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.........
Thursday 30 September 2010
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
Wednesday 8 September 2010
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 1 Vol 2
A new season, a fresh start and greater expectations greeted a young Worthing College Football Academy 1st XI in the league opener against new boys Hextable. The Arundel FC pitch was in immaculate condition and would certainly suit the Worthing College philosophy of pass and move football.
Worthing saw no fewer than 12 newcomers, who were making their ECFA league debuts with only keeper Kieron Gillard, Jack Carey, Jordan Clark and Liam "Des" O'Connor from the "old guard".
Newcomers Hextable looked hungry and big in stature, however the management team of Dave Hall and Danny Cullip were confident that Worthing's technical abilities would shine through. The game began with both sides looking to gain the upper hand and it was the home team who took the initiative with the skillful Ryan Quirke jinking in and out of Hextable defenders only to see his cross blocked and cleared. Hextable were an unknown quantity at this level and took the more direct approach, but with the positioning of Jack Carey, Matt Chester, Pat Kelly and Seb Gerswind across the back four the visitors didn't create anything clear cut.
Meanwhile central striker Olly Setchell was giving as good as he got against two physical and powerful centre halves and this attitude paid off and allowed Setchell to open the scoring after latching onto a through ball and placing the ball in the bottom corner. 1-0.
Worthing were still at times a little too deep, which allowed the visitors to apply pressure, especially in set piece situations, however the towering headed clearances of Jordan Clark, Chester and Carey kept Hextable away from calling Gillard into any notable action. As the half grew on Worthing began to dominate the midfield with Clark combining well with the technically gifted pairing of Joe Warner and Jon Watkins and it was the former who doubled Worthing's lead. Again excellent work from the slippery Quirke ended in his "hospital pass/cross" being smashed into the top corner by Warner. 2-0.
At half time the message was to continue to press the visitors with the next goal crucial. Again the back four of Gerswind, Carey, Chester and Kelly kept the visitors at bay as well as looking comfortable in possession. With the game in control it was now about finishing off the game as a contest and this came as both sides began to tire. Clark received the ball and played a one two with Quirke, which provided a tap in for substitute Judah Langford. 3-0.
As fatigue began to set in Hall and Cullip began to ring the changes with Watkins, Warner and Setchell being replaced by Ross Myers, Langford and Liam "Des" O'Connor. Even with wholesale changes Worthing continued to keep the ball and play an effective passing game. The final goal was fully deserved with Quirke jinking in and out once again, but this time the glory was to be his as the ball was struck into the far corner. 4-0.
To conclude a very professional performance considering as a squad we have only been working together for just over a week. All players should be praised for their attitude and application and I sincerely hope that this continues throughout the season, which will make us competitive at both 1st XI and 2nd XI level.
A season to look forward to I think!!
Onwards and Upwards,
Hallsy
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