Trojans 0 - 3 Clements Athletic (Ted Fairchild 3rd Round)

Playing a team from the league below in the cup should have been a perfect opportunity to regain some pride and belief following a thumping the week before.  How frustrating then to have room to swing multiple cats in the changing room with only ten bodies in there.  Still the ten of us who were present showed guts, determination and a team ethic that our opposition lacked to not only win comfortably but to keep a clean sheet as well.

It was vital that we take the lead to see how our opposition would react to going behind against ten men.  Liam very nearly came up trumps when he broke through the defence, but his strike was well saved.  It was inevitable that we would come under pressure at the other end, especially from corners.  We survived a couple of near misses, and Conor put in the kind of assured performance that we needed.

We did deservedly take the lead when Dale dribbled into the box on the right before turning inside and hitting the ball into the bottom corner with his left foot.  Some were claiming an own goal, but I think it would be harsh to deny Dale his 9th goal of the season: 0-1.

Trojans responded as we would have hoped; by pressing the self destruct button, as they became more interested in arguing with the ref and each other than playing football.  In particular, one angry red head seemed hell bent on dealing out retribution to anyone who came within a couple of feet (and he wasn't wearing a purple shirt!)

Trojans' manager took the interesting tactical decision of weakening the side for the second half, and despite it still being a hard slog (especially for the guys in midfield) we were finding more time and space on the ball.  We still had some hairy moments from set pieces that were conceded with far too much regularity, but we kept the lead and extended it when a corner was deflected by Rob into the path of Liam, who swiveled and slotted the ball into the bottom corner: 0-2.

The game was well and truly ended as a contest when Chris chipped a delightful ball over the nearest defender for Dale to run onto.  He then finished in style, lifting the ball over the keeper into the far corner: 0-3.  It was a nice way to start the Christmas celebrations that were due to continue in The Ship after the game, and the ten men of Clements deserved to let their hair down.

Eye-Ball

Goal scoring chart:

Purfleet Old Boys 7 - 1 Clements Athletic

It may be tempting to pretend this game never happened, but for the completeness of our records, and the fact that one person in particular would be disappointed if one incident wasn't mentioned, I'll briefly summarise.

Subs: Sharpy, Parker

Clements went behind when Eye-Ball's valiant effort to block a shot on the line resulted in the ball striking his arm as he slid in on the ground.  The resulting penalty was converted, although Conor did well to get a hand on the ball.

Clements didn't let their head go down despite the omens not being good against a side averaging over 5 goals a game.  Foggy has been making the headlines over the last few weeks for incredible misses from close range, so when H laid the ball off and Foggy hit the ball towards goal from 30 yards, you can imagine our astonishment to see it hit the top corner of the net.  It was an awesome strike, and gave Clements a real lift: 1-1.

Unfortunately, things didn't get any better and despite H working tirelessly upfront on his own, Purfleet gradually wore us down.  Matters weren't helped by a bad injury to Bunny midway through the second half, up to which point the score had been kept respectable at 3-1.  They say that boxing is a cruel sport, but at least you have the option of throwing in the towel when your man is well and truly beaten.  Although the referee's watch kept ticking, once the 4th goal went in Clements gave up and the flood gates opened.

The hurt and frustration at being humiliated in such a way was evident after the fine whistle, and hopefully this will be incentive enough to not let it happen again.

Eye-Ball

Lakeside Reserves 1 - 4 Clements Athletic

This was a strange game, in which the full compliment of 22 players was only present for about 5 minutes.  Clements started with eleven, but Lakeside were only able to field a starting ten.  Alec chose to shake the team up a little, with Tapsell starting at centre back, Rob at right back and Liam out on the left wing.

Subs: Harry, Browne

Clements started brightly as they looked to capitalise on the one man advantage.  The lead came early when some good link up play between Eye-Ball, Liam and Dale on the left resulted in a corner.  Ryan swung the ball in and Liam glanced his header into the far corner: 0-1

The lead was soon doubled when Dale picked up the ball on the left and played a delightful ball into the space on the right for brother Ryan.  He controlled the ball first time and finished superbly across the keeper with the outside of the right boot: 0-2.

Lakeside's eleventh man had turned up by this point, but was undertaking an extended warm up on the sideline.  Clements should really have been four up by the time he came on, with Foggy and Niki coming close to scoring.  If there was a prize for miss of the season we could have awarded it to Foggy at half time in this match, as when the ball was played into the middle across the line Foggy somehow managed to lift it over the bar from 0.0001 yards out.  Now Foggy and Dale had been discussing Foggy's baron goal scoring record before the game, but I would have put it down to lack of opportunities in front of goal for a player who usually plays at the back.  However, I now believe he must be cursed as no one can be this unlucky!  Niki's chance wasn't as clear cut, but as he charged into the box from the back the sound referee's whistle harshly judging him offside must have led to him scuffing his shot.

The game was briefly contested between 2 teams of 11 players, but only for about ten minutes before both sides were reduced to ten men, with Lakeside's late arrival also leaving early for a much needed warm down.

The game was now a very open affair, with lots of space and increasingly tired legs.  Clements defended well and restricted Lakeside to speculative efforts from outside the box, mainly from their nippy midfielder who was determined to dribble past our whole team single handed.

Foggy had more chances to break his curse, but the force-field in front of goal remained as his efforts hit everything apart from the back of the net.  Foggy shouldn't feel too frustrated at still not having broken his duck for Clements.  Some like Niki have been waiting an awful lot longer to make a dent in the goal scoring chart.  45 games without a goal or assist was el-capitano's record before this game, so when he hooked a ball back into the mix from a corner, and Rob pounced to prod the ball into the net you would have thought Niki had scored the winning goal in a cup final: 0-3.

The three points should have been well and truly in the bag by the time Lakeside spoiled our attempt at a clean sheet, but their keeper was having an absolute blinder.  Liam - who definitely deserved another goal for his constant lung bursting runs - was one of many Clements players to be denied by the flying shot stopper.

Any fears of Lakeside causing an upset were alleviated when Tapsell put H through on goal and he finished first time from a tight angle.  His goal celebration wasn't one of his finest moments, but if it made him feel better (and he can afford it) then why not: 1-4.

It's a shame we weren't able to put one over on Lakeside in a proper game, as we have always narrowly missed out on three points to them in the past, which should have made victory feel that bit sweeter.  Still, three points is three points at the end of the day and hopefully the outcome (if not the circumstances) will be the same next time.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 8th December - Away v Purfleet Old Boys @ Belhus Park

Clements Athletic 0 - 3 Purfleet Old Boys

Sharpy delivered one of his inspirational pre-match speeches before this game, which went something along the lines of, 'Let's really put it up them and give them a game; we're going to lose but lets put it up them.'  Truly inspiring as always.

Alec had a few more options this week (but not many), and with Conor nursing a bad back Foggy stepped up to stand between the sticks.

I think this was the team, but my memory is a little hazy:

Sub: Sharpy

Against a team who are running away with the league, it is perhaps not surprising that the star man for Clements was Foggy in goal.  As if he wasn't going to have enough to do, he decided to bring down Purfleet's front man for a clear cut penalty.  He quickly redeemed himself by saving the penalty and smothering the rebound.

Despite the odds being stacked against us, our best chance of the game would have given us the lead when H found himself clear through on goal.  Unfortunately his composure deserted him, and the keeper pounced to block the ball with his legs.

Clements then conceded three goals in the first half from various angles, and went in at half time with many heads hanging.  A passionate rant from the manager then ensued, with the main point being to show some balls and play as a team.

This seemed to have an impact, as we had a much better second half.  We kept a clean sheet, and arguably had the better chances to score, with Tapsell and Ryan having good efforts on goal.  In the end we were able to walk off with our heads held high, and hopefully have all grown stronger as a team by the experience.

Eye-Ball

Clements Athletic 2 - 2 Mossops

Me and my big mouth.  Just a week after praising a fantastic turn out, Clements just about scrapped a team together, with 5 central midfielders and 2 strikers missing for various reasons.  There is no doubt that with a full squad we would have turned over this side, but the guys who were there - and especially those who played out of position - should be proud of the way we battled to the end and supported all those in a purple shirt (and the one bloke in a green one).  A special mention for Parker and Gollum, who turn up most weeks to support the team without getting a look in, and stand out as an example to all of us of what being a part of this club should mean.

Subs: Gollum

Despite only having twelve men to choose from, Alec still managed to annoy someone.  Gollum was distraught that Parker and been given the nod in front of him, and if Alec thought he was going to run the line he had another thing coming.

Clements started really well, with Sharpy having the biggest influence on the game.  By dropping off Liam he acted as a target from which to play others into space, and he time and again showed good awareness and neat touches to move the ball out wide to Chris or infield to Ryan, both of whom were finding space.  It was Chris who broke the deadlock with a goal of the season contender.  Liam whipped in a cross from the right which was headed goal wards by Sharpy.  The keeper was beaten but the defender did well to head the ball clear.  Unfortunately for him, it fell to Chris on the right hand side of the box, and he blasted the ball into the far top corner for his first goal in Clements colours: 1-0.

Chris then had a great chance to double his tally for the season when Tapsell played him in.  He again struck the ball well, but this time the cross bar came to Mossop's rescue.

We were looking pretty comfortable up to this point, and it took a slice (literally) of luck to bring Mossops level.  A free kick from the half way line was mis-controlled on the edge of the box, which turned into a perfect through ball for the winger whose cross come shot floated over Conor and into the goal: 1-1.

Clements weren't about to let their heads drop, and retook the lead when Rob played the ball high into the box from a free kick.  No one picked up Sharpy, and he flicked then ball over his head from a standing start to elude the keeper, who was slow off his line: 2-1.

Frustratingly the lead only lasted a matter of minutes, as the Mossops lone striker broke free.  With Niki, Rob and Eye-Ball rushing for a pre-arranged meeting of the Defender's Union on the goal line, there wasn't enough room left for Eye-Ball's attempted clearance to avoid his comrades, and the ball ricocheted into the net.  The striker was pretty desperate to claim the goal, so I've decided to let him have it (I'm nice like that): 2-2.

I'm going to keep the description of the second half brief, as most of the football was too awful to be worthy of a mention.  Both sides had a couple of chances to snatch all three points; Sharpy had the best one for Clements when a diagonal ball across the box from Liam found him in space at the far post with just the keeper to beat.  Unfortunately Sharpy didn't know how much time he had, and snatched at the chance with his left foot when a right boot back across the keeper was what was required.  Liam also had a chance when Parker played a delightful ball into the box, however the defenders were equal to it on this occasion and cleared the danger.  Mossops had a penalty shout turned down (good job for Eye-Ball as that would have been three in four weeks), and when their striker had his one clear cut chance, he lifted it over Conor but wide of the target.

The performance may not have been pretty, but all twelve of us were able to walk off with our heads held high, knowing we had given our all for the team and each other.  Tapsell epitomised this, as he seemed to be all over the pitch at times, throwing himself into tackles and fighting for every ball.  Next week is going to be a much tougher match, even with a stronger side, but we want Purfleet Old Boys to know they have had a game, and that they are going to have to fight for the three points if they want them.

Eye-Ball

Next match: Sunday 24th November @ HOME (that's Blackshots Conor) v Purfleet Old Boys.

South Stifford 3 - 5 Clements Althletic

Clements continued their week on week improvement with a hard thought victory against one of the top sides in the league.  Our opposition may not have been at full strength (and played the first ten minutes with ten men), but that should take nothing away from a performance in which we showed the character and team spirit the manager has been asking for, as we lost the lead twice and came from behind once to win.  Dale has been so prolific in front of goal since joining last season that seeing him score two or three goals in a game isn't unusual.  In fact, in twenty-nine games he had scored four hat-tricks and found the net more than once on ten occasions.  He again gave a finishing master class to score an incredible five goals in today's game (O.K. Sharpy, we know you still hold the record of six), and move himself above Ryan in the goal scoring chart (I wonder if that was an incentive) and Clements up to fifth in the table.

Alec and Widge may take some credit for Dale's goals, as they moved him from the wing to up front partnering Liam.  Ben S filled the hole on the right wing, and Browne returned having now fully recovered from last week's hangover.  It was fantastic to see such a great turn out, but just a shame that you know from the start that not everyone can be involved in the action.

Subs: Sharpy, H, Ben A, Chris, Bunny, Parker, Gollum

With South Stifford's eleventh man on the way it was vital that Clements made the most of the one man advantage, and the team started brightly and created some good chances to take the lead.  Liam was unlucky not to score when his powerful header from a cross flew straight at the keeper who made a smart save.  Tapsell then found space in the midfield to break and play a perfectly weighted pass to Ben S who was overlapping on the right wing.  He kept his (milk) bottle to avoid two lunging tackles but then shot tamely at the keeper.  The pressure was building to secure a lead when Ben S decided to (milk) float a ball down the channel into the box.  Dale anticipated  the defender missing it a slotted the ball passed the keeper: 1-0.

The eleventh man arrived just as play was re-starting, and it did make a difference as some of the space down the wings disappeared.  Stifford started coming more into the game, and Eye-Ball had to be on hand twice to deny them an equaliser. First there was a clearance off the line after Conor had been beaten by a shot across the goal, and then Eye-Ball put the big striker under just enough pressure under the bar for him to miss a header into an open goal.  Stifford's deliveries from their left side were superb, as they looked for their heavyweight front man, who unsurprisingly chose to go up against Clements' welterweight left back.  A second attempt to win the ball from a cross was more successful for the striker, as he powered the ball - and Eye-Ball - into the back of the net: 1-1.

Eye-Ball continued to be as involved at one end as Dale was at the other, and got his own back on the Stifford Striker as he slid in just in time to block the shot before we were made to pay for a terrible offside line.  Eye-Ball was then the prime candidate for the conceding of a dubious penalty, as he stuck a leg out to intercept a throw only for an opposition player to fall over him from behind.  The penalty was dispatched into the top corner to give Stifford the lead: 2-1.

Going behind at this stage was a big test for our resolve, and we rose to the challenge to get back into the game before half time.  Liam challenged for the ball on the edge of the box and was fouled, allowing Dale to drive the ball into the far corner from the free-kick, leaving the keeper routed to the spot: 2-2.

The half time team talk was mainly positive, but we knew we needed to be better organised across the pitch.  One change was made, with Ben S moving to right back, and H coming on for Browne on the right wing.

H's introduction definitely made an impact, as he made a real nuisance of himself; battling for every ball and linking up well on the right with Ben S.  Last time we played Stifford it was evident that we were the team who tired, having spent most of the game chasing the ball.  On this occasion our improved possession stats and energy off the ball seemed to have the opposite effect, with Tapsell and Foggy finding themselves with more time on the ball and dominating the midfield.

Clements took the lead when a ball was played over the top (assist up for grabs here as I missed the pass), and the defender made a hash of clearing the ball to leave Dale with the simple (unless your Foggy) task of slotting the ball passed the keeper: 2-3.

It took a rare error from Rob to get Stifford back in the game as he scuffed an attempted back pass, which put Niki's brother clear through on goal.  He still had work to do, but showed who got the striker genes as he powered an unstoppable shot across Conor: 3-3.

There was yet another opportunity for Eye-Ball to make a goal line clearance before the lead was once again reclaimed by Clements as Ryan cut in from the left and dribbled into the box.  A rash tackle saw the ball ricochet into Dale's path for another tap in: 3-4.

A big moment of controversy then followed as Clements pushed out from a corner.  The ball was played back over the top and Joe Law ran through on goal, round Conor and slotted the ball home.  Ben A had already raised the flag as there were players in offside positions, and the referee immediately blew his whistle.  Joe was convinced he had run in from an onside position, and protested vehemently (I won't repeat what he actually said to preserve the Law family's good name).  The ref's big mistake was blowing up immediately instead of letting play go on before consulting his linesman.  What followed was a long delay and lots of arguing with the ref that tarnished a good contest.  Fortunately the ref finally did the only thing he really could do (without turning Clements on him as well) which was to stick to his decision and give the offside.

Clements regrouped, and put the game beyond doubt thanks to an unstoppable penalty into the top corner from Dale, who had been scythed down in the box: 3-5.

So Clements secured the three points, and Niki secured bragging rights (at least until we play Stifford again in the cup).

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 17th November @ Home v Mossops

Goal scoring chart

Clements Athletic 4 - 2 S.S.C. Orsett

Clements deservedly picked up their first win of the league campaign thanks to two goals from Ryan and one each from Tapsell and Liam.  It wasn't as comfortable as the scoreline suggests, as a two goal lead was wiped out with 12 minutes to go.  Clements showed the character and fight that Niki had demanded in his pre-match speech to restore the two goal winning margin that our overall performance deserved.

Alec and Widge were forced to make changes, with Dale working and Browne declaring himself unfit for duty, and showing he had the team's best interests at heart.  Ben W was asked to play at right back, and Liam was given a friend up front in the form of H.  I'm sure Liam felt like Christmas and his birthday had come at once.

Subs: Sharpy, Bunny, Alan, Ben, Gollum, Parker

With the sun in our eyes and a strong wind blowing against us into the bottom left corner, it was always going to be difficult to keep the ball under control and on the pitch.  In fact Eye-Ball touched the ball more with his hands than feet in the first half, as countless balls forward from Orsett sailed off the pitch, carried by the strong wind.  Clements looked to get stuck in though, and deservedly took the lead when Ben W's throw-in was left by Liam for Ryan, who turned towards goal and struck the ball low into the corner of the net: 1-0.

Clements rode their luck a bit in the first half, and were thankful that Conor was on top form, as he tipped two looping efforts over the bar, and saved acrobatically to his right from a firmly struck free kick.  Orsett came closest to scoring when an attempted clearance ricocheted off an Orsett player, who found himself through on goal.  His effort hit the post, and rebounded kindly into a team mate's path.  Ben W (who put in a dominant display at right back despite being out of position) and Eye-Ball managed to get back on the line, and it was Ben who superbly managed to deflect the goal bound effort over the bar.

Clements had two great chances to take a two goal lead into the break.  Firstly Foggy hit a rasping effort from outside the box that hit the crossbar, and then H - who had been working hard down the channels - got to the right byeline and put in an excellent cross.  Unfortunately Liam couldn't connect from six yards out, and we had to settle for a slim one goal lead at half time.

Clements started the second half with purpose, knowing that a second goal was vital to neutralise any whiff of an Orsett comeback.  Ryan dully delivered when the ball was worked over from the left with Sharpy (on for Chris) to Liam on the right.  He forced the defender into a mistake, and the ball fell to Ryan who once again showed great composure to drive the ball low into the bottom corner: 2-0.

Any hope that Orsett would lie down and die was misplaced, as they continued to work hard in the belief that one goal could turn the match around.  The post once again came to Clements rescue in the second half, and another effort was put narrowly wide.  Orsett then pulled one back when a simple ball over the top split our defence in half, and the striker finished clinically: 2-1.

The lead was then wiped out when two unsuccessful attempts to clear the ball from a corner ended in it being blasted into the net through a sea of bodies: 2-2.

It was now time for Clements to show what they were made of, and so often our driving force, Tapsell once again popped up with a moment of brilliance to re-establish our lead.  With about 10 minutes left, Ben W threw in the ball to Tapsell from the right on the edge of the box.  His first touch turned the defender, and his second (with his left boot) sent the ball curling into the top corner: 3-2.

Clements weren't about to let the three points disappear again, and settled the game when Sharpy found himself in the box, and unselfishly played the ball across for Liam to fire into the net.  The trigger happy linesman did his best to deny Liam his second goal in as many weeks, but thankfully the referee was prepared to over rule him: 4-2.

With minutes remaining, Foggy had the chance to put the icing on the cake, and get a deserved goal for his tireless running and committed display in midfield.  His block from an attempted clearance saw him through on the goal, under no pressure and with just the keeper between him and goal.  Unfortunately he looked as out of place as a hog roast at a bar mitzvah, and the keeper cruelly blocked his tame effort.  We did later establish that even Eye-Ball has a better scoring record over the past 5 years, who can appreciate that the chance would have looked much harder to Foggy than to those more accustomed with finding the onion bag.

Whilst it would have been nice to stroll off with a larger winning margin and a clean sheet, it was really encouraging to see such a positive response to losing a two goal lead.  Much tougher challenges lie ahead, but there is no reason why we can't come off with our heads held high each week if we continue to give 100% for each other and the team.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 10th November. Away @ Belhus Park v South Stifford

Goal scoring chart

Clements Athletic 1 - 2 Sporting 77 (Essex Junior Cup Round 2)

Clements' Essex Cup run came to an end in challenging conditions, as a first half lead was overturned via a penalty and a freak, wind assisted effort.  The funny thing was, that even before our visitors from Braintree had but the ball in the net, we had already beaten ourselves through a general lack of team cohesion and willingness to fight for and support each other.  It's easy to expect too much, and perhaps be too hard on ourselves when there have been a lot of changes since the last season.  This was actually only our 4th competitive game, and our first in three weeks, so fitness and match sharpness was going to be an issue.  Still, we need to get used to having tough games, and still be able to come away feeling positive about the way we played.

Alec had a big headache this week with 16 players to choose from, including 6 who would ideally play in the centre of the park.  This included Ben W, who made his first appearance of the season.

Subs: Chris, Harry, Alan, Bunny, Gollum

The conditions have already been mentioned, and the gale force wind blowing into the bottom corner added to the poorly prepared pitch; the lines had been cut, but that was it.  Despite this, Clements started brightly and took the lead when Ryan's in swinging corner was headed in by Liam for his first goal of the season.

We weren't able to press home our advantage from here, and did a fair amount of defending.  Browne cleared one off the line, and Conor made a few good saves to keep us in front.  Possession was too easily lost, and hopeful balls up to the isolated figure of Liam just weren't working.

The mood at half time was pretty bleak, and this attitude followed us onto the pitch for the second half.  We had our chances, and when Tapsell broke and slid the ball through for Liam - who appeared to have held his run to beat the offside trap - the lead should have been doubled.  The linesman thought otherwise - actually his flag went up so quick I don't think he could have had time to think.  Sporting 77 then scored from the spot after the ball was lost in midfield, and Eye-Ball was a little slow to react to the ball in behind and ended up taking the man out before he had chance to shoot at goal: 1-1.

The wind was so strong that it was almost easier playing against it, and it played a big part in Sporting 77's second goal.  A speculative high ball seemed to be sailing over the bar, but then a gust of wind stopped it in its tracks, and it dropped out of Conors reach and under the crossbar: 1-2.

This was a mortal blow to an already waning side, and we found it hard to find the extra reserves to push forward and press for an equaliser.  Our best chance came when Ryan whipped in an awesome free kick from the left that somehow evaded all the players who were queuing up at the back post.  Niki and Conor put in some last ditch defending at the other end to keep the scoreline respectable, but the end result was the end of our run in the Essex Cup for another year.

It is unusual for me to not find more positives from a game, and I do think that, as a club we are at a bit of a crossroads and need to decide how we want to move forward.  Sharpy has rightly identified that we would benefit from bonding more as a team and I would urge as many of us to support him with this as we can.


Eye-Ball

Goal scoring chart

Next game: Sunday 3rd November @ Home v S.S.C. Orsett

Gallow United FC 2 - 3 Clements Athletic (Essex Junior Cup 1st Round)

Alarm bells started ringing when we turned up at the Great Baddow Recreation Ground to find two pitches and four teams already occupying the changing rooms.  The fact that Gallow had moved ground in recent years hadn't filter through, and it took ten minutes of phone calls and much appreciated help from the locals to work out that we should be the other side of Chelmsford.  Fortunately the referee and opposition were understanding, and the adventure had a happy ending as Clements gained entry to the next round with a 3-2 victory.  We didn't make it easy for ourselves, as a two goal lead was twice reduced to one goal thanks to our own mistakes.  We also failed to capitalise on a number of good chances to put the game beyond doubt, and ended up hanging on despite being far and away the better team.

Alec once again had the difficult job of choosing the starting line-up, and decided to pack the midfield whilst giving Liam his full debut up front.

Subs: Ben, H, Chris, Parker, Alan

There wasn't much time for a pre-match talk, but the main instruction was to try and get the ball down and play some football.  Clements tried to do this, and with the threesome in the middle working well together there tended to be options available.  Bunny especially was making time for himself with some neat touches and seemed to be the catalyst for all our good passing moves.  The one criticism would be that Liam was finding himself a bit isolated up front as we started the game with quite a defensive mindset.

The confidence of the side was boosted as we took the lead after about 15 minutes.  Dale was brought down on the edge of the area, and despite not being a regular free kick taker fancied his chances against a shaky looking wall.  His hunch paid off, as his well-driven effort flew through the wall, away from the keeper and into the net: 0-1.

The lead was extended soon after when Liam broke down the right and into the box.  He chose to ignore Eye-Ball, who had burst forward into the box, and instead the ball found its way back to Dale who side footed the ball into the top of the net: 0-2.

Clements were well on top now, and perhaps felt a little guilty for spoiling Gallow's Sunday morning.  Having played the ball out nicely from the back, Foggy then passed it back towards Niki who, under pressure and running towards goal attempted to slide the ball onto Conor's right foot.  Unfortunately his feeble touch and the long grass combined to turn his attempted back pass into a perfect pass for the Gallow forward, who slipped the ball into an empty net: 1-2.

Clements had chances to regain their two goal lead before the break, with one of the best falling to Tapsell following a scramble in the box from a corner.  Unfortunately Rob's naturally instinct to get in the way of any moving object was our downfall on this occasion, as he blocked the goal bound effort.  Ryan also put in a peach of an inswinging cross from the left, which none of the three or four Clements players who flung themselves at it could get on the end of.  So we had to settle for a one goal lead at the break.

H came on for the second half to give Liam some support up top, with Niki having a breather and Foggy moving back to the middle of defence.  Chris also replaced Ryan on the left.  These were the first of a number of changes as Clements took advantage of the roll on roll off Essex Cup rule.  Again Clements looked comfortable, and were soon creating chances.  H was making a nuisance of himself and combined with Liam and Dale on a number of occasions, but they were unable to find the back of the net.  Tapsell also came to life in the second half, and got on the end of a corner from Dale to head Clements into a 3-1 lead.

We should have put Gallow to bed from this point, but a number of chances went narrowly wide.  We again were instrumental in our own downfall, as Eye-Ball did well to get a foot in the way of a cross into the box with a man behind him.  The ball came to Conor a bit quick, and the split second indecision as to whether or not the referee would blow for a pass back was enough for a Gallow player to get in the way of Conor's attempted clearance, and the ball ricocheted into the net: 2-3.

The final 10 minutes basically consisted of Clements catching Gallow on the break, missing a chance and being put under pressure from long balls at the other end.  Niki redeemed his earlier error as Conor was once again unlucky when he rushed out the meet the ball and only succeeded in kicking it against the striker.  Every ricochet seemed to end up heading towards goal, and although Niki appeared to be treading water, he got back just in time to slide in a steer the ball round the post.  The Oaks defended valiantly for the last 5 minutes, with Tapsell especially leading by example as he threw himself at everything and worked hard to keep possession.

Dale also had a great chance to complete his hat-trick, but couldn't find the target from a tight angle, but fortunately we held on for our first win of the season, and a much deserved (and almost unheard of) home draw in the next round.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 13th October - Away @ Palmers v Mossops.

Goal Scoring Chart:

Clements Athletic 0 - 2 South Stifford

The pre-match talk centred around the quality of today's opposition, and what a tough game it was going to be.  South Stifford have gained promotion each season since forming in 2010, and they lived up to their billing as one of the favourites to repeat this feat again this season.  It therefore demonstrates the high standards we rightfully set ourselves, in so much as we were disappointed with our performance despite keeping a clean sheet for the first 60 minutes, and having a couple of good opportunities to take the lead.

Having gained an early reputation for tardiness, Conor had redeemed himself more recently, and sometimes was even the first person to arrive for a game.  Unfortunately old habits die hard, and although you may say it is unlucky to have a puncture, and then change the tyre to find you also have one on the spare, there was a sense of the inevitable as Alec had to find a replacement goal keeper with a few minutes to go until kick off.  Fortunately Foggy was happy to step up, with H also returning to make it a 4-4-2 formation.

Subs: Bunny, Alan, Conor

Clements spent most of the first half defending, with South Stifford displaying the qualities we keep saying we want to emulate.  They passed the ball around, making neat triangles and hassled well when not in possession.  Clements defended bravely, but every time the ball was won back, within one pass or long ball possession was relinquished and we were back to chasing the ball and defending our goal.  Thankfully Foggy was showing no signs of rust despite it being six years since he had played between the sticks, and he dominated his area and came out at speed to thwart numerous chances.  The cross bar and some last ditch defending were also required to stop us facing more than a slope related uphill battle in the second half.

We may not have had much possession, but our directness almost paid off when H found himself clean through on goal.  Unfortunately his touch to take the ball round the keeper was too heavy, and the ball went behind for a corner.  So we had to settle for parity at the break.

Chasing the ball is tiring work, and add to this the confidence lost when every touch sees you under pressure, it is perhaps not surprise that Clements completely lost their shape and composure in the second half.  South Stifford didn't really have the pace to get in behind us, but they pushed us further and further back, and it was only a matter of time until their possession in and around the box resulted in shooting opportunities that they capitalised on twice: 0-2.

The introduction of fresh legs in the form of Bunny, Al and Foggy (who was replaced in goal by Conor) wasn't enough to galvanise some life into the team, and we basically limped over the line.  It was a shame that we weren't able, collectively as a team, to raise our game on going behind.  Alec is absolutely right in saying that we need to play the ball on the floor more, but for that to work the man on the ball needs people to find space and demand the ball from him.  Too often it felt like we just stood and watched as someone received the ball, and with there being lots of teams in this league who will be on you in a flash, options need to be available before a touch is taken.

I would urge people not to get too down about days like today.  The club has undergone a lot of changes this season, and it's going to take time for us to find our feet.  It was nice to not lose a game two seasons ago, but surely it is a lot more satisfying to be in a challenging league, and we need to play as a team, in style we should, regardless of the opposition or the scoreline.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 6th October - Essex Junior Cup- Away v Gallows United - meeting time to be confirmed

Clements Athletic 3 - 3 Orsett Green

A new season, a new name, a lot of new faces, a new management team, and a lot of new opponents to face.  This was always going to be a tough opening game against an Orsett Green side who amassed a respectable 15 points in the Premier Division last season, and Clements (nee The Oaks) showed good spirit to snatch a point having lost a two goal lead and been one behind with 5 minutes to play.

It's early yet to decide whether the pairing of Alec and Widge will be Fergurson and McClaren or more like Sven and Nancy, and they picked a starting eleven that had a familar look, but included new signings Foggy and Chris who were in for retirees Mikey and Nathan.  Browne also started, and is looking to make the right back shirt his own following the departure of Deano, the club's longest serving member.

Subs: Sharpy, Ben, Alan, Ed

Clements started brightly and had an early chance to take the lead when Ryan found space to shoot in the box, but unfortunately his curling shot went wide.  Ryan was then heavily involved in Clements taking the lead, when his in swinging corner was met by a powerful header at the back post from Bunny: 1-1.

The Oaks extended their lead in the first half, when a goal kick from Rob was won in the air by Ryan, despite him being surrounded by about four Orsett players.  His flick on put Dale clear, who had much too much pace for Orsett's defenders, and he slotted calmly past the keeper to get his goal tally off to another flying start.

Despite pressure from Orsett, Parker was doing a fine job debutising for Conor, and we were able to keep the two goal lead in tact at the break.

The second half started well, but quickly went down hill when two key midfielders were lost through injury.  First Foggy and then Bunny were withdrawn, and despite new signing Ben coming on and getting stuck in, and Sharpy doing what Sharpy does, Orsett took this disruption as an opportunity to pile on the pressure.

St Clement is the patron saint of sailors, and we definitely needed his help as our lead quickly evaporated and we were soon 3-2 down and sinking fast.  Tired legs and a loss of shape were really to blame for the goals we succeeded (although Parker might be questioning the grip on Conor's gloves), and it took a real effort to pick ourselves up in the last 10 minutes and keep fighting.  But fight we did, and when the ball squirmed under the body of the Orsett keeper and clearly over the line following Ryan's well struck shot through a crowded area, I feel that justice was done as the referee awarded the goal.  Every point in this league is going to be hard fought in this league, and we definitely worked hard for this one.

Eye-Ball

Oaks Athletic 5 - 2 Greyhound

The 2012/13 season was in danger of ending on a sour note as the Oaks found themselves 2-0 down at half time to relegated Greyhound.  This wouldn't have been especially disappointing as it was Milesy's last game in charge.  Fortunately his half time rant did the trick, and we rallied in the second half to come out 5-2 winners.

Subs: Browne, Nick, Sharpy

The come back started early in the second half when Ryan linked up with H on the left, and his cross was blocked by an arm.  It was debatable as to whether the infringement was inside the area, but who cares! Dale calmly slotted home: 1-2.

Parity was restored when Deano's headed clearance from a corner fell to Ryan.  His ball up the line was collected by Dale, who sprinted to the bye line before finishing from a tight angle: 2-2.

Ryan was again involved in the third, and as this time he went from provider to finisher.  His sweetly struck dipping volley from outside the box on the left was a definite contender for goal of the season: 2-3.

The Oaks were now in full flow, and Ryan collected his second goal of the game as he coolly slotted home after being put through by Bunny: 2-4.

Greyhound were well and truly beaten by this point, and it showed as no one moved to prevent Bunny sneaking in to power a header past the keeper from Nathan's long throw: 2-5.

It was great to finish a long tough season on a high, and to give the likes of Milesy, Deano and Nathan the send off they deserve for their outstanding service and dedication to the Oaks over the years.

 Eye-Ball

Oaks Athletic 2 - 5 Springhouse F.C.

Springhouse gained revenge for the 5-0 thrashing by the Oaks earlier in the season, by putting the same number past the Oaks in this return fixture. The Oaks showed good character to come back from 2-0 down, but were outdone by three long range efforts in the second half. Deano picked up an injury playing on Saturday, and with Rob watching his dad run the London Marathon this meant Nathan took up the vacant centre back position as well as the Captain's armband. Browne deputised at left back with Eye-Ball moving to the right.

Subs: Gollum, Nick, Harry

Defeat means the Oaks will definitely finish 6th

It was a hot, sunny day and although this was a pleasant change it meant you didn't want to be the team chasing the ball. Unfortunately this was the Oaks, as Springhouse's experienced midfield took control in the early exchanges. They kept the ball well, and put the Oaks under a lot of pressure when out of possession. They took the lead when a clearance from a corner caught the Oaks out at the back, and the striker raced clear to score: 0-1.

The lead was doubled from a long throw that the Oaks failed to clear, and a Springhouse player pounced on the loose ball: 0-2. The Oaks could have found themselves even further behind if it hadn't been for Connor (sporting a new short haircut), who pulled off a couple of fantastic saved including a one-on-one block and a flying save from a close range header that was reminiscent of David Seaman's save against Sheffield United.

The Oaks pulled a goal back before half time when Ryan's corner was met by Tapsell at the back post, and despite the best efforts of the defender on the line, he couldn't keep the ball out: 1-2.

There were some other good chances for the Oaks in the first half. Sharpy came close when he threw himself at a cross from Scott, but could only glance his header wide. Sharpy was involved again when he bravely challenged for the ball with the keeper. The loose ball dropped to Dale, but he couldn't avoid the defender on the line.

Harry replaced Scott at half time, and played on the right with Ryan switching to the left. The Oaks started the second half brightly, and scored a fantastic equaliser. Ryan played a diagonal ball into the box, where H was waiting and side footed the ball on the volley low into the far corner: 2-2.

The Oaks were unable to capitalise further as the Springhouse left winger cut inside and hit a shot into the top corner that was out of Connor's reach. This then became the story of the rest of the half as the Oaks midfield tired in the difficult conditions and allowed Springhouse time and space to try their luck from distance. The fourth was a scorcher from 35 yards, and there was quite a lot of controversy surrounding the fifth. A free kick was awarded on the edge of the area, and despite Connor obviously trying to get his wall set, the referee decided he would let Springhouse take the kick early and it was lifted into the goal off the post. The Oaks players were incensed that the referee hadn't made it clear that he would allow a quick kick, but the Oaks learnt a valuable lesson and will always position a man over the ball from now on.

It wasn't our day today, but it is always worth remembering that there are usually others having a worse day. On this occasion it was AFC Blackshots, who would have been odds on favourites to win the league. All they had to do was beat lowly Mossops in their final game. They obviously didn't bank on Mossop's determination to gain the win they needed to stay up, and Mossops ran out 4-3 winners, handing the league to Brema in the process. Although we can't now finish any better (or worse) than sixth, hopefully we can finish the season next week on a high as we take on Greyhound in our final game of the season. Will Dale get to 30 goals? Will Eye-Ball or Niki get a notch on the goals/assist chart? Will Sharpy last another 90 minutes? We'll find out on Sunday.

Eye-Ball

Next game: At home v Greyhound - 10:30 k.o.

Goal Scoring chart

Oaks Athletic 4 - 2 Mossops

Thank you to Mikey for providing the following report of Sunday's game

This was a game largely dictated by the wind, and if you pardon an old cliche, a game of two halves

With the oaks resting the Kenyons (it is marathon season afterall) It was an opportunity for a couple of the Oaks longer serving players to get a run out, namely Sharpy and Gollum.

Nathan handed the team by Milesy that looked like

subs: Ryan, Dale, Bunny

The first half kicked off and the wind was to play a major part, with the Oaks struggling to get out of their own half for long periods. Mossops created few clear cut chances despite their territorial advantage. However, midway through the first half they finally made it count when quick feet from probably their best player saw him beat a couple of players and fire low into the corner from the edge of the box, 1-0 Mossops.

Mossops continued to put pressure on, albeit wind assisted, but the Oaks stood firm until just before half time, when one of the few attacks we did mount resulted in a ball over the top seeing Nathan race onto it, right side of the area. Mossops keeper come running out like David James the night after playing his PS2 and duly took him out resulting in an Oaks penalty.

Sharpy put the ball on the spot, despite Jose Luis Chilavert - I mean Connor - coming forward looking to take it. He smashed the ball high into the centre, no mistake and the Oaks went into half time one apiece.

The Oaks made a couple of changes at half time, The Kenyons replacing Brownie and Gollum respectively, with Mikey slotting in at Left Back and Sharpy dropping back into Midfield.

The wind was to again dictate the game, as this time it was the Oaks turn to enjoy vast periods spent in the oppostion half.

The Oaks began to create chances, and whilst a few were squandered, they finally took the break through with one of the few actually decent footballing moments of the game, when a decent move saw Dale get in behind the Mossops defence on the right side of the box. He picked out a good square ball to Ryan who tucked home from 2 yards (something many an Oaks player has found difficult this season) 2-1 Oaks

As quickly as the Oaks had gained the lead, they gave it away. One of only a handful of Mossops attacks in the 2nd half saw a cross watched by the Oaks defence, as the centre forward stole in to flick the ball home from close range. 2-2.

From here on the Oaks piled on the pressure, yet struggled to string a pass together or play much football. The gap in quality did finally show through however albeit from a more tradition Oaks attack. A long throw from Dale saw Ash, who had recently replaced Nathan, steal in at the back post to nod home. Not too long after, Taps played a long searching ball, that saw Bunny hit it first time on the half volley from the right side of the box, the shot looping over the keeper, giving Bunny his 2nd, and the goal of the game. 4-2 the Oaks and that was pretty much that.

Goal Scoring Chart:

Next game: Sunday 21st April @ Home v Springhouse

Oaks Athletic 1 - 2 Lakeside Reserves

This was a much improved performance from the Oaks, both in terms of the football and the attitude. There really wasn't much to choose between the sides, but in the end it came down to chance conversion and the god of long range speculative efforts once again being with our opposition.

With three games left there are still nine points up for grabs

With Connor making a Wembley appearance (as a spectator), we were grateful to Scott for taking the gloves. In every other position Milesy once again had a wealth of options, and a lot of fire power in reserve with three strikers on the bench (or that's what they call themselves anyway).

subs: Sharpy, Nick, Harry, Browne, Gollum

With the sun shining, the grass freshly cut and the lines painted (with only four games left it's about time) conditions were perfect for an enjoyable game of football, and this was a competitive but good natured encounter. Both sides were playing to their strengths, with the Oaks dominating in the air and creating good chances from the superb set piece deliveries from Ryan and Nathan. It was from one of these that the Oaks took the lead, when Nathan's long throw hit Tapsell from an attempted clearance and fell to Mikey at the back post. He took full advantage of the lack of marking and clear goal to slot the ball into the net: 1-0.

Lakeside's main strength was the pace and energy of their midfield, who would play it up to the big target man before racing forward to support him in attack. With a lot of the attention in the middle, their speedy attacking midfielder/centre forward latched onto a ball over the top down our right, and supplied an excellent finish to lift the ball over Scott and into the empty net: 1-1.

There were not many clear cut chances to talk of in this game, which meant it was all going to come down to who capitalised on them when they arrived. The Oaks had the two best chances to firstly take a 2-0 lead, and then a chance to go 2-1 in the second half. Midfielders naturally get fewer chances to score, and the fact that Tapsell and Bunny have 18 goals between them this season shows how reliable they are in front of the posts. It just didn't work for them today as first Tapsell shot wide with the goal at his mercy when Eye-Ball's ball into the box eluded the Lakeside defence, and then Bunny found himself free at the back post but got a little over-excited and completely missed the ball.

Lakeside then provided the proverbial kick in the teeth when their right winger picked the ball up some 35 yards from goal and decided to try his luck. The contact he made with the outside of his foot wasn't that good, but resulted in a ridiculous amount of swerve. As a result for every inch Scott dived, the ball moved two inches away from him and the ball crept just inside the post: 1-2.

The Oaks deserved at least a point from the game, and threw everything they had at Lakeside. Milesy made three attacking substitutions in the second half, and we finished the game with four strikers on the pitch. Still, every header or shot at goal was met by a defender or the goal keeper. The best of the late chances fell to Niki, who is still waiting for his first Oaks goal. He made a good contact with his header from a corner, but there were just too many bodies between him and the goal.

As the Oaks committed more men forward it was inevitable that Lakeside would catch us on the break, and should have scored again had it not been for some woeful finishing, firstly when their winger kicked wide from one yard, and then the same player blasted over from a similar distance.

The referee's whistle finally put pay to any hope of the Oaks getting any points. Still it wasn't all bad: I got to the pub this time before the sausages were all eaten.

Three games left now, and all against teams that we have already beaten this season. Let's try our best to finish in style.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 14th April @ Home v Mossops - 1030 KO.

AFC Blackshots 6 - 2 Oaks Athletic

This week's game was disappointing for a number of reasons. Obviously the scoreline doesn't make pretty reading as an Oaks fan, but even worse was the performance and the reaction to individual and collective errors of which there were too many to count. I realise that it is easy to get caught up in the passion and intensity of the moment, but when you think about it in the cold light of day you can find an argument for the fact that we are much too harsh on ourselves and each other. At the centre of this argument is the opposition - AFC Blackshots. Because of the familiarity and rivalry between our two sides, the fact that Blackshots are a very good side is often overlooked. They've only lost one league game all season, and play with the consistency, confidence, swagger and determination of a team who have it in their own hands to win the league (remind you of anyone?). It's therefore not surprising that we made more mistakes than usual, as teams like this don't give you as much time on the ball, or allow players the freedom to find space to receive passes. Mistakes are also more likely to be punished, as they have the energy and quality to break in numbers and put away their chances. This then becomes a vicious circle, as our own confidence and energy levels drop and more mistakes are inevitable.

It's good that expectations are high, and of course nobody likes losing, but I'd encourage everyone to treat each game (regardless of the outcome) as part of a learning curve. I think we've done fantastically well in our first season in this league - this is Blackshots's third season in Div 1 and they finished 7th first time round - and there is so much more than results that make this a great squad to be a part of: enough of us turn up every week to give Milesy a selection headache; we all get on pretty well and can have a laugh both before the game and in the pub afterwards; we have no pre-madonna types and a good mix of old and young players; the club is run the right way with Milesy and Trev taking on all the admin to allow us to just get on with playing football; we have our only weekly blog; we are a pretty diverse punch but value and respect each other. It's this last point that is most important, and to me it means that we all have our own strengths that make the team function as a whole (and these aren't just strengths in terms of what we can do with a football). We should value what each person brings to the squad, and respect the fact that we all have our weaknesses, some of which manifest themselves as mistakes on the football pitch. I also know that we are all our own harshest critics, and will worry that some of the respect we have all earned would have been lost as a result of these mistakes. This is why encouragement, a hand on the shoulder, and some constructive advice is what is needed rather than the two most damaging responses which involve pointing the finger of blame or worst still, doing and saying nothing at all.

Subs: Sharpy, Parker, Browne, Harry, Gollum, Nick (who found his way there having driven himself for the first time, but an hour late having forgot to put his clocks forward - name and shame!)

I'm not going to dwell too much on the details of the match as we just need to move on. We went two nil down in the first half through two soft goals. The first was a penalty, which Connor was unlucky not to save as he got a much better contact with the spot kick than he had with the player when the kick was awarded. Connor was also involved with the second when he got caught in two minds and decided to punch rather than catch a ball into the box. The close proximity of a sizeable Blackshots player made this the wrong option and the ball ricocheted off him and into the net. We pulled one back before half-time through a sublime curling finish - through a crowded box - from Ryan when Tapsell's flick-on was presented to him just inside the box by an opposition defender.

We created more good chances in the first half with Ryan rising well (but heading wide) from Nathan's cross, Dale blazing just high and wide of the far post from a tight angle, and Mikey being unable to generate any power with a header from a looping cross to the back post. We also had a good shout for a penalty when the defender conceded a corner via his arm. Although the whistle had gone, it's still worth mentioning Deano's unconventional attempt at clearing the ball from a corner as he smashed it against the underside of our own cross-bar.

The second half was were it all really went wrong, as we lost our shape, composure and a few marbles following two copy cat goals from Acer Lawrence. Rob's boy doesn't have the greatest reputation for the way he conducts himself during a match (Rob knows exactly what H thinks of him now), but there is no deny that as good as his Dad is at stopping goals, Acer is as prolific at putting the ball in the back of the net. We presented him with two chances, and he took them both with identical lobbed finishes.

We then conceded again from the spot following an awesome two handed save on the line from Tapsell (at least his good looks were protected), and a break away goal when possession was lost and we were left short at the back. Connor again got hands to the spot kick, but he didn't get enough of his body behind it (which when you haven't got much to start with is pretty vital). We did pull one back when Dale played a one two with his brother before racing clear to score.

There were some other good things to note in this match: H came on for Deano and had a massive hissy fit; Sharpy managed to play about 20 minutes in central midfield without collapsing; Browne came on to charge up and down the right wing; Ryan put Mikey through one-on-one but the keeper saved; Tapsell made another awesome clearance off the line (with his head this time); Connor made a flying save for the cameras from a free kick; and Rob missed out on a chance to score when he was taken by surprise when his youngest boy put in a late bid for extra Easter eggs by not flagging him offside when everyone moved up following a corner.

The great thing about football is there is always next week to put things right (provided it isn’t the last game of the season). It’s going to be tough again against Lakeside, but we know we should have beaten them last time so this should be an extra incentive to go one better this time.

Eye-Ball

Goal Scoring Chart

S.S.C. Orsett 1 - 4 Oaks Athletic

The last time these two sides met, the Oaks gave away a two goal lead and allowed Orsett to leave with a point. There was no such complacency this time, as the Oaks put in a controlled performance in challenging conditions to end a three game losing run.

The day didn't get off to the best start. Everyone (including Connor) turned up at Orsett Rec before 10, but there was no sign of the key for the padlock to the box that controlled the roller shutters for the changing rooms. This meant us waiting outside until 10 past, when the two Orsett players who had turned up in Keyways vans finally decided to put their training to good use. In the meantime a ball had been lost on the roof, and H went arse over tit on the wet ground.

With Lakeside and Springhouse still to play, finishing fourth is still a possibility

H's theatricals didn't prevent him being rewarded for his good performance last week with another start:

Subs: Parker, Scott, Nick, Browne

The first half saw the Oaks kicking up hill, against the wind on a boggy and uneven pitch. It really wasn't the right conditions for smooth passing, and our best efforts came from quick breaks. Dale had the best of our early chances following some neat interchanges with H, but seemed determined to continue practising blasted the ball over from six yards.

The Oaks had to absorb a lot of early pressure, and must have defended at least 6 corners in the opening 20 minutes. Our defending was solid, and included a fantastic headed clearance from under the bar from Niki, with the ball certain to enter the goal.

Our hard work defending our own goal was finally rewarded when we won a corner of our own. Ryan swung the ball in, and when Tapsell's effort fell loose in the box, the oldest man on the pitch (that's Rob in case you were wondering if the oppo had someone even older) reacted the quickest to prod the ball into the net: 0-1.

We needed to make Orsett pay for not taking any of their early chances, and Tapsell and Dale duly obliged. Tapsell broke through the middle and unselfishly set Dale clear on the right. His initial effort was blocked as the keeper rushed out, but it squirmed under him to allow Dale to hurdle him and side foot into an empty net: 0-2.

Our performance in this first half was far below what we had achieved in our defeat to Brema last week, but in true Oaks fashion we were just doing enough to stay on top against a team who maybe had one eye on their upcoming cup final. However, we were to get a wake up call before half time when an unstoppable free kick from just outside the area was dispatched into the roof of our net: 1-2.

The Oaks didn't need much reminding of what had happened in the reverse fixture, and went out for the second half with renewed determination to put the game out of Orsett's reach. We almost got off to the best possible start when Dale broke into the box and lifted the ball over the keeper. Unfortunately there was just too much on it, and the ball bounced off the top of the cross bar and behind.

The third goal for the Oaks was to be scored by Dale. I don't actually remember Connor having to make a save in the second half, but this was mainly because he was so good at coming off his line to claim the ball before the oppositions strikers could get on the end of anything. On one such occasion, Connor collected the ball and threw it out quickly to Ryan on the half way line. Kenyon-The-Younger then played in Dale on the left, who sped away from Orsett's tiring defence to score: 1-3.

The two goal cushion seemed to give the Oaks extra confidence, and the chances started to come thick and fast. A couple fell to Nathan, who was finding a lot of space on the right when the ball was on the left side of the pitch. He was picked out at least twice with good diagonal balls, but each time he unleashed a shot he was denied by superb saves from the Orsett keeper. Tapsell also had a good chance when he found space at the back post from a corner swung in by Scott (who had come on along with Nick and Parker in place of H, Ryan and Deano). Tapsell is usually deadly from here, but got his angles wrong on this occasion and headed wide.

It was left to Bunny to add the icing to the cake, when Rob turned from goal poacher to provider. Against George and Dragon a couple of weeks ago, I remember us berating how none of the rebounds in the area fell to our players. This game proved that what goes around comes around, as Rob's effort from a corner was blocked and Bunny was closest to curl the ball into the bottom corner, off the man who had drifted away from post guarding duties. Now Bunny doesn't say a lot, so I felt somewhat privileged to be close enough to hear a little shout of "Yes!" to accompany the fist pump that passed for Bunny's goal celebration: 1-4.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 24 March 2013 @ Home v Greyhound

Goal Scoring Chart:

Brema United 5 - 4 Oaks Athletic

We may have lost this match, but I for one handed my flag back to the referee with an immense feeling of pride at being an Oaks player. I was proud for the way we played, especially given that the memories of the 8-2 humiliation at Brema's hands were still relatively fresh. Compared to our opposition, I was also proud of the way we conducted ourselves and supported each other. The way Brema's wholly unpleasant manager chastised and berated his own team - let alone his lack of respect for us - and the fighting between team-mates, reminded me that I'd much rather play for a team that loses every week but can have a laugh about it down the pub afterwards.

The Oaks lose a little ground on fifth spot

With 7 games left to play, Milesy wants to give everyone as much game time as possible and so rested Eye-Ball to give Browne a much deserved 90 minutes. The only other change was in the formation, with Harry replacing the injured Mikey and partnering Dale in attack.

subs: Scott, Nick, Eye-Ball, Parker

The Oaks were by far the better team in the first half. By playing a deep line, we were able to nullify the threat posed by Brema's tricky strikers, and Ryan, Tapsell, Bunny and Nathan were on top in the midfield. So much so that time and time again they found time and space to release Dale and Harry, who were exploiting the high line being played by the opposition and making great runs in behind. We all know that our game is about picking out through balls for the strikers at the earliest opportunity, but for much of this season Dale has been the only target. With H there in support we had double the options, and the two young strikers were running the Brema defence ragged. Their movement was superb, and their willingness to chase down everything lead to the opening goal for the Oaks. Tapsell's searching ball into the box from the right found the Brema keeper and defender in disagreement over who would deal with it. This left the surprised H with the chance to sneak between them and redirect the ball past the keeper with the outside of his boot: 0-1.

Despite the Oaks dominance, Brema were still a big threat when they got into our box, and when the ball was played back in following a set piece, the defence didn't quite move out quick enough, and the ball was tapped into the net from 6 yards. They were also the next team to get the ball in the net, but when the striker volleyed the ball home following a flick on, Eye-Ball correctly flagged for offside (squad!): 1-1.

The Oaks continued their good worked, and they deservedly reclaimed the lead when Ryan picked out H with a diagonal ball from left to right. H raced into the box and finished superbly; smashing the ball into the roof of the net: 1-2.

With H getting a lot of the attention, Dale was finding a lot of space which, with the help of the supply from midfield, he was fully exploiting. Unfortunately Dale was having a rare off day in front of goal, and a number of chances he would have usually easily converted were missed. The best chance of all was from a fantastic defence splitting ball from Nathan. Dale raced clear, but with only the keeper to beat the ball was blazed over the bar. The person who was most critical of these missed chances was Dale himself, but it is hard to be too harsh when 90% of the work is getting into those goal scoring positions in the first place, and there has not been anybody better than Dale at this to play for the Oaks in recent years.

With Brema's attacking threat, there was always a danger that we would be made to rue these missed chances, and so it was when a hopeful ball towards goal took the slightest of deflections that took it away from Connor and into the back of the net: 2-2.

There were a lot fewer clear cut chances in the opening exchanges of the second half, and it took a fluky cross/shot to give Brema an undeserved lead. The ball was struck with venom from the left edge of the penalty area, and found its way into the net via the near post: 3-2.

With Oaks now chasing the game gaps started to appear, and Brema found more space to exploit their dangerous attacking options. The Oaks conceded again, with Browne getting caught last man, and despite his valiant effort on the line the ball still crept over. A fifth quickly followed when a deflected shot fortuitously fell to a Brema player on the edge of the six yard box, and he had the easy job of tapping home: 5-2.

There is no way that the Oaks deserved to be 3 goals down, and they could easily have put their heads down and felt sorry for themselves. To the contrary, they showed great character and pride to keep pushing right up to the final whistle. With Scott and Nick on for H and Bunny the intent was shown to keep attacking. Even Niki got in on the action, but couldn't squeeze the ball past the five bodies that were between him and the goal when the ball fell to him in the area. The Oaks were always vulnerable to being caught on the break now, and great commitment was shown firstly by Tapsell - who raced back to intercept a goal bound effort and redirect it onto the bar thanks to applying the perfect amount of shin, and Connor who was left to defend on his own following an Oaks corner, and raced off his line to make a perfectly timed tackle some 35 yards from the comfort of his own goal.

You can't keep Dale out of the goals for long, and he got the Oaks back to within a goal of a remarkable comeback. Firstly he was played in down the left by Bunny, and for the first time decided to give his left foot a go. It proved an inspired choice as the ball curled away from the keeper and entered the goal via the far post: 5-3.

Dale's second - and the Oaks fourth - came via the penalty spot. Nathan finally got his assist when his shot was blocked by hands inside the box. Dale stepped up, and despite the best efforts of the opposition to put him off, he stroked the ball calmly into the back of the net: 5-4.

The final ten minutes were set up for the Oaks to find an equaliser, and Ryan came within inches of supplying it. His cracking drive on the run from 30 yards was destined for the top corner, and it took a great save from Brema's keeper to keep it out.

The Oaks may have left with no points, but through this performance they should have gained a lot of self belief and team spirit that should convince us that we can have an enjoyable and successful last 6 games of the season.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 17th March - Away @ Orsett Rec v SSC Orsett - 10:30 k.o.

Goal scoring chart