With the half term approaching Worthing College Football Academy were looking to sign off in style with two positive performances, which should turn into positive results. The 1st XI travelled west to Chichester High School for a 1st round County Cup tie, whilst the 2nd XI took to the Worthing United stage to take on Uxbridge.
Again injuries and unavailabilities forced both sides to make changes and to go with only two substitutes apiece. However this is the reason for a large and strong squad. The 1st XI had to make positional changes as well as personnel, with the usually attacking Sam Mannings revert to left back. Dave Herbert and skipper James Fernandes also returned to the starting line up and all were hoping to a good start in this competition.
The playing surface and equipment was not particularly great, however good players need to adapt in all situations and Worthing took to the pitch confident of making their stats read 6 wins from 6 games going into half term. The game started relatively brightly, however it was seeming to pass Worthing by as sloppy passing gave the hosts opportunities to attack, which resulted in the first of the penalty kicks. The returning Fernandes had no choice but to bring down the Chichester front man and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. However Fernandes redeemed himself with a fine penalty save.
This seemed to spark Worthing into life with the midfield trio of Matt Dodd, Jordan Clark and Joe Warner getting onto the ball and beginning to make things happen. Widemen Liam O'Connor and Ryan Quirke were making well timed runs and Dave Herbert was beginning to get into the game and create chances. These chances were frequent, but were not being dispatched with Herbert, O'Connor, Quirke, Dodd and Clark all being guilty of not hitting the onion bag. The opening goal of the game did come and it was courtesy of the second penalty of the game. A fine driven pass from Mannings was latched onto by Clark and his run was upended by the advancing keeper. Clark dusted himself down and dispatched the penalty. 1-0.
From here Worthing should have pressed home their advantage, but again chances went begging. Therefore with the score 1-0 at half time the word from the bench was to increase the tempo and high pressing game in addition to taking their chances, which would surely result in Worthing's progression into the second round. The second half began the same as the first, with Worthing still looking to score the "perfect" goal. Herbert and Clark the main culprits. To their credit Chichester never gave up and gave the back four of Olly Setchell, Jack Carey, Jack Boxall and Mannings many things to think about. Again the chances came, with the best coming from Matt Dodd, who expertly linked up with Joe Warner, but his volley was well blocked by the Chichester goalkeeper. Then for the first warning! The Chichester winger, who came on as a "rolling" sub jinked passed Carey and Carey clipped his heels on the way through. PENALTY number three! The same player stepped up, again Fernandes guessed right but the shot was dragged wide. Justice you may say, however minutes later Chichester were unbelievably level. A cross again from the wideman was spun upon by the Chichester number 9, who flicked the ball past Fernandes. 1-1.
So into Extra Time. Worthing needed to move the ball quicker and again TAKE THOSE CHANCES!! Coach Dave Hall was beginning to wonder if it was going to be one of those days with more chances going begging. The greatest falling to O'Connor, whose strike was somehow kept out. As it seemed as if Worthing could be there all night before they score the breakthrough finally came. Warner, Herbert and Clark were all involved with Clark expertly back heeling the ball into the path of Herbert, who drove the ball low into the corner. Relief all round!! 2-1. With this the tireless Warner came off to be replaced by debutant Jack Chandler. With time running out Worthing kept the ball well in the corners to run down the clock.
With full time came relief, however Worthing need to be more clinical in front of goal to ensure that all their hard work and excellent play is rewarded. However all in all an excellent effort this half term to come away with a 100% record!!
Meanwhile the 2nd XI looked to dust themselves down from last week's defeat with an ECFA league fixture vs. Uxbridge. According to reports the match was similar to the 1st XI's with some excellent play, but many, many, many missed chances. However with this Uxbridge seemed to punish the hosts by coming out as 2-1 winners. Worthing's scorer was Abdoulie Bah. Again for many it is hard to look beyond the result, however at the Academy we try to leave no stone unturned and we all must look beyond the result at the bigger picture, which is based upon development. To this point ALL players in the Academy have worked hard and are developing and I'm sure that with a little more belief and thought I will be reporting positive results for both teams during the next half term.
Finally I would like to thank you all for your hard work and efforts this half term. Make sure you rest up and come back fresh after the half term break.
Onwards & Upwards,
Hallsy
Wednesday, 20 October 2010
Thursday, 14 October 2010
Banter with Bridges - Week 3
Peter Symonds 0-10 Worthing College
Worthing travelled to Peter Symonds College in the 2nd round of the ESFA Cup after a bye in the 1st round. The game started very quickly when a ball over the top caused a mix up in the Worthing defence which nearly sore an own goal scored within 10 seconds of kick off. Worthing then settled into the game and got on the front foot, they were technically much better than their opposition and passed the ball at a tempo that Symonds couldn’t live with. The 1st goal however took 15 minutes to come before which Worthing had created several clear cut chances that they went onto miss a theme that would continue all afternoon. The 1st goal was scored by Emily Hale after good work down the left by herself and she beat the keeper at her near post.
The Symonds goal then went on to lead a charmed life for much of the remaining half an hour with Worthing hitting the woodwork 4 times and the Symonds goalkeeper making some very good saves. It wasn’t until Chloe Debaes fired home from close range after good work by Maddy Emmerton that the lead was doubled and that’s how it stood at half time.
2-0 Half time.
The 2nd half was to prove less frustrating for Worthing with more of their chances going in instead of hitting the goalkeeper or the woodwork, although it was to be struck a further 3 times in the 2nd half.
The 3rd goal came after 5 minutes of the 2nd half and again it came after good work by Emmerton and Alex Fagan this time Emmerton adding the final touches curling to ball into the far corner from 20 yards out. This seemed to break any resistance Symonds had and the game was then played solely in the Symonds half for the rest of the game. A fourth quickly followed as Debaes added her 2nd of the afternoon. Amy Potkins then got in on the act to score her 1st of the afternoon, followed by a quick fire double from Naomi Robinson to make the score 7-0 with 20 minutes to go. Potkins got her 2nd of the afternoon when she chased down a lost cause beating the keeper to it and rolling the ball into an empty net. Danielle Lane made it 9-0 with a well taken goal before Potkins rounded off the scoring with a couple of minutes remaining to get her 2nd hat-trick in 2 weeks and make the score 10-0.
10-0 Full Time
Scorers: Maddy Emmterton, Danielle Lane, Emily Hale, Naomi Robinson x 2, Chloe Debaes x2, Amy Potkins x 3.
Player of the match: Amy Potkins – for her 2nd hat-trick in 2 weeks.
Worthing travelled to Peter Symonds College in the 2nd round of the ESFA Cup after a bye in the 1st round. The game started very quickly when a ball over the top caused a mix up in the Worthing defence which nearly sore an own goal scored within 10 seconds of kick off. Worthing then settled into the game and got on the front foot, they were technically much better than their opposition and passed the ball at a tempo that Symonds couldn’t live with. The 1st goal however took 15 minutes to come before which Worthing had created several clear cut chances that they went onto miss a theme that would continue all afternoon. The 1st goal was scored by Emily Hale after good work down the left by herself and she beat the keeper at her near post.
The Symonds goal then went on to lead a charmed life for much of the remaining half an hour with Worthing hitting the woodwork 4 times and the Symonds goalkeeper making some very good saves. It wasn’t until Chloe Debaes fired home from close range after good work by Maddy Emmerton that the lead was doubled and that’s how it stood at half time.
2-0 Half time.
The 2nd half was to prove less frustrating for Worthing with more of their chances going in instead of hitting the goalkeeper or the woodwork, although it was to be struck a further 3 times in the 2nd half.
The 3rd goal came after 5 minutes of the 2nd half and again it came after good work by Emmerton and Alex Fagan this time Emmerton adding the final touches curling to ball into the far corner from 20 yards out. This seemed to break any resistance Symonds had and the game was then played solely in the Symonds half for the rest of the game. A fourth quickly followed as Debaes added her 2nd of the afternoon. Amy Potkins then got in on the act to score her 1st of the afternoon, followed by a quick fire double from Naomi Robinson to make the score 7-0 with 20 minutes to go. Potkins got her 2nd of the afternoon when she chased down a lost cause beating the keeper to it and rolling the ball into an empty net. Danielle Lane made it 9-0 with a well taken goal before Potkins rounded off the scoring with a couple of minutes remaining to get her 2nd hat-trick in 2 weeks and make the score 10-0.
10-0 Full Time
Scorers: Maddy Emmterton, Danielle Lane, Emily Hale, Naomi Robinson x 2, Chloe Debaes x2, Amy Potkins x 3.
Player of the match: Amy Potkins – for her 2nd hat-trick in 2 weeks.
Worthing U18 XV 24 Hurstpierpoint U18 XV 17
Beautiful surroundings and a pleasant day the setting for the Daily Mail round 2 cup match. Worthing fresh from a substantial educational experience last week were keen to get right back on the horse, and so they did.
The game was hotly contested from start to finish and probably should have been over as a contest long before its official conclusion. Hurst went in front with a well struck penalty (an idea not o give the chap too many opportunities with the boot then?) but Worthing went hard and scored a controversial try in the corner with Green (ball in the wrong hand but a good finish all the same).
Hurst penaltied back taking it out to 6-5. Lyons went over for the second Worthing score in the corner, unfortunately unable to convert, 10-6 Worthing at the half.
Penalty back Hurst, 10-9 Worthing and all to play for. Parker scored a cheeky try down the blind side and Lyons converted from near the touch line and all seemed well with the world at 17-9. But that would not be consistent with the way this group of players get things done. So with a charitable turn Worthing went on a penalty committing spree and were lucky to keep players on the field and out of the bin. Then disaster for the visiting side as an exceptional try was scored by the Hurst centre beating a number of players and dotting in the corner fortunately not converted. 17-17 and all to play for in the last 6mins.
Worthing struggled in the line out and could not put phasers together owing to mistakes at the breakdown, where a penalty against was the norm. So concerted pressure was never obtained therefore closing the game out became impossible. Hurst were a threat in broken play and counter attacked well on a number of occasions leaving hearts pounding a little harder than desired on the touchline. Eventually Worthing got a driving maul on the go making meters into opposition 22. From there confidence gained and a driving maul from open play created the scoring opportunity for Wigzell and the important conversion by Lyons went over. Breathing space for the last 4mins however Worthing still couldn’t get the two score lead.
Holding on Worthing managed to take it out 24-17, plenty more to work on but round 3 and still in the hat.
Effort 6/10, skill 6/10, four trys and some good inter-play in periods.
The game was hotly contested from start to finish and probably should have been over as a contest long before its official conclusion. Hurst went in front with a well struck penalty (an idea not o give the chap too many opportunities with the boot then?) but Worthing went hard and scored a controversial try in the corner with Green (ball in the wrong hand but a good finish all the same).
Hurst penaltied back taking it out to 6-5. Lyons went over for the second Worthing score in the corner, unfortunately unable to convert, 10-6 Worthing at the half.
Penalty back Hurst, 10-9 Worthing and all to play for. Parker scored a cheeky try down the blind side and Lyons converted from near the touch line and all seemed well with the world at 17-9. But that would not be consistent with the way this group of players get things done. So with a charitable turn Worthing went on a penalty committing spree and were lucky to keep players on the field and out of the bin. Then disaster for the visiting side as an exceptional try was scored by the Hurst centre beating a number of players and dotting in the corner fortunately not converted. 17-17 and all to play for in the last 6mins.
Worthing struggled in the line out and could not put phasers together owing to mistakes at the breakdown, where a penalty against was the norm. So concerted pressure was never obtained therefore closing the game out became impossible. Hurst were a threat in broken play and counter attacked well on a number of occasions leaving hearts pounding a little harder than desired on the touchline. Eventually Worthing got a driving maul on the go making meters into opposition 22. From there confidence gained and a driving maul from open play created the scoring opportunity for Wigzell and the important conversion by Lyons went over. Breathing space for the last 4mins however Worthing still couldn’t get the two score lead.
Holding on Worthing managed to take it out 24-17, plenty more to work on but round 3 and still in the hat.
Effort 6/10, skill 6/10, four trys and some good inter-play in periods.
Wednesday, 13 October 2010
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 5 Vol 2
After a well attended training week both Academy sides were hit by
injuries and late drop outs. The 1st XI missed Lee Mottershead (calf),
Lewis Jenkins (ankle ligaments) and his brother Dec (unavailable) whilst
the 2nd XI had Josh Butler (knee and back), Shawn Chikowore and Andy
Herrington (both unavailable) not at the disposal of coach Danny Cullip.
With these players missing the 1st XI kept with the same back four as
they started vs Woking last time out. Sam Mannings came into the
starting line up to replace Dave Herbert who dropped to the bench. The
final change saw Ryan Quirke come in for the injured Lee Mottershead.
Their opponents were local rivals Varndean. For the victor a place in
the 3rd round of the ESFA National Cup.
The game started fairly evenly with both teams looking to play and apply
pressure, however it was Worthing who seemed to have the more
territorial advantage. As the half continued chances were few and far
between with a Jack Boxall and Jordan Clark shot only chances of real
note. Worthing were fairly dominant, however they needed to be weary of
the more direct Varndean ball, one of which led to a cross shot that was
safely wide. Half time 0-0.
The tie was very much in the balance with the home side playing the
attractive football, whilst the visitors looked to "park the bus" and
break when required.
The chat at half time was based on doing the same as the previous 45,
but at a quicker tempo, yet more patient. The start of the second half
was again positive with winger Liam O'Connor getting twice to the
byline, only for his crosses to elude Mannings and Clark. Even with this
start the visitors seemed to be more open with their play and looked to
take more risks. However the back four of Boxall, Jack Carey, Dan Heward
and Olly Setchell were excellent in their positioning and solidarity.
Then came the breakthrough. Varndean tried to play the ball out the
back, only for pressure by Clark, who pounced on the ball and then slot
the ball past the desparing goalkeeper. 1-0. With the tightness of the
tie a second goal was vital and there should of been one. Matt Dodd
volleyed the ball home, but the goalkeeper was adjudged to have been
fouled. Worthing made their only change with Herbert coming on for the
tireless Mannings. He and Clark combined late in the game only for a
lunging defender to save the day for Varndean.
With time running out Worthing seemed nervy and Varndean took the
initiative and almost forced extra time, but the cross shot avaded all
and sundry. So as the whistle went Worthing booked a place in round 3,
but definitely knew they were in a game!
Meanwhile the 2nd XI headed to Lewisham and it could have been so much
better if they were not denied a second goal to make the score 3-2.
However the hosts went on to win 4-1. Coach Danny Cullip was happy with
the teams play except for a funny 20 minutes.
All in all another developmental week for the Academy, where lessons are
being learnt and I'm sure it won't be long before both sides are on the
end of the positive results they deserve.
Onwards and upwards,
Hallsy
Sent from my BlackBerry(r) wireless device
injuries and late drop outs. The 1st XI missed Lee Mottershead (calf),
Lewis Jenkins (ankle ligaments) and his brother Dec (unavailable) whilst
the 2nd XI had Josh Butler (knee and back), Shawn Chikowore and Andy
Herrington (both unavailable) not at the disposal of coach Danny Cullip.
With these players missing the 1st XI kept with the same back four as
they started vs Woking last time out. Sam Mannings came into the
starting line up to replace Dave Herbert who dropped to the bench. The
final change saw Ryan Quirke come in for the injured Lee Mottershead.
Their opponents were local rivals Varndean. For the victor a place in
the 3rd round of the ESFA National Cup.
The game started fairly evenly with both teams looking to play and apply
pressure, however it was Worthing who seemed to have the more
territorial advantage. As the half continued chances were few and far
between with a Jack Boxall and Jordan Clark shot only chances of real
note. Worthing were fairly dominant, however they needed to be weary of
the more direct Varndean ball, one of which led to a cross shot that was
safely wide. Half time 0-0.
The tie was very much in the balance with the home side playing the
attractive football, whilst the visitors looked to "park the bus" and
break when required.
The chat at half time was based on doing the same as the previous 45,
but at a quicker tempo, yet more patient. The start of the second half
was again positive with winger Liam O'Connor getting twice to the
byline, only for his crosses to elude Mannings and Clark. Even with this
start the visitors seemed to be more open with their play and looked to
take more risks. However the back four of Boxall, Jack Carey, Dan Heward
and Olly Setchell were excellent in their positioning and solidarity.
Then came the breakthrough. Varndean tried to play the ball out the
back, only for pressure by Clark, who pounced on the ball and then slot
the ball past the desparing goalkeeper. 1-0. With the tightness of the
tie a second goal was vital and there should of been one. Matt Dodd
volleyed the ball home, but the goalkeeper was adjudged to have been
fouled. Worthing made their only change with Herbert coming on for the
tireless Mannings. He and Clark combined late in the game only for a
lunging defender to save the day for Varndean.
With time running out Worthing seemed nervy and Varndean took the
initiative and almost forced extra time, but the cross shot avaded all
and sundry. So as the whistle went Worthing booked a place in round 3,
but definitely knew they were in a game!
Meanwhile the 2nd XI headed to Lewisham and it could have been so much
better if they were not denied a second goal to make the score 3-2.
However the hosts went on to win 4-1. Coach Danny Cullip was happy with
the teams play except for a funny 20 minutes.
All in all another developmental week for the Academy, where lessons are
being learnt and I'm sure it won't be long before both sides are on the
end of the positive results they deserve.
Onwards and upwards,
Hallsy
Sent from my BlackBerry(r) wireless device
Friday, 8 October 2010
Netball Round Up - Week 2
Sussex County Cup - Worthing B 19 Hurst A 26
This was expected to be a very one sided affair following Hurst’s thrashing of Worthing’s A team last year in the same competition however Worthing’s B team went out, determined to prove they were worthy opponents.
The focus in training this week was defense and it was delightful as the coach to see the players all working hard to put into practice the work done on Monday. We took an early lead but Hurst pulled back and at quarter time we were two goals down. The team was left the same with the starting 7 realising that fitness is still an area that needs work. The instructions remained the same, look after the ball and remain tight in defense across all areas of the court.
Hurst came out hard in the 2nd quarter having made a couple of changes and where we started to tire, they started to take the game away and the 2nd quarter ended 16 – 10.
We made three changes at half time, moving Rachel Piper to C replacing Erin Collier, Jodie Beaney came on at WA, replacing Sian Rance and Yasmin O’Brian on at WD. The instruction was to continue to defend hard.
We had an excellent third quarter winning the quarter 6 -2 bringing the deficit back to two goals and all to play for in the last quarter.
The first 5 mins of the last quarter was manic with lost possession from both teams, unfortunately our shots did not go in initially and Hurst started to stretch their slender lead – the game ended 19-26. It was an excellent performance from the 2nd team and one that with luck would have seen them going through to the next round.
Down to the 1st team to beat Bhasvic B next week in the cup.
This was expected to be a very one sided affair following Hurst’s thrashing of Worthing’s A team last year in the same competition however Worthing’s B team went out, determined to prove they were worthy opponents.
The focus in training this week was defense and it was delightful as the coach to see the players all working hard to put into practice the work done on Monday. We took an early lead but Hurst pulled back and at quarter time we were two goals down. The team was left the same with the starting 7 realising that fitness is still an area that needs work. The instructions remained the same, look after the ball and remain tight in defense across all areas of the court.
Hurst came out hard in the 2nd quarter having made a couple of changes and where we started to tire, they started to take the game away and the 2nd quarter ended 16 – 10.
We made three changes at half time, moving Rachel Piper to C replacing Erin Collier, Jodie Beaney came on at WA, replacing Sian Rance and Yasmin O’Brian on at WD. The instruction was to continue to defend hard.
We had an excellent third quarter winning the quarter 6 -2 bringing the deficit back to two goals and all to play for in the last quarter.
The first 5 mins of the last quarter was manic with lost possession from both teams, unfortunately our shots did not go in initially and Hurst started to stretch their slender lead – the game ended 19-26. It was an excellent performance from the 2nd team and one that with luck would have seen them going through to the next round.
Down to the 1st team to beat Bhasvic B next week in the cup.
Thursday, 7 October 2010
Hockey Academy Report
WORTHING 1 HAVANT 1
GOAL SCORER ALEX MASON
PLAYER OF THE MATCH KELLY STEVEN
IT WAS NICE TO HAVE A FRIENDLY MATCH FOR THE MIXED, AND HAVANT TURNED OUT TO BE WORTHY OPPONENTS. WORTHING STARTED OUT VERY BRIGHTLY AND DOMINATED FOR THE FIRST 20 MINUTES, ALEX MASON SCORING THE OPENING GOAL IN THE 14 MINUTE, AFTER MANY CHANCES HAD BEEN CREATED. ONCE AGAIN THE STORY WAS SIMILAR TO LAST SEASON, WORTHING CREATING MANY OPPORTUNITIES TO SCORE BUT FAILING TO PUT OUR CHANCES AWAY, HENCE A DISAPPOINTING DRAW. THOUGH ON THE WHOLE A GOOD PERFORMANCE WITH BOTH GOALIES HAVING GREAT GAMES, BUT WE NEED TO PUT OUR CHANCES AWAY!
ROB WARNER
GOAL SCORER ALEX MASON
PLAYER OF THE MATCH KELLY STEVEN
IT WAS NICE TO HAVE A FRIENDLY MATCH FOR THE MIXED, AND HAVANT TURNED OUT TO BE WORTHY OPPONENTS. WORTHING STARTED OUT VERY BRIGHTLY AND DOMINATED FOR THE FIRST 20 MINUTES, ALEX MASON SCORING THE OPENING GOAL IN THE 14 MINUTE, AFTER MANY CHANCES HAD BEEN CREATED. ONCE AGAIN THE STORY WAS SIMILAR TO LAST SEASON, WORTHING CREATING MANY OPPORTUNITIES TO SCORE BUT FAILING TO PUT OUR CHANCES AWAY, HENCE A DISAPPOINTING DRAW. THOUGH ON THE WHOLE A GOOD PERFORMANCE WITH BOTH GOALIES HAVING GREAT GAMES, BUT WE NEED TO PUT OUR CHANCES AWAY!
ROB WARNER
Banter with Bridges - Week 2
Its not often you go away from home score 7 and lose but that is the fate Chichester suffered on Wednesday against a much changed Worthing Side in this 15 goal thriller were there was never more than a goal between the two sides. After a slow start from Worthing they fell behind to a simple long ball that was flicked on and Chichester quick forward out raced them and put the ball home. Worthing slowly got themselves back into the game and equalized through good work down the right between Naomi Robinson and Amy Potkins with Robinson applying the finishing touches. Worthing never fell behind again in the game after that, Danielle Lane then got her 1st of the afternoon with a fine solo run and finish from midfield.
Chichester then equalised with a carbon copy of the 1st goal, again poor defending and the same forward ran through to finish past Corrine Wilson 1 on 1. Potkins then got her 1st of the afternoon with a well taken goal from around the penalty spot, but once again Chi equalised this time through a bundled goal were Worthing failed to clear their lines. Lane got her 2nd of the afternoon with a great strike from the edge of the area with her weaker foot to take the game to half time at 4-3.
Some stern words were spoken about the defending in the 1st half especially about letting two long balls lead to two goals.
Strangely Worthing defended much better as a team in the 2nd half but went on to concede more goals than they did the 1st due to individual errors and a great free-kick from range. Chi quickly made it 4-3 after the break despite Worthing enjoying most of the early possession, Worthing replied to make it 5-4 when Sophie Frost nodded the ball in from close range after a scramble on the Chi goal line, the 1st of several goalmouth scrambles on the Chi line in the 2nd half. But yet again Chi equalised from another individual error at the back allowing the forward to go through 1 on 1 and again finish past the helpless Wilson.
Lane then completed her hat-trick after another strong run and finish from midfield, this came at a period that Lane started to become more and more influential in the game. Worthing were now much the dominate side but continued to make sloppy mistakes this time Wilson let a shot slip through her finger and roll onto the net to make it 6-6! Potkins then got her 2nd goal of the afternoon after good work down the right from Naomi Robinson to make it 7-6 with 15 minutes remaining. A free kick from 25 yards again brought the score to 7-7, with the final 10 minutes remaining there was still another goal in it. Potkins got the winner from close range after yet another strong run from Lane. After this goal for the this game the finish was very quiet and Worthing comfortably saw out the result for the final 5 minutes.
Final score Worthing 8-7 Chichester
Scorers: Danielle Lane x 3, Amy Potkins x 3, Sophie Frost, Naomi Robinson
Player of the match: Danielle Lane – for dominating the midfield, getting on the score sheet 3 times and providing two other goals in the game.
Chichester then equalised with a carbon copy of the 1st goal, again poor defending and the same forward ran through to finish past Corrine Wilson 1 on 1. Potkins then got her 1st of the afternoon with a well taken goal from around the penalty spot, but once again Chi equalised this time through a bundled goal were Worthing failed to clear their lines. Lane got her 2nd of the afternoon with a great strike from the edge of the area with her weaker foot to take the game to half time at 4-3.
Some stern words were spoken about the defending in the 1st half especially about letting two long balls lead to two goals.
Strangely Worthing defended much better as a team in the 2nd half but went on to concede more goals than they did the 1st due to individual errors and a great free-kick from range. Chi quickly made it 4-3 after the break despite Worthing enjoying most of the early possession, Worthing replied to make it 5-4 when Sophie Frost nodded the ball in from close range after a scramble on the Chi goal line, the 1st of several goalmouth scrambles on the Chi line in the 2nd half. But yet again Chi equalised from another individual error at the back allowing the forward to go through 1 on 1 and again finish past the helpless Wilson.
Lane then completed her hat-trick after another strong run and finish from midfield, this came at a period that Lane started to become more and more influential in the game. Worthing were now much the dominate side but continued to make sloppy mistakes this time Wilson let a shot slip through her finger and roll onto the net to make it 6-6! Potkins then got her 2nd goal of the afternoon after good work down the right from Naomi Robinson to make it 7-6 with 15 minutes remaining. A free kick from 25 yards again brought the score to 7-7, with the final 10 minutes remaining there was still another goal in it. Potkins got the winner from close range after yet another strong run from Lane. After this goal for the this game the finish was very quiet and Worthing comfortably saw out the result for the final 5 minutes.
Final score Worthing 8-7 Chichester
Scorers: Danielle Lane x 3, Amy Potkins x 3, Sophie Frost, Naomi Robinson
Player of the match: Danielle Lane – for dominating the midfield, getting on the score sheet 3 times and providing two other goals in the game.
Thursday, 30 September 2010
Worthing XV 31 King Edward VI Grammar School 17
A week of defensive work eventually paid off with plenty of opportunity to put systems and individual technique under pressure via an indifferent performance.
The first half started with Worthing setting themselves the target of not conceding a penalty on the defensive side of the ball. This did not get achieved and as soon as the first minute KEGS’s Christmas arrived in the form of 15 Navy and Sky players trying to violate every law in our beloved IRB Law book. Unfortunately for the visiting side the official had decided they were indeed bending to breaking point all laws available to a modern day rugby official, his whistle was the MVP early on.
With much of the ball the home side went to work and scored a converted try under the horns, Worthing having not listened or heeded any of the officials warnings. Roberts was running for Prime Minister as he was invited into numerous high level conferences with the man in the middle. It was apparent that he has the most delicate of touches as the official allowed the traveling players to remain at 15 on the field. Until that was Pumfrey fell on the yellow card grenade for the entire back line being off side. Penalty kicked 10-5 to the home side.
Its at this point I should send Roberts directly off the pitch to purchase a Euro Millions Lotto ticket because what he did was at the farthest end of the spectrum of long odds. Sliding across the opposition 22 seeing he was outnumbered 2 to 5 he threw what can only be called an outrageous dummy sending 3 defenders in the wrong direction then a turn of ‘Bolt’ like pace was followed by the maker of sleepless nights for the KEGS 15. A step by the Wizard from the principality which made the Fullback fall without touching the intended tackle recipiant. A full length dive that Tom Daily would have been proud of and the five pointer was notched. Lyons nailed the extras Worthing by 2 at the turn.
A number of players were working hard on and off the ball, Herron was getting into good positions, Laszlo got into good turnover positions and the front row in all of its guises really took care of the scrum. Worthing spent the entire game struggling to gain any dominance in the line out and this was an issue when trying to disrupt the opposition threat and create one of our own. A work in progress.....
A raft of changes at the half way point and Worthing turned to play up the hill and into the wind with a slender lead. The half was not going quite to plan in all areas however there were morsels of delightful delectability even a fired up Gordan Ramsey would struggle to use the F word at. A period of 5mins in the middle portion of the half brought home the bacon for Worthing as combinations started to link, Parker upped the speed around the base and Pegg threatened running at 10. Pumfrey, Green and Fastnedge were challenging the defence in centre field while Lyons attacked well from deep.
Green plopped over after some good work from N White this opened or partially parted the flood gates. The best try was in the post, Wigzell turned the ball over and it was moved across the field where Lyons hit the line at pace. Penetration achieved interplay between Luke, Wigzell and then back to Lyons who finished well. 70m, 6 passes, 5 points, the highlight of the day (apart from the captain’s effort).
The game was drawing to its conclusion and the home side got over from a well worked back row play. Not wishing to be over shadowed the visitors mustered one last turn over, great sending and receiving skills with all involved stressing the defenders ended with Fastnedge notching the 5pts.
On reflection some excellent rugby in places, but for the a long time it was a disappointing trip into ‘No-skillville’ where all 23 players had an equal stake-hold. But pleasingly they organised a field trip to ‘We have played rugby before town’ population 23 (for approximately 6mins). Effort scored at 7/10, organisation 5/10, skill 6/10, Rugby understanding 5/10.
More to work on and more building blocks in place, a reasonable weeks work more to come. Monday.........
The first half started with Worthing setting themselves the target of not conceding a penalty on the defensive side of the ball. This did not get achieved and as soon as the first minute KEGS’s Christmas arrived in the form of 15 Navy and Sky players trying to violate every law in our beloved IRB Law book. Unfortunately for the visiting side the official had decided they were indeed bending to breaking point all laws available to a modern day rugby official, his whistle was the MVP early on.
With much of the ball the home side went to work and scored a converted try under the horns, Worthing having not listened or heeded any of the officials warnings. Roberts was running for Prime Minister as he was invited into numerous high level conferences with the man in the middle. It was apparent that he has the most delicate of touches as the official allowed the traveling players to remain at 15 on the field. Until that was Pumfrey fell on the yellow card grenade for the entire back line being off side. Penalty kicked 10-5 to the home side.
Its at this point I should send Roberts directly off the pitch to purchase a Euro Millions Lotto ticket because what he did was at the farthest end of the spectrum of long odds. Sliding across the opposition 22 seeing he was outnumbered 2 to 5 he threw what can only be called an outrageous dummy sending 3 defenders in the wrong direction then a turn of ‘Bolt’ like pace was followed by the maker of sleepless nights for the KEGS 15. A step by the Wizard from the principality which made the Fullback fall without touching the intended tackle recipiant. A full length dive that Tom Daily would have been proud of and the five pointer was notched. Lyons nailed the extras Worthing by 2 at the turn.
A number of players were working hard on and off the ball, Herron was getting into good positions, Laszlo got into good turnover positions and the front row in all of its guises really took care of the scrum. Worthing spent the entire game struggling to gain any dominance in the line out and this was an issue when trying to disrupt the opposition threat and create one of our own. A work in progress.....
A raft of changes at the half way point and Worthing turned to play up the hill and into the wind with a slender lead. The half was not going quite to plan in all areas however there were morsels of delightful delectability even a fired up Gordan Ramsey would struggle to use the F word at. A period of 5mins in the middle portion of the half brought home the bacon for Worthing as combinations started to link, Parker upped the speed around the base and Pegg threatened running at 10. Pumfrey, Green and Fastnedge were challenging the defence in centre field while Lyons attacked well from deep.
Green plopped over after some good work from N White this opened or partially parted the flood gates. The best try was in the post, Wigzell turned the ball over and it was moved across the field where Lyons hit the line at pace. Penetration achieved interplay between Luke, Wigzell and then back to Lyons who finished well. 70m, 6 passes, 5 points, the highlight of the day (apart from the captain’s effort).
The game was drawing to its conclusion and the home side got over from a well worked back row play. Not wishing to be over shadowed the visitors mustered one last turn over, great sending and receiving skills with all involved stressing the defenders ended with Fastnedge notching the 5pts.
On reflection some excellent rugby in places, but for the a long time it was a disappointing trip into ‘No-skillville’ where all 23 players had an equal stake-hold. But pleasingly they organised a field trip to ‘We have played rugby before town’ population 23 (for approximately 6mins). Effort scored at 7/10, organisation 5/10, skill 6/10, Rugby understanding 5/10.
More to work on and more building blocks in place, a reasonable weeks work more to come. Monday.........
Wednesday, 29 September 2010
Hallsy's Academy Report - Week 4 Vol 2
After a couple of intense training sessions both Football squads were looking for wins to add to their efforts in training. Preparation was hampered though by a number of injuries and unavailabilities, which decimated the squad from 36 strong to 24 holding on! However there was some light at the end of the tunnel for both teams to ensure the benches were filled and therefore needed if called upon.
The 1st XI headed towards fellow league leaders Woking with the news that Lewis Jenkins was only fit enough for the bench and 2nd XI starter Jon Watkins also came along to “do a job” if need be. With the late fitness tests of Ryan Quirke (Failed) and Dan Heward (Passed) coach Dave Hall took his option C of starting line ups, which moved top scorer Olly Setchell to Right Back, Jack Boxall to Left Back and this allowed the returning Dave Herbert to take his place in the central striking role.
The word before the game was that this was to be the biggest test of the season so far and it would gauge how far this team had come in four weeks of training and matches. With a cautious warm up Worthing started the brighter and got the ball moving at pace on the slick and luscious surface that Woking had to offer. It wasn’t long before the chances were being carved out with Herbert being the main culprit on more than one occasion. With this early domination it only looked like one team were going to score first, however Football has a habit being cruel at times and this was evident when Woking took the lead. Kieron Gillard’s distribution had been excellent both out of hand and on the floor, however a scuffed clearance was pounced upon by the Woking striker, who found his partner and slotted the ball under Gillard. 0-1.
With this cruel blow Worthing needed to keep their cool and continue what they were doing, which was passing, moving and switching play. Chances again came Worthing’s way with Herbert, Jordan Clark and Joe Warner all having chances to get their names on the scoresheet. Then came the well deserved equaliser. A Herbert run down the right put himself through on goal. His scooped finish was well cleared off the line only for the ball to loop up for Lee Mottershead to head in his first goal at Academy level. 1-1.
With this Worthing stepped up a gear (if that was possible!) with three quick goals coming to no reply. All three were scored by that man Herbert, with one coming from a Jordan Clark flick on, another coming from an excellent piece of thinking by Clark when taking a free kick quickly and another a fine finish across the Woking keeper and skidding off the wet turf. 4-1. That is how it stayed until the half. Apart from conceding the goal the performance was up in the top three of all time at the Academy in terms of intensity and skill. It was a joy to watch.
At half time Worthing knew that they needed to continue the pressure on their fellow league challengers to ensure that the game was won. Worthing couldn’t have started better this time it was Joe Warner, who got on scoresheet. A thoroughly deserved goal based on his high energy, tough tackling performance. Warner volleyed in after the Woking keeper could only parry a Liam O’Connor cross. 5-1.
To their credit Woking did try and come back at the visitors, however Boxall, Setchell, Heward and Jack Carey stood firm and shut the door on any Woking attacks. It was only a matter of time before the next goal came. This time it was Herbert again, who slotted the ball into the far right corner after Worthing had “nicked” the ball high. 6-1. In all honesty it could really have been a cricket score with Clark, Warner, Herbert & substitute Ryan Quirke all having chances to increase Worthing’s lead. The final goal of the game came from Warner, who with a couple of minutes remaining powered though the home defense, used the “crying” Quirke as a decoy and rounded the goalkeeper. 7-1.
Meanwhile the 2nd XI travelled to North London to take on newcomers St Thomas More in an ECFA League Match. After lasts weeks excellent performance against Watford the boys knew that if they put in the effort and intensity into their game the result would definitely come. Coach Danny Cullip made a couple of changes to the team, who were so unfortunate the week before. Full backs Harry Metters and Pat Kelly switched flanks, Judah Langford came into the side to replace the injured Jon Watkins on the right wing. Cullip was full of praise for his players after the performance, which saw goals from Dom Stannard and Abdoulie Bah secure a 2-1 win. Again the attitude was first class, with the only negative being that it should have been a more comfortable victory, with many chances squandered.
All in all a very successful week results wise for the Football Academy. This is down to the players attitude and work rate both in training and in games, which has led to the players playing neat attractive football, which is now becoming even more effective. Hopefully both teams will continue to kick on from these positive results and have a successful season. Well done to all involved.
Next week sees the 1st XI having a week off, but the 2nd XI start their defence of the County Cup, which has seen them drawn at home to Sir Robert Woodard Academy. Kick off is 3.30pm and the venue is Worthing United FC. It would be great to see you down supporting Danny and the lads!
Onwards and Upwards,
Hallsy
The 1st XI headed towards fellow league leaders Woking with the news that Lewis Jenkins was only fit enough for the bench and 2nd XI starter Jon Watkins also came along to “do a job” if need be. With the late fitness tests of Ryan Quirke (Failed) and Dan Heward (Passed) coach Dave Hall took his option C of starting line ups, which moved top scorer Olly Setchell to Right Back, Jack Boxall to Left Back and this allowed the returning Dave Herbert to take his place in the central striking role.
The word before the game was that this was to be the biggest test of the season so far and it would gauge how far this team had come in four weeks of training and matches. With a cautious warm up Worthing started the brighter and got the ball moving at pace on the slick and luscious surface that Woking had to offer. It wasn’t long before the chances were being carved out with Herbert being the main culprit on more than one occasion. With this early domination it only looked like one team were going to score first, however Football has a habit being cruel at times and this was evident when Woking took the lead. Kieron Gillard’s distribution had been excellent both out of hand and on the floor, however a scuffed clearance was pounced upon by the Woking striker, who found his partner and slotted the ball under Gillard. 0-1.
With this cruel blow Worthing needed to keep their cool and continue what they were doing, which was passing, moving and switching play. Chances again came Worthing’s way with Herbert, Jordan Clark and Joe Warner all having chances to get their names on the scoresheet. Then came the well deserved equaliser. A Herbert run down the right put himself through on goal. His scooped finish was well cleared off the line only for the ball to loop up for Lee Mottershead to head in his first goal at Academy level. 1-1.
With this Worthing stepped up a gear (if that was possible!) with three quick goals coming to no reply. All three were scored by that man Herbert, with one coming from a Jordan Clark flick on, another coming from an excellent piece of thinking by Clark when taking a free kick quickly and another a fine finish across the Woking keeper and skidding off the wet turf. 4-1. That is how it stayed until the half. Apart from conceding the goal the performance was up in the top three of all time at the Academy in terms of intensity and skill. It was a joy to watch.
At half time Worthing knew that they needed to continue the pressure on their fellow league challengers to ensure that the game was won. Worthing couldn’t have started better this time it was Joe Warner, who got on scoresheet. A thoroughly deserved goal based on his high energy, tough tackling performance. Warner volleyed in after the Woking keeper could only parry a Liam O’Connor cross. 5-1.
To their credit Woking did try and come back at the visitors, however Boxall, Setchell, Heward and Jack Carey stood firm and shut the door on any Woking attacks. It was only a matter of time before the next goal came. This time it was Herbert again, who slotted the ball into the far right corner after Worthing had “nicked” the ball high. 6-1. In all honesty it could really have been a cricket score with Clark, Warner, Herbert & substitute Ryan Quirke all having chances to increase Worthing’s lead. The final goal of the game came from Warner, who with a couple of minutes remaining powered though the home defense, used the “crying” Quirke as a decoy and rounded the goalkeeper. 7-1.
Meanwhile the 2nd XI travelled to North London to take on newcomers St Thomas More in an ECFA League Match. After lasts weeks excellent performance against Watford the boys knew that if they put in the effort and intensity into their game the result would definitely come. Coach Danny Cullip made a couple of changes to the team, who were so unfortunate the week before. Full backs Harry Metters and Pat Kelly switched flanks, Judah Langford came into the side to replace the injured Jon Watkins on the right wing. Cullip was full of praise for his players after the performance, which saw goals from Dom Stannard and Abdoulie Bah secure a 2-1 win. Again the attitude was first class, with the only negative being that it should have been a more comfortable victory, with many chances squandered.
All in all a very successful week results wise for the Football Academy. This is down to the players attitude and work rate both in training and in games, which has led to the players playing neat attractive football, which is now becoming even more effective. Hopefully both teams will continue to kick on from these positive results and have a successful season. Well done to all involved.
Next week sees the 1st XI having a week off, but the 2nd XI start their defence of the County Cup, which has seen them drawn at home to Sir Robert Woodard Academy. Kick off is 3.30pm and the venue is Worthing United FC. It would be great to see you down supporting Danny and the lads!
Onwards and Upwards,
Hallsy
Thursday, 23 September 2010
Worthing 2nd XV 17 Richmond 1st XV 42
On first glance this could take you back to the early 1980s and an excited Norwegian football commentator, ‘Peter Corrigan, Ben Coulson, Paul Cox your boys took one hell of a beating.’ Well not so a defeat yes a beating not so much. A strong Richmond side travelled to the Arena of Aspiration following a self imposed drop from the elite to performance league of the British Colleges structure. The south west London outfit having had a large overhaul of their rugby programme in the summer months but pleasingly no fall off in intensity, enthusiasm or athletic prowess.
These guys came to play with a large well organised pack that could take care of business at scrum and line out time, while the backs had gas to burn and scintillating ‘come dancing’ feet. Quite a challenge for the young Worthing side, made of predominantly freshmen with a sprinkling of seasoned club pros. One such performer was Simon Arnold who took the responsibility of leading the side and made an excellent fist of the job.
From the off the Worthing players huffed and puffed but couldn’t blow the Richmond house down, however their efforts were rewarded with two excellently struck Pegg penalties (this chap strikes a reasonable ball) and concerted pressure from the home side brought the best from the visitors. Unfortunately it only severed to wake a slumbering giant, Richmond realising it was on like Donkey Kong and hit back to draw the tie at 6 points each with their forwards making larger inroads into the Worthing defence.
As the half went on the home side continued to give as good as they got and put phases together in order to score. Dixon was making it difficult for the opposition halfbacks, Herron was running well with the ball gaining great support from Wright, Trencher, Arnold et al. The Worthing front row were having a torrid time in the scrum, but manned up a beaut never giving or asking quarter be given. Brightman kicked well from the base of the ruck, Pegg was kicking well for posts and managed to nothch another penalty before the half but was unable to convert the only Worthing try of the afternoon. The centre pairing of Maslen and Fastnedge defended admirably, there is plenty of talent there me thinks. Alas Worthing didn’t get enough of the ball to show the speed of the back 3 all of whom worked well off the ball and showed willing.
At the half changes were made and Worthing fell to a number of very good scores from the larger, more experienced visitors and couldn’t get back in contention. However there was no backing down and every player involved gave it their all. Leeming made a very impressive home debut stretching the opposition providing quick ball for the backs that couldn’t really get going owing to sound defending from the Richmond side. Wilson managed to strike a good penalty towards the end of the match and other than Herron having a try disallowed for a double movement that was all she wrote.
So on reflection, more building blocks laid, progress made and gauntlets thrown. A 8 out of 10 for stones with a 3.5 out of 10 for street smarts, but that’s okay by me. A long season ahead and I’m confident that many of these players will grace the 1st XV in the weeks and months to come. It’s true to say I could be quietly excited about the training, matches and season to come. A good effort chaps, see you tomorrow for training 12.55 sharpe, Lombardi time.
These guys came to play with a large well organised pack that could take care of business at scrum and line out time, while the backs had gas to burn and scintillating ‘come dancing’ feet. Quite a challenge for the young Worthing side, made of predominantly freshmen with a sprinkling of seasoned club pros. One such performer was Simon Arnold who took the responsibility of leading the side and made an excellent fist of the job.
From the off the Worthing players huffed and puffed but couldn’t blow the Richmond house down, however their efforts were rewarded with two excellently struck Pegg penalties (this chap strikes a reasonable ball) and concerted pressure from the home side brought the best from the visitors. Unfortunately it only severed to wake a slumbering giant, Richmond realising it was on like Donkey Kong and hit back to draw the tie at 6 points each with their forwards making larger inroads into the Worthing defence.
As the half went on the home side continued to give as good as they got and put phases together in order to score. Dixon was making it difficult for the opposition halfbacks, Herron was running well with the ball gaining great support from Wright, Trencher, Arnold et al. The Worthing front row were having a torrid time in the scrum, but manned up a beaut never giving or asking quarter be given. Brightman kicked well from the base of the ruck, Pegg was kicking well for posts and managed to nothch another penalty before the half but was unable to convert the only Worthing try of the afternoon. The centre pairing of Maslen and Fastnedge defended admirably, there is plenty of talent there me thinks. Alas Worthing didn’t get enough of the ball to show the speed of the back 3 all of whom worked well off the ball and showed willing.
At the half changes were made and Worthing fell to a number of very good scores from the larger, more experienced visitors and couldn’t get back in contention. However there was no backing down and every player involved gave it their all. Leeming made a very impressive home debut stretching the opposition providing quick ball for the backs that couldn’t really get going owing to sound defending from the Richmond side. Wilson managed to strike a good penalty towards the end of the match and other than Herron having a try disallowed for a double movement that was all she wrote.
So on reflection, more building blocks laid, progress made and gauntlets thrown. A 8 out of 10 for stones with a 3.5 out of 10 for street smarts, but that’s okay by me. A long season ahead and I’m confident that many of these players will grace the 1st XV in the weeks and months to come. It’s true to say I could be quietly excited about the training, matches and season to come. A good effort chaps, see you tomorrow for training 12.55 sharpe, Lombardi time.
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