The Worthing College girls arrived in Egham knowing that a win would give them a favourable draw in the quarter final of the national cup away to South Essex College. The girls were in high spirits and looked really up for the game after a 2 week layoff due to the weather. Mike Bridges brought them back down to earth with an inspirational pre match talk, leaving his hopes of national success with the girls and expressing the regrets he has of mistakes from previous years.
The game started with Worthing having a lot of good passing possession and Strodes players’ getting nowhere near the ball, leading to a Strodes supporter to say ‘wow, this lot are decent’ after only a couple of minutes, but after breaking Strodes down twice in the first 5 minutes Worthing took their foot off the gas and let the home side settle into the game.
After 20 minutes of a well contested game, with Worthing being left exposed at the back several times and being grateful to the speed and good positioning of Fleur Charman, Worthing took the lead from a set piece. A wide free kick was won by Amy Potkins and Lucy Somes stepped up to put the ball into the far corner over the despairing keeper. 1-0.
Worthing didn’t really let this goal spur them on; they were slightly sloppy in possession and just weren’t quite executing the final ball. But yet again a set piece was the downfall of the Strodes defence, a corner that was only half cleared was smashed home by Somes from the edge of the area for her second goal of the game. 2-0.
This is how the game stood at half time and Worthing were told to sharpen up slightly as well as add some killer instinct to their game to ensure the game was put to bed. It seemed though that the Strodes players had been inspired in the half time break and were looking for a quick way back into the game. Worthing seemed rattled and rushed on the ball at the start of the second half and they were regularly stitching each other up, which once again left fleur charman to do some outstanding defensive work to keep Strodes at bay. With Worthing continuing to look sloppy and certain players looking tired, Mike rang the changes, introducing 3 players who could all consider themselves slightly unlucky to miss out on a starting place. Maddy Emmerton, Emily Hale and Chloe Lamley replaced Chloe Debaes, Lucy Somes and Jemma Kendall. Somes was gifted the opportunity to complete her hat trick moments before coming off but struck straight at the keeper. The changes allowed Danni Lane to move into the middle of the park and add a bit more energy alongside Sophie Frost and gave Worthing a new lease of life. They stepped the tempo up for the last 25 minutes which pushed them comfortably into the Last 8 of the National Cup. A flowing counter attack direct from a Strodes corner saw Emmerton and Naomi Robinson link up with Robinson sprinting a good sixty yards, to lay the ball on a plate for Amy Potkins to seal the tie. 3-0
This now settled any Worthing nerves about a Strodes revival and helped them push on to entertain the spectators. Robinson came to life in the last 20 minutes and found it necessary to take on at least 3 players every time she got on the ball. Worthing’s fourth goal came after great work down the right wing from Robinson and Sophie Frost scoring direct from a block tackle off a Strodes clearance, fine finish! 4-0.
Worthing rounded off the scoring with Maddy Emmerton hitting the post from relaltively close range and Amy Potkins being the first to react to pick up a tap in. 5-0.
Worthing could have scored in double figures but were also at times lucky not to concede. Even though Lauren Binfield did not have to make too many saves, the defence was left exposed a few times.
Player of the Match – Fleur Charman, was an absolute rock at the back with some crucial last ditch tackles and covering a lot of ground to save Worthing at times. She was also calm in possession and happy to play the ball to feet. Performance summed up with a perfectly timed challenge on the edge of the Worthing box, which left Strodes’ biggest player in a heap on the floor and left Worthing’s smallest player bouncing around with a grin on her face!
Friday 17 December 2010
Friday 10 December 2010
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 11 Vol 2
After last week's big freeze Worthing College Football Academy started the week knowing that games were coming their way as both league games were taking place on 3g artificial surfaces at City College & Watford respectively. Both squads were again hit by injuries and unavailabilities, which led coach Dave Hall to try and work some magic to provide two elevens for game day. This was just about possible and both sides travelled with 11 strong. Not the ideal situation in terms of our development ethos, however sometimes through adversity, performances follow. Was this to be the case this week??
The 1st XI travelled along the coast to take on local and bitter league rivals City College Brighton & Hove, whilst the 2nd XI were back in league action with the long trip away to "the land of the giants" that were Watford & Hertswood. Numerous changes were wrung amongst both sides to ensure that both teams were competitive and could go out and get two results. The 1st XI needed to avoid defeat to end their 2010 part of the season unbeaten in the league, whilst the 2nd XI needed to gain experience and confidence to get their season back on track.
The 1st XI started slowly against their local rivals and at times looked like completed strangers as City College had much of the early possession, which resulted in the first goal after less that five minutes. A Joe Warner cover tackle could only find City's left winger, who skipped past Jack Boxall and was composed enough to pick out his striker, who found the roof of the net. 0-1.
Even though the start was poor Worthing need not worry as their team spirit and attitude has been one of the main reasons why they are still unbeaten at league level. This attitude started to show through even though their passing and ball retention at times was wayward. The first chance fell to Jordan Clark, who whipped a free kick against a post. Clark again could have got his name on the scoresheet, this time his header was blocked after an excellent diag from Boxall. Worthing began to dominate possession with Matt Dodd, Warner and Clark now pulling the strings in midfield. Dan Heward made an earlier appearance than expected, due to an injury and this was one of the catalysts for Worthing's recovery. Liam "Des" O'Connor, Lee Mottershead and Dec Jenkins were working tirelessly as a front three to close down City College high up the pitch and such pressure resulted in Worthing's equaliser. A long ball forward was only partly cleared by the City goalkeeper after pressure from Jenkins. The ball fell kindly to Mottershead, who looked up and chipped the ball over the stranded goalkeeper. The ball agonisingly clipped both posts before hitting the back of the net. 1-1.
This was how the score stayed until the half, however coach Dave Hall was not happy with the application of some players and this needed to change in the second half. This seemed to spur Worthing into action and they again begun to dominate possession, but not clear cut chances were carved out. The back four of Boxall, Heward, Matt Chester & Drew Mc Gill looked more solid, with Chester especially excelling himself. However City College are not 2nd in the league placing for nothing and continuously looked dangerous. The mid point of the second half was definitely theirs and Worthing had Heward & Chester to thank for goal line clearances to keep the scores level. As the game worn on both teams became stretched and it was now end of end stuff with Worthing breaking the better. Mottershead was dominating his full back with just a final delivery lacking. Jenkins had a free kick that went just over the bar and O'Connor seemed to close his eyes at the wrong moment and then saw his headed effort go wide. The final chance of the game came when Clark played in Mottershead and his left foot cross was dangerous, but just evaded the despairing Jenkins. With the final whistle 1-1 was probably a fair result, however in the grand scheme of things it looks like a point gained for Worthing and possible two lost for City College, but we shall see come April!!
The 2nd XI were not as fortunate despite all efforts going down 4-0 at Watford & Hertswood. Looking into this and trying to put a finger on the negative results it seems as if some are beaten before they enter the field of play. Players need to believe in their ability because technically they are as good if not better than their opponents, however seem to look at opposition stature and physicality, which beats them before a ball is even kicked. However playing against this type of opposition can only develop players further and we all need to look at the bigger picture in terms of player development, which is what the Academy of Sport is all about.
So one week left, with the 1st XI in National Cup action and the 2nd XI with no fixture all need to reflect on their first 11 matches as an Academy. On the whole the experience has been positive , however more of you have to believe in what YOU can do rather than the opposition!!!
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
The 1st XI travelled along the coast to take on local and bitter league rivals City College Brighton & Hove, whilst the 2nd XI were back in league action with the long trip away to "the land of the giants" that were Watford & Hertswood. Numerous changes were wrung amongst both sides to ensure that both teams were competitive and could go out and get two results. The 1st XI needed to avoid defeat to end their 2010 part of the season unbeaten in the league, whilst the 2nd XI needed to gain experience and confidence to get their season back on track.
The 1st XI started slowly against their local rivals and at times looked like completed strangers as City College had much of the early possession, which resulted in the first goal after less that five minutes. A Joe Warner cover tackle could only find City's left winger, who skipped past Jack Boxall and was composed enough to pick out his striker, who found the roof of the net. 0-1.
Even though the start was poor Worthing need not worry as their team spirit and attitude has been one of the main reasons why they are still unbeaten at league level. This attitude started to show through even though their passing and ball retention at times was wayward. The first chance fell to Jordan Clark, who whipped a free kick against a post. Clark again could have got his name on the scoresheet, this time his header was blocked after an excellent diag from Boxall. Worthing began to dominate possession with Matt Dodd, Warner and Clark now pulling the strings in midfield. Dan Heward made an earlier appearance than expected, due to an injury and this was one of the catalysts for Worthing's recovery. Liam "Des" O'Connor, Lee Mottershead and Dec Jenkins were working tirelessly as a front three to close down City College high up the pitch and such pressure resulted in Worthing's equaliser. A long ball forward was only partly cleared by the City goalkeeper after pressure from Jenkins. The ball fell kindly to Mottershead, who looked up and chipped the ball over the stranded goalkeeper. The ball agonisingly clipped both posts before hitting the back of the net. 1-1.
This was how the score stayed until the half, however coach Dave Hall was not happy with the application of some players and this needed to change in the second half. This seemed to spur Worthing into action and they again begun to dominate possession, but not clear cut chances were carved out. The back four of Boxall, Heward, Matt Chester & Drew Mc Gill looked more solid, with Chester especially excelling himself. However City College are not 2nd in the league placing for nothing and continuously looked dangerous. The mid point of the second half was definitely theirs and Worthing had Heward & Chester to thank for goal line clearances to keep the scores level. As the game worn on both teams became stretched and it was now end of end stuff with Worthing breaking the better. Mottershead was dominating his full back with just a final delivery lacking. Jenkins had a free kick that went just over the bar and O'Connor seemed to close his eyes at the wrong moment and then saw his headed effort go wide. The final chance of the game came when Clark played in Mottershead and his left foot cross was dangerous, but just evaded the despairing Jenkins. With the final whistle 1-1 was probably a fair result, however in the grand scheme of things it looks like a point gained for Worthing and possible two lost for City College, but we shall see come April!!
The 2nd XI were not as fortunate despite all efforts going down 4-0 at Watford & Hertswood. Looking into this and trying to put a finger on the negative results it seems as if some are beaten before they enter the field of play. Players need to believe in their ability because technically they are as good if not better than their opponents, however seem to look at opposition stature and physicality, which beats them before a ball is even kicked. However playing against this type of opposition can only develop players further and we all need to look at the bigger picture in terms of player development, which is what the Academy of Sport is all about.
So one week left, with the 1st XI in National Cup action and the 2nd XI with no fixture all need to reflect on their first 11 matches as an Academy. On the whole the experience has been positive , however more of you have to believe in what YOU can do rather than the opposition!!!
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
Friday 26 November 2010
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 10 Vol 2
After the darkness of the double cup exit the Worthing College Football Academy 1st XI headed into a top of the table clash against a talented Chichester side with confidence that their current stats read played 9, winning 8 and only losing last week. Pre match it looked as if the injury woes of the last month were beginning to ease with coach Dave Hall naming a 5 strong bench, including the returning Dan Heward & Joe Warner. They were joined on the bench by Drew McGill, Ryan Quirke and Dec Jenkins. The true strength of any team is based upon the quality that the bench has to offer and with the names above Worthing looked to be in a very strong position indeed. Worthing also welcomed an old favourite back to the fold with tough tackling defender Alex Staines lining up for the first time against Worthing in Chichester colours.
The only change from last weeks brave cup exit saw Dave Herbert replace the hard working Jenkins, who missed kick off due to work commitments. The game was always going to be a tough one when two heavy weights of the division come together and this was no different. Both sides looked to pass the ball at pace with effective movement, which is credit to all players involved. The game was very even from the first whistle, with tackles aplenty, which coincides with the local derby tag this game had. However a serious looking back injury to left back Olly Setchell after only 15 minutes of the game looked to put Worthing off their stride and this seemed to give Chichester the impetus with Fernandes denying the pacy Chichester striker with a fine full stretch save. Up the other end Worthing did look to create chances with Herbert being the worst offended. The first being a mis-kick from six yards out after a great Sam Mannings run and cross the second being a fine individual effort that resulted in the classy striker clipping the top of the cross bar. Half Time 0-0.
As Hall was absent for most of the first half as he was attending to Setchell it was fellow coach Danny Cullip who was the one who took the half time team talk with the emphasis on pressing for that opening goal. This definitely spurred on the Worthing side and they were first to come out of the blocks with Lee Mottershead and especially Mannings troubling their respective full backs with direct and pacy runs. However up to this point chances were at a premium and this lack of chance creation seemed to let Chichester take the initiative once again and this time the pressure on the Worthing defence and goal was constant and it was only for the blocks of Jack Carey, Matt Chester, Jack Boxall and Setchell's replacement Drew McGill keeping the score from going against Worthing.
Next came controversial moment number 1. With Chichester pressing hard a clear cut chance came their way. Carey blocked the first effort excellently, however the ball fell Chichester's way, the shot was crisp and so was the glove work by CENTRE HALF Matt Chester, however the diminutive referee couldn't see above the melee. NO PENALTY. Chichester were in hysterics and this let Worthing back into the game as it swung their way. Sam Mannings was to be the catalyst of this swing with some direct running and with that the chances came. Mannings himself volley spectacularly towards goal with the goalkeeper "posing" for the cameras. The introduction of Dec Jenkins and Joe Warner for the injured Liam "Des" O'Connor and the tired looking Lee Mottershead added to this pressure with Warner's first introduction being a wrestling match up with the Chichester number 4 and Jenkins missing two gilt edge chances, which he blasted both over the bar.
Now for controversial moment number 2. A Dave Herbert free kick was curling goalwards only for the Chichester wall to do a Cesc Fabregas impression and as they were situated in the penalty area, surely a penalty!! But yet again the referee decided against giving the decision. As the game drew to a close it looked as if Worthing would grab the points, but yet again Mannings was to be denied, this time by the Chichester goalkeeper. Full Time 0-0.
On the whole both management teams agreed that the result was a fair one and its a result that will stand both sides in good stead for their assault on the league and possible promotion to the National League. In conclusion I couldn't fault any of the players on this day as all tried to play football the way it should be, however at times the finishing needs to be more clinical if we are to continue this excellent early season form.
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
The only change from last weeks brave cup exit saw Dave Herbert replace the hard working Jenkins, who missed kick off due to work commitments. The game was always going to be a tough one when two heavy weights of the division come together and this was no different. Both sides looked to pass the ball at pace with effective movement, which is credit to all players involved. The game was very even from the first whistle, with tackles aplenty, which coincides with the local derby tag this game had. However a serious looking back injury to left back Olly Setchell after only 15 minutes of the game looked to put Worthing off their stride and this seemed to give Chichester the impetus with Fernandes denying the pacy Chichester striker with a fine full stretch save. Up the other end Worthing did look to create chances with Herbert being the worst offended. The first being a mis-kick from six yards out after a great Sam Mannings run and cross the second being a fine individual effort that resulted in the classy striker clipping the top of the cross bar. Half Time 0-0.
As Hall was absent for most of the first half as he was attending to Setchell it was fellow coach Danny Cullip who was the one who took the half time team talk with the emphasis on pressing for that opening goal. This definitely spurred on the Worthing side and they were first to come out of the blocks with Lee Mottershead and especially Mannings troubling their respective full backs with direct and pacy runs. However up to this point chances were at a premium and this lack of chance creation seemed to let Chichester take the initiative once again and this time the pressure on the Worthing defence and goal was constant and it was only for the blocks of Jack Carey, Matt Chester, Jack Boxall and Setchell's replacement Drew McGill keeping the score from going against Worthing.
Next came controversial moment number 1. With Chichester pressing hard a clear cut chance came their way. Carey blocked the first effort excellently, however the ball fell Chichester's way, the shot was crisp and so was the glove work by CENTRE HALF Matt Chester, however the diminutive referee couldn't see above the melee. NO PENALTY. Chichester were in hysterics and this let Worthing back into the game as it swung their way. Sam Mannings was to be the catalyst of this swing with some direct running and with that the chances came. Mannings himself volley spectacularly towards goal with the goalkeeper "posing" for the cameras. The introduction of Dec Jenkins and Joe Warner for the injured Liam "Des" O'Connor and the tired looking Lee Mottershead added to this pressure with Warner's first introduction being a wrestling match up with the Chichester number 4 and Jenkins missing two gilt edge chances, which he blasted both over the bar.
Now for controversial moment number 2. A Dave Herbert free kick was curling goalwards only for the Chichester wall to do a Cesc Fabregas impression and as they were situated in the penalty area, surely a penalty!! But yet again the referee decided against giving the decision. As the game drew to a close it looked as if Worthing would grab the points, but yet again Mannings was to be denied, this time by the Chichester goalkeeper. Full Time 0-0.
On the whole both management teams agreed that the result was a fair one and its a result that will stand both sides in good stead for their assault on the league and possible promotion to the National League. In conclusion I couldn't fault any of the players on this day as all tried to play football the way it should be, however at times the finishing needs to be more clinical if we are to continue this excellent early season form.
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
Thursday 25 November 2010
Banter with Bridges - Week 6
Southfields 1 Worthing College 6
Worthing arrived in South London with not much knowledge of the opposition and only knowing that they were playing in the Chelsea third strip. After a walk from the changing rooms, over a fence and across the road to the pitch, the girls came to find the state of the pitch slightly beyond be-leaf! The girls were chatty and bouncy during the warm up but perhaps could have concentrated more rather than watching the other team warm up and let complacency kick in.
It was a very scrappy start to the game with the main battle coming from the middle of midfield and being won early by the hard working Southfields midfield. The entertainment was mainly provided by a by-passing lorry which had to try and avoid the ball that had been kicked over the fence and into the road; this all ended in a loud bang and with the ball in pieces but kept the spectators amused during a dull period of the game. But after Naomi Robinson began to get on top of the Southfields left back and Worthing started to battle a bit harder, Amy Potkins opened the scoring after leaving her marker for dead to score what was a very well taken goal.
This in no way lifted Worthing and very much lifted the opposition, apart from a few dangerous moments provided by the Worthing wide players, the game was being controlled and played at a Southfields tempo, Worthing were looking complacent and slightly lazy, but just on the stroke of half time, Chloe Debaes steamed away from the defence and finished well.
2-0 Half time.
Worthing were told at the break to learn that teams weren’t just going to roll over because individually they were not as good as them and effort was just as important as ability, so with a slight reshuffle they took to the field and played with a bit more conviction. And with this came the third goal when Danni Lane slipped through Maddy Emmerton who scored her 5th goal of the campaign. This goal seemed to make Worthing think the tie was over and Southfields hit back strong and if a brave bit of goalkeeping from Lauren Binfield to stop the Southfields striker in her tracks wasn’t enough of a warning, then the goal certainly was. Worthing missed several opportunities to clear the ball, and a shot from outside the area was parried by Binfield with only the Southfields striker reacting and with 4 Worthing defenders standing and admiring the finish. 3-1.
Worthing were not to be caught again and conceding the goal spurred them into life. With Danni Lane and Meg Cave now in the middle of midfield, Worthing were starting to dominate the game, and were helped put the game out of sight by a distraught Southfields defender. After a Debaes effort was parried by the keeper the defender managed to slot the ball into the bottom corner whilst trying to clear her lines. 4-1.
And if that goal was enough to put the game out of sight then another gifted goal was to come soon after. A Naomi Robinson free-kick was spilt into the Southfields net by their keeper to make it 5-1.
The game had started to lose its tempo at this point as Southfields looked beaten and Worthing were just pressing for more goals, there was a last goal in the game for newly 18 and hidden pop sensation Emily ‘Power’ Hale as she volleyed home from the edge of the area to round off the game.
Final Score 6-1.
Player of the Match – Chloe Debaes, came on and did not stop working the whole time she was on the pitch, scored a good goal at a crucial time before half time and held the ball up very well.
Worthing arrived in South London with not much knowledge of the opposition and only knowing that they were playing in the Chelsea third strip. After a walk from the changing rooms, over a fence and across the road to the pitch, the girls came to find the state of the pitch slightly beyond be-leaf! The girls were chatty and bouncy during the warm up but perhaps could have concentrated more rather than watching the other team warm up and let complacency kick in.
It was a very scrappy start to the game with the main battle coming from the middle of midfield and being won early by the hard working Southfields midfield. The entertainment was mainly provided by a by-passing lorry which had to try and avoid the ball that had been kicked over the fence and into the road; this all ended in a loud bang and with the ball in pieces but kept the spectators amused during a dull period of the game. But after Naomi Robinson began to get on top of the Southfields left back and Worthing started to battle a bit harder, Amy Potkins opened the scoring after leaving her marker for dead to score what was a very well taken goal.
This in no way lifted Worthing and very much lifted the opposition, apart from a few dangerous moments provided by the Worthing wide players, the game was being controlled and played at a Southfields tempo, Worthing were looking complacent and slightly lazy, but just on the stroke of half time, Chloe Debaes steamed away from the defence and finished well.
2-0 Half time.
Worthing were told at the break to learn that teams weren’t just going to roll over because individually they were not as good as them and effort was just as important as ability, so with a slight reshuffle they took to the field and played with a bit more conviction. And with this came the third goal when Danni Lane slipped through Maddy Emmerton who scored her 5th goal of the campaign. This goal seemed to make Worthing think the tie was over and Southfields hit back strong and if a brave bit of goalkeeping from Lauren Binfield to stop the Southfields striker in her tracks wasn’t enough of a warning, then the goal certainly was. Worthing missed several opportunities to clear the ball, and a shot from outside the area was parried by Binfield with only the Southfields striker reacting and with 4 Worthing defenders standing and admiring the finish. 3-1.
Worthing were not to be caught again and conceding the goal spurred them into life. With Danni Lane and Meg Cave now in the middle of midfield, Worthing were starting to dominate the game, and were helped put the game out of sight by a distraught Southfields defender. After a Debaes effort was parried by the keeper the defender managed to slot the ball into the bottom corner whilst trying to clear her lines. 4-1.
And if that goal was enough to put the game out of sight then another gifted goal was to come soon after. A Naomi Robinson free-kick was spilt into the Southfields net by their keeper to make it 5-1.
The game had started to lose its tempo at this point as Southfields looked beaten and Worthing were just pressing for more goals, there was a last goal in the game for newly 18 and hidden pop sensation Emily ‘Power’ Hale as she volleyed home from the edge of the area to round off the game.
Final Score 6-1.
Player of the Match – Chloe Debaes, came on and did not stop working the whole time she was on the pitch, scored a good goal at a crucial time before half time and held the ball up very well.
Wednesday 17 November 2010
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 9 Vol 2
Many emotions have passed through me on this long coach journey home; pride, disappointment, positivity, disillusion to name but a few, however I cannot fault any of the players who took to the pitch for the Worthing College Football Academy this week, who showed determination, discipline and ability in abundance with just the final part of the game required; the finish.
Anyway back with the most important thing; football. Worthing College 1st XI were required to provide TWO sides this week and with this the 1st XI took the two hour coach trip to Boreham Wood FC, home of Oaklands College for their important ECFA National Cup tie, where the 2nd XI (disguised as the 1st XI) took to the “field of dreams” that is Worthing College to play local rivals Steyning in the next round of the County Cup.
The 1st XI made three changes from last weeks excellent away performance at Ravenswood. Sam Mannings took his favoured left forward position, Olly Setchell slotted into left back and Lee Mottershead returned from his six week injury lay off to return to the right hand side. The opponents, Oaklands were in the National league and therefore put Worthing in the rare position of underdog, however coach Dave Hall was more than confident that when Worthing are on it they are more than good enough to match anyone, not just only regionally, but nationwide.
The game started evenly with Worthing applying good pressure to their illustrious opponents, causing many errors in the hosts midfield, which allowed Worthing to retain possession. This seemed to awaken the sleeping giant and Oaklands began to turn on the style with passing and movement rarely seen in opposition this season. To their credit Worthing worked hard to keep their shape and resort Oaklands to longer, higher risk passes that were cut out by the defence of Jack Boxall, Matt Chester, Jack Carey and Olly Setchell. Again Worthing increased the pressure and were just missing out on the final passes to Mannings, Mottershead and central forward Dec Jenkins. This pressure was soon to lead to chances, but not before scares at the other end. Chester and Carey won balls cleanly in the penalty area according to the referee, but not the home dugout and Olly Setchell timed a tackled to perfection to thwart a dangerous cross. Now for the Worthing chances. Jordan Clark narrowly headed over with help from the Oaklands keeper from a Mannings corner and from the next Mottershead corner Carey was only a whisker away from connecting goalwards.
As the half was moving towards a tie a game changing incident. With Oaklands having plently of possession, but being cleared up by the visiting defence a late challenge on Carey saw him clatter into the boards and he never returned to the field. Drew McGill slotted into right back and Boxall moved infield and with this reshuffle Worthing lost the ball centrally, fell to the diminutive central midfield player to strike the ball from 20 yards past the despairing James Fernandes. 0-1.
Really not a cause for concern. Worthing just needed to continue as they were and this they did until the half. Jenkins running was almost rewarded, but he was stopped in his tracks 20 yards out. Mannings struck the free kick well, but straight at the Oaklands stopper. Mottershead was running hard after his layoff and had a half chance from a cross, however again straight at the keeper. Half time.
Not much to say at half time, except for massive praise on their application and abilities with a bit more quality and possibly luck the game could be theirs for the taking.
Oaklands however had other ideas and started more brightly creating a couple of clear cut chances. Worthing held on with Setchell bravely clearing off the line and Fernandes being brave amongst flying bodies, which kept the score as was. As the game grew it became more open and this allowed Worthing’s class to shine. Matt Dodd, Liam O’Connor and Clark were combining excellently and were beginning to work openings. Clark’s drive was spilled and just out of reach of Mannings, Dodd’s rising effort and another Mannings strike in the box were all saved or wide of the target. With minutes to go Worthing continued to press, but unfortunately to no avail with the final score being 0-1.
Massive credit must go out to all who took to the field as Oaklands were forced to stay on the pitch for 20 minutes after the game by their management due to knowing that they had been in a game. Their management were very complimentary by saying that this was the best game they had played in all season. This statement is highlighted further by their previous opponents being the likes of Filton and Stanmore, the heavyweights of this level of football. So even though the result seems negative it again fills me with pride that this group of players can and have competed at the top table of College football.
Finally I would like to thank you all for your efforts and we will indeed bounce back next week.
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
Anyway back with the most important thing; football. Worthing College 1st XI were required to provide TWO sides this week and with this the 1st XI took the two hour coach trip to Boreham Wood FC, home of Oaklands College for their important ECFA National Cup tie, where the 2nd XI (disguised as the 1st XI) took to the “field of dreams” that is Worthing College to play local rivals Steyning in the next round of the County Cup.
The 1st XI made three changes from last weeks excellent away performance at Ravenswood. Sam Mannings took his favoured left forward position, Olly Setchell slotted into left back and Lee Mottershead returned from his six week injury lay off to return to the right hand side. The opponents, Oaklands were in the National league and therefore put Worthing in the rare position of underdog, however coach Dave Hall was more than confident that when Worthing are on it they are more than good enough to match anyone, not just only regionally, but nationwide.
The game started evenly with Worthing applying good pressure to their illustrious opponents, causing many errors in the hosts midfield, which allowed Worthing to retain possession. This seemed to awaken the sleeping giant and Oaklands began to turn on the style with passing and movement rarely seen in opposition this season. To their credit Worthing worked hard to keep their shape and resort Oaklands to longer, higher risk passes that were cut out by the defence of Jack Boxall, Matt Chester, Jack Carey and Olly Setchell. Again Worthing increased the pressure and were just missing out on the final passes to Mannings, Mottershead and central forward Dec Jenkins. This pressure was soon to lead to chances, but not before scares at the other end. Chester and Carey won balls cleanly in the penalty area according to the referee, but not the home dugout and Olly Setchell timed a tackled to perfection to thwart a dangerous cross. Now for the Worthing chances. Jordan Clark narrowly headed over with help from the Oaklands keeper from a Mannings corner and from the next Mottershead corner Carey was only a whisker away from connecting goalwards.
As the half was moving towards a tie a game changing incident. With Oaklands having plently of possession, but being cleared up by the visiting defence a late challenge on Carey saw him clatter into the boards and he never returned to the field. Drew McGill slotted into right back and Boxall moved infield and with this reshuffle Worthing lost the ball centrally, fell to the diminutive central midfield player to strike the ball from 20 yards past the despairing James Fernandes. 0-1.
Really not a cause for concern. Worthing just needed to continue as they were and this they did until the half. Jenkins running was almost rewarded, but he was stopped in his tracks 20 yards out. Mannings struck the free kick well, but straight at the Oaklands stopper. Mottershead was running hard after his layoff and had a half chance from a cross, however again straight at the keeper. Half time.
Not much to say at half time, except for massive praise on their application and abilities with a bit more quality and possibly luck the game could be theirs for the taking.
Oaklands however had other ideas and started more brightly creating a couple of clear cut chances. Worthing held on with Setchell bravely clearing off the line and Fernandes being brave amongst flying bodies, which kept the score as was. As the game grew it became more open and this allowed Worthing’s class to shine. Matt Dodd, Liam O’Connor and Clark were combining excellently and were beginning to work openings. Clark’s drive was spilled and just out of reach of Mannings, Dodd’s rising effort and another Mannings strike in the box were all saved or wide of the target. With minutes to go Worthing continued to press, but unfortunately to no avail with the final score being 0-1.
Massive credit must go out to all who took to the field as Oaklands were forced to stay on the pitch for 20 minutes after the game by their management due to knowing that they had been in a game. Their management were very complimentary by saying that this was the best game they had played in all season. This statement is highlighted further by their previous opponents being the likes of Filton and Stanmore, the heavyweights of this level of football. So even though the result seems negative it again fills me with pride that this group of players can and have competed at the top table of College football.
Finally I would like to thank you all for your efforts and we will indeed bounce back next week.
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
Thursday 11 November 2010
Insight with Sambrook - First Edition
Worthing College 2nd XV –v-Weald Community College 1st XV Wednesday 10th November 2010
Today’s game saw a first start for several players since joining the Academy. Most notably Olly brought an international dimension to the team with his first game since recovering from a serious knee injury. And what a debut! Olly was in great form showing high levels of skill and application as he made his presence felt in the tackle and with several excellent turnovers to his credit he will be one to watch.
The first ten minutes was very one sided with the Worthing pack dominating in the scrum and at the breakdown. This dominance was however wasted to a certain extent by the spreading of “white line fever” and several excellent chances went begging for want of a final pass. With territorial dominance and possession in abundance the first score had an air of inevitability as Cameron crashed over following a trademark catch and drive from 10 metres out. This score was converted, a rare event in itself, by Kieron who built on this kick to provide a MOM performance with two tries, numerous sniping runs, excellent service and a further conversion. One try was the result of another well executed catch and drive and the other was a far more individual effort with several excellent steps en route. Kieron’s partner at half back, Lewis, had a good game with line breaks and tactical kicking backed up by intelligent use of the short side or a switch from blind to open when the opportunity presented.
Simon led the pack with authority and Henry was prominent in the loose with several storming runs making good yards. Peter also had his first start and it too was promising as he made his presence felt with several carries into Weald’s 22.. A blow to the mouth meant an early bath for Pete in the second half but he is definitely making progress. The front row continued to dominate at the set piece throughout the game and Chris found his range well at lineout time. Connor made a nuisance of himself in the loose and used an increasingly effective fend to good advantage. Dom too was making big holes in the Weald’s valiant defence whenever he took a short ball although he did suffer the Ref’s wrath late in the first half with a thrice repeated offence at the breakdown leading to la carte jeune.
Outside the somewhat makeshift back line went through the moves and plays efficiently rather than effectively, it had too much of the training ground about it at times. Sam made hard yards at times and put in several crunching hits on his opposite number. Gage had his best performance yet in my opinion as he surged forward against his old teammates. Declan, Greg and Vic at first counter attacked at every opportunity and always got over the gain line. Grant replaced Vic who had to retire after a jinking run with several excellent steps ended in what appeared to be sprained ankle. Grant had been on the field for less than 5 minutes before he benefitted from the pack’s dominance and Henry’s aggression to take an offload less than a metre from the line to dot down in the left hand corner. Although it was a position that he had previously claimed as his second least favourite after prop he made no mistakes for the following 60 minutes. Greg , Declan and Grant were always secure under the high ball.
So, what went wrong? Why, with so much domination, did Worthing not win by a cricket score? Same problem as in previous games with a negative penalty count of more than 6 to 1 against allowing the Weald to stay in touch with some good penalty shots for too much of the game. Discipline at the breakdown is not collectively our strongest suit. Allied to this is a frustrating inability to look after ruck ball that has clearly been won but then lost. Against stronger opposition this will be fatal. To sum up we were never going to lose, individually there were some fine performances, but we need to take care of discipline and ball at the breakdown, one and all.
Today’s game saw a first start for several players since joining the Academy. Most notably Olly brought an international dimension to the team with his first game since recovering from a serious knee injury. And what a debut! Olly was in great form showing high levels of skill and application as he made his presence felt in the tackle and with several excellent turnovers to his credit he will be one to watch.
The first ten minutes was very one sided with the Worthing pack dominating in the scrum and at the breakdown. This dominance was however wasted to a certain extent by the spreading of “white line fever” and several excellent chances went begging for want of a final pass. With territorial dominance and possession in abundance the first score had an air of inevitability as Cameron crashed over following a trademark catch and drive from 10 metres out. This score was converted, a rare event in itself, by Kieron who built on this kick to provide a MOM performance with two tries, numerous sniping runs, excellent service and a further conversion. One try was the result of another well executed catch and drive and the other was a far more individual effort with several excellent steps en route. Kieron’s partner at half back, Lewis, had a good game with line breaks and tactical kicking backed up by intelligent use of the short side or a switch from blind to open when the opportunity presented.
Simon led the pack with authority and Henry was prominent in the loose with several storming runs making good yards. Peter also had his first start and it too was promising as he made his presence felt with several carries into Weald’s 22.. A blow to the mouth meant an early bath for Pete in the second half but he is definitely making progress. The front row continued to dominate at the set piece throughout the game and Chris found his range well at lineout time. Connor made a nuisance of himself in the loose and used an increasingly effective fend to good advantage. Dom too was making big holes in the Weald’s valiant defence whenever he took a short ball although he did suffer the Ref’s wrath late in the first half with a thrice repeated offence at the breakdown leading to la carte jeune.
Outside the somewhat makeshift back line went through the moves and plays efficiently rather than effectively, it had too much of the training ground about it at times. Sam made hard yards at times and put in several crunching hits on his opposite number. Gage had his best performance yet in my opinion as he surged forward against his old teammates. Declan, Greg and Vic at first counter attacked at every opportunity and always got over the gain line. Grant replaced Vic who had to retire after a jinking run with several excellent steps ended in what appeared to be sprained ankle. Grant had been on the field for less than 5 minutes before he benefitted from the pack’s dominance and Henry’s aggression to take an offload less than a metre from the line to dot down in the left hand corner. Although it was a position that he had previously claimed as his second least favourite after prop he made no mistakes for the following 60 minutes. Greg , Declan and Grant were always secure under the high ball.
So, what went wrong? Why, with so much domination, did Worthing not win by a cricket score? Same problem as in previous games with a negative penalty count of more than 6 to 1 against allowing the Weald to stay in touch with some good penalty shots for too much of the game. Discipline at the breakdown is not collectively our strongest suit. Allied to this is a frustrating inability to look after ruck ball that has clearly been won but then lost. Against stronger opposition this will be fatal. To sum up we were never going to lose, individually there were some fine performances, but we need to take care of discipline and ball at the breakdown, one and all.
Banter with Bridges - Week 5
Worthing College 11-0 Reigate College
Worthing made light work of the 1st round of the BCS knock out cup with a strong performance against Reigate, taking the lead after 30 seconds and never looking back. Chloe Debaes tapped in after good work down the right from Naomi Robinson. From that moment on Worthing started to move the ball quickly and Reigate couldn’t get close to them. The 2nd took its time in coming with Reigate producing some desperate defending and the woodwork keeping Worthing at bay. That was until a flurry of goals came around the 20 minute mark with Danni Lane, Amy Potkins, Sophie Frost and Maddy Emmerton all hitting the target to make it 5-0 after 30 minutes and with Lauren Binfield in goal barely touching the ball apart from the odd pass back from her team-mates. A final goal before half time from Potkins made it 6-0 before the break.
At the break Worthing were told to maintain their standards for the 2nd half and a minimum of 10 goals were expected. Worthing went out there with the same attitude and quickly added to their tally through Potkins again to grab her third hat-trick of the season. Emmerton scored from long range before Frost headed home her 2nd from a Robinson corner. Lucy Somes got herself on the score sheet with a good finish after clever work in midfield from Emmerton sent her clean through. Before Chloe Lamley rounded off the scoring with another goal from long range. All in all a very strong performance without letting the opposition have a single shot on goal all afternoon.
Player of the match – Charley Howcroft-Stemp – solid at the back and good distribution
Goals –
Amy Potkins x 3
Maddy Emmerton x 2
Sophie Frost x 2
Lucy Somes
Danni Lane
Chloe Debaes
Chloe Lamley
Worthing made light work of the 1st round of the BCS knock out cup with a strong performance against Reigate, taking the lead after 30 seconds and never looking back. Chloe Debaes tapped in after good work down the right from Naomi Robinson. From that moment on Worthing started to move the ball quickly and Reigate couldn’t get close to them. The 2nd took its time in coming with Reigate producing some desperate defending and the woodwork keeping Worthing at bay. That was until a flurry of goals came around the 20 minute mark with Danni Lane, Amy Potkins, Sophie Frost and Maddy Emmerton all hitting the target to make it 5-0 after 30 minutes and with Lauren Binfield in goal barely touching the ball apart from the odd pass back from her team-mates. A final goal before half time from Potkins made it 6-0 before the break.
At the break Worthing were told to maintain their standards for the 2nd half and a minimum of 10 goals were expected. Worthing went out there with the same attitude and quickly added to their tally through Potkins again to grab her third hat-trick of the season. Emmerton scored from long range before Frost headed home her 2nd from a Robinson corner. Lucy Somes got herself on the score sheet with a good finish after clever work in midfield from Emmerton sent her clean through. Before Chloe Lamley rounded off the scoring with another goal from long range. All in all a very strong performance without letting the opposition have a single shot on goal all afternoon.
Player of the match – Charley Howcroft-Stemp – solid at the back and good distribution
Goals –
Amy Potkins x 3
Maddy Emmerton x 2
Sophie Frost x 2
Lucy Somes
Danni Lane
Chloe Debaes
Chloe Lamley
Wednesday 10 November 2010
Worthing College 1st XV 53 Chichester High XV 0
Parker, Bath, Roberts, Wigzell, Luke and Short. Not the name of the world’s largest firm of solicitors but the scores of the 9 (nine) Worthing College tries on Wednesday 10.11.10. Worthing went to Chichester High expecting a physical tough encounter from beginning to end. As it was Worthing started very well and made every effort to win the game early on.
A strong display of running by forwards and backs alike made for good viewing. Worthing played expansive and direct rugby in equal measure leading to the 3 tries from Parker and 2 from Bath. The first of which was the arguably the best one of day coming from a turnover in the Worthing 22, strong running from Short, Peake and good interplay between the lose forwards lead to a 90m score Bath trotting in under the horns for the 7pointer.
Stand out performances came from the robust running of Luke, Short, Wigzell, Spring, Peake, Laszlo and later Mitchell. Bringing some finesse to proceedings Roberts danced like a strictly veteran with Patrick taking care of the lineout business. Parker and Keith got the backs moving quickly when given the opportunity by the rampaging forwards. Pumfrey played hurt (man points) and Fastnedge was a constant threat at outside centre. Green and Bath both demanded attention from the defence as did P White when he came on playing out of position. N White was the glue at the back organising and competently clearing up all assignments that came his way.
A very pleasing win against one of our local rivals and hopefully this is a point from which to propel ourselves forwards and into the darker months of the season.
More discipline will be needed if we are to challenge the better sides regionally and nationally, but that is for Monday.
Bring your heart and lungs boys……..
A strong display of running by forwards and backs alike made for good viewing. Worthing played expansive and direct rugby in equal measure leading to the 3 tries from Parker and 2 from Bath. The first of which was the arguably the best one of day coming from a turnover in the Worthing 22, strong running from Short, Peake and good interplay between the lose forwards lead to a 90m score Bath trotting in under the horns for the 7pointer.
Stand out performances came from the robust running of Luke, Short, Wigzell, Spring, Peake, Laszlo and later Mitchell. Bringing some finesse to proceedings Roberts danced like a strictly veteran with Patrick taking care of the lineout business. Parker and Keith got the backs moving quickly when given the opportunity by the rampaging forwards. Pumfrey played hurt (man points) and Fastnedge was a constant threat at outside centre. Green and Bath both demanded attention from the defence as did P White when he came on playing out of position. N White was the glue at the back organising and competently clearing up all assignments that came his way.
A very pleasing win against one of our local rivals and hopefully this is a point from which to propel ourselves forwards and into the darker months of the season.
More discipline will be needed if we are to challenge the better sides regionally and nationally, but that is for Monday.
Bring your heart and lungs boys……..
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 8 Vol 2
The week began wet and windy, but finished dry and bright for the Worthing College Football Academy 1st XI, who were back in league action for the first time in over a month against a Ravenswood School side that had moved their way to second place in the ECFA League. Looking at league position this was going to be an extremely tough affair, especially away from home. Preparations took a turn for the worse as coach Dave Hall had 15 Academy members unavailable, with 13 being due to injury. This however provided opportunities for others to impress on the day. The line up was much changed from the side that progressed into round four of the ESFA National Cup. Iain Haggart and Matt Chester came into the backline, Abdoulie Bah took his place as the central striker and a full debut was handed to Dec Jenkins, who took the wide right berth.
As from previous experience the pitch was not ideal and it would mean that Worthing would need to alter their smooth passing style slightly to make their football effective. As the game began you could sense that this was not going to be a classic, with bobbles and shanks aplenty. However it seemed that the visitors would be the ones more likely to break the deadlock. The main chances were coming from set pieces and Rory Delap style throws, with Matt Dodd coming closest to open the scoring, but deciding to play "wall ball" with the post was not the best option. Meanwhile at the other end Worthing stood relatively strong in front of skipper James Fernandes. Again not pretty on the eye, but effective.
With time moving towards the break Worthing created a clear cut opening. A Jack Boxall pass was flicked on by the hardworking Bah, which allowed Ryan Quirke in on goal to strike the ball low into the corner. 1-0. This seemed to settle Worthing until the half and could of doubled their lead after Jordan Clark and Dodd combined excellently, however Clark could not find a volleyed finish.
The chat from the bench was that Worthing needed to be a yard quicker and take the information being given on board, which should see them home. After the break the game seemed to open up and allow space for both sides to look to play. It was Worthing that used this to great effect and quickly doubled their lead. Dodd again broke into the penalty area and chipped a delightful ball to Quirke, who play a quick one-two with Clark and in quick time caressed the ball into the net. 2-0.
Worthing now in the ascendency surely? Not quite. Teams are at their most vulnerable after scoring and this theory was found true in this instance as the Ravenswood number 9 turned Jack Carey and curled the ball into the far corner. 2-1. This seemed to spur on the hosts and Worthing were now under severe pressure. Throw ins were coming in like corners, corners were coming in like corners, but all defended with determination and intelligence. Even when Ravenswood broke the Worthing defence Chester was there to stop the ball on the line, with his back!
Work ethic and enthusiasm was in abundance, which was making up for the poor field and match balls, however this was about to boil over when Bah kicked out at his centre half opponent, which led to coach Hall warming up Ross Myers to replace him. Bah did however have the last laugh as he was part of the move, which killed the game. His hold up play was excellent and played in Dec Jenkins, who took the ball in his stride and struck the ball cleanly and with power into the far corner. 3-1.
As the final minutes played out it was very much job done, but not in the usual style and this was described by Hall using the analogy of choosing a date for the school prom. It didn't seem as if we were going to go to the Prom as we had just been turned down by the hot cheerleader at the school, however it came about that the school maths champion was available (braces and all). So we took that option and still went to the Prom. Happy Days with the Prom being 3 points!!
Joking aside this result shows that the Academy are moving in the right direction in terms of development and attitude. This was typified today by Seb Gershwind and Jon Watkins, who travelled, but did not feature. Their attitude was superb and this attitude, enthusiasm and dedication is running through the Academy, which can only be a positive for the future.
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
As from previous experience the pitch was not ideal and it would mean that Worthing would need to alter their smooth passing style slightly to make their football effective. As the game began you could sense that this was not going to be a classic, with bobbles and shanks aplenty. However it seemed that the visitors would be the ones more likely to break the deadlock. The main chances were coming from set pieces and Rory Delap style throws, with Matt Dodd coming closest to open the scoring, but deciding to play "wall ball" with the post was not the best option. Meanwhile at the other end Worthing stood relatively strong in front of skipper James Fernandes. Again not pretty on the eye, but effective.
With time moving towards the break Worthing created a clear cut opening. A Jack Boxall pass was flicked on by the hardworking Bah, which allowed Ryan Quirke in on goal to strike the ball low into the corner. 1-0. This seemed to settle Worthing until the half and could of doubled their lead after Jordan Clark and Dodd combined excellently, however Clark could not find a volleyed finish.
The chat from the bench was that Worthing needed to be a yard quicker and take the information being given on board, which should see them home. After the break the game seemed to open up and allow space for both sides to look to play. It was Worthing that used this to great effect and quickly doubled their lead. Dodd again broke into the penalty area and chipped a delightful ball to Quirke, who play a quick one-two with Clark and in quick time caressed the ball into the net. 2-0.
Worthing now in the ascendency surely? Not quite. Teams are at their most vulnerable after scoring and this theory was found true in this instance as the Ravenswood number 9 turned Jack Carey and curled the ball into the far corner. 2-1. This seemed to spur on the hosts and Worthing were now under severe pressure. Throw ins were coming in like corners, corners were coming in like corners, but all defended with determination and intelligence. Even when Ravenswood broke the Worthing defence Chester was there to stop the ball on the line, with his back!
Work ethic and enthusiasm was in abundance, which was making up for the poor field and match balls, however this was about to boil over when Bah kicked out at his centre half opponent, which led to coach Hall warming up Ross Myers to replace him. Bah did however have the last laugh as he was part of the move, which killed the game. His hold up play was excellent and played in Dec Jenkins, who took the ball in his stride and struck the ball cleanly and with power into the far corner. 3-1.
As the final minutes played out it was very much job done, but not in the usual style and this was described by Hall using the analogy of choosing a date for the school prom. It didn't seem as if we were going to go to the Prom as we had just been turned down by the hot cheerleader at the school, however it came about that the school maths champion was available (braces and all). So we took that option and still went to the Prom. Happy Days with the Prom being 3 points!!
Joking aside this result shows that the Academy are moving in the right direction in terms of development and attitude. This was typified today by Seb Gershwind and Jon Watkins, who travelled, but did not feature. Their attitude was superb and this attitude, enthusiasm and dedication is running through the Academy, which can only be a positive for the future.
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
Thursday 4 November 2010
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 7 Vol 2
After a week's rest both Football Academy sides were back in action with important cup matches. The training week began well with injuries beginning to clear, however this was short lived with Matt Chester (back) and Joe Warner (ankle) adding to the long and extensive injury list. Even with this both teams went into the matches looking to build on a week's rest and a positive training week.
Coach Dave Hall handed Drew McGill a debut at right back for the 1st XI in their ESFA Third Round tie against Reigate College with Sam Mannings reverting to a more attacking role in the centre of midfield alongside Jordan Clark and Matt Dodd. With Warner's injury he dropped to the bench and he was joined by Dec Jenkins and Jack Chandler. Kieron Gillard was also on the bench as cover for the rehabilitating James Fernandes.
With Reigate being somewhat of an unknown quantity it was imperative that Worthing took the game to their visitors. The Worthing United surface was flat and would suit Worthing's passing style, however the wind was blustery and could allow Reigate to spoil Worthing attractive style of play. It was the former that occurred with Worthing taking the game to Reigate, even though the wind was in their faces. However it was a long ball that was to open the scoring. A Jack Boxall free kick was flicked on by Clark straight into the path of striker Dave Herbert, who made up for his misses in the Chichester High game by slotting the ball past the advancing goalkeeper. 1-0.
The opposition were trying to upset Worthing's tempo by looking to "play dirty" with niggling fouls and off the ball incidents high on the agenda. To their credit the Worthing players stepped up to the plate and just carried on with playing football. This paid off as the second and third goals came relatively quickly with Ryan Quirke and Dodd being on target. 2-0, 3-0.
The next goal of the game would be crucial and Reigate looked to get on the scoresheet before half time, but Fernandes, McGill, Boxall, Jack Carey and Olly Setchell kept their opponents at bay, with some excellent and intelligent defending against the wind.
During the turn around again complacency would surely be Worthing only enemy? To their credit Reigate looked to have sorted themselves out tactically to stem the threat from Clark, Dodd and Mannings. For a time this seemed to work, but Worthing continued to be dangerous on the break with Quirke being the main culprit for missing two chances to extend the lead. The second half was not an attractive affair with play broken up with free kick after free kick and Reigate got their reward midway through the second half. The Worthing defence allowed the Reigate striker to break three tackles and then hit the ball past Fernandes into the far stanchion. 3-1.
Worthing rang the changes with Dodd retiring due to an ankle injury being replaced by Dec Jenkins for his first appearance. Jenkins caused problems straight away with his pace and direct running, however the final ball went begging. Quirke was then replaced by Jack Chandler, who slotted into the centre of midfield and did not look out of place, keeping possession effectively. The final change was enforced after an awful challenge on Setchell, he was replaced for the final minutes by Joe Warner. With the final whistle Worthing came away victorious even though the win was not pretty it was still a win with the main positive being that Worthing discipline was outstanding, which eventually ground down Reigate. All work hard and dug deep, but special mention must go to Liam "Des" O'Connor and Sam Mannings, who ended up taking three positions throughout the game and played with maturity and an excellent attitude.
The 2nd XI travelled to South Downs to continue their defence of the County Cup and came out 5-2 winners. Worthing performed well, but according to "The Stig" let their opponents "off the hook" by letting them take the lead at 1-0 and 2-1. Danny Cullip was pleased that more chances were taken than last time out, especially from an unlikely source, Iain Haggart. Haggart bagged a brace, one with his head, the other a goal mouth scramble. Other scorers on the day were Abdoulie Bah, Judah Langford & Tinashe-Shawn Chikowore.
All in all a successful day results wise for the Football Academy, however to keep this run going injuries need to be kept to a minimum along with keeping the attitude and work ethic at a hard working consistent level. With both sides in action again next week there is no rest for the wicked!!
Onwards and Upwards,
Hallsy
Coach Dave Hall handed Drew McGill a debut at right back for the 1st XI in their ESFA Third Round tie against Reigate College with Sam Mannings reverting to a more attacking role in the centre of midfield alongside Jordan Clark and Matt Dodd. With Warner's injury he dropped to the bench and he was joined by Dec Jenkins and Jack Chandler. Kieron Gillard was also on the bench as cover for the rehabilitating James Fernandes.
With Reigate being somewhat of an unknown quantity it was imperative that Worthing took the game to their visitors. The Worthing United surface was flat and would suit Worthing's passing style, however the wind was blustery and could allow Reigate to spoil Worthing attractive style of play. It was the former that occurred with Worthing taking the game to Reigate, even though the wind was in their faces. However it was a long ball that was to open the scoring. A Jack Boxall free kick was flicked on by Clark straight into the path of striker Dave Herbert, who made up for his misses in the Chichester High game by slotting the ball past the advancing goalkeeper. 1-0.
The opposition were trying to upset Worthing's tempo by looking to "play dirty" with niggling fouls and off the ball incidents high on the agenda. To their credit the Worthing players stepped up to the plate and just carried on with playing football. This paid off as the second and third goals came relatively quickly with Ryan Quirke and Dodd being on target. 2-0, 3-0.
The next goal of the game would be crucial and Reigate looked to get on the scoresheet before half time, but Fernandes, McGill, Boxall, Jack Carey and Olly Setchell kept their opponents at bay, with some excellent and intelligent defending against the wind.
During the turn around again complacency would surely be Worthing only enemy? To their credit Reigate looked to have sorted themselves out tactically to stem the threat from Clark, Dodd and Mannings. For a time this seemed to work, but Worthing continued to be dangerous on the break with Quirke being the main culprit for missing two chances to extend the lead. The second half was not an attractive affair with play broken up with free kick after free kick and Reigate got their reward midway through the second half. The Worthing defence allowed the Reigate striker to break three tackles and then hit the ball past Fernandes into the far stanchion. 3-1.
Worthing rang the changes with Dodd retiring due to an ankle injury being replaced by Dec Jenkins for his first appearance. Jenkins caused problems straight away with his pace and direct running, however the final ball went begging. Quirke was then replaced by Jack Chandler, who slotted into the centre of midfield and did not look out of place, keeping possession effectively. The final change was enforced after an awful challenge on Setchell, he was replaced for the final minutes by Joe Warner. With the final whistle Worthing came away victorious even though the win was not pretty it was still a win with the main positive being that Worthing discipline was outstanding, which eventually ground down Reigate. All work hard and dug deep, but special mention must go to Liam "Des" O'Connor and Sam Mannings, who ended up taking three positions throughout the game and played with maturity and an excellent attitude.
The 2nd XI travelled to South Downs to continue their defence of the County Cup and came out 5-2 winners. Worthing performed well, but according to "The Stig" let their opponents "off the hook" by letting them take the lead at 1-0 and 2-1. Danny Cullip was pleased that more chances were taken than last time out, especially from an unlikely source, Iain Haggart. Haggart bagged a brace, one with his head, the other a goal mouth scramble. Other scorers on the day were Abdoulie Bah, Judah Langford & Tinashe-Shawn Chikowore.
All in all a successful day results wise for the Football Academy, however to keep this run going injuries need to be kept to a minimum along with keeping the attitude and work ethic at a hard working consistent level. With both sides in action again next week there is no rest for the wicked!!
Onwards and Upwards,
Hallsy
Hockey Academy Report - BCS Cup Special
Worthing went to Lewes to face Sussex Downs in the Second round of the Men’s BCS cup, and came back being able to tell the happy side to an eventful match.
Worthing went 2-0 down early on but showed good resolve and hit back instantaneously with the score swaying 3-2 to the visitors.
With plenty more twists in the tail, the home side hit back to level the scores before taking a 4-3 lead. Worthing equalised to make it 4-4 and were once again the ones to go into the lead with not long left on the clock. But the home side were resilient and with 4 minutes remaining Sussex Downs scored to make it 5-5. In the last few minutes Worthing had plenty of chances to put the game to bed but after a goal fest, they were all of a sudden struggling to find that winning goal.
Worthing went on to win 4-3 in penalty flicks, and the match which had a real cup tie feel was awarded the way of the visiting team, one of those that both sides would have been gutted to lose.
On reflection, Worthing were the better team, they played well and deserved the eventual victory which took longer than any of us would have hoped.
May the cup run continue!!
Rob
Worthing went 2-0 down early on but showed good resolve and hit back instantaneously with the score swaying 3-2 to the visitors.
With plenty more twists in the tail, the home side hit back to level the scores before taking a 4-3 lead. Worthing equalised to make it 4-4 and were once again the ones to go into the lead with not long left on the clock. But the home side were resilient and with 4 minutes remaining Sussex Downs scored to make it 5-5. In the last few minutes Worthing had plenty of chances to put the game to bed but after a goal fest, they were all of a sudden struggling to find that winning goal.
Worthing went on to win 4-3 in penalty flicks, and the match which had a real cup tie feel was awarded the way of the visiting team, one of those that both sides would have been gutted to lose.
On reflection, Worthing were the better team, they played well and deserved the eventual victory which took longer than any of us would have hoped.
May the cup run continue!!
Rob
Thursday 21 October 2010
Banter with Bridges - Week 4
Worthing College 0-2 Priory
Worthing suffered only their 2nd defeat of the season in a game where they could have had the game easily wrapped up by half time but for some wasteful finishing. The game started very evenly with both teams attack with some creativity and creating a couple of early chances, Lauren Binfield making an impressive save from the onrushing Priory forward. Priory where competing for every ball and in the 1st 15 minutes they had the upper hand until Worthing hit their stride and started to cause Priory some real problems. Danielle Lane and Jemma Kendall started to gain control of the midfield battle with Lane making some surging runs from midfield creating several opportunities for both herself and her team mates.
Against the run of play Priory opened the scoring when a strong run and shot from Priory’s midfielder beat Binfield after taking a nasty bounce. This only led to intensified pressure from Worthing with Amy Potkin, Naomi Robinson and Emily Hale all getting in behind the Priory defence but failing to test the goalkeeper. Kendall then had a great chance but again failed to hit the target from close range. A string of corners then followed with Priory clearing off their own line twice, before Potkins chased down a lost cause and beat the goalkeeper to the ball only for the rebound to fall to the covering full back with Hale close at hand.
For the final 20 minutes of the half Binfield had become a spectator and the Priory where unable to get out of their half such was the Worthing dominance.
1-0 Half Time
Half time saw a reshuffle due to injury with Hale being removed for Chloe Debaes and Maddy Emmerton moving wide
The 2nd half started in much the same way the 1st half ended with Worthing on the front foot creating several chances with only Lane’s shot from the edge of the area testing the goalkeeper. 10 minutes in Worthing suffered another blow when Lane had to be removed due to a groin injury which again saw a reshuffle with Sophie Frost moving into centre midfield and Fleur coming on at the back despite starting to feel the effects of a virus. This seemed to take the wind out of Worthing sales and they struggled to get this dominance back as they became more and more frustrated with the missed chances.
Priory visibly grew in confidence after surviving the onslaught of over 35 minutes without conceding a goal, this led to them increasingly gaining more possession and entering Worthing’s half on more frequently. The 2nd and killer goal came when a ball was put over the top and the onrushing forward raced clear to finish in the bottom corner.
The game played out with Priory killing the game off and Worthing unable to create any more chances to get back into the game. A game that Worthing really shouldn’t have lost but if they continue to miss the chances they did then they may lose a few more games like this.
Final Score 2-0
Player of the match: Naomi Robinson – was involved in all of Worthing’s most dangerous moment and the side faded out of the game when they stopped getting her the ball.
Worthing suffered only their 2nd defeat of the season in a game where they could have had the game easily wrapped up by half time but for some wasteful finishing. The game started very evenly with both teams attack with some creativity and creating a couple of early chances, Lauren Binfield making an impressive save from the onrushing Priory forward. Priory where competing for every ball and in the 1st 15 minutes they had the upper hand until Worthing hit their stride and started to cause Priory some real problems. Danielle Lane and Jemma Kendall started to gain control of the midfield battle with Lane making some surging runs from midfield creating several opportunities for both herself and her team mates.
Against the run of play Priory opened the scoring when a strong run and shot from Priory’s midfielder beat Binfield after taking a nasty bounce. This only led to intensified pressure from Worthing with Amy Potkin, Naomi Robinson and Emily Hale all getting in behind the Priory defence but failing to test the goalkeeper. Kendall then had a great chance but again failed to hit the target from close range. A string of corners then followed with Priory clearing off their own line twice, before Potkins chased down a lost cause and beat the goalkeeper to the ball only for the rebound to fall to the covering full back with Hale close at hand.
For the final 20 minutes of the half Binfield had become a spectator and the Priory where unable to get out of their half such was the Worthing dominance.
1-0 Half Time
Half time saw a reshuffle due to injury with Hale being removed for Chloe Debaes and Maddy Emmerton moving wide
The 2nd half started in much the same way the 1st half ended with Worthing on the front foot creating several chances with only Lane’s shot from the edge of the area testing the goalkeeper. 10 minutes in Worthing suffered another blow when Lane had to be removed due to a groin injury which again saw a reshuffle with Sophie Frost moving into centre midfield and Fleur coming on at the back despite starting to feel the effects of a virus. This seemed to take the wind out of Worthing sales and they struggled to get this dominance back as they became more and more frustrated with the missed chances.
Priory visibly grew in confidence after surviving the onslaught of over 35 minutes without conceding a goal, this led to them increasingly gaining more possession and entering Worthing’s half on more frequently. The 2nd and killer goal came when a ball was put over the top and the onrushing forward raced clear to finish in the bottom corner.
The game played out with Priory killing the game off and Worthing unable to create any more chances to get back into the game. A game that Worthing really shouldn’t have lost but if they continue to miss the chances they did then they may lose a few more games like this.
Final Score 2-0
Player of the match: Naomi Robinson – was involved in all of Worthing’s most dangerous moment and the side faded out of the game when they stopped getting her the ball.
Wednesday 20 October 2010
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 6 Vol 2
With the half term approaching Worthing College Football Academy were looking to sign off in style with two positive performances, which should turn into positive results. The 1st XI travelled west to Chichester High School for a 1st round County Cup tie, whilst the 2nd XI took to the Worthing United stage to take on Uxbridge.
Again injuries and unavailabilities forced both sides to make changes and to go with only two substitutes apiece. However this is the reason for a large and strong squad. The 1st XI had to make positional changes as well as personnel, with the usually attacking Sam Mannings revert to left back. Dave Herbert and skipper James Fernandes also returned to the starting line up and all were hoping to a good start in this competition.
The playing surface and equipment was not particularly great, however good players need to adapt in all situations and Worthing took to the pitch confident of making their stats read 6 wins from 6 games going into half term. The game started relatively brightly, however it was seeming to pass Worthing by as sloppy passing gave the hosts opportunities to attack, which resulted in the first of the penalty kicks. The returning Fernandes had no choice but to bring down the Chichester front man and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. However Fernandes redeemed himself with a fine penalty save.
This seemed to spark Worthing into life with the midfield trio of Matt Dodd, Jordan Clark and Joe Warner getting onto the ball and beginning to make things happen. Widemen Liam O'Connor and Ryan Quirke were making well timed runs and Dave Herbert was beginning to get into the game and create chances. These chances were frequent, but were not being dispatched with Herbert, O'Connor, Quirke, Dodd and Clark all being guilty of not hitting the onion bag. The opening goal of the game did come and it was courtesy of the second penalty of the game. A fine driven pass from Mannings was latched onto by Clark and his run was upended by the advancing keeper. Clark dusted himself down and dispatched the penalty. 1-0.
From here Worthing should have pressed home their advantage, but again chances went begging. Therefore with the score 1-0 at half time the word from the bench was to increase the tempo and high pressing game in addition to taking their chances, which would surely result in Worthing's progression into the second round. The second half began the same as the first, with Worthing still looking to score the "perfect" goal. Herbert and Clark the main culprits. To their credit Chichester never gave up and gave the back four of Olly Setchell, Jack Carey, Jack Boxall and Mannings many things to think about. Again the chances came, with the best coming from Matt Dodd, who expertly linked up with Joe Warner, but his volley was well blocked by the Chichester goalkeeper. Then for the first warning! The Chichester winger, who came on as a "rolling" sub jinked passed Carey and Carey clipped his heels on the way through. PENALTY number three! The same player stepped up, again Fernandes guessed right but the shot was dragged wide. Justice you may say, however minutes later Chichester were unbelievably level. A cross again from the wideman was spun upon by the Chichester number 9, who flicked the ball past Fernandes. 1-1.
So into Extra Time. Worthing needed to move the ball quicker and again TAKE THOSE CHANCES!! Coach Dave Hall was beginning to wonder if it was going to be one of those days with more chances going begging. The greatest falling to O'Connor, whose strike was somehow kept out. As it seemed as if Worthing could be there all night before they score the breakthrough finally came. Warner, Herbert and Clark were all involved with Clark expertly back heeling the ball into the path of Herbert, who drove the ball low into the corner. Relief all round!! 2-1. With this the tireless Warner came off to be replaced by debutant Jack Chandler. With time running out Worthing kept the ball well in the corners to run down the clock.
With full time came relief, however Worthing need to be more clinical in front of goal to ensure that all their hard work and excellent play is rewarded. However all in all an excellent effort this half term to come away with a 100% record!!
Meanwhile the 2nd XI looked to dust themselves down from last week's defeat with an ECFA league fixture vs. Uxbridge. According to reports the match was similar to the 1st XI's with some excellent play, but many, many, many missed chances. However with this Uxbridge seemed to punish the hosts by coming out as 2-1 winners. Worthing's scorer was Abdoulie Bah. Again for many it is hard to look beyond the result, however at the Academy we try to leave no stone unturned and we all must look beyond the result at the bigger picture, which is based upon development. To this point ALL players in the Academy have worked hard and are developing and I'm sure that with a little more belief and thought I will be reporting positive results for both teams during the next half term.
Finally I would like to thank you all for your hard work and efforts this half term. Make sure you rest up and come back fresh after the half term break.
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
Again injuries and unavailabilities forced both sides to make changes and to go with only two substitutes apiece. However this is the reason for a large and strong squad. The 1st XI had to make positional changes as well as personnel, with the usually attacking Sam Mannings revert to left back. Dave Herbert and skipper James Fernandes also returned to the starting line up and all were hoping to a good start in this competition.
The playing surface and equipment was not particularly great, however good players need to adapt in all situations and Worthing took to the pitch confident of making their stats read 6 wins from 6 games going into half term. The game started relatively brightly, however it was seeming to pass Worthing by as sloppy passing gave the hosts opportunities to attack, which resulted in the first of the penalty kicks. The returning Fernandes had no choice but to bring down the Chichester front man and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. However Fernandes redeemed himself with a fine penalty save.
This seemed to spark Worthing into life with the midfield trio of Matt Dodd, Jordan Clark and Joe Warner getting onto the ball and beginning to make things happen. Widemen Liam O'Connor and Ryan Quirke were making well timed runs and Dave Herbert was beginning to get into the game and create chances. These chances were frequent, but were not being dispatched with Herbert, O'Connor, Quirke, Dodd and Clark all being guilty of not hitting the onion bag. The opening goal of the game did come and it was courtesy of the second penalty of the game. A fine driven pass from Mannings was latched onto by Clark and his run was upended by the advancing keeper. Clark dusted himself down and dispatched the penalty. 1-0.
From here Worthing should have pressed home their advantage, but again chances went begging. Therefore with the score 1-0 at half time the word from the bench was to increase the tempo and high pressing game in addition to taking their chances, which would surely result in Worthing's progression into the second round. The second half began the same as the first, with Worthing still looking to score the "perfect" goal. Herbert and Clark the main culprits. To their credit Chichester never gave up and gave the back four of Olly Setchell, Jack Carey, Jack Boxall and Mannings many things to think about. Again the chances came, with the best coming from Matt Dodd, who expertly linked up with Joe Warner, but his volley was well blocked by the Chichester goalkeeper. Then for the first warning! The Chichester winger, who came on as a "rolling" sub jinked passed Carey and Carey clipped his heels on the way through. PENALTY number three! The same player stepped up, again Fernandes guessed right but the shot was dragged wide. Justice you may say, however minutes later Chichester were unbelievably level. A cross again from the wideman was spun upon by the Chichester number 9, who flicked the ball past Fernandes. 1-1.
So into Extra Time. Worthing needed to move the ball quicker and again TAKE THOSE CHANCES!! Coach Dave Hall was beginning to wonder if it was going to be one of those days with more chances going begging. The greatest falling to O'Connor, whose strike was somehow kept out. As it seemed as if Worthing could be there all night before they score the breakthrough finally came. Warner, Herbert and Clark were all involved with Clark expertly back heeling the ball into the path of Herbert, who drove the ball low into the corner. Relief all round!! 2-1. With this the tireless Warner came off to be replaced by debutant Jack Chandler. With time running out Worthing kept the ball well in the corners to run down the clock.
With full time came relief, however Worthing need to be more clinical in front of goal to ensure that all their hard work and excellent play is rewarded. However all in all an excellent effort this half term to come away with a 100% record!!
Meanwhile the 2nd XI looked to dust themselves down from last week's defeat with an ECFA league fixture vs. Uxbridge. According to reports the match was similar to the 1st XI's with some excellent play, but many, many, many missed chances. However with this Uxbridge seemed to punish the hosts by coming out as 2-1 winners. Worthing's scorer was Abdoulie Bah. Again for many it is hard to look beyond the result, however at the Academy we try to leave no stone unturned and we all must look beyond the result at the bigger picture, which is based upon development. To this point ALL players in the Academy have worked hard and are developing and I'm sure that with a little more belief and thought I will be reporting positive results for both teams during the next half term.
Finally I would like to thank you all for your hard work and efforts this half term. Make sure you rest up and come back fresh after the half term break.
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
Thursday 14 October 2010
Banter with Bridges - Week 3
Peter Symonds 0-10 Worthing College
Worthing travelled to Peter Symonds College in the 2nd round of the ESFA Cup after a bye in the 1st round. The game started very quickly when a ball over the top caused a mix up in the Worthing defence which nearly sore an own goal scored within 10 seconds of kick off. Worthing then settled into the game and got on the front foot, they were technically much better than their opposition and passed the ball at a tempo that Symonds couldn’t live with. The 1st goal however took 15 minutes to come before which Worthing had created several clear cut chances that they went onto miss a theme that would continue all afternoon. The 1st goal was scored by Emily Hale after good work down the left by herself and she beat the keeper at her near post.
The Symonds goal then went on to lead a charmed life for much of the remaining half an hour with Worthing hitting the woodwork 4 times and the Symonds goalkeeper making some very good saves. It wasn’t until Chloe Debaes fired home from close range after good work by Maddy Emmerton that the lead was doubled and that’s how it stood at half time.
2-0 Half time.
The 2nd half was to prove less frustrating for Worthing with more of their chances going in instead of hitting the goalkeeper or the woodwork, although it was to be struck a further 3 times in the 2nd half.
The 3rd goal came after 5 minutes of the 2nd half and again it came after good work by Emmerton and Alex Fagan this time Emmerton adding the final touches curling to ball into the far corner from 20 yards out. This seemed to break any resistance Symonds had and the game was then played solely in the Symonds half for the rest of the game. A fourth quickly followed as Debaes added her 2nd of the afternoon. Amy Potkins then got in on the act to score her 1st of the afternoon, followed by a quick fire double from Naomi Robinson to make the score 7-0 with 20 minutes to go. Potkins got her 2nd of the afternoon when she chased down a lost cause beating the keeper to it and rolling the ball into an empty net. Danielle Lane made it 9-0 with a well taken goal before Potkins rounded off the scoring with a couple of minutes remaining to get her 2nd hat-trick in 2 weeks and make the score 10-0.
10-0 Full Time
Scorers: Maddy Emmterton, Danielle Lane, Emily Hale, Naomi Robinson x 2, Chloe Debaes x2, Amy Potkins x 3.
Player of the match: Amy Potkins – for her 2nd hat-trick in 2 weeks.
Worthing travelled to Peter Symonds College in the 2nd round of the ESFA Cup after a bye in the 1st round. The game started very quickly when a ball over the top caused a mix up in the Worthing defence which nearly sore an own goal scored within 10 seconds of kick off. Worthing then settled into the game and got on the front foot, they were technically much better than their opposition and passed the ball at a tempo that Symonds couldn’t live with. The 1st goal however took 15 minutes to come before which Worthing had created several clear cut chances that they went onto miss a theme that would continue all afternoon. The 1st goal was scored by Emily Hale after good work down the left by herself and she beat the keeper at her near post.
The Symonds goal then went on to lead a charmed life for much of the remaining half an hour with Worthing hitting the woodwork 4 times and the Symonds goalkeeper making some very good saves. It wasn’t until Chloe Debaes fired home from close range after good work by Maddy Emmerton that the lead was doubled and that’s how it stood at half time.
2-0 Half time.
The 2nd half was to prove less frustrating for Worthing with more of their chances going in instead of hitting the goalkeeper or the woodwork, although it was to be struck a further 3 times in the 2nd half.
The 3rd goal came after 5 minutes of the 2nd half and again it came after good work by Emmerton and Alex Fagan this time Emmerton adding the final touches curling to ball into the far corner from 20 yards out. This seemed to break any resistance Symonds had and the game was then played solely in the Symonds half for the rest of the game. A fourth quickly followed as Debaes added her 2nd of the afternoon. Amy Potkins then got in on the act to score her 1st of the afternoon, followed by a quick fire double from Naomi Robinson to make the score 7-0 with 20 minutes to go. Potkins got her 2nd of the afternoon when she chased down a lost cause beating the keeper to it and rolling the ball into an empty net. Danielle Lane made it 9-0 with a well taken goal before Potkins rounded off the scoring with a couple of minutes remaining to get her 2nd hat-trick in 2 weeks and make the score 10-0.
10-0 Full Time
Scorers: Maddy Emmterton, Danielle Lane, Emily Hale, Naomi Robinson x 2, Chloe Debaes x2, Amy Potkins x 3.
Player of the match: Amy Potkins – for her 2nd hat-trick in 2 weeks.
Worthing U18 XV 24 Hurstpierpoint U18 XV 17
Beautiful surroundings and a pleasant day the setting for the Daily Mail round 2 cup match. Worthing fresh from a substantial educational experience last week were keen to get right back on the horse, and so they did.
The game was hotly contested from start to finish and probably should have been over as a contest long before its official conclusion. Hurst went in front with a well struck penalty (an idea not o give the chap too many opportunities with the boot then?) but Worthing went hard and scored a controversial try in the corner with Green (ball in the wrong hand but a good finish all the same).
Hurst penaltied back taking it out to 6-5. Lyons went over for the second Worthing score in the corner, unfortunately unable to convert, 10-6 Worthing at the half.
Penalty back Hurst, 10-9 Worthing and all to play for. Parker scored a cheeky try down the blind side and Lyons converted from near the touch line and all seemed well with the world at 17-9. But that would not be consistent with the way this group of players get things done. So with a charitable turn Worthing went on a penalty committing spree and were lucky to keep players on the field and out of the bin. Then disaster for the visiting side as an exceptional try was scored by the Hurst centre beating a number of players and dotting in the corner fortunately not converted. 17-17 and all to play for in the last 6mins.
Worthing struggled in the line out and could not put phasers together owing to mistakes at the breakdown, where a penalty against was the norm. So concerted pressure was never obtained therefore closing the game out became impossible. Hurst were a threat in broken play and counter attacked well on a number of occasions leaving hearts pounding a little harder than desired on the touchline. Eventually Worthing got a driving maul on the go making meters into opposition 22. From there confidence gained and a driving maul from open play created the scoring opportunity for Wigzell and the important conversion by Lyons went over. Breathing space for the last 4mins however Worthing still couldn’t get the two score lead.
Holding on Worthing managed to take it out 24-17, plenty more to work on but round 3 and still in the hat.
Effort 6/10, skill 6/10, four trys and some good inter-play in periods.
The game was hotly contested from start to finish and probably should have been over as a contest long before its official conclusion. Hurst went in front with a well struck penalty (an idea not o give the chap too many opportunities with the boot then?) but Worthing went hard and scored a controversial try in the corner with Green (ball in the wrong hand but a good finish all the same).
Hurst penaltied back taking it out to 6-5. Lyons went over for the second Worthing score in the corner, unfortunately unable to convert, 10-6 Worthing at the half.
Penalty back Hurst, 10-9 Worthing and all to play for. Parker scored a cheeky try down the blind side and Lyons converted from near the touch line and all seemed well with the world at 17-9. But that would not be consistent with the way this group of players get things done. So with a charitable turn Worthing went on a penalty committing spree and were lucky to keep players on the field and out of the bin. Then disaster for the visiting side as an exceptional try was scored by the Hurst centre beating a number of players and dotting in the corner fortunately not converted. 17-17 and all to play for in the last 6mins.
Worthing struggled in the line out and could not put phasers together owing to mistakes at the breakdown, where a penalty against was the norm. So concerted pressure was never obtained therefore closing the game out became impossible. Hurst were a threat in broken play and counter attacked well on a number of occasions leaving hearts pounding a little harder than desired on the touchline. Eventually Worthing got a driving maul on the go making meters into opposition 22. From there confidence gained and a driving maul from open play created the scoring opportunity for Wigzell and the important conversion by Lyons went over. Breathing space for the last 4mins however Worthing still couldn’t get the two score lead.
Holding on Worthing managed to take it out 24-17, plenty more to work on but round 3 and still in the hat.
Effort 6/10, skill 6/10, four trys and some good inter-play in periods.
Wednesday 13 October 2010
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 5 Vol 2
After a well attended training week both Academy sides were hit by
injuries and late drop outs. The 1st XI missed Lee Mottershead (calf),
Lewis Jenkins (ankle ligaments) and his brother Dec (unavailable) whilst
the 2nd XI had Josh Butler (knee and back), Shawn Chikowore and Andy
Herrington (both unavailable) not at the disposal of coach Danny Cullip.
With these players missing the 1st XI kept with the same back four as
they started vs Woking last time out. Sam Mannings came into the
starting line up to replace Dave Herbert who dropped to the bench. The
final change saw Ryan Quirke come in for the injured Lee Mottershead.
Their opponents were local rivals Varndean. For the victor a place in
the 3rd round of the ESFA National Cup.
The game started fairly evenly with both teams looking to play and apply
pressure, however it was Worthing who seemed to have the more
territorial advantage. As the half continued chances were few and far
between with a Jack Boxall and Jordan Clark shot only chances of real
note. Worthing were fairly dominant, however they needed to be weary of
the more direct Varndean ball, one of which led to a cross shot that was
safely wide. Half time 0-0.
The tie was very much in the balance with the home side playing the
attractive football, whilst the visitors looked to "park the bus" and
break when required.
The chat at half time was based on doing the same as the previous 45,
but at a quicker tempo, yet more patient. The start of the second half
was again positive with winger Liam O'Connor getting twice to the
byline, only for his crosses to elude Mannings and Clark. Even with this
start the visitors seemed to be more open with their play and looked to
take more risks. However the back four of Boxall, Jack Carey, Dan Heward
and Olly Setchell were excellent in their positioning and solidarity.
Then came the breakthrough. Varndean tried to play the ball out the
back, only for pressure by Clark, who pounced on the ball and then slot
the ball past the desparing goalkeeper. 1-0. With the tightness of the
tie a second goal was vital and there should of been one. Matt Dodd
volleyed the ball home, but the goalkeeper was adjudged to have been
fouled. Worthing made their only change with Herbert coming on for the
tireless Mannings. He and Clark combined late in the game only for a
lunging defender to save the day for Varndean.
With time running out Worthing seemed nervy and Varndean took the
initiative and almost forced extra time, but the cross shot avaded all
and sundry. So as the whistle went Worthing booked a place in round 3,
but definitely knew they were in a game!
Meanwhile the 2nd XI headed to Lewisham and it could have been so much
better if they were not denied a second goal to make the score 3-2.
However the hosts went on to win 4-1. Coach Danny Cullip was happy with
the teams play except for a funny 20 minutes.
All in all another developmental week for the Academy, where lessons are
being learnt and I'm sure it won't be long before both sides are on the
end of the positive results they deserve.
Onwards and upwards,
Hallsy
Sent from my BlackBerry(r) wireless device
injuries and late drop outs. The 1st XI missed Lee Mottershead (calf),
Lewis Jenkins (ankle ligaments) and his brother Dec (unavailable) whilst
the 2nd XI had Josh Butler (knee and back), Shawn Chikowore and Andy
Herrington (both unavailable) not at the disposal of coach Danny Cullip.
With these players missing the 1st XI kept with the same back four as
they started vs Woking last time out. Sam Mannings came into the
starting line up to replace Dave Herbert who dropped to the bench. The
final change saw Ryan Quirke come in for the injured Lee Mottershead.
Their opponents were local rivals Varndean. For the victor a place in
the 3rd round of the ESFA National Cup.
The game started fairly evenly with both teams looking to play and apply
pressure, however it was Worthing who seemed to have the more
territorial advantage. As the half continued chances were few and far
between with a Jack Boxall and Jordan Clark shot only chances of real
note. Worthing were fairly dominant, however they needed to be weary of
the more direct Varndean ball, one of which led to a cross shot that was
safely wide. Half time 0-0.
The tie was very much in the balance with the home side playing the
attractive football, whilst the visitors looked to "park the bus" and
break when required.
The chat at half time was based on doing the same as the previous 45,
but at a quicker tempo, yet more patient. The start of the second half
was again positive with winger Liam O'Connor getting twice to the
byline, only for his crosses to elude Mannings and Clark. Even with this
start the visitors seemed to be more open with their play and looked to
take more risks. However the back four of Boxall, Jack Carey, Dan Heward
and Olly Setchell were excellent in their positioning and solidarity.
Then came the breakthrough. Varndean tried to play the ball out the
back, only for pressure by Clark, who pounced on the ball and then slot
the ball past the desparing goalkeeper. 1-0. With the tightness of the
tie a second goal was vital and there should of been one. Matt Dodd
volleyed the ball home, but the goalkeeper was adjudged to have been
fouled. Worthing made their only change with Herbert coming on for the
tireless Mannings. He and Clark combined late in the game only for a
lunging defender to save the day for Varndean.
With time running out Worthing seemed nervy and Varndean took the
initiative and almost forced extra time, but the cross shot avaded all
and sundry. So as the whistle went Worthing booked a place in round 3,
but definitely knew they were in a game!
Meanwhile the 2nd XI headed to Lewisham and it could have been so much
better if they were not denied a second goal to make the score 3-2.
However the hosts went on to win 4-1. Coach Danny Cullip was happy with
the teams play except for a funny 20 minutes.
All in all another developmental week for the Academy, where lessons are
being learnt and I'm sure it won't be long before both sides are on the
end of the positive results they deserve.
Onwards and upwards,
Hallsy
Sent from my BlackBerry(r) wireless device
Friday 8 October 2010
Netball Round Up - Week 2
Sussex County Cup - Worthing B 19 Hurst A 26
This was expected to be a very one sided affair following Hurst’s thrashing of Worthing’s A team last year in the same competition however Worthing’s B team went out, determined to prove they were worthy opponents.
The focus in training this week was defense and it was delightful as the coach to see the players all working hard to put into practice the work done on Monday. We took an early lead but Hurst pulled back and at quarter time we were two goals down. The team was left the same with the starting 7 realising that fitness is still an area that needs work. The instructions remained the same, look after the ball and remain tight in defense across all areas of the court.
Hurst came out hard in the 2nd quarter having made a couple of changes and where we started to tire, they started to take the game away and the 2nd quarter ended 16 – 10.
We made three changes at half time, moving Rachel Piper to C replacing Erin Collier, Jodie Beaney came on at WA, replacing Sian Rance and Yasmin O’Brian on at WD. The instruction was to continue to defend hard.
We had an excellent third quarter winning the quarter 6 -2 bringing the deficit back to two goals and all to play for in the last quarter.
The first 5 mins of the last quarter was manic with lost possession from both teams, unfortunately our shots did not go in initially and Hurst started to stretch their slender lead – the game ended 19-26. It was an excellent performance from the 2nd team and one that with luck would have seen them going through to the next round.
Down to the 1st team to beat Bhasvic B next week in the cup.
This was expected to be a very one sided affair following Hurst’s thrashing of Worthing’s A team last year in the same competition however Worthing’s B team went out, determined to prove they were worthy opponents.
The focus in training this week was defense and it was delightful as the coach to see the players all working hard to put into practice the work done on Monday. We took an early lead but Hurst pulled back and at quarter time we were two goals down. The team was left the same with the starting 7 realising that fitness is still an area that needs work. The instructions remained the same, look after the ball and remain tight in defense across all areas of the court.
Hurst came out hard in the 2nd quarter having made a couple of changes and where we started to tire, they started to take the game away and the 2nd quarter ended 16 – 10.
We made three changes at half time, moving Rachel Piper to C replacing Erin Collier, Jodie Beaney came on at WA, replacing Sian Rance and Yasmin O’Brian on at WD. The instruction was to continue to defend hard.
We had an excellent third quarter winning the quarter 6 -2 bringing the deficit back to two goals and all to play for in the last quarter.
The first 5 mins of the last quarter was manic with lost possession from both teams, unfortunately our shots did not go in initially and Hurst started to stretch their slender lead – the game ended 19-26. It was an excellent performance from the 2nd team and one that with luck would have seen them going through to the next round.
Down to the 1st team to beat Bhasvic B next week in the cup.
Thursday 7 October 2010
Hockey Academy Report
WORTHING 1 HAVANT 1
GOAL SCORER ALEX MASON
PLAYER OF THE MATCH KELLY STEVEN
IT WAS NICE TO HAVE A FRIENDLY MATCH FOR THE MIXED, AND HAVANT TURNED OUT TO BE WORTHY OPPONENTS. WORTHING STARTED OUT VERY BRIGHTLY AND DOMINATED FOR THE FIRST 20 MINUTES, ALEX MASON SCORING THE OPENING GOAL IN THE 14 MINUTE, AFTER MANY CHANCES HAD BEEN CREATED. ONCE AGAIN THE STORY WAS SIMILAR TO LAST SEASON, WORTHING CREATING MANY OPPORTUNITIES TO SCORE BUT FAILING TO PUT OUR CHANCES AWAY, HENCE A DISAPPOINTING DRAW. THOUGH ON THE WHOLE A GOOD PERFORMANCE WITH BOTH GOALIES HAVING GREAT GAMES, BUT WE NEED TO PUT OUR CHANCES AWAY!
ROB WARNER
GOAL SCORER ALEX MASON
PLAYER OF THE MATCH KELLY STEVEN
IT WAS NICE TO HAVE A FRIENDLY MATCH FOR THE MIXED, AND HAVANT TURNED OUT TO BE WORTHY OPPONENTS. WORTHING STARTED OUT VERY BRIGHTLY AND DOMINATED FOR THE FIRST 20 MINUTES, ALEX MASON SCORING THE OPENING GOAL IN THE 14 MINUTE, AFTER MANY CHANCES HAD BEEN CREATED. ONCE AGAIN THE STORY WAS SIMILAR TO LAST SEASON, WORTHING CREATING MANY OPPORTUNITIES TO SCORE BUT FAILING TO PUT OUR CHANCES AWAY, HENCE A DISAPPOINTING DRAW. THOUGH ON THE WHOLE A GOOD PERFORMANCE WITH BOTH GOALIES HAVING GREAT GAMES, BUT WE NEED TO PUT OUR CHANCES AWAY!
ROB WARNER
Banter with Bridges - Week 2
Its not often you go away from home score 7 and lose but that is the fate Chichester suffered on Wednesday against a much changed Worthing Side in this 15 goal thriller were there was never more than a goal between the two sides. After a slow start from Worthing they fell behind to a simple long ball that was flicked on and Chichester quick forward out raced them and put the ball home. Worthing slowly got themselves back into the game and equalized through good work down the right between Naomi Robinson and Amy Potkins with Robinson applying the finishing touches. Worthing never fell behind again in the game after that, Danielle Lane then got her 1st of the afternoon with a fine solo run and finish from midfield.
Chichester then equalised with a carbon copy of the 1st goal, again poor defending and the same forward ran through to finish past Corrine Wilson 1 on 1. Potkins then got her 1st of the afternoon with a well taken goal from around the penalty spot, but once again Chi equalised this time through a bundled goal were Worthing failed to clear their lines. Lane got her 2nd of the afternoon with a great strike from the edge of the area with her weaker foot to take the game to half time at 4-3.
Some stern words were spoken about the defending in the 1st half especially about letting two long balls lead to two goals.
Strangely Worthing defended much better as a team in the 2nd half but went on to concede more goals than they did the 1st due to individual errors and a great free-kick from range. Chi quickly made it 4-3 after the break despite Worthing enjoying most of the early possession, Worthing replied to make it 5-4 when Sophie Frost nodded the ball in from close range after a scramble on the Chi goal line, the 1st of several goalmouth scrambles on the Chi line in the 2nd half. But yet again Chi equalised from another individual error at the back allowing the forward to go through 1 on 1 and again finish past the helpless Wilson.
Lane then completed her hat-trick after another strong run and finish from midfield, this came at a period that Lane started to become more and more influential in the game. Worthing were now much the dominate side but continued to make sloppy mistakes this time Wilson let a shot slip through her finger and roll onto the net to make it 6-6! Potkins then got her 2nd goal of the afternoon after good work down the right from Naomi Robinson to make it 7-6 with 15 minutes remaining. A free kick from 25 yards again brought the score to 7-7, with the final 10 minutes remaining there was still another goal in it. Potkins got the winner from close range after yet another strong run from Lane. After this goal for the this game the finish was very quiet and Worthing comfortably saw out the result for the final 5 minutes.
Final score Worthing 8-7 Chichester
Scorers: Danielle Lane x 3, Amy Potkins x 3, Sophie Frost, Naomi Robinson
Player of the match: Danielle Lane – for dominating the midfield, getting on the score sheet 3 times and providing two other goals in the game.
Chichester then equalised with a carbon copy of the 1st goal, again poor defending and the same forward ran through to finish past Corrine Wilson 1 on 1. Potkins then got her 1st of the afternoon with a well taken goal from around the penalty spot, but once again Chi equalised this time through a bundled goal were Worthing failed to clear their lines. Lane got her 2nd of the afternoon with a great strike from the edge of the area with her weaker foot to take the game to half time at 4-3.
Some stern words were spoken about the defending in the 1st half especially about letting two long balls lead to two goals.
Strangely Worthing defended much better as a team in the 2nd half but went on to concede more goals than they did the 1st due to individual errors and a great free-kick from range. Chi quickly made it 4-3 after the break despite Worthing enjoying most of the early possession, Worthing replied to make it 5-4 when Sophie Frost nodded the ball in from close range after a scramble on the Chi goal line, the 1st of several goalmouth scrambles on the Chi line in the 2nd half. But yet again Chi equalised from another individual error at the back allowing the forward to go through 1 on 1 and again finish past the helpless Wilson.
Lane then completed her hat-trick after another strong run and finish from midfield, this came at a period that Lane started to become more and more influential in the game. Worthing were now much the dominate side but continued to make sloppy mistakes this time Wilson let a shot slip through her finger and roll onto the net to make it 6-6! Potkins then got her 2nd goal of the afternoon after good work down the right from Naomi Robinson to make it 7-6 with 15 minutes remaining. A free kick from 25 yards again brought the score to 7-7, with the final 10 minutes remaining there was still another goal in it. Potkins got the winner from close range after yet another strong run from Lane. After this goal for the this game the finish was very quiet and Worthing comfortably saw out the result for the final 5 minutes.
Final score Worthing 8-7 Chichester
Scorers: Danielle Lane x 3, Amy Potkins x 3, Sophie Frost, Naomi Robinson
Player of the match: Danielle Lane – for dominating the midfield, getting on the score sheet 3 times and providing two other goals in the game.
Thursday 30 September 2010
Worthing XV 31 King Edward VI Grammar School 17
A week of defensive work eventually paid off with plenty of opportunity to put systems and individual technique under pressure via an indifferent performance.
The first half started with Worthing setting themselves the target of not conceding a penalty on the defensive side of the ball. This did not get achieved and as soon as the first minute KEGS’s Christmas arrived in the form of 15 Navy and Sky players trying to violate every law in our beloved IRB Law book. Unfortunately for the visiting side the official had decided they were indeed bending to breaking point all laws available to a modern day rugby official, his whistle was the MVP early on.
With much of the ball the home side went to work and scored a converted try under the horns, Worthing having not listened or heeded any of the officials warnings. Roberts was running for Prime Minister as he was invited into numerous high level conferences with the man in the middle. It was apparent that he has the most delicate of touches as the official allowed the traveling players to remain at 15 on the field. Until that was Pumfrey fell on the yellow card grenade for the entire back line being off side. Penalty kicked 10-5 to the home side.
Its at this point I should send Roberts directly off the pitch to purchase a Euro Millions Lotto ticket because what he did was at the farthest end of the spectrum of long odds. Sliding across the opposition 22 seeing he was outnumbered 2 to 5 he threw what can only be called an outrageous dummy sending 3 defenders in the wrong direction then a turn of ‘Bolt’ like pace was followed by the maker of sleepless nights for the KEGS 15. A step by the Wizard from the principality which made the Fullback fall without touching the intended tackle recipiant. A full length dive that Tom Daily would have been proud of and the five pointer was notched. Lyons nailed the extras Worthing by 2 at the turn.
A number of players were working hard on and off the ball, Herron was getting into good positions, Laszlo got into good turnover positions and the front row in all of its guises really took care of the scrum. Worthing spent the entire game struggling to gain any dominance in the line out and this was an issue when trying to disrupt the opposition threat and create one of our own. A work in progress.....
A raft of changes at the half way point and Worthing turned to play up the hill and into the wind with a slender lead. The half was not going quite to plan in all areas however there were morsels of delightful delectability even a fired up Gordan Ramsey would struggle to use the F word at. A period of 5mins in the middle portion of the half brought home the bacon for Worthing as combinations started to link, Parker upped the speed around the base and Pegg threatened running at 10. Pumfrey, Green and Fastnedge were challenging the defence in centre field while Lyons attacked well from deep.
Green plopped over after some good work from N White this opened or partially parted the flood gates. The best try was in the post, Wigzell turned the ball over and it was moved across the field where Lyons hit the line at pace. Penetration achieved interplay between Luke, Wigzell and then back to Lyons who finished well. 70m, 6 passes, 5 points, the highlight of the day (apart from the captain’s effort).
The game was drawing to its conclusion and the home side got over from a well worked back row play. Not wishing to be over shadowed the visitors mustered one last turn over, great sending and receiving skills with all involved stressing the defenders ended with Fastnedge notching the 5pts.
On reflection some excellent rugby in places, but for the a long time it was a disappointing trip into ‘No-skillville’ where all 23 players had an equal stake-hold. But pleasingly they organised a field trip to ‘We have played rugby before town’ population 23 (for approximately 6mins). Effort scored at 7/10, organisation 5/10, skill 6/10, Rugby understanding 5/10.
More to work on and more building blocks in place, a reasonable weeks work more to come. Monday.........
The first half started with Worthing setting themselves the target of not conceding a penalty on the defensive side of the ball. This did not get achieved and as soon as the first minute KEGS’s Christmas arrived in the form of 15 Navy and Sky players trying to violate every law in our beloved IRB Law book. Unfortunately for the visiting side the official had decided they were indeed bending to breaking point all laws available to a modern day rugby official, his whistle was the MVP early on.
With much of the ball the home side went to work and scored a converted try under the horns, Worthing having not listened or heeded any of the officials warnings. Roberts was running for Prime Minister as he was invited into numerous high level conferences with the man in the middle. It was apparent that he has the most delicate of touches as the official allowed the traveling players to remain at 15 on the field. Until that was Pumfrey fell on the yellow card grenade for the entire back line being off side. Penalty kicked 10-5 to the home side.
Its at this point I should send Roberts directly off the pitch to purchase a Euro Millions Lotto ticket because what he did was at the farthest end of the spectrum of long odds. Sliding across the opposition 22 seeing he was outnumbered 2 to 5 he threw what can only be called an outrageous dummy sending 3 defenders in the wrong direction then a turn of ‘Bolt’ like pace was followed by the maker of sleepless nights for the KEGS 15. A step by the Wizard from the principality which made the Fullback fall without touching the intended tackle recipiant. A full length dive that Tom Daily would have been proud of and the five pointer was notched. Lyons nailed the extras Worthing by 2 at the turn.
A number of players were working hard on and off the ball, Herron was getting into good positions, Laszlo got into good turnover positions and the front row in all of its guises really took care of the scrum. Worthing spent the entire game struggling to gain any dominance in the line out and this was an issue when trying to disrupt the opposition threat and create one of our own. A work in progress.....
A raft of changes at the half way point and Worthing turned to play up the hill and into the wind with a slender lead. The half was not going quite to plan in all areas however there were morsels of delightful delectability even a fired up Gordan Ramsey would struggle to use the F word at. A period of 5mins in the middle portion of the half brought home the bacon for Worthing as combinations started to link, Parker upped the speed around the base and Pegg threatened running at 10. Pumfrey, Green and Fastnedge were challenging the defence in centre field while Lyons attacked well from deep.
Green plopped over after some good work from N White this opened or partially parted the flood gates. The best try was in the post, Wigzell turned the ball over and it was moved across the field where Lyons hit the line at pace. Penetration achieved interplay between Luke, Wigzell and then back to Lyons who finished well. 70m, 6 passes, 5 points, the highlight of the day (apart from the captain’s effort).
The game was drawing to its conclusion and the home side got over from a well worked back row play. Not wishing to be over shadowed the visitors mustered one last turn over, great sending and receiving skills with all involved stressing the defenders ended with Fastnedge notching the 5pts.
On reflection some excellent rugby in places, but for the a long time it was a disappointing trip into ‘No-skillville’ where all 23 players had an equal stake-hold. But pleasingly they organised a field trip to ‘We have played rugby before town’ population 23 (for approximately 6mins). Effort scored at 7/10, organisation 5/10, skill 6/10, Rugby understanding 5/10.
More to work on and more building blocks in place, a reasonable weeks work more to come. Monday.........
Wednesday 29 September 2010
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 4 Vol 2
After a couple of intense training sessions both Football squads were looking for wins to add to their efforts in training. Preparation was hampered though by a number of injuries and unavailabilities, which decimated the squad from 36 strong to 24 holding on! However there was some light at the end of the tunnel for both teams to ensure the benches were filled and therefore needed if called upon.
The 1st XI headed towards fellow league leaders Woking with the news that Lewis Jenkins was only fit enough for the bench and 2nd XI starter Jon Watkins also came along to “do a job” if need be. With the late fitness tests of Ryan Quirke (Failed) and Dan Heward (Passed) coach Dave Hall took his option C of starting line ups, which moved top scorer Olly Setchell to Right Back, Jack Boxall to Left Back and this allowed the returning Dave Herbert to take his place in the central striking role.
The word before the game was that this was to be the biggest test of the season so far and it would gauge how far this team had come in four weeks of training and matches. With a cautious warm up Worthing started the brighter and got the ball moving at pace on the slick and luscious surface that Woking had to offer. It wasn’t long before the chances were being carved out with Herbert being the main culprit on more than one occasion. With this early domination it only looked like one team were going to score first, however Football has a habit being cruel at times and this was evident when Woking took the lead. Kieron Gillard’s distribution had been excellent both out of hand and on the floor, however a scuffed clearance was pounced upon by the Woking striker, who found his partner and slotted the ball under Gillard. 0-1.
With this cruel blow Worthing needed to keep their cool and continue what they were doing, which was passing, moving and switching play. Chances again came Worthing’s way with Herbert, Jordan Clark and Joe Warner all having chances to get their names on the scoresheet. Then came the well deserved equaliser. A Herbert run down the right put himself through on goal. His scooped finish was well cleared off the line only for the ball to loop up for Lee Mottershead to head in his first goal at Academy level. 1-1.
With this Worthing stepped up a gear (if that was possible!) with three quick goals coming to no reply. All three were scored by that man Herbert, with one coming from a Jordan Clark flick on, another coming from an excellent piece of thinking by Clark when taking a free kick quickly and another a fine finish across the Woking keeper and skidding off the wet turf. 4-1. That is how it stayed until the half. Apart from conceding the goal the performance was up in the top three of all time at the Academy in terms of intensity and skill. It was a joy to watch.
At half time Worthing knew that they needed to continue the pressure on their fellow league challengers to ensure that the game was won. Worthing couldn’t have started better this time it was Joe Warner, who got on scoresheet. A thoroughly deserved goal based on his high energy, tough tackling performance. Warner volleyed in after the Woking keeper could only parry a Liam O’Connor cross. 5-1.
To their credit Woking did try and come back at the visitors, however Boxall, Setchell, Heward and Jack Carey stood firm and shut the door on any Woking attacks. It was only a matter of time before the next goal came. This time it was Herbert again, who slotted the ball into the far right corner after Worthing had “nicked” the ball high. 6-1. In all honesty it could really have been a cricket score with Clark, Warner, Herbert & substitute Ryan Quirke all having chances to increase Worthing’s lead. The final goal of the game came from Warner, who with a couple of minutes remaining powered though the home defense, used the “crying” Quirke as a decoy and rounded the goalkeeper. 7-1.
Meanwhile the 2nd XI travelled to North London to take on newcomers St Thomas More in an ECFA League Match. After lasts weeks excellent performance against Watford the boys knew that if they put in the effort and intensity into their game the result would definitely come. Coach Danny Cullip made a couple of changes to the team, who were so unfortunate the week before. Full backs Harry Metters and Pat Kelly switched flanks, Judah Langford came into the side to replace the injured Jon Watkins on the right wing. Cullip was full of praise for his players after the performance, which saw goals from Dom Stannard and Abdoulie Bah secure a 2-1 win. Again the attitude was first class, with the only negative being that it should have been a more comfortable victory, with many chances squandered.
All in all a very successful week results wise for the Football Academy. This is down to the players attitude and work rate both in training and in games, which has led to the players playing neat attractive football, which is now becoming even more effective. Hopefully both teams will continue to kick on from these positive results and have a successful season. Well done to all involved.
Next week sees the 1st XI having a week off, but the 2nd XI start their defence of the County Cup, which has seen them drawn at home to Sir Robert Woodard Academy. Kick off is 3.30pm and the venue is Worthing United FC. It would be great to see you down supporting Danny and the lads!
Onwards and Upwards,
Hallsy
The 1st XI headed towards fellow league leaders Woking with the news that Lewis Jenkins was only fit enough for the bench and 2nd XI starter Jon Watkins also came along to “do a job” if need be. With the late fitness tests of Ryan Quirke (Failed) and Dan Heward (Passed) coach Dave Hall took his option C of starting line ups, which moved top scorer Olly Setchell to Right Back, Jack Boxall to Left Back and this allowed the returning Dave Herbert to take his place in the central striking role.
The word before the game was that this was to be the biggest test of the season so far and it would gauge how far this team had come in four weeks of training and matches. With a cautious warm up Worthing started the brighter and got the ball moving at pace on the slick and luscious surface that Woking had to offer. It wasn’t long before the chances were being carved out with Herbert being the main culprit on more than one occasion. With this early domination it only looked like one team were going to score first, however Football has a habit being cruel at times and this was evident when Woking took the lead. Kieron Gillard’s distribution had been excellent both out of hand and on the floor, however a scuffed clearance was pounced upon by the Woking striker, who found his partner and slotted the ball under Gillard. 0-1.
With this cruel blow Worthing needed to keep their cool and continue what they were doing, which was passing, moving and switching play. Chances again came Worthing’s way with Herbert, Jordan Clark and Joe Warner all having chances to get their names on the scoresheet. Then came the well deserved equaliser. A Herbert run down the right put himself through on goal. His scooped finish was well cleared off the line only for the ball to loop up for Lee Mottershead to head in his first goal at Academy level. 1-1.
With this Worthing stepped up a gear (if that was possible!) with three quick goals coming to no reply. All three were scored by that man Herbert, with one coming from a Jordan Clark flick on, another coming from an excellent piece of thinking by Clark when taking a free kick quickly and another a fine finish across the Woking keeper and skidding off the wet turf. 4-1. That is how it stayed until the half. Apart from conceding the goal the performance was up in the top three of all time at the Academy in terms of intensity and skill. It was a joy to watch.
At half time Worthing knew that they needed to continue the pressure on their fellow league challengers to ensure that the game was won. Worthing couldn’t have started better this time it was Joe Warner, who got on scoresheet. A thoroughly deserved goal based on his high energy, tough tackling performance. Warner volleyed in after the Woking keeper could only parry a Liam O’Connor cross. 5-1.
To their credit Woking did try and come back at the visitors, however Boxall, Setchell, Heward and Jack Carey stood firm and shut the door on any Woking attacks. It was only a matter of time before the next goal came. This time it was Herbert again, who slotted the ball into the far right corner after Worthing had “nicked” the ball high. 6-1. In all honesty it could really have been a cricket score with Clark, Warner, Herbert & substitute Ryan Quirke all having chances to increase Worthing’s lead. The final goal of the game came from Warner, who with a couple of minutes remaining powered though the home defense, used the “crying” Quirke as a decoy and rounded the goalkeeper. 7-1.
Meanwhile the 2nd XI travelled to North London to take on newcomers St Thomas More in an ECFA League Match. After lasts weeks excellent performance against Watford the boys knew that if they put in the effort and intensity into their game the result would definitely come. Coach Danny Cullip made a couple of changes to the team, who were so unfortunate the week before. Full backs Harry Metters and Pat Kelly switched flanks, Judah Langford came into the side to replace the injured Jon Watkins on the right wing. Cullip was full of praise for his players after the performance, which saw goals from Dom Stannard and Abdoulie Bah secure a 2-1 win. Again the attitude was first class, with the only negative being that it should have been a more comfortable victory, with many chances squandered.
All in all a very successful week results wise for the Football Academy. This is down to the players attitude and work rate both in training and in games, which has led to the players playing neat attractive football, which is now becoming even more effective. Hopefully both teams will continue to kick on from these positive results and have a successful season. Well done to all involved.
Next week sees the 1st XI having a week off, but the 2nd XI start their defence of the County Cup, which has seen them drawn at home to Sir Robert Woodard Academy. Kick off is 3.30pm and the venue is Worthing United FC. It would be great to see you down supporting Danny and the lads!
Onwards and Upwards,
Hallsy
Thursday 23 September 2010
Worthing 2nd XV 17 Richmond 1st XV 42
On first glance this could take you back to the early 1980s and an excited Norwegian football commentator, ‘Peter Corrigan, Ben Coulson, Paul Cox your boys took one hell of a beating.’ Well not so a defeat yes a beating not so much. A strong Richmond side travelled to the Arena of Aspiration following a self imposed drop from the elite to performance league of the British Colleges structure. The south west London outfit having had a large overhaul of their rugby programme in the summer months but pleasingly no fall off in intensity, enthusiasm or athletic prowess.
These guys came to play with a large well organised pack that could take care of business at scrum and line out time, while the backs had gas to burn and scintillating ‘come dancing’ feet. Quite a challenge for the young Worthing side, made of predominantly freshmen with a sprinkling of seasoned club pros. One such performer was Simon Arnold who took the responsibility of leading the side and made an excellent fist of the job.
From the off the Worthing players huffed and puffed but couldn’t blow the Richmond house down, however their efforts were rewarded with two excellently struck Pegg penalties (this chap strikes a reasonable ball) and concerted pressure from the home side brought the best from the visitors. Unfortunately it only severed to wake a slumbering giant, Richmond realising it was on like Donkey Kong and hit back to draw the tie at 6 points each with their forwards making larger inroads into the Worthing defence.
As the half went on the home side continued to give as good as they got and put phases together in order to score. Dixon was making it difficult for the opposition halfbacks, Herron was running well with the ball gaining great support from Wright, Trencher, Arnold et al. The Worthing front row were having a torrid time in the scrum, but manned up a beaut never giving or asking quarter be given. Brightman kicked well from the base of the ruck, Pegg was kicking well for posts and managed to nothch another penalty before the half but was unable to convert the only Worthing try of the afternoon. The centre pairing of Maslen and Fastnedge defended admirably, there is plenty of talent there me thinks. Alas Worthing didn’t get enough of the ball to show the speed of the back 3 all of whom worked well off the ball and showed willing.
At the half changes were made and Worthing fell to a number of very good scores from the larger, more experienced visitors and couldn’t get back in contention. However there was no backing down and every player involved gave it their all. Leeming made a very impressive home debut stretching the opposition providing quick ball for the backs that couldn’t really get going owing to sound defending from the Richmond side. Wilson managed to strike a good penalty towards the end of the match and other than Herron having a try disallowed for a double movement that was all she wrote.
So on reflection, more building blocks laid, progress made and gauntlets thrown. A 8 out of 10 for stones with a 3.5 out of 10 for street smarts, but that’s okay by me. A long season ahead and I’m confident that many of these players will grace the 1st XV in the weeks and months to come. It’s true to say I could be quietly excited about the training, matches and season to come. A good effort chaps, see you tomorrow for training 12.55 sharpe, Lombardi time.
These guys came to play with a large well organised pack that could take care of business at scrum and line out time, while the backs had gas to burn and scintillating ‘come dancing’ feet. Quite a challenge for the young Worthing side, made of predominantly freshmen with a sprinkling of seasoned club pros. One such performer was Simon Arnold who took the responsibility of leading the side and made an excellent fist of the job.
From the off the Worthing players huffed and puffed but couldn’t blow the Richmond house down, however their efforts were rewarded with two excellently struck Pegg penalties (this chap strikes a reasonable ball) and concerted pressure from the home side brought the best from the visitors. Unfortunately it only severed to wake a slumbering giant, Richmond realising it was on like Donkey Kong and hit back to draw the tie at 6 points each with their forwards making larger inroads into the Worthing defence.
As the half went on the home side continued to give as good as they got and put phases together in order to score. Dixon was making it difficult for the opposition halfbacks, Herron was running well with the ball gaining great support from Wright, Trencher, Arnold et al. The Worthing front row were having a torrid time in the scrum, but manned up a beaut never giving or asking quarter be given. Brightman kicked well from the base of the ruck, Pegg was kicking well for posts and managed to nothch another penalty before the half but was unable to convert the only Worthing try of the afternoon. The centre pairing of Maslen and Fastnedge defended admirably, there is plenty of talent there me thinks. Alas Worthing didn’t get enough of the ball to show the speed of the back 3 all of whom worked well off the ball and showed willing.
At the half changes were made and Worthing fell to a number of very good scores from the larger, more experienced visitors and couldn’t get back in contention. However there was no backing down and every player involved gave it their all. Leeming made a very impressive home debut stretching the opposition providing quick ball for the backs that couldn’t really get going owing to sound defending from the Richmond side. Wilson managed to strike a good penalty towards the end of the match and other than Herron having a try disallowed for a double movement that was all she wrote.
So on reflection, more building blocks laid, progress made and gauntlets thrown. A 8 out of 10 for stones with a 3.5 out of 10 for street smarts, but that’s okay by me. A long season ahead and I’m confident that many of these players will grace the 1st XV in the weeks and months to come. It’s true to say I could be quietly excited about the training, matches and season to come. A good effort chaps, see you tomorrow for training 12.55 sharpe, Lombardi time.
Wednesday 22 September 2010
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 3 Vol 2
After two days of preparation both Worthing College Academy Men's Football teams took to field with confidence that performances would look after the results with both sides wanting victories for different reasons. The 1st XI wanted to continue their excellent start to the season against local rivals City College Brighton and the 2nd XI wanted to get their season up and running in their matchup against Watford & Hertswood.
The venue for the 1st XI's encounter was the picturesque setting of Arundel FC, where the sun was shining and the surface was, if a little long, still ideal for passing football. Worthing's opponents from along the coast were going to be a step up from Hextable and John Ruskin in class and the players knew that they had to be up for it from the start.
Coach Dave Hall again rung the changes, which now shows the strength in depth across both squads with Kieron Gillard replacing the unfortunate James Fernandes between the sticks, Jack Boxall replaced Matt Chester at right back and Sam Mannings returned in place of Joe Warner who took a seat in the dugout.
With Fernandes absent Mannings took the armband and it was key that Worthing pressed the ball high from the start, however it took Worthing time to get settled and it was City College, who looked to close down the hosts, who at times were slow to release the ball. A lot of the play was taking place in the mid third of the pitch with both sides creating little goalscoring opportunities. City College seemed to be dangerous from set plays and this was typified when Matt Dodd needed to head the ball away from his own goalline.
However as the half grew Worthing's hard work and concentration began to pay off and their neat passing style was beginning to dominate City's more direct approach. Dodd, Jordan Clark and Mannings began to pull the strings and looked to create chances. Mannings shot wide after beating his man being one of the openings. With the half drawing to a stalemate close both sides could have gone in ahead. First it was the visitors with the tall number 10 heading the ball towards the far stanchion only for Gillard to pluck the ball out of the air. Worthing then responded with the unusually quite Ryan Quirke jinking in and out of defenders only to see his shot brilliantly saved by the City keeper. Worthing continued this mini dominance with Dodd flicking a boot at a Lewis Jenkins free kick, which again was denied by the keeper. 0-0 at the half.
Worthing knew that it hadn't been a quality performance, however the effort and determination was there for all to see and when the quality was to surface this would surely bring the breakthrough. Worthing started the brighter of the second period with nicking the ball high up the pitch and a quicker tempo of passing meant that Worthing were now beginning to dominate a tight game. This dominance was soon to be rewarded when Clark and Dodd combined to switch the play to Quirke, who jinked inside and fed the overlapping Boxall, who then delivered a wicked cross to find Olly Setchell, who poked the ball past the visiting keeper. 1-0.
Worthing were now definitely in the ascendency and City College's direct approach was cut out effectively by the back four of Boxall, Jenkins, Dan Heward and Jack Carey. Worthing were really beginning to turn on the style and this was evident with the second goal, which in the end won the game. A searching Clark pass was picked up by the hard running Lee Mottershead, who after a couple of cheeky stepovers played a one two with the excellent Jenkins and Mottershead's cross found Quirke, who found Setchell and he was clinical from 12 yards. 2-0.
It looked as if this once tight match was turning into a one sided affair with Worthing controlling the pace of the game. Dodd, Clark and Mannings had shots, which only tested the railings behind the goals, but they were still chances created. At the other end Gillard was redundant of any work. However this was to change and turned the game into a nervous affair. The skillful visiting number 10 was allowed to turn and volley the ball from 20 yards past Gillard, who seemed to watch the ball in. 2-1. Worthing though held their nerve and came away from Arundel with an excellent victory, which sees 9 points from 9 being the scores on the doors!
Meanwhile in the lunchtime kick off the 2nd XI took to the field against Watford & Hertswood, who were an unknown quantity as they were a new side to the 2nd XI set up. Worthing put behind them their previous weeks performance, which pleased coach Danny Cullip. Worthing were unfortunately beat 2-0, which on another day could have easily been a point gained with the goals coming from a heavily disputed penalty and a goalkeeping error. Cullip praised the whole squad for their attitude and willingness to develop, but gave special mention to midfielder Ross Myers, defender and skipper Matt Chester and goalkeeper Shaun Butler, who apart from the second goal was excellent.
All in all a very pleasing week in the Men's Football Academy. It is so rewarding when both squads go out and look to play attractive football and get the results their skill and attitude deserves. This however needs to be consistent throughout the season if both squads are to progress in their development. At times it is an absolute joy to watch and I know it won't be long until both squads are winning matches at this high level.
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
The venue for the 1st XI's encounter was the picturesque setting of Arundel FC, where the sun was shining and the surface was, if a little long, still ideal for passing football. Worthing's opponents from along the coast were going to be a step up from Hextable and John Ruskin in class and the players knew that they had to be up for it from the start.
Coach Dave Hall again rung the changes, which now shows the strength in depth across both squads with Kieron Gillard replacing the unfortunate James Fernandes between the sticks, Jack Boxall replaced Matt Chester at right back and Sam Mannings returned in place of Joe Warner who took a seat in the dugout.
With Fernandes absent Mannings took the armband and it was key that Worthing pressed the ball high from the start, however it took Worthing time to get settled and it was City College, who looked to close down the hosts, who at times were slow to release the ball. A lot of the play was taking place in the mid third of the pitch with both sides creating little goalscoring opportunities. City College seemed to be dangerous from set plays and this was typified when Matt Dodd needed to head the ball away from his own goalline.
However as the half grew Worthing's hard work and concentration began to pay off and their neat passing style was beginning to dominate City's more direct approach. Dodd, Jordan Clark and Mannings began to pull the strings and looked to create chances. Mannings shot wide after beating his man being one of the openings. With the half drawing to a stalemate close both sides could have gone in ahead. First it was the visitors with the tall number 10 heading the ball towards the far stanchion only for Gillard to pluck the ball out of the air. Worthing then responded with the unusually quite Ryan Quirke jinking in and out of defenders only to see his shot brilliantly saved by the City keeper. Worthing continued this mini dominance with Dodd flicking a boot at a Lewis Jenkins free kick, which again was denied by the keeper. 0-0 at the half.
Worthing knew that it hadn't been a quality performance, however the effort and determination was there for all to see and when the quality was to surface this would surely bring the breakthrough. Worthing started the brighter of the second period with nicking the ball high up the pitch and a quicker tempo of passing meant that Worthing were now beginning to dominate a tight game. This dominance was soon to be rewarded when Clark and Dodd combined to switch the play to Quirke, who jinked inside and fed the overlapping Boxall, who then delivered a wicked cross to find Olly Setchell, who poked the ball past the visiting keeper. 1-0.
Worthing were now definitely in the ascendency and City College's direct approach was cut out effectively by the back four of Boxall, Jenkins, Dan Heward and Jack Carey. Worthing were really beginning to turn on the style and this was evident with the second goal, which in the end won the game. A searching Clark pass was picked up by the hard running Lee Mottershead, who after a couple of cheeky stepovers played a one two with the excellent Jenkins and Mottershead's cross found Quirke, who found Setchell and he was clinical from 12 yards. 2-0.
It looked as if this once tight match was turning into a one sided affair with Worthing controlling the pace of the game. Dodd, Clark and Mannings had shots, which only tested the railings behind the goals, but they were still chances created. At the other end Gillard was redundant of any work. However this was to change and turned the game into a nervous affair. The skillful visiting number 10 was allowed to turn and volley the ball from 20 yards past Gillard, who seemed to watch the ball in. 2-1. Worthing though held their nerve and came away from Arundel with an excellent victory, which sees 9 points from 9 being the scores on the doors!
Meanwhile in the lunchtime kick off the 2nd XI took to the field against Watford & Hertswood, who were an unknown quantity as they were a new side to the 2nd XI set up. Worthing put behind them their previous weeks performance, which pleased coach Danny Cullip. Worthing were unfortunately beat 2-0, which on another day could have easily been a point gained with the goals coming from a heavily disputed penalty and a goalkeeping error. Cullip praised the whole squad for their attitude and willingness to develop, but gave special mention to midfielder Ross Myers, defender and skipper Matt Chester and goalkeeper Shaun Butler, who apart from the second goal was excellent.
All in all a very pleasing week in the Men's Football Academy. It is so rewarding when both squads go out and look to play attractive football and get the results their skill and attitude deserves. This however needs to be consistent throughout the season if both squads are to progress in their development. At times it is an absolute joy to watch and I know it won't be long until both squads are winning matches at this high level.
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
Friday 17 September 2010
Netball Round Up - Week 1
A VERY bumpy start to the new season, new players starting and some players returning for a 2nd year.
We started off slowly and needed to work on passing and defence, the girls were having to work hard to read the game but we ended the quarter on 5 – 4 up.
After a brief chat the girls were to work on their passing, and this did not work as planned. The passing, defence and shooting just was not happening, whatever the girls tried it was not working and Chichester started to match us shot for shot. The 2nd quarter ended on 8 all.
At this point I was trying not to panic and think that there was a big chance that we might lose this game, and we all knew that that was unacceptable and we did not tell Tina that we lost! So with quite a few changes in the 3rd quarter the girls were told to sort out their passing and defence. With Ria Knight playing a great defensive game as GK the rest of the girls needed to up their game and show that they are capable of defending well. AND woohoo finally some good defence work surfaced and the shooting started to go in and we ended the 3rd quarter on 19 – 11 up.
So the plan was go into the 4th continue working hard on the defence and passing but it did not go as well as planned and it fell apart a bit but the girls held on the a win and it finished 22 to Worthing College and 16 to Chichester College.
Players player: Katie Pearcy (Congratulations)
We started off slowly and needed to work on passing and defence, the girls were having to work hard to read the game but we ended the quarter on 5 – 4 up.
After a brief chat the girls were to work on their passing, and this did not work as planned. The passing, defence and shooting just was not happening, whatever the girls tried it was not working and Chichester started to match us shot for shot. The 2nd quarter ended on 8 all.
At this point I was trying not to panic and think that there was a big chance that we might lose this game, and we all knew that that was unacceptable and we did not tell Tina that we lost! So with quite a few changes in the 3rd quarter the girls were told to sort out their passing and defence. With Ria Knight playing a great defensive game as GK the rest of the girls needed to up their game and show that they are capable of defending well. AND woohoo finally some good defence work surfaced and the shooting started to go in and we ended the 3rd quarter on 19 – 11 up.
So the plan was go into the 4th continue working hard on the defence and passing but it did not go as well as planned and it fell apart a bit but the girls held on the a win and it finished 22 to Worthing College and 16 to Chichester College.
Players player: Katie Pearcy (Congratulations)
Banter with Bridges - Week 1
Southgate 1 – 4 Worthing College
(Emmerton, Debaes x 2 and Robinson)
Worthing travelled away to Southgate College in North London to face Tottenham’s Under 19’s. After a shaky 1stfive minutes the new look side started to find their feet against a strong and physical side. Playing against the wind Worthing struggled to get into the game and use their superior pace and fitness against Southgate.
The first chance fell to Lucy Somes who struck a shot wide of the right post from 20 yards out with the goalkeeper a spectator. But despite this Worthing fell behind from the 1st corner of the game when a mistake by Lauren Binfield dropped a cross at the forwards feet who tapped in the simplest of chances. This then gave Southgate the impetus, with their best player the left winger, who represent Tottenham’s 1st team, causing problems with her pace and power.
Worthing got themselves back into the game through a well worked move involving Danielle Lane, Lucy Somes and Maddy Emmerton providing the finishing touch sliding the ball into the bottom left corner.
1-1 Half time.
In the 2nd half Worthing came out with more tempo to their game getting in behind the defence on more regular occasions. After 15 minutes Chloe Debaes was introduced and a re-gig was seen and then proved to be the difference with Debaes scoring the next two goals in quick succession before nearly completing her hat-trick on two occasions. 1 first was a well worked move resulting in Debaes scoring from 20 yards, the 2nd a tap in after good work from fellow sub Amy Potkins on the right who then squared the ball leaving an open goal for Debaes.
The final game came from a cheeky cheap from Naomi Robinson on her debut to round off a very impressive 2ndhalf performance against a team linked with a big club like Tottenham.
4-1 Full time
Player of the match Danielle Lane – dealt with the impressive left winger very well and helped create several good opportunities going forward.
Mike
A View from the Zak! - Week 1
A new feature on this blog sees Sports Development apprentice Zaki Rahman report on games around the Academy, beginning with the Men's football 2nd XI.
Worthing College 2nd XI arrived at Worthing United Football Ground preparing for their first game of the competitive season without main coach Danny Cullip who was absent.
The side was to be led by Tina Price and Zaki Rahman, a pair who are inexperienced in different ways when coaching a football side.
The team turned up and immediately after seeing the other side conversation started to flow about the size of the Kingston players.
Once again this year the Worthing Academy is small in physical presence, yet it did not affect their performance last season.
The team was much changed from last season with only three 2nd team players left in the side and the squad made up of mainly 1st years.
Worthing were told to press the ball high up the pitch and win the ball back in Kingston’s half, but this philosophy was not instilled from kick off and Kingston were allowed to settle getting a lot of early possession and chances.
Worthing then conceded a penalty when the Kingston Striker got wrong side of Josh Butler and was taken down. 1 -0 Kingston.
But Worthing responded well just as they have done in previous years, and a quick bit of thinking from Abdoulie Bah with a quick throw in, allowed Dom Stannard to be played through on goal and calmly finish. 1-1.
But Worthing once again conceded this time from a corner, where Gillard was unable to come and claim because of a man marking him and poor marking from Worthing allowed for an easy tap in. Half time 2-1 Kingston.
After a stern talking to about where Worthing were going wrong, they came out in the second half pressing the ball hard and winning it back in Kingston’s half in a new 4-4-2 formation, Worthing looked on top and had a great chance to score with Josh Butler.
But caught on the break Kingston went 3-1 up and this is where poor mental attitude and poor physical fitness got the better of the Worthing side. The were no longer pressing the ball, giving it a way poorly and reverting to a long ball which was never going to work with the Kingston Centre back’s size.
Two more goals were taken well by a Centre Midfielder who ran the game for Kingston and was never really picked up throughout the whole game and Kingston went away worthy winners, Worthing maybe just lucky it wasn’t more than five.
Worthing are not far off being a good side, but attitude, fitness and team work needs to improve for them to beat sides like Kingston who they will come across a lot in this league.
Unlucky, bounce back next week!
Zaki
Wednesday 15 September 2010
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 2 Vol 2
After the confident start last week the Worthing College Football Academy 1st and 2nd XI’s were both in action against south of the capital sides in John Ruskin and Kingston respectively.
The 1st XI saw Dan Heward and Lewis Jenkins both making their debuts in a backline joined by Matt Chester and Jack Carey. Skipper James Fernandes returned between the sticks and also Matt Dodd made his first appearance of the season in the heart of the midfield.
The opposition have changed their venue for the new season, however the pitch was not fairing any better with ruts and stones aplenty for the technically efficient Worthing side to deal with. With this combined with the blustery conditions Worthing were going to be up against it as John Ruskin are a physical and athletic outfit with a direct approach.
Coach Dave Hall warned that if mistakes were made they would be punished at the higher level. Unfortunately his words rung true inside the opening ten minutes. The ball was given away in the midfield, which was pounced upon and allowed the lively striker to finish cooly under the advancing Fernandes. 0-1.
Worthing needed to react well and react well they did. When playing the ball on the floor at pace Worthing were too good for their opponents. Dodd, Jordan Clark and Joe Warner began to run the midfield with neat play and at times impressive diagonal passes. For all of their pressure Worthing didn’t really muster any clear cut chances until the equaliser. Ryan Quirke received an overhit cross from Lee Mottershead and then jinked past his marker and expertly slotted the ball under the advancing corner. 1-1.
This goal seemed to turn the game with Worthing’s high tempo, high pressing strategy rattling their opponents into mistake after mistake. Striker Olly Setchell almost gave Worthing the lead before half time whilst John Ruskin appealed for offside, Setchell screwed his shot towards the far post, which Lee Mottershead couldn’t dispatch.
At half time Worthing were confident with the wind at their backs in the second half. However the word was to make sure that their work rate was consistently high for the remaining forty five minutes and not to get complacent.
Worthing in the past have been on the wrong side of some bad luck over the last few years, however this time lady luck was on their side for their second goal. A ball over the top was latched onto by Setchell and he surprised the host goalkeeper by striking the ball early and into the roof of the net. The luck came as Setchell was two or three yards offside. Happy Days. 2-1.
In the first half Worthing played the conditions excellently. With the wind in their faces they kept the ball on the floor and technically out matched their opponents. The second half saw the wind at their backs and to their credit Worthing kept their discipline and continued with the Academy philosophy of pass and move at pace. Dodd, Clark and Warner were now running the show and with the back four of Carey, Heward, Chester and Jenkins keeping John Ruskin at bay Worthing were now in complete control leaving keeper Fernandes redundant.
For all of this domination a third goal was needed to kill the game Clark tried his best to score sooner rather than later, however his strike towards the far post curled the other way. Matt Dodd also wanted a piece of the action, but he was denied firstly by his wayward shooting and secondly from an excellent block from the host keeper. Those two were involved in the third with Dodd chipping a free kick straight onto the head of Clark just in front of the advancing keeper. 3-1.
With the game supposedly safe John Ruskin did manage a mini break only to be thwarted by the impressive Heward and Carey.
Worthing’s impressive start to the season continues with each player playing their part. It is even more impressive that the Academy ethos has rubbed off onto all of the new members of the squad so quickly, which is massive credit to the new lads, but the old guard have more than played their part in this process by making all feel welcome and setting high standards. Worthing’s start will be tested next week when they come up against City College, who were last years league winners. So that will definitely be a test of how far the squad has come in such a short space of time.
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
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