Under 18 Team Match Reports for Season
2004-2005
Sunday
24th April 2005 - EJA
Ipswich Wanderers 2 - 4 Felixstowe & Walton United (1-2)
Squad:-
S.Pitts, J.Walsh, J.Rodwell, F.Fox, S.Dickerson, J.Roberts, S.Wright, M.Tomiak,
L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips Subs:- J.Murray (Roberts).
We ended the season on a high with our very last game of a long season, in the
Eastern Junior Alliance away at Ipswich Wanderers. With no less than six call
off’s Terry did 
well
to pull in a squad of 12 players, which included several of the younger lads,
and many thanks to them for turning out at short notice.
It was a good game
of football that ensued, but we looked the more dangerous in attack and this
proved to be the case as we ran out
4-2 winners.
Michael Tomiak gave us the lead heading in a free
kick, and Tom Donnelly doubled our lead mid-way
through the half. We then lost Jimmy Roberts from centre back, spraining his
ankle. This meant quite a shuffle round as our only sub, under 16 Joe Murray is
a striker. It unsettled the back four as Foxy and Stacey had to get used to
playing at centre half together, and in this period Wanderers pulled a goal
back. HT-1-2.
The second half
was again good to watch with our hosts working very hard and our lads playing
some neat stuff. At the end of one move Ashley Phillips was upended in the box
just as he was about to pull the trigger, and Tom Donnelly
thumped in the resultant penalty. Another good move saw Michael Tomiak skip
round a defender, shoot across goal, the keeper made a good save, but could only
parry the ball out to Luke Thurston who made no
mistake.
It all bodes well
for next season as nine of today’s squad were first years. This win should see
us finish a very credible 4th place in the Eastern Junior Alliance
North East Division.
Thursday 21st April 2005 - RYL - Championship play-off
Quarter Final
South Division Winners v West Division Winners
Team Photo
Felixstowe & Walton United 0 - 3 Haverhill Rovers (0-2)
Felixstowe:
K.Algar, S.Wright, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, J.Roberts, J.Willett, T.Donnelly,
M.Tomiak, L.Hunn, L.Thurston, A.Phillips Subs:- S.Dickerson (Rodwell),
A.Leeson (Thurston) , L.Elliston (Tomiak).
Our season finally
came to an end in this champions play off game at home to Haverhill Rovers.
Although we lost 3-0 this was not a true reflection of the game, for once our
luck in front of goal deserted us as we failed to score for only the second time
this season. A win for either side by the odd goal would have been a fair
result.
We were the better
side in the first half without a doubt, as we attacked with good football and
purpose, and we carved out a host of chances, but poor finishing, good defending
and an awful lot of luck on the visitor’s part kept us out. Haverhill then
showed why they have scored so many goals, when on their first attack they
scored, but disappointing from our point of view the amount of time he had to
line up his shot. We had plenty of chances to get back on level terms and the
lads were playing really well, but just before the break, a lunge from James in
the box saw their tricky winger go down and the ref pointed to the spot, and
left us all scratching our heads as to how we went into the break 2-0 down.
The second half
saw Haverhill shade it, but still we made good chances and failed to score each
time. Once again their pacey winger undid us and scored a third, which
effectively sealed the game. We came close a couple more times but we just could
not find the back of the net, fortunately a rare problem for us this season.
That said it’s been a fantastic season and with the lads having played so much
football, most doubling up in the Alliance, perhaps it was a game too far. I
would just like to thank everybody who have passed on their congratulations to
us all, also many thanks to those parents that have followed us through thick
and thin, and provided the transport for the team all season. Once again I would
like to thank the whole squad for their fantastic effort this season.
Thursday 14th April 2005 - RYL -
Team Photo
Tiptree United 3 - 4
Felixstowe & Walton United (1-0)
Squad:-
K.Algar, S.Dickerson, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy,
M.Tomiak, L.Hunn, L.Thurston, A.Phillips Subs:- S.Wright, L.Elliston
(Dickerson), J.Roberts (Jacobs), T.Donnelly (Fiddy).
“WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS”
What a night, a
real rollercoaster that saw us go from delight to the depths of despair to sheer
ecstasy in a period of 30 minutes. 1-0 down at half time, 2-1 up with half an
hour to go, 3-2 down with 22 minutes on the watch, and then we score two goals
in the last seven minutes to take the title.
We started the
game with purpose and had Tiptree on the back foot for a good twenty minutes,
but we looked nervous in front of goal as our hosts defended very well, and
their keeper was in inspired form pulling off three cracking saves. As the half
went on and we failed to score our play became a little rushed as we began
chasing it. Players were hooking the ball on too early instead of putting a foot
on it when they had time. Sure enough Tiptree who are certainly a good side took
the lead with a great strike after some hesitancy on our part. HT-1-0.
The second half
saw the lads really go for it, applying a lot of pressure on the hard working
Tiptree players. At last the goal we deserved came courtesy of the ‘never say
die’ Ashley Phillips, with his right foot as well.
We were buzzing now and Liam Hunn then put us ahead
with his 23rd goal of the season. We were so ecstatic that we totally
switched off and within ten minutes found ourselves 3-2 down, which happens at
this level, with the quality of opposition you meet week in week out.
The clock was
running down, we were creating chance after chance but it did not look like
happening, Ashley was heard to shout “come on lads we can still do this”, but we
were resigned to losing on the sideline. Ashley’s comment sums up the squad this
season they just never give in, and with seven minutes to go Liam Hunn got to
the by-line he squared the ball across for Luke Thurston
to thump in the equaliser. Tiptree were all at sea now and the lads could sense
the win, and with just two minutes remaining Ash Phillips
grabbed his second, with his right foot again, to win the game and secure the
championship. We had real heroes out there tonight, but man of the match goes to
Joe Willett who did a fantastic job on the leagues golden boot winner Jamie
Ricks. Joe was outstanding and is developing into a first class centre half.
Also, a mention for Kai Algar our goalkeeper, who has been superb all season.
I cannot speak
highly enough of a fantastic bunch of lads, who have done the club and the town
proud. It was with great pleasure that I got home to find e-mails one from as
far away as Devon on my computer congratulating us. WELL DONE BOYS !
Goal scorers Liam Hunn, Ashley Philips (2) & Luke Thurston
Thursday 7th April 2005 - RYL
Harwich & Parkeston 2 - 1
Felixstowe & Walton United (2-0)
Squad:-
K.Algar, S.Dickerson, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy,
M.Tomiak, L.Hunn, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips Subs:- S.Wright (Rodwell),
L.Thurston (Donnelly).
A dodgy fifteen minute period
defensively in the first half, saw us lose just our second game of the season,
and saw the young Shrimpers finish their season on a high, in what was a
cracking game of football. It was always going to be a tough game away at
Harwich and with the influential Michael Tomiak and Danny Spencer missing it was
going to be tougher.
That said we started the game well with both sides playing neat football on the
ball and working really hard off it. Harwich looked really dangerous in attack
and showed why they have scored so many goals this season, but they have let in
a lot as well, but tonight their defence looked in determined mood. It was a
fairly even contest for 30 minutes or so, but two poor defensive errors saw
Harwich take a 2 - 0 lead into the break.
A stern chat in
the dressing room, saw a magnificent display in the second half, where we
dominated the game in terms of possession against a very good side. We brought
Luke Thurston on up front for the injured Tom Donnelly, Tom had been our best
player in the 
first
half but his niggling back injury returned. Luke went on to have as good a 45
minutes as I have seen him play, partnering Liam Hunn up front. The midfield of
Richard Fiddy, Liam Jacobs, Louis Elliston and Ashley Phillips were outstanding
and the defence had tightened right up. That said Harwich still looked very
dangerous, on the break, but Joe Willett did a brilliant man marking job on
their top marksman Michael Lyness. Equally, Liam Hunn was being tightly marked
by the Harwich defence at the other end. We carved out some great chances, but
just did not get the rub of the green in front of goal, with Luke, Ashley,
Liam’s Hunn and Jacobs all going agonisingly close. Eventually
Ashley Phillips gambled picked up a loose ball
rounded the keeper and slotted home, but it was in the 85th minute,
and although we had one more glorious chance, we failed to get the equaliser we
certainly deserved.
I can’t speak
highly enough of how the lads reacted second half all were magnificent down to a
man. We must now got to Tiptree next week and get all three points to make
certain of the title.
Sunday 27th March 2005 - ISYFL
Team Photo
Felixstowe & Walton United 3 - 6 Sicklesmere (0-4)
Squad:-
S.Pitts, A.Hollis, D.Fry, O.Nunn, F.Fox, J.Walsh, G.Garnham, A.Robinson,
T.Donnelly, L.Thurston, J.Murray
Subs:-
D.Crawford (Murray), B.Fowler (Robinson).
The younger lads finished their season with a home tie against champions elect
Sicklesmere, and after going 4-0 down by half-time, a spirited second half saw
them win it 3-2.
The older stronger Bury lads had a bit too much for us but, in what has been a
very good season for the lads, despite the hiccup half way through, they have
showed tremendous spirit, and had some good wins along the way. F&W scorers for
the record were Owen Nunn, Tom Donnelly and
Luke Thurston.
A party atmosphere
in the clubhouse after with refreshments laid on made for a nice end to the
season, against a friendly team and management, who will hopefully win the
title.
A big thank you to John Oxborrow, but in particular to Phil Cooper who took over
the reins, after son Mark moved away. Phil has been a godsend to the under 18
set up, taking on the role of youth secretary for all three leagues, as well as
running this team.
Tuesday 22nd March 2005 - RYL
Felixstowe & Walton United 4 - 0 Needham Market (0-0)
Squad : - K.Algar, S.Dickerson, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett,
S.Wright, L.Elliston, L.Hunn, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips Subs:- M.Tomiak
(Elliston), T.Donnelly (Wright), L.Thurston, J.Roberts.
I would like to
apologise for my quote at the end of the Clacton report saying we just had to
win tonight to take the title, I had not worked out that Whitton United could
pip us by a
point, if we lose our last two games and they win all of their last five, nearly
there but “it’s a funny old game”, and the fat lady is not singing just yet. We
had to make a late change to the starting line up with Michael Tomiak not being
able to make the kick off but with 99.9% of the squad fit now we had plenty of
players to choose from.
In front of one of
the largest crowds at Dellwood Avenue this season a very nervy first half from
the young Seasider’s combined with a terrific performance from the Needham lad’s
kept all the management and home support on tenterhooks. Determined stuff from
the visitor’s saw us on the back foot for the majority of the half, but you
always got the impression something was simmering in our ranks, if only we could
shake off the nerves.
Once again the
impressive Needham lads battled for everything, and how we were
praying for a
goal. We made a couple of changes and the introduction of Michael Tomiak into
the midfield changed the game for us. After his indifferent performance, along
with everyone else in the first half, Liam Jacobs
was now up to scratch and spraying the passes around superbly. Mid-way through
the half he pounced on a clearance and drove the ball into the goal from 18
yards. The relief in the dugout was matched only by the lads on the pitch, and
although the visitor’s rallied a little we began to dominate the game, with
Michael at the heart of everything.
Danny Spencer and Liam Hunn, sharp all game were
like vultures in for the kill now, and at last we were putting the right balls
into the channels for them now. One such ball
down the left saw Danny pounce, beat the defender cut inside and rifle the ball
into the net. Hunny was trying every trick in the book to get on the score sheet
but it didn’t look like being his night tonight. Liam Jacobs released a superb
ball this time on the right for Danny, superb interplay between him and Liam
Hunn saw Liam’s strike superbly saved by the keeper at full stretch,
unfortunately he could only palm it out where Ashley
Phillips had gambled and he side footed into the empty net. A carbon copy
pass from Liam Jacobs this time found Tom Donnelly whose terrific pace got him
in, his fine shot struck the underside of the bar, and at last
Liam Hunn netted latching onto the rebound.
Needham were
terrific tonight particularly in their tackling, we had to break a stubborn side
tonight to get a result, and it took everything we had to do it. To see the
goals tune into www.felixstowetv.co.
Thursday 17th March 2005 - RYL
Clacton Town 1 - 4 Felixstowe & Walton United (1-2)
Squad:-
K.Algar, J.Rodwell, A.Leeson, J.Willett, L.Jacobs, L.Elliston, M.Tomiak,
L.Hunn, T.Donnelly, D.Spencer, A.Phillips Subs:- S.Wright (Donnelly),
S.Dickerson (Tomiak) , L.Thurston, J.Roberts.
We started like a
steam train in this top versus bottom game and within three minutes we had taken
the lead. From a corner the home side failed to clear and after several
attempts the ball
broke for the in rushing Louis Elliston to slam
home from 6 yards, his first for the club. Three minutes later the tireless
Ashley Phillips won the ball deep in our half, found Liam Jacobs with a peach of
a pass, equally Liam found Liam Hunn with another
superb ball and Hunny made no mistake when put clear. Six minutes gone 2-0.
Without wishing to
repeat myself but this is the point where once again our game dropped off,
Clacton were the more determined side, and first to everything. They were busy
up front but didn’t look that dangerous in front of goal, which is just as well
because on play
they certainly didn’t deserve to be behind. They forced so many corners in the
first half that most of us lost count. Their corner taker was putting them just
under the bar every time, and Kai Algar in goal under extreme pressure did very
well, and when he was beaten we always had a defender on the post. Ironically it
was a ball down the middle that saw Clacton pull a goal back on 20 minutes, with
just a hint of offside. HT-1-2.
Harsh words at the
break about certain peoples attitudes, and a reminder that whoever we are
playing at this level it will be a tough game. For the first 5 minutes of the
second half once again our hosts looked stronger, but on 51 minutes a through
ball released Danny Spencer who made no mistake.
This settled us down and we began to get a foothold in the game. Clacton still
worked extremely hard, but as time went on their threat faded. In injury time
another Danny’s pace was evident again but this time he was upended in the box,
Liam Hunn stepped up to despatch the spot kick, to
make a rather harsh score line on Clacton.
We got home to
find out that Harwich had lost to Witham, meaning we just need to beat Needham
at home on Tuesday night to take the title off of Harwich. As much support as
possible would be most welcome, and bring some bubbly with you just in case. KO
7.30pm.
Tuesday 15th March 2005 - ISYFL
Felixstowe & Walton United 2 - 0 Wetherden & Haughley (1-0)
Squad:-
M.Fiddy,
J.Walsh, D.Fry, M.Oxborrow, F.Fox, O.Nunn, D.Crawford, K.Parris, G.Garnham,
L.Thurston, J.Murray. Subs:- B.Fowler (Nunn), A.Robinson
(Crawford), A.Hollis (Parris), K.Weaire (Walsh).
Because of Sunday’s minor cup semi-final being played at Dellwood Avenue we
rearranged the ISYFL side’s home game against Wetherden & Haughley under the
floodlights, and
I must say the first year under 18s really rose to the occasion.
I only managed to see the first half an hour as I had to go to work but I was
very impressed with the work rate and the passing football the lads played, and
by all accounts they kept it up for the whole 90 minutes.
Luke Thurston scored a goal in each half without
reply to seal the win against a side that had beaten us 4-0 in January. Whilst
everybody played their part, F&W man of the match was Daryl Fry, outstanding at
left back, whilst the front pairing of Luke and Joe Murray looked very lively,
and Joe is still an under 16. Matty Oxborrow had another good game, and Gary
Garnham worked well in the mid-field.
Sunday
13th March 2005 - EJA
Newmarket Town 3 - 1 Felixstowe & Walton United (2-1)
Squad:-
S.Pitts, S.Dickerson, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, J.Roberts, J.Willett, S.Wright,
M.Tomiak, L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips, Subs:- M.Oxborrow
(Wright), D.Fry (Donnelly).
This was easily our worst performance of the season and has put us out of
contention for
the title in the Alliance league. That said the lads have been superb in
grinding out results without a recognised pair of strikers up front most of the
season, but with injuries and unavailability the Sunday side have been left
weakened, not excuses just the facts.
We did start this
game very brightly and could have been two or three up in the first ten minutes.
We took the lead inside the first
minute when James
Rodwell went on a run and his terrific effort hit the bar Luke Thurston followed
up to head home. After the initial period the lads seemed to drop off the pace
and several lethargic performances saw us concede a great deal of possession.
Our hosts took advantage and went into the break 2-1 up.
The second period
was an awful game to watch, as we failed to get out of first gear, and although
not playing well Newmarket had the edge. They scored the only goal of the half
to end any chance of us winning the title, ironically Buntingford lost today
also.
The only plus of the day was the two lads we brought along on the bench from the
ISYFL squad, Matty Oxborrow and Daryl Fry looked good when they came on, watch
out for these two names next season.
Wednesday 9th March 2005 - Ridgeons
Youth League Plate Semi-Final
Great Yarmouth 3 - 2 Felixstowe & Walton United (1-2)
Squad :- K.Algar,
S.Wright, J.Rodwell, L.Elliston, J.Roberts, J.Willett, R.Fiddy, M.Tomiak,
D.Spencer, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips Subs:- S.Dickerson (Wright),
L.Thurston (Donnelly), M.Oxborrow (Rodwell).
Although we had three important players missing on first team duty we still felt
we had a squad good enough to take us into the final. Unfortunately one of those
infamous second half performances was once again our undoing tonight. That is to
take nothing away from our hosts who were the hungrier in the second half and
were more determined to go through than we were.
The first seven
minutes saw the young Bloater’s take the game to us and were unlucky not to take
the lead, but we settled into the game and for the next half an hour dominated
the game taking a two goal lead along the way. The work rate was terrific and
our tackling, passing and movement were a joy to watch.
Michael Tomiak gave us the lead heading in an Ashley Phillips corner on
23 minutes. Danny Spencer and Tom Donnelly’s pace up front were causing Yarmouth
all sorts of problems, while Michael’s touch and Louis Elliston’s tackling in
mid-field were creating things for us. Ashley’s work rate was inspiring and
Richard Fiddy was powerful down the right flank. Skipper for the night Kai Algar
was sweeping up well in goal and the back four of Sean Wright, Jimmy Roberts,
Joe Willett and James Rodwell were in determined mood.
Danny gave us a 2-0 lead with a trademark finish, after a superb tackle
in the mid-field by Louis and a neat ball through from Ash. The game turned just
before the break when Yarmouth’s most dangerous player
Scott Woodcock pulled a goal back.
The second half
was so disappointing from our point of view as some players failed to turn up.
Great Yarmouth had obviously decided to give it a right go and raised their work
rate tremendously. We failed to match it and if anything ours dropped off, as
our host’s were first to every ball, and very determined to win it back when we
had it. It was no surprise when Yarmouth equalised and then went ahead. We gave
all three subs a run out, Stacey Dickerson came on for Sean, Luke Thurston came
on for Tom and Matty Oxborrow on his first outing in the Ridgeon’s side came on
for James.
Towards the end we went 3-5-2 and nearly sent it into extra time, Danny got in
but the keeper made a terrific save to deny him, and James was so unlucky to see
his shot strike the inside of the post and roll across the line instead of going
in, after one of his now legendary runs from the back. Hopefully the lads learnt
a valuable lesson tonight, mainly that it is a ninety minute game, even more so
in a cup semi-final.
I would like to
thank Great Yarmouth for their excellent hospitality and friendliness apart from
the result it was an enjoyable night, and good luck to them in the final, we
will be rooting for you.
Sunday
20th February 2005 - EJA
Felixstowe & Walton United 0 - 2 Heybridge Swifts (0-1)
Squad:-
S.Pitts, S.Wright, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, J.Roberts, J.Willett, K.Burch,
S.Dickerson, L.Thurston, R.Fiddy, A.Phillips Subs:- D.Fry (Rodwell),
K.Parris (Dickerson).
A disappointing afternoon at
Dellwood saw us go down 2-0 to a good Heybridge Swifts side, and although you
could not fault the lad’s effort, we were left feeling unavailability and injury
cost us dearly today. That said the three lads that stepped up
from the ISYFL squad all did very well. The visitors started strongly as our new
look back four bedded in, but once they did all four did a good job today. In
that early period we lost left back James Rodwell to an injury, so young Daryl
Fry stepped into the position and had a very competent game, also Heybridge
scored the first of their goals and Pittsy had to pull off two good one on one
saves. Gradually we started to get on top, and finished the half the stronger,
which saw both Ashley Phillips and Luke Thurston go close, with Ashley feeling
he really should have scored. HT-0-1.
The second half
saw us huff and puff, but we did not have the personnel to trouble the good
visitor’s defender’s, which is no disrespect to the lads we asked to play
upfront, who both worked their socks off, but as a team we were not positive
enough in the final third. Heybridge scored a second, which was a little harsh
on the lads, but the visitors took their chances and we did not, although one
offside decision against us at 1-0 was tight to say the least. In terms of
possession and few chances created by either side it was a fairly even match.
On the plus side
Kyle Burch, Daryl Fry and Kyle Parris all stepped up to the higher level and
showed good touches on the ball, and the tenacity needed to play in the
Alliance. Tom Donnelly also had a run out with the other side today, and
hopefully did not have a reaction to his injury, it would be nice to have him
back for Buntingford next week.
ISYL - Ipswich
Warriors 'B' 1 - 6
Felixstowe & Walton United (1-2)
Squad:-
K.Algar,
J.Walsh, D.Crawford, M.Oxborrow, F.Fox, G.Garnham, A.Hollis, O.Nunn A.Robinson,
T.Donnelly, B.Fowler. Subs:- K.Weaire (Fowler), J.Murray (Donnelly)
The ISYFL side had a
comprehensive win away at Ipswich Warriors ‘B’. Tom Donnelly and Owen Nunn gave
them a slender advantage at the break. HT-1-2.
They pushed Dan Crawford up front and bought Kye Weaire on alongside him for the
second half, and they both responded with a brace apiece, to finish with a 6-1
score-line, well done lad’s. The good news from the Fiddy household is that
young keeper Mark has not broken his wrist.
Thursday 17th February 2005 - Ridgeons
Youth League
Felixstowe & Walton United 5 - 2
Witham Town (1-0)
Squad:-
K.Algar, S.Dickerson, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, S.Wright,
M.Tomiak, L.Hunn, D.Spencer, A.Phillips Subs:- R.Fiddy (Wright),
L.Thurston , L.Elliston (Dickerson), J.Roberts (Tomiak) T.Donnelly.
A massive win from the lads
tonight sets it all up nicely for our trip to Harwich next week, and has
probably seen tonight’s visitors out of contention. It’s advantage us but
Harwich will be ready to make the most of any slip ups on our part.
We started the game well and created several good chances, as once again the
front pairing of Liam Hunn and Danny Spencer looked very lively. It was Danny
who gave us the lead midway through the half, but this seemed to signal a down
turn in our play and Witham enjoyed the better of the possession, and looked the
hungrier for the game, fortunately they spurned the one or two chances they
created. HT-1-0.
A talking to at
half time didn’t seem to do the trick as the visitor’s continued to press, and
when we gave away a penalty it summed up the way the game was going. The Witham
keeper stepped up to take the spot kick, but Kai Algar guessed right and pulled
off a stunning save to deny him. However poor defending saw Witham draw level
moments later and then once again Kye was the saviour with a spectacular double
save to deny the Witham striker. Something had to be done, so a couple of
changes and a switch to 3-5-2 did the trick. Liam Hunn restored our lead heading
in a Michael Tomiak corner, and then Michael himself made it 3-1. A looped ball
into the box saw Liam Hunn rise with the keeper, Liam cleverly headed it back to
the edge of the box where Michael calmly passed it into the net. Back came
Witham to make it 3-2 with 11 minutes left on the watch.
Michael scored his second getting on the end of a free kick, as we were
dominating now, in a period which saw Danny Spencer hit the woodwork twice. A
strong run and finish from Liam Hunn completed the scoring in the final minutes,
to seal a fine win against strong opposition, and move us a step nearer to
winning the league, it’s in our own hands now.
Sunday
6th February 2005 - ISYL Open Cup
Waveney Youth 4 - 3 Felixstowe & Walton United (2-1)
Squad:-
S.Pitts, J.Roberts, J.Rodwell, S.Dickerson, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy,
M.Tomiak, L.Hunn, L.Thurston, A.Phillips Sub:- K.Burch (Dickerson).
After winning this competition
the last two seasons it was disappointing to bow out in the first round this
year.
With an 18 man named squad we were down to 12 to choose from due to injury and
illness, also we were going into the unknown travelling to Lowestoft to take on
Waveney Youth. Not being able to find out anything about them was confusing, but
it became apparent when we arrived as it was explained they had just got
together as an under 18 side to enter the competition. Unbeknown to us, however
the side was full of Ridgeons youth players from Lowestoft Town and Gorleston,
and a few of us underestimated them.
It was obvious from the off they were a good side as they certainly were the
more hungry from the start. They took the lead from us being slack at the back,
as they had two lively attackers up front. That said we did have some good
chances but found their goalkeeper to be outstanding. We levelled through Luke
Thurston, but immediately Waveney regained the lead and that’s how it finished
at the break. HT-2-1.
After a tongue
lashing the lads went out in the second half realising they were in a tough
game. Despite a better effort in the second half Waveney extended their lead,
and then went 4-1 up courtesy of a soft penalty. In the last 15 minutes we went
for it, but the Waveney back line were superb. With 5 minutes on the watch Liam
Hunn headed in a Michael Tomiak corner, and a couple of minutes later James
Rodwell scrambled the ball over the line for 4-3, we just needed a few more
minutes on the watch and I’m sure we would have put it into extra time. Their
keeper pulled off a stunning save to deny Liam again, and alas we bowed out of
the competition.
ISYL - Weth & Haughley 4 - 0
Felixstowe & Walton United (2-0)
Squad:-
K.Algar,
D.Crawford, F.Fox, M.Oxborrow, D.Fry, G.Garnham, A,Robinson, A.Hollis, K.Parris,
O,Nunn, J.Murray. Sub:- B.Fowler (Murray).
We had to draught in Kye Algar between the sticks as young Mark Fiddy has a
suspected broken wrist, will update when I know.
Kai pulled off three or four outstanding saves in this disappointing game
against the side one place below us. Two goals in each half sealed the win for
the home side, as we failed to create any goal scoring chances of note. Phil
Cooper mentioned Owen Nunn who had another good game in the mid-field, and there
were some good individual performances, we are just not gelling as a team at the
moment.
Wednesday
2nd February 2005 - Ridgeons
Youth League Plate - Quarter Final
Witham Town 0 - 5
Felixstowe & Walton United (0-2)
Squad:-
K.Algar, S.Dickerson, J.Rodwell, L.Elliston, A.Leeson, J.Willett, S.Wright,
M.Tomiak, L.Hunn, D.Spencer, A.Phillips Subs:- L.Thurston (Elliston),
J.Roberts (Dickerson).
Horrendous hold up’s on the A14 and A12 saw us arrive late, many thanks to the
Witham officials and match officials for arranging an 8pm kick off, as we
arrived at 7.33pm.
A not bad first half and an outstanding second half display saw us through to
the Ridgeons Youth plate semi-final tonight. Danny Spencer scored a hat-trick on
his return to the side with Liam Hunn and Michael Tomiak getting one apiece
without reply from our hosts.
We started brightly pushing the ball around neatly, and closing down quickly
when we lost possession, but were trying to be a little too clinical in front of
goal with one touch or pass too many. Eventually our dominance early on paid off
when a neat lobbed pass from Ash Phillips was latched onto by Liam who raced on
to score. With three regulars missing we shuffled things around, and Louis
Elliston did well in his first start replacing the injured Liam Jacobs. Danny
then latched onto a short back pass and rounded the keeper to score his first of
the game. The home side had a good spell with good movement off the ball and Kai
Algar had to pull off a fine save to keep his clean sheet. HT-2-0.
The second half
saw us raise our game this time at Witham and we just got stronger as the half
went on. The third goal was the killer which was scored by Michael and we looked
menacing going forward. Witham are an excellent side but I have never seen our
lads work so hard for a result, their effort was superb. The lethal Danny
Spencer once again outstripped the defender and poked it past the advancing
keeper to make it 4-0. Finally good work down the left, saw Liam Hunn get to the
by-line and pulled it back to Danny who diverted it into the net. Witham caught
us on a good night tonight as I believe whoever we had played we would have
won.
We now go into the
semi-final hat with Great Yarmouth, Ramsey and Wisbech, watch this space.
Sunday
30th January 2005 - EJA
Felixstowe & Walton United 3 - 3 Stanway Rovers (3-1)
Squad:-
S.Pitts, S.Dickerson, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy,
M.Tomiak, L.Thurston, S.Wright, A.Phillips Subs:- T.Donnelly (Phillips),
J.Roberts (Jacobs), D.Fry (Thurston).
A disappointing second half
display from the young Seasider’s allowed Stanway back in the game and to
salvage a point. It was even more frustrating considering we played so well in
the first period and were well worthy of our 3-1 advantage at the break.
Sweeping moves lead to all three goals, and all were scored by midfielders, the
first finished off by Michael Tomiak, this was
after the visitors had taken the lead. After some neat interplay Michael, who
was outstanding in the first half put a terrific pass in for
Sean Wright to latch onto and he finished well.
Another good move ended in Richard Fiddy being fouled on the goal line outside
the box, Andy Leeson drove the free kick in low and hard across the box where
Liam Jacobs diverted it into the net. HT-3-1.
As I said the
second half was a real disappointment, as several lads went about it in a casual
manner, assuming the game was won, and when Stanway made it 3-2 their tails were
up, and all credit to them they were the more hungry side now. That said the
equaliser came courtesy of a very hotly disputed penalty, that seemed impossible
for the referee to give from his position, but the visiting striker did well to
win it.
On the few occasions when the lads have under performed for any length of time
we have been punished.
ISYFL Ipswich Warriors 2 - 0 Felixstowe & Walton United (1-0)
Squad:-
M.Fiddy,
K.Weaire, A.Robinson, M.Oxborrow, F.Fox, D.Crawford, B.Fowler, K.Burch, J.Murray,
K.Parris, O.Nunn Subs:- D.Alderson (Weaire)
We had a squad of 15 for this
game but unfortunately three lads got lost on the way and didn’t make it, so
Phil Cooper had to hastily change things around, and the side put in a terrific
effort against the runaway league leaders.
A goal in each half won the game for our hosts, but they had to work very hard
for the win, with all the lads playing very well, in particular Owen Nunn was
excellent in midfield, whilst Francis Fox had an excellent game at the back.
Many thanks to John Oxborrow for stepping in and assisting Phil, any help is
much appreciated.
Sunday 23rd
January 2005 - ISYFL
Christchurch Eagles 1 - 1 Felixstowe & Walton United (0-0)
Squad:-
M.Fiddy, J.Walsh, D.Fry, F.Fox, J.Roberts, M.Oxborrow, K.Burch, K.Parris,
G.Garnham, D.Crawford, A.Hollis
Subs:- O.Nunn (Fox), A.Robinson (Hollis) , J.Murray (Crawford) B.Fowler
(Parris).
Without a game in the Alliance today, and with plenty of boys now signed on, it
meant we could give the whole Alliance squad a much needed rest and still travel
to Gresham Sports club, Ipswich with 15 players. Although, we did give Jimmy
Roberts who is in the Alliance squad, but not played too many full games, a full
90 minutes today.
It was a league cup match against Christchurch Eagles, and we needed to win to
progress to the knockout stages, but alas could only take a point, which was
probably a fair reflection on the game. We shaded the first half on chances
created but were just not positive enough in the final third. Difficult
conditions on a huge pitch saw the lads from both sides struggle, particularly
with a strong icy wind blowing across the pitch.
The back four of Joe Walsh, Jimmy Roberts, Matty Oxborrow and Daryl Fry were
looking solid, and restricting the home attackers well, but in the conditions we
didn’t turn defence into attack quick enough, which left the front two isolated
on a lot of occasions. That said this is only their third game after two months
off so fitness is an issue. Able to use five subs in this league we gave
everyone a run out, and it was Adam Robinson
repeating what he did last week coming on and scoring. This was after
Christchurch had taken the lead midway through the second half. Not enough to go
through but a solid performance none the less.
Thursday 20th January 2005 - Ridgeons
Youth League
Felixstowe & Walton United 3 - 0 Woodbridge Town (1-0)
Squad:-
K.Algar, S.Dickerson, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy,
M.Tomiak, L.Hunn, L.Thurston, A.Phillips Subs:- S.Wright (Dickerson),
L.Elliston (Thurston), J.Roberts (Rodwell).
Another valuable three points
gained against a Woodbridge side that played pretty football but without much
penetration, that said our defence once again played very well snuffing out the
visitors pacey front men.
Tom Donnelly and Danny Spencer were both injured, so in came Luke Thurston to
partner Liam Hunn, and he did well with good hold up play and he also won a lot
of headers. We welcomed Michael Tomiak back to the mid-field after missing the
Framlingham game, and recently transferred from Whitton United, Louis Elliston
was also in the squad.
We had several good chances early on but failed to capitalize and really should
have been a couple of goals up inside twenty minutes. Eventually our persistence
paid off and after several attempts in a scramble in the visitor’s penalty area
Liam Jacobs thumped it into the far corner.
HT-1-0.
The beginning of the second half saw
Woodbridge enjoy some good possession, as we looked a little sluggish, but again
our defence were in mean mood. We took Luke off who had run his socks off, and
put Louis Elliston into mid field and pushed Michael
Tomiak into a more advanced role, just behind Liam Hunn and he duly
responded with a goal, to make it comfortable. A strange decision from the
visitors to go down to ten then nine and eventually eight players saw us score a
third easily as we overwhelmed them, Liam Hunn
banging in his 17th of the season in this league.
Sunday 16th
January 2005 - EJA
Bury Town 0 - 1
Felixstowe & Walton United (0-1)
Squad:-
S.Pitts, S.Dickerson, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy,
M.Tomiak, L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips
Subs:- S.Wright (Donnelly), J.Roberts (Thurston).
It was a goal good enough to win any game that secured us a very important three
points today. A free kick from twenty yards outside the Bury penalty area was
rifled into the top corner, with tremendous power and accuracy by
Andy Leeson,
mid-way through
the first half, turned out to be the winner.
We struggled to get going for twenty minutes or so as the home side knocked the
ball around for fun, leaving us chasing shadows. However our Jekyll and Hyde
defence were definitely in Hyde mode today, showing good discipline restricting
the home side to few chances. We know when we play college sides all opposition
players are going to be good on the ball, and will put all the coaching they get
into practise, so it is important we play to our strengths and impose our game
on the opposition. Gradually we got a foothold in the game, and started to cause
the home side a few problems. HT-0-1.
We lost both recognised strikers, Tom Donnelly (injury) and Luke Thurston
(illness) during the game which made the win more remarkable. Richard Fiddy and
James Rodwell were pushed up front and did really well. When James was upended,
everyone thought it was a stonewall penalty, but the referee deemed it to be
outside the box. A great win today where the lads showed great character, but a
special mention for our defence today who won us the game.
ISYL - Felixstowe & Walton United 2
- 1 Trimley Red Devils (0-0)
Squad:-
M.Fiddy, F.Fox, D.Fry, M.Oxborrow, J.Walsh, O.Nunn, K.Parris,
D.Crawford, A.Hollis, J,Murray, K.Burch, Subs:- G.Garnham (Burch),
A.Robinson (Parris), K.Algar (Crawford)
In the morning the ISYFL side were entertaining Trimley in a local derby at
Dellwood Avenue, where they ran out deserved 2-1 winners.
Daryl Fry and Adam Robinson,
making his debut were the goal scorers, with all three goals being scored in the
second half. Mark Fiddy in goal had to pull of a very important save at the end
to secure the win.
Tuesday
11th January 2005 - Ridgeons
Youth League
Framlingham 4 - 4 Felixstowe & Walton United (2-2)
Squad:
K.Algar, S.Wright, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy,
S.Dickerson, L.Hunn, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips Subs:- L.Thurston
(Donnelly), J.Roberts (Rodwell).
When Liam Hunn opened the scoring on nine minutes and then doubled his and our
tally a few minutes later we were looking unstoppable, but how things can change
quickly in football.
Against the run of player Fram scored a terrific goal, their player turning and
blasting the ball into the net. This was the turning point in the game as we
seemed to go into panic mode, losing our shape and failing to match the home
side in effort and commitment. To be honest it was not a surprise when the
equaliser came, another good strike from outside the box, but the disappointing
thing was the time and space he had to get his strike in. HT-2-2.
Harsh words at the break were the order of the day, and we came out matching
them at least but still nowhere near our best. Chances came and went at both
ends, and it was the home side went ahead, catching us square at the back.
Disaster a few minutes later when their winger got to the by-line and put in a
dangerous low cross where the unlucky Sean Wright turned it past Kai Algar in
goal, to put Fram 4-2 up.
Although not pleased tonight, I have to give it to the lads they will not lay
down and we kept going, Liam Hunn completed his hat-trick, and from then on we
dominated a tired home side, and once Liam grabbed his fourth we were going for
it now. With seconds on the watch Richard Fiddy broke down the right, put in a
great cross and Luke Thurston’s volley was inches wide, that said it would have
been harsh on the home side, who’s league position certainly belies their play.
They are certainly a very hard working honest bunch of lads who will cause other
teams plenty of problems. A point gained tonight rather than lost.
Sunday
9th January 2005 - EJA
Felixstowe & Walton United 0 - 1 Woodbridge Town (0-0)
Squad:-
S.Pitts, S.Wright, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy,
S.Dickerson, L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips Subs:- J.Walsh,
J.Roberts, J.Murray.
Woodbridge grabbed a last minute
winner to take the three points in what was a fascinating encounter, and even
the away supporters would surely agree a draw would have been the right result,
as both sides had certainly worked hard enough for it. That said this is what
makes our beloved game so exciting, and we have certainly won games where the
opposition have deserved something.
It started with both defences doing good jobs on both sets of strikers, which
meant although enjoyable to watch, there was not too much goal mouth action.
From our point of view Joe Willett and James Rodwell stuck well to their tasks,
man marking the two visiting strikers, with Andy Leeson sweeping up well. This
released Sean Wright on the right to get forward and he and Richard Fiddy linked
up well. Most of our joy was coming down the right, with Ashley Phillips having
to play a deeper role on the left. We definitely shaded the first half but our
final ball was disappointing, giving the Woodbridge keeper no problems, as he
showed a very safe pair of hands. Although we had the better of the half the
Woodpecker’s had the best chance, as Joe Willett lost his man just the once and
he was in but Pittsy made a fine save to deny him. HT-0-0.
The second half saw Woodbridge take the initiative from the off, and we had to
weather the early storm as they went in search of the opener. But our defence
stood firm and were superb today. The visitors pace dropped off as predicted and
the first half pattern resumed, with both sides passing and probing. With five
minutes to go we had a good chance with a free kick on the edge of the box, but
Andy Leeson blasted the kick high and wide. Everyone was watching it wind down
now, but with less than a minute on the watch, we were undone by a strong run
from the centre half who got all the way to our box, James made a decision to
attack the ball and it was slipped to his man who put it in the far corner,
giving us no time to come back. Perfect from the visitor’s point of view, and
very harsh on our lads who gave 110% today.
ISYL - Felixstowe & Walton United 0 - 4 Walsham (0-3)
Squad:-
M.Fiddy,
J.Walsh, D.Fry, M.Oxborrow, F.Fox, K.Parris, D.Crawford, A.Hollis, J.Murray,
K.Burch, K.Weaire. Subs:- O.Nunn (Crawford), K.Algar (Burch)
The younger lads got up and running again after their enforced break, and
although went down 4-0 to Walsham, the score line flattered the visitors who
only had half a dozen chances, but a big strong centre forward undone us scoring
three of the goals.
That said the lads played terrific football and must continue to play that way,
we just have to be a little stronger in both penalty areas. Well done to the
lads that hung on in there, much appreciated.
Sunday
2nd January 2005 - EJA
Halstead Town 0 - 3 Felixstowe & Walton United (0-1)
Squad:-
S.Pitts, S.Wright, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Roberts, R.Fiddy,
S.Dickerson, L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips Subs:- K.Burch
(Roberts), J.Murray (Thurston).
With a couple of players unavailable we drafted in under 16 Joe Murray into the
squad for today’s visit to Rosemary lane Halstead.
The first half was a good competitive affair, with some tough but honest
tackling from both sides. We were just about worthy of our one goal lead at the
break, courtesy of a deflected shot from Luke Thurston.
HT 0-1.
The second half
saw us playing up the slope, we were defending deep and this gave our hosts the
impetus, and we went through a very lax period, where Halstead had several good
chances but failed to test Pittsy in goal. We did ride our luck on a couple of
occasions, or you could say it was determined defending, with boys getting in
the way of things bravely.
We looked dangerous on the break and when Luke and Tom Donnelly found themselves
in a 2 v 1 situation on the half way line, they combined well. Tom slipped
Luke in who raced on to score his second. We were
keeping a higher line now and closing them down quicker in the mid-field and
enjoy some good possession. Tom then got to the by-line and put a cross over,
the defender knew he had to make it, but unfortunately headed the ball into his
own net to seal the win. A good win under the circumstances against a well
organised home side, who would surely be up there, if they could put the ball
away more regularly.
Sunday
19th December 2004 - EJA
Felixstowe & Walton United 2 - 0 Ransomes Sports (0-0)
Squad:-
S.Pitts, S.Wright, J.Rodwell, S.Dickerson, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy,
M.Tomiak, L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips Subs:- J.Roberts
K.Burch(Thurston).
We finished 2004 with yet
another win and went back top of the Eastern Junior Alliance North East
Division. Also we are top of the Ridgeons Youth League South Division in what
has been a fantastic first half of the season for the young Seasiders.
Ransomes Sports from Ipswich were the visitors today in this local derby, and
they came to work hard as all teams do because of our league position. This is a
new experience for us all, being at the top and everyone wants to beat you, but
we have come to terms with it well.
It always seems to be a scrappy game when most of the lads all know each other
and today was no exception. There were not too many chances created in the first
half by either side, but we looked the more dangerous when we had possession,
only for it to come to nothing once we got into their final third. HT-0-0.
Ransomes took the initiative for the
first twenty minutes of the second half. Fortunately our defence were playing
well and kept them at bay, we had to step it up and the boys sensed this for
themselves. We still looked dangerous when we had the ball, but it took a set
piece for us to open the scoring, Andy Leeson whipped in a free kick to the far
post, Stacey Dickerson rose highest to glance his
header past the keeper to make it 1-0. We continued attacking, and within a few
minutes a ball into the right channel was latched onto by
Tom Donnelly who showed electric pace and finished superbly to wrap the
game up.
I would like to take this
opportunity to wish everybody a very Merry Christmas, but in particular to all
the Under Eighteen players, you are a credit to the club.
Thursday 16th December 2004 - Ridgeons
Youth League
Felixstowe & Walton United 3 -2 Whitton United (1-0)
Squad:-
K.Algar, S.Wright, J.Rodwell, S.Dickerson, A.Leeson, J.Roberts, T.Donnelly,
M.Tomiak, L.Hunn, L.Thurston, A.Phillips Subs:- R.Fiddy.
This was going to be a big test
for our squad tonight with several influential players missing through injury
and illness, against a Whitton side that had only lost two games to date. We had
twelve available players with the one substitute arriving late after a school
game away in Hertfordshire.
That said, the eleven we put out started the game in fine fashion and should
have been two or three up after twenty minutes. We did go one up after neat
play, Michael Tomiak finished well, however that
seemed to be the point where the game went downhill, we stopped competing, the
visitors got on top in what became a very scrappy affair, and to be honest it
was not pleasant to watch. Kai Algar in goal, had to be at his best to keep us
in the game, pulling off a couple of brave saves. HT-1-0.
The second half
was still not pretty to watch, but the lads dug deep even, once Whitton had
equalised, and there seems to be a feeling in the camp, whoever plays, that we
are not going to lose. This was emphasised when brilliant interplay between the
front two saw Tom Donnelly put Liam Hunn in to
score our second. We then went further ahead with a great strike from
Stacey Dickerson notching his first for the club
from 20 yards.
The visitors changed their front two and just before the final whistle pulled a
goal back to make a nail biting last five minutes, but the boys hung on to stay
top of the league for the Christmas break.
Sunday
12th December 2004 - EJA
Braintree Town 0 - 2 Felixstowe & Walton United (0-0)
Squad:-
S.Pitts, J.Roberts, J.Rodwell, S.Dickerson, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy,
S.Wright, L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips. Subs:- K.Burch, F.Fox.
We travelled to Cressing Road, home of Braintree Town, a little short on the
ground with our established central midfield pairing of Michael Tomiak and Liam
Jacobs missing through unavailability and injury respectively, also injured is
right back Kai Weaire. We brought Richard Fiddy into the centre of midfield and
Stacy Dickerson to partner him, Jimmy Robert’s made his first full start at
right back and we moved Shaun Wright onto the right hand side of midfield.
It
was a late kick off due to the referee failing to turn up, many thanks to the
young lad who stood in and did the job. With all the changes and the disruption
the game was a scrappy affair in the first half, with not much football being
played by either side. On the few occasions we did get the ball down and strung
a few passes together we looked dangerous, and spurned a couple of good chances
to take the lead. HT-0-0.
We
switched from 4-4-2 to 4-3-3 pushing Ashley Phillips up alongside Tom Donnelly
and Luke Thurston in the second half. The whole team looked hungry now as we
turned up the heat on our hosts, terrific wing play from Ashley and Tom
Donnelly’s pace were causing Braintree all sorts of problems. Richard, Stacy
and Sean were also working very hard behind them to win the ball back, and we
attacked with menace. Ashley popped up on the right wing beat his defender and
delivered a fine cross which Tom Donnelly met on the volley at the back post, and finally
we breached the stubborn home defence, a good goal.
We
peppered the home goal but a combination of goalkeeping the woodwork, and some
poor finishing kept it at 1-0. With ten minutes to go a fine through ball
released Tom Donnelly who out paced the Braintree defence and calmly slotted home the
goal that sealed the win. A changed side showed terrific character particularly
in the second half, against a dogged young Iron’s side who probably would have
been happy with a point.
Thursday 9th December 2004 - Ridgeons Youth League Plate, 1st Round
Felixstowe & Walton United 3 -2 Tiptree United (0-1)
Squad:-
K.Algar, R.Fiddy, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, T.Donnelly, M.Tomiak,
L.Hunn, D.Spencer, A.Phillips Subs:- S.Wright (Jacobs), S.Dickerson
(Donnelly) , L.Thurston, J.Roberts.
Another terrific cup
tie at Dellwood Avenue saw us go through by the odd goal in five, against a
technically very good Tiptree side.
The visitors
started the game at a high tempo, and were asking us questions, that said they
had come to contain us and play on the break, and they were very good at it. We
started sluggishly and did our usual party piece going a goal down in the first
few minutes. Gradually we came more and more into the game, and created plenty
of chances. With Liam Hunn and Danny Spencer up front, we were trying to play
down the middle too much and the Tiptree defenders were coping well with this
play. When we did go wide particularly down the left we looked dangerous, and
one peach of a cross from Ash Phillips should have been converted by Tom
Donnelly, but he scuffed his header. We were on top but had to be aware of their
pace on the break, and certainly could not afford to be square at the back.
Liam Jacobs was putting in another sterling performance, and tried a couple of
efforts from outside the box that were off target, but when a clearance from a
corner came to him on the edge, he hit a fantastic volley matched only by the
save from the Tiptree keeper who tipped it over. HT-0-1.
We spoke about
using both flanks, as we hadn’t got in down the right enough, and to try and
stretch the stubborn visitors defence. We battered them second half, and we
produced good work down both flanks, surely the equaliser must come. After 25
minutes of constant pressure, ironically we scored with a ball down the middle,
Michael Tomiak
had got ahead of the attackers from midfield and finished well. However 2
minutes later and yes we got caught square, and Tiptree’s prolific striker
Ricks made no mistake. The feeling was we had done
everything right but it was not to be, and our involvement in another cup
competition was coming to an end. As I have said before this lot never give in
and when the Legend, James Rodwell went on one of his mazy runs from left back,
he was upended in the box, Liam Hunn cheekily put
the resultant penalty away. Just as extra time was looming with seconds on the
clock Danny Spencer got his foot to the ball just
before the keeper, and it rolled over the line despite the desperate attempts to
clear it.
Another game where everybody was buzzing in the clubhouse afterwards, thanks to
Tiptree for an excellent nights entertainment, where they thoroughly played
their part.
Thursday 2nd December 2004 - Ridgeons Youth League
Woodbridge Town 4 - 6
Felixstowe & Walton United (1-4)
Squad:-
K.Algar, S.Wright, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy, M.Tomiak,
L.Hunn, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips Subs:- D.Spencer (Wright), S.Dickerson (Tomiak),
L.Thurston, J.Roberts (Rodwell)
An outstanding first half display, despite going 1-0 down inside 30 seconds, won
us this game. We went into the break 4-1 up but it could and should have been 6
or 7. The work rate from such a young set of players was amazing, as they went
about the job in the perfect way against a good footballing side.
The first attack of the game came from our hosts, we were caught cold and their
striker made no mistake. What was pleasing was how the lads reacted to this set
back and decided to take the game by the scruff of the neck. We were soon on
level terms, once again via an Andy Leeson free
kick, and then took the lead when constant pressure resulted in an unfortunate
own goal from a Woodbridge defender. We were defending from the front, essential
against this Woodbridge side, and going forward with menace.
Liam Hunn bagged a brace to give us a formidable
lead at the break. HT-1-4.
A bold move from
our hosts saw them go with just two at the back, and initially it worked with so
many pushing forward they quickly made it 2-4. We were just coming to terms with
it when Woodbridge scored again, 3-4. The crucial goal of the game came
following a fine move finished off by Ashley Phillips
to make it 3-5. The lads now realised, with Woodbridge’s bold move there were
plenty of spaces to expose, and this we did well. Many chances came and went,
finally Danny Spencer wrapped it up with our sixth
of the night.
I must make a special mention for Liam Jacobs, who despite getting booked was
the man of the match. His trade mark tackling was there for all to see, but his
vision and passing were second to none tonight.
Sunday 28th November 2004 -
EJA (Ingilby Cup)
Felixstowe & Walton United 6 - 6 Romford aet
Romford won 5-4 on penalties
Squad:-
S.Pitts, K.Weaire, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Roberts, R.Fiddy, M.Tomiak,
L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, S.Dickerson Subs:- S.Wright (Thurston) ,
A.Phillips (Weaire) , J.Willett (Leeson), E.Phillips.
Where to begin with this one, I think I’ll start by saying it was a terrific cup
tie that had everything. We went 4-0 down made it 4-1 by half time, it was 5-5
at 90 minutes, 6-6 after extra time with Romford eventually going through 5-4 on
penalties.
We changed a few things around at the start of this game, but quickly realised
we had got it wrong as the visitors stormed to a 4-0 lead after 35 minutes.
Andy Leeson gave us a life line pulling a goal back
from a free kick. HT-1-4.
We made a couple
of changes, and shuffled players around and immediately the balance looked
right, and we started to get on top. Richard Fiddy
scored a second for us, and when Michael Tomiak
made it 3-4 we were flying now. However Romford caught us on the break to make
it 3-5. We were running the game now and were attacking the visitors from all
angles, Liam Jacobs made it 4-5, and with a few
minutes on the clock remarkably, Sean Wright
equalised to send it into extra time. FT-5-5.
Once again
Romford took the lead in the first period of extra time, but we got to grips
with the game in the second half. Michael Tomiak
grabbed his second to make it 6-6, and we looked likely to win it, but an
incident which took a good ten minutes to resolve broke our rhythm and it ended
all square.
Romford opted to go first with the penalties in the fading light, and nine
excellent penalties culminated in us missing the tenth. The watching faithful
were all buzzing in the clubhouse afterwards, as everyone had been thoroughly
entertained, right down to the last penalty. Good luck to Romford in the next
round.
Thursday 25th November 2004 - Ridgeons Youth League
Needham Market 0 - 3
Felixstowe & Walton United (0-1)
Squad:-
K.Algar, S.Wright, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy, M.Tomiak,
L.Hunn, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips Subs:- K.Weaire (Fiddy), S.Dickerson
(Jacobs), L.Thurston (Donnelly), J.Roberts.
With Witham Town losing the previous night it meant we went back top of the
South Division on goal difference, and that we could go three points clear
tonight. This we did with a fine display away at Bloomfields, Needham Market.
The most pleasing thing tonight was instead of our game dropping off in the
second half, as it has tended to do lately, we actually got better as the game
went on, and our second half performance was as good as any this season.
We set our stall out as early as the third minute, when a corner was headed out
to the edge of the box and Tom Donnelly drove his shot just over. Our work rate
was very impressive, but Needham were also working extremely hard without
creating too many chances. The home side’s best efforts were from set pieces in
particular, corners. Mid-way through he half a fine move released
Tom Donnelly who thumped the ball home to give us a
deserved lead at the break, good defending and goalkeeping from Needham kept us
out for the remainder of the half. HT-0-1.
We spoke at half
time about what has been happening in the second half of recent games, and went
about sorting it out. The first five minutes was sluggish and we thought, here
we go again, but then we took the game by the scruff of the neck and there was
only going to be one winner from that point on. We showed great energy down both
flanks, with the front pairing showing terrific pace. The centre of midfield
were outstanding, especially Michael Tomiak, and considering Liam Jacobs had
been in bed all day with a heavy cold he was excellent. The defence were in mean
mood and when called upon Kai Algar in goal swept up well.
A terrific pass from Andy Leeson released Liam Hunn who took on the full back,
and then unselfishly squared to Ash Phillips for a
tap in. Michael hit a superb controlled from 20 yards and was so unlucky to see
it strike the upright. Liam Hunn then completed the
scoring with another powerful run, he shot across the keeper where it struck the
inside of the far post and in to give us a 3-0 victory. A good job well done
tonight against a much improved Needham side, we must keep it up.
Sunday 21st November - EJA
Heybridge Swifts 1 - 0
Felixstowe & Walton United (1-0)
Squad:-
S.Pitts, K.Weaire, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy, M.Tomiak,
L.Thurston, T.Donnelly,A.Phillips
Subs:- S.Wright (Weaire), S.Dickerson (Phillips), E.Phillips,
J.Roberts (Thurston)
Once again an inept second half display was our undoing this morning, but
ironically our hosts scored the only goal of the game in the first half, when we
were dominating the game.
We started well and were keeping Heybridge pinned back in their own half. The
lads really looked up for it and were pinging the ball around with confidence.
Luke Thurston had three gilt edged chances but failed to score any of them, as
our finishing and final ball were the only thing letting us down first half.
Luke was not the only one missing as we created good opportunities but didn’t
take any of them. On a rare Heybridge breakaway we got caught pushing forward
and they scored what turned out to be the winner. HT 1-0.
The second half
was a real disappointment as four or five players had poor games and the whole
team went down hill. Heybridge had the best of the second period, without either
side creating too many clear cut chances. We didn’t look like scoring, as our
attacking play that we can do so well deserted us. We tried to change it but to
no avail, and it wound down to a 1-0 defeat, our second in the EJA. A point
would have been a good result here, and probably the fair result, but how we
rued those first half misses.
Sunday 14th November - EJA
Felixstowe & Walton United 3 - 1 Newmarket Town (2-0)
Squad:-
S.Pitts, K.Weaire, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy, M.Tomiak,
L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips
Subs:- S.Wright (Thurston), S.Dickerson (Tomiak), J.Roberts.
I don’t know if it is because the Alliance is played on a Sunday, and in the
words of the song “I’m easy like Sunday morning”, but we seem to play the game
at a more sedate pace, compared to mid-week, but no one can deny we keep coming
up with the results.
We were by far and away the better side in the first half, and when
Andy Leeson hit one of his trademark thunderbolt
free kicks we were 1-0 up and looking comfortable. This was emphasised when,
after the best move of the game, half a dozen passes culminated in Liam Jacobs
slipping the perfect ball between two defenders for
Richard Fiddy to take one stride and rifle it into the top of the net.
Tom Donnelly was so unlucky when his quality strike hit the underside of the bar
and bounced off the inside of the post. HT 2-0.
Now, 2-0 up at
half time is becoming a dodgy score-line for us at half time, and yes our usual
slow start after the break saw the young Jockey’s pull one back, giving them the
lift we talked about not giving them. Fortunately the visitors didn’t find the
equaliser when they were on top, although they were pushing for it. That said it
was a very open second half and we had plenty of opportunities to extend our
lead. This we did in the last ten minutes, when we overloaded them on the left
hand side and good vision from Liam Jacobs again put
Ashley Phillips in who finished well slipping it under the advancing
keeper.
Better finishing from both sides in
the second half could have seen a high scoring game, but with us winning 3-1 and
both Bury and Buntingford losing by the same score-line, we moved back into top
spot.
Thursday
11th November 2004 - Ridgeons Youth League Plate, Prelim Round
Felixstowe & Walton United 4 - 2 Needham market (2-1)
Squad:-
K.Algar, S.Wright, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy, M.Tomiak,
D.Spencer, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips Subs:- S.Dickerson (Tomiak),
L.Thurston (Spencer), J.Roberts (Leeson).
We welcomed Needham Market to Dellwood Avenue in our first meeting of the
season, it being a double header, as they are back for a league meeting next
week. Tonight was the preliminary round of the Ridgeons youth plate. Needham had
a slow start to the season shipping in a lot of goals, but over recent weeks
have tightened up and have had some very good wins lately.
It took the visitors just a minute to take the lead. From the kick off a through
ball saw a needless foul given away and from the free kick we conceded an early
goal, a trait we seem to have at home lately. On 14 minutes however the
perpetrator of the free kick Richard Fiddy, made
amends by equalising. The game then went flat for a period, until with ten
minutes to go before half time James Rodwell went
on one of his now legendary runs, taking on the whole Needham defence and
powering it past the visiting keeper to give us the lead. HT-2-1.
We started the
second half in sloppy fashion, and with 3 minutes gone Needham equalised, and
for a short period were lifted, as we failed to find any rhythm to our game. We
took the lead once again with Richard’s second goal, and got back on top which
saw their keeper pull off a couple of fine stops, before out of the blue Needham
equalised again. We gave all three subs a run out, and it was
Luke Thurston coming on up front and looking very
lively, who won us the game. Good control and a shot which squirmed under the
unfortunate keeper finished off the scoring, in a scrappy game that thankfully
didn’t go to extra time.
We were missing a
couple of the more experienced boys tonight, but it gave us a chance to look at
one or two others, we must play better next week when we host Needham in the
league.
In the first round
we have been drawn at home to Tiptree United.
Sunday 7th November - EJA
Felixstowe & Walton United 2 - 0 Ipswich Wanderers (0-0)
Squad:-
S.Pitts, K.Weaire, J.Rodwell, S.Dickerson, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy,
S.Wright, L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips Subs:- J.Roberts (Weaire).
A good last twenty minutes of this game saw us through to a victory at Dellwood
Avenue against visitors Ipswich Wanderers.
The first half was an even affair without many clear cut scoring chances from
either side. Both teams seemed to cancel each other out, as the game failed to
reach any great height. That said there was plenty of endeavour from both sets
of players, but the half ended goalless, with us thinking we still had another
gear we could slip into. HT-0-0.
The second half
took the same pattern, as we got the impression the visitors would have took the
draw, and it looked for all intense and purposes, a 0-0 all the way. However
approaching the 70 minute mark we seemed to raise our game, and started to look
much more threatening going forward, with good running and incisive passing.
There only looked like one side was going to win it now, and following a good
move and some neat interplay in the box Tom Donnelly
scuffed his shot but it looped over the keeper and nestled in the far corner.
After a quiet game Luke Thurston had really come to
life now and was a constant menace to the Wanderers defenders. After another
good move we got in behind their left back, the ball was put across the box
where Luke was lurking at the back post to thump in the second. He finished well
as the ball came at him waist high, but he adjusted his body shape well.
A deserved win in
the end but for a large portion of this game it didn’t look likely
Wednesday
3rd November 2004 - Ridgeons Youth League
Witham Town 3 - 2
Felixstowe & Walton United (0-2)
Squad:-
K.Algar, S.Wright, J.Rodwell, R.Fiddy, A.Leeson, J.Willett, T.Donnelly, M.Tomiak,
L.Hunn, D.Spencer, A.Phillips Subs:- J.Roberts (Wright), S.Dickerson (Tomiak),
L.Thurston.
We crashed to our first defeat in The RYL in spectacular fashion, conceding a
two goal advantage along the way. I know I have mentioned a game of two halves
before but this had to be the classic of all time with any game I have been
involved in. We ran Witham
ragged in the first half with some of our best
football to date, and they just could not handle our play. The second half was
the complete reverse, we could not stop them. The difference was they scored
three goals in their half while we only managed the two.
We had Danny Spencer back up front after injury, but Liam Jacobs missing through
suspension from the centre of midfield. So we moved Richard Fiddy into the
centre pushed Tom Donnelly out wide right and Danny in up front alongside Liam
Hunn.
Witham had two attacks in the first five minutes, which we dealt with. On seven
minutes our first attack saw Tom Donnelly break down the right with terrific
pace and the only thing the defender could do was bring him down. From the
resultant free kick Liam Hunn’s flick header was tipped over by the home keeper.
From that point on we didn’t look back, as brilliant football and powerful
running saw us tear into the home side.
On thirteen minutes Danny Spencer broke through,
showing good strength and finishing well. A minute later a double strike from
Liam Hunn saw his first effort hit the post, it came back to him and his second
try was desperately cleared off the line. That ball came to Tom Donnelly who
blasted it over the bar. On sixteen minutes a sweeping move from left to right
culminated in Ashley Phillips finishing well and
putting us well and truly in the driving seat. We had chance after chance as the
home side looked all over the place, which saw two of the players go into the
ref’s book. HT-0-2.
We spoke at the
break about not giving them an early lift, and to get out there and back at
them, it’s just a pity half time had to come. We had the first attack of the
second half when Tom got 1 v 1 and beat the defender only to shoot straight at
the keeper. But just three minutes into the second half, some very casual
defending resulted in the home side pulling an all important goal back. From
that point it was us that were all at sea, and Witham dominated the rest of the
game. Seven minutes later poor defending from a free kick saw the equaliser go
in, and we had to hang on for the rest of the half. Kai Algar had to pull off
some great saves as we just seemed to concede possession all too easily. We made
a couple of changes and substitute Jimmy Roberts made a fine clearance, from
what would have been a certain goal. Just as we thought we had hung on for the
draw, with seven minutes on the watch, Witham snatched the win with a fluky
cross come shot that looked like it was going over but dipped and nestled in the
far corner.
Before this game both sides were
unbeaten, we remain top but Witham have two games in hand on us. All agreed
afterwards that our first half play deserved a draw, but not to be.
Sunday 31st October - EJA
Stanway Rovers 2 - 2
Felixstowe & Walton United (1-0)
Squad:-
K.Algar, K.Weaire, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy, J.Roberts,
L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips Subs:- S.Wright (Roberts),
S.Dickerson (Weaire) , D.Alderson (Phillips).
After a free weekend it was off to Stanway for this Eastern Junior Alliance
league match. It started at a furious pace, with both teams going close.
Gradually we got on top of our hosts, and Tom Donnelly, Ashley Phillips and Liam
Jacobs all had good efforts. However after a goalmouth scramble it was Stanway
who took the lead, with a close range shot, against the run of play. HT-1-0.
The second half
started as the first with real end to end play, with both goalkeeper’s making
good saves. An amazing run from James Rodwell, beating no less than five
opponents before grazing the outside of the post with his shot. We were back on
top now but a very dogged home side were keeping us at bay. Then a quick break
from the home side caught us with a sucker punch and they were 2-0 up, with a
good finish. It’s not easy to break the lad’s spirit these days though, and with
ten minutes left a tremendous 25 yard free kick strike from the outstanding
Andy Leeson gave us hope. Two minutes into injury
time and we finally got our reward, when Tom Donnelly
ran onto a through ball and finished, to give us a well earned draw.
Thursday
28th October 2004 - Ridgeons Youth League
Felixstowe & Walton United 5 - 3 Harwich & Parkeston (1-2)
Squad:-
K.Algar, K.Weaire, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy, M.Tomiak,
L.Hunn, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips
Subs:- S.Wright (Weaire), S.Dickerson , L.Thurston, J.Roberts.
Another very entertaining evening at Dellwood Avenue saw an eight goal thriller
in this top of the table clash. With Harwich moving into second place and three
points behind us, it was always going to be an exciting game.
We started well
keeping the ball in the visitors half, but quick classic strikes saw us go two
down inside ten minutes. They both came from their lively right winger, but it
was the speed at which Harwich switched the play to him that caught us cold, and
he supplied two crosses from which they scored. As I have said before we have an
intelligent bunch of lads and they soon worked out how to get to grips with the
winger, and he didn’t cause us too many more problems.
We were playing with three in the centre of midfield, and Liam Hunn as the lone
striker, and we were closing them down well, and it was pleasing to see us win
so much of the ball in important areas. That said the visitor’s always looked
sharp going forward, and the back four were working well to deny them. At 2-0
down, Kai Algar pulled off a crucial save to keep us in the game. On 32 minutes
Liam Hunn pulled a goal back at an important time
heading in a corner. HT-1-2.
The second half was a real ding dong
affair but just saw the Seasiders edging it in terms of possession and chances
created. A fine delivery into the box from an Andy Leeson free kick was met by
Liam Jacob’s who glanced his header past the diving
keeper to make it 2-2. Within minutes however, we switched off from a free kick
awarded on the half way line, it was taken quickly and the striker got in behind
us to give Harwich back the
lead. The lads were wounded by this, and really showed how much they wanted to
stay in top spot. First a mazy run from left back James Rodwell saw him take on
the Harwich back line, he wriggled his way to the by-line superbly and pulled
the ball back where Liam Hunn smashed in the
equaliser.
I would have taken a draw at this point but the lads had other ideas, and it was
Hunny’s turn to run at the Harwich defence now and
he burst through their ranks to complete his hat-trick. He still wasn’t finished
and we wrapped it up with the best goal of the game. A strong run down the right
by Richard Fiddy ended with the perfect cross which was met by
Liam’s diving header which rocketed into the net,
scoring his fourth of the night and our fifth. A great game topped off with some
fine goals from both sides. Witham Town moved into second place after a 2-0 win
at Woodbridge, and we go there next week in yet another top of the table
clash.
Sunday
24th
October - ISYFL Cup
Felixstowe & Walton United 4 - 3
Trimley Red Devils (0-2)
Squad:-
M.Fiddy,
J.Walsh, D.Fry, M.Oxborrow, F.Fox, A.Leeson, D.Crawford, A.Hollis, D.Alderson,
S.Wright, A.Phillips Subs:- L.Thurston (Crawford), J.Rodwell (Oxborrow),
R.Fiddy (Hollis).
With no mid-week Ridgeons youth league game in the week, and no Eastern Junior
Alliance game in the afternoon, it was centre stage for the ISYL side and they
did not disappoint with a thrilling game taking place at Dellwood Avenue.
It was league cup
day and we hosted near rivals Trimley in this group stage game. With the full
under 18 squad to pick from, it was only right that Mark and Mark stayed with
the lads that have done well so far. That said with no less than six call off’s
it was just as well there was not a game in the afternoon.
A reshuffled side took time to settle, and although the lads were competing
really well they got caught square at the back twice and Trimley went into the
break 2-0 to the good, and on balance deserved it.
The second half
saw us dominate the game but not looking to dangerous up front, so the Mark’s
made three changes and it was inspired as all three substitutes scored. First
James Rodwell made it 2-1, then Luke Thurston’s bullet header from an Ashley
Phillips corner made it 2-2. The lads were totally dominating the game now, but
in our determination to push forward Trimley caught us the break and once again
took the lead. Although Mark Fiddy insisted he had two hands on the ball. The
ref consulted his assistant, who happened to be Mr Fiddy (Dad), who couldn’t say
either way so the goal stood. This obviously upset brother Richard Fiddy, as it
was becoming a family show, and Richard went down the other end to make it 3-3
with a peach of a strike. In the last 10 minutes finally the lad’s pressure
broke the now tired Trimley defence, and Luke grabbed his second to win the
game. Well done to both sets of lads who gave their all.
Sunday 17th October - EJA Cup
Felixstowe & Walton United 0 - 3 Barking & East Ham 3 (0-0)
Squad:-
K.Algar ,K.Weaire, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy, M.Tomiak,
L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips
Subs:- S.Wright (Weaire) S.Dickerson (Tomiak) K.Burch.
The proverbial game of two halves was really the case today, the difference
being our visitors from East London took their chances.
The first half saw us totally dominate the game playing some smashing football,
and we created several good opportunities but failed to convert any of them. I
think the lads forgot that it is a ninety minute game, as we failed to turn up
in the second period. HT 0-0.
The second half was so disappointing
and certainly not the type of performance we expect from a Felixstowe & Walton
side. Not to take anything away from the visitor’s who obviously upped their
game, but with our game dropping off so much there was only going to be one
winner. The Londoners went 1-0 up with a fortuitous goal that went in straight
from a corner, as the wind fooled everybody. That said they were dominating the
game as the failings in the Bury game were all too evident again. Lack of
competitiveness, schoolboy errors and some player’s just going through the
motions, was not good enough, and something we have to address quickly.
That said congratulations to Barking & East Ham, who were a smashing bunch and
good luck to them in the next round.
Sunday 17th
October - ISYFL
Felixstowe & Walton United 2 - 0 Ipswich Warriors (0-0)
Squad:-
M.Fiddy,
E.Phillips, D.Fry, M.Oxborrow, F.Fox, J.Walsh, D.Crawford, A.Hollis, T.Donnelly,
R.Donnelly, S.Cockburn. Subs:- R.Fiddy (T.Donnelly)
The younger side put in their best performance of the season to date defeating
Ipswich Warrior’s ‘B’ 2-0 at Dellwood Avenue. The lads were on top from the
start, with Franny Fox and Stuart Cockburn both hitting the woodwork in the
first half. HT 0-0. 
Russell Donnelly has rejoined the
club after coming back from the Navy, and as Felixstowe continued to dominate
the game, it was Russell who opened the scoring on 75 minutes after a mazy run.
Matty Oxborrow had the ball in the net earlier but was ruled off-side. Ten
minutes later captain Franny Fox rose highest in the box to head home a corner.
Now this was something of a landmark for Franny, as this was his first goal he
has scored since he started playing football at under 8’s, ten years ago. Well
done lads, and particularly Francis Fox.
Thursday
14th October 2004 - Ridgeons Youth League Cup
Whitton United 4 - 2 Felixstowe & Walton United (1-0)
Squad:-
K.Algar, K.Weaire, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs , A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy, M.Tomiak,
L.Hunn ,T.Donnelly, A.Phillips
Subs:- S.Wright, S.Dickerson (Rodwell), J.Roberts, L.Thurston.
We made the short journey to Whitton for the second time in a fortnight, this
time in the Ridgeons youth cup. Our hosts were still smarting from the 3-0
defeat we inflicted on them in the league and were in determined mood.
Once again we opted to defend the slope in the first period , and it was another
good contest between two competitive sides. Although we went in 1-0 down at the
break, we were the better side in the first half, and the talk at the break was
keep playing the way we were and we can win the game. HT 1-0.
However Whitton had other ideas, and
we got caught cold at the back to allow the smallest player on the pitch to head
in Whitton’s second. Again a defensive lapse and our host’s were 3-0 up leaving
us a mountain to climb. We immediately switched to 3-5-2 and started to have a
say in the game and when we pulled one back through Michael Tomiak it was game
on.
We began to get on top, but once again we switched off at the back, and failed
to defend a free kick at the back post, as Whitton scored the killer goal and
made it 4-1. Liam Hunn pulled another back to make it an interesting last 15
minutes but Whitton held out to go through. Good luck to them in the next
round.
Sunday 10th October - EJA
Felixstowe & Walton United 0 - 3 Bury Town (0-1)
Squad:-
K Algar, K.Weaire, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs , A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy, M.Tomiak,
L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips
Subs:- S.Wright (Thurston),S.Dickerson (Weaire).
Our first loss of the season was
disappointing, not in the fact we were totally outplayed, it was the reason we
were totally outplayed.
Bury were technically better than us as was expected being a college side, but
this season on the few occasions we have played sides who pass as well as Bury
we have got amongst them and have not given them the room to play. Today we did
not get out of first gear, and to say it was a lethargic display would be an
understatement. That said we were not giving too much away at the back, although
the visitors were winning every knockdown, every header, we were not just second
to everything we were third and fourth. A wind assisted corner went straight in
to put Bury 1-0 up at the break. We did have a couple of chances but it was the
sort of day you knew they were not going to go in. HT-0-1.
Even a talking to
at half time didn’t do the trick, and unfortunately the same pattern followed in
the second half. Again Bury were keeping quality possession, but without too
much penetration. Then two moments of madness at the back cost us two goals and
saw the game beyond recovery.
As I have said on numerous occasions, win lose or draw at under 18’s is fine,
but if you lose doing the wrong things then you will be told, in no uncertain
terms, today’s performance was not good enough, and we got what we thoroughly
deserved.
Sunday 10th
October - ISYFL
Trimley Red Devils 1 - 2
Felixstowe & Walton United (0-1)
Squad:-
M.Fiddy,
S.Pitts, D.Fry, M.Oxborrow, F.Fox, J.Walsh, D.Crawford, A.Hollis, D.Alderson,
J.Roberts, S.Cockburn. Subs:- E.Phillips
An excellent performance from
the younger side saw a 2-1 away win in the local derby at Stennetts playing
field against Trimley. No details to hand apart from the squad and that Dan
Crawford scored both our goals. Well done lads !
Thursday
7th October 2004 - Ridgeons Youth League
Felixstowe & Walton United 0 - 0 Framlingham (0-0)
Squad:-
K.Algar, K.Weaire, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs A.Leeson, J.Willett, T.Donnelly
M.Tomiak, L.Thurston, L.Hunn, A.Phillips Subs:- R.Fiddy (Thurston),
E.Phillips , S.Wright S.Dickerson.
We entertained third
placed Framlingham Town, and were taken aback with the pace that our visitors
started the game, looking for that early goal. Fortunately our back-line was
solid, as we weathered the storm for 15 minutes or so. Gradually we clawed our
way back into the game, as it was impossible for Fram to keep up their initial
pace. We started to dictate the pace of the game now with good controlled
patient football, but found the visitors defence in outstanding form.
They were not
causing us too many problems in our penalty area, but they were battling hard in
all other areas, particularly at the back. We did create the two best chances of
the half though, both involving Tom Donnelly. First he raced to the by-line
where he whipped in a great cross, unfortunately it was just behind Ashley
Phillips and the ball spun off the side of his head, instead of full on, a good
chance though. Secondly for the first time Tom got clear and saw the whites of
the keeper’s eyes, but he shot at the near post instead of across the goalie, on
another day he would have scored. HT 0-0.
The second half
saw the majority of the play in Fram’s half, and we probed and passed and
created but I have to take my hat off to the visitor’s defenders, particularly
their Captain at the heart of it. Fram did breakaway occasionally but Kai did
not have one save of note to make, which was all the more frustrating. In one of
our attacks we bundled the ball into the danger area and somehow the keeper
scooped the ball off the line, we followed up but the next shot was brilliantly
cleared off the line by a defender. Joe Willett rose highest from a corner only
to see his flick header just go over the bar. With minutes remaining we finally
opened them up, and just as Tom was about to pull the trigger, a superb last
ditch tackle denied him.
On possession and chances created we feel we should have won the game, but it
would have been harsh on the visitor’s outstanding defensive quartet. Although
0-0, for the football fan it was a very good game. It still leaves us unbeaten
and top of the league, which we have to be pleased with.
Sunday 3rd October - EJA
Woodbridge Town 3 - 4
Felixstowe & Walton United (1-1)
Squad:
S.Pitts, S.Wright, J.Rodwell, S.Dickerson, A.Leeson, J.Willett, L.Jacobs,
M.Tomiak, L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips
Subs:- E.Phillips (Wright), M.Fiddy, J.Roberts (Jacobs)
With several players injured or unavailable it was a question of grabbing three
lads straight from the morning game in the ISYFL, and switching the starting
eleven around.
With Richard Fiddy missing we moved Michael Tomiak out to the right, and brought
Stacy Dickerson into the centre of midfield to partner Liam Jacobs. This did
unsettle the team slightly as Liam and Stacy are similar type players, and we
missed Michael’s foot on the ball and passing ability from the centre.
Woodbridge are a fine footballing side and kept quality possession, but in an
area that we were comfortable with as long as we kept good shape, which we did.
Both sides did create chances though, and Michael Tomiak
gave us the lead with a clever lob in the six yard box. Woodbridge
levelled however through Sean Lugo, with him and
James Heathcote both looking sharp up front for our hosts. HT 1-1.
The second half was a real ding dong
affair, and over ninety minutes Woodbridge played the better football, but the
never say die attitude of our lad’s, whoever we play is fantastic.
Luke Thurston made it 2-1 to us. Shortly after
James Heathcote made it 2-2, as the play went from
end to end. Luke then scored his second, and what a peach, turning on the edge
of the box and smashing it into the top corner. Luke is a smashing lad with a
terrific attitude, and it was so pleasing to see him score such a goal.
Back came Woodbridge with another good strike from Mickey
Adams. We did get Michael back into the centre of midfield, after the
unlucky dismissal of Liam Jacobs for two yellow cards, one certainly not
deserved. But with the ten men we seemed stronger, and Tom
Donnelly gambled and scored from a keeper fumble to win us the game.
Sunday 3rd October - ISYFL Cup
Felixstowe & Walton United 1 - 0 Woolverston (1-0)
Squad:-
M.Fiddy, A.Brown,
D.Fry, S.Wright, F.Fox, E.Phillips S.Pitts, D.Crawford, A.Hollis, J.Roberts,
S.Cockburn.
Subs:- M.Oxborrow (Brown)
It was cup day for the ISYFL side as they entertained Woolverston Wolves at
Dellwood Avenue. A close game saw the young Seasiders edge it with a solitary
first half header from Jimmy Roberts.
We do have great strength in depth for the Ridgeons and Alliance sides, but do
lack strikers for this team, so any under 17 or 18 year olds who fancy a trial
then give us a call. That said Mark and Mark have the basis of a good squad,
with one or two more still to come back.
League Table - and look who's top !!
Thursday
30th
September - Ridgeons Youth League
Whitton United 0 - 3
Felixstowe & Walton United (0-1)
Squad:-
K.Algar, K.Weaire, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy, M.Tomiak,
L.Hunn, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips
Subs:- J.Heathcote (Fiddy),S.Wright (Weaire),S.Dickerson(Jacobs),L.Thurston
.
A fantastic battling display saw the boys come home with the points, in probably
our toughest game yet. The home side were not going to surrender this one
lightly and were sharp in the tackle and very quick to close us down early on.
That said this
bunch of lads have a great deal of belief and are on a winning streak, and play
as though they will not be beaten. What is impressing at the moment is the
desire to do well, and whichever way the opposition play we match like for like.
If it’s a physical game if it’s a passing game, whatever these boys adapt.
We opted to defend the slope first half and both sides created early chances.
Good saves from both keepers kept it at 0-0, and then two terrific goal line
stops from James Rodwell kept our hosts at bay. Tom
Donnelly in for the injured Danny Spencer showed terrific pace to put us
1-0 up at the break.
The second half
was a real battle with both sides committed to
every tackle and header, and it was a very entertaining encounter. Whitton had a
period when they were slightly on top, but what a time to score, and we did. A
ball in from the left to Liam Hunn saw his strike hit the post, but that man
Donnelly was there to slot home the rebound. The
home side came at us fiercely now but we matched them in every department, and
Liam Hunn putting the icing on the cake finishing
well after a mix up in the Whitton defence. Also a mention for skipper Andy
Leeson who was outstanding at the heart of the defence.
Sunday 26th September - EJA
Felixstowe & Walton United 2 - 0 Halstead Town (0-0)
Squad:-
S .Pitts, K.Weaire, J.Rodwell, S.Dickerson, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy,
M.Tomiak, L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips
Subs:- D.Alderson (Thurston), E.Phillips (Weaire), S.Wright(Dickerson).
A five minute purple patch in the second half secured all three points at home
against Halstead in the eastern Junior Alliance.
It was a very
tight game with both sides cancelling each other out, and not many clear cut
chances at all. It was the sort of game that had 0-0 written all over it as both
defences dominated, and that was the score-line at half time.
The second half
took a similar pattern, as both sets of attackers struggled to get anything from
mean defences, but mid-way through the second half, young Tom Donnelly won us
the game. Firstly he rose superbly to flick on a ball and for the first time in
the game the visitor’s defence got caught square, Ashley
Phillips raced onto the through ball and as the keeper came out he
squeezed it past him to give us the lead. Minutes later and we broke down the
right and Richard Fiddy put over the perfect cross where
Tom Donnelly rose highest to loop his header into the net.
The rest of the game ran down as it settled down to the earlier pattern without
much more goal-mouth incident. A fantastic start to the season has seen us play
seven games now in the Ridgeons league and Junior Alliance without defeat, six
wins and one draw and, although very early day’s we sit top of both respective
divisions.
Sunday 26th
September - ISYFL
Felixstowe & Walton United 0 - 0 Ipswich Warriors 'A' (0-0)
Squad:-
M.Fiddy, A.Brown, D.Fry, M.Oxborrow, F.Fox, J.Walsh, D.Crawford,
A.Hollis, D.Alderson, J.Roberts, S.Cockburn.
Subs:- L.Thurston (Oxborrow), J.Rodwell (Walsh)
The younger side got
their season under way with a tough test at home to Ipswich Warriors ‘A’. This
side will take time to settle as Mark Cooper and Mark Anderson, get to know
their players and find out their best positions.
Nobody could argue with Warriors 3-0 lead at the break, but some reshuffling and
more understanding saw a much better second half. Jimmy Roberts started up front
but looked much more comfortable when he was put at centre half in the second
period. Mark Fiddy looks a fine prospect in goal. This side will definitely
improve with games, as an improvement could be seen over 90 minutes, and there
are still some injured players to come back.
Thursday
23rd
September - Ridgeons Youth League
Felixstowe & Walton United 5 - 3 Braintree Town (3-2)
Squad:-
K.Algar, K.weaire, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs,A. Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy,
J.Heathcote, L.Hunn, D.Spencer, A.Phillips
Subs:-
D.Alderson, T.Donnelly, S.Wright(Weaire) S.Dickerson, L.Thurston.
Our third meeting with Braintree Town already this season, in the Ridgeons and
Alliance leagues, made it two wins and a draw.
We started on fire going two up inside five minutes after some breathtaking
football, Liam Hunn and Liam Jacobs the scorers. We were tearing into the
visitors from all angles and should have scored several more before the break,
but as is always said if you don’t take your chances then in football anything
can happen. At 2-0 and cruising, a wonderful effort from a visiting player saw
him score from the half way line. Seeing Kye of his line he could not have
struck it better. We were still by far and away the dominant side, and Danny
Spencer restored our two goal advantage. Then on the stroke of half time in
Braintree’s second attack of the game they scored again, leaving us scratching
our heads why we were not out of sight. HT 3-2.
We spoke at the
break about it giving them a lift and not to panic if it went to 3-3, but keep
playing as we have, and take our chances. Minutes into the second half and yes
the visitors equalised, albeit hotly disputed as Kye insisted he had two hands
on the ball. The goal stood and everything we spoke about at half time went out
of the window. We reverted to the long ball trying to chase the game, so our
short passing game that was so devastating in the first half deserted us, and
people were hanging onto it too long in the wrong areas.
It was a bit of a
scrap now, but Richard Fiddy broke the deadlock with another terrific strike
from 35 yards, and finally Danny Spencer scored a superb fifth of sheer quality.
Quick feet to turn the defender, exceptional pace to get away from him, and then
he just opened up to stroke the ball past the stranded keeper.
A great result in
the end, but still a long way to go on that old learning curve.
Sunday
19th
September - Eastern Junior Alliance
Ransomes Sports 1 - 2 Felixstowe & Walton United (1-2)
Squad: S.
Pitts, S. Wright, J. Rodwell, L. Jacobs, A. Leeson, J. Willett, R. Fiddy, M.
Tomiak, L. Thurston, T. Donnelly, A. Phillips
Subs:- D. Alderson (Thurston), K. Weaire (Wright), S. Dickerson (Donnelly),
E.Phillips.
We made the short trip to Sidegate Avenue Ipswich to take on Ransomes Sports,
and came away with all three points. That is just about all you can say as it
was an absolutely dire game.
A swirling wind was not helping matters, but we did get out of first gear today,
with several lethargic performances, seeing some boys just seeming to go through
the motions, as our passing game deserted us and both teams reverted to lumping
the ball long.
There were some pluses to take from the game, Tom Donnelly worked hard up front
and again his pace was evident when a good through ball from Michael Tomiak
released Tom who put us 1-0 up sliding the ball under the advancing keeper.
Ransomes were soon level when the old chestnut, communication broke down at the
back, and everyone left it for the home striker to nip in and equalise. Michael
Tomiak restored our lead with a good header from a corner, and Michael was one
of the few who shone today. HT 1-2.
The second half
was even more abysmal than the first, and the home side capitalised on our
unwillingness to compete in certain areas, but fortunately they didn’t create
too many clear cut chances. Liam Jacobs had a chance to seal it waltzing round
defenders with just the keeper to beat, but the keeper made a fine save with his
feet.
Our hosts can count themselves unfortunate not to have got something from the
game. A couple of the lads said well at least we won, and I pointed out that is
not what youth football is about, it’s about doing the right things on the pitch
win, lose or draw.
Sunday
12th
September - Eastern Junior Alliance
Felixstowe & Walton United 5 - 0 Tiptree United (4-0)
Squad: K.Algar,
E.Phillips, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy, M.Tomiak,
L.Thurston, T.Donnelly, A.Phillips
Subs:-D.Fry (E.Phillips) S.Cockburn (Jacobs) F.Fox (Donnelly)
The opener in the Eastern Junior Alliance and a home match versus Braintree Town
saw us off to a flyer.
Our attacking play was very good and we certainly looked like scoring whenever
we went forward. Luke Thurston opened the scoring
and was so unlucky not to make it two, minutes later with a terrific strike that
came back off the post into the keeper’s arms. The movement was good and
Tom Donnelly obviously had put his shooting boots
on grabbing a superb first half hat trick to give us a 4-0 lead at the break.
The second period was a little tighter
as the game followed a normal pattern, Braintree not wanting to concede many
more and our lads in the comfort zone. The visitors pressed but a solid looking
Felixstowe & Walton back line kept the sheet clean. A couple of changes gave us
fresh legs, and when Richard Fiddy got to the by line he put in a fine near post
cross which Ashley Phillips met superbly to head it
over the keeper, virtually a carbon copy of the goal against Clacton.
Heady days for the youngsters with
three games played in the Ridgeons Youth League and one now in the Eastern
junior Alliance without a loss. A long way to go, but if this bunch believe
enough they are more than capable of success.
Thursday 9th
September - Ridgeons Youth League
Felixstowe & Walton United 4 - 2 Tiptree United (2-1)
Squad:-
K.Algar, S.Wright, J.Rodwell, L.Jacobs, A.Leeson, J.Willett, R.Fiddy, M.Tomiak,
L.Hunn, D.Spencer, A.Phillips
Subs:-
D.Alderson (Spencer), T.Donnelly, J.Heathcote (Wright),
E.Phillips, L.Thurston (Hunn).
Our first ever meeting with Tiptree
United at youth level saw a highly entertaining encounter take place.
We totally dominated the first half and played some lovely football to boot,
but it all counts for nothing if you do not finish off that build up play. After
several good chances we went 1-0 up when Liam Hunn
turned in the box and fired home after good approach work. Tiptree looked very
dangerous on the break with two good lads up front, and within minutes we got
caught square and it was 1-1. Our persistence however paid off and
Liam Jacobs made it 2-1 at the break, again after
some great football. HT 2-1.
The second half was a fine game of
football, echoed by the officials afterwards. A very even second period saw both
sides have their moments, and at a time when Tiptree were on top a great ball
from Sean Wright released Danny Spencer who, with
blistering pace outstripped the visitors defence and finished well to make it
3-1. We got back on top and Liam Hunn made it 4-1
with his second of the game, a goal all about his strength to beat the keeper,
and his ability, to squeeze it in from a tight angle.
Fifteen minutes to go and let’s warm
the subs up, then a sliced clearance put in the visiting striker to make it 4-2,
sit down again lads. We did get them on and the game finished 4-2, but we had to
work very hard for the points against an excellent young Tiptree side.
Thursday 2nd
September - Ridgeons Youth League
Felixstowe & Walton United 3 - 1 Clacton Town (1-0)
SQUAD:-
K.Algar, E.Phillips, J.Rodwell, S.Dickerson, A.Leeson(c),
J.Willett, R.Fiddy, L.Jacobs, T.Donnelly, D.Spencer, A.Phillips. SUBS:-
K.Burch, D.Alderson, L.Thurston (Donnelly), S.Wright, M.Tomiak (Dickerson).
A change of fixture saw us at home to Essex Seasiders Clacton, and with
everybody available, we made three changes to the starting eleven, bringing in
Andy Leeson to Centre half where he captained the side. Also, in came Liam
Jacobs and Stacy Dickerson to the centre of midfield. The game started at a
hundred miles an hour as both sides were looking for the early breakthrough, but
it was the home side that were more threatening in front of goal. Danny Spencer
went close, and after a great move Tom Donnelly blasted his shot from twelve
yards over the bar.
It was a little
bit of a scrappy affair as both sides settle in to the new season, and a lot of
stop start with silly fouls from both sides. One resulted in a free kick awarded
on the edge of Clacton's box, in the perfect position for a left footer.
Ashley Phillips got hold of the ball and looked
confident, and a peach of a strike curled around the wall hitting the base of
the post and cannoning in, as good as a free kick you will see at any level.
HT- 1-0.
The second period
saw us start brightly, but then a needless lunge in the box and the visitors
were awarded a penalty, kye Algar got a good hand to it but could not prevent
the equaliser. This signalled a spell of Clacton pressure, which saw our
confidence level drop and mistakes were causing us problems. That said the
visitors were not creating many clear cut chances, although we did have one
lucky escape. The ball was coming straight back at us now so we brought Luke
Thurston on up front, as he is a big lad and good in the air, immediately the
game changed in our favour as Luke began to put himself about. We forced a
series of corners and it was Luke Thurston who made
it 2-1 with a great header from Michael Tomiak’s corner.
It was an
exciting game now for the large watching crowd, and with minutes to go we broke
down the right and Richard Fiddy Crossed, Ashley Phillips
moved in from the left hand side to get in front of the advancing keeper to loop
a header over him and score his second to put the icing on the cake.
Wednesday 25th August -
Ridgeons Youth League
Braintree Town 2 - 2 Felixstowe & Walton United (2-0)
SQUAD: K.Algar, S.wright,
J.Rodwell, E.Phillips, R.Fiddy, J.Willett, K.Burch, O.Nunn, T.Donnelly,
D.Spencer, A.Phillips,
SUBS:-L.Thurston, D.Alderson, D.Fry, F.Fox, M.Fiddy.
Our first competitive game of the
season and a trip to Cressing Road home of Braintree Town saw the young
Seasiders come home with a hard earned but well deserved point.
With six first choice players missing in came no less than eight of last seasons
under 16’s, into the sixteen man squad, and the youngsters certainly did not let
us down. It also helped that the Braintree side also contained a lot of first
years.
We started the brighter and pinned the
home side back, carving out some good opportunities, which saw Braintree’s
keeper pull off a couple of fine saves. Gradually our hosts began to win the
midfield, and took control of the game. They scored two goals as our young
charges visibly wilted, and we couldn’t wait for the half time whistle.
At the break we spoke about not feeling
sorry for ourselves and standing up and being counted, we also made a couple of
substitutions, and shuffled it around bringing some experience into the
midfield.
It worked and the second half belonged
to us as we attacked with more gusto, and the home side were having work hard in
defence. The superb Joe Willett popped up from centre half to meet Ashley
Phillips’s cross to pull a goal back. The partnership of Danny Spencer and Tom
Donnelly up front were causing Braintree problems with their pace. It was
Danny’s trickery that saw him dribble into the box only to be upended, the ref
pointed to the spot immediately and Danny got up to thump in the equaliser.
Braintree had their moments and Kye Algar pulled off three magnificent saves,
but on the balance of play the draw was definitely the fairest outcome.