DUNKIRK FC

EAST MIDLANDS COUNTIES LEAGUE & CENTRAL MIDLANDS FOOTBALL LEAGUE

2007-08

PELICAN DUMP BOATMEN!!
 
Wednesday 10th October 2007
Bilborough Pelican 3-1 Dunkirk
 
It was Notts Senior Cup action for Dunkirk as they were pitted against next door neighbours and NSL side Bilborough Pelican in the first round. Dunkirk currently have a great record against their neighbours so the management duo of Russell and Shoebridge have watched Dunkirk on numerous occasions this season and would surely get their troops up for this game looking to go through to the second round to face Forest Town. Dunkirk are currently in great form and after Saturdays excellent win in the first round of the F.A Vase where the game was won in the last few minutes of Extra time they would surely fancy their chances. Dunkirk were forced to make 1 change from Saturday's win with topgoalscorer Joel Wilson being replaced through injury by the experienced Mark Nangle. Bilborough Pelican started the game with 7 players having played for a Dunkirk side at some time during their football career. Dunkirk started brightly and within the 1st minute Moore's long throughball played Cairns through on goal with Barker, Cairns low effort was well saved by the former Dunkirk keeper and as the rebound came to Blanchard he missed kicked the ball and Bilborough cleared. In the 9th minute Cairns again broke clear when McCaughey played him through on goal he was faced by Barker and he scooped the ball straight into Barkers hands when the Dunkirk hitman should have done better. Bilborough were working hard all over the park but it was Dunkirk who were creating the better opportunities in the opening period and a hooked effort on goal by Nangle had Barker scampering across his goal to his right to dive and make the save and gather at the second attempt. Bilborough Pelican were starting to create chances of their own and in the 17th minute had a goal disallowed when Foss challenged Wheater-Lowe from a whipped in corner and put the rebound into the net but the referee adjudged a foul had been committed on the Dunkirk goalkeeper. It looked a game where Dunkirk were going to be punished for missed chances and in the 23rd minute Bilborough Pelican went into the lead,football journey man ROY SHARP picked the ball up inside the Dunkirk half turned and smashed a high effort into the roof of the net from 25 yards over the stretching Wheater-Lowe. Dunkirk replied immediately and Moore's effort just went wide of the far post. In the 38th minute Cairns again broke through the Pelican defence from McCaughey's throughball and with Foss chasing back and Barker off his goaline Cairns effort was to heavy and the ball went helplessly over. In the 40th minute a good ball up field by Boulton picked out goalscorer Sharp and as McGeown recovered his poor pass back to Wheater-Lowe it put the Dunkirk goalkeeper in trouble and as Sharp looked to pounce, Wheater-Lowe pulled him to the ground but the referee was disinterested in the huge Bilborough appeals and Dunkirk got away with it.
 
Half-time
   1-0
 
In the 52nd minute Bilborough had the ball in the net again but again it was scratched off for offside, Gunn's powerful strike on goal was parried out by Wheater-Lowe but out to Sharp who picked up the bits to fire the ball in but was offside. 1 minute later though Bilborough Pelican did go into a deserved 2 goal lead, Gunn worked the ball well down the left side getting to the Dunkirk by-line and firing the ball across goal to ROY SHARP who's left foot finished went into the roof of the net for his second of the game to dampen his former side's Nott's Senior Cup hopes. Dunkirk were in total disarray and in the 59th minute the injured McGeown had to be replaced by club skipper Sean Connor who was returning after injury but this substitution didn't stem Pelican's flow when a minute later a slipped ball played into the Dunkirk area skidded on the wet surface and as Wheater-Lowe skidded and claimed the ball it slipped out of his hands to Saunders who's cross to the near post picked out the unmarked JAMES HENDRY who had the simple task to side foot the ball into the open goal to win the game for Bilborough Pelican. Dunkirk then made a double substitution in the 62nd minute when Dancer and Thompson were replaced by Evans and Newell as they tried to get something from this cup game. In the 73rd minute Bilborough Pelican introduced another former "Boatman" when Barry Turner replaced Darren Saunders and only 2 minutes later Dunkirk pulled a goal back when Moore's corner caused confusion in the Bilborough penalty area and as Staley handled the ball in front of goal the referee played advantage and MARK NANGLE was on the goaline to smash the ball into the open goal and give Dunkirk a slight chance. Pratt then had a freekick that curled wide of Barker's near post but it was all in vain as Bilborough Pelican deservedly went through to win 3-1.
 


BEND IT LIKE THOMMO!!
 
Saturday 6th October 2007
Dunkirk 2-1 Gedling MW (F.A VASE 1ST ROUND)
 
It was an all Central Midlands affair in the 1st Round of the FA Vase at the Ron Steel Sports Ground and high flying Gedling would certainly fancy their chances after their good start to the season. Dunkirk's good run had also continued after a hard fought win last week at Radford to go with the excellent 3-0 against two league higher South Normanton Athletic in the last round of the FA Vase. This set up a mouth watering encounter with at least 1 Supreme Division side going through to the 2nd round. Dunkirk made 2 changes to their starting 11 from Saturday's league win with new signing Anton Burke missing out through injury and Evans having to settle for a place on the substitutes bench, in came Clint Dancer after missing the last month through injury as was Ben Moore. Dunkirk had a very attack minded bench with recent signings Tomlinson and Nangle sitting along side Newell and Evans the other substitute was Tom Williams. In the absence of club captain Sean Connor, Paul McCaughey led the "Boatmen" out against his former club. The game started and within the 2nd minute Richards cross from a quick throw picked out Needham who's free header dropped wide of the far post with the goal gaping. Dunkirk replied and Wilson was fouled 25 yards from goal, Neil Thompson stepped up to curl his freekick wide of the upright. Maddison then knocked a neat ball into Gedling's forward Henson who held the ball up and when he turned he dragged his effort wide of the near post. A good passage of play came from Dunkirk when they knocked the ball around the pitch and when it was worked to Pratt his powerful effort sailed over. Gedling MW suffered a slight scare in the 30th minute when Thompson's cross into the area nearly picked out Wilson at the near post but as he stooped and missed this deceived Mason in the Gedling goal and came to Moore at the far post who tried to head the ball into the open goal when he should have used his feet and his effort went wide. In the 34th minute Dunkirk had the best chance of the half Cairns broke clear through on goal down the right side when the Gedling defence stepped up for offside he was faced by Mason and as he looked up he had Wilson screaming for the ball to his left, so he obliged and tried to roll it to the Supreme Division topgoalscorer but didn't put enough on it and the ball rolled hopelessly into Mason hands when he should have done better. The half-time whistle went and Dunkirk would have been thinking how they weren't in front at the break.
 
Half-time
   0-0
 
The first effort of the second half came Gedling's way when an effort from distance sailed harmlessly over then Cairns replied when his tame effort to the near post was easily gathered at the near post by Mason. Dunkirk were still creating the better chances and in the 49th minute would have been thinking it wasn't to be their day. Blanchard was fouled tight on the by-line out right, so Neil Thompson stepped up and his cross to the near post picked out Blanchard who headed the ball into the ground but unfortunately it bounced off the ground and over with Mason well beaten. Gedling were starting to keep more possession of the ball and in the 54th minute McCaughey fouled on the edge of the area and Ryan Johnson's poor freekick dragged well wide from a great position. The Dunkirk defence was again looking strong with the Dancer, Soar and McGeown keeping Gelding at bay which forced then to make a change to their attack when Needham was replaced by Allison. Dunkirk made a substitution of their own in the 65th minute when Nangle came on for Cairns in attack, and within minutes Nangle strength gave Pratt and opportunity on goal who's strike went straight down the keepers throat. Henson then had a good effort on goal parried out by Dunkirk goalkeeper Wheater-Lowe, but the Dunkirk keeper got down to gather at the 2nd attempt. Gedling were now creating opportunities of their own and a good bit of skill from Allison created an opening and his low strike on goal was brilliantly blocked by the recovering McGeown. Dunkirk made 2 substitutions in quick succession 1st they were then forced into a change when skipper McCaughey had to be replaced through injury so on came Evans to fill the void and the towering Dancer was handed the captains armband. Then shortly afterwards Newell came on in attack for Scott Pratt as it looked like Dunkirk were throwing everything at the game to go through to the next round. Gedling also had a great chance to go into the lead in the 78th minute when the ball dropped in front of goal to Allison inside the area and when under pressure his powerful strike went over in this end to end cup tie. With 5 minutes to go Dunkirk had 2 efforts on goal inside a couple of minute Blanchard's hooked cross was headed by Nangle just wide of the far upright and then Thompson picked the ball up on the right and his cross to the far post was met by Moore who got under it and headed the ball over and for the second round running Dunkirk had to play extra-time.
 
Full-time
 
  0-0
 
Extra-time kicked off and in the 91st minute the "Boatmen" went into the lead Wilson's cross from the right side picked out BEN MOORE and as Mason came out to meet him Moore header went over the big keeper to break the deadlock for the home side. The game was now wide open and in the 95th minute Wilson cut in from the left side and his curling right foot effort flashed across goal and just wide and just before this chance from infront of goal blazed an effort well over . Dunkirk were made to pay for their missed chances when in the 101st minute Gedling got the equaliser when an excellent cross to the far post picked out CRAIG MADDISON who ghosted in at the far post to again level the scores in this Vase tie.
 
Half-time of Extra-time
 
A minute into the 2nd half of extra time a neat back heel from Nangle went into the path of Thompson who's effort from a good position went well wide. In the 118th minute of this F.A Vase 1st round match a long ball upfield by Evans played Newell in and as he was faced by Peel he could only pull Newell down on the edge of the area freekick expert and the previous round hero NEIL THOMPSON stepped up to superbly curl the ball round the standing wall and past the diving keeper into the corner of the net to put Dunkirk through to the second round to set off ecstatic Dunkirk celebrations.


SOAR SETTLES IT
 
Saturday 29th September 2007
Radford 0-1 Dunkirk
 
After Tuesdays excellent performances in the F.A Vase against higher league opposition South Normanton Dunkirk returned back to league action when they made the short trip to face local rivals Radford. At the start of today's game Radford remain only a few points behind Dunkirk so a win was vital for the "Boatmen" to add the their recent good form. Dunkirk made 2 changes to Tuesday win with skipper Connor sitting it out after leaving the field with an injury on Tuesday and with Hopkinson also missing out through injury Dunkirk gave debuts to new signings Anton Burke and a 2nd debut for Dwayne Soar after returning to the club after spells with Rolls Royce Leisure and Caribbean Cavaliers. Radford had 3 former "Boatmen" in their starting 11 with Morgan, Burton and former under 19's player Matt Eastwood looking to dent their former clubs rise up the table. The game kicked off and in the 5th minute Harrison's ball to the far post dropped over the Dunkirk defence and came to Garmston but his volley from the angle dragged wide when he didn't connect properly with the ball. 3 minutes later Dunkirk went into the lead, Cairns picked up the bits and ran at the Radford defence to earn a corner, Neil Thompson stepped up and his excellent cross was met by Blanchard his effort on goal was going in at the near post but a last ditch Radford clearance on the goaline kept it out but as Radford thought they had got away with it DWAYNE SOAR was on hand to smash the ball into the roof of the net for a debut goal for Dunkirk. A minute later again Thompson's corner caused chaos in the Radford defence but this time Cairns ghosted in at the near post and as he toed the ball towards goal at the near post Flinders made a great save to deny Dunkirk further extending their lead. Radford replied and Taylor's corner was cleared by Dunkirk but only out to Morgan and his dipping effort just dropped over as it took a deflection off a Dunkirk player for another corner. The 2nd corner was knocked to Osbourne and with the Dunkirk defence sleeping his effort dragged high and wide. Dunkirk now settled down and were looking strong in defence but going forward Blanchard won a corner which Thompson again whipped in, again it troubled Radford and Cairns knocked the ball down to Soar who's effort again was heading into the roof of the net but again Flinders kept his side in the game. In the 24th minute Evans played a ball down the left side which was picked up by Harrison but Wilson's persistent cause the Radford defender to hurry his clearance only to Cairns who steadied himself and then his powerful effort fizzed just over from 25 yards. Dunkirk were still looking the more likely scorers and in the 43rd minute great skill from Wilson on the right when he beat his marker with ease and his cross came to Thompson who's effort was blocked but Cairns picked up the bits to fire his effort just over at the near post.
 
Half-time
   0-1
 
Anton Burke and Dwayne Soar settle into the side easily with Burke being commanding in the centre picking up all the bits hardly giving possession away and with Soar looking solidly at the back these look to be 2 astute signings for the "Boatmen" In the 55th minute though Dunkirk were forced to make a change when Pratt went down under a challenge and had to be replaced by Theo Smith making his 1st start for the senior Dunkirk side this season. Still Dunkirk were creating chances and Blanchard cut in from the right side into the area and from the angle his poor driven effort went wide of the near post. It was all Dunkirk but in the 68th minute Radford had a great chance to equalise when Henstocks ball from halfway split the Dunkirk defence wide open and Darren Garmston went through into the area but as the ball sat up his powerful strike was blazed over at the near post when he should have tested Wheater-Lowe in the Dunkirk goal, Anton Burke then had to be replaced after taking a knock minutes earlier and was replaced by Williams. In the 69th minute Cairns got in down the right side and was faced by Henstock his early cross to the near post picked out Joel Wilson who managed to side foot the ball on goal when under pressure and as it looked to be heading in Flinders in the Radford goal again denied Dunkirk stretching their lead to frustrate Dunkirk and tip the ball onto the underside of the crossbar and Radford cleared. In the 73rd minute Wilson was dragged down 25 yards from goal and Thompson's freekick to the near post struck the post and again bounced clear, it looked to be one of those games for Dunkirk where missed chances could cost them dearly as Radford were hanging in the game at 1-0. Dunkirk were now soaking up loads of pressure as they looked disorganised in midfield but still managed to create opportunities and when Blanchard picked the ball up on halfway they had men over and surly would stretch their lead but Blanchard had other ideas when he cut into the area and went on his own and his low effort was easily gathered by the keeper when Blanchard should have passed it. Evans then found himself in an advanced position and from 25 yards his low drive was well saved again by Flinders but this time he got down to his left to tip the ball behind, Thompson's corner was met by Wilson who's flicked header went wide of the far post. Radford countered and as McGeown picked up the bits is underweighted pass back to Wheater-Lowe nearly put the Dunkirk keeper in trouble when under pressure from Manders and as his challenged Wheater-Lowe the ball sailed well wide of the near post. In the 87th minute Dunkirk suffered a scare when Garmston got to the by-line and pulled the ball back to Danny Morgan and his powerful drive across goal sailed wide with the Radford strikers just missing out at the far post. Right on time Manager Dave Harbottle introduced himself into the frame for Thompson but by then his side had done enough and thoroughly deserved the 3 points


SCOTT PRATT-GOALMACHINE!!!
Tuesday 25th September 2007
Dunkirk 3-0 South Normanton Athletic (F.A Vase 2nd Preliminary Round Replay)
 
Once again these 2 sides met in this Carlsberg F.A.Vase 2nd Preliminary Round Replay after they played out a 2-2 draw in a close game on Saturday. Dunkirk felt hard done by on Saturday after they worked hard and stormed into a 2 goal extra time lead only for 10 man South Normanton to snatch a late replay with a goal with only 4 minutes remaining. Dunkirk made only 1 change from Saturday with Michael Evans starting in place of the unavailable Tom Williams. NCEL side South Normanton made 5 changes to their side as they looked to knock their lower league opponents out of this competition. Dunkirk started brightly when inside the 1st minute Thompson won the ball from Crabtree in midfield he played the ball out to Cairns on the right side who won a corner, Thompson cross was met by Pratt at the near post who's looping header went over. 3 minutes later rampant Dunkirk went into the lead Wheater - Lowe's early throw picked out Blanchard on the left touchline his sublime pass in behind the South Normanton defence picked out SCOTT PRATT who's run played him through and from a tight angle his powerful low half volley went into the net at the near post for his 4th goal in 4 matches. South Normanton's first effort towards goal came when Mellor's neat ball inside came to Martin Bowles and from distance his effort went well wayward of the goal. It was all Dunkirk and in the 7th minute Cairns excellent cross to the far post picked out Hopkinson who had ghosted in at the far post and his volley on goal had Whalin scampering back onto his goaline to parry the ball down and gathered at the 2nd attempt. In the 17th minute Dunkirk went into a deserved 2 goal lead Cairns picked the ball up and ran at former "Boatman" Murdock who he left in his wake and as Murdock tried to recover he could only foul the Dunkirk striker 25 yards from goal. Up stepped freekick expert NEIL THOMPSON who's brilliant strike went into the top left hand corner of the net leaving Whalin with no chance for his 1st goal of the season and put Dunkirk in a commanding position. Dunkirk were defending well and working well all over the field and particularly Chris McGeown who didn't miss a thing giving South Normanton nothing and Mellor's dipping effort from distance dropped over. In the 41st minute Normanton were pressing trying to get back into the game, but Dunkirk countered as 1st Wilson then Cairns made tackles, the bits were picked up by Blanchard who's cross to the far post sat up nicely for NEIL THOMPSON and his exquisite strike from just outsider the area dipped under the crossbar and into the roof of the net to put Dunkirk in Dreamland and a deserved 1st half 3 goal lead.
 
Halftime
   3-0
 
Dunkirk made a half-time change when youngster Jonno Bell replaced the skipper Sean Connor after a recurrence of an injury which he picked up on Saturday when he also left the field of play, this was to be Bell's 1st appearance for the 1st team this season. South Normanton looked to settle down without really testing the Dunkirk goalkeeper as they were defending soundly and in the 54th minute Mellors broke through and excellent defending by McCaughey denied him an effort on goal as he put the ball out for a corner which was whipped in and headed behind by Whiley at the far post. Blanchard then went on a mazy run for Dunkirk when he had nothing on so he ran down the left side and cut across and was dragged down by Adams, Thompson's strike wasn't as good as his earlier effort as the ball dipped behind. Evans, Pratt and Thompson were doing tireless running in midfield as Dunkirk were determined to keep a clean sheet. South Normanton were creating very little as Dunkirk snuffed out everything they had to offer and they made 2 substitutions in quick succession when 1st Hodgekinson came on for Wheat and then Saxton replaced Crabtree. Dunkirk made a change of their own when Tyron Cairns left the field of play to a round of applause from everybody and was replaced by Newell, and then 2 goal hero Thompson was replaced by Nicky Marshall for his 1st appearance of the season after suffering an injury during pre season. Holmes struck a freekick high to the near post which sailed just wide and in the 81st minute a strike from 40 yards from Mellors struck the bottom of the crossbar for their only significant strike on goal and Dunkirk scrambled the ball clear. In the closing stages of the game Hopkinson beat his marker with ease and his low drive across goal had Joel Wilson sliding in at the far post and was close to making it 4-0. The final whistle went and Dunkirk went through to face Central Midlands League rivals Gedling MW in the 1st round.

BOATMEN EARN A 2ND BITE AND PRATTS MAKES IT 3 IN 3!
Saturday 22nd September 2007
South Normanton Athletic 2-2 Dunkirk (AET)
 
It was F.A Carlsberg Vase action for Dunkirk as the made the short trip down the motorway to face old Central Midlands rivals South Normanton Athletic. South Normanton have made rapid progress recently and are now well placed in the football pyramid 2 levels above Dunkirk plying their trade in the Northern Counties East Premier Division, so the "Boatmen" would have to be on top form for today's cup clash. South Normanton had 3 former "Boatmen in their starting 11 with Whalin, Baker and long serving player Chris Murdock looking to dent their old foes Vase success. Dunkirk made 3 changes to Saturdays good 4-1 win against Appleby Frodingham, Moore and Carder were unavailable so returning to the starting 11 were Williams and Hopkinson. Their were also a shock recall to the Dunkirk starting 11 when Neil Thompson was included after being out through suspension so Michael Evans had to settle for a place on the substitutes bench even though he bagged a hattrick on Saturday. The game started with a very low key affair with both sides looking to find out their opponents and on 10 minutes a shocking tackle Bowels on Connor gave the referee no option but to book the Normanton full back and from the freekick Wheater - Lowe knocked it upfield which was headed clear but McCaughey picked up the bits and played the ball to Pratt who's effort from 25 yards sailed harmlessly wide. Connor was then booked for a stupid foul on Ghislanzoni which gave Normanton an opportunity, the freekick was pumped into the Dunkirk area and headed clear only out to Baker who's volley dragged just wide of the far post. Wilson and Cairns were working their socks off in attack chasing down everything and on 14 minutes Blanchard long ball played in Cairns down the right, the ball sat up nicely for him to lob Whalin in the Normanton goal but he didn't make good contact on the ball and it rolled safely to the goalkeeper. Ghislanzoni then waltzed through the Dunkirk defence and when into the area Dunkirk managed to get a block on his shot but as the ball came back to him his low strike was well saved by Wheater-Lowe's outstretched boot to put the ball behind. The game now finally opened up with end to end action with neither side testing the goalkeepers, but on 33 minutes Ghislanzoni's freekick just dropped over the crossbar with Wheater-Lowe always looking comfortable. Dunkirk suffered a scare in the 43rd minute when a corner was met with a strong header by Whiley which Dunkirk scrambled clear off the goaline the ball bounced around in the goalmouth and as Normanton got a 2nd strike on goal Dunkirk just cleared the danger.
 
Half-time
   0-0
 
Dunkirk were forced to make a half-time substitution when the injured Connor was replaced by Evans which caused Dunkirk to shuffle their pack so McCaughey dropped into defence with Evans sitting in midfield. South Normanton came out for the 2nd half the stronger of the 2 sides and on 47 minutes Bowles slipped a ball down the left side for Hodgekinson and as he crossed into the area McCaughey intercepted but his header just dropped wide of the near post as it looked to be heading into the top corner of the net. Ghislanzoni then slipped a lovely reversed ball into the area to Holmes and from the left side his shanked effort went wide from a good position. Dunkirk were working extremely hard all over the park and in the 50th minute Cairns won a corner which was whipped in by Thompson and Blanchard's free header at the near post dropped over. In the 54th minute Thompson was fouled on halfway but the referee gave nothing, so the determined Thompson tracked back to make an excellent tackle on Hodgekinson and then sprayed the ball out left to Wilson who had a run at the Normanton defence, he shifted the ball onto his right foot and his curling effort just dropped wide of the far upright. McCaughey, Williams and Mcgeown were outstanding in defence for Dunkirk and was snuffing out everything Normanton had to offer but at the other end Cairns got to the by-line and pulled the ball back to Evans who's volleyed effort went wide of the far post. The excellent Cairns was played in down the right side by Thompson and as Cairns was faced by Murdock he left him in his wake his cross to the far post looking for Blanchard was intercepted by Holmes who nearly put the ball into his own net with his chest. Hopkinson won a great diving tackle for Dunkirk in the 60th minute and then played the ball to Wilson who held it up and turned his marker before unleashing a low drive which struck the foot of Whalin's near post and behind. Normanton made a change when Hodgekinson was replaced by Adam Newton. Murdock then knocked a freekick to the far post and picked out Ghislanzoni and his volley when unmarked went behind when he should have tested the Dunkirk goalkeeper. Substitute Newton then went down under a tackle and remained down and had to be replaced by Adams. Dunkirk then had shouts for a penalty waved away in the 85th minute, Cairns went down under a challenge from Whiley but the referee didn't looked interested and as the ball was played out Evans won it back and played the ball inside to Pratt who toed his effort just wide of the far post with Whalin rooted. With Dunkirk pushing forward looking for the winner Gamble broke through down the left, he cut across into the area and his powerful effort was punched clear by Wheater-Lowe to get Dunkirk on the attack again. With neither sided being able to break each other down the game went into extra time.
 
Full-time
   0-0
 
Dunkirk were still working hard and in the 97th minute Blanchard had a run down the left after being picked out by Wilson, he beat 3 men and his low effort went just wide. The hard working Wilson was then replaced by Newell as Dunkirk were looking to freshen things up in attack and in the 100th minute tired legs played its part when Thompson and Blanchard made a mess of things on halfway which gave Ghislanzoni the chance to play in Saxton but from a good position he didn't test the Dunkirk keeper. South Normanton made a third and final change when Crabtree replaced Baker. Dunkirk went into a deserved lead in the 104th minute when Cairns ran down the left showing his skill and when his cross was headed clear the ball came out to SCOTT PRATT who's powerful strike struck Whiley on the top of his head and went into the roof of the net for 1-0.
 
Half-time of Extra-time
           1-0
 
In the 1st minute of the second period of extra time Dunkirk went into a 2 goal lead Thompson's excellent ball over the top of the Normanton defence played TYRON CAIRNS through on goal Whalin came rushing off his goaline but Cairns was brave against the big Normanton goalkeeper and headed the ball over him and into the unguarded net to put Dunkirk firmly in the driving seat. On 110 minutes Normanton pulled a disputed goal back when a corner from the left looked to be gathered by Wheater-Lowe and under the challenge his arm looked to be pulled back and then held on the floor and CRABTREE was on hand to fire the ball low through the crowded penalty area to give the home side much needed belief. A minute after Normanton got back in the game Nick Ghislanzoni was rightly sent off by the referee when McCaughey was too good for the big forward which caused Ghislanzoni to 1st throw an elbow and then put his head into McCaughey right in from of the Assistant referee and was sent to the stands. Cairns was still working hard in attack and he beat his marker 3 times before knocking his cross to the near post which Murdock's clearance went luckily straight into Whalin's arms on his goaline. Evans hooked ball played Newell and Pratt clear through on goal but they were halted in their tracks when the linesman's flag went up with neither of then in and offside position. In the 116th minute of the game Evans lost position of the ball in a good position for Dunkirk and when Normanton broke Hopkinson hacked Gamble down, he dusted himself down and his freekick through the crown was saved brilliantly saved by Wheater-Lowe to tip the ball behind for a corner which was knocked to the far post and met by PAUL GAMBLE who's low header looked to force a replay to shatter Dunkirk. After the equaliser Cairns won a freekick just otside the area and as Thompson stepped up it went into the wall but his appeals for a penalty were waved away.
 


SHOCK,HORROR PRATT SCORES AGAIN,BUT EVO LEADS THE WAY WITH 3!
Saturday 15th September 2007
Abacus Lighting Central  Midlands Football League
Dunkirk 4-1 Appleby Frodingham
 
Appleby Frodingham were the visitors to Lenton Lane this afternoon looking to build on their excellent win on Tuesday night when they ended Askern Welfare's 100% start to the season winning 2-1. Dunkirk themselves had an excellent 3-1 win against Holbrook MW on Tuesday night with a very workmanlike performance deserving them the points. Dunkirk made 1 change to Tuesdays win with new signing James Carder starting in place of the injured Clint Dancer, Carder returning to the club after spells with Long Eaton United and Shepshed Dynamo. Dunkirk started the game brightly and on 10 minutes should have taken the lead, Pratt's hooked ball in behind the Appleby defence played Evans who was playing on the last defender through on goal and as the ball bounced up he helped it on over Goodrum in the Appleby goal but the ball dropped just over with the goal gaping. 2 minutes later though Dunkirk went into a deserved lead, McCaughey's brilliant throughball played 4 Dunkirk players through on goal but SCOTT PRATT took it into his stride, as he was being closed down by Johns he remained composed and smashed the ball under the keeper at his near post for 1-0 to the home side and Pratt's second goal in 2 games. On 20 minutes Carder played a ball through to Evans, he just got a toe to the ball and with the Appleby defence claiming offside Wilson continued and his low effort across goal was dragged just wide with Cairns and Blanchard to his left. Appleby did manage to get an effort on goal in the 21st minute when Wheater-Lowe's poor throw was intercepted and the ball came to Barnard and from 25 yards his effort went straight at Wheater-Lowe. Dunkirk were cutting the Appleby defence apart with ease and Connor's ball picked out Blanchard on the left hand side he beat Hughes and his cross to the far was met by Cairns who got the ball under control and his powerful effort to the far post flashed just wide. A misskick from Carder gave Appleby a chance on goal when it came to Ridley 20 yards from goal and with Wheater-Lowe off his goaline Ridley's lobbed was just gathered by the stretching Dunkirk goalkeeper. In the 28th minute it was 2-0 to Dunkirk when Cairns worked the ball well getting at the Appleby defence to win a corner, Pratt stepped up to knock his cross into the area but when Wilson tried to meet it, it skimmed off his head into the path of MICHAEL EVANS who got the ball onto his left foot and smashed it into the far corner off the inside of the post for a much deserved 2 goal lead. In the 44th minute a corner for Appleby nearly got the Scunthorpe side back in the game when it was knocked to the far post and met by Anderson but his header only found the side netting. Appleby best chance of the half came in first half stoppage time when Barnard's ball across field down the exposed Dunkirk right hand side picked out Hibbard and his low sliding effort went just wide of Wheater-Lowe's right hand upright.
 
Half-time
   2-0
 
Dunkirk made a half-time change when the injured Mcgeown had to be replaced by Hopkinson at right back. The start of the second half started with very little chances so both manages made early chances with Bailey coming on for Appleby and Williams replacing the injured Dunkirk captain Connor. Dunkirk went through a spell of looking a little ragged and Neal broke through in the 55th minute and as he unleashed his effort on goal Carder recovered to block his effort. Appleby were now having a good spell of pressure and first Ridley's effort was pushed clear of goal by Wheater-Lowe and the ball immediately was knocked in and picked out Neal who's effort from well inside the area dropped onto the roof of the net. Pratt then played the ball through the Appleby defence looking for Evans, the goalkeeper came out and challenged the Dunkirk forward and as he cleared the bits were picked up by Blanchard and his effort went wide. Minutes later Blanchard again had an effort on goal this time he had Moore on the overlap but he cut inside and his fizzing effort just went wide of the far upright. In the 63rd minute a brilliant team move created a third goal for Dunkirk when Williams pass inside was played into the path of Wilson he laid it out to the right side to Cairns who continued his run and his early cross to the near post found Evans who was challenged and the ball then came to Wilson who's low shot wrong footed the keeper and as his outstretched arm saved Wilson shot, MICHAEL EVANS was on hand to smash the ball home for his second of the game.Williams then cleared the danger from Neal's effort as the Appleby forwards strike was heading in but Williams defended well to block his powerful strike. It was 4-0 in the 68th minute, Appleby's clearance from the back was well won by Blanchard who was strong in the tackle and continued with the ball into the area he could have gone on his own but when he was closed down he was very unselfish as he played a square ball into the path of MICHAEL EVANS who rolled the ball into the corner of the net for his hattrick this was to be his last action of the game as he was replaced by Newell. Dunkirk were still looking in the mood for more goals and Williams played the ball out Cairns on the right his brilliant cross across the area was looking for Wilson but the Dunkirk forward threw himself at the ball looking for a diving header but it just evaded the league's topscorer and went out for a corner on the far side which was whipped in by McCaughey and met by Joel Wilson and his flicked header dropped wide. Williams was then adjudged to have fouled Anderson on the left hand side, the cross came to Welton at the far post and his header on goal was cleared by Williams making up for giving the foul away. In the 87th minute Appleby pulled a goal back when a cross from the left hand side picked out PETER NEAL and after 2 of his efforts were blocked the ball came back to him and on his third effort he faked his shot to leave Wheater-Lowe ground and place the ball in the corner for a consolation goal. Appleby did create another opening in the last minute when Barnard toed the ball through Carder's legs into the path of Anderson who when under pressure his effort went wide.
 


FINALLY PRATT FINDS THE NET!!!!
 
Tuesday 11th September 2007
Dunkirk 3-1 Holbrook MW
 
Holbrook were this weeks visitors to the Ron Steel Sports Ground as they looked to further dent Dunkirk's poor start to the season. Dunkirk lost there last 2 matches 1st losing drastically at neighbours Greenwood Meadows and also on Saturday against Yorkshire based side Bentley Colliery. Dunkirk welcomed back Pratt and McCaughey after missing much of the season after being unavailable and there was a 1st start of the season for new signing Chris Mcgeown after bit part appearances as substitute. On current form it looked odds on for a Holbrook win but in the fourth minute Dunkirk upset the form guide when a freekick from just inside the Holbrook half and dropped into their penalty area and as the ball bounced a round the Central Midlands League topgoalscorer JOEL WILSON pounced to add to his tally as he held his marker off and lifted his effort just over the advancing goalkeeper. 2 minutes later WILSON made it 12 for the season when Pratt's excellent ball over the Holbrook defence had Broadhurst in trouble and as it struck him on the top of his head Wilson's pace took him clear to clinically slot the ball to the keepers left and give Dunkirk a dream start. In the 22nd minute Cairns had a run at Black down the right side and his delightful ball picked out Evans who continued into the area, 2 Holbrook players clipped his heels but he stood strong and was pushed wide of goal and as he tried to look for help he was eventually crowded out and the chance had gone. Holbrook were offering very little going forward and were  mainly playing on the counter attack as Dunkirk were controlling the game in this stop, start game of football. The "Boatmen" were forced into a change in the 30th  minute when injury prone Dancer had to be replaced, so Phil Hopkinson replaced him and tucked in at right back.
 
Half-time
   2-0
 
Holbrook came out at the start of the second half with a little more purpose and in the 54th minute Campbell played the ball inside to Hallsworth who intern played in Johnson who continued into the penalty area, but from the angle he dragged his effort wide of the near post. Dunkirk then regained their composure and a freekick from Blanchard from the right was met by Wilson looking for his hattrick but his header just dropped over at the far post. In the 61st minute Evans was fouled by Broadhurst 25 yards from goal, SCOTT PRATT stepped up to pick his spot with an excellent dipping freekick, leaving Clark in the Holbrook goal with no chance diving at fresh air to his right.  Holbrook then made changes to their attack as they looked to get back into this game, and introduced Ashdown and Finlay and in the 69th minute it paid off when Ashdown's flicked header picked out MARK FINLAY behind the Dunkirk defence and as Wheater-Lowe came rushing off his goaline Finlay got there first to find the corner of the net to give the Derbyshire side a glimmer of hope. Dunkirk were having their usual spell where nothing was paying off for them which gave Holbrook some possession deep in the Dunkirk half without creating any clear cut opportunities or testing Wheater-Lowe in the Dunkirk goal. Dunkirk replied in the 75th minute when a great opportunity came their way when Evans picked the ball up deep inside the Holbrook half and his sprayed pass was looking for Wilson out left but Pratt was clever as he took the ball in his stride to break through the Holbrook defence to face Clark in the Holbrook goal but his low effort to the keepers left was well saved and as the bits came to Wilson Holbrook cleared. Dunkirk made 2 late changes when first Liam Thompson replaced Moore and Newell came on for Evans. Holbrook had a good chance to pull another goal back in the 82nd minute when Blanchard's clearance was closed down by Johnson on the right, his cross into the area dropped to Campbell who's missed kick effort from infront of goal was blocked and then cleared by Connor.

BOATMEN SECURE 1ST AWAY WIN,AS JOEL HITS 3
 
Saturday 1st September 2007
Clipstone Welfare 0-4 Dunkirk
 
Dunkirk travelled to Mansfield looking to get over their dreadful performance on Tuesday against Hatfield Main as they faced Clipstone Welfare. This season Clipstone and out of 5 matches have won 2 and drawn 3 games, so considering they lost the whole of last seasons side it has been a successful start to the season. Dunkirk need points desperately to push themselves up the league table and again made 3 changes to the starting 11. Missing from Tuesdays starting line-up defeat were Evans and Cairns with Tom Williams also being left out, having to settle for a place on the substitutes bench alongside Reid and Harbottle. There was a return to the starting 11 for Pratt and Connor and there was also a first start of the season for youngster Darren Newell after encouraging performances when being introduced from the substitutes bench scoring 2 goals in the process. In the 5th minute Dunkirk had a half chance after Wilson won a corner from Stockdale, Whatnalls low ball to the near post came to Smith inside the area who's misskicked effort bounced around in the area and as the bits again came to Smith his effort was again blocked and the chance had gone. Newell then showed good feet on the left side and then laid his pass inside to Pratt who from 25 yards dragged his effort wide of the far post. Inside the 16th minute Blanchard won the ball well on half way and played the ball into the channel for Newell and continued his run, Newell held the ball up and then let Blanchard continue into the area beat Ragsdale and his cross to the far post came to Wilson at the far post who's effort in front of goal was blocked and the bits came out to Whatnall who didn't connect properly with his strike and the ball went behind. It was all Dunkirk as Clipstone were offering very little and in the 23rd minute Newell and Whatnall combined to play in Smith and from the edge of the area with the keeper off his line Smith's lob just dropped over. Wilson and Pratt then combined to play in Newell clear through on goal, Spencer got back to try and clear but Newell remained strong and when faced by Austin in the Clipstone goal Newell's low effort was well saved by the onrushing Clipstone goalkeeper. Newell again picked the ball up on the left side and in the 27th minute he played the ball inside to Pratt he had Moore on the overlap and Pratt picked him out playing a nice ball behind the Clipstone defence into the area and from the by-line Moore's cross to the far post went over the goalkeeper but with Wilson and Newell ready to pounce Spencer was on the goaline to head the ball clear of the danger. In the 40th minute Dunkirk went into the lead Smith won a freekick on the left side Whatnall's floated cross into the area was met by JOEL WILSON and the ball struck him on the shoulder and looped over the goalkeeper and into the top corner of the net. Dunkirk went in at the break with a 1 goal advantage in this drab 1st half encounter.
 
Half-time
   0-1
 
In the 49th minute Dunkirk went into a deserved 2 goal lead when MARQUIN SMITH picked the ball upon the right side for the "Boatmen" cut inside and his looping high effort had the goalkeeper flapping as it held up in the wind to finish the game for Dunkirk. A minute later McDonald was yellow carded for Clipstone for an off the ball incident when he kicked out at Whatnall, brought to the attention of the referee by the linesman. In the 57th minute Moore played a ball to Pratt inside and his low effort was tipped behind for a corner. This was to be the last action for the Clipstone goalkeeper when he was replaced and from the resulting corner Whatnall effort to the far post struck the crossbar and went out for as throw on the far side. Dunkirk were still pressing for more goals and in the 62nd minute the new Clipstone goalkeeper tipped a Pratt effort round the far post for a corner. Pratt then slipped the ball through to Wilson and from the edge of the area was closed down quickly by Craig Kerry but with the goalkeeper off his line his toed effort went straight into his grateful arms. In the 73rd minute Pratt dinked a nice ball through to Newell to the right of goal on the edge of the area, he had a player either side of him but tried to find the far corner with a cheeky effort on the half volley. Dunkirk had another great chance to stretch their lead when Moore beat his marker down the right side he cut into the area and pulled the ball back into the path of Pratt and from the penalty spot his strike was blocked in front of goal and the ball came to Newell at he far pos who's 1st time volley was heading in but Spencer was on the goaline to clear. Dunkirk made 2 substitutions in quick succession when fist Whatnall was replaced by Reid and minutes later Blanchard was replaced by Williams. Inside the 81st minute Moore's cross came to Newell at the far post, he laid the ball back to Smith who's shot was blocked the bits came to Pratt and with the goal gaping his powerful effort struck the post and bounced to safety. A minute later though Dunkirk were awarded a penalty when Pratt was clattered in the back by Craig Kerry, Dunkirk's JOEL WILSON stepped up to comfortably send the goalkeeper the wrong way for his 9th goal of the season. Dunkirk made a change in the 83rd minute when the struggling through injury Pratt had to be replaced by Harbottle. Newell had a great chance to extend Dunkirk lead when Smith's cross dropped to the youngster and from infront of goal he had all the time in the world but got under the ball to strike his effort well over the crossbar. In the 90th minute good play from Moore and Harbottle picked out Smith who's weighted pass played in JOEL WILSON and from the right of goal his excellent low finish picked out the far corner of the net for his 2nd hattrick of the season. The last action of the game was a freekick from Harbottle that just dropped over the crossbar from 25 yards.


GUTLESS!!!
Tuesday 28th August 2007
Hatfield Main 2-1 Dunkirk
 
Dunkirk made the trip to Doncaster to face league new comers Hatfield Main in their 2nd away fixture of the season. Even after Saturdays 7-2 trouncing of Nettleham Dunkirk were in desperate need of the points against a side that have stated the season unbeaten and only conceding 4 goals in the process. As every game, Dunkirk made changes this time there being 3. Blanchard, Beck and Evans returned so missing out were Thompson and Reid the latter having to settle for a place on the bench. The only other change was manager Dave Harbottle deciding to rest himself after completing 70 minutes on Saturday after he started a game for their 1st time in competitive football in over a year. For the first 10 minutes of the game Hatfield were pressing without creating a real opportunity on goal and in the 11th minute had huge appeals for a penalty waved away a weaving run down the right side put the Dunkirk defence under pressure, the ball was played into the area and as Beck blocked the ball it looked like it hit his hands but the referee said no penalty and seconds later Moore's rash challenge also in the area went unpunished amid Hatfield appeals again as Dunkirk were hanging on. Hatfield should have gone in front in the 21st minute when a bad backpass by Beck went straight to the Hatfield forward, Wheater - Lowe in the Dunkirk goal went to close him down but he pulled the ball back to Saunders and with Lowe stranded had an open goal on the edge of the area but he got under the ball and skied the ball ridiculously over. Hatfield were still looking the more dangerous and a freekick from 20 yards by Jones was heading for the far top corner but Dancer got back on the goaline to head over. Dunkirk were all over the place and couldn't keep hold of the ball and in the 25th minute Hatfield deservedly went in front with a brilliant team goal, Jones got down the left side and his cross was headed down at the far post to the edge of the Dunkirk area to SCOTT PICKLES who's great strike went into the top corner of the net for 1-0 to the Doncaster side. Dunkirk kicked off and slack passing immediately gave possession away to Wright down the left side, he ran clean through on goal and only a brilliant save from Lowe at his near post kept Dunkirk in the game. It was certainly men against boys as hard work and basic football made Dunkirk look a very poor and in the 30th minute a straight upfield ball from Hatfield was left by Dancer claming offside but the Hatfield forward continued as the linesman's flag stayed down and his vicious strike hit the inside of the post and bounced to safety for Dunkirk. The only attempt from Dunkirk in the 1st half came from Cairns, Evans battled well to knock the ball out to the Dunkirk winger and his effort from distance went miles over the crossbar. Dunkirk definitely would be pleased to go in at the break only 1 goal behind. 
 
Half-time
   1-0
 
The 2nd half-kicked off and straight away it had a familiar feel to the game when a straight long ball upfield from Jones had the Dunkirk defence in bits this played in KIRK FROST who slid the ball low under Wheater-Lowe and it looked a matter of how many Hatfield were going to score. In the 52nd minute Frost again broke clear down the left, he cut across into the area but as he shot Williams did well to get back and block the shot for a corner. Dunkirk made a change when Pratt came on to replace Cairns. Hatfield were still controlling the game with ease so Harbottle decided enough was enough and replaced Evans for youngster Darren Newell in attack and in the 75th minute it played off when somehow Dunkirk got back into the game a long ball upfield deflected into the path of DARREN NEWELL from Pratts's challenge and the young Dunkirk forward showed the rest of the lads what they were missing by remaining composed, steadied himself and his excellent low finish dragged a poor Dunkirk back into the game. Dunkirk made a further change when Williams was replaced by Reid. Hatfield responded looking to regain their 2 goal advantage when a corner from the left was whipped in and met by Frost who's header flashed across goal and behind with nobody gambling at the far stick. Dunkirk would certainly need to improve if they have any ambition to finish higher in this season's table.

JOELS 5 STAR SHOW
Saturday 25th August 2007
Dunkirk 7-2 Nettleham
 
Lincolnshire side Nettleham were this weeks visitors to the Ron Steel Sports Ground and Dunkirk would certainly fancy their chances against a side that last season finished in the relegation places and so far this season have conceded 15 goals in their opening 4 matches only winning 1 of these games. Dunkirk themselves haven't got off to the greatest start and again sloppy defending denied them the points against Heanor Town when the game ended 2-2 with a late equaliser from Darren Newell for the "Boatmen". Dunkirk again made changes and this time their were 4,Nicholson, Beck and Blanchard were unavailable so in came Williams, Dancer and Thompson. There was also a surprise start for manager Dave Harbottle who has only been making cameo appearances after his return from a serious knee operation, he replaced Michael Evans who had to settle for a place on the substitutes bench along side Newell and new impressive reserve player Chris Mcgeown. The game started and inside the opening minute Harbottle played Wilson through he went into the area and was pulled back by Patey, but the referee was unmoved and play continued. Dunkirk continued to press and in the 3rd minute went into a deserved lead, Harbottle won a freekick 35 yards from goal out on the right, Thompson stepped up to send his quality freekick into the area and when the ball bounced inside the area MARQUIN SMITH was on hand to head the ball into the top corner of the net to give the "Boatmen" the perfect start. A minute later it should have been 2 -0 Moore's quick throw picked out Whatnall who from just outside the area held his marker off and slipped a great ball through to Wilson inside the area to the left of goal, his curling effort towards the far corner just went wide of the diving goalkeepers frame. In the 6th minute totally against the run of play Nettleham equalised from a corner it was whipped in to the far post and JAMIE PATEY was on hand when totally unmarked to head the ball into the top corner of the net for 1-1.Harbottle was pulling all the strings and in the 10th minute his ball found Wilson down the right side he cut across into the area and his low drilled effort across goal picked out Tyron Cairns at the far post who from a tight angle struck the side netting. Heald then went on a solo run for Nettleham and from distance his effort flashed wide. Dunkirk were creating chances at will and in the 19th minute Wilson flicked the ball to Harbottle who returned the favour to put him through into the area, he held his marker off then steadied himself before unleashing a low drive which Neave in the Nettleham goal saved well with his outstretched boot to keep the scores level. Dunkirk were still looking the more dangerous side with Nettleham playing on the counter attack and in the 20th minute Moore's cross to the far stick was met by Whatnall who's diving header was easily saved by the goalkeeper. In the 28th minute Darren Wheatley was all over Reid in midfield and the referee continued play, Wheatley continued and slipped a nice ball through to Maddison on the left side his low effort across goal went behind from a good position. In the 35th minute Nettleham went into a shock lead the ball was played out to the right side to Heald with Moore out of position his cross picked out DANNY ELDING who's free header found the corner. Dunkirk went looking for the equaliser and Cairns had a run down the left side he beat his marker and when right on the touchline he pulled the ball back to Thompson who from the edge of the area when unmarked fired the ball over the crossbar from a great position. Dunkirk though did equalise soon afterwards when Harbottle went down under a challenge inside the area for a penalty. JOEL WILSON stepped up to smash his penalty past Neave for his 3rd goal of the season. Rick Wheatley was then shown a yellow card for an off the ball incident with Whatnall when the Nettleham midfielder looked to take a swipe at the Dunkirk midfielder. Play was delayed for a little while from this incident and when it resumed Thompson's freekick picked out Cairns who from in front of goal missed his kick and the ball hit his chest to fall harmlessly into the Nettleham goalkeepers arms.
 
Half-time
    2-2
 
In the 49th minute a quick throw from Dunkirk down the left found Moore his cross was headed out but back to the Dunkirk captain who cut inside and fire his effort towards the top corner but Graham was on hand to head the ball clear. in the 51st minute Smith's poor pass came to Elding who's effort went just wide with Wheater-Lowe rooted to the spot. Dunkirk finally regained the lead in the 54th minute when Moore slipped a ball inside to Harbottle who had acres, the obvious pass was Cairns out on the right side but Harbottle had other ideas and his neat pass put JOEL WILSON through and with the goalkeeper off his line his lobbed effort gave him his 2nd of the game. In the 60th minute Thompson was caught dithering on the ball just outside the Dunkirk penalty area Beesley nipped in to break into the area, Williams though used his pace to make the tackle but Beesley got lucky and his cross found Steve Mason on the penalty spot who's side footed effort was heading into the roof of the net but Whaeater-Lowe made an exquisite save to tip the ball over and keep Dunkirk in the lead. Dunkirk wrapped the points up in the 66th minute when Cairns won a corner off Patey, Thompson's in swinging corner was met by JOEL WILSON who header went into the roof of the net for his hattrick. Nettleham though did have a good chance to pull a goal back when in the 74th minute Maddison's corner to the far post was met by Elding and his header was heading in but Tom Williams was on the goaline to clear the danger. Dunkirk made 2 changes in the 78th minute when Harbottle and Thompson were replaced by Evans and Newell. Dunkirk increased their lead in the 82nd minute after good play down the right side by Reid and Smith and as Reid played the ball through to Newell inside the area his effort towards the back post was won by Cairns who's header found man of the match JOEL WILSON to spin his marker and fire the ball into the top corner of the net for his 4th of the game for 5-2 to the home side. Dunkirk were awarded another penalty in the 87th minute when Whatnall's corner was met by Wilson his header into the ground was heading into the top corner and Wheatley was on the goaline to handle the ball on the goaline and was shown a straight red card. JOEL WILSON stepped up to fire his penalty in the corner for his 5th goal of the game. Mcgeown was introduced for a brief debut in place of Dancer. Still there was time for another Dunkirk goal as Sharpe gave a freekick away on the right side, Whatnall's cross was heading for the top corner but the keeper managed to tip the ball behind. Whatnall's corner was powerfully met by Evans and found TYRON CAIRNS who from inside the area faked his shot to beat 2 defenders and them finish superbly into the top corner of the net for 7-2.


CONTROVERSAY EARNS BOATMEN A DRAW
Tuesday 21st August
Dunkirk 2-2 Heanor Town
 
Heanor Town were this weeks visitors to the Ron Steel Sports Ground and they would be looking to heap more misery on the "Boatmen" after losing 2 and only winning 1 of their opening 3 games. Dunkirk did though deserve a point in Saturdays game against Askern but giving away sloppy goals seems to be costing them in these early season matches. Dunkirk made 4 changes from the Askern game missing were Wiliams, Connor, Hopkinson and Foster, so in came from Cuba that morning,the renamed and newly wed Darren Wheater-Lowe,Nicholson and Beck for their first starts of the season,and Marquin Smith returned in midfield.  Inside the 1st minute skipper for the evening Ben Moore dinked a lovely throughball to Wilson who right infront of goal got under the ball when through and his volley went over, it was a great chance for Dunkirk. Heanor settled down and in the 16th minute a long throw from Green dropped to Vincent inside the area and as the ball held up in the wind his sliced volley from infront of goal went wide from a great position. Whatnall had an effort from range that fizzed across the grass but just wide after good work from Moore and Blanchard but the goalkeeper always looked comfortable. In the 23rd minute Dunkirk broke down the right side through Blanchard his cross picked out Evans who looked to be holding onto his marker and with Heanor appealing for a feekick Cairns continued and from the penalty spot he got under the ball to fire his effort over. Heanor were now looking the more dangerous side and an effort from O'Donnell from the left side of the area had Lowe scampering back to get a strong hand to the ball but he had to be bailed out by Beck who was in a good position on the goaline to head the ball clear, Heanor again picked up the bits and Groves effort went over the crossbar. Freekicks by Evans and Whatnall from good positions both just went wide as they failed to test the Heanor goalkeeper. In the 34th minute Marquin Smith picked the ball up inside his own half and burst through the Heanor defence he knocked it through but Cairns used his pace to get behind, he had Wilson and Evans in space inside the area but his poor cross went straight to the goalkeepers hands. The referee was bookng players all over the place which was stopping a good end to end game of football. In the 39th minute Dunkirk went in front Reid drove at the Heanor defence from right back and when put under pressure he played the ball through to TYRON CAIRNS who again used his pace to break through this time though the goalkeeper came out and Cairns rounded him and from a tight angle his exquisite finish found the far top corner to put Dunkirk in the lead. Just before half-time Smith sprayed a ball out right to Blanchard who was put under pressure from Biggs but he managed to get a good cross into the area which just evaded Wilson at the far post as the ball went out for a throw.
 
Half-time
   1-0
 
The 1st action of the second half fell Heanor's way when O'Donnell forced Whaeater-Lowe into a save when his low effort was pushed clear by the Dunkirk goalkeeper to safety. In the 61st minute O'Donnell went on a solo run for Heanor 1st he fell lucky as the ball bounced off Reid's challange the Heanor winger continued to ghost past Whatnall and his effort was easily saved by Wheater-Lowe. Dunkirk introduced Newell into the game in the 70th minute when he replaced Wilson in attack. 2 minutes later Heanor got the equaliser when a mix up between Nicholson and Wheater-Lowe gave RICHARD GROVES the opportunity to toe the ball through the Dunkirk goalkeepers legs and place the ball into the empty net, Dunkirk kicked off again and straight away was put under pressure a challange in midfield dropped right into the path of RICHARD GROVES on the edge of the Dunkirk area he got the ball under control and toed the ball past the Dunkirk goalkeeper to shock the "Boatmen" for his 2nd goal in a minute. Dunkirk replied and a throw by Reid picked out Blanchard who hooked the ball towards the far post it was heading under the crossbar but the keeper dived backwards to tip the ball behind. Dunkirk manager Harbottle introduced Pratt for his 1st apperance of the season and also threw himself on as they tried to get something from the game in place of Nicholson and Evans. In the 71st minute a deep corner from Blanchard was headed back into the area by Beck the ball dropped to Newell who in front of goal smashed his effort over the crossbar. Dunkirk were still pushing for the equaliser when a corner to the far post from Whatnall found Beck who's free header just went wide of the upright. In the 87th minute Dunkirk found the equaliser a corner from Whatnall put the Heanor goalkeeper under pressure and under a challange went to the ground the ball came out to Jack Reid who hooked the ball back into the area and picked out DARREN NEWELL who's low strike deflected off a Heanor defender and into the net to snatch a point for Dunkirk and for his 1st goal of the season.

SLOPPY DEFENDING COSTS DUNKIRK
Saturday 18th August
Dunkirk 2-3 Askern Welfare
 
Dunkirk entertained Doncaster side Askern Welfare in their 2nd home game of their league campaign. On Tuesday night the"Boatmen" took their first 3 points of the season in a hard fought battle against a physical Blackwell MW side. Last season Askern did the double over Dunkirk winning 3-2 at the Ron Steel Sports Ground and 2-1 at Askern, so revenge needed to be on the cards. Dunkirk made 3 changes to Tuesdays win with McCaughey, Dancer and Marquin Smith unavailable, in came Tom Williams for his 1st start of the season and Greg Whatnall,There was also a full 1st team debut for Phil Hopkinson after a brief appearance on Tuesday night. Dunkirk started brightly and within 2 minutes should have been in front Whatnall's great corner picked out Michael Evans who's free header in front of goal dropped just wide. On 5 minutes though Askern stunned Dunkirk by taking an early lead Foster's goal kick was headed back onto the Dunkirk defence by McGlaughlin and with Moore out of position Askerns MICHAEL EVANS cut inside and his low strike to the near post caught Foster out and put the away side in front. in the 12th minute Dunkirk were back on level terms Evans played a neat throughball to Blanchard down the right side he cut into the area and was brought down by Fisher, the referee seemed to take an age to award the penalty but eventually did, JOEL WILSON showed no fear after tuesday nights penalty misss to send the keeper the wrong way and level the game. Dunkirk again had appeals for a penalty but the referee this time waved them away after Cairns had won a corner, Whatnall cross was met by Wilson and when the Askern player challenged the ball looked to strike his arm in front of goal but the referee was unmoved by the Dunkirk appeals. In the 28th minute Askern again went into the lead, a freekick from the edge of the area struck Reid and went behind for a corner,Evans corner was met by the small centre forward DANIEL MAUDSLEY who nipped in front of Foster to flick his header into the corner of the net. Dunkirk replied and Cairns won a freekick after being fouled by Severn. Evans freekick deflected off the wall and nearly dropped into the path of Wilson but the goalkeeper was sharp off his line to pick up the bits. The game was end to end stuff, Whatnall was lucky not to give a foul away on halfway, Dunkirk continued through Wilson who ran at the Askern defence he then cut inside looking for the opening his shot bounced to Evans who was eventually crowded out and the chance had gone. The half finished with Askern  knocking the ball around nicely making Dunkirk work hard to win the ball back in this entertaining,end to end league affair.
 
Half-time
   1-2
 
In the 55th minute Dunkirk deservedly levelled the scores when Copley the Askern goalkeeper quickly bowled the ball out to Gary Evans at right back, Dunkirk were still working hard and forced Evans to played the ball backwards but his loose pass went straight to Dunkirks MICHAEL EVANS who from the edge of the area ran through took his marker on and unleashed a powerful strike into the top corner of the net for his 2nd goal of the season. A minute later though Askern were awarded a penalty of there own when Hopkinson got the ball stuck under his feet and was disposed by Severn who slipped the ball inside from the left into the path of Tom McGlaughlin who was through into the area, Moore came across and clattered him to the floor, GARY EVANS stepped up and struck the penalty just out of Fosters reach who had dived the right way, to put Askern back into the lead. Whatnall was then booked for Dunkirk for a late tackle on halfway and from the freekick deep into the Dunkirk half Moore headed the ball back towards his own goal which was heading towards the back of the net after Foster misjudged the header but he raced back onto his line to stop Askern stretching their lead. Dunkirk then introduced Neil Thompson in the 58th minute in place of Whatnall. Askern had a great chance to stretch their lead in the 70th minute when a mix-up down the Dunkirk left played in Mcglaughlin who pulled the ball back to Severn in front of goal he delayed his effort a little and eventually it went over, Dunkirk then introduced Newell in place of Cairns. Reid then fouled Gary Evans 25 yards from goal, Askern's Michael Evans stepped up to fire his effort off the crossbar and over. In the 73rd minute Dunkirk created the best move of the game and should have levelled the scores, Thompson had the ball in midfield and laid it off to Moore on the left who inturn played it to Blanchard his excellent cross was met by Evans who met it powerfully but unfortunately dropped just wide when under pressure. In the 82nd minute a big goalkick was headed on by Wilson into the path of Newell but the goalkeeper came rushing off his line to clear the danger under Newell's challenge. Dunkirk made a final change when Harbottle came on for an attacking change when he replaced Sean Connor. Just before the final whistle Thompson had acres on halfway but was then closed down after taking to long, Jolly disposed him to run through on goal but Thompson ran back to eventually made a great tackle but Askern snatched the points.


HARD WORK PAYS IN THE END
Tuesday 14th August 2007
Dunkirk 2-1 Blackwell MW
 
Dunkirk faced Derbyshire side Blackwell MW in there first home game of the 2007/08 season. Blackwell MW are a side that usually finish in the lower reaches of the league table but are also at times a hard side to break down and last season achieved their highest ever Supreme Division finish, so Dunkirk knew they had to be on there toes to get their season up and running after Saturdays defeat at Southwell City. Dunkirk made 2 changes to the starting 11 from Saturday so with Jack Smith out injured in came Michael Evans in attack. Greg Whatnall had to settle for a place on the substitutes bench and was replaced by Cairns who was left out of the side on Saturday. Whatnall was joined on the substitutes bench by Phil Hopkinson who had earnt his 1st call up to the Dunkirk senior squad after impressing last season and during preseason in the reserves. Dunkirk started the brighter but it wasn't until the 12th minute that they created their 1st effort towards goal, Blanchard knocked the ball inside from the right side to Cairns who's lofted ball picked out Joel Wilson inside the area, his 1st time effort though while stretching went wide. A minute later Dunkirk did have the ball in the net but Evans was adjudged to be offside after a neat through ball played him through. It was all Dunkirk with Blackwell only playing on the counter attack and in the 25th minute the "Boatmen" went into a deserved lead, Marquin Smith ghosted past 2 defenders then slipped a nice ball into the path of MICHAEL EVANS who from inside the area rounded the keeper, kept his composure when put under pressure by a Blackwell defender and slid the ball into the empty net for his 1st goal of the season. Dunkirk were knocking the ball around nicely now with Blackwell having little answers and in the 28th minute Reid placed the ball into Wilson who's early touch found Marquin Smith who from the edge of the area dragged his effort wide when he should have at least hit the target. Dunkirk were still pressing and a long throw from the left side by Moore picked out Evans who took the ball into his path and as the ball bounced up nicely his quality right foot effort was heading into the top corner of the net but Richard Parker leapt to his left to superbly tip the ball behind to keep the score at only 1-0 to the home side. Dunkirk were shocked in the 32nd minute when totally against the run of play Blackwell equalised, the ball was worked into the Dunkirk half and as 3 of the Dunkirk defence were drawn to the ball Deakin's deft touch put JOHN HARRIS through and from 25 yards his bullet strike went into the top corner of the net for a wondergoal to level the scoreline leaving Foster with no chance. In the 35th minute the referee awarded a penalty to Dunkirk Moore knocked a freekick into the penalty area and as the ball skipped up off the wet surface the ball looked to strike Ross Armstrongs arm and amid huge Dunkirk appeals the referee obliged. Joel Wilson stepped up to fire the ball to the goalkeepers left but Parker dived superbly to tip the ball around the post from Wilson's well struck penalty. Blanchard then whipped in a corner that Wilson met but it skimmed off the top of his head but only to Evans who managed to get the ball under control at the far post, he was closed down quickly but as he created room for the shot his effort was blocked and went behind. Evans then picked out Wilson from another Dunkirk corner but his flicked header at the near post just went over the crossbar. The game started to get a little tasty with Blackwell not afraid to leave a foot in,  but the referee was very lenient and was unwilling to pull out a card to stamp his authority on the game.
 
Half-time
    1-1
 
The 1st effort of the 2nd half came Dunkirk's way Marquin Smith picked the ball up from a throw in on the left he cut inside and drove towards the area and then slipped the ball through to Cairns to his right, the goal was gaping and his low shot was spilled by the goalkeeper and gathered at the 2nd attempt. Dunkirk now started to look a little ragged at the back at times and in the 57th minute Moore was far to advanced leaving Dunkirk exposed down their left side and as Kew picked up the bits his low cross fizzed across the area and with Deakin looking to pounce the ball just evaded him at the far post and skipped behind. A minute later Wilson went on a solo run for Dunkirk down the left he picked the ball up on halfway and his pace roasted the Blackwell defence his cross found Cairns at the far post who controlled it and rounded his marker before firing his effort low, which the goalkeeper did well to save with his feet as the ball was close to his body to keep the scores level. Dunkirk made a change in the 60th minute when Whatnall replaced Reid in midfield. In the 65th minute Dunkirk had a brilliant chance to get back into the lead Moore knocked a lovely ball into the path of Evans who held off his marker and was through on goal he rounded the goalkeeper but was pushed slightly wide, the goalkeeper recovered and as Evans shot his effort was saved but only into the path of Blanchard who's terrible dinked effort with the keeper off his line went straight into his hands. The goalkeeper cleared the ball long upfield but again Dunkirk won possession and Blanchard cut inside onto his right foot and from the edge of the area his low drive went wide. In the 70th minute Dunkirk earnt a corner when McCaughey's good early left foot cross picked out Evans who's effort was blocked and went behind for a corner, Whatnall's corner to the near post was brilliantly met by JOEL WILSON who's flick header went into the top corner of the net to regain Dunkirk's 1 goal advantage for his 1st goal of the season. Blackwell had a golden chance to equalise in the 73rd minute when Harris's corner was met by Steve Spensley who from the penalty spot rose strong to head the ball just wide of the upright when unmarked. Dunkirk made a 2nd change in the 83rd minute when Newell came on to replace Wilson and immediately he was involved when he was slipped through by Cairns, he rounded the goalkeeper but was pushed wide and his cross was easily cleared. Phil Hopkinson was then introduced for he 1st team debut when he replaced Cairns. In the 88th minute a big kick from the Blackwell goalkeeper put Matt Foster in the Dunkirk goal under pressure, Deakin challenged him and managed to get a touch on the ball and it just dropped wide but Foster should have been more commanding and clear the danger but Dunkirk got away with it.
 


BOATMEN FALL ON OPENING DAY
Saturday 11th August 2007
Southwell City 3-1 Dunkirk
 
The opening day of the season took Dunkirk on there travels to league rivals Southwell City. If Dunkirk have there own League title aspirations im sure Southwell would also fancy there chances this season. Last season Dunkirk did the double over Southwell and a win today would have given  the "Boatmen" a great start to the season. A young familiar Dunkirk side started with 10 of the starting 11 playing some part during the 2006/07 season. New signing Jack Reid made his league debut for Dunkirk in the centre of midfield and another new signing Darren Newell had to settle for the a place on the substitutes bench even after scoring in every pre season friendly Dunkirk had played in.Southwell started  quicker out of the blocks and the 1st effort towards goal came in the 6th minute when Norwood's effort flashed wide when he picked up the bits after a freekick was knocked under the wall by Hennessy but cleared by the Dunkirk defence to the edge of the area. All over the park Southwell wasn't afraid to leave a foot in and Allan was booked in the 12th minute after his high tackle on Jack Reid. Dunkirk did eventually settle down and in the 15th minute had there 1st attempt on goal, Marquin Smith won a freekick 25 yards from goal but as Wilson took it quickly the Southwell keeper was aware to easily handle the ball. Dancer then knocked a freekick long down the Dunkirk right and Blanchard's 1st time ball across the area came to Whatnall and his powerful strike had to be tipped over the crossbar when it was heading into the roof of the net. Allan was again pulled up by the referee for his 3rd bad tackle of the game again on Jack Reid. Dunkirk then had the best chance of the game so far when Moore's long ball picked out Blanchard down the right. A better 1st touch would have took him through on goal but his cross was headed behind for a corner with Wilson ready to pounce, the corner was whipped in by Blanchard to Joel Wilson who's free header on the penalty spot was met firmly but it just dropped wide. In the 39th minute Southwell had a great chance to go in front when they won the ball in midfield and picked out Tomlinson who ran with the ball he created room for a strike from the inside right edge of the area and the ball looked to be heading inside the far post but it just dragged wide. This was to be a warning sign for Dunkirk as Hennessy went on a solo run and slipped the ball into the Dunkirk area to Ellison who's powerful strike was blocked by Connor and out for a corner. In 1st half stoppage time a long ball into the Dunkirk area looked to pick out Tomlinson but as the Dunkirk keeper Foster pushed it clear Tomlinson clattered into him and the Dunkirk keeper landed in a heap on the floor, the referee continued play and Dunkirk managed to get the ball clear and out for a corner when it should have been a freekick for a foul on the keeper. Play was held up as the Dunkirk keeper received treatment and as play resumed the corner was whipped in by Carty and picked out Paul Tomlinson who's header at the near post went onto the crossbar and bounced down to DARREN NORWOOD who headed the ball in at the far post for a free header to put Southwell in front. Dunkirk replied immediately when a long ball down field was met by Wilson inside the area he got the ball under control and as he tried to cross the ball it looked to strike a Southwell defenders arm but the referee waved the Dunkirk appeals away.
 
Half-time
   1-0
 
Southwell made a half-time change when Pembleton came on to replace Hennessy. This was to be an inspired substitution as in the 50th minute Reid and Whatnall were over playing on halfway, they lost possession to Ellison who made great strides down the right side he played the ball across the Dunkirk area and picked out MAX PEMBLETON who's low right foot finish went under Foster to give Dunkirk a mountain to climb early in the 2nd half. Dunkirk then made 2 changes as they looked to go more attacking when they replaced Blanchard and Whatnall with Evans and Newell for his debut. The game looked to be all over though in the 64th minute when Southwell went into a 3 goal lead, Dunkirk were pushing looking to get back into the game, but Dancer's poor ball out to Moore on the left was intercepted by Ellison who then raced down the Southwell right side, Moore chased back and was unlucky as he got a touch on the ball but it only went back into the path of Ellison who's wild shot from well inside the area picked out PAUL TOMLINSON who at the far post slid the ball in past the helpless Foster. Dunkirk made there 3rd and final change in the 71st minute when Marquin Smith was replaced by Tom Williams. Evans then did well for Dunkirk when he turned Darren Norwood and his powerful effort on goal went straight down the throat of the Southwell goalkeeper who was well placed to hold onto the ball. In the 77th minute Dunkirk pulled a goal back, Darren Newell picked the ball up on the left and as Darren Norwood came crashing in Newell knocked the ball through his legs and left him in a heap as the Southwell defender clattered into Newell for a freekick tight on the touchline. Moore's freekick picked out JACK SMITH who smashed the ball into the roof of the net when unmarked inside the area. In the 82nd minute Dunkirk went close to a 2nd when Moore had a run down the left side and his early cross was again met by Jack Smith but this time his flicked header went wide. Tomlinson then had a great chance to stretch Southwell's lead when Pembleton knocked the ball over the Dunkirk defence and with Foster off his goaline Tomlinson's poor lobbed effort when nobody was around him went over the crossbar.

2004/05 REVIEW

SEASON REVIEW

The season 2004/05 will go down as one of the most succesful times for Dunkirk fc,the 1st team winning both the Central Midlands Supreme and the Floodlit cup,runners up in the League cup and semi finalists in the Notts Senior cup losing only 1-0 to eventual winners Arnold Town.The reserves in there 1st season also claimed the 'double' by winning the Central Midlands Reserve Div 1 league and the Reserve League Cup.The under 19's also winning the league for the 2nd successive season.A good pre season with wins against Grantham,Santos and Boots,and a narrow defeat against Belper Town set things up nicely for the fortcoming season.With a host of new signing Matt Timson,Stuart Coke,Lee Farmery,Richard Dawkins,Jon Ewan and under 19 players Jake Sheridan,Marquinn Smith and Chris Ison.

AUGUST-1st game of the new season was a tricky away match v Gedling MW and being 2-0 down at ht a drastic reshuffle was made,and a 2-2 draw was the out come with goals from debutants Lee Farmery and Jake Sheridan.This was followed by a defeat against Holbrook and Tom Baker departing for Sandiacre, but 3 days later the 1st win of the season came with a 3-0 away win at newly promoted Rainworth MW Smith and Coke getting there 1st goals for the club.Result of the month was a 6-2 home win against Nettleham with Daryll Thomas belatedly kicking his season off with a hat trick.

P-6 W-3 D-2 L-1 F-15 A-5 PTS-11 SCOTT-4,THOMAS-3.

SEPTEMBER-The first local derby ended in a 3-1 win against Greenwood thanks to 2 late goals from supersub Danny Blanchard.Matt Timson got his 1st for the club in the 5-1 demolition of RainworthMW a week later Timson again got the headlines with a 2nd half hatrick against former club Radford.Then the result of the season so far a 1-0 away win against Championship rivals Dinnington Timson again the scorer.The month ended with a early exit in the FA vase losing 2-1 away at Glapwell,it also gave Jon Ewan his long awaited debut but,only lasted 20 minutes before a cut head ended his day, after dominating the game with Dunkirk scoring all 3 goals Neil Thompson with a trade mark free kick then skipper Sean Connor slicing into his own net and with 2 minutes left Ian lowe unforuntaletly getting Glapwells winner.

P-5 W-4 D-1 L-0 F-15 A-5 PTS-13 TIMSON-5,BLANCHARD-3

OCTOBER-Started with an excellent 2-1 victory at Barton Darryl Thomas and a Paul Curwood scissor kick getting the points.The home game against Askern put Neil Thompson out of action for 6 months after sustaining a broken ankle.This was followed with wins against Greenwood and Dinnington,then the visit of Teversal and despite going down to 10 men after 6 minutes lead 1-0 at halftime through Darryl Thomas but before he could get his hatrick Dunkirk were reduced to 9 as sub Danny Blanchard was sent off,but to pull off this excellent result Darryl completed his 2nd hatrick of the season and a 3-1 win.

P-6 W-6 D-0 L-0 F-16 A-5 PTS-18 THOMAS-7,TIMSON-3

NOVEMBER-NSL leaders Wollaton were the visiters in front of a big midweek crowd for the NSC match the game finishing 2-2 aet and 4-4 on penalties former Dunkirk player Ryan Perkins having his spot kick saved by Darren Lowe leaving player manager and former Wollaton player Dave Harbottle to send his men through to the next round.The saturday brought 100th apperances for both Ian and Darren Lowe it also was the score of the season,a 10-2 away win at Nettleham,with that man Darryl Thomas leading the way with 4 goals and a 1st goal for Jon Ewan.Notts Police became the next victims in the NSC with Danny Blanchard getting the winner with 2 minutes left.The experienced Mark Nangle joined the club from RR Leisure and Michael Hartshorne left for NSL side Clifton.Dunkirk finished the year 20 games undefeated,and succesive wins against Heanor,Sandiacre and Clipstone with Nangle scoring on his home debut.

P-5 W-4 D-1 L-0 F-18 A-4 PTS-13 THOMAS-5,SHERIDAN-4,SMITH-4

JANUARY-Belper Town defender Mark Clarke joined the club on loan but 2005 could'nt have got off to a worser start for Dunkirk and Darryl Thomas celebratring his 100th game, losing 3-1 away to Southwell.Further progess in the league and floodlit cups came with wins aginst Holbrook and Harworth these matches brought 1st goals of the seasons for both Sean Connor and Chris Murdock.

P-3 W-2 D-0 L-1 F-5 A-4 PTS-6 THOMAS-3,NANGLE-3

FEBUARY-Dunkirk turned in 2 top notch performances as they got Febuary off to a flier and carried on they cup dreams on all fronts,dumping NCEL champions Sutton Town out of the Notts senior cup 3-1,this was followed with a 4-1 trouncing of central midlands champions AFC Barnsley in the floodlit cup and a 3-0 victory over Forest Town in the league cup.The month ended poorly as Dunkirk lost there unbeaten home record to relegated Kiveton Park 4-3.

P-2 W-1 D-0 L-1 F-6 A-4 PTS-3 NANGLE-4,THOMAS-4

MARCH-Brought 7 games and 7 victories and the 'team of the month' award,with again progression on all cup fronts,another higher league scalp and perhaps the most significant result a 2-0 victory over next door neighbours and title contenders,Pelican.Retford became another casulty in the NSC,Darryl Thomas penalty 15 minutes from the end securing the boatmen ticket in the semi's.A tough away trip to Bentley brought back a 2-0 victory and another semi final,and in the semi final 1st leg of the floodlit cup Dunkirk came from a goal down to beat Kimberley 4-1,the game bought 2 real contenders for goal of the season from  Jon Ewan and Tom Baker who went onto score in his next 4 games,this including the cruical 1st in the bank holiday game v Pelican

P-4 W-4 D-0 L-0 F-11 A-3 PTS-12 BAKER-5,THOMAS-4

APRIL-10 games,3 semi finals,the miss of the season and a league title.This was the month that will go down as one of Dunkirks finest ever achivements,a 1-1 draw with Kimberley in the 2nd leg of the floodlit cup ensuring the boatmen booked a final against Clipstone,the moment of the match though belonged to ACE marksmen Darryl Thomas,as he gave chase to a ball over the top the young striker looked 2nd best to get to the ball with the onrushing Kimberley custodian,and as the keeper went to clear took a swipe and missed the ball completley leaving Darryl with an open goal 12 yards out,instead of cooly walking the ball home he placed it 1st time and astonshingly wide of the goal,this was followed with a scrappy win at Askern.the midweek brought a NSC semi final with Arnold Town and despite having the upper hand and missing key striker Mark Nangle Arnold nicked a winner midway through the 2nd half.Clipstone were made to pay for Dunkirks failings in the week,Nangle,Sheridan and Smith the scorers in a superb team display.Dunkirk then made the short trip to neighbours Greenwood meadows for the league cup semi with Radcliffe Olympic manged by former Dunkirk manager John Humphries.Radcliffe shock the leaders straight away scoring in the 2nd minute and going 2-0 leaders at half time.The managers team talk at halftime must have done the job as it looked a completley different side took the field for the 2nd half as they laid seige on the Radcliffe goal Nangle started the comeback with a superb header,quickly followed by a Nathan Scott goal,back came Radcliffe into the lead Rennicks scoring.Smith equalised on 74 leaving the game on a knife edge but with 10 to go Darryl Thomas met Sheridans cross to put Dunkirk in the lead for the 1st time and end Radcliffe dream as dunkirk looked for the elusive treble as if things couldnt get any better the saturday brought the crowning glory,a 3-0 victory at GSP and with Pelican only drawing 1-1 down the A52 with Sandiacre the title came to Dunkirk with 7 games to spare.The month finished with 2 1-1 draws against Andy Freemans Heanor Town and League cup final rivals Sandiacre Town and a 3-0 victory over Pelican and the presentation of the league title.

P-7 W-4 D-3 L-0 F-16 A-5 PTS-15 THOMAS-7 NANGLE-3

MAY-A cup final win,a cup final loss and a moment worth waiting for.A fllodlit cup final win over Clipstone  with goals from Stuart Coke and Mark Nangle was evened out a few days later with a disappointing display and hopes of a treble blown out with a 1-0 defeat against Sandiacre Town.May only actually bought 2 victories in all competitons the mentoined victory over Clipstone and bank holiday win over Appleby Frodingham,A draw with GSP was followed with defeats against promotion chasing Teversal and Blackwell MW in which the entire reserve team played and despite going 2-0 infront failed to hold on finally losing 3-2,It was also the month in which Goalkeeper Darren Lowe showed Dave and Wayne if there need a new centre forward that there wont after to look far as his cameo apperance up front against Appelby gave him his 1st ever goal for the club in the 4-1 win.

P-4 W-1 D-1 L-2 F-7 A-6 PTS-4 THOMAS-3

HOME PERFORMANCE OF THE SEASON-Sutton Town NSC 3rd rnd w 3-1

AWAY PERFORMANCE OF THE SEASON-Clipstone W lge w 3-0

WORST PERFORMANCE OF THE SEASON-(AWAY)Askern w 3-1(HOME)Kiveton Park L 3-4

LEADING SCORER-D.THOMAS-38(5-FLC,2-NSC,4-LCC,1-v REP SIDE)

GOAL OF THE SEASON-T.Baker's 2nd v Kimberley 1st leg FLC semi w 4-1

MISS OF THE SEASON-D.Thomas v Kimberley 2nd leg FLC semi d 1-1

FINDS OF THE SEASON-M.Smith and J.Sheridan

*nb these are my views and no one elses at Dunkirk fc.*