Fernhill are perennial whipping boys, but not by us. Last season their only win came ended our run of five straight wins at the Hogs. A season earlier we battled to overcome their nine men, only hitting the front in the second half when their missing players eventually turned up.
Although they regularly ship goals they have enjoyed a promising start to this season with three wins - two more than the previous two seasons combined.
We arrived in a lashing rain storm and without a goalkeeper, held up in traffic. Missing regular forward Ant and the attacking midfield talents of Fergus, our side looked a bit unbalanced.
Running with the strong wind early we pushed too many passes but had total domination of the game in the first half.
The only goal came midway through the half. Graeme D played the ball into space down the right, won the race to the byline and cut back well for Shaky in the box. He shanked his shot and it caught the keeper off balance, sneaking in under his grasp at the near post.
Pete touched the ball just twice in the half, neither was a shot, and we were in no danger as the defence did a fine job to nullify any threats.
Fernhill appeared boosted by the addition of a couple of former Coniston players, including one who was very crafty around the middle of the park, but it was a strange first half with neither team creating much at all.
Sunshine at the break turned again to slannting rain early in the second term and this time it was the Waves who were pinned back for long periods.
Fernhill won several freekicks around the area and pinged the ball at goal, only for our defence to stand rock solid in the way.
As Fernhill committed players forward we had our chances to seal the game and should have a couple of times. TH10 beat his marker and then was presented with a golden opportunity as the onrushing keeper spilled the ball. He tried to toe poke it in from 16 yards out on the left but it skewed off the boot and missed the empty net.
Phil C, playing up front just failed to control a ball as it whizzed by in front of goal and Shaky fizzed a header just over the top from Tom's corner. (Shaky heads it harder than TH10 can kick it).
With time running out, Dave D surged forward and took a pass which put him behind the back four. He sent a ball across to Shaky who took control 25 yards out with the keeper to beat but could only scuff his foot into the ground as he shot.
Exhaustion was taking its toll into the strong wind and there was concern that we might be made to pay for our lack of edge up front.
Fernhill had a penalty shout waved away, the striker turning a defender in the box and falling theatrically (TH10 and Graeme P are considering giving lessons) and there were a couple of strong shouts for handball, one leading to a yellow card against them for dissent.
The home side finished with a series of corners swung deep into our box.
"They're not a top two team, they're crumbling," shouted one expectant Fernhill player as they pressed near the end.
We never crumbled. We are still a top two team.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Coledale Raves Trivia Night
Coledale Raves first trivia night has been booked at The Bowlo for Saturday 27th June commencing at 7pm.
It's time to find the smartest & most knowledgeable amongst our teams, so I suggest looking elsewhere.
Form your team of 8 members, give yourself a witty name and start practising for the big event.
Thanks to Tony & Ant for arranging Bowlo and Trivia Master of Ceremonies.
Official flyer to follow with further details and remember, it's not how smart you think you are, but how dump your opponents will be!
Social Dave
It's time to find the smartest & most knowledgeable amongst our teams, so I suggest looking elsewhere.
Form your team of 8 members, give yourself a witty name and start practising for the big event.
Thanks to Tony & Ant for arranging Bowlo and Trivia Master of Ceremonies.
Official flyer to follow with further details and remember, it's not how smart you think you are, but how dump your opponents will be!
Social Dave
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Iron men
It's a year and 10 days since I wrote a story (click here) on the Coastal Hogland website cataloguing the tale of injury and illness woe which struck down our then team after we made a flying start to the season. I lasted three games, Shane about five. GP was diagnosed with Chron's disease. Sean had kidney stones, Gary J's knees held more fluid than his belly on a Saturday evening. John B was about to come to grief burying his cat. Everything that could go wrong did as we plummeted from the top of the table and out of the four.
This season we appear to be heading to Fernhill for our round 10 match with only the 22nd man, Dave Mc missing. This does mean less game time all around and some might have to sit out. But the good news is that we have a healthy, happy team. Now of course this could be the post that jinxes all that. But can anyone say why we have had a better time with injuries this season? Is it mere luck?
This season we appear to be heading to Fernhill for our round 10 match with only the 22nd man, Dave Mc missing. This does mean less game time all around and some might have to sit out. But the good news is that we have a healthy, happy team. Now of course this could be the post that jinxes all that. But can anyone say why we have had a better time with injuries this season? Is it mere luck?
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Whites lose again (my daughters heading not mine)
My 10 year old summed it up. Still winless, but not playing that bad, which is as frustrating as hell. Most of our matches against the stronger teams have taken a similar pattern, we start all guns blazing and outplay the opposition for 25 minutes, then it falls apart in the final 20 of the first half and we are out of the running, spending the whole second half playing catch up. For 70 minutes the scores were 3-3, its that 4 goal 20 minute onslaught that was the difference and a big one at that.
TH10 has outlined the match action, so I wont repeat that. Speaking of our benevolent dictator, what a master class he gave. Looking more like a homeless person with a 5 day beard than a clinical striker, he showed that with a minimum of effort you can bag yourself 4 if you run into gaps and stay in position. I dont remember him on the field much and looked over 15 minutes from the end and the tracky is on, his work done for the day (is that enough to get into the inner circle?).
Other maroons caught the eye. Paul E bobbed up with a brace and played well, Fergus wasnt picky who he scored for and ran hard all day. Dave also played strongly in midfield. Graham, Shane and Kev kept things tight at the back, and I love Tom's stepovers, we know its coming but still fall for them.
We whites will back up again next week and give our best against the crows. There is always a few highlights even when you are given a touch up. Mr21's piledriver is in contention for goal of the season. The talk on the field is improving (should be interesting next week without Les) and a few combinations are starting to form between the midfielders and the forwards. A work in progress....
TH10 has outlined the match action, so I wont repeat that. Speaking of our benevolent dictator, what a master class he gave. Looking more like a homeless person with a 5 day beard than a clinical striker, he showed that with a minimum of effort you can bag yourself 4 if you run into gaps and stay in position. I dont remember him on the field much and looked over 15 minutes from the end and the tracky is on, his work done for the day (is that enough to get into the inner circle?).
Other maroons caught the eye. Paul E bobbed up with a brace and played well, Fergus wasnt picky who he scored for and ran hard all day. Dave also played strongly in midfield. Graham, Shane and Kev kept things tight at the back, and I love Tom's stepovers, we know its coming but still fall for them.
We whites will back up again next week and give our best against the crows. There is always a few highlights even when you are given a touch up. Mr21's piledriver is in contention for goal of the season. The talk on the field is improving (should be interesting next week without Les) and a few combinations are starting to form between the midfielders and the forwards. A work in progress....
Latest table
As far as I can work out, four of six games were played with Sh*t Hogs v IFS and Uni v Shell City washed out and to be replayed later. The asterisk indicating one game fewer appears on their points below.
The Makos, who finished the game with 10 men, lost 2-1 to Old Boys allowing the Maroons into second. Russell Vale continued their recent rise with victory over Figtree. The Crows defeated the Maroons next opponent Fernhill 3-0 to stay fourth.
Old Boys 25
Maroons 20
Makos 19
Crows 16
------
Russell Vale 14
Shell City 11*
Sh*t Hogs 11*
Fernhill 9
Figtree 7
IFS 6*
Whites 4
Uni 4*
The Makos, who finished the game with 10 men, lost 2-1 to Old Boys allowing the Maroons into second. Russell Vale continued their recent rise with victory over Figtree. The Crows defeated the Maroons next opponent Fernhill 3-0 to stay fourth.
Old Boys 25
Maroons 20
Makos 19
Crows 16
------
Russell Vale 14
Shell City 11*
Sh*t Hogs 11*
Fernhill 9
Figtree 7
IFS 6*
Whites 4
Uni 4*
Maroons take advantage in the Coledale Cup
WARILLA, Australia, May 23 (CRNS) - Coledale Maroons took a 7-3 first leg advantage over the Whites in the first ever Coledale Cup competition on Saturday.
Although played at Warilla, due to a wet St James Park and a kind offer from Warilla's junior club president, it was a Maroons home game and the three away goals scored by the Whites might prove crucial when the Cup, for supremacy between Coledale senior teams, is decided in round 22.
A late decision was made to move the match but both teams were at full strength with players having to be rostered out.
The best playing surface we have seen this season allowed for some good football on the ground and the rain held off as only a stiff breeze intruded on the style.
The Whites started the stronger, despite running uphill and into the wind, and caused a few anxious moments in the Maroons penalty area.
At the other end, several balls were played too long with the breeze before Paul E cracked the conditions with a fine ball in behind the defence. TH10 came through the gap and didn't have to break stride in placing the ball past Goalie Glenn.
Soon after it was 1-1 as a Whites corner pinballed around the six yard box, taking a decisive and ingenious flick on from AB12, and over the line. It was hard to tell who got the final touch.
Paul E put the Maroons back in front from a corner, leaping high to head home. The Whites were having trouble picking up forwards in the box and the pattern repeated a few more times during the afternoon.
TH10 scored twice more in the half, the second converting a perfect ball in from Tom after a short corner, and Paul E blazed in a powerful shot for a 5-1 halftime lead.
With the wind behind them the Whites controlled the game at the start of the second half as the Maroons failed to clear the ball from midfield.
Mark G was twice unlucky not to get on the scoresheet. Ref Ian blew his whistle for a Whites freekick just outside the box but a fraction later Mark thundered a ball past Pete H and into the net. Although Ian went to give the goal, he succumbed to Maroon protests and paid the freekick.
Mark took the shot and bent it low around the wall only for Pete H to make a fantastic save.
With the Whites fired up in the tackle and Les demanding 1000 percent commitment, they put together the best goal of the game. Several crisp passes cut through the Maroons midfield and Les let fly with a long range cracker for 5-2.
The Maroons, habitually unable to close out games with a mimimum of fuss, were starting to wobble but some calm play from Graeme P and Kev, plus Shane in his first game of the season, steadied the team and they went on to increase their lead.
A ball from the right skimmed some hair as it flew across the area and found TH10 unmarked in front and eight yards out. Goalie Glenn got down well but just couldn't keep out the shot.
In the next attack, a Maroons corner proved fruitful again, Fergus rising the highest to glance his header into the far bottom corner.
Ant clipped the ball over the advancing keeper after a great run from Gary J and Fergus went close to a second when his long range shot whistled just wide. He wasn't done however and, under pressure from Stevie H, nodded into his own net. It was the last action of an open match.
(Thanks to all who travelled. Apologies for the Maroon bias to the report. Would love to read one from the Whites.)
Although played at Warilla, due to a wet St James Park and a kind offer from Warilla's junior club president, it was a Maroons home game and the three away goals scored by the Whites might prove crucial when the Cup, for supremacy between Coledale senior teams, is decided in round 22.
A late decision was made to move the match but both teams were at full strength with players having to be rostered out.
The best playing surface we have seen this season allowed for some good football on the ground and the rain held off as only a stiff breeze intruded on the style.
The Whites started the stronger, despite running uphill and into the wind, and caused a few anxious moments in the Maroons penalty area.
At the other end, several balls were played too long with the breeze before Paul E cracked the conditions with a fine ball in behind the defence. TH10 came through the gap and didn't have to break stride in placing the ball past Goalie Glenn.
Soon after it was 1-1 as a Whites corner pinballed around the six yard box, taking a decisive and ingenious flick on from AB12, and over the line. It was hard to tell who got the final touch.
Paul E put the Maroons back in front from a corner, leaping high to head home. The Whites were having trouble picking up forwards in the box and the pattern repeated a few more times during the afternoon.
TH10 scored twice more in the half, the second converting a perfect ball in from Tom after a short corner, and Paul E blazed in a powerful shot for a 5-1 halftime lead.
With the wind behind them the Whites controlled the game at the start of the second half as the Maroons failed to clear the ball from midfield.
Mark G was twice unlucky not to get on the scoresheet. Ref Ian blew his whistle for a Whites freekick just outside the box but a fraction later Mark thundered a ball past Pete H and into the net. Although Ian went to give the goal, he succumbed to Maroon protests and paid the freekick.
Mark took the shot and bent it low around the wall only for Pete H to make a fantastic save.
With the Whites fired up in the tackle and Les demanding 1000 percent commitment, they put together the best goal of the game. Several crisp passes cut through the Maroons midfield and Les let fly with a long range cracker for 5-2.
The Maroons, habitually unable to close out games with a mimimum of fuss, were starting to wobble but some calm play from Graeme P and Kev, plus Shane in his first game of the season, steadied the team and they went on to increase their lead.
A ball from the right skimmed some hair as it flew across the area and found TH10 unmarked in front and eight yards out. Goalie Glenn got down well but just couldn't keep out the shot.
In the next attack, a Maroons corner proved fruitful again, Fergus rising the highest to glance his header into the far bottom corner.
Ant clipped the ball over the advancing keeper after a great run from Gary J and Fergus went close to a second when his long range shot whistled just wide. He wasn't done however and, under pressure from Stevie H, nodded into his own net. It was the last action of an open match.
(Thanks to all who travelled. Apologies for the Maroon bias to the report. Would love to read one from the Whites.)
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Thunderbirds are go
We will be playing today at 1pm at Morley Park Warilla. We have chosen one of the furtherest grounds from Coledale for our local derby because - the ground is available and open and there for us to use. It avoids a double header in the next fortnight with neither Sunday looking like a good option.
The street address is Trumper St, Warilla.
See you there.
The street address is Trumper St, Warilla.
See you there.
Friday, May 22, 2009
White team news
As we only have Alan on the blog away we may have to leave a few blokes out tomorrow. A decision will be made at the ground tomorrow by the selection committee. It could be like last game were I thought we had 18 available and only had 14 turn up.
Derby latest
Tomorrow’s derby game is still on as of 3pm FRIDAY but might be cancelled at any time tonight or tomorrow morning. A note will go up here when a decision has been made and an email may be sent out. If it is mid morning tomorrow and you are still not sure please text or call me.
The game has been moved to BULLI juniors ground (Not Corrimal as suggested earlier in the week). Bulli juniors is on Ursula Road, Bulli. Basically opposite the beach on the way down to Ruby’s Café at Bulli.
I think we will be on the ground nearest the canteen.
We will be taking our own nets and all should help with putting these up.
Whites can look away now as we discuss some important Maroons team news.
So far we have 17 available
Out are Dave Mc, Dean, Ian, Dave D and Peter L.
Joining them will be Paul E or Ant, leaving us with 16. Unless anyone else is missing the game, in which case can they let me know as Paul and Ant (and Ian) are all fit and available.
Go to the shoutbox or leave a comment.
Here's hoping the sun shines all night.
The game has been moved to BULLI juniors ground (Not Corrimal as suggested earlier in the week). Bulli juniors is on Ursula Road, Bulli. Basically opposite the beach on the way down to Ruby’s Café at Bulli.
I think we will be on the ground nearest the canteen.
We will be taking our own nets and all should help with putting these up.
Whites can look away now as we discuss some important Maroons team news.
So far we have 17 available
Out are Dave Mc, Dean, Ian, Dave D and Peter L.
Joining them will be Paul E or Ant, leaving us with 16. Unless anyone else is missing the game, in which case can they let me know as Paul and Ant (and Ian) are all fit and available.
Go to the shoutbox or leave a comment.
Here's hoping the sun shines all night.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Bulli back up plan
Hey
Did a pitch inspection with juniors pres Ian D tonight. There are still deep pools of water on the field and the southern end is a few slide tackles away from being a mudbath. Earlier, the IAFA offered to book Bulli junior ground (down near the beach) for us as a contingency and I accepted.
I'm 90 percent certain that even if the round goes ahead and grounds are declared open that Coledale will remain too wet to play. In an effort to avoid late confusion I aim to make a definite call around midday tomorrow. I will email out but if you are going to be away from computers feel free to text me to find out later on Friday.
While we will miss the opportunity to host a BBQ (we might take an esky along), I think getting the game played on Saturday at Bulli is a better option than playing twice next weekend if we can avoid it.
Finally, if council closes Bulli and the other grounds this Saturday then the replay of the match will take place (weather permitting) on Sunday May 31 at 1pm at home.
Did a pitch inspection with juniors pres Ian D tonight. There are still deep pools of water on the field and the southern end is a few slide tackles away from being a mudbath. Earlier, the IAFA offered to book Bulli junior ground (down near the beach) for us as a contingency and I accepted.
I'm 90 percent certain that even if the round goes ahead and grounds are declared open that Coledale will remain too wet to play. In an effort to avoid late confusion I aim to make a definite call around midday tomorrow. I will email out but if you are going to be away from computers feel free to text me to find out later on Friday.
While we will miss the opportunity to host a BBQ (we might take an esky along), I think getting the game played on Saturday at Bulli is a better option than playing twice next weekend if we can avoid it.
Finally, if council closes Bulli and the other grounds this Saturday then the replay of the match will take place (weather permitting) on Sunday May 31 at 1pm at home.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Weather, or not...
Considering the shedloads of rain we've had in the past 24 hours, with more planned, there is a strong chance St James Park will be unplayable on the weekend. There are a couple of scenarios here.
If the game can't go ahead, either because of the state of our ground or a wider council closure of grounds, we will need to play a Sunday makeup game within the the next fortnight. At this stage we would lean towards May 31 but if you have an issue with that date or June 7 could you visit your respective team's When I'm Away section asap and mark it in there. That way if one or both teams are struggling for numbers on one of the Sundays we can play on the more suitable date.
The third scenario is that the other grounds are open but Coledale is unplayable. The IAFA is looking into a contingency for us. That would be us playing our game at Corrimal at 1pm this Saturday to avoid the need for a double header.
Of course, there is a chance that the sun returns tomorrow, Coledale clears up and we continue as if nothing happened and this post, like many more before it, will go down as a complete waste of time.
If the game can't go ahead, either because of the state of our ground or a wider council closure of grounds, we will need to play a Sunday makeup game within the the next fortnight. At this stage we would lean towards May 31 but if you have an issue with that date or June 7 could you visit your respective team's When I'm Away section asap and mark it in there. That way if one or both teams are struggling for numbers on one of the Sundays we can play on the more suitable date.
The third scenario is that the other grounds are open but Coledale is unplayable. The IAFA is looking into a contingency for us. That would be us playing our game at Corrimal at 1pm this Saturday to avoid the need for a double header.
Of course, there is a chance that the sun returns tomorrow, Coledale clears up and we continue as if nothing happened and this post, like many more before it, will go down as a complete waste of time.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Stats centre update
I've updated the fixtures/results (which is still labelled Fixtures Draft) and The table pages in the stats centre.
I've added all results in grid form for easy reference and have added current form into the table page by way of showing the last 6 and last 3 games played. Over the last 3 games the Whites have reached the giddy heights of 10th. May their form continue to improve *after* next weeks game.
I've added all results in grid form for easy reference and have added current form into the table page by way of showing the last 6 and last 3 games played. Over the last 3 games the Whites have reached the giddy heights of 10th. May their form continue to improve *after* next weeks game.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Derby Day Festivities
Saturday sees our first local derby and also an opportunity for all players, partners and friends to get together enjoy a drink with each other and also to raise some funds for the club.
We're inviting all to not only watch the game but also hang around after to enjoy something to eat and drink whilst the sun is still out (hopefully)
This week the Waves BBQ will provide more than just your sausage sandwich. We'll also be selling some chicken kebabs and we'll see what else we can find from the butchers during the week. I'll have a chat with the vegetarians amongst the Waves to see what takes their fancy on the BBQ.
For this week the Waves Bar will also cater for those soft drink lovers and those wine drinkers that do not bring their own.
TH10 adds: We want to take a couple of group photos before the game as well. If you are rostered off the game and can still make it please come along and bring your shirt for the photo. We also need a couple of linos, if anyone has any ideas.
So hopefully all players get behind this - get your partners to come along, your kids and even any friends that might enjoy a beer or wine whilst watching some old has beens running around a paddock.
The plan is to kick the bbq off during the game and run it up until 5pm - will need everyone to chip in and help on the day is ok, I'm sure people will.
We're inviting all to not only watch the game but also hang around after to enjoy something to eat and drink whilst the sun is still out (hopefully)
This week the Waves BBQ will provide more than just your sausage sandwich. We'll also be selling some chicken kebabs and we'll see what else we can find from the butchers during the week. I'll have a chat with the vegetarians amongst the Waves to see what takes their fancy on the BBQ.
For this week the Waves Bar will also cater for those soft drink lovers and those wine drinkers that do not bring their own.
TH10 adds: We want to take a couple of group photos before the game as well. If you are rostered off the game and can still make it please come along and bring your shirt for the photo. We also need a couple of linos, if anyone has any ideas.
So hopefully all players get behind this - get your partners to come along, your kids and even any friends that might enjoy a beer or wine whilst watching some old has beens running around a paddock.
The plan is to kick the bbq off during the game and run it up until 5pm - will need everyone to chip in and help on the day is ok, I'm sure people will.
Latest table
The Maroons stayed third and the Whites moved ahead of Uni by virtue of goal difference following round eight of the competition.
Despite what I suggested last week, the Old Boys in fact faced and defeated Shellharbour City and not the Makos, who beat Uni. The Old Boys and Makos game will be played this weekend.
Balgownie's loss to Russell Vale was the major surprise and gave the Maroons some extra breathing space in third.
The full table will be at the link below but in short:
Old Boys 22
Makos 19
Maroons 17
Crows 13
-------
Shell City 11
Russell Vale 11
Sweat Hogs 11
Fernhill 9
Figtree 7
IFS 6
Whites 4
Uni 4
Despite what I suggested last week, the Old Boys in fact faced and defeated Shellharbour City and not the Makos, who beat Uni. The Old Boys and Makos game will be played this weekend.
Balgownie's loss to Russell Vale was the major surprise and gave the Maroons some extra breathing space in third.
The full table will be at the link below but in short:
Old Boys 22
Makos 19
Maroons 17
Crows 13
-------
Shell City 11
Russell Vale 11
Sweat Hogs 11
Fernhill 9
Figtree 7
IFS 6
Whites 4
Uni 4
Trivia Night postponed
Hi All
I have had to postpone the trivia night - the Bowlo is having an 'Italian Night' on Saturday night so we had the option of either having the trivia night at the Surf Club or change the date and I have gone with changing the date. If we have it at the Bowlo it's less organising for us and we can get some dinner at the same time so we'll stick with the Bowlo as the venue, date just to be confirmed.
Sorry for stuffing everyone around, I'll talk with Social Dave when he gets back from Switzerland and we'll set a date
Cheers
Ant
I have had to postpone the trivia night - the Bowlo is having an 'Italian Night' on Saturday night so we had the option of either having the trivia night at the Surf Club or change the date and I have gone with changing the date. If we have it at the Bowlo it's less organising for us and we can get some dinner at the same time so we'll stick with the Bowlo as the venue, date just to be confirmed.
Sorry for stuffing everyone around, I'll talk with Social Dave when he gets back from Switzerland and we'll set a date
Cheers
Ant
Another day, another draw
The whites ended their matches against IFS for the year with another 1-1 result, giving us 4 draws and 4 losses which will hopefully lift us above uni gangrenes on goal difference to 11th on the table. How different this could be, 3 times we have blown leads in the final 10 minutes, but not on this occasion.
With 14 showing up to start, Alan's hamstring couldnt survive the opening 15 minutes then we were down to 2 reserves. The first half saw a tight first 20 then a blunder by IFS from a goalkick saw Steve H pounce and dispatch with clinical precison. Our lead survived a full 60 seconds before IFS equalised and from there on it was another arm wrestle. A series of decisions went against both teams, particularly for obvious handballs in the box much to the frustration of white no.12 and IFS no.11 with play on being the order of the day. We had a couple of chances in the second half, AB putting through a cross from the left that went untouched and Mr21's great free kick from just outside the box just being tipped out. The arrival of Alex for the final 30 added a bit of spark but we spent most of that period defending.
A few points of interest. MickS saved our bacon with a clearance off the line in the second half. Phil played his first match of the season after a long lay off with a knee injury and did all the right things. The boys in the middle of defence were rock solid and the midfield again tireless. Last but by no means least Trev went above the call of duty with running the subs for our game then doing the BBQ on his own for the rest of the day. Commitment like that Trev might see you in the provisional 18 for next week.
With 14 showing up to start, Alan's hamstring couldnt survive the opening 15 minutes then we were down to 2 reserves. The first half saw a tight first 20 then a blunder by IFS from a goalkick saw Steve H pounce and dispatch with clinical precison. Our lead survived a full 60 seconds before IFS equalised and from there on it was another arm wrestle. A series of decisions went against both teams, particularly for obvious handballs in the box much to the frustration of white no.12 and IFS no.11 with play on being the order of the day. We had a couple of chances in the second half, AB putting through a cross from the left that went untouched and Mr21's great free kick from just outside the box just being tipped out. The arrival of Alex for the final 30 added a bit of spark but we spent most of that period defending.
A few points of interest. MickS saved our bacon with a clearance off the line in the second half. Phil played his first match of the season after a long lay off with a knee injury and did all the right things. The boys in the middle of defence were rock solid and the midfield again tireless. Last but by no means least Trev went above the call of duty with running the subs for our game then doing the BBQ on his own for the rest of the day. Commitment like that Trev might see you in the provisional 18 for next week.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Cheer up boys, we won
Bitter. Twisted. Three penalties. Bitching and moaning. But you know what? We won the three points, so cheer the hell up! I've never seen such a gloomy lot following a win. I can excuse Ant - he thought the score was 2-2.
Gary J says it left a bitter taste because it's very rare to walk from a field unable to face shaking the hands of the moron who has just tried to take your leg off at the knee joint, or spent the past 90 minutes whinging like a baby. Today we gave the babies a spanking and I am stoked we did. Four points from those deadbeats and, barring a final, we won't see their ugly bogan faces again this season.
Enough about them.
I think we triumphed by getting back in their faces today - more than a match for them physically and mentally and 2-1 victors on the day.
We went ahead to two penalties in the first half. For the first Ant surged into the box down the right and was hacked down. Fergus despatched his third penalty of the season for a 1-0 lead.
Running into a strong wind, we continued to dominate with few issues at the back aside from a couple of long balls into our box. The defenders dealt well with the bombardment and up front we were playing good ball behind their backline.
The second penalty was, to most observers, controversial. From my viewpoint, I barged through two defenders (possibly giving one a shove), won the ball and then had my legs kicked. Yep, I fell over and yep it was a legitimate penalty.
With Fergus off I stepped up to take the kick. Then I noticed Fergus standing beside me - he subbed on at the time the kick was given (did he clear it with the ref?). Afterwards I proffered the opinion that you couldn't make a sub to take a PK. I will admit to a high level of soccer nerdiness here and acknowledge that I have looked up the law this evening and found out that I'm completely wrong.
Luckily I hit the shot just hard enough that it found the net despite the keeper getting a left mitt on it.
Ant just clipped over the bar to end the first half and we started the second half the stronger again. I should have played in Fergus but overhit the pass and several times we had players in the box waiting for crosses pumped over the top.
As is a recurring theme, we let in a goal while cruising and it caused an anxious final 25 minutes. Dean climbed above a Burgh defender to head clear and the ref called for a freekick. Very soft and unfortunately in the box. The Burgh players started to argue, which made a nice change from their pathetic whining, and finally their centre back stepped up nervously for the penalty kick. The twang it made when it thunked into the post was the sweetest thing we heard all day.
Soon after the Burgh got it right with a neat buildup cutting us up down the right and leading to a good goal. The Burgh's chief idiot claimed "that goal was worth two penalties". Wrong, dickwad.
Ay this stage our midfield disappeared completely and we were playing a 10-0-1 formation.
Ant did however create a couple of chances to wrap it up, one showing amazing athleticism and a booming shot just over the bar and the other... you had to be there I guess.
Five wins, two draws and one loss. Unbeaten against Helensburgh.
Anyway, let's hope we play against a nicer bunch of blokes next week.
Gary J says it left a bitter taste because it's very rare to walk from a field unable to face shaking the hands of the moron who has just tried to take your leg off at the knee joint, or spent the past 90 minutes whinging like a baby. Today we gave the babies a spanking and I am stoked we did. Four points from those deadbeats and, barring a final, we won't see their ugly bogan faces again this season.
Enough about them.
I think we triumphed by getting back in their faces today - more than a match for them physically and mentally and 2-1 victors on the day.
We went ahead to two penalties in the first half. For the first Ant surged into the box down the right and was hacked down. Fergus despatched his third penalty of the season for a 1-0 lead.
Running into a strong wind, we continued to dominate with few issues at the back aside from a couple of long balls into our box. The defenders dealt well with the bombardment and up front we were playing good ball behind their backline.
The second penalty was, to most observers, controversial. From my viewpoint, I barged through two defenders (possibly giving one a shove), won the ball and then had my legs kicked. Yep, I fell over and yep it was a legitimate penalty.
With Fergus off I stepped up to take the kick. Then I noticed Fergus standing beside me - he subbed on at the time the kick was given (did he clear it with the ref?). Afterwards I proffered the opinion that you couldn't make a sub to take a PK. I will admit to a high level of soccer nerdiness here and acknowledge that I have looked up the law this evening and found out that I'm completely wrong.
Luckily I hit the shot just hard enough that it found the net despite the keeper getting a left mitt on it.
Ant just clipped over the bar to end the first half and we started the second half the stronger again. I should have played in Fergus but overhit the pass and several times we had players in the box waiting for crosses pumped over the top.
As is a recurring theme, we let in a goal while cruising and it caused an anxious final 25 minutes. Dean climbed above a Burgh defender to head clear and the ref called for a freekick. Very soft and unfortunately in the box. The Burgh players started to argue, which made a nice change from their pathetic whining, and finally their centre back stepped up nervously for the penalty kick. The twang it made when it thunked into the post was the sweetest thing we heard all day.
Soon after the Burgh got it right with a neat buildup cutting us up down the right and leading to a good goal. The Burgh's chief idiot claimed "that goal was worth two penalties". Wrong, dickwad.
Ay this stage our midfield disappeared completely and we were playing a 10-0-1 formation.
Ant did however create a couple of chances to wrap it up, one showing amazing athleticism and a booming shot just over the bar and the other... you had to be there I guess.
Five wins, two draws and one loss. Unbeaten against Helensburgh.
Anyway, let's hope we play against a nicer bunch of blokes next week.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Shake, rattle 'n' doll: It's a girl!
Shaky has confirmed he will miss tomorrow's match with Helensburgh following the birth of a baby girl yesterday.
He is of course upset that she couldn't wait until after the match but was putting a brave face on matters last night.
"We had a girl called Iona," the midfield star told Coledale Raves in an exclusive interview via SMS. "Nine pound 11. At that weight she might be into rugby not soccer."
Well done Shaky and Mrs Shaky. Congratulations and all that.
He is of course upset that she couldn't wait until after the match but was putting a brave face on matters last night.
"We had a girl called Iona," the midfield star told Coledale Raves in an exclusive interview via SMS. "Nine pound 11. At that weight she might be into rugby not soccer."
Well done Shaky and Mrs Shaky. Congratulations and all that.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
What's the points
Four of the top five drew on Saturday, letting the Old Boys slip three clear at the top but meaning little change below them.
The Maroons' draw with Makos left us five points off the summit but still two behind the Makos in third. Balgownie missed a chance to go ahead of us, drawing with Shellharbour City.
At the foot, the Whites' loss coupled with Uni's first victory in two seasons, sent them to the bottom of the table.
Kev will post the full table soon, but for now.
Old Boys 19
Makos 16
Maroons 14
Crows 13
Shellharbour City 11
Sweat Hogs 11
Fernhill 9
Russell Vale 8
IFS 5
Figtree 4
Uni 4
Whites 3.
The Maroons' draw with Makos left us five points off the summit but still two behind the Makos in third. Balgownie missed a chance to go ahead of us, drawing with Shellharbour City.
At the foot, the Whites' loss coupled with Uni's first victory in two seasons, sent them to the bottom of the table.
Kev will post the full table soon, but for now.
Old Boys 19
Makos 16
Maroons 14
Crows 13
Shellharbour City 11
Sweat Hogs 11
Fernhill 9
Russell Vale 8
IFS 5
Figtree 4
Uni 4
Whites 3.
Old Boys 2 Oranges 0
An injury-ravaged whites, playing in orange training vests, put up a stoic performance against an overated Old Boys. With 6 unavailable due to injury and no Alex, the 14 coledale gladiators all put their bodies on the line against a team more preoccupied with bitching amongst themselves. The unseasonally warm afternoon left some tired boys at the end, but from the sideline the tradesman like performance answered some positional and tactical questions.
The defenders have sorted themselves out nicely, with Dave,Jon,GlenC,MickS and Trev all having mighty games at the back. The Old Boys 2 goals came from our own mistakes and for a team leading the competition they made few goal scoring opportunities. The midfield of Les,Doug,Andres,Mark and MickC had a dogged match where posession was scarce and defence was the order of the day. The boys up the front had limited chances, a MickC cross in the second half the only attacking chance that comes to mind. Come to think of it the few corners and free kicks around the box that we had their keeper didnt look confident at all and next game would be nice to give him more of a work out.
All in all a pretty dour match (spectators view) with the only real highlights being the occasional poleaxing by Doug, the presence of Andres mate Dennis with some words of wisdom at half time and Jon forgetting his boots, going back home to get them, getting to the game late then realises he hasnt got one of his two pairs of shin pads and uses thongs instead.
The defenders have sorted themselves out nicely, with Dave,Jon,GlenC,MickS and Trev all having mighty games at the back. The Old Boys 2 goals came from our own mistakes and for a team leading the competition they made few goal scoring opportunities. The midfield of Les,Doug,Andres,Mark and MickC had a dogged match where posession was scarce and defence was the order of the day. The boys up the front had limited chances, a MickC cross in the second half the only attacking chance that comes to mind. Come to think of it the few corners and free kicks around the box that we had their keeper didnt look confident at all and next game would be nice to give him more of a work out.
All in all a pretty dour match (spectators view) with the only real highlights being the occasional poleaxing by Doug, the presence of Andres mate Dennis with some words of wisdom at half time and Jon forgetting his boots, going back home to get them, getting to the game late then realises he hasnt got one of his two pairs of shin pads and uses thongs instead.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Makos 1, Maroons 1
Fergus's well struck penalty earned the Maroons a deserved point at the Makos on Saturday although both teams had their chances to walk away with a winner.
The Maroons started the stronger and dominated early possession but were restricted to some off target long range shots.
With talisman Dave D away, Graeme P filled in admirably alongside Kev in centre of defence and the whole backline coped well with the sporadic Makos surges.
With 40 minutes gone and a halftime stalemate likely, the Makos scored out of nothing. Their No. 10 took the ball a long way out on the left of the field and fired a longe range effort over Pete H and into the far top corner.
It was a setback but halftime gave us an opprtunity to regroup and move from 4-5-1 to 4-4-2. We hammered at the door for the opening 15 minutes, as Dave C was able to get in behind the defence on the left. Shaky and Paul were winning quality ball in the midfield and Deano, Pete L, Phil C and Ian S were having stellar games at the back.
Dave C had a spell but the left proved to be fruitful. Gary J got into some space and floated a lovely through ball to TH10. He met it before the keeper and lobbed over him but the ball caught the base of the post and as Shaky and Ant steamed in for a rebound it flicked up and caught the arm of the defender.
There were some complaints but the ref was firm and Fergus, the incumbent penalty taker following his first round goal, stood up and smashed it high down the middle.
Either side could have nabbed a win. TH10 twice failed to find support inside after cutting into the box on the right, Ant rolled a header just wide and Shaky had a drive well saved by the opposition keeper.
Then with time running out, the Makos hit first the crossbar and then the post.
The draw will maintain our place in the four but if Balgownie won their game against Shell City they would move above us into third.
Next week the Burgh at home and then, the big one.
The Maroons started the stronger and dominated early possession but were restricted to some off target long range shots.
With talisman Dave D away, Graeme P filled in admirably alongside Kev in centre of defence and the whole backline coped well with the sporadic Makos surges.
With 40 minutes gone and a halftime stalemate likely, the Makos scored out of nothing. Their No. 10 took the ball a long way out on the left of the field and fired a longe range effort over Pete H and into the far top corner.
It was a setback but halftime gave us an opprtunity to regroup and move from 4-5-1 to 4-4-2. We hammered at the door for the opening 15 minutes, as Dave C was able to get in behind the defence on the left. Shaky and Paul were winning quality ball in the midfield and Deano, Pete L, Phil C and Ian S were having stellar games at the back.
Dave C had a spell but the left proved to be fruitful. Gary J got into some space and floated a lovely through ball to TH10. He met it before the keeper and lobbed over him but the ball caught the base of the post and as Shaky and Ant steamed in for a rebound it flicked up and caught the arm of the defender.
There were some complaints but the ref was firm and Fergus, the incumbent penalty taker following his first round goal, stood up and smashed it high down the middle.
Either side could have nabbed a win. TH10 twice failed to find support inside after cutting into the box on the right, Ant rolled a header just wide and Shaky had a drive well saved by the opposition keeper.
Then with time running out, the Makos hit first the crossbar and then the post.
The draw will maintain our place in the four but if Balgownie won their game against Shell City they would move above us into third.
Next week the Burgh at home and then, the big one.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Silver, where?
Long ago, in a previous career, a wise coach once told me it's best to take sports "one game at a time." Think about it a while. So simple yet wise. A mantra, a motto, a way to live in the now (or almost now) without getting your head bent out of shape about the future.
Since that coach (could have been Wayne Bennett, or maybe Tommy Raudonikis -no, Tommy would have said "take #$%^ing one #$%^ing game at a @#$%ing time", but I digress) passed on this wisdow I have held it dear.
Until now.
So we play against the Mako's (no matter how repugnant, the unnecessary apostrophe is theirs and should therefore be grudgingly accepted) and then the Sweaties in the next two weeks. But May 23, Super Duper Saturday, is a day I just can't get out of my mind.
Home advantage against Home advantage. Mate against Mate. Enemy against Enemy. Maroon against White. A game for the history books. So many subplots. Will Alex come to shore? Will Ian give a freekick? Will Doug kill us all? Will Gary H kill you all? Will Mick S and Dave C turn up at 3pm for the 1pm ko? Where will SportsTab set the odds?
But I double digress.
I wish to propose (on the recommendation of Inner Circle Ant) that we get a trophy minted for this and future challenges between our senior teams. My feeling is that we put it up for an aggregate score over the home and away legs (Maroons home in round 9, Whites home in round 22) for this season. If in future we are in different divisions then we will have a special match in preseason for the Cup.
So, now all we need is a name. Your best suggestions left here please.
My suggestion is the Ian Dewey Cup. For two reasons. One, it's a good way to suck up to the guy who is volunteering his time to ref all our sorry arses each week at home after volunteering much more as president of the junior club. And second, because when I came and told him that we wanted to set up some senior teams, destroy his playing surface, use all the club's gas and leave dirty dishes in the sink he said"ok".
Since that coach (could have been Wayne Bennett, or maybe Tommy Raudonikis -no, Tommy would have said "take #$%^ing one #$%^ing game at a @#$%ing time", but I digress) passed on this wisdow I have held it dear.
Until now.
So we play against the Mako's (no matter how repugnant, the unnecessary apostrophe is theirs and should therefore be grudgingly accepted) and then the Sweaties in the next two weeks. But May 23, Super Duper Saturday, is a day I just can't get out of my mind.
Home advantage against Home advantage. Mate against Mate. Enemy against Enemy. Maroon against White. A game for the history books. So many subplots. Will Alex come to shore? Will Ian give a freekick? Will Doug kill us all? Will Gary H kill you all? Will Mick S and Dave C turn up at 3pm for the 1pm ko? Where will SportsTab set the odds?
But I double digress.
I wish to propose (on the recommendation of Inner Circle Ant) that we get a trophy minted for this and future challenges between our senior teams. My feeling is that we put it up for an aggregate score over the home and away legs (Maroons home in round 9, Whites home in round 22) for this season. If in future we are in different divisions then we will have a special match in preseason for the Cup.
So, now all we need is a name. Your best suggestions left here please.
My suggestion is the Ian Dewey Cup. For two reasons. One, it's a good way to suck up to the guy who is volunteering his time to ref all our sorry arses each week at home after volunteering much more as president of the junior club. And second, because when I came and told him that we wanted to set up some senior teams, destroy his playing surface, use all the club's gas and leave dirty dishes in the sink he said"ok".
no.15
Back to more mundane topics after our franco-russian wombarra power struggle debate, does any white team player know the whereabouts of the no.15 training shirt used in the first 2 rounds? To paraphrase Leslie Neilsen having a incomplete kit is a bit like kissing your sister, you know all the goodies are there but its just not the same as having the real (complete) deal.
As has been well documented the whites take on the old boys tomorrow and will aim for our first victory after 2 heart-breaking last minute draws. Time to step up boys show this comp true coledale white power.
As has been well documented the whites take on the old boys tomorrow and will aim for our first victory after 2 heart-breaking last minute draws. Time to step up boys show this comp true coledale white power.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Are we testosterone fuelled monsters and a danger to each other?
Interesting post on the Illawarra Football Supporters forum about referees in IAFA competitions and their tolerance of rough play.
The person who started the thread:
"I went to a p.league game on sunday for the first time in a while and was very impressed by refereeing in both games. In particular, how they did not tolerate even the hint of a late challenge. A foul was given for anything that was a touch late or mistimed, and cards for really mistimed or cynical challenges. The result: good games where the ball was knocked around and the game flowed.
"Got me thinking about a few things. The refs in these games were protecting the players really well in not allowing any contact where the ankles etc were even accidently hit - this has to be a good thing for the players health. Why is it in our iafa leagues that so much contact is allowed?
"Players are in the twilight of their 'careers' and just want to go out for a kick - but every week you hear about games where people turn up to kick the crap out of each other to the point just short of having the cops called. And this is from guys with wives, kids who are often an injury away from calling it quits.
"Possible answers? Okay, the first obvious answer is the quality of refs, but i think there is more to it. I would argue that there is a difference of mindset. The mindset of iafa games is that 'contact is okay as long as you are going for the ball' - if you really mistime it or hurt the other player then maybe a foul will be given.
"I think the starting point should be - 'you should not make contact with other players' - contact is deemed not to be a foul when the challenge is 50-50 and you make contact with the ball FIRST, you are shoulder to shoulder in challenging for possession etc. So even though our quality of reffing will inevitably be lower (just as our play is), if we had a mindset of - protect the health safety of players by first assuming contact is not okay, then even if the reffing is not that good and there is a number of bad calls, at least players will have their ankles intact. And if the ref's promote the mindset of not allowing contact, eventually the players will adjust their play and the game will flow. Who knows, maybe people won't turn up to try and kill each other either.
"Anyway does anyone else care? Just nearly at the point of calling it a day whilst the body is mostly intact due to the general hacking that is tolerated in our league."
A referee responded:
"So far I have not seen a ref make a bad tackle.
The mindset is not that refs let players kick each other because it is amateur league. The players have to expect contact and the refs can only react to events. Some parts of refereeing are pro-active, but as far as late tackles go refs are reactive.
"The onus is on the players not to make bad tackles, so if you feel "there is a problem with late tackles take it up with the IAFA and stop blaming referees. You can say that referees are not to standard, but neither are the players.
"You have one official at a game trying to control the players, the crowd and do most of the AR's job. How about some teams take a bit of the load of the referees by actually presenting the referee with the team sheet(filled in properly) and money before the game and have 2 AR's who know what they are doing. How about doing the interchange properly from the halfway line during a break in play after getting the okay from the referee.
"And why not treat the referees with respect, there is no way refs make as many mistakes as players do.
"If teams want better officials they will need to pay more, this will include paying for 2 AR's and a 4th official. Premier league refs also have coaching and training sessions, and get directives on which types of play to keep their eye on.
"Last of all, if a ref makes a bad or wrong decision, laugh it off, you are supposed to be having fun."
The intial poster responds:
"I'm not trying to bag the quality of refereeing, i'm just trying to promote discussion for ways of improving the league. Generally most people are here for a social kick, but i think for a social comp which has absolutely no meaning, there is far too much physicality and thuggery.
" As you say, the ref's role is somewhat reactive, but often the reaction comes 60mins into a game at a point where tempers have already reached boiling point. My argument was that if we try to eliminate the contact that is just seen to be 'part of the league' then there would be less aggro and less injuries and better football. If the perception of what contact is allowable was changed across the league, then regardless of the quality of refereeing, the game would improve. I do realise that there is an element of circularity in this arguement: it takes quality refereeing to change the perception etc
And finally, another responds
"Too many of us forget to leave the tostesterone off the field. Yes it is a contact sport, but it is supposed to be a legal contact sport. If we get bumped, or pushed and the other guy apologises we generally get on with the game.
"If we get hit and there's no apology, we think "bastard I'll get him" and generally want to take things into our own hands. It's part of our "male" make up. I'll hold my hand up and say I have lost my rag over the years, but by the same token I've also apologised a lot for mistimed challenges.
"I have played many a good game where contact was hardly needed or even used. We played the ball and both teams enjoy those games. Dont get me wrong, you dont need take the contact out of the game, but let's make sure it's legal or at least show the guy when it was unintentional. We should be past the stage of trying to prove ourself on the field by kicking the crap out of players we don't like."
I'd be interested to hear from the newcomers if the game is more or less physical than they were expecting.
The person who started the thread:
"I went to a p.league game on sunday for the first time in a while and was very impressed by refereeing in both games. In particular, how they did not tolerate even the hint of a late challenge. A foul was given for anything that was a touch late or mistimed, and cards for really mistimed or cynical challenges. The result: good games where the ball was knocked around and the game flowed.
"Got me thinking about a few things. The refs in these games were protecting the players really well in not allowing any contact where the ankles etc were even accidently hit - this has to be a good thing for the players health. Why is it in our iafa leagues that so much contact is allowed?
"Players are in the twilight of their 'careers' and just want to go out for a kick - but every week you hear about games where people turn up to kick the crap out of each other to the point just short of having the cops called. And this is from guys with wives, kids who are often an injury away from calling it quits.
"Possible answers? Okay, the first obvious answer is the quality of refs, but i think there is more to it. I would argue that there is a difference of mindset. The mindset of iafa games is that 'contact is okay as long as you are going for the ball' - if you really mistime it or hurt the other player then maybe a foul will be given.
"I think the starting point should be - 'you should not make contact with other players' - contact is deemed not to be a foul when the challenge is 50-50 and you make contact with the ball FIRST, you are shoulder to shoulder in challenging for possession etc. So even though our quality of reffing will inevitably be lower (just as our play is), if we had a mindset of - protect the health safety of players by first assuming contact is not okay, then even if the reffing is not that good and there is a number of bad calls, at least players will have their ankles intact. And if the ref's promote the mindset of not allowing contact, eventually the players will adjust their play and the game will flow. Who knows, maybe people won't turn up to try and kill each other either.
"Anyway does anyone else care? Just nearly at the point of calling it a day whilst the body is mostly intact due to the general hacking that is tolerated in our league."
A referee responded:
"So far I have not seen a ref make a bad tackle.
The mindset is not that refs let players kick each other because it is amateur league. The players have to expect contact and the refs can only react to events. Some parts of refereeing are pro-active, but as far as late tackles go refs are reactive.
"The onus is on the players not to make bad tackles, so if you feel "there is a problem with late tackles take it up with the IAFA and stop blaming referees. You can say that referees are not to standard, but neither are the players.
"You have one official at a game trying to control the players, the crowd and do most of the AR's job. How about some teams take a bit of the load of the referees by actually presenting the referee with the team sheet(filled in properly) and money before the game and have 2 AR's who know what they are doing. How about doing the interchange properly from the halfway line during a break in play after getting the okay from the referee.
"And why not treat the referees with respect, there is no way refs make as many mistakes as players do.
"If teams want better officials they will need to pay more, this will include paying for 2 AR's and a 4th official. Premier league refs also have coaching and training sessions, and get directives on which types of play to keep their eye on.
"Last of all, if a ref makes a bad or wrong decision, laugh it off, you are supposed to be having fun."
The intial poster responds:
"I'm not trying to bag the quality of refereeing, i'm just trying to promote discussion for ways of improving the league. Generally most people are here for a social kick, but i think for a social comp which has absolutely no meaning, there is far too much physicality and thuggery.
" As you say, the ref's role is somewhat reactive, but often the reaction comes 60mins into a game at a point where tempers have already reached boiling point. My argument was that if we try to eliminate the contact that is just seen to be 'part of the league' then there would be less aggro and less injuries and better football. If the perception of what contact is allowable was changed across the league, then regardless of the quality of refereeing, the game would improve. I do realise that there is an element of circularity in this arguement: it takes quality refereeing to change the perception etc
And finally, another responds
"Too many of us forget to leave the tostesterone off the field. Yes it is a contact sport, but it is supposed to be a legal contact sport. If we get bumped, or pushed and the other guy apologises we generally get on with the game.
"If we get hit and there's no apology, we think "bastard I'll get him" and generally want to take things into our own hands. It's part of our "male" make up. I'll hold my hand up and say I have lost my rag over the years, but by the same token I've also apologised a lot for mistimed challenges.
"I have played many a good game where contact was hardly needed or even used. We played the ball and both teams enjoy those games. Dont get me wrong, you dont need take the contact out of the game, but let's make sure it's legal or at least show the guy when it was unintentional. We should be past the stage of trying to prove ourself on the field by kicking the crap out of players we don't like."
I'd be interested to hear from the newcomers if the game is more or less physical than they were expecting.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Heat is on
Kev will no doubt update the table when the Old Boys win has been confirmed. For now, though I think it looks like this.
Old Boys 16
Makos 15
CW Maroon 13
Bally Crows 12
Shell City 10
Fernhill 9
Sweat Hogs 8
IFS 5
Russell Vale 5
Figtree 4
CW White 3
Uni 1.
So if the Maroons beat the Makos by about 10 and the Whites rack up a similar victory over the Old Boys, we could have a team on top of the table this time next week!
Old Boys 16
Makos 15
CW Maroon 13
Bally Crows 12
Shell City 10
Fernhill 9
Sweat Hogs 8
IFS 5
Russell Vale 5
Figtree 4
CW White 3
Uni 1.
So if the Maroons beat the Makos by about 10 and the Whites rack up a similar victory over the Old Boys, we could have a team on top of the table this time next week!
Bugger,bugger,bugger,bugger,bugger,bugger......
Im still too distraught to give an objective post match analysis. In a nutshell Uni created 3 chances and acored 3 goals. The whites created 12 chances and scored 3 goals. 2-0 up at half time, 3-1 up with 20 minutes to go and we still managed to snatch a draw from the jaws of victory. I'll leave the detailed description to captain Les. Next week is the frontrunning Old Boys away, a match where if we play like we did against Shellharbour City (was that the same team yesterday?) it will be a long afternoon.
Maroons 4, Shellharbour City 2
The Maroons pumped in four goals for the third time this season, but once again endured some moments on the edge before emerging with the three points.
We started the day in fourth place, level on 10 points with Shell City, so a win was crucial to stay in touch with the leaders.
Although sharp through midfield and up front, City were slow and awkward at the back. Paul E was the first to exploit their lax defending, heading home for a 1-0 lead from a freekick. We started to dominate completely. Ant wrapped a curling shot around the keeper but just wide of the upright and the goalie just managed to scramble over a long range effort from TH10 (left foot!).
The second came when Ant's strong shot was spilled and Jon S reacted the quickest to sweep home his first goal for the Waves. He was especially proud that the ball was still rising when it hit the net!
Two nil at halftime and we were in a familiar position, a fact Jon pointed out when he reminded us of the similar lead and consequent fright we received in a 5-4 win over Uni earlier in the season. We also failed to hold a two goal lead when we last scored four at home in the 5-4 loss to table topping Old Boys.
We changed up from 4-5-1 to go with an extra attacker and seek out a third goal which we felt might kill off the game. We got it half right.
Ten minutes after the break Fergus found Ant in miles of space inside the box and after weighing up his options in support he buried the ball past the keeper.
City couldn't get on the ball and we poured forward seeking a fourth. Dave C, cutting in from the left had a stunning shot tipped onto the inside of the post by the keeper and the ball slid harmlessly across goal. Fergus had a curling shot brilliantly saved and TH10 narrowly missed twice from distance.
Then, out of nowhere, City came back. A looping shot caught out Pete who parried it onto the head of the City striker for 3-1. Soon after a mix up allowed them to sneak in and slide a second goal.
At this stage it was all them and twice they had the opportunity to shoot inside the box but blazed over the bar. We were hanging on again and barely doing enough when Paul came up with a play to kill the resistance with five minutes to play.
Surging down the right, his floated cross met Ant's desperate lunge at the far post and the header flew in for 4-2.
The win moved us to 13 points and in either second or third depending on other results. Balgownie beat the Sweat Hogs 1-0 to move to 12 points as a top five teams began to break from the pack. With the Makos and the Sweat Hogs to come before our first ever local derby, we face a defining few weeks for our campaign.
We started the day in fourth place, level on 10 points with Shell City, so a win was crucial to stay in touch with the leaders.
Although sharp through midfield and up front, City were slow and awkward at the back. Paul E was the first to exploit their lax defending, heading home for a 1-0 lead from a freekick. We started to dominate completely. Ant wrapped a curling shot around the keeper but just wide of the upright and the goalie just managed to scramble over a long range effort from TH10 (left foot!).
The second came when Ant's strong shot was spilled and Jon S reacted the quickest to sweep home his first goal for the Waves. He was especially proud that the ball was still rising when it hit the net!
Two nil at halftime and we were in a familiar position, a fact Jon pointed out when he reminded us of the similar lead and consequent fright we received in a 5-4 win over Uni earlier in the season. We also failed to hold a two goal lead when we last scored four at home in the 5-4 loss to table topping Old Boys.
We changed up from 4-5-1 to go with an extra attacker and seek out a third goal which we felt might kill off the game. We got it half right.
Ten minutes after the break Fergus found Ant in miles of space inside the box and after weighing up his options in support he buried the ball past the keeper.
City couldn't get on the ball and we poured forward seeking a fourth. Dave C, cutting in from the left had a stunning shot tipped onto the inside of the post by the keeper and the ball slid harmlessly across goal. Fergus had a curling shot brilliantly saved and TH10 narrowly missed twice from distance.
Then, out of nowhere, City came back. A looping shot caught out Pete who parried it onto the head of the City striker for 3-1. Soon after a mix up allowed them to sneak in and slide a second goal.
At this stage it was all them and twice they had the opportunity to shoot inside the box but blazed over the bar. We were hanging on again and barely doing enough when Paul came up with a play to kill the resistance with five minutes to play.
Surging down the right, his floated cross met Ant's desperate lunge at the far post and the header flew in for 4-2.
The win moved us to 13 points and in either second or third depending on other results. Balgownie beat the Sweat Hogs 1-0 to move to 12 points as a top five teams began to break from the pack. With the Makos and the Sweat Hogs to come before our first ever local derby, we face a defining few weeks for our campaign.
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