Calverton Miners' Welfare FC 2007-08

Under 16- with thanks to Ian Williams for his contributions.

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Diary Dates Friday 23 May - Presentation Evening at Calverton Top Club. Wednesday 18 June - NYL Presentation at NCFC (1862 Suite) at Meadow Lane. Both at 7.30 p.m.

Under 16s before the NYL Cup game with Beeston Rovers from 13 October 2007

 

Russ Nicholson - manager	Tony Capewell

Date	League/Cup	Opponents	h/a	Score	Scorers
22-Aug	Friendly	Priory Celtic Green (5.45 pm)	h	5-2	Bartlett 3, Lacy, Woodford
25-Aug	Friendly	Forest Town Colts (2.00 pm)	a	5-1	Bartlett 2, Jeffrey, Moss, Smith
29-Aug	Friendly	Ashfield Youth F.C (6.15 pm)	h	16-0	Jeffrey 4, Vickers 4, Bartlett 3, Orme 2, Capewell, Clarke, Moss
01-Sep	-	No Game (Team Meeting)	-	-	-
08-Sep	League	Ruddington Colts	h	6-2	Clarke 4, Vickers 2
15-Sep	League	Keyworth Utd	a	post.	-
22-Sep	League	Rolls Royce Leisure	h	4-3	Bartlett, Clarke, Jeffrey, Moss
29-Sep	League	Hucknall Sports	a	2-0	Hopper, Smith
06-Oct	League	Long Eaton Utd	h	2-2	Capewell, Hopper
13-Oct	NYL Cup 1	Beeston Rovers	h	4-0	Hopper, Richardson, Smith, Vickers
27-Oct	League	West Bridgford Colts	a	5-5	Bartlett 2, Richardson, Clarke, Vickers
03-Nov	Notts FA Shield	Jacksdale	a	0-2	-
10-Nov	League	East Leake Bantams	h	post.	-
17-Nov	NYL Cup 2	West Bridgford Tigers	h	8-0	Bartlett 2, Hopper 2, Smith 2, Clarke, Woodford
24-Nov	League	Ruddington Colts	a	4-1	Bartlett, Moss, Orme, Smith
01-Dec	League	Keyworth Utd	h	5-3	Bartlett 2, Woodford 2, Clarke
08-Dec	League	Rolls Royce Leisure	a	post.	-
15-Dec	NYL Cup 3	East Leake Bantams	h	2-0	Bartlett, Capewell
22-Dec	League	Wollaton Hall	a	7-4	Bartlett 2, Richardson 2, Clarke, Smith , Vickers
29-Dec	League	Long Eaton United	a	2-0	Bartlett, Vickers
05-Jan	League	no game	-	-	-
12-Jan	League	West Bridgford Colts	h	5-0	Woodford 3, Clarke, Vickers
19-Jan	NYL Cup Date Qtr Final	Carlton Town	a	2-4	Capewell, Hopper
26-Jan	League	Pelican Colts	h	post.	-
02-Feb	League	Wollaton Hall	h	3-1	Bartlett 2, Richardson
09-Feb	League	Bulwell Town	a	2-1	Bartlett 2
16-Feb	League	Keyworth Utd	a	4-0	Hopper 2, Bartlett, Woodford
23-Feb	League	Bulwell Town	h	9-0	Capewell 3, Hopper 2, Woodford 2, Bartlett, Smith
01-Mar	League	East Leake Bantams	a	3-0	Capewell, Clarke, Hopper
08-Mar	League	Rolls Royce Leisure	a	6-0	Hopper 2, Bartlett, Capewell, Jeffrey, Richardson
15-Mar	League	East Leake Bantams	h	1-1	Woodford
22-Mar	League	Hucknall Sports	h	post.	-
29-Mar	League	Pelican Colts	h	3-1	Capewell, Williams, Woodford
14-Apr	League	Pelican Colts	a	4-2	Bartlett, Capewell, Hopper, Vickers
22-Apr	League	Hucknall Sports	h	3-1	Hopper 2, Vickers

 

	LEAGUE	CUP/FAS	TOTAL
Zach Bartlett	17	3	20
Jack Hopper	12	4	16
Ollie Clarke	10	1	11
Adam Woodford	10	1	11
Lewis Capewell	8	2	10
Juan Vickers	8	1	9
Declan Smith	4	3	7
Joe Richardson	5	1	6
Callum Moss	2	-	2
Rhys Jeffrey	2	-	2
Danny Orme	1	-	1
Marc Williams	1	-	1
TOTAL	80	16	96

 

Under 16s Presentation Evening 24 May 2008
		John,   Here are 3 piccies from the Presentation Night.   PLUS Lewis Capewell won Players Player and Parents Player and Adam Woodford won Managers Player.   Thanks Ian

 

 

 

UNDER 16’s TAKE THE EAST LEAKE TOURNAMENT........!!

Hot on the heels of the Division 1 Championship Trophy, the Under 16 Squad picked up another trophy after winning the prestigious East Leake Tournament on May Bank Holiday Sunday.

Two teams entered the competition which saw 15 of the best teams in the County battling for the 6-a-side Championship. Calverton Blue, managed by Ian, lost only 1 group game but cruelly went out at the Quarter Final stage on sudden death penalties 4-5 to old rivals and hosts East Leake.

After an unbeaten group run, Calverton Red, managed by Russ, met another strong East Leake side in the Quarters and duly avenged their team mates demise by going through on penalties 5-4. Hucknall Sports were the opponents in the semis and they were duly despatched with some fine football 3-0, the goals coming from Adam, Liam and a great solo run and finish by Dec.

Opposition in the final were Wollaton, a fine side, and after a goalless 15 minutes the scores were level and the dreaded penalty shoot-out beckoned. 5-5, sudden death, 6-6, and it was left to Skipper Lewis to shoot home to claim the win and another trophy for the Club.

CALVERTON RED (Winners) RUSS (M) CALLUM M. LEWIS ADAM NICO LIAM JACK DECLAN	CALVERTON BLUE (Quarter finalists) IAN(M) LUCA MARC RHYS EMMETT ZACH DANNY CALLUM K.

 

 

Wednesday 23 April 2008 Friendly - Doncaster Rovers U18 Academy..1 Calverton MW..0

After the euphoria of the previous evening, the Under 16’s travelled to the Doncaster Rovers Centre of Excellence for a work out against their Under 18 Academy. Supplemented by a few Under 17 and 18 year olds, Calverton showed no signs of being overawed by their senior opponents, many of whom are on professional contracts with the League One outfit.

Six players started from our Under 16’s, including the complete midfield of Nico, Adam, Juan and Danny Orme. For much of the first half this quartet never allowed the Academy side to get going with some fierce tackling and showing signs of real maturity passing the ball for fun. However, it was easy to see why the Donny youngsters have a future in the pro game with their passing and movement. 0-0 at the break and Michael Randall in goal for Calverton hardly had a worthwhile shot to deal with.

Many personnel changes for Calvo after the break but their rhythm did not alter, taking the game to the home side with some crisp interplay and dogging defending and tackling. Rovers took the lead mid way through the half when trialist Arthur Gnahoua fired home leaving Callum Marks no chance. Almost immediately, Calvo swept down the other end and Josh Croft had a perfectly good goal disallowed. Try as they might the Academy could not add to their tally and the game ended with no further scoring.

Calverton finished the game with a 15 year old ‘keeper and a back line which included three 16 year olds and one 14 year old. A superb showing by all the Squad and yet another indication that the future of Youth football at Calverton is very bright indeed.

 

 

 

Tuesday 22 April 2008 NYL Division 1 - Calverton MW..3 (Hopper 2, Vickers) Hucknall Sports..1 (Thomas)

 Champions make it 20 games unbeaten.........!!!

 Local rivals Hucknall Sports were the visitors to the Lane for the last league game of the season. The Colts, already having secured the league title 3 weeks ago, were determined to end the season unbeaten and went for the kill from the off, both Rhys Jeffrey and Zach Bartlett going close in the opening 10 minutes. Their early pressure paid dividends in the sixteenth minute. Following a delightful pinpoint Sam Nicholson through ball from midfield, Jack Hopper outpaced the visitors defence to fire home into the corner for 1-0.

Sports are a determined outfit and began to cause Calvo a few scares with the long ball and equally dangerous long throws from Ross Lamb. Apart from a Callum Kitching shot which grazed the bar, the half ended with neither side dominating and it was always going to need another goal or two to maintain the unbeaten sequence.

Into the second half in much the same pattern, both sides somewhat frustrated by an over fussy referee not allowing a great deal of flowing football. It was the visitors who stunned the home crowd with a goal out of nothing five minutes in. Yet another free kick just inside the home half was floated into the box. Quite how the smallest player on the pitch got a head on the ball was anyone’s guess. Jamie (Midge) Thomas had all the time in the world to plant the equaliser past Callum Marks for the leveller.

Game on now and the Colts had to up their game to preserve not only the run, but their pride in front of their supporters and proud parents. Adam Woodford went close with a free kick from the edge of the box which appeared to be heading goalwards only to hit a team mate which allowed Sports to scramble the ball away to safety. The all important go ahead goal came halfway through the half. Woodford found space in midfield and was allowed to thread the ball through to an unmarked Juan Vickers in the box who gleefully fired home for 2-1.

Consolidation was now the key and the points now seemed safe barring any late mishaps. The icing on the cake came 5 minutes before the end. Jack Hopper, who had caused problems all night with his pace, picked up the ball at the edge of the box. Entirely on his own, he was allowed too much time and space to outwit and beat at least 3 defenders to slot home his second and the teams third and decisive goal. A thoroughly professional performance yet again from the whole Squad, bearing in mind the pressure on the game and required result. It was never going to be a game for the purists, but highly effective and the end justified the means.

A special mention to our opponents, who could have easily folded under the atmosphere and sheer occasion. They battled from first whistle until last and one of the highlights of the evening was the constant running battle between the two opposing Smith twins, Declan, at the back for Calvo and his brother Liam, the Sports striker.

This season has been a wonderful adventure for Management and Players alike. Calverton Under 16’s have taken the game to another level this campaign with the sheer power of their football, sweeping aside all that’s been put in front of them. We now look forward to a Presentation evening, the NYL awards night and the summer break will give all the Squad a chance to recharge their batteries for an assault next season on the NSL.

WELL DONE TO ALL CONNECTED TO THE TEAM, INCLUDING THE PARENTS AND SUPPORTERS WHO HAVE MORE THAN CONTRIBUTED TO A GREAT ADVENTURE !!

CALVERTON MW FC UNDER 16’s

SEASON’S STATS

 Secured title before the end of March

Unbeaten all season, only team at Calverton MW F.C. to do so.

 

Most wins 20

Least defeats 0

Most goals scored 80 ( 4 a game)

Strikers 39 league goals

Midfield 26 league goals

Defence 15 league goals

Least goals conceded 27

Best goal difference +53

Most clean sheets 7

  

UNDER 16 SQUAD 2007/8

 

1...CALLUM MARKS (10 appearances, 4 clean sheets)

Superb ‘keeper who commands his area and gives confidence to his back line. Great talker. Played 10 times since joining from Pelican.

1...WESLEY PETTIT (15 appearances, 6 clean sheets)

Goalkeeper who left the club in February. More than contributed to our early season successes.

 2...DANNY ORME (18 starts, 4 subs, 1 goal)

Tremendous utility player who can play anywhere on the field. Tigerish tackler and superb passer of the ball.

 3...JOE RICHARDSON (16 starts, 4 subs, 6 goals)

Mr Reliable. Strong left footed defender and ace penalty taker.

4...SAM NICHOLSON (16 starts, 5 subs)

The “Claude Makelele” of the team. Protects the back four with authority. Great tackler.

5...MARC WILLIAMS (20 starts, 5 subs, 1 goal)

Vice Captain and strong central defender, has superb partnership with Smithy. Also forward thinking right back.

7...LEWIS CAPEWELL (20 starts, 4 subs, 10 goals)

Captain Fantastic. Best centre back in the league by a mile who also scores some vital goals at set pieces.

8...ADAM WOODFORD (20 starts, 5 subs, 11 goals)

Calverton’s Michael Essien, skill in abundance and controls the midfield.

9...JACK HOPPER (18 starts, 4 subs, 16 goals)

Powerful runner who strikes fear into any defence he plays against. Never gives up a lost cause.

10...OLLIE CLARKE (11 starts, 8 subs, 11 goals)

Small, but very effective front player. Defences can’t cope with his low centre of gravity. Able to score goals at any level.

11...RHYS JEFFREY (17 starts, 6 subs, 2 goals)

There’s not a better crosser of the ball at this level. Made so many goals for his strikers.

12...ZAC BARTLETT (17 starts, 4 subs, 20 goals)

Feed the Zac and he will score !! Goal scorer supreme with 20 in only 17 starts.

14...MARTIN WEIGHTMAN (13 starts, 7 subs)

Strong rugged defender who bombs forward when needed. Equally at home on the left.

15...CALLUM KITCHING (14 starts, 5 subs)

Confident and Fiesty. Strong as an Ox – fearsome tackler.

16...CALLUM MOSS (16 starts, 9 subs, 2 goals)

Powerful winger and midfield player who drives the team forward.

17...JUAN VICKERS (18 starts, 5 subs, 9 goals)

Partnership with AW is one of the keys to Calverton’s success. Long throw expert and clinical finisher.

18...DECLAN SMITH (17 starts, 6 subs, 7 goals)

The find of the season. Plays anywhere that’s asked of him, likes to bomb forward and score goals.

 

 

 

 

Monday 14 April 2008 NYL Division 1 - Pelican Colts..2 (Hastie, King) Calverton MW..4 (Bartlett, Capewell, Hopper, Vickers Pen)

Champions turn on the style for 19th victory.........!!!

Despite not having played for nearly 3 weeks, the Colts showed no signs of ring rustiness, powering their way to victory over FA Shield finalists Pelican at Lenton Lane, albeit with a couple of scares along the way. Calvo took the initiative from the off with Jack Hopper going close twice in the first 10 minutes. Home keeper Gianluca Rocco was certainly keeping his team in it with some fine saves from Hopper and Zach Bartlett. The 33rd minute saw the opener for the visitors. A long ball out of defence was neatly headed on by Bartlett into the path of his strike partner Hopper who fired home into the bottom corner. The lead barely lasted 3 minutes though, and the sides were level when a Pelican throw-in from the left was not dealt with and Ryan Hastie fired home to equalise. The reply from Calvo was instant and Juan Vickers came close to regaining the lead with a powerful header just over the bar.

1-1 at the break and all to play for in the second period.

Pelican certainly came out of the blocks a lot brighter and quicker and took the lead within a minute or so, Tom Lewis releasing Toby King who outpaced the defence and shot just inside the post. In days gone by the visitors would have buckled and heads dropped, but this season the Colts are made of sterner stuff and thereafter began to turn on the style with some scintillating passing football. Vickers almost tied things up but managed to blaze over 3 yards out with the goal at his mercy. The visitors powered forward time and again and Rocco did magnificently to turn round a Hopper goal bound effort. The inevitable equaliser arrived on 58. A corner from the right was headed across goal by Adam Woodford and Lewis Capewell arrived late at the far post to head in his 10 th of the season.

2-2 and the visitors were now rampant.

10 minutes later a superb Callum Moss cross from the right was swept home by top scorer Bartlett, his 20 th of a fine season. Eager to maintain their unbeaten record, Calverton swept forward in droves and wrapped up the points with 5 minutes to go. Woodford once again danced round 3 defenders in the box and was bought down by the fourth. Penalty for sure !! Without the injured regular penalty expert Joe Richardson, the task was left to Juan Vickers whose shot was to strong for Rocco, although the ‘keeper managed to get a touch.

4-2 and worthy winners for the 19 th win on the bounce. The whole Squad played with an arrogant belief and confidence and never looked like getting beaten in what is always a tricky fixture.

Hucknall Sports next and could it really be 20 out of 20 ?? We’ll see...!!

 

 

 

Calverton MW..3 (Capewell, Williams, Woodford) Pelican Colts..1 (Wilkinson)

CHAMPIONS....Colts reign in the rain to lift the title !!!!

The dressing room at the Lane before the game resembled a bad night at the QMC. Two fresh injuries to Danny Orme and Callum Kitching did not bode well for the task ahead in a game that always looked tricky on paper. The worry did not however transmit to the starting line up as they tore into Pelican from the off. The front 2 went close in the opening exchanges and the visitor’s goal did well to survive. The lead did not too long in coming, Adam Woodford scoring from just inside the box with a crisp strike under pressure after 6 minutes. It was some time before Pelican threatened the home goal as Calvo pushed forward time and again for the elusive second. In the driving rain and after barely mustering a worthwhile shot on target, it was somewhat of a surprise when the visitors equalised 2 minutes before the interval. Connor Hardy found time and space down the right and his cross was superbly met by Matty Wilkinson who left Callum Marks, playing against his old club, with no chance with a powerful volley into the far corner.

The second half continued in the same vein, but Calverton stepped up the pace with some fine passing football without really opening up their opponents. The go-ahead goal came after sustained pressure and after 2 successive corners on the left, they took the lead. Juan Vickers floated over a ball to the far post which Pelican failed to clear. Marc Williams arrived late at the far post to angle home a header for this first goal in two seasons at the Club. Seven minutes later and the points were secure. A controversial and disputed free kick was awarded some 20 yards out. Vickers crossed and the ball was not cleared with any conviction by the defence. Skipper Lewis Capewell up from the back, fired through a crowd of players to net his 9 th of the campaign. Tensions were now lifted and the remainder of the game was played out knowing that the Championship was a little closer.

It became a superb team effort by all the players against tricky and skilful opponents who are always difficult to play against. From goalkeeper to the front players, the committed and gutsy way in which the team went about their business was a joy to watch.

Due to our midday kick off time, it then became an agonising 2 hour wait to discover how our nearest challengers had fared and it was great news !!!!.....Astonishingly, not to say ironically, our neighbours and old sparring partners Rolls Royce had taken all three points away at East Leake to guarantee the League title finally ended up at Hollinwood Lane.

Truly magnificent Champions and deservedly so.

Next step is to remain unbeaten in the last two games.

WELL DONE !!!!!

 

 

 

 

Saturday 15 March 2008 NYL Division 1- Calverton MW..1 (Woodford) East Leake Bantams..1 (Starbuck)

Top of the table stalemate, but still on course.........!!!

The best two teams in Division 1 came head to head at the Lane in a game that neither could ill afford to lose in the chase for the League crown. Current champions East Leake were in no mood to give up their title easily, especially after the 3-0 drubbing handed out by the Colts a fortnight ago. East Leake were also dumped out of the Cup by Calverton earlier in the season. The home side could have taken the lead in the opening minute when Lewis Capewell’s goal bound header was well tipped over the bar by ‘keeper Alex Purkis. The game began to develope into a midfield battle of attrition with both sides refusing to give an inch of grass and chances came and went without troubling the scorers. Zach Bartlett went close on 21 and Jack Hopper rattled the bar minutes later. The two Calvo strikers were trying their hardest with some close efforts, but the ball would just find the net. The visitors employed Lee Armett, normally a defender, in a holding midfield role in an attempt to stop the supply to the home front duo, a tactic which looked like paying off as the teams went in at the break goalless.

The pattern of the second period followed the first and still chances were scarce. The visitors were proving a tough nut to crack and the introduction of Lamarh Griggs up front pepped up their attack in an effort to get something from the game. It was the home team that made the breakthrough on 52. The ball was not cleared by the EL defence and Adam Woodford received the ball just inside the box. With defenders and keeper looking on and unable to make a decisive tackle, Woodford danced through to slot the ball home in the bottom corner. Ecstasy for the home fans and a huge sigh of relief for the team knowing that a victory would be pretty much game, set and match in the race for the Championship. The Bantams, however, had other ideas and stepped up the pace, refusing to lay down and began to pass through midfield as though their lives depended on it. 7 minutes later and they were level. Danny Starbuck found just enough time and space and shot home through a crowd of players for the leveller. Unluckily, Callum Marks in the home goal was completely unsighted and the pace of the shot beat him off the ground. The game continued with a few scares at either end, but in the end a draw seemed just about right.

Not the worst result in the world and a point gained is better than 3 lost at this crucial stage of the season. Winners and Runners-Up from last season are now in the same two spots, albeit at the moment reversed. With Hucknall Sports dropping two points at Pelican, these two teams are assured of 1 and 2 again this year, but in what order....?? A few more nail biting twists and turns are assured until the trophy is claimed.

East Leake have now failed to beat Calverton in their last 5 meetings, and the respect and friendliness shown by both sets of players at the final whistle is testament to their keen rivalry and a credit both to the Clubs and to the Notts Youth League.

 

 

 

Saturday 08 March 2008 NYL Division 1 - Rolls Royce..0 Calverton MW..6 (Hopper 2, Bartlett, Capewell, Jeffrey, Richardson)

Rolls hit for six as the Colts march on.............!!

The Colts travelled to local rivals Rolls Leisure at Titchfield Park determined to keep the winning run going in their bid for the League title. Their intentions were clear as early as the 12 th minute when Marc Williams fired in a vicious cross shot which home ‘keeper Charlie Edwards did well to hold. This was swiftly followed by a great effort from Danny Orme which just flew wide. On 21, the all-important opener. Defender Billy Brooks needlessly handled in the box during another Calvo attack and Joe Richardson stuck home his 6 th penalty of the season. The awkward wind was a factor in the second on 26. A cross wasn’t cleared with any conviction and Jack Hopper increased the margin with an unchallenged header at the far post. Five minutes before the break and the Skipper, Lewis Capewell headed the third for his 5 th in 4 games.

Calverton were now in cruise control and Rolls offered only token resistance with a couple of long range free kicks which hardly troubled Callum Marks in the Colts goal. Into the second period with the pattern much the same, Calverton soaking up all Rolls could throw at them and Hopper and Ollie Clarke providing the main threat on the counter. It was merely a matter of time before the Colts added to the score. Leading scorer Zach Bartlett, on as a second half Sub, cleverly lobbed Edwards who, inexplicably, had gone on a walkabout miles off his line. Three minutes later Rhys Jeffrey got onto the scoresheet, lashing the ball home after the Rolls defence yet again failed to clear the box. Eight minutes before the end, the sixth and best of the lot. Jeffrey tore down the left leaving defenders in his wake to deliver a pinpoint cross for Hopper to smash home his second and the team’s sixth goal.

This was a mighty performance from Calverton in testing conditions. 22 goals scored and none against now in the last 4 games is testament to how well the team is performing. They fear no-one and no team has managed to give them a decent game for ages.

One has to feel for defender James Needham. Try as hard as he did, the home skipper was unable to stem the relentless tide of attacking machine that strode forward at will. If Rolls had eleven players like him, they would be a decent outfit. As it turned out, Calvo just brushed the Rollers aside with determination, ruthlessness and purpose.

Still unbeaten this season and now assured of Runners-Up spot at the very least.

The future is bright – the future’s Chilli Red.........!!!!!!

 

 

 

Saturday 01 March 2008 NYL Division 1 - East Leake Bantams..0 Calverton MW..3 (Capewell, Clarke, Hopper)

Biggest hurdle is overcome and behind us.............!!

The biggest test for the team in nearly a year came as the top two teams and old rivals met at Costock Road. This game was always going to be the defining examination of how far the team has come and what it aspires to be. For the past 2 years, East Leake have been one of the best footballing teams around and are the current League Championship holders.

On a tricky day for the football purist with the cross wind playing tricks, it was very hard for either team to play the passing game they are both renowned for. Chances in tight games like this are always hard to come by and this was no exception. Jack Hopper could have put the visitors ahead on a couple of occasions, but it was probably a fair scoreless stalemate at the interval, even though home striker Lamah Griggs was doing his single best to exert the Bantams authority with some fine powerful forward play. The back four held firm though and the team looked forward to the second period with their goal intact and with a wind at their backs.

In the first minute of the half Calvo Skipper Lewis Capewell found himself with acres of space at the far post to volley just across goal with no finishing touch as the ball ran out of play. Zach Bartlett also went close with a close range header well held by Alex Purkis in the home goal but East Leake were not dealing very well with anything thrown into the box from wide positions. This is exactly where the opener came from in the 56 th minute. Capewell, again joining in from the back, found space and rocketed home from 20 yards as the ball flew into the top corner, for his fourth goal in as many games. The Bantams had no answer to a now confident Calverton side and, with Griggs now strangely withdrawn, seldom posed a threat going forward. On 67, Adam Woodford drove forward into the box and his low fierce cross shot wasn’t held by Purkis and Hopper made no mistake from a yard out to fire home the second. By now the game appeared well won and another three points towards the title. Still no let up and 10 minutes from the final whistle Ollie Clarke, on as a substitute, thundered home a shot with his first touch after fine work down the right by Juan Vickers. The whole squad performed with an arrogant assurance of a team that has hardly been tested or threatened in many weeks. The goalkeeper dealt capably with everything, but barely had a shot in anger to deal with such was the authority of the back line. The midfield workroom and the two wide players battled consistently all game for the cause and East Leake had no answer to the strong running of the front two. The hosts’ centre back pairing of Lee Armett and Tom Elson are fine players, but were put to the sword by the fine attacking play of the Colts.

This was our own “Super Saturday” when we all found out about the mindset of the Squad and how badly they want this Championship – and how they passed with flying colours !!!

Surely it’s just about within touching distance now.

 

 

 

 

Saturday 23 February 2008 NYL Division 1 - Calverton MW..9 (Capewell 3, Hopper 2, Woodford 2, Bartlett, Smith) Bulwell Town..0

Captain Marvel sinks Town.............!!

The Colts made their attacking intentions clear as early as the second minute with the ball in the net after a stooping header by Skipper Lewis Capewell at the far post followed their first attacking corner. However, for some reason the Referee wrongly ruled the effort offside. Justice followed some 5 minute later however, when the same player found time and space at the edge of the box to volley home the opener. After 14 the lead was doubled, Capewell, again up from the back for a corner, headed home unchallenged. This time the goal counted. The Calvo forwards were running amok by now and, yet again another goal was denied when Zach Bartlett’s shot appeared to cross the line by at least a foot, only for play to be waved on. Midway through the half and the third. A fine run and cross from the left by Rhys Jeffrey was slid home by Bartlett with ease.

A more determined Town team emerged for the second half, keen on keeping the score down, but it was the home team who struck again on 46. Juan Vickers delivered a telling cross into the box from the right and Adam Woodford shot home past the despairing ‘keeper. The Colts were now in complete control and looked like scoring every time they strode forward with Capewell completing a fine hat-trick in the 51 st minute. A great Declan Smith strike and another from Woodford and it was “7 Up” with still over half an hour to play. The free flowing football was an absolute joy to watch and the lead could well have been increased further, the bar coming to Town’s rescue as Ollie Clarke got into the act with a fierce volley from 5 yards. Further close efforts failed to trouble the Ref’s pencil until 8 minutes before the final whistle. Superb forward play by Jack Hopper resulting in him adding the eighth, and a minute from time topping off the scoring with a great solo effort, beating the offside trap on the half-way line to storm forward and finish in style.

A truly remarkable day at the office for the Squad, 60 league goals now scored in 14 undefeated games and 10 points clear at the top.

The message goes out loud and clear....CATCH US IF YOU CAN !!!!

 

 

 

 

Saturday 16 February 2008 NYL Division 1 - Keyworth Utd..0 Calverton MW..4 (Hopper 2, Bartlett, Woodford)

Lucky 13 now for the Colts.............!!

The unbeaten league run now stretches to 13 with 51 goals scored in an emphatic win at Platt Lane. It was a very tense first half by the Colts which, at times, bordered on the boring, and the neutral observer may have wondered who was occupying top spot and who was bottom of the league. The home side appeared to take a shock lead on 10 minutes when a direct free-kick deceived the defence and sailed over Callum Marks. The referee disallowed the effort, deeming that a Keyworth forward became active as the ball entered the box. Slightly fortunate, but within the current offside guidelines. The home keeper needed to be at his sharpest keeping out shots from Calvo’s front two. The post and the bar also came to his rescue as the Colts pressed for the breakthrough.

Championships are not won on first half performance like this and a severe half time talk was vital. It was duly delivered and it did not go unheeded. What a transformation in the second period !! The hunger was back, the determination was there and the passing stepped up a gear.

And what rewards....the game was done and dusted before Keyworth had digested their half time cup of tea with 3 goals in 4 minutes for the Colts. 40 seconds in and a pinpoint Rhys Jeffrey cross from the left was tucked away neatly at the near post by Zach Bartlett for his 17 th of the campaign. A minute later, 2-0; Jack Hopper seized on a ball just outside the box and his shot was helped into the net via a friendly deflection. It became 3-0 a minute later as Adam Woodford headed home a Joe Richardson corner from the left also notching the team’s 50 th goal of the campaign. With tails now well and truly up, Calverton pressed on and on with some fine attacking play and passing moves that were simply amazing. Everyone contributed to a fine performance and it was no surprise when the fourth goal arrived. Danny Orme delivering a perfect cross for Hopper to power home a header for his second. A really good day at the office for the lads, and with their nearest rivals East Leake not playing, the lead at the top stretched to 8 points. No-one would argue on a day when you score 4 away from home without reply should be a time for smug satisfaction. Yes, that may be the case, but there were times in the first half where the title looked a long way off and Calvo looked decidedly ordinary. These days, however, we have a “Plan B”, and today it worked to perfection.

Another victory though, with the team never really looking in any danger of defeat and the second half efforts showed what a good team we have wearing the Chilli Red.

Onwards and upwards...March is a tricky month fixture wise and points on the board NOW are ultra-important.  

WE HAVE THEM IN THE BANK – OUR RIVALS HAVE TO GET THEM !!

 

 

 

 

 

Saturday 9 February 2008 NYL Division 1 - Bulwell Town..1 (Stevenson) Calverton MW..2 ( Bartlett 2)

Bartlett brace sinks Town.............!!

The sun shone brightly for a fascinating encounter at Goosedale Sports Ground between local sides Calverton and Bulwell Town. The visitors were more than lucky in the second minute when a goal for Dale Stevenson was chalked off for handball. The contest was very even for the first 20 minutes with very few chances although the Colts came nearest to breaking the deadlock when a Jack Hopper shot was cleared off the line. On 24 the Colts took the lead. A Danny Orme corner from the left was not cleared with any conviction and Zach Bartlett was on hand to stab the ball home from close range. The home side are battlers and possess some fine players, and it was no surprise when the equaliser arrived. There seemed little danger when Dale Stevenson received the ball 25 yards out. In one movement and shot, the ball fizzed into the far corner of the goal for 1-1 before Callum Marks could react in the Calverton goal. It certainly was a fine game of football and the honours about even going into the second half.

More nip and tuck and end-to-end stuff, and a draw looked the likeliest outcome until 11 minutes from time. Rhys Jeffrey produced a truly stunning cross from the left wing which Bartlett headed with some power across the ‘keeper for his sides 2 nd and his own personal 16 th of the campaign. It was all hands to the pumps for the remaining 10 minutes with Bulwell ‘s front two of Stevenson and Curtis Campbell causing all sorts of problems for Calvo’s back line with their movement and pace. Marks, in the visiting goal, also needed to be at his sharpest, turning the ball round for a corner as the home team threatened again.

Cope well they did though, and the result was well deserved. There are times when needs must, and sides have to go away to awkward places and play ‘ugly football’ and somehow grind out a result. This was the case today and welcome points to maintain the title push. Pretty it wasn’t, effective it certainly was. A fine gutsy team effort and another 3 points recorded.

 

 

 

Saturday 2 February 2008 NYL Division 1 - Calverton MW..3 (Bartlett 2, Richardson) Wollaton Hall..1 (Carthy)

Colts back to winning ways and a’top the League....!!

It was back to the bread and butter of league action at the Lane where Wollaton Hall were the visitors. Eager to get last weeks shock exit in the Cup out of their systems, Calvo went on the offensive from the off. Going close on a couple of occasions, notably when Adam Woodford struck the post on 14, it still took 20 minutes to worry the scorers. Zach Bartlett reacted quickest to a delightful through ball from Adam Woodford and spun and volleyed home for his 13 th of the season. Once again a visiting ‘keeper got it in his head to frustrate the home side, Lewis Horsley being at his smartest to keep out shots from Woodford and Callum Moss to keep his goal intact. 1-0 at the break and everything to play for as the second period carried on in the same vein with the Colts playing some great passing football, but Wollaton were a match and were proving a tough nut to crack.

Five minutes in and the vital second goal. Once again Bartlett, the fox in the box, doubled his and the team’s tally for 2-0 after a delightful through ball from Nicholson from midfield. With a two goal lead, Calverton began to play some sparkling stuff with Woodford, Moss and Nicholson bossing the midfield. Debut ‘keeper Callum Marks looked assured and the back four was again steadfast in shutting out the two dangerous front players Klayton Carthy and Liam Dirs. The front trio of Bartlett, Jack Hopper and Clarkey were causing all sorts of panic in the Wollaton defence pulling their markers all over the shop. Midway through the half and the game was sealed. A delightful slide rule pass from Danny Orme was seized upon by Hopper who careered towards goal only to be blatantly clattered to the ground inside the area, whilst through on goal. Joe Richardson made no mistake for the spot for 3-0.

Two minutes from time and a consolation for the visitors. Dirs showed a turn of foot off the last defender and let go a vicious cross shot which Marks did well to stop low down to his right. The strength of the shot, however, was such that the ball spilled agonisingly clear and Carthy was in hand to tuck the ball home. It was a deserved reward for a Wollaton team that refused to lay down and roll over. But the game was won and the Colts returned to the top of the table with a thoroughly professional performance.

 

 

 

Saturday 26 January 2008 NYL Cup (QF) Carlton Town ..4 Calverton MW..2 (Capewell, Hopper)

Colts are mauled in the Lions Den....!!

It was always going to be an intriguing Quarter Final of the NYL Cup as unbeaten Calverton travelled to near neighbours Carlton Town who were boasting a 100% record in League and Cup.

There seemed no indication of what was to come as the Colts swept into a 2 goal lead within 25 minutes courtesy of a Lewis Capewell header from a corner on 5 and a blockbuster volley from Jack Hopper. The hosts were no respecters of reputations however, and were proving that they were not going to lay down and surrender to their senior rivals. A goal as a result of a dipping 20 yarder by Jack Chapman just before the break gave them hope for the second half, but there was still no sign of what was about to unfold. Home ‘keeper Danny Marshall, a former Notts County trainee was having an inspired afternoon saving time and time again. But for him the game could have been done and dusted way before the break.

Into the second period with the wind at their backs, Town reverted to a 4-3-3 and drove forward in search of the equaliser and 2 minutes in, got their just rewards. The ball was not dealt with in the box and a mix-up allowed Nicky Burke into score. On the very few occasions Calverton got into the opposing box, they failed to hit the target or, once again, found Marshall’s gloves or outstretched fingertips. At 2-2 the game could have gone either way, but it was the home team who took the game and a Semi-Final place with goals in the 63rd and 69th minutes Grant Salmon and a second for Burke. In all honesty, Calvo could have played all day without making the breakthrough. The front 3 worked the Carlton back line well enough, but they were feeding on scraps with hardly any service from midfield.

Sometimes hunger wins football matches and this was a classic case of the home team seemingly wanting it more. YES, this was truly a wake up call !!

The Cup is great leveller, anything can happen and probably does – the League now is there to be won.....onwards and upwards !!!

 

 

 

Saturday 12 January 2008 - NYL Division 1 - Calverton MW.. 5 (Woodford 3, Clarke, Vickers) West Bridgford......0

“ Unbeaten League run stretches into double figures”

A tense first half with very little to show between the teams and Calverton could only muster a slender one goal advantage at half - time against their rivals from South of the Trent. The only goal of the half coming in the 20 th minute as Adam Woodford swivelled in the area and his shot just managed to find the bottom right corner. The visitors had their moments, and livewire forwards Regis and Mather had to be closely watched. In a tense few minutes just on the break, tempers began running high, but credit to all the players, the situation was soon diffused following three bookings and after that the game was aggro free.

Into the second half and the visitors started on fire, no respecters of reputations or league position, but the back four held firm and the Calvo midfield began to take control again, but both teams were determined to up their games and the game was developing into a good contest.

Two and a half minutes into the second period the home advantage was doubled, Juan Vickers firing home with a shot from just inside the box. Three minutes later and the game was effectively done and dusted, Woodford seizing on a loose ball to double his tally. The Calverton forwards, backed up by some awesome midfield and wing play were now putting their opponents to the sword, but found visiting ‘keeper Lewis Soal in fine form. Many independent pundits rate Soal as the best goalkeeper at this level in Nottingham and one save from Callum Kitching was off this planet. Following a fierce volley from 20 yards, the ball was speeding towards the top corner, but he somehow managed to tip the ball over for a truly world class save.

Fifteen minutes from time came the fourth. A run and cross down the right from Marc Williams was chested down by Zac Bartlett in the area. As the ball broke loose forward Ollie Clarke turned and fired home. There was still time for Kitching to crash the ball against the bar with the help of Soal’s fingertips before Woodford completed his hat-trick with an unchallenged header from a Danny Orme corner. A final word for the front three. Although 4 goals came from midfield players, the forwards more than contributed to the victory with some tireless running and unselfish defensive play.

Another splendid day at the office for the Colts, who now firmly believe in themselves that the Squad have what it takes to maintain their push for the League and Cup double.

 

 

MARC MEETS FRANK

Marc Williams, Calverton MW Under 16 Vice-Captain meets Chelsea’s Frank Lampard during a family Christmas break to London. Marc took the opportunity to wish Frank all the best prior to the home Boxing Day game against Aston Villa.

 

 

CALVERTON UNDER 16’s - THE SEASON SO FAR.....!!

The season has gone very well so far. Unbeaten in the league and through to the Quarter Finals of the League Cup (a 3 game, 14-0 record so far !) We are very pleased that all the pre-season signings have proved a success and the new players have fitted in very well. The rotation system is working and all the Squad are getting plenty of playing time. It should also be noted that five of our Under 16 Squad have progressed to play for the U19 Academy in the North Midlands Windsor Foods League. The team are also grateful to the support from parents and friends.

Highlight...........

Beating arch rivals, League Champions and Shield holders East Leake in the League Cup, their first defeat for over a year.

Lowlight............

Losing a last second goal at West Bridgford in a thrilling 5-5 draw. Disappointing loss to Jacksdale FC, the best at this age group in the County, in the FA Shield

Best home performance......

As mentioned above – turning East Leake over !!

Best away performance..........

Winning at Ruddington 4-1

Best goal(s) scored............... (3 Joint winners)

1. Zach Bartlett scoring an exquisite 25 yard volley seconds after coming on as second half substitute against Keyworth.

2. Declan Smith’s 30 yard top-corner screamer of a volley at Wollaton during our 7-4 win.

3. Smithys’ last minute bullet header to nick a point at home to Long Eaton

Worst goal(s) conceded.........

Both goals against Long Eaton at home.

Best laugh.........

The performance of the “god loving” referee at Fernwood School against Wollaton.

Division1 Table as on New Years Eve:

Calverton P9 W7 D2 L0 F37 A20 PTS23

East Leake P8 W7 D0 L1 F25 A8 PTS21

Hucknall Sports P10 W6 D2 L2 F30 A19 PTS20

 

 

Saturday 29 December 2007 NYL Division 1 - Long Eaton Utd..0 Calverton MW..2 (Bartlett, Vickers)

A windy three points.........!!!!!

In very strong winds at West Park, the Colts took over at the top of the table with a fine win over Long Eaton. The conditions made any sort of decent football nigh on impossible and there was hardly a worthwhile shot of note in a drab first half. The nearest Calvo came to breaking the deadlock was a 20 th minute Rhys Jeffrey snap shot well held by McKenna in the home goal.

The second half saw a dramatic transformation. The Colts, kicking with the wind, took the game straight to their opponents and 6 minutes in, were in front. A Joe Richardson corner from the right was volleyed into the net in off the bar by ace marksman Zac Bartlett. There was no let up and barely a minute and a half later, it was 2-0. From just inside the half Jeffrey delivered a pin point cross onto the head of Juan Vickers who firmly headed home unchallenged. With the points safe, Calvo started to turn on the style and began to stroke the ball around, adapting better to the conditions than their opponents.

Long Eaton were hardly a threat throughout, they have some fine players in midfield and at the back, but no cutting edge in the forward department. So much so in fact that stand-in ‘keeper Callum Moss did not have a shot to save in anger in the second period.

Unbeaten now in 9 games in the League, most goals scored and the best goal difference sees the team sitting proudly at the top of the shop going into the New Year.

We wish all our readers a Happy New Year and keep signing in – there’s much more to come from this team !!

 

 

Saturday 22 December 2007 NYL Division 1 - Wollaton Hall..4 (Dirs 2, Carthy, Labatte) Calverton MW..7 (Bartlett 2, Richardson 2, Clarke, Smith , Vickers)

“Seven up for the Colts .............!!”

Calverton swept into a grey miserable Fernwood School and immediately carried on where they left off a week ago. This time it was Wollaton Hall, boasting a 5-2 win record, who were put to the sword.

It took the Colts only 3 minutes to open their account. A diagonal ball from Marc Williams in the right back position was flicked on across goal by Zach Bartlett onto the feet of fellow forward Ollie Clarke who lashed the ball home. On the quarter hour mark the lead was doubled when leading scorer Bartlett fired home after fine midfield play. The best of the three arrived 4 minutes later when Declan Smith controlled a loose ball in midfield, flicked it over the charging defender and unleashed a superb right foot volley into the top corner from 35 yards.

By this stage the visitors were running riot, and it was somewhat against the run of play when Hall reduced the arrears. Looking suspiciously offside when he received the ball, Clayton Carthy was allowed to run unchallenged down the right to fire home a cross shot. The comeback was short lived however after Williams, in the left wing position, fired a 25 yard pinpoint cross field onto the touch of Bartlett who added to his tally for 4-1. The home defence were having a torrid time coping with the movement of Calverton’s forwards and the strong runs from midfield. So much so that they reverted to strong arm tactics to stem the flow. This resulted in silly and cynical challenges and it was no surprise that another Bartlett run was halted crudely by Sam Chiltern in the box. Joe Richardson made no mistake from the spot. A minute before the interval and it was six up for the Colts. Juan Vickers shooting through a forest of legs into the corner.

6-1 at the break and, in reality, it could have been a shed load more. Wollaton were totally outclassed, out thought and outplayed.

As is usually the case with a 5 goal lead and the inevitable tactical substations, the play dropped off a pace, but not before Richardson put away his second from the spot after more kamikaze defending.

7-1 away from home and the points were now secure. The home team, to their credit, never gave up and pulled back 3 goals in the last 14 minutes. Two for Liam Dirs, the second a penalty and a fine finsh from Roberto Labbate at least put some respectability into the score line.

 

 

Saturday 15 December 2007 NYL Cup (Rd 3) - Calverton MW..2 (Bartlett, Capewell) East Leake Bantams..0

“Magnificent Calvo win the battle of the heavyweights.......”

The two remaining unbeaten sides in Division 1 came head to head at the Lane in the 3rd Round of the NYL Cup in what many observers were calling the ‘final played months too early’.

With total respect for each other, the first half hour was a cagey affair with neither side giving an inch of grass to their opponents and goal chances were very few and far between. The closest the home side came to scoring was a Rhys Jeffrey effort cleared off the visitor’s line with 33 minutes gone. The home goal was rarely threatened, but East Leake are a fine footballing side as their league position shows. Unbeaten for a year in the League and boasting a 100% record this term, they were providing a tough nut to crack with Mitch Williams dominant in midfield and Lee Armett and Tom Elson a formidable barrier in defence.

0-0 at the break and it would be fair to suggest that a single goal would win this dogged, competitive encounter. The second half continued in the same vein, but with a couple of astute substitutions, the Colts began to take command and upped their game a notch. 18 minutes after the restart came the breakthrough. Fine work down the left from Joe Richardson and Adam Woodford found ace marksmen Zach Bartlett at the edge of the box, with very little options on. In an instant, he turned 2 defenders and curled his shot into the far corner for the opener, passing the outstretched Alex Purkis in the Bantams goal. Relief all round, but the better team had the initiative. East Leake’s heads began to drop and it appeared that they had no Plan ‘B’ to draw on. Much as their midfield drove on in search of the equaliser, the visitors could not get past a solid back line.

Still Calverton drove on, not content with a 1-0 scoreline. They wanted more, plus the inevitable bragging rights, and it was no surprise when 10 minutes from time, after successive corners, Joe swung the ball invitingly into the box. It was missed by all, but Lewis Capewell arrived unseen at the far post, controlling the ball in a flash to volley home the second, beating all defensive efforts on the line. Elation, relief and a job well done saw the Colts cruise into the Quarter Finals with an away tie against undefeated Division 2 leaders Carlton Town.

A thoroughly professional performance by the whole squad. To see off a team of East Leake’s quality took some doing, but do it they did, in style. Hunger and determination won this game.

Every single player played an immense part. Not wishing to single out anyone, it was a total 100% Squad effort, so I’ll mention them all!! The goalkeeper dealt with everything at ease and the back four were truly awesome. The midfield duo of Adam and Sam Nicholson battled like terriers for the whole game, breaking up play and their visitors rhythm. The two wing-backs Rhys and Callum Moss always posed problems going forward and kept the East Leake full backs fully occupied. The front pairing of Zac and Jack Hopper were amazing, closing down and hustling the back four all day, giving Armett and his mates no time to settle. All the subs were used. Ollie Clarke battled, as always, up front and Danny Orme proved a valuable outlet down the right. Declan Smith and Callum Kitching were superb in their holding positions, which did not allow the Bantams time and space to play their normal neat passing game and Juan Vickers bossed the left flank with some telling runs and astute passes.

A final word about the Manager and supporters. Never once did their belief in the team falter and what support they offered !!! The managerial tactics were spot on and the supporters were vociferous but fair.

 

 

 

Saturday 1 December 2007 NYL Division 1 - Calverton MW..5 (Bartlett 2, Woodford 2, Clarke) Keyworth Utd..3 (Bird 2, Savage)

“Colts remain unbeaten...”

An early Kick-off and windy conditions did not make for good viewing and our visitors looked nothing like a bottom of the table side as they fought for every ball with the Colts. The midfield was a log jam as both teams seemed to be wary of venturing forward and the only real action to report was a Danny Orme shot from distance which the Keyworth keeper managed to deal brilliantly with to keep his goal intact. After half an hour, it was looking like one of those days when everything than could go wrong was going wrong !!

Prayers were answered on 31 minutes when a free kick just outside the area was despatched with some aplomb by Adam Woodford to ease touchline worries. Three minutes later and the lead was doubled as the same player pounced on a loose ball in the box to fire home number two. 2-0 at the interval, but the victory still looked some way off and the Keyworth players continued to make a fight of it, belying their league position. Not for the first time this season the usual warning at the team talk not to give away anything for a spell, was not heeded and 6 minutes into the second half Jack Bird ‘flew’ in to slot home and half the deficit. This time, however, the lead was restored very quickly when a long free kick from Joe Richardson was delivered to the far post for Ollie Clarke to knock home his eighth of the campaign. By now, Calvo were in cruise mode and midway through the half, Zach Bartlett scored number 4 with his first touch after coming on as Sub.

Again, a visiting goalkeeper was having a great game, and but for Tom Outram in the United goal, Calverton could have gone on to add to their tally. Nine minutes before the end and the visitors were awarded a penalty. Three players went down in the home box, quickly followed by the ball which touched all their hands. No intent, no advantage to anyone, but the Referee saw fit to award the spot kick which Bird struck home for 4-2. A minute before time Bartlett put the game to bed with a cheeky lob from 30 yards, but there was still a twist !! The last kick of the game was a Keyworth corner on the left, and when the ball came over, Ben Savage rose highest unchallenged, to make the final score line 5-3. No time left and the game was over. Hard work at times, but three points in the end and the unbeaten run continues. Another workmanlike, if not spectacular or flashy performance. Tougher games are undoubtedly due to follow, and the Squad will all need to be up for them all to maintain their title challenge and Cup bid.

 

 

Saturday 24 November 2007 NYL League Div 1 - Ruddington Colts..1 Calverton MW..4 (Bartlett, Moss, Orme, Smith)

CALVO ON TOP IN THE BATTLE OF THE COLTS

Calverton travelled to Ruddington Village Colts and carried on as they left last week with some fine flowing football which had the home team on the back foot from the first whistle. Taking the lead in the 14 th minute with a fine goal from Zach Bartlett and doubling it on 25 when Dec Smith capitalised on a tentative push out by the ‘keeper following a fierce volley from Nicholson. Such was their domination, Calverton forced no less than 12 corners in the first period. 2-0 at the break and the 3 points appeared safe. Once again, not for the first time this season, they allowed their opponents back into the contest with a glimmer of hope after just 3 minutes of the second half when a bad clearance was seized upon by Alex Heaton who volleyed home. It became a tight affair for a while, but Calverton upped the tempo and Callum Moss fired home a volley to ease any further worries. The good passing and confidence returned and the result never looked in doubt. Time and again the “Chilli and Red machine” drove on and on and, with a little more assurance in front of goal, the score could have been more. As it was, we had to wait until the final minute when Danny Orme fired home into the corner on a one-on-one with the ‘keeper to seal the victory.

The back 4 and ‘keeper were superb, the twin central midfielders battled like terriers, winning everything and the two wide players threatened with overlapping runs down both flanks. All the 4 forward players that were used tore the home defence apart with movement, pace and guile. All in all, a very satisfying team performance. On their day, Ruddington are as good as any team in this Division and are always tricky opponents. Today, however was just not their day as they failed to stamp any authority on the game and were beaten by a very good Calverton team, who I have to say are oozing with confidence and self-belief. Well done to all the Squad !!

 

 

 

Saturday 17 November 2007 NYL Cup Rd2 - Calverton MW..8 (Bartlett 2, Hopper 2, Smith 2, Clarke, Woodford) W. Bridgford Tigers..0

The Colts progressed easily in the NYL Cup at the expense of their third Division rivals from South of the River Trent. Lining up in a very attacking 4-3-3 formation, it did not take the home team long to get into the free flowing football that has become the season’s trademark. Within 10 minutes the pattern was set with a fine goal from Zach Bartlett after great approach play and a pinpoint pass from his strike partner Jack Hopper. 5 minutes later it was 2-0 when Juan Vickers provided the ammunition for Dec Smith to fire home. The visitors were being put to the sword and but for the woodwork and some fine goalkeeping from Tom Lashley the lead could have been doubled or even trebled. Your statistician lost count of the number of corners awarded to the home side and how many times the bar or post came to the Tigers rescue.

A minute into the second period and Bartlett fired home a cross from the left wing to make it 3-0. The second half continued in the same fashion with corner after corner and near misses and even more outstanding bravery from Lashley who, singlehandedly was keeping the rampaging Calverton strike force at bay. Ollie Clarke was not to be outdone by his forward colleagues and added the 4 th after clever footwork by Smith. Even the Subs got into the act with Adam Woodford adding the fifth with a long range effort. Further goals from a pair by Hopper and a second for Smith wrapped up a convincing victory. The reward for this performance is a home tie against arch rivals East Leake just before Christmas in what is already being billed as the tie of the round. With efforts like this the Colts could go all the way with some good fortune.

Lastly, a mention for WB Tigers. The team were totally outclassed, but they never gave up and continued to make a game of it. Their Management team and parents should be very proud of their efforts. In ‘keeper Lashley, they have a star in the making. Without him, the score could have been anything.

 

 

Saturday 03 November 2007 Notts FA Shield

The battle of the top two 2 “pit teams” ends in defeat - Jacksdale MW FC.. 2 Calverton MW.. 0

The early season unbeaten run is over as the Colts fell at the first hurdle in the Notts FA Shield away in Jacksdale village. Arguably the best team in the County, and the current Shield holders, progressed into the next round, but not without a fight. Champions for the past 5 years in the Chad league, Mansfield Cup holders, and boasting a record of 54 wins in the last 56, the home team rarely come up against opposition of the quality of Calvo and it showed as the visitors took the game towards their North Notts neighbours and, with a bit of luck could have taken an early lead.

A great game of football was developing with a ding dong battle for supremacy of the midfield, both teams failing to make the vital breakthrough. In the last minute of the first half, the hosts took the lead. A ball into the box wasn’t dealt with enough conviction and top scorer Chris Kiddy was on hand to pass the ball into the net for 1-0.

As the game wore on, the home team, despite looking dangerous in the last third, could not add to their lead, but still Calverton were hanging on.

There was not enough variety in the Calvo approach play and time and again the ball was played high and down the middle, a tactic which did not fool the tall home defenders. There was also no width on which to build decent attacks. The visitors thought they had equalised with 12 minutes to play. Declan Smith netted from close range, only to see the goal chalked off for a harsh offside decision. In the last throes of the game, the Colts pushed more players forward in search of the leveller and were caught by a sucker punch in the last minute. With a 3 on 2 at the back, Jake Cooper curled home into the bottom corner, beaten the despairing dive of Wesley from 20 yards to secure the win. A plucky performance from the team who gave their all, but in all fairness were beaten by a better team on the day.

 

 

Saturday 27 October 2007 NYL Division 1 - West Bridgford..5 Calverton MW..5 (Bartlett 2, Richardson, Clarke, Vickers)

In an ordinary game, if you score five goals away from home usually results in a win and 3 points, but this was far from an ordinary game!!

Calverton maintained their fine start to the season, stormed into a 2 goal lead inside 22 minutes, courtesy of a Joe Richardson penalty and an Ollie Clarke close range effort, and looked in complete control. The home team however hit back to level at half time through a brace from Alex Mather.

Some stern talking to at the interval and a lot of soul searching failed to bring any improvement to a lack lustre Calverton side looking devoid of ideas and looking suspect on the break from the strong running Bridgford forwards and it was no surprise when it went 2-3 with a smart James Marshall finish. At last, the Colts realised they were in a game and stepped up a couple of gears. 20 minutes before the end came the long awaited equaliser. A smart run and cross down the right by Danny Orme was converted by Juan Vickers at the far post. The introduction of home substitute Regis seemed to spur on the home team and he helped himself to the 4th for a 4-3 lead with 8 minutes left.

Calvo unleashed their own supersub in Zach Bartlett, who incredibly turned the game back in Calverton’s favour with two quick fire goals, the second with barely 2 minutes left. 4-5 and the points seemed secure. This was some game and both sets of supporters could hardly believe what was happening and there was even more drama to unfold !! Bridgford launched one final attack down the left and, when the ball wasn’t cleared, Mather was on hand to stab the ball home from point blank range to complete his hat trick. The referee hardly had time to restart the game and it was all over.

10 goals and some near misses, mini pitch invasions, this game had it all in one of the most remarkable games the NYL will see all year. In all honesty, no team deserved to lose and a draw was about the right result. If the Colts are to maintain a title challenge, they must learn and learn quickly to put teams away when they have the chance and, more importantly, defend leads.

 

 

Saturday 13 October 2007 NYL Cup - Calverton MW..4 (Hopper, Richardson (Pen) Smith, Vickers) v Beeston Rovers..0
The Colts eased into the next round of the League Cup with a well earned victory over second Division Beeston and a clean sheet to boot. Early chances came and went and the home crowd had to wait until the 15 th minute for the go ahead goal. Jack Hopper was upended in the box by Rovers defender Ryan Nadin and Joe Richardson stepped up to send Berehowskyj the wrong way for the lead. Calvo were not having it their own way though and visiting forward Dale Haywood began causing problems with his awareness and pace. He had 2 clearcut chances to level things and the home defence had to be at their sharpest to keep him at bay. On 37 minutes came the second. A fine run and cross from the left by Jeffrey was lashed home at the near post by Dec Smith. A minute befire half time and the game seemed won when Hopper latched onto a through ball to slot the ball home for the third.
The second half took on the same pattern with Calvo knocking on the door on numerous occasions but the ball just wouldn’t go in. Midway through though, the fourth duly arrived. A Danny Orme corner was spot on again and Juan Vickers climbed highest to head home.
In fairness the score could have been more, but for some fine defending by Beeston who have to be congratulated in the way they stuck at their game and were never overawed by their senior opponents, the home crowd and surroundings. A quick mention and thank you to Mossy who stepped in again with the ‘keepers gloves due to a last minute injury. 2 clean sheets in 2 games for the stand-in goalie now !! Another professional performance by the Colts, who did enough to guarantee safe passage into the next round (Home to West Bridgford Tigers on 17 November)

 

Saturday 06 October 2007 NYL Youth League Division 1 - Calverton MW.......2 (Capewell, Hopper) Long Eaton Utd......2

For the first time this season a wake up call !!! Long Eaton came into town determined to put right their early season form, failing to win in 3 games. The Colts had the better of the opening exchanges and Jack Hopper went close with a header. United gave as much as they got though, and the home goal survived a scare on 14 when a Jordan Ruck shot hit the bar. It was no surprise when, on the 33 minute mark, the visitors took the lead. A long free – kick, floated into the box, wasn’t dealt with, and winger Michael Pratt was on hand to stab home.

Calvo stepped up a gear and deserved their equaliser on the half hour. A delightful Declan Smith flick header found Hopper who ran on to fire home. The game was beginning to build up into a midfield battle with neither side giving an inch, but failing to find that killer touch in front of goal. Long Eaton did have chances though and two minutes before the break, they were in front again. A long ball was not cleared and Alex Ford was on the spot to fire home under barely little pressure.

2-1 down at the interval and some tough talking was needed to lift the home players. Belief is not enough to win football matches though, neither is the statistic that 2 nd in the table should beat a team at the bottom !! Stout hearts and minds were needed, and, as much as the home team tried, the equaliser would just not come. As the game was fizzling out and the first defeat of the season was looming, two corners in quick succession on the left. From the second, Danny Orme produced a pinpoint delivery right onto the penalty spot found the unmarked Lewis Capewell, up from the back, to power home a header to level the scores. Barely time to re-start and a point was saved.

A close run thing, but a point was salvaged in the end. “Got out of jail” would be more appropriate.

 

Saturday 29 September 2007 NYL Youth League Division 1 - Hucknall Sports.....0 Calverton MW.......2 (Hopper, Smith)

In a highly competitive and entertaining game, the Colts ended Sports unbeaten run to record another fine victory. For the first 20 minutes there was only one team in it and, quite frankly, one of the most one-sided games you’ll ever likely to see. Towards the end of the half, however, Hucknall managed to find their passing game, stepping up a gear to ask a few questions of the Calvo defence.

An hour gone and still the elusive goal would not come. Was this going to be one of those games where one team dominates and the other hit them with the sucker punch !! Indeed, stand in keeper Callum Moss had to be at his best to spectacularly tip over a Ross Lamb piledriver from 30 yards. With 18 minutes to go came the long awaited breakthrough. A mix up in the home box ended when Dec Smith pounced to fire home his first goal for the club. Delight all round and the pressure was really off !! Surging forward with purpose, the Colts began to really get hold of the game and 10 minutes later, the score was doubled.

A delightful through ball from midfielder Adam Woodford found Jack Hopper in a one on one with the keeper at the edge of the box. A few steps forward and the ball was despatched into the net with an exquisite lob to seal the points.

A thoroughly workmanlike performance, and the team now boast a 100% record with 3 wins from 3 played. Played simply, this football game is easy with the right application and attitude. A great Calverton team effort by all concerned. A special mention must go to the home team and their management for their sporting behaviour throughout.

 

Saturday 22 September 2007 NYL Youth League Division 1 Calverton MW.......4 (Bartlett, Clarke, Jeffrey, Moss) Rolls Royce............3

Local derbies between these two arch-rivals are always tense, competitive and interesting encounters and this one was no different !!

The home team took just 6 minutes to open their account when top scorer Ollie Clarke prodded home after a long free kick from Callum Kitching sailed into the area and the Rolls ‘keeper failed to gather. The visitors created very few chances and the Rolls defence had to be in top form to keep the Calvo forwards at bay. The lead was doubled on 26 when Callum Moss cut in from his right wing position to rifle home into the top corner. Two minutes later it was 3, Zach Bartlett sweeping home a pinpoint cross from the left by Rhys Jeffrey for his first league goal for the club. Rolls Royce were struggling to come to terms with the attacking football by the home side and had it not been for some superb defending by Billy Brooks and captain James Needham, the lead could have been a lot more.

The second half opened with a more determined Rolls team determined to get something out of the match. Their reward came after just 6 minutes when George Cooper arrived to meet a Kilkullen free kick and looped a header over Petit into the net. It was only game on for 7 minutes though and very soon Calvo maintained their three goal advantage. Jeffrey picked the ball up just outside the box on the left and powered home a shot which Urqhuart could only help into the top corner. Calvo continued to press forward but could not add to their tally despite efforts by Capewell and Orme going agonisingly close.

10 minutes from time and a mini disaster !! A scramble in the home area and a Cooper header was heading over the line before it was scooped back into play by Marc Williams with his arm. The referee was left with no option to send off the Calverton central defender. A nice touch was that a number of Rolls players sportingly shook their former team mates’ hand as he trudged off. Daniel Poole stepped up and lashed the ball goalwards only for Petit to make a brilliant save onto the post and out. The ball, however, fell kindly to the taker and Poole lashed the ball home on the rebound.

Barely two minutes later and Rolls got a fortunate decision in the box. Harry Allen was alleged to have bought down by Wesley even though their seemed minimal contact or intent, plus the fact that the ball was heading for the corner flag. Poole slammed home the resultant penalty for his second of the match.

A nervy few minutes ensued but Calverton held on for the fully deserved win to maintain their 100% record. Once again, a superb team effort and there’s more to come. At the moment they seemed to be scoring for fun, but the goals against column needs to be addressed, even though, to be fair, all the Rolls Royce goals came from set pieces.

 

Saturday 8 September 2007 NYL Youth League Division 1 Calverton MW.......6 (Clarke 4, Vickers 2) Ruddington Colts...2

37 seconds into the new season and Juan Vickers fires the Colts into a 1 goal lead......dreamland, and a better start we could not have wished for. The visitors, strong and powerful, were not going to lie down and surrender the home team an easy three points, and after 11, Josh Stephens equalised with a cross-shot from the right wing. Last seasons Division 2 champions, boasting a 42 game unbeaten streak were not easy opposition, and it needed something special to break the deadlock. Enter Ollie Clarke, who, true to form of previous seasons executed a truly wonderful hat-trick within the space of 12 minutes.

The Ruddington back line was pulled all over the place by the front two and the visitors had no answer to the strong powerful runs from midfield of Vickers and Adam Woodford in support of Clarke and partner Zach Bartlett who led the line well. Calverton’s back five were magnificent for the whole game with the two wide players, Jeffrey and Moss, causing no end of problems for the Ruddington defence. The second half became a “dig in for the win” mentality and with no defensive options on the subs bench, a time for consolidation and lots of positional changes.

Four minutes into the second half and the visitors scored their second, a fine strike from just inside the box by Tendye Darikwa. The two goal lead became three again just 8 minutes later when Vickers scored his second from a sweet lob after being put through by Woodford. Eleven minutes from the end a seemingly good goal was slotted home by Callum Kitchen but ruled offside. There would be no need to worry though as, five minutes before the whistle, Clarke nipped into score his fourth in off the post and the team’s sixth to complete a very satisfactory afternoon’s work. Three points, top of the pile with a promise of more to come after injuries start to improve and players return from holidays. Ruddington’s squad deserve a mention for the way they battled on in their first game in Division 1. A good disciplined side who will do well this campaign.

 

Wednesday 29 August - Under 16 Friendly - Calverton MW.......16 (Jeffrey 4, Vickers 4, Bartlett 3, Orme 2, Capewell, Clarke, Moss) Ashfield Youth FC...0

Calverton stormed to an emphatic victory over Mansfield Division 1 team Ashfield Youth. The good work in training and pre-season began to pay dividends in the first 10 minutes after quick fire goals from Danny Orme and Juan Vickers. Ashfield’s second choice keeper was experiencing a difficult evening as the home forwards ran riot and every shot seemed to find the net. 8-0 at half-time and game won. The pace never dropped though, and some of the forward play was a joy to behold.

All the available squad played a major part, providing the Manager with a difficult selection problem for the league opener against Ruddington. Vickers, Jeffrey and Zach Bartlett went onto complete their hat tricks in the second half, which was a very one-sided affair. To be fair to the visitors, they never stopped playing and their heads did not drop for a second. They simply had no answer to the fast flowing football we have come to expect from this exciting and talented squad of players.

We are under no illusions that the league programme to come will be a lot more difficult, but with the correct application and professionalism, the Colts are going to be a major force in the top Division this season.

 

Saturday 25 August - Under 16 Friendly - Forest Town FC 1 Calverton MW 5 ( Bartlett 2, Jeffrey, Moss, Smith)

Despite a host of injuries and walking wounded, the Colts scored 5 goals for the second time in 3 days. In brilliant sunshine, the hosts scored almost from the kick-off with the Calvo defence barely warmed up. A long ball through found Gaz Seagrave who put the hosts one up in less then a minute played. It was a wake up call for the Colts who started to stroke the ball around and the confidence started to return. After 15 minutes, the scores were level when Rhys Jeffrey produced a pinpoint cross which was swept home by Zach Bartlett. Three minutes later and the visitors took the lead. From a corner on the right a firm header was despatched into the top corner by Declan Smith, his first for the club. Just before the break, a fine move down the right involving all the midfield players resulted in the ball whizzing across to the left of the penalty area where Jeffrey was waiting to lash the ball home with a left foot volley. Again, a player with his first for the team.

The second half became a little disjointed as the injuries began to mount and the heat took it’s toll. The referee was kind enough to allow a drinks break at the middle of each half for little respite. At one stage there was only 9 fit Calverton players on the park. Many positional changes did not help the cohesion and the home defence were becoming increasingly difficult to break down. The fourth duly came though when Juan Vickers sped down the right to cross for Bartlett to steer home his second of the match for his 5 th in 2 games. The scoring was completed 2 minutes from time when an audacious 25 yard cross cum shot sailed into the top corner courtesy of Callum Moss’s right boot.

Once again, the team showed great strength of character and played some fine passing football in difficult conditions.

 

Under 16 Friendly – Wednesday 22 August - Calverton MW 5 ( Bartlett 3, Lacy, Woodford) v Priory Celtic Green 2

The first competitive game of the season saw the Colts take on Priory Celtic Green FC at the Lane. Despite having only 10 fit players, Calvo swept into a 3-0 lead within 22 minutes, courtesy of a hat trick by debutant Zach Bartlett. The lack of numbers in midfield eventually allowed Celtic to pull 2 goals back towards the end of the half, both scored within two minutes of one another by Scott Carlisle.

Some tactical re-organisation at the start of the second period bought plenty of reward, some great football, but no further goals, mainly down to some superb saves by the visiting ‘keeper. Indeed, had the visitors capitalised when awarded a penalty, the scoreline may have taken on a more awkward appearance, the ball flying wide of the left upright. The Colts continued to pour forward, but the woodwork came to the Priory’s rescue on more than two occasions. With ten minutes to go came the killer. From a Woodford corner on the left, Lacey rose highest to head home at the far post. In the final 2 minutes came the fifth. A smart move involving all the front players ended with Adam Woodford slotting the ball home to round of a fine evenings work.

Full marks to visiting Manager Kevin and the Priory squad who sent over a very competitive team and never stopped working against their Division 1 rivals. A big thanks, as well to Hopey, who stepped in to referee at the last minute !!

All in all, a thoroughly hard working and pleasing run-out to start the winter programme. With players to return from their hols, there will be tougher tests ahead, but the squad look well equipped and up for the