Lauren Binfield, Naomi Robinson and Lucy Somes travelled to Filton College to represent the South of England v North of England in the final stage of trials before the final England College Squad was picked. With all three starting for the South they had a good chance to push their claim for a place in the final squad. Binfield starting in goal impressed before eve the game had begun when working with the goalkeeping coach during the warm up showing her athletic ability and her shot stopping.
With Robinson starting at right midfield and Somes starting up front the game started at a fast pace with the North quickly gaining control of the game. This gave Binfield plenty to do in the South goal making a couple of early saves down low. As the game went on the South slowly got themselves into the game with Somes hold up play being a big feature of the South’s play.
After 25 minutes the North broke the deadlock when a forward from Gateshead College broke through and finished passed a helpless Binfield who had no chances of saving from the advancing forward. Robinson was working hard on the right helping out the overwhelmed South right back and was also providing good width when the South got on the ball. Despite the hard work from both outfield Worthing players the North were showing a great dominance and ability on the ball creating several chances. The inevitable 2nd came when again the struggling South defence allowed the same Gateshead forward to go clean through 1 on 1 and finish from 12 yards.
Half time 2-0 to the North all three Worthing players had given a good account of themselves.
The 2nd half saw some changes in both sides with Robinson dropping to the bench. The 2nd half started in much the same vein but quickly the South improved with Somes dropping deeper to help the 2 centre midfielders and linking up well with them. This allowed the South to get higher up the pitch and have more controlled possession of the ball. Somes impressing with her work rate and hold up-play in particular. After 60 minutes the game again saw some changes. Binfield being removed for another goalkeeper and Robinson being reintroduced this time on the left.
The final 20 minutes saw the best of both Somes and Robinson with both being heavily involved for their side in nearly everything that was good for them. Robinson linking up well and providing constant danger whilst Somes was continuing to work as hard as anyone on the pitch and show flashes of quality when in possession.
The game finished with all three players having individual praise from all the watching scouts during the game Binfield for her athleticism, Somes for her work rate and hold up play and Robinson for looking one of the most dangerous players on the pitch in the final 20 minutes.
All three were a credit to themselves and the college and have giving themselves a great chance to be picked for the full squad, even with such a high level of quality around them.
They should find out this Friday good luck to all three.
Mike
Thursday 27 January 2011
A Post from the Price!
Sussex Knock Out Cup - Netball Academy
On a year to the day (Amber’s Birthday) when Worthing College were sizable thumped by Hurstpierpoint, Worthing Drew Hurstpierpoint 2nd team in the cup. The usual problem of when to play the game was overcome when we agreed to a 4.30 start at theirs but with the promise of the playing indoors.
We had worked in training all week about defending the ball and keeping possession and how the girls need to up the work rate for the whole game. It was difficult to choose 11 players to take as everyone at training had worked hard and the 2nd team players really pressing for a first team place.
The first few mins were awful as nerves got to the players, the crowd of parents on the balcony, the brief appearance of an international umpire and a coaching staff of 7 !
However it soon became clear that we were the better team, some excellent feeding into the circle ensured Amber was near the post and the goals started coming. Cassie and Ria, in particular, were working extremely hard in both attack and defense when the ball was lost and very little got past the defence of Mele and Mele. The 1st quarter ended 16 -2. Past experience has shown how hard it is to keep the momentum going however the girls worked hard in the 2nd quarter but gave too many balls away and this is an area we will be looking at on the video tomorrow. Defensively however the work rate was super conceding only one goal in 15 mins, 2nd quarter ended 27 -3.
Four changes were made at half time to give the subs the opportunity of playing, things were a little shakey and it did take the new players a while to settle into the game however the end result was never in doubt and it was extremely pleasing to see the defensive work we had done in training paying off.
Well done girls, just Imberhorne to overcome away in the semi final.
Tina
On a year to the day (Amber’s Birthday) when Worthing College were sizable thumped by Hurstpierpoint, Worthing Drew Hurstpierpoint 2nd team in the cup. The usual problem of when to play the game was overcome when we agreed to a 4.30 start at theirs but with the promise of the playing indoors.
We had worked in training all week about defending the ball and keeping possession and how the girls need to up the work rate for the whole game. It was difficult to choose 11 players to take as everyone at training had worked hard and the 2nd team players really pressing for a first team place.
The first few mins were awful as nerves got to the players, the crowd of parents on the balcony, the brief appearance of an international umpire and a coaching staff of 7 !
However it soon became clear that we were the better team, some excellent feeding into the circle ensured Amber was near the post and the goals started coming. Cassie and Ria, in particular, were working extremely hard in both attack and defense when the ball was lost and very little got past the defence of Mele and Mele. The 1st quarter ended 16 -2. Past experience has shown how hard it is to keep the momentum going however the girls worked hard in the 2nd quarter but gave too many balls away and this is an area we will be looking at on the video tomorrow. Defensively however the work rate was super conceding only one goal in 15 mins, 2nd quarter ended 27 -3.
Four changes were made at half time to give the subs the opportunity of playing, things were a little shakey and it did take the new players a while to settle into the game however the end result was never in doubt and it was extremely pleasing to see the defensive work we had done in training paying off.
Well done girls, just Imberhorne to overcome away in the semi final.
Tina
Wednesday 26 January 2011
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 14 Vol 2
After a positive week in training both squads went out with a fresh impetus so that contrasting fortunes could be reinforced or reinvigorated. The 1st XI were at home in a difficult ECFA league match up against Ravenswood School of Kent, whilst the 2nd XI were looking to change their fortunes against Enfield Boreham Wood, with Worthing being the visitors.
Last time out the 1st XI were excellent in the dispatching of Redbridge in the National Cup, however this level of performance needed to be maintained to ensure that the league loss column still remained at zero. Changes were made to the squad, but this is not an issue as the standard and attitude of all players around the squad is easily interchangeable. Drew McGill dropped out in the warm, so this led to Lewis Jenkins making his first start since early October. Another change saw skipper James Fernandes coming back into the side at the expense of 2nd XI goalkeeper Sean Butler. There were also changes on the bench with Ryan Quirke and Dave Herbert coming back into the fold.
The chat from the team talk was that a fast start was required to unsettle the opposition and to stamp authority onto the game. Unfortunately for Worthing they seemed sluggish in possession, hesitant in defence and communication almost non existent. This in turn began to give Ravenswood confidence who were direct in their approach, which turned Worthing's defence more than once in the opening exchanges. This direct approach gave Worthing many set pieces to defend, which to their credit they did with maturity and bravery. Even with these characteristics Worthing had Fernandes to thank on more than one occasion in the first half, diving at the feet of the Ravenswood number 9 on more than one occasion, getting a bang on his head for his troubles.
As the half wore on to the neutral Worthing were by far the better footballing side, but always looked as if they could be caught on the break. However the opposite was to happen. A Dan Heward diag (the first successful one of the match) freed Lee Mottershead on the left hand side. His pass then found Matt Dodd, who beat his man and struck his shot straight at the Ravenswood goalkeeper, which came back to him. His second effort was only partially blocked and that fell nicely to the red haired midfielder, who brushed aside the goalkeeper and recovering defender to smash the ball into the roof of the net. 1-0.
That is how it stayed until the half. All knew that the performance was not up to the usual standards, however possibly the opposition had played as well as they could so the second half could surely be Worthing's if they went through the gears. The response to be honest was decent, however Ravenswood's direct play seemed to still unsettle the home defence, with only last ditch defending and good positioning keeping the sheet clean.
The turning point of the game showed real quality and patience. Worthing must have kept the ball for at least 15/20 passes going from one side of the pitch to the other. This culminated in Joe Warner picking up the ball on the right and his cross was deep and was met by Mottershead, who rose above two defenders to score. 2-0.
This goal seemed to free up Worthing and their style was starting to shine through. Matt Dodd was beginning to get the diagonals out, Jordan Clark was controlling the midfield along with Joe Warner, who expertly chipped the third goal over the advancing keeper after an exquisite pass by Dodd. 3-0.
The front three of Mottershead, Dec Jenkins and Liam "Des" O'Connor were working tirelessly to win the ball high up the pitch and the back four of Lewis Jenkins, Dan Heward, Jack Carey and Jack Boxall were getting to grips with Ravenswood's direct approach. When the defence was broken Ravenswood could not get past Fernandes, who was adamant that Worthing were not going to concede with three top saves, the best being a point blank parry away from goal when the striker was already celebrating.
In many minds the game was won, which allowed O'Connor and Dec Jenkins to have a rest and were replaced by Dave Herbert and Ryan Quirke. This did not mean that the scoring was over. Another great goal saw Warner and Mottershead combine excellently to set up Carey, who volleyed the ball into the far corner of the net. 4-0.
As the game came to an end Worthing knew that their record was intact, even though the performance was not a vintage it was still a job very well done.
Unfortunately the 2nd XI were on the end of another disappointing scoreline, an 8-1 loss away to Enfield Boreham Wood. This is something that deeply hurts me as I know we work extremely hard in training and we need to get to the bottom of what is going on between the transition from training to match day. On a positive note I'm sure we WILL get to the bottom of this and I'm sure the 2's will go from strength to strength, especially at County Cup level, where they have a quarter final tie against St Wilfrid's to look forward to.
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
Last time out the 1st XI were excellent in the dispatching of Redbridge in the National Cup, however this level of performance needed to be maintained to ensure that the league loss column still remained at zero. Changes were made to the squad, but this is not an issue as the standard and attitude of all players around the squad is easily interchangeable. Drew McGill dropped out in the warm, so this led to Lewis Jenkins making his first start since early October. Another change saw skipper James Fernandes coming back into the side at the expense of 2nd XI goalkeeper Sean Butler. There were also changes on the bench with Ryan Quirke and Dave Herbert coming back into the fold.
The chat from the team talk was that a fast start was required to unsettle the opposition and to stamp authority onto the game. Unfortunately for Worthing they seemed sluggish in possession, hesitant in defence and communication almost non existent. This in turn began to give Ravenswood confidence who were direct in their approach, which turned Worthing's defence more than once in the opening exchanges. This direct approach gave Worthing many set pieces to defend, which to their credit they did with maturity and bravery. Even with these characteristics Worthing had Fernandes to thank on more than one occasion in the first half, diving at the feet of the Ravenswood number 9 on more than one occasion, getting a bang on his head for his troubles.
As the half wore on to the neutral Worthing were by far the better footballing side, but always looked as if they could be caught on the break. However the opposite was to happen. A Dan Heward diag (the first successful one of the match) freed Lee Mottershead on the left hand side. His pass then found Matt Dodd, who beat his man and struck his shot straight at the Ravenswood goalkeeper, which came back to him. His second effort was only partially blocked and that fell nicely to the red haired midfielder, who brushed aside the goalkeeper and recovering defender to smash the ball into the roof of the net. 1-0.
That is how it stayed until the half. All knew that the performance was not up to the usual standards, however possibly the opposition had played as well as they could so the second half could surely be Worthing's if they went through the gears. The response to be honest was decent, however Ravenswood's direct play seemed to still unsettle the home defence, with only last ditch defending and good positioning keeping the sheet clean.
The turning point of the game showed real quality and patience. Worthing must have kept the ball for at least 15/20 passes going from one side of the pitch to the other. This culminated in Joe Warner picking up the ball on the right and his cross was deep and was met by Mottershead, who rose above two defenders to score. 2-0.
This goal seemed to free up Worthing and their style was starting to shine through. Matt Dodd was beginning to get the diagonals out, Jordan Clark was controlling the midfield along with Joe Warner, who expertly chipped the third goal over the advancing keeper after an exquisite pass by Dodd. 3-0.
The front three of Mottershead, Dec Jenkins and Liam "Des" O'Connor were working tirelessly to win the ball high up the pitch and the back four of Lewis Jenkins, Dan Heward, Jack Carey and Jack Boxall were getting to grips with Ravenswood's direct approach. When the defence was broken Ravenswood could not get past Fernandes, who was adamant that Worthing were not going to concede with three top saves, the best being a point blank parry away from goal when the striker was already celebrating.
In many minds the game was won, which allowed O'Connor and Dec Jenkins to have a rest and were replaced by Dave Herbert and Ryan Quirke. This did not mean that the scoring was over. Another great goal saw Warner and Mottershead combine excellently to set up Carey, who volleyed the ball into the far corner of the net. 4-0.
As the game came to an end Worthing knew that their record was intact, even though the performance was not a vintage it was still a job very well done.
Unfortunately the 2nd XI were on the end of another disappointing scoreline, an 8-1 loss away to Enfield Boreham Wood. This is something that deeply hurts me as I know we work extremely hard in training and we need to get to the bottom of what is going on between the transition from training to match day. On a positive note I'm sure we WILL get to the bottom of this and I'm sure the 2's will go from strength to strength, especially at County Cup level, where they have a quarter final tie against St Wilfrid's to look forward to.
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
Tuesday 25 January 2011
A View from the Zak! - Extra Edition!
Worthing College Women's Football Academy vs. Chichester College
The girls arrived in Chichester for their second game in 3 days and were faced with another cup game in a BCS competition they should be looking to go far in. But with the attitude they showed going into this game, they could easily get turned over by sides that are not technically as gifted as them but have more desire for the game.
After convincingly thrashing St Bedes in the Count Cup semi-final just two days before Worthing turned up thinking they could turn over Chi just as easily. But the reverse fixture earlier in the season saw Worthing concede 7 goals to this same Chichester side.
In the warm up the girls seemed to lack focus and with only 12 players in the squad for the game due to unavailability, the signs were not promising. But the girls to their credit started the game well, with a few playing out of position and a new formation taken up because of certain absentees. On a big pitch they did look to keep the ball on the floor and play it around. They were rewarded after 20 minutes from a corner. Naomi Robinson’s delivery was brilliantly finished on the volley by Lucy Somes. 1-0.
Then for some reason Worthing began to get lazy, the big pitch was making the defence sit deeper and the midfield not work as hard which left the hard working Chichester space to play their football, and against the run of play Worthing doubled their lead, a brilliant ball through by Somes allowed Amy Potkins to run away from the defence and poke it passed the on rushing keeper. 2-0.
At half time, the girls were told that they needed to work harder to see this game out and this was exactly what they didn’t do, they were given a warning just before half time when Chichester hit the cross bar but 10 minutes after half time Chichester got a goal back from a rebound after a Lauren Binfield save. 2-1.
And this spurred Chichester into life and did not seem to wake Worthing up, for the next twenty minutes it looked like the game was destine for extra time as Chichester pressed and pressed and deserved a second goal after several chances. Worthing on the other hand could not hold onto the ball for more than a couple of chances and were not working hard off the ball to win it back.
Once again against the run of play Worthing scored, and they could only have Amy Potkins to thank, she picked the ball up and managed to shift it and shoot catching the keeper off guard and regaining Worthing’s two goal cushion. 3-1.
Chichester were rightly gutted to concede and were then caught again from brilliant work rate and composure from Amy Potkins. A long aimless ball into the channel was chased by Potkins and she finished brilliantly from an angle over the keeper. 4-1.
The game fizzled out with Worthing progressing but this was harsh on Chichester who’s work rate was admirable.
Worthing will not be able to just rely on quality throughout the tournament and a lack of effort can easily be the beating of them.
Lets look to up the work rate in the next round!
Player of the Match – Amy Potkins, scored a hat trick and was the difference between the two sides. Worked hard consistently and moves to 18 goals for the Academy this season.
The girls arrived in Chichester for their second game in 3 days and were faced with another cup game in a BCS competition they should be looking to go far in. But with the attitude they showed going into this game, they could easily get turned over by sides that are not technically as gifted as them but have more desire for the game.
After convincingly thrashing St Bedes in the Count Cup semi-final just two days before Worthing turned up thinking they could turn over Chi just as easily. But the reverse fixture earlier in the season saw Worthing concede 7 goals to this same Chichester side.
In the warm up the girls seemed to lack focus and with only 12 players in the squad for the game due to unavailability, the signs were not promising. But the girls to their credit started the game well, with a few playing out of position and a new formation taken up because of certain absentees. On a big pitch they did look to keep the ball on the floor and play it around. They were rewarded after 20 minutes from a corner. Naomi Robinson’s delivery was brilliantly finished on the volley by Lucy Somes. 1-0.
Then for some reason Worthing began to get lazy, the big pitch was making the defence sit deeper and the midfield not work as hard which left the hard working Chichester space to play their football, and against the run of play Worthing doubled their lead, a brilliant ball through by Somes allowed Amy Potkins to run away from the defence and poke it passed the on rushing keeper. 2-0.
At half time, the girls were told that they needed to work harder to see this game out and this was exactly what they didn’t do, they were given a warning just before half time when Chichester hit the cross bar but 10 minutes after half time Chichester got a goal back from a rebound after a Lauren Binfield save. 2-1.
And this spurred Chichester into life and did not seem to wake Worthing up, for the next twenty minutes it looked like the game was destine for extra time as Chichester pressed and pressed and deserved a second goal after several chances. Worthing on the other hand could not hold onto the ball for more than a couple of chances and were not working hard off the ball to win it back.
Once again against the run of play Worthing scored, and they could only have Amy Potkins to thank, she picked the ball up and managed to shift it and shoot catching the keeper off guard and regaining Worthing’s two goal cushion. 3-1.
Chichester were rightly gutted to concede and were then caught again from brilliant work rate and composure from Amy Potkins. A long aimless ball into the channel was chased by Potkins and she finished brilliantly from an angle over the keeper. 4-1.
The game fizzled out with Worthing progressing but this was harsh on Chichester who’s work rate was admirable.
Worthing will not be able to just rely on quality throughout the tournament and a lack of effort can easily be the beating of them.
Lets look to up the work rate in the next round!
Player of the Match – Amy Potkins, scored a hat trick and was the difference between the two sides. Worked hard consistently and moves to 18 goals for the Academy this season.
Thursday 20 January 2011
A Word from the Zak!!
Girls County Cup Semi Final - Worthing College vs. St Bedes
This Wednesday brought the first of a string of big cup matches coming up for the girls, the must win County Cup semi-final brought an eventful day for the Worthing Coaching staff. The game was originally meant to be held at Worthing United FC but the ground was deemed unfit to be played on at 11am on game day, so with the college pitches under water, the leisure centre pitch was ruled out due to also being unplayable and the game looked as good as off. The referees had been told the game was not being played and all had given up hope on getting the game on.
But Mike Bridges had other ideas, he headed straight to the estates team for a brush and fork to do what can only be described as a magnificent groundsmans job (with help from Rahman and Moss) and the game was back on!
St Bedes arrived somewhat uniquely equipped and dressed but as independent schools champions not to be underestimated. Worthing started the game brightly but from the outset it was clear that the St Bedes keeper was going to be hard to beat which was talked about in the pre-match as she happened to be an England under 15.
It seemed the St Bedes Coach was more interested in the manner of which the Worthing Coaches were barking their orders, than she was actually barking orders at her side who did not look like putting up much of a semi-final fight.
Worthing had been frustrated for the first ten minutes by the outstanding keeper and it almost made the Worthing players frightened to shoot at times but the first goal came when Naomi Robinson beat her player to the by-line and crossed for Amy Potkins to finish well and continue to top the Scorers list. 1-0.
It was thought that this goal might just open the floodgates somewhat and this would have been the case if it wasn’t again thanks to the St Bedes keeper who was making remarkable saves, so much so that one was given as a goal kick because the referee could not have believed the keeper had got a touch to Robinson’s effort.
As another 15 minutes past with no second goal Worthing were camped in the opposition’s half creating chances. The second was a wonderful goal to watch and just left the keeper too much to do, after the ball hitting the bar, being saved, being blocked and being saved again, Potkins was left an easy tap in from a yard to double the scoring. 2-0.
Worthing were guilty of getting a little bit lazy due to their dominance in the game and it left a bit of a gap between midfield and defence, maybe due to Kendall and Frost feeling there were goals in the game for them.
But on the ball laziness was not a word that could be used, precise, neat and penetrative are words that can describe the way Worthing kept the ball. If they can keep up that level of football then they are bound to be crowned county champions and could give any team a good game. Just before the half time whistle, Worthing put the tie to bed. After a neat move down the left from Maddy Emmerton, Sophie Frost lifted the ball over the keeper and into the far corner. 3-0.
Worthing were told at half time not to get lazy and to be more clinical if they didn’t want to do fitness on the Monday morning. Knowing the game was won, Worthing didn’t come out all guns blazing as they should have done, it took them time to get into the half and start creating chances, and the third goal came from a different route. Charley Howcroft-Stemp played a long ball to lone striker Potkins who’s flick on was read by Lucy Somes who ran on and lobbed the advancing keeper. A well-executed move. 4-0.
Worthing were then awarded a free-kick from around 35 yards out, it looked like they were setting up for a dink into the area, when Bridges ordered Somes to have a shot, ambitious to say the least. Somes smashed the back of the ball and a despairing dive from the St Bedes keeper wasn’t enough to keep the ball out as it hit the bar and bounced in. 5-0.
St Bedes never gave and continued to work hard yet they struggled to get into the Worthing half with Fleur Charman and Stacey Johnson spectating and every now and then sweeping up. The game was now being played at a training game pace.
Somes completed her hat-trick with a brilliant third goal, she ran through the midfield and this time unleashed from 25 yards with the ball nestling in the corner. 6-0.
Changes were made so players could be rested for the game Friday but the standard of football didn’t drop. Chloe Lamley showed great industry in the middle of midfield with good energy and some big tackles and Jemma Kendall continued to get forward.
It was Kendall’s cross that set up a tap in for Debaes to for the Sub to get on the score sheet. 7-0.
The game was summed up by the 8th goal. A wonderful move starting from left back and involving 5 players before Debaes found herself one on one with the keeper to poke home for her second. 8-0.
Worthing were superb in today’s game and didn’t drop their standards at any time. The football they played would have caused most sides a problem and they need to keep this up going into the latter stages of competitions.
Player of the Match – Lucy Somes, She was brilliant the whole game and was at the centre of most Worthing Attacks. A superb attacking performance rounded off by a hat-trick from midfield.
Zaki
This Wednesday brought the first of a string of big cup matches coming up for the girls, the must win County Cup semi-final brought an eventful day for the Worthing Coaching staff. The game was originally meant to be held at Worthing United FC but the ground was deemed unfit to be played on at 11am on game day, so with the college pitches under water, the leisure centre pitch was ruled out due to also being unplayable and the game looked as good as off. The referees had been told the game was not being played and all had given up hope on getting the game on.
But Mike Bridges had other ideas, he headed straight to the estates team for a brush and fork to do what can only be described as a magnificent groundsmans job (with help from Rahman and Moss) and the game was back on!
St Bedes arrived somewhat uniquely equipped and dressed but as independent schools champions not to be underestimated. Worthing started the game brightly but from the outset it was clear that the St Bedes keeper was going to be hard to beat which was talked about in the pre-match as she happened to be an England under 15.
It seemed the St Bedes Coach was more interested in the manner of which the Worthing Coaches were barking their orders, than she was actually barking orders at her side who did not look like putting up much of a semi-final fight.
Worthing had been frustrated for the first ten minutes by the outstanding keeper and it almost made the Worthing players frightened to shoot at times but the first goal came when Naomi Robinson beat her player to the by-line and crossed for Amy Potkins to finish well and continue to top the Scorers list. 1-0.
It was thought that this goal might just open the floodgates somewhat and this would have been the case if it wasn’t again thanks to the St Bedes keeper who was making remarkable saves, so much so that one was given as a goal kick because the referee could not have believed the keeper had got a touch to Robinson’s effort.
As another 15 minutes past with no second goal Worthing were camped in the opposition’s half creating chances. The second was a wonderful goal to watch and just left the keeper too much to do, after the ball hitting the bar, being saved, being blocked and being saved again, Potkins was left an easy tap in from a yard to double the scoring. 2-0.
Worthing were guilty of getting a little bit lazy due to their dominance in the game and it left a bit of a gap between midfield and defence, maybe due to Kendall and Frost feeling there were goals in the game for them.
But on the ball laziness was not a word that could be used, precise, neat and penetrative are words that can describe the way Worthing kept the ball. If they can keep up that level of football then they are bound to be crowned county champions and could give any team a good game. Just before the half time whistle, Worthing put the tie to bed. After a neat move down the left from Maddy Emmerton, Sophie Frost lifted the ball over the keeper and into the far corner. 3-0.
Worthing were told at half time not to get lazy and to be more clinical if they didn’t want to do fitness on the Monday morning. Knowing the game was won, Worthing didn’t come out all guns blazing as they should have done, it took them time to get into the half and start creating chances, and the third goal came from a different route. Charley Howcroft-Stemp played a long ball to lone striker Potkins who’s flick on was read by Lucy Somes who ran on and lobbed the advancing keeper. A well-executed move. 4-0.
Worthing were then awarded a free-kick from around 35 yards out, it looked like they were setting up for a dink into the area, when Bridges ordered Somes to have a shot, ambitious to say the least. Somes smashed the back of the ball and a despairing dive from the St Bedes keeper wasn’t enough to keep the ball out as it hit the bar and bounced in. 5-0.
St Bedes never gave and continued to work hard yet they struggled to get into the Worthing half with Fleur Charman and Stacey Johnson spectating and every now and then sweeping up. The game was now being played at a training game pace.
Somes completed her hat-trick with a brilliant third goal, she ran through the midfield and this time unleashed from 25 yards with the ball nestling in the corner. 6-0.
Changes were made so players could be rested for the game Friday but the standard of football didn’t drop. Chloe Lamley showed great industry in the middle of midfield with good energy and some big tackles and Jemma Kendall continued to get forward.
It was Kendall’s cross that set up a tap in for Debaes to for the Sub to get on the score sheet. 7-0.
The game was summed up by the 8th goal. A wonderful move starting from left back and involving 5 players before Debaes found herself one on one with the keeper to poke home for her second. 8-0.
Worthing were superb in today’s game and didn’t drop their standards at any time. The football they played would have caused most sides a problem and they need to keep this up going into the latter stages of competitions.
Player of the Match – Lucy Somes, She was brilliant the whole game and was at the centre of most Worthing Attacks. A superb attacking performance rounded off by a hat-trick from midfield.
Zaki
Thursday 13 January 2011
Worthing 1st XV 39 Godalming 1st XV 0
Wet, windy, muddy, cold and dark, beautiful conditions for wet weather gear, seagulls, boats and little rubber duckies and certainly not the game of rugby….or so I thought.
The visitors made it down to the home of rugby having stopped off at the home of academia by mistake, no rugby there rugby chums, but across the bridge they did navigate and kick off ensued if not a bit late.
Direct from the off the tempo was up and tensions were high while precipitation continued to fall from the sky,
The players of both sides numbering 30 were soon on the deck and obviously dirty,
But try as it might to reduce our standards Worthing turned and faced to windward.
The conflict did start up front with the pack and played its way through to Bone the fullback,
Contests were won from 15 to 1 and beyond quick taps of which Parker was fond,
From one such event Bath did score the first of many for visitors to endure.
In the tight Worthing’s forwards were ruling the roost and tidy work in all facets did minds boost.
More trys from great team play, off the bus fly half Luke did say them full back did draw and Short away.
TRY time, no kicks did come for periods long the boots not hitting song, but try enough for cheering throng.
Ryan was on the ball and running hard and standing tall, crossing for a brace to keep Worthing College in first place,
The half to an end with the Worthing crowd buoyed no scores against and well we’d defend.
Slap backs yet do not as changes plenty, direction of play, the wind and players 16 through twenty,
Changes made to the team added to the game, Cook mixed it up, Keith well, Trencher was hard and Wigzell blamed.
A team sin binning for penalties plenty, the 14 men upped their game in the remaining 20.
One more score was all to show for endeavours so great but trys numbered one less than eight,
The game did end with points numbering 39 to the nil and a rugby banquet my stomach did fill,
Another bite I could scarcely consume as heavy clouds continued to spell Sun’s doom.
So full was I with officials blow a small twitching at mouths corner I did show,
Not to the chaps covered in glory, soil and sweat but to friends, fathers and Alumni sharing no regret,
Having spent the day in company great, drenched by the elements with scores to debate.
Players of note too numerous to name but a brief synopsis I’ll give all the same,
We won the scrum, the collision, the ruck and the maul, the backs ran strongly and all moved the ball.
A great performance from all at the ground a the effort and skills of which are seldom found.
See you Monday
The visitors made it down to the home of rugby having stopped off at the home of academia by mistake, no rugby there rugby chums, but across the bridge they did navigate and kick off ensued if not a bit late.
Direct from the off the tempo was up and tensions were high while precipitation continued to fall from the sky,
The players of both sides numbering 30 were soon on the deck and obviously dirty,
But try as it might to reduce our standards Worthing turned and faced to windward.
The conflict did start up front with the pack and played its way through to Bone the fullback,
Contests were won from 15 to 1 and beyond quick taps of which Parker was fond,
From one such event Bath did score the first of many for visitors to endure.
In the tight Worthing’s forwards were ruling the roost and tidy work in all facets did minds boost.
More trys from great team play, off the bus fly half Luke did say them full back did draw and Short away.
TRY time, no kicks did come for periods long the boots not hitting song, but try enough for cheering throng.
Ryan was on the ball and running hard and standing tall, crossing for a brace to keep Worthing College in first place,
The half to an end with the Worthing crowd buoyed no scores against and well we’d defend.
Slap backs yet do not as changes plenty, direction of play, the wind and players 16 through twenty,
Changes made to the team added to the game, Cook mixed it up, Keith well, Trencher was hard and Wigzell blamed.
A team sin binning for penalties plenty, the 14 men upped their game in the remaining 20.
One more score was all to show for endeavours so great but trys numbered one less than eight,
The game did end with points numbering 39 to the nil and a rugby banquet my stomach did fill,
Another bite I could scarcely consume as heavy clouds continued to spell Sun’s doom.
So full was I with officials blow a small twitching at mouths corner I did show,
Not to the chaps covered in glory, soil and sweat but to friends, fathers and Alumni sharing no regret,
Having spent the day in company great, drenched by the elements with scores to debate.
Players of note too numerous to name but a brief synopsis I’ll give all the same,
We won the scrum, the collision, the ruck and the maul, the backs ran strongly and all moved the ball.
A great performance from all at the ground a the effort and skills of which are seldom found.
See you Monday
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 13 Vol 2
After the 5-0 victory against Sussex Downs Lewes, Worthing College Football Academy 1st XI took to the field this week in the last 16 of the ESFA National Cup against Essex opposition in the form of Redbridge College. Preparation for this important match up were slightly unsettled when goalkeeper Fernandes pulled up in training, which gave a chance to the deserving Sean Butler to take the sticks. The squad was still very strong, however on the morning of departure Quirke fell ill, which meant Worthing took a strong 13 east.
Travel was comfortable and in good time to be able to prepare fully. However preparation was further thrown up in the air with Chester dropping out in the warm up. Heward slotted straight into centre half alongside Carey.
Worthing knew that this was the furthest they had come in this competition and wanted to make sure that this story was not to end "east side", so were very focused on the task at hand. However as the game began this focus seemed to add pressure and possession was given back all too easily to Redbridge, who early on looked excellent going forward. This excellence was rewarded with a couple of half chances that went wide of the Worthing goal.
As the half grew Worthing started to grow in confidence and won back possession more frequently. The conditions were wet, but the pitch was in relatively good shape, which suited Worthing's passing style. The width of the playing surface was also appreciated by the visitors, who began to use it with excellent 50-60 diagonals, especially from Boxall, Clark and Dodd, which set wingers Mottershead and O'Connor free on many occasion with only the final ball letting them down.
Jenkins (D) was also looking extremely lively up front showing intelligent running in between the centre halves and this was shown with the opening goal of the game. An excellent piece of combination play in midfield allowed Jenkins to run onto the ball and skid his strike against the post and in. 1-0.
Meanwhile the defence were communicating well and Butler was having an excellent debut in goal, doing everything that was required of him. Redbridge always looked dangerous and it was important that Worthing as a whole defended well with high concentration levels. This was achieved up to the half time whistle.
At half time the word from coach Hall was that much effort was exerted, but the next ten minutes were vital as to where to tie was going to end up as all too easily the side who were ahead at half time switch off and let the opposition back in. Fortunately the opposite was the case in the second half as Worthing dominated the first 10 minutes, which resulted in two further strikes.
The first came from the unfamiliar direct route. Butler cleared the ball forward to Jenkins (D) who superbly cushioned the ball to O'Connor who then returned the ball to Jenkins. His run and cross was met by Warner, who had made a great run from midfield. 2-0. As soon as Worthing has doubled their lead it became tripled with another accomplished finish. A through ball from McGill cut through the home defence and found Clark, who exquisitely chipped the ball over the goalkeeper from outside the penalty area with his left foot. 3-0.
At this point Worthing knew that they already had one foot in the last 8 for what surely must be the first time in their history, but they wanted more and it definitely should have been! A cleared Mottershead corner came back to the winger, who looked to help the ball back into the penalty area. This "help" was taken by the wind and looped high into the air, with the home goalkeeper scrambling the only result was surely a goal. Mottershead's joy was short lived as the linesman had put his flag up for offside and the referee agreed.
With this the game seemed to change with Worthing taking their foot off the gas and the hosts came into the game with a fresh impetus, which resulted in more chances. One of the first provided Redbridge with their first chance back into the match. Their tricky central midfielder seemed to walk past four Worthing tackles and pass the ball past the stranded Butler. 3-1.
With this onslaught Worthing needed to stay strong and for the most part they were with any mistakes made being recovered upon by the person in question or a team mate. Jenkins (L) came on for the tired looking Warner, which pushed Boxall up into central midfield. As the game drew to a close Worthing were defending superbly with Heward, Carey, Jenkins and McGill all standing their ground and playing the ball into the midfield, which provided the platform for Worthing to see the game through.
With full time came the jubilation of making it through to the last 8. Each player stood up and were counted. All were excellent technically and tactically and played the conditions much better than their technically gifted opponents. All in all a great team performance and one that the players and the College should be proud of.
With the draw being made on Monday lets hope the fans get what they want................... A HOME DRAW!!
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
Travel was comfortable and in good time to be able to prepare fully. However preparation was further thrown up in the air with Chester dropping out in the warm up. Heward slotted straight into centre half alongside Carey.
Worthing knew that this was the furthest they had come in this competition and wanted to make sure that this story was not to end "east side", so were very focused on the task at hand. However as the game began this focus seemed to add pressure and possession was given back all too easily to Redbridge, who early on looked excellent going forward. This excellence was rewarded with a couple of half chances that went wide of the Worthing goal.
As the half grew Worthing started to grow in confidence and won back possession more frequently. The conditions were wet, but the pitch was in relatively good shape, which suited Worthing's passing style. The width of the playing surface was also appreciated by the visitors, who began to use it with excellent 50-60 diagonals, especially from Boxall, Clark and Dodd, which set wingers Mottershead and O'Connor free on many occasion with only the final ball letting them down.
Jenkins (D) was also looking extremely lively up front showing intelligent running in between the centre halves and this was shown with the opening goal of the game. An excellent piece of combination play in midfield allowed Jenkins to run onto the ball and skid his strike against the post and in. 1-0.
Meanwhile the defence were communicating well and Butler was having an excellent debut in goal, doing everything that was required of him. Redbridge always looked dangerous and it was important that Worthing as a whole defended well with high concentration levels. This was achieved up to the half time whistle.
At half time the word from coach Hall was that much effort was exerted, but the next ten minutes were vital as to where to tie was going to end up as all too easily the side who were ahead at half time switch off and let the opposition back in. Fortunately the opposite was the case in the second half as Worthing dominated the first 10 minutes, which resulted in two further strikes.
The first came from the unfamiliar direct route. Butler cleared the ball forward to Jenkins (D) who superbly cushioned the ball to O'Connor who then returned the ball to Jenkins. His run and cross was met by Warner, who had made a great run from midfield. 2-0. As soon as Worthing has doubled their lead it became tripled with another accomplished finish. A through ball from McGill cut through the home defence and found Clark, who exquisitely chipped the ball over the goalkeeper from outside the penalty area with his left foot. 3-0.
At this point Worthing knew that they already had one foot in the last 8 for what surely must be the first time in their history, but they wanted more and it definitely should have been! A cleared Mottershead corner came back to the winger, who looked to help the ball back into the penalty area. This "help" was taken by the wind and looped high into the air, with the home goalkeeper scrambling the only result was surely a goal. Mottershead's joy was short lived as the linesman had put his flag up for offside and the referee agreed.
With this the game seemed to change with Worthing taking their foot off the gas and the hosts came into the game with a fresh impetus, which resulted in more chances. One of the first provided Redbridge with their first chance back into the match. Their tricky central midfielder seemed to walk past four Worthing tackles and pass the ball past the stranded Butler. 3-1.
With this onslaught Worthing needed to stay strong and for the most part they were with any mistakes made being recovered upon by the person in question or a team mate. Jenkins (L) came on for the tired looking Warner, which pushed Boxall up into central midfield. As the game drew to a close Worthing were defending superbly with Heward, Carey, Jenkins and McGill all standing their ground and playing the ball into the midfield, which provided the platform for Worthing to see the game through.
With full time came the jubilation of making it through to the last 8. Each player stood up and were counted. All were excellent technically and tactically and played the conditions much better than their technically gifted opponents. All in all a great team performance and one that the players and the College should be proud of.
With the draw being made on Monday lets hope the fans get what they want................... A HOME DRAW!!
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
Worthing College Hockey Academy vs. Lewes Grammar School
Worthing, on a damp and dark Wednesday afternoon at the Leisure Centre progressed into the 2nd round of the Sussex Cup against a spirited Lewes side. Worthing were always in control of the game and a win was always on the cards, the only question being by how many and in what manner. The Academy side took an early lead after 7 minutes with a well taken drag flick on a short corner from the "drag queen" himself, Master Cooke. Worthing's lead was soon doubled as Alex Mason tapped into an open goal after the Lewes keeper had made a fine initial save. The 2-0 score line at half time did not reflect the dominance that Worthing had had in the first half, with a few good chances to score being wasted, but the second half saw the Academy side stamping their authority on the game and taking full control to run in at 6-1 worthy winners at full time.
We look forward to the 2nd round and hope that progression to the Sussex Final can be achieved.
SCORERS:
COOKE, MASON, BARKER, LOCKWOOD, SYMMONS, WOOLLEY
M.O.M:
JACK SYMMONS
We look forward to the 2nd round and hope that progression to the Sussex Final can be achieved.
SCORERS:
COOKE, MASON, BARKER, LOCKWOOD, SYMMONS, WOOLLEY
M.O.M:
JACK SYMMONS
Worthing College Basketball Academy V Sussex Downs College
First game of the new year looked to be a challenge as SD usually have a strong, well drilled squad. From the tip we took charge of the game scoring first with a lay in from Jak Ryan. SD replied but then we broke away & never looked back behind 3 pointers from Louis Harris & Luke Griffiths. Some great inside play from Alex Cranford kept us ticking & a buzzer beating 3 from Jak Ryan ended the 1st quarter us leading 25-6. We ran the bench & everybody stepped up. The 2nd quarter was much of the same with scores from Ollie Hunt & Gio Corpuz keeping us comfortably ahead. Half time score 41-14.
We again rotated & sealed the win in the 3rd on the back of scores from Luke Griffiths, Tanaka Munjeri, Louis Harris & our force inside-Alex Cranford! We outscored SD 32-2 in the quarter amazingly holding out opponents to 1 basket! More substitutions came & we cruised home in the 4th behind some great guard play from Elliot Trussler & Mimo Habib creating & scoring inside & out! We again won the quarter & outscored SD 19-4 making the final score 92-20 a great team performance for a much deserved victory.
Scorers:
Ollie Hunt- 4
Dexter Rudram- 4
Tanaka Munjeri- 4
Elliot Trussler- 10
Luke Griffiths- 10
Jak Ryan- 11
Mimo Habib- 11
Louis Harris- 14
Alex Cranford- 20
We again rotated & sealed the win in the 3rd on the back of scores from Luke Griffiths, Tanaka Munjeri, Louis Harris & our force inside-Alex Cranford! We outscored SD 32-2 in the quarter amazingly holding out opponents to 1 basket! More substitutions came & we cruised home in the 4th behind some great guard play from Elliot Trussler & Mimo Habib creating & scoring inside & out! We again won the quarter & outscored SD 19-4 making the final score 92-20 a great team performance for a much deserved victory.
Scorers:
Ollie Hunt- 4
Dexter Rudram- 4
Tanaka Munjeri- 4
Elliot Trussler- 10
Luke Griffiths- 10
Jak Ryan- 11
Mimo Habib- 11
Louis Harris- 14
Alex Cranford- 20
Friday 7 January 2011
Netball Round Up - New Year Edition
1st Team Netball 28 v QMC 14
2nd Team Netball 33-QMC 13
On a wet and cold Wednesday afternoon, the both 1st and 2nd teams took to the court looking forward to their games of netball.
It was an opportunity to mix up the squads as prior to Xmas a number of the girls from the second team took their opportunity against Bhasvic and deserved another opportunity to play 1st Team. That did not mean those who played in the 2nd team were dropped but with only 14 fit players, some regular 1st teamers had to play in the 2nds.
Both games started poorly mainly due to lack of fitness, match practice, and new combinations due to no netball in the past month and the freezing conditions which made catching the ball difficult.
The surface was slippery too and the girls struggled to keep their feet, however after the first 5 mins it was clear that Worthing College were going to win both games. The girls however treated the opposition with respect and there were times when QMC did threaten to get into the game more. The games were shorten to 12 mins each quarter due to the weather and this kept the score down.
Lots to work on but a good start to the new year. Losing Mele Jackson though possibly for the next two months is a severe blow.
Tina
2nd Team Netball 33-QMC 13
On a wet and cold Wednesday afternoon, the both 1st and 2nd teams took to the court looking forward to their games of netball.
It was an opportunity to mix up the squads as prior to Xmas a number of the girls from the second team took their opportunity against Bhasvic and deserved another opportunity to play 1st Team. That did not mean those who played in the 2nd team were dropped but with only 14 fit players, some regular 1st teamers had to play in the 2nds.
Both games started poorly mainly due to lack of fitness, match practice, and new combinations due to no netball in the past month and the freezing conditions which made catching the ball difficult.
The surface was slippery too and the girls struggled to keep their feet, however after the first 5 mins it was clear that Worthing College were going to win both games. The girls however treated the opposition with respect and there were times when QMC did threaten to get into the game more. The games were shorten to 12 mins each quarter due to the weather and this kept the score down.
Lots to work on but a good start to the new year. Losing Mele Jackson though possibly for the next two months is a severe blow.
Tina
A View from the Zak! - New Years Edition
Worthing College Women's XI vs. Brockenhurst College
The girls came up against Brockenhurst in a BCS league match only a day before the big National Cup quarter final on the Thursday. With a few players rested it gave the fringe players in the squad the chance to shine with big games approaching. Holly Jacklin started at Right back and Izzy Arksey at Left back. This gave Chloe Lamley the chance to play in the middle of the park.
The game started slightly sloppily and the first event of the game proved to be a crucial one. Meg Cave’s persistence from the middle of midfield meant that the tackled the Brockenhurst Centre Half to be through on goal, the keeper came out and as Cave skipped passed, the left leg of the Brockenhurst goalie chopped her down just outside the area. Now in the premiership, the keeper could have no complaints about seeing red, but in Girls college football, a more lenient approach is usually taken. To almost everyone’s surprise the referee produced a red card and after 10 minutes the goalkeeper’s game was cut short after a 2 hour journey. A quick re-shuffle and a Brockenhurst defender became make shift goalie for the next 80 minutes.
From here on in, Worthing could have used this game to get a lot of possession and for a lot of fringe players to get decent match practise. But Brockenhurst didn’t back down even though they were a player down. The next event was maybe just as crucial as the first with the way the game stood, at 0-0 the very sharp Brockenhurst striker was played through on goal only to be taken down by a wreckless challenge from Stacey Johnson who let the Striker on the wrong side of her. Penalty! And surely as last defender risk of another red card, who knows what the referee is thinking? He lets the challenge go with only the punishment of the spot kick and no card to follow.
With the Brockenhurst player drilling the penalty high over the bar, it now looked like they had wasted any chance of putting Worthing under severe pressure. Worthing then began to play football, and start to take control of the game, the only criticism was that the final ball was maybe lacking a little bit of conviction. It was also noticeable from the side line that Worthing were not spreading the play, and exposing the player extra that they had. A Wiseman’s words from the side-line were ‘In defence, squeeze like cheese. In attack, spread like butter!’ And this is exactly what Worthing were not doing. Brockenhurst to their credit took advantage of this and got a goal to take the lead when once again the striker managed to get herself the wrong side of the Worthing defence to produce a neat finish from 12 yards. But Worthing bounced back with a scrappy goal, after a goal mouth scramble, the ball came off Sophie Frost’s stomach and found its way in to the goal to the despair of the battling Brockenhurst backline.
At half time, the main message was to show a bit more killer instinct and finish the game whilst saving a bit of energy and ensuring there were no more injuries, after Fleur Charman came off hurt due to a crunching tackle with a forward, which ended up ruling her out of Thursday’s game.
In the second half Worthing improved massively, with Brockenhurst camped in their own half for the majority of the game. But although Worthing had several chances they were finding it very difficult to take the lead, with the stand in keeper making some outstanding saves from Maddy Emmerton, Amy Potkins, Chloe Debaes, Sophie Frost and Jemma Kendall. After goal mouth scrambles, clearances off the line, last ditch tackles and great saves, Worthing took the lead from a simple rebound tap in, a strike from Sophie Frost could only be parried by the goalkeeper for Maddy Emmerton to just pass the ball into the back of the net which was greeted by a massive cheer from the Worthing girls possibly just out of relief. 2-1.
And after this, there were many chances to seal the tie but the third goal came from what can only be described as route 1 football. A massive drop kick from Lauren Binfield, left Amy Potkins in a foot race with the Brockenhurst defence and she only needed one touch to lob the bouncing ball over the head of the keeper to wrap up the tie. In the end a valiant performance from Brockenhurst, who were its fair to say, beaten after 10 minutes at the sight of the red card but they battled hard and didn’t make it easy for the Worthing girls by any means.
Player of the Match – Holly Jacklin, barely made a mistake all game, constantly looking to play football from full back, defended solidly and kept all her passing simple, a very impressive display from a girl who is looking to push for more regular first team football.
In extra news, the girls big game which came a day after this one, was called off ten minutes in after a 2 and a half hour journey up to Southend. The pitch was waterlogged and unplayable, so the game was stopped with Worthing 1-0. The match will hopefully be replayed on Friday 14th January in Worthing.
Zaki
The girls came up against Brockenhurst in a BCS league match only a day before the big National Cup quarter final on the Thursday. With a few players rested it gave the fringe players in the squad the chance to shine with big games approaching. Holly Jacklin started at Right back and Izzy Arksey at Left back. This gave Chloe Lamley the chance to play in the middle of the park.
The game started slightly sloppily and the first event of the game proved to be a crucial one. Meg Cave’s persistence from the middle of midfield meant that the tackled the Brockenhurst Centre Half to be through on goal, the keeper came out and as Cave skipped passed, the left leg of the Brockenhurst goalie chopped her down just outside the area. Now in the premiership, the keeper could have no complaints about seeing red, but in Girls college football, a more lenient approach is usually taken. To almost everyone’s surprise the referee produced a red card and after 10 minutes the goalkeeper’s game was cut short after a 2 hour journey. A quick re-shuffle and a Brockenhurst defender became make shift goalie for the next 80 minutes.
From here on in, Worthing could have used this game to get a lot of possession and for a lot of fringe players to get decent match practise. But Brockenhurst didn’t back down even though they were a player down. The next event was maybe just as crucial as the first with the way the game stood, at 0-0 the very sharp Brockenhurst striker was played through on goal only to be taken down by a wreckless challenge from Stacey Johnson who let the Striker on the wrong side of her. Penalty! And surely as last defender risk of another red card, who knows what the referee is thinking? He lets the challenge go with only the punishment of the spot kick and no card to follow.
With the Brockenhurst player drilling the penalty high over the bar, it now looked like they had wasted any chance of putting Worthing under severe pressure. Worthing then began to play football, and start to take control of the game, the only criticism was that the final ball was maybe lacking a little bit of conviction. It was also noticeable from the side line that Worthing were not spreading the play, and exposing the player extra that they had. A Wiseman’s words from the side-line were ‘In defence, squeeze like cheese. In attack, spread like butter!’ And this is exactly what Worthing were not doing. Brockenhurst to their credit took advantage of this and got a goal to take the lead when once again the striker managed to get herself the wrong side of the Worthing defence to produce a neat finish from 12 yards. But Worthing bounced back with a scrappy goal, after a goal mouth scramble, the ball came off Sophie Frost’s stomach and found its way in to the goal to the despair of the battling Brockenhurst backline.
At half time, the main message was to show a bit more killer instinct and finish the game whilst saving a bit of energy and ensuring there were no more injuries, after Fleur Charman came off hurt due to a crunching tackle with a forward, which ended up ruling her out of Thursday’s game.
In the second half Worthing improved massively, with Brockenhurst camped in their own half for the majority of the game. But although Worthing had several chances they were finding it very difficult to take the lead, with the stand in keeper making some outstanding saves from Maddy Emmerton, Amy Potkins, Chloe Debaes, Sophie Frost and Jemma Kendall. After goal mouth scrambles, clearances off the line, last ditch tackles and great saves, Worthing took the lead from a simple rebound tap in, a strike from Sophie Frost could only be parried by the goalkeeper for Maddy Emmerton to just pass the ball into the back of the net which was greeted by a massive cheer from the Worthing girls possibly just out of relief. 2-1.
And after this, there were many chances to seal the tie but the third goal came from what can only be described as route 1 football. A massive drop kick from Lauren Binfield, left Amy Potkins in a foot race with the Brockenhurst defence and she only needed one touch to lob the bouncing ball over the head of the keeper to wrap up the tie. In the end a valiant performance from Brockenhurst, who were its fair to say, beaten after 10 minutes at the sight of the red card but they battled hard and didn’t make it easy for the Worthing girls by any means.
Player of the Match – Holly Jacklin, barely made a mistake all game, constantly looking to play football from full back, defended solidly and kept all her passing simple, a very impressive display from a girl who is looking to push for more regular first team football.
In extra news, the girls big game which came a day after this one, was called off ten minutes in after a 2 and a half hour journey up to Southend. The pitch was waterlogged and unplayable, so the game was stopped with Worthing 1-0. The match will hopefully be replayed on Friday 14th January in Worthing.
Zaki
Thursday 6 January 2011
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 12 Vol 2 - New Year Edition
Worthing College Football Academy 1st XI returned to action after the festive period with the first of two matches in as many weeks that will define their season. Worthing travelled to Sussex Downs Lewes knowing that a sharp and positive performance would see the College progress into the last 16 of the ESFA National Cup, which would be unchartered territory for an Worthing College side in this competition.
The three week layoff gave injuries time to heal and rest periods to all, which resulted in welcome returns to the squad, with the biggest being Lewis Jenkins after three months out with ankle ligament damage and Jenkins took his place on the bench. However it wouldn’t be Worthing College without some unavailabilities and those were the influential Jordan Clark (ill) and the assured Dan Heward (broken toe).
Worthing took to the field knowing that they needed to start sharply and earn the right to play to ensure a positive result, but their opponents started the brighter and seemed to get in behind the Worthing defence more times than coach Dave Hall would have liked. However when going forward Worthing started positively with Dec Jenkins, Sam Mannings and Ryan Quirke gaining early possession and this led to Worthing breaking the deadlock, very much against the run of play. Joe Warner picked up the ball in the middle of the park and played a diagonal pass to Quirke, who ran through and finished cooly under the advancing Sussex Downs goalkeeper. 1-0.
This in theory should have settled Worthing down, but they were still hesitant at times and too many mistakes were being made. To their credit though Worthing reacted quickly to these mistakes and made amends by gaining possession. Soon this was to provide Worthing with a stranglehold in the game with Matt Dodd, Warner and Liam “Des” O’Connor beginning to pull the strings in the middle of midfield, which gave the front three through balls to run onto. This should have put the game out of sight, however Jenkins and Mannings were both excellent in creating chances, but just lacking finishes. When Mannings did finish superbly it was deemed to be offside.
At half time Hall emphasised that Worthing has not been at their best yet still were in front and needed to move through the gears to put the game to bed. Worthing seemed to take heed of this advice and stepped up their game with quick and crisp passing beginning to create gaps in the Sussex Downs rearguard. Mannings and Jenkins were again at the heart of the good that Worthing had to offer with Mannings crossing excellently and consistently and Jenkins working his socks off to make defenders lives a misery. This hard work led to the second goal, where Mannings crossed and the ball fell kindly to Dodd who powered the ball past the keeper. 2-0.
Sussex Downs to their credit kept trying to play, but the defence of Jack Carey, Matt Chester, Drew McGill and Jack Boxall were growing into the game and thwarted any meaningful attack. The clinching goal was scored from the penalty spot after Mannings was fouled when through on goal. Jack Boxall stepped up and sent the goalkeeper the wrong way. 3-0.
As the game was won it was time to reintroduce Lewis Jenkins into Academy action. Lewis was given a full 30 minutes to get back into the swing of things and took the place of Quirke on the right side of the front three. This may sound odd to some, however Lewis almost scored with one of his first touches. His volley was well saved by the Sussex Downs goalkeeper at the back post.
Both Mannings and Dec Jenkins fully deserved a goal for their efforts and it was the former who got his name on the scoresheet. Mannings exquisitely flicked the ball past his opposition full back, ran onto the ball and smashed it left footed before the goalkeeper could even blink. 4-0.
Anna, the Academy physio at half time had predicted a 5-0 scoreline and her wishes were granted and that man Mannings was again involved, his cross was volleyed in by Boxall. 5-0. On with Lewis Jenkins came Lee Mottershead and he also had his chances to increase the scoreline, however his efforts were to no avail.
So with the full time whistle came the feeling of a job well done and looking ahead to a last 16 tie against Essex based Redbridge College. Worthing did show glimpses of their quality, however all know that Worthing need to be more ruthless in front of goal against all opposition to ensure that their dominance is shown in terms of goals and winning performances.
Lets hope this is the case against Chichester next week!
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
The three week layoff gave injuries time to heal and rest periods to all, which resulted in welcome returns to the squad, with the biggest being Lewis Jenkins after three months out with ankle ligament damage and Jenkins took his place on the bench. However it wouldn’t be Worthing College without some unavailabilities and those were the influential Jordan Clark (ill) and the assured Dan Heward (broken toe).
Worthing took to the field knowing that they needed to start sharply and earn the right to play to ensure a positive result, but their opponents started the brighter and seemed to get in behind the Worthing defence more times than coach Dave Hall would have liked. However when going forward Worthing started positively with Dec Jenkins, Sam Mannings and Ryan Quirke gaining early possession and this led to Worthing breaking the deadlock, very much against the run of play. Joe Warner picked up the ball in the middle of the park and played a diagonal pass to Quirke, who ran through and finished cooly under the advancing Sussex Downs goalkeeper. 1-0.
This in theory should have settled Worthing down, but they were still hesitant at times and too many mistakes were being made. To their credit though Worthing reacted quickly to these mistakes and made amends by gaining possession. Soon this was to provide Worthing with a stranglehold in the game with Matt Dodd, Warner and Liam “Des” O’Connor beginning to pull the strings in the middle of midfield, which gave the front three through balls to run onto. This should have put the game out of sight, however Jenkins and Mannings were both excellent in creating chances, but just lacking finishes. When Mannings did finish superbly it was deemed to be offside.
At half time Hall emphasised that Worthing has not been at their best yet still were in front and needed to move through the gears to put the game to bed. Worthing seemed to take heed of this advice and stepped up their game with quick and crisp passing beginning to create gaps in the Sussex Downs rearguard. Mannings and Jenkins were again at the heart of the good that Worthing had to offer with Mannings crossing excellently and consistently and Jenkins working his socks off to make defenders lives a misery. This hard work led to the second goal, where Mannings crossed and the ball fell kindly to Dodd who powered the ball past the keeper. 2-0.
Sussex Downs to their credit kept trying to play, but the defence of Jack Carey, Matt Chester, Drew McGill and Jack Boxall were growing into the game and thwarted any meaningful attack. The clinching goal was scored from the penalty spot after Mannings was fouled when through on goal. Jack Boxall stepped up and sent the goalkeeper the wrong way. 3-0.
As the game was won it was time to reintroduce Lewis Jenkins into Academy action. Lewis was given a full 30 minutes to get back into the swing of things and took the place of Quirke on the right side of the front three. This may sound odd to some, however Lewis almost scored with one of his first touches. His volley was well saved by the Sussex Downs goalkeeper at the back post.
Both Mannings and Dec Jenkins fully deserved a goal for their efforts and it was the former who got his name on the scoresheet. Mannings exquisitely flicked the ball past his opposition full back, ran onto the ball and smashed it left footed before the goalkeeper could even blink. 4-0.
Anna, the Academy physio at half time had predicted a 5-0 scoreline and her wishes were granted and that man Mannings was again involved, his cross was volleyed in by Boxall. 5-0. On with Lewis Jenkins came Lee Mottershead and he also had his chances to increase the scoreline, however his efforts were to no avail.
So with the full time whistle came the feeling of a job well done and looking ahead to a last 16 tie against Essex based Redbridge College. Worthing did show glimpses of their quality, however all know that Worthing need to be more ruthless in front of goal against all opposition to ensure that their dominance is shown in terms of goals and winning performances.
Lets hope this is the case against Chichester next week!
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
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