Stanway 2 - Saffron Walden 1

Stanway Rovers 2 – Saffron Walden 1

30th Jan 2016

The last time we visited the Hawthorns, we had at least 450 Bloods fans in tow. It was that epic match where a win would have got us into the last 32 of the FA Vase. Sadly it was not the case and Stanway beat us 1-0 on the day. So it was geared up as a revenge mission.

Stanway have been in good form all season with only one home defeat, so in my opinion getting a result would have been a huge achievement. Walden arrived full of confidence after two back to back wins in the league.

We were missing quite a few players, so Rocky partnered Sticko at the back. We joked about Sticko making it through three matches in a row. He joked and said that he was the reason we had hit form! The old vet still has it in him!

Andrews and Sticko gave U18s Carter, Dicker and Soutar a place on the bench. Again, it shows that hard work pays off. Well done lads. Soutar and the Dicker brothers are becoming regular names on the team sheet.

During the second half there was a power outage of the flood lights, and I was surprised the game was allowed to be continued. The lads ended up playing the last 10, or so minutes in minimum light. We joked about it throughout, with Nigel Bailey’s token attempt, of using the torch on his phone to help the boys out (see pic).

The Team

Croll, Bell, Grindrod (Viking), Noble (Nobby), Solkhon (Rocky), Wardley (Sticko), Calver (Wig), Abbot (Mabbo), Turner (G Man), Thomas (Zinedine) and Harper. Subs: Murphy (Boss), Dicker, Carter, Andrews and Soutar

The First Half

The first 5 minutes were played with caution, as both teams had little build up play. This soon changed after Bell charged up the wing, with the ball at his feet. Bell won us a corner for the Viking to take.  The corner was delivered into the box, but Punter launched himself into the air and comfortably caught the ball.

Stanway’s first threat on goal came from a throw, taken by Cawley. The ball was headed straight back to Cawley, and he crossed the ball back into the box, but Rocky’s flying header cleared the danger.

Harper showed some great skills, by keeping the ball from going off the pitch in the Stanway half. Harper crossed the ball for G Man, but Stanway’s captain - Boyland got there first and cleared the loose ball away from the threatening G Man.

We won a throw on, which Bell took quickly. He threw the ball to Mabbo, who squared it to Nobby. Nobby ran across the face of the D and was tripped, winning the Bloods a free kick 25 yards out. Wig’s effort was on target, but not hard enough to beat Punter.

10 minutes into the match, and Newson scored for Stanway. He met the cross well - at the back post, and struck the ball sweetly into the goal.

14 minutes into the match, and Stanway were looking strong. They won a corner which was taken by Hughes, but the corner was headed off for a goal kick.

As Stanway pushed for a second, our defence worked hard not to be beaten again! Rocky put in a great sliding challenge, which stopped Stanway whipping in a dangerous cross.

20 minutes into the match, and the Bloods upped their tempo. Nobby did well to win the ball back in the middle of the park. He passed the ball to Zinedine; who fancied his chances, and dribbled the ball through three defenders. Unfortunately the ball came away from him, and was scooped clear. It was good to see the lads play with no fear.

21 minutes into the match, and we thought Stanway had scored again but it was ruled offside.

24 minutes into the match, and Croll made a cracking save. Newson’s through ball found Charles in space, and he struck the ball well but not well enough to beat Croll. The loose ball was headed clear by the Viking. In the end Charles was caught for off side, but it showed great focus from Super Floyd.

26 minutes into the match, and Nobby scored! It was after Cawley conceded a corner, when his attempted back header to Punter went off the pitch. Harper floated the ball for Rocky to head down into the box. Nobby got to the ball first and slotted it through the defence and into the back of the net. It was not 1-1.

It wasn’t long before the Bloods found themselves behind. Neale scored with a bullet header from a corner ball. It was well taken, but Neale's run should have been picked up.

The banter with Punter started, when one of his team mates shouted: ‘Stay strong Nicky!’ We must have shouted it every time Walden had a set piece. Punter took it well and made him laugh.

Anyway, before the ‘Stay Strong’ moment G Man won a free kick 25 yards out. The Viking played it short to Wig, who went on a dribble-fest before he could shoot, but his shot was straight at Nicky ‘Stay Strong’ Punter.

Stanway won another corner, but Cawley headed the ball wide. He was heckled after his badly timed back header; which resulted in the corner that the Bloods scored from. You have to love non – league banter. To be fair to Cawley, he didn’t bite once.

We continued to try and fight back, and you could see Zinedine getting frustrated with the constant pushing and shirt pulling every time we had a set piece opportunity. Stanway must have done their research and knew to try and keep him pinned down.

Bell won the ball back in the Stanway half, and went for a long range effort, but it was deflected for a Walden corner. Harper took the corner, but no one could get on the end of it.

44 minutes into the match, and Stanway pushed for a third from a free kick, but their dipping effort was well caught by Croll.

The Bloods finished the first half positively. We tried to attack Punter’s goal but the defence stood up well, and ended the half with their lead intact.

HT: Stanway 2 – Saffron Walden 1

The Second Half

Stanway’s wing play was very good. Charles made a great run, and fed himself a pass around Bell to run onto. Just as he was about to pull the trigger, Rocky slid in and cleared the ball for a corner. Hughes took the corner, but it didn’t trouble the Bloods defence.

Bell showed Charles that two could play at that game - with a great run of his own. He crossed the ball into the box, but it was slightly too high for G Man. Just after Bell’s run and cross Ade screamed ‘Come on Walden’ into my recorder which nearly deafened me…..Stay strong Nicky!

Zinedine won the Bloods a corner, and the banging of the stands metal sheeting had started. The ball was delivered by Harper, but it was well defended and Charles went on the break. It was interesting to see a team with wing play as good as ours. Charles went to cross the ball, but the Stanway forward was caught offside.

Zinedine continued to frustrate Stanway with his fancy foot work, and won the Bloods another corner off Newson’s header. The corner was safely collected by Punter.

63 minutes into the match, and Shaw missed a brilliant opportunity to extend Stanway’s lead. Newson crossed the ball to Shaw, but his shot ended up in row zed.

65 minutes into the match, and Stanway won a corner. It was at this point, we were wondering when the flood lights would be turned on. There was a few pops and spurts from the lights, but nothing else. Anyway the corner was well defended by Rocky’s header.

The next five minutes consisted of Stanway back to back corners, but the Bloods were not going to be undone this time. The lights had finally come on, but only to go back out 10 minutes later. As you can imagine, the banter about the lights was in full flow.

71 minutes into the match, and Harper was replaced by ‘Joe ‘The Boss’ Murphy. Well played again Harper. Keep working hard.

73 minutes into the match, and the Bloods won another free kick. The ‘come on Bloods’ chants were getting louder as we never stopped believing that we could score. Viking took the free kick, but it was well defended.

75 minutes into the match, and Punter dropped the ball from a cross, and the ball ended up underneath him on the floor. Both sets of players pilled in to try and retrieve the ball, but the referee ended up blowing the whistle for a foul on Punter. Wig questioned the decision, because there was no way he had a clear view, but he put ‘Stay Strong Nicky’s’ safety first which is the most important thing.

Stanway’s tried very hard to kill the Bloods off, with yet another corner ball, but the boys kept working hard and stood up well. This was better defending of set pieces from the lads.

80 minutes into the match, and Croll made a brilliant save to deny Charles from scoring. He pushed the ball past his post for another Stanway corner. The Bloods defended well and cleared the ball.

This was when the lights went off, so visibility was pretty bad. The referee did ask both benches if they were happy to continue and they both agreed. Thinking about it now, Stanway needed the points to go second in the league, and we were looking like we could potentially earn a draw. So playing on was a good decision.

90 minutes into the match, and G Man came extremely close, after his lobbed headed was tipped over the bar by Punter. We praised both G Man and Punter for their heroics. The corner was taken by Bell, but Stanway parked the bus. The Viking tried to smash one through the barricade of defenders, but it was well blocked. The ball deflected back to Croll; who was ‘ghosting’ in the Stanway half. He went for a long range effort, but it was caught by Punter.

The Boss had the last chance of the game, when he turned and shot at Punter's bottom left hand corner, but Punter saved the day for Stanway with a brilliant save. Punter really did stay strong!

As the players left the pitch, I was asked to ‘Nibble on that!’ by a Stanway player. I simply replied….Umm no thanks! Shame really, as at the time we were congratulating ‘stay strong’ for keeping them in the match.

FT: Stanway 2 – Saffron Walden 1.

My MOTM goes to Jake ‘Nobby’ Noble. Jake’s game has improved over the last 6 month. I have mentioned in previous Blogs about his great tackling ability and quick thinking. His all round game was very good and capped it off with a goal. Don’t be upset Rocky - you were a close second.

So we lost, but I am proud of the effort the lads put in. Stanway are a very good, physical side and are not easy to beat. I noticed on Twitter, that one of their fans made a comment on how strong Walden was. Always nice to hear that!

On the positive side, Walden Ressies won at home with a 1-0 win over Newmarket. The goal was scored by Coby Game. Well done lads. Keep it up. They play Whitton away on Saturday 6^th.

Our next first team match is on Saturday, and is at home to Mildenhall. I will also be awarding Player of January. I decided to put it to a vote on Twitter, as I cannot decide between Bell or G Man. Both players have played brilliantly, but there can be only one! I shall leave that to the fans.

Also the U18s play Histon away on Thursday night, so if you can make it please come and support the Young Bloods.

Have a good week all, and see you Saturday

Up the Bloods

#staystrongnicky

Saffron Walden 3 - Ipswich Wanderers 0

Saffron Walden 3 – Ipswich Wanderers 0

23rd January 2016

 

‘Wardley’s Walden find Wanderers Wanting’ will be the headline to this week’s blog. Following last week’s 4-1 win, the Bloods continued their great form.  Walden’s first season in the Premier League has not been easy. Half way through the season, we can clearly see the difference in level of quality between step six and step five. After a shaky six months, the boys have now found their form. If Ruud Gullit had been watching, he would have used his famous expression - ‘Sexy Football!’

Head coach Andrews, and player manager Wardley have changed the lads into a well-rounded solid team, and if they continue this mentality they will be very hard to beat.

I arrived at the club early, and helped Martin with a few jobs before the rest of the fans arrived. We did not expect to play, because Ipswich had an away game in the FA Vase. Their game was cancelled, so our game went ahead.

I gave Mrs Nash her drum, and was given serious grief for the size of it. I think they were expecting something a little bit bigger. It’s the thought that counts.

The Team

TEAM: Floyd Croll, Spike Bell, Dan Grindrod (Viking), Jake Noble (Nobby), Ryan Fleming (Rhino), Stuart Wardley (Sicko), Craig Calver (Wig), Marc Abbot (Mabbo), Graeme Turner (G Man) (Joe Murphy (Boss) – 78 mins.), James Thomas (Zinedine), Louis Harper (Charlie Dicker – 82 mins.). Substitute (not used): Neil Andrews.

The First Half

Ipswich started the game well, and saw an early effort strike the side netting. This was a wakeup call for the Bloods, who could have found themselves one down in the first 2 minutes.

Walden responded brilliantly, when G Man dribbled his way through the defence but was pulled back by Hitching. The referee played the advance but G Man was challenged by the physical Goldfinch. The referee blew the whistle and gave a free kick; where G Man was originally fouled. The back four took their time to get back by ten yards, and the referee was not letting them get away with it. Wig stood over the ball, and produced a beautiful strike into the top of the corner leaving Bradbrook with no chance of saving it. 1-0 to the Bloods!

Wig continued to frustrate Ipswich and managed to beat Tredray twice, before pinging in a dangerous cross. G Man climbed well, but his header went over the bar.

It was all Walden, and Rhino fancied his chances with a long range header, but it was well saved by Bradbrook.

8 minutes into the match, and Wig’s silky skills won the Bloods and free kick as Tredray was booked. Harper floated the ball into the back post; which was punched up in the air by Bradbrook and eventually cleared by Goldfinch.

Bell, Harper and Zinedine linked up well on the wing, and started to split the Ipswich defence. Thomas’ final threw ball was timed perfectly for Bell to run onto. Bell’s cross was cleared for a Bloods corner.  Viking took the corner, but it didn’t drop for anyone to get a clear shot on goal. The ball went back to Rhino, who’s shot from distance forced a save out of Bradbrook.

15 minutes into the match, and Ipswich won a corner. Severy took the corner, but Croll managed to punch the ball away from danger. Ipswich tried to get the ball back into the box, but the Viking cleared the danger.

20 minutes into the match, and Zinedine’s brilliant diagonal pass found Wig’s drive up the wing. Wig squared the ball to Mabbo; who shot and struck the inside of the bar. The ball bounced back to G Man, but his shot was brilliant defended for a corner ball.

25 minutes into the match, and Walden had a narrow escape. Had it not been for Bells goal line clearance, Ipswich would have made it one all. Phew, thanks Bellsy!

Ipswich started to put pressure on Walden, with back to back corners but they were well defended by Nobby and Sticksy.

Deacon came very close to an equaliser, when he took the ball round Croll, but his final shot was brilliantly cleared off the line by the Viking.

The lad’s passing was excellent, and were not giving the ball away. In previous matches we have lost the ball, and been at risk of the other team breaking. But this was not the case today. The movement going forward flowed, and each player looked confident on and off the ball.

35 minutes into the half, and Wig won the Bloods a free kick outside the 18 yard box. Harper floated the ball in, and Hitching’s headed clearance only went as far as Nobby. Nobby stuck the ball first time, but it went wide.

I was very impressed by the on-going battle between G Man and Goldfinch. Both players are strong, and tried to muscle each other off the ball. G Man had the height advantage, but Goldfinch was built like a tank.

Croll was first called into action from a dipping long range effort by Deacon. Deacon’s strike was firm, but Croll held onto the ball.

Bradbrook was given banter from the fans, because his label was sticking out of his shorts. He took the banter well and played along with it. Always good to see!

Just before half time, Sticko came close to getting on the score sheet, when he connected with Nobby’s backwards header. Sticko put his foot through the ball, but it went over the bar.

HT: Saffron Walden 1 – Ipswich Wanderers 0

The Second Half

From the minute Ipswich re started the match, Walden were hot on their heels. Bell made an impressive run up the wing, shielding off his opponent. He passed the ball to Wig in the area. Wig slipped slightly but managed to set Harper, but his shot was not clean enough to trouble Bradbrook.

50 minutes into the match, and Ipswich were awarded a free kick. Jennings effort was blocked by the Bloods wall, and deflected for a corner. The corner was taken by Severy, but Fleming strong header cleared the ball away. The referee saw a foul in the build-up and awarded the Bloods a free kick.

Ipswich was not given much time to rest, as Zinedine tested Bradbrook at his near post. This was a result from a quick Viking throw to Wig; who then lobbed the ball over the defender to find Zinedine’s run. Zinedine’s effort was well saved by Bradbrook for a corner. The corner was well defended by Hitching.

It didn’t take long for Walden’s constant pressure to beat Bradbrook again. Unfortunately for Ipswich it came from an own goal on the 58^th aminute. Viking delivered a brilliant corner, and Stuart headed the ball passed Bradbrook, leaving him no chance…..Hey, they all count and full credit to G Man for putting him under pressure! It was now 2-0 to the Bloods.

Just as we finished celebrating the second goal, Bell made it 3-0. Walden cut open the Ipswich defence with a flick-on by Wig to Bell, who calmly slotted the ball past Bradbrook. It was a result of excellent link up play. 3-0 to the Bloods!

After the goal, Martin Johnson got straight onto Twitter and won my tweet of the day. And I quote ‘Total football at Catons Lane as @spikebell7 glorious move makes it 3-0’

63 minutes into the match, and G Man took at knock. The anxious Bloods family waited with bated breath, and cheered for G Man to get up. After a few minutes of the magic sponge, the inform striker continued on.

65 minutes into the match, and Ipswich won a corner. The corner was delivered by Severy, but Bell headed the ball clear. The ball found Mabbo; who turned and delivered a great long ball to Wig, but Wig was caught off side.

The Bloods wouldn’t settle for just 3 goals and continued to push for more. Wigs diagonal pass found Zinedine, but his shot was well saved.

Bradbrook was determined not to be passed again. He jumped well to catch Harpers cross, which was bound for Sticko’s head. As Neil Andrews would say… ‘He was caught ghosting’! That means, he basically slipped passed the defence without being noticed.

71 minutes into the match, and Myhill tried to test Croll with a dipping long range effort, but it was not good enough to worry the Floydster, who took the ball well.

72 minutes into the match, and G Man was replaced by Joe ‘The Boss’ Murphy. Great play G Man, well done! Keep up the confidence.

Sticko was putting in a solid performance at the back, and put everything he had into his headed clearances. The Bloods family joked, and said he would be sore in the morning.

Soon after, Jennings came close with an effort, but could only manage to hit the side netting.

78 minutes into the match, and a brilliant Bloods move saw the Boss, put his body on the line and strike the underside of the crossbar, from a wicked cross from Wig.

Three minutes later Jennings hit the top of the Walden crossbar from 30 yards out.

This moment of Ipswich pressure did not faze Walden, as they continued to attack the ball. Wig made some space in the 18 yard box; and tried to float the ball into the top corner, but it was wide.

Mackenzie came close again when his effort hit the bar. A slight let off for the Bloods!

82 minutes into the match, and Harper was replaced by Dicker. Another strong performance from Harper! Well done.

The last 5 minutes saw more potential opportunities. Wig was through on goal, and looked like he was fouled, but the referee awarded Ipswich with the free kick. It’s a shame because Dicker was free on the penalty spot to potentially open up his first team account.

FT Saffron Walden 3 – Ipswich Wanderers 0

I agree with Paul Daw’s report. The Bloods produced their best football of the season. It was a joy to watch and every single player gave it 100%. All I can say is thank you and bring on Stanway.

This week’s MOTM goes to Spike Bell. Bell played extremely well, and ran all over the pitch. His hard work and skills rewarded him with another goal. Great play Spike and well done.

Walden’s next match is away to Stanway on the 30^th Jan. I hope to see as many fans as possible. Maybe not quite the 450 we had last time we visited! Play like we did against Ipswich, and they won’t know what’s hit them!

I believe the reserves have a match on Tuesday night, away to Long Melford. I shall be there and will award MOTM. I always enjoy a visit to the Stoneylands. Good luck lads. The reserves also won 4-2 on Saturday away at Walsham-Le- Willows.

Thanks for reading

Saffron Walden 4 - Fakenham Town 1

Saffron Walden 4 – Fakenham Town 1

 

It’s been a long 9 months since we had a home win at the Meadow, but the ‘curse’ has finally been lifted. I am only joking lads. You know we all love you!

I got to the ground and was greeted by a concerned looking Chairman. The pitch was looking a little frozen in places, and the referee was in two minds whether to call the game off. So after hearing that I grabbed a folk, and helped spike the ground to get the pitch ready from action! I was joined by Ade, Martin, Mst. Johnson and the mighty Paul Abrahams!

I certainly had done my 15 minutes of cardio, as I was baking hot after. As a result the referee delayed the game by 15 minutes, but gave us the all clear and the match was on. Phew!

Before the match I awarded Jake Noble with his certificate and voucher for Player of December. Abbie Mackay took the picture, but didn’t get my good side, so I am not happy LOL. Joking Abs, I don’t have a good side! Thank you for your help.

The Team

1.       Floyd Croll

2.       Paul Abbot (Pabbo)

3.       Dan Grindrod (Viking)

4.       Jake Noble (Nobby)

5.       James Solkhon (Rocky)

6.       Stuart Wardley (Sticko)

7.       Craig Calver © (Wig)

8.       Marc  Abbott (Mabbo)

9.       Graeme Turner (G Man)

10.   Spike Bell

11.   Louis Harper

 

12.   Stuart Hoskins   14.Neil Andrews    15. Joe Murphy (Boss)   16. Charlie Dicker    17. Sam Soutar (GK)

Before I start I apologise that the timings will be slightly off, due to the delay in starting the game

The First Half

We lost the toss, so we started the match kicking towards Catons Lane. We started the game very well, with some great early pressure. Bell and G Man came out the blocks like a greyhound from a trap. I asked for the boys to show some fire in their bellies, and they did not disappoint.  Their communication looked spot on, which rattled Fakenham’s defence.

After a decent spell from the Bloods, Fakenham did have an opportunity on the break. Harris whipped in a ball which went across the box, but there was no one at the back post to get a shot on goal.

Sticko floated a lovely ball over the top of the defence, for G Man to run onto. G Man held to ball up well, and forced the defender to concede a goal kick. Viking took the corner, but we couldn’t get a shot on goal. Straight after the corner, there seemed to be a little bit of ‘hand bags at dawn’, but the lads soon calmed down.

5 minutes into the match, and Fakenham won a corner. The corner was played short to Williams. Williams crossed the ball in and the Bloods struggles to clear the ball, until Rocky dived in and headed the ball clear.

10 minutes in and G Man was making the defence nervous. He was timing his run perfectly and using his strength and pace. The defence panicked with his clearance, and punted the ball out for a throw on. We did call for the Beast as a sign of respect to our former captain.

Fakenham had another chance on the break. Garner controlled the ball in the 18 yard box, from a long ball, but the Viking charged in and cleared the danger.

Harper came extremely close with a great long range effort, but it was brilliantly saved by Rix. It was one of those moments, where the fans cheer before the ball crosses the line.

After 27 minutes, the pressure had paid off.  Harper passed to Wig; just inside the 18 yard box. Wig found some space and struck at goal. The ball took a slight deflection and ended up in the back of the net. 1-0 to the Bloods!

Not long after we finished celebrating Wigs goal, Fakenham had equalised. Williams floated in a free kick, which was well headed in by Kyle Plumb. 1-1! I did ask Rix to confirm who scored, but he wasn’t sure. At the time I didn’t care as it was a soft goal, and the lads should have done better.

The lads did not let their heads drop for a minute. Bell charged up the wing, fending off his marker. Bell was too strong for the Fakenham lad and won us a corner. Viking found Bell in space, but he was closed down.

33 minutes into the match and G Man ran at the defence. He tried to square it to Wig, but Akers got to the ball first, and cleared the ball free.

Our second goal was scored by G Man, and what a beaut! Rix decided to come off his line, and try and head the ball clear. He couldn’t catch the ball as he was out of his area. The header fell to G Man, and G lobbed the ball from 25 yards into the back of the net. 2-1 to the Bloods! The goal was on the 39^th minute. Nigel B was on the tweets, and he tweeted the following:  Goooooooooallll! And what a finish! @Gstar_88 with a cheeky sneaky dinky lob from outside the box….. Now that has to be a contender for - Bloods tweet of the season.

Garner, was given a yellow card for a late challenge on Wig, which looked painful.

It was getting to the end of the first half, and the fans were really impressed by the sheer grit and determination the players were showing. Every player’s contribution was spot on.

HT: Walden 2 – Fakenham 1

 

Second Half

After having a couple of cheeky sandwiches in the boardroom; as payment for my hard graft before the match, we were eager for the second half to start.

We started the second half well, with our first chance coming from Bell. Wig passed the ball to Bell; who had his back to the goal near the penalty spot. He managed to turn and shoot, but it was straight at Rix.

Fakenham were not out of the game and Williams had a decent chance on goal. His shot was scuffed and comfortably collected by Croll.

50 minutes in, and Fakenham had a corner. The ball was floated into the box, and it could have been a golden opportunity for the visitors to equalise. Jon Waters described it as a Melee. I must admit, I had to look that up… Anyway we managed to get the ball away from the danger zone.

G Man continued his hard work from the first half, and dribbled the ball up the wing. He managed to get a great cross in for Wig, who headed the ball across the 6 yard line, but Gilchrist cleared the danger.

Fakenham continued to push, when Harris was threaded a great through ball. Rocky slid in and successfully cleared the danger. This Fakenham pressure started to silence the Bloods fans.

We stepped it up a gear, and the Viking found Bell, with an excellent diagonal long ball. Bell beat the defender and crossed the ball, but it was just too high for Wigs head.

Fakenham did try to come back at the Bloods, but Nobby showed why he was player of the month- with a well-timed hard tackle to win the ball back.

61 minutes in, and the fans really wanted that third goal to finish off Fakenham. The temperature had dropped and the fans were getting chilly….Well, Mrs. Nash was moaning she was cold and the flannel was about to make an appearance.

66 minutes into the match and Bell put the Bloods 3-1 up. He rose well to meet Wigs cross, and floated the ball into the back the net with his head. 3-1 to the Bloods! Come on! That certainly warmed us up.

Harper showed some excellent foot work by the corner flag, and played the ball to Wig. Wig was fouled and awarded a free kick.

G Man was having the perfect day, and brilliantly scored his second. He controlled Harpers cross and played the ball onto his foot, to calmly slot the ball past Rix. It was a lovely effort for G Man. 4-1 to the Bloods and there was no coming back for Fakenham.

5 minutes later, and G Man came close to his hat trick, but his effort went a few yard wide of the post.

78 minutes in, and Nobby was replaced by Joe ‘Boss’ Murphy. Nobby put in a solid performance for his team.

Boss, made an instant impression by living up to his knick name! Rix tied to clear the ball, but Boss didn’t hold back with a powerful header to win the ball.

Bell came very close to scoring a brace, as Wig crossed the ball into the box. Bell didn’t get the connection he needed to make it 5-1. But 10 out of 10 for effort

The Viking was replaced by Stuart Hosking. Hoskins went to centre back, and Rocky went to the left back position. Great work Viking. Great to see you back in the team.

Bell won the Bloods a corner, and we could visualise G Man scoring his hat trick. Sadly it was not the case, but his closest chance was yet to come.

84 minutes in, and Bell was replaced by U18’s Charlie Dicker. Spike, what can I say apart from excellent?! Thanks for putting in such a brilliant shift.

The Boss controlling the midfield, and showed great composure! He came very close to scoring, but his effort went wide

Dicker didn’t look out of place on the wing, and was not afraid to take on the left back. He has great potential, and with hard work I can see him being a future regular for the first team.

As Wig and G Man were pushing for another goal, they collided with Rix. It was completely accidental, but full respect to Rix, for getting up and not making a big deal about it.

Fakenham had a late corner, but it was well cleared by Sticko.

G Man came so close to the fairy tale ending. He took hold of the ball, and managed to lob Rix, but Akers flew in and scooped the ball off the line.

The game finished Walden 4 – Fakenham 1. Our group of fans had a whip round, so we could treat the lads to a well-earned drink after the match.

I am amazed if anyone disagrees with me for MOTM. My MOTM goes to Graeme (G Man) Turner. G Man was superb and so unlucky not to get his hat trick. He clapped the fans at the final whistle as a show of appreciation. Well done G Man. That performance will take some beating.

So we had finally won at home, and we won in style. Thanks lads for the effort and let’s keep it up.

I am not 100% sure when the next first team match will be. It should be at home against Ipswich, but due to their FA Vase match being postponed, we may have to wait until we visit Stanway on the 30th. Who can forget the last time we were all at Stanway?! What an amazing following from the Bloods family. Keep your eye on Twitter for details of upcoming games.

Thanks for reading

Since writing the Blog I have heard that James Road Runner Crane has decided to leave the Bloods and is now playing his football at West Wratting. Thank you from for all your hard work over the past few years. You will be missed at the club. Good luck and Wratting and we look forward to hearing about your success. 

Fakenham 1 - Saffron Walden 1

Fakenham 1 – Saffron Walden 1

Happy 2016 to you all!

First of all I want to say a huge thank you to Ben ‘The Beast’ Lawrence for everything he has done over the past 2 seasons. We will miss his leadership and skills at the club - especially the long throws. The Beast has decided to leave Walden, and I wish his all the best of luck. We will miss your presence and excellent attitude around the club. Keep in touch and best wishes to you and your family. #Bloodlegend #only1beast

So, it was another long away trip for me and Jon to sunny Norfolk. Well it was spitting all the way up, and I was concerned I would be getting a call, saying the game was off.

On the way up we stopped for breakfast in Swaffham, at the Swaffham Café. It was great value for money and good grub. I would recommend it, if you happen to be at the match against Swaffham.

We arrived in plenty of time and the sun was trying to come out. The pitch looked in excellent condition, and they had cover behind both goals – which is always a bonus this time of year. I met up with the usual away fans, and wished them all Happy New Year.

We were very impressed by the loud home fans. They did not stop cheering. They also had a few horns and drums. It was great to see and we had some good banter.

Sticko was serving a one match ban so he was not in the dugout. The management had awarded U18 players Jamie Dicker and Jake Thompson with their debut first team starts. Well done lads. It shows that hard work pays off.

TEAM: Floyd Croll, Jamie Dicker (Paul Abbot (Pabbo) – 55 mins.), Jamie Solkhon (Rocky), Marc Abbot (Mabbo), Stuart Hoskins, Ryan Fleming (Rhino), Craig Calver (Wig), Jake Thompson, (James Crane (Road Runner/RR) – 55 mins.), Joe Murphy (Boss) (Neil Andrews – 80 mins.), Spike Bell, Louis Harper.

The First Half

Fakenham had the better start to the match, and were award an early free kick which was taken by Dye. The free kick was headed clear, by Rhino for a Fakenham throw on. The throw on did not trouble the Bloods defence.

Dicker was called into action early, as he blocked a cross; which resulted in a Fakenham corner. The corner was headed out, but only to the Fakenham midfield. The player went for a worldy, but it sailed over the bar.

Our first chance on goal came from a free kick outside the area. Wig was tripped over, as he ran at the defence. Harper's free kick was cleared by the defence.

The Boss came very close to opening the scoring in the 7^th minute, when he his flicked header hit the unmarked post. A fraction to the right, and it would have been 1-0 to the bloods. Now I initially thought it came off Jake Thompson’s head, but Paul’s report confirmed I was wrong. Whoever it was can you please let me know please? #wengermoment

15 minutes into the game, and apart from hitting the bar nothing really happened. Fakenham had the better possession, but did not trouble Croll.

Thompson looked strong in his midfield role, and won the ball back in Fakenham’s own half. He passed the ball to Mabbo; who sent in a dangerous cross, but the cross was headed off for a Walden corner. Harper took the corner, but Flemo was penalised for a foul, and the referee gave a free kick to Fakenham.

Wig started to frustrate the Fakenham defence, and was tripped again; just outside the box. The referee awarded a free kick. Harper decided to take a shot; and came close, but Rix made a great save for a corner ball. The corner was easily caught by Rix.

Fakenham were awarded a free kick; for Brooks to take. It was a very good delivery, but Hoskins cleared the ball well.

30 minutes in, and it was looking very bleak. I even sat down for a bit with Carol to reflect on the game. Sorry lads, but it can’t always be good news.

The Boss put in a cracking cross, which was headed out by Day. The Bloods started to look better on the ball.

Harper delivered a lovely through ball for Bell to run onto, but it was well ushered out by Fakenham

39 minutes into the match, and Fakenham had a corner ball, but the ball ended up on the roof of Croll’s net.

42 minutes into the match, and Wiggy came close with a shot across Rix. The shot beat Rix, but was wide of the post.

In the last minute Wig went down in the box, but was not given a penalty.

HT – Fakenham 0 – Walden 0

The Second Half

The Bloods started the game well, and started to look like the better team. Wig won the Bloods another free kick outside the box; for Harper to take. Harper played the ball short to Wig; who turned and went for the cross. The shot was deflected by the defender, and the Bloods called for handball. The handball was not given, so we settled for the corner. The corner found Rocky in space, who headed at Rix. The ball deflected off Rix and Franks managed to clear the ball, for another Walden corner. The corner went over the box, and Harper collected the ball. He crossed the ball back into the box, and Thompson managed to get his head to the ball, but it went wide of the post.

As we cheered on the Bloods, two young lads walked past us banging on toy drums, singing ‘Barmy Army’. They couldn’t have been much older than five. All these instruments were giving me an idea!...Watch this space!

50 minutes into the match, and Wig managed to get in another shot, but it was straight at Rix. He did very well to stay on his feet.

55 minutes into the match, and Dicker and Thompson made way for Pabbo and Road Runner (RR). Well done lads on your performance. You both did well.

Fakenham came close with a long range smash by Brooks, but it went over the bar.

60 minute into the match, and we were pushing further up the field, and looked dangerous on the break. RR had injected some pace to the front three. He was working hard to get the Bloods off the mark.

68 minutes into the match, and Youngs hit the bar, with a header from a corner. The Boss jumped at the rebound and cleared the ball away.

72 minutes in, and Bell charged into the box, and squared the ball to Wig. Wig’s shot forced a great save from Rix.

Dye made a strong charge throw the middle of the pitch, but Harper put in a great challenge to win the ball back.

77 minutes into the match and Day was yellow carded, for lashing out his arm at Wig! As you can imagine we were not happy about it, and neither were the Walden bench. Especially when you look at the Red card that was given to JT two weeks ago!

80 minutes into the match, and The Boss was replaced by Andrews. Another solid performance from the Boss!

Fakenham had won a corner, after Pabbo put in a block. It was a very strange corner, as the ball went over everyone and out for a Walden throw…..Different!

The much-needed first goal was scored by Walden from a sweet move in the 86^th minute. A superb diagonal pass from Andrews, gave Wig some space on the left, and his accurate shot found the far corner of the net.

As we looked to have wrapped up the 3 points, disaster struck for the Bloods in the 94^th minute. Rix punted the ball up the pitch in one last desperate attack, and the ball found its way through to Harris who knocked the ball over the diving Croll and agonizingly into the far corner of the net.

It ended 1-1, and we were gutted. I was lost for words, and I didn’t quite know what to think. This has happened on a few occasions where we have either lost or ended up dropping 2 points. The game did look like it was shaping up to be nil nil, and a point away is a good result.

My MOTM goes to Wig Calver. Not just for his goal, but he put in a lot of effort and on another day could have had a hat trick. Wig wore the captains arm band with pride.

Thanks for reading

Next match is FC Clacton Away – Subject to the weather.