Gary's notes; well played ... it was nice to see the Derby played in such good spirit; with Wanderers playing some nice football, a huge improvement from the 1st game - well done DW keep it up boys!
As to DTFC well done; it was nice to see Sam having a good 1/2 at left back making some nice tackles and distributing the ball well, good to see Daniel on the pitch involved in lots of plays ... i have said it many times we have a big squad and it was great to see Gareth, Tommy & Lewis supporting the team on their rest day!
Kane, another very good game; Jack, Tom & Sam excellent in defence, Jack it was a polished performance; with Emily, Todd, Phil, Nikos & Daniel all in fine form working their socks off
Another TEAM Game ... you will need to be at your best next week! : ) although for the 1st time in ages we will have a full squad to pick from ...
DTFC 7 - Brandon 2
Dereham Town U10 Whites entertained a very hardworking and well organised Brandon Team knowing they would have to be at their best to win the game, having won the 1st game 1-0 away.
Dereham started with Liam Sewell in goal playing behind 2 from Captain Tommy Blowers, Jack Boyce & Gareth Matthews with 4 from Todd Cantwell, Phil Denton, Emily Woodhouse, Lewis Jarrett, Nikos Hinnis & Tom Cockaday.
The home team started brightly launching attack after attack kept at bay by a very good Brandon Keeper, Dereham scored 1st through Todd - the lead didn't last very long as Brandon equalised with a cracking counter.
Dereham were now playing some lovely passing football from defence to midfield resulting in a lovely goal from Phil, who displayed an excellent 1st touch followed by a clinical finish, shortly followed by another to make it 3-1. Liam kept the 2 goal lead with a superb save from a very well struck Brandon freekick, the game felt balanced and was keenly contested before Todd just about closed it out with a wonderful free kick from distance and another just before 1/2 time to make it 5-1.
The 2nd 1/2 started with a lively Dereham, no doubt their Coaches words still fresh - that Brandon were not beaten yet that they would reorganise and would fight for the game. Phil scored a superb goal to complete his hat-trick with the visitors grabbing a nice second before Todd finished off to end the game 7-2.
The Score not doing justice to a very good game played between 2 very hard working teams. Everyone of the Dereham Players deserved a share in this man of the match, Liam had a great game in goal, with Tommy, Jack & Gareth strong and resolute in defence with Emily having an excellent game at defensive mid, with the mid-fielders Tom, Lewis, Nikos, Todd & Phil all in fine form ... another team game!
Man of the Match - Todd Cantwell 
Hat-trick Heros Todd & Phil Denton 
Gary's notes ... quite simply you were all excellent; working hard for each other - keep it up, but don't forget that the 'easy' pass hit hard enough can cut through a defense
Nikos another good game, check out April 15th you have earnt another squad call!
Thetford Inds 7 - DTFC 2
Await match report ... and stats from Hef & Gary B
If it's any consolation the weather in Lanzarote on Sunday was wet wet wet
For now well done Thetford on reversing the earlier 15-3
New Bucks 4 - DTFC 15
Dereham Town U10 travelled to New Buckenham to play the Bucks on a bright winters morning, Dereham started with Kane Fisher in goal playing behind 2 from Capt Tom Cockaday, Gareth Matthews & Sam Wilson, with 4 from Emily Woodhouse, Lewis Jarrett, Todd Cantwell, Phil Denton and Nikos Hinnis playing across the middle.
Dereham started well with Phil scoring almost from the kick off with Todd making it 2-0 after some excellent linking play with Lewis & Emily. The 3rd followed after a great save by the Bucks keeper from Emily, with both Phil & Emily hitting the post from loose balls before Phil tucked it home - soon followed by Derehams 4th from Phil after a great assist from Lewis.
Dereham were now playing excellent football maintaining their shape rather than chasing the goal with Todd scoring 1 more with a further 2 from Phil with Lewis scoring his 1st the teams 100th goal of the season to make it 7-0 with the home side scoring a nice goal to go in 7-1 at half time.
Dereham made a couple of changes, starting the second half as they had played the 1st with as many as 6 or 7 passes between shots with Phil scoring another taking his tally to 5 demonstrating why he is the teams highest scorer with 28 in the season - excellent 1st touch allied with clinical finishing!
Todd got 3 more for his double hat trick just one back from Phil's seasons total, with Nikos scoring a lovely goal after a great solo run into the box, followed by a second from Lewis with Emily scoring with a beautiful free kick in the last few seconds.
The game finished Bucks 4 Dereham 15 - both sides played some great football, special mention to the Dereham Defence who had to deal with 2 lively forwards.
The Dereham Team can be proud of this one!
Credit to Bucks ... it has been good to see them win a couple!
Man of the match - Lewis Jarrett 
Hat Trick Hero's Todd Cantwell 6 Phil Denton 5
Garys' thoughts ...
Well played each and every one of you ... Kane another good game between the sticks, making some telling saves, you with Tom, Gareth & Sam had to look after a couple of very good forwards, with each of the defenders making some great tackles.
Emily had an excellent - hard working game in a new position being defensive mid capped with a superb long range free kick, Lewis worked his socks off as did double hat trick hero Todd. Phil set the game up scoring a hat trick in the 1st 15, with Nikos having another very good game.
Sam's best game yet.
Another good game from Nikos following a very good game at Northwold
I was impressed with how you kept your shape - keeping the wide players wide but packing the middle with lots of passing - keep it up 4 Hef and Gary whilst i am away!
Like the Northwold Game ... a lovely way to spend a Sunday Morning with both sides supporters enjoying the game and appreciating the other teams game.
9 out of 10 4 the ref too - excellent job!
NB: Last seasons highest scorers with that total from 20 games passed in just 16
Lastly; i am often asked by other Managers which Dereham Team they are playing ... they know that we have a large squad, that the Whites have 4 under nines, 3 of which only play for us every other week, that our Black team has to borrow from us from time to time to compete in the Norfolk League, that our team changes from week to week which can make for some interesting reading ... on this form though the gap between our teams is getting smaller ... its good to see some of the squad getting the chance to play more football and good football too.
Nice also that some of the regulars were happy to watch from the touchline
Like every large squad we have the problem in spreading the games around the players looking to compete in each game that we can.
Watton Wanderers 2 - DTFC 0
Watton deserved this win; they wanted every ball, they gave 100% from 1st to last whistle. They are a very different team to the team that we beat 5-0 ... we knew they would be - any team that can beat Serpents is a team to take seriously!
That said DTFC went without 3 players, one dropping out the night before with a 'bug' and played the game with 3 boys still recovering ...
Well played Watton!
Dereham travelled to play a vastly improved Watton Wanderers, already this seasons South Norfolk League Cup Finalists. Dereham started with Captain Liam Sewell in goal playing behind Tom Cockaday & Tommy Blowers with 4 from Jack Boyce, Gareth Matthews, Emily Woodhouse, Lewis Jarrett & Dominic Scarff playing across the middle.
Watton started well dominating the 1st 10 with Dereham defending in numbers, with Liam making a couple of excellent saves early on, the Watton midfield was superb always fighting for the ball.
A number of decisions went against the visitors ... Dereham did well to get in at 1/2 time 0-0 with credit to the 2 Toms playing in defence. The 0-0 score not reflecting an end to end game with countless breaks from both sides.
The second 1/2 started much the same way as the 1st with the 1st goal crucial - which went to Watton from a superb long range strike that gave Liam no chance. Watton went 2 up which seemed to spur on the Dereham boys who finally found their game easily dominating the last 15 with Gareth, Jack, Emily & Lewis coming into the game with several attempts on goal - 2 well saved by the Watton keeper.
The game finished 2-0
Gary's thoughts ... Liam had a great game, very brave, Tom and Tommy worked very hard at the back with both playing some good football with Tom C probably playing his best game of the Season! Jack & Gareth tried to take the game to Watton whilst Emily & Lewis toiled throughout the game with the wingers hitting a tough and excellent Watton Midfield, with Dom ever busy upfront!
This was not your best game of the season, you probably know that ... your coaches are always honest with you ... we looked a tad slow, at times outfought and lacking pace ... we started playing football in the last 15 when we dominated the game coming close several times ... that said 3 of you were suffering/recovering from 'bugs' so we shouldn't read too much into this game!
At our best we can beat anyone ... We need to find our touch, our passing, our movement [supporting the ball and each other] our desire to get stuck in ... you need to talk to each other, to work for each other - in short how you have played every other game that i have seen this season.
Roll on next week ... i know you will be looking foward to playing again ... let's hope 4 a fit squad
Lastly; i hesitated b4 concluding with a moan ... but i like a ref to ref 8, 9 & 10 year olds with a firm but gentle hand with a smile on his face ... with the odd marginal call in favour of the away team ... i have only ever said one thing to Hef the Ref if in doubt call it in favour of our guests
Man of the Match - Emily
Northwold 0 - DTFC 7
Dereham Town FC U10's travelled to play Northwold - Dereham started with Kane Fisher in goal, playing behind Tom Cockaday & Tommy Blowers with Jack Boyce in defensive mid with Gareth Matthews & Captain [Birthday boy] Lewis Jarrett wide with Daniel Foster playing upfront.
Dereham started brightly with some lovely football played through the whole team but kept at bay by one of the finest goalkeepers in the league, it took some excellent football to breach the home sides goal with the 1st falling to Lewis. Nikos Hinnis was introduced up front and scored a cracker to make it 2-0. Sam Wilson came on in defense - the team coping well with the changes continuing to take the game to Northwold.
The second half was played in the same excellent spirit with Dereham scoring 5 without reply - Lewis scoring a brace to complete his hat-trick, Nikos grabbing his second after a lovely run with Gareth & Jack scoring one each.
The game finished at 7-0 but make no mistake the Northwold Keeper had a superb game - the Dereham boys played some excellent football with good movement and support with some great passing often involving 3 or 4 touches ... before a strike launched.
Credit to Northwold on a game well played ...
Man of the Match Jack Boyce
Hat-trick Hero Lewis Jarrett 
Gary's notes ...
Well played guy's nice to see Daniel, Nikos & Sam playing well ... Nikos playing his best game yet for the Whites ... with Kane concentrating well in goal ... Tommy & Tom solid at the back with Gareth & Lewis always dangerous on the wings ... and lastly another polished game in defensive mid from our man of the match Jack B ... well played all of you!
As you know i have to have one note - when facing such a good keeper don't keep testing him from distance or acute angles ... keep passing the ball ... balls into the box/far post can ask more questions than a long range shot
Today i lost count of the attempts on goal ... it was good to see so much football played with such good passing and movement from the Dereham team met with some truly excellent saves ...
Thetford Bulldogs 4 DTFC 2
Match report to follow, for now well played boys, you met and matched the best team in the league, the scoreline not reflecting the game, which was end to end with countless chances falling to both sides ... the game played in an excellent spirit by both teams with both teams playing some excellent football ... with Dereham putting the home team under huge pressure during both halves - playing the second 1/2 without a sub ... we were on balance unlucky not to get a point!
We missed Philli after 20 ... update Phil is feeling sore but seemingly not the same injury that cost him 6 weeks last season ... phew - but may miss the U9 game in the morning?
Dereham Town travelled to Thetford to play the unbeaten Bulldogs, last years Champions, Dereham being the only team to have beaten them in the last 2 seasons.
Dereham started with Captain Liam Sewell in goal playing behind Tommy Blowers and Jack Boyce with Gareth Matthews playing Defensive mid with Phil Denton left Todd Cantwell in the middle with Lewis Jarrett playing right.
Dereham started brightly, more than matching the home side having several chances to take the lead, from the start you knew the 1st goal would be worth 2 or 3!
Dereham pushed and probed and could have scored on several occasions but fell behind to a well taken goal. The game was fast with the Bulldogs breaking quickly on the counter always asking questions of the Dereham defence with Liam, Jack & Tommy performing well.
Dereham pushed hard trying to take the game to Bulldogs with Todd always dangerous working well with Phil who was injured in the twentieth minute taking no further part in the game.
Dereham had to reorganise with Tom Cockaday on at right back, Jack moved to defensive mid and Gareth taking Phil's space on the left. The team coped well with the changes finishing the half at 0-1. Dereham started the 2nd half well dominating play for periods with the home team on the back foot, not something they are used too. Jack scored a beautiful equaliser to breath fresh hope into Dereham only to fall behind to 2 counters.
Bulldogs are used to closing out games, but Dereham had other ideas, this team with 3 Under Nines playing [4 in the squad], missing a few players including Emily on duty for NCFC and with their highest scorer injured - they pulled their socks up and played football forcing their way back into the game with Dereham pressure forcing a penalty which was brilliantly converted by Todd.
At 3-2 the improvised Dereham team looked the better team for long periods ... the last 10 was played at a frantic pace with Dereham pushing for what would have been a deserved equaliser with several near misses the Thetford goal led a charmed life ... Dereham knew the risks of pushing hard and conceded a scruffy 4th goal to finish Thetford 4 Dereham 2
An excellent game of football played by both sides in an excellent spirit!
Man of the Match Gareth Matthews 
A note to my team ... as ever i am proud of you ... most teams, supporters are not aware that we play 4 under nines ... that we rotate and use 18 players ... that our team changes from game to game ... it is to your credit that you play the football that you play!
Today we lost one of the leagues highest scorers for 2/3rds of the game, our Em was playing for NCFC who won 1-0 currently undefeated ... and we had a few others not playing .... yet you still pushed a very good team all the way, Bulldogs will be pleased with the result - but very aware that today they took part in a very competitive game!
Robert can be proud of his team who look set to win the league [again] playing very good football whilst retaining a good attitude on the pitch - not an easy thing to do - I would like to play them again at the seasons end in a friendly when both teams have a full squad to pick from with nothing to play for except football ... that would be a game to look forward too ...
Wymondham Serpents 1 DTFC 0
Match report to follow; for now well played ... to those of you who didn't play today ... the list is long ... you can be proud of the effort and the football played by those who played today!
The Whites were unlucky not to get something out of the game!
Dereham Town FC Under 10's travelled to Wymondham to play the Serpents in the 1/4 finals of the League Cup.
The game was played in pretty awful conditions with much of the pitch soon turning into a mud bath, making for a busy and compacted midfield - not suiting Dereham's usual wide pacey passing game.
Dereham started with Ant Corder in goal playing behind Nick Hollyoaks, Matt Chapman with 4 from Captain Emily Woodhouse, Daniel Screen, Gareth Matthews, Jack Boyce, Dominic Slater, Liam Sewell or Tom Cockaday playing in front.
The 1st half was played in the middle of the park with Serpents slightly the stronger of the 2 teams, the Dereham Defence were quite excellent with Tricks, Matti and Ant playing some superb football - with Ant having no chance with the Serpents goal. The Dereham midfield were hard working and hard pressed coping well with what was thrown at them.
The conditions made for few shots at goal - but when Dereham countered through Daniel, Emily, Gareth or Jack they were always a handful. Liam and Dominic were both introduced in the 1st half - with both boys contributing well.
At half time Dereham reorganised with 2 of the stronger players moving to the middle where the game was being most keenly contested, the change paid dividends as Dereham pushed hard for what would have been a deserved equaliser building from a strong defense and toughened centre mid.
If Dereham had lost the 1st half - they won the second, launching attack after attack with Gareth hitting a post, Daniel the goalkeepers back and Jack coming close with a powerful shot.
The game was played with hardly a foot out of place ... with few free kicks, the ball constantly played on - each of the players from both teams were exhausted when the whistle blew, each of them having given everything to the game.
The Game finished 1-0 but the Dereham Players could hold their heads high.
Man of the match Gareth Matthews
Gary's notes ... well played a good team performance
Ant a cracking game in goal ... well done - we are lucky to have 3 excellent keepers on the squad!
Tricks & Matti were both simply excellent ... well played Matti your best game for the Whites so far!
Emily, Jack, Gareth, Daniel, Liam, Dom & Tom ... well done you gave everything
Lastly thanks to Dom, Liam & Tom for their patience in the 2nd 1/2 ... it's not fun watching from the 'bench' but at 0-1 with time running out but with the game with Dereham we had to let those on try to snatch a draw
PS; i hate to moan ... but
i don't like to see players aged 9 & 10 pushing or being pushed, its not what we preach or practice ... a push in the back when taking a shot or making a clearance should result in a free kick being awarded ... it spoilt an otherwise enjoyable game
Good Luck Serpents!
Wymondham Dragons 2 DTFC 6
A cracking game, match report to follow but for now very well played DTFC ... you kept your heads and let your football do the talking!
... an excellent game between 2 very good footballing sides ... with football the winner
Dereham Town FC U10's travelled to Wymondham to play the Dragons who had played 9 winning 8, DTFC knew they had to be at their best and to win to stay 2nd.
Dereham started with Liam Sewell in goal, playing behind 2 from Jack Boyce, Tommy Blowers and Gareth Matthews with 4 from Todd Cantwell, Captain Daniel Screen, Phil Denton, Lewis Jarrett and Tom Cockaday.
The game started at a frantic pace, with both teams attacking well, asking questions of each others defence, Dereham scored first through Lewis and then moved 2 ahead after a blistering shot from Phil from the edge of the Dragon's area.
Dereham were the better side through the first 20 with each boy playing well, they could have scored more had the Dragons keeper not been in such fine form. Dragons clawed one back finishing the half strongly with the score at 2-1 in favour of Dereham.
Dereham started the second half well, knowing that the Dragons would be pushing hard, Todd, Lewis & Daniel were playing some lovely passing football linking well with Gareth playing defensive mid with Jack & Tommy performing valiantly in defence in front of an impressive Liam - with Tom or Phil working well at the other end chasing every ball, applying pressure at every turn.
Phil scored his second to make it 1-3. The Dragons were given a penalty when Liam was adjudged to have fouled a Dragon, which Liam deservedly saved, games as tight as this one can hinge on a moment - had the Dragons have scored it could have swung the balance of play ... to the point where Dereham heads could have dropped allowing the Dragons back into the game.
The missed penalty chance however seemed to spur the Dereham boys on even more, their already impressive work rate and team ethic increasing with Dereham determined to play football - they enjoyed a sustained period of solid possession with Lewis completing his hat-trick with 2 more well taken goals after some good linking play through the midfield to make the game secure at 5-1
Dragons scored a consolation goal in injury time ... in the dying seconds Daniel collected a ball deep in his own half dribbling past 3 Dragons before scoring a lovely goal to finish Dereham 6 Dragons 2
Credit to the Wymondham lad's on a game well played ...
Man of the match Daniel Screen
Hat Trick Hero - Lewis Jarrett 
Gary's thoughts to follow ... for now enjoy the win - you deserved it!
Liam ... another brave & impressive performance in goal ... well done!
Jack ... continues the run of excellent games, brave, strong and composed in defence and dangerous on the break - keep it going
Tommy ... like Jack a rock at the back ... keep it up Tommy you have had a superb last few weeks ... strong in the tackle and giving excellent support to the mids
Gareth ... a very good defender, who played defensive mid and attacking left mid yesterday - an excellent game, with twisting turning runs on the break but ever mindful of the need to cover the gap that can exist between Defense & Mid
Lewis ... as ever industrious, working hard for his team, with some lovely linking with those around him polished off with a superb hat trick!
Todd ... always gives you 100% and yesterday was no exception, worked his socks off leading the line and helping to cover the back with some great blocks ...
Phil ... you can [almost] bet your last penny that he will give you a goal and an impressive one at that ... yesterday he gave the team 2 the 1st was a blistering shot that gave a very good keeper no chance
Tom ... had a good session, working well with those around him - some neat passes
Daniel ... Has put in some good performances for the team but yesterday was his best, deserving of the MOM ... his goal was a joy to watch - the cherry on top of a big cake
Conclusions; at your best you can beat anyone, you have proven that during the last 2 years, we have a big squad, not everyone gets to play each week, we have players representing NCFC [2] and DTFCU9's [3] making for changes in formation most weeks - it is to your credit that you cope as well as you do - yesterday we had 3 under nines playing - including 2 players that we share with the DTFCU9 Norfolk League Side ...
If we had a lesson yesterday it is
1) Listen to your coaches ... we tell you it as it is ... our creed is not to argue with the ref ... even if you know/think it was a bad call ...
2) We can when attacking expose ourselves to the counter or loss of possession ... Gary B spotted that we were pushing hard being 2-0 up [1st phase accomplished] but were leaving a big gap between the front line and Jack & Tommy ... which Gareth & Daniel filled very well!
Enjoy the memory
Watton Rangers 3 DTFC 3
I await the match details ... so report to follow
I understand that you played well ... and that Gary B & Hef were very pleased with your efforts ... missing 5 of the regulars it shows both the strength in depth within DTFCU10'S and the willingness to play football ... you are as ever a credit to the club!
We love to win and to win well but its playing football with a smile that matters ... not many squads could cope with playing a game without the 5 missing players!
tbc ... i await the match info to write a report but aware that Daniel scored 2 and Gareth 1
Credit to Watton on a great 2nd 1/2
Man of the Match - tbc
DTFC 4 v Swaffham 1
Dereham Town played hosts to local rivals Swaffham, knowing it would be a very competitive match, Dereham started with Kane Fisher in goal, playing behind 2 from Jack Boyce, Tommy Blowers & Gareth Matthews with Captain Emily Woodhouse, Lewis Jarret & Todd Cantwell in midfield with Phil Denton upfront.
The game started at a very high tempo with both teams pushing hard for the opener, both keepers kept very busy. Dereham scored the 1st with Todd heading forwards for Phil to score his 1st, a beautiful left foot after a surging run giving the keeper no chance.
Both teams had a penalty with Todd's well saved and Swaffham's going wide. DTFC went in at 1/2 time 2-0 thanks to Phil's 2nd - popped in after a defensive slip by Swaffham.
The 1st half had seen quality football from both teams, with Dereham's defence strong, with a very creative midfield, some of the passing was a joy to watch!
Swaffham started the 2nd 1/2 strongly, their keeper again in fine form - saving well from Todd early on. Swaffham scored next to make it tight at 2-1. The goal giving Swaffham fresh hope, the visitors pushing hard seeking a second, enjoying an excellent period of possession - the Dereham midfield had to dig deep and the defense had to stand tall & firm.
Dereham continued to play some lovely football forcing their way back into the game, sustained pressure paid off with Swaffham conceding an unfortunte penalty. Tommy, winner of last weeks penalty shoot out took the kick - to give the home side back their 2 goal cushion, taking the training ground to the pitch with a cracking shot into the side netting!
Dereham introduced Liam Sewell & Tom Cockaday , both boys contributing with Todd scoring from a freekick to make DTFC 4 Swaffham 1
Man of the Match Todd Cantwell
Gary's thoughts ...
Well played Kanie - good to have you back, a cracking game!
Well played lad's you worked hard for this one, a strong defensive performance, with Jack, Gareth & Tommy having excellent games! - you have reached new levels ... keep it going !!!
Lewis, Emily & Todd - the 3 of you gave everything - playing some wonderful attacking football but also helping out when needed. Phil ... another 2 - the 1st a cracking goal :) keep it up Phil - our highest scorer with 21.
Liam & Tom also played their part - thank you Boy's
Well done all of you - keep the run going for Gary & Hef next week ... and text me the scores!
DTFC 12 - Dereham Wanderers 0
Dereham Town U10's entertained Dereham Wanderers on Sunday, starting with Liam Sewell in goal, playing behind Jack Boyce & Lewis Jarrett in defence with Capt Todd Cantwell, Emily Woodhouse and Phil Denton in midfield with Tom Cockaday playing upfront.
Dereham started brightly launching attack after attack kept at bay for the 1st 15 by a hardworking Wanderers defence and an excellent goalkeeper who could do nothing with Derehams 1st scored by Phil, a lovely clinical strike soon followed by 1 each from Tom, Lewis and Todd making it a 4-0 lead at 1/2 time.
Dereham introduced Sam Wilson for Emily who had worked the right mid beautifully for the 1st 1/2. Dereham continued to play some excellent passing football scoring 2 quickly, 1 each from Lewis & Todd.
Phil & Todd dropped to defence, quite possibly the 2 most attacking full backs in the county, with Lewis & Jack playing wide - with the team scoring 6 more to make it a final 12-0 win with goals coming from Todd completing his trick, another from Lewis to make it 4, 2 from Jack and another 1 from Tom.
The entire team played some wonderful football, with the game dominated by excellent attacking passing football - taking the training ground to the pitch - DTFC could have scored many more but for some fine saves by the Wanderers keeper and some sterling work by their defence - both Gary's were very proud of you!
Special mention to Wanderers who never gave up
Man of the Match Todd Cantwell
Hat Trick Hero's Lewis Jarrett 4 Todd Cantwell 3
Gary's thoughts ... i lost count of the moves using 3 touches involving 3,4 & 5 passes - keep it up!
Liam ... whilst you didn't have much to do what you did you did very well!
Jack ... another polished complete performance with 2 well taken goals
Lewis ... back to his best - your best game of the Season - keep it going!
Tom ... 4 goals in 3 games - well done! ... keep it up Tom!
Phil ... in excellent form - great 1st touch and a new find at left back : )
Emily ... another very good game always working 4 the team ... a real find for the whites!
Todd ... excellent [as always] with some lovely linking play - always working 4 his team
Sam ... had a good game unlucky not to score with a cracking left foot over the bar
as a team you played well, with countless shots at goal some well saved some just missing the target ... keep it up!
Brandon 0 - DTFC 1
Match report to follow but for now well played boys each of you gave 100% 4 60 mins!
Dereham Town FCU10 travelled to Brandon to play a tough hard working side, Dereham went with just one sub and without a number of players, some playing for NCFC, some ill and some injured.
DTFC started with Liam Sewell in goal, playing behind Capt Tricky Hollyoak & Gareth Matthews, with Jack Boyce, Dominic Scarff & Lewis Jarrett playing in midfield with Tom Cockaday upfront.
The 1st half finished 0-0 but this did not reflect an end to end game with each side having chances with Liam performing valiantly for DTFC in goal, as did our defenders Gareth & Tricks, matched by our hardworking midfield trio of Jack, Lewis & Dom with Tom busy upfront getting back to help with a couple of crunching blocks!
The 2nd half began with attack after attack launched by Brandon, the game becoming a battle between Brandon attack and DTFC defence. Daniel Foster was introduced into the game. Dereham's defence was quite simply superb, with Tricks performing heroics with Gareth & Liam, these 3 supported by the ever busy Jack, Lewis & Dominic in midfield with Tom and Daniel making some crucial tackles upfront.
Dereham were now playing a counter game with Lewis and Jack pushing ahead whenever the opportunity presented itself, linking well with either Dom, Tom or Daniel.
The winner was scored by Jack Boyce from distance [beckham style but with a bounce] giving the Brandon keeper no chance, the goal deserving to win a game, causing Brandon to push on even harder - kept at bay only by determined defending.
The game finished 1-0 a fine win for Dereham maintaining their challenge on the top of the table.
Brandon can take a lot of credit for the way in which they played ... always trying to play football!
Everyone of the Dereham Players can be proud of their efforts - this was a very good team performance!
Man of the Match Birthday Boy Tricks ... but Liam, Jack, Gareth, Lewis, Tom, Dom & Daniel can all claim a share too
Gary's thoughts ... you went with a team of just 8, playing without some regular faces, up against a hard working Brandon Team that had won 4 from 6 ... you worked your socks off deserving the win
I am always proud of you, the Whites have played their hearts out for 2 and a bit seasons, always with a happy face and always as a team whether you have won or lost ... always working always trying always playing football
keep it up!!!
ps a word for our defenders who have worked hard all season ... we used to have a reputation of scoring loads but conceding a few too many ... this season we are still scoring [in fact goals per game up on last year] but we have a much meaner defence ... well done to Kane, Liam, Gareth, Mateo, Nikos, Matti C, Tricks, Tommy B & Jack who together with Gary B [defensive coach] have hugely improved DTFCU10's goals conceded!
It makes a huge difference to the team knowing that our defenders are in such fine form under Gary B's watch!
59 Goals from 14 Players ...
DTFC 7 - Lizards 2
Dereham entertained Wymondham Lizards, last Season's runners up on Saturday with Dereham playing Ant Corder in goal behind 2 from Gareth Matthews, Captain Tommy Blowers, Matt Chapman and Jack Boyce with 4 from Mateo Henman, Todd Cantwell, Phil Denton, Lewis Jarrett and Tom Cockaday across the middle.
Dereham started very quickly with Lewis passing to Todd from the ko - with Todd finding Phil who picked out Lewis who beat the keeper without Lizards touching the ball. What a way to start ...
The 1st half saw some lovely passing football from DTFC with Phil scoring a 2nd to go to 2-0. Lizards are a strong team very defensively secure conceding only 28 last season from 20 games and they began to get into the game scoring their 1st to make it tight.
DTFC introduced Tom with the instruction to push deeper taking defenders with him thus creating space, this policy soon worked with Tom scoring a nice goal, his 2nd from 2 games played!
At 3-1 the goals flowed with Tom finding the tireless Todd who ran the length of the pitch to finish off, Lizards got one back before Gareth scored with a lovely lob to make it 5-2 at half time.
DTFC started the 2nd half mindful of their coaches half time chat to work even harder to shut out what would be a revitalised Lizards and this they did with the Dereham Defence of Matti, Jack, Gareth or Tommy making some great tackles turning defence into attack with telling passes with Ant making a couple of very good saves and tidying up well behind his defence.
The game finished 7-2 after Phil completed his hat trick ... a very good very hard working Team performance against very good opposition
Man of the Match Mateo Henman ... another great game from Mateo
Hat Trick Hero Phil Denton 
Gary C's thoughts to follow ... An excellent 1st 1/2 one to be proud off ...
Ant ... great work a couple of outstanding saves and some very good & quick tidying up!
Mateo, Jack, Tommy, Matti & Gareth ... each of you did some great work, making some excellent tackles, but even better finding your team mates with some great passes - keep it going!
Todd, Phil, Lewis & Tom ... excellent 1st 1/2 with Todd covering every inch of the pitch giving everything to his 'team' with Phil & Lewis putting in some very good work with clinical finishing [check the stats].
Tom doesn't get too much time on the pitch when we have a full squad ... but he showed last season that he can make a valuable difference, scoring in the last few seconds against another Wymondham Team earning his team a draw ... he has played in [just] 2 games this season scoring in both!
We had started with a 'flat' 3 across the middle ... At 2-1 with a revitalised Lizards i switched the shape believing that Lizards would want to push [even] harder ... playing Tom deep meant he had to be covered giving our wide players space to exploit and asking ?'s of Lizards - it worked with 3 goals in 12 mins!
Changes help as long as each of you know, understand and keep your positions - sometimes we swap wingers sometimes shape ... the win was protected in a 2nd 1/2 shut out winning the 1/2 2-0 after some excellent defending from a very hardworking defensive unit playing to Gary B's system - well done all 6
If we had a lesson to learn it was in the 2nd 1/2 when a team counters we have to get players back to close down the runners ... you won't [often] catch the ball but you can get to a 'shirt' It is a balancing act ... you can't without constant rotation have the front line cover the back line ... but each winger can cover their own runners ... we play a very solid defensive unit with 3 covering our goal keeper ... one of the biggest changes this year is that our defenders have got better at both protecting our goal and in supporting our mid with them in turn looking to pass back when called/under pressure ... this gives the passer space or time to find it!
Enjoy this one ... and good luck next week v Brandon ... i won't be there so listen to Gary B & Hef
Serpents 4 - DTFC 3 ... as written by Caroline
Dereham Town U10's Whites travelled to Wymondham to play the Serpents in which both teams knew would be a close game and a 6 pointer. Dereham could have been 2 goals up very quickly if the left foots of Phil Denton and Lewis Jarrett had been working, but both shots went wide. This was quickly followed by a cracking shot from Tommy Blowers, again going just wide.
Dereham had plenty of possession and played some lovely passing football, most of the game being played in the Serpents half. Mateo Henman and Tommy stood strong in defence, and looked comfortably in control, although Serpents did manage to break through to force Ant Corder into a fantastic save when faced with 3 strikers attacking his goal.
Dereham's first goal came when Phil crossed the ball right across the goal with Emily Woodhouse in exactly the right place to coolly hit the ball into the goal. Jack Boyce and Lewis were having a great game in mid-field, both could have had goals, Lewis going just wide and Jack seeing his shot from the half way line just going over the bar.
At the other end Ant was alert in goal with Tommy helping with a great headed clearance. Dereham countered with Phil having a cracking shot which hit the bar, a goal mouth scramble followed which the Serpents eventually managed to clear. Shortly after Phil finally found the back of the net to make it 0-2. Nikos Hinnis was introduced at the back
However, the Serpents kept trying and made it 1-2. Matti Chapman came on and after having his first shot saved by the keeper he went on to score just after with a well taken strike. Ant produced a great save just at half time, saving the first shot and then the 2nd while still on the floor, to keep the score at 1-3. Dereham controlled this half and looked in control.
However, football is a funny old game and Serpents started the 2nd half very lively & determined playing the same football that Dereham had played during the 1st 1/2 - forcing Ant to make a great save, cleanly catching the ball when a shot was belted into the top of his goal, under intense Serpents pressure Mateo was kept busy in defence, making a great block just in front of goal.
Dereham found themselves under constant attack and despite a great save from Ant the rebound somehow found the back of the net to make it 2-3. Serpents were spurred on by the goal, and following some very strong tackles on the Dereham boys quickly went on to score another to level the scores.
Dereham looked nervous in front of their own goal, and found themselves defending wave after wave of attack. The Serpent's keeper gambled on a long goal kick straight up to the Dereham goal, which paid off as Dereham found themselves 4-3 behind.
Dereham kept trying to pass the ball, Emily and Phil linking well on several occasions but unable to score. The boys all kept trying right to the end, but Serpents were not going to let the lead slip away and were just too strong, the game finishing 4-3.
Man of match : Ant
Next week we play 'Lizards' another tight game ... at our best we can beat anyone ... we always look to enjoy our wins and to learn from our defeats ... whilst i wasn't there Gary B tells me that you were awesome during the 1st 1/2 ... next week lets try to keep it going for 60 mins :)
4 wins ... 51 goals from 11 players and 16 conceded in 6 games
you have to admire Serpents belief we have won some games by 1/2 time ... remember that in the future should we find ourselves on the back foot at 1/2 time ... and that the game is not won until the final whistle ... your football has come on hugely!!! especially the way that defence links with the mid calling for the pass back enabling the attack to move to space, taking pressure of the ball staying in control of it and the game
keep playing your football, keeping the attack wide and the defence tight ... the season is a long journey - we led the league at Christmas last year ... i think this Season could be even tigher than last year!
DTFC 15 - Thetford Indies 3
Dereham Town entertained Thetford on Sunday, the visitors having won their 1st 3 games!
Dereham started with Liam Sewell in goal playing behind 2 from Jack Boyce, Gareth Matthews & Tommy Blowers with 3 from Emily Woodhouse, Lewis Jarrett, Captain Todd Cantwell & Mateo Henman with Phil Denton or Daniel Foster playing upfront
Dereham started brightly with the team working as one unit, using the full width of the pitch, the visitors goalkeeper was busy making some good saves but countless attacks and ceaseless pressure counted with Todd scoring a 1st half hat trick, Phil 2 and 1 each from Daniel & Tommy.
The half finished 7-2 with Dereham committing too many upfront Thetford pulled another back but the Dereham goal machine kicked into action, so far 5 games played, 4 wins, 48 goals from 11 players!
Liam deserved a big 'well done' making his debut in goal producing some fine saves proving excellent cover in goal when Kane or Ant not available
Todd finished with 3, Phil 6, Emily 3 and 1 each from Tommy, Daniel & Lewis - the score finished 15-3.
Man of the Match Todd Cantwell
Hat Trick Heros
Phil Denton 6
Todd Cantwell 3
Emily Woodhouse 3
Another cracking team performance won in the 1st 1/4 with clinical finishing after huge early pressure ... today you competed from the 1st whistle, looking to win every tackle, chase every ball ... next week will need the same - at your best you can live with anyone!
Well done to Daniel with a nice goal, well done Liam - you did good between the sticks! Well done to you all ... you worked hard for this win!
DTFC 22 Northwold 0
Dereham Town U10 Whites played Northwold at home on a warm Wednesday evening, Northwold a new Team to the league playing last Seasons Highest Scorers.
Dereham started with Liam Sewell in goal, with 2 from Gareth Matthews, Tommy Blowers, Jack Boyce & Mateo Henman playing in defence with Emily Woodhouse, Todd Cantwell & Lewis Jarrett in midfield with one from Captain Tom Cockaday or Phil Denton playing upfront.
Dereham were just to strong with Todd & Phil both scoring first half hat tricks with one from Lewis to make it 7-0 at half time!
It would have been easy for Dereham to have lost their shape in a mad dash for goals but they kept playing football with Todd taking his tally to 9, Phil 6 and Lewis 3 with Tom, Tommy, Gareth and Emily all scoring 1 to make it 22-0
Another excellent team performance ... a big confidence booster ahead of Indies
Man of the Match Emily Woodhouse, another cracking game from our new signing
Hat Tricks Todd 9 Phil 6 Lewis 3
DTFC 3 Thetford Bulldogs 8
DTFC entertained Bulldogs, last seasons Champions, at home knowing they were in for a hard game. DTFC introduced Tricks, Screenie & Matti into the team with Ant standing in for Kane at the last moment as Kanie, considered by many as one of the best stoppers in the South Norfolk, had broken his thumb the night before!
Dereham started with Ant Corder in goal, playing behind 3 from Nick Hollyoaks, Jack Boyce, Gareth Matthews & Nikos Hinnis with 3 from Daniel Screen [Captain] Matti Chapman, Lewis Jarrett, Emily Woodhouse & Liam Sewell playing upfront
Bulldogs got off to a flying start scoring 3 inside the 1st 8 to 9 mins ... Dereham normally pretty solid at the back were suffering - it would have been easy for heads to have dropped but these players play with pride and began to force the play with Emily, Screenie, Lewis & Matti working particularly well in midfield ... bringing the home side back into the game - this pressure forcing a corner taken by Jack with an own goal at the end of it [corners hit into the target zone often cause problems :)]
Bulldogs scored 2 more to make it 1:5 at half time ... the team talk was about playing with pride, taking the 1st tackle, keeping calm, look for players in space and support each other hitting passes
The second half was a keenly fought game with end to end football with Bulldogs scoring 3 more but Dereham replying with 2 of their own, Liam scoring his 1st for the club and Screenie finishing well after a good move involving Emily and Lewis. The midfield now matching the play of the Bulldogs ... in fact DTFC could have had a couple of more with just a tad more luck in front of goal ... playing a 1, 4, 1 formation for the last 10 : ) ... perhaps we should have started with it?
Bulldogs deserved this win ... but Dereham pride & sheer hard work stopped them hitting double figures!
It's not fun losing ... last year we played 26 games losing 6 ... but it reminds us that we have much to learn, players, coaches & parents and makes the next win all the more fun.
Take pride in your 2nd half ... you matched bulldogs for 30 mins - but learn from the 1st 10 ... to play a team as secure and strong as bulldogs we have to compete for every ball every tackle from the 1st whistle ... at this age the 1st tackle is the one to make ... win the ball look for a player in space ... if you are marked move looking for space and call for it ... defensive mid is a tough position, our natural inclination is to move up too far ... we can when playing from a position of strength but at times we need to be a tad more cautious ... with 3 secure at the back we can allow the wide mids to push up the pitch ... with them covering the late runners when outnumbered
Let's (try to) win the next one!
in closing i was proud of everyone of you ... you kept trying to play football
Man of the Match Ant Corder ... who kept Bulldogs at bay - often when outnumbered ... well played Ant!
DTFC 5 Watton Wanderers 0
Match report by Carolyn Denton :)
Dereham Town entertained Watton Wanderers on a balmy Wednesday evening, with Kane Fisher in goal playing behind 3 from Jack Boyce, Mateo Henman, Gareth Matthews & Nikos Hinnis with Emily Woodhouse & Todd Cantwell playing in Midfield with one from Phil Denton & Daniel Foster upfront.
Dereham started the game well mounting attack after attack, which continued through the first half, early on Dereham won a corner after excellent possession taken by Todd, Emily's shot was well saved but the rebound was turned in by Phil.
When Watton countered Dereham's defence was solid, not letting Watton get any shots away, with Mateo and Gareth reading the game very well, clearing the ball even when hugely outnumbered.
Phil soon scored his second to make it 2-0. Dereham were now relentless with Todd, Emily & Jack having shots go just wide.
Daniel and Nikos were introduced and slotted in to the game straight away, as half time approached Todd hit the ball first time from a long way out after a great pass from Jack and curled it into the net with an unstoppable goal to lead 3-0.
The 2nd half saw more Dereham changes with players rested, allowing Watton to have more of the game, and they came close to scoring a couple of times, but Kane Fisher was alert and dealt with any shots that made it through after having a quiet first half.
Emily again saw a shot go just wide, and although she didn't score she made an invaluable contribution to the game with her work rate, passing and vision. Daniel was left unmarked and made a great run on goal only to be taken down by a defender right in front of goal. A penalty was awarded which was converted by Todd who coolly smashed it into the back of the net. Shortly after that Todd scored his hat trick when some great passing from Gareth to Emily led to Todd scoring a well taken header to make it 5-0 in the best move of the match.
Nikos had a smashing free kick from a way out, which the Watton keeper brav
