Calverton Miners' Welfare FC 2008-09

MATCH REPORT: THURSDAY 14th May 2009

 

YEL DIV 1 : DUNKIRK COLTS 1 CALVERTON COLTS 3

We played Dunkirk a few weeks ago in a thrilling draw at Calverton, in recent weeks their form has continued to improve with a convincing win over WB Bulldogs & drawing against YEL cup winners Carlton Town. We were without Kieran ,Jake J & Johnny.

In the opening minutes Calverton looked a little nervous with Dunkirk exerting the early pressure. But as the boys got into their stride they took control and always looked the most likely to score. However we were frustrated in front of Goal unable to get any clean shots on target. The pressure however eventually paid off with the first goal arriving on 25 Minutes. Romellos shot from just inside the area taking a deflection and awkward bounce with Dunkirk’s keeper unable to hold on it rolled into the corner of the net. Calverton continued to press with some excellent play through midfield but for all the possession didn’t create any more clear chances against a resilient Dunkirk defence. When Dunkirk did get forward they found our defence in determined mood, for the most part clearing our lines well and we always had Liam B to fall back on to clean up for the long ball in behind.

HT 0-1

Calverton stepped up a gear in the second half, Jordan , Michael , Joe & Adam creating havoc when driving forward.

We really should have been out of sight by now when Callam missing chance of the night from 6 yards out, a great ball across the Goal & totally unmarked he completely miss hit it and it rolled harmlessly wide. If you don’t put chances away it can come back to bite you, which is exactly what happened. Dunkirk hit us on the break with a ball over the top beating our defenders for the first time, Liam raced out of goal pulling the striker back to give way a clear penalty. Fortunately he was only booked. The Striker took the penalty and Liam was equal to it pulling off a great save but as the ball bobbled around we were unable to clear it and it eventually ended up in the net.

That spurred us on to produce the best passage of football in weeks. Six minutes later Adam & Jordan linking up on the far right to deliver the perfect cross for Joe to volley in at the left hand post. With just 5 minutes left we got the cushion we needed when Romello broke through the Dunkirk defence with his pace, forced wide by Dunkirk’s keeper he put the ball in the net from a narrow angle.

Another deserved win with some solid performances from Jake T, Joe & Jordan

FT: 1-3

Scorers: Romello Nangle (2), Joe Brothwell
MOM: Jordan Knight

 

 

 

 

 

MATCH REPORT: TUESDAY 12th May 2009

 

YEL LEAGUE : CALVERTON COLTS 1 AWSWORTH VILLA 1

Tonight we welcomed the new YEL DIV 1 Champions Awsworth. It’s been a long season and I am sure Andy & Chris were please they had wrapped it up at the weekend before coming to Calverton. It certainly took the pressure off both sides. Reece & Greg were out for Awsworth & Kieran for Calverton. Both teams played some good opening football Joe hitting the post and Awsworth striking the bar in the opening 10 minutes. But on balance Calverton looked the most creative and took the lead on 13 minutes when Joe put Romello behind the defenders on the right and he scored from a very narrow angle. We did give away a number of needless free kicks, which put us under pressure we didn’t need.

Joe should have added a second Goal on 23 minutes, but somehow put it wide of the post from close range. At the other end we defended well and Liam was in confident mood with good handling and distribution.. Jordan made three fabulous runs from deep in our half leaving Awsworth exposed at the back but we failed to capitalise in the last third.

HT 1-0

I made changes at have time to save tired legs and re-introduce them later, but the pattern of the game remained the same. Calverton the more creative and Awsworth dangerous on the break and from set pieces. Michael hit two long-range shots just wide of the post. Seven minutes into the half Awsworth equalised, hitting Calverton on the break with plenty of players forward. We continued to play the good football & hit the post a second time. Joe & Romello both missed golden opportunities to set each other up. More changes were made because of injuries ,Jake & Johnny both coming off. Our two best chances fell to Callum, the first from a corner which he turned into the Keepers arms from close range and another late in the game which was a difficult ball coming across the goal, but he turn well wide of the left post. We did enough to win and on another night I am sure we would have put the chances away. I only counted one offside against each team….which should say something about last Sunday’s fiasco.

In the end all honours even , we got the point we needed to make 3rd place ours by right.

FT 1-1

SCORERS : Romello Nangle

MOM : No man of the match, just a good all round team performance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

MATCH REPORT: SUNDAY 10th May 2009

 

YEL LEAGUE : SANDIACRE TOWN 2 CALVERTON COLTS 5

Its days like this that you realise how lucky we are to have such good facilities at Calverton.

Todays venues with Car Park & Changing rooms, 10 minutes walk away, Sloping Pitch , Goals that were un-even, Nets full of gaping Holes, No lines on the Pitch and no referee to boot…..!

At least it wasn’t a winters morning in February in gale force winds & raining.

The boys opened very well playing some excellent football and creating a number of opportunities. Johnny pulled some nice crosses in from the left with both Michael & Romello firing wide. Unfortunately the game was falling into a pattern with both Liam & Romello called offside too many times to mention. Jordan , Michael & Joe linked up well and Calverton broke to deadlock on 17minutes, Liam using his brute strength and scoring from close range. Minutes later Joe should have doubled the lead , beating the offside trap but not beating the keeper from 10 yards out, putting the ball wide of the post. Sandiacre hit back on 22 minutes from a swift counter attack, Jake unable to hold onto the shot and the striker finishing from close range. Offside’s were coming thick and fast, but when we did get through Sandiacres keeper closed down and made some excellent saves. On 35 Minutes we got ourselves in a mess, our attack broke down, Sandiacre launched anther ball over the top and in the confusion the striker somehow looping the ball over Jake to put the home team in front. Calverton responded by throwing forward another attack but Romello was brought down somewhere close to the area, No one could tell because the lines were impossible to see. Penalty/Free kick…No the half time whistle went…!

HT 2-1

On the re-start the Boys responded immediately, Callum Woods moving up into midfield striking home from inside the box with just 2 minutes gone. Calverton went back into the lead on 14 minutes after some sustained pressure Joe Brothwell adding to his impressive tally of goals for the season. Sandiacre were pushing further & further up the field , relying on their offside trap to break up the play, and launch the ball back into our half from the resulting free kicks. The boys dealt with the high balls well, and continued to look to play the ball out wide to both Adam & Johnny when possible.

The Sandiacre Keeper continued to frustrate Liam & Romello with some excellent saves from close range. But on 24 Minutes Romello was fouled again, this time he won a penalty. He stepped up calmly, hit the ball hard & low, the keeper saved..!! Fortunately he followed up the rebound and managed to steer the ball back into the net. A minute later the game was over, Romellos quick actions and instinct for goal were spot on. Having missed easier chances he beat the offside trap coming in from the left and fired into the bottom right corner past the stranded keeper.

I can’t remember any game with so many borderline Offside’s given, in every case the benefit of doubt given to the defending team. Whilst I would concede the majority of calls were correct a number were not. Standing in an offside position is not an offence and the referee & linesman should take a second or so before committing to a decision, better a late & correct call, than an early wrong call.

We were well worth the win today, and it could have been more convincing. An important 3 points today as it secured a share of 3rd spot with Priory. Well done boys ..I know how tough the past month has been and how hard it is to get motivated…just two more games.

FT 5-2

SCORERS : Romello Nangle (2), Joe Brothwell, Callum Woods , Liam Bogues

MOM : Jordan (1st half) , Johnny Collins.

 

 

 

 

 

 

MATCH REPORT: FRIDAY 8th May 2009 - YEL LEAGUE CUP FINAL

 

YEL CUP FINAL : CALVERTON COLTS 2 CARLTON TOWN 3

The bad news was that Kieran Johnson was unfit having twisted his ankle in his schools final the evening before. Despite Mick’s best efforts through the day Kieran was not ready to start. On arrival at Arnold the wind was blowing a gale and I said then that whoever won the toss would have a massive advantage. Carlton won the toss and got off to dream start on 2 minutes, a superb volley from outside the area leaving Liam with no chance. Carlton continued to dominate and used the wind to their advantage with some well delivered corners and doubled their lead on 10 minutes. Calverton never really got going, struggling to cope with the windy conditions and Carlton managing to break up any play in midfield. Johnny & Romello were finding service difficult to come by. When we did get forward Carlton dealt with any threat, Reevan in particular was outstanding throughout the game. We were approaching Half time and at 2-0 I had no worries about the still being in the game, but another series of corners put us under pressure and Carlton scored again heading home from close range at the far post. This was now a mountain to climb.

HT 0-3

The wind which had been so prominent in the first half was now petering out, but Kieran was on and would surely put Carlton on the back foot. An early goal would be essential .Carlton looked well organised, they played the ball around with purpose and continued to look a threat, having one goal disallowed for climbing over a defender. Kieran’s ankle gave way again and had to come off 20 minutes into the half. With 10 minutes to go Jordan slipped Romello through and despite a quality finish he was called back for offside. We now had to take a few chances in throwing Joe forward alongside Romello & Jordan. Reward came through Romello, once again some great 2 touch football through midfield and a great finish into the bottom corner. Calverton weren’t done as they continued to drive forward , Joe leaving the Carlton backs standing and lobbing the keeper to leave Carlton just a goal advantage to set up a nail biting last 2 minutes. In the end it was just too little to late.

Despite the disappointment of losing on the night it has been a great achievement to get here, beating some good teams along the way in some memorable games.

We have enjoyed our enjoyed our Champions night last week and If we were to lose the final I am glad it was to a team who know how to play football and have been so consistent this season.

Well done to all the Calverton & Carlton boys, Russ & Richard.

FT 2-3

SCORERS : Romello Nangle, Joe Brothwell MOM : Jordan Knight (tireless), Joe Brothwell

 

 

 

 

MATCH REPORT: FRIDAY 1st May 2009 - YEL LEAGUE

 

YEL LEAGUE : CALVERTON COLTS 2 WB BULLDOGS 2

Bulldogs have had a good season, taking points off both the title challengers and ourselves so I had no doubt we had a difficult task this evening. Also coming off the high of Wednesday’s final would be difficult to fire ourselves up, with a number of boys carrying injuries and tired.

A number of experimental changes were in order to the line up would test the boys further. Bulldogs started very strongly and certainly for the opening 20 minutes Calverton were pinned back creating very little. Going forward were too predictable and slow failing to bring Kieran & Romello into the game. But at the back we looked solid and I was happy with the boys who started. The best chance of the half fell to Jake Jackson in unfamiliar territory just 18 yards out & unmarked, but caught in two minds couldn’t offload a shot to test the keeper. In fact both keepers looked comfortable having to deal with half chances at both ends.

Very little to get excited about in the first half although Calverton were beginning to test the Bulldogs resolve in the latter stages.

HT 0-0

Calverton started the better of the teams in the second period, but this is where Bulldogs can be at their most dangerous with quick breaks from the back. On 10 minutes Calverton let their guard down, a rushed throw in on the half way line, poor control, loose ball and Calverton’s backs out of position; Bulldogs were in and made no mistake.

As many teams have found, once Bulldogs go in front they are difficult to break down and they certainly were now winning the 50/50 challenges and clearing their lines well. 5 minutes later Bulldogs doubled the lead, Callum had just been unlucky once again hitting the post at the other end but Bulldogs countered with a well worked move and great bicycle kick finish.

Calverton finally got a break with 15 minutes to go . The Bulldogs Keeper who had made a number of good saves put this one across the goal where an unmarked Johnny Collins stealing in from the left finished from close range. Calverton continued to look for the equaliser in what was becoming an equally physical and verbally nasty encounter, stoked up by a few WB parents who should know better.

In the end Kieran had the last word beating 2 defenders and the Keeper at the near post to level the game with 5 Minutes to go.

Unfortunately tonight we dug our own hole which was going to be difficult to climb out of. On the Plus side, and it was a big Plus we showed once again that we have the determination in the side to climb back out, and I think another five minutes might have snatched three points. Jake T had a good game as sweeper tonight, the boys were unanimous in giving Jake ‘Man of the match’. It shows that the boys need to be positive in taking on unfamiliar rolls if we are to progress.

FT 2-2

Scorers : Johnny Collins, Kieran Johnson MOM : Jake Towlson

 

 

 

 

 

MATCH REPORT: WEDNESDAY 29th April 2009 NOTTS FA SHIELD CUP FINAL

 

FA COUNTY CUP FINAL : CALVERTON COLTS 3 DREZDEN COLTS 1

After the turmoil of the last few days regarding the YEL Final we could at last focus on the most important Game of the Season, the Holy Grail, The ‘FA County Shield’. This was our second meeting with Drezden, exactly 12 months ago in the same competition on a night where we didn’t quite live up to our own expectations and Drezden were just superb.

Tonight was a different game, a more experience in the squad and they delivered. Drezden had more pocession in the opening spell and might have been two up in the first 10 minutes, the first from a cross-found the left-winger unmarked but he put the ball well over from 6 yards out. Another early scare when the striker lobbed the ball finding Liam stranded in no-mans land but it fell just wide . For a short five minute period Drezden were beginning to play their dazzling one & two touch football, but in the last third we were defending well and looking organised. Drezden had a succession of corners but failed to capitalise. It was nearly 20 minutes before the first shot was on target, Liam pulled off a magnificent save to his right turning the ball around the post. A minute later Calverton launched their first meaningful counter attack, Kieran Johnson beating the defence with his frightening pace and tucking the ball into the bottom corner past the oncoming Keeper. Confidence was growing in the team, we were beginning to break up Drezdens midfield dominance and turn their defence on its heals. The first half flashed by, but the half time whistle was a welcome break.

HT 1-0

The second half was more balanced in the opening spell with both teams trying to probe & open up an opportunity, but having little success in really testing the keepers. In fact both Keepers dominated their Areas tonight superbly. Drezden were throwing more players forward in search of the equaliser and on 20 Minutes got their reward when the ball fell loose just inside the box, the striker steering the ball through a pack of defenders to level the score. The celebrations had barely time to settle down when Calverton were at the other end forcing another corner. Michael delivered the ball into the perfect spot to create the most confusion , Jordan was the quickest to react and restored Calverton’s lead with a low drive into the bottom corner. This was a tight game to call and Calverton were going have to defend the last 15 minutes like they have never done before. When Drezden pressed forward the boys responded with a disciplined defensive display that we could turn to our advantage using Kieran’s pace.

On the counter we were intelligent enough to head out wide and for the corners keeping their defenders under pressure and forcing Drezden to give away throw-ins & corners wasting valuable seconds. With 6 minutes to go we countered once again Kieran and the Drezden defender matching each other stride for stride, somehow Kieran just managed to gain the advantage and force the ball past the Drezden Keeper to put us 2 goals in front and within touching distance. It was a nervous last few minutes from spectator’s point of view, but I think the boys always had it under control and without a doubt deserved their success tonight. Too many great individual performances to mention, and collectively magnificent. This game could have gone either way had early chances been taken, so have a thought for the Drezden boys who competed on the night and made the game a pleasure & spectacle to watch.

FT 3-1

SCORERS : Kieran Johnson (2), Jordan Knight MOM : Kieran Blower

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MATCH REPORT: SUNDAY 26th April 2009 YEL LEAGUE

 

CARLTON TOWN 2 CALVERTON COLTS 3

Round 2 of a 3 match contest against the Lions who were riding high on an unbeaten run and winning at a canter on Thursday night. This was a different match on a different day with both teams missing key players through illness, injury & School commitments. Carlton started off the strongest with Calverton absorbing the pressure. With dry conditions the ball didn’t run or bounce true and boys were finding it difficult to control. In a close physical contest there were numerous stoppages for injuries. Adam had only 10 minutes when he picked up a knee injury from a needless challenge. The Colts subs bench was already threadbare but despite a back injury Michael stepped on to fill the void. The colts were growing with confidence as the game went on, competing in midfield, moving the ball a little quicker and offering our forwards some service. We did waste a couple of corners , the quality of the cross not as good as those offered by Carlton. However it was Carlton who broke the deadlock on 28 minutes. Liam had already saved us from one well placed corner, but he could do nothing about the second one as the forward headed home from close range at the far post. Good teams pull together at times like this and the boys did exactly that. They raised the stakes and denied Carlton the space they had mid-week. 3 Minutes into injury time Kieran made one of his 50/50 runs up against the Keeper who failed to get the ball under control, Kieran won the ball and still had a lot to do but steered the ball in between the Post & defender to make things all square at half-time. Carlton weren’t happy but I think Kieran’s challenge was fair, and so did the Referee.

HT 1-1

In the second half we played with more belief. We were quicker than Carlton and moved the ball forward with more pace to test their defenders. With 10 minutes gone Kieran’s pace undid them again, but no controversy or arguments this time, the Colts went in front.

It didn’t last long, less than a minute in fact. Carlton pushed on and we didn’t deal with a cross, the forward cut the ball back from the dead ball line across the Goal for it to strike Alex on the leg and it rolled just inside the post for an own goal. Calverton were still looking the most likely to take something from the game. Carlton’s two touch football which was pleasure to watch on Thursday had been reduced to hopeful punts up front which our back four dealt with from start to finish. Joe was an inspiration protecting his defenders and setting up some testing counter attacks. Callum moved the ball around quicker in the second half and the Calverton forwards were the ones to benefit. Jake T & Michael played the physical game, prepared to meet fire with fire, clearly a few Carlton players didn’t like it. Callum went within a whisker of scoring with a shot from the left hand edge of the box, the ball took a awkward bounce and the keeper just pushed it onto the post and awy to sfaety. Indecision at the back eventually undid Carlton , the threat was always there and Romello managed to break through , steer the ball around the oncoming Keeper and put the ball away to put us in the lead with 15 minutes to go. A messy goal, but they all count.

Calverton had a few more chances, Romelo subject to a dubious offside decision, fortunately he skied it so no harm dome. The boys were looking tired, but to change any players at that stage might have thrown the game wide open. With minutes to go Romello had a good call for a penalty, the Keeper clearly taking the Romello out and not making any attempt for the ball; however the referred didn’t see at that way and waived play on.

It was a much better performance, building with confidence as the game went on and the perfect response to the loss in mid-week.

Well done Boys.

FT 2-3

Scorers : Kieran Johnson 2, Romello Nangle MOM : Joe Brothwell, Kieran Blower

 

 

 

 

 

MATCH REPORT: FRIDAY 24th April 2009 YEL LEAGUE

 

CALVERTON COLTS 2 CARLTON TOWN 6

The first of a trilogy of games against local rivals Carlton. In recent years Calverton has had the upper hand but came unstuck tonight against a team who in my opinion are currently the best in the YEL. In the opening exchange Calverton were well up for the game finding the space and pushing forward. Two minutes into the game Romello hit an unstoppable volley from the left hitting it into the top corner of the net to put Calverton ahead. Carlton stepped up their game moved the ball around quickly and were stretching Calverton left & right. A cross from the right went unchallenged in the box as the Carlton striker fumbled it home to draw level with just 8 minutes gone. Two minutes later and Carlton were in front, yet another cross finding Calverton floundering. Single handed Romello found another piece of individual magic to put Calverton back in the game, this time picking his spot low in the right hand corner. The game was settling into a pattern with Carlton the dominant force looking most likely to score. Calverton’s forwards rarely got the chance to test the Carlton defence as moves forward were often let down by misdirected pass. Carlton took the lead from that exact scenario, Calverton conceding the ball whilst pressing forward, just 3 passes and the Carlton Striker picked his spot for a superb strike into the top corner on 30 minutes.

HT 2-3

Carlton continued to turn the screw and 8 minutes into the half doubled the lead as Calverton failed to clear the ball in and around the six Yard box. To add insult to injury we conceded a penalty on 16 minutes which at the time I thought was a bit harsh, but I suppose if you continue to scream for hand ball every time a player received the ball close to his body eventually the referee will be influenced. Carlton made no mistake with the penalty and was now in the driving seat. The boy’s heads had dropped and we conceded a 6th Goal within 2 minutes. Chances for Calverton were few & far between, Jordan going closest when beating the keeper only to see the ball cleared off the line. No arguments Carlton were the better side on the night and deserved the win. They moved the ball around quickly, with accuracy and worked as a team. We made too many unforced errors both in midfield and defence, and failed to give service to Kieran & Romello to test Carlton.

Boys , you don’t become a bad team overnight. When times get tough you have to pull together, you have to work harder and you will be better for it. A good kick up the backside from our rivals isn’t going to do us any harm, we can forget the league and focus on the Cup Finals.

FT 2-6

SCORERS : Romello Nangle (2) MOM : Romello Nangle

 

 

 

 

 

 

MATCH REPORT: SUNDAY 19th April 2009 YEL LEAGUE

CALVERTON COLTS 5 V EAST VALLEY UTD 3

Calverton started well putting East Valley under pressure with some patient build up play. Kieran, Adam & Joe all had shots on target but as we found in previous games the East Valley keeper is difficult to beat. 10 Minutes into the game & East Valley scored with their first attack of the game, a superb cross with the forward getting between the defenders to slide the ball home from just 6 yards out. The boys weren’t phased and set about getting back on level terms. We pressed with East Valley defending deeply & continuing to look for the counter attack. Eventually Calverton’s pressure paid off with Joe hitting a nice low cross into Kieran Johnson who picked out the bottom corner of the net from just a few yards out. Calverton continued to press with some good build up play , Charlie working well in the centre & supporting the right hand side, even Josh managed to get forward and put in a long range shot with his left foot just wide of goal. Seven minutes before half time with Calverton’s indecisive backs looking for a non existent offside East valley snatched the lead at the second attempt despite Liam’s valiant attempts to save. It stayed 1-2 up to half time.

HT 1-2

Calverton got back on level terms almost immediately this time Joe beating the defence and steering the ball wide of the keeper. Would Calverton forge ahead…??? Not a chance five minutes later East valley pulled ahead once again through some more shocking defending. The next fifteen minutes East Valley dug in and resisted Calverton’s best efforts with a corner hitting the bar, shots saved from Joe, Jordan & Johnny putting the ball wide from just 6 yards.

With 10 minutes to go East Valley swept forward , pulling the ball inside a player went down on the edge of the box, with the ball breaking free shouts went up for a penalty, but the referee waived play on. This was the turning point in the game as Michael picked up the ball for a counter attack he slipped the ball through to Kieran who pulled Calverton back on level terms with a quality finish past the oncoming keeper.

Josh might have put us ahead immediately but just couldn’t connect with a well delivered ball from the corner .Seven minutes to go and Calverton finally went in front, again it was Kieran this time with a header from Callum’s in swinging corner. This time we weren’t going to concede like we had against Dunkirk. With just 3 minutes left Kieran made the game safe with a low shot from the edge of the box putting us 5-3 in front. Any other day we might have been happy with the result but with so many important games coming up defensively we have a crisis and its needs putting to bed.

FT 5-3

Scorers : Kieran Johnson (4), Joe Brothwell MOM : Charlie Fitzmaurice, Kieran Johnson

 

 

 

MATCH REPORT: THURSDAY 16th April 2009 YEL LEAGUE

 

CALVERTON COLTS 4 DUNKIRK COLTS 4

Always a tough fixture home or away this was a must win game if the boys were to have any chance of league honours. But on the performance of the first 35 minutes there was only one team who turned up to compete. Dunkirk were well worth the two goal lead at half time with a number of Calverton players unwilling to track back leaving Jake J & Charlie often exposed & having to defending against two Dunkirk forwards.

Our midfield often took the wrong option & having done the difficult job of winning a ball would give it away again cheaply. The first goal came about on 6 minutes as a result of sloppy defending, no pressure and plenty of options but needing too much time & striking the ball into the oncoming player. Dunkirk exploited the error despite a suspicion of offside ran clear to put the visitors in front. Dunkirk then dominated the next 20 minutes, always first to the ball with plenty of movement. A second goal was coming and once again 3 defenders wouldn’t commit to make a challenge as the forward wriggled through the box to score from just 6 yards out. Calverton were restricted to 3 long range shots with only one on target but with no power. Two Goals down it was difficult to see where the inspiration would come with Romello & Kieran looking like spectators for much of the half.

HT 0-2

We had a quiet chat at half time and the boys came out all guns blazing in the second half, stepping up another 10 yards and taking just 4 minutes to half the deficit, Romello taking advantage of another suspicious offside. Six minutes later it was all square Adam working the ball in from the left, the ball eventually dropping to Romello unmarked coming in from the right and striking the ball beyond the keeper. It was anyone’s game now, Dunkirk was once again beginning to threaten. On 20 minutes Michael sent over a deep cross which Romello headed home for his hatrick and Calverton moved into the lead for the first time in the game. Unfortunately Calverton sat back once again conceding play in a dangerous area and failing to clear our lines. If we had defended any deeper we would have been on the wrong pitch. Dunkirk equalised on 25 minutes amidst confusion & shrugging of arms.

5 minutes later Jordan then stepped up with a wonder Goal, a perfect volley from 35 yards leaving Ollie with no chance in the Dunkirk goal. Calverton might have thought they had won the game, only for Dunkirk to hit back with just 2 minutes to go with an equally superb strike from just outside the box, again Liam had no chance. Both goals were worthy enough to win a game, but proved to be the final acts of the game.

For the neutral an exciting game. Pity we didn’t turn up until the second half.

FT 4-4

SCORERS : Romello Nangle(3), Jordan Knight

MOM : Romello Nangle

 

 

 

MATCH REPORT: SUNDAY 5th April 2009 YEL LEAGUE

CALVERTON COLTS 3 AFC VERNON 1

Vernon arrived at Calverton on the back of a good win last week. For the opening 20 minutes Calverton continued where they left off last week at St Ann’s with some excellent football. The boys moved the ball well with good distribution and really should have been a few Goals in front but for some good saves from Vernon’s the stand in Keeper. Romello hit one over the bar from just a few yards out, Joe & Michael put the ball just wide from shots on the edge of the box. The moves were flowing but the end result just wasn’t happening. On 21 minutes another sweeping move from the back with just 3 passes saw Joe get through the Vernon defence and swept the ball into the bottom corner for his opening Goal. Nine minutes later with Calverton camped in the Vernon half Joe picked up the ball on the left hand edge of the box, moving the ball across his body and curled the ball around the unsighted Keeper to put Calverton 2 goals up. He should have hit his hatrick minutes later with just the keeper to beat he drilled the ball onto the post, the ball rebounding across the goal, and Vernon gratefully clearing. Adam hit a superb cross from the right but Romello could find the back of the net, his header just wide. Vernon continued to look dangerous on the break throughout the half but rarely tested Liam with Calverton’s backs playing a very tight & controlled game.

H-T 2-0

We asked for more of the same second half, and for the opening 10 minutes it looked like that would continue but some of the boys looked tired and were now looking to play the long ball and offer no support. Changes were made but Vernon stepped up a gear and sensed they might sneak back into the game. Liam certainly had more to do but Vernon wasted their chances as we had in the first half. Eventually Vernon found the net when Calverton had conceded the ball going forward leaving players out of position. A simple ball over the top splitting the defence and Vernon’s forward collecting the ball with a quality finish. Calverton were looking the more nervous and having wasted so many chances, were we once again the pay the price..?. In the end Joe settled the nerves, once again a sweeping move forward with 4 of 5 boys involved, plenty of support & options. Joe picked up the ball on the edge of the box and hit the bottom corner of the net for a deserved hatrick.

Romello & Joe worked hard today. Kieran came on with 15 minutes to go for a run out following his injury and was chomping at the bit. After a difficult period the squad is almost back to full strength. We have a lot of games to squeeze in a short period, the boys need to be as fit & focused as much as possible now , every game counts. Overall some excellent football when the distribution was good. We lost our way for a period in the second half, but came through. A deserved win and 3 points in the bag.

F-T 3-1

Scorers: Joe Brothwell

MOM: Callum Woods

 

 

 

 

 

MATCH REPORT: SUNDAY 29th March 2009 YEL LEAGUE

ST ANNS SNIENTON 2 CALVERTON COLTS 7

We have already had 2 cracking games against St Ann’s at Calverton, so we were a bit hesitant meeting them again with both Kieran & Romello out with Injury & Academy duties. Plus we had that terrible performance at Pelican last week, however the boys had something to prove and they rarely let us down for the big games. For the first 35 minutes Calverton dominated play creating more of the chances and rarely under pressure at the back. Adam opened the Calverton account on just 6 minutes beating 2 defenders to the ball and sweeping the ball into the bottom corner from the edge of the box. 3 minutes later Michael looped in a high cross which the keeper lost in the sun and Johnny bustled over the line. Calverton then went into cruise control as Joe went on a one man crusade hitting 4 goals in the space of 20 minutes, St Ann’s just couldn’t get to grips with him. With Calverton 6 Goals up and half time looming St Ann’s struck back, a mix up between Liam & Josh allowing the striker to scramble to ball home.

H-T 1-6

With the job done all we expected was to try and keep control the game. We expected St Anns to come out with nothing to loose now and playing for pride. St Ann’s did exactly that , they were equal to Calverton and looked the most likely to score for the first 20 minutes. St Ann’s targeted their 2 forwards time and time again with the long ball , trying to turn Calverton’s defence, but for some poor finishing they might have pulled a couple of goals back. Eventually though Kamal did what he does best & hit a screamer leaving Liam with no chance.

Calverton had a better spell for the last 15 Minutes, and had Joe been more selfish might well have had another hatrick, but it didn’t stop him from hitting the underside of the bar from 25 Yards. St Ann’s had run out of ideas & Calverton were back on top adding the 7th Goal on 31 minutes into the half, Johnny perfectly placed for the cross and finishing from close range.

A good team performance and perfect answer to any critics over last week. Some more great individual performances, Callum this time in deeper roll turned up all over when needed. Joe a superb first half..All the midfield who battled hard, and this week played football on the ground. Liam and the Defence with some intelligent playing of football from the back…A step in the right direction lads and satisfying result after last weeks disaster.

F-T 2-7

Scorers: Joe Brothwell (4), Johnny Collins (2), Adam Bryant

MOM: Joe Brothwell

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MATCH REPORT: SUNDAY 22nd March 2009 YEL LEAGUE

PELICAN COLTS 2 CALVERTON COLTS 1

 

A must win game if we were to keep alive hopes of a runners up spot with Carlton Town entertaining Awsworth. (and loosing).

Unfortunately the boys didn’t have the same desire as Pelican who have improved greatly in recent weeks and were looking to put their early season results behind them. Kicking against the wind Calverton had to absorb the early pressure. The changes in positions didn’t prove to be successful, simply because a few of the boys thought a change in position gave them licence try and cover 90% of the pitch. Josh had an early effort saved and Jake T a looping shot which came off the bar. On the whole though Calverton failed to hold onto the ball or settle into any rhythm. Pelican exposed the Calverton backs several times using the wind to their advantage & finally took a deserved lead on 20 minutes. Reverting back to our normal formation put some order back into the Calverton defence and at last we started to make some inroads. Joe went the closest, as he bore down on goal with just the keeper to beat, but some heroic defending took the ball off his toe just at the crucial time. Overall though Pelican were deserving of their lead and might have been 2 or 3 up but for some good keeping & poor finishing.

H-T 1-0

With the wind behind Calverton we attempted to be more purposeful but Pelican threw everything into defending the lead and were always dangerous on the break. On 8 Minutes an unmarked Johnny should have put in the equaliser, a ball swung in from the right but at full stretch he couldn’t finish on the far post. Two Minutes later Callum fired in a low corner to the near post which the Keeper couldn’t hold, the boys screamed it had crossed the line but the referee waved played on. However the Pelican linesman was honest enough to get the Referees attention & give the Goal.

The most likely time to concede a Goal is just after you have scored, and within a minute that’s exactly what happened. Two Pelican boys dribbled past 3 players each without a meaningful challenge …2-1. Despite the best efforts of Callum & Joe upfront they were getting no change out of Pelican defence who played with determination & passion. Even if key players are missing it is no excuse to put in a low key performance like today. Every game from now on should be a cup game and needs to be played with the same commitment that Pelican showed.

In recent weeks Calverton look a pale comparison to the team that passed teams off the park early in the season, opting instead for aerial ping pong football which only has its place in the 3rd /4th Division game.. Apologies to any parents suffering whiplash after the game…normal play will be resumed shortly. Calverton rarely looked like earning an equaliser and came away with exactly what they deserved…nothing.

F-T 2-1

Scorers: Callum Woods

MOM: Josh Spademan

 

 

 

 

 

MATCH REPORT: Sunday March 16th 2009

YEL Cup: Semi-Final

CALVERTON COLTS 2 V PRIORY CELTIC GREEN 1

Let’s face it…….we never have dull games against Priory and you’d better believe that this was no exception. Priory are physically very strong but at the same time they are very fair. On a beautiful sunny morning there was no excuse for either team and they both went about their task with full blooded enthusiasm. We had to reshape the formation with Kieran out of action for the foreseeable future. Nevertheless we had Joe starting in the position he finished last week. From the offset we made a couple of half chances but it seemed the Priory keeper was again going to have another one of those days where everything would stick. We did dominate the early exchanges and with just four minutes on the clock our defence had taken to their beds for a few seconds and the Priory player pounced on a loose clearance to put the green and whites 1-0 up. Fair to say that the first half was a pretty equal affair. The boys battled manfully and made several chances. Joe was a constant threat shooting wide or just trying to take a touch too much. He was very unlucky not have bagged a brace in the this period. Priory were not without their chances but Liam was not be broken again. He was dominant in his goal ensuring that his defence were not going to be caught cold and saving their bacon on several occasions. As the half went on Calverton were panicking , trying to get the ball forward to early without support for Romello & Joe. Chances came and went – Jake T shot over the bar, Jordan skying from outside the box, Romello shooting wide and at the keeper; Michael with one saved off the line. A frustrating first half ended and it was still anybody’s game.

H-T 0-1

We didn’t need to say too much in the team talk because the boys had been working so hard. Just a few tweaks here and there were necessary. The boys carried on motoring forward this time with more purpose and after 10 minutes our reward came. Some lovely play ended with Joe flicking a ball into Romellos path. One-on-One with the keeper and he slotted home into the bottom left hand corner (1-1). The boys started getting their shape together and were looking the stronger side. Numerous chances came our way into Joe blasting one off the post. You have to say that the Priory defence were excellent today. Sam Foster was a colossus in defensive midfield and a credit to his Priory team mates. He roared his team forward and his passion epitomised what YEL football should be all about. He was a true warrior. But even his effort could not have prevented the turning point in the game. Again Joe placed a lovely through ball to Romello whose acceleration took him past the Priory defender. Mello was pulled back and the referee saw this as a goal scoring opportunity. I suppose the letter of the law deems that players have to go and several on the Calverton side saw it as being somewhat harsh. It wasn’t a dirty game up until then. In all the years we have playing football we have never had a player sent off against us and to be honest this was pretty innocent in comparison to some offences we have seen. What resulted was thunderous free kick from Jordan that was buried into the right hand side of the goal (2-1). With ten men Priory battled heroically. Liam Bogues was in position to fingertip a belting shot onto the crossbar and cleared by his defender. He also saved from a one-on-one which looked like a certain equaliser. Johnny Joe & Michael missed chances at the opposite end – Joe pulling a ball across the goal , Johnny having the ball picked off his laces by the keeper & Michael with a crossed header into the keepers arms. The Priory keeper was also fantastic today pulling off a string of wonderful saves. And so we held out for our first ever YEL cup final.

A thrilling game ended with both teams dead on their feet. Some fantastic performances today especially from Callum, Liam, Jordan and Joe. But MoM was unanimously given to Liam. Boys, we are so proud of you. You demonstrated today that you can mix it with any team and you now have a second final to look forward to. What a reward… Brilliant!

F-T 2-1

Scorers: Romello Nangle, Jordan Knight

MOM: Liam Bogues

 

 

 

 

 

MATCH REPORT: Saturday 7th March 2009

NOTTS FA CHALLENGE SHIELD - SEMI-FINAL

CALVERTON COLTS 2 V COTGRAVE COLTS 0

Cotgrave have been in irresistible of late and certainly arrived here buoyant after their Q final win against Newark Town Titans. Seven of the Calverton squad had already been up for Schools games in the morning so it was always going to prove to be a very difficult proposition to face the battle against a fresh Cotgrave team rearing to go.

We started well and after four minutes the ball was played towards the edge of the box to Kieran who held the ball up beautifully, stroked a pass to Callum and thundered the ball off his laces into the right hand bottom corner of the goal. We may have been forgiven for thinking that Cotgrave would have capitulated but they are made of sterner stuff. They battled, had mountains of possession and created numerous chances but none that troubled Liam too much. In fact we were responsible for causing ourselves the problems with lacklustre defending & loose marking. Up to this point Cotgraves best chance came from a corner, however Johnny was perfectly placed to clear off the line from the strikers shot. Calverton’s best moves came on the right, Jordan, Michael, Kieran & Adam linking up well. The game was halted with a horrible injury to Kieran with 10 minutes of the half remaining. Paramedics took nearly twenty minutes to get him in the ambulance and significant rethinking had to be done. This might have been the turning point in the game, and Cotgrave sensed it. We lost our flow and allowed Cotgrave to come right back at us. It would be a question of riding out the remainder of the half . We still created chances but our finishing in front of goal was poor. Jordan worked tirelessly and Joe was making a menace of himself causing all the attacking problems for Cotgrave. Late in the half a poor defensive clearance almost cost us dear but the Cotgrave striker didn’t take advantage of his best chance in the game, pulling the ball wide.

HT – 1-0

The halftime talk was feisty to say the least. The boys were asked to take a long hard look at themselves, and how much they really wanted to win. The second half was more like the Calverton we know. There was commitment in the tackle, the passing was slicker and we were starting to dominate the proceedings. Midfield started to develop moves and take control of the central area of the pitch..Joe was playing a lone role up front and making chance after chance for himself. 6 minutes into the second half we cleared the ball from our area. The ball reached Joe who flicked the ball over the defender, beat another two Cotgrave players and slotted the ball past the keeper. A wonderful solo goal. We could have made the game even more comfortable but for the radar not being too accurate in front of goal. Joe was a constant threat throughout the afternoon, relishing his attacking role. Cotgraves ability to turn our defenders was greatly reduced throughout the second half as we got tighter to the forwards and played with more discipline. With 15 minutes to go Johnny Slipped the perfect ball between two defenders with Joe closing in on goal he was pulled back for offside. Jordan then danced his way through 4 defenders only to be smothered out by the Cotgrave keeper. Once again Joes physical power beat the defenders, the keeper forced him wide and his shot struck the near side post , rolled across the goal and with no-one following in the defender cleared. We certainly ended the game comfortably and the defence need to be congratulated for a much tighter performance in the second half – especially Alex who was a completely different player in the second period – two fantastic last ditch tackles.

Okay our lads were very tired even before a ball was kicked and on another day we could have made life much more difficult for Cotgrave. Let’s not take anything away from Cotgrave who need to be congratulated for a stoic and brave performance and they caused us real problems. They should hold their heads up as they gave Calverton an exceptional test. They are a credit to the YEL second tier and if they play like this for the rest of the season they will no doubt be challenging for the right to play the Awsworths, Priorys and Calvertons next season.

Well done lads for grinding out a result. Some excellent performances from Jordan, Josh, Joe and Charlie in particular. So another shield final and regardless of what happens another successful season for the boys.

News on Kieran – looks like he has torn muscles in his side and could be out for some time. All of us wish you a speedy recovery.

FT – 2-0

SCORERS: Callum Woods, Joe Brothwell

MoM: Joe Brothwell

 

 

 

MATCH REPORT : YEL LEAGUE  : EAST VALLEY           0   V      CALVERTON COLTS    0 

 

Spring looks like it finally arrived and usually brings out better performances from the boys, but we had a few injuries carried over from yesterday with Jordan & Michael out from the starting line up. The pitch wasn’t  the best we have played on but the same for both teams so no excuses.

 

The opening 15 minutes was fairly even as both teams struggled with the playing surface, tight control was difficult. Neither team really dominated the first half Calverton with 8  Shots and only one on target, at the other end East valley had 3 shots with 2 on target. Liam was called into action on  a couple of occasions when the long ball slipped beyond our backs but was always confident and dealt with any danger with great maturity. Beyond that there was little to talk about and really it was a dull uneventful game.

 

H-T  0-0

 

In the second half Calverton stepped up the pressure. In fact we laid virtual siege to the East Valley half of the pitch, but just like other teams we were finding East valley difficult to open up. Chance after chance came and went as the clock ticked away.  East valley looked for the counter attack which were now few & far between. We Huffed & we Puffed but we could knock the east Valley House down. Charlie struck the underside of the bar from just 6 yards, Kieran & Joe were both denied from point blank range with a couple of outstanding saves. We also wasted numerous opportunities, snatching at half chances with better options available.

 

To their credit East Valley always maintained a threat going forward and might have even snatched a winner in the last 5 Minutes. If we had been there for a month on Sundays we would not have had a goal, it was just one of those games. Highlights…! Some excellent work from Callum & Jake T in midfield. Liam always on his toes despite little to do, especially 2^nd half. Things we need to work on …Composure in front of goal & Patience in build up to create the chances. For East Valley, great work ethic from Martin &  the boys who after a poor start to the season are really showing some confidence in their play.   

 

F-T  0-0

 

Scorers:  -

MOM: Callum Woods