winded and had to come off not once but twice during the match, but credit to him he came back on both times and performed gallantly. Stanway scored a second before half time, but we told the boys we were not out of it and to just keep playing it tight at the back and to try and nick a goal to get us back into the game.
The second half started brightly, but we still struggled to contain Stanway and had no options but to try our best and keep the score to a minimum. They scored twice more in the second half, which Ben had no chance with, but we couldn't reply due to the fact that Brandon was playing a loan strikers role with everybody else trying to keep Stanway out.
The match ended 0-4 to Stanway, but with a full fit squad we felt we could have given them a run for their money and maybe even have got something out of the game. Hopefully it will be a different story when we play them at their place later on in the season.
It had to happen sometime and the scoreline tells it exactly as it is. Boadicea dominated the game from start to finish playing some excellent football. Josh started in goal as our fourth different keeper due to James' on going injury problems and he really didn't have any save to make throughout the game. The pitch was very sticky in the centre so it was important to get the ball wide which the boys did to great effect with Aiden on the right and Ryan and Callum down the left whose partnership was outstanding today. It only took 10 minutes for the breakthrough when Harry played a pinpoint ball to split the defence and our new striker Daniel out paced their defender to slot it into the bottom corner. The continued pressure eventually paid off again when a couple of strikes on target came back off their players and Aiden swooped with a well placed header to make it 2-0.
Cornard had some big lads up front but they weren't too mobile, so our back four coped well with anything that came their way and restricted them to only long range speculative efforts. Every time we went forward in the second half, we looked dangerous and forced numerous corners which were causing havoc at the back for them. It was from one of these corners that the third goal came. Pete swung it in from the right to the near post and a combination of the defender and Callums left boot squeezed it in off the post. They all count, so maybe this is a turning point in the season for us which can get even better once we have a full squad to chose from again. Three headed chances in close succession by Lewis, Carl and Daniel just confirmed the dominance we enjoyed by getting the ball out wide to the wingers. There was an altogether better feeling at the final whistle which was evident on the lads faces as well. A springboard for more wins, we hope. See you next week.
Today we were home against Frinton & Walton. Straight from the kick off, we tried to play football. We put some lovely passing moves together and should have gone ahead earlier. Jack Boyle (our captain for the day) scored the first two goals which put us in control. Top saves from our keeper Recce Harper meant we went in 2 nil up at half time.
In the second half it was more of the same with Shane Goodyear and Paul Stewart-Harris adding to more goals. We should have had more as we were controlling the game and only restricting Frinton to long shots at this stage. Efforts by Bradley Davies and Beg Regan, all ent close but in the end a 4 - win was ours.
Every boy put the effort in today and it showed, from great efforts on goal to killer passes from the midfield to every defender making a great tackle. This was an enjoyable game to watch
Team news 3 players unavailable through sickness and 1 away so a bare 12 going into one of toughest games.
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We were looking at this game as measure to our continuing progress in the A league,as Col Ath have won this league many times . The lads are in a good place at this time ,the belief and commitment are there in abundance .From the whistle we were in their face ,giving them no time to find any rhyme are pattern to their game .Kicking up hill the worked really hard and on the break we reminded Col Ath we were not there for a picnic .
The first half was held up for some 15 mins after a clash of heads that saw our new signing Zak receive a large bump to his head and the Col Ath player go of in an ambulance with a slightly larger bump than Zak.The game restarted in the same fashion both teams not really creating scoring opportunities but full committed .The half ended goalless and whilst Col Ath manager was clearly not happy with his team ,we were full of praise for our lads and filled them words of encouragement .We got of to a disastrous start conceding a sloppy goal within 5 min's of the restart.Col Ath I;am sure felt we would start to full apart at this point and allow them to go on win comfortably .Instead the goal work against them as we continued to frustrate them by outstanding work rate and the desire to not be beaten .
Our efforts were rewarded when Shane Taylor popped up in the box to finish a good move down the left .We pushed Col Ath all the way to the end and could come away with the having created three good half chances ,to add to the clear penalty not given in the first half .
Final score 1- 1
Quote of the week
After a hard fought 1:1 draw: 'The best side drew.'
After not playing for two weeks today we had Clacton Town away in the third round of the cup and we were hoping the boys were up for it. It was a bright afternoon, but cold and the sun was very low which was causing a problem at times.
We went one down when Clacton broke through and scored a great goal which Ben had no chance with, but we replied well when Brandon equalised with a well taken goal to bring us back into the game. Clacton's game seemed to be hit it over the top and hope their two forwards could get hold of the ball which seemed to be working the majority of the time, with the ground being slippery which caused us problems when trying to clear the ball. It was this that put Clacton ahead again when Tom tried to clear a ball hit forward and miss hit it completely, resulting in the ball flying high into the top of our net for an own goal.
Tom didn't let this get to him though and very nearly atoned for the mishap, when he hit an unstoppable shot which narrowly flew over their bar. This seemed to spur as on and it wasn't long before Brandon got his and our second to make it two each at half time.
We told the boys we needed to be more aggressive in our tackling and start putting Clacton under more pressure in the second half. It turned out to be a real cup tie in the second period, with both teams <
It was disappointing as neither team really deserved to win, based on the second half performance, but it was made worse when the referee made a blatant mistake when Brandon was shoved off the ball in their six yard area for what should have been a penalty. This put a bitter taste in our mouths as it is once again inconsistency from the referee that has cost us this match.
Goalscorers Brandon Fulton (2)
Today we had an away fixture in the league cup against Reed Hall
Team news we have no injury's this week ,so a full squad to select from
We never seem to play well against Reed Hall ,so we were not really sure how we would perform against the B league outfit. After arriving at the venue we were told it had been double booked, so we had to pack up and go to the new venue .This started the nerves jangling as Reed hall had inflicted our highest defeat last season on this pitch.
We started in a good frame of mind and it was clear the lads were well up for this .Looking back over the game I can honestly say we took control of this tie within the first 5 min's and never looked back. Gregon put us in front after 7 min's ,this was the trigger to set of 73 min's of complete domination.If we could bottle this up and poor it out every week we would .On a sticky pitch we played sexy football ,the pass and move game we have worked so hard to archive came to the fore ,we switched play at will and Reed Hall simply could not live with us .
We added another goal after 12 min when Shane drilled a low shoot in from the edge of the box ,his first goal in two years ,as moved from centre half to centre mid .The lads did drop of the pass in the second half which did give Reed Hall some encouragement .this was thankfully short lived as we got our second wind and pushed on again .Michael Schofield unleashed a pin point shoot for a well deserved goal ,with Jake Mitchell added another cool finish to put the game well out of reach of reed Hall.So we march on to the semi-final stage in consecutive season .
Mangers View this was a shear pressure to watch today .Everything that we have been trying to impress upon the lads about width ,passing and moving ,and supporting the player with the ball was on show today. This a really polished performance and one we were proud of .
Quote of the week
'Without picking out anyone in particular, I thought Michael Schofield was tremendous
Hopes were high for a win today but it turned out to be the classic game of two halves. On a frosty pitch, the lads began the game straight from the kick off with a sweeping move down the right which resulted in George Griffin planting a volley just wide of the right hand post. The good football continued as the boys knocked the ball about well, restricting the home side to only two long range efforts which didn't trouble our keeper..
Twenty minutes in and George had his second clear cut chance which he hit straight at the keeper. Boadicea seemed in control and were comfortable, creating two more good chances and having a goal disallowed for offside. However, its been proved before that if you don't put away your chances when you are on top, it could be costly.
The second half was a complete contrast to the first. We couldn't seem to win a header or the first ball in midfield and our passing went astray as well. Two quick through balls in succession and we are 2-0 down and thinking how did that happen! Aiden picked up a loose ball just in our half and embarked on a superb run down the right before striking a good shot which the keeper made another good save from.
After their third goal went in from our inability to clear a corner, the lads lost a little bit of composure and the game finished tamely in defeat. The bottom line is, we need a striker who can put away some of these chances we are creating and take some pressure off the back four. Watch this space. See you next week
Boadicea were looking to pick up their first league win this week, but the preparations were not helped by a succession of injuries and a 3rd choice keeper. The boys started the game well and enjoyed some good possession creating three half chances which came courtesy of Callum making some good runs down the left. Chris Mann in our goal looked confident between the sticks and the back four were solid throughout the first half, restricting the home side to long range efforts.
30 minutes into the game and another excellent run down the left by Callum resulted in the first goal for Ed who steered it into the bottom corner. Although we enjoyed the majority of the play, we still went into the break at 1-1 when their only real chance gave them a soft equaliser which we failed to clear after three attempts.
The lads were playing some good football but our achilles heel has been putting the ball in the net from the chances we create. This was no more evident than in the second half when after going behind to a penalty, Brooklands only chance in the half, we managed to hit the post 3 times, the bar once and Harry somehow managed to miss the target from right on the goalline by clearing the ball out when it was easier to score!
However, we got a deserved equaliser from a corner when Aiden connected with a good header and at the end we probably felt a bit agrieved not to have won it. We can't fault the boys for effort and they are getting better each game so we are confident that elusive win is not far away.
Team news: we had a full squad to select from this week with the return of Kieran back in goal.
Managers view With a full squad now we are hoping to push on and show our full potential something we have not done for a full game.
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This was a game we lost 4-2 earlier this season ,and came away wondering how ,as we out played Clacton .So we really wanted to turn that result around to get us on the up .We could not have started any better ,from the whistle we attacked them from all areas of the pitch ,right ,left and down the middle .As a result we created several good half chances .All this early pressure was encouraging but we really needed to score .The goal we wanted and deserved did not come and things got worse,as Clacton slowly started to work the long ball game and won a throw in by the corner flag .From the resulting throw the ball drifted over 2 defenders and some how rolled over the line .The half continued in that pattern with Boada playing football and Clacton hitting the long hopeful ball .We went in at half time 1 down to a very sloppy goal that we should have dealt with.
We needed something to show for all the hard work we were putting in ,and when it came it came from an un lightly source .Jack Rodway popped up at the far post to slot home after a great corner from Richard Davidson .The lads were lifted as this was the least they deserved after all their efforts and flowing football.We were hoping to go on and put the game to bed ,but then conceded a free kick just out side the box , the resulting kick flew into the top corner .So we had to come back for a second time if we were to get any thing out of this .The lads to their credit never stopped pushing and playing well ,but time was slipping away and you do not get points for just playing good football.We draw level After Jake Mitchell seized on a through ball and netted to set up a barn stormer last 10 mins . For all our endeavours we could not finish the game and claim all three point ,so 2-2 the final score .We are not in bad shape as we sit 4th in the league and have with the transfer of a proven goal scorer nearly complete thing came only get better .
Quote of the week 'there is no width on the wing '
Due to heavy demand from the northern branch of the Boadicea Dynamos supporters club, here is this weeks match report.
This was always going to be a tough test against an eastern alliance side who train three times a week, so the lads put on their shirts and ties and boarded the coach hoping to give them something to think about when they arrived. From the start, the game proved to be a physical battle with some tasty tackles being had in the midfield. Hornchurch managed to have most of the possession but Boadicea defended well and the chances were few and far between for both teams. 25 minutes into the game the Hornchurch striker picked up the ball by the corner flag on the left and somehow managed to turn our defender and get along the byline to squeeze the ball in at the far post.
From the restart, George and Aiden combined to create a chance which just went past their keepers right hand post. It was clear the home side were winning most of the first balls which was the main topic of the managers team talk at half time.
The second half went much the same way with both sides playing some good football in a very tight game. There were not too many clear cut chances except for Carl making one good save from their striker half way through and Lewis hitting the bar with a well taken free kick, after which he picked up a booking for dissent.
All in all it was a battling performance from the lads but in the end they just didn't have enough up front to get the equaliser. At some point this season, we're confident that the lads are going to give someone a good hiding, so roll on next weekend.
We were up against 'C division Colchester Athletic today in the cup and after they were beaten 20-0 last week, we warned the boys not to be too confident and take this match lightly, as we knew they would be looking to atone for that defeat. On a very slippery pitch there were a lot of mistakes right from the kick off and it was Col Athletic that took advantage of these mistakes with two quick goals in the first five minutes.
We tried to get back into the game but their keeper pulled off several good saves from Ryan and Oli to keep us out and this is how it continued for the first twenty minutes, until we finally got a goal back through Tanju and then it all changed. It became one way traffic from this point on with further goals from Ryan and a well taken penalty from James making it three - two at half time.
Peter and I told the boys not to relax and to go out in the second half and get a couple more goals to win the game, but the boys did better than that with a second half performance that would have any defence on their back foot. We scored nine goals in the second half, without reply and at the final whistle it seemed like all the boys were trying to get a piece of the action. The only down side to the second half was the fact the certain boys were trying too hard and forgetting the fact that we have been teaching them to play as a team and when they do the goals come a lot quicker and better.
Brandon a second half substitute took control and scored five of the nine goals in this period, with the other goals coming from Oli, Jordan, Ryan and another penalty from James.
All credit has to go to Colchester Athletic who with the bare eleven players, never gave up and if it hadn't been for their keeper the score would have been a lot worse for them and a lot better for us. It was a horrible pitch to play on in very wet and muddy conditions, but the final score left us all very happy and all looking forward to getting back to league action next week.
Well done boys, keep it up.
Goalscorers: Tanju Isikgun, Ryan Gemmell (2), James Bouckley (2), Oliver Vargas, Jordan Shaw & Brandon Fulton (5)
Team news Michael Schofield out ankle injury,kieron ,hopefully will return next week,fractured finger
Managers view ;We are slowly getting to the level we need to go on and do really well this season .Today would be a touch examination as Oyster are top of the B league and playing well .
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This game was a really something ,on a wet ,muddy and through the middle very sticker pitch we were treated to a classic cup tie .Both teams clearly wanted to play and over come the conditions ,Oyster took the lead after 15 min's after a mix up with defenders and keeper .We was not hitting the panic button yet as we had started well and the lads looked up for a battle.The game ebbed and flowed from one end to the other ,but on the skiddy surface the final ball from both sides was often over hit .With half time fast approaching it was important not to concede again .Gregon still standing in for Kieron pulled of a superb save as Oyster's centre forward broke through .
From Oyster's resulting corner we broke quickly and as Jake danced his was into the box he was tripped .The ref blow for the penalty and we had a chance to get back into the game .Richard stepped up and calmly slotted the ball into the corner to levels the scores .The order went out to keep it tight until half ,which was minutes away and 1 - 1 didn't so bad ,we stayed tight and pushed Oyster back and won a corner ,surely the last action the half ,from the corner Boothy found half of a yard and headed into the top corner .
The second half was as the first with both teams looking to get forward at every opportunity .It looked like there was more goals in the game but from which side was the question .We looked comfortable ,but really needed to score to give us a little breathing space .the next goal was going to be important and it was Oyster who got it levelling the scores .This now looked like it could go either way as both teams were playing with full commitment .the game move into the last 10 min's still anyone's game and all to play for .
We started to open Oyster up using the width and the were having trouble coping .it was one such break that with 8 min's remaining saw A J's cross met by Jake's head and into the top corner .We now had a 3-2 lead ,surely we would not give this away now .With in 2 min's of going in front and wit just minutes left we added another quite bizarre goal.Jake retrieved the ball just inside the Oyster half , he hit the ball towards the goal ,we had the two players coming back from off side positions but not active .
The Oyster back players all stood still ,as did the keeper ,there was no whistle from the ref and no flag from their linesman .As the ball bounced the keeper half went for it but missed and the ball bounced into the empty net and the goal stood .
There was no way back for Oyster as the game was drawing to a close ,this had been an enthralling encounter and Oyster had played their part in an excellent game .
Goal scores Richard Davidson 1 Harry Booth 1 Jake Mitchell 2
Quote of the week
'In football, if you stand still you go backwards.'
Today we were away to Stanway rovers on a bit of a local derby. From the first kick off we were second to be the ball and just didnt play with any spirit. Rovers scored first and then we levelled the scores with a goal from Ben Regan, after great work from James O'Hagen.
I was hoping that this would spur the team on, but no, we kept making the same mistakes and giving the ball away and not making simple tackles. Rovers added another couple of goal before the break, and at half time the score was 3 -1.
In the second half we came to life for 15 - 20 minutes and took the game to Rovers, we hit the cross bar, had a shout for a penalty but couldnt find the back of the net. Rovers hit us on the break and made it 4. After that heads went down, even more basic errors and we run out losing 6 - 1. Credit to Rovers they played a good game in the conditions.
The boys must now stop letting other things effect their football. They was too much answering back to the referree and players just plain not trying. The latter being the thing I will not put up with. Too many times 2 or 3 players just looked like they would rather be elsewhere then made basic, under 9 year errors, to give the game away. To be honest one word sums it up "SHOCKING".
With every other team playing in the League Cup this week, we needed to get a good result this week to stand us in good stead for next week when the roles are reversed and we are playing in the League Cup.
We kicked off playing into strong wind and for the first fifteen minutes we ended up chasing shadows as Lawford were playing some good passing football and we couldn't seem to get anywhere near the ball. We went behind from a freak goal that left Ben with no chance when they hit a ball goal ward which flew in to our net. This seemed to kick start our boys and for the remainder of the first half both teams had good chances to score with Ben making a few good saves.
Just before half time we got level when Ryan broke through and unleashed an unstoppable shot into the back of their net. This is how the first half ended.
Second half we were kicking with the wind, which had picked up considerably from the first half and we used this to our advantage and were soon 3-1 up after Tanju scored his first for the club with a high shot into the far corner and Ryan got his second with a cheeky nutmeg on their keeper.
We seemed to go from strength to strength after this and added a fourth through Ryan who completed his hat trick with a sharp shot that their keeper couldn't hold. We stepped off the gas after this and it allowed Lawford to settle on the ball and they pulled a goal back with a great effort that Ben couldn't stop. This is what we must not allow the opposition to do as we have thrown good leads away too many times in the past and I pleased to say after a five minute spell of pressure from Lawford we took control again and just before the final whistle Ryan added another with a long shot from about 25 yards which wind assisted bounced over their keeper for our fifth.
This was a great result with a lot of good individual performances with boys playing in new positions, but there is still a lot of room for improvement and we must not let the last two weeks results go to our heads.
Well done boys!!!!!
Goalscorers: Tanju Isikgun & Ryan Gemmell (4)
Team News With only Kieron out we had a full squad for today's game
Mangers View
With our some what indifferent form of late it was important we won today ,to keep us in touch with the top four teams .Work rate and commitment has got to be 100% from the hole squad to enable a top three finish,which I believe we are capable of.
Helllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllo sports fans It's that time of year wet ,windy and cold ,well 2 out 3 today as there was no rain .We had the task of kicking up hill and against the wind first half .Our instructions clear ,work hard as a unit and compete hard to win individual battles .It took longer that we would have like before we settled to the conditions .The long ball and the driving wind catching us out on numerous occasions .We could have been 2 down in that time as O/C hit the bar twice .We slowly started to adapt to the conditions and as we did the confidence levels rose as well.Our general play was ok ,but signs of sloppy passing ,and pass selection was again slow our progress .
The dead lock was broken midway through the ,A J intercepted the ball and played it down left Jake ran on an his cross found the reliable boot of Schoey ,who for the second week volleyed sweetly in the net. We saw out the rest of the first half in a much better mind set ,the clearly helped to settle us down .
The second half would be about self control ,as it's not always a good thing kicking down hill with the wind .We quickly picked up from the first half and more than matched O/C for commitment and certainly had more ball players on show .We went 2 up within 15 min's with a well taken goal from J Mitchell ,as fired his shoot passed the keeper .O/C kept us honest although never looked like they had a natural finisher to trouble us .We ourselves seemed more than a little shot shy as we pushed to add the 2 goals we had .We did come close when B Lambert's turn and shot looked in all the way ,but some how hit the post , S Taylor also had a great volley from a corner stopped by the keeper and so it when on .With the final whistle blown we had achieved the most important thing 3 points .A much better performance by all ,we must now build on this if we are going to continue our climb up the table .
Goal scorers M.Schofield ,J Mitchell
Quote of the week 'From now on, it's the start of a new beginning'
Today we were home against Long Melford. This was not a game that Boadicea can be proud of. Melford took the game to us and they should have been in front in the first half, but goals from Ben Regan and James O'Hagen made the score 2 - 0 at half time. In the second half goals from Luke Watts and another from Ben Regan finshed the game, but the way we won it was not impressive.
Full credit to Melford who in my opinon deserved to actually win the match. We sat back didnt use our wing players and let them totally control the game. We really only used our wing players 4 times and we scored every time. The boys must learn our strengths and play to them. Yes we won, but it wasnt in the way we wanted. Credit goes to Melford who didnt give us time to play football in the game at all.
Today we were playing top of the league Earls Colne and we were up for the challenge after a solid performance against Tempest last week. We had three substitutes today as well which was the first time this season and started with the same formation as last week.
For the majority of the first half we soaked up the pressure from Earls Colne who had several chances to score but we rode our luck a bit and kept them out. With ten minutes left in the first half we went one up when Kyle unleashed a great strike from about 25 yards which left their keeper with no chance.
Second half we were kicking up the hill and we were ready for the come back as Earls Colne hadn't lost yet this season and they were now kicking down the hill. This was not to be, as we went out and completely dominated the second half, not giving Earls Colne time on the ball, tackling hard when needed and basically not letting them get back into the game.
We went two up when Kyle's corner was brilliantly and powerfully headed in by Thomas. Ryan then rounded the defence and slotted past the keeper for our third. Earls Colne tried to get back into the game but were getting more frustrated with themselves as they couldn't get hold of the ball and even when they did, they missed the target from three yards out.
Brandon scored two more goals (his first and second of the season) to make the final score five nil and to be honest on the second half performance we could have scored far more than we did. It was a brilliant performance by the whole team, much more fight than usual, stronger tackling and much better passing of the ball than we normally do. This is a great confidence booster for the boys and we need to take this on into the rest of the season.
To use their managers words to their players - 'never mind s*** happens' and if this is the result of s*** happening then it came happen a lot more as far as I am concerned.
Goalscorers: Kyle Jenner, Ryan Gemmell, Thomas Nind & Brandon Fulton (2)
Team news
Kieron -keeper out for at least 3 more weeks (fractured finger)
Shane centre half after light training returns from knee injury
Gregon left wing remains in goal with Kieron out
Helllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllo sports fans
After the rain on Saturday we pleased to see it had brighten up for match day.We are still a little disjointed with kieron out and players not available for selection .After battling well last week with ten man we did have better numbers this week.Both teams were quickly into their stride but restricted to a few half chances .There was nothing between the two sides as both sides matched each other in all areas .As half time approached 0-0 looked a far reflection . Lexden won a corner, we switched off and from the resulting quick corner we never reacted and Lexdon broke the dead lock to end the half 0-1 up.
The second half saw much of the same ,both teams playing open football and the game was always flowing end to end .As with the first goal we switched of again this time from a long throw same result Lexdon scored to go 2 up.The team spirit that had been a major part of our success last season has, in recent weeks been missing .We feared going 2 down to one the stronger teams in the league we might crumble and fade .Thankfully the lads showed signs of last seasons spirit and continued to battling looking for away back into the game .We were rewarded midway through the half as Michael Schofield finished a great move down the left.The game was entering the last 10 mins a final push was required to try and get the draw we felt would have been a fair result .This all went out the window in a grazy 5 min spell .First a mix up between two defenders and the keeper resulting in a gaol for Lexden ,and a more unfortunate O. G saw Lexden run out 1-4 winners .
Managers view
We showed a much better attitude this week and if we can build on that over the next few weeks I;am sure the results will start coming .If there was one that really stood out it was speed of thought ,we need to think quicker in all areas and the concentrate for the full 80mins
Quote of the week
'A lot of football success, is in the mind. You must believe you are the best and then make sure that you are.
Today we were away to Col Athlectic in the league. 40 minutes before kick off we lost another player who couldnt make the game, so once again we were down to 11 players of who 2 have been struggling with injuries and illness.
Col Athletic started the game better and on a small pitch had some good long range efforts and this led to the first goal which was crossed in but went over every one into the net. We tried to fight back, but I had to change the formation of the team around to strengthen up the midfield.
Colchester went 2 - nil up mid way through the first half through poor defending, but this then spurred us on. We missed two very good chances and also hit the cross bar, before James O'Hagen pulled one back. At half time is to 2 -1 to Colchester.
After the break it was all Boadicea, Shane Goodyear scored to level the scores and shortly afterwards, put us ahead 3 - 2.
Athectic was restricted to long balls over the top in order to try to break us down, but the defence and Reece Harper our goalkeeper was up to the job. Luke watts then hit the post and it looked like it was going to be one of those days, but Luke scored and put us 4 -2 in front. It was know all Boadicea and only some superb defending by Athectic stopped us going further ahead. The final and best goal of the game came from Ben Regan who hit an totally unstoppable shot from out side the box right in to the top corner of the net. Game Over.
Well done to all the boys todays, coming back from 2 - 0 down it shows a lot of belief and character to fight back and win the game.
For today's match we once again only had the one substitution so didn't have much choice in what options we had for team formation. Peter and I had been putting in a lot of thought and we came up with a few new positions which we hoped the boys concerned with would raise to the challenge!
We were playing on the astro turf and hopes this would help the boys play the kind of football we are knew they could play. The first half went extremely well and although we didn't score, Adam was clearing up well behind the back three, Tom wasn't let much through him at the centre of defence and Ryan was trying his hardest to get the first goal. We had the majority of the possession and dealt well with anything that Tempest could throw at us.
The first half ended goalless!!
Second half, we told the boys to carry on with the same attitude and performance they had shown in the first half. Tempest had upped their performance as well, but we still were the dominate team, but still we couldn't find the breakthrough. Their keeper kept us out on several occasions, the best save being from Ryan who met a corner ball with a powerful header that their keeper tipped over the bar at full stretch.
The referee was having a good game but was being very strict on the rules and in all honesty could have let the game flow more, but it was good to see after the previous two refs we had had. The game ended goalless, even though we had a late scare when Tempest hit our post after some good pressure.
All in all we did perform well for the majority of the game; we battled hard and showed that we can play well. We just need to build on this performance and produce more of the same next week. We are sure the boys are more than capable of climbing the table and if they continue with this type of determined play the results will start to come.
Today we were home against top of the league St Edmunds, in very wet and windy conditions.
This was all about two halves. In the first half we were superb, we took the game to them and scored through James O'Hagen but cannot put any of our other chances away. We only had 11 players today, with three out inured, one being our top striker. The boys hassled and put pressure on St Edmunds, who levelled just before half time and at the break they were the team who couldnt wait to go off.
In the second half the pattern was the same, but with no subs the boys started to tire and St Edmunds took advantage of this and scored 5 unanswered goals. We also had a penalty which was well saved which would have put us back in the game at 3 -2 but it was not meant to be. Congratulations to St Edmunds on a good win.
The boys upped there game today and having no subs was the difference between the teams. I couldnt have asked more of the boys, who all put 100% in. A good performance but not the result.
Hellllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllo sport fans
On a cool autumn morning we arrived on time ,thereafter we dissolved into a complete shambles ,an unrecognisable and at times embarrassing mess nothing was going right largely through lack of effort from two thirds of the lads .
We were made to look very ordinary when we know we are better than that .If we ever needed a wake up call the last 2 games should serve as a warning ,only the highest level of work rate and commitment will prevent this type of performance in the future .
We could go on about how we were missing our keeper and centre half ,but no it purely a complete lack of commitment .Clacton showed a much greater energy level and the clearly wanted not only play but play to win,and that was the difference. Clacton ended winning 4=2 deserving their win on effort alone.
Goalscorers Antony Joyce,Jake Mitchell
Today we were away to Tigers B in the 2nd round of the county cup. We managed to put a team together from the slightly inured and the fit players available and made the bear 11. Injuries in the opening few minutes to 2 players didnt help our cause, but we tried to play football but held on for long periods in the first half only going in 2 - 0 down with the second goal being in injury time and also a defection.
In the second half this all changed and we were overrun by Tigers who played a good passing game. The final result was 7 - 0 to Tigers.
Even with the inuries and also the lack of players, we did not do ourselves justice. We did not complete for the ball and gave their midfield too much respect and backed off instead of hassleing them to win the ball. We didnt do the basics today and we were punished. The boys must learn to compete and win headers and not let the ball bounce over their heads.
We have learned a big lesson today and hopefully the boys will take this on board and put these basic errors right.Man of the Match: Reece Harper
Supporters Man of the Match: Luke Watts
Match Reports - 12th Oct 2008
Under 16's - LEAGUE CUP
THE CRUSADERS 3 - 5 BOADICEA DYNAMOS
Hellllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllo sports fans
Today was the first round of the league cup ,and on paper should have been a straightforward affair.But this like the F A cup inspires the lower club to play beyond there league position in the hope of claiming the scalp of one the bigger clubs .
This tuned out to be a much tougher examination than any of us would have wanted ,but credit were credit is due Crusaders battled their hearts out and barring a few very questionable tackles did themselves proud .We took nearly 30 min's to brake them down when awarded a penalty ,which was duly des patched to 1 up ,and should have settled us but we didn't, even when a few minute later we went 2 up there was still a uneasy ness about us .
Crusaders scored after we failed to clear from a corner giving them renewed hope just before half time .The second half was much the same as the first every time we went a head we gave them a goal ,and with 5 min's to and the score at 4 3 to us it looked like extra time was the most likely out come .
We just could not seem to found our players ,the width or the passing game to which we usually play .With time running out Crusaders pushed everyone forward looking for the goal that would force extra time ,it nearly paid of when a shoot in a packed box was cleared off the line ,we then went on to put three passes together which resulted in a great individual gaol from Richard Davidson to finally rap up the win 5 -3 and put us in the hat for the next round.
goalscores Richard Davidson 2 Jake Mitchell 2 Antony Joyce 1
Quote of the week
'If you're not sure what to do with the ball,
just pop it in the net and we'll discuss your options afterwards.'Under 14's
BOADICEA DYNAMOS 2 - 3 LITTLE OAKLEY
We had an early kick off this week at home to Little Oakley and started brightly creating several chances early on. We were awarded a free kick after three minutes which Ryan took charge of and hit a low hard shot straight into the bottom corner of the net. We hoped the boys could build on this lead and go forward and control this game, but Little Oakley are a strong team who didn't want to give it up that easily.
They equalised after about fifteen minutes, but we hit them straight back with Ben, who was playing in midfield, slotting the ball home to put us two-one up. Ben and Lee were both doing some tireless running, trying to control the midfield, but Little Oakley came back again and equalised before the break to make it 2-2 at half time.
We told the boys the second half was the time to take control of the game and take it to Little Oakley, but they had other plans and they were the team that wanted the win more than us, as they came at us looking for the winner.
Little Oakley went ahead with about fifteen minutes left, when a corner to them was put into our net by a powerful header. Although we tried to get back into the game, we couldn't find the final touch to get that goal, which would have given us a deserved draw.
The match ended 3-2 to Little Oakley and the whole team were disappointed as we felt we had performed well, but didn't quite want the result as much as the opposition. We have got to try and perform more as a team, we have several players that perform consistently each week, but these boys need the support of the rest of the team and if all the boys show this determination then the results will come and the confidence will follow. Certain boys need to step up their performances and we will be working on this in training and try to get the boys playing for each other, rather than themselves and start working together to get the results.
Keep your heads up boys, because the results will come and then we can all start enjoying the football again!
Goalscorers: Ryan Gemmell and Ben Howes.Man of the Match: Ben Howes
Match Reports - 5th Oct 2008
Under 14's
CLACTON TOWN 4 - 5 BOADICEA DYNAMOS
Today we had our first away game of the season at Clacton and we were out to put last weeks thrashing behind us and concentrate on starting to get some positive results. We started with a 3-5-2 formation trying to pack the midfield in an attempt to take control of the game, but this was obviously not working as after 12 minutes Clacton had broken our defence on more than one occasion and were three up without reply.
We changed things slightly and dropped Kyle back behind the back three to stop any break through balls. This seemed to work and we started to create some chances up front. We were awarded a free kick after 20 minutes which Ryan floated into the top corner of their goal for our first goal of the game.
This was the start of a great revival with Ryan getting another two goals either side of the half time whistle to bring the game level at three each. We then went one ahead with Ryan setting up Adam who finished neatly.
Ryan then added his fourth and our fifth to give us a two goal cushion, which was a great feeling after being three down. The boys had done really well to come back into this game and had shown the determination that we have been looking for since the start of the season.
Clacton pulled one goal back which made it a nervous last six minutes in which both teams had chances to score, with Ryan nearly breaking the post on one occasion and stand in goalie Tom making some great saves to deny Clacton. The game ended 5-4 to us and this was a brilliant team effort which we praise the boys for and hope they can build on this and start showing other teams what we know they are capable of.
Well done boys a great performance.
Goalscorers: Ryan Gemmell (4) & Adam RobeyMan of the Match: The Whole Team
Under 16's
BOADICEA DYNAMOS 3 - 1 GREAT BRADFORDS
Helllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllo sports fans
It seems strange that we were playing only our second league game of the new season.With the rain lashing down and a stiff wind this was not ideal conditions for either team.We were looking to revenge our semi lose against Gt Bradfords at the end of last season.
Lee and I know the lads have the ability and the team work but lack a little self belief , and they would need to discover that belief today as Bradfords are a well organised out fit.As we expected both sides went at it from the start the good news was we were competing in all areas.Our passing was a little poor at times allowing Bradfords the chance to have a little more of the possession ,although we had created the better chance .
We were rewarded with a goal half way through the half after a thunderous shot from Michael Schofield , just the lift needed on this very wet and cold day .We battled to half time protecting our 1 0 lead and had seen very little fire power up front for Bradford so we felt we could press on in the second half to seal what would be a terrific result for us .
The second half started with the wind and rain in our faces so not ideal, but against we got at them from the whistle which was encouraging to see .Midway through the half we conceded a soft goal after some slack marking resulting in cross Kieron could only parry to Bradford striker who headed home .The next 20 mins would be import to both who were both capable of going on to win and taking all three points .
I am pleased to report not only did we find the belief that was missing ,we played some outstanding football in the conditions and added two more goals converted by Jake Mitchell after some outstanding play .We later had a penalty claim turned down but even this was not going to spoil the brilliant performance from the lads who have now won their first two games in the A league .Well done lads, but remember today was the minimum standard I want from you all.
My new feature this season will be a famous football quote .
On the importance of passing the ball to feet.
"If God had wanted us to play football in the clouds, he'd have put grass up there"Under 13's
BRIGHTLINGSEA REGENTS 2 - 4 BOADICEA DYNAMOS
Today, in some of the worst weather we have seen for a long while, we were away to Brightlingsea.
From the kick off this game was alreadys going to be a bit of a lottery due to the weather, and in the first half each team struggled to come to terms with the conditions. In fact it was 0 - 0 at half time.
Brightlingsea took the lead in the second half after a mistake mainly caused by the conditions, but Boadicea came roaring back with two goals, from Shane Goodyear and Ben Regan. We were now in full flight and even in the conditions we were playng some good one touch football. James O'Hagen sealed with the points for us with a goal but to make sure Bradley Davies scored a 4th from the penality spot. Brightlingsea did score another goal, but the game was over.
This was a very good three points to win especially due to the weather, all the boys gave 100% and their determination paid off with a good win. Well done to you all.Man of the Match: James O'Hagen
Man of the Match: Luke Watts
Match Reports - 28th Sept 2008
Under 14's
BOADICEA DYNAMOS 0 - 9 LAKEVIEW
Our first time in the Essex County Cup and we were up against a team from Ilford, who played in the Echo Premier League. To sum this game up we were totally outplayed and out classed throughout the whole game.
The difference in league status showed in the way they were moving the ball around and also making runs off the ball and playing as a team every time they got the ball. We were not sharp enough on the ball or strong enough in our tackles (when we could near enough to someone with the ball!!) They intimidated us whenever we had possession and it worked as we couldn't seem to string more than two passes together before losing the ball.
They scored four goals in the first and another five in the second half to make it a total whitewash at the final whistle.
We had a few chances in the second half and were a lot better in our tackling, but in reality we were beaten by a much better team and we wish them well in the next round and pity whoever the opposition is!
We must learn from this defeat and come back next weekend with a positive attitude as we are back to the league and need to start getting things right.Man of the Match: Lewis Bowes
Under 16's
HEYBRIDGE SWIFTS 3 - 0 BOADICEA DYNAMOS
Today we were way to Heybridge Swifts in the Essex County Cup.
We were drawn in the first round against an alliance league outfit ,so this was always going to be a tough game.The game started with Heybridge on the attack from the whistle ,our defence stood firm and we soaked up the early pressure restricting Heybridge to a hand full of half chances .We really struggled to get going as if we were just standing watching Heybridge play their game .
It was just before half time when Heybridge got the break through to go in 1 0 up at the break.The second half was a case of as you where before the break ,we watch and chased shadows and played the football . Heybridge scored a second mid way through the half .At that point we suddenly became interested in playing and for twenty minutes competed with Heybridge and created several good chances.
As we continued to push looking for something to take out the game Heybridge scored a third in the last few minutes and ran out 3. 0 winners and we wish them good luck in the next round .Under 13's
BOADICEA DYNAMOS 3 - 9 HALSTEAD TOWN
Today we were at home against Halstead Town in the league. Straight from the kick off we did not cope well with the over the top ball football that Halstead played and we we punished time and time again by he same move. We tried to play football and scored three very good goals with Bradley Davies scoring one of the best volleys I have ever seen and Shane Goodyear scoring the other two.
Full credit to Halstead who play to their strengths but we must learn how to deal with the long ball game to ensure that this doesnt happen again. Credt must be given to all the boys who put in good performances today but we had too many players who did not give 100% and did not do what was expected of them today. At least I know what we will be working on in training.Man of the Match: Luke Watts
Supporters Man of the Match: Shane Goodyear
Match Reports - 21st Sept 2008
Under 14's
BOADICEA DYNAMOS 2 - 3 LAWFORD JUNIORS
We virtually had a full squad and were looking to put last week's performance behind us, but Lawford had different ideas. They had improved from last season and came at us straight from the kick off. Only seven minutes had gone when they went one up from a corner, when a powerful header left Ben with no chance.
Lawford doubled their lead five minutes later, which started to get our boys heads down, but a lucky break brought us back into the game, when a high punt towards their goal by Jordan, ended up in the goal after their keeper fumbled the ball.
This should have been the turning point in the game, but instead we continued to be on the back foot and conceded a free kick just outside our box. The resulting kick flew over our wall of boys and over Ben and ended up in the back of our net to make it three-one.
In the second half we did improve and started to have more possession and even created some chances! Unfortunately for us we couldn't find the final touch we needed. We did pull one goal back when a high ball into their area by Craig, was flicked into the goal by one of their defenders, but this was as good as it got and the game ended three-two to Lawford.
Goalscores, Jordan Shaw and Criag BunyanMan of the Match: Thomas Nind
Match Reports - 14th Sept 2008
BOADICEA DYNAMOS 2 - 5 NOTLEY YOUTH
Our first game of the season and we were certainly looking forward to it after two friendly matches in the past two weeks had resulted in two 5-1 wins for the boys. We also had a full squad apart from Lee who was absent due to a mix up with his registration card!
We started brightly on a very bumpy pitch which needed cutting desperately and created several openings before Brandon cut the ball back from the touchline for Adam to slot home for the opening goal. Notley were creating chances as well as us and we were lucky on a couple of occasions not to have our lead wiped out. We actually managed to score next, with Adam getting his second of the game with a delightful chip over their keeper.
This should have been game over as far as we were concerned and we should have tightened up at the back and tried to control the game from this point on. Unfortunately this was not to be as Notley are a good football team and certainly capable of turning a match on its head. This is exactly what they did when they pulled a goal back when Ben parried a shot, straight into the path of another player who stabbed the ball home.
Half time was shortly upon us and we told the boys to tighten up and keep playing the football they had been in the first half. We needed to go out and regain the two goal advantage we had had, but things didn't go to plan!!
Notley came out for the second half looking to get back into the game and they looked the more hungry for it. We had made a couple of substitutions which seemed to unsettle the shape of the team and Notley capitalised on this and after 15 minutes of the second half they were level. From here on in, it just go worse and there was nothing we could do about it as the boys were just over run by Notley as they went on and scored three more goals to make the final score 2-5.
We can only hope that the boys learn from this performance and build on the positives from the game, because there were quite a few, but also learn from the mistakes.
Goalscorers: Adam Robey (2)
Man of the Match: Not Given OutUnder 13's
FRINTON & WALTON 2 - 3 BOADICEA DYNAMOS
Today we were away for our first game of the season against Frinton & Walton.
With two players missing we had to move the team around to ensure that we had good cover in all places. It took us 10 minutes to get into our stride, as it happens in most first games, and we were 1 - 0 down mid way throught he half, but Shane Goodyear levelled the scores before half time, with a well taken goal. At the break the score was 1 - 1.
After the break, we started to the play the sort of football we know we are capable of, and goals from Shane Goodyear and Ben Regan put us in the position to go on and win the match.
Frinton scored there second goal with a couple of minutes left, but it was all over. All in all a good result for our first game. We have learned a few things we need to work on in training, and put right. The boys can be proud of this result against a very good team.Man of the Match: Reece Harper
Supporters Man of the Match: Brad Johnston
Under 16's
BROOKLANDS 0 - 2 BOADICEA DYNAMOS
We started our journey into the A league a week after everyone else.
So once again it's helllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllo sports fans
We know this year will be tough as we go head to head with seasoned A league players ,but we have retained the services of the squad that won the B league last season ,and we believe they are well equipped to go on and do well this season .
Brooklands started quickly and came at us from the go in a hope of rattling us early doors, little did they know that we are made of steel and nothing rattles us. Although we found it hard to get our passing game going we did open them up after 20mins when a clearance from Kieron our keeper was seized upon by Jack Mitchell who out passed the defence and riffled home .
We battled well for the remainder of the half to go in 0 - 1 up which we were very pleased with .The second half was much the same as the first as Brooklands changed their formation several times in an effort to break us .Stout defending ,tireless midfield work ,a hand full of top draw saves from Kieron and another quality strike from Jake was enough to earn us a well deserved 3 points.
A great start and more of the same is needed to keep progressing this season ,great team effort ,great result well done to all the lads .
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