Sunday 28 February 2016

Saffron Walden 3 - Whitton Utd 2


Saffron Walden 3 – Whitton United 2

27th February 2016

After losing 3 – 0 to Clacton, the Bloods didn’t take long to shake of their defeat and get back to winning ways. The Bloods have changed there form and have not lost at home during 2016. The Meadow is becoming a fortress.

Zinedine and The Boss were in back in the starting line-up after missing Tuesday night’s defeat.  We were still missing The Viking and Bell though injury and sickness. Solks was serving a match ban for his red card against Thetford, which gave young Charlie Dicker his first start for the first team and an opportunity to shine.

Now, it wouldn’t be a Bloods match if we didn’t make it hard on ourselves. The game could have easily been 5-1, had it not been for half a dozen excellent saves from Whitton’s goalkeeper Ross Welton.
Before the match, the U11s young Bloods had a photo taken with the first team. The U11s enjoyed a great coaching session with Sticko and Mashy before the match.

TEAM: Lee Pacey, Charlie Dicker, Paul Abbot (Pabbo), Ryan Fleming (Rhino), Stuart Wardley (Sticko), Craig Calver (Wig), Joe Murphy (Boss) (Jake Noble (Nobby) – 70 mins.), Graeme Turner (G Man), James Thomas (Zinedine), Louis Harper. Substitutes (not used) Neil Andrews, Jack Garrett.

The First Half

2 minutes into the match, and Whitton United had the first chance on goal after they were awarded a free kick outside the area Andrews sailed the ball into the box, which found Hubert. But Huberts’s headed effort went wide.

5 minutes into the match, and Rhino hobbled to the bench, which concerned the Bloods fans. Luckily after a quick spray of deep heat he was back on the pitch in no time.

Pabbo won the Bloods their first corner of the match, when he ran onto a brilliant flicked pass by Zinedine. The defence managed to block the shot and the ball went out of play. Harper took the corner which was headed out, but only as far as Sticko. Sticko headed the ball back into the box. Rhino headed the ball into the path of Zinedine, but Zinedine’s clean strike was pushed onto the post by Welton and Smith-Edwards cleared the ball for a Walden throw. The throw didn’t trouble the Whitton defence.

10 minutes into the match, and Whitton scored. A hopeful cross into the box was tipped onto the crossbar by Pacey, but a lucky rebound set Percy to follow up, and score from 6 yards out. Visions of the Clacton match started to haunt me.

We reacted well and added more pressure. Wig was up to his old tricks as he turned with the ball passing Percy, but his cross was straight into the side netting.

15 minutes into the match, and Wig successfully turned his marker again, but this time his cross found G Man near the back post. G Man controlled the ball and went for a shot, but it was straight at Welton.

It was G Mans turn to beat the left back, and put in a great cross. Zinedine got his head to it, but it was well caught by Welton.

Dicker made a lovely ball over the top of the defence for G Man to run onto. G Man crossed the ball into the box, which found Zinedine. Zinedine couldn’t get a clear shot so he played it out to Wig who was in space. Wig went for the shot, but the defender cleared the ball for a Walden corner.

The first goal for Walden was on the cards and the pressure finally paid off in the 21st minute. Wig made a great run down the left, and squared the ball for Zinedine to head home from only a few yards out.

Soon after the restart, Mauardo tried to beat Pacey from long range, but his shot was pushed over the bar from Pacey. The corner didn’t trouble the Bloods.

The Boss came very close to putting the Bloods into the lead, after he connected well from G Man’s killer squared ball. Boss’ shot was slightly wide and didn’t need a save from Welton.

Dicker was growing in confidence as the match went on. He held the ball up in his own half and didn’t panic as he was surrounded by green shirts. He calmly held the ball, until pass could be made and sent the ball to Sticko to build up another attack.

Rhino was looking as strong as ever in defence. Doyle went on a break and went gunning for Pacey’s goal, but Rhino stood up well and took the ball off him.

The pressure was mounting and the crowd were singing ‘we’re gonna score in a minute’! Nigel Baily had his very own solo effort at singing into my Dictaphone……delete!

Pacey made a good save as Percy squared the ball for Cole. Pacey had to dive across the goal mouth to save the follow up after the ball was squared to Cole.

The save of the half came from Welton. He brilliantly denied Zinedine from getting his second. G Man crossed the ball to Zinedine and he went for a powerful volley, but Welton was refusing to be beaten and palmed the ball away for a corner.

The corner ball produced another great save from Welton. Rhino came very close to lobbing him with a dipping header, but he skilfully tipped the ball over the bar for another Bloods corner. The corner was headed wide by Zinedine.

Pacey almost found himself in the same situation as before, when he tipped the ball up onto the bar. This time Pabbo was there to mop up the danger.

Just before the half time whistle, Dicker did very well to slow Quinton down and just got enough of the ball to stop Quinton’s charge. The ball came loose and Rhino cleared the danger.

HT: Saffron Walden 1 – Whitton Utd 1

We started the second half match with determination and grit. Mabbo won the Bloods a free kick just outside the area. Harper played it along the ground to Wig. Wig lofted the ball over the defence to G Man. G Man controlled the ball, but couldn’t shoot so he set Harper up for a long range effort. Harper went to blast the ball first time but it went wide.

3 minutes into the match, and we won a corner. Harper crossed a curling ball into the goal, which forced Welton to again tip the ball over the bar.

The lads did not let Welton rest for a minute by piling on constant pressure. Wig tested him again with a shot, but it was well handled.

50 minutes into the match, and G Man skilfully beat the Whitton defender just inside the box. His cross was low and hard, but it was well blocked by Welton and scooped away.

55 minutes into the game, and G Man came very close to scoring with his head. He jumped well and headed Harpers free kick at goal. Welton was well beaten but fortunately for him the post got in the way.

Shortly after, we could have been 2-1 down. Pacey found himself in a one on one situation, but made 3 back to back saves. The ball did eventually fall kindly to the Whitton striker, to smash the ball into the back of the net. However Dicker threw himself across the goal to block the shot. It was definitely the block of the game. Had that gone in we could have been looking at a draw or even a loss.

This helped Whitton believe they could get a result. Cole ran at goal and came close to shooting, but Rhino put in a strong challenge to take the ball off the Whitton forward.

61 minutes into the match, and Zinedine delivered a lovely pass into the box for Wig. Wig controlled the ball well and curled it around the diving Welton and into the back of the net. It was going to take a lot to beat Welton today, but Wig had the answer.

 68 minutes into the match, and Zinedine headed home a free kick from Louis Harper to make it 3-1. Now, on Paul’s report it states that Zineine scored. However if you look at Martin Bowles video, you can see that Vaughan was the last person to touch the ball. It did look like an OG however Zinedine’s header was on target. I shall leave you to decide.

70 minutes into the match, and Boss was substituted for Nobby. It was great to have the Boss Man back in the squad. Well played Joe.

Dicker was involved in a late challenged which could have potentially hurt him. The whole crowd shouted at the pitch in protest. Especially the Dicker family! Had that been my Mum watching me, she would have gone mad LOL. As my Nan used to say; she would have been out there with her pinny and roller. Mrs Nash’s flannel had finally come out.

Percy was determined to score, and tried to weave the ball passed Rhino, but Rhino was in excellent form and took the ball away from Percy leaving Pabbo to calmly clear the danger and try to start another Walden attack.

75 minutes into the game, and Whitton had scored from yet another rebound off the crossbar. The ball fell kindly to Quinton, who didn’t hesitate and struck the ball firmly passed Pacey and into the back of the net. The Bloods now had a nervous 15 minutes left to go.

78 minutes into the game, and Harper was awarded a free kick outside the area after he was pulled back. Sticko was up to his tricks and went ghosting into the box. The ball was aimed at Sticko, who got his head to it. He managed to head the ball up and over to Zinedine, but his headed effort was well caught by Welton.

85 minutes into the match, and Wig was yellow carded for a foul on Quinton. I didn’t see much in it. Wig was running up the line trying to shield the ball from Quinton. Quinton went down near the wing and stayed down for a long time. Both set of fans looked concerned as the physio and manager both ran onto the pitch. After about 5 minute Quinton got up, but headed straight down the tunnel. We were all glad he was okay.

Zinedine almost made it 4-2, which would have killed the game off. G Man’s perfectly timed long ball found Zinedine in the box, but the defender stuck to him well and did enough to put him off his strike which went over the bar.

The match finally finished, and the Bloods fans cheered in joy. The lads had deserved the win as they were the better team on the day. Had it not been for Welton, the match could have been very one sided.

I asked for the fans opinion on MOTM over a few beers after the match. A lot of the lads played well, but I have decided to give the honours goes to starting debutant Charlie Dicker. Charlie’s confidence grew as the game went on, and he saved the day with his flying block across the goal line. Well done Charlie and keep working hard.

The Reserves did well and won 2-1 away to Lowestoft. Both goals were scored by Dan Manser. Great result lads! Well done

You do not have to wait until next Saturday to watch some great football.  The U18s are playing away against Haverhill Rovers in the TN youth cup. Unfortunately I am working away so cannot go otherwise I would have been there.

Next week the Reserves are at home against Lowestoft while the first team travel to the coast to play Kirkley & Pakefield, and will be at home to high flying Godmanchester Rovers on Tuesday 8th March.

Thanks for reading

Up the Bloods

Catch all the highlights on Peter’s video. See below the link. Thanks Mr Croath

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HxysKxUAtGY

 

 

 

 

 




Friday 26 February 2016

FC Clacton 3 – Saffron Walden 0


FC Clacton 3 – Saffron Walden 0

23rd February 2016

 

It was a chilly February evening in Clacton. We waited until after 4pm until we could set off as the match would be played subject to passing a pitch inspection. With my long johns on, Peter and I set off and made it to Clacton with over an hour to spare. I had a chat with a few of the players to see how everyone was. Lee Pacey told me that he had scored twice against Clacton, which is surprising for a goalkeeper. A keeper will get the odd one in a season, but not usually 2 against the same opposition.

We were missing a few of the key regulars due to injury, work or illness. As I went through the team with Sticko he told me we had no Spike, no Boss, no Viking and no Zinedine. But the good news was we had Nobby and Rhino back in the starting 11.

You may just look at the score and thought we played badly, but the score was no reflection on the way the boys played. I thought we had a very good came considering all the people we were missing. I shall talk you through it.

TEAM: Lee Pacey, Paul Abbot (Pabbo), Jamie Solkhon (Rocky), Jake Noble (Nobby), Ryan Fleming (Rhino), Stuart Wardley (Sticko) (Charlie Dicker – 78 mins.), Craig Calver (Wig), Neil Andrews, Graeme Turner (G Man), Marc Abbot (Mabbo), Louis Harper (Jack Morris – 84 mins.).

The First Half

Within minutes of kick off, Wig was causing havoc and won an early corner for the Bloods. Harper took the corner, which went over the defence and straight to Wig. Wig weaved his way into the box and floated in a cross. The ball was headed up in the air by Rhino. Clacton did manage to clear it, but only as far as Wig, who won a free kick not far from the 18 yard box line. Wig took the free kick but the wall did its job.

8 minutes into the match, and Newland won a free kick for Clacton. Coyle took the free kick, but Rocky headed it clear for a Clacton throw.

Harper was commanding the middle of the pitch, and crossed the ball perfectly for G Man who made a run up the wing. G Man controlled the ball and beat the left back, but luckily for Clacton he had back up and the defender kicked the ball off for a throw.

Wig won a corner ball from the throw for Harper to take. Sticko managed to get his head on the cross, but it went over the bar.

15 minutes into the match, and Clampin and Kirkby had a great opportunity on the break. Clampin fed a great through ball for Kirkby, but his shot went straight into the side netting.

The boys were flowing and it didn’t look like a cold Tuesday night replay. The lads were up for this and dominating.

I was impressed by the build-up play between Mabbo, Nobby and Andrews. They were moving well and forcing Clacton to come out of formation. Andrew found G Mans run, but the defender did enough to stop him from getting a clean shot on goal.

18 minutes into the match, and Wig continued to taunt the defence, leaving Fowler very frustrated with his defence. No one could touch him! He managed a shot on goal which forced a save from Fowler. The save was one for the cameras! At this point I was amazed we were not winning.

Rhino and Mabbo frustrated the Clacton forwards by intercepting challenges and sending the ball back up to G Man and Wig. It really was great football.

22 minutes into the match, and Clacton scored which was completely out of the blue. A diagonal ball bounced very high and Pacey came off his line to try and clear the ball. Clampin managed to get a leg to the ball and his high lob dropped under the bar and into the net. I was standing with my hands on my head in shock. Granted it was a great goal and well taken.

Clacton soon livened up after going into the lead and started to produce better football. They won a corner which was punched clear by Pacey. They tried to follow up with a shot but it went high and wide.

There pressure paid off and they soon found themselves 2-0 up. Newland went for a header from the edge of the penalty area, which dropped into the corner of the goal. The 12 Bloods fans could only look at each other in disbelieve.

35 minutes into the match, and Walden’s heads didn’t drop. Wig made an incredible 60 yard sprint, taking the ball past 3 players. He crossed the ball into the path of G Man who shot first time, but it went slightly over the bar.

41 minutes into the match, and Clacton’s hitman Condon made it 3-0. The goal started from a long ball from Fowler. Condon won the ball and ran through the Bloods defence. His shot was taken perfectly and smashed the back of Pacey’s net.

HT – FC Clacton 3 – Walden 0

At half time I was in shock, and didn’t go into the club house. Instead I had myself a burger and a cup of tea and reflected on what had happened. I spoke to some of the Clacton fans, who were also shocked considering we had dominated for the first 20 minutes. I started to think about last season’s match at Melford, when we went 3-0 up and drew 3-3 (sorry for the reminder). So with that in my mind I knew we had another 45 minutes to play and anything could happen.

The Second Half

As soon as the whistle went, Walden did not hesitate and came out of the blocks fighting.

48 minutes into the math, and Clacton won a corner which was taken by Coyle. The corner was met by Pabbo, who deflected the ball up in the air for Pacey to catch. The lads tried to break with a long ball to G Man. G Man was making great progress until Coyle fell to the ground, after being shot by that mystery sniper! The referee awarded Clacton the free kick.

I found myself apologising for not having much to talk about, but there really was not much to discuss in the opening 10 minutes of the 2nd half. Clacton had won another free kick which Coyle took after his miraculous recovery from the earlier challenge from G Man. Only messing Coyle! You had a very good game. Anyway, the free kick was delivered into the box, but Nobby headed the ball clear.

62 minutes into the match, and Andrews broke with the ball and passed the ball to G Man, who went on a charging run up the wing. He managed to set Wig, but his shot was blocked. Wig won the ball back and was brought down outside the box for a free kick. The free kick didn’t trouble Fowler.

There was a moment of ‘Ref Ranting’ after Mabbo won the ball back in the Clacton half and slipped a well-timed through ball for G, but the lino flagged for offside. It was clearly onside as G Man ran passed the defender. Mrs Nash would have been in full voice and armed with her flannel. I have to credit Clacton as they did not appeal for the offside and played to the whistle.

Very much like the first half, we dominated the play until Clacton won a penalty for a hand ball. The ball bounced up and hit Sticko on the arm. Condon took the spot kick, but Pacey guessed the right way and pushed the ball clear for a Clacton corner. Clacton came close with a great header, but Pacey made a decent save to deny Clacton from rubbing more salt in the wound.

Andrews had a decent effort blocked by Clacton. He called for the ball on the edge of the area and Wig complied. The defended did well to take the sting out of the shot, and Fowler collected the loose ball.

76 minutes into the match, and there were a few moments of ‘handbags at dawn’ after Clampin clashed with Mabbo. Both of the players were booked for arguing after the foul.

G Man had a great effort at goal. He controlled Pabbo’s throw and turned well in the 6 yard box, but his shot was slightly off target and went over the bar.

The Clacton fans started to sing, as they felt a win was easily in their grasp. They have a stand called The Bus Shelter which was filled with supporters, singing and cheering on their lads.

78 minutes into the match and Sticko was replaced by Charlie Dicker. Well done Veteran! You have worked very hard over the past 5/6 games. Only another 12 matches to go and you can put your feet up.

Clacton did push for a 4th, but Rhino put in a lovely tackle to win the ball back. He then aimed a long ball to meet Harper’s run, but it was slightly too long and the ball was collected.

Soon after, there was another great ‘Booby Moore’ style box tackle from Pabbo which denied Clacton a goal scoring opportunity.

Dicker was looking sharp and timed a long ball perfectly for G Man to run onto. G Man charged up the wing and into the 18 yard box, but his delivery was straight into the path of Fowler.

84 minutes into the match and Harper made way to give Jack Morris his first team debut. Good work again Harper. That goal will come soon. Jack Morris made some good turns and was making the right back work for every ball.

Walden did continue to work hard and tried and score to give the travelling fans something to cheer about, but it just was not our day.

The final whistle went and the lads left the pitch and went straight into the changing rooms. G Man stayed back to thank the chilly fans for coming. The Clacton staff and fans were very friendly and I told goalkeeper Fowler that I was impressed by the way he directed his back 4. He thanked me and wished us all a save journey home.

My MOTM is going to Wig Calver. Wig worked so well and was unlucky not to score. His energy and work rate was excellent and what you want to see from a captain. Well done.

I also need to apologise for my Tweets throughout the match. They were very basic and some poorly spelt. My excuse was that it was freezing and my battery was close to dying. Someone did comment on my awful spelling, which didn’t impress me when all I was trying to do was update the fans that couldn’t make the trip. I must admit sitting in the warm and watching Arsenal versus Barcelona seemed very appealing, but as I said to Carole nothing was going to stop me from cheering the boys on and continuing my 100% attendance record for all competitive matches this season.

On the positive side the Ressies won 2-0 at home against Halstead. Carter and Powter were the goal scorers. The last time the two teams met in the league, the Bloods lost 5-1. This highlights how much the lads have improved over the season. Well done.

Next up we play bottom of the league Whitton United at the Meadow on Saturday. I hope to see you there.

Please see below Youtube link from Peter Coath for highlight from the match


Up The Bloods




Sunday 21 February 2016

Saffron Walden 3 - Gorleston 2


Saffron Walden 3 – Gorleston 2

20th Feb 2016

 

I was really looking forward to the match and welcoming the Green Army to the Meadow. We played Gorleston, just before Christmas and lost 3-0 with two sending offs. The staff and supporters are great at Gorleston and were very welcoming, so I hope they felt as welcome as us fans felt when we visited them.

The club house was shut to the fans as they had booked a wedding. The board and staff did very well, and opened up the president’s room and hired three toilets for the fans to use. It didn’t cause an issue as we still had beer to drink, food to eat, football to enjoy and somewhere to go for a pee.

I arrived at around 2.30pm and parked up. I had a chat with Peter to arrange transport for Tuesday night’s visit to Clacton. Once in the ground I bought a programme and saw that they had the all-time Bloods tops scorers and appearance stats. It’s worth a read as some of the stats almost go back to WW1. Alf Ramsey was at the top of the list for goals scored with 192. It was interesting to listen to some of the fans remembering watching the Bloods legends play for the club, and sharing their memories. I sometimes think when I retire I hope to be telling stories of the Beast’s long throw and Super Floyds double save against Hadleigh or that amazing match we had in the Vase against Stanway last year.

Before the match we had a minutes silence to remember Ryan Harman who sadly passed away. I didn’t know Ryan but I give his friends and family and his Green Army my deepest sympathy for their loss. Grass roots teams are families and become huge parts of our lives on and off the pitch. RIP Ryan.

The Team:            

Lee Pacey, Spike Bell, Paul Abbot (Pabbo), Joe Murphy (Boss), Jamie Solkhon (Rocky), Stuart Wadley (Sticko), Craig Calver (Wig), Marc Abbot (Mabbo), Graeme Turner (G Man), James Thomas (Zinedine), Louis Harper. Subs: Charlie Dicker, Neil Andrews and Floyd Croll (Superman)

The First Half

Walden won the toss and started the match. As we walked around to the South Stand Lower, I had to run onto the pitch and remove the temporary goal posts. If you have not seen them before, they would make an awesome javelin. So with my H&S hat on I made sure they were out of harm’s way.

We started the game well with good passing and determination, but it was Gorleston’s Ingram who had the first attempt at goal. Ingram made himself some space and went for a shot outside the area, but luckily for Pacey the shot went slightly wide. It would have been a great save had it been on target.
7 minute into the game, and Macrae was called into action. We had won a free kick, which Pacey took. He found Zinedine, who jumped well and flicked the ball into the path of G Man. G Man beat the defender and struck at goal, but Macrae got down low and held the stinging strike well.

Ingram was looking the most threatening player on the pitch for Gorleston. He travelled well with the ball, but was met by a strong tackle by Harper who won the ball back.

Thompson and Middleton worked well on the break. Thompson split from Middleton as he ran up the wing with the ball. Middleton sent it a lovely cross, but Thompson could only steer the ball over the bar. It was good football.

12 minutes into the game, and Mabbo showed some lovely footwork. He tried to progress with the ball but was fouled and won the Bloods a free kick. Harper free kick was floated into the box but was headed clear.

18 minutes into the game, and Bell showed true grit and determination by closing down the defence and forcing the defender to kick the ball off for a Bloods throw. The ball was thrown to Wig, who beat his defender. Wig passed the ball to G Man and called to be set for a shot. G Man set Wig well, but his shot was well blocked. It was cracking link up play.

Brown was looking very handy and wasn’t afraid to run with the ball. Brown got into a great position, but his fierce shot was block by Rocky which resulted in a corner to Gorleston. The corner was wall collected by Pacey.

Harper was giving a lesson on how to be cool under pressure. He took command of the ball in the centre of the pitch and threaded a lovely through ball to Zinedine. Zinedine took the ball on his left foot, but lost his footing and the ball was scooped away

21 minutes into the match, and Brown scored a great goal. He had been looking lively from the start of the match. He weaved his way into the Bloods box, and his shot went over Pacey and into the back of the net. 0-1 to Gorleston!

23 minutes into the match, and Zinedine won a free kick outside the box for Harper to take. The free kick didn’t trouble Macrae.

24 minutes into the match, and Wig was caught off side in another suspect decision. Again the lino did not react until he heard the shout from the Gorleston back four. This is going back to my point in last week’s blog.  I can’t be too harsh on him as he didn’t have a bad game.

It didn’t take long for the Bloods to level the score. Wig turned the right back on the line and struck the ball low and hard into the box. The Boss came charging in and flicked the ball into the back of the net. It was a lovely goal and thoroughly deserved. Well done Boss man and Wig.

30 minutes into the match, and we were looking the favourite to go into the lead. Harper won a corner ball and took it. The ball was headed away by Brown, but he had to see the ball off the pitch. Wig ran to put pressure on Brown but was called up for a foul after Brown went over.

36 minute into the match, and Zinedine put the Bloods into the lead. The constant pressure had paid off. Wig played the ball into the path of Zinedine. Zinedine stayed strong and shielded off the defender. He then calmly slotted the ball passed Macrae and into the back of the net. A great goal for Zinedine, and another assist by Wig!

38 minutes into the match, and Thompson seemed to be having a go at Sticko. We thought the referee was going to book Thompson, but he didn’t and gave a free kick for Pacey to take.

39 minutes into the match, and I presented Mrs Nash was a yellow card. The flannel had come out and to be honest, I really don’t know why. I guess she must have seen something she didn’t like. Or, as she would say: ‘Lino, you’re getting on my nerves’!

The Bloods continued to work hard and showed some brilliant skill. For those who remember the Sherminator from the American Pie films – Confidence is high.

Near the end of the half Zinedine came close to making it 3-1. Mabbo did very well to win the ball back in the centre of the pitch. He timed his through ball to Zinedine perfectly. Zinedine did well to control the ball, but the defender did enough to not allow Zinedine to put his foot through his strike, and the ball was comfortably saved by Macrae.

The final attempt at goal came from Gorleston, when Middleton made some good ground. He passed the ball to Thompson; who went for a shot, but it went wide and past Pacey’s post.

HT: Saffron Walden 2 – Gorleston 1

Gorleston and Walden came out from the half time break with the same objective. And that was to get the ball and score. The referee was getting a little ‘whistle happy’ and produced a yellow card for Middleton, after a late challenge on Harper.

G Man made a cracking run up the wing, after he took the ball around the Gorleston winger. His cross was well blocked for a Bloods corner. Harper’s corner was aimed at the back post for Rocky. Rocky headed the ball back across the box to G Man. G Man went for a crack, but it was well blocked by the defender. I must admit, it did look like the ball went out of play when Rocky headed it back. As a child you are always told to play to the whistle, and so we did!

Thompson was given a yellow card for a challenge on Mabbo. You could see in their faces that they were getting frustrated and needed the ball back. Harper floated the free kick into the crowd of players. The boss managed to climb well and get a header in, but it was well caught by Macrae.

Gorleston handed the Bloods a warning shot after a diagonal ball split the defence apart and found Ingram in space. Ingram went for the shoot but it sailed over the bar.

The Boss game close to another great header from a set piece delivered by Harper, but his effort went slightly wide.

Macrae made two great back to back saves, after Zinedine’s effort caused a few ‘ooohs and aaahhs’. Macrae palmed the ball away, but only as far as the Boss whose shot was again well saved by Macrae.

71 minutes into the game, and the dynamic duo of Wig and Zinedine paid off again. Zinedine made a lovely passing move to set Wig. Wig didn’t hesitate and slotted the ball past the Macrae’s left hand dive and into the net. After the goal the referee produced more yellow cards. I have no idea why, but he must have heard something he didn’t like.

Gorleston had not given up and continued to press on. One of the substitutes went over in the box, but the referee was not convinced it was a penalty.

78 minutes into the match and Harper came so close to scoring. Wig ran with the ball, and found Harper in space. Harper adjusted himself and tried to curl the ball into the top of the corner, but it hit the bar. It would have really topped off his day after such a great performance.

The Boss was growing in confidence and almost pulled off a Dele Alli style goal. He flicked the ball up and over, and as he was about to strike at goal, Brown managed to get across Boss and kick the ball out for a throw on.

Mabbo was booked for a tackle, which I have no idea why. Middleton took the free kick but it was well defended by Sticko.

82 minutes into the match, and Gorleston had scored. They had won a fortunate corner when Pacey dived on the ball, but was then knocked over the line following a strong challenge. The resulting corner was only partially cleared, and Ingram smashed the back of the net from close range.

After Gorleston closed the gap, Walden did not retreat and put 11 men behind the ball. Instead they pushed for a 4th, which would finish the game once off and for all. Wig played really well winning the Bloods a corner. The corner was flicked out to Mabbo, who went for a driving shot but it was well blocked. The ball fell to the Boss, but his shot went wide.

89 minutes into the match, and we thought disaster had struck. The Gorleston player found the back of the net, but was caught off side. Phew! We really deserved all 3 points and I was praying for the whistle to be blown.

The referee was on Fergie time, and we shouted and whistled for him to blow that whistle. It was very tense, and you could cut the atmosphere with a knife.

Finally with my heart in my mouth and Mrs Nash clutching onto her flannel, the whistle had gone and we had won all 3 points. The win had got us up to 10th place. We are having a great 2016.

I decided to put MOTM to a vote on Twitter for the fans. I could not decide between Boss, Wig or Harper as they all deserved the title. But I am pleased to announce that we have chosen Joe ‘The Boss’ Murphy for MOTM. A brilliant performance by The Boss and well done.

During the time of me writing the Blog, Floyd Croll has decided to leave the club. I am truly gutted as I feel he is a huge asset to the Bloods, but as a fan completely understand his reasons. He is a great keeper and a lovely person and I wish him well. If any managers or chairman are reading this, I suggest you get on the phone and get Super Floyd’s signature. He will be an asset to any team.

Next up we have Clacton Away on Tuesday night. I shall be going to cheer on the lads.

Don’t forget the Ressies are also playing on Tuesday night against Halsted at the Meadow. Please come along and support the lads.

Thanks for reading






Tuesday 16 February 2016

Thetford 0 - Saffron Walden 1


Thetford Town 0 Saffron Walden 1

13th February 2016

Att: 62

Walden have worked very hard to get away from the relegation  zone, and a win today would help cement there place in the Premier league. Thetford however were struggling and needed the points. That had just beaten Newmarket 5-3, so confidence would have been high.

I picked Martin and Master Johnson up on the way to Thetford. We spoke about the club throughout the journey, and how pleased we were with the way we have kicked off 2016. The Bloods have got 11 points from their last 5 matches and have found form, home and away. It’s a great time to be a Bloods fan.

We arrived at the club just after 2pm. The Sat Nav tried to take us to an industrial estate, but we ignored it and looked for the flood lights. We were not the only fans who struggled to find it using the postcode from Google.

The team had a few regulars missing including the Abbot Brothers. Pabbo (Paul Abbot) was getting married, so I would like to congratulate Paul and his wife Sarah. I hope you had a great day Mr and Mrs Pabbo.

We were also missing Rhino and Viking (Fleming and Grindrod), so Sticko and Andrews formed an experienced partnership at the back.

Sticko also gave new signing Lee Pacey his debut in goal, and gave Jack Young a place on the bench.

The Team

TEAM; Lee Pacey, Spike Bell, Jamie Solkhon (Rocky), Jake Noble (Nobby), Neil Andrews, Stuart Wardley (Sticko), Craig Calver (Wig), Joe Murphy (Boss), Graeme Turner (G Man), James Thomas (Zinedine), Louis Harper. Substitutes (not used); Charlie Dicker, Jake Thompson, Jack Young.

The First Half

Walden started the match instantly trying to pin Thetford back. Bell fed G Man a great through ball as he was charging up the wing. G Man tried to get a cross in, but it was well defended for a Walden throw on. Unfortunately the throw was wasted and no chance was created.

Standley got booked after he went down in the Walden box. I am not sure why he was booked to be honest. If anyone can let me know I would appreciate it.

Thetford had a good opportunity when Hunsdon passed the ball to Foster. Foster gave himself a few yards of space with a lovely touch, but his long range effort went sailing over the bar.

G Man had the first shot on goal, after he ran onto a lovely flick from Wig. We thought G Man was going to blast it first time with his left foot, but he decided to control the ball and shoot. The defenders block took the power out of the shot, and was then collected by Barker.

11 minutes into the match, and Pacey was called into action. Priddle had a great opportunity to open the scoring, but Pacey came off his line quickly and saved the shot at the feet of Priddle. This gave Thetford confidence to push on, but Pacey made another few good saves to deny an opening goal for the home side.

17 minutes into the match, and Harper sent Zindine on a run with a lovely ball. Zinedine did very well to stay on his feet as the Thetford defence surrounded him. He managed to get a shot in, but it went wide of the post. We laughed as the ball would have hit me in the face, had it not been for the pole in front of me which pins back the net.

Thetford delivered a nice cross into the Bloods box, but Rocky managed to get back, and scoop the ball away for a corner. Cusack took the corner, but the referee blew for a foul in the box and awarded a free kick for Pacey to take.

G Man was looking more and more dangerous as he frustrated Thetford’s left back. He beat his man in the box, and went for a low cross, but the defender slid in and deflected the ball for a Bloods corner. Harper’s corner was headed out of the area, but only as far as Bell, Bell tried to float the ball into Rocky’s run at the back post, but Barker got to the ball first.

22 minutes into the match, and Priddle tried to test Pacey from long range, but his effort went wide.

G Man and Bell continued to dominate the right hand side of the pitch, by linking up very well.  G Man won another corner for the Bloods. Harper’s corner went over the defence, and found Wig. Wig used his quick feet and crossed the ball back into the 6 yard box, but it was cleared for another Walden corner. Harper must have worked up a sweat by running for one corner to the other. You could tell that Thetford were getting concerned, as Barker was demanding his players to listen to his instructions. This time the referee called for a foul on the Thetford player, and the danger was momentarily over.

27 minutes into the match, and Wig won a free kick outside the box. Harper decided to be sneaky and play it short to Wig. Wig managed to turn the defender, but his cross was blocked for another Bloods corner. The corner was header clear for another corner. Poor old Harper was running back and forth to keep the momentum going. The corner was cleared, which sent Hunsdon on a break. His pass found Foster well; who tried to skin the Boss, but Boss made his presence known by mopping up the trouble.

Wig was giving the defence a hard time. They did very well to close Wig down by stopping him from making a pass. He managed to get the ball to Harper. Harper then set Zinedine but his shot was fizzled out by the defence. Thetford tried to make a break but the player was tripped by Nobby. Nobby was yellow carded for the foul. The free kick was taken, but the Bloods wall did its job and G Man headed the ball clear…..he must have felt that.

37 minutes in to the match/blog, and I am announcing a Rant Alert! Bell timed a brilliant ball which met Wigs run perfectly, but the linesman called it for off side. It was clearly on side. The frustrating thing was that the lino didn’t make a decision until he was influenced by the call from the Thetford defence. I know everyone does it, but the lino clearly didn’t know what to do. I watched MOTD2 on Sunday night and Mark Chapman was talking about how official’s decisions, can be made on a player’s reaction. How ironic!

Wig showed some fantastic skill on in the box, and took the ball around 3 players with a cheeky spin. He crossed the ball low and hard but Bond blocked the ball well. The ball fell to Priddle; who tried to make a break, but his effort went wide.

With 5 minutes to go before the half time break, Rocky was booked for a late tackle. Thetford were awarded a free kick, which Bailey took. The Walden defence cleared the ball for a Thetford corner. The corner did not trouble Pacey and his experienced defence.

HT: Thetford 0 – Saffron Walden 0

The Second Half

Walden started the 2nd half with confidence, and looked confident with each pass. The long ball was used a lot in the first half, so the tactics had changed.

Bell used his strength and battled well with Cusack. Bell found G Man in space; who went for a cross but it was well blocked by Cusack for a Bloods corner. Harper’s delivery was excellent and Rocky hit the bar with an attempted floating header. Thetford scrambled to clear the ball out of the box.

49 minutes into the match, and Walden were awarded a penalty after Foster’s hand prevented a goal scoring opportunity.  The Boss took the penalty, but Barker guessed the right way and made a good save. Zinedine latched onto the rebound, which forced an even better save from Barker. G Man tried to steer a high ball into the net but his effort went over the bar.

54 minutes into the match, and Thetford tried to get into the Bloods box, but Andrews stood up well and cleared the ball.

56 minutes into the match, and Zinedine was growing in confidence and started to run more at the defence, but the Thetford defence closed him down well. They were not defending like a team who were near the bottom of the table.

The Boss was not shaken after his miss and brought the ball out of the Walden box. He timed his pass perfect for Wig, but Wig was penalised for a block on the Thetford’s right back.

Bells perseverance and work rate was inspiring, as he charged at the Thetford defence and won the ball back. He crossed the ball to Wig who tried to weave his way through, but his shot was straight at Barker.

69 minutes into the match, and Foster had a great chance at taking the lead, but his strike was straight at Pacey.

71 minutes into the match, and G Man put ball through Barker’s legs and into the back of the net. This was down t some brilliant footwork from Zinedine. Zinedine was fouled but, managed to slip the ball to G Man who calmly struck the ball to make in 1-0 to Walden.

Immediately after the goal, Rocky was heading back to his own half and had an attack of Tourette’s at a Thetford player, and was sent off by the referee, after he consulted his linesman. That was a crazy sending off. This happened every few minutes on the pitch, but there we go. You could tell the referee was being assessed. Pearson took the free kick but it was straight at Pacey. Walden had to change formation and Zinedine covered the left back position.

The lads didn’t show any panic from being down to 10 men. We continued to push for a second to try and kill the game off. Wig travelled with the ball into the box, and tried to curl the ball into Barker’s top left corner, but it was too high and didn’t force a save.

In the 80th minute Sticko fell awkwardly making a clearance, and Thetford substitute, Barzey reacted badly to the incident, and went to have a pop at Sticko on the ground, causing a ‘handbags at dawn’ moment, which took 5 minutes for the card happy ref to resolve. Barzey was shown a red card, reducing both teams to ten players, and the Boss a yellow card.  The Boss and Andrews seemed to be defending the old boy! I didn’t get it and couldn’t understand what was going on. Barzey was furious and needed a team mate to usher him off the field. He was a big lad, so I am glad I didn’t have that job!

Theford pushed for an equaliser with a great opportunity from a break, but G Mam got back, slid in and blocked the cross, which awarded Thetford a corner. The corner was played short and then pinged into the box, but G Man headed the ball away.

The mighty Bloods held on until the final whistle to bring back all 3 points. It was a great battle and I really enjoyed it. The lads dug in and played like a team.

The MOTM goes to G Man (Graeme Turner). He is starting to stake his name as a regular hit man in the league, and will get other teams talking and hopefully worrying. Well done G Man for giving it 100% throughout the match.

Our next match is at Home against Goleston. Last time we met, we lost 3-0 so a win would be a great result. This will be followed by a trip to F.C. Clacton next Tuesday week.

The ressies travel to Hadleigh on the back of a well-earned draw against Melford.

Thank you for reading.

#upthebloods







Sunday 7 February 2016

Saffron Walden 2 - Mildenhall Town 1


Saffron Walden 2 – Mildenhall Town 1

6TH Feb 2016

 

The last time these two sides met, Mildenhall came away with a narrow 1-0 win. I remember the match well as it rained most of the evening in the middle of August. This time it was at windy Walden! Hurricane Harry (or whoever) was doing his bit. Could the Bloods make it three wins in a row at the Meadow?

I arrived at the ground just before kick-off and presented Spike Bell with his certificate and voucher, for winning Player of the Month for January. It was a great achievement for the loyal Bloods player, who had been with Walden more than a decade. Thoroughly deserved, after some back to back brilliant performances!

As I arrived at 14.50, I didn’t get much chance to see the usual suspects. I usually like to arrive at least 30 minutes before the match starts, so I can soak in the atmosphere and say hi to the fans, players and staff.  I’d did go and look for Fiona - so she could take a picture of me and Spike, but she was hiding in the club house so I had to settle with Carlos Bailey. Love you really Nigel, even though you aimed a lot of your banter at my expense.

The Team

Croll, P Abbot (Pabbo), Grindrod (Viking), Noble (Nobby), Fleming (Rhino), Wardley (Sticko), Calver  (Captain Wig), M Abbot (Mabbo), Bell, Thomas (Zinedine), Harper. Subs: Murphy (Boss), Andrews, Soutar (GK) and new Blood: Pacey (GK)

Welcome to Walden Lee Pacey.

The First Half

The Viking was the first player to start the ‘Come on Walden’ chants, as he ran at the defence and shot at goal but his effort was well blocked and collected by Pope.

The first 10 minutes was a mix of Pope complaining at the referee, and both teams trying to keep the ball! Sorry but it wasn’t the most exciting starts I have seen. It was tough out there, with the wind and both teams struggled to play at pace.

15 minutes into the match, and Wig won the Bloods a free kick just outside the area as he was flattened by Brown. Harper played the ball short to Zinedine who managed to turn, but his shot was not on target. Pope was not happy with his defence and shouted ‘Too Easy’ to his team mates.

17 minutes into the match, and Super Floyd made a brilliant save. It was great link up play between Yeoman, who crossed the ball to Cooper. Coopers’s strike looked certain to beat any keeper, but Croll, isn’t just ‘Any Keeper’, and saved Cooper’s effort. Sticko did well to clear the rebound out of the box.

20 minutes into the match, and it was hand bags at dawn. Yeoman made a late challenge on Viking, which caused a bit of a face off. The referee had no choice but to produce the yellow card and book Yoeman. He was lucky to stay on the pitch.

Mildenhall were first to get on the score sheet, after the Viking accidently tripped the Mildenhall forward in the penalty area. It looked quite soft to me, but apparently it was an accidental trip. Yeoman took the penalty and went for power. Croll dived the right way, but it went slightly over Croll and into the back of the net.

Mildenhall pushed for a second, when Brown delivered a dangerous cross into the box, but it was well cleared by Sticko for a Mildenhall corner. The corner was taken by the wind and went over the top of the goal and out.

Nobby received a yellow card for a foul on Butcher.

Wig won the Bloods a free kick near the corner flag. Harper crossed the ball into the 6 yard box, which was punched away by the diving Pope. Cooper then cleared the ball for a Walden throw. The throw didn’t trouble Mildenhall.

Mildenhall won a throw 10 yard from the corner flag. They went for a Beast style long throw, but Nobby jumped well and flicked the ball away from the box. Enaro picked up the loose ball and passed it to Green, who hung near the 6 yard box. Green tried to turn and hit the ball on the volley, but his shot went over the bar.

Mabbo conceded a free kick outside the box. Mildenhall tried to test Croll with a long range effort, but it was well collected by the Bloods number 1.

35 minutes into the match, and Bell stepped up and ran with the ball up the wing, and won us a throw on 10 yard from the corner flag. Unfortunately nothing came from the throw.

At the time the fans were asking about the cricket score. I asked where England was playing. Nigel reacted as if I asked him what colour the sky was! I then told him I was too young to watch cricket. The fans replied with a lot of ‘oooohhhs’ and laughs. Round 1 to Scripps!

40 minutes in and the dangerous Enaro broke well from a Bloods throw. He played a through ball to Brown, who was running up the wing. Pabbo reacted quickly and slid in to clear the danger.

Our last effort came from a great run into the box by Zinedine, but the ball was scooped clear from the Mildenhall’s penalty spot.

HT Saffron Walden 0 – Mildenhall Town 1

I must admit, I really was not feeling it today. Sounds negative, but I think it was the rushing to make it for kick off and not having time to settle. I even had a beer and a portion of chips, which were badly needed.

The Second Half

So after a bit of a moan, I told myself that it was only 1-0 and we can do this. So, with my new found confidence I got behind the goal, and cheered the boys on.

2 minutes into the game and Wig won us a free kick for the Viking to take. This was after a great run by Bell. Viking delivered the ball to the back post, which only just missed Rhino. It was a great effort and what the fans wanted to see from there team. The Bloods started to ask questions of the Mildenhall defenders.

As I listen back to my recording, all I can hear is the wind. It was very tough conditions and any ball in the air was difficult to manage.

Mildenell won a corner, but it was well defended by Sticko. Sticko found Zinedine run, but it was slightly too far inform of him and Pope smashed the ball clear.

Wig won a throw on which was played quickly to the Viking. Viking tried to set Zinedine with a cross, but it was too powerful to control and went off for a goal kick.

Sticko was up to his usual tricks again and went ghosting into the box. He managed to get his head to a great cross from Bell, but his effort went over the bar. The Bloods were certainly knocking on the door.

61 minutes into the match, and Harper was replaced by Joe ‘The Boss’ Murphy. Well done again Harper.

66 minutes into the match and Mildenhall won a corner. It was starting to get cold, and the wind was getting more aggressive. Cooper took the corner and went short to Asensi. Asensi tried to set Simpson. Simpson could shoot so passed it to Cooper but Bell blocked Coopers’s effort and Rhino cleared the danger.

Enaro had a decent effort on target but Croll got down well and kept hold of the ball.

Zinedine made a great break, and passed the ball to Mabbo. Mabbo threaded the ball to Bell, who was charging up the wing and won the Bloods a throw on. The throw was delivered into the box and it looked like Zinedine was shoved, but no penalty given. The Bloods had to settle with another throw on. The boys worked extremely hard to get back into the match.

72 minutes into the match, and all that hard work paid off after Zinedine was fouled by Butcher in the box, after getting goal side chasing a through ball. The home fans were chanting ‘Off Off!’ as Zinedine was the last man and Butcher was already on a yellow – rules are rules. The referee awarded the Bloods a penalty and sent Butcher off for an early shower. Mabbo stepped up and after about the 3rd attempt of keeping the ball still on the spot, he sent Pope the wrong way and calmly slotted the ball into the right hand corner. It was 1-1 and plenty to cheer about.

82 minutes into the match, and the Viking had struck the back of the net with a brilliant goal. He made a 50 yard charge at the defence, passed the ball to Zinedine who flicked it over the defence onto the charging head of the Viking, and he flicked it into the back on the net. It was magical and a goal that Vardy would have been proud off.

Forget Hurricane Harry - now meet Hurricane Grindrod! – Now that’s a headline!

85 minutes into the match and Mildenhall had a free kick. The Walden fans held their breath as they watch the striker’s effort go well wide.

Walden played the next 5 minutes with confidence and pushed for a third goal. As the minutes ticked down, Wig and Zinedine worked hard keeping the ball in the corner flag. The Mildenhall players were getting frustrated as they struggles to get the ball back. We shouted at the referee to blow the whistle with every Walden pass.

The final whistle went and we had beaten 5th place Mildenhall. What a brilliant second half performance and the boys never gave up.

FT: Saffron Walden 2 – Mildenhall Town 1

MOTM was very close in the end, but after speaking to the fans the majority agreed with me and this week’s MOTM goes to Dan ‘The Viking’ Grindrod. Well done Dan. Great work throughout and was rewarded with the match winner.

Next week Walden play Thetford down, who are fighting for survival. It will be a difficult match but I am sure the lads can get all 3 points.

Thanks for reading

#hurricanegrindrod