Wednesday 10th February 2010

Spartan South Midlands League - Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res. 2   Aylesbury Res.  1

Sweeper System Delivers

 All credit to Head Groundsman Peter Bailey for getting last nights game on despite a large dump of snow on the Chalk Lane pitch. With only minimal assistance he swept away the snow so that the Referee and his Assistants  could see all the markings to enable the game to proceed. For once the orange balls were effective at being seen.

The conditions gave all the players concern and those with good touch and balance were unusually challenged. Those without good touch and balance had their deficiencies magnified.

With the conditions as they were it was surprising to see the regular but risky

3, 3, 1, 3  formation maintained. Despite the enjoyment of seeing  4 strikers being marked by an unsuspecting back 4 the conditions dictated a safer structure.  

The endeavour of the Cockfosters players gave them the edge in the first half which was rewarded when Charalambous deep in his own half took a very quick free-kick putting Crilly through unchallenged. Crilly jinked around the keeper (think Best at Wembley ’68 European Cup Final) to finish calmly.

Sound defence, a reliable midfield and a good centre forward display began to turn the game to the reds. A fierce cross from the right was glanced home nicely by Hassan, 2-0.

As the players trekked in for their cup of tea (ah maybe it was the tea), it felt that the win was in the bag.  

The second half performance by Cockfosters started badly and got worse. Mistakes throughout the team resulted in 45 minutes of poor football, with the reds marginally poorer than Aylesbury.

It was after 2 misplaced passes that Aylesbury were gifted a lifeline when a well executed chip from the halfway line beat the stranded keeper Loki.

It felt that the inevitable equaliser was to come. The flailing arms and legs and poor clearances  by the defence appeared to be offering the visitors every chance. A low cross from the right was neatly finished only to be ruled offside. This was a blow to Aylesbury who deserved at least a point to punish a poor Cockfosters performance.

3 valuable points, however, went to Cockfosters, to set up an interesting last 3 Months of the season. All attention to Saturdays London Intermediate Cup Sem-Final. A massive challenge  as nearly all the regular reserve team players are ineligible for this competition. Only 3 of last nights starting 11 can feature. It is a great shame that rules prevent Cockfosters being able to field a side that is representative of our Reserve team. It will be down to fringe players and untried youngsters to represent the club the best they can. I’m sure they will give it their best. Do turn up to cheer them on and welcome our visitors from Kent, Cray Valley (PM).

Tuesday 19th January 2010

Spartan South Midlands League - Reserve Division One

Oxhey Jets Res.  3    Cockfosters Res. 0

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow

Cockfosters finally got 2010 going with a Reserve fixture at Oxhey Jets. Oxhey are having an an exceptionally good season in Reserve Division 1 and were strengthened, as expected by some 1^st team regulars. On  a beautiful surface ,this was always going to be a tough night for the reds who were missing key reserve team players, including goalkeeper Loki who suffered an injury to his eye in a training match at the weekend.

The game started at a surprising pace that masked the fitness levels of the untrained Cockfosters players. It was interesting to see how long each player could last before succumbing to the fateful reminder from muscles that have ignored for too long.

Fairly even start to the game, fast and physical contest but with too many misplaced passes from both sides. It was the result of one of these mishaps that Oxhey took full advantage by chipping the Cockfosters keeper Davie from 20 Yards. The game continued at a frantic pace, with panting players working very hard to defy nature and play their part. Ian Davie kept the reds in the game with a fine close range save just before half-time.

The break gave muscles time to tighten and sluggishness was noticeable on the resumption. Oxhey are a no nonsense strong, physical and well organised side and this began to bear more fruit. The second goal for Oxhey left the reds looking beaten despite a full 30 minutes left. The rally never really happened and he Oxhey keeper will have to wait another day to show what he has in his locker.  

With the introduction of Crilly and Elia’s fresh legs the pace was lifted, however the abandonment of defensive duties left too many one on ones at the back and finally the Jets finished the game off with interplay that left Davie with no chance, this time.

An interesting night that demonstrated what players had the self respect to look after their physical state during the Christmas and snow affected break.  Also, it was interesting to see the referees interpretation of the Laws of Association Football. He seemed very sensitive at anything verbal but studs shown and a fair bit of “afters” seemed to be acceptable.

Despite the result, the Cockfosters team will only be better for this game and other positives were the introduction of Unwin at Centre Forward who should strengthen the forward options significantly, Davie who came in at short notice to keep the game ‘live’ and Eno who played at Left Back without a grumble and put in a fine performance.

Spartan South Midlands League - Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res. 5   Stony Stratford Town Res.  0

CURBELO IS BACK

Danny Curbelo returned to lead the line against a young a travel weary side from Stony Stratford. A strong contingent of 1st team players turned up to witness the return of Curbelo and I suspect they all had their boots in the car just in case of a game in fact Dean “Sniffer” Barker was at the club ahead of the official meet time. Joe ‘any old iron’ Smith and Aaron Ewing with accompanying WAGS were also present. WAGS are not normally seen at Reserve team matches unless Harry Charalambous is featuring.

Eno was identified as a suitable candidate for a kicking and this he got. Two yellows were given to the kickers but this did not stop him receiving more treatment. On one occasion he got so angry at being felled that he got up and delivered a perfect curling cross for Ulug to deftly head home. 
Shortly before half-time Curbelo finished off a delightful move involving 6 players. Eno quick off the mark claimed the goal and was swamped by his team mates.
Just before the interval a Stony striker put the ball well over the bar from all of 3 yards. That miss changed the game.
The second half was where Cockfosters finished off Stony with good passing and movement. Papini, again effervescent in midfield, produced a piece of magic where he pulled the ball down from the night sky and looped it into the net from 25 yards.
Curbelo scored the 4th and his second with a one on one solo effort.
Eno also claimed and this time did actually score the 5th.
Another clean sheet for Loki and his back four is becoming a good habit.
Cup fever at Chalk Lane next Tuesday where the Reserves take on Stotfold Reserves ahead of the Christmas break.

Spartan South Midlands League - Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res. 1   St. Margaretsbury Res.  0

GET IN THE QUEUE - ENO’S GOT GOALS FOR EVERYONE

A sticky wicket got a good working over by the gentlemen of Cockfosters Reserves and St Margaretsbiury Reserves on Saturday. Energy sapping conditions did not prevent a well contested, exciting and unpredictable contest that saw endeavour, individual brilliance and a fine decisive strike.

The first half was end to end stuff with both sides attempting to deal with each others style of play. The league leaders opting for a more direct style on a treacherous top and Fosters opting to play there way around the cabbage patch. The reliability of Brown and Ulima in central defence was matched by honest defending by McFarlane who was playing his first game for several weeks.

Ulug was grafting in midfield and was supported by the wizardry of Papini. The strikers of Fosters were toiling away but were well marshalled by the Saints defence. On a day where goals were expected it suddenly became clear that one goal may be enough and it was Eno, who saw a chance to run at goal, where the rest of the team and supporters saw an easy pass to Hassan. He relished the opportunity to dip his shoulder several times and let fly with a swirling shot with his trusty left that swirled away from the despairing keeper. This important goal set the reds up with the agenda of defending this lead at all costs.

The second half saw the expected wave after wave of attack from the visitors. Time after time cross and through balls were dealt with by the defence and keeper. Reassuringly taking cross after cross Loki on his home debut looked like keeping the cleanest of sheets. All was in control until Alima on the 90^th minute and just inside his own half became agitated at having his shirt partly removed by the centre-forward and responded by sendng the “shirt-jacker” upwardly perpendicular. Surprised at just seeing a yellow card Alima protested well enough to get a second yellow, followed by the red one.

This gave the saints a final chance to grab a point (or more).

The defence was quickly re-shuffled and was dealing with the pressure. A last minute drive at goal was well dealt with by Loki and the points were there for Cockfosters.         

A fair result that saw some unusual events that you do not often see: 3 Foul throws on the bounce, A Linesman sent-off and a Manager banished from his dug-out. All that entertainment for nothing, can’t be bad value.

Saturday 28th November 2009

London Intermediate Cup - Second Round

Metrogas   2   Cockfosters Res.  3

ENO’S COOKING WITH GAS

SATURDAY 28TH NOVEMBER, SAW A TRIP FOR FOSTER'S SOUTH OF THE RIVER, SECOND TIME IN A MONTH. THE PITCH LOOKED ONE OF THE BEST FOSTER'S HAVE PLAYED ON THIS YEAR SO WAS A CHANCE MAYBE TO GET THE BALL DOWN AND PLAY.
THE GAME KICKED OFF AND OUT OF THE 2 SIDES IT WAS THE HOME TEAM THAT STARTED BRIGHTER, WITH SOME GOOD CLOSE PASSING WHICH STOPPED FOSTER'S GETTING INTO THE GAME EARLY. WITH ALL THE GOOD PLAY FROM THE HOME SIDE THERE WAS LITTLE RESULT AT THE END OF EACH MOVE, MAINLY DOWN TO THE METROGAS DANGER MAN NOT FINDING HIS TOUCH. FOSTER'S WERE MADE TO WORK HARD AGAINST A STRONG WIND WHICH WAS TESTING BUT DEALT WITH WELL, BUT WITH THAT IT WAS STILL THE HOME SIDE WHO LOOKED MORE LIKELY TO SCORE AS THE HALF WENT ON. AFTER ALL THE HOME SIDES GOOD PLAY, THEY WERE DEALT A BITTER BLOW JUST BEFORE THE BREAK WITH TOM BOXER LATCHING ONTO THE BALL TO HIT THE BACK OF THE NET AGAIN  (NOT BAD FOR A DEFENDER) AS FOSTERS TOOK THAT LEAD INTO THE BREAK. HALF TIME 0-1.
THE SECOND HALF UNDERWAY WITH BOTH TEAM'S FRESH FROM THE BREAK, BUT IT WAS THE HOME SIDE THAT STARTED THE BETTER OF THE 2 AND LOOKED MOST LIKELY TO SCORE. A SOFT FREE KICK GIVEN AWAY BY FOSTER'S WHICH GAVE METRO A CHANCE TO GET IT IN THE BOX, BUT TAKEN SHORT, THEN THE SHOT CAME IN WITH A SLIGHT DEFLECTION ON IT, WHICH ONLY COULD BE PUSHED OUT BY THE FOSTER'S KEEPER (GRAHAM LOKI ON DEBUT), AND WITH THE FOSTER'S DEFENCE SLOW TO REACT IT WAS TUCKED IN TO BRING THE SCORE'S LEVEL, WHICH YOU WOULD HAVE TO SAY WAS WELL DESERVED. THIS CUP TIE WAS BACK IN THE BALANCE AND COULD GO EITHER WAY. FOSTER'S STARTED TO PLAY THE BALL ROUND AND TAKE A LITTLE OUT OF THE HOME SIDE'S MOMENTUM, AS PRESSURE WAS BUILDING ENO THOUGHT HE WOULD TRY HIS LUCK FROM 35 YARDS OUT AND WITH A WICKED DEFLECTION LEFT METROGAS KEEPER WRONG FOOTED AND HELPLESS TO STOP THE BALL GOING IN TO MAKE A 1-2 WITH 20 STILL ON THE CLOCK. METROGAS WERE HIT FOR 6 WITH THIS GOAL WITH ALL THEIR HARD WORK TO GET BACK IN THE GAME AND THINGS GOT WORSE AS FOSTER'S PICKED UP THE BALL PLAYED TO ENO, WHO WENT ON A RUN OUT WIDE TO LOOK UP SEE NO ONE IN THE BOX, GETTING CLOSED DOWN HAD NO OPTION BUT TO TRY HIS LUCK WHICH SOME THOUGHT WAS MORE OF A CROSS BUT THIS COMPLETELY CAUGHT THE KEEPER OFF GUARD TO NESTLE IN THE TOP RIGHT CORNER TO MAKE IT 1-3. SOME SIDES WOULD HAVE FOLDED IN THE JAWS OF DEFEAT BUT NOT METROGAS WHO WORKED AND WORKED LAYING ON LOADS OF PRESSURE FOR THE FOSTER'S BACK LINE TO DEAL WITH, WHICH WAS COPING WELL BUT FINALLY GAVE IN AND THE HOME SIDED SCORED TO MAKE IT 2-3 AND A NERVOUS LAST FEW MINUTES FOR PAUL BOXER (MANAGER). FOSTER'S HELD ON TO MOVE INTO THE SEMI FINAL, WHICH WILL BE AT CHALK LANE EARLY NEXT YEAR.

Spartan South Midlands League - Reserve Division One

St. Margaretsbury Res. 2    Cockfosters Res.  1

THE SANDWICHES WERE NICE

TUESDAY 24TH NOVEMBER SAW A TRIP UP THE A10 TO ST MARGARETSBURY; THIS WAS GOING TO BE A CLOSE AFFAIR AS ONLY ONE POINT WAS BETWEEN THE 2 SIDES IN THE LEAGUE TABLE.
THE GAME KICKED OFF AND STARTED OFF SLOW FOR BOTH TEAMS BUT IF THERE WAS ONE TO PICK OF WHO STARTED BETTER IT WOULD HAVE TO BE THE HOME TEAM THAT JUST EDGED IT. AS THE HALF WENT ON IT WAS THE HOME SIDE THAT LOOKED MORE LIKE BREAKING THE DEAD LOCK WITH SOME GOOD POSSESSION, THE PRESSURE DID FINALLY TELL BUT IT WAS A MISTAKE AND SOME POOR CLEARING WHICH GIFTED ST MARGARETSBURY WITH THE OPENING GOAL OF THE GAME. THE GAME CONTINUED IN MUCH OF THE SAME WAY WHERE THE HOME SIDE WERE MORE LIKELY TO SCORE A SECOND THAN FOSTERS TO BRING IT LEVEL. WITH 10 TO GO FROM HALF TIME FOSTERS WERE HANDED A LUCKY BREAK, WHERE A SIMPLE THROUGH BALL AND A LACK OF CONCENTRATION BY THE DEFENCE LET RICHARD CRILLY TO STEP IN AND TO NONCHENTLTY LOB THE STAR JUMPING KEEPER AND BRING THE SCORES LEVEL. THE SIDES WENT IN AT HALF TIME 1-1.
THE SECOND HALF UNDER WAY WITH FOSTERS HAVING TO MAKE A CHANGE, OSBORNE HAVING TO REPLACE THE INJURED STEAD IN GOAL. BOTH SIDES WERE HOPING FOR A CHANGE IN FORTUNE FOR THE SECOND HALF BUT IT WAS MUCH THE SAME AS THE FIRST HALF WHERE BOTH SIDES WERE STRUGGLING TO STRING MORE THAN TWO PASSES BETWEEN THEM. WHOEVER WAS GOING TO TAKE THE POINTS IT WAS GOING TO BE A MISTAKE OR A SET PIECE, AND OF COURSE THERE WAS ALWAYS A DRAW ON THE CARDS! THAT WAS THE WAY IT WAS LOOKING AS NEITHER SIDE LOOKED LIKE IT WAS GOING TO HAPPEN FOR THEM. THE HALF WENT ON WITH ST MARG'S AWARDED A SOFT FREE KICK MIDWAY IN THE FOSTERS HALF. THE BALL WAS FLOATED IN AND IT WAS A FREE HEADER AT THE BACK POST WHICH PUT THE HOME SIDE IN FRONT FOR THE SECOND TIME IN THE GAME. WITH 17 STILL TO PLAY THERE WAS STILL TIME FOR FOSTER'S TO BRING IT LEVEL AND GET SOMETHING OUT OF THE GAME, BUT ON THIS DAY IT WASN'T TO BE, WITH ALL THE EFFORT AND TRYING NO CHANCES WERE MADE TO GET BACK INTO IT. FINAL SCORE 2-1. THE LEAGUE TABLE DOESN’T TELL LIES AND THE TRUTH IS THIS TEAM NEED A STRING OF RESULTS TO PREVENT A STOP START SEASON REQUIRING A JUMP-START.

 

THIS WAS NOT A GAME THAT WOULD STICK IN THE MIND FOR LONG BUT MUCH STILL TO LEARN WITH SOFT GOALS FOR BOTH TEAMS. A MISERABLE EVENING COMPOUNDED BY A MISERABLE GAME THAT LACKED QUALITY, AN EXECUTED GAME PLAN OR ENOUGH ORANGE BALLS. THE SANDWICHES WERE NICE.

Spartan South Midlands League - Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res. 3    London Colney Res.  3

PHOTO FINISH WITH ENO IN THE SADDLE

SATURDAY 21ST NOVEMBER SAW THE HIGH FLYING LONDON COLNEY VISIT CHALK LANE, THE PITCH WAS IN GOOD CONDITION CONSIDERING THE AMOUNT OF RAIN OVERNIGHT, BUT IT WAS ALWAYS GOING TO BE HEAVY IN THE MIDDLE OF THE PARK AND WITH A FEW MINUTES BEFORE KICK OFF A LIGHT RAIN BEGAN TO FALL WHICH STAYED FOR THE REST OF THE AFTERNOON. BOTH TEAMS STARTED WELL BUT IT WAS COCKFOSTERS WHO PLEASED THE CROWD WITH A FLUENT PASSING STYLE. DESPITE THIS IT WAS LONDON COLNEY WHO TOOK THE LEAD WITH A WELL TIMED RUN FROM MIDFIELD AND A COOL FINISH. THE GOAL GAVE LONDON COLNEY CONFIDENCE AND DOMINATED FOR THE NEXT 15 MINUTES. THE REDS HELD OUT AND THEN STARTED TO APPLY A LOT OF PRESSURE TO THE COLNEY DEFENCE. THE LAST TEN OF THE HALF IT WAS FOSTERS DOING ALL THE PRESSING. THE PRESSURE GOT ITS REWARDS WHEN FROM A VERY TIGHT POSITION ON THE EDGE OF THE BOX, TOM BOXER BEAT TWO DEFENDERS AND HIT A GREAT LEFT FOOTED STRIKE TO BRING THE SCORES LEVEL. JUST BEFORE THE BREAK, WHICH IS HOW IT STAYED UNTIL HALF-TIME.

THE TEAMS CAME OUT FOR THE SECOND HALF WITH BOTH SETS OF SUPPORTERS HAPPY WITH THE FIRST HALF PERFORMANCE. THE SECOND HALF WAS GOING MUCH THE SAME AS THE FIRST WITH BOTH TEAMS SHOWING WILLING TO GET IT DOWN AND PLAY WHICH MUST HAVE BEEN PLEASING TO THE EYE OF BOTH MANAGERS’. LUKE PAPIN WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN THIS AS HE WAS ALWAYS WILLING TO TAKE THE BALL AND USE IT SENSIBLY. THERE WERE MORE GOALS LEFT IN THIS GAME IT WAS JUST A MATTER WHO WAS GOING TO GET THE BREAK.

A LONG THROUGH BALL WAS CLAIMED ON THE EDGE OF THE AREA BY FOSTERS KEEPER CHRIS STEAD; HOWEVER A HEAVY TOUCH GAVE THE STRIKER A ONE ON ONE CHANCE. STEAD RESPONDED BY HAULING THE STRIKER TO THE GROUND GIVING A SPOT KICK AWAY. LUCKY TO STILL BE ON THE PITCH KEEPER STEAD WAS TO FACE THE PENALTY WHICH WAS TUCKED AWAY TO GIVE THE AWAY SIDE A 2-1 LEAD WITH ONLY 20 LEFT TO PLAY.

FOSTERS SPIRIT'S WERE NOT TO BE KNOCKED BY THIS GOAL AND CONTINUED TO  PRESS FOR AN EQUALIZER. WITH TIME RUNNING ON THE CLOCK THERE WAS REWARD FOR THE HARD WORK FOSTER'S PUT IN, WHERE THE REFEREE WAS TO POINT TO THE SPOT FOR THE SECOND TIME IN THE GAME WHERE RHYS SHIRLEY-CLARKE WAS BROUGHT DOWN JUST INSIDE THE BOX. THE COLNEY DEFENDER MANAGED TO AVOID THE OBVIOUS RED SOMEHOW. NATHAN ENO STEPPED UP TO GRAB THE BALL AND TAKE THE SPOT KICK, FIRED STRAIGHT DOWN THE MIDDLE WITH POWER TO BRING THE SCORE'S LEVEL ONCE MORE, 2-2. TEN TO PLAY WITH BOTH SIDES THINKING THIS GAME WAS THERE FOR THE TAKING, COLNEY ATTACKING AND A BALL CROSSED IN FROM THE RIGHT WAS TO BE MET AT THE BACK POST BY ONE OF THE 3 COLNEY PLAYERS QUEING UP TO PUT THEM INTO THE LEAD FOR THE 3RD TIME IN THE GAME. FOSTER'S WERE DOWN BUT NOT OUT AS THERE WAS A LOT OF HEART AND FIGHT, AN WITH THE GAME DRAWING TO A CLOSE A FREE KICK WAS AWARDED TO FOSTER'S JUST OUTSIDE THE COLNEY AREA WHICH WAS SURE TO BE THE LAST CHANCE TO GET SOMETHING FROM THE GAME, IT WAS QUICK THINKING FROM ENO AND WITH THE REFEREE ALLOWING THE KICK TO BE TAKEN QUICKLY IT CAUGHT COLNEY OFF GUARD AS THE BALL HIT THE BACK OF THE NET FOR HIS SECOND OF THE GAME. THERE WAS LITTLE TIME JUST TO TAKE THE KICK OFF, FULL TIME 3-3, BOTH SIDE WILL SAY THEY HAD THERE CHANCES TO TAKE ALL 3 POINTS, BUT A POINT A PIECE WAS A FAIR REFLECTION OF THE GAME.

A TRIP TO ST MARGARETSBURY ON TUESDAY IS NEXT ON THE LIST FOLLOWED BY A TRIP TO SOUTH LONDON NEXT SATURDAY FOR THE 2^ND ROUND OF THE LONDON INTERMEDIATE. THIS WILL BE A MASSIVE TEST FOR THE RESERVES NEXT SATURDAY WITH NINE OF THE SQUAD UNAVAILABLE THROUGH INJURY OR WORK COMMITMENTS.

Saturday 14th November 2009

Spartan South Midlands League - Reserve Division One

Holmer Green Res. 3    Cockfosters Res.  0

GONE WITH THE WIND

SATURDAY 14TH NOVEMBER, AFTER THE HEAVY RAIN FOR THE PREVIOUS DAYS IT HAD GOT IN THE PLAYERS MINDS THAT THIS WAS GOING TO BE A WASTED JOURNEY, BUT FAR FROM IT, THE PITCH WAS IN GREAT CONDITION. IT WAS JUST THE HEAVY WIND BOTH TEAMS HAD TO DEAL. THE FIRST HALF WAS COCKFOSTER'S TURN TO DEFEND THE WIND.

THE GAME KICKED OFF AND AS BOTH TEAMS HAD THOUGHT THESE WERE GOING TO BE TESTING CONDITIONS EVEN TO THE BEST OF PLAYERS, IT WAS GOING TO BE THE TEAM WITH THE WIND THAT WOULD CREATE THE MOST CHANCES SO FOR FOSTERS IT WAS A MATTER OF KEEP BALL AND WEATHER THE STORM. HOLMER SETTLED THE BETTER OF THE 2 TEAMS LAYING ON SOME EARLY PRESSURE FOR FOSTER'S TO DEAL WITH. FOSTER'S PASSED THE EARLY TEST OF 2 CORNER'S OF WHICH WERE DEFENDED WELL. EVEN WITH THE WIND HOLMER GREEN WAS GETTING THE BALL DOWN AND PLAYING SOME NICE FOOTBALL, THE BALL WAS PICKED UP IN THERE OWN HALF, A NICE BALL PLAYED INSIDE THE LEFT BACK FLODIN AND AN EARLY INCH PERFECT LOW CROSS TOOK THE KEEPER AND DEFENDERS OUT OF THE GAME FOR HOLMER'S STRIKER TO SLOT IT PAST CHRIS STEAD TO MAKE IT 1-0 TO THE HOME SIDE. SOON AFTER THE GOAL FOSTER'S WERE UNDER PRESSURE AGAIN DEFENDING A FREE KICK JUST INSIDE THERE OWN HALF WHEN MATT BROWN WENT UP FOR A CHALLENGE WITH HIS HEAD AND WAS STRUCK IN THE FACE.  WITH BLOOD STREAMING FROM THE NOSE OF BROWN TREATMENT WAS REQUIRED.  THE GAME RESTARTING FOSTERS WERE DOWN TO 10 MEN AND AN UNFORTUNATE MIX UP INVOLVING KEEPER CHRIS STEAD AND DAN FLODIN THE BALL ENDED UP LOOSE JUST INSIDE THE FOSTER'S HALF, WHICH WAS PICKED UP BY ONE OF HOLMER'S MIDFIELDERS WHO TRIED HIS LUCK WITH AN OPEN GOAL FROM 10 YARDS INSIDE THE FOSTER'S HALF. ALL PLAYERS AND SPECTATOR'S WOULD HAVE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE FINISH EVEN WITH  THE WIND ASISTING.

Saturday 7th November 2009

Spartan South Midlands League - Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.  2   Hoddesdon Town Res. 0

GROUNDSMAN PETE SETS UP BOXER AND CRILLY

COCKFOSTERS HOSTED THE TOP OF THE TABLE SIDE, HODDESDON. EVEN WITH ALL THE OVERNIGHT RAIN THE PITCH WAS IN TOP CONDITION (WELL DONE PETE THE GROUNDSMAN). THE GAME STARTED WITH BOTH TEAMS SHOWING RIGHTFUL RESPECTS TO THE MEN AND WOMEN THAT SERVED US IN CONFLICT. THE GAME KICKED OFF IN WHAT WAS GOING TO BE A TIGHT AFFAIR, ESPECIALLY AS HODDESDON HAD SOMETHING TO PROVE AFTER BEING TURNED OVER IN THE FLOODLIGHT CUP A FEW WEEKS BEFORE, BUT THEY HAD THE WORST POSSIBLE START AS AFTER 40 SECONDS THE BALL WAS CROSSED WICKEDLY BY NATHAN ENO AND TOM BOXER LATCHED ON TO HIT THE BACK OF THE NET, COOL FINISH AND A GREAT START TO THE GAME FOR FOSTERS. AS THE GAME MOVED ON IT COULD OF BEEN MORE AS FOSTERS WERE PLAYING ALL THE FOOTBALL. THE GAME WAS STILL GOING THE WAY OF FOSTERS AS HODDESDON SHOWED LITTLE UP TOP WHICH WAS PLEASING FOR MANAGER PAUL BOXER AS THE BACK 4 WAS GIVING THEM LITTLE TO FEED OFF. THE SECOND GOAL WAS GOING TO BE THE IMPORTANT ONE IN THIS GAME TO GET A FIRM HOLD ON IT, AND FOSTERS THOUGHT IT HAD COME WHEN BRADLEY OSBORNE PICKED THE BALL UP PUSHED FORWARD FROM LEFT BACK, CRACKED A RIGHT FOOT SHOT WHICH BEAT THE KEEPER BUT CRASHED ONTO THE POST, A CRACKING EFFORT FROM 25 YARDS. THE CHANCE CAME TO PUT FOSTERS FIRMLY IN THE DRIVING SEAT AS THE REFEREE POINTED TO THE SPOT FOR A BAD TACKLE JUST INSIDE THE BOX. RICHARD CRILLY, TOM BOXER AND HAINSLEY HINDS SQUABBLED FOR THE, BALL PRIMARY SCHOOL STYLE, BUT IT WAS CRILLY WHO SNATCHED THE BALL, DROPPED HIS CONKERS, MARBLES AND PANINI STICKERS, PLACED IT ON THE SPOT AND SLIPPED IT IN EVER SO NICELY TO MAKE IT 2-0, WHICH IS HOW IT STOOD UNTILL HALF TIME.

THE SECOND HALF GOT UNDERWAY WITH NO CHANGES TO EITHER SIDE. HODDESDON STARTED BRIGHTLY BUT LACKED THE FINAL FINISH AS IN THE FIRST HALF WHERE NOT MANY SHOTS CAME IN AS THE DEFENCE STOOD STRONG FOR FOSTERS. THE GAME LOOKED LIKE IT HAD A 2-0 WIN FOR FOSTERS WRITTEN ALL OVER IT, AS WAS LOOKING NICE AND RELAXED FOR FOSTERS. BRADLEY OSBORNE (LEFT BACK) TOOK A BAD TACKLE AND HAD TO BE REMOVED FROM THE GAME WHICH MEANT A CHANGE AROUND AT THE BACK, AND IN THE 80TH MIN ANOTHER BLOW WAS DEALT TO THE FOSTERS MANAGER PAUL BOXER WHEN MATT BROWN WAS SENT OFF FOR A CHALLENGE ON THE EDGE OF THE FOSTERS AREA WHICH SEEMED VERY HARSH IN THE WORDS OF THE HODDESDON MANAGER AS HE CLEARLY KNOCKED THE BALL AWAY FROM THE STRIKER BEFORE HE GOT A SHOT AWAY. THIS WAS ONE OF THE FEW CHANCES HODDESDON HAD TO GET BACK IN THE GAME, BUT AGAIN THE FOSTER DEFENCE STOOD FIRM AS THE FREE KICK WAS STUCK STRAIGHT INTO THE MIDRIFT OF ULUG  WHO COMPOSED HIMSELF AND CLEARED SAFELY. EVEN WITH FOSTERS BEING DOWN TO TEN MEN IT MADE LITTLE DIFFERENCE TO THE GAMES FINAL RESULT WHICH WAS A WELL DESERVED VICTORY FOR COCKFOSTERS. THERE WAS A FEW STAND OUT PLAYERS: TOM BOXER, HARRY ELIA, RICHARD CRILLY AND SOLID AS NORMAL MATT BROWN, BUT THIS WEEKS MAN OF THE MATCH VOTED BY THE PLAYERS WAS LEGULA ALIMA

Saturday 31st October 2009

London Intermediate Cup - First Round

Bridon Ropes   1   Cockfosters Res.  5

FOSTERS DAY AT THE CAR BOOT SALE PUTS BRIDON ON THE ROPES

COCKFOSTERS HAD A TOUGH TRIP THIS WEEK TO CHARLTON, SARF LONDON FOR A LONDON INTERMEDIATE CUP MATCH. AN EARLY KICK WAS NOT TO AVOID CROWD TROUBLE BUT BECAUSE OF THEIR BEING NO NO FLOODLIGHTS. THIS DID NOT TAKE AWAY THE FACT THAT IT WAS THE BEST GROUND FOSTERS HAD PLAYED ON THIS SEASON THUS FAR. ON SIGHT OF THIS MANAGER PAUL BOXER WAS RUBBING HIS HANDS TOGETHER AS HIS TEAM HAD A CHANCE TO TAKE TO THE PITCH WITH SOME OF THE WORK THAT HAD BEEN DONE ON THE TRAINING GROUND. THE GAME GOT UNDERWAY IN ANOTHER GAME WHERE THE REFEREE WAS BEING ASESSSED AND AS ALWAYS WHEN THIS HAPPENS THEY ARE VERY PICKY ABOUT EVERYTHING, WHICH DID AFFECT THE STOP/START NATURE OF THE GAME. FOSTERS WERE THE FIRST TO SETTLE AND HAD A PERIOD OF GOOD PASSING AND MOVEMENT WHICH LED TO THE OPENING GOAL OF THE GAME. GOOD INTERPLAY AND A CLEVER BALL BY BOXER INSIDE THE FULL BACK WAS WELL FINISHED BY ENO. BRIDON ROPES RECOVERED AND GOT THE BALL DOWN AND STARTED PLAYING SOME GOOD FOOTBALL SAYING TO FOSTERS THIS GAME IS NOT OVER. GOOD PLAY DOWN THE BRIDON RIGHT WAS COMPLETED WITH A GOOD FINISH ONLY TO BE SAVED ACROBATICALLY BY STEAD IN THE FOSTERS GOAL. SHORTLY AFTER A SIMILAR CROSS RESULTED IN A GLANCING HEADER HITTING THE BACK OF STEAD’S NET. SCORES LEVEL, IT LOOKED LIKE THIS IS WHAT FOSTERS NEEDED TO WAKE UP AND STEP UP A GEAR OR TWO AND SOON AFTER THE SCORES BEING LEVEL PORTOU WAS PUT THROUGH FOR A ONE ON ONE WHICH HE COMPLETED WITH GRACE AND COMPOSURE. A THIRD SOON FOLLOWED AFTER A BOXER SHOT WAS PARRIED FOR PORTOU TO HEAD HOME HIS SECOND. THESE WERE BAD MOMENTS FOR BRIDON AS FOSTERS WERE LOOKING VERY COMPETENT. AT HALF TIME IT STOOD BRIDON 1-3 COCKFOSTERS.

THE HALF TIME TALK FROM PAUL BOXER WAS, "CAN I HAVE MUCH OF THE SAME" ADDING THAT FOSTERS HAD A FEW MORE GEARS TO GO UP ASKING THAT THE TEAM BE ALERT AS BRIDON WERE GOING TO COME OUT AND TRY AND GET BACK INTO THE GAME EARLY ON IN THE SECOND HALF.

SECOND HALF GOT UNDERWAY WITH A FOSTERS KICK OFF, FROM THE KICK OFF FOSTERS PASSED WELL AND KEPT THE BALL, DONT KNOW WHETHER THIS PREVENTED A BRIDON ROPES REVIVAL BUT THE EXPECTED BRIDON PRESSURE DID NOT MATERIALISE. FOSTERS SEEMED IN CONTROL OF PROCEEDINGS AND AFTER GOOD POSSESSION OSBORNE LASHED IN A BLISTERING SHOT THAT SHOOK THE NET, POSTS AND THE STALLS OF THE CAR BOOTERS THAT WERE STILL SURROUNDING THAT END OF THE PITCH. SHORTLY AFTER GOOD WORK DOWN THE RIGHT WAS FINISHED WITH AN EXQUISITE CHIP THAT LEFT THE BRIDON KEEPER BACK PEDALLING INTO HIS OWN NET. THE VENDORS OF THE BURGER BAR AND THE SECOND HAND HI–FI STALL SHOWED THEIR APPRECIATION OF PORTOU’S FINAL GOAL OF A DESERVED HAT-TRICK. IT WAS A GOOD TEAM PERFORMANCE AND WITH A HAPPY MANAGER A GOOD END TO THE DAY. MUST TAKE OUR HATS OFF TO THE GROUNDSMAN AS WAS A TRULY GREAT SURFACE TO PLAY FOOTBALL ON, ALSO A MENTION FOR FOSTERS MAN OF THE MATCH WITH A GREAT HAT-RICK AND ALL BUT ONE OF THE TEAM AGREED THAT HE SHOULD GET IT, KIRI  PORTOU.

Spartan South Midlands League - Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.  0   Kings Langley Res. 0

LANGLEY KEEPER UP THERE WITH THE LUCKY STARS

Spartan South Midlands League - Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.  1   Harpenden Town Res. 2

Spartan South Midlands League - Reserve Division One

Crawley Green Res. 1   Cockfosters Res.  3  

Saturday 10th October 2009

Spartan South Midlands League - Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.  0   Holmer Green Res. 2 

Saturday 3rd October 2009

Spartan South Midlands League - Reserve Challenge Trophy

AFC Dunstable Res.   2   Cockfosters Res.  1 

Tuesday 3rd March 2009

Spartan South Midlands League - Reserve Division One

Holmer Green Res. 1  Cockfosters Res.  4

Take A Boo Son.....

The weathermen told us to batten down the hatches as violent wind and rain swept across our part of the country - and they weren't wrong. But those less hardy individuals that stayed locked up indoors around a warm fire, missed probably one of the finest Reserve team performances for a very long time. We had barely emerged from the sanctuary of the clubhouse before Terry Creber delivered a stunning strike, admittedly wind assisted, to give Cockfosters a first minute lead. Within six minutes, Cockfosters doubled their lead and once again Creber was instrumental as his free kick from the left was met by the head of Rakim Richards, giving the 'keeper no chance. Holmer Green, although battling against the elements, did create a couple of chances. The first being a glaring miss as a header was totally miscued when facing an open goal and then being denied by a superb double save as Danny Curbelo pounced on a ball threatening to creep over the line. That was just about that as far as the home side were concerned as Cockfosters turned in an all round sparkling first half performance. Creber nearly grabbed the headlines once more just before the break that forced the home 'keeper into a fine save to keep his side in the game. When the teams emerged for the second half the wind and rain had gathered pace and pretty soon the puddles were beginning to appear. Cockfosters were not able to slip into the slick gear of the opening 45 as Holmer, with the wind at their backs, began asking a few questions of their own. three free kicks from wide on the left flew beyond Curbelo's far post and from another, an offside flag ruled out a Holmer 'goal'. What Cockfosters needed was a third goal and when it arrived after 65 minutes it was well worth the wait. Four or five one touch passes way out on the left half-way line and the ball was played into Selcuk Ulug who again with one touch, swept the ball over the 'keeper and into the top of the net. Even the handful of locals were in raptures. Trust me - that goal would have graced any ground anywhere - Even Andy Gray would have marveled at it. Unfortunately for Cockfosters the three goal cushion didn't last. Within two minutes Holmer struck - a soft goal as Tom Boxer slipped leaving Curbelo exposed. With the rain getting worse and surface water everywhere, it did become a possibility that the game might not finish. But in fairness to both teams and the officials who braved the downpour - the game had to be concluded. Who else to bring down the curtain than Terry Creber who put all doubts as to the final outcome to one side as he crashed home the fourth in the last minutes. It was a game that all concerned could be proud of - a scintillating performance in the worst possible conditions.

Saturday 21st February 2009

Spartan South Midlands League - Reserve Division One

Hoddesdon Town Res. 3  Cockfosters Res.  3

The Cockfosters squad that travelled to Hoddesdon was short in numbers and experience and not a lot was expected from the encounter. This was largely due to the bruising cup game against Broxbourne Borough the previous Wednesday that has left 4 of that team injured and unavailable. Wednesdays young team was added to by even more youth team boys (that comes with obvious risk), Richard Crilly and Chris Philippou. Crilly, offering some much needed experience (and fancy footwork) and Philippou, an emergency keeper who did not look out of place at this level.

Hoddesdon made a good start and it looked as if the young reds would be in for a long afternoon, however after weathering the storm and against the run of play Crilly converted a low cross with a deft touch to make the Cockfosters Supporter happy and the Broxbourne Linesman not so happy. The game upped its tempo and Harris and Ulug had to work extremely hard in central midfield to prevent the game going Hoddesdons way. The defence looked sound with Rees-Doran and Osborne looking accomplished and Simmons and Mason snapping in the strong tackles.

Nathan Eno dropped slightly deeper than normal to pick up a pass in his own half and then started a trademark gallop at the opposition midfield and then at their defence and then their keeper, who surrendered to the marauder to give Eno the goal of his career thus far. The Cockfosters management team pinched themselves and then each other before a highly disputed Hoddesdon goal brought everyone down to earth. The Cockfosters camp felt that the scorer was 10 yards offside before turning and scoring, however following a conference between the referee and linesman the goal was awarded.

The pinching started again after Crilly worked some magic in the box and walked the ball round the horizontally placed keeper. The players celebrated as if the game was won and then following the restart parted to the flanks to allow Hoddesdon to pass their way through to make the score 3-2.

The Hoddesdon equalizer that followed was a blow but not totally unexpected. The game then turned into a messy battle with the long ball being the favored weapon of both teams. A calm head and controlled passing was requested from both managers  but absent until the final whistle. An exhausting 90 minutes with 7 U18 players contributing to a valuable point, well supported by 4 senior players and a debutant keeper.  Well done reserves. Thanks Joe for your assistance.

Tuesday  27th January 2009

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Hoddesdon Town Res.  2   Cockfosters Res.   1 

Boxer's Left - But It's Hoddy On Points......

The Reserves last outing against table topping Oxhey Jets produced  a performance to remember, sadly the next time the red shirts were donned against struggling Hoddesdon Town, the least said soonest mended. Steve Kessack and Ian Reddington both had a run out as they returned from long term injury. Also making his debut at the centre of defence was Adrian Campbell. The game began on a promising note with Dan Little and Terry Creber both going close as Cockfosters held the upper hand in the opening exchanges. Unfortunately that was not to last as Hoddesdon showed a sharper and hungrier appetite for the game. It was the home who were first to find the target when Cowell gave them a thirteenth minute lead. In Callam Bourdice, Hoddesdon have a fine goalkeeper and it was the young man that was to be the rock on which Cockfosters would eventually flounder all evening. Individually there was precious little to choose between the sides although Hoddesdon's better team work would prevail on the night. Having gone a goal in the first half, hopes were that Cockfosters would bounce back quickly but when King doubled Hoddesdon's lead six minutes into the second half all semblence of cohesive teamwork from the visitors went out of the window. There were a few good individual performances but collectively the game was heading for the rocks. Twice Little saw the whites of Bourdice's eyes but the goalkeeper stood firm. After 82 minutes came a flicker of hope. Kieron Rees-Doran took a throw into the Hoddsedon area, Little flicked on an Tom Boxer's clever footwork  was rewarded with a gaping goal and suddenly the door was opened. Only two minutes more and the door slammed shut as Hoddesdon with a fine response of their own gave Dave Stevenson no chance as the points were wrapped up.

Saturday  20th December 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.   2     Oxhey Jets Res.   1  

Wednesday  19th November 2008

South Midlands Floodlight Cup  -  Reserve Section - First Round

St. Margaretsbury Res.   1     Cockfosters Res.   4  

Saturday  8th November 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Oxhey Jets Res.   2     Cockfosters Res.   1    

Saturday  25th October 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.   2   Holmer Green Res.   1 

After a disappointing result at Broxbourne last weekend, the Reserves bounced back to record their second win against Holmer Green this season and the chief architect in Cockfosters win was Aaron Ewing, with a goal in each half. Cockfosters flew out of the traps and only a fine block by 'keeper Charlie Fanner prevented Kieron Bishop from scoring after just three minutes. By the time another three minutes had passed, Bishop should have had another, this time , after a powerful break down the right from Joe Smith, the final touch was shovelled over the Holmer bar from just in front. After this double let off, Holmer had their first sight of goal with Andy Wheeler-King not making the most of it leaving Lee Walker with an comfortable save. At this stage of the game, Cockfosters easily held the upper hand and ait came as no real surprise when they took the lead after 14 minutes. Bishop was proving to be a handful for the visitors as this time he became the provider. Another run down the right, a low cut back and Aaron Ewing was on hand to fire low past Fanner to put Cockfosters one up. With Holmer Green about to capitulate, Dan Little, through with only the goalkeeper and the post to beat, managed both. Fortunate for Crouchie, although the moment was captured on camera, the picture has been lost. Jamie Brandon the delivered a cross across the face of goal that was begging to be tapped in - but no red foot could reach the chance. Wheeler-King then provided the opportunity for the visitors to level but his pass was wasted by Nick Little at the far post. The open nature of the game continued unabated as Jamie Brandon's cross was headed down by Dan Little to Joe Smith whose shot went onto the bar and back into the grateful clutches of Fanner. With half-time looming, Nick Lapite rescued Cockfosters with a fine tackle as Nick Little was about to pull the trigger. Holmer soon made the home team pay for not having made the game safe when they levelled after 50 minutes with a fine lobbed goal by Nick Cayagoudis that evaded the despairing clutches of Lee Walker. Now it was the time for Holmer Green to take control of the game as only a fine tip over by Walker from Scott Shefford kept the scores level. The flowing football from Cockfosters had by now long gone and it came as relief more than expectation when Aaron Ewing, after 69 minutes, lashed home a shot from beyond the penalty area to restore Cockfosters lead. With Ewing sniffing out the opportunity of a hat-trick, he unleashed another powerful attempt from 25 yards that Fanner was happy to cling onto. To their credit, Holmer powered forward in search of a second equaliser an even more. In the last quarter of the game they held the upper hand and Cockfosters were twice rescued by the woodwork in the closing moments but a combination of some good defending, some good goalkeeping and certainly some luck saw Cockfosters home. Overall, just about the right result but a fine piece of entertainment in which both teams played their part.

Tuesday  23rd September 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

London Colney Res.  2   Cockfosters Res.   2  

It all began in the first minute - well it would wouldn't it. Chances I mean - and after ten minutes Cockfosters could have led 4-1. First to cause a stir was Colney's Steve McGovern whose early stab from a corner found the sidenetting. At the other end, Jon Moniatis had a shot parried by Herve Souland but Wes Ewing was unable to finish off the loose ball (pictured right). Within moments, Moniatis sent a shot narrowly past the angle of the upright. Matt Brown then released Nick Lapite wide down the right and when the cross came in, Jamie Brandon's header was  wide. Moniatis then sent in a low cross that was smuggled clear. All that in the first ten minutes. Cockfosters were now bombarding Colney with some of the best football I have seen at this level. It was thrilling stuff and how Cockfosters were not out of sight by the half-hour mark will remain a mystery forever.  Cockfosters were stringing together some scintillating passing moves and it seemed only when, and not if, they would make the breakthrough. Great to see Kieran Rees-Doran from the U18s having a superb game at right back well supported by the cool head of Charlie Morgan in the centre of defence.. In fact Doran was the provider of yet another assault on the Colney goal as his surge down the right and low cross caused mayhem in the home defence, the ball being partially scrambled away, but only as far as Jamie Brandon, whose shot was parried by Souland and smuggled to safety. Jon Moniatis then latched on to a backpass and seemed certain to score, only for Souland to once more rescue the Blues with a block with our man JM off target from the rebound. It's said that not to score when on top is fatal and so we were to find out. The first warning sign came when Seb Thomas latched on to a Lee Walker clearance and rammed his shot inches wide. There was still time for Jamie Brandon to have one more attempt that flashed wide across the face of the goal before the kick in the teeth arrived. After 39 minutes of complete domination, Cockfosters went behind when Thomas curled in a stunning shot from the edge of the box that gave Walker no chance. So that was that, Half-time and the chance to assess how we would get back. They say the best laid plans etc... Within two minutes of the restart, all Cockfosters efforts seemed doomed as Matt Brown was caught hopelessly in two minds allowing Colney's chief predator, Thomas, to sneak in and fire Colney into a 2-0 lead. This signalled Colney's best period of the game as with confidence reborn they surged forward and looked the team most likely to score. Dean Seabrook lashed a shot wide when seemingly certain to score and for a time Cockfosters wilted. The attacking edge had gone and although there was some good work down the flanks the delivery never really threatened. Midway through the half Danny Curbelo and Joe Smith were introduced. Curbelo became an extra man up front and Smith added some much needed energy into a tiring midfield. Immediately the two combined to open up a shooting chance that the front man put over the top. The confidence was beginning to return and Wes Ewing delivered a cross that Curbelo headed over the top. The renewed pressure was paying off and after 79 minutes Andy Timbrell slipped the ball to Curbelo, inside the area and DC threaded the ball past Souland to give Cockfosters some belief. That there can be some justice in this world became true with the clock ticking down, Jamie Brandon  found Curbelo with his back to goal six yards out. A quick turn, a shot into the far corner and a point had been earned  after 88 minutes. To come back and grab a point was scant reward for a performance that should have reaped a maximum three points. However, those that were at Cotlandswick witnessed a superb evenings entertainment - it would be great to repeat that every week. - and so to the pub - I'll definitely enjoy my drink tonight..... 

Tuesday  9th September 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Harpenden Town Res.  2   Cockfosters Res.   2  

Having waited by the phone most of the afternoon, half expecting the game to be postponed, I honestly wished it had. True, we did not play well and yes a draw was a disappointing outcome; but the most contentious issue all night surrounded the many bizarre refereeing decisions that at best, were difficult to understand. The game started quite promisingly with Cockfosters looking for an early breakthrough; and it should have come in the first two minutes when Jon Stokes slid a ball through for Danny Curbelo to hit tamely straight at the 'keeper. Jamie Brandon and Michael Cooper were bombarding the Harpenden goal with a string of crosses that unfortunately came to nothing. As often happens, the team under pressure breaks out and Bingo.. we are 1-0 down after 11 minuites. A break down the left, a low cross and a fine volleyed finish gave the home side the advantage. Cockfosters still pressed forward and when Jamie Brandon saw his cross roll off the bar, Danny Curbelo was quick to send the rebound across the face of the goal for Lucas Campbell to fire Cockfosters level. Having found the way to get behind the Harpenden back line and create chances at will, Cockfosters lost the map and subsequently began to flounder. Half-time could not come quick enough for Neil Ewing to remind his troops the way forward. Within minutes of the restart it became apparent that the message had sunk in. Jon Stoke in the centre-circle fed Michael Cooper wide on the right and with his second touch, cOOps provided Danny Curbelo with the chance to sidefoot Cockfosters into the lead. By now the game was a real stop-start affair as  decisions for and against each team were causing real frustration and the game itself was losing its way. Jon Stokes had a shot cleared off the line but the guile had long since disappeared from Cockfosters game. Suure enough there was one more twist and Harpenden levelled after 80 minutes when a deep cross from the left managed to reach the far post and was smashed home to bring the sides level once more. A poor game, played on a poor pitch and refereed by  ...  enough of that.....

Saturday  6th September 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.   2   Hoddesdon Town Res.   1  

Having been thoroughly entertained by the performance against Colney Heath this was definitely a case of "After the Lord Mayor's show. It took some time to get into this game from a spectators viewpoint, but although Cockfosters  failed to dominate in this game, it became apparennt that they were facing a strong Hoddesdon line-up. Anton Gavrilov and Brad Scanlon replaced Aaron Ewing and Michael Cooper from Wednesday's team and the guile and sparkle was missing. The first real chance fell to Hoddesdon when Matt Brown's backpass to Scott Montgomery lacked crispness and Shaun Dyer nipped in to clip the ball just over the top. Cockfosters then had an opening through Danny Curbelo whose finish after being played in by Brad Scanlon was wide of the stranded David Cape in the Hoddesdon goal. In fact, on any other day, Curbelo might well have had a first half hat-trick as chances laid on by Wes Ewing and Matt Brown were not seized on. Although not spectacular, the first half rumbled on and Hoddesdon also might well have scored a couple. Lee Tombs angled drive was parried by Scott Montgomery for Matt Brown to scramble clear and when Kieran Doran missed his tackle Tombs provided Dyer with a golden opportunity that was headed over. At this stage it seemed that the visitors might be the first to make the breakthrough and those fears nearly materialised when Chris Anthony found the side netting with the Cockfosters rearguard flat-footed. Nathan Eno and Lucas Cambell had joined the fray as second half substitutes and gradually the tide turned bur not before Damien Thomas got onto the end of a cross and flashed his header wide. Although there had been a smattering of incidents, the game burst into life on 70 minutes whe a superb pass from Jamie Brandon set Danny Curbelo clear to slide the ball past Cape to cue an intriguing celebration(pictured). Dominic Gentle benefitted from a fortunate deflection just inside the Hoddesdon box but the visitors managed to smuggle the ball for a corner. When the cross came in a wicked bounce hit the bemused Gentle on the head but somehow the ball stayed out of the net. With Cockfosters now on the front foot, only a fine stop by Cape prevented the lead being doubled. Just as it seemed that the Reds would close out the game for the three points, Hoddesdon had other ideas and Chris Anthony firly planted Lee Tomb's cross past Montgomery to level at 1-1. The introduction of Lucas Campbell would be a defining feature as he was now clearly rattling the visitors with his al action style. A cross from young Campbell was met by the head of Dominic Gentle only for the chance to go inches over and then Charlie Murphy (aka Charlie Morgan, sorry Charlie) let fly with a ferocious drive that whistled past the post. Although Hoddesdon still threatened, it seemed that Cockfosters were the most likely winners if indeed there was to be a decisive outcome. So it turned out, with 88 minutes played a deft header by Danny Curbelo gave Dominic Gentle the shooting chance that was well blocked by Damien Thomas. From the flag kick that followed the ball was not cleared and as it bounced six yards out Lucas Campbell gleefully lashed the ball home....

Wednesday  3rd September 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.   3    Colney Heath Res.   1  

Having had a disappointing result against Leverstock Green a week ago, the Reserves faced Colney Heath with the memory of the epic Cup Final at Brimsdown in May, still fresh in the memory. The early exchanges did not threaten either goal and if anything Colney Heath held the early advantage. Cockfosters first notable strike came from Aaron Ewing , whose shot from 25 yards  drifted wide. Moments later, Nathan Eno, who wore the black and white in May, forced his former colleague, Kyri Ayed to plunge to his right and turn Eno's shot for a corner. Cockfosters were to make the breakthrough after 34 minutes. Colney Heath were penalised for dangerous play just eight yards from goal. With the entire Heath team on the goal-line the ball was touched to Aaron Ewing who somehow smashed the ball past the mass of black & white shirts. Although much of the approach play was easy on the eye, chances to extend the lead were few and far between. One noteable exception saw Jamie Brandon burst into the box and with only Ayed to beat, the keeper produced a fine save. Danny Curbelo was a thorn in the visitors defence and chased anything that moved. That was to be a painful ploy as in a race with Ayed the Cockfosters man was clattered by the 'keepers follow through. If the first half had been ok - then the second period was to put a smile on the faces of the substantial crowd. Within five minutes of the restart, Curbelo had doubled the lead as he latched onto a pass from Charlie Murphy to guide the ball beyond Ayed. Immediately Nathan Eno ran at his former colleagues and slipped the ball to Curbelo, whose shot on this occasion curled narrowly over. By now the whole machine was purring and after 55 minutes Jamie Brandon fired low past Ayed's despairing dive to put Cockfosters 3-0 ahead. Colney Heath snapped back when Aaron Clarke made the most of a rare lapse in the home defence when Scott Montgomery was stranded outside his goal and the Colney Heath man had the simplest of tasks to reduce the arrears. But this was going to be Cockfosters night as Aaron Ewing, Michael Cooper and Jamie Brandon to name but three, produced a string of crosses  and quality passing that had Colney Heath on the ropes. There was a sparkle in the play that truly lit up the night. There was a downbeat moment on 80 minutes when Kryi Ayed had to be stretchered off after a clash with Danny Curbelo; I'm sure it had nothing to do with the Cockfosters man being poleaxed in the first-half. Amodo Gerber took over from the stricken Ayed and pulled off two fine save to prevent Aaron Ewing and Jamie Brandon from putting that icing on the cake.....

Wednesday  27th August 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.   2    Leverstock Green Res.   3  

Having picked up their first points of the season against Holmer Green in their most recent outing, the Reserves were looking to build on that and set their stool out for another tilt at the Division One title. Leverstock Green who were heavily involved in the race last year, were not going to be an easy touch. So it proved, when after a bright stat from both teams it was Leverstock who made the first breakthrough after 16 minutes. Adam Hallisay cleverly lobbing Scott Montgomery after the Cockfosters man had been exposed by a hesitant defence. Only four minutes later, Jamie Brandon produced a superb equaliser, curling a shot from wide on the left and some 20 yards from goal, high into the net. Three minutes later and it seemed that Cockfosters were on course for some points as Aaron Ewing hoisted a free-kick to the far post for Danny Curbelo to hook back across the face of the goal for Jamie Brandon to lash home his second. Far from driving home the advantage, there were ominous lapses appearing, particularly at the heart of the Cockfosters defence. This was to be exposed after 31 minutes when a poor clearance by Scott Montgomery failed to make any distance and was latched onto by Leverstock who stormed forward and delivered the cross that John Davies headed home to bring the scores level once more. Russell Miller had a glorious chance to put the visitors ahead just after, but his header was way off target. At the other end, Cockfosters had chances on the stroke of half-time, Firstly Nathan Eno was cleverly played in by Charlie Morgan and Jamie Brandon only to blaze over and moments later Nathan should have redeemed himself but a fine save by Matt Evans kept the scores level. Five minutes into the second half and the game's defining moment. Scott Montgomery took exception to a robust challenge by Hallisay and retaliated to an extent that the referee reached for his back pocket and pulled out a red card. Danny Curbelo took over the gloves, and Leverstock could not have known that the big man was more than a capable substitute 'keeper - trouble being, Cockfosters had now lost the focal point of their attack. Curbelo was soon in action - but rarely troubled until 72 minutes when more disarray in the home rearguard opened the way for Luke Flood to put Leverstock ahead for the second time. Cockfosters toiled away and shots by Jamie Brandon, Rowan Taylor and Jonathan Stokes stretched 'keeper Matt Evans but the Green's custodian blocked Cockfosters path back into the game.......

 Wednesday  7th May 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Challenge Trophy - Final

Cockfosters Res.   2    Colney Heath Res.   1  

Not many teams lose in a Quarter- Final and then go on to lift the trophy, but that's exactly the route Cockfosters took as they beat local rivals, Colney Heath, in an absorbing game played at the home of Brimsdown Rovers. Cockfosters took on the team that beat favourites, Hertford Town in the semi-final and without implying any wrongdoing, let's just say that Colney Heath turned in a performance that made a mockery of the league form that showed they won onlyseven of the thirty-three games played, finishing in the bottom three. From the start Colney Heath were sharper all round and the Cockfosters rearguard was shaky to put it mildly. After ten minutes, the Magpies should have taken the lead when Nathan Eno fired over from close-in following a free-kick. Within a minute Ashley Amaikhu showed great agility with an overhead kick that hit the bar as Cockfosters rode their luck. Colney Heath continued to dominate as Cockfosters tried to get a foothold in the game. Amaikhu was denied by Lee Walker but the ball rebounded kindly to the Heath striker who saw his follow-up shot hit the side netting. Cockfosters finally found out where the goal was but Aaron Ewing's free kick found Danny Curbelo, whose headed attempt was just wide. Within a minute there was another chance for the big man after Richard Crilly set up the opening - again the finish was off target. Having been under the hammer for thirty-three minutes - Cockfosters  made the breakthrough. Wes Ewing played a superb ball to Jamie Brandon just inside the Heath penalty area and with complete coolness the ball was under control and a deft lob beat the onrushing Kyri Ayed and bounced into the unguarded net. The reshuffle that saw Ben Andreos & Kevin Hunt at the heart of the defence with Charlie Morgan playing in front was just not working and it took an unfortunate twist of fate for the tide to turn in Cockfosters favour. Charlie Morgan was injured and had to be replaced - enter Jonathan Stokes whose contribution was to prove massive, in fact within a minute of entering the fray the young man should have doubled the lead but fired into the side-netting. The tide had indeed turned as Cockfosters pounded away but could not improve their lead before the break. From the restart Cockfosters were the first to threaten as Ayed saved at the feet of Crilly but from that moment Colney Heath re-emerged as the more threatening although both goals came under fire in equal proportions. Amaikhu could not get the better of his dual with Lee Walker who made a couple of vital saves once at the feet of the Heath no. 9 and moments later pushing a header from Amaikhu onto the post and away to safety. As the battle raged on, Brandon set up Crilly whose effort flashed over. Those in the Red camp were delighted after Richard Crilly forced the ball home following a fine stop by Ayed, who had initially beaten away Brandon's powerful attempt. The cheers turned to jeers as the Asst. Referee came to the Magpies assistance deeming Crilly to be offside.  The game was still on a knife's edge and with the introduction of Dan Cornock, Colney Heath had a quality marksman to search out the equaliser. With 84 minutes gone, Colney Heath levelled - for once the Cockfosters rearguard were outmanoeuvred  and Cornock fired an unstoppable shot past Lee Walker to set up a tense finish. With only thirty seconds left of normal time and extra-time looking odds-on, Jamie Brandon came up with a superb winner. Ben Andreos from wide on the right and midway in the Colney Heath half, fired in a free-kick that reached Brandon beyond the far post. With the ball at waist height Jamie swivelled and lashed a volley past Ayed for the winner before disappearing beneath a mountain of red shirts. With the Magpies clearly shell schocked Danny Curbelo should have heaped on more misery but his header from Nick Lapite's cross cleared the bar when it looked easier to score. But that was soon forgotten as the final whistle sounded a few seconds later. On the way home I asked Alex who he thought had played well " Wes was superb - Jamie two goals - Jonathan,great performance, Aaron, different class, Lee, faultless handling and some good saves, Nick.........." and so it went on. I couldn't help but totally agree with him. Brilliant, bloody brilliant........

Tuesday  22nd April 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Snatched From The Jaws Of Victory......

Hertford Town Res.   3   Cockfosters Res.   2 

With the pressure for points off, then it was the perfect fixture to wind up the league programme, playing the newly crowned champions, Hertford Town. It was apparent from the start that the nervous display against Mursley was replaced by a sparkle that had the champions on the ropes from the off. Within  four minutes, Danny Curbelo had the home defence in a spin and probably should have scored but his effort was bundled away for a corner. From the resultant flag kick, Jamil Gaawo was highest to head home Wes Ewing's delivery. Hertford could barely got out of their own half as Cockfosters turned the screw. On eight minutes, Cockfosters doubled the lead when Leon Miller's left-wing corner was flicked on by Danny Curbelo, Jamil Gaawo was at the far post to head past Jamie Sturgeon. Unfortunately for Cockfosters that kicked Hertford into life and within two minutes the lead was halved. Lee Walker failed to come for a speculative hoist into the area with the ball falling to Michael Cooper. The Hertford man's first effort was blocked but when the rebound fell to Cooper he made no mistake at the second attempt. This was to be Hertford's best spell of the game and when Ross Pearce failed to challenge Mark Draper just outside the box, Hertford's leading marksman showed why he is just that, firing superbly past the exposed Walker to level. Cockfosters had an opportunity to restore the lead just before the break when Richard Crilly put Curbelo in on goal only to fire straight at Sturgeon. Minutes into the second half Gaawo tested Sturgeon from twenty yards but the next piece of decisive action was to come at the other end as Hertford completed the comeback. Ross Pearce may well feel he could have done more to deny Draper a sight of goal but that was all that was needed as Hertford's no. 9 fired past Walker. That left 40 minutes for Hertford to defend their advantage. The red tide was incessant as wave after wave forced Hertford deeper and deeper. Cockfosters were now playing some outstanding football and only indecisive finishing including a fluffed penalty by Richard Crilly, and in fairness a magnificent save by Sturgeon, prevented Cockfosters from, at the very least, levelling. Despite some creditable performances all round and once again the significant input of the U18 contingent, the season and the night belonged to Hertford. Pleasing to see the Cockfosters team recognising the achievement of Hertford as Champions at the end of the game.

Saturday  19th April 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Edge Home To Claim Runners-up........

Cockfosters Res.   2    Mursley United Res.   1  

It's unsure whether the players met the final whistle with delight or a sigh of relief as they claimed the points guaranteeing Runners-up in the Division. With Oxhey Jets waiting in the wings for a slip-up, Cockfosters took on a Mursley side for the third time this season having already knocked seventeen goals past them in the previous two meetings. However within minutes of the start it was clear to see that this was going to be no stroll in the park as this Mursley team bore no resemblance to the outfits that had so readilysuccumbed previously. For several matches now, Neil Ewing and Ron Syrett have had to dig deep to put out sides and the input from the U18's has been invaluable. The Oxhey representatives present at the game must have been full of expectations as Mursley dominated the early stages and grabbed a 5th minute lead when Ed Mills fired them into the lead. Charlie Morgan at the heart of the Cockfosters rearguard was a commanding figure and he needed to be as Mursley asked the early questions. Scott Montgomery came to Cockfosters rescue to prevent Mursley doubling the lead. Only after twenty minutes did Cockfosters reclaim any authority on proceedings and then Emmanuel Osei-Owiso and Danny Curbelo twice each had attempts that flashed narrowly wide. At the interval the three points needed still seemed to be some way off but within seven minutes of the restart Danny Curbelo restored the self belief as Cockfosters levelled. Now it was game on and as Cockfosters laid siege to the Mursley goal the reward finally came after 69 minutes. Richard Crilly worked an opening along the goal-line before setting up Tony Neilson, whose close range effort was fumbled by 'keeper Darren Klein with the loose ball running to Jamil Gaawo who tapped in  to the delight of all present - except those from Oxhey. Mursley never threatened to spoil the party in the time remaining and three points meant that Cockfosters could go to Hertford on Tuesday to take on the Champions without the added pressure of having to get something from the game.

Wednesday  9th April 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Just Like The Buses -- They Come In Twos

Cockfosters Res.   4    Harpenden Town Res.   0  

When these teams last met in December Cockfosters were in the middle of a losing run that totally wrecked Championship dreams and the tormentor of the Reds on that afternoon was Harpenden's Mark Scott who hit all six of Town's goals in their 6-5 win. Fortunately there was to be no repeat of that disaster as Mr. Scott and his team-mates were soundly beaten. The game was off to a slow start before Richard Crilly fired home from the spot and within sixty seconds Rowan Taylor had doubled the score. In truth Cockfosters could have led by five at half-time after Rowan Taylor  had combined with  Jamie Brandon who saw his shot flash narrowly wide. Chris Newell, in on goal, also sot across the face of the goal and Tony Neilson crashed a sot against the underside ot the bar with the ball staying out. The second half lacked any real drive as the points rarely seemed in doubt and as the game began dwindle away the introduction of Josh D'Jelal livened up the proceedings. Within minutes of his arrival D'Jelal had provided Danny Curbelo with a simple opportunity that was tucked away by the leading scorer and as in the first half, there was to be only seconds to wait until the next goal. This time Curbelo's effort was deemed not to have crossed the line but when the ball came out to D'Jelal he most certainly made sure that it did the second time. Another step towards the Reserves quest for the runners-up spot but there will probably be a few more nervous moments on the way.

hen Cockfosters started off like a train in this semi-final, the most unlikely outcome was that the result would be determined by freakish events. Within thirty seconds of the start, Nick Lapite played a delightful ball inside the Stony fullback for Jamie Brandon to latch onto and send a powerful rising shot inches above the bar. Such was the dominance in the early stages that Stony Stratford took eight minutes to get out of their own half. When they did, Scott Montgomery had only to watch as a cross shot sailed comfortably wide. Cockfosters were playing as though they wanted secure their Final place as soon as possible and when  Chris Newell volleyed over from Aaron Ewing's free kick the omens were looking promising. With Cockfosters banging on the door they finally made the vital breakthrough after 15 minutes. A corner was cleared by Stony but only as far as Wes Ewing who fed Jamie Brandon whose cross was touched on by Richard Crilly. As the ball bounced loose, Ben Andreos (pictured) showed the determination to be first on the scene to fire Cockfosters in front. When Aaron Ewing forced Peter Jackson in the Stony goal to beat away his fierce shot it seemed only a matter of time before the game would be made safe. When Jackson failed to collect a cross from Curbelo, he paid for his pains after injuring himself when in collision with Chris Newell. Cockfosters were playing at a good tempo and twice Chris Newell might have been awarded spot kicks as he was sent tumbling in the area. But as often happens, if you don't score when on top, then things can very quickly turn sour. As the Cockfosters pot came off the boil it allowed the Stony midfield to get some sort of hold on the game. As the game went into the second period, it was the team from Stony Stratford that looked the most likely to score as the mid-field quartet of Cockfosters failed to maintain the grip on the game that they had earlier enjoyed. True to form, with all the danger signals flashing, all of Cockfosters earlier outstanding performance counted for nothing as Lee Draper somehow  managed to conjure up a looping cross that deceived Scott Montgomery and sailed inside the post. Montgomery had precious little to do in goalkeeping terms but the nervous red shirts in front of him did little for the confidence. When Stony Stratford withdrew their youngest player, Lewis McBride who had been keeping Andy Timbrell occupied all evening, it signalled the opportunity for the Cockfosters full back to become more adventurous and this opened the door to the Final. With the clock on 75 minutes and an extra half-hour on the cards, Timbrell joined with Aaron Ewing high up the pitch on the left hand side. After an exchange of passes Timbrell hoisted in a high cross that Jackson completely misread and did nothing to prevent the ball bouncing into the side-netting for the Cockfosters winner to the obvious delight of his team-mates and the Chalk Lane faithful.

Wednesday  19th March 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Tring Athletic Res.   3   Cockfosters Res.   0     

The kick off was delayed for 15 minutes due to traffic chaos on the M25 - But Neil Ewing and Ron Syrett could be excused for thinking that no-one had turned up at all(see picture). In fairness that criticism could not be laid at the door of our hosts who quickly moved into the driving seat with all of the neat and positive football earning them a two - nil interval lead. But after just three minutes it could have been a different picture had Richard Crilly's shot had enough pace to go in via the post rather than just nestle against it. Having been let off, Tring did all of the early pressing as a disjointed Cockfosters were allowing too much time and space for the opposition to exploit. There was precious little bite in mid-field, the balls in to the front-runners were too straight and we showed little imagination in opening up an effective defence. The pressure began to build and Lee Walker made two outstanding saves before Tring took the lead. On 28 minutes a deep cross from the right was firmly met by  Vinnie Ionnone whose powered header gave Walker no chance. After 39 minutes Tring doubled their advantage as Cockfosters failed to clear their six yard box, Andy Humphreys pounced on the loose ball and thumped it past Walker. Credit the home side whose lead at this point was easily deserved but the thought remained that Cockfosters only had to get their act together and there could still be a way back. Jack Chandler with a header just before the break gave some credence to this belief. The second half was a complete transformation with Cockfosters at last coming to terms with the game and winning most of the vital challenges - but still the passing was not accurate or creative enough to break down Tring. It's true we had a couple of one on ones with the 'keeper but Danny Curbelo was not at his most effective mode in terms of clinical finishing. Cockfosters were not helped by the Tring Assistant whose selective eyesight saw Richard Crilly, from behind, handball in the area yet was unable to see a Tring defender "remove the lace" minutes later. But to be fair this is just clutching at straws as a catalogue of attempts came to nothing. A few examples - Crilly heading over - Wes Ewing over from 25 yards - another surge by Wes sees the ball flash past the post - Ben Andreos saved at the foot of the post - Andreos volley wide - Chris Newell side netting - Danny Curbelo clear, shoots past far post: and there were others. To cap off a dismal evening, Tring eventually threatened in added time, when a rare surge down the right culminated in a low cross that fell to the feet of Gareth Styles who gave the underworked(in the second half), Lee Walker no chance to compound a miserable evening. This result borne on the back of frustration and indiscipline now means that Hertford Town will be crowned champions if they take a point from Cockfosters next week. But before that we have to get our act together for the crucial Reserve Challenge Trophy semi-final against Stony Stratford at the weekend. 

Saturday  8th March 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.   0      Sawbridgeworth Town Res.   2  

For all of the dominance Cockfosters had throughout the game you felt that following Sawbridgeworth's double strike, Cockfosters could have played until the middle of next week without making a breakthrough. The afternoon of total frustration began after ten minutes when Lee Walker failed to gather in Ben Andreos's back header leaving Coombes the simplest of tap-ins. Sawbridgeworth arrived at Chalk Lane propping up the rest of the League but an influx of new players in recent weeks has bolstered the team and results have picked up. Even so, the visitors barely got out of their own half for much of the game; but just before the interval they ventured beyond the half-way line when a long clearance was picked  up by Simmons and after seeing Walker way off his line, lofted the ball over the stranded 'keeper from fully 30 yards. The challenge for the second half did not seem beyond Cockfosters who bombed forward particularly through Wes Ewing down the right. There was enough of the ball to win half a dozen matches but credit the visitors rearguard who defended as if lives depended on it; so much so that the goalkeeper amazingly had precious little to concern him. The closest Cockfosters came was a Jamie Brandon shot that hit the bar midway through the half. Frustration led to a loss of footballing composure and Cockfosters will need to regain their more creative attributes when they take on Sawbridgeworth again next weekend if they are to retain an active interest in the title.

Wednesday  27th February 2008

South Midlands Floodlight Cup  -  Reserve Section

Cockfosters Res.   3   Oxhey Jets Res.   3   a.e.t.  (Oxhey win 4-1 penalties) 

If the respective league placings were anything to go by then this was always going to be a tight game - but you might not have thought so as Cockfosters raced into a two goal lead after just nine minutes. The goals both came from free kicks cleverly executed by Aaron Ewing. The first delivered from the left after six minutes,  was met by the head of Jon Stokes who was unlucky to see his effort hit the post. Fortunately for Cockfosters, Richard Crilly was in predator mode and gleefully tucked  the rebound home. Three minutes later and Cockfosters free-kick craftsman was at it again. From a more central position he rolled the ball down the side of the Oxhey defence to the unmarked Jamie Brandon whose first touch saw him slide the ball past Chris Walker in the Jets goal to give Cockfosters the dream start. It soon became obvious why Oxhey are challenging near the top of the table as they then began to haul themselves back into the fray. While we can be proud of our Mr. Ewing's deadball prowess, Oxhey most definitely had an answer with their Neil Whiting. He took just about every deadball situation apart from goalkicks and to be fair with great effect. Lee Walker clutched one such effort under his crossbar and two minutes later saw another Whiting delivery headed onto the stancheon by Adam Lowton. Sandwiched between these two Jets efforts was a chance for Cockfosters when Chris Newell broke clear on the left and delivered a cross that Aaron Ewing met with a header that Walker gathered for the Jets. Jeremy Tollman had a ferocious volley clear the Cockfosters bar following a deep corner from Whiting. With Cockfosters looking to keep their two goal advantage intact until the break Oxhey smashed those hopes away as two goals in a minute brought Oxhey level. The first on 38 minutes was a free-kick smashed into the unguarded left hand side of the net by guess who- (Neil Whiting). Within a minute, your reporter, returning from tannoy duty, was informed that Adam Lowton had levelled for the Jets. Apologies to Mr Lowton for the lack of detail - but perhaps that's another reason why we could use a radio mic. The second half was largely dominated by the red shirts of Cockfosters but even so Chris Walker had littlr to trouble him - not making a save of note. Chris Newell down the Cockfosters left was seeing plenty of the ball and although having the drop on his markers for most of the half there was rarely an end product of note. Newell did serve up a half chance for Jon Stokes but the midfielder sent his shot high into the night sky. Jamie Brandon burst back into the game when a penetrating run ended with a shot that flashed across Walker and just wide of the far post. At the other end, Oxhey were offering little up front and the other Walker, our Lee, was also as underworked as his namesake at the other end of the pitch. The only threat coming from a twenty yarder from Adam Lowton that skimmed the crossbar. Extra-time seemed a nailed on certainty and so it proved. With 103 minutes played, Whiting struck a decisive blow for the Jets as he side-footed high pst Walker's right-hand. With the clock ticking down, Aaron Ewing made his third telling contribution of the evening as he levelled from close-in eight minutes from the end. And so to penalties, and in this department the Jets were superb as their first four takers gave our Walker no chance whatsoever. Cockfosters scored with their first when Richard Crilly netted but the efforts from Jon Stokes and Chris Newell rattled the frame of the goal and the Jets were through.

Wednesday  20th February 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Leverstock Green Res.   0   Cockfosters Res.   1 

These two well matched sides did battle for the third time this season and as with the previous two, the outcome would only become apparent at the end of ninety minutes - but in this case make that ninety-two. Having been beaten a fortnight ago at Chalk Lane, to get something from this game was vital if the Reserves were to stay in the title race. From the opening sorties it was Leverstock who threatened more, forcing Cockfosters to defend the slope, with Danny Curbelo to forage on sporadic raids up front. That's not how it was intended but that's how it panned out. It soon became clear that much would depend on the Cockfosters rearguard early on - and they coped superbly well; so much so that Lee Walker was only seriously threatened twice in the first half. Once being forced into hurried save with his legs(pictured) and the watching a Leverstock header skim his crossbar. With Cockfosters only naming one substitute, that precarious position was exposed when Andreas Sheritis limped off after twenty minutes to be replaced by U18's Thomas Simmons. This meant a minor reshuffle with Wes Ewing moving from the back four into midfield with Simmons filling in at right back. Danny Curbelo had a great chance to put Cockfosters ahead as he surged past the home defence only to hit his shot too close to Daniel Poulton who completed a fine save. A couple of minutes later and Poulton had to be rescued when Steve Kessack's low drive was cleared off the line. An intriguing game was developing with both defences on top limiting goalmouth action to a minimum. This however did not detract from the game as the battle raged with Leverstock Green having the edge in midfield. But the attacks were repeatedly repelled as Steve Kessack, Kevin Hunt, Tom Simmons and debutant Charlie Morgan were not about to be easily unhinged. In Charlie Morgan, Neil has unearthed a gem and his reading of the game from a central defensive position was superb. When Colin Wilson did catch a sight of goal his effort after 71 minutes was well saved by Walker. That signalled a turn around in the ascendancy as Cockfosters began to build a head of steam and as the game moved towards it's conclusion  - if anyone was going to score it seemed more likely that it would be a red shirt. With ten minutes left, Aaron Ewing curled in a corner from the left that bypassed Poulton in the Green's goal and had to be headed clear by Weekes at the far post. With the clock running down, Poulton made a fine save to deny Chris Newell(pictured) and with everyone resigned to a goalless draw came the defining moment. With the clock on 90 + 2 minutes, Jamie Brandon had a chance as the ball bounced around in the Green's penalty area only to eventually  fall to Aaron Ewing who gleefully lobbed the ball beyond Poulton's reach before disappearing under a pile of red shirted team mates. A very enjoyable game that neither side deserved to lose but you try telling Neil and Ron that.  

Tuesday  12th February 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Hoddesdon Town Res.   1   Cockfosters Res.   6 

Cockfosters Reserves picked up another 3 points against Hoddesdon Town Reserves with the first goal coming from a Jamie Brandon corner allowing the Ressies leading goalscorer Danny Curbelo to put the ball in the back of the net with a stunning header. Hoddesdon came back into the game with 20 minutes to go before half time with a loose ball into the Cockfosters area only for it to end up in the back of the Cockfosters net, the Ressies composed themselves which paid off with a second goal coming from one of the four youngsters from our under 18's on the pitch, Josh D'Jelal, and with only minutes on the clock a third great goal came from Liam Kenna letting the reserves walk in at half time being 3-1 up.  The Ressies were always in control from kick-off of the second half and it wasn't long before Josh D'Jelal(pictured) smashed the ball into the back of the net for his second of the night.  Hoddesdon started to push forward more and made young goalkeeper Matt Nyong make a fine save pushing the ball wide of his goal, then it was defender Wesley Ewing that kicked the ball off the line after making a great run back keeping the score line in Cockfosters favour. 
Everytime Cockfosters went forward they looked dangerous and with hard work again from Josh D'Jelal he got his well deserved hat trick with another corner from Jamie Brandon. Josh making a great header that any older player would have been proud of.  For once our defence looked strong and dealt with anything that came at them with Kevin Hunt coming back into the game after a long lay off, he talked and encouraged this young side through the game as did captain Danny Curbelo.  To finish the score line new signing Rob Dalley came on and within 5 minutes of being on the pitch put the ball in the back of the Hoddesdon net to see the final whistle go and a score line of 6-1 to the Fosters.  
This really was a great performance from all over the pitch by the Ressies and from Neil and Ron who have proved that they are never afraid to use our under 18 youngsters, fielding four this evening in Selcuk Ulug, Matthew Nyong, Josh D'Jelal and Jonathen Stokes: these boys did us proud and certainly themselves proud, Well Done Lads !!!!

Saturday  9th February 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.   8      Mursley United Res.   0  

Eight times came the announcement as Cockfosters ran riot against a Mursley side that had nothing in their locker to stave off what turned out to be a rout. Cockfosters had U18 Matt Nyong in goal for the injured Lee Walker but he was no more than a spectator all afternoon as Mursley failed to summon a shot at, let alone on, goal all afternoon. It soon became apparent that when Cockfosters took their customary early lead, that it was going to be a long afternoon for Luke Purnell in the Mursley goal. Richard Crilly was to emerge as the top scorer of the afternoon but each of those who found the target were in debt to Mursley's arch tormentor - Aaron Ewing. He may have changed his hair style but he has not altered his footballing style and within six minutes had delivered the free kick that Crilly headed  the goal that put Cockfosters into the lead(pictured). It was all Cockfosters  but the second goal did not arrive until 23 minutes - but it was worth the wait. Ewing once again the provider setting Dan Curbelo on a run down the inside right channel to fire a superb rising drive past Purnell. The second half had barely begun before Ewing delivered a perfect cross for Curbelo to sidefoot  a volley  wide of Purnell for number three. With sixty minutes on the clock, Cockfosters stretched the lead to four with Ewing for the fourth time delivering the chance. This time it came from a free kick on the left which Crilly met to head his second of the afternoon. Three minutes later Ewing took centre stage himself and from twenty yards conjured a shot that looped above the stranded Purnell and dipped viciously to provide a goal that the substantial crowd thoroughly admired. The Club's leading goalscorer, Danny Curblo then turned provider to set up Chris Newell for a simple tap-in. Purnell must have been wishing for the onslaught to abate as Richard Crilly slipped through to roll in the seventh and deliver his hat-trick. Having been exposed for most of the afternoon by a severe lack of defensive cover, Purnell must have thought the wall he built to cover Chris Newell's free kick in the closing minutes would prevent further damage. Wrong! Newell's delivery was superb as it soared high to Purnell's left (pictured). There will be much harder games ahead but after a confidence shattering run of results this will do morale no harm at all.

Wednesday  6th February 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.   2      Leverstock Green Res.   3  

As has been the case with a host of Reserve Team matches this season, Cockfosters storm into an early lead - trouble has been in developing strong beginnings into three points. For the last league win we have to trace back to the game here against Tring in mid-December. Once again the perfect start as Chris Newell delivered a cross to the near post that Dan Curbelo met to loop a header beyond the reach of Daniel Poulton into the Leverstock net after just five minutes. It was clear though that the opposition meant business as they looked the sharper from the outset even though Curbelo and Newell combined to provide Michael Casey with a shooting chance that was powered straight at the Leverstock custodian. With the visitors taking the control, Cockfosters had Liam Kenna to thank for clearing a dangerous shot from Tony Oliver before Kenna again and Steve Kessack cleared off the line twice in the same Leverstock assault. Curbelo had a shot flash wide but it was the visitors who threatened most and Cockfosters were in debt to their back-line that the lead was intact at the interval. The second half started better for the Reds and within moments of the restart Curbelo had an effort into the side netting. On the hour Leverstock's James Bunday had a glorious shooting opportunity that he managed to fire wildly into the night sky. Five minutes later and Leverstock were level as Colin Wilson was allowed the space to fire across Lee Walker. Within two minutes, the lead was restored as Dave Pigden worked an opening on the right; his low cross falling eventually for Curbelo to fire home from twelve yards. In a flurry of goals Leverstock were back at 2-2 just two minutes later. This time Dan Stoker with the telling strike for the Green. Leverstock had looked the sharper outfit all evening and clinched the points after 78 minutes. Oliver Brown delivered  a quality cross from wide on the right and Tony Oliver's head did the rest to cap another night of frustration.

Saturday  12th January 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Challenge Trophy

Crawley Green Res.   3   Cockfosters Res.   2

Having watched the Reserves throw away a two goal lead last weekend, the half-time cup of tea was  supped with some trepidation for the forty-five minutes of the second half that was to follow. And so it proved. The first half, although far from brilliant, had us firmly in a winning position - a useful lead without being in total control. After surviving an early scare, when Crawley's Andrew Spry had most of the afternoon to pick his spot past Lee Walker, that apparently was not  long enough as our keeper survived the full on exposure to keep the scores level. Within a minute, Rowan Taylor was clear on the left making positive inroads into the Crawley penalty area only for his shot to be blocked by the Crawley No. 1 Casey Watterfield. With the home defence on the back foot, Cockfosters earned a right-wing corner from which Gary Haycock imperiously planted a trademark header past the Crawley custodian to give Cockfosters an 11th minute lead. Within a minute the Crawley rearguard was again torn apart as Jon Moniatis and Jamie Brandon combined to give Rowan Taylor a clear chance that found the side-netting. On the 24th minute Jamie Brandon again put Rowan Taylor in, only for his shot to be parried to the feet of Jon Moniatis who steered the loose ball home to put Cockfosters 2-0 up. Having really grasped hold of the tie, Cockfosters never looked in total control. The football was not convincing and although chances came and went, the feeling was that the home side were never really out of the game. In truth, Crawley should have been staring down the barrel as that half-time brew beckoned. The early signs in the second half were not good as Crawley used the width and the sloping pitch to put pressure on as they sought a foothold back into the game. With Cockfosters lacking any width on either flank, the visitors attacking options were funnelled through the middle where the maroon shirts of Crawley found defending easy. Cockfosters did come close on the hour when Ben Andreos saw a free kick flash narrowly wide and minutes later a move identical to Cockfosters second goal saw Taylor's shot again parried but on this occasion Nick Nicou was not so accurate with his shot placement and the chance was gone. With twenty minutes remaining came the real turning point when the Referee over-ruled a blatant offside decision which allowed James Potter a free run on Lee Walker's goal to bring Crawley back into the game. Despite the feelingly of daylight robbery, Crawley Green were now looking the more likely and the danger signals were now firmly at red. After 78 minutes, Crawley levelled  when after the ball twice flashing across the Cockfosters goalmouth a partial clearance fell at the feet of full back Connor Waite who returned the ball with interest pat Walker's dive. By now Cockfosters' attacking options had all but disappeared and the inevitable followed after 83 minutes. A left-wing corner cleared the grasp of Walker leaving Junior George to head home for the winning goal. Fair play to Crawley as Cockosters over the ninety minutes could have few complaints; but having battled to get to the Quarter-Final of the competition, surrendering so meekly was not what we had in mind.......

Saturday  5th January 2008

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.   5  Harpenden Town Res.  6

This may well have been a disaster for Cockfosters - but credit where it's due to Harpenden's Mark Scott who scored all six of his sides goals. In a farcical game, where only the intervention of the Referee's final whistle prevented each team from reaching double figures, the more experienced of the Reserves should look in the mirror rather than allow the majority of the responsibilities to fall on the young shoulders of U18's Matthew Nyong, who was making his debut. For the second consecutive week, Aaron Ewing gave his side a first minute lead only for what was to follow to be almost beyond belief. It's not that Cockfosters fielded an under strength team more like those selected gave an under-strength performance. With Ewing calmly tucking away that early penalty following a handball, it seemed a one sided goal glut would follow as Richard Crilly latched onto Rowan Taylor's pass to plant the ball past  Matt Belk to put Cockfosters 2-0 up after 5 minutes. It soon became apparent that the complacency was never far from the surface and it soon surfaced when Mark Scott found space on the left of the Cockfosters penalty-area to fire Harpenden's opener past Nyong after 24 minutes. At this stage the reporters notes described "sloppy throughout the team" and these were justified as Scott looped the ball over Nyong to level six mutes later. There then followed 60 seconds of play that indicated the home side had at last received a kick up the back-side as Crilly fired wide, Taylor was denied by a fine save and Chris Newell missed with the goal gaping. However worse was to follow when after 40 minutes, with no central defenders at home, Scott was allowed to advance on goal to give Nyong no chance and the lead to Harpenden. With half-time seconds away, Jamie Brandon crossed from the left and Crilly headed home to level at 3-3. It seemed that reality had found its way to the fore as Cockfosters took the initiative in the early stages of the second half. Crilly had two chances to force home a cross from Taylor but was unable to make a solid connection. On the hour Cockfosters retook the lead when Rowan Taylor latched onto a long clearance before rolling the ball beneath the onrushing 'keeper. Within three minutes it was 4-4 as the Cockfosters defence waited for an offside flag, Scott ran on unchallenged to give Nyong little chance. On 74 minutes Cockfosters slipped behind again as Andy Timbrell chose  to pass across the face of his penalty area to an unmarked Scott who once again tucked away the gift.  The saga continued as Cockfosters were level again after 82 minutes. Chris Newell was the provider this time as he cleverly set up Rowan Taylor to make it 5-5. Just when you think that's it for the day up stepped Mr Scott once more to secure probably the most unlikely result of the season. Did he get the match ball? ...No. We may be generous but not that much  - but well played Mark......

Saturday  22nd December 2007

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.   2   St. Margaretsbury Res.  3

The Reserves felt the backlash as first team calls and absentees were the main reason preventing Cockfosters heading the league table over Christmas. On most weekends this game would have seen Cockfosters as firm favourites and when they took the lead after seven minutes there was a definite look of 'business as usual'. Rowan Taylor and Darryl Mills, the Saints 'keeper collided, and as as both players lay stricken, Jamie Brandon coolly side-footed into the unguarded goal. The goal spurred Cockfosters on as they pressed for a second, only for the promising start to be undone after sixteen minutes. Cockfosters failed to clear their lines decisively with the ball falling to Saint's Adam Bell, who fired a shot low into the corner past Chay Morris's dive. Had the footballing gods been smiling then Rowan Taylor would have given the Reds the lead after 25 minutes. Wes Ewing found Jamil Gaawo on the right hand side and his cross was met by Taylor, whose headed effort beat Mills only to be thwarted by a desperate goal-line clearance. Jamil Gaawo was making his Senior debut and the U18's front runner could be pleased with his contribution, particularly in the first half. A shot on the turn from Gaawo was narrowly wide before St. Margaretsbury upped the ante and looked the more likely as the teams headed for the interval.  With 42 minutes on the clock, a double save from Chay Morris kept the sides level; but from the subsequent corners that followed, Cockfosters went behind. Once again the failure to produce a decisive clearance allowed the Saints to deliver a telling cross that the home rearguard failed to respond to giving Scott Morgan(pictured) ample time and space to beat the exposed Morris. Straight from the restart matters went from bad to worse. A free kick on the Saints right was met by a sliced clearance from Nick Lapite, the ball falling to Dominic Angelini who took no time in lashing the ball past Morris who had no chance whatsoever. One thing this Reserve side has is spirit and they were not about to lie down and call it a day. With 65 minutes gone Jamie Brandon raced into the penalty area beating Mills in the race and finding Rowan Taylor to head home at the far post. Jamil Gaawo wasn't decisive enough as a goalbound effort did not have the power to prevent another goal-line clearance. Now it was all one way as Cockfosters sought the equaliser they deseved; Gaawo had another shooting chance and Brandon and Taylor seemed likely to unlock the door any moment. But it was not to be Cockfosters day which was best summed up in the dying second as Taylor unleashed a drive that Mills kept out with a magnificent save. The whistle went, the crowd had seen an enjoyable game but I'm not quite sure that's how Cockfosters management and team would have viewed it. Great stuff lads, Good Luck for 2008.....

Saturday  15th December 2007

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Tring Athletic Res.  1   Cockfosters Res.   2 

FOSTERS’ FIGHT BACK IN THE FREEZE....

 

On a freezing cold afternoon at Tring, the Ressies managed to come from 1-0 down to take all three points in a second half comeback. The first half was uneventful with very few opportunities for both sides. Neither side looked like taking the lead until just over the half an hour mark. Tring worked the ball down the wing and a wild cross was smashed across the Fosters penalty area. With no attacking presence in the box, the danger seemed thwarted but a miscommunication between goalie Lee Walker and the defence saw the ball reach the far corner. A clumsy piece of defending and Tring had the lead. Although it wasn’t coming, the goal woke the Ressies up and for the rest of the half, Cockfosters pushed for an equaliser but to no avail. Only a couple of half chances for strikers Rowan Taylor and Nick Nicou were the closest they came to equalise. As the half time whistle blew, Neil and Ron had some work to do if the Ressies were to continue their winning streak and charge towards the top of the league. The team talk worked. Cockfosters began the second half with more fight and looked to put pressure on Tring’s untested defence. Some chances were fashioned down the channels with a couple of crosses failing to reach Cockfosters shirt. But the reaction was good and all of a sudden the Ressies were beginning to dictate. Although an equaliser could not be found, the team showed tremendous patience in their play and never gave up, as Danny Hutchings and Leon Miller dominated the midfield battle, unlike the first half. When the hour mark arrived, some may have began to wonder if the team were to get something from it but as the Ressies have shown all season, a die-hard spirit is irreplaceable and through Jamie Brandon, Cockfosters got back on level terms. Some good build up play by Hutchings resulted in Brandon finishing well just inside the box. Under pressure and the goalie fast approaching, Brandon managed to smash his shot into the far corner. An equaliser well deserved. The Ressies didn’t stop there. A few minutes later and Cockfosters had the lead through Lasalle Simon. A bursting run from the back saw Simon coolly slot home under the Tring keeper, the comeback was complete. The last few minutes were closed out well by the Ressies defence and sub Andreos Sheritis, making his debut kept the Tring defence occupied. Sheritis could have made it three but his shot trickled narrowly wide. In the end, it was a great battling display in freezing conditions. The heart and fight shown was typical of the side’s season. Neil’s winning machine rolls on.   
(Match report this week written by Andrew Timbrell)

 

 

Wednesday  28th November 2007

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Challenge Trophy

Cockfosters Res.   4   Risborough Rangers Res.   1

Saturday  24th November 2007

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.   2   Hoddesdon Town Res.   0

Compliments To The Chef.....

Watching the Reserves at the moment is like going to your favourite restaurant. You know what 's on the menu - You know what you're going to get - you know that you will enjoy it - you know you'll come back again. But for starters there was a minor scare capably dealt with by 'keeper Adrian Steele who was making his Cockfosters debut. Hoddesdon were given a great chance to snatch an early lead but were denied by Steele's reaction save. Enter the main course - an ample helping of chances served up with some very appetising football. Jamie Brandon should have got Cockfosters going after 5 minutes when he met Dan Curbelo's right wing cross but his header flew just over. Jack Chandler provided the service which fell to Aaron Ewing and his low shot was well saved by Mark Foster in the Hoddesdon goal. The chances continued to come and Nick Nicou was guilty of firing an angled drive over when well placed. Foster was by far the busier of the 'keepers and when Chandler engineered a shooting chance for himself, Foster was equal to the strike. And so it continued... Aaron Ewing had another attempt foiled by the Hoddesdon No. 1 and seconds later Chandler bustled his way through only to fire wide when well placed. The  half-time whistle was beckoning as Ross Pearce surged forward and unleashed two blockbusters the first was well and bravely blocked and with a chance to take aim with the rebound the centre-half was narrowly wide. So at half-time the chance to come up for air and give the first helping a chance to settle. The second period began with a Chandler shot saved and moments later Ewing's quick free-kick to Ben Andreos was wasted as the finish was lashed over the top. But as often happens  - You need to score when on top. This we did not do and Hoddesdon came more into the game and Cockfosters survived a major scare when Steele fumbled a corner only to be rescued by Andy Timbrell's goal-line clearance. The Cockfosters rearguard were now at their busiest of the afternoon and Luke Holt's performance at left back caught the eye. Cometh the hour plus one minute - cometh the man. In this case that man was Nick Nicou who got on the end of Timbrell's knockdown from Ewing's corner to fire past Foster to give Cockfosters a belated but much deserved lead. This had the well tried and tested effect of calming Cockfosters edginess and taking the sting out of a capable Hoddesdon side. Richard Crilly entered the fray late on and within minutes and had laid on the desert as he  pulled the ball back on a plate for Danny Curbelo to make it 2-0 in the last minute. Delicious... that will do very nicely.

Saturday  17th November 2007

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.   2   Tring Athletic Res.   0

Back in The Groove.....

Having not turned up against Dulwich Hamlet the previous week, the Reserves restored some pride as they resumed their quest for the points that would keep them in the title race. Nick Nicou was paired with Danny Curbelo up front and the two would cause Tring Athletic problems all afternoon. Both of Cockfosters frontrunners tested the Tring 'keeper, David Adamson, in the opening ten minutes who responded with two fine saves and within a minute Curbelo was again denied by Adamson. But Tring also had their moments as a shot from Paul Swindell flashed wide. Direct from this reprieve, Cockfosters built a rapid raid down the right which ended with Nicou squaring for Curbelo to knock the ball past the stranded Adamson to give Cockfosters the lead after 17 minutes. Tring came close to levelling after 20 minutes when Lee Walker was penalised for drop kicking the ball beyond the edge of his area and he redeemed himself with a fine save to his left to deny Wicker. This was turning into an enjoyable spectacle as most of the pressure and chances fell to the home forwards, there remained the feeling that Tring were more than capable of creating their own problems. At the back, Luke Holt  and company generally had things under control while further forward a combination of missed chances and fine goalkeeping kept the game in the balance. The second half saw the visitors come more into the game and the fact that Cockfosters hadn't already wrapped the game up gave cause for some concern. After 59 minutes Cockfosters were given the chance to take a firmer grip on proceedings when Aaron Ewing was hauled down iside the box. Ewing picked himself up and calmly fired the spotkick wide of Adamson's right hand. Not surprisingly that took the wind out of Tring's sails and Cockfosters could have added a couple more through Jamie Brandon and Rowan Taylor before the finish. All in all a good performance, but must we always do it the hard way?

Saturday  10th November 2007

London Intermediate Cup  -  Second Round

Cockfosters Res.   0  Dulwich Hamlet Res.  5

Just like the Advert...We all admired a Hamlet...

Within five minutes of the start Cockfosters could easily have established a two goal lead against their illustrious opponents but that was about as good as it got on an afternoon were Cockfosters stood aside and gave Hamlet a gift-wrapped passage into Round Thee. First, Danny Curbelo shot across the face of the goal and unfortunately wide of the far post and moments later, Richard Crilly had justifiable claim for a penalty turned down after he was felled in the box. But really that was just the introduction to an afternoon that the Reserves will want to forget.. After 14 minutes Dulwich took the lead when they were given the freedom of Chalk Lane to take aim and beat Lee Walker from the edge of the area. Within six minutes Dulwich were two goals up after a left wing corner was allowed to bounce right in front of goal to be gleefully stabbed home. After 56 minutes the tie was beyond reach when Ross Pearce allowed his opponent time to spin away and bare down on goal to make it three. Three became four after 74 minutes as Dulwich broke down the right and from the narrowest of angles squeezed the ball beyond Walker. It has to be said that apart from the goals there was precious little goalmouth action even so there was still time for Dulwich to rub it in with a fifth close to the final whistle.

 

Saturday  27th October 2007

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Sawbridgeworth Town Res.   2   Cockfosters Res.   4

Not Quite Like The Brochure......

Facing a team who had not registered a point as yet and who had to employ the services of an outfield player as an stand-in goalkeeper, it appeared that the form book was accurate in setting up Cockfosters as firm favourites. When Michael Casey's quick free kick after just nine minutes through the heart of the Sawbridgeworth defence, leaving Danny Curbelo to fire past Ryan Ackerman; it seemed that the smart money would be on an away win. That opinion was reinforced sixty seconds later as Curbelo had another goalbound effort cleared off the line. There was an early siege on the home goal as within rapid succession, Jamie Brandon set up Richard Crilly to fire wide of the near post. Wes Ewing provided a gilt edged chancre for Wes Gardiner that was headed wide and Nick Nicou warmed Ackerman's hands from distance. Then the tide turned.  After 21 minutes, from a central position midway in the Cockfosters half, Sawbo's Dave Martin hoisted a freekick into the penalty area and as Nicou and Lee Walker debated who should claim it, the ball bounced gently into the vacant net. Worse was to follow as the home team grabbed the lead two minutes later. Like waiting for a bus, you don't see one for ages then two come along together. Lee Walker, who has not put a foot or glove wrong all season made a complete hash of collecting a shot from James Waggill at the foot of his right hand post and somehow the ball squirmed across the line. Sawbridgeworth were certainly not playing, at this stage, like a team who were trying to fend off their tenth successive defeat. Boosted by two gift goals, the tackling was cranked up and Cockfosters struggled to find any real rhythm. As Cockfosters struggled to redeem the position, debutant, Peter Brown, slipped in Richard Crilly who saw his shot ricochet to safety via a post. Michael Casey saw an opportunity to power forward from his central defensive duties and let fly from an angle that Ackerman saved well with his legs. 2-1 down at the break and within sixty seconds of the restart it might well have been three but for Walker's fine  left handed save that denied Waggill his second goal. That save proved to be a crucial point as the game swung almost completely in Cockfosters favour. As the half wore on so the chances counter clicked on but even so a lot of Cockfosters pressure came from free kicks around the area as the home defenders were guilty of some reckless challenges. Jamie Brandon came in for some 'special treatment' as the crude lunges appeared to be the only way to stop him. Even so, despite the home penalty area resembling the Alimo, the breakthrough seemed frustratingly remote. The chances came and went, a Newell header ruled out for offside, Casey shot off the line, Crilly in on goal and places shot wide. They say patience is a virtue and the Cockfosters faithful had to have plenty of that particular commodity as  they had to wait until the 76th minute  to bring the game level at 2-2. Chris Newell was hauled down in the area and Richard Crilly gave Ackerman no chance from the spot. Almost immediately, Nick Lapite, on for Wes Gardiner, let fly and the deflection it took from Danny Curbelo had Ackerman scrambling across to save. Having drawn level there was now only going to be one winner and on 83 minutes Wes Ewing delivered a cross to the far post that Curbelo headed home. Two minutes later and it was 4-2 as Jamie Brandon slipped Chris Newell through the middle and it was finally all over. A great team spirit from a great bunch of lads. So back to Chalk Lane... I don't know what all the fuss was about really.....

 

Wednesday  17th October 2007

South Midlands Floodlight Cup  -  Reserve Section

Hoddesdon Town Res.  1   Cockfosters Res.   2   a.e.t

Bionic Ben......

This was a blood and thunder cup tie if ever their was one. It had the lot with plenty of spunk flying around all across the pitch with most of it to be found in those wearing the famous Cockfosters red shirts and pants. The opening half showed little signs of what was to come and despite a glaring Danny Curbelo miss with a sitter of a header we seemed to be well in control until ex fosters man Jason Soriel punished us with a goal. Although a goal down at half time it was us who were on top in the open play stakes and the lads came out deservedly confident for the epic period which was to follow. It started innocently enough with us doing nearly all the pressing going forward aided by Jamie Brandon sporting some of his old fire on the left wing. Richard Crilly was unlucky not to put us level with a well worked effort that just went wide and from hereon the whole damn match went pear shaped for our hosts as they felt the full force of our spunk coming into play with Ben Andreos in particular dishing it out by the bucket load. He was our loose cannon on the pitch the veritable here there and everywhere man, defender, playmaker and striker all rolled into one. He struck for us in his forward role mid way through the second half when Nick Nicou made a nuisance of himself close to the right corner flag winning a battle for a loose ball that eventually  found its way to our all action hero who let fly with a dipper which the keeper could only wave goodbye to as it ballooned into the net. It was all leading up to extra time when Town lost a player to a double yellow and then within minutes we lost both Wesley and Aaron Ewing the former a double yellow case and the latter a straight red. It started from what was in effect a classic defensive tackle from Aaron which had nothing but ball and zilch of man and to be there within a few feet of play it seems unbelievable that foul play was the verdict by the referee. Wesley got caught up in the rough and tumble of the hand bag fight that followed and their can be no excuses for him but Aaron was meted out an absurd injustice. Worse was to come when almost immediately we lost another player to injury after a full compliment of subs had already been used. And so it was eight against ten with the battle going on into extra time. Enter our bionic man Ben who chased a Hutch through ball along with Jamie Brandon who in turn did just enough to unsettle the keeper leaving Andreos free to pick up the loose ball and plant it into the empty net. Lee Walker then did his party piece making sure we crossed the line to the finish with some breathtaking saves. Although the Curbelo mean machine did not have everything going right for it on the night Danny put in another superb performance of brave front running and if spunk was going around by the bucket load he turned up with a skip. Magnificent stuff lads and one and all turned in 11 out of ten performances. M.O.M. by miles though has to be Bionic Ben who it must be remembered the evening before this 120 mins slog had a full first team game at Dacre Field.

Saturday 13th October 2007

GOOD LUCK AND FAREWELL FROM CHALK LANE

Today saw the last 90 minutes for Paul Rogan at Chalk Lane, he is going off to Ireland due to work commitments. Anyone who knows Paul from the Ressie's knows he is a great character and will be surely missed on the pitch for the 120% given to Neil and his squad, week in, week out and off the pitch for his wit and sense of humour. Not sure now who the squad will choose to pick on each with their jokes especially Wesley & Danny Curbelo!!!! But Paul will be missed  - Good luck in the future and you will always be welcome at Chalk Lane.
 

Saturday  13th October 2007

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.   4   Hertford Town Res.   1

No Stroll In the Park As Walker Shines.........

 

All those who attended Chalk Lane this afternoon witnessed a great spectacle as both sides showed exactly why they sit one & two at the top of the League. It only took Cockfosters four minutes to establish the lead with Danny Curbelo powering home a cross from Wes Ewing. Within minutes, Hertford could well have levelled but Lee Walker (pictured) was about to have 'one of those afternoons' as his dive kept out Draper's header. Paul Rogan, on his last game for Cockfosters before returning to the Emerald Isle, fittingly signed off with a goal that somewhat flatteringly doubled Cockfosters advantage.  Hertford still looked menacing and twice Walker pulled off saves that left the league leaders wondering what draw the 'keeper pulled them from. The Cockfosters rearguard was bolstered by the return from injury of Gary Haycock whose aerial dominance was another key factor in stemming Hertford's front line. With 35 minutes played came the most spectacular goal of the afternoon when a loose ball at the far post was rifled home by Aaron Ewing's scissors kick. With Cockfosters now holding a three goal lead there was still the feeling that Hertford were still capable of getting something from the game. The second half belonged mainly to Hertford and there was never a chance of Cockfosters taking their foot off the pedal; there was never that luxury. Hertford pounded the Cockfosters rearguard but with Walker denying Draper with another majestic tip over. It seemed inevitable that Hertford would score and so it was on the hour; even then it had to be a thundering drive from Ryan Gordon to eventually get the better of the Cockfosters custodian. Just as we could be excused for thinking "Here we go", A poor defensive header in the Hertford penalty area saw the ball drop to Danny Curbelo who lashed the ball into the top corner to restore Cockfosters three goal advantage. That goal really did blunt Hertford's ambition and Cockfosters suffocated any semblence of a comeback. Many fine performances but Gary Haycock and Danny Hutchings can be satisfied with their input, both returning following lengthy absences. Also making a return to the touchline was David Payne(pictured centre) whose contribution must have made Neil Ewing's afternoon easier.... I think.....

 

Wednesday  26th September 2007

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Challenge Trophy

Cockfosters Res.   3   Broxbourne Borough V & E Res.   1

The Danny Curbelo Show......

 

All footie games are about team work but that does not mean to say some matches throw up individual performances of outstanding merit. This then was the Danny Curbelo show; a great piece of football played out in the traditional swashbuckling centre forward style. His first major contribution to the game came mid way through the first half with a classic header after we had  found ourselves being a goal down to a surprise Broxbourne opener. Wesley Ewing sent over a hopeful long distance cross from the right which was met by Dan's head inside the box. The connection was just about perfect with the ball looping over the keepers despairing outstretched hands and into the net. Prior to this initial strike Dan was the all action man giving the visitors a torrid time with some terrific never say die running into enemy heartland. The second half saw us take a well deserved lead following a craftily taken Aaron Ewing corner which saw the ball speed in daisy cutter fashion to the feet of sub Paul Rogan who in turn side flicked the ball into the net. Enter our M.O.M. for the game settler which came ten mins later. A fierce Ross Pearce through ball was sent skywards after striking a challenging defenders leg and as it came down into the box Curbelo killed it as if he was controlling a bag of cement so sweet was his first touch. The chance was not wasted and all in the same flowing movement the ball was dispatched into the net for Dan's eighth strike from seven starts. The reserves are still coming up with some highly entertaining football and well worth a watch.

 

Wednesday  19th September 2007

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.   1   Oxhey Jets Res.   0

EARLY DAYS - BUT  RESSIE'S GO TOP!

 

Another hard game down at Chalk Lane was ahead of the Ressies with Oxhey Jets sitting above them in the league. 
As the teams came out onto the pitch it was good  to see one 1st team familiar face lining up for the Ressie's in Steve Weldon, who was back from long term injury. 
The Ressie's started off really well putting lots of pressure on Oxhey Jets all over the pitch, due to Neil Ewing & Ron Syrett starting off with a new 4, 3, 3 formation, this was a big gamble from Neil & Ron, who was also playing some unknown quantites on the field. 
In midfield new youngster Rik Fijten looked calm and composed on the ball after being thrown in at the deep end due to Michael Casey (also coming back after a long term injury) being held up and not being able to get to Chalk Lane for kick off. 
Wesley Ewing was looking sharpe everytime he got the ball with overlapping runs down the right hand side delivering some great crosses into the box, Danny Curbelo, Richard Crilly and Rowan Taylor looked good everytime they got forward and it was only time before a goal would be scored.
Cockfosters back four in Nick Nicou, Paul Rogan, Steve Weldon and Wesley Ewing looked the most balanced that the Ressie defence have been since the start of the season, dealing easily with anything that Oxhey Jets came up with.  With really good play and pressure all over the pitch it was only 6 minutes before Danny Curbelo charged down an Oxhey clearance which fell to Rowan Taylor, who in turn run at the Oxhey defence and finally squared the ball to on-form Danny Curbelo, who easily put the ball past the Oxhey keeper. 
For the rest of the 1st half Cockfosters piled the pressure on Oxhey Jets, with the Oxhey keeper making saves from Richard Crilly, Aaron Ewing, Danny Curbelo and Rowan Taylor, at the half time whistle the score line stood at 1-0.
The second half saw changes on the pitch with Michael Casey for Rik Fijten, Jamie Brandon for Richard Crilly and Ross Pearce for Wesley Ewing who had picked up an injury.  Jamie Brandon made some blistering runs down the left hand side and was denied a goal by the Oxhey keeper.  Cockfosters were taking control of the game but just could not get the second goal that they deserved. 
A late serge from Oxhey saw them hit the post in a momentary loss of concentration from the Cockfosters defence, this was to be the only chance that Cockfosters let them have and goalie Lee Walker had an easy night coming back off of 1st team duties.
At the final whistle the 3 points went to Cockfosters putting them top of the league. 

 

Saturday  15th September 2007

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.   2   London Colney Res.   1

CURBELO & CRILLY NET ONE EACH

With the ressies back at home today at least they knew that they had a decent pitch to play the passing around game that they favour against London Colney, who are always a good opposition and when these two teams get together it always seems like a local derby game. 
This was a game that Cockfosters were looking forward too as both teams are newly promoted in this league Cockfosters new it was going to be a battle, if last season was anything to go on. 
True to form from the starting whistle both teams looked up for the points, but as the game went on Cockfosters started to look the more settled team with some great passing football all over the pitch, as the game went on there were some great chances from both sides. 
On 23 minutes for the second week running Aaron Ewing put a perfect ball through to Danny Curbelo who calmly slotted it past the London Colney goalie, Richard Crilly continued to work hard and had a great shot stopped by the Colney keeper who spilled it out into the path of Aaron Ewing who also had his shot saved by the Colney keeper. 
With 10 minutes to go it was Richard Crilly with a superb shot who made it 2-0 before the half time whistle was blown.
The second half was again a battle with both teams playing well, Colney had a great shot stopped by Fosters goalie Chay Morris when he came out with authority and picked the ball from the air. Colney were not going to give in, and kept on pressing forward which paid off with a goal in the 70th minute, but Cockfosters kept things tight around the pitch and it paid off with Fosters taking the 3 points at the final whistle. 

Saturday  8th September 2007

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Harpenden Town Res.  1  Cockfosters Res.   2

RESSIES WIN BUT GAFFER SEE'S RED

The ressies visit to Harpenden Town started on a pitch that needed a bit of imagination, but this was soon out of their minds when the whistle blew. 
The reds started slow but were holding their own, it was the second week on the trot that they seemed to have a ref that truly was not taking control of the game with tackles flying in and going unseen. 
Then came the blow seeing the ressies going 1-0 down with a bad mistake from young goalie Tom Pritchard, with calls from players and the side line for Tom to get his head up and don't worry they battled on until more bad decisions and tackles fuelled Manager Neil Ewing seeing him sent from the side line, Assistant Manager Ron Syrett took over the reins and at the half time whistle the score line stood at 1-0 to Harpenden Town.
The second half started off quick and fierce with the reds looking a lot more settled and pushing forward all the time, it looked as if it was only time until they scored and finally the reds equaliser came with a goal from Danny Curbelo, this raised the reds and they should have been awarded a penalty when Richard Crilly was pushed to the floor in the box, but again went unseen by the referee.
Tom Pritchard then made a couple of good saves keeping the ressies in the game, with only 13 mins to go the reds kept pushing forward with good runs from Aaron Ewing, Danny Curbelo, Adrian Williams & Jason Sorial, everyone on the pitch was giving their all and at the back Andy Timbrell and Ross Pearce was dealing well with anything looking dangerous, then finally it happened, the referee saw Danny Curbelo pushed to the floor by a Harpenden Town defender in the box, it was Richard Crilly who stepped up for the penalty and slotted the ball into the back of the Harpenden Town net making the final score 2-1 to Cockfosters.

A QUICK THANK YOU FROM THE RESERVE TEAM MANAGEMENT
This season the Reserve team have been given a new linesman who is only a young lad called Alex Cobb, as everyone knows the linesman's job is not always an easy one and it was felt by Neil & Ron that Alex our linesman needed a mention, as this was not an easy game for a young linesman who is just starting out, but this young man kept his cool and made perfect decisions with his flag at all times, he really is showing promise for the future.  WELL DONE ALEX !!
 

Tuesday  4th September 2007

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

St. Margaretsbury Res.  1  Cockfosters Res.   3

THREE GET RESSIES BACK ON TRACK

The Reserves knew that on Tuesday evening nothing but a win was good enough after their defeat on Saturday against Hoddesdon. 
Being away to St.Margaretsbury they started strong as the whistle was blown for kick-off, which paid off just after 20 mins when Aaron Ewing put a near perfect ball through finding Paul Rogan, who neatly put the ball into the back of the St.Margaretsbury net. 
Cockfosters kept the pressure on with some near misses from Jason Sorial, Danny Curbelo and Richard Crilly, after playing 7 mins over the 45 (due to the ref's mickey mouse watch), our defence once again did not deal with a ball seeing St.Margaretsbury score against the young Tom Pritchard making it 1-1 going into the dressing rooms at half time.

St. Margaretsbury came out for the second half with nothing but a win in mind and with a lot of strange decisions going their way it looked as though it was only time before St.Margaretsbury scored as we seemed to be playing against twelve men, not the normal eleven.
Cockfosters seemed for a while to loose their shape and way and was getting frustrated with some of the decisions going against them, but with some encouraging words from Neil and Ron from the sidelines we got back into the game with a stunning goal coming from Danny Curbelo who had worked hard for all of the game.  Cockfosters young goalie Tom Pritchard (standing in for Lee Walker, who was on 1st team duties) made a couple of good saves when the St.Margaretsbury strikers put him under pressure, the ressies finally sealed the three points with a long awaited goal from Richard Crilly, it was far from pretty at times and there is definitely room for improvement but at the final whistle it finished 3-1 to the Reds. 

Wednesday  29th August 2007

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.  1  Leverstock Green Res.  1

For the second game running the ressies done us proud with some good entertaining football dished up at the Lane. Right from the start we were in control of the game and our visitors knew they were not going to get anything from the game without a scrap. Our ex Antiguan international Rowan Taylor was on fire from the kick off and set about giving Greens defence a torrid time all along the front line. He went close with a couple of efforts following bustling runs down both left and right channels. Our well earned opener came on 15 mins when Paul Rogan delivered the goods for Chris Newell to fire home from just outside the box for a cracking goal. Rowan was very unlucky not to have made it 2 . 0. 20 mins later but he found a dodgy line flag denying him what looked like a perfect headed goal. Just 2 mins into the second half Rowan laid one on the plate for Sorial to gobble up but Jason produced a golfers air shot to spurn the chance. It often happens in football that missed chances can be costly and we paid for it when out of the blue our visitors produced a goal 5 mins from time. On 90 mins M.O.M. Rowan Taylor set up a sitter for Aaron Ewing to bury for the winner and yet somehow he got no leather on the ball and it went agonisingly wide. Great football lads keep it up.

Wednesday  22nd August 2007

Spartan South Midlands League  -  Reserve Division One

Cockfosters Res.  2  Colney Heath Res.  0

This game served up plenty of quality footie that the first team would have been proud of producing with slick fast passing and movement in plenty. Our visitors sent a strong team to Dacre Field and yet they found us more than up for the game. We ourselves had a sprinkling of first teamers out and of those it was good to see Lee Barker showing signs of some form with frequent penetrating raids down the right. One such attack saw him make a typical Barker bee line for goal that only missed becoming our opener when his shot ricocheted off the keepers shoulder before going out of play. Rowan Taylor looked very lively up front and worked his way down both left and right channels with plenty of zip. One of his right sided runs ended with a cross shot that went narrowly wide. Jason Sorial also produced plenty of attacking flair although he will want to forget the absolute sitter he missed when an empty net went begging. We continued to work keeper Danny Spong but he kept his goal tidy right up to the break. Colney were more up for it right from the restart and Lee Walker came into the game with some competent keeping. Our much deserved first goal came mid way through the half when king of the air, Gary Haycock, rose above the visitors defence to nod home a fierce Aaron Ewing cross. It was Aaron himself who made the game safe ten mins later. A free kick was awarded from 35 yards out and with a very shrewd keeper to get the better of Aaron came up with the perfect ball. To plant that ball over the slightly advanced Danny Spong's head and into an empty net needed unbelievable precision from Aaron and he can feel justly proud of such a gem of a goal. Subs Danny Curbelo and Chris Newell both wasted chances to increase our lead when they sent shots wide of the gaping goal. Lee Walker had a good game with some great shot stopping, one in particular being quite breathtaking. The writers independent man of the match view however was Wesley Ewing a great lad to have on your side when a scrap is on.

Thursday  10th May 2007

South Midlands Floodlight Cup - Final

RESERVES DO US PROUD.....

Cockfosters Reserves  0   Hertford Town Reserves  1

Battling with the adversity of having only ten men for three quarters of the game the reserves done us bloody proud with a magnificent spirited display and were very unfortunate not to steal the game. Danny Hutchings was given his marching orders after retaliating to a nasty stamping tackle after just 15 mins. It is a pity that some referees do not see the red card incident that provokes retaliation. Mainly due to some excellent keeping from Scott Montgomery we managed to keep Hertford at bay until half time. The second half saw us come out really up for it and Hertford knew they had a game on their hands. In  particular Aaron and Wesley Ewing ran themselves ragged covering every blade of grass on the pitch, and that is the view of an independent person not team management. Calum Baddoo put in the best effort for us with a blistering drive that the keeper tipped over the bar. Close to the end Danny Curbelo was blatantly mauled in the box but somehow the referee saw it as a fair mauling. On the other hand a bad decision went against us 5 mins later when our hosts got a free kick to the right of our box. The ball was driven in hard and this time the brilliant Montgomery could not stop a far post stab in. All in all this was a great final marred only by some bizarre decision making. The lads to a man were all fantastic and manager Neil Ewing was justly proud of the way his team battled throughout. DOUG WENT  P.O.

 

 

 

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