FELIXSTOWE ATHELTIC V 405 F.C. –Junior League Cup RD2
As winter finally arrived, Felixstowe Ath played host to 405 F.C. in the next round of the league cup at a cold and blustery Grove.
Having been cruelly beaten in the league the week before, the cup competitions were providing some welcome relief.
With a virtual full squad to pick from, Felixstowe decided to play Si Lucking at Right back with Charlie dropping to the bench, and Ped came back into his accustomed role in midfield alongside Seffers. Otherwise it was an unchanged team from the previous game with Deano and Daryl continuing to form the attacking partnership.
The game started evenly with both teams cancelling each other out, for a team two divisions below Felixstowe Ath, 405 made some good early running and as the home side had found this season there are no easy cup games.
With Felixstowe clearly beginning to create the better chances, they found the opposing goalkeeper in inspired form saving point blank from Daryl James when it looked like he would open his account, as well as turning aside a lovely strike by Shakespeare. Ped and Seffers began to get the midfield engine room working and were looking to send the front runners away with every opportunity.
With the neat quick passing, 405 were only surviving because of the eager linesman raising the flag for marginal off side decisions, and it seemed a matter of time when one move would break the resolute offside trap.
Midway through the half Felixstowe Ath took the lead when a beautifully constructed move saw Simmo switch the play left to Watson, who picked out Seffers at the edge of the box, he in turn rolled the ball into the feet of Deano on the by-line. He cut the ball back brilliantly for Daryl James to fire in his first goal for the club. The passing and movement of the home side had been rewarded.
405 gainly tried to get themselves back into the game but were becoming increasingly limited to long range shots that troubled neither goalkeeper of defence. Si Lucking was proving to have an excellent game in the unaccustomed right back slot, making some outstanding tackles and headers to deny 405’s winger.
With Felixstowe now in command, the home side doubled their lead when a free kick awarded just on the halfway line was delightfully floated in by Adam to the head of Shakespeare. His flick on found Seffers alone in the box, as he went to volley the ball home he slipped and the ball rolled off the bottom of his boot eluding the goalkeeper and ending up in the back of the net. Cue the elaborate celebrations from the goal scorer who had notched his sixth goal of the season.
With the first half drawing to a close, 405 were again lucky to escape as a corner caused all sorts of problems and it took a last ditch clearance off the line from a defender to keep the score line the same.
However shortly afterwards the away sides defencive work was to be undone as Southgate fed Craig on the left wing, his run to the by-line was blocked by the defender looking to see the ball out. However sheer persistence from Watson mugged the defender and produced a great ball to the back post where Simmo arrived unmarked for the simplest of tap ins to continue his recent scoring streak. The right winger had now clocked up his eighth goal of the season to put Felixstowe Ath within distance of the third round.
Half Time: Felixstowe Ath 3 405 F.C. 0
The second half kicked off with the home side still on top, some great defence work from Si, Dan, Adam and Ross had so far limited the 405 attack to scraps.
To their credit the visitors refused to lie down and signalled there intentions of trying to get some foothold back in the match by going with three forwards. However Lucking was proving a revelation at the back and was expertly marshalling the back line and clearing any danger.
Daryl and Deano were finding things difficult in the second half as 405 pushed to get themselves back in the game. The home support were even treated to the rare sight of Shakespeare producing some fine tackling after dropping deep in order to get the ball. Daryl James’ physical presence has certainly been a welcome addition to Felixstowe and he decided to get himself amongst the action. It was good to see that the forwards were prepared to do some of the donkey work for the team.
Keighley in goal seemed assured as he produced a few anxious moments in the first half after hesitating.
With the game nearing its conclusion the introduction of Charlie, Maffey and Carlos was made to breathe some fresh life into the game.
Charlie was called upon almost straight away when for the only time in the match, a ball was missed in the penalty area, Charlie gamely tried to clear but the on rushing forward was able to beat him to it, and tap the ball into the unguarded net.
Brief hope was to be quickly extinguished for the away side as the minutes finally ticked away and the referee brought to an end a satisfying cup encounter for Felixstowe who will take their place in the third round draw.
Final Score: Felixstowe Ath 3 405 F.C.1
Gaffers Comments:
Another very good cup tie against a potentially tricky opponent has seen us get the required result. I thought some of our passing play particularly in the first half was excellent. We kept things simple, we didn’t over complicate and they could not live with it. The were a decent enough team but we have showed today that playing the way we are good at will be a match for any team. I thought we worked hard and the talking on the pitch is getting better and better with every match. I was annoyed that we did not keep a clean sheet today as I think the defence and goalkeeper played so well that they deserved it.
I was glad to see Deano and Daryl getting stuck in with some good and some not so good challenges!. Sometimes this is what we require in games and if it’s not running for us attacking wise, we need to dig in and battle as a team.
Overall a good response to the defeat of last week, as it was easy for us to continue feeling sorry for ourselves.
Special mention this week to Si Lucking who played at right back, was more than happy to do so, and produced some superb football. He won virtually everything in the air and can’t recall him missing a tackle of note. His communication to the rest of the back line saw to it that we remained tight as a unit.
Man of the Match – was won this week by Seffers who again had a great game in the middle of the park. He was involved in all things positive today and I was amazed at the amount of ground he seems to cover in a game. Coupled with the fact that he had managed to organise a club piss up the night before (without either my knowledge or inviting me) makes it a deserving award as he was probably playing with a hangover!. However I will state that if we had lost it would have been a different matter.
The Gaffer.
FELIXSTOWE ATHLETIC V CHERRYTREE-League 3MB
After last week’s excitement in the cup, Felixstowe turned their attentions back to the league with the visit of Cherrytree to the Grove.
Felixstowe announced the debut of their latest dip into the transfer market, with Daryl James starting alongside Dean Shakespeare upfront.
With Ped away again on holiday, Seffers and Si made up the central midfield partnership with Charlie continuing at right back.
With the game underway, Cherrytree started the brighter making some good moves in midfield looking for the two tall target men upfront.
With Felixstowe trying to get to grips with the game the home side quickly found themselves behind when from nowhere a Cherrytree midfielder launched a drive from fully 25 yards that lashed past Mark in goal.
With the set back so early Felixstowe refused to buckle and slowly Craig and Simmo were creating good movement on the flanks. Daryl and Deano were beginning to find their feet with the new partnership and it was Daryl who picked up the ball on the edge of the area, dribbled past three Cherrytree defenders and produced an expert cut-back for the in-form Shakespeare to smash high into the roof of the net to give the keeper no chance. Felixstowe had got back on level terms.
With re-newed confidence Felixstowe began to control the game, Seffers and Si Lucking working had to stop the flow to Cherrytree’s front men.
Ross had again continued his good run of form at left back and refused to let the away sides wingers get past him.
With fifteen minutes left of the first half the home side got their noses in front, when a lovely move in the midfield released the influential Watson on the left wing, who ran at the Cherrytree defence and at the by-line crossed the ball for his opposite number Simmo, to have the easy task of tapping the ball into the un-guarded net. This was the right winger’s seventh goal in as many games.
However Felixstowe’s good work was to be un-done just minutes later, when a needless foul throw from Felixstowe gave Cherrytree a chance to launch the ball into the home side’s penalty area and as the ball bounced around the away side’s attacker managed to turn and scramble the ball into the net much to the home side’s frustration.
As the half drawed to a close the home faithful had once again been treated to lots of goals in an exciting first half.
Half Time: Felixstowe Ath 2 Cherrytree 2.
The second half began much like the first, with the home side enjoying the lion’s share of pocession and Cherrytree increasingly using the route one option to try and pick out their tall target men up front.
Try as they might, Felixstowe were unable to break the away side’s rearguard as Dean forced a good save from the keeper and Daryl’s dramatic overhead kick nearly succeeded in taking the defenders head off.
Another surging run from the impressive debutant James, nearly broke the deadlock as another chance went away from Felixstowe Ath.
With the game in its last third, Watson made a run down the left hand side, he picked out Daryl with a good ball and in turn released Shakespeare who turned inside one defender and arrowed a low drive into the bottom corner leaving the keeper with no chance. This excellent goal finally gave Felixstowe the lead they deserved.
Yet again events were to turn sour for the home side as another long ball from Cherrytree found their forward in a clearly off side position, Maff on the line correctly raised the flag as Felixstowe stopped in the tracks. The referee had other ideas however and waved play on, and the away side striker duly accepted the gift to put the ball past an isolated Mark in goal and draw his team level.
With the game drawing to a close, disaster struck again for Felixstowe when a mix up in the defence allowed the ball to be given away to the Cherrytree substitute who drove on and fired low past a stunned Mark in goal to surely win the game for Cherrytree much to the delight of the travelling contingent.
With the final whistle blown, the man in the spotlight was the referee, who was surrounded at the end by disgruntled Felixstowe players and management alike. The game had certainly turned on the official’s decision to allow a goal that should not have stood and Felixstowe trudged off again knowing the league form had again let them down.
Final Score: Felixstowe Ath 3 Cherrytree 4.
Gaffers Comments:
Well to say I am annoyed after today’s game would probably be an understatement to be honest.
This was a game that twice we had in the bag and twice we let it go through mistakes that we should never have made.
I whole-heartedly disagreed with the referee’s decision to allow a goal that was clearly off side and I was annoyed he never acknowledged Maff raising the flag. However I felt this only papered over the cracks of a poor performance today. We never got to grips with the basics and that is ultimately what cost us.
We had some good attacking play, but again we switched off at the back. I am not going to single out any individuals and it wouldn’t be fair, as we are a team and we learn from those mistakes as a team.
I think with the squad we have at present we are clearly under achieving in the league and I am sure you all will agree,
On a positive note I would like to mention a really fine performance today from the debutant Daryl James who had a hand in all of the goals and was a general threat throughout. It goes to show how far this club has come that we can attract a player of his quality and experience. I have been trying to convince him to join for a number of season’s now and I think he will bring good physical presence and that little bit of a spark that we sometimes lack. Also like to mention Captain Ross who seems to have produced some of his best football over the last couple of games when his position looked uncertain. Nice to see players genuine fighting to hold on to places as there is plenty of competition this season.
With 2 important cup ties round the corner let’s hope we can re-focus and get back to winning ways as soon as possible.
Man of the Match: Was won this week by Deano (again!) after another fine goal scoring performance. It seems that despite the injury lay off he is still scoring goals by the bucket load. I thought his partnership with Daryl was good today, seeing as it is the first time they have played together and hopefully this will contribute lots more goals throughout the season.
The Gaffer
FELIXSTOWE ATHLETIC V CLAPGATE CONS CLUB –
On a bright but chilly morning, Felixstowe Ath entertained Clapgate Conservative Club hoping to progress in the Suffolk Trophy. Having lost heavily a fortnight ago at the hands of
Felixstowe were boasted by the fit again hot shot striker Dean Shakespeare, Charlie had returned unscathed from the stag weekend in
Felixstowe lined up in a
Clapgate Cons Club had brought a good following to the Grove and were clearly up for today’s game.
The match started in a cautious fashion, with both sides feeling each other out, it was clear that the away side had some good young players and this was apparent when their number 11 went on a first run and left two players in his wake. This was clearly going to be no easy task for the home side.
Midway through the first half and with the home side now getting to grips with the game the opening goal duly arrived, Seffers found himself some room on the edge of the box and slipped as he made a shot. The ball ran on through to Deano who looked offside, but gleefully tucked the ball under the keeper to give Felixstowe the lead.
With the home side’s tail’s up, the passing tempo was being increased and Clapgate started to struggle to contain the wingers. Si Lucking was working hard in the middle to stop the away side from putting any moves together. Felixstowe did not have to wait long to double their lead when excellent work down the left from Craig Watson found Dean in the box and he coolly slotted past the keeper for 2-0.
With the home side now dominating it seemed like one way traffic, however Clapgate were unfortunate not to get back in the game when a neatly worked free kick was floated into the box and headed goal wards, however to their dismay the shot ricocheted off the cross bar and away to safety.
It was the wake up call Felixstowe needed when with the next attack excellent hold up play by Dean released Seffers, who shot low and hard into the bottom corner to give the keeper no chance. With Simpson and Charlie combining well down the right and Craig and Ross on the left it was clearly stretching Clapgate’s grip on proceedings.
Half Time: Felixstowe Ath 3 Clapgate Cons Club 0
Felixstowe started the second half off very much the same as the first, neat passing and good approach play and it seemed a matter of time before they broke through the Clapgate rearguard.
With the away side clearly unable to deal with the movement of the Felixstowe forwards, Seffers was unlucky to be ruled offside as he neatly tucked the ball into the net.Clapgate were fortunate not to be four goals behind. However the home side did not have to wait too long for it to arrive. When Felixstowe were awarded a corner, James Simpson flighted a lovely ball under the bar, the keeper got himself into a mix up and the ball nestled in the back of the net. Simmo duly claimed his sixth goal in as many games. (He did pay me a tenner to award it to him!!).
For the first time in the game Clapgate heads began to drop as the game slipped away from them, and when Seffers played in his striker partner, a neat turn and chip over the keeper from an acute angle duly compelled their fate. Deano had managed to notch a hat-trick on his return from injury. Once the celebrations had died down, the club’s leading scorer was duly substituted to prevent any repeat of the injury and with the game seemingly secure.
Two further substitutions were made by the home side with Ped and Seffers being replaced. The gaffer didn’t want to see Ped make it a hat-trick of withdrawals through cramp.
With the game seemingly over, things were to take an unexpected turn when the away side managed not one but two quick goals. The travelling support including a very excited manager, seemed to sense a glimmer of hope and the tension got even more elevated when suddenly Clapgate drove in a third.
With five minutes to see out, Felixstowe were able to escape anymore scares to duly take their place in the third round of the cup. Great credit to Clapgate Cons Club who refused to lie down and were rewarded with three goals. A great cup tie that had lots of goals and plenty of excitement.
Final Score: Felixstowe Ath 5 Clapgate Cons Club 3.
Gaffers Comments:
Well, a hugely enjoyable cup encounter, but could have done without the big scare at the end!!.
I am glad we were professional enough to come through what could have been a potentially tricky game and played some good football, particularly in the first half. We worked hard and there seemed to be more talking than we have had of late.
I will pick up on the negatives as well of course and it was disappointing to lose three goals when 2 if not all could have been avoided. I talked at half time about becoming complacent, I said if we let them back in they would take the opportunity and they did. It seemed like a re-run of the Rushmere game, becoming too comfortable and suddenly finding our selves in a game that was becoming too close for our own good. We must cut this habit out as one day it will cost us the match.
I was disappointed to hear one or two comments that making the substitutions I did, contributed to the concession of the goals. I do not agree with this at all. The squad we have is more than good enough and those players who came on, all have just as good footballing ability.
With a return to league action this week, it would be nice to take this cup form on and get a few more points on the board.
A special mention to Ross Southgate and Si Lucking who I thought were superb today, Ross won virtually every tackle and header and Si was involved from the first to the last whistle in the centre of midfield.
Man of the match- was won by the person who probably stole the show with a hat-trick on his return from injury, Dean Shakespeare.
The feat was even more remarkable in that he only ended up playing 55-60 mins of the game. I am sure he would tell you he would have scored 6 or 7 had he remained on the field! With 14 goals already this season his contribution has been immense. Let’s hope he stays injury free now for the rest of the season.
The Gaffer.
KIRBY STREET CONS CLUB V FELIXSTOWE ATH-League 3MB
With a late change of venue, Felixstowe travelled again to Bourne Park for an eagerly anticipated encounter with Kirby Street Conservative Club.
With injuries and commitments taking its toll, Felisxtowe arrived with a squad of 12 players. With Carl ill, Charlie on a dirty stag weekend, Deano still injured and Ped at work, the away side adopted a 4-5-1 formation with Simmo entrusted on ploughing the lone furrow up front. Seffers, Britchfield and Si made up the central midfield trio.
The game started at a quick pace and it was clear that the home side would enjoy large amounts of possession. Felixstowe were working hard to snuff out the attacks, but when a fortuitous shot deflected off a defenders foot, it fell conveniently to the feet of the Kirby left winger to slot underneath Mark in goal.
With Felixstowe finally getting to grips with the game, it looked as though they had rode the initial storm, however with Simmo isolated up front, the away side were finding it difficult to provide the support when they attacked. Britchfield was clearly struggling with injury in the centre and his effectiveness decreased as the first half went on.
As the first half slipped away, Felixstowe were unable to fashion any clear chance of getting back into the game.
Half Time: Kirby Street Cons Club 1 Felixstowe Ath 0.
The second half started much the same as the first, with the home side enjoying plenty of possession, and it wasn’t long before Kirby put the game beyond doubt with a second.
By the end of the game Kirby had helped themselves to 2 more goals, including another for their impressive left winger Aza.
As the Referee blew for full time, Felixstowe knew they had been beaten by a better side today but when the return game comes around Felixstowe will be quietly confident of reversing the score line.
Full Time: Kirby Street Cons Club 4 Felixstowe Ath 0.
Gaffers Comments:
Well can’t really say too many positives after this game. We had an off day today and we were not really at the races for most of the game.
I am the first to hold my hands up and say the formation didn’t work today, I think on another day it may have done, except we were very short of back up players today with at least 4 players missing.
I do think the 4-0 score line flattered them somewhat, as their first half goal was fortunate.
I was pleased with our work rate again today; the defence at times were great and were unlucky that 4 goals went past them.
I am slightly concerned that the rugby could be taking its toll on Steve Britchfield, as he had to limp out at half time which wasn’t great since we only had one substitute to call upon. Maffey did well when called upon and put in lots of energy and commitment,
The one disappointing attitude was our discipline; I find it unbelievable that we picked up 2 yellow cards for dissent today. I know the referee was a young lad, but he gave those decisions and we need to learn to live with them. It is completely unacceptable and this behaviour cannot continue.
We have a week off now to focus on a very important cup tie and I hope we forget this ‘blip’ and get back to winning ways against Clapgate Conservative Club in a fortnights time.
FELIXSTOWE ATH 03 V RUSHMERE & DIAMONDS-League 3MB
After the previous two weeks of cup exploits, it was a return to league action as Felixstowe Ath entertained Rushmere & Diamonds at the Grove.
Felixstowe made some changes from the win over EON with regular keeper Mark coming back in after returning from Holiday, Charlie returned from injury at Right back and Steve Britchfield regained his place in the centre of midfield. With Deano on the injured list, the striker’s role was entrusted to Simmo to partner Seffers in the regular 4-4-2 formation.
Felixstowe Ath started brightly from the off, and it was clear straightaway that the away side’s defence seemed a little apprehensive. So it was to prove with the game a little over 5 minutes old when Simmo’s pace took him past the back four and through on goal, his initial shot was blocked and just as the chance seemed to have gone Craig followed up to plant the ball past the helpless keeper.
The game continued in the same vein with neat attacking play, down both flanks and through ball’s searching out Simmo’s pace.
Spaces were opening up all over the pitch and a good run by Steve Britchfield down the left and a neat one- two with Craig looked like he would open his account for the club, however he dragged his shot just wide of the near post. Considering he was still drunk at kick off, he had started the game with good attacking endeavour!. Things were to get better for the home side shortly after when Seffers played a lovely through ball to the on rushing Simpson again, and this time he made no mistake with the finish to notch for the fourth game in succession.
With plenty of possession, Felixstowe Ath were comfortable in control of the game and it was clear to see that some Rushmere players had already seen the game slipping by. It was to get worse for the visitors when a good break in midfield, released Craig on the left who burst past the static right back, cut into the box and fired a lovely shot past the isolated keeper to put the home side 3 in front. It seemed like one way traffic, as again Felixstowe attacked this time Charlie overlapping Gilsey on the right wing, to swing a lovely cross that Seffers just failed to connect with, however in his efforts to score he left a Rushmere defender pole-axed and it was an early finish to the game for him.
Seffers did not have to wait long to get on the score sheet however, when another good through ball found the striker in acres of space, it seemed his first touch had taken the ball to far but with time to compose himself, he calmly slotted under the advancing keeper for his 4th of the season.
However things were not going to be such plain sailing for the home – side as the comfort zone of four goals was to prove their downfall. It seemed that with the job seemingly done, Felixstowe let their opponents back into the game, when they lost poccession on another attack people were caught out and Rushmere took advantage to pull a goal back. This was not to be the end of it, when another seemingly easy pass was given away by the Felixstowe defence, it gave the Rushmere attacker a chance to cross into the box and it was duly dispatched into the back of the net to make it 4-2. This gave the away side a boost as minutes earlier it had looked like all was lost. However their joy was to turn to sorrow when just before half-time another exceptional raid down the right hand side by Charlie, resulted in Craig climbing highest at the back post to nod in for Felixstowe’s fifth of the game and a hat-trick for the hugely impressive left winger.
Half Time: Felixstowe Ath 5 Rushmere & Diamonds 2
Felixstowe came out for the second half in the same attacking style as they had started the first, and it was clear that the Rushmere defence were weakening with every passing minute. I think even they would admit that some of the back four were past their playing best!.
Felixstowe continued to use the flanks to great effect and with Charlie providing the speed on the overlap on the right and with Craig skilfully eluding the defenders on the left, it was only a matter of time before more goals were going to come.
The Rushmere keeper who as it turned out was their stand in, seemed to have come out for the second half in inspired form as he managed to clear strikes from Seffers and Simmo as well as diving full length to clear a goal bound header from Dan Hammond. Try as they might, the home side could not build on the attacking emphasis from the first half, but they still managed to make it six. Craig again caused panic down the left and he was able to pull the ball back for Simmo to slot home his second of the game and his 5th of the season. Playing in the strikers role had certainly given the in- form player the chance to showcase his finishing skills.
With the game ebbing away from the visitors, a double substitution saw the arrivals of Maffey and in his new role as striker Carlos coming into the game. Some neat play straightaway from Maffey looked to put Craig in again, but the chances were snubbed out at the last moments.
Rushmere were not to be out-done however, and when a neat move in the centre of midfield picked out the away sides striker he was able to fire in a lovely shot that flew past Mark in goal.
Carl tried as he might to get his name on the score sheet, but as time ran out, the referee’s final whistle put paid to any plans of notching on his striking debut.
Final Score: Felixstowe Ath 6 Rushmere & Diamonds 3
Gaffers Comments
Overall a very pleasing result, some of our football today was outstanding and watching from the touchline most of us agreed it was a hugely entertaining game. We scored some good goals today, use of the flanks was superb and the midfield of Si and Steve worked really hard, Coupled with the fact we had lost our top scorer the week before it was great to get six goals on the board.
The only disappointing aspect was our lack of concentration when we had got ourselves a supposed comfy lead, several sloppy mistakes, which could have been easily avoided, gifted them two goals that in no-way did they deserve. We have to be aware, that even at this level we will get punished for complacency, and we were lucky that at the time we had such a comfortable lead. We need to eradicate this as we are becoming our own worst enemy at times.
Couple of special mentions today, firstly to Charlie who on his return from injury was fantastic down the right hand side (again!) and showed no signs of flagging despite his huge work rate.
Secondly, Craig Watson was outstanding today, scoring a hat-trick and having a positive say in almost every attacking move we put together. On days like this it is easy to see why he ends up top-scorer every season. With a bit more consistency he will have a superb season this year.
Man of the Match: Was won this week by Simmo who when pushed into a strikers role did not disappoint and helped himself to 2 goals. His work rate was great and some of his close control was stunning, most of the defenders today could not live with him. Great to see such a bright start from Simmo who considering he has been out for a season through injury is a great achievement.
The Gaffer.
E.O.N RES V FELIXSTOWE ATH 03 –
On a blustery Sunday morning Felixstowe Athletic travelled to Gainsborough Sports Centre for their second cup match in succession. Having dispatched of 3A Roofing last week, the away side were looking to make the second round in both cups for the first time in the club’s short history.
Again with some members missing, Felixstowe again changed the personnel, with emergency keeper Carlos coming in between the sticks as regular keeper Mark was on holiday. Charlie had sliced his head open in an unauthorised game of 5-a-side and had stitches in a nasty wound and Craig was on a shagging mission in
Felixstowe started the game brightly; it was clear straightaway that the E.O.N defenders seemed slightly edgy and were eager to scrape the ball clear at every opportunity. With increased presence in the middle of the field, the home side were finding it difficult to find any passes.
It wasn’t long before the away side got their noses in front; neat passing in the midfield and protection at the back by Ped allowed Adam to drive forward into the penalty area and with neat build up play by his brother was able to pick his spot and fire into the bottom corner for his 2nd of the season.
With Simmo swapping flanks to the left and Gilsey providing good width on the right, the E.O.N defence were getting stretched and when Gilsey made a marauding run down the right he found the space opening up in front, He shot at goal and the keeper did well to parry but only to Deano who pounced at close range to smash the ball home for a two goal lead.
Felixstowe were being to gain added confidence with the new formation and the home side never seem to have an answer.
Again it looked as if Felixstowe would breakthrough with every opportunity and the next move was only stopped in its prime by an eagle eyed linesman who denied Deano what would have been a chance at goal.
The first dodgy moment for Carlos in goal was when a high ball delivered from a free kick slipped through his hands only for him to quickly turn and smother the ball on the line!
Felix Ath’s 3rd goal was soon to follow, again good build up play down the right released Gilsey, whose brilliant cross was headed home emphatically by Simmo for his 3rd goal in as many games. The away side’s fluent passing style was beginning to destroy the home side’s confidence and player’s heads were clearly starting to drop.
With the home side’s linesman clearly in a generous arm raising mood it was really the only thing stopping Felixstowe Ath from getting more goals.
When the home side fashioned a chance the referee for some reason ordered a free kick on the edge of the box, however the resulting shot thundered into a Felixstowe defender and as the home side screamed for a penalty, Seffers picked out Deano with a delightful through ball. The striker ran onto the pass and shot confidently under the advancing keeper to put the away side four goals in front and score his 11th of the season already!
With half time approaching it was a case of keeping it tight at the back and protecting Carlos in goal, some fine tackles by Dan and Rossy saw to it that the away side went into the break with a clean sheet in tact.
Half Time: E.ON Res 0 Felixstowe Ath 4.
The second half started just like the first with Felixstowe Ath clearly still well on top and with quick attacking moves it seemed as if a hatful of goals were there for the taking. However the joy was to be short-lived when another surging run from Deano, was stopped short when the striker fell to the ground in agony. It was clear it was serious and it was apparent immediately that he was to take no further part. A pulled hamstring was to put an end to any thoughts of a hat-trick for the in-form goal getter.
This was not to affect the away side initially and again when Dave Seffers picked out Gilsey with a cross; it was the right winger who produced an exquisite chip over the keeper to put the game beyond doubt. It was Steven Giles’ second goal in succession and he was clearly revelling in the right wing role to produce his best performance for the club since signing in the summer.
With Maffey coming on as replacement for Dean, his direct running was continuing to cause problems for the E.O.N defence and it was beginning to be a case of damage limitation for the home side.
However being five goals down, didn’t stop the home side scoring as a long ball was cleared forward, an attacker managed to get through to slot past Carlos who up to this point had really nothing to do.
Steve Britchfield came on to replace the clearly tired Pete, whose cramp had crept up on him again it was now a case of keeping things composed and seeing out the rest of the game. However to flatter the score line, the home side were able to score when a corner wasn’t dealt with and the attacker managed to plant a header inside the near post to give the E.O.N an ounce of credibility.
Felixstowe managed to see out the remaining minutes to record another good cup victory and in emphatic fashion.
Final Score: E.O.N Res 2 Felixstowe Ath 5.
Gaffers Comments:
Again a superb performance this week, and am really proud that we are now progressing in both cup competitions this year. It is always good to have a cup run and I think we now have the strength in depth we need to continue the run.
The only disappointing thing was in the second half we began to lose the shape a little bit. This coincided with them managing to score 2 goals which wasn’t great as I don’t think they deserved them. I don’t often play this formation but when we do play it again I would like to see us stick to it as rigidly as possible.
Only sour note was the injury to Deano which will keep him out for a few weeks and hopefully not too long term. It remains to be seen at the moment whether this will have a detrimental affect on the team as he has already contributed loads of goals.
However that is why we need back-up players and the likes of Maffey and Carlos (who has decided he wants to be a striker now!) needs to step up and try and fill the gap.
Special mention to Gilsey this week who performed brilliantly today on the right wing and although he has had to hang around the touchline of late, impressed loads on his first full start for a while.
It’s back to league action this weekend and I hope we can take some of our cup form into the game and get the points on the board that I think we deserve.
Man of the Match – was won this week by Dave Seffers who again was excellent in the midfield role. Not only did he work tirelessly throughout, but he had a hand in four of the five goals. It is really good to have such a versatile player in the squad and he has never been found wanting in any position that he has been called upon the play. May his good form continue!
The Gaffer.
3-A ROOFING V FELIXSTOWE ATH 03 –
On a warm Sunday morning, Felixstowe Ath made their first away trip of the season to
The home side had started their respective season brightly on their debut into senior football and Felixstowe were under no illusions that this could be a tricky cup affair.
The Felixstowe manager decided to ring the changes for this game and in came Dan Hammond and Brett Ostler for their first full starts of the season and Charlie returned at right back after missing the defeat at Northam Celtic. A much changed back line and a Captain’s role for the first time for Adam Self. With Steve Britchfield racing cars, Seffers came into the centre of midfield and a first full start upfront for James Maffey who impressed as a late substitute against Northam.
The away side started the match brightly with some neat interplay and some good pacy runs from the wings provided by Simmo and Craig. The front two looked to have settled straight away and it was Maffey who had an early shot just wide.
The breakthrough was to come shortly after, when good play from Simmo down the right was flicked on by Maffey and there was Deano to steer a delightful shot into the net with the keeper in no man’s land.
Felixstowe Ath seemed to be in control and with the slick passing the home side for all their hard work, were finding it tough to break down.
Chance’s again fell to the away side and when Seffers turned and swivelled brilliantly in the box and sent a crashing shot towards the top corner, it looked as if it would be two, however the keeper stretched full length to turn it for a corner. This was to be the catalyst for the home side however, and they started to stamp some authority on the game. The longer the away side failed to find the killer second, the more 3-A Roofing took control, Felixstowe were becoming guilty of overplaying and their anticipation seemed to be slightly off and it was no surprise when the home side capitalised to equalise. The home side’s no.14, who seemed to be their brightest player, picked up on a loose ball at the edge of the box and fired in a low drive past the despairing dive of Mark in goal. Worse was to follow for the away side as a long ball pumped up field was allowed to bounce by Adam, and seized upon by the home side who sent a dipping shot high over Marks head and into the net to take the lead. This was greeted by raptures from the home sides watching supporters who believed they had a cup shock on their hands. Felixstowe responded immediately with Maffey firing a shot high and wide which he knows he should have done better with.
Half Time: 3-A Roofing 2 Felixstowe Ath 1.
Felixstowe kicked off the second half, stung by the first half showing by 3-A, and immediately equalised. From the centre the ball was played to Si in midfield who passed out to the left to Craig, who found Maffey running down the channel, and he drove into the box to fire in low past the stunned keeper. An awesome start to the second half!!.
The immediate fight back by Felixstowe Ath proved the killer blow and the home team looked visibly shocked to have conceded so early, and Felixstowe seized the iniative. Charlie and Simmo started to combine well down the right hand side and when Simmo found Deano in space, he drove into the box to be tackled by the on rushing defender who clattered Dean but seemed to have taken the ball. However the referee felt differently and awarded the penalty!!. Felixstowe’s penalty taker Craig (although don’t know for how much longer!) stepped up and fired the kick to the keepers right, he guessed though and turned it smartly round the post for a corner. Cheers were greeted with cries of ‘justice’ and I would be inclined to agree with them. The joy was short-lived however, when the resulting corner was brilliantly turned in to the top corner by Si Lucking to put the visitors ahead.
Felixstowe this time did not take their foot off the pedal and the passing became crisp and with genuine pace, 3-A were beginning to toil and a few heads began to drop. Their misery was to be compounded further when another surging run into the box by Dean and a sweet cutback was turned into the net by Simmo for goal number four and his second of the season.
It was now one way traffic for the away side and it was really a case of how many Felixstowe would score, it was unfortunately turning into one of those morning’s for Craig, who was desperate to notch but he came close again but somehow missed the target from close range.
With 15 mins or so left, the Gaffer decided to throw on Gilsey to give the game some fresh legs as Maffey had worked tirelessly up front. Gilsey’s first involvement in the game was to score Felixstowe Ath’s fifth goal of the game, again Craig and Dean caused mayhem in the home side’s defence and when the ball rolled to the edge of the box and the keeper nowhere, Gilsey thumped the ball into an unguarded net. A great first touch is all I can say!.
With the game ebbing away, Craig again was determined not to be left out of the goals and this time he succeeded. Another driving run down the left hand side saw him cut into the box and skip past the right-back to bury the ball low into the net. His goal was treated with cheers more out of relief than anything as he thoroughly deserved a goal for his second half efforts. 3-A Roofing kept running and trying to carve their way through, but the second half belonged to the visitors and it was Felixstowe Ath who were taking their place in the second round of the cup at the final whistle.
Full Time: 3-A Roofing 2 Felixstowe Ath 6.
Gaffers Comments:
Well what can I say about the second half performance!!. It was so good to watch, and the passing and movement was superb.
The first half showed where we need to improve, the problem we had was we were passing the ball well, just the movement wasn’t there and it was proving easy to breakdown. There were times when we had loads of time on the ball but no-one available to make the pass to and the move broke down. This is something we need to work on.
I shuffled the back line around this week, with Rossy making way although this was in no way making him a scapegoat. He was good enough to admit that he didn’t have a good game last time out and I respect him for that. There is always going to be competition for places and that is what we have lacked for sometime. Although we won the game comfortably in the end, we still need to eliminate some of the easy mistakes we are making at the back as at the moment it seems to be costing us goals. If we can sure this up and with the amount of goals we are scoring, can start turning this into a very successful season. It was difficult I know, with the back four being changed to adapt so soon, I give it the benefit of the doubt this week!
Overall a good result and lets hope we can get a cup run going this season as it would be a good distraction from focusing solely on the league as in previous seasons.
A special mention this week to Dave Seffers who I thought was immense in the midfield area today, not only did he do a job in the attacking area of the pitch, but he was also happy to help the defence out when needed. His work rate was great and his winning attitude the last few weeks has impressed me no end.
Maffey also gets a mention for a hugely impressive first start, capped with a really good goal. He has had to sit on the side lines quite abit in the early part of the season, but when given a chance has really give huge amounts of effort for the team cause.
Man of the Match- was won this week by Charlie who had an outstanding second half. His partnership down the right hand side with Simmo today, caused loads of problems to the home side and he never stopped running, He seems to be getting better and better with every match and let’s hope the bike stays locked away so he can play every week!!
The Gaffer.
FELIXSTOWE ATH 03 V NORTHAM CELTIC – Flare Div 3MB
On a warm but overcast morning, Felixstowe Athletic entertained Northam Celtic at the Grove. Having had a week off last week, it was essential that the home side hit the ground running. However the preparations for the match were nothing short of a disaster. New goalkeeper Mark has inadvertently left his kit in his van and managed to lock the keys inside. Dan Hammond yet to make his league debut was entrusted with making the hour round trip in order to try to get him there before kick off!! This proved a major headache for the home side, and the manager was obviously furious (See comments in Gaffers report).
With the team selection thrown into disarray, Carlos made his debut for the club charged with the responsibility of donning the keeper’s jersey and becoming the emergency stand in keeper. Gilsey made his first start coming in at right back as the rest of the team remained unchanged from the opening game.
Northam Celtic started the game in bright fashion, with some good early interplay, obviously eager to test the stand in keeper. With one such quick move forward the away side’s winger drew a foul out on the left hand side some 20 or so yards out. With the resulting free kick came the opener for Northam, the ball swung in, eluding everyone before dipping over Carlos’s head and into the back of the net. It was bad luck on Carl to have been beaten so early. Credit however to Felixstowe with the disruptions before kick off and going behind so early they refused to feel sorry for themselves and began some neat wing play with Craig and Simmo having a growing influence on the game. With one bright piece of play the home side got themselves level, Deano and Seffers combining well, leaving Dean to take on a defender and round the keeper to plant the ball into the net for his 7th goal of the season.
Again Felixstowe dragged themselves more into the game and when Simmo released Deano through on the keeper it seemed certain he would score but his passed shot was superbly tipped round the post by the Northam keeper. Felixstowe were not to be outdone and a superb turn from Seffers eluded the defender and a brilliant through ball found Dean who took on two defenders before squaring for Simmo who had the simplest task of tapping into the back of the net to give Felixstowe the lead.
However instead of spurring Felixstowe on, it merely encouraged Northam to get on the attack. Felixstowe were intent on playing into the away side’s hands, the passing was non existent and the long ball was isolating Dean and Seffers and starving them of service. With the defence having been shuffled it was clear to see the indecisiveness and poor communication and it was no surprise when a Northam defender had a free header from a corner to plant past Carl from close range. It left the keeper with no chance. It was becoming clear that the away side sensed more goals and this was to be the case. With 5 mins to go before half time, Northam took the lead again, the long ball tactic again working for them and when the ball was not cleared a Northam forward planted into the net.
Half Time Felixstowe Ath 2 Northam Celtic 3.
With Mark and Dan arriving midway through the half, Felixstowe came out for the second half with their regular keeper ready and prepared for the game. Felixstowe knew they had to pass the ball in order to get themselves back into the game and the early signs were good. Ped breaking things up in midfield and using the ball effectively. Craig and Simmo were getting more service for their non-stop running and it looked encouraging for the home side. However they were dealt a killer blow when a dubious free kick was awarded on the edge of the box. Mark seemed to have covered the angles effectively but a deflection off a Felixstowe defender left him flat-footed and with no chance. Felixstowe were now up against it. Dan Hammond finally made his league bow for the club coming on to ensure the defence remained tight while they chased the game.
The second half was now becoming one way traffic; Felixstowe finally found some sort of rhythm and were pouring forward with every opportunity. Craig and Simmo had the beating of the Northam full backs and it was concerning them. They brought on another defender to try and stem the tide, but it was Felixstowe who seized the initiative. Simmo again made a marauding run down the right hand side and found himself bearing down on goal, his shot eluded the keeper and was slowly running towards the line, Deano came in at the far post to make sure and claim his 8th goal of the campaign.
With 20 minutes left Maffey was introduced to breathe new life into the game, and his direct running down the left hand side almost paid dividends until a last gasp challenge from Northam cleared the danger.
Attack after attack came from the home side and Northam held on, Deano did break free, round the keeper and score but was adjudged to be offside. The chase to regain two goals was to ultimately prove one goal too far for the home side, and time ran out on a gallant and brave second half effort.
Final Score Felixstowe Athletic 3 Northam Celtic 4.
Gaffers Comments
To say that the preparations for Today’s game was a shambles would be an understatement. A goalkeeper declaring himself unavailable an hour before kick off, players more than half an hour late for the game, players in different changing rooms, half the team warming up without the others. These are just some of the things that occurred on Sunday morning and it is totally unacceptable and has to be sorted. We are a TEAM we need to work together as a team and get ourselves more prepared. I am sure I am not alone in saying we lost this game due to the examples I have stated above.
We have a quality squad, and we need to build upon this with a better understanding of each other. We have a distraction from the league on Sunday with a cup game and I could well make some changes based on the events of today.
Rant over, on the positive side I thought that our second half performance was good, I can’t fault the effort we gave, although I just wished we had done that from the start. We need to start passing the ball a hell of a lot more, we know we are capable of it, we tend to have lapses where we resort to just thumping it up field. We do NOT have the players for this, and I don’t want to play like this. People have pointed out to me and rightly so, that we probably have the 2 best wingers in the league and at times are anonymous because they are not given the ball. Coupled with the fact that up front we have 2 strikers who know where the goal is, one of which can score 30 + goals this season. I was pleased and disappointed about some of the arguing on Sunday but it shows we are bothered about our football and that is good.
The one thing that is worrying me is the fact that in the 2 games we have played so far we have conceded 7 goals already. Yes, we have scored 6 in the process which under normal circumstances would probably have given us 2 wins. We need to address the problem at the back; we need to perhaps work on set pieces and communication levels in order to improve. This I will discuss in due course.
I would like to give a special note of thanks for Carl who did a quality job in the sticks, although he conceded 3 goals it was his willingness to give it a try that impressed me. Yes Carl and Rossy I do owe you a pound each!!
Man of the Match today was won by Simmo, who worked non stop, sometimes without reward, but I was glad he got on the score sheet. I think with more games under his belt he will get better and better and prove a top player for the team this Season. The Gaffer.
FELIXSTOWE ATH 03 V THE BLACK HORSE – Flare Div 3MB
On a warm, but blustery morning at the Grove, Felixstowe Athletic kicked off the eagerly anticipated first match of the new season. The pre-season has seen some busy transfer activity with no fewer than 10 new players recruited to make the club stronger still.
Mark in goal, Charlie, Pete Hammond, Steve Britchfield, and Striker Deano were all making their competitive debuts. Coupled with the return of the ‘prodigal son’ Simmo after a season’s absence, things are looking bright for the club.
Felixstowe started the game in confident mood and it was soon clear that the home side had bossed the opening exchanges. With Simmo and Craig causing problems from the start it was clear to see that Felixstowe would cause problems for the young looking Black Horse defence. With some neat intricate passing, the home side created the first chance, a move involving the front two of Seffers and Deano, ended with Deano just off target. Eager to make up for the missed opportunity, a snaking run from Deano past a couple of defenders and a ball across the box lead to the first goal of the game, tapped into the net by Craig. Eager for the top scorer’s trophy for the 3rd year running he was in the mood.
Due to large amounts of pocession it was what the home side had deserved. However, joy was to be short-lived when a corner from Black Horse swung dangerously into the box and dispatched past the unfortunate Mark in goal for the equaliser. Rough justice on the home side, as Black Horse had offered little in attack.
Half Time Felix 03 1 Black Horse 1.
With conditions now in Black Horse’s favour it was clear from the start of the second half that the away side were to adopt the long ball approach with wind assistance in the hope that the home sides defence would make mistakes.
The pattern of the play was set, but the home side knew there would be chances against a defence who were becoming worried about the increasing threat of Seffers and Deano up front. It was to be one such attack that culminated in the home side regaining the lead when Dean’s directness and quick feet, paved the way for Seffers to open his account for the season with a confidently dispatched strike into the back of the net.
Again Felixstowe were to pay the price however, as back came the away side refusing to lie down. An opportunistic long ball managed to hold up in the wind and elude the central defender and Black Horse were on hand to receive the gift to equalise yet again.
Things were to get worse for Felixstowe when a promising debut at right back for Charlie was cut short through injury. Another debutant Gilsey stepped in as an emergency right back. Another long ball raid from Black Horse again resulted in confusion in the home defence and for the first time in the game the away side took the lead with little under ten minutes to go. Back fought Felixstowe and the highly impressive Dean forced an instinctive save from the visitor’s keeper to keep Black Horse in the lead.
Just when the game seemed lost for Felixstowe Athletic, again Deano danced into the oppositions box, mesmerised a couple of defenders and buried the ball past the keeper to rescue a point at the death much to the relief of players and touchline alike!!.
Final Score Felix Ath 3 The Black Horse 3.
Gaffers Comments:
Overall a satisfactory point to kick off the new season, I think it was important not to lose today’s game and we battled hard right to the end which was good to see.
With so many new recruits coming in over the summer, it was important that we had 5 good pre season games for everyone to get to know each other and gel as a team. The players making their debuts did really well with Ped and Steve forming a good partnership in the centre of midfield. Charlie was impressive at right back and hopefully he can stay clear of injuries to make an impact in the team. Gilsey came on and settled in straightaway to prove he will be another good asset for the team. With Carlos, Toby, and Danny still to come in, I feel we can compete in a league which is obviously going to be tough this year.
One debutant who was outstanding today was Dean, who scored one made the other 2, and generally terrorised the life out of the away side’s defence. I think we have finally found an out and out goal scorer who is going to benefit the team greatly. I now need to hope that we can tie him down to a long term contract to heed off the big clubs!!
Special mention also for Simmo who played superbly after battling back from a year long injury.
Man of the Match – With 10 votes Deano is today’s MOM. If he continues to make an impact like that we have a good chance of competing in the upper reaches of the league. The Gaffer.