Rep team Youth XI match reports from 2004 /2005 season
Pictured above is Paul Frost, son of former Berks & Bucks FA President, Douglas, presenting the Cup to winning captain Mark Potter following Bedfordshires 2-0 win.
Rep team match report archive
South West Counties Championship Competition
Gwent Football Association Youth V Berks & Bucks Football Association Youth
Saturday 12th March 2005 Cwmbran Stadium
Our fourth fixture in this season’s SWCC competition would be played in the impressive surroundings of the Cwmbran Stadium, the home of the Gwent Football Association. This would be Gwent’s final fixture this year and victory would ensure them third place in the table.
With no fewer than seven withdrawls from the original selection a much changed side would be played, and we welcomed Flackwell Heath’s goalkeeper Adam Thomson and centre half Adam Bainbridge into today’s squad. Michael Buck also returned after suffering with tonsillitis, which sidelined him at the last fixture.
With the excellent playing surface that the Cwmbran Stadium boasts both teams would be able to have no excuse for attempting to play some decent passing football, as in recent weeks the heavy pitches have not made this possible. From the kick off we made our intentions clear and with only five minutes on the clock a snap shot by Jemel Johnson forced a terrific save from the home keeper. And on the seventh minute Johnson’s jinxing run was rewarded with an unstoppable shot into the right hand side of the goal to give us the lead. Another free kick on twenty minutes saw yet another attempt from Johnson tipped around the post by the keeper to frustrate us.
Two minutes later a break down the right hand side by Gwent saw an inch perfect pass fall to the feet of the centre forward who was positioned on the penalty mark. The striker struck the shot on the volley and it seemed destined for the top corner of the net, but an unbelievable save by keeper Andrew Stevens saw this attempt palmed away for a corner. In making this save keeper Andrew Stevens sustained a serious shoulder injury thought at first to be a dislocated shoulder, and after extensive treatment on the pitch was taken immediately to hospital. Adam Thomson was introduced and the resulting corner was cleared. But ten minutes later the home side drew level when a quick through ball found Adam off his line and the centre forward lofted the ball into the empty net.
The injury to Andrew seemed to spur the side on and with forty minutes on the clock a pin point corner taken by Matthew Walton was met by the head of Chamberlain Ekrebe whose powerful header crashed into the net. Almost from the restart we regained possession and an acute pass by Liam Smyth who was having an outstanding game found Jayden Freeman who shook off his marker, beat two defenders and thundered his shot into the top of the net to give us a three one advantage as the whistle blew for half time.
Following the break Aston Goss replaced Matthew Walton and the second half started with a fierce wind at the backs of the home side, and we were put under immediate pressure with long balls played into our eighteen yard box. But stout defending and some fine goalkeeping continued to frustrate Gwent. But against the run of play Gwent scored their second goal when an unchallenged run created a shot, which in the first instance was superbly saved by Adam Thomson only to see the follow up beat him despite getting a hand to the second shot. But our advantage was restored in the seventy first minute when James Bainbridge stabbed home an uncleared pass.
The home side were now being completely outplayed and some fierce challenges were being made, once again unpunished. We were forced to play the remaining ten minutes of the match with ten players after Michael Buck was forced to leave the field of play following an atrocious tackle from behind, yet again unpunished. Ironically the fourth official following this incident asked if I would like to make a substitution, to which I had to remind him that I had already used my three subs, such was my frustration.
David Westell, Youth Team Manager said, “A tremendous team performance considering the changes we have had to make and injuries sustained today. I have spoken to Michael and he should be fit for next week’s game. Andrew Stevens however looks to be sidelined for up to six weeks following his horrendous injury in making what I can only describe as the save of the season. Andrew has achieved twenty three appearances for the Youth team over the past two seasons and is well respected by players and staff, I wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to watching him in action for his club.”
Team: Andrew Stevens, Mark Nisbet (Captain), Liam Smyth, James Bainbridge, Michael Buck, Chamberlain Ekrebe, Matthew Walton, Frederick Okyere, Daniel Chambers, Jayden Freeman, Jemel Johnson Substitutes: Aston Goss, Jon Chard, Adam Thomson, and Perry Howard.
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South / South West Counties - Mick Parry Memorial Trophy Semi Final Tie
Berks & Bucks Football Association Youth v Wiltshire Football Association Youth
Saturday 26th February 2005
Today’s fixture would be a re run of last year’s semi final and an exciting competitive game was in prospect. Paul Dorman returned from injury to play at left back and Aston Goss made his first start in the front line playing on the ground, which he is currently on loan at from Aylesbury United.
The fixture started at a terrific pace with both sides testing each other for an early lead. Wiltshire were once again a very physically strong and tall side, but unlike the recent performance in Somerset we matched them. Like the fixture last season chances were few as both teams cancelled each other out, but the football played by both sets of players was both exciting and enjoyable for the large crowd in attendance.
Our first real chance came from an awarded free kick, twenty five yards from goal. The kick was taken by Matthew Walton however his attempt flew harmlessly over the cross bar. Aston Goss and Jayden Freeman had further chances, but the Wiltshire keeper thwarted our attempts.
With the half time whistle approaching it looked as if both sides would go into the interval level, but following some sloppy defending from a corner Wiltshire took the lead.
Jemel Johnson who suffered a dead leg in the first half was replaced during the interval by Staforde Palmer but once again we started the second half brightly and began to dictate the play. Frederick Okyere replaced Tom Srawley and again chances were created but not finished. Kyle Kilmartin replaced Captain Mark Nisbet who was starting to suffer with fatigue. Jayden Freeman once again enjoyed an outstanding performance, but along with the rest of the squad would end up frustrated by yet another poor referring decision. The pace of the game was such that Wiltshire’s second goal came from a through ball finding the centre forward clearly in an off side position, but the assistant was caught out of position and the goal was awarded effectively ending any comeback which looked up to that point achievable.
Youth Team Manager commented, “ After such a dreadful performance in the previous fixture against Somerset, I’m pleased that we have today restored some of the respect and passion that this squad has shown and deserve this season. Wiltshire are a very strong well managed squad, probably the best side we have encountered this season and I wish them well in the final against Devon. We must now build on today’s performance in our next fixture against Gwent in two weeks time. It is essential that we secure a victory, which after the way we have performed today we should deserve. All that I have asked for this year is commitment and special mention must today go to Captain Mark Nisbet who has flown in from Jamaica to play in this fixture”.
Manager: David Westell
Head Coach: Kerthney Carty Coach: Richard Gould Team Physiotherapist: David Alexander.
Team: Andrew Stevens, Mark Nisbet (Captain), Robert Woodward, Paul Dorman, Liam Smyth, Chamberlain Ekrebe, Matthew Walton, Tom Srawley, Aston Goss, Jayden Freeman, Jemel Johnson
Substitutes: Staforde Palmer, Frederick Okyere, Andrew Corcoran, Kyle Kilmartin, and Perry Howard.
South West Counties Championship Competition
Somerset Football Association Youth v Berks & Bucks Football Association Youth
Saturday 5th February 2005
Kick-off 2.00pm
With the disappointment of last weeks exit in the quarter final fixture of the FA County Youth Cup against East Riding, today would be a great opportunity of putting that result behind us as we restarted our campaign in this seasons SWCC competition. With results to date, the group at this stage is wide open leaving both of today’s teams in a must win situation if both are to progress into the Championship play off.
We arrived at Taunton Town FC in torrential rain and the match kicked off on what would eventually become a quagmire of a pitch. With Andrew Corcoran given his first start for the association playing at left back for the injured Paul Dorman, Robert Woodward also returned to the squad playing alongside Mark Nisbet in the centre of defence. A 4-4-2 formation was used. Jon Chard was also given an opportunity to impress as he replaced the injured Liam Smyth at right back.
The match started brightly with both teams creating early opportunities, but is was Somerset who appeared to settle and start to take control of this fixture. Somerset took the lead on twenty minutes when following a free kick an unstoppable shot was driven past Andrew Stevens. Few other chances were created as both teams were finding it difficult to play in such bad conditions.
Following an earlier challenge in the first half, Matthew Walton was replaced by Aston Goss and we started the second half brightly and drew level within two minutes of the restart when we were awarded a penalty following a foul on Jayden Freeman. Frederick Okyere dispatched the penalty and the game once again opened up.
But it was midway through the first half when we appeared to take our foot off the gas and fell behind in the seventy first minute. From that moment we could not recover and conceded another goal in the eighty fifth minute. Somerset dominated the remainder of the fixture as our passing became disjointed and commitment to challenges poor.
Youth Team Manager David Westell commenting on the fixture said, “ today’s performance was totally unacceptable. This is without doubt the worst performance I have witnessed in the past two seasons. When the going gets tough players need to stand up and be counted, and as a unit we have let ourselves down today and nobody is more disappointed than me. On a positive note, Andrew Corcoran’s performance at left back today was creditable, something which he can build on for next season. But I cannot accept performances like this at this level, it does not do justice to what the players have achieved so far this season”.
Manager: David Westell
Head Coach: Kerthney Carty Coach: Richard Gould Team Physiotherapist: David Alexander
Team: Andrew Stevens, Mark Nisbet (Captain), Robert Woodward, Andrew Corcoran, Jon Chard, Chamberlain Ekrebe, Matthew Walton, Frederick Okyere, Staforde Palmer, Jayden Freeman, Jemel Johnson Substitutes: Daniel Chambers, Aston Goss, Tom Srawley, Michael Buck, and Perry Howard.
Football Association County Youth Cup Quarter Final
East Riding Football Association Youth v Berks & Bucks Football Association Youth
Saturday 29th January 2005 West Riding CFA, Woodlesford
The expectations remained high as we travelled to Hull and the Quarter Final fixture against East Riding with the winner facing a trip to Hampshire in the Semi’s. We were met in the evening by officials of our opponents to inform us that the original venue for this fixture at North Ferriby United was waterlogged and that a new venue was being organised. Little did we know that this would involve another one hour drive to Woodlesford which lies on the outskirts of Leeds over fifty miles from our hotel. The kick-off time was also bought forward to 12.30pm and our plans for pre match preparation on Saturday morning were cancelled.
With influential Youth Team Captain Sam Abbott still sidelined with a broken ankle and left back Paul Dorman also missing through injury a 3-5-2 formation would be played. The pitch was immaculate condition as both teams kicked off on this sunny but freezing afternoon.
As both teams settled each pressing to gain an advantage some attractive football was played. East Riding looking strong on the left hand side of the play were the first to create an early opportunity resulting in a goal when some indecision in defence allowed their centre forward to steal a loose ball a drive the shot passed keeper Andrew Stevens to take the lead in the fourteenth minute. Our response was immediate with two chances being well saved by the East Riding keeper. But we continued to press against some stubborn defending and were rewarded on thirty minutes with the equaliser. A defensive break involving Jemel Johnson on the left hand side whose one touch pass found Frederick Okyere who in turn released Stafford Palmer whose instant turn and driven shot smashed into the back of the net. At this stage of the game we began to take control until following a clash of heads between Tom Srawley and Chamberlain Ekrebe play was suspended whilst both players were treated. Unfortunately Chamberlain was forced to leave the field of play with a suspected broken eye socket. Daniel Chambers was introduced and we regrouped until the half time whistle blew.
The second half continued as the first had ended with us pressing for the lead. The tackles now became very physical in what had already been a very passionate match. We continued to play some probing football, and an intricate pass by Tom Srawley released Dan Chambers whose one on one chance against the keeper was superbly saved. Aston Goss replaced Matthew Walton who was suffering from cramp following tireless runs and we again upped the tempo looking for a winner. In the ninety third minute of normal time a golden opportunity to win the fixture was again wasted when the ball fell to Tom Srawley whose shot was smashed wide.
We moved into extra time and once again found ourselves behind when some sloppy play allowed the home side to take the lead in the 100th minute. Three minutes later we were equal when Tom Srawley drove a half volley past the despairing keeper and it looked as though penalties would decide this fixture. But with seconds remaining on the watch the fixture was decided in controversial circumstances. A lofted ball through our defence found keeper Andrew Stevens who whilst trying to clear the ball was obstructed by the East Riding centre forward who fell on top of Andrew. The loose ball fell to the feet of another East Riding player who slotted the ball into an empty net. The referee ignored the assistant on the far side of the field who was clearly flagging for the initial offence and blew for the end of the match.
Youth Team Manager David Westell said “I’m extremely proud of my players. They have played with great determination and are a credit to this Association. I’m sure that this experience will only go towards making them better players and I hope they can take all the positives out of this weekend. The East Riding Council Members were very honest in the post match reception as emotions were running high, but they will face a tough battle in the Semi Final when they will meet Hampshire who we have played and beaten this year”.
Manager: David Westell
Head Coach: Kerthney Carty Coach: Richard Gould Team Physiotherapist: David Alexander
Team: Andrew Stevens, Liam Smyth, Mark Nisbet (Captain), Michael Buck, Chamberlain Ekrebe, Tom Srawley, Matthew Walton, Frederick Okyere, Staforde Palmer, Jayden Freeman, Jemel Johnson. Substitutes: Daniel Chambers, Aston Goss, Jon Chard, Andrew Corcoran, and Perry Howard
South West Counties Championship
Berks & Bucks Football Association Youth v Army Football Association Youth
Saturday 22nd January 2005 Abingdon Town F.C.
The first of three consecutive fixtures, which includes the FA County Youth Cup quarterfinal next week, would be our first opportunity to play as a squad since December 4th. And with such an important fixture next week and with minor injuries and illness to key players a much-changed squad would be played this afternoon. This aside it was equally important to secure three points in this seasons SWCC competition.
Since he successfully competed in last weeks England trials at Lilleshall for which he was awarded man of the match in the fixture played on Saturday a decision was made to rest keeper Andrew Stevens who was suffering with fatigue and illness. And with left back Paul Dorman recovering from a foot injury Thatcham’s Jon Chard would be given his first start. Since our last fixture we have also lost captain Sam Abbott who suffered a horrific broken ankle playing for Maidenhead United, which could keep him sidelined for the remainder of the season. But we also welcome back Bracknell Town’s Michael Buck and Aylesbury United’s Matthew Robinson who both have fully recovered from his recent injuries.
The fixture kicked off on a heavy but firm surface at Abingdon Town on a sunny but bitterly cold afternoon. And from the start both sides played some attractive attacking football. And it was with only four minutes on the clock that the Army Youth took the lead when we failed to clear what looked an opportunist ball into the box. But once again we regrouped and started to force the game looking for an equaliser. And within the next ten minutes no fewer than three great chances were created but not finished. Our equaliser fell on twenty eight minutes when a headed clearance from a corner was met on the half volley by Michael Buck whose fierce driven shot from nearly thirty yards crashed into the back of the net.
We continued to push for a second goal but as the half time whistle blew the score remained 1-1.
We started the second half using a 3-5-2 formation having lost Liam Smyth who was taken ill during the interval, but this still did not stop us from creating further chances. Daniel Chambers was introduced replacing Matthew Robinson and Staforde Palmer replaced Jayden Freeman whose tireless work had not been rewarded today with a goal. Countless opportunities were further created but a mix of stubborn defending and poor finishing meant that we would continue to be frustrated. And it was in the eighty fourth minute that the Army scored what would be the winner totally against the run of play. A quick break down the right hand side saw the striker turn inside a stroke the ball into the net.
Youth Team Manager David Westell said “whilst I’m bitterly disappointed that we could not secure a victory today we must take the positives from this fixture. We continue to create opportunities and as a unit always look comfortable on the ball. There were some fine individual performances today predominantly in the centre of the park where for long periods of the game we dominated possession. But chances must be taken and we must be more ruthless in front of goal. The work rate and fitness of the squad after the long break which we have had looks good and I hope that the rested and injured players will all be available for next weeks Quarter Final fixture against East Riding.”
Manager: David Westell
Head Coach: Kerthney Carty Coach: Richard Gould Team Physiotherapist: David Alexander
Team: Perry Howard, Liam Smyth, Jon Chard, Michael Buck, Mark Nisbet (Captain), Chamberlain Ekrebe, Matthew Walton, Tom Srawley, Jemel Johnson, Jayden Freeman, Matthew Robinson. Substitutes: Frederick Okyere, Daniel Chambers, Aston Goss, Staforde Palmer, and Andrew Stevens.
Football Association County Youth Cup - Third Round
Hertfordshire Football Association Youth v Berks & Bucks Football Association Youth
Saturday 4th December 2004
A solitary goal scored midway in the first half was enough to secure the Berks & Bucks a place in the quarter final of this season’s competition with a trip to either East Riding. It was the visitors who throughout the whole of the match created the most chances and played attractive football against what was a very physically strong Hertfordshire side.
The fixture kicked off in the impressive surroundings of the County Ground, Letchworth the official home ground of the Hertfordshire Football Association. And with the visitors Captain Sam Abbott playing with a broken nose, the determination of progressing further in this season’s competition could not be questioned. And it was the visitors who would create the early chances with both Jemel Johnson left midfield and Matthew Walton right midfield causing constant problems with their probing runs and accurate crosses into the home sides box. In fact the visitors were very unlucky not to score in the opening few minutes when a cross by Matthew Walton flashed across the home sides box only to be narrowly missed by Staforde Palmer whose outstretched foot failed to connect with the ball. The home sides response was immediate, breaking away only to be denied a goal by a superb save by visiting keeper Andrew Stevens. Five minutes later the ball was in the back of the visitors net only to be cancelled out by the referee who indicated a foul in the initial build up.
The visitors then enjoyed a period of extended possession and looked very dangerous on the break, and it was during this period of play that the only goal of the fixture was scored. Having won a corner, Matthew Walton’s superbly drifted ball was met by Chamberlain Ekrebe, who won the initial challenge in the area then smashed an unstoppable shot past the advancing keeper to send the Berks & Bucks into euphoria. Five minutes later a through ball played by Jayden Freeman found Palmer who, having passed two defenders attempted to round the keeper who in turn managed to get a hand on the ball and clear for a corner.
The second half continued as the first had ended with the visitors pushing to secure victory, but once more being frustrated by stubborn defending. As Hertfordshire’s desperation grew, their reliance on the long ball increased. But with the visitors defence soaking up the pressure very few chances were created. With the centre of the park now being controlled by Frederick Okyere and 16-year-old goal scorer Chamberlain Ekrebe possession for the visitors grew. Late in the game front-runners Freeman and Palmer were replaced by Aston Goss and Daniel Chambers who both had chances thwarted.
Youth Team Manager David Westell was delighted with the result commenting ‘I have enjoyed numerous league and cup successes in my managerial career but today’s result must be the most satisfying to date. We came here with a game plan and the players have stuck to this despite the pressure, which was on them. It was a faultless display and we must ensure that future performances are maintained. My coaches have worked very hard along side me this season in preparing this squad for which I thank them. There are still minor areas of improvement to be made, but this is a very young squad and we must be patient, I’m sure that they will evolve as each game passes’.
Manager: David Westell
Head Coach: Kerthney Carty Coach: Richard Gould Team Physiotherapist: David Alexander
Team: Andrew Stevens, Liam Smyth, Paul Dorman, Sam Abbott (Captain), Mark Nisbet, Chamberlain Ekrebe, Matthew Walton, Frederick Okyere, Staforde Palmer, Jayden Freeman, Jemel Johnson Substitutes: Tom Srawley, Daniel Chambers, Aston Goss, Jon Chard, Perry Howard.
South West Counties Championship
Berks & Bucks Football Association Youth v Guernsey Football Association Youth
Sunday 28th November 2004 Didcot Town F.C.
With an ankle injury to keeper Andrew Stevens, reserve goalkeeper Perry Howard was given the opportunity of a first full match for the home side, and after eight minutes he must have wondered what on earth was going on after retrieving the ball from the back of his net twice through no fault of his own. Some defensive indecision saw B&B trailing to their visitors and leaving a mountain to climb. In fact had it not been for an amazing save by Perry they could have found themselves three nil down inside the first quarter of an hour, at the impressive Loop Meadow Stadium home of Didcot Town.
After such a fine performance against Hampshire the home side would have to dig deep into their reserves to recover anything from such a poor start. But, as this seasons squad have shown, they were not prepared to give in so easily. Once settling into a rhythm of play they started to dominate possession, and created numerous chances only to be denied by some stubborn defending and fine goalkeeping by their visitors. The first real chance on the Guernsey goal came from a fine run by Matthew Walton, who managed to get across the last defender, only to see his shot flash past the post. Two other chances fell to Daniel Chambers and Staforde Palmer but the half time whistle blew and we went into the interval still trailing by two goals
The second half started with the wind and rain at the back of Berks & Bucks, and it became evident that the visitors would not only have to cope with the home side pressing play but the elements as well. With Tom Srawley being replaced by Frederick Okyere, possession increased, but Guernsey always looked dangerous on the break, something B&B would have to consider whilst chasing the game. But it was a quality ball played by Freddie releasing Dan Chambers who was brought down in the box that a penalty was awarded on fifty minutes. Dan took the penalty but the Guernsey keeper superbly saved it and it looked at that stage that this was not going to be the home sides day.
With half an hour to go Dan Chambers was replaced by Jayden Freeman, and with the fresh injection of Jay’s pace further chances were created. Finally on seventy minutes Berks & Bucks first goal was scored, when a fine cross by Jay Freeman was met by Chamberlain Ekrebe who powerfully headed the ball past the advancing keeper to score his first goal for the Association. And with five minutes remaining on the clock the equaliser was scored when a headed clearance was met on the volley by Jayden Freeman who smashed the ball into the back of the net from thirty yards for the goal of the match capping a fine individual performance after coming on as a substitute.
In the final five minutes Matthew Walton saw a fine strike on goal narrowly miss the target, and when Jemel Johnson found space in the box the winner looked on the cards. But the ball appeared to get stuck at his feet and eventually cleared. The final whistle blew, and Berks & Bucks now look forward to their Third Round FA Youth Cup fixture away to Hertfordshire next Saturday.
Manager David Westell commented “after such a poor start a draw was the least our lads deserved after a fine battling performance. Again the players will have learnt that concentration at this level of football from the kick off is so important. I’m still impressed with the attitude of this seasons squad, which extends to injured players such as Michael Buck who was supporting us at the game today. This shows the close unit that we are working with this year. My hope now is that every player remains fit an uninjured as we go into the most important fixture of the season next Saturday in our FA Youth Cup 3rd Round game against Hertfordshire. I wish Michael Buck and other injured members of our squad a speedy recovery and look forward to their return”.
Manager: David Westell
Head Coach: Kerthney Carty Coach: Richard Gould Team Physiotherapist: David Alexander
Team: Perry Howard, Liam Smyth, Paul Dorman, Sam Abbott (Captain), Mark Nisbet, Chamberlain Ekrebe, Matthew Walton, Tom Srawley, Staforde Palmer, Daniel Chambers, Jemel Johnson. Substitutes: Frederick Okyere, Jon Chard, Aston Goss, Jayden Freeman, Andrew Stevens.
Mick Parry Memorial Cup, Saturday 13th November 2004
Berks & Bucks Football Assocition Youth v Hampshire Football Association Youth
Andover F.C.
On a sunny but bitterly cold day the match kicked off following one minutes silence, which was impeccably observed by both teams and the large crowd in attendance.
Despite a splendid second half that was packed full of incident and excitement, it was a moment of brilliance in the first half that won the match for Berks & Bucks. Fielding a much changed squad due to no fewer than six withdrawals during the week through either injury or sickness today’s game would be a test of character for the players who would be making their first appearances for the youth team. The remaining regular squad members would once again have to raise their game to a new level to compete against a very strong Hampshire side in this important first round tie.
Both teams were very determined from the kick off with end-to-end play and both defences clearly on top. It was Hampshire on five minutes who created the first clear chance with a fiercely driven shot spectacularly saved by Andrew Stevens. In fact Hampshire were dominant in the first twenty minutes, but as the match settled down the visitors started to press and created chances of their own. In fact both keepers were hardly tested as most of the play was evenly contested in the middle of the park.
In the twenty third minute Jemel Johnson broke loose from his marker and his tremendous run passing two defenders saw his cross flash across the Hampshire goal mouth. The cross was eventually cleared only to find Matthew Walton who drove a shot into the back of the Hampshire net from twenty-two yards.
In the second half both teams played some superb probing football but few clear chances were created. With the Berks & Bucks defence soaking up the pressure and frustrating their opponents they still continued to attack Hampshire with strikers, Jayden Freeman and Staforde Palmer both unlucky not to increase our advantage. But it was a determined team effort, which saw them secure a place in the Semi Final and a home fixture against Wiltshire.
Youth Team Manager David Westell said “this weeks forced changes through withdrawals have allowed me to look at another three young players Jon Chard, Stuart McKinley and Aston Goss who have all performed well today. But credit must go to our defence with Sam Abbott, Mark Nisbet and Paul Dorman all faultless in their performances today. This seasons squad has more depth and with the return of the injured players we will be a force to be reckoned with.”
Manager: David Westell
Head Coach: Kerthney Carty Coach: Richard Gould Team Physiotherapist: David Alexander
Team: Andrew Stevens, Stuart McKinley, Paul Dorman, Mark Nisbet, Sam Abbott (Captain), Chamberlain Ekrebe, Matthew Walton, Tom Srawley, Staforde Palmer, Jayden Freeman, Jemel Johnson Substitutes: Jon Chard, Frederick Okyere, Aston Goss, Perry Howard.
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Football Association County Youth Cup -Second Round - Saturday 24th October 2004
Berks & Bucks Football Association Youth
v
Jersey Football Association Youth
The match was the first fixture between the two Counties at any level, and with both Association’s being fortunate in receiving a bye in the first round of this season’s competition, both were eagerly looking forward to proceed into the third round.
Credit and thanks must go to the Aylesbury United groundsman; who despite the appalling weather with driving rain throughout the match saw the playing surface remain in immaculate condition. And although conditions were slippery both teams produced a competitive game with an exciting finish.
The fixture started with Jersey kicking off and playing with the wind at their backs, and it took the home side nearly two minutes before they took their first touch of the ball such was the intricate passing of Jersey. The visitors continued to enjoy a short spell of pressure and nearly took an early advantage, however with the home keeper Andrew Stevens in outstanding form making three unbelievable saves Jersey were unable to break the deadlock. The home side’s response to the pressure was a perfect one, Matthew Robinson was released on the left hand side, and his inch perfect pass into the visitors box was met on the half volley by Thomas Srawley who smashed the ball into the roof of the net on 33 minutes. The first half ended as it has started with the visitors once again frustrated by keeper Stevens, and the stubborn defending by the home side.
The second half saw the home side using the elements to their advantage and the visitors were finding it increasingly difficult to contain the play. However it was during a delay in retrieving the match ball for a corner kick that the home side switched off for a moment, and a fiercely driven corner into the box was met by the head of Luke Watson and the ball was in the back of the home sides net on 71 minutes for an equaliser.
At this stage it looked as though extra time was inevitable, it was then time for Jemel Johnson to be introduced into the game, and his impact was almost immediate. Picking up the ball in midfield he passed two defenders before smashing the ball into the back of the visitors net on 84 minutes. The visitors looked stunned, and it was Johnson five minutes later whose jinxing run passing no fewer than five players saw the ball in the back of the visitors net once more. Only for the referee to disallow the goal as scorer Daniel Chambers had been deemed offside. The final whistle blew and both teams should be congratulated on the fine display of football, played in the true spirit of the game.
Commenting on today’s game Youth Team Manager David Westell said, “ Whilst I never single out any individual player, goalkeeper Andrew Stevens performance today was outstanding. Fitting in that today’s game was Andrew’s fifteenth appearance and he has been duly awarded his County Cap for his commitment to the Youth Team. I am delighted with the squad’s achievement today, and the spirit throughout the side is good. I feel a balance has been achieved and hope that future performances will be as solid as today’s”.
Berks & Bucks now await a trip to either Cambridgeshire or Hertfordshire in the next round.
Referee: Mr E I Smith (Mayford,Surrey)
Assistants: Mr M Treadwell (Banbury,Oxon)
Mr M D Walker (Didcot, Oxon)
Manager: David Westell
Head Coach: Kerthney Carty Coach: Richard Gould Team Physiotherapist: David Alexander
Team: Andrew Stevens, Liam Smyth, Paul Dorman, Michael Buck, Sam Abbott (Captain), Chamberlain Ekrebe, Matthew Walton, Tom Srawley, Staforde Palmer, Daniel Chambers, Matthew Robinson
Substitutes: Mark Nisbet, Daniel Oliver, Mitchell Woodward, Jemel Johnson, Perry Howard.
Andrew Stevens received his County Cap following this match. Photo >>
Colin Sapwell Memorial Shield
Northamptonshire FA Youth v Berks & Bucks FA Youth
Sunday 26 September 2004 at Kettering Town FC
Many of the players on view had never played in such fine surroundings as presented to them at Kettering Towns ground. As expected, the match started at a lightening pace with both sides creating early chances.
The first of 3 quick goals for the visitors came as early as the 6th minute from Daniel Chambers (Maidenhead United) who coolly lobbed the Northamptonshire keeper from what seemed an impossible angle. This was followed 5 minutes later with an unstoppable 29 yard strike from Matthew Walton (Abingdon Town), created by Jemel Johnson (Reading Town). A 3rd goal was added on 19 minutes when a floated cross from Liam Smyth (Buckingham Town) was dropped by the home keeper, and Jayden Freeman (Maidenhead United) was on hand to stab the ball home.
Keeper Andrew Stevens (Aylesbury United) was then called into action when Northamptonshire were awarded a penalty following a challenge in the area. The kick was fiercely struck to the left side of the keeper, who saved with the shot being further cleared for a corner kick. The home side started to dominate possession and scored 2 quick goals to open up the game once more, to make the interval score 3-2 to Berks & Bucks.
The second half started much as the first had ended with Northamptonshire pressing for an equaliser. Another penalty kick was awarded to the home side following a push in the area from a corner kick. The home side made no mistake with their second spot kick bringing the scores level. Both sides began to press to look for the winner, and it was not until the 4th minute of added time that Mitchell Woodward (Chesham United) won a fierce tackle in the centre of the field, and managed to stab the ball to Frederick Okyere (Maidenhead United) who in turn played a perfect pass to release Matthew Walton, his cross was met on the volley by Staforde Palmer (Maidenhead United) to seal; victory.
Youth team manager David Westell was delighted with this latest performance saying, “ We knew that the Northamptonshire fixture was going to be hard. Even at 3-0 up Northamptonshire always looked dangerous, and it was only our determination that saw us through. Northamptonshire should be congratulated for their fine performance, and I wish them well for the forthcoming season. They will be a force to be reckoned with.
Team: Andrew Stevens, Liam Smyth, Nicholas Doherty, Michael Buck, Sam Abbott, Chamberlain Ekrebe, Matthew Walton, Frederick Okyere, Jayden Freeman, Daniel Chambers, Jemel Johnson.
Douglas Frost Memorial Trophy
Berks & Bucks FA Youth v Bedfordshire FA Youth
Sunday 19th September 2004 at Aylesbury United FC
The inaugural match for the Douglas Frost Memorial Trophy between the tow Associations was played on a dry but blustery afternoon at the home of Aylesbury United Football Club.
In a very exciting, well contested match the trophy was won by Bedfordshire, courtesy of a first half penalty and a second in the closing minutes of the second half.
Both sides served up attractive football. In particular the keeper for the visitors, who unbelievable first half performance in making no fewer than 5 reaction saves surely won the match for his side. The home side found themselves frustrated on more than one occasion with chances created only to be thwarted by the opposing keeper.
The fixture was played in a good spirit, with Paul Frost, son of Douglas Frost, and members of his family in attendance, Paul himself presented the trophy to Mark Potter, captain of Bedfordshire.
Berks & Bucks youth team manager, David Westel was pleased with the number of chances created saying; “unfortunately we have encountered a keeper in excellent form, and he must be congratulated on his performance this afternoon. I am however encouraged by the commitment and spirit shown by our players, despite loosing four defenders through injury, we still endeavoured to take the game to Bedfordshire and never gave in”.
Team: Andrew Stevens, Liam Smyth, Tom Lloyd, Jamie Temple, Robert Woodward, Chamberlain Ekrebe, Matthew Walton, Thomas Srawley, Jayden Freeman, Daniel Chambers, Jemel Johnson. Subs [all used]; Tom Austin, Nicholas Doherty, Frederick Okyere, Staforde Palmer, Joe Purcell.
Twelftree/Holmes Trophy
Berks & Bucks Football Association Youth v Leicestershire & Rutland Football Association Youth
Sunday 12th September 2004
The annual fixture between the Associations was played on a dry but blustery afternoon at the ground of Abingdon United Football Club.
With our opponents fielding no fewer than seven players who competed in last seasons 4-2 victory, a tough match was to be expected
The fixture kicked off with Berks & Bucks playing down the slight slope, against a gale force wind. But with the pitch in immaculate condition were able to play some attractive football. The home side soon started to dominate the play with Chamberlain Ekrebe (Maidenhead United) and Thomas Srawley (Wantage Town) dictating the play in the centre of the park. In fact throughout of the match the home side looked very composed in all areas of play, considering this was the first fixture that the players had competed in.
The first of what would be four gaols for Jemel Johnson (Reading Town) came following a controlled build up involving Nicholas Doherty (Buckingham Town) and Jayden Freeman (Maidenhead United). During the first half Leicestershire& Rutland created chances of their own, but were forced to take long range shots, which were comfortably saved by keeper Andrew Stevens (Aylesbury United). And by half time Johnson had secure his hat trick and Berks & Bucks went into the interval with a comfortable 3 nil lead.
The second half started with Leicestershire & Rutland chasing the game, which opened up gaps for the home side to exploit, and it was not long before Johnson scored his fourth of the match. During the first ten minutes of the second half all five substitutes were made, and although becoming slightly disjointed for a short period of time, the players soon settled back into a rhythm of play. Two further goals were added in the second half by Daniel Chambers (Maidenhead United), which secured the trophy yet again for Berks & Bucks.
Youth Team Manager David Westell was extremely pleased with the performance saying ‘the two stage trials this season have allowed us to be more prepared for this fixture. The squad for this season is still being developed, and I must thank my coaching staff and scouts for the hard work over the past few months. Changes will be made for the Douglas Frost Memorial Trophy match next weekend, which will allow me to firm the squad basis for the season”.
REP TEAM MATCH REPORT ARCHIVE
03 October 2005