ST ALBANS CITY YOUTH F.C

Sunday Youth Team Match Reports

Season 2006/07

Please note, due to the increased number of City Youth teams taking to the field this season we can only publish those match reports that have been sent in by e-mail.  

15th July 2007

 

13's West win at Echoes

 

Under 13's West win the Echoes 6 a Side tournament. Carl Palin scored in a 1 - 0 victory over Flamstead Youth. Then Carl and Harvey Scott found the net beating Comets 2 - 0 Finally a 0 - 0 draw against Harpenden Colts sent them and Harpenden into the Semi finals. Harvey scored in the first few seconds against Tring Tornadoes setting up a final against Harpenden Colts. The meeting earlier in the day had ended 0 - 0 with James Pellington doing a fantastic job marking their lethal no 12. The final proved to be a similar game but this time with City getting more on top as the game went on. Harvey hit the post and some other very near misses although the game ended 0 - 0. Extra time and still no score so penalties were needed to decide the winner. City held their nerve and scored every penalty James Pellington, Harvey Scott, George Guest, Laurie Blow and Carl Palin taking the winning kick after a miss from Harpenden. Josh Meija Searle did a great job in goal and David Towndrow also played well. A great team performance on a hot day.

 

Sunday 1^st July 2007

 

The St Albans City Youth Under 8’s West won their 4 matches, scoring 8 and conceding just 2. The match referees awarded Harry Lewis Player of the Tournament.

 

 

Tournament Highlights:

• Harry Lewis shooting from centre kicks
• Kevin’s clearance off the line
• Jamie coming out of goal and scoring his first goal for the club
• Finley coming off the bench and breaking the deadlock with a incisive run
• Harry Hawkes chasing 2 defenders and ball into the net
• Harry Deacons nut meg and pass for Harry Hawkes to score
• Williams ‘you’re not going past me’ tackle

 

Match Results

Chorleywood              2 – 0. Harry Hawkes 1, Harry Lewis 1  

Garston Boys              3 – 2. Harry Hawkes 1, Finley 1, Harry Deacon 1.

Rickmansworth            1 – 0. Finley 1

Harvesters                  2 – 0. Jamie 1, Harry Hawkes 1.

 

6th May 2007

Disability Squad

 

Chelsea's bad weekend continues

 

St Albans City Youth Disability Team  4  v  1  Chelsea DFC1

St Albans City Disability’s continuing improvement was reflected in a convincing four-one victory over second placed Chelsea DFC1 at Highfield Park on Sunday.

St Albans started strongly, defending well and working hard as a team whilst creating several dangerous scoring opportunities.  The first goal followed a neat build up and was finished with gusto by Joe Strohm.  Two further goals from Jon Riggins and Nicholas Patrick late in the half gave St Albans a comfortable three-nil lead, which was fully deserved on the balance of play.

The second half continued in the same vein, with top scorer Matt Nash further extending the lead following an excellent run and pass from man of the match Nicholas Patrick.  As St Albans tired in the last fifteen minutes, Chelsea were able to come into the game more, but were only able to score a late consolation goal as the City defence otherwise held firm.

Assistant manager Anthony Roche, in charge for the day said “This was a fantastic team performance and all fourteen players who were involved worked very hard and played their part in a good win.  We now have two more league games left and I hope for the same performance in each of those games.”

St Albans:  S. Regan, L. Robinson, G. Tuitt, P. Spinks, D. Bolton, L. Donovan, N. Patrick, A. Roche, J. Riggins, M. Nash, D, Augustine, T. Ward, J. Strohm, L. Jolley

 

Disability Team takes part in the Northampton Town FC Tournament

29th April 2007

Under 15's

North lose out in Semi-Final thriller

The Under 15 North played Hemel Hempstead Youth in the Challenge Cup Semi-final.

The best two teams in the League had played out two 1-1 draws earlier this season, but City should have won both games with the possession and chances enjoyed. They seemed determined to win this game and very quickly took control on a very hard grass -less pitch.

City very soon created chances and should have scored at least twice before a knock through saw Stefan Williams race in and calmly stroke the ball past their keeper. The score quickly became 2 - 0 when Hiller played a long ball over the defensive line and Thatcher , on to it very quickly , struck a shot in the corner. City continued to dominate but a combination of the bouncy pitch and poor finishing meant that the game was still a contest. Hemel , in a rare moment of attacking then scored when a shot from outside the box squeezed under Channing for 2- 1.

In the second half City tore into Hemel again , but saw their keeper make some good saves before Baker nicked in a near-post corner beautifully delivered by Yates. City then had a really good spell and should have scored two more before a City attacker was hauled down in the box. Norman was forced to wait before taking it and eventually hit the post , but was unable to control the re-bound. Hemel sensing they were not out of it re-organised and were back in the game when a ball was flicked on across City's box and headed-in .

City should have settled down and consolidated but allowed a Hemel player to squeeze down the line and fire in a great shot for an equaliser. City then briefly controlled the play and Yates cutting in from the right hit a " bullet " into the roof of the net. At 4 - 3 with ten minutes to play City were still in control but minutes later conceded a free-kick on the edge of their box. The referee allowed a quickly taken free- kick whilst City were still organising and the ball was chipped into our net. This decision decided the game as City felt that they had been very unjustly treated and to add insult to injury a great shot in the dying minute flew past Channing with extra time looking likely.

A game that City could, and should have scored at least eight times ended in a 5 - 4 defeat with our boys devastated that they had managed to lose from a winning position.

City march on with an outside chance of winning the league , but only if results go their way and the finishing improves dramatically.

Under 11's

Under 11's Girls unbeaten in Bedmond Festival.

 

The Under 11's Girls played in the Bedmond Festival, finishing with four wins and two draws, without conceding a goal.

In their first match they drew 0-0 against Letchworth Garden City, in the next match they won 2-0 with Megan Cockhill scoring two well struck goals against Harvesters.

In their third match against St Albans Rangers they drew 0-0.  Then came a 1-0 victory over Bedmond with Tara Graham scoring straight from a corner kick. Against Garston ladies they won 1-0 with Emma O'Sullivan scoring.

In their final game they beat Watford Youth 2-0 with goals from Megan Cockhill and Louise Herren.

22nd April 2007

Under 15's

North reach Semi-Final after tight game

The Under 15 North played Whetstone Jags in the Challenge Cup Quarter -Final

The second game in a row against Whetstone was always going to be a tough encounter.

City, with a depleted squad, could only muster 11 outfield players , but this seemed to galvanise the boys who started very resolutely keeping Whetstone pushed back away from our goal. City with Ashcroft , Armstrong , Hiller and Baker making strong tackles denied Whetstone any clear cut chances in the opening twenty minutes. Jordan Williams and Norman got hold of midfield and won those all important second balls that swing the direction of tight games. City took the lead when a free kick saw Ashcroft float a teasing ball into the heart of Whetstones defence where Jordan Williams side-footed it in.

Campion and Thatcher working very hard to get onto crosses from Yates and Talbot constantly harrassed the Jags defence , but couldn't find a way through.

The second half started with a bang when the dangerous Jags striker burst through a tackle and unleashed a thunderbolt that gave Channing no chance. City came roaring back and took the match to Whetstone and after a period of pressure got a free- kick just outside the box.

Ashcroft stepped up and hit an unstoppable shot in the top corner for 2 - 1. The game got overly physical at this stage as Jags began to get frustrated. Stefan Williams came on and his pace and determination paid almost immediate dividends when he chased a through ball and managed to dispossess their keeper and force the ball home. A Jags player then managed to get himself sent-off and the game was effectively City's. In the last few minutes City conceded a dubious free-kick on the edge of their box and a very well taken kick was just nicked in under the bar.

A final score of 3 - 2 to City sees them face arch-rivals Hemel Youth in the Semi-Final.

Under 12's

Under 12's West

Bring Home the Silverware

Hertfordshire Football Association Under 12's Challenge Cup Champions 2006/07

 

St Albans City Youth's impressive U12 West team won their first Herts County Cup with a solid single goal victory over Welwyn Pegasus Royals at the County Ground, Letchworth on Sunday 22 April. 

On a glorious day St Albans won the toss and played up the slight slope in the first half. After an initial exchange into both areas the match settled down into a midfield slog with midfield dynamos Matt Taylor and Jack McNamara making their presence felt in the centre of the park, and Hal Maher at left back nullifying the dangerous Pegasus right winger. St Albans almost opened the scoring when a shot was parried by the Welwyn keeper but Cormac O'Regan just failed to reach the rebound and the sides entered half-time goal-less.

 

At the restart St Albans made just the one change with hard-working left midfielder Robbie Guy replaced by Gareth Folwell, and the youngsters came out out all cylinders. Five minutes into the second half pressure on the right hand side saw Pegasus give away a free kick. Dominic Watkins expertly swung the ball into the box and a late run by Gareth Folwell, saw him strike the ball on the half-volley high into the net past the outstretched keeper. 

 

With 25 minutes left on the clock the match was far from dead and the match opened up as Welwyn were forced to go on the offensive. Several Pegasus attacks foundered on the rock-solid defensive partnership of Laurence Wroe and Wilf Steward and as the match wore on St Albans countered with attacks from strikers Oliver Marjoram and Tom Fazakerley, who were unlucky to see shots saved. With the match almost won and the spectators ready to crack open the champagne, hearts were in mouths as a bizarre free-kick was given against keeper Dalian Davis for handling outside the area in the last minute. Pegasus' free-kick from the edge of the box sailed over the wall and was heading straight for the top of the net until Dalian instantly turned from 'Muppet to hero' and redeemed himself with a flying leap to tip the ball over the bar! The resulting corner was cleared and the final whistle blew to the delight and relief of all.

Captain Laurence Wroe collected the trophy, and a great day was capped by manager Graham Folwell praising both sets of players for a fantastic display of football worthy of a final. Special thanks to Herts FA and all spectators and supporters who made it such a memorable day for the players and officials of both teams. The victory is St Albans City Youth's fifteenth County Cup final triumph in their 37 year history, fourteen in the past 12 years. 

St Albans West: Davis; Watkins, Wroe (capt), Steward, Maher; O'Regan, McNamara, Taylor, Guy; Marjoram, Fazakerly: Subs; Folwell, Ollie Biggs, Luca Smaldone, Daniel Rossen. 

 

15th April 2007

Under 15's

North edged out in see-saw game

The Under 15 North played Whetstone Jags in the League Cup Quarter - Final.

The first game in a series of three against the Jags in a few weeks, which will define their season, started brightly for City who got on top and began to create small chances.

Whetstone , nervous at the back were riding their luck as several promising attacks were cleared just at the moment when City looked to be pulling the trigger. City continued to threaten with Armstrong and Yates making successful inroads through the Jags midfield.

City conceded a dubious free-kick on the edge of their box and were shocked when a great strike just went in under the bar. City ,1-0 down at half -time against the run of play attempted to re-group but were stunned again when in the first minute of the second half a driven corner to the far post was powerfully headed in.

City then started to play and immediately got a goal back when Thatcher drove into their box, took the ball up to and around the keeper and slid it home. The second goal for City came when Armstrong battling to retain possession, got the ball to the byline and crossed superbly for Campion to tap in from close range. City then took the lead when Yates picked out Armstrong on the edge of the box, he chested the ball down and volleyed it into the bottom left hand corner.

At this point Whetstone looked beaten and City , with ten minutes left, should have played out time , but Whetstone re-organised and threw everything at City. A great run by their striker saw him cut in from City's right and blast a shot just inside the far post for a deserved equaliser.

Extra-time now looked on the cards but Whetstone didn't want that and only a superb save from Channing kept City alive. City looked stunned and with a head of steam the winning goal from Whetstone came from another far post header from a corner and City had lost a game that they should have won.

City play Whetstone again this Sunday , and will need to up their game to progress into the Semi-final of the Challenge Cup.

 

1st April 2007

Under 14's

Under 14's South  2 v 2 Harpenden

The first Sunday of the Easter break saw both sides short of players and a very strong wind acted as if it was worth two extra players for the team with it behind them.

St Albans elected to play into the wind and up the slope in the first half and did a good job despite finding it difficult to get out of their own half. The visitors early domination was broken down and the home side started to create chances by keeping the ball on the floor. Unfortunately none of them were taken. After 30 minutes the visitors scored when a corner was cleared outside the box and the shot took the wind and sailed out of the keepers reach.

The lead was short lived as yet another quick break was put away by Lewis Martindale. 1-1 at half time would have been good but disaster struck when a harmless high ball was allowed to bounce by the keeper and he was deceived by the new hard surface.

Although a goal down it was anticipated that the second half would see the home team dominate and it was hoped they would not worry about a single goal deficit. The domination was total but the ball would not go in the net. Massimo Marenghi repeated last weeks move but his chip was caught by the wind and bounced off the crossbar. Another goal attempt hit the post and two more hit players on the line. Players had shots but did not get them high enough to get the wind behind them. Eventually Massimo Marenghi scored the equaliser.

Despite playing nearly all the game in the visitors half the winner would not come. Freddie Brown stepped in to central defence and put on a commanding performance. Not only snuffing out attacks but using the ball well afterwards. He shared Man of the Match with Kieren Rawal who put on a dynamic display at right back that dealt with opponents and drove on the team.

 

25th March 2007

Under 15's

City keep the dream alive

The Under 15 North played Pinnacle in a League game.

In the first fixture between thses two sides , one of the best Youth football games I have ever seen ended with City edging the game 5 - 4. It would have been too much to expect another game like that , but with so much at stake , both teams had to go for it. City started stronger and although genuine chances were hard to create , it was City who looked like they were going to strike first. Against the run of play , it was Pinnacle who scored first when the ball sat up on the edge of City's box , and the shot was rifled home. City came back immediately and with Yates ability to go past his man inside and out , Pinnacle were rocked and had to give away several fouls to stop some good passing football. Another good run by Yates and a whipped cross was flicked on by a superb Thatcher header leaving their keeper with no chance. City stayed on top for the rest of the half but could not score again.

In the second half City again pushed Pinnacle back , although they still remained dangerous on the counter attack. A period of sustained pressure finally paid dividends when a goal bound shot was deliberately handled by a defender. Charles Norman took responsibility and scored with a good shot low to the keepers left. Pinnacle came back again and City could not relax but with Harris , Hiller , Ashcroft and Baker on top of their game City held on . City's third came when another shot was adjudged to have been deliberately " armed " away , and another penalty was awarded.
Norman stepped up again , and if anything scored with an even better shot to the same corner. Pinnacle should have scored when they were awarded a free kick on the edge of City's box but an amazing one handed save by Tom Channing kept the lead intact at 3 - 1. Pinnacle, however , just don't know when they are beaten and City had to endure a torrid last ten minutes when Pinnacle threw everything they had at City. They did score when a point blank header was almost stopped by Channing but the ball agonisingly rolled over the line. A final score of 3 - 2 to City takes them to second in the League with a probable title decider against Hemel next week.

Under 14's

St Albans City Youth U-14 South  5  v    10   Evergreen

Having lost to the same team heavily with a poor performance only two weeks ago it was always going to be difficult.  The scores do not reflect an excellent game that was relatively even.  The visitors had much more confidence on the ball and this allowed them to play very good football that created too many chances.

The home team simply made too many basic errors, failing to do the elementary, as in marking.  Evergreen's forwards were to good to be given an inch, never mind 10 metres ....

Heads were going down in the first half as the score reached 0-2 and the visitors keeper had not been troubled.  Neil Jardine produced a piece of solo brilliance from outside the penalty box, taking on a packed defence he danced past at least three defenders to then place the ball in the corner of the net.  It raised everyones spirits and despite conceding a third the team seemed happier at half time.

Although playing better football the team's midfield went AWOL and allowed the visitors to score two more very quickly, never mind the next five as the half continued.  Again Massimo Marenghi showed it was a simple game by putting away a chance started by good work from Richard Cook at left back, Route 1 but effective. 

Another goal conceded but Neil Jardine made it 3-6 when put through.  A couple more conceded including an own goal by Neil Jardine, put the game beyond reach.  However the team did not give up and from the kick off, a move practised the week before, scored a fourth when William Ellis, having kicked off, got on the end of Freddie Eames  great run and cross. Neil Jardine found time to get on the end of another cross to claim his hat-trick and with it a Man of the Match award. The defence played well, despite the score, the finger of blame should be pointed at the players in front of them.  Richard Cook was outstanding and must wonder what else he can do to be MOTM.  He had a dangerous opponent but not only did he deal with him he made himself a positive, creative part of the team.  Kieren Rawal did a similar job at right back.

18th March 2007

Under 16's                                                                        

City West, revenge is ‘sweet’, and fully deserved against Potters Bar

Sunday’s game was a test of character for the Under 16s West, having leaked goals in recent weeks the boys did well to play out their first clean sheet of the season and in doing so take all three points at home to league high-flighers Potters Bar United.

The boys started brightly as they usually do, immediately trying to take control of the game. ome hard work up front paid off, when Reece May broke the deadlock 25 minutes in, latching onto a through ball from Matt Mawhood, and then capitalizing on a mistake from the Potters Bar keeper, to slot home his twelve goal of the season. aron Lumsdon had the best chance to double the lead in the first half, but the Potters Bar keeper made up for his earlier error with a great save from close range. Half time score 1-0 St Albans.

The second half was tough for St Albans, withstanding heavy Potters Bar pressure, and trying to make the most of any counter attacking opportunities. The boys had trouble dealing with the violent wind against them, which meant St Albans had difficulty getting the ball clear, but credit to the defensive line they did their job well. So well, in fact, that our keeper didn’t have a save to make in the second half. Final score 1-0 St Albans.

A lack of sportsmanship was shown from Potter’s Bar United, a number of their players left the field as soon as the final whistle was blown, missing out on the customary shake of hands, and were reminding the City Boy’s, “at least we’re not going down”.

Good character and discipline from the boys, meant that there was no retaliation to Potters Bar’s needless comments. If City play with this commitment, and organisation, in our last game against Muswell Hill, who knows we might avoid the drop, and make Potters Bar eat their words.

All we can do, is wish Potters Bar Well !!!!!

Christie Tyler was named Man of the Match for an excellent game at the back for the Saints, dominating the back line and making vital challenges.

Despite the problems we’ve had this season, this game is a credit to the lads, whose efforts have finally paid off in a deserved three points.

 

Under 15's

 

City stay on track with Double win

The Under 15 North played Nascot Wood in a Double header.

After last weeks frustrating games City knew that they had to win both these games if they were to have any chance of retaining their League title. In extremely windy conditions , blowing corner to corner, City chose to defend against the wind in the first half and had to work very hard against Nascot who worked the ball around well.

City began to master the conditions , playing the ball on the ground and pushed Nascot back and were rewarded when Campion , picking the ball up 30 yards out unleashed a ferocious shot which flew over the keeper and into the net. Nascot tried to come back but City's defence held firm until half -time.
City thought that they would be able to capitalise on the conditions in the second half , but with the ball moving all the time , it was much more difficult to create flowing football. City comfortably ran the clock down for a 1- 0 win.

In the second game the wind seemed to have picked up and City playing against it in the first half , created better chances. They took the lead when Armstrong but a great through ball to Thatcher who ran in and slid the ball past the advancing keeper.
Nascot played some bright football and could have equalised when a flashing shot just missed the far post.
In the second half , with conditions nearly unplayable City played sensible football and denied Nascot any chances at all. The game finished 1- 0 and six points was just reward for the dominance City had enjoyed all afternoon.

 

Under 14's

 

Biggest score of the season for the West

 

Despite the very windy conditions and poor pitch West racked up their biggest score of the season beating Alex Park 7-2.  West always looked comfortable and opened the scoring after Greg Springall tucked away a Scott Howlett rebounded shot after 5 minutes. Alex Park struck straight back with their only goal of the half 2 minutes later with a great shot over the top of Alex Cobb in the West goal who had no chance.  West dominated possession but it wasn't until the 26 minute they scored again as Jamie Heaffey fresh off the bench won the ball deep in the West half and ran the length of the pitch to round the keeper. 5 minutes later West looked sure to score when Stuart Cole after some good work with Ryan Rickard down the left put in an excellent cross over the keeper but there was no one to tap in to the gaping goal.  Chris Welch however made no mistake on the stroke of half time to tap in a  Jamie cross after he beat the keeper to a well weighted through ball. 

 

The second half started brightly after a shot from Jamie rebounded off the keeper for Scott to finish well for West's fourth.  Elliott Jay was unlucky when he went just wide 10 minutes later.  West conceded again after an uncharacteristic mix up in the defence let a cross be just headed in the bottom corner. West soon struck back when Stuart Cole flicked on to Greg for his second.  George Figg then added to the tally with a well struck free kick and Greg rounded it off with a hat trick after Stuart fed him through.  The West defence had an excellent game with Ross Whinnett, Charlie Craigen and Ryan Maher standing out.  The whole team played really well and had it not been for the conditions could probably have scored a few more especially from some excellent George corners but they can be really happy with themselves for an excellent performance.  

Under 12's

12's West book County Final Place

St Albans City Youth U12 West made it two cup semi-final wins in two weeks by adding an appearance in the Herts County Cup Final to last week's League Cup win, with a semi-final victory over a very physical Broxbourne Rangers side. In a competitive but goalless first half Gareth Folwell came closest to breaking the deadlock with a shot which narrowly missed the near post, whilst at the other end goalkeeper Dill Davis made a great diving save to his right.

In the second half St Albans upped the tempo and a break on the right by Cormac O'Regan saw his pinpoint cross find Tom Fazakerley in the box, but as Tom rounded the keeper to shoot he was hauled down. Cormac made no mistake with the penalty to give the lads a deserved lead. In midfield Jack McNamara started to turn the screw and was on the end of several late tackles which finally saw the ref see yellow and a free kick saw Laurence's Wroe's resulting 40 yard pile driver hit the side netting. Unfortunately with only 4 minutes left on the clock a resurgent Broxbourne team, conqueror's of Harvesters in the Quarter Finals, finally broke through to even the scores and the young Saints were somewhat relieved to hold out to full time and the 20 minutes of extra time for the penalty shootout.

 

Cormac, Jack, Dominic Watkins, Oliver Marjarom and Tom converted all five of the Saints penalties with Dill crucially saving Broxbourne's second penalty for a 5-3 victory. Overall a great result and a first County Cup appearance for Graham Folwell's talented squad of players 

St Albans: Dalian Davis; Dominic Watkins, Laurence Wroe (capt), Wilf Steward, Hal Maher; Cormac O'Regan, Jack McNamara, Matt Taylor, Gareth Folwell; Tom Fazakerley, Oliver Marjarom: subs: Ollie Biggs, Robbie Guy, Luca Smalldone. 

 

11th March 2007

Under 15's

 

North Frustrated by Sun Postal Resistance

The Under 15 North played Sun Postal in a Double Header.

Two short games played back to back was a new experience for City and on a bumpy pitch any sort of control was difficult for both teams.

Sun , without a League win this season were battling for their very existence in the Red Division and were determined to make City have to fight for every scrap of possession. The first game looked to be heading for a stalemate when City were awarded a free kick about 30 yards out. Armstrong floated the ball into the six yard box and in the confusion the ball bounced over the keeper and int the net. A few minutes later Crawford scored a superb goal cutting in from the right and whipping the ball across the keeper and into the far corner for a deserved 2 - 0 win.

The second game was much like the first with very few chances in the first half. In the second half City got on top and began to make inroads against a rattled Sun defence. A through ball chased by Crawford led to an innocent but sickening collision with the Sun keeper , and the game was stopped for 15 minutes while medical help for the City striker was sought. At the resumption of the game , the passion, perhaps understandably, seemed to have gone out of the game and the last 15 minutes were largely forgetable as the game ended 0 - 0.

City will need to re-group in next weeks Double header against Nascot.

Under 14's

 

West in Cup Defeat

West played well against Tornados, but lost this Cup match due to a poor spell in the final ten minutes of the first half. The early stages of the Spring Cup are league based, and so the boys still have a chance to amend for this defeat.

It could have all been different though, as in the first minute of the match Greg Springall broke down the right wing and superbly turned a Tornados defender to give himself space to cross the ball for Jamie Heaffey, who met the ball with his right foot but his shot went just wide. For the next twenty minutes West were in charge, with the midfield of Tom Weaver, George Figg, Matt Peckham and Jamie dominating play, however while they created numerous openings for Greg and Scott Howlett up front, none were really clear cut.

The game was largely settled in the final ten minutes of the half though, as a Tornados corner was only partially cleared which allowed one of their players to strike a strong shot to open the scoring. Two minutes later Tornados scored again from a counter attack, as a through ball beat a square West defence which their striker reached first. A few minutes before the half ended Tornados scored again in similar circumstances as West pushed forward, but were caught as Tornados counter-attacked, and so the first half ended 3-0.

West had to re-arrange the back four at the start of the second half due to a few injuries, but they raised their game and had the better of the possession. Numerous chances were being created, the best of which were from Greg, who saw one curling shot go just over while another hit the post, and Matt, who following good work from Tom hit a great shot from distance, but the keeper saved well. West didn’t give up though, and almost scored a consolation goal in the final minute as George hit a great free kick from 25 yards, but the Tornados keeper (who had a great game) got his fingers to it to prevent a certain goal.

The final 3-0 scoreline was harsh on the boys, who played well for the majority of the game, however a good performance from the opposition keeper, plus a loss of concentration towards the end of the first half, meant the game was lost. The league format for this part of the competition though, means the boys still have three matches left so they can still qualify out of their group.

Under 14's South   3  v  11   Evergreen

 

Three players were missing for this game for various reasons but some of those who turned up to play also went "missing in action." 

A minor blip that saw two quick goals conceded in the first half spoilt a solid display where the home side matched the opposition although benefiting from some wild finishing.

The second half started badly and went downhill as the visitors were given time and space to do as they wished.  They scored 9 goals as a consequence.  However their defence became slipshod and they made mistakes.  Jamie Spurway was allowed to run virtually the length of the field to score.  A fine piece of football set up Massimo Marenghi for a great finish.  Finally, from a kick off, the ball was played, surprisingly, to William Ellis alone on the right who took it on and finished.

4th March 2007

Disability Squad

 

St Albans City Youth Disability vs Ipswich Town Blues

St Albans City Disability football team continued their first ever league season with their strongest performance to date, away to Ipswich Town Blues on a wet and windy Sunday afternoon.

St Albans took the lead after five minutes, with Anthony Roche coolly finishing Paul Spinks cross to the back post. A tight fast half continued with both teams looking to play good football despite the difficult conditions. Ipswich equalised shortly before half time after St Albans conceded a silly foul on the left and the resulting Ipswich free kick went straight in, despite being intended as a cross.

In the second half St Albans pushed play further up the pitch and created the better attacking situations, stretching the play through the width provided by debutant Liam Donovan on the left and Nick Patrick on the right. One such attack resulted in the second goal, with Roche freeing Patrick on the right who beat two men and crossed for Joe Strohm to turn in his seventh of the season from close range. City pushed on and hit the bar through a 30 yard curling shot from Paul Spinks. Luke Robinson then had a goal disallowed when his shot from the half way line beat the keeper, only to be ruled out due to a teammate in an offside position. The reward for their fine play came with the third goal when Donovan and Roche linked well on the left, with Roche's cross to the far post turned in by Thomas Ward for a three-one lead.

Ipswich fought back scoring from a controversial penalty and a close range header from a corner to level the game. St Albans had further chances to score, with Strohm twice and Patrick once, unable to find the finish when put through on goal. The game finished as a three-all draw, although St Albans will feel themselves unlucky not to have won against an older and more experienced Ipswich team which had comfortably beaten them in the opening game of the season.

St Albans assistant manager Anthony Roche, in charge for the day in the absence of Daniel Rogers, said "This was without doubt our best performance of the season and really we should have won with the chances we created. However I am proud of everyone who played and the team continues to improve from week to week. Our focus must now be on winning our next match against Larkfield Youth".

St Albans: D.Augustine, L.Robinson, G.Tuitt, R.Williams, D.Bolton, N.Patrick, L.Donovan, A.Roche, P.Spinks, J.Strohm, C.Wildman, T.Ward

 

 

Under 16's

 

Dreary, miserable game

The Under 16's West played Potters Bar. TPlaying he wet, dreary weather seemed to be reflected in both teams football on Sunday, although it was Potters Bar who eventually ran out 3-0 winners.

Slow starts from both teams saw the most of the play in the City half, although it took 20 minutes for Potters Bar to score their first, when an attacker latched onto a through ball to run on and put the ball over the oncoming goalkeepers head.

Just 5 minutes later Potters Bar doubled their advantage when a dangerous cross evaded all St Albans players and left an easy tap-in for the Potters Bar striker.

Although it was a fairly poor first half from the boys, they did have their chances, the most noticeable of which hit the post before being put marginally over the goal. Half time score 2-0 Potters Bar.

The second half was not much better, although the City boys had the majority of the play, but never looked like scoring.

However, Potters Bar grabbed a third on the counter attack, with a low drive into the bottom corner.

Final score 3-0 Potters Bar.

In a dreary, miserable game, City keeper Matt Bennett got Man of the Match for a solid game in goal.

Under 15's

North cruise through to Quarter - Final

The Under 15 North played Bovingdon Yellows in the Challenge Cup.

On a heavy pitch in drizzle this game was never going to be a feast of flowing football.

City knew they had to win the battle , score the goals and get home. A great start after a couple of minutes saw Crawford score to settle City down. Bovingdon were not going to lie down and came back strongly and deserved their equaliser when a shot was chipped over Tom How's head. City dug in and class began to tell as Norman and Magwood dominated the midfield and Armstrong and Campion got lots of crosses in the box for Crawford and Williams to get onto. Further goals from Campion , Armstrong and Stefan Williams turned the screw on a battling Bovingdon side.

The second half saw more of the same as City tore through outclassed opposition and scored further goals from Crawford ( 3 ) , Magwood , Thatcher and Norman.

Bovingdon, to their credit, never gave up and continued to contest every tackle and create the odd chance for themselves. A missed tackle in worsening conditions saw Bovingdon score their second goal which was a fair return for their efforts.

A special mention must be made for the Bovingdon keeper who was inspired and saved his team from a cricket score with several superb saves at point blank range.

City finished 10 - 2 winners , and have now progressed to the quarter - finals of both League and Challenge Cups.

 

Under 14's

 

St Albans City Youth   2   v    4   Riverside Hibernian

This was a good result against the unbeaten top of the table team.  It was a good performance too from the team in difficult conditions and it would be difficult to choose one performance that stood out with everyone playing well.

After withstanding early attacks the home team began to take over the game and were rewarded with the first goal after a couple of goal-line clearances had denied two great chances.  A great cross was missed by the flying body of Neil Jardine who hit the back of the net instead. Peter Styles beyond him met the ball and put it away off a defender.  Not pretty but effective.

A couple of defensive errors were punished during the half and it was 1-2 at half time but this was good enough given the home team had been slogging up the slope in the deepening mud.

The second half did not go so well as the team failed to play to the conditions and were constantly caught on the ball in the midfield mud.  The visitors kept it simple and kept playing the quick long ball.  This was rewarded when they converted two of many chances.

The home team never gave up and were rewarded with a penalty for handball which Lewis Martindale put away with what was to be the last kick of the game.

 

25th February 2007

Under 15's

North in Limbo after match abandoned

The Under 15 North played Omonia in the League Cup.

Omonia from the White Division were going to be a harder proposition than when City played an under strength Omonia in an early season friendly.

City, more energised than last week, started off powerfully and keeping the ball on the floor worked hard to create openings. Omonia were not easily pushed back , and battling for every ball matched City for 15 minutes.

City began to spread the ball from wing to wing with Talbot and Ferdinand cutting in and testing the keeper. The first goal came after 20 mins when Talbot ran into the area and trying to take the ball around the keeper , was hauled down for an indisputable penalty. Skipper Norman strode up and slotted it in the bottom right hand corner for 1- 0. Harry Crawford doubled the lead with a good shot and ten minutes later showed their defence a clean pair of heels as he rocketed into the box and smashed the ball away for 3 - 0.

Stefan and Jordan Williams came on for Norman and Crawford and this merely gave Omonia fresh problems to deal with. City continued to press Omonia back with Jordan Williams working well with Magwood in winning the midfield battle.

Jordan Williams showed how dangerous he is at corners when a beautifully flighted corner from Baker to the near post was muscled in by Williams.

Omonia throwing everything at City, launched a desperate attack, and one of their forwards bursting into the box , went down, despite not being touched.

The referee waved Omonia's appeals away but they were adamant and kept up their protests. At this point the game descended into chaos as a couple of Omonia parents came onto the pitch and within a minute the referee believed his only course of action was to abandon the game.

The referee stated that there were 18 minutes to play. A league decision will have to be made to decide what will happen now.

I was pleased to report that St.Albans players and parents acted in an exemplary manner both throughout the game and during the chaotic ending of this contest.

 

Under 14's

Harpenden 3 v 1 St Albans City Youth Under 14's South

Having not played since the first week of the month it was back to square one for the St Albans team. The solid team performance on Feb 4th had been forgotten. The muddy pitch with some standing water reduced the game to basics and Harpenden did the basics better in the first half and dominated the game with the visitors depending on quick counter attacks.

The defence played well however and they were unfortunate to go in at half time a goal down after being caught out by corner kick that bounced off a player at the near post.

The second half started well and the vistors equalised with a scrappy goal when Joe Caunce was the first of four St Albans players to get to a ball that bounced off the keeper when he blocked the first shot.

But that was it. Team discipline disintegrated, the momentum was lost and territorial domination was frittered away. The inevitable happened when the team were caught on a quick break and they went behind. Although looking for an equaliser they were caught near the end when evryone stopped to appeal for off-side, the inevitable was the result and the game went beyond their reach. They did not stop trying in the time that was left.

Danielli Kitchen had a solid game in goal in difficult conditions. Richard Cook and Kieren Rawal dominated the flanks in the first half. Player of the Match was given to Neil Jardine who seemed to be everywhere, even taking over as the central defender for the final 10 minutes.

 

18th February 2007

Under 16's

City West 11, give Muswell Hill toughest game of the season

Many people would struggle to defend their team after losing 6-2 at home. However, this scoreline in St Albans Under 16s West’s game did not reflect the game at all. In fact it was City that had the majority of the play from the start, and quickly picked up on Muswell Hill’s potent threat of quick strikers up front, playing a high back line. The boys could have been forgiven for thinking it was just not their day, seeing shots saved and bundled off the line. But their persistence paid off when a stunning ball through the defence by Nick Glasgow left Reece May to rocket the ball home from 15 yards.

The boys continued to press and looked the much more dominant side as the teams went into half time at 1-0 St Albans. After the break the boys looked to double their lead, but it was Muswell Hill who struck an equaliser, when they broke through the defence and crossed the ball to score from point blank range. The boys looked tired with only 11 players and no subs, but continued to press and were rewarded when Reece May restored their one goal advantage with an overhead kick from a corner. But, barely moments after City’s goal, Muswell Hill equalised again with a similar goal to the first, with tired defenders struggling to cope with the threat of the fast Muswell strikers.

The boys watched the game slip away from them with just 10 minutes to go when Muswell Hill scored when a seemingly easy-to-deal with corner was not cleared and allowed Muswell Hill to take a cheap lead. The boys could hardly believe it when Muswell extended their lead just a minute later, when another cheap goal came as a Muswell striker slotted home from point blank range. A fifth was added not too dissimilarly to those that had preceded it, with another run through the back. A sixth was added to add insult to injury, when a poor back header saw both the goalkeeper and defender struggle to get to the ball before the oncoming striker, who passed the ball into the empty net.

All of the boys played superbly well, and I cannot fault their effort. Both the St Albans lads and the Muswell Hill boys could not believe the scoreline after the game. And, after the first half performance, it is hard to see what more we can do to win regularly in this division.

Under 15's

North bow out at penultimate hurdle

The Under 15 North played Hemel Hempstead Youth in the County Cup Semi-Fianl.

City , without three players , had to reshape their team for this difficult clash of holders and previous winners of the County Cup.

City seemed hesitant right from the start and Hemel sensing that City were vulnerable poured forward pushing City back time and again. A succession of corners and throw-ins near the City box showed how dominant Hemel seemed to be with the ball in the air and the first goal came from a corner, when a well hit ball found a big centre-half unmarked on the six-yard line and the ball was powerfully headed into the net. City were rocked and battled back into the game with Thatcher almost scoring with a flick over the keeper which rolled away from the goal on the down slope. This seemed to settle City, who had a good spell when Thatcher just couldn't clear the keeper with the empty goal unprotected. Hemel rode the fight back and a second corner led to a copycat goal when the second centre-half scored another unmarked header from the same place. City reverted to a long ball game , largely ignoring their normal passing football and this just played into Hemel's hands. A throw near the City box was not cleared and a Hemel forward was on it in a flash and tucked the ball away under the keeper for 3 - 0.

City brought on the subs at half time with Norman , Magwood and Channing having an immediate effect. City looked to be finding their way and had a much better start to the second half , creating openings and forcing the Hemel defenders to punt the ball anywhere to clear their lines. City got their just rewards when Hemel allowed a corner to run through their six yard box and Crawford stabbed it in at the far post. City knew that they really needed to put everything in for ten minutes to get another but Hemel defended well and held out rather too comfortably. The killer blow came when City pressure led to a long clearance which fell to a Hemel forward. He ran in and just managed to get a very good shot away which went in off the inside of the post. This was very demoralising for the boys and the last fifteen minutes was played largely without incident as Hemel held their line and played out time.

Congratulations to Hemel who won because they wanted it more. They will probably win the Final which is little consolation to a City team who will have to bounce back as important games come thick and fast.

Under 8's

Under 8's West Wades

1  v  1

Under 8's East Anthony

11th February 2007

Under 14's

Points shared for the 14's West

West started very brightly passing the ball well and dominating the play.  West's first goal came from a George Figg corner which bounced around the 6 yard box until the in form Stuart Cole stuck it away for his 3rd goal in 3 games.  This was followed by the second 5 minutes later when Adam Thornhill made a superb cross to Ryan Rickard who coolly tucked it away. Next up was Scott Howlett whose shot rebounded off the keeper but he pounced on the rebound to slot away.  The fourth came after a great run from Elliott Jay from the defence, he fed Scott who slotted beautifully through to Jamie Heaffey who made no mistake with a great finish. 

 

The Tornados keeper then made a brilliant save and West fired one over the bar and forced the keeper into two more saves to keep them in it. Completely against the run of play a clearance hit a Tornados player on the arm but no hand ball was given and he ran through to score.  In the process of scoring their 1st Charlie Craigen was injured and had to come off leaving West to reorganise the central defence and unfortunately Tornados scored again in the confusion.  West were then again cruelly punished when an attempted cross found the back of the net. 

 

West came out fighting in the second half and in the first 10 minutes had several balls in the box but they couldn't put them away.  Scott looked to have restored the 2 goal lead but his excellent shot cannoned back off the post, had it gone in it could have been a different story as 3 minutes later Tornados equalised.  West had further chances with a good effort from distance from Ross Whinnett and Tom Weaver who worked really hard went just wide after a good run.  West deserved the win and had Charlie not been injured at a critical point they probably would have.      

 

4th February 2007

Under 16's

Injuries hit City West.

St Albans City West came away from Berkhamsted with no points after a disappointing match saw the boys lose their first game in four.

Early pressure from St Albans was cancelled out by strong Berkhamsted defensive resistance, and just 10 minutes in the boys went 1-0 down when a perfect lob caught out the goalkeeper and defence.

Just 5 minutes later, the boys were in more trouble, as a near identical goal went in, except this time it bobbled off the strikers shin, and somehow found the top corner.

The boys were 2-0 down for barely a minute as Berkhamsted took advantage of the obvious problems City had at the back, and went 3-0 up when a Berkhamsted striker skipped through the defence to place home their third.

St Albans did well to bring the score back to 3-1 when Nick Glasgow’s superb control saw him power the ball into the net with his left foot.

But just when it looked like City had a foot in the game, and were about to go into half time with just two goals to make up, Berkhamsted added a fourth to make the half time score 4-1 Berkhamsted.

St Albans did all they could to reform and mount some sort of attack on the Berkhamsted goal, but the infamous ‘long ball’ game that had become accustomed to Berkhamsted’s style of play on their small pitch in recent years seemed to work, as the City defence struggled to deal with it. This was not helped, of course, with picking up 4 injuries to key defenders during the game, and at one time having a striker and two defenders in the back four. St Albans grabbed what looked to be no more than a consolation goal when Harold Chodeva scissored in City’s second.

In truth, although the boys battled hard, Berkhamsted could have scored a few more than they did, but for resilient defending and a few good saves from keeper Matt Bennett. The game finished with the boys losing 4-2. As disappointing as the result was, few could argue that, on the whole, Berkhamsted did not deserve the three points.

Keeper Matt Bennett picked up the Man of the Match award for a strong performance in goal, pulling of some great saves, especially in the second half.

Under 15's

North go hunting for Leopards

The Under 15 North played Whetstone Leopards in the League.

A foggy morning and a cow field of a pitch was not very promising, but games like this have to be played and won if the boys are to retain their League title. Right from the start it was obvious that the boys were determined that these inconveniences were not going to get in their way. The first goal came when Yates picked up a ball just outside the area and rifled the ball just under the bar. Luke Campion , given a run up front and clearly enjoying himself had a few near misses before Norman picked him out with a great pass which Campion glanced in with a deft header. Yates beat his man and put in a great cross which Campion despatched into the bottom corner for 3 - 0. The fourth goal was a great individual effort from Thatcher who went on an a mazy run where he beat at least four players in their penalty area before sliding the ball past the keeper.
 
Half time brought a brief respite for the Leopards but as soon as the game restarted City were on the attack again and Armstrong put in a deep cross to the far post which eluded the keeper and just went in. The sixth goal saw Thatcher slide the ball through to Campion who completed his hat-trick with a shot just inside the far post. A brief attack by Leopards saw a tragic / comedy moment when a back pass by Harris hit a " bobble" just in front of keeper How and the ball jumped over his attempted clearance. We have been waiting for Andy Harris to open his City account for a number of years , but we always thought it would be for us , not against us. Normal service was resumed when Armstrong, working hard , picked out Campion who slotted his fourth goal of a busy game. He came off but the punishment continued when Crawford put the ball on a plate for Stefan Williams to score for the sixth consecutive game. The final goal was left to Norman who scored one of his "thunderbolts" from the edge of the box.

A final score of 9 - 1 sets the team up nicely for what will undoubtedly be a much harder game in next weeks County Cup Semi-Final.

Under 14's

League Double for the 14's West

West completed a league double over Berkhamsted Raiders with a comfortable 6-2 victory in freezing conditions, as they put in an excellent performance.

West started brightly, and in the first ten minutes there were chances for three of the attacking players to open the scoring, however Greg Springall, Scott Howlett and Jamie Heaffey all had their shots either saved, or they went just wide. It wasn’t long before the first goal came though, as after twelve minutes a great ball from Stuart Cole on the left wing, was finished by Greg with ease. Raiders, who are currently bottom of the league, didn’t let their heads drop though, and five minutes later they equalized after West failed to clear a free-kick. It didn’t remain level for long though as two minutes later West regained the lead in similar circumstances, as Ryan Rickard’s free kick gave Scott the chance to score from close range.

Ten minutes before half-time Matt Peckham scored with a great shot from 15 yards to make it 3-1, and despite possession being split fairly evenly in the first half, West were creating more openings and the Raiders keeper was certainly the busier.

The second half began with a goal in the first minute, as a corner by Matt was knocked on by Ryan R to Stuart, who scored from only a few yards out. West were playing some great football, and the midfield of Chris Welch, Matt, Ryan and Stuart were controlling events. Further chances were being created and a fifth goal soon arrived after a Ryan R laid the ball back to Greg on the edge of the area, and although his great shot hit the bar, bounced down and then came out, the linesman judged the ball to have crossed the line.

As the second half wore on, and with a comfortable victory in sight, West lost a bit of their shape and concentration, which allowed Raiders to grab a goal back as an excellent shot gave Alex Cobb in goal no chance. The final goal of the match came in the last minute as Matt’s corner was flicked on by Charlie Craigen for Chris to wrap things up. This was an excellent performance which contained some great passing moves that could have seen West reach double figures on another day.

Final Score: Under 14 West  6 – 2  Berkhamsted Raiders

St Albans City Youth U14 South 5 v 1 VEP Knights

Midway through the second half I thought the score was 4-0 and a fog was starting to roll across the ground. I was worried. Is it the painkillers, I am taking, producing yet another side effect, we appear to have scored goals; an hour gone and we have not conceded a goal and now the whole thing appearing to dissolve into a foggy miasma that will find me standing on blasted Colney Heath. It was only when another parent said "I don't believe it. Here we are 4-0 up and the referee is going to abandon the game because of fog!" that I was reassured.

For a number of reasons the team was down to its bare bones and only two substitutes but it did not seem to matter. The game was won in midfield with Neil Jardine, Freddie Brown and Freddie Eames doing the damage. They put pressure on the opposition midfield players, they won the ball and they played pass after killer pass to their forwards and through the visitors defence. Neil Davidson came on to add more of the same later in the game. For the first time this season every goal kick, free kick etc was won by a yellow shirt.

Behind them the makeshift defence were like a rock. They gave the visitors no space and mopped up the desperate long balls the forwards were left to chase. Danielli Kitchen had one of his quietest games but still pulled off a great one handed save from a long distance shot across his goal. Jamie Spurway dominated the defence and was given Man of the Match. A difficult choice given the almost faultless performance by the stand in central defender Richard Cook. Kieren Rawal worked like a Trojan on the right where the visitors seemed to use for all their attacks leaving Iqbal Johan in a covering role.

Up front Lewis Martindale, Peter Stiles and Massimo Marenghi showed what they could do if given the ball and demonstrated their skills. Lewis scored a first half hat-trick from goals created in different ways but finished well.

The second half was very tense at the start and both teams knew the next goal could decide the game. David Peyton came on at left back where he had an excellent game providing the boost the team needed. Eventually it was Massimo who used his strength to burst through the defence and score the fourth. It was just as well as tiredness was creeping in and the bigger players on the other team were starting to create more attacks.

Near the end the inevitable happened and a lapse in concentration allowed the visitors to score and spoil what would have been the first clean sheet. It was a couple of mistakes but also a mistake by the visitors to dare to score. Virtually from the kick off an angry Neil Jardine was given the ball and he ran through the whole defence to score a fifth goal that seemed to knock the last hopes out of the resilient visitors.

Under 11's

North hold on for the points

On a foggy Sunday morning SACY U11 North took on Alexandra Park U11 South in North London.

St.Albans kicked off, hoping to keep their second place status. Alexandra Park had an early break when the centre-forward shot at the City goal just inside the area but the ‘keeper Eddie Rose was in a good position to make a save. The first half was more or less a defensive game with Robert Ward clearing off the line deep into the half.

The second half contained more breaks and both teams stepped up their game as they got closer to getting that vital goal. Finally the deadlock was broken when Jacob Noonan played a through ball to Daniel Casotti (who as we know has lethal finishing) struck into the corner of the net. City managed to hold on to the win that they needed.

Man of the Match went to Eddie Rose for having a safe pair of hands and for keeping a clean sheet.

Report by Eddie Rose

28th January 2007

Under 16's

City West solid performance.

St Albans West picked up all 3 points at the weekend, with a convincing 4-1 win over Omonia.

After starting brightly, City found themselves 1-0 down within 3 minutes, when an Omonia striker curled the ball spectacularly into the top corner. The boys did well to re-group and fight back, and their efforts were rewarded just 5 minutes later, when Reece May levelled the scoring with an elegant chip over the oncoming Omonia goalkeeper.

City found themselves 2-1 up soon after, when Reece May scored his second of the game, thanks to a deflection and fumble from the keeper. City continued to push and play good football, but the teams went into half time at 2-1 to City.

In the second half the boys had difficulty keeping the ball in Omonia’s half, so Omonia continued throwing players forward, which allowed City to break, and Nick Glasgow to score his first of the season, when he followed up a saved shot, and headed City’s third. Another quick break led to City’s fourth, as Reece May secured his hat-trick with a similar goal to his first, lobbing the keeper from outside the area.

Although Omonia had good attacking possession towards the end of the game, City’s defence proved strong and the boys took their third league win of the season, lifting them out of the bottom two.

On a day of good performances all over the pitch, Harold Chodeva was chosen as Man of the Match, for some strong challenges and showing composure on the ball, playing superb passes from start to finish.

Under 15's

North march confidently into County Semi-Finals

The Under 15 North played Borehamwood 2000 in the County Cup 1/4 Final.

City, inactive since early December would have liked a warm up before this potentially difficult game, but a frustrating series of postponements added to the tension of this important fixture. Last minute injuries meant a re-shuffled team , but with the strength of this squad confidence was high. The game started with City pushing forward, probing at their defences, and it wasn't long before Luke Thatcher capitalised on a small mistake by racing in on their keeper and calmly sliding the ball home. The game ebbed and flowed for a while and then Stefan Williams scored a special goal. He picked up the ball , ran forward a few yards and then lobbed the keeper from 30 yards . Even though the keeper wasn't far from his line the accuracy of the shot was too good. A strong wind gathering strength would be against City in the second half.

It was vital to ride out the first ten minutes when Borehamwood would be throwing everything at City, but disaster struck when a deep cross was just touched in at the far post for 2- 1. City pulled their sleeves up and refused to let their opponents back in the game. City's third came when Yates passed to Norman , who slotted the ball through to Stefan Williams on the edge of the area. His turn of speed took him past two defenders whereupon he smashed the ball into the top right hand corner. City's power all over the pitch had been to much for Borehamwood but the boys were not finished yet.

Ferdinand chasing and harassing defenders , caused a mistake and through great determination managed to square the ball to Talbot who nicked the ball under the keeper. James Yates was giving their defenders a very hard time and their increasing tiredness eventually led to him being dragged down in the area for a penalty. Norman grabbed the ball and confidently despatched it in the bottom corner for a final score of 5 - 1.

City march on to a home Semi-Final against Hemel Hempstead. Book your seats for this one , it will be a titanic battle for local bragging rights as both of these teams have won the County Cup before.

Channing, Baker, Armstrong , Hiller, Ferdinand , Talbot , Crawford , J. Williams, Campion, S.Williams , Thatcher ( How ,Yates , Norman ,Harris )

Under 14's

 

West Win Convincingly

West won this game at Hadley Rangers convincingly in their best performance for a while as the whole team played well which helped them to dominate virtually the whole match.

The boys began the game very positively, with the first good attempt at goal being a powerful thirty yard shot from centre-back Jamie Heaffey, however it went just wide. After missing a few other chances, the first goal came after a quarter of an hour as George Figg scored straight from a corner. West then let their concentration slip for a moment and Hadley almost equalized straight from the kick-off, but good work from Martin Robinson in goal dealt with the threat.

West soon got back into their stride though and they went onto create numerous further opportunities. They could easily have been leading by three or four goals at half time, however despite dominating possession the first half ended with just the single goal scored.

The second half began with West losing a bit of their momentum, and Hadley got back into the game, however some good defending from Jamie, Ryan Maher, Joe Murtagh, Adam Thornhill and Myles Smith, plus Martin in goal, kept them at bay. West didn’t stop working for each other though, and it didn’t take long for them to extend their lead as another George corner produced a goal, with Stuart Cole getting the final touch after the defenders failed to clear.

Shortly after came a potential turning point for the match as Hadley were awarded a penalty, however Martin produced a great save to deny them. With ten minutes to go West were themselves awarded a penalty after Greg Springall was fouled in the area, and he stepped up himself to score and make it 3-0. In the last few minutes a fourth was added after good work by Joe gave Scott Howlett an opening down the right wing, and his cross was met by Carl Biggs who rounded things off.

This was a great performance by the boys, and the 4-0 result certainly didn’t flatter them, as if some of the first half chances that came their way had been finished the score line could have been even better. They defended very well, and grew in confidence once the goals arrived, and this result will hopefully give them the lift they needed so they can approach upcoming games with optimism.

Final Score : Under 14's West 4 – 0 Hadley Rangers

21st January 2007

Under 12's

Croxley Falcons 6  v 3   St Albans City Youth

Having missed last week's win I have to rely upon others to tell me the team did not perform as well.  That seemed obvious with a number of below par performances from a number of regulars who have featured as Man of the Match.  Lewis Martindale scored an early great goal but this boost was immediately cancelled out with an equaliser.  A second goal for Croxley seemed harsh given an even game and Massimo Marenghi scored to prove the point.

 

After that it was all downhill.  At 2-3  it was still anyone's game but the ball would not go in the home net and the fourth goal really settled the match.  Two more goals came before the end but the best was yet to come when Neil Davidson unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box to hit the top corner.  Why waste £50 on some Premier rubbish.

Neil was up for man of the match but Joe Caunce had worked hard throughout the game and deserved to pip him.  Connor Hogan had another good game as did Danielli Kitchen in goal.

14th January 2007

Under 16's

City West ‘hang-on’ to a draw.

St Albans will be disappointed with a 1-1 draw at home to bottom of the league Hammer, although injuries showed from the start. City had only 12 players fit to play, but from the kick off it seemed that the injuries wouldn’t tell over the 80 minutes. Although City were positive on the ball, it was Hammer who had the majority of the ball and chances in the first half. The first half came and went with both keepers seemingly untroubled, as the teams went into half time at 0-0.

After half time, injuries began to crop up, and the City lads found it hard to concentrate on attacking when the majority of the fit boys were covering for struggling team mates, although special credit must go to Aaron Lumsdon, Harold Chodeva, Reece May and Daniel Burtt, who battled hard when they got the ball to turn the game round by themselves.

Reece May’s effort was rewarded 15 minutes into the half when he slotted coolly across the Hammer goalkeeper, although it seemed like the angle was against him. Hammers equaliser came just 5 minutes later, and it was a soft one. A floated corner evaded everyone in the box, only for the ball to be played back into the box, and City defenders just stood and watched as the Hammer attacker powered the ball into the net from point blank range.

City continued to try and press but tired legs showed as they played out a 1-1 draw.

Aaron Lumsdon got Man of the Match for the extraordinary effort he put in, throwing himself into challenges and playing some superb through balls in the second half.

Under 14's

Harpenden Hawks 0 St Albans City West 0

Martin Robinson in goal was rarely troubled in the first half as the West defence looked very solid against a very physical and sometimes dangerous Hawks team, whose sliding challenges only occasionally found the ball. West found it difficult to play their normal high standard passing game despite an excellent performance from Stuart Cole in the midfield. West probably edged the procession however they also failed to get much on target and their best effort was a Carl Biggs shot from a George Figg corner which went over the bar.

The second half was much the same but Alex Cobb had to pull off an excellent one handed save from the only shot on target from Hawks. George Figg was forced to limp off after a nasty challenge but this seemed to inspire West and they then upped the tempo. Tom Weaver and Ross Whinnett then started to link up well on the left with Stuart and started to create some pressure. In the last 10 minutes West should have snatched victory when an excellent through ball opened up the Hawks defence and left an open goal for Carl from a difficult angle but the shot unfortunately went just wide. Greg Springall also had a chance 2 minutes later but his shot went just over. West probably deserved the win but its just that sort of season.

Under 11's

4 - 0 win down at the Farm

The Under 11's South travelled away to the hills of Hemel for a game at Bingham's Farm against Little Gaddesden.

With the weather showing full blue skies, and the pitch in pristine order the conditions were absolutely brilliant for what turned out to be a very hard fought contest between the two teams.

It was clear from the kick off that the 'Gadds' wanted to prove a point after the last game and within the first 5 mins or so the City defence was put under some real pressure and were fortunate not to be a goal down very early doors!

But Captain Gus Mallett and his trusted central midfield dynamo Andy Cox calmed the lads down and gave the team structure. On 13 mins, a great through pass from Andy Cox gave his ever present Captain a chance to take on the Gaddesden defence; rounding the right back and firing a cross pass to the 'hitman' Noah Grisenthwaite for the first goal to the Saints. The game continued at a pace, end to end and on 28 mins another quick ball this time from Morgan Williams in right midfield, gave Niall Watts the chance to slip the defence and fire home for 2 - 0.

A few changes at half time saw debutant Matthew Knight get his first taste of Youth league football and working alongside his partner and sweeper Michael (John Terry) Bailey gave the Saints central defence a solid grip on the game. Matt Kersey at Left back working a number of overlaps with Nathan Greaves on the left wing saw a creative move build up with an in-swinging cross that found Niall Watts waiting unmarked in the Gaddesden box. With a deft touch, Niall tucked the ball into the bottom corner for 3 - 0 on 38mins.

The Gaddesden team re-grouped and the final 20 mins of the game saw the City keeper, Keelan 'the cat' Churchill put in a number of supreme saves to assist the tiring City defence, and on 45 mins the gads right winger slipped around the City defence to fire in a sublime shot that 'pinged' off the crossbar for a goal-kick!

On 55 mins, with the City side now looking content to weather the storm, Andy Cox again proved that a never say stop attitude really pays off! Linking with Morgan Williams with a one-two and then laying off to Niall Watts who took the opportunity to strike first time and net his hat-trick, 4 - 0.

The final whistle blew and the City side came away from the game with 3 points in the bag. Man of the match was awarded to Michael Bailey. But a hat-trick, and a clean sheet meant there was a smile on everyone's face, especially the Coach!

7th January 2007

Under 16's

City second half collapse, in a game of two halves.

St Albans City suffered their sixth loss in eight, with a disappointing 5-3 loss away to Minchenden Youth.

Both sides started well, with good attacking opportunities. Eventually, it was Aaron Lumsdon who broke the deadlock, with a header beating the oncoming keeper from a lofted cross from Martin Hunter. St Albans went 2-0 up when Daniel Burtt finished calmly passed the struggling Minchenden goalkeeper. St Albans looked comfortable for the rest of the first half, showing football that picked holes in the Minchenden defence, a defence that has one of the best records in the league.

Half time score 2-0 to St Albans.

Two substitutes were introduced at halftime, Zack Zacharia to replace injured Michael Gamble in midfield, and Ben Ryan to give fresh legs up front. Which could of quite of easily paid off, with Ben Ryan having two good goal scoring chances in the first 10 mins, one saved from the keeper at the near post, and one cleared of the line via the post and crossbar.

St Albans then stopped playing the football they played in the first half, they seemed incapable in bringing the ball out of their own half with any real conviction, and were punished when Minchenden’s danger man in midfielder was given the opportunity to latch on to a high cross to tap into the far corner from close range.

Just 5 minutes later Minchenden equalised with a similar goal to the first but from the other side, and with the City defence reduced to being spectators, this signalling the start of the collapse, giving away two cheap goals.

Heads are down, and before anything could be changed, Minchenden took the lead with yet another similar goal, a close range effort placed neatly in the bottom corner. A fourth goal for Minchenden put them two ahead, when just moments before City looked to be cruising at 2-0.

City looked to be holding on, and started playing some good football, but the hope of a revival was put out of reach when a looping header found the top corner, despite the best efforts of the City goalkeeper to stop it, this giving the Minchenden midfielder his hat trick.

City managed to pull one back through Aaron Lumsdon, when he slotted home smartly passed the oncoming goalkeeper, but it wasn’t enough to save a dismal 5-3 defeat from 2-0 up. Final score 5-3 Minchenden.

In a game of two halves, City need to take a good look at themselves, and put in performances as the first half of this game, where they looked almost unbeatable.

Although some credit must go to Minchenden, it looked as if there were two different teams out there, although only two substitutes were used !!!!!

Under 14's

St Albans City West 2 Tornado JSC 2

West were under pressure for the first 20 minutes but the defence of Adam Thornhill, Charlie Craigen, Jamie Heaffey, Myles Smith and particularly Alex Cobb in goal mopped up the pressure. West then seemed to settle and get into the game and an excellent cross from Scott Howlett looked a certain goal from a well placed header by Elliott Jay but the keeper pulled off an outstanding save. West finished the half the stronger team with efforts from both Greg Springall and Carl Biggs saved and Carl just failed to reach a Greg cross flashed right across the open goal. 0-0 at half time but if West could start the 2nd as they finished the 1st half the supporters felt it was theirs for the taking but their hopes were dashed after 2 quick goals after 2 and 4 minutes in.

The first well placed round the keeper after a misunderstanding and the 2nd from a long range speculative effort or cross that went right in the top corner leaving the keeper no chance. Again West upped there game and were rewarded when Carl set up Scott to fire a lovely curling shot in top corner. Chris Welch who had been working his socks off in the midfield was then rewarded when his cross was deflected in for an own goal. It was now all West and Tom Weavers effort went just over followed minutes later by a George Figg free kick from the edge of the area. A great corner from George then looked sure to find the back of the net but it was cleared to Elliott whose excellent shot looked goal bound but went just wide. West looked to have sealed a great comeback 3 minutes from the end but a shot dropped on the goal line was scrambled away through a melee of West players. A great game for the neutral.

Under 11's

'A New Year, another derby 1-1'

The first game of the new year saw the squad line up at home against our very close rival Sun Postal.

As usual the game set off at a cracking pace and saw the City squad go close with two chances in the opening 5 minutes. The first, a one on one attempt from Noah Grisenthwaite playing as the lone striker, but was thwarted by the Sun Postal keeper. The second chance coming minutes later from a quick break from midfield to Jack Pugh who weaved through the opponents midfielders to release a shot which was well saved by the keeper.

On 13 minutes City won their first corner of the game and Captain Gus Mallett swung the ball inwards but was deflected out by the Sun Postal defence. The City attack was holding firm on the edge of the box and Michael Webb whipped in a shot back to goal. Though the shot was heading goalwards and on target, an opposing defender was in the way but unfortunately turned the ball in the net. 1-0 to City.

Not to be outdone the Sun Postal squad came back with full steam and the rest of the half saw plenty of action at both ends. As the City squad began to get on top of their game, on 28 mins, a quickly taken goal kick from Sun Postal saw an attack develop down the left side. The City defenders caught out momentarily were unable to deal with the deft chip from the Sun Postal player and the ball was well placed in the top corner of the net. 1-1 at half time.

The second half saw the teams up the tempo, but Sun Postal seemed to be getting on top, with three or four chances thankfully missing the post. As the game continued the City team got back into the game and with the minutes ticking down, both teams were thinking they might just nick it?!

The final whistle blew and a fair 1-1 result was maintained.

Well done boys, and also well played both teams another great game.

Under 8's

Little Gaddesdon 2 – 2 City Youth West

Robbie Pennthomas rounded off a man of the match performance with both of City's goals. Harry Argyle also impressed.

17th December 2006

Under 14's

U14 West Lose Out to Herons Youth

West suffered defeat in their last game of 2006 to second placed Herons Youth, although it could have been different if their finishing had been better.

The first good opening came following a good ball down the left wing from Ryan Maher for Greg Springall to chase. He then sent a good cross into the area to be met by Scott Howlett but the resultant shot unfortunately went just wide. The opening goal came after five minutes as West failed to clear a Herons corner which was headed in. Worse was to come after twelve minutes as a Herons player on the edge of the area was given time to turn and shoot to give them a 2-0 lead.

West didn’t let their head drop though and continued to push forward, with a number of chances being created, however each time the Herons keeper either made a good save or the shot went wide.

In the second half, West raised their game, which included seeing a number of surging runs though midfield by centre back Charlie Craigen. Scoring chances were limited at both ends though, but as the second half progressed West pushed ahead more, with one good through ball creating an opening for Elliott Jay before a last ditch tackle by a Herons defender robbed him of possession just as he was about to shoot. With space for Herons to counter attack they then created a few chances themselves, but Martin Robinson in goal played very well to deny them a third goal. West still pushed forward right to the end, if only for a consolation goal, but it was not to arrive, and the score remained 2-0 to Herons.

This was a disappointing result, as if the first half chances had been taken they could have been leading at half time, but while the boys tried hard, they lost too many 50/50 balls, and surrendered possession too easily at times.

VP Knights 8 v 3 St Albans City Youth Under 14 South

A bad result and a disastrous end to the year. The team was weakened by the absence of some key players and illness and injury amongst the 12 who did turn out. However this does not explain the scoreline, the home teams first win of the season.

The game was fairly even in the first half with the home team reduced to long range shots that Danielli Kitchen mopped up with ease. In fact the visitors were the more dangerous and failed to convert a number of chances. The loss of Kieren Rawal at right back when forced to come off ultimately led to the home sides first goal, capitalising on the space allowed. A second goal followed when the midfield failed to close down and a long punt over the top put a player through.

Joe Bozier finally found the target near the end of the half, a blast from 100cm out. This raised confidence and the game was well and truly on. The second half started with more of the same and the visitors dominated scoring first with Freddie Eames after a corner had created mayhem and then David Payton with a great volley.

After that it was all downhill. The midfield simply disappeared, tiredness took over and the home side kept scoring. Most of the goals came from the midfield with players allowed time and space to shoot at will.

Conor Hogan was made Man of the Match for his efforts in defence.

Under 8's

Tring 3 - 3 City Youth Under 8s West

City scraped out a hard fought draw, despite going one nil up in the first minute through an excellent goal by Harry Newman Booth. Tring pulled one back before Captain Liam Murphy put City in the lead again. With two more goals for Tring it looked as if City were heading for defeat, especially when Harry Hawkes was carried off with a badly cut knee. But Liam Murphy scored his second to earn a draw for City and the man-of-the-match award for himself.

10th December 2006

Under 16's

Out of County Cup

St Albans West lost 1-0 to Stevenage Borough in the County Cup on Sunday.

Having not played together for a few weeks St Albans found it hard to get into their stride, although the first half seemed pretty even with neither side having any real chances. Half time score 0-0.

St Albans looked brighter coming out for the second half, having the majority of the attacking play in the early stages of the half. But Stevenage regrouped and the City defenders had to withstand heavy pressure for the last 15 minutes. After coping with the Stevenage attack, with just 10 minutes to go, three Stevenage attackers broke through the defence leaving an easy chance to slot home a winner. St Albans tried to turn the game around, but it was too little too late. Final score 1-0 Stevenage.

Matt Bennett got Man of the Match for a solid game in goal, making some good saves in places.

Under 15's

North survive stiff test in County Cup

The Under 15 North played Hadley Wood in the 4th Round of the County Cup.

Have you ever had the feeling that something is not quite right , but have not been able to work out what is wrong ? Hadley Wood turned up to play this game with a squad of players who could not be the same team that plays in the White Division. They were fast , powerful and skilfull and played football that would have beaten most teams. St. Albans , however, are not "most teams".

City getting off to one of their fast starts, took the lead when Crawford directed a powerful header past their stranded keeper. Thatcher drifting in from the left wing was giving his marker a torrid afternoon and doubled the lead when he outpaced the defence to slot home.Yates , having his best game of the season could have scored twice , but saw his efforts just saved. The third goal looked suspiciously offside but the lineman missed it so Thatcher said thanks very much and drove in on the goal for his second. Hadley then woke up and started to play some good football and deservedly got a goal back . City were then hit with a sucker punch as Hadley broke away to score their second.

The windy conditions were against City in the second half, so they had to roll their sleeves up as Hadley fought for an equaliser. City worked the ball up field forcing a succession of corners and after one of these was not fully cleared the ball fell to Baker who curled the ball over the keeper from an acute angle.
Hadley working the ball all across the park, then had a purple patch and scored two good goals as City were on the defensive . At this point you would have bet on extra time and the lottery of penalties but Citys fitness began to turn the tide and in the last ten minutes Stefan Williams ran his heart out to ensure that City would come through. He scored two typical Stefan Williams goals, chasing and harrassing defenders into mistakes before pouncing onto the merest sight of the ball to whip them into the net.

City triumphed 6 - 4 and showed their mettle in an entertaining contest against a team called Hadley Wood ( or so they said )

Channing , Harris , Armstrong , Norman , Baker , Yates , Magwood , Crawford , Campion, S.Williams , Thatcher ( J.Williams , Talbot )

City will play Borehamwood 2000 in the quarter - final in January.

 

Under 14's

Nascot Wood Rangers 2 St Albans City West 1

 

West made a bright start on a very difficult surface with some good through balls from Ryan Rickard on the left. However Nascot soaked up the early pressure and opened the scoring against the run of play after 10 minutes when they were not closed down in the midfield and though Alex Cobb in goal blocked well the ball rebounded cruelly for an easy tap in.  West defended well and denied Nascot any more clear chances but created few themselves, the best effort from a long range Matt Peckham lob that went over the bar.  An excellent George Figg corner was also headed just over by Greg Springall on the stroke of half time.  The second half started badly when a goal kick went straight to a Nascot player who slotted through to leave their attacker one on one and he took it well.  West then upped their game again and a shot by Greg from the edge of the box went just over.  Ross Whinnett then put in a cross to Scott Howlett who flicked it over the keeper to put them back in the game.  West continued to press and definitely finished the stronger but where unable to find the equaliser which their hard work probably deserved.

 

Under 14 South 5 v 6 Evergreen


This is life in the fast lane, not for the feint-hearted. What will happen next, nobody knows or can predict. This was a mad whirl of a game and the details may not be entirely accurate but it went something like this......

The visitors start with a charge but are held and the home team begins to press them back and create their own chances. In fact the visitors score first when they break quickly after the home team over-commit too many players forward on the right.

The game continues evenly balanced with chances at both ends. The equaliser comes from an Evergreen clearance picked up by Jamie Spurway who smoothly beats two players and then slips the ball through the defensive line to leave Freddie Brown with the ball in front of goal. He blasts home. Although even the visitors, near the end of the half, make the most of more defensive hesitancy to go a goal up and then make it 1-3 with a deflected shot.

Major changes in defence at half time simply brought more hesitancy and the visitors capitalised by turning one of many chances into a goal. However the home team never gives up and after yet another goalmouth scramble Joe Caunce gets the final touch to get a goal back. Immediately afterwards Neil Jardine breaks clear and scores to make it 3-4 and really boost the home team's self belief and at the same time shattering the visitors. Another defensive lapse however makes it 3-5 and the visitors think they have won. Lewis Martindale shatters them again with a well taken goal and reduce them to desperate clearances.

Evergreen make it 4-6 when a corner is not dealt with but now there are no celebrations as everyone realises this game is not over. The visitors mess about from a goal kick and Freddie Brown pounces to rob the three defenders of the ball and score his second. With minutes to go the visitors get desperate and defend in depth. Another goalmouth scramble sees the goalkeeper flatten Joe Bozier as he tries to retrieve the ball. The last kick of the game sees the penalty saved by a delighted keeper.

It was difficult to pick out a player of the match with so many people doing well but without being outstanding. Freddie Brown's two goals were vital and he is allowed to get his hands on the Man of the Match Trophy.

Under 8's

St Albans City Youth Under 8’s West 9 – 0 Berkhamstead

Man of the match Robbie Pennthomas scored 6 as the Under 8's West beat Berko 9 - 0. Finley Long scored 2 and Harry Deacon capped an all round strong team performance emphasised by the pass and move and excellent finishing.

3rd December 2006

Under 15's

Good performance sees North remain unbeaten in the season

The Under 15 North played Cassiobury Rangers - Leopards in the League Cup.

A game played in windy conditions on a surprisingly good pitch was a useful workout against a game Cassiobury side.
The first half saw City take the lead after 7 mins when Yates picked out Stefan Williams who beat the keeper from close range. City, passing the ball around, made the opposition work to gain any possession , but had a few problems themselves with the final pass not reaching a teammate. City gradually imposed themselves and Williams hit the crossbar , as did Ashcroft with a fine header from a corner , but City could not find the net and the half finished
1 - 0.
As the first half had been played with a strong wind behind City, there were concerns that several first half misses could lead to an interesting second half.
Several changes were made at half time and City clicked into gear and the game changed. With Hiller and Jordan Williams controlling midfield passes were sprayed to Yates and Campion who whipped in a succession of quality crosses for Stefan Williams and Thatcher to have shooting practice.
Campion put in a deep cross for Yates to tap in at the far post. Yates then picked out Thatcher who smashed the ball home. Jordan Williams then followed up a fierce shot and nicked the ball past the keeper after he dropped it.
The fifth goal came when a defender turned another fierce shot past his own keeper, although at least two City players would probably have scored had he not intervened. The sixth goal was the pick of the day when Thatcher beat three defenders and picked out Yates who side footed it in from close range.
The last goal saw Stefan Williams unselfishly pick out strike partner Thatcher with a good cross and a simple finish.
A 7 - 0 final score reflected City's superiority with all the boys really playing for each other and showing what a good passing team they can be.

Under 14's

West Beat Rivals

The Under 14's West team finally got revenge for last season’s controversial defeat against Harpenden Hawks as they comfortably beat them in their first encounter of the current season.

West began well, and were a goal up after just five minutes after Greg Springall played a good through ball to Jamie Heaffey who beat the defence to score with a good shot into the bottom left hand corner. Chances were limited for both sides though, but West created two openings for Tom Weaver, the second of which was a great shot that the keeper just reached and he pushed the ball wide for a corner. As the half progressed, West started to get a little sloppy, and five minutes from half time they failed to clear a Hawks attack and they levelled the score.

The second half started evenly, but West were playing a lot better and created a few openings, the best of which saw Jamie played through onto goal but the resulting shot went just wide. As the half progressed though, West increased the pressure on the Hawks defence and with fifteen minutes to go, Jamie played a good ball to Carl Biggs who finished well for West to regain the lead. Harpenden then started to push more men forward in search of another equalizer, and almost got it in one attack before Adam Thornhill bravely headed clear, but got a boot in the face for his efforts and had to be substituted.

With Harpenden pushing men forward, there was more space for West to counter-attack, and it was from a swift move out of defence that West scored their third as George played a great ball for Greg to chase, and from it he scored comfortably.

The final 3-1 score line was fully deserved as the boys put in a good performance, not that they needed motivating following the away fixture in the 05/06 season.

Under 14 South 2 v 7 Everett

Due to pitch problems the game was reversed and played on a wet Everett pitch just after the rain had stopped. This limited the skills and gave an advantage to those who went for simple and direct option.

Everett dominated territory but not possession as they took the second option. Eventually after a number of chances they scored their first goal. St Albans did not seem worried and in fact began to settle down and do some damage of their own. They grew in confidence as they realised the opposition were vulnerable. After a number of attacks Neil Jardine broke clear and forced the keeper into a desperate save but the ball was palmed out to a St Albans player who crossed the ball for Neil Jardine to finish what he had started.

Against the run of play perhaps but just reward for a determined performance. Near half time a double substitution of both fullbacks seemed to unsettle the defence and goals came from both wings to make it 1 - 3 at half time.

The second half started as an even contest but St Albans were caught by a quick break to concede another. At this point the report becomes vague as Neil Jardine, who had been creating havoc down the left, had his legs taken away yet again. The heavy fall at speed aggravated his concussion suffered during the week and he had to go to hospital. Whilst making his way round the pitch the team conceded two more goals but just before he left Jamie Spurway scored a second. Not that Neil was aware as he could not even remember he had scored himself. Apparently a seventh was conceded near the end.

Dan Kitchen had another good game in goal and made a great penalty save after a harsh hand ball decision. David Peyton gave a very positive performance as did Peter Styles. Massimo Marenghi gave a much more confident display at right back. Jamie Spurway showed how dangerous he can be in flashes.

26th November 2006

Under 15's

North given scare by Finchley fighters

The Under 15 North played AFC Finchley - South in the Challenge Cup

A filthy day with only 12 players was not the best way to go into this second round game against White Division newcomers Finchley. The team fielded did not have any player playing out of their comfort zone so expectations were that City would be just too strong at this level. City started like they meant business and took the lead after 6 mins when Thatcher played Stefan Williams in and he slotted the ball home. Thatcher clearly enjoying his task , ran their defenders all over and Williams and Crawford eagerly exploited the gaps opened. Thatcher ran on to a nice pass and easily beat the keeper and repeated the goal almost exactly ten minutes later to make the score 3 - 0. The first half closed with City comfortably on top , having not allowed a direct shot on their goal. Thomas How made a brave save to prevent a score in an otherwise quiet half for him.

In the second half City again started well , although Finchley were having more of the game than they had done in the first half. Thatcher completed a good hat-trick by turning his markers at least twice before finally off loading and nicking the ball in off the post . The game looked to be over and drifted along for ten minutes before five minutes of carnage almost blew City's Cup dreams. A Finchley corner , and not a particularly good one , was just not cleared and they tucked the ball away. City , stunned , were in further trouble when a cross was firmly headed home and two minutes later a shot from the corner of the box flew in and suddenly the score was 4 - 3. Finchley were flying at this moment and battled to send the game into extra- time.
The boys showed their mettle , regrouped and took the game back to the Finchley half and scored their fifth when Crawford and Armstrong combined to lay the ball on for Stefan Williams who put it in the net. This goal took the wind out of Finchley and Crawford scored a trademark goal after a good pass from Magwood. Stefan Williams could have made the score far more respectable with three missed chances near the end as City dominated the last ten minutes.

Under 14's

West Knocked out of Challenge Cup

West’s Challenge Cup run came to and end against a Harpenden Vultures team three divisions above them, but the game was only decided in the last few minutes.

In awful conditions, West started slowly with the Harpenden team dominating the first half in terms of attempts on goal, but they failed to score as keeper Martin Robinson made some great saves, while two headers went just wide. On the one occasion Martin was beaten Charlie Craigen made a last ditch goal line clearance. West did have a good share of the possession, but were not pressing their opponents enough, and hardly tested their keeper in a first half which ended 0-0, but could have easily seen Harpenden a few goals to the good were it not for Martin’s excellent performance in goal.

West began the second half a lot brighter, and given the lack of penetration through the centre of the strong Harpenden team in the first half, they played the ball wide much more, and to good success. One superb move saw Chris Welch and Carl Biggs combine well before sending Scott Howlett down the left wing. He managed to beat a number of approaching defenders to hit a good cross into the box; however the resulting shot was saved. Further chances were created, including a good corner from George Figg which was met by a header from Charlie but it went just over, while another chance fell to Carl after he was played though, however his run to goal was ended by a last ditch defensive clearance behind for another West corner.

With less than ten minutes to go, West looked like they might nick a winning goal, however on a rare second half Harpenden attack a ball crossed into the box was headed in from close range. Worse was to come only a minute later when a Harpenden player struck a superb curling shot from outside the area which gave Martin no chance. West didn’t give up though, and shortly after grabbed a goal back from George following good work from Tom Weaver, while a goal mouth scramble in the last minute almost brought a dramatic equalizer.

In the end it wasn’t to be, but in an entertaining second half the West boys did superbly against a team three divisions above them, and they should not be too disheartened by the 2-1 score line.

Under 11's

Battle the wind and rain in a Cup epic to remember

As the clouds gathered, this cup game, Under 11's South, versus Harpenden Colts Falcons was destined to have the real excitement of a true Cup game! Both Managers looked up and said there's blue sky coming let's give it a go!

As usual the lads started at pace, but on 5 mins found themselves out of synch and 0-1 down after a counter attack by the Harpenden midfield and the Saints defence not able to challenge quickly enough. But within minutes a quick delivery from 'captain' Gus Mallett put Jack Pugh through to round two defenders and slot home to bring the teams square at 1-1.

The sky blackened and the rain began to fall, and Harpenden managed to slip a wide ball through to jinx the saints defence again, 1-2. A quickly taken goal-kick on 20 mins released Nathan Greaves on the left hand side to take a wide run and slide a perfect delivery onto the feet of Noah 'the hitman' Grisenthwaite who, with a first time strike, slotted home for 2-2. The Harpenden attack continued to pressurise the City defence, but centre-back Michael Bailey and left back Matt Kersey working together calmed the situation and released Andy Cox to penetrate the opposing midfield. A deft pass to Gus Mallett, allowed the City captain to go one on one with the keeper and put the ball in the net for 3-2 at half-time.

In the second-half the rain continued and the teams set out at the same end to end pace, but again the Harpenden midfield and attach combined to slip the Saints defence and enable a shot that slipped passed the keeper for all square again at 3-3.

On 40 mins Andy Cox and Jack Push put heavy pressure back on to the Harpenden midfield and allowed Noah to combine a well worked pass to put Morgan Williams through to deliver a wonder strike from the right wing straight to the top right corner, 4-3. On 43 mins again Andy Cox slid Noah through for a chance that was put away to go 5-3!

With only 5 mins to go and now thunder clapping, surely the team could hold on? But the Harpenden strikers had other ideas and within the last 5 mins scored twice to bring the game level at full-time, 5 -5!!

A decision to go directly to penalties was taken as the weather was now not letting up. Five penalties later and the score stood at 3-3!! Sudden death ensued. There was no lack of offers from all of the remaining City players.

With the City keeper saving the first two penalties, up steps Nathan Greaves, he knows this is probably one of the most important penalties he is ever going to take, no pressure then Nathan? He strikes, and ball hits the bottom corner.

St Albans win 4-3 on penalties!!

A fantastic example of youth football, both teams really were winners, well done lads, and now on to the next round.

19th November 2006

St Albans City Youth Disability Team

Thirteen goal thriller 

A brave St Albans City Youth Disability side lost to a last minute winner in  a thirteen goal thriller on the south coast on Sunday. Playing against friendly rivals Shepway Wanderers St Albans feared the worst when they fell behind after five seconds, as when the teams had last met two months previously Shepway had run out easy winners.

In a fairly even first half hour Shepway demonstrated their greater experience and composure in front of goal, taking every chance that came their way, leaving Scott Regan little chance making his first start in goal. A well taken Matt Nash goal and a Joe Strohm finish from close range kept St Albans in touch, but Shepway went into the half time break 5-2 in front.

Having dominated the last five minutes before the interval St Albans continued that momentum into the second half, preventing Shepway leaving their half for long periods of time. Prompted by Dan Bolton and Paul Spinks intelligent use of possession St Albans used their greater pace and width to great effect with a further two goals from Joe Strohm to complete his hat-trick, Nicholas Patrick from close range and an audacious solo run and 30 yard shot into the top corner from Dan Bolton brought the teams level at six all with five minutes to go.

Unfortunately for St Albans, Shepway had the final say with a close range goal with virtually the last kick of the game for a final score of 7-6 to Shepway.

St Albans manager Dan Rogers was justifiably proud of the way his players had fought back. "This was a great game of attacking football, which will be long remembered by all who were there. I was proud of the way the lads kept going and was very pleased with the debut of Dan Bolton who was our man of the match".

St Albans: Scott Regan, Dan Augustine, Ronnell Williams, Dan Bolton, Graham Tuitt, Nicholas Patrick, Paul Spinks, Jonathon Riggins, Tom Ward, Matt Nash, Joe Strohm, Luke Robinson, Charlie Wildman, Liam Jolley

 

Under 16's

 

3 Points Lost

St Albans City U16 West lost 3-1 to top of the league Hadley Wood Hinton.

St Albans were encouraged by the fact that Hadley Wood only had 10 men, and immediately took the game to Hadley Wood, playing good football all over the pitch. St Albans took the lead as Daniel Burtt blasted the ball into the top corner, despite the best efforts of the Hadley Wood keeper. St Albans played the best football of the first half, having the majority of play. But ten minutes before half time Hadley Wood equalised when a striker capitalised on a poor back-header to chip the ball over the keeper into the back of the net.

St Albans came out for the second half confidently, but this confidence was short-lived as Hadley Wood took the lead when a Hadley Wood striker was first to react to the save from city keeper Matt Bennett, to score his second of the game. Just five minutes later a Hadley Wood striker broke through the City defence to score their third of the game. St Albans battled well but their lack of fitness showed through in the latter stages, allowing Hadley Wood to take three points that in the first half, they didn’t deserve.

 

Under 15's

 

North beat local rivals


The Under 15 North played London Colney in the League.

These two teams have always been fierce local rivals with both able to claim they were the best team in the County sharing success in the last two County Finals. Last season City humbled Colney 8 - 2 on their patch and just did enough to win 2- 1 at home , which hugely contributed to City becoming Premier Division Champions. Colney had started the season in good form and must have fancied their chances.

The first half saw Colney start the stronger , with their battling spirit seeming to give them the edge in the 50 / 50 tackles. City took longer to settle down and the previous weeks passing game was largely abandoned for some route one football in the swirling wind. Armstrong and Magwood battled tirelessly in midfield where Colney matched their aggression and endeavour. Thatcher and Williams worked hard but were finding it difficult as high balls were continually won by the Colney central defenders. In defence Ashcroft , Talbot , Norman and Harris were in control preventing any shots on How's goal. The half was fairly even but just before the end a terrific run by Ferdinand forced an unlikely corner. Campion produced a great cross from which a looping header from Armstrong just dipped under the crossbar for 1- 0.

In the second half City started more positively and began to play the ball on the floor and work opportunities around the box. The pace of Ferdinand , Williams and Campion was relentless and Colney were finding that they were now second to the important balls as the fitness levels in this City side gave them an edge. Jordan Williams and Crawford came on to add guile and strength to the cause and Crawford running on to a through ball slid the ball past their keeper. The final nail in the coffin saw Stefan Williams, spotting their keeper off his line , dink a delightful shot into the net for 3- 0. Crawford linking up with Yates almost produced goal of the season when a tremendous shot hit crossbar and post.

Both teams played their part in a feisty game of passion and 100% commitment which was very well refereed.

Under 14's

 

Under 14 South 7 v 6 Harpenden Eagles

Never in one football match has defeat been snatched form the jaws of victory so often. A see-saw game that gave the managers whiplash injuries. Readers of a nervous disposition look away now and scroll down to the safety of the Under-13s.

A local derby that started but built slowly but built up to fever pitch. Harpenden started even more slowly than the home team and were constantly on the back foot. it seemed only a matter of time before a goal and eventually Neil Jardine created havoc on the right of the box before a cross ball saw Peter Styles with a simple conversion on the left. William Ellis soon followed with a surging run from right back into the same territory on the right of the box but needed no help with a tremendous strike. Neil Jardine then broke through the middle and picked his corner to make it 3-0.

Game over. Perhaps the home team thought so as they were no longer as positive and were punished for their lack of pace and dwelling on the ball. The visitors steadily pegged back the three goals to make it 3-3. Neil Jardine responded to their third goal by scoring a fourth but yet another bout of sleeping sickness down the middle led to an equaliser

4-4 and the referee had to blow up for half time. Possibly a little early but he had to sharpen his pencil and find more paper. Harpenden started well in the second half and created a hotly disputed goal (claims of hand ball) putting themselves in the lead for the first time. Not for long as almost from the kick off Peter Styles brings it back to 5-5. Harpenden then win a penalty that again pushes them in front and they hold the lead for a long time.

It looks as if they will hold out as the home team becomes ineffective up the slope. However a free kick from Lewis Martindale is beautifully struck into the top left corner. It's game on again and with fresh enthusiasm the home team claim a seventh when Peter Styles gets his hat-trick with his best goal, first chipping the keeper who is too far forward and then sliding home the ball in the chase that follows. The home team are now dominant and look to add to their lead, finally putting a stop to the leakage of goals. A ding-dong game that leaves all the spectators still with ringing in their ears.

Peter Styles gets Man of the Match again but there were many fine performances. Neil Davidson, Conor Hogan and Jamie Spurway were solid in defence whilst Joe Caunce worked hard throughout as did Neil Jardine. Dan Kitchen, in goal, played well and could not be faulted for the goals that did get past him.

Riverside Hibernian 1 St Albans City West 1

West again played really well and put in a great team performance. They should really have taken all 3 points but some poor decisions and not taking their chances again cost them. Hibs definitely started more brightly but the West defence of Adam Thornhill, Jamie Heaffey, Ryan Maher and Stuart Cole always looked solid. However after 15 minutes West started to play and there was good link up play on both wings which resulted in a great strike and goal from Greg Springall after Ryan Rickards deft ball over the top after 20 mins. For the rest of the first half a spate of chances followed with good through balls from George Figg and Elliott Jay and excellent crosses into the box from Scott Howlett and Chris Welch but unfortunately West did not take them. Greg also had a well taken chance disallowed for a dubious offside from an Elliott through ball. Chris set up Carl Biggs for the best chance just before half time but he hit it low and with the keeper beaten unfortunately it went just wide. Hibs started the second half more strongly but still never got a shot on target and West constantly looked dangerous on the break but with the linesman flag quickly up it was very difficult. West still created lots of chances but the keeper saved several including a good strike from Chris 15 minutes in. The poor decisions continued from the referee when he tried to give a penalty for a dubious hand ball after the a Hibs player had already been flagged offside but they did score from a good cross and header from their only shot on target shortly after. The ref (Hibs Manager) didn't give up on trying to give his team the advantage by awarding another penalty when the ball hit a West player in the back but justice was done when this was saved brilliantly by Alex Cobb who had a very competent game in goal. Excellent play from the West team but what would have been a good competitive game and West victory was spoiled by the Hibs officials.

Under 8's

 

City Youth Under 8s West 2 - 1 Chorleywood

After drawing at home to Chorleywood last week, Under 8s West put in an excellent performance to win 2 - 1 away.
Robbie Penn Thomas grabbed both goals and Liam Murphy on the left wing was man of the match as City went 2 - 0 up, conceded a late goal and then defended brilliantly to hold on for the win.

12th November 2006

Under 15's

Cup holders ease into last 16

The Under 15 North played Bury Rangers in the County Cup.

Bury Rangers , from the MHRML Premier Division , started the game in very determined fashion but were soon realising why City are the reigning County Champions. Armstrong , Magwood and Norman with power and strength and Brothwood with silky skills rapidly won the midfield battle. Thatcher and Stefan Williams were pulling their markers all over the pitch creating gaps for midfield runners. The first goal came when Armstrong laid the ball off to Norman who lashed it in from just outside the box. City, though controlling the game, were having difficulties making the final pass and the half finished 1 - 0.

    In the second half City's defence were able to push up more and Baker having already put in some telling crosses knocked in the best of the lot and a defender, despite huge effort, could only help the goal bound shot to go in. Ferdinand , Campion and Jordan Williams came on to add more pace against an over worked defence and after working hard to create an opening Campion scored a good individual goal when he burst through and was able to swivel in the goal area and knock the ball in. Ferdinand , turning up the after- burners, cruised past their defence on more than one occasion and scored the hardest chance when he accelerated into the box beating the keeper at the near post. City were in dominating form and the 4 - 0 score line hardly reflected the game with keeper How not having a direct shot to save all day.

City will play Hadley Wood in the last 16 on December 10th.

Under 14's

West dominate but drop points

The Under 14's West should have secured their first home win against Hadley Rangers, after dominating most of the game and passing the ball better than Hadley but they did not take their chances.  They had a couple of good balls in the box in the first few minutes and a lovely through ball from Ryan Rickard after 5 minutes put Scott Howlett through one on one with the keeper but he was saved. Three minutes later he also had a half chance but his shot went just over. Tom Weaver who was excellent on the right wing put a great cross into Greg Springall but his header was saved as was a George Figg effort a few minutes later.  Hadley then scored in one of their rare attacks when West failed to clear.  Still West continued to play well and another great Tom cross was blasted over and just before half time a free kick went wide. 

The second half started brightly after Ross Whinnet put Greg through but his shot went just wide. Greg was again thwarted by an excellent one handed save after George set him away on a great run.  Ross put West back in it though after 15 minutes when another excellent Tom cross found him on the edge of the six yard box and he side footed home.  However 4 minutes later a cross into the box deflected off a Hadley player and crept in the back post leaving Alex Cobb in goal no chance.  West had another good chance a few minutes later after a great clearance from Charlie Craigen found Scott one on one with the keeper but he was saved again.  West were really unlucky and were punished for both their mistakes in defence. It should have been a draw at worst but it was just not West's day.  

Under 12's

Down to earth with a bump

A lacklustre display against Riverside, suggested the Under 14's South were still resting on last weeks laurels. 1-1 at half time might have looked good but the away goal came from the one attack when Neil Jardine set up Peter Styles. Otherwise it was a stout defensive display. A lack of midfield dominance saw the ball coming straight back and a series of shots from outside the box.

In the second half tiredness seemed to take over and the defenders forgot their jobs allowing the home side to build up a 4-1 lead. Jamie Spurway showed the home team how to shoot from distance with a great free kick to give some hope but the leakage of goals continued. Both sides lost discipline and the game swept from end to end rather than the one-sided dominance of the first. Both sides exchanged missed penalties. Sums up the game really.

Peter Styles was named Man of the Match with a tireless battling display. Jamie Spurway had a good game as did Joe Caunce. Again Conor Hogan dominated in defence and Danielli Kitchen bounced back after last week with another good performance.

Under 8's

City Youth Under 8’s West 3 – Chorleywood 3

Chorleywood scored first but City came back with two quality goals before half time by Finley Long and Robbie Pennthomas, it could have been more. Ben Merritt appeared to have won the game with a fierce drive mid way through the second half but Chorleywood scored 2 quick goals when the young saints were focusing on getting a fourth. City camped in the opponents penalty box for the last 10 minutes but could not get the winner. Strong commitment earned Harry Argyle Lewis the man of the match award



5th November 2006

Under 15's

 

North back in the groove with comfortable win

The Under 15 North played Borehamwood 2000 in the league.
   
Both of these teams had let their opponents steal points last week and were therefore very determined to get back on track. With a wealth of talent available to choose from , a different formation was put out on the park. City got off to a great start when , after 14 seconds , a speculative shot by Stefan Williams was fumbled by their keeper and the ball rolled into the net. Borehamwood were shocked by this and Thatcher and Williams ran their defence ragged for the next ten minutes. Borehamwood cracked again when Thatcher's strength allowed him to force himself through tackles and put in a great cross for Stefan Williams to side foot in from a few metres. Borehamwood tried everything but with the "tigerish" tackling of Armstrong and Magwood winning the midfield they could not create any chances. The third City goal came when the ball was knocked over the top , and Thatcher held off a strong challenge and then calmly took the ball around the keeper and rolled it in.

 

The second half saw City keeping up the pressure and it was no surprise when Ferdinand, flying down the wing, beat his marker and put in a pin-point cross for Thatcher to bury the ball with a powerful header. At 4 - 0 City thought the game was over but no teams give up in this division and City conceded a goal from a good corner when no challenge was made on their striker. Borehamwood then had their best period of the game , and got a deserved second when their player found himself unmarked on the edge of the area and drilled it home. Charles Norman came on and a tired defence could not contain him and he burst through their defence and scored a typical Norman goal.

 

City controlled the game, and deserved the 5 - 2 scoreline but must learn that they have to play every minute at this level.

How , Harris , Hiller , Ashcroft , Baker, Ferdinand , Magwood , Armstrong , Yates, Thatcher , S.Williams, Campion, Talbot , Norman , J.Williams

 

 

 

Under 14's

 

High Fives for the West

West looked a completely different side this week and passed the ball sublimely at times. From the off West put Berkhamsted under pressure with excellent link up play particularly on the right between George Figg and Tom Weaver.  Berkhamsted defended well but deflected one of the numerous George corners into their own net after 8 minutes.  They again knocked in a George cross 15 minutes later for their second own goal. Ryan Rickard and Stuart Cole worked well on the left making excellent runs and passes and Chris Welch in the middle was excellent constantly pressurising but it was not until 15 minutes into the 2nd half that Greg Springall set up Ross Whinnet whose shot looped over the Raiders keeper leaving him no chance.  The 4th came when Greg was sent on a superb run by an excellent Elliott Jay through ball and finished clinically. Greg again made no mistake on the stroke of full time when a hard working Chris set him up for his second.  The West defence were strong and rarely troubled apart from a free kick which was brilliantly saved by Carl Biggs. It probably could have been more but it was a great team performance and the boys can be delighted with the way they played.

South take on the Knights

Not a game for the purists or those with a heart condition. The visitors take an early lead when the home keeper misjudges a high bouncing ball. However the home team are not dispirited and take the game to the visitors. After already being fouled in the box but not getting a penalty because he kept going, Neil Jardine was again taken down on another run. The keeper dived too far and the miss hit penalty went under his legs. Soon after the home team took the lead when Peter Styles set up Neil Jardine in front of goal.

Another goalkeeper error allowed the visitors to equalise but the home team were not to be contained. Peter Styles got his first goal, as did Massimo and then Joe Caunce made it 5. The Knights also scored a gain when a high ball evaded the keeper but came back off the bar but only the attacker responded for an easy finish.
The half ended with Neil Jardine claiming his hat trick after some quick footwork wrong footed the whole defence to enable him to find the corner of the net.

The second half was a different game. The home forwards did not see the ball but the defence seemed comfortable. However as the team dropped deeper and deeper they were punished when they made mistakes and the home team scored three goals. It looked as if the home team were going to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory but Neil Jardine had other ideas and scored his best goal yet in the last 5 minutes. he won the ball on the half way line and broke clear. Under pressure as he hit the box he still got away a shot to beat the advancing keeper and hit the corner of the net. He then completed the scoring with his fifth goal having been set up by a great ball from Connor Hogan.

Keiren Rawal did a fine job marshalling the defenders and Connor Hogan showed increasing promise in central defence. Freddie Eames was a constant threat as was Peter Styles in the first half. Joe Caunce worked tirelessly but there was only going to be one Man of the Match.

Under 11's

NORTH HIT HARVESTERS FOR 9

The Under 11 North travelled to Smallford to take on Harvesters South in their first WFL league game.

City went on the offensive from the start played the game in the Harvesters half. Josh Smithers scored City’s first goal after 5 minutes followed by Daniel Casotti hitting the second seven minutes later. City controlled the game throughout the first half & could have extended their 2 goal lead before the break with Luke Ferdinand having two good opportunities to score, only to hit the post.

In the second half City made four substitutions. City carried on from the first half pressurising Harvesters. Robert Ward scored from a corner after 33 minutes to give City a 3-0 lead. Charlie Beedle was terrorising Harvesters down the right with his pace and created City’s fourth when he picked out William Feron from the bye line, who then beat the keeper form 6 yards. Charlie Beedle scored the fifth himself, when he again beat the defence down the right, cut in & beat the keeper at the near post with a hard low effort. After 43 minutes City went 6-0 up when Jacob Noonan’s shot found the back of the net. By the fiftieth minute Jacob Noonan and Luke Ferdinand had added to the score to make it 8-0 for City. Harvesters then had their best spell of the game & scored with 8 minutes to go. Two minutes from the end Jacob Noonan completed his hatrick to give City an excellent start to their league campaign winning 9-1.

Man of the match award was shared between Charlie Beedle & Jacob Noonan.

Squad: E Rose, W Pellington, S Harper, C Beedle, R Ward, J Renfrew, C McConnell, J Smithers, D Casotti, J Noonan, Max Andrew, L Ferdinand, W Feron, A Greenaway, C MacIndoe

Shoot on Target ' for a Fireworks display to be proud of!!

After a particularly solemn start to the season with 3 games lost out of 3 played, the half term week off gave the squad a chance to review the finer elements of the 'beautiful' game!! A game against Little Gaddesden loomed, and the team brief at the start of the game concentrated on wider distribution across the pitch and an improved shoot on site philosophy which had let the boys down in previous games.

The boys set off at the usual pace and with only 3 mins on the clock, a screaming shot from Noah Grisenthwaite put the opposing keeper under pressure. A flurry of activity in the oppositions box saw a difficult clearance spring out to Nathan Greaves who turned the ball back in and off the remaining defender for a 6 min goal. ! - 0.

The game continued at a high tempo with both sides counter attacking and on 12 mins, a break by the sturdy Lt. Gaddesden midfield caught the City defence unawares for a loose shot to skip past the City keeper to bring the result all square at 1-1. On 17 mins, Morgan Williams burst through on the right midfield after a through ball from Andy Cox, to allow Morgan a shot against the lonely keeper to make it 2-1. Almost straight from the kick-off Andy Cox again released this time Noah Grisenthwaite out wide on the right wing, who turned the defender and then with time on his side, released a 'bullet' into the top corner for 3-1. the City team began to dominate the midfield with more and more strikes until the 25 min, when again Noah 'the hitman' Grisenthwaite combined with Gus Mallett for a nicely worked movement to allow Noah to slot home for 4-1.

In the second half a few changes allowed the midfield to become even more fluid in its movement with Jack Pugh playing in the holding midfield role to release Andy Cox in a more attacking position. The outcome however saw the Gaddesden defence crowd Andy Cox which left striker Niall Watts free to take two well placed hits on goal for 6-1.

Captain Gus Mallet continued to motivate the team forward and got just deserts on 45 mins with a well timed pass from Jack Pugh to allow Gus to penetrate the Gaddesden defence a shoot home for 7-1. On 48 mins a counter attack set up by Michael Bailey in the defensive line with a long ball up field saw Aaron Benfield pressure the Gaddesden defence to get Noah into another chance and get the well deserved hat-trick, and 8-1. In the later stages of the game Aaron Benfield only just missed the chance to spring a final surprise but went wide of the post.

All in all a great afternoons work, and a firework display to be proud of !!

Thanks boys !!

Under 8's

Sleepy second half for the Under 8's West

Under 8's West lost their first match away at Comets. Robbie Pennthomas gave City a 2 nil half time lead.  A sleepy second half City then let in 3. Kevin Kissoon was man of the match for some fine first half goal keeping.

29th October 2006

Under 15's

City boys pay for missed chances

The Under 15 North played Hemel Hempstead Town in the League.

This eagerly awaited fixture against the team known previously as Echoes Youth flattered to deceive. City started strongly, and almost scored in the first thirty seconds when a snap shot whistled just past the post. Thatcher making runs down the wing and Norman rampaging down the middle had unsettled the Hemel defence and it was no surprise when , after less than five minutes, Thatcher put in a great cross which Norman forced home for a deserved lead. City pressed hard but a combination of better defending and misplaced passes prevented any clear cut chances. The revised formation took a while to settle down, and Hemel weathering the early onslaught, fought their way back into
the game without getting near City's goal.

In the second half the early exchanges failed to create anything , and a strangely subdued City seemed to settle for their narrow advantage. Crawford gave way to Magwood who battled hard but failed to wrestle control of midfield from Hemel who sensed they could get something from the game. Yates replaced Campion , but as legs began to tire on the long grass City sat deeper and Hemel drove forward. With ten minutes to go , City's defence made its only error and Hemel breaking down the right, created a chance which was driven home for an equaliser. City were lucky to not concede a penalty in the last few minutes when a contentious decision went their way.

City threw away two points, and now have a much harder task if they are to defend their League Title. Borehamwood next week is a must win game.

Under 14's

U14 West Lose to Riverside Hibernian

West started this game brightly and dominated the opening fifteen minutes, with Jamie Heaffey coming closest to opening the scoring after receiving the ball, turning well, and shooting, but the ball went just wide of the far post. Good work from Tom Weaver then gave Jamie another opportunity, while soon after Scott Howlett had a good cross/shot across goal with Chris Welch stretching and almost getting a touch on it to score, but not quite reaching it. Riverside soon found their rhythm though and started to press forward with Alex Cobb making a number of good saves.

With two minutes of the first half left, and the score 0-0, Scott got into a great position on the edge of the Riverside penalty area and struck a great right foot shot to open the scoring. Unfortunately straight from the kick-off, West went to sleep thinking the half was all over, while Riverside headed directly for the West goal and equalized, so the first half ended all square.

West started the second half brightly again, with Scott setting up a chance for Greg Springall whose excellent volley went just wide. Riverside however, picked up a gear which was not matched by the West boys, and in a nine minute spell Riverside scored three times to lead 4-1. Not long after, West grabbed a goal back after good work from Jamie led to an opening for Carl Biggs, who scored from close range. There were chances for both sides in the final ten minutes to add to the score, but none were taken and so the game finished 4-2 in favour of Riverside.

This was a very off colour performance from the boys who should have done much better. They play became a little sloppy in the second half, while their passing was not up to the usual standards although the pitch (with very long grass) didn’t help.

Kitchen faultless display

The Under 14's South played away to Edson Youth, this was not as good a performance as the week before, the team tending to be on the back foot and defending rather than getting forward into the other team's half. The teams were evenly matched but the game was played in the visitors half and so the bulk of the shots were at the away goal. After a few scares the home team finally converted after a period of pressure.

It was still 1-0 at half time but the away team were asleep at the re-start and conceded immediately. A third goal followed as the rattled defence failed to clear.

From then on the team got a grip of themselves and began to finally drive the game into the home half creating a number of chances. Jamie Spurway had a great second half and Lewis Martindale kept going despite having little support up front. Daniel Kitchen showed continued progress in goal and had a faultless display but Neil Jardine's work rate and flashes of skill throughout the game perhaps earned him a Man of the Match award.

Under 11's

SLOW START STOPS COUNTY CUP PROGRESS

The Under 11 North entertained Hadley Wood in the rearranged 3rd round of the county cup at Verulamium.

City started slowly & did not get to the pace of the game for the first fifteen minutes. By that stage City had found themselves 5 goals behind the visitors. Aaron Greenaway came off the bench to firm up the midfield after 18 minutes, & City started to compete. Half time came with City 5 goals behind.

In the second half City got a goal back after 3 minutes when Daniel Casotti’s determination down the left , lead to him crossing for craig McConnell to smash the ball into the net. City were competing better than in the first half but after 15 minutes of the second half they found themselves 9-1 down. City finished the last quarter of the game the stronger, with goals from Luke Ferdinand & a brace from Jacob Noonan. City eventually went out of the county cup 10-4.If City had started quicker against a team that won the WFL Red division last season, then the score line could have been closer. In the second half there was only one goal difference between the teams.

Man of the match went to Aaron Greenaway for his hard work in midfield for the team.

Squad: E Rose, W Pellington, S Harper, C Beedle, J Renfrew, C McConnell, J Smithers, D Casotti, J Noonan, M Andrew, R Cobb, L Ferdinand, W Feron, A Greenaway, C MacIndoe

22nd October 2006

Disability Team

Great second half performance

On Sunday afternoon in the wilds of Kent an injury and holiday ravaged St Albans City (Youth) Disability team continued their first league campaign against Larkfield Youth . The home side adjusted quicker to the monsoon-like conditions and raced into a comfortable first half lead with their star striker scoring a hatrick and setting up two other goals.
 
The second half saw a spirited comeback from St Albans with many players playing their best 45 minutes of the season. City's man of the match Matt Nash led the way, scoring two and coming close to scoring on several other occasions through tireless running and commitment. Matt also did very well not to react when he was on the receiving end of an incident which saw the Larkfield goalkeeper sent off. St Albans won the second half 2-1, with the final score 6-2 to Larkfield.
 
Assistant coach Anthony Roche said "I was very proud of the way the team came back in the second half which gives great encouragement for the rest of the season. I would also like to thank one of our younger players, Jon Hooper, who came to support the team and showed great effort and commitment when called upon to help."
 
Coach Dan Rogers said "We have a break for a month until our next league match and our attention will now focus on the trials we are holding for new players on Saturday 11 November 2006 at Highfield Park. If you are interested, or know someone who may be, please see the City Youth website or telephone 01727 762843 for details" .
 
St Albans: Daniel Rogers, Steve Adams, Ronnell Williams, Scott Regan, Daniel Augustine, Paul Spinks, Graham Tuitt, Liam Jolley, Tom Ward, Matt Nash, Niall Bradley

Under 15's

City outgun game Everett

The Under 15 North played Everett Rovers from the White Division in a friendly.

City, missing six first team regulars through injuries and holidays, started brightly against a combative Everett side who were determined to show that City's reputation had not impressed them. Early midfield exchanges were even and City were having a tough time against a quick defence well marshalled in the offside trap which they employed at every opportunity. The lightening pace of Crawford and Thatcher began to get the measure of their opponents and with Campion and Ferdinand running at their markers the chances began to occur. Campion , dancing around the defender put in a great cross to Crawford who firmly headed home to break the deadlock. This goal seemed to redouble Everett's effort and try as they might, City did not get close to a second goal for the rest of the half.

The second half , played in a continuous downpour , started just as evenly as the first. City wrestled control of midfield through Yates and Talbot and scored their second when Thatcher laid the ball in front of Talbot who smacked it home. City now turned up the pressure forcing a succession of corners. From a great Baker corner the ball was fumbled and Thatcher tucked it away, and a few minutes later another excellently flighted corner from Baker found Talbot who found the net for the second time. The icing on the cake came when Hiller , arriving on a late run , powered a tremendous header into the top corner from yet another superb Baker corner. New keeper Thomas How had a very easy debut, having just one long range shot to collect in the whole game.

5 - 0 to City , but well played Everett who never stopped trying.

City play Hemel Hempstead Town next in what will be an altogether tougher game.

Under 14's

Even game

The Under 14's South played Evergreen Juniors away. The score line was a travesty in an even game. The home team showed why they are top of the league by the way they took their few chances. The away team showed why they are not winning games by their failure to take more chances. If each of the three forwards had each just converted one of their many chances.....surely you have the maths.

But lets be positive. This was an excellent team performance. Key players were missing - it didn't matter. The rain was constant all afternoon making the pitch difficult - it didn't matter. They were up against the league leaders - it didn't matter. Every player rose to the occasion and they outplayed the home team for long periods. In fact it was level until the last 20 minutes when they shipped 4 goals in quick counter attacks.

Lewis Martindale equalised the home teams goal against the run of play. Joe Caunce finally got a goal at the end to better reflect the game and to show the team never gave up.

It was thought unfair to choose one person as the whole team played really well. It was a sign of continued progress and the growing confidence and spirit in the team.

15th October 2006

Disability Team

Disability Team entertain Chelsea

A disappointed St Albans City  Disability team were left to concentrate on the league after being knocked out of the London and South East Ability Counts Cup by Chelsea Community DFC at Highfield Park on Sunday. Chelsea's greater experience and organisation was the difference between the sides, with five of their seven goals coming from set pieces.

The only bright spot for St Albans on a difficult day was the performance of man of the match Joe Strohm who twice hit the post after good runs through the defence and generally worked hard for the team.

Player Manger Daniel Rogers said "some times you in a bit of luck, we just did not have any today"the next game is a must win for ST.Albans is away to bottom of the league Larkfield youth  Sunday 22 October.

St Albans: Daniel Rogers, Steve Adams, Ronnell Williams, Paul Pilley, Daniel Augustine, Paul Spinks, Graham Tuitt, Luke Robinson, Joe Strohm, Matt Nash, Jon Riggins, Scott Regan, Nick Patrick, Liam Jolley, Tom Ward

Under 15's

City power blasts Harvesters away

City played away at local rivals Harvesters in the County Cup.

City were once more in a ruthless mood straight from the kick-off. Yates flicked the ball over the keeper with only nine minutes gone and
Ferdinand and Crawford crashed shots past their keeper with Harvesters looking shell-shocked. Thatcher then scored an eight minute hat-trick before Yates and Crawford completed the first half demolition. With Ferdinand and Yates creating non- stop chances for Thatcher and
Crawford and with Williams and Norman running virtually unopposed in midfield, Harvesters must have been fearing the next forty minutes.

The second half saw more of the same , with City camped in Harvesters half raining shots down on a keeper who pulled out more than a few creditable saves. Magwood swapped the keepers shirt with Norman and carried on in the same dominating vein, constantly harassing his opponents and creating chances. Campion and Stefan Williams came on to join in the fun and further goals were scored by Crawford ( 2) Jordan and Stefan Williams, Thatcher and Magwood. Harris, Hiller , Armstrong and Baker had one of their easier afternoons in defence but with the boys relentlessly keeping their foot down City were far too powerful for Harvesters to cope with.

A 14 - 0 victory sees City progress to the 3rd round where they will play Bury Rangers from the Mid Herts League.

Under 14's

West Lose League Opener

West faced a tough opener to the new league campaign against a Nascot side who were new to the division having been relegated last season. The game started evenly, however Martin Robinson in goal was given a taster of what was to come early on as Nascot played a dangerous high ball into the area, however he caught it very well under pressure. After ten minutes though, Nascot took the lead, and soon after could have doubled it but for another good piece of goalkeeping by Martin.

Nascot were now seeing more of the ball and West were struggling to get going as their passing not up to the usual high standards. Martin was soon tested again, as a good defence splitting pass played a Nascot striker though on goal, but he advanced quickly and pressured the striker into rushing the shot, which went wide. West did create openings of their own, with Stuart Cole combining well with Greg Springall on one occasion before Greg hit a good shot that went just wide, while Carl Biggs also got into a good position in another attack, however his shot also went just wide. Unfortunately Nascot took the chances that came their way, and in the ten minutes leading up to half-time they scored twice more to lead 3-0 at the break.

West came out much brighter in the second half, and were determined to get back into the game. They forced a number of corners, while a strong shot from Greg was saved by a good Nascot keeper. As in the first half though, Nascot took more from the opportunities that came their way, and ten minutes into the half they scored again to make it 4-0. The West boys, led by captain George Figg, didn’t let their heads drop though, and they continued to battle away and look for a goal; the most audacious attempt being Charlie Craigen’s impression of Xabi Alonso, as having seen the Nascot keeper on the edge of his area he shot from the half way line, however unfortunately it went just wide with the keeper struggling to get back.

West continued to press hard for at least a consolation goal, and in the last minute a good move involving Myles Smith, Greg and Chris Welch resulted in a good shot from Chris being cleared for a corner, from which Stuart had a good header, however it glanced of the bar and went over.

The final 4-0 score line was a disappointing start to a league campaign where there are strong hopes of challenging for the title. This performance was rather flat, and they were losing too many 50/50 balls, however the opposition were a good side, there is a long way to go, and the West team will know they can play better.

Final Score: St Albans U14 West 0 – 4 Nascot Wood Rangers

Under 13's

West marching on

St Albans City West beat Garston Utd 9 - 0 in the County Cup. City pushed forward in the oppositions half from the start and their determination was soon rewarded when a cross from Jack Madley resulted in a fine head by Tom Pugh (9). A run through Garston’s defence paid off for Toby Sakata who put City up 2-0 (23). Dominic Oliver tested the defence throughout to the point where he was brought down by their goalie resulting in a penalty. The Captain, Felix Ashwood, calmly netted the penalty seeing City at a comfortable 3-0 lead at half-time.
City came out confident and it was not long before Dominic Oliver put the ball over the keepers head and in the net (42). A cross from Jack Madley set up a fine head from Toby Sakata (45), which was quickly followed by a goal from David Towndrow (47) taking the ball from under Garson’s noses from their own goal kick. Another cross from Jack Madley found Laurie Blow waiting to net City’s 7th goal (50). Nothing could hold City as Dominic Oliver blasted his second goal from outside the box (59).  A swift pass from Toby Sakata found Jack Madley to net City’s final and 9th goal in the last minute of the match.
City dominated throughout the match but even when Garston ventured out of their own half, City’s defence put paid to any lengthy visit. Dominic Oliver came away with ‘Man of the Match’.

Under 8's

Berkhamsted 1 – 6 City Youth Under 8’s West

Robbie Pennthomas scored a fine hatrick in the Under 8's West 6-1 win away at Berkhamsted. Man of the match Jake Beels scored one as did Harry Hawkes and Captain Harry Deacon

 

8th October 2006

Disability Team

St Albans City (youth) 0  V Ipswich 6

 

With key players missing though injury, St.Albans with a bare eleven players, had a battle to contain Ipswich.

Within the first 15 min's Ipswich where stretching the St.Albans defensive with Daniel Rogers tipping a low hard shoot from Ipswich forward Lee Mollett. St.Albans where being pinned back in there own half for most of the 1st half but did mange to brake but failed to take there chances. Ipswich first goal came from a cross, which ended  up in the back off the net.

St.Albans gave another goal away when Paul Pilley, trying to clear the ball, beat his own keeper. Late in the 1st half Daniel Rogers saved a free kick from the edge of the box.

In the second half , St.Albans had a few chances but could not find the net. St.Albans went down to 10 men when  Paul Pilley twisted his ankle and was not able to to continue. Ipswich continued to pressurise the Saints and made St Albans defend for most of the half.

With a few players getting knocks and getting tired. Ipswich finished the half the stronger side.

Player Manger Daniel Rogers Said "being a small team and when you have players out though injury's you can really feel it. I am very pleased and proud of my team for not giving up. Every one of the players are man of the match.

We are looking for 5 more players to add depth to our team"

St.Albans: Daniel Rogers, Daniel Augustine, Ronell Williams, Paul Pilley, Scott Regain, Paul Spinks, Graham Tuitt, Luke Robinson, Liam Jolley, Tom Ward, Luke Cook.

Ipswich Steve Willingham, Mark Peachey, Steve Hanham, Andy Snowsnell, Andy Pryke, Lee Mollett, Lee Akehurst, Justin Lry, Tasinder Sahota, Ben Hennon, Scott Johnson Adrian Shaw.

Referee Andy Armstrong.

St.Albans City (Youth) Disabled Football Team play's there next match at Highfield Park in the Cup against Chelsea Sunday 15 Oct kick off 14:30 all welcome

Please come along and support you local Disabled football team or if you want to play for us visit www.cityyouthfc.com or call the Daniel Rogers Disability Development Officer 01727 762843

Under 15's

City Power too much for Omonia

City played Omonia from the White Division in a friendly.

The City players were in no mood to give Omonia any chance in this one sided game. James Yates scored after only three minutes when a Thatcher cross dropped in front of him. Jordan Williams blasted a second and although Omonia battled they could not get near enough to get a shot on the City goal. Thatcher hit a shot from far out which the keeper fumbled for 3 - 0. The second half saw a ruthless display by all the players , and in particular Crawford and Norman who shared six goals. Jordan Williams with another crashing shot and Jack Ashcroft with a long range effort completed an 11 - 0 victory. City play local rivals Harvesters in the County Cup this coming weekend and will feel confident after this comprehensive win.

Under 14's

Deserved Win

West started brightly after Jamie Heaffey was hacked down on the edge of the area after a good run down the right.  The resulting free kick by George Figg was parried by the keeper and was only just scrambled away. West kept up the pressure and a few minutes later a flick to Greg Springall saw his volley saved. This was closely followed by a good effort from Jamie from an influential Tom Weaver through ball which went just over.  However the pressure paid off after 12 minutes when Ross Whinnet set Greg away on a terrific run beating several defenders to slot home.  Finchley then started to pressure but the hard working West defence of Joe Murtagh, Elliott Jay, Stuart Cole, Ryan Maher, Alex Cobb and the outstanding Charlie Craigen kept them at bay until just before half time when a weak shot somehow found the back of the net. 

The second half saw the West defence even harder pushed and they had to clear several goal mouth scrambles and Alex in goal made several superb reflex saves to keep West in it. However West never stopped and after 16 minutes Stuart broke from defence to fire in a excellent cross from the left which Scott Howlett smashed home. Finchley may count themselves unlucky but everyone of the West team worked really hard and fully deserved the win.   

First half costs the 14's South

A below par first half did all the damage.  A failure to mark players or put pressure on opponents presented two shooting chances that were accepted.  A misjudgement over a very high punt that dropped in the box led to the third before half time.  In fairness the visitors were unable to mount many more attacks but the home team were unable to get out of their own half never mind threaten the goal.

A different story in the second half.  Much more positive although there were a few scares that required desperate clearances.  But the goalkeeper was not really forced to save and there were only a couple of corners.  The forwards were able to get into the attacking third much more although they too did not trouble the keeper.

Lewis Martindale was tireless at the front, constantly causing havoc and Neil Jardine was a rock in front of the defence constantly breaking down the opposition attacks.  They jointly deserve the Man of the Match award.  William Ellis deserves praise for a faultless display in goal when deputising for the injured first choice.  Connor Hogan was a tower of strength in defence in the second half, showing much more confidence.

Jamie Spurway and Peter Stiles also made strong second half contributions.

Under 13's

Out of the Challenge Cup

St Albans City West had a 3 - 1 defeat against Comets in the Challenge Cup. Although Sundays result was in the balance for most of the match. City had several obstacles to hurdle even before the kick off, with players missing through injuries and trials and still no recognised keeper (although stand in Dominic Oliver made some classy saves). From the kick off Comets main danger man Reece lived up to his billing. Still City matched them tackle to tackle and were competitive in all departments, particularly 'Man of the Match' Laurie Blow. After 18 mins Comets hit the bar. City didn't heed the warning and on 23 mins Reece broke through and Comets took the lead 1-0. City however dug deep and were not overawed by their opponents higher league standing and on 28 mins equalised when Tom Pugh prodded home a goal mouth scramble 1-1 game on. A defensive lapse let Reece through and saw Comets regain the lead just before Half Time. The second half was much of a stalemate with both sides trying to find the net, Comets pulled away with a third goal. City now seem to have a streak of resilience and heads did not drop, they even had a couple of chances near the end.

Under 11's

Whoever said it was a game of two halves ! Was Right!!

The U11 South squad were at Harpenden Colts Eagles for their first full on league game of the new season. After going through a number of preliminary seeding matches and having already played the Harpenden team once already in a pre-season friendly the spirits were high.

With a purposeful 4-3-3 formation the lads sprung into action and on 7 mins a through ball from Andy Cox released the City captain Gus Mallett into a one on one with the keeper for a nicely timed shot to the bottom corner for 1-0.

The team steadied themselves into a solid formation with the City defence using the offside to good advantage and continued to put pressure on the Colts defence. With the Colts forcing a number of chances on 11 mins defender and sweeper Michael ' John Terry' Bailey was ready and able to clear expertly off the line as our keeper, Keelan Churchill narrowly missed an inswinging cross. This clearance sprung a Saints counter attack, with Andy Cox again spear heading the move with a pass through to Niall Watts who pushed the ball out right side for Morgan Williams to turn two defenders and cut inside for a deft left foot drive under the body of the keeper for 2-0.

On 23 mins, the saints were on the prowl again in front of the Colts goal and Niall Watts picked up a loose ball from midfield to deftly lob the defence to make it 3-0 at the break. The coaches comments at Half time - Much of the same lads, but keep it tight at the back!!

The second half saw a changed aggression to the Harpenden attack. With the City defence being made to work harder and harder, and on 35 mins the first clean strike on the City goal made it 3-1. The City defence were finding it hard to cope with the onslaught and again on 40 mins found themselves only 3-2 up!

The pace of the game started to change in Harpenden's favour and this was then compounded with injuries to two key defenders, with Michael Bailey and Matt Kersey having to limp off with heavy thigh strains! With the team struggling to find composure and working in a variety of changed positions, Harpenden took full advantage and seized on a through ball to chip our keeper making it 3-3!

With the clock at 50 mins a quickly worked attack caught the City defenders napping and another lob against the City goal saw the 3-0 advantage slip to 4-3!

The City lads thrust onwards and with Andy Cox working overtime to make a break, was released by Noah Grisenthwaite on the left edge of the box. A quick look up on goal and a shot even Steven Gerrard would be proud of saw the ball beat the Harpenden keeper but then rebound off the top of the bar!! Then with only 5 minutes to go another injury this time to Davey Gray who was carried off with a calf muscle injury saw the City team having to put Matt Kersey back on to stabilise the situation as best as possible.

The final whistle blew, and the lads came off not quite with the result they or their coach expected?

A game of two halves - most definitely !! But never underestimate the opposition!!

CASSOTTI & NOONAN SHARE THE GOALS AS CITY HIT BUSHEY FOR SEVEN

The Under 11 North travelled to Bushey Rangers Hawks in a league cup group game.

The early part of the game was congested in midfield without either side creating any chances. In the 10th minute Daniel Casotti forced a save from the Bushey keeper. City started to then get the upper hand with Jacob Noonan shooting over the bar. The deadlock was broken in the seventeeth minute when Jacob Noonan found the back of the net. Two minutes later City made it two when Daniel Casotti scored from 20 yards. In the twentieth minute it was 3-0 for city when Jacob Noonan back heeled in Daniel Casotti’s corner. It could have been four a couple of minutes later when Craig McConnell & Luke Ferdinand worked an opening down the right to cross for Daniel Casotti, who put the ball over the bar from close range. In the 25th minute Josh Smithers was fouled in the box & Daniel Casotti stepped up to slam the ball into the bottom corner. The City defence of Cameron MacIndoe, Jamie Renfrew, Robert Ward, Scott Harper & Eddie Rose stood firm to keep out any threats from Bushey.

In the second half City made it 5-0 after 33 minutes when Craig McConnell’s persistent run down the right enabled him to find a pinpoint cross for Daniel Casotti to complete his hatrick with a header. The Bushey keeper then kept out efforts from Craig McConnell & Josh Smithers before Daniel Casotti scored his fourth & City’s sixth on 50 minutes. Five minutes from the end Jacob Noonan was fouled just outside the box. Jacob got up to take the free kick & find the back of the net only for it to be disallowed as the referee had not blown. Jacob retook the free kick & once again put it in the top corner to complete his hatrick & give City a 7-0 win. The second half defence of William Pellington, Jamie Renfrew, Robert Ward & Ryan Cobb again controlled anything that Bushey threw at them to get a deserved clean sheet.

A tremendous win from City.

Man of the match went to Daniel Casotti for his 4 goal haul, just pipping his mate Jacob Noonan who hit a hatrick.

Squad: E Rose, W Pellington, S Harper, C Beedle, R Ward, J Renfrew, C McConnell, J Smithers, D Casotti, J Noonan, R Cobb, L Ferdinand, W Feron, A Greenaway, C MacIndoe

Under 8's

Bovingdon 1 – 9 City Youth Under 8’s West

Man of Match Finley Long scored 6 in the Under 8's West 9-1 victory over Bovingdon. Liam Murphey, 2, and Harry Deacon also scored.

 

1st October 2006

Under 16's

Great result for the Under 16's ladies

At last the Under 16's Ladies got the result they deserved after all the hard training when they defeated Hampstead, last seasons runners-up in the Middlesex Girls league, 6-0.

 

Although Hampstead on had 10 players they nearly took the lead in the first minute when a shot struck the crossbar, however the girls gradually took control and finally Ria Llewellyn, on her debut, put them 1-0 up at half time with a great curling shot from the edge of the box.

 

Early in the second half, following a corner kick, Victoria Jobson, at the back post, slotted home from close range for her first goal for the club.  Soon it became 3-0 when Katie Ladd picked up the ball outside the box and drove it home.  Then Ria Llewellyn scored her second goal with another well struck effort to make the score line 4-0.

 

Further goals came from Rebecca Atkins with a rare left foot shot, then Kelly Atkins notched number 6 after she outpaced the Hampstead defence to tuck the ball past the advancing keeper.

Under 15's

A game of two halves sees honours even

City Under 15 North played Whetsone Jaguars in the League.

With both teams carrying 100% records into this game, each team were determined to achieve an early season points advantage in what would undoubtedly be a hotly contested match. City , once again , started strongly and clearly won the early exchanges which were fierce as both midfields strove to gain control. Baker and Talbot , whose partnership down the left was opening up Whetstone with intelligent interplay came close before the deadlock was broken. A nice move saw Baker able to hit a long angled ball into the Whetstone area , where
Thatcher rose to flick a lovely header over the keeper for 1 - 0. City pressed forward and the
runs of Crawford and Thatcher were beginning to create more chances. City doubled their lead when another passing move saw Talbot able to put Crawford one on one with their goalie. He slid the ball into the corner of the net giving the keeper no chance. City should have scored more with Crawford's dribble around the keeper before just running out of pitch and an amazing save by their keeper the two most obvious missed chances. Whetstone started to get back into the game and only a superb one handed save by Channing kept the score to 2 - 0 at half -time.

The second half got off to the worst possible start when Whetstone's winger finally managed to
get past his marker and hit a shot which hit both posts before agonisingly rolling over the line. City looked stunned and with Whetstone clearly believing that this game was not over , the next ten minutes had City under the cosh as they struggled to hold a revitalised Whetstone side. Ashcroft , Armstrong and Magwood put in tackle after tackle keeping City in the game. City now hesitant , where they had once been decisive, put in a great effort but were undone
when a corner was not properly cleared , the ball fell loose and was swiftly tucked away for the equaliser. Whetstone upped their game again , pushing hard for the winner, thought they
had scored but a scorching drive clipped the crossbar with Channing beaten. The last ten minutes saw City claw their way back into the game without ever looking like they would win , and the draw was probably a fair result over the whole game.
City will feel that this game should have been over at half time , but great teams are never beaten and City might live to rue this second half performance.

Under 14's

Point for 14's South

Hope at last.  There were signs that the squad were beginning to get together although again some of the boys were playing together for the first time.  Generally the boys again showed they had the ability to match the opposition but were still lacking match fitness and organisation.  Everyone put in good performances but a few individuals caught the eye.

Jamie Spurway had a good game in central defence and began to create a defensive line.  This was despite allowing the visitors to build a two goal lead in the first half.  Towards the end of the half the team finally converted possession and attacks into a goal when Lewis Martindale scored from a tight angle.

The key to success seemed to be Neil Jardine who was playing a Hargreaves/Makalele role in front of his defence.  His Man of the Match performance saw him constantly break up opposition attacks and start counter attacks going.  Freddie Eames on the right in the first half and Peter Styles on the left in the second provided positive ball for the forwards.  Lewis Martindale and Joe Caunce made the most of the teams dominance to create a 3-2 lead early in the second half but a late equaliser spoiled the threatened party.  Still spirits were raised, we are on the up.

Under 13's

13's West defeat local rivals

St Albans City U13s West beat Harvesters 3-0 in their second league game. The game started with all the pressure coming from City. Tom Pugh nearly opened the scoring forcing a good save in the opening seconds. City only had to wait a couple of minutes before a well driven Harvey Scott corner was coolly headed in by George Guest. Another corner provided the second with Tom Pugh this time rising above the defence to head in. Some near misses nearly extended the lead with the midfield working hard to win the ball and keep the attacks going. The first half ended 2-0.
The second half got underway with only a couple of attacks from Harvesters one of which produced a great save from "still standing in" goalie Dominic Oliver. More City pressing put Laurie Blow, Harvey Scott and David Towndrow through but the winning goal came from Toby Sakata who sealed the win with a very well placed shot. 3-0. A strong performance led by Captain Jack Evans. Chris Hudson, Jake Deacon, Felix Ashwood, George Guest, Carl Palin and James Pellington covered positions well ensuring that the defence kept another clean sheet. Man of the match went to Tom Pugh for his impressive ball winning and constant effort.

Second successive defeat for Under 13's East

The Under 13s East suffered their second successive defeat of the season going down 4-3 away to a  very competitive and much strengthened Whetstone BBs.

The home side started much stronger with City yet again failing to impose themselves on the early stages of a game. Whetstone were 2 up with their only 2 shots on goal – both strikes perfectly placed in the corner of Jack Estcourt’s net. City soon realised they were in a game and at last began to match their opponents for strength & passion and finally made a breakthrough just before halftime with Jamie Denyer thundering home from the spot.

City continued to take the game to Whetstone and created numerous chances before falling to the sucker punch of a break away 3^rd goal for the home team. But City fought back with Howard Smith poaching City’s 2^nd to make it 3-2. As City piled on the pressure to find the equalisr Whetstone yet again broke and scored a 4^th. City bounced back again with Howard Smith poaching his 2^nd & City’s 3^rd.

City piled on the pressure but just couldn’t find a further way through and this thrilling encounter finished with the home team claiming all 3 points.

Under 11's

PELLINGTON SCORES HIS FIRST GOAL FOR CITY IN COMEBACK

The Under 11 North travelled to Enfield in a league cup group game.

City took an early lead when Max Andrew beat three players up the left side before cutting in & beating the keeper. City were rocked a minute later when Enfield equalised from a corner. Further bad news for City two minutes later, when a deflected cross fell to the Enfield forward to give his side the lead. Luke Ferdinand had a shot saved before City equalised 5 minutes before the break. Josh Smithers found Daniel Casotti on the edge of the box, & Daniels finely hit low shot nestled in the corner of the net.

In the second half City fell 3-2 behind when Enfield again scored from a corner. City were finding it difficult to create openings in the Enfield defence & went 4-2 down 15 minutes from the end. City made it 4-3 when Josh Smithers stabbed home from close range. City then equalised, with eight minutes left, when William Pellington scored his first ever goal following a Daniel Casotti corner. A sense of belief was in City’s blood now & they put Luke Ferdinand through twice in the closing minutes for him to grab a brace & a 6-4 win for City.

A tremendous comeback from City. Man of the match went to Cameron MacIndoe for a sterling performance at right back.

Squad: E Rose, W Pellington, S Harper, C Beedle, R Ward, J Renfrew, C McConnell, J Smithers, D Casotti, J Noonan, Max Andrews, R Cobb, L Ferdinand, W Feron, A Greenaway, C MacIndoe

BAD DAY AT THE OFFICE

The Under 11 North’s first home game of the season was midweek against a high flying Sun Postal Yellow side, yet to concede a gaol this season, in a league cup group game.

Sun Postal were first out of the blocks but the City defence held firm. In the seventh minute Aaron Greenaway put Luke Ferdinand through on goal only for the Sun Postal keeper to save. A minute later Daniel Casotti was put through on goal only to be foiled by the keeper again. Sun postal scored 3 goals in quick succession in the 15th,16th & 20th minute. Just before half time City rued their missed chances when Sun Postal scored their fourth.

In the second half City scored their first goal when Luke Ferdinand got in around the back to cross for William Feron, who had the easy task of tapping the ball in. Sun Postal came back at City & scored a couple more goals in the 40th & 45th minute. In the last 15 minutes City collapsed with Sun Postal scoring at will. Jacob Noonan scored a consolation free kick but the bad day at he office ended up with a 13-2 defeat

A lack lustre performance from the usual resilient City North side. Bad day at the office.

Man of the match went to Robert Ward .

Squad: E Rose, W Pellington, S Harper, C Beedle, R Ward, C McConnell, J Smithers, D Casotti, J Noonan, L Ferdinand, W Feron, A Greenaway, C MacIndoe

Under 8's

City Youth Under 8's West 4 - 2 Comets

In their toughest game of the season so far City went a goal down in the first minute. But strong performances from every player in the team, and a man of the match performance from Kevin Kisson in goal, kept City in the game. Captain Harry Hawkes, with one goal, Robbie Pennthomas with two and an own goal from Comets gave City an excellent 4 - 2 win.

24th September 2006

Under 15's

North edge classic encounter with gutsy performance


City Under 15 North played away at Pinnacle in the league.

Those fortunate souls who witnessed this superb advert for youth football saw a classic battle between two teams playing flowing attacking football. City kicked off and almost scored after 10 seconds when a snap shot from Stefan Williams was palmed onto the crossbar by the keeper. The resulting corner from Baker went straight into the net for 1 - 0. Pinnacle came back strongly and equalised when a rocket shot gave Channing no chance. They then took the lead when a clever lob left Channing wrong footed. City were 2 - 1 down with only 7 mins gone. The game then settled down to a tremendous battle with Norman and Magwood showing great determination against quick and powerful opponents. Thatcher and Stefan Williams were having to work very hard to get on the end of any small opportunities provided by Campion and Talbot. City's back four were also being given a serious examination by the impressive Pinnacle attack. City worked themselves back into the game and just before half-time a great run by Talbot ended with a deep cross to the far post where Norman volleyed home the equaliser.

The second half was even more enthralling with both teams having early chances to take the lead. An unfortunate communication error resulted in a Pinnacle player being able to cut in from the right and a good low finish saw them leading 3 - 2. This City team are not Double Winners for nothing and they immediately came back strongly and pushed Pinnacle back with a tremendous attitude. After a spell of pressure on their goal a rare opportunity fell to Campion who calmly stroked the ball into the net for another equaliser. Jordan Williams and debutante Harry Crawford came on for Thatcher and Stefan Williams, to add fresh legs in what had been a very high tempo game. Crawford hustled and harried Pinnacle's defence and made his own chance which he finished with a stinging drive for 4 - 3. The electric Ferdinand then came on and almost immediately scored after sprinting around his marker. Pinnacle threw everything at City and equalised again with a superb header from a corner. City dug deep one last time with every player giving 101% and with five minutes to go Crawford, riding two challenges, drove into the penalty area and smashed the ball past their keeper. A final score of 5 - 4 would have you believe that that defences had a bad day , if you hadn't seen this pulsating wonderful attacking advert for all that is good about youth football. Who needs the Premiership when you can see this standard for free, both teams giving everything in pursuit of three points.

Under 14's

West in Challenge Cup Win

West are through to the next round of the Challenge Cup following victory in this rather bad tempered match. There were few chances early on, but after fifteen minutes a great through ball from George Figg sent Jamie Heaffey clear of the defence. He managed to round the keeper and get in a shot from a tight angle, however the ball just drifted past the far post.

The opening goal arrived after twenty five minutes as Scott Howlett played a good ball for Greg Springall to chase. Greg then did well to outmuscle an Evergreen defender to win the ball and score from close range. Shortly before half time the boys had a chance to extend their lead as Jamie reached a cross to side foot the ball towards goal, however the keeper saved well.

 The second half couldn’t have started better, as after just a minute Jamie played a good ball to Scott who ran and struck a great shot from outside the area to make it 2-0. The Evergreen players, who had felt Scott was offside when the ball was played to him, started to lose their cool at this stage and the temperature started to rise. This wasn’t helped by some erroneous refereeing, however the West players, led by Captain George Figg, were not letting the atmosphere get to them and affect their play, and at this point they started taking better control of the match.

Further chances were being created with Greg heading over from a corner, and Scott having a good shot saved; however eighteen minutes into the second half Evergreen clawed a goal back after being awarded a disputed free kick on the edge of the West penalty area. This gave Evergreen a boost, but the West players responded well to create further good scoring opportunities. The first was from Scott, who’s shot at goal was fumbled by the Evergreen keeper, who recovered to grab the ball before it trickled over the line, while Jamie hit the post in another attack. Ten minutes from the end West got their two goal lead back again as Greg created an opening for Jamie who scored comfortably to make it 3-1.

Although there were further scoring opportunities the game ended 3-1, and this was a good solid performance from the boys, who didn’t get intimidated by the bad tempered atmosphere.

Final Score:  Evergreen Juniors 1 – 3 St Albans U14 West

 

Under 13's

Unlucky West

After a fast and furious first half, St Albans City West U13s failed to build on a late first half goal in a disappointing second period as they went down 2-1 to Pinnacle in their first league game of the new season.
The game got off to a flying start as Pinnacle forced an early corner that was headed just wide of the post. This was followed by more early Pinnacle pressure before Laurie Blow broke free down the left and fired in a low cross shot that the keeper just managed to save. As the fast pace continued, Harvey Scott had a shot cleared as the game switched from end to end.
Then came the first of several dodgy refereeing decisions as the ref appeared to play advantage for a clear handball by Pinnacle in the box but then blew almost straight away for offside and disallowed Tom Pugh's goal 
Pinnacle then hit the bar and stand in keeper Toby Sakata clung onto the ball as it came down off the inside of the crossbar.
On 22 mins Pinnacle then grabbed a goal with a shot from the right side of the area. City lost a bit of shape and Pinnacle started to have more possession and again hit the bar. On 32 mins City were right back in the game when a shot from Jack Evans was fumbled by the keeper who somehow managed to drop the ball into the net.
Unfortunately City were very slow to start in the second half and spent most of the first 15 mins in their own half. Pinnacle almost grabbed a second when the referee ignored the linesman’s offside flag and allowed Pinnacle the advantage. Luckily most of the Pinnacle side stopped as well as City and James Pellington played to the whistle and cleared from the lone Pinnacle striker. Pinnacle did soon claim the decisive second goal with a break down the right and a shot that went in off the inside of the post after 16 mins. City pushed for an equalizer and Chris Hudson had the best chance but couldn’t quite connect from a corner.
The ref made some strange decisions and capped it off blowing three minutes early. City didn’t really get going in the second half but probably deserved a point. Man of the match went to Captain and busy Goalie Toby Sakata.

Odd goal defeats 13's East

Yet again the Under 13's East “bogey” team took all 3 points in a tight encounter at Highfield Park. City were very slow out of the traps with Aces playing the quicker and slicker football in the early encounters. But it was City who took a controversial lead after Alex Goldstone was ruled onside and finished smartly across Aces keeper. City then enjoyed the balance of play towards the end of the first half and the start of the second with Aces keeper performing well to prevent any addition to the score.

Aces soon re-imposed themselves on the game and equalized from their strong centre forward who was also marginally offside when receiving the ball. Controversial decisions always even themselves out!!!  Aces winner however was worthy of winning any game with a magnificent strike finding the top corner after City failed to properly clear a corner. Despite plenty of huff & puff City couldn’t find a way through and reverted too often to kick & rush rather than their passing game.

Overall the usual close and well matched battle between these 2 sides and victory by the odd goal again. Aces were deserved winners proving yet again what a competitive season it will be this year.

Special mention to Jamie Denyer who performed superbly and certainly did not deserve being on the losing side!!

Under 11's

CHALLENGE CUP SEVEN GOAL THRILLER

The Under 11 North travelled to Chorleywood Scorpions in the challenge cup.

Both sides in the early minutes did not create any clear cut chances as defences & goalkeepers remained steady. After 16 minutes City failed to clear a bouncing ball in the area & Chorleywood took advantage & opened the scoring. City were level within two minutes when Daniel Casotti’s left foot strike flew into the top corner. Three minutes before the break Eddie Rose was unlucky to be beaten for the second time with a shot that took a deflection. The “never say die” attitude of City North ensured that they went in level at 2-2 at half time, when Chorleywood kicked off their line three times before Charlie Beedle’s low range effort, from twelve yards, found the back of the net.

In the second half City took the lead for the first time in the game when Jacob noonan was fouled in the penalty area. Jacob dispatched his penalty shot into the bottom right hand corner only for the referee to disallow it for encroaching in the area. Jacob stepped up to retake the penalty & hit the back of the net to the top left hand corner. Chorleywood started to press but the City defence stood firm only allowing shots from distance which Eddie Rose handled with ease. In the 45th minute William Feron was unlucky when his shot hit the cross bar. Three minutes later Chorleywood equalised. Eight minutes from the end Luke Ferdinand broke free from the defence only to find his goal bound shot hit the post. Five minutes from the end The Chorleywood forward turned the City defence & found the corner of the net. In the end both sides had played enough good football to win the match. Unfortunately City lost by the odd goal in seven in this thrilling Challenge cup tie.

A very close match – unfortunately there had to be a loser.
Man of the match went to Jacob Noonan.

Squad: E Rose, W Pellington, S Harper, C Beedle, R Ward, J Renfrew, C McConnell, J Smithers, D Casotti, J Noonan, R Cobb, L Ferdinand, W Feron, A Greenaway, C MacIndoe

Back on track

After the Under 11's South's  departure from the County Cup last week, some serious rebinding was required to bring the team back up to its normal level. The team arrived at the pitch-side to face a Watford Yth side they had not played before, in their second seeding game of the new U11 West Herts League. With the defensive line secured as a flat back four and a keeper who had previously played the day before in a District game down in Portsmouth, the match kicked off with the 'Saints' springing immediately in to action. On 5 mins a through ball from midfielder Michael 'the trickster' Webb put captain Gus Mallett through on goal and slotted his first past the Watford keeper.

The team took this goal as a real boost of confidence and 10 mins later with constant pressure Gus Mallett again side stepped the on coming defender and shot past the keeper for 2-0. Then with further pressure on the Watford defence a hand ball in the box meant the team had a chance to go into a 3-0 early lead. However Gus stepped up to the mark with expectations of the hat-trick and unfortunately missed the mark. Who says there's no pressure!!

With the Watford team beginning to get back in to the game the 'Saints' defence were caught napping and were saved by the post and the cross-bar in short succession. With another tremendous save from the ever alert Keelan in goal. With the half-time whistle approaching a tremendous work up from defence by Jack Pugh, put Andy Cox through for a wonder strike from outside the box and the boys went in 3-0 at HT.

The second half kicked off with similar gusto and 5 mins in top goalscorer of last season Noah 'the hitman' Grisenthwaite received the ball from a jink through ball to slot home number 4. The Watford team were not giving up and pushed constantly at the saints defence but the line stood firm with the offside rule being used to great effect. Andy Cox was moved to his more usual defensive midfield holding role and managed to distribute a killer pass to Morgan Williams down the right wing who promptly delivered a 'sweet' strike into the bottom corner of goal. 5-0. With still 5 mins on the clock more pressure on the defence caused the Watford team to concede another penalty. This time Morgan Williams stepped up......and....oh no, the keepers saved it! The game came to a final end with the saints winning 5-0, and missing two penalties along the way! I guess we really have to work on that then!! Credit should also be noted to the Watford Yth side who had a number of shots which, had the post been moved a little wider, the score could have been quite different? But that's football!

Under 8's

Kings Langley 0 – 9 City Youth Under 8’s West

Robbie Pennthomas gave City a 1-0 half time lead. City then went mad down the hill in the second half. Robbie scored 3 more, Finley Long twice and Liam Murphy, Alfie Seeby & Harry Deacon all scoring once. Harry Argyle Lewis as man of the match for his magnificent passing.

17th September 2006

Under 15's

North begin defence of County Title with convincing win

City Youth played Letchworth Garden City Eagles - Royals in the first round of the County Cup at Greenwood.

Letchworth, a Premier League side from the Stevenage league were a difficult first round draw and City knew that the game would not be a stroll in the park. Both sides started brightly with crisp attacking football but soon City began to gain control, until their rhythm was interrupted by an injury to Norman who had been unsettling the Letchworth defence. Thatcher came on to assist Stefan Williams who was, unusually, up against a defender with very similar pace but good interplay began to open gaps in the Letchworth defence. After 15 mins City were well on top and a few minutes later a great move saw Williams hit the bar with a header. In midfield the hard tackling Magwood and Jordan Williams were winning the battle and with Talbot and Campion beating defenders on both wings , the pressure built on Letchworth. The defensive line of Armstrong , Ashcroft, Hiller and Harris tackled and tackled ,intercepted and won headers and showed huge determination to deny Letchworth a single opportunity. Behind them Channing swept up and cleared his lines and did not have a save to make. The first goal, when it came , was a great individual effort by Thatcher who rode three tackles on the edge of the
box to fire in a good shot that was parried away only for Thatcher to crash it back in just under the crossbar.

In the second half Letchworth came back into the game as City tried to find the second goal. Stefan Williams hit the post and other efforts were well saved by the impressive Letchworth goalie who had a very busy afternoon. The game almost turned on its head when an excellent fast move by Letchworth saw a shot hit the City crossbar with Channing well beaten. City , stung by a resurgent Letchworth , redoubled their efforts and after coming close a few times Stefan Williams was brought down in the box , as he was about to shoot, resulting in a penalty. Campion stepped up and coolly slotted the ball home and Letchworth's resistance was finally broken. The third goal was forced in by Towle after more good work by Stefan Williams who
worked hard all through the game and deserved a goal.
A comfortable win where a hesitant City should have scored more goals to emphasise their superiority. City will play near neighbours Harvesters North in the second round.

Under 14's

West put on great performance

The latest League Cup game was a home fixture against William Morris Santos (WMS), a strong side who were two divisions above West last season. WMS showed their intentions straight from the kick-off as with the second touch of the ball they took a very long shot, trying to lob West keeper Alex Cobb, however he comfortably held onto the shot. Although WMS began the stronger side, West soon created an opening as a great ball from Jamie Heaffey down the right wing sent Scott Howlett away; however his resultant shot at distance, and from a very tight angle, went behind. Shortly after Jamie had a strong shot from 20 yards but it went just over the bar.

The opposition though were also creating chances, with Alex making a number of good saves, unfortunately midway though the half their dominance brought two goals in three minutes. The boys didn’t let their heads drop though, and continued to press forward when opportunities arose, and from one of them Greg Springall had a good shot saved. West ended the first half 2-0 down but seeing a better share of the play as the half went on.

Although the second half started evenly, WMS grabbed a third after six minutes. This saw West raise their game again, and fifteen minutes into the second half a great move involving Ross Whinnett and Tom Weaver left Greg with a great opportunity in the box which he finished well. Four minutes later Tom and Greg combined again for the latter to get his second goal of the game. This shocked WMS into pushing forward with Alex making a great double save from one of their chances.

West were now looking for an equalizer, which almost came from an excellent lobbed shot from distance by Tom, which went just over, while soon after an even closer chance fell to Ross whose great shot hit the woodwork. An equalizer never arrived however, and with the final kick of the match WMS scored again to end the match 4-2. The boys should be very proud of their performance though, as they gave a very strong WMS side a real fright in the second half.

Oxhey United 12  v  1   St Albans City Youth

As it was 7-0 at half time this was regarded as progress.  In fact all the damage came in the first 20 minutes and then the boys started to compete and match the opposition.

There were signs that the defence was getting to grips with the task ahead.  Danielli Kitchen, in goal, had another game where he improved as it went on.  Some of his saves in the second half were outstanding.  Freddie Eames, moved to right back, began to show his ability as he dominated his huge opponent.  Iqbal Johal was equally impressive and was solid in central defence.

The forwards had little to work on, Neil Jardine set up Joe Caunce only for the keeper to get a hand to his shot into the corner.  When Neil Jardine himself was set up at the death he made no mistake to grab a consolation goal that boosted moral.

 

Under 13's

Six in the County Cup

Another good performance from St Albans City U13s West saw a 6-1 victory over John Warner Youth in the county cup. City dominated, for about ten minutes and looked very comfortable until a ball over the top resulted in a wake up call. 1-0 John Warner Youth. City bounced back with more good pressure when Harvey Scott passed, and a little touch from David Towndrow put through Jack Evans to slot over the keeper 1-1. 3 minutes later (after a few penalty appeals, and Toby Sakata having to come off) city got a well deserved second scored by Jack Medley's long range shot putting us ahead. 10 minutes later, David Towndrow was brought down in the box. The resulting penalty was driven in by "stand in" goalie Dominic Oliver. 3-1. Chris Hudson and Joe Crawshaw were playing well on the right winning important challenges and the "odd" free kick !
In the second half, City picked up where they left off with the fit again Toby Sakata getting a well deserved goal. 4-1. Seconds later, captain Harvey Scotts shot was narrowly wide, City kept battling hard in the midfield, with the 5th and 6th goals sealing Jack Madley's hattrick. Man of the match was Jack Madley. 6-1 and a very good all round performance.

 

Under 11's

FERDINAND HITS HATRICK

The Under 11 North went to Francis Bacon school to play London Road in a friendly.

City Youth playing up the slope took the game to London Road with Luke Ferdinand, Daniel Casotti & Jacob Noonan going close. City took the lead after 12 minutes when Max Andrew was on hand to convert a Jacob Noonan corner. Soon after Scott Harper scored his first goal for the North & Daniel Casotti made it 3-0 from the penalty spot after 25 minutes when Charlie Beedle was fouled in the box. Just before half time William Feron scored his first goal for City North when he swivelled & hit a sweet volley into the far corner of the net.

In the second half, playing with the slope, City continued to create chances. In the 38th minute Luke Ferdinand struck a 20 yard shot that flew into the top corner. Daniel Casotti got his second ten minutes from the end with a low drive into the bottom corner. Craig McConnell hit the upright with a fine effort before Luke Ferdinand secured his second & third goals in the last few minutes to give City an emphatic 8-0 win. The defence of William Pellington, Jamie Renfrew, Robert Ward, Scott Harper with Eddie Rose in goal kept a clean sheet for the first time at 11 a side.

A dominant performance against a London Road side having their first 11 a side outing.

Man of the match went to Luke Ferdinand for his first hatrick for the North.

Squad: E Rose, W Pellington, S Harper, C Beedle, R Ward, J Renfrew, C McConnell, D Casotti, J Noonan, M Andrew, L Ferdinand, W Feron, A Greenaway, C MacIndoe

Under 8's

City Youth Under 8’s West 6 – 0 Tring

An even first half but City were sharper in front of goal with Harry Hawkes and Liam Murphy giving the team a 2-0 half time lead. Harry Deacon added a third mid way through the second half with a long range effort. Finley Long, Ben Pattison and Robbie Pennthomas all scored in the last 4 mad minutes. Harry ‘Argyle’ Lewis was man of the match.

10th September 2006

Under 15's

North off to a solid start against New boys

The North played Whetstone Wanderers Leopards in a League Game. This season kicked off with three new players joining last years Double winning squad. The newly promoted Leopards started brightly and were clearly not intimidated by the reputation of City Youth. Both sides were probing but with defences not taking any chances the game settled down to a battle for control in midfield. City with debutante Magwood making his presence known with some crunching tackles, began to win the battle and Jordan Williams started to make powerful runs into opposition territory. Leopards were also dangerous but with Armstrong and Hiller subduing the muscular threat of their strikers City were able to push forward and get their passing game going. Brothwood and Talbot began to make progress down the wings and the first goal came after 22mins when a terrific run and accurate pass by Brothwood found Towle who coolly hit his shot across the keeper for 1 - 0. Keeper Channing then made a superb one handed save to deny what looked a certain goal after a flowing Leopards attack. The rest of the half saw City struggle to create real goal scoring opportunities. Substitutions at half time saw Ashcroft , Stefan Williams and Campion brought on and immediately Williams pace unsettled the Leopards defence with his surging runs and his harassment of defenders. Thatcher, intelligently creating space with unselfish running also contributed to opening up the game and with Campion going past his marker chances started to come.

The second goal came when a very determined run by Campion ended with a great cross to S.Williams who finished strongly with an accurate shot into the bottom right hand corner. City then really got on top and should have scored several times before the third goal which saw another excellent deep cross by Campion to the far post where Williams , out jumping two defenders powered in a header for his second of the game. The highlight of the last twenty minutes saw Norman come on at centre forward and terrify the Leopards defence with his powerhouse running. One shot smashed against the cross bar like a missile and a great header just missed the far post but despite huge effort the final scored remained 3 - 0.

Team: Channing , Baker , Hiller , Armstrong , Harris , Talbot , Magwood , J Williams , Brothwood , Thatcher , Towle , Ashcroft , S Williams , Campion , Norman.

Under 14's

U14 West in League Cup Win

West’s first competitive match of the season was a superb win away to Croxley Eagles in the League Cup. Given their status in a higher division though, it was Croxley who began the brighter and had the better of the first 10-15 minutes. West soon made an impression though, and tested their defence after a quarter of an hour when Carl Biggs forced the Croxley keeper into making a good save, while a minute later the opening goal arrived following good work from Myles Smith and Tom Weaver before Greg Springalls fantastic turn and shot from close range left the keeper no chance.

West then had to work hard as Croxley again had the better possession, and they forced a number of corners, however Stuart Cole, Ryan Maher, Joe Murtagh, Myles & Charlie Craigen in defence, and in particular Alex Cobb in goal, kept them at bay. Despite not having the majority of possession however, West were dangerous on the break, with Tom Weaver and Greg creating one good counter attack before the Croxley keeper saved well from Greg’s shot.

West began the second half brightly and a great Scott Howlett’s run down the right wing ended with a cross to Greg in the area, unfortunately the resulting shot went just over the bar. The game was more even now and saw chances at both ends, with opportunities falling to Carl Biggs, Greg and Scott, while at the other end Alex made a number of great stops to maintain West’s lead.

As the half went on though Croxley began to dominate although West probably created the better chances. Croxley pressed for an equalizer and West had to work very hard to maintain their lead. West continued to see their best efforts come from counter attacks though, with Scott coming close to extending the lead. With five minutes left their efforts to put the game beyond Croxley’s reach were rewarded after Jamie Heaffey flicked a ball through to Matt Peckham who had made a good run from midfield, and he lobbed the keeper to make it 2-0.

This was a great performance from the team against a side from a higher division, and they all worked very hard to achieve the victory.

Final score: Croxley Eagles 0 – 2 St. Albans U14 West

NASCOT WOOD 8 v 0  Under 14's South
A makeshift team introduced themselves to each other in the warm-up.  The lack of pre-season training and practice games showed from the start. Despite their many problems the boys battled to the end and at times matched the opposition showing the promise that is there for the future. Peter Stiles performed very well in midfield and defence, never giving up.

HARVESTERS SOUTH 14 v 1 Under 14's South
At least they started with 12 of the squad available but with 4 newcomers and existing inexperienced players it was not yet a team. The home team started at the charge and the boys were swamped in 5 minutes before the home team eased down.

The crucial moment came at 0-2 when a great move saw a shot blocked by the Harvesters keeper, the rebound was chipped over him but he blocked that too and a defender cleared wide, the counter attack was clinical and the Harvesters goal was great. But it ended the game as a contest.

Neil Jardine played very well for 30 minutes until injury forced him off. Peter Stiles again never gave up. Richard Cook scored a very good goal from a difficult angle after a goalmouth scramble.

Chorleywood Blue 4 St Albans City West 1

A game of two halfs with West getting the best of the second half but unable to score, their only goal coming right at the end of the first half from a powerful George Figg free kick that was curled round the wall beautifully.  The game started badly for West when a long range effort from Chorleywood after 3 minutes took a wicked bounce.  This was followed by a poor bit of defending 6 minutes later to let them go 2 ahead.  West then started to play football and for 10 minutes looked like they might get back in it with shots from Greg Springall and Jamie Heaffey going just wide and Tom Weaver, Carl Biggs and Greg all being blocked or saved.  However Chorleywood always looked the stronger and added two more before half time.  The second half West were definitely the better team.  Tom was only just wide after 5 minutes with a good long range effort.  Greg and Scott were unlucky with two balls over the top from Jamie after good runs.  Charlie Craigens header went just over and Scott went just wide after a good cross found him at the back post.  West deserved at least a goal in the second half and were solid at the back with a good performance from Luke Jeffery but had no luck.

Under 13's

Great start for the 13's West

St Albans Under 13's  West knocked London Colney North out of the League Cup with a 1-0 win. First match of the new season started well with Joe Madley on the left and Jack Evans on the right working hard. A good start slowly started to drift away as London Colney shouted their way back into the game. Dominic Oliver played well in goal and the defence of Carl Palin, George Guest, James Pellington and Jake Deacon looked solid. Some near misses in the first half as Laurie Blow, Harvey Scott and Toby Sakata broke through but were caught offside (at one time all three of them together !), some very good crosses and corners from Laurie Blow nearly produced a few goals.

The second half started with Colney slightly on top then slowly but surely City played and passed themselves back into the game. Jack Madley on the left and Chris Hudson on the right created some good chances and a converted corner had to be retaken. Felix Ashwood making his debut played well in midfield and covered well at centre back. A one two between Harvey Scott and David Towndrow produced the more than deserved winning goal. Man of the match went to George Guest for the extra effort he put in on a hot day. Captain for the match Carl Palin came a very close second. A good opening performance. Well done !

High Five for the 13's East

The U13s East got their defence of the League Title under way with a fine 5-2 home victory over Borehamwood Scorpions. The pre-season training schedule paid immediate dividends as a well worked move and fine cross by Sam Rogan was well finished off by Alex Goldstone to put City 1-0 after just 5 minutes. City continued to dominate possession and after a superbly struck Niall McGowan free kick came back off the crossbar George Wright was on hand to follow in the rebound. George Wright then claimed his second and City’s third finishing smartly at the far post from yet another perfect Niall McGowan delivery. Brandon Hargrave led the line superbly and the dominance continued in the second half when Jamie Denyer converted from the spot after Howard Smith had been dragged down in the box. A defensive mix up then gave the opposition a ray of hope only for Alex Goldstone to claim his second and City’s fifth. Butagain our defence switched off to give the visitors a second. But all in all a great start to the new season.

Under 11's

Good start of the 11's South

The SACY U11 - South squad stepped out onto the hollowed turf that is Killigrew School on Sunday 10^th Sept to play their first seeding match of the new season against their close rivals Sun Postal. Not only were the team playing their first truly competitive game at 11-a-side, with full off-side and an extra 20 min per game, but also at a new home ground too!

Last season ended well with the team getting to the final of the West Herts League Shield Cup Final where they played.... Sun Postal ! So this game had added flair.

True to form the game set off at a cracking pace. Both sides looking to get to grips with the new size of pitch.

The St Albans team probably took slightly better advantage of the width overall, but the Sun Postal team were strong and very powerful in midfield, and on 10 minutes Sun Postal whipped in a 'stinging' shot from central midfield which our new keeper - Keelan Churchill - saved with remarkable dexterity across the goal. Then on about 20 mins the Sun Postal attack put extra pressure on the St Albans defence and struck a shot at goal which was hit low into the bottom corner of goal. However good linesmanship and sensible use of the offside trap by the City defence who stood firm and in line together, meant that the goal was disallowed.

The half finished 0-0.

In the second half our City team came out with added vigour with some continued dominance in the midfield area. With Andy 'I can be Steven Gerrard' Cox making masterful runs through from defence. The City team really started to get on top and came close on several occasions. Davey Gray and Morgan Williams creating overlapping runs down the right side, and central defender Matt 'cruncher' Kersey keeping very tight on the Sun Postal centre forward to keep the defence solid. By the later stages of the second half the lads on both teams were struggling with tiredness but continued with end to end attacks.

On the final whistle the score ended a very creditable 0 - 0. No goals but a cracking game and worthy of a report.

Well done boys. Now on to the County Cup!

 

UNDER 11 NORTH BATTLE WELL IN THEIR FIRST COMPETITIVE GAME

The Under 11 North kicked off their season & first competitive 11 a side game away to Harvesters North.

City Youth nearly had a dream start when their corner in the first minute created an opportunity for Jacob Noonan that just went over the bar. Both sides cancelled each other out with defences giving little away. After 15 minutes Harvesters took the lead with a strike from the edge of the box which went into the bottom corner. Towards the end of the first half both sides cleared off their lines. On the stroke of half time the referee overruled the linesman’s off side flag to allow the Harvesters forward to put his side 2-0 up.

In the second half, Max Andrew made a fantastic run down the left only to put his shot narrowly past the far post. In the 40th minute Aaron Greenaway’s goal bound effort forced the save of the match from the Harvester’s keeper. It appeared that it wasn’t going to be City’s day in front of goal when Jacob Noonan’s low drive went narrowly past the far post. Ten minutes from the end City pulled a goal back when Josh Smithers headed in from a corner. Three minutes later Harvesters scored from a narrow angle to extend their two goal advantage again. City started to put Harvesters under pressure in the closing stages with Josh Smithers glancing header going narrowly past the post. In the final minute Daniel Casotti pounced on a loose ball in the six yard box to bring the score to 3-2.

A gutsy performance against an organised Harvesters team.

Man of the match went to Max Andrew for his tantalising runs down the left flank.

Under 8's

Under 8’s West 5 – 1 Little Gaddesden

This was the first league match for the team and any nerves were quickly settled when Robbie Pennthomas scored the first of his two goals in the second minute. Harry Hawkes also scored two and Harry Deacon scored the fifth in the final minute after a fabulous cross field pass from Harry ‘Argle’. Alfie Seeby was man of the match with a very mature performance in defence.