The Future Looks Bright for the Bloods

The future looks bright for the Bloods

Saffron Walden U18s 1 – Histon U18s 1

I am writing this blog, while sitting in ATS for the 3^rd time this week. All my work emails are done, so I thought I would spend the time talking about the beautiful game.

I arrived at the Meadow with my Step Dad Jon, around 7.15pm. Once I said hello to everyone, I made my way to the bar and got myself a Guinness. We discussed last Saturday’s defeat to Haverhill, and what went wrong. We are feeling optimistic that our luck will soon change, and we will start scoring the goals we need. Keep the faith fans!

We talked about, me writing a mini-series based on Mrs. Nash and the club. We joked about what actress would play Mrs Nash. Andy suggested we get Pauline Quirke from Birds of a Feather. I may write to her agent.

Anyway, enough of that! Let me talk you through the match.

TEAM: David Vant, Jack Garrett, Connor Scott, Jamie Dicker, Oliver Rand, Jake Thompson, Jack Young, Max Barry, Charlie Smith, Jordan Carter, Charlie Dicker. Substitutes (all used): Callum Sparrow, Jack Gosden, George Chappel, Trevor Eve, Sam Soutar.

First Half

Both teams started very well and looked eager to win. Walden started to come forward, but the Histon defense put in some very good, strong tackles to prevent letting the Young Bloods put in a dangerous cross.

10 minutes into the match, and Walden had a great opportunity to go 1 up. Charlie Dicker made a great run down the wing to beat the Histon winger, and then he beat the right back. He got his ball into the box and Walden had two decent chances from Charlie Smith and Jake Thompson. Had it not been for a solid Histon defense, Gibert would have been picking the ball out of the net.

Walden showed some great passing between the midfield. You could see that the manager had been working hard on movement, and keeping the ball. Jack Young had a great chance, but his shot went wide.

We had a great effort from a free kick, which was facing the goal. Charlie Smith went for a shot, but the ball went slightly too high to trouble Gilbert.

The Young Bloods looked dangerous on the wing. Charlie Dicker showed of his classy footwork, but was eventually tripped for a Walden free kick.

With Walden playing the better football, the Bloods defense came unstuck. David Vant and his defender made a slight error from a through ball. The ball went up in the air, just outside the box, which unfortunately for Vant; fell to Histon’s Termain Hill, who calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net from 20 yards.

Walden did not let their heads drop, and worked very hard to get back into the game. Charlie Dicker was again causing the defense havoc. He reminds me of a young James Thomas. He did manage to get a cross in, but it was well defended by Sam Leonard.

35 minutes and Histon started to turn up the heat. They put pressure on the Young Bloods, and won themselves a corner. The corner did not trouble the defense.

Near the end of the half, Walden were awarded a free kick. The free kick was taken well, but Gilbert made a great save. Gilbert could only palm the ball away, and Dicker tried to get the ball back into the box. It looked like he kicked it against the Histon defender for a corner, but to our surprise Histon was awarded a goal kick.

Jordan Carter collided with Gilbert, when both players went for a 50/50 ball. It was brave of Carter to put his head in, but unfortunately he came of worse. After a few minutes he shook it off and carried on.

The lads kept working hard until the half time whistle. Our last throw of the dice came from a Walden corner, but it was well defended by Connor Woodrow.

HT: Saffron Walden U18s 0 – Histon U18s 1

Second Half

Sam Soutar replaced Dave Vant.

It was the perfect start for Walden. Jack Young was tripped as he went into the penalty area, and a penalty was awarded. Young took the penalty, and equalized with a firm shot into the corner of the goal. Gibert guessed the right way, but there was too much power in the shot.

The lads looked favorite, to score again and really worked as a team. Charlie Dicker continued his good form from the first half, with a dipping shot, but Gilbert caught the ball well.

Histon’s defense, were working overtime to try and stop Walden from taking the lead. Again Dicker, got the better of his man and dribbled the ball into the box, but his cross was well defended.

80 minutes into match and the lads looked like they had been playing together for years. It was so encouraging to see the positive team work. Walden had a great chance from a corner, but Garrets headed effort went over the bar.

Twice Histon could have scored from dangerous breakaways, as Walden kept working hard for a second goal. I was very confident we could win the match, but we had to settle with a well-earned draw. Credit to Histon for their solid defense and hard work!

I would also like to give special mention to the assistant referee. The elderly gent must have been in his 70’s. I am not meaning to sound patronizing, but we were impressed with the fact he didn’t let age stop him from doing what he enjoyed. He also enjoyed a bit of banter which is always good.

On the hole the officials had a very good game.

MOTM goes to Charlie Dicker. He showed off some brilliant skill, and never stopped working. Well done Charlie. I know all of you impressed Mr. Wardley, so well done.

Thanks for reading.

 

Haverhill Rovers 1 - Saffron Walden 0

Haverhill Rovers 1 – Saffron Walden 0

The New Croft

31^st October 2015

The New Croft is one of my favourite places to visit. You can’t beat a local derby. Both teams and fans are always up for the match. Not just for the points, but also the bragging rights. With a healthy crowd of 218 and with half of the fans cheering on the Bloods, it was going to be a great atmosphere.

The Bloods fans had a coach, which I have named the Bloods Boogie Bus. And Malcolm Nash was the tour guide.

I must also thank Mr Chapman for buying me a pint when I arrived. My round next time!

It had been a difficult week for the Bloods and a win was badly needed. Unfortunately for the Bloods, this wasn’t the case. For the fans that didn’t make the trip, I can assure you the lads gave their all. I am sorry if I sound like a bad loser, but we definitely deserved a point. But I will not take credit away from a very tight Rovers defence. They didn’t give the Bloods many opportunities to pull the trigger.

As always, I shall talk you through the match, and line ups.

Floyd Croll was in goal. Defence: Solkhon (Rocky), Lawrence (Beast), Reid and P Abbot. Midfield: M Abbot, Murphy (The Boss), Drane. Forwards: Wig, Turner (G Man) and Thomas. Subs: Bell, Harper, Grindrod (The Viking) and Wardley (Sticksy)

 

The First Half

Walden won the toss and started the match.

Our first attack came from a good cross from Mark Abbott. Mark sailed the ball into the box, but it was slightly too high, and went out for a goal kick.

Thomas was looking threatening on the wing, and received great back up support from Paul Abbot. Thomas passed the ball back to Abbot, who crossed the ball in first time, but it was well defended by Rovers.

The lads were working hard, and looked good in possession. They passed the ball well and looked confident.

Rovers broke well from Archer (goalie). Archer sent the ball long for Alleyne, who was one on one with Rocky. Alleyne played the ball through Rocky and ran at the goal, but Croll made a great save and pushed the ball onto post. Rocky got back to clear the ball out of the box.

Rovers had a corner, but it didn’t get past Paul Abbot, who cleared the ball. The loose ball was collected by the Rovers midfield. He crossed the ball, but Ried headed the ball away from danger.

10 minutes in, and Rocky started to come further forward. He made a skilful run up the wing, and was tripped for a Walden free kick. Mark Abbot’s free kick was good, and found Rocky at the back post. Rocky headed it back into the 6 yard box, for the Beast to take down. The ball worked its way to Thomas who went for a long range effort, but it went over the bar.

Our best move of the first half came from Mark Abbot, who skilfully flicked the ball to G Man. G Man controlled the ball well and found Wig’s run. Wig played the ball onto his right foot, but his shot was saved by Archer for a Walden corner. The corner was taken by Mark Abbot, but it was well defended by Rovers.

20 minutes in and Rovers were awarded a free kick. Shinn took the free kick, but Paul Abbot did very well to put the striker off, and denied Rovers a shooting opportunity.

I have just realise I have recorded about 5 minutes of general chat, and not realised. It was nice to hear people laughing and joking. Half way through the random chat, Mrs Nash shouted ‘Come on Floyd, he’s off his line’. He decided not to shoot and replay his Wigan days. So, after 5 minutes into general chit chat, I finally realised that I had been recording. I won’t repeat what I said, when I realised.

25 minutes in and we had won a throw. We called for the Beast to take the throw. The throw was well defended by Shinn, but he only managed to clear it as far as Mark Abbot. Mark crossed the ball back into the box, but again it was well defended by Wilderspin.

Rovers looked threatening on the break. Kemp ran up the wing and tried to cross, but Reid put in a block to send the ball out of play, for a Rovers corner. The corner came in but it was well defended by Rocky. The ball was sent back into the box by Shinn, but we managed to get in another block, and the ball went out for another Rovers corner. It was good sustained pressure for Rovers, but the Bloods defence stood up well, and would not let Rovers shoot.

30 minute into the first half and G Man, almost found himself in exactly the same position, from when he scored against Stanway. The ball was flicked over the Rovers defence, for G Man run on to, but Farrant just beat G Man to the ball.

What I had noticed, was the great attacking play by The Boss. He was up for it, and was always in the box for any set piece. He also showed some great skill and won the Bloods another corner.

The Bloods did have a penalty shout, but it was denied from the referee, who said it was accidental.

Paul Abbot put his body on the line, and went in for a hard challenge on Baker. It turned out, that the Bloods were awarded a free kick.

We were playing better than last week. Drane showed some great skills, and managed to release Wig. Wig crossed the ball, over the box for G Man. The Rovers left back put in a good challenge, but could only see the ball out for a Bloods throw, in the Beasts territory. The Beasts effort was well defended.

Rovers came very close to a potential tap in by Weaver, but the cross was too fast, and Weaver could not reach it.

HT: Haverhill Rovers 0 – Saffron Walden 0. Walden were playing the better football

The Second Half

We started the second half well, with two back to back throws for the Beast. We worked hard but just couldn’t get a shot in.

Rovers looked threatening coming from the back. Moody put in a great cross, but it was well cleared by the Beast, for a Rovers throw.

Rovers had a golden opportunity to go 1-0 up. The ball was crossed it the 6 yard box, but Bakers effort went over the bar.

Rovers continued the pressure with a corner. The corner was floated in, but the Beast defended the ball out of the 18 yard box. The ball dropped for Kemp; who went for a long range effort, but again the Beast headed the ball up in the air, and Croll came off his line and caught it.

Thomas was causing havoc down the right hand wing. The Boss delivered a lovely ball for Thomas to run onto. He dribbled the ball all the way down the wing, and into the box, but his cross only found the Rovers centre back.

Mark Abbot had a go from out of the area. Thomas set Mark up for a shot but it was high and wide.

Soon after the Boss went for a long range effort; after Drane set the ball. It was powerful, but went over the bar.

The pressure continued from Rovers. They had a free kick, which Boss defended well. They followed the attack up with a corner ball, but it was well defended by Paul Abbot for another Rovers corner.

65 minutes into the match and Paul Abbot was booked for a challenge on Alleyne. I looked over to Mrs Nash to see if the flannel was out, but it was reserved for later!

Rovers were awarded a penalty for what looked like a push. In true Wenger style; ‘I did not see the ball’, so I am not sure. A lot of people disagreed with the ref’s decision. Now the flannel was official out! But it didn’t matter because our number 1, Floyd Croll saved the ball with his face. We jumped up and down, and congratulated Croll for his heroics. The ball went out for a Rovers corner, which was taken well, but Bakers header was wide.

Mark Abbot and Max Drane were replaced with Louis Harper and Spike Bell. I was very pleased with both their performances. I thought Mark shone in the first half.

Now Mrs Nash’s came up with the quote of the day; as Malcolm went to relieve his bladder. Again I can’t repeat it, but I would recommend you ask her what she said. I am so using that line at work!

Reid played a great long ball to Wig, but Moody got to the ball first and headed it off for a corner ball. Harper took the corner, which found Rocky at the back post, but his headed effort went out for a goal kick.

80 minutes in to the match and Rovers added more pressure, but we worked hard to deny Rovers from getting a clean shot on goal.

We had a good opportunity to score from a Harper corner. Ried rose well, but his header was wide.

G Man had the best opportunity of the half. Thomas showed off some brilliant footwork. He will now be known as Zinedine. He played a great threw ball for G Man, but his shot was well saved by Archer.

Disaster struck in the 88^th minute, when Bell was given a straight red for a late challenge on Kemp. Kemp got straight up and shoved Bell, but was only given a yellow card. Didn’t seem very fair to me, but there we go!

If Bell getting sent off wasn’t bad enough for the Bloods; Rovers nicked the win in injury time. The goal came from a corner and was headed in by debutant; Scott Kemp.

So we lost 1-0. The boys worked hard, and as always we try again next week. We are in need of a hero Sticksy. You can do it. #UpTheBloods

The MOTM for me goes to Paul Abbot. I think he had a brilliant game and worked very hard throughout the match. Well done Paul, and keep up the great work.

The next first team match is on Saturday the 7^th November, against Whitton United. So it will be another trip to Ipswich for me.

I am going along to support the U18s on Tuesday night at the Meadow. The lads play Histon. The lads currently sit in 3^rd place and are doing very well.

Thanks for reading and Up the Bloods!

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)

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Saffron Walden 1 - Stanway Rovers 2

Saffron Walden 1 – Stanway Rovers 2

 

It was the 125^th 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 28^th 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 27^th October. Unfortunately I can’t make the match. Good luck lads!

Thanks for reading.

Ipswich Wanderers 1 - Saffron Walden 0

Ipswich Wanderers 1 – Saffron Walden 0

Saturday 17^th 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 17^th 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