Tuesday 27 October 2015

3Q Sports - Buy Saffron Walden FC Branded Teamwear and more





I have been recently dealing with Reidy at 3Q Sports. I sent Mrs Nash’s flannel to 3Q and using the embroidery service, I had the Walden badge added to the flannel for just £4.

For all questions on embroidery please contact Reidy and he will be happy to help. If it’s not embroidery you require then they offer a wide selection of custom printing for club badges, sponsor logos, numbers etc. With their own in-house and expertly trained design team they can accommodate their customer’s requirement for customisation of their order.  

As most of you know, you can also get the Bloods kit, scarf, hat and many more. When I go to the Meadow or an away match, it’s great to see the supporters wearing the badge and proud to support the Bloods.

Deliveries are collated together every Friday they are processed in Ely and then customised here at 3Q Sports. Current delivery time is 2 weeks from payment of order.

All deliveries are to Saffron Walden Football Club and are Free of charge. If you require the order being shipped to your address you can select this at the checkout (charges apply)

For more information visit
https://www.3qsports.co.uk/Saffron-Walden-Town-Club-Shop or call Reidy on 01353 663333


 




Monday 26 October 2015

Saffron Walden 1 - Stanway Rovers 2


Saffron Walden 1 – Stanway Rovers 2

 

It was the 125th Birthday for Saffron Walden Town FC. So much history has been made at ‘The Meadow’. The club had got together, and had banner made, and an arch of red and black balloons. The Party Box in Saffron Walden provided the decoration, and SGA Technology sponsored the match.

It was also Mrs Nash and Malcolm’s 28th wedding anniversary. I bought her a flannel for the special occasion, with the Walden badge stitched on. She was very pleased with her present. (See picture)

I was really looking forward to this match. To me it felt like we needed to get revenge. Stanway knocked us out of the FA Vase last year. We had an epic run, and all had dreams of Wembley. I will never forget that match. The Bloods fans packed the ground, and were in full voice.

Wig was serving a 1 match suspension, and Mashy was out with an injury. We are still missing Greg Strong and Sam Gregory, and I wish them a speedy recovery.

Floyd Croll was in goal. Defence: Solkhon (Rocky), Lawrence (Beast), Reid and P Abbot. Midfield: Noble (Nobby), Murphy (The Boss), Bell. Forwards: Harper, Turner (G Man) and Thomas. Subs: M Abbot, Drane, Fleming, Crane (Road Runner), Grindrod (The Viking)

The First Half

We started the match kicking towards Catons Lane. We must have lost the toss as we usually start the match kicking towards the playing field.  

The match started a little cagy. Each player was passing the ball well, and didn’t want to make a mistake. It was a different tactic, as we usually go for the kill from the kick off. It was good to see the lads keeping possession.

Our first decent opportunity was from a throw-on for the Beast. Unfortunately he was caught with his feet over the line, which resulted in a foul throw.

In true fashion, the crowd was giving the away keeper some stick. His first five goal kicks ended up in the stand. Nick Punter, if you’re reading this. You took it well, and didn’t bite once. Nice one! It was amusing how Punter’s kicking got so much better after the fans banter.

10 minutes in and the Beast did very well, to put off Shaw from having a clean effort on goal. He tracked back well and Shaw’s effort went wide.

Shortly after, Stanway’s number 7 Newson had a good attempt, but it went wide and didn’t force a save from Croll.

Stanway had their own long throw specialist, or as we like to call; The Beast. He sent in a very dangerous long throw, but Croll came off his line, and caught the ball.

Bell was given an unexpected opportunity to lob Punter. Punter decided to rush off his line to clear a forward ball, but he was out of his area and had no choice but to header the ball clear. The ball fell to Bell, but his lob went wide. It was very quick thinking from Bell.

We came under some more pressure from a corner. The corner was whipped in, but Paul Abbot defended well, but it ended up back at Cawley’s feet. Cawley crossed the ball back in to the box, but could only find the Beast’s strong clearing header. His header dropped to Slatter, but his shot went over the bar.

Our closest effort of the half so far, came from a Beast throw. The Beast found Ried in space, who headed the ball at goal. The header beat Punter, but the Stanway defender was in the right place, and cleared it off the line.

33 minutes into the match and we drew first blood. G Man latched onto Rocky’s through ball, controlled it with his chest, and smashed it passed Punter. Lovely goal G!

Stanway tried to get straight back into the match with a series of threatening crosses, but Croll and his defence held their line well. Croll punched the ball clear, which G Man collected at the half way line. He passed the ball, for Thomas to run on to. Thomas ran all the way down the wing and into the box, but his cross was well defended by Cawley. 

Thomas was showing off his skills, as we tried to push for a second. He was brought down outside the box for a free kick. Harper took the free kick, which was aimed at Thomas, but the defender headed the ball clear.

Thomas was getting pulled about, as he was out-playing the defenders. He was pulled back, which looked like a foul, but the lads were told to play on.

Stanway pushed hard to get the equalizer, but the Beast put in a great challenge to win the ball, and Bell managed to clear the danger. Hughes got the ball back into the Bloods box, but it was an easy catch for Croll.

Bell produced the best skill of the half, when he fell to the ground with the ball at his feet. He managed to shield the ball in a crab-like position, got up and beat two of the Stanway players. He even managed to put in a cross, but Punter caught the ball.

HT Saffron Walden 1 – Stanway 0

 

Second Half

Stanway came out all guns blazing, and had an early penalty shout. The referee told the player to get up, and he was booked for diving.

Newson had a very good shooting opportunity, but Reid tracked back and put in a block, preventing the shot. Reid cleared the ball for a Stanway throw.

At this point of the second half, Malc Nash gave me a lovely phrase for the Blog, but it’s so rude I can’t possibly repeat it. It was very funny though! You’re going to have to ask him on Saturday.

Hughes took a free kick for Stanway. He tried to sail it in at the back post, but Slatters miss kicked it, and we cleared the ball for a Stanway throw.

Young Blood, Owen Bailey asked if he could have a go at recording. He reported that Stanway had a corner, but the shot went over the bar and they all stood with their hands on their heads. He did mention a lot more, but I can’t type that fast. Well done Owen! It was great to work with such a professional.

We were awarded a throw-on for the Beast. It was a great throw; which could have gone anywhere. The ball was defended for another throw. The second throw, was again cleared by Stanway. There was a little bit of pushing and shoving in the box, as we waited for the ball to be launched by the Beast.

G Man had a great opportunity to make it 2-0. G Man latched onto Thomas’ through ball and turned the defender, but he lost his footing, and his shot didn’t have enough power to trouble Punter.

The club invited some of the local Walden youth teams, to watch the match for free. They sang some great songs about Croll, about how Punter wished he was as good as him.

Stanway got quite physical, and Cawley was yellow carded for a challenge on Thomas. There was a little bit of afters. It could have been a red card. I have seen them given before.

62 minutes into the match and Harper was replaced by M Abbot.

Jamie Shaw came very close to equalising for Stanway. His strike rattled against the cross bar. Beast ran back to stop Stanway from pouncing on the loose ball.

Stanway claimed again for a penalty, but it was actually a lovely tackle from Paul Abbot. Croll came off his line to collect the ball.

Shortly after, Croll made a fantastic save. The ball was flicked into the 6 yard box by Shaw, and Newson got his head to it. Croll quickly dived to his right hand side, and push the ball away.

Now this is where it gets confusing. Neale was booked for a challenge, but Stanway was awarded the free kick. The ball was quickly played to Shaw, who squared it to Slatter for a tap in. As you can imagine; the flannel was out! I still do not know why Stanway was given the free kick? I hope someone can explain it to me on Saturday. It was not 1-1.

76 minutes into the match and The Boss was replaced by Fleming. Well played Boss.

82 minutes in to the match, and the fans were getting frustrated with the referee. He awarded another free kick to Stanway; after Bell was booked?!! Now this was getting silly! To make matters worse, Stanway scored from it. A diagonal cross was delivered into the box, for substitute Meadows to header it into the back of the net. What is it with Walden and bad decisions?!

87 minutes into the match and P Abbot was replaced by Road Runner. Abbot had a good game and made some key tackles. It was difficult to get RR into the game with only a few minutes to go, but in RR style, he came out of the dug out fast!

Unfortunately it was not our day! The referee blew the whistle and that was it. It was a difficult match, which didn’t help by some dodgy decisions. I feel we didn’t create enough chances, and only had a few shots on goal.

As always we congratulated the keeper for his win, and for being a good sport. I look forward to playing them again at their ground.

The fans MOTM went to Graeme Turner. He worked very hard and he took his shot very well. Well done G Man. It is great to see you open your 2015/16 account.

Next up for the first team is an away match against Haverhill Rovers. Last time we met, we marginally lost at home to a last minute penalty. I believe we are putting on a coach from Catons Lane. Speak to Ken or Andrew for details.  It is time to get back to winning ways!

The Ressies have an away match against Long Melford Reserves on Tuesday the 27th October. Unfortunately I can’t make the match. Good luck lads!

Thanks for reading.





Monday 19 October 2015

Ipswich Wanderers 1 - Saffron Walden 0


Ipswich Wanderers 1 – Saffron Walden 0

Saturday 17th October.


Ipswich Wanderers had just beaten their rivals Whitton 5-0 in the cup, so they were full of confidence going into the match against the Bloods. However, the Bloods were undefeated in 4 league matches, and are producing a team that were very hard to beat.

I left with Peter early, because we knew the traffic was going to be bad around Ipswich. We got to the ground at around the same time the players arrived. We went to have a cup of tea and met some off the Ipswich staff, including the Chairman. They were very welcoming and friendly. I congratulated them on their latest win.

The match officials followed all suited and booted, and I complimented on how smart they all looked. They looked at me like I had 3 heads. Note to self; don’t bother trying next time. They are very serious people, with a very serious job! Communicating with us riff raff is not allowed by the FA! So, on that welcoming note, I left with big Nigel and went to get some food. The guys working at the canteen were very polite, and we enjoyed a burger and chips. For those of you that are concerned about my growing belly; the diet does not exist on a weekend! It’s okay, as I kicked the ball around with Master Thurston. He told me I could play in goal for his young Bloods. Watch out Floyd! I’ll be after your number 1 shirt soon.

With Floyd Croll suspended, and Sam Soutar in the US; we had Scott Traveller in goal. Scott played a few games for the Bloods last year, and is an experience goal keeping coach. He can also kick a ball further than most keepers I have seen in non-league football.

The starting 11 were:

Scott Traveller was in goal. Defence: Solkhon (Rocky), Lawrence (Beast), Wardly (Sticksy) and P Abbott. Midfield: Snelling (Mashy), Harper, Noble and Drane. Forwards: Calver (Wig) and Thomas. Subs: Vant, M Abbot, Bell, Grindrod (Viking) and Murphy (Boss).

The first half

Ipswich started the game off, and gave the Bloods some early pressure, but no save was needed. Traveller showed off his kicking power early. His kick went over the top of the midfield, and tried to find Wig, but it was well defended by Hitching.

Jennings was causing the back four a few issues and whipped in a cross, but it was well taken by Traveller. Jennings then tried to skin Rocky, but Rocky managed to kick the ball at Jennings to award the Bloods a throw on.

8 minutes into the game and Ipswich did look good. They had some great passing on the ball, and moved well.

Thomas was awarded a free kick, because he was tripped. Harper floated the ball into the box, which found Sticksy. Sticksy headed the ball across the box to Wig, but his shot didn’t have enough power to beat Bradbrook.

Soon after, Wig beat his man and went down in the box. The referee told Wig to get up and didn’t award a penalty.

Jennings was looking favourite, to score for Ipswich. He tried to turn Drane, but Drane got in a good tackle and cleared the ball out of danger.

Wig again came close to scoring. Rocky put in a lovely cross and Wig hit it first time, but Bradbrook made a great save.

18 minutes into the match and Holland had scored for Ipswich. The ball was crossed in and Paul Abbot tried to clear, but his clearance went back into the box, for Holland to head home.

Mashy almost capitalised from a bad clearance by Bradbrook. Bradbrook miss kicked the ball, and Wig intercepted it. He whipped the ball into the box for Mashy, but Mashy’s effort went slightly high and wide. It would have been very difficult to save.

Harper and Mashy linked up well and worked the defence. Mashy managed to get a shot in, but it was well blocked by their Captain, Goldfinch.

25 minutes into the match and Bradlaugh sent in a dangerous looking cross, but the Beast put in a strong block. The ball was crossed back into the Bloods box, but Sticksy headed the ball clear.

Thomas was showing his skills, and dribbled the ball half way down the wing. He beat the left back on the line, but the ball ran away from him slightly and went for a goal kick.

Harper and Mashy continued to look threatening. Mashy put in a great cross, which was well defended for a Bloods corner. Harper took the corner, and found Sticksy, but his headed effort went wide. It could have been a penalty shout, as the defenders foot was very high.

Mashy had a great effort blocked. He took the ball across the 18 yard box, and shot, but it was well blocked by Corrick for Bradbrook to collect.

The Bloods won a free kick, which was well taken by Harper. Rocky managed to get his head to the ball, but it went over the bar and Nigel caught it.

Our shot of the half came from Nobby. We took a quick throw and Wig whipped in a cross. Nobby caught the ball well, but it was very well saved by Bradbrook for a Bloods corner. The corner was well defended by Goldfinch for a Bloods throw. The Beast’s throw went over the defence and just missed Wig’s right foot by a few inches.

38 minutes into the match and Wig won us a free kick. He was sandwiched by three Ipswich players. Harper crossed the ball in, but Thomas’ header went wide.

The Beast put in a fantastic challenge on Jennings. Jennings ran at the goal and was one on one with Traveller. The Beast stretched out his leg, and kicked the ball against Jennings for a goal kick. If he had clipped Jennings, he would have been taking an early shower. Nice work for our captain.

43 minutes into the match and Ipswich had a free kick, just outside the box. It was well taken by Bradlaugh but Rocky headed the ball out, and sent Thomas on a run. Thomas passed the ball to Harper, who passed to Wig in space. Wig went for the cross but there was no one home.

In the last minute of the first half Wig had a shot well saved by Bradbrook. He tried to place it in the keeper’s bottom left hand corner, but Bradbrook got down well and saved the ball.

The first half finished Ipswich Wanderers 1 – Saffron Walden 0.

Second Half

Ipswich tried to get an early second goal, but the Beast was working very hard to protect his keeper.

Paul Abbot also put in a great block, to deny a shooting opportunity. The ball did get crossed back into the Bloods box, but the header was wide.

We started to get back into the game. Wig sent a long ball, which was well taken by Thomas. Thomas managed to turn, but his shot didn’t trouble Bradbrook.

The Bloods continued to pass the ball well. Wig found some space and went for a long shot, but it went wide of the post.

Bradbrook was earning his stripes today. Harper’s had a great effort. He played the ball into space and his shoot was head straight for the top left hand corner, but Bradbrook made a lovely diving save.

Wig and Thomas linked up well. Wig played Thomas into space near the touchline. It looked like the defender had kicked the ball off for a corner, but the referee gave a goal kick? We were literally 5 yards from the incident.

65 minutes into the match and Drane was replaced by Joe ‘The Boss’ Murphy. I think Drane is improving with every game and doing very well.

Holland went for a long range effort, but it went over the bar.

Ipswich started to pile on more pressure, and worked the ball well. The Beast and Sticksy were looking solid at the back, and working well together.

We were getting frustrated, as Wig was being fouled, but the referee was not giving him anything.

Ipswich had a free kick, taken by Bradlaugh, but their player was caught off side.

Wig was causing havoc on the wing, and floated a cross into the box. The ball found harper, but his header was not hard enough to trouble Bradbrook.

75 minutes into the match and Harper was replaced by Bell. Harper, or should I say; ‘Sir Bobby’, had another good game and worked well with the players around him.

The Bloods could have gone 2-0 down from a whipped in cross, but substitute Myhill, just missed the chance for a tap in.

We piled on the pressure, with a Beast throw. We created a good chance but the ball was snuffed out, and well cleared by the Ipswich defence.

Thomas unfortunately missed a golden opportunity to level the match. The attack started from the back. Rocky was under pressure, but calmly headed the ball back to Traveller. Traveller cleared the ball to Wig. Wig beat the defender and squared the ball to Thomas. Thomas hit the ball first time from about 8 yards at, but the ball went over the bar. He was very unlucky not to score. However it did show some excellent counter attacking football. This was definitely a Mrs Nash flannel moment!

38 minutes into the half and Nobby was replaced by M Abbot. Nobby had good game, and was unlucky not to score in the first half. Keep up the hard work.

The Bloods didn’t give up and tried to get back into the game. M Abbott found Bell in space on the wing. Bell put in a great cross, but it was headed away by Hitching.

We had a good chance from a Mark Abbott free kick. He crossed it to Wig. Wig controlled the ball well, and got himself into a shooting opportunity, but Buckle put in a great challenge for a corner. Bell’s corner was well caught by the keeper.

The Ipswich fans were in good voice and singing ‘We are the Wonderers’ by using the song ‘You are my Sunshine’.

We had about 5 minutes injury time and had one last great effort. The effort came from our keeper Traveller. The Bloods won a free kick near the dugout. Traveller went for it, and forced a save from Bradbrook. Had that gone in, it would have been goal of the year!

So the game finished Ipswich Wanderers 1 – Saffron Walden 0. With all the chances we had, we definitely deserved a point. Just needed to find that finish!

The fans MOTM went to Mashy. He never stopped working and played some great football. Well done Mashy.

The Bloods next first team game is at home, against Stanway while the Ressies travel to Whitton. The U18s are away to Ely on Thursday evening. Good luck all.

Thanks for reading

Ipswich Wanderers 1 – Saffron Walden 0

The Doucy

Saturday 17th October.

 

Ipswich Wanderers had just beaten their rivals Whitton 5-0 in the cup, so they were full of confidence going into the match against the Bloods. However, the Bloods were undefeated in 4 league matches, and are producing a team that were very hard to beat.

I left with Peter early, because we knew the traffic was going to be bad around Ipswich. We got to the ground at around the same time the players arrived. We went to have a cup of tea and met some off the Ipswich staff, including the Chairman. They were very welcoming and friendly. I congratulated them on their latest win.

The match officials followed all suited and booted, and I complimented on how smart they all looked. They looked at me like I had 3 heads. Note to self; don’t bother trying next time. They are very serious people, with a very serious job! Communicating with us riff raff is not allowed by the FA! So, on that welcoming note, I left with big Nigel and went to get some food. The guys working at the canteen were very polite, and we enjoyed a burger and chips. For those of you that are concerned about my growing belly; the diet does not exist on a weekend! It’s okay, as I kicked the ball around with Master Thurston. He told me I could play in goal for his young Bloods. Watch out Floyd! I’ll be after your number 1 shirt soon.

With Floyd Croll suspended, and Sam Soutar in the US; we had Scott Traveller in goal. Scott played a few games for the Bloods last year, and is an experience goal keeping coach. He can also kick a ball further than most keepers I have seen in non-league football.

The starting 11 were:

Scott Traveller was in goal. Defence: Solkhon (Rocky), Lawrence (Beast), Wardly (Sticksy) and P Abbott. Midfield: Snelling (Mashy), Harper, Noble and Drane. Forwards: Calver (Wig) and Thomas. Subs: Vant, M Abbot, Bell, Grindrod (Viking) and Murphy (Boss).

The first half

Ipswich started the game off, and gave the Bloods some early pressure, but no save was needed. Traveller showed off his kicking power early. His kick went over the top of the midfield, and tried to find Wig, but it was well defended by Hitching.

Jennings was causing the back four a few issues and whipped in a cross, but it was well taken by Traveller. Jennings then tried to skin Rocky, but Rocky managed to kick the ball at Jennings to award the Bloods a throw on.

8 minutes into the game and Ipswich did look good. They had some great passing on the ball, and moved well.

Thomas was awarded a free kick, because he was tripped. Harper floated the ball into the box, which found Sticksy. Sticksy headed the ball across the box to Wig, but his shot didn’t have enough power to beat Bradbrook.

Soon after, Wig beat his man and went down in the box. The referee told Wig to get up and didn’t award a penalty.

Jennings was looking favourite, to score for Ipswich. He tried to turn Drane, but Drane got in a good tackle and cleared the ball out of danger.

Wig again came close to scoring. Rocky put in a lovely cross and Wig hit it first time, but Bradbrook made a great save.

18 minutes into the match and Holland had scored for Ipswich. The ball was crossed in and Paul Abbot tried to clear, but his clearance went back into the box, for Holland to head home.

Mashy almost capitalised from a bad clearance by Bradbrook. Bradbrook miss kicked the ball, and Wig intercepted it. He whipped the ball into the box for Mashy, but Mashy’s effort went slightly high and wide. It would have been very difficult to save.

Harper and Mashy linked up well and worked the defence. Mashy managed to get a shot in, but it was well blocked by their Captain, Goldfinch.

25 minutes into the match and Bradlaugh sent in a dangerous looking cross, but the Beast put in a strong block. The ball was crossed back into the Bloods box, but Sticksy headed the ball clear.

Thomas was showing his skills, and dribbled the ball half way down the wing. He beat the left back on the line, but the ball ran away from him slightly and went for a goal kick.

Harper and Mashy continued to look threatening. Mashy put in a great cross, which was well defended for a Bloods corner. Harper took the corner, and found Sticksy, but his headed effort went wide. It could have been a penalty shout, as the defenders foot was very high.

Mashy had a great effort blocked. He took the ball across the 18 yard box, and shot, but it was well blocked by Corrick for Bradbrook to collect.

The Bloods won a free kick, which was well taken by Harper. Rocky managed to get his head to the ball, but it went over the bar and Nigel caught it.

Our shot of the half came from Nobby. We took a quick throw and Wig whipped in a cross. Nobby caught the ball well, but it was very well saved by Bradbrook for a Bloods corner. The corner was well defended by Goldfinch for a Bloods throw. The Beast’s throw went over the defence and just missed Wig’s right foot by a few inches.

38 minutes into the match and Wig won us a free kick. He was sandwiched by three Ipswich players. Harper crossed the ball in, but Thomas’ header went wide.

The Beast put in a fantastic challenge on Jennings. Jennings ran at the goal and was one on one with Traveller. The Beast stretched out his leg, and kicked the ball against Jennings for a goal kick. If he had clipped Jennings, he would have been taking an early shower. Nice work for our captain.

43 minutes into the match and Ipswich had a free kick, just outside the box. It was well taken by Bradlaugh but Rocky headed the ball out, and sent Thomas on a run. Thomas passed the ball to Harper, who passed to Wig in space. Wig went for the cross but there was no one home.

In the last minute of the first half Wig had a shot well saved by Bradbrook. He tried to place it in the keeper’s bottom left hand corner, but Bradbrook got down well and saved the ball.

The first half finished Ipswich Wanderers 1 – Saffron Walden 0.

Second Half

Ipswich tried to get an early second goal, but the Beast was working very hard to protect his keeper.

Paul Abbot also put in a great block, to deny a shooting opportunity. The ball did get crossed back into the Bloods box, but the header was wide.

We started to get back into the game. Wig sent a long ball, which was well taken by Thomas. Thomas managed to turn, but his shot didn’t trouble Bradbrook.

The Bloods continued to pass the ball well. Wig found some space and went for a long shot, but it went wide of the post.

Bradbrook was earning his stripes today. Harper’s had a great effort. He played the ball into space and his shoot was head straight for the top left hand corner, but Bradbrook made a lovely diving save.

Wig and Thomas linked up well. Wig played Thomas into space near the touchline. It looked like the defender had kicked the ball off for a corner, but the referee gave a goal kick? We were literally 5 yards from the incident.

65 minutes into the match and Drane was replaced by Joe ‘The Boss’ Murphy. I think Drane is improving with every game and doing very well.

Holland went for a long range effort, but it went over the bar.

Ipswich started to pile on more pressure, and worked the ball well. The Beast and Sticksy were looking solid at the back, and working well together.

We were getting frustrated, as Wig was being fouled, but the referee was not giving him anything.

Ipswich had a free kick, taken by Bradlaugh, but their player was caught off side.

Wig was causing havoc on the wing, and floated a cross into the box. The ball found harper, but his header was not hard enough to trouble Bradbrook.

75 minutes into the match and Harper was replaced by Bell. Harper, or should I say; ‘Sir Bobby’, had another good game and worked well with the players around him.

The Bloods could have gone 2-0 down from a whipped in cross, but substitute Myhill, just missed the chance for a tap in.

We piled on the pressure, with a Beast throw. We created a good chance but the ball was snuffed out, and well cleared by the Ipswich defence.

Thomas unfortunately missed a golden opportunity to level the match. The attack started from the back. Rocky was under pressure, but calmly headed the ball back to Traveller. Traveller cleared the ball to Wig. Wig beat the defender and squared the ball to Thomas. Thomas hit the ball first time from about 8 yards at, but the ball went over the bar. He was very unlucky not to score. However it did show some excellent counter attacking football. This was definitely a Mrs Nash flannel moment!

38 minutes into the half and Nobby was replaced by M Abbot. Nobby had good game, and was unlucky not to score in the first half. Keep up the hard work.

The Bloods didn’t give up and tried to get back into the game. M Abbott found Bell in space on the wing. Bell put in a great cross, but it was headed away by Hitching.

We had a good chance from a Mark Abbott free kick. He crossed it to Wig. Wig controlled the ball well, and got himself into a shooting opportunity, but Buckle put in a great challenge for a corner. Bell’s corner was well caught by the keeper.

The Ipswich fans were in good voice and singing ‘We are the Wonderers’ by using the song ‘You are my Sunshine’.

We had about 5 minutes injury time and had one last great effort. The effort came from our keeper Traveller. The Bloods won a free kick near the dugout. Traveller went for it, and forced a save from Bradbrook. Had that gone in, it would have been goal of the year!

So the game finished Ipswich Wanderers 1 – Saffron Walden 0. With all the chances we had, we definitely deserved a point. Just needed to find that finish!

The fans MOTM went to Mashy. He never stopped working and played some great football. Well done Mashy.

The Bloods next first team game is at home, against Stanway while the Ressies travel to Whitton. The U18s are away to Ely on Thursday evening. Good luck all.

Thanks for reading








Wednesday 14 October 2015

Saffron Walden 1 - Halstead Town 0. Thurlow Nunn League Cup


Saffron Walden 1 Vs Halstead Town 0

Thurlow Nunn League Cup

13th October 2015. The Meadow

 

This evening we would entertain Halstead Town in the Thurlow Nunn League Cup. Halstead have been playing well in league 1, and are currently in 4th place, with their eyes set on promotion. We currently occupy 16th place in the Premier League, so in theory we are 8 places above them, if you combine the 2 leagues together.

I remember the last night we met. It was at Halstead and we ended up drawing 2-2. I believe we were 2-0 down and got it back to 2-2. From memory it was the same day Spurs beat Arsenal 2-1 in the league.

I arrived at the ground at 7pm and sold a few more car stickers. I had a catch up with my old mate Mrs. Nash, and got the team sheet from Paul.

It was time for kick off and we headed to the usual end, but Walden lost the toss and we had to start the first half kicking towards Catons Lane. Luckily we only got half way around before we had to turn around.

The Beast was being rested for Saturday’s match against Ipswich Wanderers, which will be a huge match for both teams. We were also missing Spike Bell. The good news was that Rocky was back in the starting 11, and Mashy was on the bench.

The line up to face Halstead Town:

Soutar was in goal. Defence: Solkhon (Rocky), Fleming, Reid and P Abbott. Midfield: Harper, M Abbot, Murphy (The Boss), Drane Forwards: Calver (Wig), and Thomas. Subs: Snelling (Mashy), Crane (Road Runner), Noble (Nobby) and Grindrod (The Viking)

First Half

Thomas won the Bloods an early free kick, just outside the area. The free kick was taken by Harper but it was well defended by Halstead.

Wig was the first player to come close to breaking the deadlock. Thomas won the ball from the Halsted defender in the 18 yard box. He passed to Wig, who was in space. Wig tried to float the ball in to the top left hand corner, but his attempt went high and wide.

Fleming took control of the ball, and carried it to the centre of the pitch. He played it out to Harper. Harper crossed a lovely ball to Wig. Wig beat the right back and put in a deadly cross, but it was just too high for Thomas to get a clean shot on goal.

Thomas was causing the defence havoc. The Bloods won the ball back, and sent Thomas on a break. He skinned the left back and crossed it, low and hard into the penalty area, but Halstead’s Stonealen got back to clear the ball.

Wig showed off some great skill and found Paul Abbot in space. Paul crossed the ball into the 6 yard box, but two of our players went for the same ball and the ball went out for a goal kick. Now remember lads, what happened last time two players went for the same ball? They ended up in A&E!

Halstead started to get back into the game, and won a free kick. Hutchins crossed the ball into the area, but Joe ‘The Boss’ Murphy headed the ball out of the danger zone. The ball went to a Halstead player, who sneakily tried to lob the ball over Fleming for Green to run onto. As Soutar came out to collect the ball, he was fouled by Green.

Our goal came from an excellent bit of team work. Wig was sent on a break, and dribbled the ball into the 18 yard area. He held the ball up, while he waited for Thomas to reach the penalty spot. His cross was perfect, and Thomas scored. That’s number 3 for Thomas!

Thomas and Wig’s link up play was working excellent. Thomas picked up the ball from outside the area. Wig called for the pass and Thomas released the ball. Wig showed some skills by beating his defender, but his shot went over the bar.

32 in and the Bloods looked great; the passing was excellent. Harper was linking up well with the front two. He reminded me of Bobby Charlton! I am obviously far too young to remember Charlton’s glory days, but thanks to the internet, I have seen plenty of replays.

Pleace had an attempt on goal but it was well saved by Soutar. Soon after Pleace’s shot, Hutchins had a go, but it went straight to Soutar.

Near the end of the half, Wig went down in the penalty box, but was not awarded the penalty. He was booked, for what the referee said was a dive. At the same time Hurkett was booked for complaining to the referee.

HT: Saffron Walden 1 – Halstead Town 0.

During the match and at half time, I was introduced to Dan Kenneth Reinll from Gjovik, Norway. He was on a trip to Walden and wanted something to do in the evening, so he decided to visit the Meadow and watch the match. He was very impressed by the club, and felt it had a really nice family atmosphere. It was great to meet Dan. (Pic Below)

Second Half

We started off the half very well, with a series of back to back corners. We thought we had gone 2 nil up, when Ringe palmed the ball into his own net. The goal was disallowed as the referee said Ringe was fouled.

Drane was looking sharp on the ball, and played the ball out wide to Wig. Wig played the ball around the defender and crossed the ball to Thomas. Thomas tried to finish, but the three defenders around him did enough to put him off and the shot went wide.

5 minutes into the match and Halstead tried to break, but Fleming put in a great challenge which gave Halstead a throw-on. Stonealan threw the ball to Hurkett, who went for a shot but it went wide of the post.

Fleming come forward with the ball, and sent Wig on one of his runs, down the wing. Wig squared the ball to Harper, and in ‘Bobby Charlton’ style, turned the defender but his shot was saved by Ringe.

55 minutes into the match and Halsted made a substitution. Warren replaced Hurkett.

Walden’s passing was exciting to watch.  The midfield passed with confidence, and looked comfortable in possession. After the great build up play, Wig got into the box and whipped the ball to The Boss, who was charging in. His shot was well defended near the post, for a corner ball.

65 minutes into the match and Mark Abbot was replaced by Mashy. It was great to see Mark back in action, after almost a month out with an injury.

I think the link up play between Wig and Thomas was the best I have seen all season. Thomas dribbled the ball toward the goal, and looked like he was tripped, but the referee played the advantage. He stayed on his feet and crossed the ball to Wig, but the cross was just too high. Wig ran to collect the ball and was again tripped, but no foul. He shot back up and went for a shot, but it was well saved by Ringe.

Wig was determined to score and collected the ball well from Reid’s free kick. He turned his man and went for a floating shot, but he was just wide.

Halstead tried to catch the Bloods on the break, but Paul Abbot tackled the striker and won the ball back.

75 minutes in a Harper was replaced by Crane (Road Runner). Great play again from Harper. He is getting closer to scoring his first goal of the season.

Halstead’s Chesney went for a long range effort, but his shot went well wide.

Road Runner made an instant impact to the match. He took on, and beat the left back. He delivered a long ball to Rocky. Rocky floated the ball into the area for Thomas, but it was well defended for a corner. Wig took the corner, which could have gone anywhere. It fell to Fleming, who shot, but it was blocked. Halstead struggled to clear the danger. The ball ended up back to Road Runner. RR crossed the ball, but it just didn’t reach Thomas for a header.

We were looking favourite, to score again, and piled on the pressure. Fleming had a cheeky throw-on to Wig, who gingerly walked into a threatening position. He crossed the ball in, but it was well defended.

Paul Abbot conceded a free kick outside the box. The free kick was taken well by Warren. He floated the ball into the six yard box, but the cool Fleming, kicked the ball over Soutar’s bar for a corner. The corner came in, but the Boss cleared the ball.

85 minutes into the match at Rocky was replaced by Dan ‘The Viking’ Grindrod. Well done Solks for bouncing back so quickly after a nasty cut.

Crane won the Bloods a corner, which was taken by Wig. The corner was headed well by Fleming, but Stonealen cleared the ball of the line, by the right hand post.

We continued to push for that second goal, but the game finished Saffron Walden 1 – Halstead Town 0. It was an excellent game of football. If we play like that against Ipswich, the fans are in for a treat.

The fans man of the match was a unanimous decision. The MOTM was James Thomas. He showed some great skill and capped it off with the winning goal. Well to James

Our next first team match is on Saturday, and is away to Ipswich Wanderers. If you can’t make it, but still was to cheer on the Bloods, the reserves are playing at home, against Brantham Athletic Reserves.

Thanks for reading

#upthebloods

#nextround
#norwayfan





Monday 12 October 2015

Saffron Walden 0 - Swaffham Town 0


Saffron Walden 0 – Swaffham Town 0

The Meadow

10th October 2015

Att: 239

It was the match I had been looking forward to, since Swaffham beat the Bloods 3-0, at the Meadow last season. Swaffham finished in 2nd place last year and were one of our biggest threats for promotion. In the end, both teams were promoted in 2nd and 3rd place. I was really hoping we played well. Last year we struggled, but you can’t win them all.

I got to the ground early, to sort out the player of the month certificate. Andy Player kindly made one and printed it off for me. The player of the month for September was Wig Calver. We presented the award to Wig with a £25 voucher. I shall be doing this every month, so everyone gets the opportunity to win the honours.

I also managed to sell a few more car stickers. I hope to see lots of car stickers on the fans cars when I arrive on Tuesday! I am also going to look at printing mugs. They would make a nice stocking present for Christmas. I will also post them abroad, subject to postage costs.

That’s enough of my ‘Del Boy’ ways, and on to talking about the beautiful game. It was non-league day, so the Tweets were in full force.

After last week’s head collision, both Rocky and Mashy wanted to play. But due to Doctors and Sticky’s order, they were spectating instead. You have got to love their enthusiasm. That’s what I call a true Blood!

The line up to face Swaffham Town:

Floyd Croll was in goal. Defence: Grindrod (Viking), Lawrence (Beast), Reid and P Abbott. Midfield: Harper, Fleming, and Noble (Nobby). Forwards: Calver (Wig), Thomas and Bell. Subs: Drane, Murphy (Boss), M Abbott, Crane and Turner (G Man).

First Half

Walden had the kick off. Both teams were a little cagey to begin with. The ball was being passed around the pitch well, but with no clear breaks. The first bit of action came from a foul on the Viking, near the dugout. He was awarded a free kick from a late challenge.

Swaffham Town retaliated well, with a good break by Vincent, who got the ball to Reed. The cross came in but the Viking defended well.

Wig showed off his skills and travelled with the ball, down the wing. He crossed the ball to Harper, who controlled it, and crossed it back in the danger zone. Miller tried to clear the ball with his head, but it only reached Wig’s head, but there was not enough power in his attempt to beat Holt.

Swaffham did have a shot over the bar, but I was sending a Tweet and did not look, so I apologise to whoever had that effort.

12 minutes into the match and Swaffham’s Vincent, was causing trouble for the Bloods. He made a lovely turn with the ball, but his shot hit the bar. It was a great effort.

We stepped it up a gear and won a throw on. The crowd beckoned for the Beast to deliver one of his monster throws. The ball was thrown well, and Fleming flicked it into the 6 yard box with a backwards header. The ball was then headed out for a Walden corner.

Harper’s corner went over the Swaffham defence and found Wig. Wig volleyed the ball back, for Nobby to strike the ball at goal. Holt pulled off a great save to deny Nobby, but he won the Bloods another corner. The corner was taken by Bell, and headed out by Swaffham for another corner. Harper tried to curl his corner, but it ended up on top of the net.

Swaffham had a few good chances. The Viking was doing well, not letting Reed cross the ball. He forced the ball out for a corner, which was well defended by Reid.

Thomas broke well and won us another throw-on for the Beast to take. Unfortunately, the throw-on didn’t find a Bloods player, and it was well defended by the Swaffham centre back.

Swaffham had 3 back to back throws. They were getting closer to Croll’s goal with each throw. Swaffham managed to get a cross into the 18 yard box, but Reid headed the ball and Fleming scoped it out of danger.

Wig broke well down the line, and travelled with the ball. He crossed the ball to Thomas, who was charging into the box, but the cross was slightly in front of him, and Holt came out and collected it.

Nobby showed some great skills on the ball, and passed the ball to Wig. Wig beat the right back, but was tripped over, outside the box. As you can imagine the fans were in full voice. The free kick was taken long, but no one was there to capitalise on Harper’s effort.

As always, the fans had a slight disagreement with the referee. Thomas was tripped outside the box, which looked like a foul. Then the Swaffham defender had the ball at his feet, and Abbott put in a challenge. The defender went down, and the referee called for the foul. The referee was having a good game up until this point.

Swaffham did actually score from a header, but the flag was raised, and the goal was disallowed. Phew!

Vincent was causing the Bloods grief and managed to square the ball to China - he had a shot, but Bell got in the way and blocked it. The ball fell to Vincent again, and he tried to cross the ball, but Abbott got a slight touch on it, and Croll caught the ball well.

30 minutes into the match and Thomas showed some great skills; he got into the box and was just about to pull the trigger, but their Captain, Miller, won the ball back and cleared the danger.

The Bloods started to pile on the pressure, they sent in another cross, but Prudence defended his line well. This was much better than last year.

Nobby was looking good in the centre, and tried to pass the ball to Wig. The defender got in the way, but could only clear it for a Walden corner. The corner went over the bar.

In my opinion, I thought Vincent was Swaffham’s best player of the half. He received the ball, in some space, and had a shot on target, but Croll saved it well. His save resulted in a corner to Swaffham. The corner was taken and Fleming cleared the danger, just before Miller could get his shot in. It resulted in another Swaffham corner, but Fleming cleared the ball. Miller tried to head the ball back into the 6 yard box, but it was an easy catch for Croll.

We started to open the Swaffham midfield up, with some great counter attacking play. Fleming passed the ball to Thomas, who then passed it to Bell. Bell kicked the ball long for Wig. Wig again beat the right back, and shot, but Prudence put in another good block.

The HT whistle went, and it was Walden 0 – Swaffham 0

Second Half

Walden started the half quite relaxed. They were passing the ball well and keeping possession. It looked like a Sticko was trying a different approach. The lads showed great discipline.

Swaffham did have the first chance of the 2nd half. The ball was crossed into the box, and Vincent tried to put pressure on the Beast. But the Beast calmly headed the ball back to Croll.

Soon after the Swaffham effort, the Beast hit a long ball, which found Wig. Wig ran with the ball, and was tripped outside the area. Harper took the free kick, but it was well defended by Swaffham. This gave Vincent a chance to break, but Abbott raced back with him, and managed to get the ball back to Croll.

Fleming was looking determined to score. He showed his strength by charging into the area with the ball. He crossed the ball to Wig, but Wig’s header went wide.

Sorry, but I just have to mention for Mrs. Nash: ‘Two hard boiled eggs in a hanky!’ The fans who were standing with us will know what she means.

Swaffham had a good opportunity with a corner, which Vincent took. The corner was well defended by Reid. Reid passed it to Nobby who tried to make a break. He was tackled by a Swaffham player, but won the ball back, and then passed it to Bell. Bell delivered a cross, but no one was home.

Vincent had another free kick, which he whipped into the 6 yard box. The cross was deadly but Prudence was caught off side.

10 minutes into the 2nd half and Nobby was replaced by Joe ‘The Boss’ Murphy. Nobby had a great 55 minutes and made some lovely passes. He came very close to scoring.

At this point Abbie kindly went to make Jon and me a cup of tea. I really appreciated it, as I didn’t want to miss any of the action.

Vincent was looking very dangerous, and forced another good save from Croll. The ball came back to Skolorzynski, who crossed it to Reed. Reed had a great shot, but Croll saved it yet again. Abbott tried to clear the danger, but the ball was blocked by Vincent. Vincent shot, but it went wide.

Bell was replaced by Turner. It was another good game Spike, well done.

Walden were under a bit of pressure, until Abbott played a great ball to Wig. Wig beat his man and squared it to G Man, but his shot went over the bar.

Wig had another good effort, by beating two of the defenders, but his shot was straight at Holt.

Thomas was back to his old tricks and played G Man into some space. G Man passed the left back, and got his cross in. But it was well defended.

We won another throw-on, and we called for the Beast. The Beast’s throw could have gone anywhere. Fleming tried to head it to Thomas, but it was swept away.

Swaffham’s Russell, went for a long shot but was well blocked by the Viking for a corner. The corner was taken by Vincent. The ball was tipped over the bar by Croll, awarding Swaffham with another corner. This time it was well cleared by Reid.

Swaffham started to turn up the heat, and we were defending well. Swaffham had the upper hand. The ball was crossed in by Vincent, but the Viking cleared the danger in the 6 yard box.

Rawlings was yellow carded for a late challenge on Fleming. We were awarded a free kick. At the same time, Road Runner was introduced to the match and replaced Harper. Keep up the good work Louis. A 25 yard wonder goal is brewing.

Fleming was tripped just outside the box, and was not awarded a free kick. As you can guess, Mrs Nash’s flannel was well and truly out. The referee was given some constructive criticism from the fans. Fleming looked hurt after the tackle, but managed to shake it off.

Soon after, justice was served. Wig was awarded a free kick just outside the area. Reid went for a shot but it went high and wide.

It could have gone either way, with both teams working hard to win all 3 points. Wig was getting frustrated and ended up getting yellow carded. He then had a great shot blocked by Prudence.

The Viking showed some lovely skills near his own corner flag. He kept on the ball, while the Swaffham attacker tried to get a challenge in. He then lobbed the ball to Wig, and Miller got in a tackle, but he only managed to clear it to Fleming. Fleming passed the ball back to Wig. Russell challenged Wig, but ended up fouling him. Wig took the free kick, but it rattled against the woodwork. There was no stopping that shot, had the ball been a few inches lower.

In the end the match finished 0-0. On reflection, I would say it was a fair result. Well done lads. Another point and, unbeaten in 4 league matches. Keep it up!

The fans MOTM goes to Ryan Fleming. He had a great game and looked sharp. He linked up well with the front 3, and tracked back well to support the back 4. Well done Ryan!

The Bloods’ next home match is on Tuesday night at the Meadow. We are playing Halstead Town in the cup. Hope to see you there.

Thanks for reading