Merley Allendale YFC

10th September 2006  Merley Allendale 2  Wareham Rangers 3
    Encouraging start to the season against good opposition. Merley started very well, with lots of possession, but conceded after about 10 minutes against the run of play. New team captain Michael Higbee then equalized after a determined run, saw him out pace the Wareham defence, and execute a cool finish over the advancing keeper. Wareham then regained the lead, and it remained 2-1 at half-time. Throughout the whole game, Ben Simmons, was excellent in goal for us, and kept us in the game with numerous ‘one on one’ saves, thoroughly deserving  his MOM award. Michael Higbee then scored a second equalizer, showing the same qualities as he had in the first half, namely pace, bravery, determination, and careful finish. He certainly leads by example! Unfortunately, Wareham went on to score a third, and we were unable to reply. None the less a very good performance, with all the lads contributing well, in very warm conditions. Already there appears to be a good team spirit after the difficult summer involving the merger of the two mini soccer sides. Keep up that level of performance boys, and the results will come!

17th September 2006  Poole Town Colts 2  Merley Allendale 3
    Merley started very well, but conceded after about 20 minutes. Ben Simmons, in goal, was unlucky to be beaten by a dipping shot. We never troubled their keeper enough in the first half, but had been attacking the smaller of the two goals!  This was mentioned at half-time, and the boys agreed to change this after the restart. Unfortunately, we conceded a second goal early on from a corner, and were looking at a 2-0 deficit. Defeat wasn’t on the boy’s minds, however, and Alex Shenton turned the game around with a superbly taken shot from a difficult angle. Now there was only one team in it, and Michael Higbee drew us level with a determined effort. We attacked far more in the second half, but could have gone behind again as they hit the crossbar, and Harry Low cleared off the line. Forward Jason North fully deserved his MOM Award for all his selfless running, but was pushed very close by Gareth Griffiths’ all action display. Just when a draw looked the likely outcome, James Chipchase was alert as their goalkeeper kicked out poorly, and he chested it down and tucked it away in the bottom corner. Each goal was celebrated in some style by the whole squad, once again showing a good team spirit. To win 3-2, having come back from 2-0 down shows great character, well done, lads!

24th September 2006  Merley Allendale 2   Weymouth Terras 2
    Expectancy was high before the match, after the previous weeks good performance. In the end we were relieved to get a point from a game, that had Weymouth taken their chances, they could have won by two or three goals. The opening exchanges were very even, but midway through the first half Weymouth carved out a few very good efforts. Max Timmins was unfortunate to have an attempt ruled out for offside. Michael Higbee let their goalkeeper know that he was around with a typically whole-hearted challenge! After 20 minutes, three substitutes were brought on as usual, including Luke Green making his debut wide on the right. At the end of the first period, Jason North shot from the right, and it went in at the far post. A great time to take the lead as Weymouth barely had time to restart before the half-time whistle sounded.
    At the interval we appreciated that we were more than a little fortunate to be 1-0 up, and would have to improve in the second half if we wanted victory. The Terras had other ideas, and quickly pulled a goal back. They then took the lead, with a well taken goal, from their point of view. With time running out, and a lack of goal scoring opportunities, we looked to be heading for defeat. But five minutes from time, one of their defenders, handballed inside his own penalty area, and the penalty was awarded. Alex Shenton was nominated to take the spot-kick, and although their ‘keeper got a hand to it, he was unable to prevent a goal because of the power of Alex’s left boot!
Coach Paul Timmins had the lads practicing penalties the day before, so it’s particularly satisfying when training pays off.
    Once again we didn’t give up, and took something from the game. There was no ‘MOM’ award this week, because the performances were all of a similar standard, with no one player standing out from the rest. Like my old school reports, could do better!

1st October 2006  Parkstone Heights Hawks 2  Merley Allendale 0
    Anticipating a tough game, we played with only one striker, in a 4-5-1, formation. On a very windy day is was always going to be a game of two, very different, halves. With the wind behind us from the start, we had to put on a good display, but found ourselves a goal down inside 5 minutes! A defensive mix up allowed their player to tap in from close range. We then slowly found our feet, and created a number of good chances, notably Michael Higbee hitting the post and James Chipchase’s  goalbound shot winding Jason North! Parkstone played well against the wind, and Ben Simmons kept us in the game with some first class saves, commanding his area with authority.
    At half time I was concerned that Parkstone might run riot, with the wind behind them in the second half, but our lads played very well. However, just as in the first period we conceded a goal very quickly, this time virtually from the kick-off. We must learn to concentrate for the whole of the match! Thankfully, the players battled away against the strong wind, with Michael hitting the bar, and Matthew Page having a looping effort cleared off the line. It wasn’t all one way, but Parkstone struggled with the wind behind them, as we had, with the ball continually running away from their players and out of play. Ben was rightly awarded the man of the match award, by their manager. His drop kicking was terrific, especially against the wind, as was Alex Shenton’s spot-kicking and free kicks. No points on this occasion, but a good performance from everyone, which can be improved upon in certain areas, as we have the return fixture with Parkstone in a fortnight’s time.
Keep up the effort, boys, and the performances will keep improving.

Sunday 8th October 2006   Dorchester Town Stars 1   Merley Allendale 4
    The game ended with a 4-1 victory, it could have finished 8-1, but it was a below par performance. I will take responsibility for making too many changes, to the starting line-up, formation, and some players playing out of position, for a game that I thought enabled us to do so. The result was a lack of shape and understanding. That aside, we did take the three points and will hopefully have learnt something from the game. I certainly have!
    Anticipating a good result, we were soon left shocked by a customary goal conceded within the first five minutes. It took a marvelous goal from distance from Luke Green to equalise. It was Luke’s first goal for us, and may it be the first of many, as he settles in. Two minutes later Max Timmins gave us the lead with another contender for the goal of the month. This was Max’s first of the season, and was well deserved, shooting from distance, from the right hand side. We then proceeded to have a succession of chances, including a few one-on-ones with the goalkeeper, but were unable to add any more goals before half time.
    After the restart, we again dominated the game, without it being particularly pretty. Jason North came off the bench to score two well taken efforts. The second was after a shot by Max had been parried by their ‘keeper, with Jason being alert, and continuing his good start to the season. Another good effort from Max hit the post, but it remained 4-1. Alex Shenton had an excellent game, and was awarded the MOM award by the Dorchester Manager, who I totally agreed with. Tim Parker also had a very good game, keeping up a consistently high level of performance. We have two difficult games coming, and will need to be at our very best. In turn, I will play stronger for longer, and not tinker about too much again. Sorry!

Sunday 15th October 2006   Merley Allendale 4  Parkstone Heights Hawks 2
    Preparation for this game was not ideal with both Gareth Griffiths and Luke Green being unavailable on the morning, owing to illness. We had 12 available and this highlights the importance of having a large squad. Having lost to the same opponents only two weeks before, I thought that it would be a day to forget, as after 10 minutes we were 2-0 down! Parkstone play some nice football, and were well on top. Perhaps, on another day they could have been 5-0 up by half-time. Miraculously, we were able to claw our way back into the game as the half wore on, and Michael Higbee restored some pride, netting a trademark goal, as he did his impression of the roadrunner, and blasted first past their defenders, and then their keeper! To go in 2-1 at half-time was a relief to say the least. A rousing team talk was needed at the interval, and the lads were encouraged to go out and ‘put on a performance’.
    Max Timmins capped a very good individual performance with a goal immediately after the restart, and from that moment on there was only one team in it. We weren’t to know that at the time, however, and couldn’t have dreamt that we would go on to score two more without reply. As Jason North broke away, he was caught by three defenders, but managed to coolly place an accurate shot inside the far post. Then a superb corner by Alex Shenton had Parkstone in disarray, and Matthew Page lashed his first goal of the season into the roof of the net! At the other end Ben Simmons was faultless in goal, and the defence stood up to all that was thrown at them, one perfectly timed tackle by Sam Walon was the pick of the bunch. We weren’t finished as James Naylor lofted a shot that came back off the bar. Michael Higbee was awarded the MOM by the Parkstone manager, who agreed that it was a game of two contrasting halves.
    Well done to all the players who gave their all, albeit after the usual slow start! If we can eliminate this characteristic, there are far more positives to come out of the game. We are getting stronger as a squad, and have some very effective tactics to develop. I’d like to see us play a bit more passing football, but I’m sure that will come in time.
An excellent result and performance, which should put us up to third in the table. Keep it up, lads!

Sunday 5th November 2006   Merley Allendale 2  Dorchester 3  (A.E.T)
    What an enjoyable game! Two evenly matched sides, played in good spirit, and style. With Dorchester having four under 11 Sunday sides, we were unsure what level our opponents would be. It soon became apparent that they were of very similar standard to ourselves, with goal scoring chances being created at either end, virtually from the kick-off. Paul Timmins had discovered a warm-up technique that he thought might cure our slow start to a game, and for the first time this season we seemed ready for the opposition. Well done to the starting eleven, let’s keep that up from now on.
    Both goalkeepers were excellent in this game, and kept it scoreless at half-time. When Dorchester hit the post, I thought that Lady Luck might be on our side. As well as the good start to the game, we certainly passed the ball far better than at any time so far this season. We’ve worked on this in training and it seems to be paying dividends. It’s not only effective, but also good to watch! Alex Shenton played the pass of the game, inside the full-back, during the first half, it was intelligent, accurate, and perfectly weighted – fantastic! The home crowd was swelled by the Stuart family, who travelled down from Yorkshire. It was great to see them all again, and I'm sure that they would have enjoyed the first half.
    Dorchester opened the scoring in the second half, and I feared that the one goal might be enough. Michael Higbee proved me wrong …… twice! It gives me immense pleasure to announce that Michael’s left foot has finally been found! Not only was the first of his two goals struck with his left peg, but he had also used it in the first half. Max Timmins did very well at pace to provide the cross for our first. Some of you lads may have got a bit fed up at times with my insistence that you become two footed, but we’ll get there in the end, preferably before I lose my voice.
    Dorchester drew level, and extra time beckoned. Matthew Page was extremely unlucky to see his goalbound effort cleared off the line. James Naylor was as tenacious as ever in midfield, completely unfazed by the generally bigger boys he was tackling. Unfortunately, Chris Harrison, one of the Dorchester defenders sustained a back injury that was to see him substituted, and later taken by ambulance to hospital. I’m sure all of you will join me in wishing him both a full and speedy recovery.
Extra-Time. Understandably, both teams were tiring, but the excitement continued with chances at both ends. Dorchester had the final say and scored a third which proved to be the winner. It was a shame that either side had to lose, but we’re back to our league fixtures next weekend, and I’m confident we can get back to winning ways. A great performance from the squad of fourteen, playing quality football. It can’t get much better can it? Let’s keep up the effort, commitment, and it just might. Enjoy your week, and your football.

Sunday 12th November 2006   Portland 3  Merley Allendale 1
    This match was our furthest distance to travel, and with the justifiable one minutes silence on Remembrance Sunday, we arrived a little late for the usual pre-match preparation.
    However, for the second week on the trot, we started really well. It wasn’t long before we took a deserved lead. Whilst, he’s not the most prolific of goalscorers, Gareth Griffiths goals are a pleasure to witness. He plays mainly in defence, or in a defensive midfield capacity, so chances for him are at a premium, but there’s no broader a smile than when he scores! On 6 minutes Gareth struck from distance, and the ball dipped beyond their despairing ‘keeper. A minute later James Chipchase missed from close range, with Portland going close in reply. Max Timmins then produced a well execute ‘nutmeg’ but again was unable to add to the first. Mostly one way traffic at this point, but on 20 minutes Portland equalised, and from that moment the game changed. Portland hit the post on 25 minutes, and we looked vulnerable when they attacked at pace.
    At the start of the second half Ben Simmons, captaining the side for the first time this season, made a terrific one handed save to his right, but was helpless to keep Portland from taking the lead on 35 minutes. Ben then produced another stunning ‘one-on-one’ save, which their ‘keeper duplicated moments later to thwart Jason North’s attempt to equalise. On 47 minutes James found himself clear on goal, but unselfishly squared to Max, who’s shot was spilled by their ‘keeper. James pounced on the rebound but placed his right-footed shot wide of the far post. Portland then had an attempt that went just over the bar, and added a third goal late on.
    A strange game, excellent for the first 20 minutes, and room for improvement for the remaining 40. Enjoyable, as both teams were pretty evenly matched, which is how it should be. We’re playing more passing football, and we’ll keep working on weaknesses in training. If only we had taken a 2 or 3 goal lead in that opening 20 minutes, it would have certainly been a very different outcome. Never-mind, there is obvious progress, and that’s to be applauded. Gareth earned his man of the match award for his gritty tackling, great goal, and big smile! Watch out Rossgarth, who we play next Sunday!

Sunday 18th November 2006   Rossgarth 3  Merley Allendale 5
    Hopeful of returning to winning ways, against bottom of the table, Rossgarth, we got off to an excellent start. Alex Shenton was fouled from behind, inside the penalty area, and Max Timmins scored from the spot. Sustained pressure from ourselves, kept the opposition penned inside their own half. When they eventually got out of their half they broke away to equalise on 8 minutes! We attacked again and within a minute Alex hit the post with a real belter. We then had a succession of corners, with Max rising to nod in one at the near post. In front again we had a number of chances to extend our lead, Jason North lobbed wide, Max had a header hit the bar, and Michael Higbee shot went close. If you don’t take your chances, sometimes you can get punished. Rossgarth’s second equaliser, was only their second chance of the game. It came from a penalty just before half-time.
    Disappointed to be level at the interval, Paul, Stewart, and I attempted to fire up the boys for a good second half performance. The game continued with us dominating. Max and Kieran McCutcheon both going close early on. On 37 minutes George Bartlett made a strong challenge to thwart a Rossgarth attack. Moments later Max completed his hat-trick. Yet again Rossgarth managed to equalise on 44 minutes, although we had controlled the game. They weren’t level for long as Max couldn’t stop scoring! 4-3. Kieran had an eventful second half, as he got kicked in the head, the ball in his privates, and a nose bleed from one of his team mates! The final injury prevented him from carrying on, but I must say he was extremely brave under the circumstances. I still felt that we needed a two goal advantage, and Jason North scored a good poacher’s goal just before the final whistle.
    Goal machine Max was ‘man of the match’ and kindly given the match ball by the opposition. A great display, as you want your strikers to be confident in front of goal. Alex’s performance was of his usual high standard. I felt that we might have one by a greater margin, but sometimes victories aren’t pretty. We’ll need to play better at home to Okeford next Sunday, and I’m sure the boys will give it their all.

Sunday 10th December 2006   Merley Allendale 3  Weymouth Colts 2
    Worsening weather conditions just before kick-off meant that the team would have to compete to gain a good result. We won the toss, enabling us to play with the wind behind us in the first half, which would prove to be an advantage. Weymouth Colts have started the season reasonably well, so we knew that it would be a fairly even contest. Michael Higbee went close in the opening minute, and we were off to a good start, putting our lethargic openings of earlier in the season behind us. Weymouth then had a chance themselves, before referee Richard Simmons waved away a half-hearted penalty appeal from our forwards. On 12 minutes Weymouth had a one-on-one opportunity, but their player shot wide as Ben Simmons stood firm. 4 minutes later we took the lead as James Chipchase placed a shot through a crowd of players that hit the inside of the post, before trickling across the line. Within 2 minutes we had doubled our lead, as James played the ball over the Weymouth defence for Max Timmins and Michael to compete for the opportunity to shoot. Michael beat both Max and their ‘keeper to the ball, and celebrated yet another goal. He really is coming up with the goods from midfield this season. Efforts from Max and then Matthew Page went wide, before Sam Walon made a perfect tackle just before half –time to prevent a Weymouth forward from scoring.
    I didn’t think that 2-0 was enough with the wind advantage, so I was delighted to see a third goal scored immediately after the restart. Brad Smith played a pass up the right wing, which Michael touched around the defender, who could only watch as Michael tore away, before crossing from the right. It was a teasing cross that was met by an unfortunate defender who only succeeded in putting the ball past his own ‘keeper. To their credit Weymouth came back and Ben had to make a couple of saves to his right. Weymouth scored their first on 37 minutes. 2 minutes later and Sam will have been as relieved as anybody to see Ben pull off a fantastic one handed save to his right, as Sam nearly scored an own goal. Brad then shot wide at the other end, before Weymouth scored a second on 46 minutes. Max did the hard part, rounding the ‘keeper, but decided against tapping the ball in with his left foot, missing narrowly with his right. Luke Green then went on a couple of good runs, causing danger down the left wing.
    Right at the end Weymouth crossed dangerously from the left, and a goalmouth scramble followed. Gareth Griffiths took a nasty knock, and it seemed to take forever for the ball to be cleared, but we hung on for a hard fought victory. Birthday boy James was awarded man of the match, for his best contribution so far this season. Other notable performers were the regular challenger, Michael, Max, Sam, Ben, and Alex Shenton.
    Well done to all the boys, especially in awful conditions. A special mention to Tim Parker who was poorly just before kick-off, but stayed to watch the whole game with mum and dad. And a special mention also to Harry Low who played well at short notice, with a terrific attitude. That’s the sort of team spirit that we’re trying to create. Brilliant!

Sunday 17 December 2006  Wareham 3  Merley Allendale 1
    Playing against the team at the top of the table, we knew we would have to be at our very best. We started brightly, perhaps having more possession than Wareham early on. However, it was Wareham that created the first real chance, drawing a good save from Ben Simmons after 7 minutes. A few minutes later, and Sam Walon made the sort of tackle that we have come to expect from him, total committed! Wareham then created another shot, and Ben made a save from another effort. This perhaps, highlights the difference between the two sides, a very even contest, with Wareham looking more dangerous in attack. This is not a criticism of our two forwards, but an observation, of our whole side. We need to be a bit quicker all round when attacking, with more support from midfield. Jason North broke away on 14 minutes, only to be thwarted by their quick defender. Then prolific goalscorer Max Timmins broke the deadlock on 23 minutes, with a cool finish. Unfortunately, we conceded an equaliser just before half-time.
    Luke Green took a couple of well taken corners on 39 minutes, but Wareham took the lead a few minutes later. Max then missed a great chance to pull one back, when he fired over from close range. Jason and Luke then combined to create our best move of the match. On 49 minutes Tim Parker put in an excellent challenge to halt another Wareham attack. Our opponents were then very unlucky to hit the post. Max had another attempt, but their ‘keeper was up to the challenge.
    Wareham were fortunate to take a rather flattering 3-1 advantage on 53 minutes. We then were awarded a free kick on the left hand side of Wareham’s penalty area. Up stepped Luke to take a fantastic shot, that unfortunately the ‘keeper couldn’t get his hands to. I say this because the free kick was indirect, I hadn’t seen what it was given for, and if the ‘keeper had touched it, it would have counted. At this young age, I think the players should be given every assistance learning all the rules and regulations from the officials. It finished 1-3, and I was disappointed as I thought that we had given them a tough challenge. Our back four were strong against formidable opposition, and it was for that reason that I collectively awarded them ‘man of the match’. Come the end of season I’m sure that we’ll be challenging for third or fourth place, which is something to be very pleased with, in our first season at 11-a-side. Well done …….. again!!
    Paul, Stewart, Richard, and myself, wish you all a Very Happy New Year!

Sunday 14th January   Weymouth Terras 2  Merley Allendale 3
    I had concerns about how this game might go, as we had only one training session under our belts since our last game against Wareham on 17 December. We were fortunate to draw 2-2 with The Terras early on in the season, so we expected another close encounter. We started brightly with Jason North hitting the post as early as the third minute. On 10 minutes good work by Michael Higbee provided an opportunity for Max Timmins to break the deadlock, which he did. After a considerable amount of possession Luke Green made a good run down the right flank, which ended in a good shot by Alex Shenton, being turned away for a corner. Jason doubled our lead on 19 minutes with a hooked effort. A few minutes later Alex went on a terrific, mazy run, which ended in a last ditch tackle by Weymouth. Chances were coming at regular intervals, with Michael crossing for Jason to miss a good chance. Jason then had another effort, followed by Max right on half-time. For the record, Ben Simmons hardly had anything to do in the first half, such was our domination of the game at that stage.
    More of the same was asked of lads for the second half, and Luke provided a lovely pass for Michael to race onto and finish coolly. On 36 minutes Weymouth had their first shot, and a minute later scored. Worse still, they then scored a second on 45 minutes, and we were looking a little shaky. Brad Smith responded with a good cross / shot from the right wing. Max had an opportunity to give us a bit of breathing space. Weymouth then had a further chance before Sam Walon gave away a free-kick, which his opponent didn’t appreciate! Their lad took an excellent set piece, which George Bartlett was equal to with a great clearing header. Ben then made a good save down to his left, which resulted in a corner.
    The final whistle was met by us with both relief and jubilation. The score line suggests a close game, but I think that we were worthy winners. Strange that I haven’t mentioned him so far in this report, but Gareth Griffiths was my ‘man of the match’. His tackling, positioning, and marshalling, were good defensive qualities shown in abundance. Well done to him, and his team mates, as we only had 12 players available from 16 today. A perfect start to the New Year!

Sunday 4th February 2007   Merley Allendale 0  Kingswood 3
    After 2 weeks with no fixtures he had the ominous task of facing Kingswood, who had scored 39 goals after four games, and hadn’t dropped any points so far this season! As if this wasn’t going to be difficult enough, we had four players unavailable for various reasons. I opted to play Luke Green up front on his own, in the absence of our regular strike force. This freed up both Harry Low and Kieran McCutcheon at different times, to play in front of the back four, offering them extra protection. Kingswood drew first blood, creating an opportunity in the third minute, but Michael Higbee had a chance 5 minutes later. Ben Simmons came to our rescue minutes later with a fine ‘one on one’ save. Kingswood were attacking relentlessly, putting our defenders under immense pressure. George Bartlett made the first of many well timed tackles. On 23 minutes Kingswood shot over the bar, and then just before half-time, Ben made another good save. Right at the interval central defender Tim Parker made an excellent challenge to thwart a Kingswood forward. We were relieved, put proud, to get to the break without conceding, a feat that nobody else has achieved so far this season, their manager later informed me.
    We were all delighted to be level, and encouraged the boys to keep a clean sheet, with a second half performance to match the first. Unfortunately, we went 1-0 down on 34 minutes as we were unable to contain Kingswood any longer, the ball crossing our goal from left to right, allowing their player a simple tap in at the far post. We then had a couple of half chances, Michael enjoying a good run, and moments later having one of their defenders clearing his goalbound effort that had beaten their goalkeeper. That didn’t impress Kingswood though, as they broke away, and hit the post and shot over again. We went further behind on 50 minutes, as Kingswood attacked down their right, and another simple chance fell to an unmarked forward. It is inevitable that having been under such pressure that a moments lapse of concentration is bound to happen. However, the third goal was a soft goal to concede as we tried to walk the ball out of our own 6 yard box, and failed to clear. Two more chances fell to Kingswood later on, and they finished as worthy winners.
    Let’s take nothing away from our lads, though, as all 12 involved stood up very well to a stern challenge. The Kingswood manager told me that we had given them their toughest game this season, so we can’t be too disappointed. We may not have got the result that we wanted, but we did get a very good performance. well played lads!

Sunday 18th February 2007   Merley Allendale 3  Portland 1
    I was expecting a tight game with Portland, as we were close to one another in terms of both league position, and we also had a very close game with them in the away fixture. We told the lads that it was a game that we particularly didn’t want to lose, and they responded well. Michael Higbee raced down the left flank on 3 minutes, putting over a difficult ball to defend. Not one, but two of their defenders touched the ball (so I’m sorry Michael, you can’t claim it!) giving us an early 1-0 lead. James Naylor had a good shot six minutes later, that their ‘keeper recovered well to save on the goal line. Two minutes later he was well beaten, as first Michael hit the post, and then the ball came out to Brad Smith, who let fly a terrific shot into the roof of the net. It’s always pleasing to see one of our players score, but especially when it’s his first goal of the season. Well done to him. Paul Timmins has been working on our shooting over the last few weeks, and it slowly seems to be paying off. James Chipchase broke away and shot from long range, as did Alex Shenton on 23 minutes. Moments later we were grateful to Tim Barker who made a terrific tackle to thwart a Portland forward. On 27 minutes Portland scored their only goal. I think that it may have been their first shot to trouble Ben Simmons. We were guilty of not clearing the ball, or closing down the opposition, and their lad shot from range, with the ball dipping over Ben. To close the half Michael had another of his trademark runs, but blazed the ball high and wide. Such was our domination, and superior chances that I was disappointed to be leading by only one goal.
    Michael had another run on 37 minutes, and this time he got his just reward, finishing with aplomb, to make it 3-1. Portland had a good chance on 40 minutes, but Ben saved well. Jason North had a good run on 47 minutes, as did Alex moments later. Max took a good corner, which Jason headed well. Portland had a rare opportunity on 54 minutes. The last incident of note was yet another great run from Michael down the right, picking out Max with his cross, who didn’t connect as he would have liked. This is something else that we have been working on in training, so boys although it might seem boring occasionally, practice makes perfect! Keep working hard on a Saturday morning, and the performances will improve continually. Brad deservedly took the man of the match honours, not only for his goal, but his best performance this season. A great result against good opponents.

Sunday 25th February 2007   Merley Allendale 4  Rossgarth 0
   Looking to win for the second week running we had to adapt to the large pitch at Fenner’s field to get the game played. We had the advantage of the wind behind us in the first half, and put Rossgarth under tremendous pressure. On 6 minutes Jason North was unlucky to see his header from a corner come back off of the bar. George Bartlett shot wide from the rebound. A minute later and Alex Shenton had a good shot well saved by their ‘keeper. Then a Rossgarth defender nearly headed into his own net. On 11 minutes we took the lead through another effort by Jason, from a well-taken corner by Max Timmins. Another attempt by Alex was saved before Michael Higbee doubled our lead. Michael then had a number of runs, mainly down the right hand side, and caused the opposition a lot of problems. On 24 minutes Alex was tripped in the box, after a clever turn, and referee Richard Simmons had no doubt about the decision. Max scored from the spot to put us in a commanding lead. Just before half time Max had another shot which went over the bar. I had instructed the boys to keep the formation tight, with no yawning gaps between defence and midfield, and midfield and attack. They did this very well, and on occasions our last man defender Tim Barker, was as far advanced as the edge of their penalty area! Poor Ben Simmons in goal hardly touched the ball.
    We started the second half much the same, with James Naylor having a good shot on 32 minutes. It was still constant pressure from us, with Jason four times , and Alex twice having close efforts. Rossgarth did manage 2 or 3 attempts, largely because we were pushing so far forward, and with the wind against us, they were able to clear with more distance, and breakaway. By this time I was also playing one or two players out of position to rest other individuals. Rossgarth forced a couple of corners, and on 53 minutes a great chase by the diminutive, hard tackling Harry Low, stopped the Rossgarth forward in his tracks. Another chance for Max was later followed by a weaving run from James Chipchase who unselfishly laid the ball across the six yard box for Michael to score his second. Right at the end Michael had yet another run which ended in a near miss. Suffice to say captain Michael lead by example, yet again, and was deservedly my man of the match. His performance was much enhanced by his awareness to bring others into the game, setting a very high standard indeed. Our passing was much improved and the positional shape of the team was apparent for longer periods of the game. Well done once again, boys, lets see if we can make it another 3 points with a victory at Okeford next Sunday.

Saturday 10th March 2007   Merley Allendale 3   Dorchester Stars 0
   The first of two games in two days saw us line up against a very tall bunch of boys from Dorchester. They must still eat proper food down there! We started poorly, and played the worst half of football they we had all season. In the first 25 minutes my notes tell me that Dorchester had 3 reasonable chances, the first being well saved by Ben Simmons in goal. Finally, we clawed our way into the game in the last 5 minutes of the first half with Max Timmins making a good run, then the same player shooting wide. Captain Michael Higbee also had a shot sail over the bar before the half-time whistle.
   The boys were told at half-time that they hadn’t performed and could do better in the second half. And that is exactly what they did, in style. Jason North missed a great opportunity after Michael had crossed well from the right. The ball ended up with Alex Shenton who’s trusted left foot struck the ball well, and his shot from the left went in off the far post. On 36 minutes a great move down the left saw Sam Walon at left back send a pass down the flank to Alex, who went on an exciting run. Michael had another shot well saved by the Dorchester ‘keeper. Sam then put in one of his strong tackles to thwart a Dorchester attack. On 40 minutes Brad Smith skied the ball from inside the 6 yard box, before shooting wide a minute later. Luke Green then crossed well from the right, and later James Chipchase returned the favour for Luke to double our lead with a well struck shot. Luke crossed for Sam to try his luck, and then James drew the ‘keeper before slotting the ball home to make it 3-0 in the dying stages.
   A very satisfying result, and second half performance, after a very ordinary first half. This result would consolidate our third place in the league, and enable us to travel to Weymouth in the hope of getting 6 points from the two games. Find out what happened in the next thrilling installment!

Sunday 11th March 2007   Weymouth Colts 1  Merley Allendale 2
    From the kick off Michael Higbee ran through and could have scored within 10 seconds! Then Weymouth had a shot saved by Ben Simmons in goal.. The game settled down and after 7 minutes Max Timmins had a chance, followed a minute later by Ben saving well at the other end. Max then crossed well from the right side, and then both he and Michael had good efforts saved by the Weymouth ‘keeper. After 14 minutes there was a controversial incident, as the ball appeared to go out of play for a Merley goal kick, our defenders stood still expecting the whistle, only for the Weymouth player to play on leading to a goal for the Colts. The referee didn’t give it, much to our dismay! He even had the courtesy to explain to me in detail what he hadn’t seen! This seemed to affect us, and Weymouth had a couple of efforts on goal. Just before half-time Max took a good corner which, George Bartlett met well, but headed wide.
   We hadn’t been at our best in the opening period, so at half time we asked for a better second half performance, as the boys had given us the day before. Two minutes into the second half and James Chipchase crossed from the left for Jason North to equalise from close range. On 38 minutes Max had another good effort which their ‘keeper was equal to. 2 minutes later Weymouth were awarded a penalty, after Gareth Griffiths had brought down their attacker. Ben dived to his right, guessing correctly, and saved brilliantly, keeping us in the game. Ten minutes later and The Colts did have the ball in our net, but the flag was already raised for an offside. Ben then saved again, before Alex Shenton did extremely well to pick out Luke Green, who coolly drew their ’keeper, before side footing the ball home. A great time to score with only 5 minutes remaining (or so we thought!). We finished strongly with James and Brad Smith both shooting wide and sustained Merley pressure. I didn’t realise that 7 minutes of added time would be necessary, so didn’t make any more notes! Gareth received a kick in the throat, but bravely played on, and we ended up relieved, and very satisfied, with a victory. Well done lads, a tough two games, 6 points, only one dubious goal conceded, and a penalty save, you all come out of it with a lot of credit. Michael was awarded the MOM trophy, although particularly Ben in goal, drove him very close indeed.

Sunday 25th March 2007   Merley Allendale 5  Okeford Utd 0
   Disappointingly Okeford arrived with only nine players, not good circumstances for either team. We started really well with Michael Higbee running through to open the scoring within the first minute. Jason North was then in an offside position after a good cross by Max Timmins. Moments later Luke Green made a good run down the right and put over a beautiful cross. Alex Shenton had a good shot saved, and then Michael crossed, but Jason couldn’t apply the finishing touch. To their credit Okeford didn’t sit back and defend, and had an just wide in the 11th minute. Michael then had another run which their ‘keeper did well to block. 5 minutes later James Chipchase had a weak shot, following another good cross from Luke. A rush of blood to the head, saw Michael shoot from too far out. Okeford countered with another reasonable effort. Michael then made amends by running through the Okeford back four from the halfway line, to double both our lead and his own tally. Alex put over another good cross, before Max opened his account to make it 3-0 just before half-time.
   We started the second half well with Max having a good run and providing Michael with a chance to shoot. Michael then completed his hat-trick. On 34 minutes Okeford shot wide. The Okeford ‘keeper was changed at half-time, and both of their lads did really well. Max and Michael both had further efforts, before Max got his second, to make it 5-0, his shot going in off the post. James Naylor played a magnificent pass to Michael who in turn put over a decent cross. On 46 minutes Okeford were unlucky to see an effort come back off of our bar. At the other end Jason shot wide from close range, before the second Okeford ‘keeper made a brilliant double save. In our goal Ben Simmons made a terrific ‘one on one’ save. In the dying moments both Michael and James Chipchase had efforts ruled out for offside. Well done once again boys, it will be tougher in a few weeks time when Okeford can field a full team. Well done also to Okeford for putting up tough resistance, and also having a go at attacking themselves. Man of the match for his best performance for us to date, goes to Luke Green.

Wednesday 28th March 2007   Kingswood 4  Merley Allendale 1
   Playing against a team with a 100% record was the toughest challenge of the season. Kingswood score goals for fun, but we were going to attempt to make it difficult for them for the second time this season. The signs were ominous, and our opponents started with a decent chance in the first minute. A succession of chances fell to the opposition, with them mainly shooting wide, although Ben Simmons made a good save on 13 minutes from one effort. We were hanging on, but to everyone’s amazement took the lead on 22 minutes. Max Timmons didn’t give up chasing a ‘lost cause’ and capitalized on hesitation between their’ keeper and a defender. 1-0 to us, but could we hold on? My guess is that Kingswood probably hadn’t been behind all season. Sadly, we were to pay for our audacity! Just before half-time we conceded the equaliser, a soft goal by any standards, as we once again failed to clear the loose ball inside our penalty area. Ben then made another good save from a Kingswood corner and the half-time whistle sounded. For the second time this season we had held Kingswood level until the break.
   In the second half, we prevented them taking the lead until the 34th minute, and then they had further efforts, before, extended their lead 4 minutes later. Bradley Smith had a long range shot, and at the other end Ben made a terrific save with his feet. Kingswood’s fourth came from a corner, which was disappointing. Alex Shenton made a great run down the left flank before shooting, and finally Ben made yet another good save. Man of the match could have come from any one of our defenders, including Ben, but Tim Barker had an excellent game, on a very busy night. We did as well as I expected, but Kingswood just had too much ammunition for us. They won the championship on the night, so our achievements should not be underestimated. Only two games left, and we could still finish third, or even second. Keep up the hard work, lads!

Wednesday 4th April 2007   Merley Allendale 0  Poole Town 0
   Entertaining Poole at home, we were hopeful of a win to keep us in contention for third place. It was to prove to be a game of few chances, with both teams finding it difficult on a cold evening, with the hard playing surface causing problems. Poole won two corners early on, before Luke Green almost capitalised on a fumble by their ‘keeper. On 10 minutes Alex Shenton took a good corner, whilst Michael Higbee missed a chance 2 minutes later. Poole then had a good effort of their own. We replied with an excellent effort by Alex, with the ‘keeper off of his line, followed by two penetrating runs by both Michael and Alex.
   In the second half, Poole had a long range effort, which was followed by Jason North shooting over, after a decent cross from Michael. Michael then had another one of his good run and shot. Very late on, Brad Smith had a looping effort, but the scoreline remained 0-0, our first of the season. It was our best performance, but we have come to expect very high standards, and we didn’t quite hit the same heights on this particular occasion. Nevermind, with just one game remaining, it has been a very enjoyable season, with far more highs, than lows. Man of the match was George Bartlett, who has shown great leadership qualities along the back four as the season has progressed.

Sunday 15th April 2007   Okeford United 2   Merley Allendale 1
   On a scorching hot day we got to play our final game of the season with a much depleted side. We can’t complain as Okeford played with only nine players in the home fixture. For the first time this season our regular ‘keeper was unavailable, and the unenviable task of replacing him fell to Jason North. We need not have worried, though, as he was our man of the match. After 4 minutes James Chipchase was through with only their ‘keeper to beat, but played a hurried shot that went wide. A minute later an Okeford effort scraped our post. On 8 minutes James again went close when he lobbed the ‘keeper, but his shot came back off of the bar. Michael Higbee then had a good shot, whilst at the other end Jason punched the ball out well from a corner. Maybe he should take up boxing as well! On 19 minutes Okeford had taken the lead, and almost extended it with a free kick moments later. Then we had a free-kick in a similar position, which Max Timmins took well, but their ‘keeper was equal to. Then an Okeford effort came crashing back off of our bar, before Kieran McCuthcheon went on a lovely run into the opposition’s penalty area. The first half ended with Max having a shot that hit the side netting, that some of Merley fans thought had gone in! The referee was sensibly stopping the game every 10 minutes, for the boys to drink some water in the extreme heat.
   The second half started with Michael slicing a shot when well placed. Jason was getting better, and better, as his confidence grew. He came out well to command his box. Then Harry Low cleared off his own goal line from an Okeford corner to prevent a certain goal. Another effort from Okeford was well saved by Jason, but he was helpless to prevent them doubling their lead soon after. Late on, from a terrific cross from Michael, an Okeford defender nearly scored an own goal. Michael was not finished, however, and scored with his head, to reduce the deficit. We applied more pressure late on, with the best effort falling to Harry, who hit the ball very sweetly from the edge of the box.
   So there it is, our first season at eleven a side. Won 11, drew 2, and lost 7. Overall, a very enjoyable season. I would like to thank coaches Paul Timmins, and Stewart McCutcheon, and referee Richard Simmons. All the boys parents. And finally, all the 16 lads that gave us so much enjoyment during the 2006/2007 campaign.
 

More Pictures

Click on these or the picture above to see a larger version

		Steve Chipchase the Under 11s 'Venerable Manager' 17th September 2006
		Our goalie measures up 17th September 2006
		Merley Allendale Stars have a 'group hug' with various parents 17th September 2006
		Merley Allendale U11s fought hard to win 3-2 after being 0-2 down against Poole 17th September 2006