In a hard fought festive clash the Cumnor parents showed the U9s a thing or two about football with a thrilling 5-4 win. Here's a player report on the oldies:
Laurinda H
Strong at the back and held the defensive line whilst all crumbled around here. Excellent distribution skills too... especially with the wine and chocolates.
Steve E
Fancy tricks and showboating flicks... like son like father, Steve was an excellent target man and ever willing for his teammates to do his running for him.
Will L
Out wide, up against the twin threats of Matthew and Henry S, Will did well not to deploy his rugby tackling instincts and therefore avoid any pre-Christmas trip to Abingdon Minor Injuries Unit.
Tim C
Hung back supposedly in goal. Got down (eventually) to make a save and used the high ball whenever he could, which is quite an effective tactic against 8 and 9 year olds.
Phil M
Opened the scoring with a rasper when his shot beat the three U9 keepers. Did well to stay off his backside.
Graham S
All energy and effort... worked hard but couldn't replicate his Peter Barnes-esque display of last year.
Dave O'S
Frustrated somewhat, especially when nutmegged by Henry S. Looked a little cold and maybe should consider wearing (support) tights next year?
Andrew P
Hung around in front of the goal and scored two. There was a rumour that he passed the ball but no-one was sure when?
Steve H
Another two goal hero. The first was a beautiful lob, the second a desperate reposte to the threat of substitution.
Richard S
Fuelled by Mojitos and Red Bull, Richard left a trail of carnage behind him. Ploughed the right channel well and set up 4 goals.
Rob H
Like Mark Hughes he had an eye for the spectacular scissor kick. Unlike Mark Hughes, he still has a manager's job. Bad luck, Rob.
David R
Vision, control, execution... it was like watching Jari Litmanen with a fridge on his back.
Player of the Week: Steve H's first goal, Dave O'S' embarrassment, Rob H's trouser-splitting triple salco... but PoW for the way he absolutely terrorised a group of young boys, Richard S.
Tuesday 22 December 2009
Wednesday 16 December 2009
2009: The Story So Far
With the Christmas break upon us and our next game not until January 9th, I thought I'd share a few stats with you. In the Witney Leauge, we're currently unbeaten in our division (Green) and together with Brackley, we're the only team with maximum points.
Our stats read:
Played 10
Won 10
Lost 0
Drawn 0
Goals F 59
Goals A 4
Points 30
The League only take account of the first match, so our second match stats read:
Played 10
Won 6
Lost 2
Drawn 2
Goals F 39
Goals A 18
Add in four friendly wins and the Cup losses and overall we've:
Played 26
Won 19
Lost 4
Drawn 3
Goals F 116
Goals A 37
The Golden Boot is interestingly poised too with four boys already scoring over 10 goals this season.
The most impressive stat of all though is the fact that we still have 16 fantastic boys giving everything they have to the badge and each other. Here's to a very enjoyable 2010.
Our stats read:
Played 10
Won 10
Lost 0
Drawn 0
Goals F 59
Goals A 4
Points 30
The League only take account of the first match, so our second match stats read:
Played 10
Won 6
Lost 2
Drawn 2
Goals F 39
Goals A 18
Add in four friendly wins and the Cup losses and overall we've:
Played 26
Won 19
Lost 4
Drawn 3
Goals F 116
Goals A 37
The Golden Boot is interestingly poised too with four boys already scoring over 10 goals this season.
The most impressive stat of all though is the fact that we still have 16 fantastic boys giving everything they have to the badge and each other. Here's to a very enjoyable 2010.
Tuesday 15 December 2009
Clear Heads at Combe
From the kids, at least. The Management team - and most of the dads - we're looking a little green around the edges. The boys, however, produced a supremely confident display overturning an aggregate defeat from earlier in the season.
Match One
Great passing and movement and plenty of chances. Cumnor turned on the style from the kick-off after Ben reversed the teams to take advantage of the considerable slope. In a one-sided affair, the team functioned smoothly and clinically. Will grabbed a perfect hat-trick (left foot, right foot and nose) and set up Fyn for another. Rory and Toby were ever watchful and an unkind bobble denied Adam the goal of the season after sparkling interplay between Ben and Fyn. Henry didn't have too much to do made two vital saves towards the end of the game. 4-0.
Match Two
Another entertaining and exciting encounter. The boys had a point to prove and battled hard to take control of the midfield with Binky doing much of the graft. Joe and Matt were energetic and busy and Ollie a willing link man with James S up front. James E looked happier out than in and we certainly displayed better shape in the second half. Henry S was assured and athletic in goal and Ed caused lots of problems with his aggressive running. The team scored four well-taken goals with Ollie, Binky, James E and Ed getting on the scoresheet. 4-1.
Player of the Week: mentions for Toby, Ollie and Ed but for his wide play and goals, Will.
Match One
Great passing and movement and plenty of chances. Cumnor turned on the style from the kick-off after Ben reversed the teams to take advantage of the considerable slope. In a one-sided affair, the team functioned smoothly and clinically. Will grabbed a perfect hat-trick (left foot, right foot and nose) and set up Fyn for another. Rory and Toby were ever watchful and an unkind bobble denied Adam the goal of the season after sparkling interplay between Ben and Fyn. Henry didn't have too much to do made two vital saves towards the end of the game. 4-0.
Match Two
Another entertaining and exciting encounter. The boys had a point to prove and battled hard to take control of the midfield with Binky doing much of the graft. Joe and Matt were energetic and busy and Ollie a willing link man with James S up front. James E looked happier out than in and we certainly displayed better shape in the second half. Henry S was assured and athletic in goal and Ed caused lots of problems with his aggressive running. The team scored four well-taken goals with Ollie, Binky, James E and Ed getting on the scoresheet. 4-1.
Player of the Week: mentions for Toby, Ollie and Ed but for his wide play and goals, Will.
Tuesday 8 December 2009
Back To Winning Ways
The return leg against Chadlington saw normal service resumed by both Cumnor teams. There were some great examples of clever thinking, nice touches and excellent finishes. In the first match, Adam showed terrific awareness and discipline and scored 4 far post crackers. Fyn - wearing his go faster tights - slotted in two, Will got one with the assistance of a Chad defender and there was an own goal from a corner. Ben, Toby and Rory battled hard and showed plenty of bite in the tackle and composure on the ball. Henry was alert and his new goalkicking routine worked a treat. 8-0.
In the second match, Cumnor worked hard for the win. Matt made a real nuisance of himself and never stopped working. Joe frightened the life out of a player three times his size and Ollie and James E combined well and deserved their goals. Laurie worked hard too. Henry looked threatening up front and James S scored two lovely goals and hit some effective passes. 4-0.
Player of the Week: James S for his finishing and intelligent midfield play.
In the second match, Cumnor worked hard for the win. Matt made a real nuisance of himself and never stopped working. Joe frightened the life out of a player three times his size and Ollie and James E combined well and deserved their goals. Laurie worked hard too. Henry looked threatening up front and James S scored two lovely goals and hit some effective passes. 4-0.
Player of the Week: James S for his finishing and intelligent midfield play.
Saturday 28 November 2009
Monday 23 November 2009
Stonesfield Shotfest
A trip to Stonesfield meant a chance to mix things up a little. With Richard losing sleep over substitutions and team formations, the encounter was never going to be as straight forward as our respective league positions implied.
It's always difficult playing on a smaller pitch and the horrible weather conditions didn't help, but Cumnor dug in and stuck to their task. A solid first match performance saw goals from James E, Ollie and two lovely strikes from James S. All the boys played their part admirably but we looked better in the second half when Ollie and Binky gave us a little more shape in midfield. 5-0.
In the second match, it was difficult keeping track of the scorers. Will grabbed a rapid-fire hat trick and was banished into goal. Rory, Binky, Ollie and Toby netted too but the match really belonged to Matt and Henry who opened their goal accounts for the season with a brace each. Fyn was on his toes in readiness but didn't touch the ball in goal and Adam put in a strong defensive display marking the very tricky No8. And as for Laurie, he had one of those days when the ball just wouldn't run for him... a great effort, though. Final score: 11-0.
A round of applause too, for Stonesfield. It's their first year as a competitive squad and they battled hard til the end. They'll learn a lot from their experiences this season.
That's it then; 7 played, 7 won. We're half way through the league and we know what has to be done to win the title. It's not going to be easy but it's certainly achievable.
Player of the Week: Skillful, composed and a goalscorer too... Ollie
Monday 9 November 2009
Kingston Classic
Two matches: one win, one defeat but all in all a highly enjoyable encounter with our local rivals.
Henry M
Was alert when he needed to be and it was good to have him back barking orders between the sticks.
Ollie
Didn't touch the ball in goal but played with poise and precision in central midfield.
Rory
Next time we'll get the RFU to delay their kick off so we can get Rory away in time. Strong, controlled and unbeatable.
Toby
Quicksilver clearances and rock hard tackles. The bionic blocker at the back.
Ben
Captain Fantastic. Played the game of his life against his former classmates and bossed the central areas.
Adam
The right man in the right place with two brilliant finishes to cement the win.
Will
Tricky out wide and played an integral part in setting up Cumnor's classic second goal.
Fyn
Took his goal beautifully and fed Adam cleverly to score our second. Always on the prowl up front.
James S
Showed nerves of steel to score a John Barnes-esque solo goal.
Henry S
Looked at home in the central areas and cracked in a left foot beauty from a tight angle.
Matt
Ran his heart out and made it almost impossible for the Kingston playmakers to find space. A midfield dynamo.
Binky
Determined, committed and dangerous with the ball at his feet. Played the wide role very well.
Joe
Kept fighting, kept battling and was the heartbeat of a very spirited side.
Ed
Unlucky in goal but still made some great saves. Worked very hard in defence and made it tough for Kingston.
James E
Linked well with the midfield and did his share of tracking back. Unlucky not get any clear chances.
We were very proud of all the boys. In the first match we linked well and played as a unit. The passing and precision was spot on. In the second match, the boys were unlucky to go behind. They never stopped fighting and gave all they had against a very good side.
Player of the Week: Easy choice this week, performance of the season so far... Ben.
Henry M
Was alert when he needed to be and it was good to have him back barking orders between the sticks.
Ollie
Didn't touch the ball in goal but played with poise and precision in central midfield.
Rory
Next time we'll get the RFU to delay their kick off so we can get Rory away in time. Strong, controlled and unbeatable.
Toby
Quicksilver clearances and rock hard tackles. The bionic blocker at the back.
Ben
Captain Fantastic. Played the game of his life against his former classmates and bossed the central areas.
Adam
The right man in the right place with two brilliant finishes to cement the win.
Will
Tricky out wide and played an integral part in setting up Cumnor's classic second goal.
Fyn
Took his goal beautifully and fed Adam cleverly to score our second. Always on the prowl up front.
James S
Showed nerves of steel to score a John Barnes-esque solo goal.
Henry S
Looked at home in the central areas and cracked in a left foot beauty from a tight angle.
Matt
Ran his heart out and made it almost impossible for the Kingston playmakers to find space. A midfield dynamo.
Binky
Determined, committed and dangerous with the ball at his feet. Played the wide role very well.
Joe
Kept fighting, kept battling and was the heartbeat of a very spirited side.
Ed
Unlucky in goal but still made some great saves. Worked very hard in defence and made it tough for Kingston.
James E
Linked well with the midfield and did his share of tracking back. Unlucky not get any clear chances.
We were very proud of all the boys. In the first match we linked well and played as a unit. The passing and precision was spot on. In the second match, the boys were unlucky to go behind. They never stopped fighting and gave all they had against a very good side.
Player of the Week: Easy choice this week, performance of the season so far... Ben.
Monday 2 November 2009
Cumnor Off The Hook
A hardy band of Cumnor warriors set off across many international time zones and headed north for a meeting with Hook Norton. Illness and half-term hi-jinx depleted the squad but we still managed to negotiate the slope and thwart the valiant hosts.
In the first match, Ollie had a cracker in goal and pulled off a series of shot-stoppers. We didn't have too many chances - and missed Adam's shoot on sight policy - but took the lead through an own goal and then extended it to two when Binky finished nicely. In the second-half, Hook Norton peppered the goal with shots but Ollie was alert enough to keep a clean sheet.
In the second match, Will played a blinder in goal using every part of his body to protect his line. Henry S and James E brought real vision to the pitch, Matt crunched his way from box to box and James S showed some nice little touches. But the star player was Ollie who dragged Cumnor level with a great shot which meant we could hit the road undefeated.
Player of the Week: Hook Norton didn't score with Joe on the field, Fyn troubled their defence, Ben kept it smart and simple, Will showed we might have another goalie in the making but the award went to Ollie for his safe hands, quick eye and mighty right foot.
In the first match, Ollie had a cracker in goal and pulled off a series of shot-stoppers. We didn't have too many chances - and missed Adam's shoot on sight policy - but took the lead through an own goal and then extended it to two when Binky finished nicely. In the second-half, Hook Norton peppered the goal with shots but Ollie was alert enough to keep a clean sheet.
In the second match, Will played a blinder in goal using every part of his body to protect his line. Henry S and James E brought real vision to the pitch, Matt crunched his way from box to box and James S showed some nice little touches. But the star player was Ollie who dragged Cumnor level with a great shot which meant we could hit the road undefeated.
Player of the Week: Hook Norton didn't score with Joe on the field, Fyn troubled their defence, Ben kept it smart and simple, Will showed we might have another goalie in the making but the award went to Ollie for his safe hands, quick eye and mighty right foot.
Monday 26 October 2009
Tough Nuts Cracked
Cumnor went to Eynsham looking for a stern test... and we got one! Two games played, two victories won (2-1 and 6-1). It was difficult to write match notes in the pouring rain so here's a review of those involved.
Ed
Brilliant between the sticks, overcame the dissapointment of the firts goal mix up to put in two matchwinning saves. Received a deserved a round of applause from his grateful teammates at the end.
Rory
The Rock was solid... despite his first half mix up with Ed. Ran the game from the back, won every challenge, dealth with the very good no.9 and got his usual goal. It's official; Rory is better than Rio Ferdinand.
Ben
Took a whack on his ankle but refused to be beaten. Rose to every physical challenge and was brave and committed. Ben thrived in the mud and took his goal well in the second match. Could have got a second if he'd been a bit greedier.
Adam
Quiet in the first half but then found his confidence in the second. Worked hard up and down the flank and was unlucky not to score. Part of an amazing goaline scramble when the ball hit the post twice and was cleared off the line.
Will
He's certainly no defender and spent most of his time in the second match sprinting back into position. But we'll forgive him if he keeps playing out wide like he does. Scored a wonder goal winner, beating most of the Eynsham team before coolly sliding it in.
Fyn
Three goals again and back to his razor sharp best. Showed wonderful awareness in the tight spaces and took his first goal beautifully. He enjoyed playing wide in the second match and terrorized the Eynsham defence with his pace.
James E
Did a season's worth of running in one game. Hit some lovely little passes and flicks and took his goal well. Nice little celebration,too!
Toby
Made a telling contribution by bricking up the back with Rory. Took the captain's armband for the second game and relished the responsibility. Scored a nice goal and was unlucky not to get a second.
Matt
Loved the all-action mud and guts encounter. Broke up Eynsham attacks and looked composed on the ball. His new improved kicking technique saw him play some excellent passes.
Joe
Threw his body into every challenge and did not take a backward step. Battled hard out wide and held his position throughout. Another excellent display.
Player of the Week: for dealing with the Eynsham raiders... Rory
Ed
Brilliant between the sticks, overcame the dissapointment of the firts goal mix up to put in two matchwinning saves. Received a deserved a round of applause from his grateful teammates at the end.
Rory
The Rock was solid... despite his first half mix up with Ed. Ran the game from the back, won every challenge, dealth with the very good no.9 and got his usual goal. It's official; Rory is better than Rio Ferdinand.
Ben
Took a whack on his ankle but refused to be beaten. Rose to every physical challenge and was brave and committed. Ben thrived in the mud and took his goal well in the second match. Could have got a second if he'd been a bit greedier.
Adam
Quiet in the first half but then found his confidence in the second. Worked hard up and down the flank and was unlucky not to score. Part of an amazing goaline scramble when the ball hit the post twice and was cleared off the line.
Will
He's certainly no defender and spent most of his time in the second match sprinting back into position. But we'll forgive him if he keeps playing out wide like he does. Scored a wonder goal winner, beating most of the Eynsham team before coolly sliding it in.
Fyn
Three goals again and back to his razor sharp best. Showed wonderful awareness in the tight spaces and took his first goal beautifully. He enjoyed playing wide in the second match and terrorized the Eynsham defence with his pace.
James E
Did a season's worth of running in one game. Hit some lovely little passes and flicks and took his goal well. Nice little celebration,too!
Toby
Made a telling contribution by bricking up the back with Rory. Took the captain's armband for the second game and relished the responsibility. Scored a nice goal and was unlucky not to get a second.
Matt
Loved the all-action mud and guts encounter. Broke up Eynsham attacks and looked composed on the ball. His new improved kicking technique saw him play some excellent passes.
Joe
Threw his body into every challenge and did not take a backward step. Battled hard out wide and held his position throughout. Another excellent display.
Player of the Week: for dealing with the Eynsham raiders... Rory
Tuesday 20 October 2009
Everything Rosy in Garden City
A rather typical Cumnor performance: a one-sided win and a gutsy fightback.
Match One
Luckily, the boys didn't follow Dave's example of how to pass and managed to keep the ball out of some poor unsuspecting resident's cornflakes. A little pre-match riot act was read instructing our midfield to think slicker and find Fyn. They responded well.
Rory, pushed up into midfield fed Ben who found Will out wide. Will skipped past a challenge, dinked it into Fyn to score the opening goal. More good midfield work saw Rory grab the second before Will spun and knocked in the third.
Cumnor were well in control with Joe (deputising for the injured Toby) rock solid at the back. Ben, enjoying his more advanced role, still had the energy to track back and make vital tackles. Adam threatened constantly down the right and scored a cracker inside the near post. Henry could be forgiven for losing concentration but made a stunning save backpedalling and tipping the ball over.
Fyn scored his second after more midfield pressing and then a poacher's third when the goalie dropped the ball at his feet. Normal service resumed for our star striker who made way for James E. Garden City hit a consolation goal (although Henry insists it hit a Cumnor defender - or a beachball - on the way in.) With seconds left, Will knocked in Adam's cross. 7-1.
Lovely stuff Cumnor... beautiful fluid passing, a real joy to watch.
In the second match, Cumnor started well with James E linking up with Binky. However, we did start to look a bit laboured and decided tackling wasn't something we fancied doing. We won a free-kick just outside the box and there was some deliberation whether James 'Gerrard' S or James 'Ronaldo' E would take it. 'Ronaldo' got in first and sent the shot wide. With Cumnor stretched, Garden City scored and we reached half-time 1-0 down.
Second-half, changes. James S went wide right and Super Ed came into midfield to boss the game. Just like last week, he thundered forward terrifying the opposition. Suddenly, we were back in the game (thanks also to the heroics of Joe and Laurie who threw themselves into every challenge.) The game was turning into a cracker but we could have gone further behind if Ollie hadn't made a couple of spectacular saves. Then, the ball broke to James S who twisted away and fed Ed who slipped a ball to Binky to score. 1-1.
With the crowd chomping at the bit, the GC coach about to explode, Dave wondering if his ball had been returned... the ref blew the whistle. A shame, a thoroughly entertaining contest brought to an early end.
Yet again, a slow start redeemed by a gutsy fightback. Maybe next time, we'll get those early tackles in and take the lead for a change? Quicker passing, stronger tackles... the challenge has been laid down.
Player of the Week: mentions for Joe, Henry S, Ed but the unanimous winner, Fyn.
Match One
Luckily, the boys didn't follow Dave's example of how to pass and managed to keep the ball out of some poor unsuspecting resident's cornflakes. A little pre-match riot act was read instructing our midfield to think slicker and find Fyn. They responded well.
Rory, pushed up into midfield fed Ben who found Will out wide. Will skipped past a challenge, dinked it into Fyn to score the opening goal. More good midfield work saw Rory grab the second before Will spun and knocked in the third.
Cumnor were well in control with Joe (deputising for the injured Toby) rock solid at the back. Ben, enjoying his more advanced role, still had the energy to track back and make vital tackles. Adam threatened constantly down the right and scored a cracker inside the near post. Henry could be forgiven for losing concentration but made a stunning save backpedalling and tipping the ball over.
Fyn scored his second after more midfield pressing and then a poacher's third when the goalie dropped the ball at his feet. Normal service resumed for our star striker who made way for James E. Garden City hit a consolation goal (although Henry insists it hit a Cumnor defender - or a beachball - on the way in.) With seconds left, Will knocked in Adam's cross. 7-1.
Lovely stuff Cumnor... beautiful fluid passing, a real joy to watch.
In the second match, Cumnor started well with James E linking up with Binky. However, we did start to look a bit laboured and decided tackling wasn't something we fancied doing. We won a free-kick just outside the box and there was some deliberation whether James 'Gerrard' S or James 'Ronaldo' E would take it. 'Ronaldo' got in first and sent the shot wide. With Cumnor stretched, Garden City scored and we reached half-time 1-0 down.
Second-half, changes. James S went wide right and Super Ed came into midfield to boss the game. Just like last week, he thundered forward terrifying the opposition. Suddenly, we were back in the game (thanks also to the heroics of Joe and Laurie who threw themselves into every challenge.) The game was turning into a cracker but we could have gone further behind if Ollie hadn't made a couple of spectacular saves. Then, the ball broke to James S who twisted away and fed Ed who slipped a ball to Binky to score. 1-1.
With the crowd chomping at the bit, the GC coach about to explode, Dave wondering if his ball had been returned... the ref blew the whistle. A shame, a thoroughly entertaining contest brought to an early end.
Yet again, a slow start redeemed by a gutsy fightback. Maybe next time, we'll get those early tackles in and take the lead for a change? Quicker passing, stronger tackles... the challenge has been laid down.
Player of the Week: mentions for Joe, Henry S, Ed but the unanimous winner, Fyn.
Monday 12 October 2009
The Winning Run Continues
After a week away, Cumnor got back into competitive action against Enstone. The game started slowly with both teams probing down the flanks. We've concentrated recently on tackling and it was pleasing to see Binky contest every ball in midfield. Cumnor slowly got on top and forced a couple of corners. Fyn hit a low drive which the Enstone goalie saved. Moments later, Will burst into the box and was brought down by the keeper. Penalty. After an agonizing wait to see who would actually take the thing, Ben stepped up and smashed it into the roof of the net. 1-0.
Enstone got back into the game and were unlucky to go two down after conceding an own goal from a corner. Moments later, Enstone scored after a wicked shot bounced past the unlucky Ollie. From the re-start, Ben spread the ball wide Will who knocked in a great cross for Adam to score. 3-1. Rory then made it four just before half-time.
In the second-half, Henry replaced Ollie in goal. An early Cumnor attack forced a corner which just went wide. From the goal kick, the Enstone keeper hit it straight to Will who took a touch, looked up and sent a Xabi Alonso-style special in from 25 yards out. 5-1.
With the game as good as won, everyone wanted to get on the score sheet and several good positions (and chances) were wasted. When we played the 'Cumnor Way' we played well... evident in the move which saw Ben feed Will who chipped in to Fyn to just head wide. Another own goal took the Cumnor score to 6 before Fyn nabbed our 7th. With shots flying in from all angles, Will squeezed one into the top corner from the edge of the box. Enstone nearly got a second but Henry was alert and made a solid save.
A decent performance but one that could have been better if we'd remembered to play like a team.
The second game was 8-a-side on the small pitch so it was difficult to get any fluidity into the game. James S was composed at the back and made some lovely runs forward. Matt and Toby tackled hard and Henry S and Ollie marshalled the midfield well. Joe was his typically brave self and James E showed some lovely delicate touches. With Enstone driving forward Ed was kept busy in goal and was unlucky to see a shot fly past him into the net.
In the second-half, Henry went in and Ed into midfield. Suddenly, Cumnor found a more direct style and started to win the midfield battle. Toby's tackling and Ed's barrelling runs set up a chance for James E to slot the ball home. 1-1.
More pressure brought more chances and a Cumnor corner was spectacularly headed home by an Enstone defender 2-1. With time almost up, Toby unleashed a ferocious drive from 20 yards out which rattled the crossbar.
Another good win for Cumnor. We showed drive and determination and did very well to come back from a goal down.
Player of the Week: special mention to Binky, Ben and Ed but for his tackling and his attitude to his teammates, Toby.
Enstone got back into the game and were unlucky to go two down after conceding an own goal from a corner. Moments later, Enstone scored after a wicked shot bounced past the unlucky Ollie. From the re-start, Ben spread the ball wide Will who knocked in a great cross for Adam to score. 3-1. Rory then made it four just before half-time.
In the second-half, Henry replaced Ollie in goal. An early Cumnor attack forced a corner which just went wide. From the goal kick, the Enstone keeper hit it straight to Will who took a touch, looked up and sent a Xabi Alonso-style special in from 25 yards out. 5-1.
With the game as good as won, everyone wanted to get on the score sheet and several good positions (and chances) were wasted. When we played the 'Cumnor Way' we played well... evident in the move which saw Ben feed Will who chipped in to Fyn to just head wide. Another own goal took the Cumnor score to 6 before Fyn nabbed our 7th. With shots flying in from all angles, Will squeezed one into the top corner from the edge of the box. Enstone nearly got a second but Henry was alert and made a solid save.
A decent performance but one that could have been better if we'd remembered to play like a team.
The second game was 8-a-side on the small pitch so it was difficult to get any fluidity into the game. James S was composed at the back and made some lovely runs forward. Matt and Toby tackled hard and Henry S and Ollie marshalled the midfield well. Joe was his typically brave self and James E showed some lovely delicate touches. With Enstone driving forward Ed was kept busy in goal and was unlucky to see a shot fly past him into the net.
In the second-half, Henry went in and Ed into midfield. Suddenly, Cumnor found a more direct style and started to win the midfield battle. Toby's tackling and Ed's barrelling runs set up a chance for James E to slot the ball home. 1-1.
More pressure brought more chances and a Cumnor corner was spectacularly headed home by an Enstone defender 2-1. With time almost up, Toby unleashed a ferocious drive from 20 yards out which rattled the crossbar.
Another good win for Cumnor. We showed drive and determination and did very well to come back from a goal down.
Player of the Week: special mention to Binky, Ben and Ed but for his tackling and his attitude to his teammates, Toby.
Monday 28 September 2009
The Boys Take Control
A friendly is a good time to experiment and our old friends at Ducklington always provide stiff opposition. Saturday was time to let the boys decide what to do and when to do it. With little vocal support from the sidelines (except the occasional yelp of excitement) both Cumnor teams proved they could think for themselves.
We took time to settle down and in the first half of the first match, Ducklington made most of the running. We were second in the tackle and a little ponderous in our decision making but the more the match wore on, the more we applied ourselves. With a solid base of Ollie, Toby and Rory busy at the back... Cumnor got the breakthrough. Will plucked the ball down, spun and hit a long-range speculative shot which eluded the keeper. Ducklington dug in and forced Ollie to make a good save. More Cumnor pressure saw Will take a quick throw in to Fyn who slid the ball home. 2-0.
Changes were made at half time with Ben playing the holding role and Adam pushing forward in a midfield diamond. Suddenly, we found our shape and our edge. The boys were challenged to out tackle one another and set about their task with relish. Will tormented the Ducklington defence, Adam always ready to break and Fyn back to his poaching best. Ben collected a loose ball, found Fyn who played Adam in to score. Minutes later, Fyn benefitted from more good Adam and Will interplay to race onto the ball and claim his second. 4-0.
Ducklington got two late consolation goals but overall, we were good value for the win.
In the second game, Cumnor played with a real sense of togetherness. Henry was unbeatable in goal and had the Ducklington coach purring in admiration. James S was a revelation at the back, coming forward with the confidence and style of a young Alan Hansen (ask your dad!). Matt was a willing worker, hassling and tackling his heart out. In midfield, Ollie, Binky and Henry S stroked the ball about and James E made a superb target man up front.
We opened the scoring through James S' wonderful solo effort, beating two players on the edge of the box before finding the top corner. There was lots of pressure from Cumnor and really positive decision making too. James E hit a low shot which the goalie parried to the feet of Henry S who nabbed our second.
In the second-half, Matt came into midfield and made a real nuisance of himself. It was a timely change because Matt managed to thwart the advancing Ducklington. In fact, they got a goal back and put us on our guard. It took something special to wrestle the initiative back and it came from James E who scored a beauty with the outside of his foot. James E got his second and our 4th before the opposition scored a second. Another well deserved win: 4-2.
Well done to everyone. The boys held their nerve and played for one another. Special mentions to our goalies Ollie and Henry M, Ben who played the unglamorous anchor role and James S for doing so well orchestrating everthing from the back. But the player of the week goes to Matt who has made an impressive start to his Cumnor career.
We took time to settle down and in the first half of the first match, Ducklington made most of the running. We were second in the tackle and a little ponderous in our decision making but the more the match wore on, the more we applied ourselves. With a solid base of Ollie, Toby and Rory busy at the back... Cumnor got the breakthrough. Will plucked the ball down, spun and hit a long-range speculative shot which eluded the keeper. Ducklington dug in and forced Ollie to make a good save. More Cumnor pressure saw Will take a quick throw in to Fyn who slid the ball home. 2-0.
Changes were made at half time with Ben playing the holding role and Adam pushing forward in a midfield diamond. Suddenly, we found our shape and our edge. The boys were challenged to out tackle one another and set about their task with relish. Will tormented the Ducklington defence, Adam always ready to break and Fyn back to his poaching best. Ben collected a loose ball, found Fyn who played Adam in to score. Minutes later, Fyn benefitted from more good Adam and Will interplay to race onto the ball and claim his second. 4-0.
Ducklington got two late consolation goals but overall, we were good value for the win.
In the second game, Cumnor played with a real sense of togetherness. Henry was unbeatable in goal and had the Ducklington coach purring in admiration. James S was a revelation at the back, coming forward with the confidence and style of a young Alan Hansen (ask your dad!). Matt was a willing worker, hassling and tackling his heart out. In midfield, Ollie, Binky and Henry S stroked the ball about and James E made a superb target man up front.
We opened the scoring through James S' wonderful solo effort, beating two players on the edge of the box before finding the top corner. There was lots of pressure from Cumnor and really positive decision making too. James E hit a low shot which the goalie parried to the feet of Henry S who nabbed our second.
In the second-half, Matt came into midfield and made a real nuisance of himself. It was a timely change because Matt managed to thwart the advancing Ducklington. In fact, they got a goal back and put us on our guard. It took something special to wrestle the initiative back and it came from James E who scored a beauty with the outside of his foot. James E got his second and our 4th before the opposition scored a second. Another well deserved win: 4-2.
Well done to everyone. The boys held their nerve and played for one another. Special mentions to our goalies Ollie and Henry M, Ben who played the unglamorous anchor role and James S for doing so well orchestrating everthing from the back. But the player of the week goes to Matt who has made an impressive start to his Cumnor career.
Saturday 19 September 2009
Combe Cracker
Match One
Cumnor finally faced the test we needed to see how good we are in this year's league. And the truth is, we are well placed to do well if we remember to bring what we do at training to match day.
With Will away, the starting line up was re-jigged with Adam going left, Toby pushing wide right and Joe coming into defence. The players knew from last season's encounters that Combe love to attack and they did from the start. The sparky 9 went very close after a surging run. But it wasn't all Combe and Rory set up a lovely move which Adam almost finished.
It was end-to-end stuff and Ollie - making his first start of the season in goal - parried the ball out for a corner. In went the ball, up it bobbled and into a Cumnor hand. Penalty. Ollie made himself big and dived the right way but luckily the ball flew past the post. The miss was the wake-up call we needed and the boys added purpose to their play. Joe was like a terrier snapping away and Toby good at getting forward. Ben sat a little deeper protecting the back two. Then came the goal. Fyn sensed the Combe goal kicks weren't making any real distance and pounced on a loose one. His first touch was impeccable, he looked up and fed Adam on the left who smashed it into the net. 1-0.
With half-time approaching we tried to protect the lead but needed Ollie to make a spectacular back peddling tip over to keep our noses in front. Changes were made at the break with Ben dropping back, Adam going central, Fyn left, Binky right and James E up front. Suddenly, we came alive and the fluidity was back in our game. Fyn, James and Adam combined well. Fyn chipped in a lovely cross which James reached well but just pushed over (too much hair gel, perhaps?)
Combe refused to give in and Rory - who wasn't feeling well - and Ben were kept busy. Ollie caught everything that came his way and made a brilliant full length one-handed save. The game went right down to the wire with both teams giving everything they had in the morning heat. Ben, hurt on the ground with tears in his eyes, leapt to his feet and made a blockbusting tackle. Binky, out wide, was an ever-willing runner and Rory - playing at 70% - was unbeatable.
An excellent battling, gutsy 1-0 win against a team who came to Cumnor to win. Forget the goal gluts, today showed how good we are.
Match Two
Combe played pretty much the same seven in match two and were already in the zone against our fresher players. Binky started in goal, Matt & James S in defence, Toby/Ollie/Ed midfield and Henry S up front.
It was an all-action up and at 'em encounter with the ball pinging up and down the pitch. James S was excellent at the back (ably supported by Matt) tackling well and finding Toby and Ed on the flanks. Ollie, enjoying the run of midfield, broke free and almost scored. Ed, too went close, just pushing the ball wide. However, Combe were determined to get something from the day and whilst we missed our chances, they took theirs well. Henry S threatened in the box but at half-time, Combe were 3-0 up.
James E and Joe joined the action in the second half and James S and Matt pushed up into midfield. Cumnor played tighter and kept hold of the ball but the chances were drying up at both ends. The boys never stopped trying and were unlucky not to get any reward for their efforts.
Player of the Week: Ollie did brilliantly in goal, Fyn excelled wide left, Ben brave and disciplined and Joe did all that was asked of him but player of the week was Adam for his wonderful midfield work.
Cumnor finally faced the test we needed to see how good we are in this year's league. And the truth is, we are well placed to do well if we remember to bring what we do at training to match day.
With Will away, the starting line up was re-jigged with Adam going left, Toby pushing wide right and Joe coming into defence. The players knew from last season's encounters that Combe love to attack and they did from the start. The sparky 9 went very close after a surging run. But it wasn't all Combe and Rory set up a lovely move which Adam almost finished.
It was end-to-end stuff and Ollie - making his first start of the season in goal - parried the ball out for a corner. In went the ball, up it bobbled and into a Cumnor hand. Penalty. Ollie made himself big and dived the right way but luckily the ball flew past the post. The miss was the wake-up call we needed and the boys added purpose to their play. Joe was like a terrier snapping away and Toby good at getting forward. Ben sat a little deeper protecting the back two. Then came the goal. Fyn sensed the Combe goal kicks weren't making any real distance and pounced on a loose one. His first touch was impeccable, he looked up and fed Adam on the left who smashed it into the net. 1-0.
With half-time approaching we tried to protect the lead but needed Ollie to make a spectacular back peddling tip over to keep our noses in front. Changes were made at the break with Ben dropping back, Adam going central, Fyn left, Binky right and James E up front. Suddenly, we came alive and the fluidity was back in our game. Fyn, James and Adam combined well. Fyn chipped in a lovely cross which James reached well but just pushed over (too much hair gel, perhaps?)
Combe refused to give in and Rory - who wasn't feeling well - and Ben were kept busy. Ollie caught everything that came his way and made a brilliant full length one-handed save. The game went right down to the wire with both teams giving everything they had in the morning heat. Ben, hurt on the ground with tears in his eyes, leapt to his feet and made a blockbusting tackle. Binky, out wide, was an ever-willing runner and Rory - playing at 70% - was unbeatable.
An excellent battling, gutsy 1-0 win against a team who came to Cumnor to win. Forget the goal gluts, today showed how good we are.
Match Two
Combe played pretty much the same seven in match two and were already in the zone against our fresher players. Binky started in goal, Matt & James S in defence, Toby/Ollie/Ed midfield and Henry S up front.
It was an all-action up and at 'em encounter with the ball pinging up and down the pitch. James S was excellent at the back (ably supported by Matt) tackling well and finding Toby and Ed on the flanks. Ollie, enjoying the run of midfield, broke free and almost scored. Ed, too went close, just pushing the ball wide. However, Combe were determined to get something from the day and whilst we missed our chances, they took theirs well. Henry S threatened in the box but at half-time, Combe were 3-0 up.
James E and Joe joined the action in the second half and James S and Matt pushed up into midfield. Cumnor played tighter and kept hold of the ball but the chances were drying up at both ends. The boys never stopped trying and were unlucky not to get any reward for their efforts.
Player of the Week: Ollie did brilliantly in goal, Fyn excelled wide left, Ben brave and disciplined and Joe did all that was asked of him but player of the week was Adam for his wonderful midfield work.
Saturday 12 September 2009
Goal Glut Goes On
Small pitch, hot day, friendly hosts and lots of goals.
Match One
Cumnor started at a cracking pace with Adam powering into the box and forcing a penalty. Our first penalty in three seasons and up stepped Ben to fire home. An early goal always helps and the boys relaxed and started passing the ball with confidence. Rory went close twice and Adam almost finished off a slick move after great work by Will and Fyn. But we didn't have it all our own way; luckily Ed was on hand to make a super save. Most of the action was directed at the Chadlington goal and we got a deserved second after Will's quick throw-in set Fyn up to squeeze the ball inside the near post.
2-0 up and the match turned into the Adam show. Loving the freedom to run (and shoot) Adam terrified the opposition. His first goal was a exocet from wide out right, his second quick-thinking following Ben's attempt and his hat-trick bagged by another perfectly struck shot. But it wasn't just Adam breaking the goalie's heart; Ben got his second and Rory chipped in to take Cumnor to a 7-0 half-time lead.
Changes at half-time saw Toby and Adam subbed (to give the hosts a chance)with Binky and Joe stepping in. Fyn dropped back into defence and Rory went up front. It wasn't long before the scoring resumed. Will - hugging the touchline - sprinted down the flank and clipped in a great cross to Binky who scored with his first touch. With the scorekeeper getting writers' cramp, all the Cumnor boys fancied their chances. Joe charged up from the back struck the post. Rory got his second and our 9th before Binky played a sublime pass into Will who chipped it over the goalie's hand. Chadlington stuck with it admirably and got their deserved goal. But there was no great escape on the cards as Will got his second moments later. 11-1. Changes were made with Henry S slotting into left wing. Over on the touchline Tony Hobbs started sweating fearing he'd be owing his son £10 for scoring a hat-trick. Seconds later, his hand was in his pocket as the towering Rory claimed his third. Chadlington grabbed a late second but the whistle blew with Cumnor emerging triumphant 12-2 winners.
Match Two
Henry S started in goal with newboy Matt and James S in defence. Our midfield three consisted of Laurie, Toby and Adam with James E up front. Chadlington - horrified to see Adam back on the pitch - tried to triple mark him but it didn't work. After almost putting Laurie in Adam scored his fourth of the day. 1-0.
Chadlington were a lot more organized and James S (proudly wearing the captain's armband) and Toby had to pull off some ferocious tackles. As well as being tenacious in the tackle, Toby also has a mean finish and put Cumnor 2-0 up. This match was more competitive with both Henry S and the Chadlington keeper pulling off terrific saves. Chadlington pressure saw them breach the Cumnor line and get right back into the match. Adam sensed the game might be getting away from Cumnor and wrestled the initiative back, setting Toby's second up with a perfectly weighted crossfield pass. Toby was our third hat-trick hero of the day after chesting in our 4th. Matt almost scored two on his debut and would have but for some brave keeping.
More changes and tinkering for the second-half with Matt going in, James E and James S swapping, Henry S going outfield for Adam and Binky coming into the centre. The boys treated us to some lovely play with Joe and Laurie threading delightful passes through a crowded midfield. Joe grabbed a goal, followed quickly by James S. Henry S went on a twisting, turning run (using both feet!)and scored a fine solo effort. James E was unlucky not to get on the score sheet but showed some classy touches at the back. Then, arguably, came the goal of the day. The ball bounced towards Binky who looked up, saw the keeper off the line, and produced an inch perfect lob from 25 yards out. 8-2.
Still, we weren't finished. Joe scored again, James S got another... and another (more hat-trick heroics), and Henry claimed a second after a penalty box scramble. Final whistle: 12-2.
All in all, another very assured squad display. It wasn't easy playing on such a tight pitch, especially as we are such an accomplished passing team. But the boys loved scoring lots of goals so well done. Tougher challenges lie ahead but we're sure we have the attitude, skills and camaraderie to overcome all opposition. And, as the boys proved, in the kickabout with the Chadlington U10/11s... we're up for anything!
Player of the Week: tough one with all those hat-tricks but it came down to Adam and Binky with Binky sneaking it thanks to his cheeky lob.
Match One
Cumnor started at a cracking pace with Adam powering into the box and forcing a penalty. Our first penalty in three seasons and up stepped Ben to fire home. An early goal always helps and the boys relaxed and started passing the ball with confidence. Rory went close twice and Adam almost finished off a slick move after great work by Will and Fyn. But we didn't have it all our own way; luckily Ed was on hand to make a super save. Most of the action was directed at the Chadlington goal and we got a deserved second after Will's quick throw-in set Fyn up to squeeze the ball inside the near post.
2-0 up and the match turned into the Adam show. Loving the freedom to run (and shoot) Adam terrified the opposition. His first goal was a exocet from wide out right, his second quick-thinking following Ben's attempt and his hat-trick bagged by another perfectly struck shot. But it wasn't just Adam breaking the goalie's heart; Ben got his second and Rory chipped in to take Cumnor to a 7-0 half-time lead.
Changes at half-time saw Toby and Adam subbed (to give the hosts a chance)with Binky and Joe stepping in. Fyn dropped back into defence and Rory went up front. It wasn't long before the scoring resumed. Will - hugging the touchline - sprinted down the flank and clipped in a great cross to Binky who scored with his first touch. With the scorekeeper getting writers' cramp, all the Cumnor boys fancied their chances. Joe charged up from the back struck the post. Rory got his second and our 9th before Binky played a sublime pass into Will who chipped it over the goalie's hand. Chadlington stuck with it admirably and got their deserved goal. But there was no great escape on the cards as Will got his second moments later. 11-1. Changes were made with Henry S slotting into left wing. Over on the touchline Tony Hobbs started sweating fearing he'd be owing his son £10 for scoring a hat-trick. Seconds later, his hand was in his pocket as the towering Rory claimed his third. Chadlington grabbed a late second but the whistle blew with Cumnor emerging triumphant 12-2 winners.
Match Two
Henry S started in goal with newboy Matt and James S in defence. Our midfield three consisted of Laurie, Toby and Adam with James E up front. Chadlington - horrified to see Adam back on the pitch - tried to triple mark him but it didn't work. After almost putting Laurie in Adam scored his fourth of the day. 1-0.
Chadlington were a lot more organized and James S (proudly wearing the captain's armband) and Toby had to pull off some ferocious tackles. As well as being tenacious in the tackle, Toby also has a mean finish and put Cumnor 2-0 up. This match was more competitive with both Henry S and the Chadlington keeper pulling off terrific saves. Chadlington pressure saw them breach the Cumnor line and get right back into the match. Adam sensed the game might be getting away from Cumnor and wrestled the initiative back, setting Toby's second up with a perfectly weighted crossfield pass. Toby was our third hat-trick hero of the day after chesting in our 4th. Matt almost scored two on his debut and would have but for some brave keeping.
More changes and tinkering for the second-half with Matt going in, James E and James S swapping, Henry S going outfield for Adam and Binky coming into the centre. The boys treated us to some lovely play with Joe and Laurie threading delightful passes through a crowded midfield. Joe grabbed a goal, followed quickly by James S. Henry S went on a twisting, turning run (using both feet!)and scored a fine solo effort. James E was unlucky not to get on the score sheet but showed some classy touches at the back. Then, arguably, came the goal of the day. The ball bounced towards Binky who looked up, saw the keeper off the line, and produced an inch perfect lob from 25 yards out. 8-2.
Still, we weren't finished. Joe scored again, James S got another... and another (more hat-trick heroics), and Henry claimed a second after a penalty box scramble. Final whistle: 12-2.
All in all, another very assured squad display. It wasn't easy playing on such a tight pitch, especially as we are such an accomplished passing team. But the boys loved scoring lots of goals so well done. Tougher challenges lie ahead but we're sure we have the attitude, skills and camaraderie to overcome all opposition. And, as the boys proved, in the kickabout with the Chadlington U10/11s... we're up for anything!
Player of the Week: tough one with all those hat-tricks but it came down to Adam and Binky with Binky sneaking it thanks to his cheeky lob.
Tuesday 8 September 2009
Great Start to the New Season
With the grass cut and the lines re-marked, Cumnor produced a superb passing display and emerged unbeaten on match day one.
Match One
We couldn't have wished for a better start to our first season playing in the competitive League. Cumnor played with discipline, skill and pace... scoring 9 goals and conceeding none. All the boys contributed but special mention must go to Henry, Rory and Toby who remained focussed despite having little to do. Captain Ben marshalled the team beautifully from the middle with Adam relishing the open spaces of the bigger pitch. Will was full of his usual tricks and turns and Fyn a constant threat around the box. James S and James E slotted in well when they came on and demonstrated we have plenty of talent in our squad.
As for the goals, Will opened our account for the season, followed by Fyn, Will, Ben, Rory, Will (hat trick), two for James E and one for Adam right on the final whistle. Yes, the goals flowed but the team oozed class throughout stroking the ball around the pitch, looking for space and playing as a team.
Match Two
Where match one was one-way traffic, match two had us all on the edge of our seats. Considering the boys swapped pitches half way through, they did well to produce such an entertaining game. Cumnor went behind to a well-taken Yarnton goal despite Laurie making a brave save (without gloves too!). Cumnor pushed forward and there followed a bizarre piece of action where the ball pinged around the box before James S hit the post. The near miss gave Cumnor heart and good work from Henry S saw James E score the equalizer. 1-1.
Yarnton were determined to get something from the day and despite Joe's heroic tackling, soon went 2-1 ahead. But Cumnor weren't going to take this lying down, Binky burst through and sent James E in to score his second of the match and - with 4 goals - go into an early lead in the race for this year's golden boot. There was more drama just before half-time when captain Henry suffered a knee problem and had to go off for Ben.
In the second-half (on the smaller pitch) Joe went in goal and produced a brilliant display of shot-stopping. However, Yarnton pressure saw them go two clear. With defeat in sight, a little shuffling of the personnel saw Rory and Fyn make an appearance and their impact was instant. Ben hammered home Cumnor's third and then the imperious Rory scored the 4th. 4-4... a fair result.
We're delighted with the start to the season. Here's to more slick passing, stout defending and smart finishing.
Player of the Week: for taking his chances, James E
Match One
We couldn't have wished for a better start to our first season playing in the competitive League. Cumnor played with discipline, skill and pace... scoring 9 goals and conceeding none. All the boys contributed but special mention must go to Henry, Rory and Toby who remained focussed despite having little to do. Captain Ben marshalled the team beautifully from the middle with Adam relishing the open spaces of the bigger pitch. Will was full of his usual tricks and turns and Fyn a constant threat around the box. James S and James E slotted in well when they came on and demonstrated we have plenty of talent in our squad.
As for the goals, Will opened our account for the season, followed by Fyn, Will, Ben, Rory, Will (hat trick), two for James E and one for Adam right on the final whistle. Yes, the goals flowed but the team oozed class throughout stroking the ball around the pitch, looking for space and playing as a team.
Match Two
Where match one was one-way traffic, match two had us all on the edge of our seats. Considering the boys swapped pitches half way through, they did well to produce such an entertaining game. Cumnor went behind to a well-taken Yarnton goal despite Laurie making a brave save (without gloves too!). Cumnor pushed forward and there followed a bizarre piece of action where the ball pinged around the box before James S hit the post. The near miss gave Cumnor heart and good work from Henry S saw James E score the equalizer. 1-1.
Yarnton were determined to get something from the day and despite Joe's heroic tackling, soon went 2-1 ahead. But Cumnor weren't going to take this lying down, Binky burst through and sent James E in to score his second of the match and - with 4 goals - go into an early lead in the race for this year's golden boot. There was more drama just before half-time when captain Henry suffered a knee problem and had to go off for Ben.
In the second-half (on the smaller pitch) Joe went in goal and produced a brilliant display of shot-stopping. However, Yarnton pressure saw them go two clear. With defeat in sight, a little shuffling of the personnel saw Rory and Fyn make an appearance and their impact was instant. Ben hammered home Cumnor's third and then the imperious Rory scored the 4th. 4-4... a fair result.
We're delighted with the start to the season. Here's to more slick passing, stout defending and smart finishing.
Player of the Week: for taking his chances, James E
Wednesday 19 August 2009
The New Season
The fixture list is out. Please visit www.wdyfl.org/2009-10/downloads to find out more. We're in the Under-9s Green League
Tuesday 23 June 2009
Cumnor Stars Shine At Summertown
Nine matches, nine wins, 22 goals for, 1 against... in our last outing as U8s, there was no doubt which club stole the show at the Summertown tournament. Congratulations to all the boys who played their part in a memorable morning's entertainment. Considering we haven't played together for a while, the coaches felt we dazzled our opponents with skill, pace, precision passing, solid tackling and brilliant finishing. Will and Adam got 6 goals including a pile driver free-kick from Adam and a dribbling masterpiece from Will. Fyn got 5 and his leaping header was arguably the goal of the day. Rory and Ben grabbed a couple and James chipped in with a poacher's special. But you can't score goals without your teammates and we saw some outstanding midfield work by Joe, James S, Henry S and some heroic defending by Toby. Our goalies too, played their part with Henry M and Ed making superb saves. Ed was also used as a blitz attacker which seemed to frighten the life out of the opposition.
Well done everyone, we're very proud of you and you were right when you said the Cumnor v Cumnor game was the toughest game of the day. Have a great summer and we'll see you next season as we begin our quest for silverware.
Tuesday 5 May 2009
Presentation Night
On a cold and blustery Bank Holiday Monday, the U8s gathered to celebrate an excellent season. Players, coaches and parents have given their all so thank you to all involved. After a nail-biting count, the awards were given as follows:
Players' Player: Will
Parents' Player: Rory
Coaches' Player: Henry M
Most Improved: Toby
Golden Boot: Fyn
Well done everyone and congratulations to Ben C who was named as next season's captain.
Monday 4 May 2009
2008-09 Results
6/9/08 Eynsham (h) 5-3 3-0 win win
13/9/08 Tower Hill (a) 2-3 7-0 win loss
20/9/08 Tower Hill Stars (h) 6-1 - win -
27/09/08 Bamptom (a) 3-2 0-3 loss win
4/10/08 Carterton (h) 3-1 2-1 win win
11/10/08 Charlbury (a) 0-5 2-2 win draw
18/10/08 Combe (h) 5-1 3-0 win win
01/11/08 Witney Vikings (a) 2-2 0-5 draw win
08/11/08 Ducklington (a) 1-1 1-1 draw draw
15/11/08 Eynsham (a) 1-1 1-1 draw draw
22/11/08 Tower Hill (h) 3-2 0-2 win loss
29/11/08 Tower Hill Stars (a) 0-4 0-4 win win
17/01/09 Carterton (h) 0-4 2-2 loss draw
31/01/09 Carterton (a) 1-4 0-6 win win
21/02/09 Charlbury (h) 2-1 4-1 win win
28/02/09 Combe (a) 0-0 0-1 draw win
7/03/09 Witney Vikings (h) 0-0 8-0 draw win
14/03/09 Ducklington (h) 1-2 0-1 loss loss
04/04/09 Bampton (h) 4-4 4-2 draw loss
18/04/09 Ducklington (h) 4-1 4-4 win draw
30/04/09 Kingston (h) 3-1 0-3 win loss
13/9/08 Tower Hill (a) 2-3 7-0 win loss
20/9/08 Tower Hill Stars (h) 6-1 - win -
27/09/08 Bamptom (a) 3-2 0-3 loss win
4/10/08 Carterton (h) 3-1 2-1 win win
11/10/08 Charlbury (a) 0-5 2-2 win draw
18/10/08 Combe (h) 5-1 3-0 win win
01/11/08 Witney Vikings (a) 2-2 0-5 draw win
08/11/08 Ducklington (a) 1-1 1-1 draw draw
15/11/08 Eynsham (a) 1-1 1-1 draw draw
22/11/08 Tower Hill (h) 3-2 0-2 win loss
29/11/08 Tower Hill Stars (a) 0-4 0-4 win win
17/01/09 Carterton (h) 0-4 2-2 loss draw
31/01/09 Carterton (a) 1-4 0-6 win win
21/02/09 Charlbury (h) 2-1 4-1 win win
28/02/09 Combe (a) 0-0 0-1 draw win
7/03/09 Witney Vikings (h) 0-0 8-0 draw win
14/03/09 Ducklington (h) 1-2 0-1 loss loss
04/04/09 Bampton (h) 4-4 4-2 draw loss
18/04/09 Ducklington (h) 4-1 4-4 win draw
30/04/09 Kingston (h) 3-1 0-3 win loss
Monday 20 April 2009
Golden Boot 2008/09
Fantasic effort everyone and congratulations Fyn, who beat his own 2007/08 goal tally.
Fyn 21
Will 16
Adam M/James S 11
Ollie 9
Ben Mc 8
Ben C 7
Binky/James E 6
Rory 4
Henry S/Edward 3
Toby/Joe/
Laurie/Henry M 2
Liam 1
Fyn 21
Will 16
Adam M/James S 11
Ollie 9
Ben Mc 8
Ben C 7
Binky/James E 6
Rory 4
Henry S/Edward 3
Toby/Joe/
Laurie/Henry M 2
Liam 1
Cumnor's Big Finish
We've had some terrific encounters with Ducklington and the last game of the season was perhaps the best. We played with passion and intelligence and all the hard work we've put in in training paid off.
Match One
Playing with two at the back allowed Will, Ben C and Binky freedom to push on and support Fyn safe in the knowledge that Rory and Toby offered excellent protection for Ollie in goal. The game started in cracking fashion with Cumnor determined to play quickly and keep the ball moving. Binky held the right superbly and linked beautifully with Ben C. Will was a constant threat with his surging runs down the left and Ben orchestrated everything through the middle. But Toby and Rory's dilligence kept us solid. It wasn't long before Cumnor took the lead after Fyn smartly converted Will's cross. Ben went very close with a long range left footer and Will shot over after beating a couple of players. He also almost scored with a header (we're getting good at headers!). Fyn nearly got a second with an outrageously cheeky back heeled volley. Cumnor looked good value for a half-time lead and needed Ollie to make a dramatic save to guarantee the advantage.
In the second-half, Binky dropped back and Toby came into midfield. His impact was immediate aiming a fierce shot at the goal. As the rebound looped out, Ben steadied himself and hit a cracking first time effort into the net. 2-0. But it wasn't all going our way and we failed to deal with a bouncing ball (yet again) which inevitably meant goal for Ducklington. 2-1.
In recent games, we've panicked after conceeding but our new steely attitude saw us tighten our play. Another bouncing ball was this time claimed by Ollie who unleashed a Reina-esque kick to Fyn. With the Ducklington goalie charging forward, Fyn put out a foot and flicked it with the deftest of glances into the goal. 3-1.
As the game neared its conclusion, Cumnor were in control. More smart attacking work saw the ball fall to Rory. He looked up and hit a dipping shot from 2o yards out. What a stunning goal to cap an all round stunning team performance. 4-1.
Match Two
Another end-to-end encounter with Cumnor and Ducklington enjoying a real dogfight. Cumnor lined up with Rory/Fyn in goal, Laurie and Henry M in defence, Henry S, Ollie and James S in midfield and James E up front.
In a very physical game where there was lots of pulling and pushing (and a few x-rated challenges) Cumnor showed what strength and determination the boys have. A scramble in the home goalmouth saw Laurie unfortunately concede a penalty. Rory was unlucky not to keep it out. 0-1.
Against the run of play, Ducklington squeezed another past Rory (0-2) but Cumnor weren't solely defending. Both James' were combining well and Ollie and Henry S showed some lovely touches in midfield. Laurie was working hard in defence and demonstrated what a terrific headerer of the ball he is. And with him, barnstorming Muller was proving Cumnor would not do down without a fight. Guts, bulldog spirit... Cumnor got a corner and Henry's shot eventually found the back of the net. 1-2: game on. Ollie played a delightful little pass into James S who stopped, shimmied and found the bottom corner. 2-2.
The second-half proved a fitting finale to an excellent season with the lead going back and forth. James E tried a sneaky little back heel but had better luck moments later when his goal nabbed Cumnor the lead. 3-2. But Ducklington weren't to be denied and equalized. With time running out, James S grabbed a beauty with the outside of his boot. We were there... we were going to beat Ducklington again but no, a scrambled shot hit the post, then Fyn's head and went in. 4-4.
Both matches had everything and the Cumnor boys can head into the Summer tournaments knowing they've had a terrific season. Hold your heads up high lads, you've done yourselves proud!
Player of the Week: Toby for adding bite to our defence and midfield.
Match One
Playing with two at the back allowed Will, Ben C and Binky freedom to push on and support Fyn safe in the knowledge that Rory and Toby offered excellent protection for Ollie in goal. The game started in cracking fashion with Cumnor determined to play quickly and keep the ball moving. Binky held the right superbly and linked beautifully with Ben C. Will was a constant threat with his surging runs down the left and Ben orchestrated everything through the middle. But Toby and Rory's dilligence kept us solid. It wasn't long before Cumnor took the lead after Fyn smartly converted Will's cross. Ben went very close with a long range left footer and Will shot over after beating a couple of players. He also almost scored with a header (we're getting good at headers!). Fyn nearly got a second with an outrageously cheeky back heeled volley. Cumnor looked good value for a half-time lead and needed Ollie to make a dramatic save to guarantee the advantage.
In the second-half, Binky dropped back and Toby came into midfield. His impact was immediate aiming a fierce shot at the goal. As the rebound looped out, Ben steadied himself and hit a cracking first time effort into the net. 2-0. But it wasn't all going our way and we failed to deal with a bouncing ball (yet again) which inevitably meant goal for Ducklington. 2-1.
In recent games, we've panicked after conceeding but our new steely attitude saw us tighten our play. Another bouncing ball was this time claimed by Ollie who unleashed a Reina-esque kick to Fyn. With the Ducklington goalie charging forward, Fyn put out a foot and flicked it with the deftest of glances into the goal. 3-1.
As the game neared its conclusion, Cumnor were in control. More smart attacking work saw the ball fall to Rory. He looked up and hit a dipping shot from 2o yards out. What a stunning goal to cap an all round stunning team performance. 4-1.
Match Two
Another end-to-end encounter with Cumnor and Ducklington enjoying a real dogfight. Cumnor lined up with Rory/Fyn in goal, Laurie and Henry M in defence, Henry S, Ollie and James S in midfield and James E up front.
In a very physical game where there was lots of pulling and pushing (and a few x-rated challenges) Cumnor showed what strength and determination the boys have. A scramble in the home goalmouth saw Laurie unfortunately concede a penalty. Rory was unlucky not to keep it out. 0-1.
Against the run of play, Ducklington squeezed another past Rory (0-2) but Cumnor weren't solely defending. Both James' were combining well and Ollie and Henry S showed some lovely touches in midfield. Laurie was working hard in defence and demonstrated what a terrific headerer of the ball he is. And with him, barnstorming Muller was proving Cumnor would not do down without a fight. Guts, bulldog spirit... Cumnor got a corner and Henry's shot eventually found the back of the net. 1-2: game on. Ollie played a delightful little pass into James S who stopped, shimmied and found the bottom corner. 2-2.
The second-half proved a fitting finale to an excellent season with the lead going back and forth. James E tried a sneaky little back heel but had better luck moments later when his goal nabbed Cumnor the lead. 3-2. But Ducklington weren't to be denied and equalized. With time running out, James S grabbed a beauty with the outside of his boot. We were there... we were going to beat Ducklington again but no, a scrambled shot hit the post, then Fyn's head and went in. 4-4.
Both matches had everything and the Cumnor boys can head into the Summer tournaments knowing they've had a terrific season. Hold your heads up high lads, you've done yourselves proud!
Player of the Week: Toby for adding bite to our defence and midfield.
Monday 6 April 2009
Bampton Goal Blitz
Two games and 14 goals... the Bampton clash was certainly one of the most thrilling ties of the season.
Match One
Cumnor got off to a sluggish start but took control of the game once we got our passing together. With Toby coming into the wide right position, Fyn up front and Ben C and Adam M alternating between the holding/attacking midfield role... Cumnor showed great balance. But it was Bampton who opened the scoring by finding Cumnor's one weakness: our inability to deal with the high through ball.
It took a goal to force us into life and halfway into the 1st half, Fyn did something no Cumnor player has done all season: he scored with his head. Will played a lovely corner into the danger area and our star striker was there to bang it home. With Rory powering up from the back and Ben cleverly sweeping, Cumnor pushed higher and higher up field. Will took the ball on the edge of the area, went wide and then swung a left foot to send the ball crashing into the corner of the net. 2-1.
Cumnor kept pressing and more good work from Adam set up Will who played a delightful pass into Fyn. Timing his run to perfection, Fyn took Cumnor to a comfortable 3-1 lead. With Cumnor in control, a Bampton long shot fell awkwardly out of the sun and just beat Ed's jump. 3-2.
In the second-half, Bampton tested us with the long ball from the kick-off. Hesitance in midfield saw the ball fall for the Bampton 8 who squeezed it past Ed. 3-3. Cumnor were making hard work of winning the game but kept putting together some lovely moves. Our persistence paid off and Ben's corner was met by a towering Rory header: 4-3.
With long shots, flicks and overhead kicks Cumnor almost had it in the bag before one more speculative Bampton thump forward found their dangerous 8 who completed a well-deserved hat-trick 4-4.
Both teams looked disappointed at the end but everyone at The Closes cheered the boys (and girl) off because we knew every single player had given his - and her - all.
Match Two was just as entertaining. Ben Mc started in goal with Binky at the back. Laurie, Adam M, Henry S and Ed played midfield and James E captained from the front. Unlike the first match, Cumnor dealt with the bouncing ball with more determination (despite Adam using his hand... twice!) Ed relished the freedom of playing out and made some strong, surging runs. Laurie was difficult to handle out wide and his determination saw him break through to score the first goal. 1-0. Cumnor almost got a second moments later after James made a lovely, twinkle-toed run complete with a Ronaldo/Muller-esque stepover.
In the second-half, Adam replaced Ben in goal. With Ben and Ed powering through the middle, a second was on the cards. Ed ran the length of the pitch and was about to fire home before Ben snapped it off his toe and found the net. Ed's shocked look was a sight to behold! 2-0.
Bampton got a goal back before James E showed what a natural goalscorer he is by taking a difficult chance. 3-1. Ed and Ben kept charging forward (thanks to the solid platform provided by Binky's magnificent defensive work) and Ed deserved to get his goal. 4-1. A late effort from Bampton ended the match 4-2 and again, both sets of of players left the field to rapturous applause.
Great stuff... now, if only we can learn to deal with that bouncing ball!
Player of the Week: plaudits for Ed and Binky but it had to go to our header heroes: Fyn and Rory
Match One
Cumnor got off to a sluggish start but took control of the game once we got our passing together. With Toby coming into the wide right position, Fyn up front and Ben C and Adam M alternating between the holding/attacking midfield role... Cumnor showed great balance. But it was Bampton who opened the scoring by finding Cumnor's one weakness: our inability to deal with the high through ball.
It took a goal to force us into life and halfway into the 1st half, Fyn did something no Cumnor player has done all season: he scored with his head. Will played a lovely corner into the danger area and our star striker was there to bang it home. With Rory powering up from the back and Ben cleverly sweeping, Cumnor pushed higher and higher up field. Will took the ball on the edge of the area, went wide and then swung a left foot to send the ball crashing into the corner of the net. 2-1.
Cumnor kept pressing and more good work from Adam set up Will who played a delightful pass into Fyn. Timing his run to perfection, Fyn took Cumnor to a comfortable 3-1 lead. With Cumnor in control, a Bampton long shot fell awkwardly out of the sun and just beat Ed's jump. 3-2.
In the second-half, Bampton tested us with the long ball from the kick-off. Hesitance in midfield saw the ball fall for the Bampton 8 who squeezed it past Ed. 3-3. Cumnor were making hard work of winning the game but kept putting together some lovely moves. Our persistence paid off and Ben's corner was met by a towering Rory header: 4-3.
With long shots, flicks and overhead kicks Cumnor almost had it in the bag before one more speculative Bampton thump forward found their dangerous 8 who completed a well-deserved hat-trick 4-4.
Both teams looked disappointed at the end but everyone at The Closes cheered the boys (and girl) off because we knew every single player had given his - and her - all.
Match Two was just as entertaining. Ben Mc started in goal with Binky at the back. Laurie, Adam M, Henry S and Ed played midfield and James E captained from the front. Unlike the first match, Cumnor dealt with the bouncing ball with more determination (despite Adam using his hand... twice!) Ed relished the freedom of playing out and made some strong, surging runs. Laurie was difficult to handle out wide and his determination saw him break through to score the first goal. 1-0. Cumnor almost got a second moments later after James made a lovely, twinkle-toed run complete with a Ronaldo/Muller-esque stepover.
In the second-half, Adam replaced Ben in goal. With Ben and Ed powering through the middle, a second was on the cards. Ed ran the length of the pitch and was about to fire home before Ben snapped it off his toe and found the net. Ed's shocked look was a sight to behold! 2-0.
Bampton got a goal back before James E showed what a natural goalscorer he is by taking a difficult chance. 3-1. Ed and Ben kept charging forward (thanks to the solid platform provided by Binky's magnificent defensive work) and Ed deserved to get his goal. 4-1. A late effort from Bampton ended the match 4-2 and again, both sets of of players left the field to rapturous applause.
Great stuff... now, if only we can learn to deal with that bouncing ball!
Player of the Week: plaudits for Ed and Binky but it had to go to our header heroes: Fyn and Rory
Monday 16 March 2009
Cumnor Slip Up Against Ducklington
We've played worse this season and won so let's not be too disappointed by a double defeat against Ducklington. Both teams battled hard against a very good passing team and if the bounce of the ball had gone our way, we might have emerged with two victories instead of 1-2 and 0-1 defeats.
There were terrific performances by the Cumnor boys with some great tackling and approach play. Adam M scored an excellent goal, it was just a shame we didn't convert our other chances. Never mind, lots of positives can be taken from the game.
Player of the Week: Joe for being brave, energetic and totally committed
There were terrific performances by the Cumnor boys with some great tackling and approach play. Adam M scored an excellent goal, it was just a shame we didn't convert our other chances. Never mind, lots of positives can be taken from the game.
Player of the Week: Joe for being brave, energetic and totally committed
Sunday 8 March 2009
Another Mighty Performance
Recent matches have shown how close tough the Witney league has become. They've also shown what a strong position we are in regarding the strength of our squad. With that in mind, the coaches decided to mix the teams up to see how we would cope with the visit of Witney Vikings.
Match One
Ed started in goal, with Toby in defence, a midfield four of Joe, Will, Ben C and Henry S leaving Binky and James E as strikers. If ever there was a game of two halves then this was surely it. Both teams struggled to get the ball down on the ground and play. With a stream of throw-ins and missed chances the early highlight was Ben C smashing the ball into a neighbouring garden. Both teams did get some shots away with Henry S going close. Binky and James S showed some nice touches in attack and Toby tackled forcefully at the back. But it all felt very dis-jointed until the end of the half when the game suddenly burst into life. First, Witney forced a great save from Ed. Then Will picked up the rebound in our area and ran the length of the field leaving defenders in his wake to set up a good chance for our forwards.
The second-half was electric. Cumnor and Witney stood toe-to-toe and produced some superb passages of play. Joe was excellent out wide and kept a close eye on Witney's dangerous number 14. Ben C played a captain's role, anchored the midfield and allowed Will to set off on a series of dazzling runs down the left. Time and again he skipped to the byline and James and Binky were within millimetres away from converting one of his pinpoint crosses. But it wasn't all Cumnor, Witney kept coming back and Toby had his work cut out to keep the Viking hoards back. Week by week Toby has grown into a defender of true class. Yet the real star of the show was Ed who made a number of incredible saves, throwing himself down at the feet of the Witney attackers, fending off fearsome shotes and keeping a clean sheet for the second week running.
In the end, 0-0 was the right result. Considering it was a 'new' Cumnor mix playing against a well-established side, the boys did brilliantly.
Match Two
In the second game, Ollie went in goal, Ben C & Adam W defence, Laurie, Adam M and Fyn across midfield and Will and James S up front.
From the whistle Cumnor were up and at them determined there would be no repeat deadlock. Storming Adam M gave the team real drive from midfield. Will made the goalie work hard and then hit the post. James S also hit the post and incredible, moments later Fyn hit it with a volley for the second week running! With Adam W and Ben brave and solid at the back and Ollie wondering if he'd get to touch the ball, it was only a matter of time before Cumnor scored. And what a goal it was! Picking up the ball out right, Adam M cut inside then unleashed a ferocious right-footed rocket which almost ripped the net apart. There was no stopping us now. Laurie spotted James S in a good wide right position and threaded the perfect pass through to him. James looked up and played a gorgeous first time cross into the box for storming Adam to smash it home with his left foot. 2-0. Will got the next, beating a couple of players on the edge of the area before curling one in and capping off another good all-round display. 3-0.
In the second-half, Ollie went up front with James S, Henry S came into goal and Binky replaced an exhausted (yet reluctant to leave) Ben C at the back. Ollie showed some delightful touches and clever thinking, playing a quick short corner to Adam who blasted a shot just over the bar. James S and Ollie worked nicely together with Ollie setting up a chance for James to coolly finish. 4-0. Moments later, the same two boys combined to score another. 5-0.
With a goal glut looming, Cumnor resisted the temptation to flood forward and kept playing football. Laurie was disappointed to miss from a few yards out but kept his chin up, beat his man beautifully and played the pass of the day into Ollie to score our sixth.
With the goals flying in, Fyn - our ace goalscorer - continued playing a noble part out wide for his team. Then, we set him free up front and predictably, scored our 7th and 8th within minutes. To Witney's credit, they kept battling and sturdy work and brave headers from Binky and Adam W - and solid commands from Henry S - meant we kept another clean sheet. Final score 8-0.
It's not easy playing in a new team but what the matches proved was how quickly we can adapt and find our rhythm. It also proves we have a strong squad full of talented players who can play all over the pitch.
Player of the Week: plaudits for Toby and Ollie but the unanimous choice was Ed for his immense goalkeeping.
Match One
Ed started in goal, with Toby in defence, a midfield four of Joe, Will, Ben C and Henry S leaving Binky and James E as strikers. If ever there was a game of two halves then this was surely it. Both teams struggled to get the ball down on the ground and play. With a stream of throw-ins and missed chances the early highlight was Ben C smashing the ball into a neighbouring garden. Both teams did get some shots away with Henry S going close. Binky and James S showed some nice touches in attack and Toby tackled forcefully at the back. But it all felt very dis-jointed until the end of the half when the game suddenly burst into life. First, Witney forced a great save from Ed. Then Will picked up the rebound in our area and ran the length of the field leaving defenders in his wake to set up a good chance for our forwards.
The second-half was electric. Cumnor and Witney stood toe-to-toe and produced some superb passages of play. Joe was excellent out wide and kept a close eye on Witney's dangerous number 14. Ben C played a captain's role, anchored the midfield and allowed Will to set off on a series of dazzling runs down the left. Time and again he skipped to the byline and James and Binky were within millimetres away from converting one of his pinpoint crosses. But it wasn't all Cumnor, Witney kept coming back and Toby had his work cut out to keep the Viking hoards back. Week by week Toby has grown into a defender of true class. Yet the real star of the show was Ed who made a number of incredible saves, throwing himself down at the feet of the Witney attackers, fending off fearsome shotes and keeping a clean sheet for the second week running.
In the end, 0-0 was the right result. Considering it was a 'new' Cumnor mix playing against a well-established side, the boys did brilliantly.
Match Two
In the second game, Ollie went in goal, Ben C & Adam W defence, Laurie, Adam M and Fyn across midfield and Will and James S up front.
From the whistle Cumnor were up and at them determined there would be no repeat deadlock. Storming Adam M gave the team real drive from midfield. Will made the goalie work hard and then hit the post. James S also hit the post and incredible, moments later Fyn hit it with a volley for the second week running! With Adam W and Ben brave and solid at the back and Ollie wondering if he'd get to touch the ball, it was only a matter of time before Cumnor scored. And what a goal it was! Picking up the ball out right, Adam M cut inside then unleashed a ferocious right-footed rocket which almost ripped the net apart. There was no stopping us now. Laurie spotted James S in a good wide right position and threaded the perfect pass through to him. James looked up and played a gorgeous first time cross into the box for storming Adam to smash it home with his left foot. 2-0. Will got the next, beating a couple of players on the edge of the area before curling one in and capping off another good all-round display. 3-0.
In the second-half, Ollie went up front with James S, Henry S came into goal and Binky replaced an exhausted (yet reluctant to leave) Ben C at the back. Ollie showed some delightful touches and clever thinking, playing a quick short corner to Adam who blasted a shot just over the bar. James S and Ollie worked nicely together with Ollie setting up a chance for James to coolly finish. 4-0. Moments later, the same two boys combined to score another. 5-0.
With a goal glut looming, Cumnor resisted the temptation to flood forward and kept playing football. Laurie was disappointed to miss from a few yards out but kept his chin up, beat his man beautifully and played the pass of the day into Ollie to score our sixth.
With the goals flying in, Fyn - our ace goalscorer - continued playing a noble part out wide for his team. Then, we set him free up front and predictably, scored our 7th and 8th within minutes. To Witney's credit, they kept battling and sturdy work and brave headers from Binky and Adam W - and solid commands from Henry S - meant we kept another clean sheet. Final score 8-0.
It's not easy playing in a new team but what the matches proved was how quickly we can adapt and find our rhythm. It also proves we have a strong squad full of talented players who can play all over the pitch.
Player of the Week: plaudits for Toby and Ollie but the unanimous choice was Ed for his immense goalkeeping.
Tuesday 3 March 2009
Honours Even at Combe
What a tie! Cumnor versus Combe was one of the most enthralling and exciting fixtures we've seen this season. Both matches were incredibly even with the outcome of both clashes in doubt right up until the final whistle.
Match One
A strong Cumnor team started well with Will firing in an early effort from out on the left. Combe were quick to counter attack and Ben C showed all his strength and determination in the tackle. With Adam M pressing from midfleid and James E holding the ball up front, Cumnor seemed well set to take the lead. The best chance of the first-half fell to Fyn who somehow got his foot around the ball and volleyed Will's corner into the post.
Yet we weren't having it all our own way. Combe made some excellent breaks and their lively no.8 twisted, turned and tormented. Other teams would have fallen under his spell. But other teams don't have Rory! Time and again this season, Rory has been magnificent at the back. And behind Rory, there was Ed who grew and grew into his goalkeeping role making a series of early saves and commanding his area with real authority.
The game opened up even more in the second half with both teams feeling the pace. Will was causing problems running down the hill and hitting searing crosses into the box. Ben was showing wonderful touches in midfield and he and Adam started to control the tempo of the game. Adam surged forward, blistering through the Combe defence but hit his shot wide. Another chance fell to James but he couldn't quite get a killer pass into Will. There would be no breakthrough and as the ref blew his whistle the exhausted boys left the field to deserved cheers.
Match Two
As in previous weeks, the boys in match two played as a slightly tighter unit but it does help having Henry M bossing everyone about. He and Toby continued their impressive defensive partnership: Henry all energy and strength, Toby cool and ruthless in the tackle. In front of them, Ben Mc ran his heart out leading the startled Combe midfield a merry dance all across the field. Joe showed his neat collection of clever short passes and little touches. Binky seemed to relish being involved in the midfield battle rather than being left isolated up front. James S was a clever target man, showing wonderful awareness in tight spaces to play his teammates in. And in goal, covered in mud but loving every second, Ed.
Both teams had their chances and Combe even hit the post but Cumnor, driven on by Henry and Ben Mc were the slightly stronger team. Ben set out on one of his trademark runs and got a shot in but the ball was parried away by the keeper. Then, appearing from nowhere with all the coolness of an expert poacher, came Binky who calmly rolled the ball into the bottom corner. 1-0.
Cumnor didn't sit on their lead and moved confidently forward, knowing that Henry, Toby and Ed would be almost impossible to beat. On the one occasion when a Combe player did get the better of Henry, he was happy to try and rugby tackle him! Wrong day, Henry!
With Cumnor pressing, Joe played some lovely little passes through the midfield and the ball broke to James. With the goal open in front of him... and a glimpse of glory ahead, James just failed to connect. If he'd been a centimetre taller he would have bagged our deserved second.
Final whistle: 0-1 and another round of applause for a committed team performance.
Player of the Week: very close between Ben Mc and Ed but in the end, the coaches chose Will for his scintillating wing play.
Match One
A strong Cumnor team started well with Will firing in an early effort from out on the left. Combe were quick to counter attack and Ben C showed all his strength and determination in the tackle. With Adam M pressing from midfleid and James E holding the ball up front, Cumnor seemed well set to take the lead. The best chance of the first-half fell to Fyn who somehow got his foot around the ball and volleyed Will's corner into the post.
Yet we weren't having it all our own way. Combe made some excellent breaks and their lively no.8 twisted, turned and tormented. Other teams would have fallen under his spell. But other teams don't have Rory! Time and again this season, Rory has been magnificent at the back. And behind Rory, there was Ed who grew and grew into his goalkeeping role making a series of early saves and commanding his area with real authority.
The game opened up even more in the second half with both teams feeling the pace. Will was causing problems running down the hill and hitting searing crosses into the box. Ben was showing wonderful touches in midfield and he and Adam started to control the tempo of the game. Adam surged forward, blistering through the Combe defence but hit his shot wide. Another chance fell to James but he couldn't quite get a killer pass into Will. There would be no breakthrough and as the ref blew his whistle the exhausted boys left the field to deserved cheers.
Match Two
As in previous weeks, the boys in match two played as a slightly tighter unit but it does help having Henry M bossing everyone about. He and Toby continued their impressive defensive partnership: Henry all energy and strength, Toby cool and ruthless in the tackle. In front of them, Ben Mc ran his heart out leading the startled Combe midfield a merry dance all across the field. Joe showed his neat collection of clever short passes and little touches. Binky seemed to relish being involved in the midfield battle rather than being left isolated up front. James S was a clever target man, showing wonderful awareness in tight spaces to play his teammates in. And in goal, covered in mud but loving every second, Ed.
Both teams had their chances and Combe even hit the post but Cumnor, driven on by Henry and Ben Mc were the slightly stronger team. Ben set out on one of his trademark runs and got a shot in but the ball was parried away by the keeper. Then, appearing from nowhere with all the coolness of an expert poacher, came Binky who calmly rolled the ball into the bottom corner. 1-0.
Cumnor didn't sit on their lead and moved confidently forward, knowing that Henry, Toby and Ed would be almost impossible to beat. On the one occasion when a Combe player did get the better of Henry, he was happy to try and rugby tackle him! Wrong day, Henry!
With Cumnor pressing, Joe played some lovely little passes through the midfield and the ball broke to James. With the goal open in front of him... and a glimpse of glory ahead, James just failed to connect. If he'd been a centimetre taller he would have bagged our deserved second.
Final whistle: 0-1 and another round of applause for a committed team performance.
Player of the Week: very close between Ben Mc and Ed but in the end, the coaches chose Will for his scintillating wing play.
Saturday 21 February 2009
Fun in the Sun
A welcome burst of sunshine made Saturday's games the most enjoyable for a while - particularly for the parents. With both the Cumnor and Charlbury squads depleted by half-term activities, Cumnor secured two hard-earned victories.
Game 1 was just 10 seconds old when Rory made an excellent run into the Charlbury penalty area and squared the ball for Ben to slot home from close range (though the dubious goals panel may need to ajudicate on the possibility of the final touch coming from a Charlbury player). Cumnor continued to pressurise the Charlbury goal, with Ben and Adam both going close with long range shots. At the other end Henry M and Henry S marshalled the Charlbury forwards well with some well-timed tackles. Another peice of good play from Adam and Toby saw the ball fall to Rory and he rifled home his first goal of the season. Charlbury responded well after half-time and quickly pulled a goal back. Cumnor had to defend much more in the second half and Ollie finally saw some action in goal - making one great diving save to thwart Charlbury. This half was much more balanced, with both teams creating chances, winning corners and generally going for it. When the final whistle came, Cumnor had hung on for the 2-1 victory.
The second game saw some change of personnel, with Joe, Binky and Adam W coming into the starting line up. A tight first half finally opened up when Henry S ran on to a clever pass from Binky to score the opening goal. Charlbury fought back quickly and made the game 1-1. Towards the end of the half though, Ollie and Binky combined well and Binky slotted home Cumnor's second goal. Henry M and Adam W then joined forces at the back, leading to Henry making a good save to keep Cumnor in the lead. The second half saw Ben come on in goal and Rory and Toby into defence, giving Adam W a chance to play up front. However it was the wide midfielders who shone in this half, with both Joe and Ollie making some great contributions. Ollie ran onto a long goal kick and calmly scored Cumnor's third. Charlbuty continued to fight, and Ben was forced to make a brave save at the feet of the forward. Cumnor held on well, and then with alomost the last kick of the match Ollie shot from long distance and claimed his second goal of the day. 4-1 final score.
Well-played everyone, a great effort, with many players playing more than one match. Player of the week for some great midfield and defence work, and for his first goal of the season, was Rory.
Thanks again to all the parents that helped out with nets, pitch marking etc - it was much appreciated.
Game 1 was just 10 seconds old when Rory made an excellent run into the Charlbury penalty area and squared the ball for Ben to slot home from close range (though the dubious goals panel may need to ajudicate on the possibility of the final touch coming from a Charlbury player). Cumnor continued to pressurise the Charlbury goal, with Ben and Adam both going close with long range shots. At the other end Henry M and Henry S marshalled the Charlbury forwards well with some well-timed tackles. Another peice of good play from Adam and Toby saw the ball fall to Rory and he rifled home his first goal of the season. Charlbury responded well after half-time and quickly pulled a goal back. Cumnor had to defend much more in the second half and Ollie finally saw some action in goal - making one great diving save to thwart Charlbury. This half was much more balanced, with both teams creating chances, winning corners and generally going for it. When the final whistle came, Cumnor had hung on for the 2-1 victory.
The second game saw some change of personnel, with Joe, Binky and Adam W coming into the starting line up. A tight first half finally opened up when Henry S ran on to a clever pass from Binky to score the opening goal. Charlbury fought back quickly and made the game 1-1. Towards the end of the half though, Ollie and Binky combined well and Binky slotted home Cumnor's second goal. Henry M and Adam W then joined forces at the back, leading to Henry making a good save to keep Cumnor in the lead. The second half saw Ben come on in goal and Rory and Toby into defence, giving Adam W a chance to play up front. However it was the wide midfielders who shone in this half, with both Joe and Ollie making some great contributions. Ollie ran onto a long goal kick and calmly scored Cumnor's third. Charlbuty continued to fight, and Ben was forced to make a brave save at the feet of the forward. Cumnor held on well, and then with alomost the last kick of the match Ollie shot from long distance and claimed his second goal of the day. 4-1 final score.
Well-played everyone, a great effort, with many players playing more than one match. Player of the week for some great midfield and defence work, and for his first goal of the season, was Rory.
Thanks again to all the parents that helped out with nets, pitch marking etc - it was much appreciated.
Sunday 1 February 2009
Cumnor Back To Their Best
An early start on a bitterly cold morning didn't stop the U8s producing one of their best performances of the season.
Match One
A strong seven took to the field keen to reverse the recent defeat by Carterton. The match started at a furious pace with the disciplined Cumnor midfield of Adam M, Will, Ben C and Binky able to take advantage of Rory's solid defensive play. Cumnor quickly got into their stride with all the boys playing crucial roles. James E was superb upfront showing great strength and awareness to hold the ball up and play his rampaging midfield teammates in. Cumnor had quite a few chances and Will, Adam M and two strikes from James put us four goals up. Carterton got one back with an unstoppable long range shot.
The second half was scoreless but Cumnor controlled the match well. Ollie made an excellent save and possibly sacrificed a lung in the process. Great stuff!
Match Two
An even better team performance with Cumnor running out convincing 6-0 winners. Toby and Henry M were rock solid and didn't let Carterton get a sniff. Joe was quick, energetic, lively and showed real awareness. Ed battled valiantly up and down the left flank and scored two beautifully taken goals. Ollie - freed from his goalkeeping duties - orchestrated everything magnificently and was involved in all Cumnor's incisive play. And up front, the warrior, the finisher: James S... scorer of an ice-cool hat-trick and playmaker in one of the best goals of the season. Run tape: Toby snuffed out a Carterton attack, passed upfield to James who muscled into his defender, swivelled and played the pass of the season to Ed who ran on and scored the kind of goal we all dream of scoring. Cue wild celebrations on the touchline.
Wonderful effort by all involved... a real team performance. It's not just about the goalscorers, it's about each and every boy playing for one another. We pass, we tackle, we fight and we think. On mornings such as this, football is a joy.
Player of the Week: for his Berbatov awareness and assassin touch... James E.
Match One
A strong seven took to the field keen to reverse the recent defeat by Carterton. The match started at a furious pace with the disciplined Cumnor midfield of Adam M, Will, Ben C and Binky able to take advantage of Rory's solid defensive play. Cumnor quickly got into their stride with all the boys playing crucial roles. James E was superb upfront showing great strength and awareness to hold the ball up and play his rampaging midfield teammates in. Cumnor had quite a few chances and Will, Adam M and two strikes from James put us four goals up. Carterton got one back with an unstoppable long range shot.
The second half was scoreless but Cumnor controlled the match well. Ollie made an excellent save and possibly sacrificed a lung in the process. Great stuff!
Match Two
An even better team performance with Cumnor running out convincing 6-0 winners. Toby and Henry M were rock solid and didn't let Carterton get a sniff. Joe was quick, energetic, lively and showed real awareness. Ed battled valiantly up and down the left flank and scored two beautifully taken goals. Ollie - freed from his goalkeeping duties - orchestrated everything magnificently and was involved in all Cumnor's incisive play. And up front, the warrior, the finisher: James S... scorer of an ice-cool hat-trick and playmaker in one of the best goals of the season. Run tape: Toby snuffed out a Carterton attack, passed upfield to James who muscled into his defender, swivelled and played the pass of the season to Ed who ran on and scored the kind of goal we all dream of scoring. Cue wild celebrations on the touchline.
Wonderful effort by all involved... a real team performance. It's not just about the goalscorers, it's about each and every boy playing for one another. We pass, we tackle, we fight and we think. On mornings such as this, football is a joy.
Player of the Week: for his Berbatov awareness and assassin touch... James E.
Wednesday 28 January 2009
Tough Start to the New Year
With the mid-winter break finally over, the U8s were itching to get out on the field and face a fired-up Carterton.
Match One
Despite missing some key players, Cumnor put in a spirited display and were unlucky to let in 4 answered goals. Ed made a series of cracking saves in goal and Fyn and James E went close on several occasions. There was some great link play between Adam M and Ben Mc and Toby made a number of heroic tackles. Rory was his usual commanding self at the back but had his work cut out to contain an on-form Carterton.
Match Two
A much better team performance with Henry M barking orders from between the sticks, Joe and Adam W rottweiler like at the back and excellent midfield/forward play between James S, Laurie, Binky and a lively Henry S. Cumnor were desperately unlucky to concede a last minute equalizer and deserved the win. Congratulations to James S and birthday boy Laurie who both bagged their debut goals. Well done.
Player of the Week: For taking charge and non-stop bravery Henry M
Match One
Despite missing some key players, Cumnor put in a spirited display and were unlucky to let in 4 answered goals. Ed made a series of cracking saves in goal and Fyn and James E went close on several occasions. There was some great link play between Adam M and Ben Mc and Toby made a number of heroic tackles. Rory was his usual commanding self at the back but had his work cut out to contain an on-form Carterton.
Match Two
A much better team performance with Henry M barking orders from between the sticks, Joe and Adam W rottweiler like at the back and excellent midfield/forward play between James S, Laurie, Binky and a lively Henry S. Cumnor were desperately unlucky to concede a last minute equalizer and deserved the win. Congratulations to James S and birthday boy Laurie who both bagged their debut goals. Well done.
Player of the Week: For taking charge and non-stop bravery Henry M
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