PBTFC U15 MATCH REPORTS

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Moving to Step 5 Club

The Royals have now successfully moved forward from Junior Club Buckhurst Hill FC after being invited to join Potters Bar Town FC a step 5 club. Their great success and good football has been recognised and they will now play in the Maroon shirts of the Scholars at U15 for season 2015/16.

Players from Potters Bar and surrounding areas are invited to contact to arrange trials on the 5th and 12th July 2015 via Twitter account @PottersBarU15.

Match Reports and details will now move to a new blog spot .

Trials Begin May 7th on 4G

Buckhurst Hill FC require high standard EJA players or Ex Academy players to apply to trial for squad in season 2015/16 at U15 age Group.

Contact 

Russell.Barrett@bhfc.co.uk

Or Tweet @BHFCRoyals

We have been Finalists in London County Cup for last two seasons and won EJA League 2014 and EJA Floodlit Mid Week Cup 2015.

The season finale 2014/15

Broxbourne Borougg FC 1-2 BHFC

Midweek Floodlit Cup

Come on Buckhurst Hill!  what a great way to end the season with a glorious cup final win in a good standard competition playing the football that our team is well known for!

What a lovely sunny evening to end the season for our boys and the coaching staff. Firstly I think is only fair to say thank you to Arjon and Adam who didn't manage to play tonight. Your support and attitude was much appreciated by everyone.

The tactics started early with both teams going through their warm up routines and tactical discussions at different times. The music through the PA system also contributed to the electric atmosphere the crowd were feeling.

The game started lively and BH seemed slightly nervous. There were a couple of good moves from BH with an early volley from Max Bolton which just missed the top right corner from a great cross from Ben B. and a lovely classic move from Tom R which started from the half way line.

However on 6mins a conceded corner led to an early goal with a well taken shot which saw the Broxbourne striker hit the back of the net in bottom left corner. 1-0

Almost straight from the restart Broxbourne intercept the ball and produce some nice interplay with a strong shot which produces a superb save from Sam.

The first 20mins is dominated by Broxbourne in the midfield with only the occasional foray into their half with Juliens shot from a conceded foul hit the left post

However after the initial pressure from Broxbourne our boys gradually and confidently start to take control of the game and begin to play the football we know they are capable of with many moves starting from the battling Louis, who showed both strength and skill to release both Aiden and Tommy to put pressure on the Broxboune defence.

On 30mins sees the first change by the manager and sees Joel replace Max Bolton which provides a bit more strength up front.  Half time comes with BH in control of the game and able to cope with the long ball strategy of Broxbourne.

The 2nd half see BH start where they left off and are in control of the game with numerous moves from Aiden and  Tommy into the Broxbourne 18 yard box. BH have 5 coners which shows their dominance bit only 1 is of good quality

On 60 and 67mins see the second and 3rd substitution of Ben H and Gerg. Game changing moments. the battling of BH pays off with Joel seizing the ball from a weak clearance by the Broxbourne keeper who passes the ball to Max J who floats the ball into the danger area, their keeper seems slightly blinded by the floodlights and Tommy heads in the cross.1-1

The momentum is definitely with BH. However there scramble in the BH 18 yard box with which is eventually cleared by Sid. The crowd sense that BH have advantage and we can hear their voices audibly rise. 

On 74mins sees beautiful cross from Max J fumbled by their keeper and Julian pounce to head in the winner!!!!! 2-1

The final whistles blows 3mins later. What great result. The cup and champagne were worthy of such a great game and team!! Well done boys!!

Bad day at the office sees Hill get punished...

  Buckhurst Hill vs Broxbourne Borough, U14s EJA Sunday 12.04

Lovely morning, pitch looking in good condition, but a strong wind blowing down the pitch which is against Hill in the first half and has a significant influence.  However, Hill (with several players on holiday/ unavailable) are slow out of the blocks, unlike Broxbourne, and on 2 mins Hill cannot clear an attack on the edge of the box, leading to a pretty clinical strike from Broxbourne to put the visitors one up. Hill play themselves back into the game in patches, although are still second to the ball on occasions as Broxbourne close any space quickly, as they continue to do all game. George J tidies up neatly several times in midfield. Biggest decision of the game comes on 12 when Aiden looks to have equalised from a tight angle.  The Broxbourne lino flags for offside but the Ref initially over-rules him and gives the goal. The lino has to be applauded for his determination, as he runs on the pitch to reverse the ref's over-ruling him, as he suggests the Hill player was offside when the ball was played forward, despite the deflection from the Broxbourne defender.  Which is the correct decision of course, although the Ref could have been clearer if he hadn't initially over-ruled the eagle-eyed lino.  Shortly after Sam makes a good save as Broxbourne continue to look dangerous and on 20 minutes Hill are punished again for their general lethargy as the Broxbourne forward travels a long way unchallenged, before crossing to the far past for a tap in. 0-2. 

The second half starts and Hill have the wind with them, which certainly changes the dynamic slightly. Both Ben's, H and B, make their presence felt and test Broxbournre's keeper, but the stopper is having a very good game and repels every attack, with the help of the woodwork on occasions.  Hill enjoy the majority of possession but no goal comes as Broxbourne defend stoutly  and show good teamwork and organisation.  A late break leads to a penalty, which Broxbourne finish to lead 0-3 shortly before the end.

The gaffer summed it up well at the end, if you have an off-day in this league you get punished and this was certainly an off-day for Hill, who have performed much better throughout the season.  Second to most things, not able to get themselves going/ gee themselves up today, and gave the opposition too much space. Still, this was a wake up call ahead of Friday's semi-final of the ironically named Mid-Week Cup vs Stortford, so lets hope normal service is resumed then.  

The Gaffers/ Management team of Hill can console themselves as football fans by seeing the ex-manager of their teams (WH and NUFC), Alan Pardew, doing so well at Crystal Palace.  Thanks for him by the way!  

Friday will be a different story............

The Bitterest Pill to swallow

  22.03.15. London FA U14 Cup Final, Mile End Stadium.

Buckhurst Hill 1-2 Ryan FC

Lightning strikes twice as Hill fall at final hurdle 1-2

Deja Vu for Buckhurst Hill under 14s as the final goes against them again. The boys looked very down at the end of the game - they should be proud of their achievements (ie look at the tough route to the final this year, including revenge on last year's nemesis, Docklands).  But the fact they were so disappointed is exactly why they got to the final in the first place - they are winners 1 to 17.

Onto the game itself, not much happened in the first ten minutes, the teams size each other up. Ryan are a familiar opposition, from both EJA and several District team-mates. First important action on 10 minutes when Louis makes a strong clearance. Ryan's danger striker Samir is lively as usual but so is Hill's Joel, far too strong for the Ryan defence to handle and when he comes short the defenders don't know whether to stick or twist. Sam Barrett makes an important save from a bobbling shot on 21 minutes.

On 24 minutes a tactical masterstroke from Hill's gaffer as he switches Harry from right to left back to counter the pace of Ryan's pacy and skilful no.14.  Soon after Ben B comes on up front for Joel, Arjun switches for Aidan on the wing. At the back, several strong blocks by Max and Sid who know they are in a game but are more than up to the challenge. 

On 33 minutes, Tommy breaks free on the right wing, the defender is chasing his shadow and clips Tommy just as he is bearing in on goal. Credit the Ref this time, he asks the linesman who makes a correct decision and gives a penalty. George J steps up and calmly slots it to the keepers left. Un-saveable. 1-0 to Hill. On the balance of play this feels just about right, although Hill haven't been at their best.

Just before half-time Ryan attack, the linesman gives an important offside decision as there was a possible penalty shout that followed.  The benefit of independent strong linesman is clear to everyone as Hill go into half-time 1-0.

The second half starts and Ryan are quicker out of the blocks, their pacy winger steals in behind the defence, crosses in and Louis clears off the line, Ryan follow up and despite Louis's heroics again, Ryan's header finds the net. 1-1 on 45 mins.

Ryan are back in business and it takes more great blocks from Harry and Louis to keep the scores level.  At this stage it could go either way. Joel comes back on for Arg, Ben B off for Max B, but Hill are fighting for their lives at the back, with another goaline clearance from Louis, behind the keeper this time. But, the very dangerous Ryan 14 is being consistently frustrated by Harry's tough tackles, nicking the ball ahead of him etc. The winger gets away once (and once only) which was very arguably a foul on Harry, probably the worst thing he could've done as Harry gets up and puts in such a crunching, perfectly-timed tackle on the 14 that he doesn't even want the ball anymore and we don't see him again. No mean feat.

Hill have a good ten minutes from about 48th-58th minute, Max B holding up the ball well, Joel causing trouble, Tommy shoots just wide and George J is pulling the strings.  But, we don't score during this period when we are on top, which comes back to haunt us.

Ryan counter-attack strongly and on 70 minutes win a free-kick in a dangerous position on the edge of the box.  The taker puts it into a dangerous position, Ryan's number 5 times his run perfectly and buries the header. 1-2 to Ryan. And that's about it. A few substitutions as George Em and Adam come on. The ref misses several fouls, some pretty obvious ones on Tommy, but credit to Ryan's defence who are pretty stout at this stage.  

Game over.  Credit again to a strong Ryan team, hard luck for Hill.  Again.  Not much in the game, Ryan scored when they were on top and Hill didn't when we were.  A bit too soon I know, but does any regular watcher of Hill doubt they can match this again next year and go one step further?  This team can do it.

Final point, Man of the Match was officially given to Ryan's No.5.  A good player no doubt, but anyone who knows football would've voted for Harry for another defensive masterclass.

Onwards and upwards.

Hill go down in the Fun Cup...

Needham Market FC 1-1 BHFC 

(aet pens 5-4 Needham)

Glorious morning for a road trip to Suffolk. The conditions were lovely and the home team informed us we had use of the main pitch….all great. Despite the pitch being quite cut up and lacking a bit of grass, which made ball control a challenge, the set up was it’s usual welcoming and warm greeting.

Hill had a bit of a threadbare squad with 5 or 6 missing so we went with a slightly changed format in midfield. The defence was its usual line up of Sam, Harry, Sid, Max J and Lou, the midfield was much changed with Aidan and Julian in the middle flanked by Gerg and Arjen (Ben B. was at the game but failed late fitness test) and Max B up front with Ben H. in behind him. We were going for the ball not Max B feet and to try and play off him. Adam H was our one sub and was brought into play early to assist returning knee injury Arjen.

In the early exchanges both teams were finding their feet on the pitch and testing each other out. The pitch was tricky and it was clear defences needed to be on guard as a slight mistake or mis-control was likely. 

There was nothing to choose between the sides in the first half with no real clear cut chances made by either team and both sides were left to try shots from range as both defences looked very solid. Half time 0-0 and nothing of note to report.

The second half started in a similar vein with both sides trying balls over the top to get in behind as two well organised sides were not allowing much space down the flanks. Half chances were the order of the day with the best of them, if you can call them that, falling to Bolton, Dackombe and Proctor but with each of them going to there keeper to make relatively easy saves. Therefore half way into the second half and the deadlock not broken. In typical fashion the ball bobbles around in midfield and loose toe pushes it forwards to Jessop who tries to control but the awkward bounce stands the ball up and the shout for handball is given by the ref. Looked harsh from where we were as it didn’t look clear handball. However, free kick it is some 25 yards out and unfortunately for Hill, the long range looping effort dips right at the death under he bar and Barrett can only push it into the roof of the net. 0-1. The home side are jubilant and confident as in a game where goals look like precious commodities they clearly fancy they can hang on.

This galvanises Hill though and they up their intensity and straight away start to get on top. 10 minutes later and deservedly they are level. a good ball into  the box sees Proctor use his pace to good effect, he commits the keeper who brings him down for a clear pen. 

Up steps DACKOMBE as the makeshift penalty taker in the absence of more regular spot kick specialists and calmly dispatches the pen into the bottom left corner 1-1.

The game then resorts to type and we play out the remainder of normal time as a stalemate. The best chance falling right at the death to Dackombe but its on his left foot and the keeper saves easily.

We are playing 2 x 10 mins of extra time and given the pattern of play penalties look like the nailed on certainty. After 20 minutes of give and take, that is exactly what we get.

Hill select their 5. Dackombe, Jessop, Barrett, Barrett and Harris.

Dackombe, after taking such a good penalty in normal time is the only one to miss from both sides and despite S. Barrett’s efforts he can’t save one to take it into sudden death.

Hill crash out in unfortunate manner. Penalties being the downfall once again. Hopefully though with that one out of their system, The London County Cup will be a different outcome!!!!

Hill proceed to the Semis of The Treasures Cup

EJA TREASURERS  CUP  QUARTER FINAL U14

CHELMSFORD CITY  1  - 6  BUCKHURST  HILL  

   Hill continue on on all four fronts having already reached the final of the London Cup, another quarter final this coming Wednesday away at Haverhill ,laying second in the league and a tough tie here today at Chelmsford.

The gaffer had the lads up from the start after not wanting a repeat of last week, they responded well in the warm up and took the positive attitude onto the pitch.

The first five minutes sees the lads move the ball well and close down the opposition early. Harris who played well throughout sends Brookes away down the left who doesn't need second invitation to shoot, cuts in on goal and flashes he's shot across goal narrowly going past the far post.

Hill again go down the left when Redhead finds King who plays in Brookes, he whips in a near post cross which Redhead after continuing his run meets on the volley but again just goes the wrong side on the post.

The gaffer who must have read a coaching manual  (or Scorcher and Billy's boots!!!)           on returning home from the hacks night yesterday spots that City who have five in midfield are vulnerable on the flanks and wants pace out wide to exploit it. With a shuffle of a few players and instructions to get the ball wide gets instant results. The home side come under pressure but still no way through for Hill,but it seems just a matter of time.

With Hill pushing forward in numbers the home side breakaway when the forward runs at the defence and let's fly from 25yds only for S Barrett diving at full stretch to push it around the post. 

Redhead from the left wing hit's a cross field pass to Ewing on the other wing who has a great first touch that takes him past the fullback and cracks it first time but again goes narrowly past the far post.

Hill with Johnson in the middle pulling the strings are moving the ball around well and the wide men are causing havoc whenever we get it out to them.

On 30 minutes Brookes running at the defence slips in Redhead who shows pace and determination breaking into the box which proves to much for the fullback who brings him down and a penalty awarded. Johnson steps up and coolly slides it into the bottom corner. 1-0

Hill are playing some quality football and H Barrett from fullback is running at will causing mayhem in the home defence. King playing further forward also finds himself breaking down the left and slipping in Redhead who again bears down on the keeper but his effort is smothered well by the keeper.

Hill for all their possession come in at halftime one up and just now need to turn so fine play into goals against a well organised City side that if allowed could be dangerous in the second half.

Five minutes into the second half Brookes hits a delightful cross field ball to Redhead who cuts in from wing and cracks a curling right foot shot into the bottom corner. 2-0

Hill now have the home side on the back foot and apply the pressure by moving the ball well around the pitch and closing down the home side early whenever they have possession. Harris picks the ball up and drives towards goal shooting from 20 yds but the keeper does well to save it.

Then on 50 minutes a special moment for King who after four years of playing for Hill has never scored a competitive goal. If you are going to open your account then this will be one for him to remember, the ball cleared out of the box a falls to a City player, King takes the ball of him and from 20 yds has one touch and sends it into the top right hand corner.
3-0

Hill now in full commend attack at will. Redhead picking the ball up on the halfway line runs straight at goal beating four players on the way only for the keeper to save what would have been a remarkable goal.

H Barrett who had a great game today then gets the reward which he's effort deserved. Running from just inside the opposition half he beats four men and slides past the keeper. A special moment enjoyed by the gaffer. 4-0

Time now for a change of tactics and Hill go three at the back as with games coming thick and fast it is good to be able to change formats with the lads being able to adapt. Hill do get a little caught pushing forward and the home side break away down the right, a deep cross sees Hill out numbered and the forward gives S Barrett little chance. 4-1 with 62 minutes played.

Harris who had come off complaining of pins and needles returned to the pitch with five minutes remaining and gets the goal that he's performance justified. A typical Harris drive towards goal with a 25 yd screamer finding the roof of the net 5-1 and time for another rest!

Redhead who comes on for him with two minutes remaining not to be out done makes a copy cat run and same result 6-1. Final score.

A good performance with the lads having to work hard in the first half to earn to right to play their football.

A big thank you to Chelmsford for their kind hospitality and we wish them luck for the rest of the season.

Buckhurst Back in League Action with a Win

Buckhurst Hill            3

 

Broxbourne               1

 

 

Starting formation 4-4-2

 

Firstly, I’m sure you will all agree that we should all spare a thought for the families of the 3 West Ham fans, who lost their lives traveling to West Bromwich Albion yesterday. This tragic event, for me, puts every type of sport and their loyal supporters into humbling perspective. 

 

Before the match the manager took me to one side and said to me that he thought that the boys ‘didn’t seem up for it today and it would take a wake up-call to spur them into action’. Unfortunately, this proved to be the case. 

 

On a mild but somewhat grey day Buckhurst Hill Football club was a very vibrant place with several important matches being played by before and after our encounter with Broxbourne FC. The first hint of an eventful match came when we noticed the referee walking towards our allotted pitch. He had assured several back room staff and coaches that he was indeed an ex-Essex league referee, in which era he failed to say!!

 

First Half

 

The game started with Broxbourne pressuring the midfield. Redhead won a quick free kick, which was easily dealt with by the keeper. Broxbourne play the ball out of defence and quickly play some neat passes down their right hand side and angle a swift ball into our 6-yard box, which is coolly met by their striker and neatly put into the net for a goal after only 3mins of play. 1-0

 

From the re-start Jessop intercepts a Broxbourne midfield player and neatly passes it to Redhead who glides past 3 players only to see his powerful low shot to the keepers left pushed past the post; a good save by their keeper. Which did his mum loudly praise.... :)

 

Broxbourne continue to dominate the midfield and this causes some panic within the Hill team resulting in some bad decision making, which the opposition seize on to take control of the game. 

 

In a slightly bizarre run of play BH give away a throw. The Broxbourne player makes a foul throw, only for our own player who retakes the throw in to make another foul throw. Which sums up the game so far. With BH chasing the game in midfield we are committing, (in the refs eyes), far too many needless free-kicks which thankfully are not capitalised on by the opposition.    

 

 

On 18mins the manger decides to change the line up of the BH team and in positive move brings two players off (Emerson and Bolton) replaces them with Swan and Brookes. This proves to be an inspired move as within 1min BH win a corner and Brookes delightful corner goes straight in without a single touch or deflection. 1-1

 

Straight from the resumption of play BH seem to have more pace and strength in their game especially from Swan. What a difference a goal makes to the overall confidence of the boys.

 

On 24mins Broxbourne give away a cheap free-kick on the half way line and Harris receives the ball and passes it to Swan who neatly controls it a and spins around to crack a half volley into the bottom left of the opposition goal. 2-1

 

The next 5mins see some great interplay with all the BH team playing out of their own half with great one touch football to feet creating space and opportunity and press Broxbourne back into their half. This pressure results in several corners being awarded to BH. The referee feels it necessary to talk to several players about the jostling and pushing in the goal area, but to me, this proves that BH have woken up to the fact that they are in a football match.

 

Broxbourne try to mount a succession of attacks into the BH half. But these were confidently handled in defence by Harrison (who had a great game today), Jessop (who was playing with an injury), Barrett H (solid) and King (who got better and better as the game progressed), together with the midfield of Johnson (who was increasingly making his presence felt) with Redhead and Harris making decisive forays into the oppositions half. 

 

  

Second Half

 

The second half saw BH come out quick, fast and determined, I’m sure the manager had a good team talk on the pitch with the boys. However the at times rather inconsistent referee was stopping the free flowing game our boys were trying to play.

 

On 50mins of play, a delightful passage saw a well taken goal kick from Barrett S reach Barrett B who made a run down the right hand side and passed it to Swan, he skipped passed a defender and laid it back to Barrett H who  had carried on his run and passed into the box towards their keeper, who uncharacteristically fumbled it. Swan managed to get the ball and again passed it to Barrett H who passed it to Harris miss-kicked his first shot, but regained composure to blast it past the goalkeeper. 3-1 

 

This brought some daylight between the two teams. However BH could not become complacent, as Broxbourne did not let this considerable change in their fortune dampen their attitude and continued to press forward at every opportunity. The tempo of the game dropped, but the tenacity of the defence and the continued interplay in the middle of the park and attack kept the supporters well entertained. 

 

On 68mins the manager decided on a further change of personnel in the team and bought Bolton and Emerson back on for Harris and Ewing. At the same time the sun came out but the temperature fell as well.

 

Broxbourne continue to press but BH are in control of the situation. With some good defence there is only one more shot on goal from Broxbourne. At the other end encouraging signs of good interplay between Midfield and Forwards retain the ball in the opposite end. On 72mins Harris replaces The impressive Harrison.

 

One scuffed shot from Swan and shots from Redhead and Brookes which both go wide see out the game with the final result of 3-1   

Hill Reach London County Cup Final

LONDON CUP  SEMI FINAL

ERITH & BELVEDERE FC   0      BUCKHURST HILL FC       1

  A late kick off on a glorious Sunday afternoon was not without incident as before a ball was kicked we had confusion as to whether the game would go ahead but Darren who probably knows the regulations better the the representative from the FA was soon pointing everyone in the right direction and we had, game on! 

 The gaffer often reminds us of a strong squad and today no truer word had been spoken, Basi ruled out early in the week and  Ewing not eligible, we had a late withdrawal on Saturday when Jethva dislocated his shoulder. 

He reminded the lads before kick off that we have a major advantage over our rivals in that we are not a team of individuals but we are are team,and that we play as a team and we work as a team, if we keep believing in that then we will progress in the competition. Today was no message more meaningful or carried out to direction.

 The game started and for the first few minutes the boys were a little nervous of the occasion but were soon into their stride when Brookes played into the feet of Harris who in turn played a one two with Swan and found himself behind the back four charging in on goal from an acute angle. His shot across goal was pushed past the post by the keeper. Hill from the resulting Brookes corner pressure the keeper and the ball is cleared off the line. This gives Hill confidence and all across the park you can see each lad grow and rally round knowing they are in this game.

On 8 minutes after some good Hill pressure Swan receives a throw in and helps it on to Dackombe. If Calsberg done winning cup semi final goals this would be it, he controls it on he's chest and from 20 yards hit's it on the half volley. It crashes in the top right hand corner off the underside of the bar. Two keepers wouldn't have saved that. The boy doesn't score tapins, just the spectacular...... 1-0 Hill 

The game after this become two teams slugging it out not wanting to give anything away. Both had possession but no clear cut chances created. The half draws to an end and Hill take in a slender advantage which they have worked their socks off to keep.

The gaffer sets out his game plan for the second half and big Sam would have been proud. Earlier in the season the boys took a little bit a stick for not competing but not today. The parents would have seen a different Hill today, not the free flowing football side that we know they can be but a side that dug in and refused to lose. The back four of H Barrett, Redhead,Jessop and King marshalled by coach Johnson were  magnificent. The midfield run their socks off with widemen Brookes, Emmerson and Proctor working overtime getting behind the ball. Johnson and Dackombe fought for every ball in the centre of the park and time and time again broke up the play. The combination of Swan, Harris and Bolton up front chased every ball and run tirelessly across the line often for little reward but playing their part in stopping the opposition playing from the back as they would have been used to in previous games.

There was little goalmouth action and the home side had only two chances one of which was a 20 yard shot that flew past the post and the second had everyone holding their breath when a cross from the left found the centre forward's who somehow put the header wide from six yards. 

S Barrett didn't have much to do in the way of shot stopping but he organised the back four superbly and his kicking was excellent often relieving the pressure from the back four.

Hill had their own chances and the best of which saw Harris have a twenty harder pushed by the post. The half had 5 minutes of injury but the bus done it's job and Hill go through to the final. 

Full time 1-0 

We would also like to mention Harrison today as although he didn't get on his attitude was first class and the gaffer made sure of mentioning this at the end of the game. 

As writing this I have just received hot off the press a quote from the gaffer which I will pass on.....

" Proud to see young men that I have been coaching since the age of 5 years put in a performance that was both professional and clinical. A true advertisement for maturity that will need to be matched, if not bettered in the final against Ryan FC. We will go to the final ready and in anticipation of the quality we expect to meet and I'm sure whatever the outcome we will play our full part in a great days celebration not just for two local rivals, but the EJA League, our club and the army of travelling supporters."

Congratulations Lads great win, you should all be very proud tonight.

Hill much improved performance on the 4G

AFC Dunstable 0-4 Buckhurst Hill FC

EJA U/14 Herts Div

Firstly apologies to normal readers but the Managment have had to return to the "pen" some would say due to the demise of all sensibility from coaches wrapped up in cotton wool after possibly the biggest FA Cup shock result ever and the further stumbling of the NW contingent....here's hoping the East London Academy of Football can bring back some stability. 

Hill boast one of the largest squads in the EJA which can often be difficult to manage or as was the case today be an absolute blessing. 4G gets games on but the question has to be raised why do pitches have to be the maximum size allowed.....The rotation becomes a major factor and a big advantage if used well.

Mindful of their opponents strength Hill were set up to retain the ball, restrict the opposition "bigger" players and to break with speed. The first 15 minutes were executed to perfection. Bring the ball forward under control and you can overload the last 3rd with pace. 

Never before has the text book been so correct.....Hill blocked off pased the ball from keeper to backs, out to wide, into last 3rd where Proctor decided to inject pace carrying to the edge of the box, wall pass with Redhead and slotted bottom right past the keepers from 10 yards. 0-1.

AFC  now found themselves under the cosh as Johnson in Midfield pulled the strings. So dominant was he that later he did something that staff here have been encouraging for some time, but more on that later... However as is the case when getting into 18 yard box regularly fortune plays a part and an innocuous challenge see Hill warded a pen. Karma plays a part and a fine save by the keeper denies Brookes.

25 played and Hill look good for their lead but a previous comeback by AFC early season plays on the mind. Dackombe breaks through and hits the byline on the left an pulls a beautiful reverse pass across the 6 yard box and Redhead nets a "sweaty. 0-2.

Half Time approaches and the opposition manager reminds his players loudly that Hill need 3 to be safe and 2 can be overcome. Thanks for the minder and the added Resolve. Cries of "Liverpool " can be heard from the touch line.

A quick HT chat and a determined Hill take the field. Confident and calm....however complacency is not showing. No threat save the odd charge through midfield is seen from the Home Team. Bolton up top for Hill is now showing more and more influence in the game. Harrying, holding the ball and linking play. His pressure and presence unsettling the back 4 so much so they fail to clear sufficiently and on 50 minutes a ball is headed to the edge of the 'D' and this is what will now be recalled as the "Johnson" moment. On the volley from 20 yards, no hesitation but with unnerving accuracy he drills the shot into the join between post and bar. Worth every penny of the entrance money.0-3

The heart has gone from AFC and Hill continue with their controlled possession and work rate off the ball. Redhead on 65 minutes escapes down the right slips 3 defenders to reach the touch line, sees Bolton at the edge of th 6 yard box slots an inch perfect pass and 'Bolts' slams in.0-4.

Game is over and played out. A pleasing performance all round and another lesson learnt on the infamous 4G.

Ryan FC 4-2 Buckhurst Hill FC, EJA League

Match Report - 18.01.15, 

Another cold morning, but local so fairly sociable start for most.  A new challenge, game on a pretty decent 4G surface, which at least meant supporters/ parents could prop themselves up on the barrier next to the pitch, always welcome for those nursing long-term injuries (or hung over!).

But plenty of familiar faces on the other side, from West Essex District (who our gaffer also manages in his "spare" time!), but we'll come on to them later.  No quarter expected or given as the game kicks off to the sound of Sunday church bells from nearby Waltham Abbey maybe?

Hill make a bright start and quickly impose themselves on the opposition with slick passing and movement, Ryan struggle to play at this pace and can't cope with the movement in the early stages.  After a flowing move, Ben H forces the keeper into an early save with a good turn and shot, the defender getting an important touch. Aidan puts in some good runs down the right, Hill pressure from all angles.

On 7 mins, the lively Ben B gets the ball, beats one hapless defender, hits a strong shot from outside the box, keeper (a District player) finds it too hot to handle and Ben H follows in like all good strikers, 0-1 to Hill.

This wakes Ryan up, they start to come back into the game, but Hill soak it up well, both centre backs very composed, whilst Harry B and Aidan in particular linking up well to keep Ryan defenders on their toes.  Harry puts in the first of many crunching tackles on 13 mins, Hill look like scoring every time we go forward, and on 16 minutes, some very composed play by Redhead in the middle of the pitch shifts the ball to the right, it comes back into Ben B, who follows a mazy run with a right footed cross (see that Lee!) which Julian coolly volleys in from 6 yards, 0-2 to Hill, well deserved, quality football.

Ryan always look dangerous and the pattern of play seems set, with Hill passing the ball comfortably and creating good chances through pace, skill and movement, whilst Ryan get the ball forward as quickly as possible via the full-backs knocking it into the Ryan striker, Samir, well known to us from District.

On 20 minutes, out of nothing, the Ryan winger throws in a hopeful cross, the Hill defence stops as several claim the ball went out, confusion reigns amongst fans and players as the ball hits a Hill defender and is deflected in. 1-2, a lifeline Ryan hardly deserve at this stage.

Ryan are buoyed by this of course, as their numbers 14 and 7 start to come into the game, although 

Hill defend stoutly, Arg and Gerg doubling up, Max and Sidney touch-tight to the dangerous Samir.  However, on 25 mins, Samir sneaks in as Hill's defence hesitate for the first time and brings it back to 2-2. One shot on target and its 2-2, bizarre!

Game on.  Solid defending from Hill whenever pressured, Sid and Tommy particularly composed on the ball, Harry B overlaps and cutting in hurts Ryan every time, Ben B showing and Brookes pace causing problems.  On 29 mins, Tommy hits a cracking shot, beats the Ryan keeper but hits the post.  Hill seem to be enjoying the majority of the play, although Ryan are dangerous on the counter-attack.  Julian is bossing midfield with strong tackles and possession.

Half-time, view amongst the crowd is pretty confident given what we've just seen.

Hill start the second-half quickly, Aidan is having the left back for breakfast, lunch and dinner, he cannot handle the winger's pace and skill and resorts to fouling, none of which works (nor is spotted by the static ref - more on him later!  A Hill attack is thwarted by a pretty obvious foul tackle from the side, not spotted by our friend in black, and Ryan take full advantage with a good move, ending in a breakaway goal to go ahead for the first time (Samir again?). 3-2, five minutes into second half.

Hill still look dangerous in attack, Harry B continues to overlap, Aidan sets up a good chance which we don't take advantage of, and Sam B reads the game well as a sweeper-keeper, Lloris-like.  

The crucial moment of the game comes about 15 into the second half, the ball is dinked through to Tommy, who runs onto the ball on the edge of the 6 yard box, bravely gets his head on it and it heads toward goal, only to be cleared off the line by a determined Ryan centre-back. However, what one person didn't notice (the only person as it happens!) was the follow through by the Ryan keeper on Tommy, not deliberate but a clear penalty all the same.  Missed by the ref, who is not endearing himself to the away fans with his failure to spot niggly fouls, but if you don't move out of the centre-circle then you can't spot much. (although this penalty is burglary).

The dangerous Samir rubs salt into the wounds on the break as Hill push for an equaliser, finishes confidently as usual and makes it 2-4 with about 15 minutes left.  

Hill aren't dispirited and keep playing football, with several chances created, although the final touch just isn't there.  Max & Tommy working hard up front, Ben and Gerg come back on and work hard.  Louie keeps Hill in the game with a great header off our goal line.

Game ends 4-2.  General feeling is that this flatters the home team, Hill played the better possession football in many periods, but Ryan are particularly clinical and have skilful full-backs and a pacy forward. Perhaps their comeback was inspired by Palace's against Burnley yesterday?  Not our day, the 3 key moments went against us today and about the official, Nuff said!.    

 

Hill into London Semi....

Docklands FC 1  Buckhurst Hill FC 2

London County Cup 1/4 Final

Sunday 10/01/15

Starting formation 4-4-1-1

 

With a late kick-off in the London Cup against the team that beat us in the final last year, the desire of retribution was palpable in the players, coaches, parents and loyal supporters; including Adam Harrison, who although rested for the game turned up to support his team. It was also good to see Dean Johnson back after a few games absence; his valuable defensive tactics were not missed, nor was the referees warm up routine!  

 

It was a cold bright afternoon with a view of the iconic financial centre of Europe, if not the world, but how many can look out of their offices tomorrow and say ‘I was there to witness one of the finest comebacks in the history of the U14’s BHFC’!

 

It was a classic game of 2 half’s (plus extra time) with Docklands’ dominating the first half, with BH characteristically not giving in and being intimidated by teams like their opposition today.

 

Enough of the introduction; this is my first attempt at producing the match report and apologise for not remembering to have a look at my watch the entire game so there is little time references in this commentary!

 

The game started at a high tempo, which unfortunately was mostly from the opposition and mainly from 2 key players, number 17 and 18, who were their best players by quite a long way today.  They seemed to be able to float past our midfield which mercifully their early attempts at goal either went high, wide or were saved by Sam B who was called into action from the off and had a great game today. 

 

Our first foray into the opposition saw Ben H nick a ball from centre of pitch (which he did magnificently all game) side foot it to Tommy R, who in turn into passed in the running path of Julian D who went on a run down the left hand side only to be strongly tackled just before he could dispatch a ball into the 18-yard box. More on that series of play and Julian D later!

 

Next, saw Ben H and Tommy R interplay result in a free-kick just inside the opposition half, which George J floated in a good ball which was met by a good header from Max J. Unfortunately the resulting clearance from their goal-keeper saw a easy ball collected by Docklands midfield, which exposed too much space at the back to enable them to score an easy goal by their number 18. 

 

1-0

 

BH finally began to use their undoubted skill and strength which saw Ben B steal the ball in mid-field play a great ball to Aidan P (who had a fantastic game today) take on the Docklands defence from the right hand side, deftly cut in to the left and have a powerful shot saved by the keeper.

The Docklands players were giving away a lot of free-kicks in their half which was an indication of the respect they were giving to BH and the knowledge that they could not allow our boys any time in the ball. This resulted in Tommy R rising high above the defence only to see his effort rise just above the crossbar and subsequent free-kick delivered by Tommy R saw Ben B’s shot fly just over the bar. The next free kick produced a loud shout by our Manager for handball, which was roundly rejected by the referee. 

 

As mentioned before the main threat came from their number 17 and 18 players but our back 4 were resolute and played an enormous part in keeping the score to 1-0. So, a big shout out to Max J, Sid J, Louis K, Arjon B and Harry B.  

 

About 20mins in the game, (I think), the manager decided to swap over Julian D and Aidan P from their respective right and left positions to ‘mix-it-up-a-bit’ this resulted in George J floating a ball into the box with Ben H’s shot just going wide. Then Aidan from his new position took 2 players and put a good ball in to the path of Ben B only to see his shot saved by the keeper.

 

At about 30mins into the game saw the manager replace Ben H with Joel S who was immediately fouled. Unfortunately the resultant quick free kick went straight to the opposition, however, Louis K intercepted and sent Joel S down the Right Wing to win a corner. 

 

Jamie G was then brought on for Ben H, which saw him get straight in to the action and win a free kick. This was defended well by the Docklands defence, but Julian D expertly intercepted a pass, went around another defender, only to see his shot wiz pass the post. There was a slight scare when Sam B came out of his goal are but nothing came of the resultant shot.

 

HALF TIME: and time to re-group.

 

What a difference! The BH boys are back in form and pressurise the Docklands defence from the whistle. A foul is awarded to BH from a push in the back against Joel S. George J’s free-kick just a bit too high for Joel S The strength and skill from Jamie G see him targeted for the next 10mins by their defence. 

 

A good through ball from George J sees Joel S break free and slot the ball into the left hand side of the goal; however the referee used a high leg, (not foot), to control the ball and the goal is disallowed.

 

The manager decides to change the game after 20mins and replaces Jamie G with Ben H who immediately passes to Joel S who puts in George E who was fouled before he could cross the ball. The resultant free kick saw a lofted ball met by a towering Tommy R, which unfortunately rises just above the crossbar.

 

Aidan P is receiving good ball and is terrorising the defence and put Tommy R through, who is ‘sandwiched’ in the box; but no penalty is awarded.

  

 

The next move sees Tommy R drift past 2 players cross the ball into to the goal area for Max J to head the ball into the feet of Aidan P to coolly blast it past the keeper 1-1.

 

After the goal BH show the one touch football that we know that they can play and saw Julian D play a great ball into Tommy R who tried to lob the keeper which just went past the keepers right side. ‘Who would attempt to lob a keeper in such good form today?’ Again credit must go to the defence and midfield that did not flinch or play out of position the entire second half, which enabled the forwards to play some good effective football. A sublime save from Sam B in the final minutes from their number 18 provided a classic extra time mouth-watering 20mins.

 

FULL TIME: 1-1

 

EXTRA TIME 1^st HALF

 

BH carries on from the 2^nd half and continues to pressurise the Docklands defence. Ben H substitutes Joel S after he sustained a bruised wrist. Docklands are now committing more fouls as the pressure of BH is beginning to take it’s toll. 

It is from one of these free-kicks that sees Ben H receive the ball and aim a perfect pass into the path of a charging Tommy R who in turn drifts pass a Docklands defender to execute a perfect ball to Julian D who at full pace cruises past the full-back on the outside, looks up and sees the keeper off his line and produces the finest lob you will ever see (well at least at Liverpool)! Excellent goal.

 

2-1

 

Unfortunately Ben B pulled up with an injury, but is replaced by an on fire George E.

 

EXTRA TIME 2^nd HALF

 

A speculative ball from Docklands bounces over Tommy R, but Arjon B heads out the ball and BH re-group. Ben H is causing havoc in the Docklands defence, as is   George J and Aidan P, who deliverers a lovely ball to Tommy R who loses his marker, only to see his shot just whizz past the right hand post. 

Another free-kick sees a ball met by a towering Julian D, which is saved by the keeper.

 

A last desperate and speculative long ball is knocked forward by Docklands, which is dealt effectively by Sid J, and the final whistle blows on a very hard fought victory. 2-1

 

The Docklands players coaching staff were very gracious in defeat, which was much appreciated by all of the BH team, staff and supporters.

 

A final note for Max Bolton, who unfortunately did not get a chance to play today but the coaching staff wanted to express their appreciation of his attitude support to the team.