This is a thread for the 'Match Reports' for the various matches Maple will play this season.

Feel free to add you own reports and/or views

Team:

--------------- Gater ---------------

Varley - Millership - Sadler - Asante

Gibbons -- Mitchell -- Randle -- Lycett

------- E Homer --- Campbell ------


Subs: Burns for Gibbons, Mole for Lycett, Shingles for Randle.

Captain: Mitchell.

Goals: Mitchell.

Man of The Match: Asante.

Manager: P Homer.


Match Report: Maple's first game of the season saw them take on a much improved youthful Old Wulfrunians side in very wet conditions on an excellent pitch.

Unfortunately early on in the game the same problem that dogged the team in the previous campaign - namely gifting the opposition easy/early goals - immediately resurfaced. Maple quickly conceded a penalty for handball and despite a fine save from gk Gator a Wulf's striker reacted quickest to the rebound to open the scoring after only 5 mins.

A second pen was then soon awarded against Maple for a shove in the back but luckily the Wulf's kick taker screwed his shot badly wide. However 2 more goals were then quickly conceded after confusion between defence/gk allowed Wulfs to score direct from a free kick/cross & a speculative drive from distance found it's way into the net via the gk to make it 3 - 0 after only 30 mins of play.

Maple then settled down into the game after the shakey start and started to battle for possession and show they could pose a threat down the flanks with simple passing into feet. After several good passages of play had created a few half chances a deflected Mitchell shot from the edge of the area finally reduced the defecit with the score 3 - 1 at half time.

A massive improvement in the second half saw a much more competitive Maple side defending resolutely, getting stuck in, battling for every ball and launching probing counter attacks down both wings in an attempt to stretch the opposition & draw level - Asante & second half sub Burns linking up particularly well down the left hand side. A much more even second half saw a number of half chances created with only a lack of quality in the final ball preventing a closer scoreline.

In the closing minutes with Maple pushing on in an attempt to force play Wulf's grabbed a 4th goal on the counter with a well worked move to give the scoreline a slightly flattering look.

Hopefully in the next match (Vs local rivals Meridan) Maple will be competitive & up for the ENTIRE MATCH rather than just the last 60 mins in order to ensure the result they need.

I would just like to point out that............................................................................'Maple badly missed the midfield dynamo Lewis'.

Team:

--------------- Chester ---------------

Mole --- Hillyer --- Sadler --- Asante

N.Burns -- Mitchell -- D.Burns -- Lycett

-------- E.Homer ---- Campbell -------


Subs: Matt for N.Burns, Walker for E.Homer.

Captain: Mitchell.

Goals: Campbell, Asante.

Man of The Match: ?

Manager: P Homer.


Match Report: Maple's third home game of the season saw them face a Wylde Green side unfortunately reduced to 10 men as some of their lads were involved in a road accident on route to the game. Best wishes to all involved.

Despite the numerical advantage and excellent playing surface Maple struggled to immediatley grab the upper hand in the match perhaps presuming the game was going to a walk in the park. Much of the simple passing into feet and good movement off the ball was absent as the team slipped back into the old habit of rushed passing & conceding possession much too easily.

Fortunately the team settled back into the pattern of play of the last couple of weeks and began knocking the ball around, switching play and utilising the extra man. Some nice link up play around the box from the fowards & midfielders on the half hour resulted in a chance for the determined Campbell who registered his first goal of the season at the second attempt with a headed finish.

Despite several more chances created to kill the game off in the first half Maple once gain lacked the composure to finish off some nice attacking play and went into the break 1-0 up.

The second half saw Maple well on top of a tiring Wylde Green side and creating numerous chances to increase their lead. Again a lack of quality in the final ball or failure to convert those chances created looked to be the problem as Burns, Walker, Homer, Campbell & Lycett all went close until Asante eventually converted from inside the area amid confusion from the Wylde Green defence. Maple then sat back comfortably in control of the game for the last 20 mins and continued to hit the opposition on the break as Wylde Green made one last effort to get something from the match - last ditch defending, a number of good saves from the gk & a lack of cutting edge keeping the score at 2-0 when really Maple should have been out of sight.

Overall another very positive performance from every player involved as Maple Leaf registered their first 3 points of the season.

Big thanks to Adam for stepping in at late notice & putting in a confident shift between the sticks to help secure Maple's first clean sheet of the season. Special mention also to the back four who looked solid and organised throughout and in particular Moley who had an excellent first game at right back.

Hopefully Maple will be able to build on the last 2 very positive performances going into next weeks game against St Pauls & continue their rise up the table!

Well done lads...

Team:

--------------- Gater ---------------

Hillyer - Millership - Sadler - Asante

Burns -- Mitchell -- Glover -- Fisher

------- E Homer --- Chester -------


Subs: Gibbons for Fisher, Checketts for E.Homer, Randle for Glover.

Captain: Mitchell.

Goals: Chester(2).

Man of The Match: ?

Manager: P Homer.


Match Report: A confident but re-shuffled Maple side took on a youthful St Pauls team for the first time in warm conditions on a scrappy pitch.

St Pauls started much the better of the 2 sides knocking the ball about well early on, playing some good possession football & utilising their extra man in midfield. Fortunately, a lack of quality in their final ball & any conviction in their attempts on goal meant Maple were able to deal with the attacks with relative comfort and launch their own counter attacks through the eager Fisher and hard working Burns out wide, with Chester looking dangerous through the middle.

This was the pattern of play for the first quarter of an hour & Maple were soon 1-0 up after a poor St Pauls clearance was headed back into the box by Mitchell for Chester to tuck away his first goal of the season from 10 yards. St Pauls tried to get back into the game but again lack of quality in the final third meant the Maple goal was rarely threatened. A confident GK Gator and organised back line building on recent performnces & dealing well with any attacks.

A Maple re-shuffle - with E.Homer dropping into midfield & Fisher moving up alongside Chester - gave the team a better balance & soon paid off with another swift counter attacking move that saw Maple go 2-0 up after 25 minutes. A fine throughball from midfield caught out the St Pauls defence once again, leaving Chester to run on & finish confidently for his second goal from a tight angle.

Further chances were then not taken by the Maple attacking players to put the game out of reach as half time approached - with Fisher particularly unlucky not to get on the scoresheet.

Shortly after the break St Pauls were forced into a re-shuffle due to an injury to one of their middle three - switching to a more traditional 4-4-2. The system seemingly lifted their performance, with St Pauls immediately posing more of a threat to the Maple back line. Cheered on by good support they pressed for most of the second half - pulling a goal back 5 mins after the break, with only brave goalkeeping and last ditch defending keeping Maple ahead.

Maple were limited to a few counter attacks as the tiring Chester & Burns worked hard to hold the ball up and relieve some pressure but eventually conceded the equaliser with around 15 minutes left when a St Pauls attacker poked a shot into the net from the edge of the box when surrounded by defenders. As the much younger/fitter St Pauls side pushed strongly for a winner Maple managed to cling on to a point with some dogged team defending.

Overall a very good point & pleasing performance against quality opposition but the game could realistically have been over at half time had the chances created been taken. Massive positives to be taken were the continued improvements in defending as a whole team & the cutting edge provided up front.

Well played lads...

Away league game vs Meriden Athletic – Sat 25th November ‘06

Score: Maple Leaf 4 – 1 Meriden Athletic

Team: Randle, Mole, Hillier, Asante-Boakye, Sadler, John, Burns D, Ben, Lycett, Homer, Campbell.

Subs: Matt for Lycett, Gibbons for Homer, Barney for Burns D.

Thanks to Mitchell and Fisher for coming along to support the Maple team.

Goals: Campbell 3, Sadler 1

Captain: Hillier

MOM: Campbell (!!?)

Manager: P Homer

Match Report: “The game began in a farcical manner with problems at both of Meridian pitches and after a prolonged (and much attended) debate it was decided to play the game at Maple’s home pitch.

Eventually the game kicked off on a wet - but flat and decent pitch. Maple started like a team with something to prove and within five minutes a determined run down the left wing by Campbell culminated in a low driven shot that squirmed under the Meriden goalkeeper. 1-0.

Maple continued to exploit a tentative start by the visitors and a number of counter-attacking breaks against a slow defence ended in a penalty kick being awarded after a last ditch challenge took out the lively Campbell. Sadler dispatched the kick with ease high into the top left corner. 2-0.

Maple defended well and with good shape, Randle pulled off a good reaction save onto the post from a low shot, and Maple continued to mount telling attacks. One very good header form Homer back across goal just evaded Campbell’s late lunge. The first half ended with Meriden putting the Maple goalmouth under sustained pressure, but to no avail.

The second half started as the first ended, Maple slow to start and giving Meriden the initiative. A well worked attack pulled the Maple defence out of shape allowing the ever threatening number 9 to volley home from 6 yards out – despite a foul clear foul on a Maple defender preventing a clearance, the referee - not for the first time - seemed to miss the incident. 2-1.

The pressure continued, but Maple began to put together some more attacks and after a short throw from Moley on the right allowed Campbell to control the ball in the area. Then, via the customary bobble, slotted a curling left foot shot into the bottom corner away from the despairing dive of the opposition keeper. 3-1.

With Meriden deflated and forced to commit more players forward the fourth goal wasn’t far away. A long ball from stand-in goalkeeper Randle eluded both Homer and the centre half - allowing Campbell to beat the offside trap and score with a low left foot toe poke! 4-1.

A spirited and well fought win against top of the league opposition, with some new players putting in very good and promising performances – especially in midfield where the opposition were strong in quality – yet still managed to stifle Meriden and create chances for the Maple attackers. Hopefully, this is the start of a run of results to achieve the potential shown thus far in previous matches this season.”

---P. Homer---
---Moley---Hillyer----Asante-Boakye---Sadler---
---Rudge---Ben---Burns---Matt---
---Homer---Campbel---

Sub: Bobbie G.

Team:-
-Gator-
Moley - Hillyer - Asante - Randle
Matt - Burns - Ben - Sadler
- Millership - Campbell -

Subs:- Lycett for Sadler (65), Walker for Matt (70), Rudge for Ben (75)

Manager:- Mitchell

Maple started this match poorly with the first half being played primarily inside the Maple end of the field - with the Wylde Green team looking for openings - although under a lot of pressure the solid back 4, led by example through the excellent Hillyer, gave up very few chances. Unfortunately the one clear cut chance that Wylde Green did create was neatly converted, a low cross from the right deftly tucked in from the 6 yard box past the despairing Gator.

Following the Wylde Green goal Maple Leaf started to play a little better and although still camped in their own half the signs of improvement were clear. A rare break saw the equaliser being scored via an own goal, the tireless Campbell managing to squeeze a cross in past the on-rushing keeper which the helpless defender could do nothing with but put it in from 1 yard out. Maple didn't really deserve the equaliser - and didn't deserve the lead they took 5 minutes before half time when a neat ball played through to Campbell was finished with a powerful strike from 12 yards.

Maple took the 2-1 lead into half time, some stern, yet supportive words from Mitchell and some of the senior players seemed to inspire the team as the second half was a vast improvement on the first.

A crazy 2 minutes saw each side score a controversial goal; firstly Wylde Green equalised when a goal mouth scramble led to a goal - the controversy came as there were very strong appeals for both a handball and a foul on the keeper - both of which were waved away. Maple quickly re-established the lead when Campbell was fouled when running through on goal - although the merits of the claim were dubious at best the ref gave Maple a penalty which was calmly slotted home by the composed Sadler.

Wylde Green seemed to be frustrated a couple of decisions that went against them as well as the scoreline - a couple of their players were booked and one sent off in a spell which probably determined their fate in this match.

A neat passing move around the edge of the penalty area involving several Maple players resulted in Millership being clean through - his driven finish from 14 yards was more than a match for the Wylde Green keeper.

At 4-2 Wylde Green pressed and at times only some very good saves from Gator prevented Wylde Green getting a foot hold back into the match. With Wylde Green pressing they were going to be susceptable to the break - and break Maple did with Campbell going through for his second with another well taken finish.

Maple could of got more with both Ben and Walker going close.

In the end the second half performance probably justified the result if not the scoreline.

A crucial game which Maple had to win to put pressure on teams just above them - hopefully this win will push Maple into a run of form which will guarantee safety in the division.

Man of the Match - TBC

Comedy Moment(s) of the Game:-

Wylde Green player shouting 'oh f***' just BEFORE scoring an own goal.

Wylde Green player in a tustle with Lycett before a throw-in is taken telling the referee 'I'm gonna go down here ref, I'm gonna go down' - the ball came in, the player did indeed go down and the ref booked him for simulation!

Barney's linesman flag review - a poor quality material in the flag, but made up for by a decent handle. 7/10

----- Randle -----
Mole - Millership - Asante - Walker
N Burns - D Burns - Glover - Sadler
- Lycett - Campbell

Subs:- Chester(thanks for being there on the late call up!)for Lycett, Varley for N Burns

Goals:- Lycett x3 (three), Campbell

Man of the Match:- Randle
Manager:- Homer
Asst. Manager:- Mitchell

Water Boy:- Barney

Big thanks to the many supporters who came to cheer us along!

The Match:

With the manager's words of 'getting going early' ringing in their ears Maple started in impressive fashion scoring twice in the opening 10 minutes.

The first involved a nice one two between Campbell and N Burns culminating in a square ball from Campbell to Lycett - Lycett still had plenty to do though with his back to goal and the defender behind him - in one movement he turned and shot low into the corner leaving the keeper no chance.

Buoyed on by this early goal Maple quickly hit a second, nice work by Campbell led to Glover finding himself with a couple of yards to pick out a cross, which he did, floating it towards the back post where Lycett had found half a yard behind the last defender, his header back across goal beat the keeper all ends up - perfectly nestling in the corner.

With Maple two up the youthful Sutton team started to play. Maple's defence struggled to cope with the pace and movement of the Sutton attack, but luckily Randle was in Man of the Match form making several quality saves and rushing out to command his area - which he did time and again throughout the match.

With the tide seemingly against Maple, a quick breakaway, with some bustling forward play
from Campbell resulted in the ball ending up at Lycett's feet - a hatrick beckoned and he was not one to disappoint with a coolly applied finish - giving him his hatrick within half an hour.

Although Sutton were 3-0 down they showed a lot of spirit, especially when coming forward and just before the break Maple were caught waiting for a whistle that never came and were punished by a Sutton goal making the score 3-1 at half time.

The second half was always going to be difficult for Maple, playing against a much younger and fitter side they needed all their experience to see out the 45 minutes and take the much needed three points.

Early on in the second half Maple suffered a set back when Sutton again pierced the heart of the defence, some slick passing resulting in the Sutton forward getting a clean site of goal, despite a fine save from Randle the striker picked up the rebound making the match poised nicely at 3-2. With Maple clearly tiring a draw looked the most likely result.

On seventy minutes Maple struck a 4th, a nice passing movement involving Asante, Walker, Sadler, Glover (please let me know if I missed you off this sequence) ended with Campbell applying the composed finish - continuing his fine run of goal scoring form.

Some scares late on ended up just being scares and Maple hung on to continue their 100% record in 2007. Some notable performances from Mole, Campbell, Hatrick Hero Lycett and MOTM Randle backed gritty performances from all areas of the park.

A gritty, hard fought result which results in Maple moving out of the bottom two, with our nearest rivals having several games in hand points are crucial in the coming weeks.

Talk from the Team:-

"You haven't f*****d a chicken - you haven't lived" - Lycett and Millership discuss times gone by prior to the match.

"Feed the horse and he will score" - oft heard comment before and after the game from the in-form Campbell

"It was like Eddie Homer circa 1998" - Mitchell describing Lycett's headed goal

"Tony - NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!" - Walker, standing in acres of space makes goalkeeper Randle aware of his feelings concerning the pass heading his way.

"Barney - Get back here!!" - Asante making Walker aware of his defensive responsibilities as Walker made a rare forage forward with five minutes to go.

Comedy moment:-

Lycett, having already scored a hatrick rose to challenge the keeper in the box and managed to get his head on it, with the goal at his mercy Lycett ended up on the floor merely inches from the ball - seemingly flapping like a fish out of water to try and do something with an open goal gaping in front of him.

Worst dive:-

Millership challenged a Sutton player in the box, probably a penalty if the player went down OR he could of stayed on his feet, picked up the ball merely a couple of metres from the line and tried to score - instead he literally stood still shouting at the referee whilst a bemused Millership cleared his lines.

**** LINESMAN FLAG REVIEW FROM LYCETT 30-01-2007****
"A fairly middle of the range canvas flag with slight freying of the material at the corners that is in need of attention. The pine structure of the flag was generally in good order and the 'mushroom' grip although clean, was somewhat dated in design."
Score - 6 out of 10.
****************************************************

This game was sponsored by Mrs James, for without her swift and decisive action in the face of adversity Maple would have been playing in an unwashed kit from the previous week. Last weeks dirty kit allegedly featured shorts worn by Randle going commando - a boycott by the Maple squad was feared before Mrs James' boil wash and sanitisation programme alleviated those fears.

Please send any questions, suggestions etc to yours truly.

------------Gater------------
Mole - Millership - Hillyer - Walker
Elwell - Randle - D Burns - Sadler
- Woodall -
- Campbell -

Subs:- Varley for Walker, Gibbons for Mole
Goals:- Campbell x2

Manager - Homer
Asst Manager - Mitchell
Water Boy - Barney

Two well taken goals from Campbell gave Maple the 3 points. Maple let one sloppy one in and defended resolutely for almost the whole second half.

More to follow...

Man of the Match - TBC.
Linesman Flag Review - TBC.
Comedy Moment - TBC.

Team:-

------------ Gater -------------
- Mole - Hillyer - Asante - Walker
- Matt - D.Burns - Glover - Sadler
------------ Ben ----------------
--------- Campbell --------------

Subs:- Lycett for Sadler, Mitchell for Matt, Randle for Glover
Manager:- Homer (P)

Motm:- TBC

Maple were rocked back on their heels early doors as a youthful Wake Green side applied pressure from the first minute and Maple started fighting a rear guard acion that would seemingly last all game. Wake Green showed their recent good form and were winning everything in the air and were reacting quickest to the second ball... so it was a surprise when Ben chipped through to Campbell who, with time and space, slotted comfortably home. 1-0 to Maple looked harsh on Wake Green and again they were camped out in the Maple half, some resolute defending and wasteful final ball's preventing Wake Green from getting a foothold in the game. Another cruel blow was struck to Wake Green when a nice flowing move ended in a chip through from Matt to Campbell who (surprisingly) brought it instantly under control and drove home from 15 yards.

A 2-0 scoreline was more than a little flattering to Maple, who had spent 70-80% of the time in their own half defending.

The second half started badly for Maple with Wake Green finally finding their range with 2 well taken goals. The pattern of play was similar to the first half with Wake Green throwing attack after attack at Maple.

With 20 minutes to go a powerful 25yd drive from Mole was spilt by the Wake Green shot stopper and the fresh legged sub Randle showed great anticipation and slid in to poke home getting in just before the despairing keeper.

At 3-2 Wake Green again pressed and Maple will feel slightly frustrated by the third goal
which seem to have been preceded by a blatant push in the back to Mole. A tiring Maple let in two late goals to give Wake Green the sort of scoreline they frankly deserved.

A tough loss for Maple as they had led 2-0 and 3-2 at crucial moments in the game but ultimately the result was probably fair given the balance of play.

Poor Abuse of the Match (season?):-

Having shielded a ball out of play Walker received verbal abuse from the Wake Green striker, it then went something like this:-

Walker:- 'f****** shut up you... (thinks) twit'
Striker:- 'Did you just call me a twit'
Walker:- (embarressed) 'No, I called you a twat'
Striker:- 'no, you said twit, you actually called me a twit'

Not one of my finer moments.

Barney, Re: Poor abuse...

I'd like to recommend a short course of tuition with ex-Maple ginger & fine verbal abuser, Mark Homer.

With such beauties as 'Where'd you get that face - a jumble sale??' under his belt after a distinguished career of opposition baiting in Walsall Div 4 I'm sure he can help you out.

It would also come as no surprise however to hear that the afore mentioned Mr Homer Snr was also 'Most punched Maple Leaf Player' 1999-2002. A title I believe he is still proud of to this day...

Team:-

----------------Gater----------------
- Mole - Asante ----- Sadler - Walker -
- Matt - Glover ----- Ben - D. Burns
-----------Lycett - Campbell --------

Subs:-

Nathan for Walker, Burns for Lycett, Mitchell for Ben

Manager:- P.Homer

Goals: Lycett, Campbell

Man of the Match:- D.Burns

Maple started this game brightly enough until an early injury to left back Walker seemed to knock them back on their heels (well that's how it seemed to this impartial reporter). With 'utility' Matt pushed into the awkward left back role Nathan was brought onto the right flank. Maple looked a little disjointed in this half with no sign of the flowing football that saw them to the top of the form table around the start of 2007.

(I can't remember the exact order of the goals as the pain from my injury has stripped my memory - and I've waited too b*&$%dy long to write it down - sorry)

I believe Crusaders took a 2-0 lead going into half time - with Maple always looking ropey at best from corners...

The second half was a different story with some nice link up play from forwards and midfield leading to Nathan's stong run and cross-shot which was controlled neatly by Lycett only for it to fall onto his right foot - the completely left footed Lycett was in a pickle, with the ball bouncing invitingly onto his right, and with nothing but instinct to work with, his body finally took over and poked out a shin to steer the ball home to give maple some hope... which was cruelly took away when Crusaders made it 3-1.

A Campbell goal out of his new publication 'Bundled goals, the Campbell method' (out on Monday) with 5 minutes to go led to an exciting climax - but an equaliser sadly never came.

Some bright performances from Matt at left back, a solid debut (is it his debut?!) from Nathan and a driving performance from man of the match D. Burns left Maple feeling that there is plenty more to come which should hopefully keep Maple in the lofty heights of division 8.

Linesman Flag Review:-

A new-ish flag made of quality material with no holes and excellent BMX style handle grip. Would have got top marks but sadly a 'not washed' quality to the flag means that it can only score a.... 8/10 (nod to Lycett for bringing the flag to my attention for the purposes of the review - exemplary)

Statto Stat of the game:-

Lycett has scored every game he's started up front this season.

Team:-

------------- Randle

Mole -- Ollie ---- Sadler -- Matt

Mitch -- Ben ----- Glover -- Dunc

------ Campbell -- Lycett


Subs: Nathan for Lycett, Gibbons for Glover.

Thanks to: Shing and Ade for coming to cheer Maple on - was most appreciated and the team could well do with more support.

Linesman Flag Review: Sadly, Barney was injured and couldn't make this week, yet it seemed Bob (semi-pro linesman) enjoyed full and easy use of the flag - it looked quite bright and of sturdy design from the pitch.

Comedy Moment: The ref - take your pick - there were lots to choose from.


Match Report: "A tightly fought contest between two of the relegation threatened sides produced some decent football in between the many needless and pedantic stoppages from the ref's whistle.

Aston had 4 or 5 quality attacking players in their line-up, yet they did look vulnerable in defence. Sadly, Maple did not get to test them that often, and were often pinned back or were counter-attacked upon by their skilfull tricky opponents.

However, just before time in typical 'against the run of play' Maple produced an incisive attack of their own after good build-up play getting the ball out wide a low cross was converted by Dunc 8 yards out - a superb-timed run catching the Aston defence off guard. 1-0 half time.

The 2nd half saw Maple get to grips more with their tricky oppponents, and although under constant pressure the Maple defence held firm - with good protection from the core of the midfeld. Unfortunately Maple attacking chances were sparse - and the ones Maple did create broke down too often with a poor final pass or lack of awareness - which is probably why they struggle to score enough goals to win matches.

Around 70mins in gk stand-in Tony came to the edge of his penalty area to pick up an overhit Aston through-ball... who had the ball promptly kicked out of his hands by an Aston forward who went on to equalise. The ref, on the halfway line, gave the goal stating that the gk did not have the ball in his hands when challenged by the Aston forward - yet changed his version minutes later to say Tony did have the ball in his hands, but his palms were facing down - and so was not in control of the ball. Considering the ball was in Tony hands at knee height both of the ref's conflicting versions of events are at odds with what actually happened.

Regardless, the goal stood. Aston then pushed on 2 players further up front looking to win the game, and although they didn't see much of the ball the tactical change was enough to keep Maple pegged back. Though there should have been more space for Maple to attack, it seemed they ran out of attakcing ideas - and game petered out to a 1-1 draw - probably what both teams deserved - Maple for their resoluteness in defending (well marshalled by Ollie), and Aston for their fine attacking football (no.3 and no.8 especially).


Goals win games - and Maple don't score - or look like scoring - enough of them. Too often there is an over-reliance on Campbell alone to deliver the goals - with only sporadic help from others".

Team:-

--------------- Gator --------------

Matt -- Hillyer (C) -- Steve -- Randle

Nathan -- Ben -- Mitchell -- Burns -- Sag

------------- Campbell -------------


Subs: Bobby G
Manager: P Homer
Goals: Nathan, Mitchell (2)
MOTM: ?

Thanks to: Bobby G for making the effort to get all the way over to Shard End utilising the delights of WM Travel - and Ade for coming to cheer Maple on & putting in a solid shift on the flag. Barney would be proud!

First off, how Maple were down to 12 players from a squad of 20 odd (!) for this crucial game against AFC Meadway was hard to fathom - but keen not to get involved in a repeat of the unfortunate events of the earlier meeting between the two teams were pleased to see a higher qualified ref in charge for the return fixture.

A fine afternoon on a very very bobbly pitch Maple were well motivated for the game and got stuck into the opposition from the off. After a couple of early scares from their younger, quicker oppostion Maple settled into the pre match plan of stiffling the midfield and lauching quick counter attacks via the robust Campbell, pacey Nathan & wiley - tho not quite so pacey - Sadler .

On quarter of an hr a long punt up field from gk Gator plus excellent persistance from the eager Campbell forced the Meadway keeper to spill the ball & allow Nathan to calmly slot home & open the scoring & his Maple account. 1-0.

Unfortunatley - despite the usual rallying cries of 'now keep it tight!' - Meadway seemed to score with their very next attack! A fine through ball from midfield lofted over the defence was expertly despatched by the Meadway Captain who had looked lively from the KO.

As a pretty even half with some some resolute Maple defending & good counter attacking moves played itself out Meadway took the lead with approx 10 mins til HT - the tricky winger given too much time in the box squeezed a shot off through a crowd of players which rolled in off the post & past the helpless gator.

Disappointed at conceding Maple then raised their game another notch for the remainder of the half and some great battling & good passages of play resulted in a fine move and the equalising goal just minutes before HT. A defence splitting pass from centre mid released the dangerous Nathan who beat his man & squared to Campbell in the box who held off his marker to lay the ball back to the supporting Mitchell who drove home from 15 yards to make it 2-2 at half time. A fine team goal.

A quick pep talk from Manager Homer had the team up for the 2nd half & some early exchanges resulted in a number of half chances that were unfortunately not converted. As the half progressed however it was the younger, fitter Meadway team who took the initiative applying plenty of pressure in the Maple half. Luckily the Maple defence kept up it's recent fine performances and was resolute throughout - the team having to rely on more sporadic but still dangerous counter attacks as the midfield & attack struggled to hold onto the ball & relieve the increasing pressure.

This was how most of the second half played out until one period of Maple play finally paid off - some sustained pressure resulting in a scramble in the Meadway 18 yard box & a deflected Mitchell shot saw the ball loop over the keeper to put Maple 3-2 up against the run of play with approx 15 minutes to go. Maple dug in as Meadway piled forward in search of an equaliser and some excellent defending by the back four and assured handling by gk Gator kept the lively Meadway forwards at bay.

However, with practically their last attack a Meadway winger managed to avoid a couple of tired challenges & drift inside before shooting through a crowded penalty area - the ball passing the unsighted keeper to make it 3-3 just minutes before the final whistle.

Although bitterly disappointed not the take all 3 points after being in a commanding position so late in the game - on the balance of play a point each was probably a fairer reflection. Overall a good battling performance from Maple with some nice periods of counter attacking play on a difficult pitch against much younger opposition. Hopefully the squad will be bolstered by a few more returning players for the final few games of the season in order to gain the vital points needed to ensure survival in the division.

Starting with 3 points next week against Sutton.... 'Up the Mighty Leaf!'

Team:-


------------- Gater

Matt E -- Ste AB -- Hillyer -- Randle

Nathan - Dunc ----- Ben ---- Sag

-------- Dean ---- Campbell


Subs: Mole for Matt E, Homer E for Dean, Glover for Nathan.

Manager: Hillyer (100% record )


Match Report: "Maple started strongly with neat and probing passing moves creating several half chances and putting a youthful Sutton side on the back foot.

THe first half could, and probably should, have seen Maple score 4 or goals - yet the final shot was uncomposed, or Sutton's fine keeper pulling off some great saves.

Sutton had broke on the counter-attack a couple of times in the first half, and were dangerous at set-pieces - the crossbar, Gater's knee and a couple of last ditch challenges keeping them at bay.

In the 2nd half Sutton came out strong - their forward play had more movement and the teams' passing and ball retention was a lot better. Yet Maple still kept plugging away and created more scoring opportunites - and finally broke the deadlock from a crisp drive from Ben 'Gerrard' Woodhouse at the edge of the box.

Several more chances came Maple's way, and Campbell soon made it 2-0 after a good team move and fine finish from The Horse. Sutton then soon pulled a goal back with a superb strike from the edge of the 18yard box - a rocket shot high into the near corner beating Gater all ends up.

After making substitiutions to keep things fresh the returning Eddie Homer looked sharp and his cool finish (dumped the goalie on his ass with a feint and then chipped him) gave Maple a deserved third goal. Sutton again came back with pressure of their own and pulled anothe back after a fine cross found a Sutton CF's superbly timed run to finish from 6 yrds out.


Overall, Maple passing and probing created many chances and really should have scored a lot more goals if only a little more composed in front of goal. Hopefully the approach and creative play will continue - and with a little more luck the goals will come.


With several long-term injured players now returned to the squad it shows the quality of options Maple will have for next season - and also how everyone will have to fight for their places in the team - and stay there. Lots of options and possibilites. "

When Barnaldo is let out to play, we will be blessed with a report.........

Saturday 14th April

Team:-

----------Gator

Moley--Randle--Saggy--Matt E

Nathan--Ben--Glover--N Burns

------Homer--The Horse

Subs: Mitch for N Burns.

Manager (Luxury): Mitch

Match Report: Maple started badly and steadily declined through the first half. On a hot sunny day and a hard wide pitch it should have been simple to play a good passing game. Unfortunately throughout the team the lacked calmness to make the simple pass with (or without) conviction.
The first goal, unsurprisingly, fell to Rubery, and was farcical to say the least. An innocuous high ball into the box seemingly couldn't be dealt with and amongst some bizarre challenges (all without the ball) with Gator stuck on his back the ball bounced in possibly with out a touch!

The game continued as one way traffic towards the Maple goal. The second goal was not long coming and culminated in a fine shot from the edge of the box to the top left, leaving Gator with no chance.

The first half finished with Maple defending with more conviction and beginning to put more than two passes together.

After a luxurious half time chat, Maple came out stronger against a Rubery side who were beginning to tire a little. Finally Maple began threatening the Rubery goal (largely down the right) and Maple got a goal back through the tireless Horse!

A cross from Nathan got flicked on at the near post by Homer, for the Horse to power in a LEFT foot volley from at least 5 yards out.

The second goal brought a surreal element to the game. A penalty awarded to Maple was coolly dispatched by Sadler, only to be retaken due to encroachment. This seemed to enrage little Burns, who proceeded to throw his dolly, teddy, pram, and the kitchen sink out of his cot. Luckily the penalty was (again) slotted away.

Soon after a very harsh penalty was awarded when the ball bounced up and hit Randle against the chest and arm. Unfortunately little Burns was still in the stratosphere and this merely pushed him into outer space. The outcome was that as the penalty was taken (and missed) Burns was nearly helping Gator on the goal line. The resulting retake (obviously) went in.

The last third of the game was end to end attacking football with both teams tiring. Two young strikers were brought on for Rubery who game the Maple defence a stern test. I can't remember the forth goal, but the fifth goal was the product of an interesting decision made by Moley to practise his Cryff turns on the edge of the 18yd box.

A game of real extremes, with some of Maple's worst and best football on display. It has taken me too long already to write this and I can't be arsed to thing of a good epilogue!

The Horse.

Oops. Just re-read the report and realised I left a few things out. Our third gola was a good corner from Nathan to an unmarked Homer who headed the ball into the bottom left of the goal - keeper had no chance. Other notable events, Randle took the chance to go wondering as only he can, Glover's contribution to the penalty was Gerrard esque - unfortunalty that didn't spill over into the rest of the game, Ben was as tireless as ever in midfield, Matt get's MOM for a great effort at left back, Saggy definitely won one, maybe even two headers - admitadly agaist a short 12yr old and I missed a very difficult chance in the last few seconds of the game.

Neigh

^ a most insightful match report Mr Horse, and I applaud the inclusion of luxuryness throughout, however I feel the report does miss out a few things...


1. truely awful girly excuses given by certain players for not being able to play in this game.

2. there was no element of luck in dispatching the 2nd penalty past the opposing goalkeeper

3. although kudos should be given to the opposing manager for being the ref - he seemingly forgot that he could award freekicks to us for being fouled.

4. a. lack of information of the 'miss of the season' by a certain Maple forward 2 yards out in front of an empty goal - and the orbit the ball took as it left the Earth's atmosphere.

4. b. the opponents goal seemed to have some sort of deflective shield around it that ensured nearly any shot by a Maple forward missed the target by some distance. Either that or the Maple forwards were actually aiming for the barn door in the next field...

5. More mention of Burns Jnr calm temperament is warranted

6. Matt E's superb length-of-the-pitch run with the ball, just tiring 'a little' to 'narrowly' fire wide at the crucial moment

7. Maple players doing their best in the 1st half to secure a transfer to the opposing team by passing them the ball at nearly every occasion - whether under pressure or not.

8. lack of epilogue

9. that Liverpool FC are the most successful club in England.

10. Mitchell was a bit of a luxury again.

11. Have I Got News For You is back in a new series on BBC2 on Friday nights. Repeated in an extended format on Saturday evenings.

12. Sag's 2 shots - 2 goals, makes me once again the most lethal marksman in the Maple side - not an impressive claim I know, but still...

13. The Royal Oak seem to continue to serve piss poor cider on draught so that people will have to pay the exorbitant price of a bottle of Magners cider just to get a decent pint.

14. Tony calling for a pass from Moley - then running off facing the wrong way and being tripped up from behind - by the ball

15. Mitchell was a bit of a luxury again.