SENIORS FALL TO LATE PENALTY

 Pre Season Friendly

QUARRYDALE UNITED FC 3 RAINWORTH SENIORS FC 2 

Two new clubs joining the Notts Senior League met in a Pre Season Friendly match, so it gave me a chance to check out their progress. The Dale Sec Jason Yates had kept me up to date during the morning that the match was  on and that sadly their tea bar wouldnt be open for refreshements.

On arrival I was greeted by both clubs and the home clubs groundsman took my temperture with a gun and sprayed gel on my hands and did this check to all players and supporters that entered the ground.

 I was soon joined by Newark based groundhoppers and long time friends Herbie & Sue who before the match kindly donated a massive £70 which they pledged for 20p for each goal they had seen last season in aid of the charity blogs Nottingham Stroke Club which I would like to thank them both for. I will be Setting up the Blog for this season and for the front page hoping will have a lovely photo of them both making the donation.

The game kicked off and joined by local veteran striker Lee Widdowson . United looked the sharper and after just 6 minutes they took the lead from a 25 yard free kick. This seemed to wake the Senors who pushed forward who had several chances and on 21 minutes they were back on level terms, when the home keeper tried to dribble out his area but the visiting forward stole the ball off him to poked the ball home.

Quarrydale kept up the temo and retook the lead when a shot on the turn nestled in to the bottom corner of the net on 32 minutes, but the lead was very short lived as the visitors next attack saw the home keeper make a mistake when palming the ball into his own net to make it 2-2.

The Second Half saw the Dale mainly on the attack but couldnt find that opening to give them the lead, whilst the side from Rainworth played on the counter attack and looked as if they would snatch a draw out of the game, but with 72 minutes on the clock, a Dale winger cut into the area and went past one defender but the second defender caught him with his trailing leg, giving the referee no choice but to award a penalty, to which the home side dispatched.

A good workout for both sides and players getting good match time in this run out.

119 photos from the match can be viewed on this LINK

COLTS SOLID AGAINST BRICKIES

 Pre Season Friendly

KIRTON BRICKWORKS FC 1 WOODHOUSE COLTS FC 5

 A local 6.30pm kick off in a pre season friendly saw me venture out to Station Road whilst I  feel Im getting abit better and on my feet.

On my arrival I was greeted by the Brickie players and Chairman and the match official Gareth Tye who kindly pledged a £1 a goal from the match to the charity blog.

The match kicked off and the local visitors run by experianced player/manager Gary Doncaster took the game to their opponents. Infact the Colts from the Central Midlands League had sprinted in to a 2-0 lead after just 8 minutes, the first coming from a corner on the left reaching the back post to b slotted home and then the second from a long free kick for the forward to scoop home inside the six yard box.

Things looked bad for Kirton but then in the 11th minute they pulled a goal back with the goal of the match when their number 10 turned and struck a shot from 30 plus yards to reduce the arrears.

Both sides used subs and the Colts looked quicker to the ball and extended their lead on 24 minutes and by the 43rd minute poor ref GarethTye was thinking he had made a mistake in pledging £1 a goal when Colts made it 4-1.

The Second Half began with Kirton pressing forward getting in to the box but not really troubling the Colts keeper and with the visitors first attack of the second period on 50 minutes it became 5-1 to them.

The rest of the match saw no more goals scored but both sides giving players plenty of match time and experiance.

I would like to thank Gareth Tye who at the end of the match donated £10 to the Charity Blog which is in aid of NOTTINGHAM STROKE CLUB.

78 photos from the match can be seen on this LINK

NON LEAGUE IS BACK WITH FRIENDLY

 Pre Season Friendly

RAVENSHEAD REDS FC 0 NETHERFIELD SENIORS FC 3

Five months ago Football for me came to a complete standstill for a few reasons, the COVID restrictions and also awaiting a serious cancer operation. In that time, alot has happened with me recovering from the operation that happened some 5 weeks ago and I get the results on Monday morning to see if it was a success or if I have to go on to have some treatment, though I do feel well in my self. We have also moved into a bungalow after suffering 2 years of anti social behaviour and drug issues from certain neighbours. This morning I woke up and hazel did cooked breakfast and I sat bored stuff wanting to go out and she said she would drop me at a local match as she didnt want me going too far.

Id been notified by goalkeeper Jack Payne that new NSL club Netherfield Seniors were playing at Ravenshead Reds with a 2pm kick off and this suited me though I had no idea what the Netherfield side were like.

On arrival, I was met by Lee of the Reds and then popped over to introduce myself to the Seniors. The referee Ivor came over for a quick chat before kick off.

The match started at a even pace but hardly any chances being produced with stray passes going amiss which you expect to see in pre season matches, but it was the visitors who took the lead in the 14th minute, when a ball split the Reds defence and the 2 Seniors forwards played a nice quick one-two before the ball was planted into the net to give them the lead.

The Reds pushed forward and looked good in midfield but that final ball to the forwards was missing and the Seniors stood firm.

I was soon joined by Ross Hardwick from Ravenshead FC Into the Second Half and Netherfield began the brighter and looked to have that extra pace in them and on 56 minutes, it came as no surprise when their number ten weaved his way past a tackle and guided his shot into the net to double his sides lead.

The Reds put on some young lads to give them game time and experiance and they nearly pulled a goal back when striking the post, but it wasnt to be their day as in the 80th minute, Netherfield got their third goal when a long low shot hit the back of the net.

Seniors keeper was forced into action a couple of times towards the end of the game, when making double saves on both occasions.

At Full Time, Netherfield Seniors FC kindly donated £10 to the Charity Blog which is in aid of NOTTINGHAM STROKE CLUB, which Im very thankful for.

72 photos from the match can be seen on this LINK

REVIEW OF 2019-20 SEASON

REVIEW OF 2019-20 SEASON

The 2019-20 season finished early due to the Covis 19 virus that spread around the world, but I still managed to see 52 matches from the little villages and towns of Cornwall and also locally in Nottinghamshire.

Despite facing many battles this season, Ive been welcomed at all clubs and later down the page I will be delighted to name all clubs and people that have donated to the Blogs Charity this season which is Nottingham Stroke Club, where the running total currently stands at a amazing £822.25p with still more pledges that have been made to come in, though I have been asked by some people how they can make a donation. If you would like to make a donation, then please email me on robhregnsl@hotmail.com

I am really grateful to everyone and clubs that has dug in their pockets in these difficult times to donate to my chosen charity whether it be a pound or a lot more. 

The season for me began at a 4g pitch in Radcliffe on Trent where I saw a pre season friendly between AFC Villa and East Leake Robins FC and ended with a Nottinghamshire Senior League Division One match between Robin Hood Colts and Kimberley Miners Welfare Reserves, inbetween I have a quite a few moments during the season I remember well, like producing St Erme FC's First ever programme on Non League Day for their home Trelawny League Division One match against Holmans SC Reserves, Keyworth United Reserves winning their County Cup Semi Final and watching a excellent 3-3 draw between Southwell City and Bingham Town in a clash of the top two in the Nottinghamshire Senior League Premier Division. I also seemed to see a few matches that ended in controveral circumstances esp n the County Cup.

Im always asked alsorts questions by people about my blog and about non league football, so I will try my best to do a quick review of whats what on 2019-20.

Most Improved Ground Visited

BILBOROUGH TOWN FC

Since my last visit they had finally got the council to help them and are beginning to put in new changing rooms, they will then be moving in to updating their catering and refreshments kitchen at the Stadium. I must mention Beeston FC who are now in early process of getting their new ground up to standards and hopefully will be a dream achieved soon. Must also mention Stapleford Town FC who I never got to visit during the season but know that they have done quite a few alterations to their home base.

Best Game Seen

SOUTHWELL CITY FC 3 BINGHAM TOWN FC 3

2nd v top and this lived up to its billing with end to end football, plenty of chances and one game you could take your eye off for the 90 minutes

Best Goal Scored Seen

THOMAS GROVES

35 yard screamer for Magdala Amatuers in their 2-0 away win at Eastwood Community Development FC

Most Friendliest Club

Cant pick out any club not to be friendly with all clubs welcoming myself, but ST ERME FC stand out this season as I did their first ever programme for Non League Day and we took my 2 year old granddaughter to her 1st ever match when they played Holmans SC Reserves, People ordered the programme via post and I sold out at the ground, in total 61, after the match I went to hand the money over and a speech was given in their clubhouse for the money to be donated to my charity which I was more grateful for, but then the players/management/committee made a surprise gift of a bottle of Champaign and box of Thorntons chocolates and a card which I opened up when I got back to the caravan which had £25 in it. I dont do the blog etc for praise but this really meant something to me from a small community club that lives in the shadows of giant cornish club Truro City and I would encourage anyone if in that area to visit St Erme FC.

Best Beer

Well many of you will know Ive been tee total for nearly 2 years now but do have a lager shandy, but after match I must say there a several places I enjoy going back to for after match drink. BEESTON FC go back to THE STAR in Beeston, a real ale pub if you like that sort of thing, I also like SHERWOOD MANOR which WOODTHORPE PARK RANGERS FC got back to, Lynsey really puts together a feast for the players and officials there.

Best On Ground Food/Refreshments

BASFORD UNITED FC

Really good pie and chips there.

Funniest Moment

Going to Bilborough Town FC and a lady in the refreshment began talking to Hazel and Shawn finding out that the lady was related to him, Shawn bugged the poor lady all day long lol

Most Improved Programme

Very hard choice to make as Bingham Town FC has a good programme but I thought KEYWORTH UNITED FC who used to just do a 4 page programme have the Chairmans son doing one every match and it is full of what is needed and the odd colour photo as well.

Best Person(s)

Top dog must be my wife HAZEL HORNBY who Id not be able to do all this without all her support and care, as I said earlier its not been the best of years health wise for me and continues to be a fight on even after this virus has long gone, I would like to thank the Nottinghamshire Senior League Committee even though I can be a bit voiceful at times or noisey! So many clubs and every person that has sent me get well messages.

Finally the list of Donators so far in no order:

AFC VILLA

ALAN WITTON

ARNOLD TOWN FC

BEESTON FC - STEVE HYDE

BILBOROUGH TOWN FC - STEVE LEE

BINGHAM TOWN - NUMBER 1 FAN ALAN

DANNY STALEY - AWSWORTH VILLA FC

DAVID BOGIE

DAVID REYNOLDS

DEREK JARVIS
GRAHAM MOSELEY

GREG OSBORNE

GREGG STUART - REFEREE

IAN SHEPPARD

IAN WILKINSON - REFEREE

JASON GILL - ROBIN HOOD COLTS FC

JIM BETHELL & GRANDAD

JOHN BECKETT - REFEREE

JOHN MANDERS - UNITED GRAYS FC

JOHN FROM RIPLEY

JONNY UPTON - SOUTHWELL CITY

KEYWORTH UNITED FC

KIRTON BRICKWORKS FC

LEWIS QUAYLE

MARK YATES - RAVENSHEAD FC

MARTIN WIDDOWSON

MATTHEW CHANIN - REFEREE

MICHAEL OSBORNE

MICHAEL PRIDGEON

NOTTINGHAM COMMUNITY FC

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE SENIOR LEAGUE

PAUL CROFTS

RADCLIFFE OLYMPIC FC

RICHARD LANE

RUBEN CLAY

RUSSELL BOOTH - MANSFIELD HOSIERY MILLS FC

SHANE O HARA

STEVE BROUGHTON

ST ERME FC

TOM SPENCER - RAVENSHEAD REDS FC

So the running total at present stands at £822.50p, there is still time if you wish to donate, please contact me and once your donate comes in, I will add your name to the list of donators.

for information on how to make a donation, please email me on robhregnsl@hotmail.com

Im sure at the current time when I will be setting up the 2020-21 season Charity Blog up yet, it will be a matter of sitting and waiting to see when football can commence but I do wish everyone to stay safe and well.

LAMB LEADS MINERS TO THE SLAUGHTER

Samba Nottinghamshire Senior League

Division One

ROBIN HOOD COLTS FC 1 KIMBERLEY MINERS WELFARE RESERVES FC 5

Att: 17

This was a the tale of two teams that havent done too well this season, The hosts Robin Hood Colts not having won a match in the past eight whilst their visitors went in to the match at the bottom of the table just below their hosts without a win in five.

On arrival a nice cuppa was made by the Colts Manager Jason and was soon being greeted by both sets of players and todays match referee Godwin Abraham Kingsley.

The game kicked off and to be fair not many chances were being created and at times you could see why both teams were down near the bottom of the table, but all players were giving it all and the match was going from end to end.

The deadlock was broken in the 36th minute, when a Colts defender failed to clear in his own area and was robbed for JOSHUA LEWIS to pounce up on and tap ball hone for the visitors to take the lead.

This seemed to spur the Miners on and just on the stroke of half time, a lovely move saw ETHAN LAMB beat the offside trap with a well judged run before slotting it past the Hoods keeper and making it 2-0.

At Half Time break Colts had to do something and make 2 subs, but this did little to help them as in the 51st minute, ETHAN LAMB made it 3-0 to the Welfare side.

Robin Hood Colts then had their best period in the game and pressed forward whilst the Miners were happy to push everyone behind the ball,but a mistake in the 67th minute saw the Robins back in the game with a goal from GEORGE CAMPS to narrow the margin.

In the 79th minute, the Robins saw their captain sent to the sin bin and things got worse for them when ETHAN LAMB completed his hat trick two minutes later.

In the 87th minute, the points were heading back to Kimberley when ISSAC WEATHERALL cut in from the right hand side and slotted home from a acute angle.

I felt the referee had a excellent match and I also felt that both club Assistants were also very fair and sporting.

After the match, Robin Hood Colts Manager Jason Gill kindly donated £20 to the Charity Blog from his club which is in aid of Nottingham Stroke Club, so a BIG thankyou to Jason and all at Robin Hood Colts FC the running total now stands at £700.50p.

203 photos from the match can be seen on this LINK

COMMUNITY POUNCE INTO THE SEMIS

Midland & Notts Alliance League

League Cup

Quarter Final

UNITED GRAYS COMMUNITY FC 4 FC GEORDIE 1

Att: 35

Kick off: 2pm

Arrived at Eagle Valley to watch the first half of this cup tie and was soon met by clubman John Manders who kindly donated £5 to the charity blog which is in aid of Nottingham Stroke Club, sadly John was on the bench as he has a shoulder injury. I was soon joined by Jim Bethall and Grandad.

The game kicked off at a decent pace and it was the side from just along the A614 in Calverton that was having the better of the early chances, but failing to convert any of them.

This proved to cost them after 32 minutes, when a cross from the right wing found out WARREN HOWARD who's volley found the net to open the scoring for the Grays.

At half time, I had to go over to the match for the Grays First team but kept looking over at the tie and saw a couple of good goals scored and at the end I asked and found out that Community had won 4-1.

To view 64 photos from the match please click this LINK

GOOD DAY FOR THE GRAYS

Samba Nottinghamshire Senior League

Division Two

UNITED GRAYS FC 2 RUDDINGTON VILLAGE RESERVES FC 1

Kick off 3pm

Att: 52

Top of the bill match where Division Two leaders United Grays FC hosted second placed Ruddington Village Reserves, but the visitors had games in hand and had already beaten the hosts earlier in the season, so all to play for and a very tight match was on the cards.

The game kicked off and the strong wind found many high balls just swerling out of play, but when both sides got the ball on the floor, it was very frantic but up to the 30th minute, either keeper had been called in to any noticable action.

After 30 minutes, Village floated in a long free kick from the right side of the halfway line and the ball ended at the feet of KAIDEN BURKE-CAMPBELL who slotted the ball home.

The Second Half saw the homesters make a double substitution and then within 2 minutes due to a injury use their final sub, as they throw everyone forward in search of getting back in to the game. 

On 62 minutes, Grays floated in a long corner from the left hand side and it was met by MATT LUCAS who powered his header home to level things up.

The game continued to flow and was up for the taking for both sides, but in the 82nd minute, a break down the left side saw LUKE JORDAN stroke home the winner.

Spotted in todays crowd was a man well dressed against the Corona Virus, see photo below

To view 144 photos from the match, please click on this LINK

TOWN FIGHT BACK FOR SHARE OF THE POINTS

Samba Nottinghamshire Senior League

Premier Division

AWSWORTH VILLA FC 2 BILBOROUGH TOWN FC 2

Admission £2 with free programme

Att: 40

The second offering of the day kicked off at 3.30pm with Awsworth VIlla FC having won their last two games hosting Bilborough Town FC who had lost their last eight matches, so on the form book this should have made Villa favourites for the three points on offer today, but the formbook doesnt always run to form.

The game kicked off and Awsworth played a couple of balls from midfield to the right wing and this looked like this was going to cause Town a lot of problems, but Bilborough began to settle in to the game and on 6 minutes, BUBA CEESAY put a curling shot in to the bottom corner of the net.

This seemed to spring Awsworth in to action as they pressed forward on the front foot and Lee in the Town net had to called upon a couple of times, but 15 minutes, he could little when after goalmouth scramble COURTNEY SAMUELS poked the ball home from close distance to level up the scores.

Villa continued to press forward and in the 29th minute took the lead, when a angled shot by LIAM TOWLE hit the back of the net.

The Second Half saw Bilborough press and press but saw their efforts come to very little, until the 77th minute when JOEY UBIDO fired home a well deserved equaliser.

The final ten minutes saw both sides play free open football and both have very good chances to snatch a late winner, we saw a bit of handbags as both teams got passionate to get the three points but on full time, both sets of players respectfully shook each others hands.

I felt all 3 officials had very good games.

After the match, Danny Staley of Awsworth Villa FC kindly donated £5 to the Charity Blog and then I got a phone call from Herbie who had been to East Leake Robins this afternoon and the referee of that match had also donated £4 to take the running total up to a superb £652 towards Nottingham Stroke Club.

149 photos from the match can be seen on this LINK

WOLLATON FC MAKE IT FIVE WINS ON THE BOUNCE

Samba Nottinghamshire Senior League

Premier Division

ATTENBOROUGH FC 1 WOLLATON FC 3

Played at Basford United FC

Attendance: 35

A chance today to get in a Notts Senior League double on the 4g at Basford United FC, with a 1pm kick off of Attenborough FC  who after a change of manager have won the past 3 out of 4 league games who hosted  Wollaton FC who had won 9 out of their last 11 league fixtures.

The game kicked off and it was soon the visitors who had the early openings and after just 3 minutes, a cross from the right wing found the scooping head of ADAM HASSALL who guided the header home. Things got worse for the Boro within 90 seconds as Wollaton known as the Sugababes doubled their advantage when DANIEL CHADWICK stroked the ball home from close range.

On 12 minutes, Wollaton raced in to a 3-0 lead when their top striker turned a hit his shot home from 30 yards out.

Wollaton continued to press forward and another cross came in, but as Charlie Carder came out to punch the clearance away, he went down with a shoulder injury and had to be replaced, it looked like the floodgates may well open up, but to Attenborough;s credit, they continued to push forward and take the game to Wollaton and in the 28th minute was awarded a penalty, to which KEIRAN WHALIN coolly converted.

The second Half saw Attenborough press and press but found no way through the Wollaton defence, but on 82 minutes, a crisp shot from outside the penalty area smashed against the post with the Wollaton keeper well beaten, but was then cleared to safety for Wollaton to record their 5th straight win.

Must mention the 3 officials who all had very good matches

123 photos from the match can be seen on this LINK

CONOR'S BRACE SENDS GREEN IN TO COUNTY TROPHY FINAL

Nottinghamshire FA County Trophy

Semi Final

KEYWORTH UNITED RESERVES 3 NOTTINGHAM FC 0

Admission Free

Programme 50p

Attendance: 74

Another weekend where the wet and stormy weather put pay to a lot of matches in the Midlands area, saw full credit to the Keyworth groundstaff on pulling out all the stops being at the Platt Lane ground from 7.30am to make the heavy pitch perfect for the County Cup Semi Final tie.

Both teams headed in to the game in good form, with the hosts winning their last 3 fixtures whilst the young Nottingham FC side winning their last six, so a close game was being looked forward to.

On arrival, I was greeted by Club Chairman Chris Thompson and grabbed a cuppa before a chat with the 3 match officials. Before getting the teamsheets, I wished both sides well and strolled towards pitchside.

I also met Stickypalms who also writes a superb blog called "The Groundhopper" here is the LINK

The wind was howling down the pitch, but credit to both sides who were trying to play passing football and it was the team in blue that had the first chance of the game after just 12 minutes, when the home keeper was called in to action after a shot from the oppositions number ten.

With the heavy ground, players knew they would have to work for every ball and a nice move on 16 minutes by the homesters saw the ball laid back to THOMAS SISWICK to fire United in to the lead. The visitors seemed abit upset by this and the referee sent one of their players to the sin bin for dissent.

Whilst Nottingham FC were still down to ten players, United used this to their advantage in the 24th minute to double their lead, when CONOR PAULEY latched on to a loose ball to smash in to the top corner of the net to make it 2-0.

After the half time cuppa and the action began straight away, when a visiting player already on a yellow card, was shown a second yellow card when he handled the ball inside the area in the 50th minute, up stepped Conor Pauley but the visiting keeper guessed the same way the penalty was going and pulled out a excellent low save.

Nottingham FC pushed forward but didnt really use the wind to their advantage and didnt test the home keeper and being a man short tired legs began to kick in and so did a bit of frustration, resulting in them picking up several yellow cards in the meantime.

The tie was put out of reach in the 83rd minute, when a corner floated in from the left hand side was met by CONOR PAULEY who guided his header home from around ten yards out to send the greens in to a 3-0 lead.

I felt that Alex Smith the referee had a very good match along with his two Assistant Referees in Gregg Stuart and the young Assistant who's name sadly I cant remember(but he is from Southampton).

I would also like to thank Gregg Stuart for donating £5 of his match fee to the Charity Blog which is for NOTTINGHAM STROKE CLUB, also to Keyworth United FC who have pledged 25p per goal throughout the season, also Nottingham FC donated earlier in the season. The running total at present stands at a superb £645.00.

197 Photos from the tie can be seen on this LINK

OLYMPIC MAKE IT FOUR IN A ROW

Samba Nottinghamshire Senior League

Division One

RADCLIFFE OLYMPIC FC 2 BEESTON FC 1

Att: 23

A game played in very difficult conditions due to Storm Dennis raging throughout the afternoon, saw a match where chances went begging in the swerling wind and high over the crossbars and some good shot stopping kept the score down.

Radcliffe's Wharf Lane Ground sits at the side of the River  Trent and at present with the river high, then pitch isnt playable, so they have looked round and found this venue at Nottingham Uni Academy in Radcliffe the perfect place, with new changing rooms and even a washing machine in the referees room.

Referee Lewis Quayle kindly picked me up at Sherwood Manor in Nottingham and was soon at the ground for the 2pm kick off, both sides handed me their teamsheets for 1.20pm so I could go to the portacabin and grab a cuppa.

I tried several times to stand up the corner flags on each corner but after the strong wind had blown them down for the 8th time, I gave up.

The match kicked off and Olympic had the first few chances with the wind behind their backs and the visiting keeper being called in to action several times diving low to keep the scoreline goalless, but this was all to alter in the 35th minute, when a long low shot by NICK LEVACK squeezed in to the bottom corner of the net to put Radcliffe in front.

In the 38th minute, Radcliffe thought they had doubled their advantage when Brett Soiza had the ball in the net, but during the build up play, it appeared that someone had strolled off side, so it was still 1-0 at half time.

Beeston must have thought with the wind behind them they would be in for a easier second half, but it was Olympic in the 46th minute, who had a superb chance, but again the Beeston keeper was in fine form.

Beeston did come more in to the game but didnt really test the Olympic keeper very much, whilst the homesters played more on the break and on 73 minutes, the reliable visiting keeper misplaced a pass out of defence to the half way line, to which Player Manager Hegarty side footed towards goal and the strong wind took it narrowly wide.

JOESPH HEGARTY didnt have to wait long though for his opportunity as in the 76th minute, he cut in from the right side and stroked the ball in to the far corner of the net to put his side in to a two goal cushion.

The Oranges of Beeston pressed forward with the clock ticking down and in the 91st minute, a long range shot by ROLAND TOMLINSON hit the back of the net to reduce the arrears, but there was very little time for them to press forward for another try at goal, so Radcliffe Olympic FC have now won their last four matches.

A good match in very testing conditions and a credit to both sides in playing their parts.

I just thank Steve Hyde of Beeston FC for their kind donation of £10 and also Radcliffe Olympic FC for a donation of just over £6 to take the running total for the Charity Blog, NOTTINGHAM STROKE CLUB to a amazing £639.25p.

143 photos from the match can been seen on this LINK

ROMANIES FALL TO HOME DEFEAT TO COTGRAVE

Samba Nottinghamshire Senior League

Premier Division

BILBOROUGH TOWN FC 0 COTGRAVE FC 2

Att: 21

I saw Bilborough Town FC earlier in the season at Burton Joyce FC in a match they were unlucky not to gain a point from in a 1-0 defeat, as I had to be at this venue as my son Shawn and me and the wife had to attend a Youth to Adult roadshow, it gave me chance to not run around and to pop straight next door to watch this match.

On arrival, I was greeted by Steve Lee at the turnstile and got a programme, before a guided tour of the new changing rooms that have finally been given the green light by Nottingham City Council and will be a great assett to the club once completed.

We was soon in the refreshments cabin when a lady named Sam spotted Hazel and it turned out they were related and of course Shawn was happy to find he had another cousin.

The game kicked off and Cotgrave were on the front foot and after just 5 minutes were in front through a KYLE WADDELL penalty after a trip in the home penalty area. It was a bad start for The Romanies but they put some good passing football together but they were missing someone who could convert the many chances that flashed across the six yard area of their visitors area.

Things were made more difficult for them in the 23rd minute, when home captain Ricky Law was sent to the sin bin for 10 minutes for dissent, but this didnt seem to bother the homesters as they pressed forward and could well and should really have been on level terms when the number 11 beat the visiting keeper to see the wide gap of goal closed down before he could tap the ball in to the net.

As we headed towards the half time whistle, a smart move by the visitors, saw their top striker LUCAS COTTERILL hammer home his 20th goal of the season in the Premier Division on his 15th appearance.

The Second Half saw Cotgrave press forward for a third goal in the 20 minutes, but then the rest of the half belonged to Bilborough who pressed and created chances, but sadly couldnt find that goal to set up a grandstand finish.

To be fair, there was not alot between the two teams apart from the finishing and if Bilborough could find a striker or had a bit of luck could well pull themselves out of the bottom two, as Cotgrave are a stubborn side to break down and deserved their well grinded out victory on the day.

I would like to thank Steve Lee for the kind donation of £10 and with the 2 goals scored now takes the running total for the charity blog for NOTTINGHAM STROKE CLUB to a amazing £623.25p

178 photos from the match can be seen on this LINK

UNBEATEN AFC REMAIN SIXTEEN POINTS CLEAR

Samba Nottinghamshire Senior League

Division One

KIRTON BRICKWORKS FC 0 AFC TOP VALLEY 2

With my operation in 8 days time, I didnt want to venture far out and I hadnt been to Kirton Brickworks this season, Kirton had installed a new manager Rob Musson only on Wednesday evening but dont take the team on till the next match, the visitors today were AFC Top Valley who are running away at the top 16 points clear.

As always a warm welcome and cuppa awaiting for me on arrival, the game soon kicked off and it felt great to have my camera with me and my arm out of a sling.

Kirton pushed forward early doors, but Cummings came very close to opening the scoring for the visitors but was foiled by Ricketts guarding the home net.

On 13 minutes, a lovely move down the right hand side saw Cummings cross the ball foot perfect for JOESPH GUNN to put the visitors in front.

Both sides were giving 100% on a heavy pitch and a few late challenges went in from both teams, sometimes looking like the game may just boil over.

The Half Time break came and went and the game got a bit scrappy and then within 2 minutes, both teams went down to 10 men due to seeing a man each sent to the Sin Bin, whilst both sides were down to 10 players, in the 67th minute, a scramble in the home penalty area, saw the ball land in front of NATHAN ATKINS who hooked the ball home and double AFC's lead to 2-0.

Kirton pushed players forward, but Top Valley broke a couple of times and the homesters had their keeper to thank for keeping the score down.

146 photos from the match can be seen on this LINK

BROWNE BRACE SENDS AFC INTO THE SEMIS

Nottinghamshire FA Saturday Senior Trophy

Quarter Final

BLIDWORTH WELFARE RED FC 2 WEST BRIDGFORD AFC 3

With the wife Hazel away at her daughters up in Preston for her birthday this weekend, Hazel's brother offered to have Shawn for a couple of hours whilst I went to the footie, just over the road is Unwin Road and Blidworth Welfare Reds ground and I noticed that the match had been moved forward by 30 minutes to a 1pm kick off. Since visiting last season, the Reds have moved pitches and also got a hot water urn to make refreshments which were most welcome.

The tie kicked off with the visitors creating most of the chances, whilst the Reds had to re-shuffle due to a early injury to one of their defenders who limped off. The home keeper was also keeping the scores level.

The Second Half sprung in to action and on 51 minutes, the visitors were awarded a free kick just inside their own half, which was hit long and MARCUS BROWNE rose and guided his header in to the net.

Within 3 minutes and the visitors had doubled their lead, when a ball was played in to their captain LUKE DABELL  turned and shot in to the net from the edge of the area.

Blidworth Reds then upped their game and pushed forward and on 61 minutes LIAM STRAFORD cut in from the left side and fired home to cut the arrears in half.

The Reds continued to take the tie to their visitors and on 64 minutes were on level terms, when awarded a penalty, JAMES HENRY took the penalty which was palmed out but he was first to react and knocked the ball home.

The tie went from end to end and on 83 minutes, a mistake in the Reds defence saw MARCUS BROWNE pounce and prod the ball home for the visitors to re take the lead.

Well in to injury time came a controversial and sour ending to a very good tie, when the Reds broke forward and Liam Stratford stroked the ball in to the corner of the net, Reds celebrated their equaliser, when the referee went over to the club Assistant Referee who had raised his flag to say that the ball had gone put of play before the ball had been crossed, the referee stood by the club assistant referees decision and the goal was disallowed,it was a shame for the game to end like this as both sides had played some good football in a good flowing game

REDS FIGHT BACK TO HIT DEVELOPMENT FOR SIX

Samba Nottinghamshire Senior League

Division Two

RAVENSHEAD REDS FC 6 CLIFTON ALL WHITES DEVELOPMENT FC 1

Was going to Kimberley MW Reserves v Gedling Southbank but after a 10am inspection, the match was called off, so it was to the drawing table, as I visited 2 of my sisters in Eastwood and in Bilborough, most games were 2pm kick offs not giving me much family time, but I got a call back from Ravenshead Reds Secretary Kevin Pinner to say their 3pm match was def on.

Earlier in the season, I saw the reverse fixture of this match, where the Reds won 5-0, but for both sides there have been a lot of changes.

All Whites have appointed former Rolls Royce man John Cheetham at the helm of a very young side, who to be honest in the first half of the match had their chances and played some very good fast football.

The game kicked off as previously said, All Whites were on the front foot pressing and having some good chances, as I stood on top of the hill overlooking the pitch with Ravenshead FC(not Reds) manager Ross Hardwick and soon joined by the chairman Mark Yates and his young son.

It came as no surprise when a ball squared across the Reds 6 yard box was tapped home by RYAN MILLS on 16 minutes, it looked like the All Whites could well add to their tally but that just didnt happen and they were punished on 32 minutes, when BRAD MARTIN fired home the equaliser.

Within 2 minutes, the Reds had turned the game around and went in to a 2-1 lead. All Whites pressed forward but this left gaps at the back and on the stroke of half time, the reds added their third goal of the match.

At Half Time we were joined by local Councillor Martin Smith who attends most matches down at the Cornwater and is a great supporter of local grassroots football of all ages, as he shot off to tell a bloke off for letting his dog off his lead, he missed a couple of |Reds goals to make it 5-1 after 52 minutes, this seemed to knock the stuffing out of the young lads from Clifton and their keeper made 2 very good saves, plus the Reds hot the crossbar twice.

In the 86th minute came the end of the scoring when the Reds made it 6-1 for a well deserved win for them, but All Whites will win games this season in games here they finish their chances and luck goes their way.

Sadly I couldnt see who got all the goals but the goalscorers for the match are as follows:

Ravenshead Reds FC

BRAD MARTIN 2

DEAN BUSSEY

RICHARD SAXTON

JAMIE SIMONS

MITCHELL TRAVERS

Clifton All Whites Development FC

RYAN MILLS

Referee James Green had a very good match in my opinion in only his second match in the Nottinghamshire Senior League.

SOUTHWELL'S DRAW TAKES THEM TOP

Samba Nottinghamshire Senior League

Premier Division

SOUTHWELL CITY FC 3 BINGHAM TOWN FC 3
Att: 115
Programme: Available in clubhouse at bar
Coffee £1

A last gasp goal saw Southwell City jump up to the top of the Premier Division in a top of a table clash against local rivals Bingham Town.

Before kick off with both the line ups got and a couple of cups of coffee and chat with both committee and supporters, Southwell City manager Jon Upton kindly donated £4 to the Charity Blog.

The match began in a swerling wind blowing down the pitch towards the clubhouse end and the action was flowing from end to end, but on 13 minutes a routine backpass to the Southwell keeper saw him kicking fresh air, as the ball drifted in to the net to give Bingham a early lead.

On 20 minutes, the visitors doubled their lead when EUAN SWEETING fired home after a good move that beat the homesters offside trap.

Southwell pulled themselves back in to the game on 26 minutes when CALUM LAW  fired home from a free kick.

The Second Half saw Bingham pushing for the third goal, but it was BRADLEY PEACE-McDONALD who cut in from the wing and slotted home to make it 2-2.

The play went from end to end with both sides going for the points and chances for both sides went a miss before Bingham retook the lead on 69 minutes through JAKE HARDY. As the clock was counting down, it looked like the visitors were to return home with the three points, but from a corner in injury time, BRADLEY PEACE-McDONALD scrambled the ball home.

Must mention match Referee Pete Craggs who I felt controlled the game well and must thank him for a lift to and from the match. I must also thank Bingham Town's number fan ALAN(who didnt grumble at me today) and kindly donated £10 to the Charity Blog which is in aid of NOTTINGHAM STROKE CLUB, the running total with both Alan and Jon's donations and the 6 goals scored at today match stands at a great £609.25p.

May I also point you to the match photos taken by Bingham Town FC's Official Photographer Geoff Cameraman, any photos used MUST acknowledge him. The photos can be found on this LINK

TOWN EDGE SEVEN GOAL THRILLER

Samba Nottinghamshire Senior League

Premier Division

ATTTENBOROUGH FC 3 SANDIACRE TOWN FC 4

Att: 51

My first match of the new decade saw me head to the Strand, the home of Attenborough FC were hosting local rivals Sandiacre Town FC, only 7 days before the two teams had met at St Giles Park where Town had run out 4-1 victors.

With me in a sling there was no camera due to my collarbone and this will prove the case for around another five weeks to come, so I only took a couple of photos with my mobile, but found this hard to do.

The game kicked off and within 7 minutes, it looked like the Blues of Attenborough were out for revenage on last weeks defeat as they took the lead with a lovely curled placed shot by KEIRAN WHALIN. By the 13th minute, TOM O REGAN doubled the home sides advantage with a carbon copy of the first goal to make it 2-0.

Sandiacre after a slow start began to come more in to the game and pushed forward and got themselves back in to the match when reducing the arrears on 37 minutes through JORDAN LEONARDI.

The Second Half kicked off and it was soon end to end and important to the game who was going to score the next goal, to which in the 59th minute JACK WARNER pulled it back level for the Town.

This spurred Sandiacre forward and sub THOMAS MELLORS put his side on front on 69 minutes, the home sides heads seemed to be shocked by the turnaround and in the 75th minute, JORDAN LEONARDI extended the visitors advantage to 4-2.

With the clock counting down, Attenborough got a free kick outside the area as the visitors were reduced down to ten men, ADAM MARTIN hit the free kick in to the net to make it 4-3.

Id like to thank match referee Lewis Quayle for the lift to and from the match

REES SEALS CLOSE ENCOUNTER VICTORY FOR BOOTS

Midland & Notts Alliance League

Premier Division

RAINWORTH SENIORS FC 1 OLD BOOTS FC 2

Att: 14

With the wet weather wiping out matches up and down the country, I looked for 3g pitches and any around the Mansfield area as I didnt fancy travelling very far on Christmas Saturday and noticed that Rainworth Seniors FC were hosting Old Boots FC just up the road at Joesph Whittaker School on the newly laid 3g pitch, it was also a venue Id never seen a match, possibly the closest ground to my house Id never been.

With a early morning phone call to Seniors Secretary Luke Whitmore just to check that the ground was open due to the holiday season, a positive reply of game on 2pm kick off was all I needed and a phone call to local hopper Herbie and Sue and they were to meet up with me at the game.

On arrival, I was greeted by both clubs and also found a coffee machine before referee Darren Reynolds let me take a photo of both sides line ups.

The game kicked off and was a very tight affair with the Seniors mainly on the attack but not working the opponents goalkeeper, whilst Boots pushed forward and in the 8th minute, a corner found the head of GREG McLEAN who glanced the visitors in to a early lead.

The action was quite frantic and end to end and on 33 minutes, Rainworth were back on level terms when ASHLEY KEAY found the back of the net.

This pushed Boots in to a quick reaction and within 2 minutes, they had retaken their advantage, when TOM REES turned inside the penalty area and slotted low in to the corner of the net.

The Second Half saw the pace slow down and there was a few niggly tackles and a sort of stop and start half as neither of the teams put their foot on the game, though both sides had chances to add to their goal tally but both keepers were forced in to some excellent saves.

Ref Darren Reynolds had a decent match and only used his card when he needed to, as it wasnt a dirty match and at the end of the game all players returned back to the pub.

99 Photos from the match can be seen on this LINK

VILLAGE MAKE IT FOUR FROM FOUR

Samba Nottinghamshire Senior League

Division One

RUDDINGTON VILLAGE FC 4 RAVENSHEAD FC 0

Played on Pitch 3 @ Basford United FC

Att: 11

Uncertain where to go, I decided to leave it till the last minute and whilst eating my bacon and mushroom sandwich, I got a email to say local referee Colin White was on the above match, so I rang him to see if I could grab a lift off him, which he kindly allowed me.

The game kicked off as these 2 clubs have met each other three times in the past 3 weeks, with Ruddington winning all 3 games 2-1 in different cups and a league meeting.

The First half was very even and both sides had their chances, but nothing for the keepers to save, but on 27 minutes, a break down the left side saw JACK DICKIE dance to the edge of the penalty area before placing the ball home to give the Village a 1-0 lead.

The Second Half saw Ruddington make the brighter start and apply pressure but Ravenshead were soaking it up, until the 55th minute, when Jamie Bennett caught a Village players leg and bought him down. The referee had no choice but to point to the spot, to which DAN NEARY stepped up and dispatched to double his sides lead.

Ravenshead pushed forward and nearly got a goal back when a shot went just wide of the far post, but it was Ruddington again who sealed their fourth win against their opponents when in the 78th minute their sub JAMIE NEEP fired home a lovely shot from the edge of the area to wrap up the points.

107 photos from the match can be seen on this LINK

Samba Nottinghamshire Senior League

Premier Division

WOODTHORPE PARK RANGERS FC 3 FC CAVALIERS 0

I popped in to watch the Second Half of this match as this was a 3pm kick off and at half time the score was level at 0-0 though WPR had missed a first half penalty.

The Second Half kicked off and I stood with Karl White for a quick chat and then went over to the far stand was joined local hoppers Malc Storer and Wayne Morrison and WPR sub Tobias Richardson.

The game was being played at a fast pace with WPR cutting out the chances and Cavs spring the odd counter attack. As Id not started my stopwatch or got the team line ups at the time, Ive no idea what time the goals were scored, though their first goal was scored by CONNOR SCOTT-PARKIN, then MARKEL BAILEY made it 2-0 before club captain CORY JOHNSON completed the goals for the day.

Referee LEWIS QUAYLE kindly gave me a lift back to the pub and donated £10 to the Charity Blog which is in aid of NOTTINGHAM STROKE CLUB. One of the Assistant Officials Scott Anderson kindly gave me a lift home, so can I thank all officials for today.

EAGLES AND PINXTON SHARE THE POINTS

Central Midlands League

South Division

ARNOLD TOWN FC 1 PINXTON FC 1

Many will know I was involved some time ago with Arnold Town FC as Programme Editor and Club Shop Manager back in the 1990's, since that time they have moved from Gedling Road out to Eagle Valley just off the main A614 and they still have their loyal fans that follow them, so it is always nice to catch up with them.

As Id gone to Eagle Valley to watch the NSL match that kicked off at 2pm, this gave me a chance to watch the Second Half of this match above and catch up for a chinwag with folks Ive not seen for a while.

Steve Holland the Arnold Town FC Chairman made me welcome and gave me a cuppa and programme and I ventured out of the clubhouse to watch the Second Half, I soon bumped in to CMFL press officer and long time friend Richard Lane who kindly donated £10 to the Charity. As Steve wouldnt accept any admission off me, I said I would donated £3 to the charity from Arnold Town FC.

Arnold were 1-0 up at half time and Pinxton were pressing hard and got their equaliser and the the Eagles pressed for a winner.

After the match in the clubhouse, I sat with match referee James Tewson and his 2 Assistants Robin Bourne and John Beckett, John also kindly donated £3 to the charity blog sending the running total to a superb amount of £578.75p