Merley Allendale YFC

Sunday 16th September 2007  Blandford Youth 1  Merley Allendale 1
The Under 9’s opened their 2007/8 Dorset League campaign against last season’s runners –up Blandford and again the match proved to be a tough and exciting match but not as open as last season’s 4-3 Merley victory as both teams shared the points with a 1-1 draw. Fitness will be a big test for the boys this year as after playing 15 mins each way last year the use of substitutes will be key to cope with the new 25 mins each way rules.
      The match started evenly with the host’s restricted to a few long range efforts while Merley’s first chances come from Richard Dowling and Alex Wright who were unable to get a clear shot on goal after a penalty area melee. Blandford were making the most of the downhill advantage and soon their number 10’s pace was showing as he was getting the better of defensive pair Max Mason and Luke Parris. Keeper Charlie Pickard then had to come to the rescue a couple of times as he either dived bravely at the oncoming striker or he was pushing long range efforts around the post.
      David Higbee had Merley’s best chance of the half as the Blandford keeper found the right midfielder direct from his goal kick. But David’s effort when wide as he was unable to control the ball whilst under pressure and the shot went wide. Blandford continued to press and wasted at least 3 chances before they took the lead with a long range effort after a cleared corner to take the lead just before the break.
      The 2nd half started better for Merley as George Richardson began to impose himself in midfield with the downhill advantage. Then after Sam Whitty and Richardson battled their way down the left flank they found Joe Rendell in the box. Rendell then beat one defender before his powerful shot took a slight deflection to find the back of the net for the equaliser. Both teams continued to create chances from midfield but both defences were well organised and were cutting out any openings. With Bradley Richards back on towards the end his pace opened up a route to goal on the right flank but each time Merley’s final pass to create a clearing shooting chance failed.
      Then right at the end Blandford’s number 10 nearly took all 3 points as his rasping left foot effort just went wide of Charlie Pickard’s goal. On the balance of play as Blandford had more efforts on goal Merley were pleased with a share of the points and Keeper Charlie Pickard picked up the Man of the Match award for some excellent saves and outstanding bravery.
Man of the Match - Charlie Pickard

Sunday 23rd September 2007  Merley Allendale 0 Boscombe Albion 0
The Under 9’s dominated possession and attempts on goal but somehow Boscombe Albion held on to a goalless draw at Fenner’s field. It was George Richardson and Bradley Richards on the right who made the early raids on the visitor’s goal but their keeper looked to be in good form as he easily dealt with the long range efforts.
      At the back Cameron Dickman looked very composed as his intelligent passing was opening up the left wing for Sam Whitty to keep the pressure on the Boscombe defence. Leading the attack for the first time was Joshua Lord who was finding space and openings limited because of the well organised and strong Boscombe defence but he was interplaying well with Richardson and Whitty in creating chances and he also had a header well saved.
      Keeper Charlie Pickard was only troubled once in the first half and again he was on his toes to dive bravely at the oncoming striker’s feet. The half ended with one way traffic and two Merley corners, which they were unable to convert.
      The hosts came out sharper and more aggressive in the 2nd half and it appeared only a matter of time before the Boscombe defence would be opened up. Joe Rendell had a couple of half chances but their keeper was in the right place again. Bradley Richards looked the most likely to score as he was finding space on the right but each time his shot was blocked or just missed the target. Then after a goal kick fell at striker Alex Wright’s feet a goal looked certain but his skilful chip over the keeper narrowly missed.
      Then Boscombe had their 2nd attack of the game as they out paced Max Mason at the back. With Charlie Pickard also beaten as the ball came back off the post it was left to Kierran Fanner to clear a certain goal. As the clock ticked on even defender Luke Parris went in search of his 1st ever goal but Boscombe’s soil defence cleared the goalmouth melees.
       With David Higbee now winning tackles in midfield George Richardson went on a weaving run only to see the ball cleared before his final shot could be made. Merley’s last effort came from Bradley Richards again on the right but his looping effort was pushed around the top left hand post by the excellent keeper to keep the scores level at the final whistle. Another day Merley could have won this match 8-0 but not today as their domination was not converted into goals.
Man of the Match – Bradley Richards

Sunday 30th September 2007   Canford Warriors 1   Merley Allendale 3
The Under 9’s won their first match of the season in style as they outplayed current league leaders Canford Warriors. The fantastic setting and playing surface at Canford School suited Merley who passed the ball about beautifully for a 3-1 victory.
      Canford, who had not conceded a goal before this game, had defensive pair Luke Parris and Max Mason under pressure from the start but soon they were timing their tackles well and clearing the danger. After 5 mins George Richardson started to ‘boss’ the midfield as was opening up the flanks for the Merley attacks. Then against the run of play a Canford attack on the right made it’s way into the box when a bouncing ball hit Luke Parris on the arm and the referee pointed to the spot. Charlie Pickard was helpless from the spot kick, as Canford had scored from their first shot at goal.
Direct from the restart Bradley Richards went down the right to find Joe Rendell who’s looping effort bounced into the corner to level the scores.
      Then with the hosts unable to get the ball out of their half Merley piled on the pressure as Richardson weaved his magic before being closed down before shooting while Max Mason had two shots well saved as he followed up his cleared corners. The teams somehow went in level despite Sam Whitty and Cameron Dickman on the left keeping the pressure on the Canford defence.
      As Merley knew Canford looked to be ‘on the ropes’ they came out ready and hungry for some early goals in the 2nd half. In David Higbee and Alex Wright the Canford defensive soon had their pace to worry about. Then after passing two defenders down the right wing David Higbee finished his strong run with a near post shot to beat the keeper for 2-1. On 35 mins Alex Wright’s persistence for pressuring the host’s defence paid off as he ran onto a Richardson pass to finish well for 3-1.
      Merley continued to create chances with Richard Dowling teasing the tiring defence with this dribbling and running at defenders. After linking well with Joe Rendell, Dowling found Bradley Richards free on the edge of the box only to see his shot go wide. The half ended with brave Luke Parris and George Richardson taking knocks to the head as they continued to win the midfield battle.
All who watched were impressed with Merley’s passing game on this excellent surface and this result against the league leaders will tell other teams that Merley will be one of the top teams to beat this season.
Man of the Match – Luke Parris

Sunday 7th October 2007   Merley Allendale 5    Corfe Mullen United 0
      Victory over local rivals Corfe Mullen at Fenner’s field celebrated two major milestones for the leopards as their 5-0 win was their biggest ever victory to date but more importantly it is now over a year since their last home league defeat.
      Spurned on for many of the boys to play against a fellow Merley 1st school pupil, the hosts were well on top from the start with Richard Dowling darting his way through the Corfe Mullen defence to release Alex Wright who was unable to convert when faced with the keeper. With the Merley defence of Luke Parris and Cameron Dickman clearing any danger immediately the visitors continued to be camped in their own half. David Higbee on the right had the next chance but his effort when wide after good work from George Richardson in midfield.
      After 5 mins an Alex Wright shot was saved well by the keeper but Richard Dowling reacted the quickest to score his 1st of the season to put Merley 1-0 up. 5 mins later their keeper saved well again from a George Richardson shot and this time Alex Wright somehow got it over the goal line for 2-0. Poor Charlie Pickard in goal at this point had only touched the ball twice as soon George Richardson hit the side netting. Then after Merley had won a succession of corners on the left Richardson’s corner was deflected pass the keeper for 3-0 at the break.
      The 2nd half started with Corfe Mullen winning more balls in midfield but either Kierran Fanner was on hand to clear or the pace of Luke Parris or David Higbee was enough to cut out any danger.
Joshua Lord was linking up well with the midfield and his passes down the left gave Sam Whitty two good shooting chances, which just missed the target. As the half ticked on Merley were creating chance after chance as both Bradley Richards and George Richardson went close. Then on 40 mins Luke Parris continued his strong run down the right to get behind the defence and his cross found Richard Dowling unmarked for his looping effort to drop into the corner for his 2nd of the day for 4-0.
      Now George Richardson was looking for another goal and as he was weaving his way through the Corfe Mullen defence he was brought down and a penalty was given. Keeper Charlie Pickard rarely comes outside his box let alone the other half so when his left foot penalty hit the back of the net he got the biggest cheer of the day from the Merley parents.
      Merley finished 5-0 and now move up to 4th in the league with Captain George Richardson narrowly taking the man of the match award from Richard Dowling.

Sunday 14th October 2007   Poole Town Colts 1   Merley Allendale 0
      The Leopard’s unbeaten run finally ended as they undeserved lost away to Poole Town Colts 0-1.Merley were unable to break down a physically strong and well organised Poole Town defence who were fortunate to score from one of only three attempts on goal. The Leopards unfortunately did not make the most of their possession and goal attempts and therefore suffered their first defeat in over 10 months.
      From the start Merley had their hosts camped in their own half and Joe Rendell had the first chance of the game as he blasted over after good work from Richard Dowling and George Richardson on the left. Chances then became slim as the Poole Town defence of 3 comfortably deal with all the Merley attacks which were going down the middle. Then George Richardson weaved his way to the by line only to see the Poole defence scramble it away.
      The half finished with Poole’s physical strength stopping Merley passing it down the flanks.
Straight from the restart Bradley Richards had a good run and his shot was well saved by their keeper. Then after a high ball got over the defence of Luke Parris and Kierran Fanner their striker got to the ball before Charlie Pickard for Merley to watch in despair as the ball rolled goal bound for it bounce in off the far post for 0-1.
      Merley came back with more pressure and a succession of corners from Sam Whitty and Max Mason. Then after a short corner Richardson hit the post from a narrow angle.
From another corner David Higbee was close to scoring but somehow Poole cleared the ball from a goalmouth melee. As the clock continued to tick down Poole continued their physical battle in midfield which the referee was happy to let go unpenalised. Two more half chances came Merley’s way as Alex Wright tried running through the defence and a Joe Rendell near post effort was blocked just in time.
      David Higbee won the man of the match award for his continuous running and some fantastic sliding tackles. At the end the Poole Town manager admitted that they were lucky to win but it was not to be Merley’s day and after this result they are currently 5th in the Dorset league.

Sunday 21st October 2007   Merley Allendale 11   Heathlands High Flyers 0
      The boy’s bounced back from last week’s defeat to record the Leopard’s biggest ever victory as they beat lowly placed Heathlands High Flyer’s 11-0 at Fenner’s field. Within 3 mins Richard Dowling helped Merley get their first goal as Joe Rendell had set up the left midfielder to see his shot curl around the keeper. Through Bradley Richards on the right Merley continued to attack and soon it was 2-0 as George Richardson found Dowling cutting in from the left.
      After 8 mins Richard Dowling had his first ever hat trick as he pounced after their keeper failed to hold onto a Joe Rendell shot. With Richardson dominant in midfield soon his powerful shot crashed onto the cross bar and over and later his shot went wide after a weaving run. Soon Merley were queuing up to score more as Joe Rendell had a shot well saved and Bradley Richards just missed when faced with only the keeper to beat. Then thanks to some excellent positioning on the left again Richard Dowling scored two more quick goals to make it 5-0.
      At this time manager Paul Whitty felt it was time to help Heathlands and substituted Richard Dowling who amazingly had scored 5 goals in 15 mins. Merley continued to have the visitors camped in their own half thanks to defensive pair Kierran Fanner and Max Mason, then David Higbee saw his header from a corner smash against the bar and went over. Higbee was soon rewarded with a goal as his near post effort crept in to make it 6-0 at the break.
      The 2nd half started with Merley continuing to be on top and soon Cameron Dickman’s clever passing was creating more chances. The leopard’s next came after an excellent run and cross from Bradley Richard’s on the right which found Joshua Lord in the box to score this first league goal for the club. Straight from the kick off Lord was through on goal and the keeper was unable to keep out this long shot for 8-0. Captain George Richardson got the next as his powerful effort was well placed in the far corner. Now all the boys wanted to get onto the score sheet as poor Heathlands were unable to relieve the pressure. Merley’s double figure tally came from defender Luke Parris’ 1st ever goal as from a short corner Parris’ near post reaction shot squeezed into the corner.
      As Charlie Pickard had only touched the ball twice he swapped positions with midfielder Max Mason and soon the Merley keeper found the net for the 2nd successive home fixture as he made it 11-0. This record breaking victory was just what the boys needed after the disappointment of last week and their success was down to themselves as they continued to make chances by passing the ball rather than running with it themselves. Merley now move up to 4th in the Dorset league. Richard Dowling took the man of the match award for this outstanding first 15 minutes when he scored 5 goals.

Sunday 28th October 2007    Longfleet Youth 1    Merley Allendale 1
      After last week’s impressive 11-0 victory the Under 9’s struggled to make the most of their goal attempts and possession to see them draw for the 3rd time this season. But Merley now have moved up to 3rd in the Dorset League as results went their way.
        The match kicked off in slight drizzle and David Higbee looked dangerous down the right wing with his pace causing problems for the Longfleet defence, but his final ball was either blocked for corners or their defence was able to cover the through balls to striker Alex Wright. Longfleet's attacks were quick and strong but the defensive pair of Luke Parris and Cameron Dickman were quicker and had to be on their toes to keep the hosts pinned in their own half.
      After a strong run from George Richardson on the right his cross found Richard Dowling on the far post but as he cut in to shoot Longfleet just cleared the danger. Dowling soon had another chance but their keeper won the 1 on 1 chance after good passing interplay through Richardson and Wright.
On 10 mins Longfleet caught the Leopards defence on the break as their striker calmly shot past the oncoming Charlie Pickard for 0-1. Merley continued to keep the pressure on with Richardson winning everything in the air and Parris marshalling the defence. Then just before the break Joshua Lord went close as he hit the side netting.
      Straight from the kick off Dowling and Lord sliced their way through the hosts defence again only to see them clear before the final shot was made. With Max Mason and Kierran Fanner now on the defence continued to look strong. Sam Whitty on the right and Joshua Lord were linking up well and soon Lord had a good shot but it lacked power and was well saved. Then it was Whitty’s turn but before he was able to get his shot in Longfleet cleared the danger. Then on 35 mins after good work from George Richardson on the right his cross found Joshua Lord who finished well for the equaliser at 1-1.
      By now the rain was getting heavier and Merley were now throwing everything into attack for the victory and Richardson almost undid the Longfleet attack on his own but was unable to finish. Longfleet then again looked dangerous on the break but again Luke Parris was on hand and his strong run and cross found Lord in the box who was unable to convert. As Longfleet tired Alex Wright had two good runs at their defence close to the end but the hosts hung on for a 1-1 draw.
      By the end the boys were wet and cold from the weather and had worked very hard to try and gain the victory. After the previous week’s goal-feast it would have been nice to have kept a few goals back for this match as again the boys were unable to kill off a team who they had dominated for most of the 50 mins. Man of the Match – Joshua Lord.

Sunday 4th November 2007   Merley Allendale 4   Poole Borough Hornets 1
    Poole Borough’s goalkeeper had on be on top form to kept the score-line down as the Under 9s dominated possession and chances to win 4-1. But it was only in the last 5 mins when the Leopards scored twice did the result look safe as again Merley were unable to capitalise on their dominance.
Merley took the lead on 5 mins when a powerful George Richardson shot from the right caught their keeper off his line for 1-0.Then it was all one-way traffic and a goal feast looked certain but Richard Dowling and Joe Rendell were unable to extend the lead as either their keeper saved or they missed the target.
      On 10 mins after a good passing move from Richardson and Dowling, Joe Rendell ran through on goal to see his powerful shot double the lead. The Leopards continued to look likely to add more goals as Bradley Richards had a couple of chances after more good passing interplay by the Merley attack. On 20 mins Poole had their 1st attack of the game as they got behind Kierran Fanner and Luke Parris only to see their striker finish well for 2-1.
      The visitors then came more into the game and Luke Parris had to time his tackles well to keep the pressure off. The Leopards last chance came after Richardson found Alex Wright in the box only to see his shot loop onto the top of the goal. Merley knew the next goal would decide the winner and again started the half well with Alex Wright causing problems down the right wing. His pace got him away from the defenders only to see his shot hit the side netting and then he had a couple of good crosses which Joshua Lord was unable to convert.
      With Cameron Dickman partnering Luke Paris at the back Charlie Pickard’s only danger came from a defensive back pass. Then a George Richardson dribble resulted in his shot being blocked
Their keeper continued to keep Merley out as Max Mason missed the target while the keeper was recovering from a Joshua Lord save. Then Richard Dowling then was unable to convert a cross with only the keeper to beat and Bradley Richards saw his right wing effort hit the side netting.
Then just a Merley looked like having to settle for 2-1 a Richardson pass found Joshua Lord in the box for him to score and settle the match. Two minutes later Lord had his 2nd of the game as he powerfully knocked it into the far corner for 4-1.
      Merley face tougher opposition over the next few weeks and whilst their approach play is excellent they need to be more deadly in front of goal. George Richardson took the man of the match award as he dominated the midfield. Man of the Match – George Richardson.

Sunday 11th November 2007   Merley Allendale 2   Ringwood Rangers 0
      The Under 9’s consolidated their 3rd position in the Dorset league with a workman like performance against Ringwood Rangers at Fenner’s Field. Although competitive in midfield the visitors never really trouble Merley’s defensive trio of keeper Charlie Pickard and defenders Luke Parris and Max Mason who still boast the best defensive record in the Dorset league.
      Merley started uncertainly as they were trying to run the ball out of defence but after 5 mins their passing game returned with good interplay from George Richardson and Richard Dowling. On 8 mins after a couple of attacks down the right flank Alex Wright won the ball and ran at goal before seeing his shot from just outside the box hit the back of the net for a 1-0 lead.
      The Leopards continued just to have the edge in midfield but their final passes into the box just failed to find their man. After a Richardson weaving run and shot failed to hit the target Wright had another chance but his effort also went wide. Then on 20 mins Joe Rendell thought he had scored after his effort beat the keeper only to see it hit the post a roll back across the goal and go out.
Then just before the break Merley’s corner practises also paid off as Luke Parris met a perfect Max Mason corner only to see his rocket header just sail over the bar.
      David Higbee started the 2nd half with some perfect passing and soon Bradley Richards on the right was finding lots of space and soon saw this run and shot hit the side netting. Ringwood were soon counter attacking but with Kierran Fanner supporting Parris and Mason at the back the visitor’s route to goal was blocked.
      On 35 mins Ringwood had their best effort of the game but Charlie Pickard was perfectly positioned to catch and release another Merely attack. Then another Ringwood attack needed Parris to concede a corner after a terrific run and sliding tackle. Up front Joshua Lord was linking up well with the midfield but his only real chance came after a poor Ringwood goal kick, which their keeper just managed to recover and save. Then on 40 mins Merley scored their 2nd thanks to Luke Parris half volleying in another excellent corner from Mason on the near post.
      Ringwood remained camped in their own half for the remaining 10 mins with the Leopard’s final chance falling to Alex Wright who hit the side netting after a quick move down the right wing. Man of the Match – Alex Wright.

Sunday 25th November 2007   Merley Allendale 1   Heathlands 1
    The Leopards (currently 3rd) faced league leaders Heathlands in a top of the table clash. This battle saw few real goalmouth chances as both midfields cancelled each other out as they shared the points. From the kick off the Under 9s and especially their defence of Luke Parris, Max Mason and Keeper Charlie Pickard knew they were going to be in for a tough 50 mins as the visitors soon had the defence pinned in their own half.
      After Luke Parris had to cut out a few crosses it was left to the perfect positioning of Max Mason to clear the danger from Heathlands first real venture into the Merley penalty box. On 10 mins Merley found their rhythm and started passing the ball with Joe Rendell linking up with the midfield and passing the ball down the flanks. The host’s first chance came via Rendell and Richard Dowling who was unable to finish a lovely ‘one two’ move.
      Rendell then looked dangerous as Heathlands just won the leg race on goal after a great George Richardson through ball. As Merley continued to be on top another Richardson – Rendell combination saw Joe score from 8 yards for a 1-0 lead. Soon Alex Wright had another chance for a second but this narrow angle effort just went wide. As the half closed Heathlands had 3 good chances as first Charlie Pickard save well low down then he saw a free kick just go over the bar. Then Luke Parris saved the day as he headed over from a pacey cross.
      After the break the visitors began to look for an equaliser but with Sam Whitty and David Higbee on in midfield Merley looked to be in control. As the half ticked on the pressure continued to build on Luke Parris and Max Mason whose clearances were soon coming back as Merley were unable to get out of their own half. Joshua Lord battled away up front but each time Merley broke the Heathlands defence snuffed out the final ball. Still Heathlands pressed on but Merley looked like they were going to hang on as Cameron Dickman boosted the defensive effort.
      Then with 5 mins to go Heathland’s cross from the right found their winger who shot just before Luke Parris could cover and the deflected effort beat Charlie Pickard at the near post for 1-1.  Merley saw out the last 5 mins with George Richardson heading clear another corner but the hosts were unable to create one last attempt on goal.
      At the end both teams were pleased with the draw, as although Heathlands had some strong players they were unable to break down the league’s best defence until the last 5 mins. Next week the teams meet again in another table topping match, which Merley will be looking to get the edge over the league leaders. Man of the Match – Max Mason

Sunday 16th December 2007   Boscombe Albion 0   Merley Allendale 2
    The Under 9s finished 2007 with a workman like effort with a 2-0 victory away against Boscombe Albion. The Leopards started slowly in the cold and wintry conditions as the hosts made the most of the smaller pitch and had Merley pinned in their own half and under pressure.
     Boscombe were comfortably returning all of Merley’s clearances and their long throws into the box had Luke Parris and Max Mason under pressure. Mason was timing his tackles perfectly while Parris and George Richardson were winning the aerial battle. Merley continued to look uncomfortable as Boscombe shot over the bar in front of keeper Charlie Pickard from another long throw. After 15 mins the leopards started to put some pressure on their defence as Joe Rendell started to release wingers Richard Dowling and Alex Wright.
     On 20 mins against the run of play Merley were gifted a goal when after good pressure from Dowling and Richardson their defender’s back pass to a very cold keeper was fumbled through his legs to see the ball trickle over the line for 1-0.
     The 2nd half started better for Merley as George Richardson and David Higbee began to win more possession and started to push forward. Bradley Richards was unlucky as he was unable to get his shots on target after finding good positions on the right. Boscombe were still not out of it as they won a succession of corners. Then after another long throw Charlie Pickard’s goalkeeper training showed as he somehow got down to make a fantastic double save to keep the hosts out.
      Cameron Dickman was now partnering Luke Parris at the back and made a great tackle when faced with two oncoming Boscombe strikers. Dickman’s passing out of defence to Rendell was also relieving the pressure. By now the game was opening up and via Merley’s passing chances were coming their way. David Higbee almost made it 2-0 but Joe Rendell took the ball off his toe after a great cross from Bradley Richards down the right.
     Merley’s winner was a typical hardworking team goal as Alex Wright’s sliding tackle on the right won the ball for Richardson and Rendell to thread the ball to David Higbee on the left. His shot was partly saved by their keeper only to see Alex Wright react the quickest to make sure of the goal as he blasted in from ‘an inch’ out for 2-0.
      Joe Rendell who had battled well up front and linked up well with the midfield took the man of the match award. This victory finished off a fantastic end to 2007 where as U8/U9s the Leopards have only lost one match in 20 all year. With 15 wins ,56 goals scored and only 15 conceded they boast the beat defence in the Dorset U9 league which they finish the year in 3rd position in the league. For photos of this match please go to www.eventfocus.co.uk and input ‘boscombealbion’ as the password

Sunday 6th January 2008   Merley Allendale 2  Canford Warriors 1
     The Under 9s kicked off 2008 in fantastic form with a 2-1 victory that flattered visitors Canford Warriors who were one place below Merley in 4th place in the Dorset league.
It was a dream start for the Leopards who had the lead after 90 seconds after Alex Wright had charged down a Canford clearance in their own box only for the ball to fall to Richard Dowling to score his 8th goal of the season.
     Merley than started to pass the ball around perfectly with striker Joe Rendell linking up with all three of Merley’s midfield. Down the right wing George Richardson and Alex Wright were getting some early crosses in again after good work from Rendell and soon both Richardson and Wright had efforts that just went wide.
     By this time Canford were hardily getting a kick of the ball thanks to the team’s fantastic passing. Keeper Charlie Pickard did not touch the ball in the first half thanks to the Leopards’ dominance with Luke Parris and Max Mason in defence never really troubled.
Merley almost doubled their lead after the ball was kicked over the Canford defence for both Joe Rendell and Richard Dowling to chase. Rendell just beat the keeper to the ball only to see his effort just trickle wide of the post.
     Canford started the 2nd half stronger but soon Merley were back on the attack thanks to some good wing play from Bradley Richards down the right, who within minutes had set up another Rendell chance. David Higbee was now in central midfield and soon he was finding Sam Whitty who was causing problems for Canford down the left with two good dribbling runs. After good work from Joshua Lord the ball bobbled just before Whitty could shoot when well placed.
     Then on 35 mins Luke Parris lobbed the ball into the box for Sam Whitty to chase who scored with his right foot for his first goal of the season. As the clocked ticked on Canford began to attack more and soon Charlie Pickard was called into action by saving twice at their striker’s feet. Then after a corner Merley concede a free kick just out side the box. From the free kick Pickard pushed the ball onto the ball and in the goalmouth melee that was cleared Canford had a handball appeal turned down. With a minute to go Merley conceded a soft consolation goal as a defensive drop kick and clearance was returned by Canford into an empty net.
     This was a comfortable win for the Leopards except for the last minute who at times were passing the ball beyond their 8 and 9 year old ages for an impressive start to the year. Sam Whitty took the Man of the match award for his excellent work down the left wing and his goal.

Sunday 20th January 2008   Merley Allendale 2   Poole Town Colts 0
    The Under 9’s gained revenge for their only defeat in 2007 by beating Poole Town Colts in the final few minutes at Fenner’s Field. With 3 mins remaining the match was still scoreless so credit must go to the Leopards who kept battling right to the end to gain this deserved result and remain 3rd in the Dorset league.
     Merley kicked off with the wind behind then and soon Poole were chasing shadows as the host’s passing game had then pinned in their own half. George Richardson was controlling the midfield and with Joe Rendell up front as the target man Merley were having all of the possession. David Higbee had the first chance of the match but he was unable to get his shot in after nice touches from Rendell. After 10 mins the Poole keeper had to save well as a powerful long shot from Alex Wright on the right also crept in.
     Meanwhile at the back the formidable defence of Luke Parris and Max Mason were easily in control of Poole’s pacey attack as keeper Charlie Pickard only touched the ball once in the first 15 mins. After 20 mins Merley almost scored after another Richard Dowling dribbling run caused panic in the Poole defence but as he combined with Rendell the visitors cleared the danger. The half closed with Charlie Pickard pushing the ball around the post after Merley failed to clear the ball in defence.
     Bradley Richards started the 2nd half well as his pace was causing problems down the right with a well saved shot and some good runs and crosses. Both Joe Rendell and Joshua Lord then had long range efforts but they were too far out to cause a serious threat. By now Poole were pushing forward more but still Luke Parris and the tough tackling Sam Whitty continued to clear any real danger. Lord and Dowling then had chances must Poole cleared the goalmouth melee.
     Charlie Pickard made two great saves from long range to keep Merley in the match, first he pushed a looping shot out for a corner then parried another looping shot and grabbed it just before it crossed the line. Then with 3 mins left captain George Richardson broke the deadlock when his near post cross from the right wing fooled their keeper for 1-0 and mass celebrations. As the clocked ticked down Merley won themselves a corner which Sam Whitty whipped in again to see Richardson reach first at the near post for 2-0.
     Apart for avenging our October defeat to Poole Town there were two additional rewards in victory:
     a) it extends the Leopards unbeaten home run to 17 months
     b) was a great birthday present for coach Kevin Perry
George Richardson took the man of the match award as apart from his 2 goals his passing and tackling in this tough match were outstanding.

Sunday 27th January 2008   Heathlands High Flyers 0  Merley Allendale 10
    The Leopards did their goal difference a power of good as they beat bottom of the league Heathlands High Flyers 10-0 away despite only having 8 players available, 2 of which were playing while recovering from illness. Although it was a comfortable victory the goal eagerness of the boys did meant that some of their excellent passing play over the last few weeks was forgotten.
     From the start Heathlands were defending very well although Merley had them camped in their own half and it was not until 15 mins that the Leopards got the breakthrough. After Richardson and Dowling had combined down the left the ball was passed towards the back post were Bradley Richards was waiting to score his first league goal for the club. Then the flood gates were opened as first George Richardson had two good long shots that just missed the target then a looping shot when over the keeper for 2-0.
     Max Mason whose early corners were causing concern then almost added a third as a looping shot narrowly when over. Then Richard Dowling who scored 5 in the home fixture earlier in the season made it 3-0 with the best goal of the half as his quick feet gave him the space to shoot into the bottom left hand corner. Poor keeper Charlie Pickard did not touch the ball in the first half as soon Richardson made the most on the downhill advantage by hitting the bar. Then after a Heathlands corner Merley broke at pace to see Joe Rendell clear of the defence by the half way line, but instead of taking it closer Rendell’s long range effort surprised the keeper and it crept in for 4-0. Sub Sam Whitty narrowly missed the target with his first kick of the game and then shot over a minute later to see it 4-0 at the break.
    The 2nd half started with Merley kicking slightly uphill and their next two goals were especially pleasing as they came from two excellent Sam Whitty corners. George Richardson headed in the first as his near post effort looped over the keeper while the second saw Luke Parris powering in from the back post to see his header rocket past the keeper for the best goal of the game. By now everyone was trying to get onto the score-sheet and in fact the Merley boys were getting in each others way on occasions. Keeper Charlie Pickard was then called into action as two of his drop kicks set up more Merley attacks down the left.
     Bradley Richards made it 7-0 as he was first to react after their keeper could only parry a Sam Whitty effort. Richards almost made it a hat trick after he dribbled through the defence only to hit the bar. Parris then volleyed in from another corner to make it 8-0. The Leopards 9th was a well worked passing goal as the 3 ‘ R’s combined with Richards and Richardson setting up Rendell for his 2nd goal. After Richardson hit the bar again he got this hat trick after his dribbling run down the left was steered into the near post for a 10-0 final score.
     Although keeper Charlie Pickard was a spectator for much of the match he took the Man of the Match award as he had to be patience while watching his team-mates notch up the goals and it was also a reward for some fine form over the last few weeks. Man of the Match – Charlie Pickard

Sunday 3rd February 2008   Merley Allendale 6  Longfleet Youth 1
     The Leopards were never really troubled against Longfleet as they opened the scoring within a minute and then went on to comfortably win 6 – 1 at Fenners. But even before the match the Under 9s lost a player as Alex Wright who had survived a week of skiing uninjured fell awkwardly in the warm up and had to sit out the match.
     With the wind behind them Merley were well on top and within 50 secs Joshua Lord finished well with a half volley to take the lead. Five minutes later it was Lord again as he scored from close range after a Richard Dowling through ball. Merley were well in control with captain George Richardson winning all the loose balls in midfield and setting up Richard Dowling down the left and Bradley Richards on the right. Then on 8 mins Lord almost had his hat-trick as his powerfully hit shot hit the bar and went over.
     On 12 mins Lord combined with Richard Dowling whose darting run gave himself space to pick his spot to score from close range for his 10th goal of the season. Dowling almost added another as he headed over a Richardson free kick on the right. Lord then scored his first hat-trick for the club as he made space for himself in the box to score with his left foot. At the back Charlie Pickard had to be on his toes as the ball got over defenders Max Mason and Luke Parris only to see him clear the danger on the edge of his box by clearing it with his feet.
     At the other end Richardson continued to create chances as Luke Parris just failed to latch onto another of his free kicks then his dribbling run got him into the box on the left to set up Higbee and Whitty only to see Longfleet scramble it away. The half finished with Max Mason using the wind to its advantage by whipping in a couple of good corners.
     The 2nd half started with Charlie Pickard making a fantastic one handed save to keep the visitors out. Then after Richardson combined with Joe Rendell the ball was passed out onto the right to see David Higbee steaming in like a train to see him blast it in from the edge of the box for 5-0.Rendell then almost got goal of the match as his near post volley from a Richards cross just flew over the bar.
     Sam Whitty was now linking up well with Richardson and Rendell on the left and then almost scored as his run and shot hit the side netting. Longfleet then got one back as Merley failed to clear a near post corner to see the visitors score at the back post. With Mason and Parris still well in control at the back Merley continued to play good football and make chances. On 40 mins Richards sprinted clear on the right to see his rocket shot make it 6-1 and his 3rd goal in 2 weeks.
     Merley continued to dominate and could have easily added another 3 goals as Richards, Rendell and Lord had good chances to extend their lead. At he end the 6-1 scoreline did show the difference between the teams as even the Longfleet manager was impressed with the Merley performance. Joshua Lord took the man of the match award for his excellent finishing and hat-trick which secured the result within the first 15mins.

Sunday 10th February 2008   Poole Borough 0  Merley Allendale 6
     The Under 9s continued their fine New Year form with their 6^th successive victory away to lowly placed Poole Borough. With both Cameron Dickman and Kierran Fanner returning to the team after 2 months it helped cover for the two boys who were missing due to illness. From the start the Poole defence were memorised as Merley’s outstanding passing and approach play soon had their hosts camped in their own half.
     Striker Joe Rendell had the first two chances but each time their keeper was positioned perfectly to save. Then Alex Wright could have had himself a hat-trick as again their keeper kept them out or he just missed the target after some excellent passing from midfielder George Richardson. Then on 10 mins Richardson fed Rendell who turned their last defender perfectly and sprinted away to smash it past the keeper for 1-0. Just as the flood gates could have opened Merley who were missing Luke Parris in defence for the first time this season looked uncomfortable at the back as Poole were counter attacking with pace. Three times Max Mason and Cameron Dickman were caught out but keeper Charlie Pickard saved bravely twice and the hosts missed the target to keep the Leopards ahead.
     On 15 mins after pressure down the left David Higbee reacted first to a failed clearance and he placed the shot in the corner of the goal for 2-0.Merley continued to look likely to score a third after a succession of corners but some how it was only 2-0 at the break.
     The 2^nd half started with the Leopards defence looking more secure as both Mason and Dickman were better positioned to win the key tackles .On 30 mins Rendell and Richardson combined again in the box to see Rendell score his 2^nd for 3-0. With substitute Richard Dowling being used in attack for the first this season it took him 3 touches of the ball before he had scored his 11^th goal of the season as he was fed a through ball again from Richardson. Sam Whitty had some good chances down the left with a long range effort that just missed the angle and an effort being headed off the line after lobbing the keeper.
     Merley continued to look likely to add to the scoreline as Richardson shot wide after running with the ball from midfield and Kierran Fanner’s effort just went wide after good approach play down the left. Dickman and a brave Pickard just managed to put off another Poole counter attack to see the Leopards take a comfortable 4-0 victory although the boys had enough chances to hit double figures.
     With 20 goals in the last 3 matches and only 1 conceded Merley rewards for their outstanding passing and approach play is paying dividends as they are now 7 points and a game in hand clear of 4^th place and tracking both Blandford and Heathlands whom they still both have to play. Cameron Dickman took the man of the match award for some battling runs and some outstanding tackles in the 2^nd half.

Sunday 17th February 2008   Ringwood Rangers 0  Merley Allendale 2
    The Under 9’s continued their winning run with a hard fought 2-0 win away to Ringwood. The early start and frosty pitch seemed to take the players by surprise as they seemed “out of sorts” for much of the game. The match started with Ringwood having the first attack but the Merley midfield and defence soon stopped their threat. After a couple of minutes Birthday boy Alex Wright ran down the right wing and shot just wide of the goal. A minute later, David Higbee broke down a Rangers attack and passed the ball to George Richardson who found Joe Rendell in space and he fired the ball low into the goal to make it 1-0.
     After 6 minutes Rangers had another attack, which was again stopped by the defensive pair of Luke Parris and Higbee. Merley continued to win the midfield battle and after good passes between the Merley players the ball found its way to the other Birthday boy Sam Whitty whose shot was saved by the Rangers keeper.
     After ¼ hour, Rangers found a way through the Merley midfield and defence but Higbee cleared their shot off the line. Rangers continued to attack and saw another effort go just wide. After 16 minutes Richard Dowling and Cameron Dickman came on as substitutes and four minutes later the ball was passed to Dowling whose low shot slipped through the keepers grasp to make it 2-0 to Merley.
After 24 minutes Merley keeper Charlie Pickard made his first save of the match and cleared the ball well to start another Merley attack. A minute later, a Parris clearance found Rendell whose shot went just wide of the goal.
     Kierran Fanner came on to replace Wright in midfield and made several good challenges in the second half to keep the pressure on the Rangers defence. Chances in the second half were few and far between but with 15 minutes of the 2nd half gone, a Max Mason clearance found Joshua Lord whose shot was saved by the keeper. Then a short corner between Mason and Richardson saw a well hit low cross by Richardson go straight through both sets of players who were in the Rangers penalty area and go off for a goal kick.
     Merley continued to apply the pressure and despite several more corners were unable to convert them into another goal. With another win under their belts, Merley have consolidated their 3rd place in the league and the next few matches will show how well the team can perform against tougher opposition.
     Man of the match for his hard work in midfield – George Richardson

Sunday 24th February 2008   Merley Allendale 2   Broadstone Colts 0
    With the winners of this match likely to finish 3rd in the Dorset league this local derby against Broadstone was always going to be a close match. So congratulations must go to the Under 9’s who patiently waited and took their chances and gained a 2-0 victory which guarantees them at least 3rd spot, a one place improvement on last year.
     Merley started strongly and dominated possession and territory but were having problems breaking down the well organised and strong tackling defence. Joe Rendell was turning their defenders well but was unable to get any real clear chances on goal. After Rendell and Richard Dowling had pressurised their defence Dowling had his snap show well saved by the Colts keeper. Broadstone now started to look dangerous on the counter attack as Charlie Pickard had to save well after a Max Mason slip. With Richardson driving forward after winning the loose balls in midfield Merley continued to look likely to score. Richardson and Rendell then combined to release Alex Wright whose shot hit the bar and went over. The half finished with a succession of Sam Whitty and Max Mason corners which caused panic in their defence but Merley were unable to get their heads on.
     Broadstone came out the 2nd half stronger as they began to win the ball more in midfield and soon Luke Parris and Max Mason were under pressure. A succession of long shots were only relieved by Bradley Richards who started running at their defence down the right as some good dribbling runs from Sam Whitty. After more pressure from Broadstone corners keeper Charlie Pickard had to be on his toes by coming out of his box to clear the danger. With David Higbee and Alex Wright back on in midfield Merley began to push further forward. Then after Joshua Lord was tripped just outside the box their keeper could not hold a Richardson free kick and Lord and Whitty were unable to score from the tight angle.
    On 40 mins George Richardson drove forward again after winning the ball on the left and saw his rocket shot go through a crowd of players and hit the bottom right hand corner of the net to break the deadlock. Broadstone heads were now down as their keeper kept out another Wright cross from the right. Then 3mins later Richardson scored his 2nd from the same spot as their keeper could not keep the ball out. Lord and Richards were then just beaten to the ball by the brave Colts keeper after Wright had fed the ball through.
     Luke Parris took the man of the match award as his defending as usual was again first class as his cool head and positioning had kept Broadstone out during their good 10 minute spell in the 2nd half.
Congratulations to all the U9s as well as securing 3rd place in the league their unbeaten home run has now been extended to 18 months. Their only ever home defeat was against Blandford in October 2006 who they play in their last game of the season at Fenner’s which will decide who wins the title.

Sunday 2nd March 2008   Broadstone Colts 0  Merley Allendale 5
     The Under 9’s notched up their 9th successive victory with a 5-0 away victory over 4th placed Broadstone Colts. After securing 3rd place last week against the Colts we were expecting a much closer match.
     Kicking down slope the Leopards started off a little lack lustre as passes were going astray and Broadstone looked hungrier for the ball and it was Luke Parris and Max Mason in defence who were soon put under pressure. But thanks to Parris’s tackling aided by Bradley Richards in support Merley soon had the hosts restricted to high looping long shots which keeper Charlie Pickard was able to deal with. Then Richards had Merley’s first real chance as his long shot looped over the bar. Then Joshua Lord had a long range effort that was easily dealt with by their keeper.
     On 18 mins George Richardson combined with Sam Whitty in midfield whose through ball found Lord just outside the box. This time the keeper could not hold his shot as it was pushed onto the post and it trickled in for a 1-0 lead. Two minutes Lord had his 2nd as a Sam Whitty nearly scored direct from a corner as it deceived the keeper at his near post to see Lord tap it in on the goal-line.
     Merley where fortunate to be 2-0 up with two soft goals but the 3rd was one which David Beckham would have been proud of. After Lord was fouled centrally just outside the box Sam Whitty curled the free kick into the top left hand corner for 3-0 at the break.
     The first 10mins of the second half were going to be crucial as Broadstone had the down slope advantage. In defence Cameron Dickman was now partnering Parris and was winning all his tackles and setting up Richard Dowling down the left wing. Alex Wright was everywhere winning the ball and running at the hosts defence and after working a great one – two with Joe Rendell he crossed from the right to find Dowling in the box who finished in style to score his 13th goal of the season.
     On 35 mins Joe Rendell was unlucky to score as his shot was well saved by their keeper as he again pushed the effort onto the post but first to react was Richard Dowling who nipped in to score again for 5-0. Dowling then almost had a hat trick as he shot wide after pouncing on a poor Broadstone goal kick. By now Wright was bossing the midfield with Broadstone unable to get any shots in on Charlie Pickard’s goal. The match finished with Max Mason’s free-kick almost finding Bradley Richards in the box and David Higbee almost scoring from a tight angle after their keeper had left his goal open.
     Alex Wright took the Man of the Match award for this excellent midfield performance in the 2nd half. Next week Merley visit league leaders Heathlands which will be a real test and a possible league decider as Merley have scored 35 and only conceded 2 goals since the sides drew in November.

Sunday 9th March 2008   Heathlands 1  Merley Allendale 1
     Merley became the only team this season to take points off of the league leaders at home as the teams drew 1-1 in this closely contested fixture. The match was a game of two halves as Merley had their chances in the first 25 mins but with the hosts looking stronger at the end both teams were pleased with the draw. Heathlands still have a chance of winning the league despite this result as the Leopards, who are guaranteed 3rd spot, face the other potential league champions Blandford in their final match of the season at Fenners in 2 weeks time.
     Heathlands kicking downslope on the sticky pitch started strongly but as Merley have the best defence in the league they knew they were going to be in for a tough battle as soon Alex Wright and George Richardson were winning the loose balls in midfield. In the first 5 mins Heathlands had two chances which went close with their best effort just going wide of Charlie Pickard's far post from a corner.
     After a succession of quick throw ins up the left flank from Max Mason and Luke Parris on the right Merley began to camp Heathlands in their own half and under pressure. Joe Rendell had a good early chance but his shot from inside the box was well saved. Merley continued to go forward when Alex Wright found Richard Dowling darting forward only to see him tackled as he tried dribbling through their defence. On 15mins after some quick thinking between Mason and Richardson, Mason’s short corner found the Merley captain who blasted it past their keeper at his near post for a deserved 1-0 lead.
     By now Heathlands started to come forward more but with Luke Parris and Max Mason working well together, the defensive pair where able to clear the ball well. Then David Higbee on the left began to look dangerous as had a couple of good runs and another shot which was well saved. As the half closed Charlie Pickard made a hat trick of saves as first he dived bravely at the attackers feet then he pushed a shot round the post. Then just before half time he leapt and caught a long range free kick from just under the cross bar to frustrate the host who went in 1-0 down at the break.
     Heathlands came out determined not to give up their league title ambitions in the 2nd half and again Parris and Mason with Richardson in midfield had to continue to work hard to clear the ball. Bradley Richards was working hard up front in relieving the defence by putting pressure on the hosts defence. As Heathlands were having problems with the Merley defence they started trying long shots and soon Pickard was called into again with more saves. Then on 37 mins Heathlands pressure paid off as another long range effort just beat Pickard in his top left hand corner despite the Merley stopper getting a hand to it to see it 1-1.
     With 15 mins left Merley knew they had to start to create more chances if they were going to take all 3 points but there best chances were restricted to two Sam Whitty corners which were scrambled away as the Leopards were being to tire. In the last 5 mins Heathlands continue to look for the winner but with Like Parris and Charlie Pickard blocking their last effort the match finished 1-1 with both teams pleased with the draw.
     Although this was not a great passing game with lots of chances the Under 9’s should be proud of the result as they worked hard in closing down the league leaders. Keeper Charlie Pickard took the man of the match award as he made a number of outstanding saves as well as making a number of good drop kicks. Man of the Match – Charlie Pickard.

Sunday 16th March 2008    Corfe Mullen 2   Merley Allendale 4
     Thanks to the wet and blustery conditions the Under 9s struggled to pass the ball about but had to work hard to beat a much improved Corfe Mullen team 4-2. The hosts kicked off and were soon winning the midfield battle and had Merley’s defence of Luke Parris and Cameron Dickman under pressure. This Corfe Mullen team were physically stronger in midfield and playing a lot better than their current 2nd from bottom of the league suggested.
     Despite a few long shots from Joshua Lord it was the Merley goal that was under pressure as the Leopards were unable to keep possession of the ball. It then looked only a matter of time before the hosts would score especially after Charlie Pickard had to make a fantastic double save from point blank range. Then just as Merley looked like they would ever get on top David Higbee decided to shoot from just inside their half. His shot caught their keeper by surprise and the bounce beat him for a 1-0 lead at the break.
     Merley started the second half much stronger with the midfield trio of David Higbee, George Richardson and Kierran Fanner winning more possession and were able to find striker Joshua Lord who was either able to hold onto the ball or feed the ball back to Fanner on the left. Although Lord was unable to get any direct efforts on goal his twisting and turning was beginning to worry the Corfe defence.
     On 35 mins a Higbee and Richardson short corner resulted in the ball rebounding back to Richardson on the edge of the box whose left foot shot went straight into the top left hand corner for his 12th goal of the season. By now the game was beginning to open up for Merley as Bradley Richards just missed the target after a Higbee cross. Richards almost had another after a good run and pass from Kierran Fanner down the left. Then on 40 mins Merley success’ from Sam Whitty’s corners continued when his corner was not cleared and the ball found Alex Wright 1 metre out for him to blast it in for 3-0.
     Corfe Mullen continue to look dangerous coming forward with Luke Parris as usual clearing the danger but they got their reward when a long range effort got the better of Charlie Pickard for 3-1.Almost from the kick off Alex Wright got the best goal of the game as he dribbled through their defence and sprinted away to place it past the keeper for 4-1.Whitty and Richards then almost scored as their keeper dived bravely to keep the pair out. In the dying seconds Corfe Mullen beat Pickard again at his near post as Corfe became the only team this season to score more than one goal against the Leopards.
     Corfe Mullen proved to be much harder than expected as the Merley boys had to battle in the cold and wet conditions for their 15th win of the season. Kierran Fanner in only his 3rd game back since breaking his wrist in November took the man of the match award for his good runs and passing down the left wing.

Sunday 23rd March 2008   Merley Allendale 4  Blandford Youth 1
    With the league title up for grabs for the visitors Blandford this was always going to be another exciting match between two of the county’s top teams and this match did not disappoint as both teams played some outstanding football. Before the match Blandford were guaranteed the league title if they won at Fenner’s field and with 2nd place Heathlands watching from behind the goal expectations were high.
    From the kick off Blandford started strongly and appeared to have an extra man when attacking as defenders Luke Parris and Max Mason were facing their toughest defensive test of the season. Merley were trying to pass the ball but with Blandford quicker to the ball they were keeping the pressure on the Leopards defence. Richard Dowling had an early Merley chance as he was unable to get onto an Alex Wright cross and his effort went over.
    Blandford continued to dominate and soon had a dozen good chances to score, but with keeper Charlie Pickard in outstanding form recently their strikers were going to be in for a frustrating time. Pickard bravely stood up well to save and grab the rebound when faced with a one on one with their striker and then he smothered a loose ball as again he bravely dived to gather the ball in the goalmouth.
    Then after 10 mins Blandford’s pressure paid off as the Under 9s defence was overrun and the visitors took a well deserved lead. Blandford went looking for the 2nd and almost got it as in a goalmouth melee which was blocked by a brave Richard Dowling was winded and had to go off. With David Higbee replacing Dowling Merley began to win more possession in midfield and after a good run from Alex Wright down the right his cross found Higbee in the box for him to score the equaliser.
     Blandford now knew they were in a tough match as they were not used to teams coming back at them and soon Richardson was becoming more influential in midfield as he was beginning to drive forward when in possession of the ball. Dowling then almost dribbled through to set up Rendell but the visitors cleared .Then on 20 mins Dowling fed Alex Wright down the right and his pace got him away from the defence to score inside the box for 2-1.
    Blandford still looked dangerous on the break as Parris and Mason were outnumbered again as Pickard bravely saved well. Then just before the interval Blandford’s striker missed the target when put through when only faced with Pickard.
    Merley started the 2nd half strongly with Rendell having two good chances, one that just missed the target and the other saved. By now Wright who was doing a fantastic job in marking their influential number 10 and Richardson were starting to dominate the midfield as their fitness was beginning to show. Sam Whitty was covering well on the left and had a couple of good corners which Blandford cleared ,one being a goalmouth melee after good positioning on the far post from Wright.
     On 35 mins Joe Rendell was rewarded with an excellent finish as his 2nd touch from a Wright pass had their keeper well beat for 3-1.Merley looked to be well on top and had more chances with Richardson running at their defence at ever opportunity. Higbee then hit the bar, Wright almost scored on the right and Richards missed the target when well positioned.
    On 40 mins Richardson again won the ball in his own half and drove forward but this time he hit a perfect 20 metre pass onto Bradley Richards who sprinted away from the defender to score pass the outcoming keeper for 4-1.The match finished with Parris still in control in defence and Richard Dowling dribbling past their defence on the right and just missing the target.
    Joe Rendell took the man of the match award as apart from a well taken 3rd goal he played well in turning and pressurising the visitors defence. The under 9’s finished their 2nd season with their best ever performance against a top team. The way they came back from being a goal down proved they are an outstanding and hardworking team of which all the players should be proud of. They fully deserved their victory and their 3rd place in the league. Along with the best defensive record in all of the Dorset under 9s leagues, if only they hadn’t dropped those points in the autumn they may have been challenging for the championship.
    Coaches Paul Whitty and Kevin Perry are extremely proud of this seasons’ achievements and look forward to improving on them even more next season.