Sunday 19/4/2009
Wellingborough Town 14-1 Great Doddington

Goal Scorers: Drew, Ryan, Mat, Akshay, Malvin, Alex, David(3), Trent (5)

MOTM: Ryan

Sunday 22/3/2009
Grammarians 1-0 Wellingborough Town

Goal Scorers:

MOTM: Malvin

A truly awesome game was served up by both sides. With both sides threatening to open the scoring in the early stages it was difficult to see who was the most likely to deliver the sucker punch. Grammarians did and Wellingborough Town could not carve out a clear chance to equalise.

Sunday 15/3/2009
Wellingborough Town 6-2 Castle Rise

Goal Scorers: Jacob, Drew, Akshay, Malvon, Alex, Trent

MOTM: Adam

With not a cloud in the sky, a beautiful sunny day, and a great playing surface, Wellingborough Town looked to extend there recent good form with another win. The way Wellingborough have been playing recently, it perhaps was a forgone conclusion that they would win, but early on some players thought it would be easy and they just had to turn up and not battle and not work hard. They thought Castle Rise would just roll over and let us take all the points and not bother. How very wrong, as Castle Rise gave Wellingborough a scare early on. They were quicker to the ball, wanted to win every challenge and really gave Wellingborough a fright. We warned the boys not to be complacent, and to cast their minds back to a very cold November morning when Castle Rise played us off the park and went 3-1 up at halftime. The boys didn’t heed our warning and went out and did their own thing and very nearly paid the price.

Just as it was in November a great shot gave Castle Rise the lead, as Dan in goal could do nothing to prevent the goal bound effort from hitting the back of the net from 35 yards out. Nobody from Wellingborough challenged the Castle Rise player. Nobody attempted to close him down, and he was allowed to pick his spot and finish with deadly accuracy.

Now this was the wake up call that Wellingborough Town needed. The slap around the chops with a wet fish, the cup of real strong coffee in the morning to wake the boys from what seemed like a deep sleep. As they finally started to play some football that the watching crowd had seen over the last few weeks. David fired in a great cross that eluded everyone, until up popped Malvin to score from close range. Even then he still had time to juggle the ball and smash it home on the volley.

Would this set the boys up nicely, would the penny finally drop, that if you don’t work hard enough its difficult to achieve anything? No is the answer you are looking for, as Wellingborough switched off again. Lightening did strike twice as Castle Rise took the lead with an almost identical goal. Again the Wellingborough midfield was at fault. No closing down, nobody making a challenge and the Castle Rise player did not have to ask twice as he gleefully took up the invitation and fired in another unstoppable shot.

Now I am not sure what it was with the boys, but unless someone says otherwise I think it went something along the lines of this. A great noise could be heard, a noise that has not been heard all season. It was the noise of the cogs going clunk inside each of the Wellingborough players heads, as they finally realised they were in a match. All the players seemed to roll their sleeves up together and start to play football. The kind of football that has been witnessed before. The kind of football that the watching crowd have now come to expect. And the kind of football David, Phil and I demand. There was no rallying speech, no finger wagging, no shouting from the touchline, no jumping up and down, just a realisation from the players that they had got themselves into this pickle. And it was them, and only them who could do something about it. And do something about they did.

With David being a thorn n the side of the Castle Rise defence all morning it was he that inspired the Wellingborough boys with again some devastating wing play. A beautiful cross into the corridor of uncertainty was met by Jacob who applied the finishing touch to draw level the scores.

Akshay then made it 3-2 with a great finish after some great work by Malvin. His shot left that trusty left boot and flew into the net with pinpoint accuracy. To take the lead was nothing more than Wellingborough deserved as all-round, they, where finally stronger, faster and starting to play football with a purpose.

Halftime 3-2

3 changes were made at halftime as Elliot, Drew and Alex were introduced in place of Jake, Mat and Akshay, and the changes paid instant dividends. Alex increased the lead to make it 4-2 with a great finish after some great work from Muctarr and Trent.

The defence of Thomas, Muctarr and man of the match Adam rarely looked in trouble as the midfield finally gave them some protection, something that was sadly missing in the first half. The boys now had a swagger about them, knocking the ball about with great purpose, looking to increase their lead at every opportunity
And increase they did as Drew scored to make it 5-2. Now this boy really has found his goal scoring touch, as that’s now 2 goals in 2 games for the little midfielder. He had a smile on him as big as the sun and almost as bright, after applying the finishing touch after another great move.

The last goal was my personal favourite. It had everything, skill, great technique, great passing, great movement and a deadly finish.

Adam was involved to pass the ball down the line to Drew, he in turn played a delightful ball into the path of David, who went past his marker with ease and for a split second you thought he was going to take the ball on and shoot at goal. But he looked up and saw Trent running at full steam from a central midfield area to the edge of the box. The pass was slightly behind Trent, but I think that was because of Trent’s electric pace, not the wayward pass. He readjusted his feet to steady him self and let fly from the edge of the box. The goalkeeper leapt to the far corner of his goal, in a heroic attempt to make a save, but the power and pace of the shot would have even tested a more experienced goalkeeper such was the venomous power of the shot. The ball was stopped in its tracks by the net that just about held firm.

Ryan was introduced in place of Malvin and went close with a great effort. His shot narrowly missing the target. Owen played the last 5 minutes after recovering from an illness. He took over from Adam who received a great round of applause for his man of the match performance from the coaching staff and watching parents. And rightly so, as he never put a foot wrong all morning.

So on reflection a great mornings work for the Wellingborough Town boys, although they made hard work of it. Against another side the scoreline may have been too much to overturn. Next week the boys have to hit the ground running against Grammarians, if we are to keep up the pressure on the top teams.
Well Done.

Sunday 8/3/2009
Great Doddington White 0-9 Wellingborough Town

Goal Scorers: Jacob (2), Drew, Mat, Alex, Trent (4)

MOTM: Thomas

Someone once said to me it’s not the amount of deep breaths you take in life; it’s the amount of life changing experiences that take your breath away that count. And this performance by Wellingborough Town quite literally, took my breath away; such was the passing, the movement, the organising, the individual skill and the desire to win from a young side. Yes the result will be remembered by me for a long time as it was the heaviest defeat in my managerial career I have inflicted on another team, but if I am honest it was not the result that counts for me, yes you want to win ,but it’s the performance that really matters. And boy did Wellingborough produce a performance that should have the teams above them in the league looking over their shoulders, if they are not already doing so.
In a way it was very similar to last weeks match against Whitworths, as numerous chances went begging early on and you thought it was going to be one of those days, as the ball would not go in the back of the net. Once it did there was only going to be one winner, and that was Wellingborough.
Mat started the ball rolling with a great shot on goal, after being played in by Muctarr, such was Mat’s delight at scoring I didn’t think he was going to stop celebrating his goal. Next it was Trent with a fierce drive across the goalkeeper, who stood no chance from Trent’s power packed goal, bound effort. Alex then got the third with an absolutely fantastic goal. This goal is what the Wellingborough side is all about, with some exquisite one touch football by the midfield, to play a lovely ball into to Alex to fire across the goalkeeper in to the far corner. When something like this comes off you get a warm fuzzy feeling, a glow, and a spring in your step and your hat is at a jaunty angle, knowing that the hard work in training is paying dividends. Also a knowing nod from a stranger on the sideline who has just witnessed a move that took his breath away. It tells a wonderful story without words just actions
Then a moment that had everyone on the side line talking, as Muctarr scored an absolute wonder goal only for his effort to be chalked off for offside. The ball must have travelled at least 40 yards before nestling in the back of the net; such was the pinpoint accuracy of Muctarr’s shot. Yes there were 2 Wellingborough players in an offside position when the ball was struck, but the ball did not touch them or go anywhere near them. Only the referee’s assistant will be able to explain why he gave offside. I did hear the explanation given by him. I just shook my head in disbelief
Before halftime Trent managed to add another with another great effort to make it 4-nil. Before that Jake had a great effort that just whizzed over the bar from just outside the box, again after another great move.

Halftime 0-4

It’s said at halftime is the time when a manager earns his corn. They can say things that will change the out come of a game. They can give a great rallying speech, to spur the team on to great things, or they can say little and just let the team carry on, because sometimes it is difficult to improve on what has just unfolded before their eyes. I didn’t on this occasion have to say much. Only that I wanted a clean sheet, no goals to be conceded, and for Dan in goal to have very little to do. Much to Dan’s disgust, as he had been a lonesome figure in the first half only touching the ball 3 times such was our dominance. Although keeping a clean sheet is costing his dad a great amount in cash, £5 pound for a clean sheet is the going rates in the Stapleton house hold, so perhaps Dan should in future games encourage his defenders to defend like their lives depend on it. If I was Tom I could see a money making scam going on. Perhaps negotiating a 20% cut in future takings!!!!
The second half was pretty much like the first as Wellingborough dominated from the off. A big cheer was heard when Drew scored the 5th, celebrating with his dad, running down the wing. He scored after a rebounded shot came back off the post from a Trent effort. Drew was on hand to apply the killer touch at the back post.
Then Akshay had a fine effort strike the crossbar with a perfectly executed shot. The crossbar nearly fell over such was the ferocity of the shot. He had collected the ball after another fine move involving Adam and David, and let rip from outside the box.
Trent added the 6th and his hatrick with another great goal, which gave the goalkeeper no chance. Then up stepped Jacob to add 2 more. His second was the best with Elliot playing a wonderfully weighted pass out wide to David who whipped in a great cross for Jacob to apply the finishing touch. The amount of effort Jacob puts in on a match he really should score more goals, as he again covered every blade of grass on this tight compact pitch.
The last goal was scored by Trent to complete the rout, which was his 4th of the game. Before that efforts by Malvin and Ryan both very nearly produced goals that both of the players so richly deserved. It could have been more, but like I said earlier it is the performance that bothers me, not the scoreline.
A special mention to David who did not get on the score sheet today, yes he may have been a bit disappointed for not scoring and adding to his season tally. But he was involved in most of the things that Wellingborough produced, with some excellent wing play and crossing.
Also man of the match Tom who recently has been having a bit of a torrid time in defence and not playing to the very high standard that he set early on in the season. He went about today’s task with an air of authority, the kind of display that you want from a captain. He organised the defence of Muctarr and Owen beautifully. Also his words of encouragement to Adam who replaced Owen at halftime where from a player more senior than Toms age. He ensured the midfield did not push to far up field and that the defence always had adequate cover, even enjoying a step over while bringing the ball out of defence.
Football is all about confidence. The more confident you feel, you will, do well. On this and last weeks performance the confidence is sky high through the team. And that can only bode us well for the run in to the end of the season.
Well done boys.

Sunday 1/3/2009
Whitworths 0-8 Wellingborough Town

Goal Scorers: Akshay (2), David (4), Trent (2)

MOTM: Owen

Back to winning ways for the boys after last weeks defeat to Kettering Generals. Now the score line suggests a stroll in the park, but don’t let it fool you, as had to dig deep to over come a spirited Whitworth’s side. Last weeks scoreline was still keeping me awake at night, and for the first 10 minutes it had an all too familiar feel about it as chance after chance went begging. Could it happen again? Surely the boys would spare David, I and the parents the nail biting, nerve jangling frustration that they had put us through last week.
Now “local derbies” have a habit of throwing up weird and wonderful results. All form goes out of the window, as local pride kicks in and this point was made in the team talk before the match. If you didn’t know who the teams were, you would not have been able to distinguish who was near the bottom and who was near the top as both sides created some early chances. Both teams desperately wanted to win to gain the unofficial title of “Kings of Wellingborough”, and earn the bragging rights at school.
Once Wellingborough got their noses in front there was only going to be one winner, as they turned on the style and went about things in a professional manner. David scored a first half hatrick with the pick of the bunch being his 3rd as he elegantly and expertly chipped the goalkeeper from the edge of the box. If it had been shown on Match of the day it would probably be a contender for goal of the season, such was the class.
Trent and David are both gunning for the title of top scorer and Trent must have realised that he was 3 goals behind, with David’s tally in this match. But that deficit was soon to be reduced in perhaps fortuitist fashion. Trent went on a mazy run as he ran the Whitworths defender ragged and put in a peach of a cross to the centre of the box. The Whitworths goalkeeper came out to collect the ball, but the ball bounced in front of him and ballooned over his head into the back of the net. Cue wild celebrations from Trent as he claimed he meant to do that. I am sure I noticed his Pinocchio nose getting bigger as he ran past!!!!
His second goal was a great finish volleying home from just outside the 6 yard area, after excellent work from Mat on the wing. Nothing fortuitist about this goal just a great team effort and a cool finish.
Now David went on and scored his 4th of the game as he sprung the off side trap with ease, after an excellent through ball from Adam. He collected the ball, steadied himself and drew the keeper and expertly lashed the ball home to make it 6-nil. I brought David off after that. Not to give Trent a chance to catch up but to let David receive the applause he richly deserved for some awesome goal scoring prowess.
Whitworths were literally out of the game by now, as they had no answer to the awesome goal scoring power that had been unleashed on them. But fair play to them, they tried to play football and if luck had been on their side they may have nicked something, all be it a consolation goal. Whenever they threatened Dan in goal was a match for whatever they could muster. He didn’t have too much to deal with in the second half as the back 3 of Thomas, Muctarr and man of the match Owen gave him so much protection.
Jacob had another great game in the centre of midfield. I have never seen him win so many headers in a game; such was his dominance in that very important area. Now everybody knows it’s not his natural position, but when Jacob plays like he did today, it is very difficult to change things. It was like watching a young Stevie Gerrard. That’s how good you were today Jacob.
The 7th and 8th goals were scored by Akshay, who had replaced Drew at halftime. Drew had another great game and rightly deserves his place in the side at the moment with in places some wonderful passing and tackling. In training we worked on following in after shots on goal. And Akshay got his two goals by doing just that. I think he was a bit surprised by his second as the goalkeeper made a great save but could not handle the shot, and the ball hit him and it went in. They all count, and if Akshay had not followed in then a goal would not have been scored.
I was very pleased with all the boys today. Not only the ones I have mentioned but the other boys who all contributed to an excellent team win today. The likes of Elliot, who worked well in midfield, Alex with his trickery, Malvin with his fantastic ability to beat players, Jake with his tireless running and Ryan who worked well upfront but didn’t get a clear goal scoring chance. These are the unsung hero’s. The foundation that this side is built on, and without players like these the team would be in a very poor state indeed.
Well done today boys, and whatever league position we finish in, it would not be achieved without the team work of every individual player working together as a unit. We still have a lot of points to be gained this season, but what ever happens it truly has been a season to remember.
 

Sunday 22/2/2009
Kettering Generals 1-0 Wellingborough Town

Goal Scorers:

MOTM:David

With the winner of this match able to claim 3rd place in the league, a lot was a stake in this very important match.
The scoreline suggests a tight, evenly fought contest with both sides been overly cautious. Both just doing enough to get by, but not really threatening each other. How very wrong I could have been. Don’t get me wrong it wasn’t a classic by any stretch of the imagination. But how Wellingborough didn’t win this match by at least 5 goals will haunt me for the rest of my managerial career. I think, but I am not sure there were little people underneath the goalposts. And every time we took a shot at goal they moved them, ever so slightly to stop the ball hitting the back of the net. Or as one parent suggested there was an invisible force field around the goal preventing the ball going in. Such was the woeful finishing of the Wellingborough attack. I could fill this match report with every football cliché known like “I am as sick as a parrot “and   “Unfortunately, we keep kicking ourselves in the foot." and “you couldn’t write this script”. And my personal favourite “we dug deep, deeper than we’ve dug before”, but it still wouldn’t hide the fact that we should have won.
The match started with Wellingborough soaking up all of the early pressure, although Kettering Generals did threaten on a few occasions. But they didn’t really create any clear cut chances. Then came the move of the 1st half as Wellingborough seemed to select another gear and finally got their act together. It was a flowing, pass and move, act of great football precision. A hot knife through butter, as the move would have had the football purists purring at what they had just witnessed.
The ball was played out of defence; to Drew. His first touch was exquisite, as he played a great ball into the path of David, down the wing. David’s fist touch was equally exquisite as with one touch and a drop of the shoulder he completely bamboozled the defender, and left him on the floor. Off he ran with great ease and put in a peach of a cross which was met by Trent arriving dead on time like a punctual 8.05 train between London Kings Cross and Wellingborough. This was it. The net was surely about to bulge, as every Wellingborough supporter had already started to applaud, what they had just witnessed. But no the Kettering Generals keeper pulled off a world class save to some how keep the ball out of the net.
This was just a taster of what was to come as a few more chances went begging, admittedly not as great a build up as the first move, but still they were chances which Wellingborough did not take.

Half Time 0-0

Mat was replaced at half time and Alex was introduced. Mat picked up a knock just before half time as the game started to get a bit naughty. Tackles had started to fly in from both sides. Not the hard and fair tackles everyone loves to see, but the horrible little tackles that could easily hurt. Now we are not whiter than white as we were just as guilty. But where was the referee when you needed him? When he was called upon every decision went against us. It was like a personal vendetta. It become that comical the boys did not know what to do. They looked across at David and I for answers. But we were just as bewildered. It was that bad I thought it was panto season. Oh no its not. Oh yes it is. Sour grapes I hear people say. But ask every one of the parents. Not one decision went Wellingborough’s way in the 2nd half.
Easy I also hear people say. Score more goals than the other team and you will win. So we did score a goal. A goal that seemed to be a well taken goal by David, he went past the defender. That’s right past the defender and he tucked the ball a way beautifully. Only for you’ve guessed it, the goal was judged to be off side. Very harsh indeed and very similar to an incident in the 1st half, where Wellingborough had a 3 on 2 situation, admittedly Ryan was in an off side position. But the ball did not go to him. The ball was played backwards to the centre, of the field. Ryan was judged to be off side. After howls of displeasure by the visiting parents the referee admitted he got it wrong. But still gave a free kick to Kettering Generals. See a bit of a pattern forming.
Now Wellingborough’s inability to score goals should not be solely blamed on the referee, although it makes me feel a little better to say so, as chance after chance was missed. Alex probably had the best chance. He some how managed to spoon his shot over the bar from less than 6 yards out. I was asked by his Dad to give him a lift to the match, he didn’t get a lift home with me as I made him walk home. Not really!!!! But seriously it would have been easier to miss, which on this occasion it was. Extra shooting practise for you Alex!!
Other chances came and went as Wellingborough opened up the Kettering Generals defence with ease. Trent ran his marker ragged and produced some fine crosses. They were just waiting for the finishing touch and the match would have been over. That said Kettering Generals had their own chances but Dan in goal was more than a match with some great saves. The defence played well after soaking up so much pressure in the first half. Jacob in an unfamiliar role at centre back, looked a little lost, although he had never played there. Tom and Muctarr had another good game although they never felt threatened. The midfield pairing of Elliot and Adam did well in places although they ran out of steam towards the end, with Adam being replaced by Jake. A special mention to Ryan who never got a clear cut goal scoring chance but had a great game linking the play with some excellent passing.
With the game nearing its end Wellingborough more or less pushed everybody forward. This did cause some problems as they were a bit exposed at the back as Jacob played the last few minutes as a centre forward, but no more goal scoring chances were created.
So two defeats on the bounce for the Wellingborough boys, something we are not used too this season. And we need to get back to winning ways and fast. So a bit of bouncebackability is needed for next week’s local derby against Whitworths. Plenty of shooting practise in training and perhaps just a touch of good fortune are needed to get our season back on track.

Sunday 1/2/2009
Wellingborough Town 2-4 Ringstead

Goal Scorers: David, Alex

MOTM: Jacob

What an absolutely fantastic game of football, played between two sides, both wanting to win for various reasons. Wellingborough with a win that would have sent them top of the league. And Ringstead wanting to win to extend their unbeaten record and go joint top. This match had everything. Skill, determination, the will to win but above all it was played with the right spirit and the right amount of respect for each other.
Both coaches yelled instructions to their troops, to try and get the advantage to swing in their favour. It was like a game of chess. As each of them tried to out do each other with some tactical know how. A little bit of organizing here a bit of reorganizing there as the two coaches strutted up and down the touchline like prize peacocks, both keen to let the other know what their respective sides had achieved this season.
First blood went to Ringstead as they took the lead as Wellingborough failed to clear their lines. They went on to score another and went into the half time interval 2 nil up and it seemed as if it would be a stroll in the park for them, as Wellingborough didn’t really get going. I forgot the amount of corners that Ringstead had in the first half but it was loads, more than 15. Even stato (Ryan) lost count. Such was their dominance.
But I think Ringstead under estimated the great team spirit Wellingborough have, as the 2nd half was only minutes old and Wellingborough were back in it. A wonderful move involving David, Trent and Malvin and expertly and coolly finished off by Alex got Wellingborough back into the match.
This was the incentive Wellingborough needed, as they looked a different side out there. Passing the ball about with great purpose and working well as a team. Man of the match Jacob was involved in most things and Tom held the defence together with some great leadership qualities. Special mention to Owen who never put a foot wrong all game and he just gets better and better.
Try and try Wellingborough did, but they could not unlock the Ringstead defence further whom held firm and unfortunately against the run of play went further ahead. This was a cruel blow, as Wellingborough had asked a lot of questions of Ringstead and really pushed them hard. But 3 -1 it was.
Back came Wellingborough, does this team not know when to give up? To make it 3-2. This time David latching on to a great through ball and skipping past a defender to fire in an awesome shoot and ripple the onion sack. The goalkeeper waving his hands about frantically trying to stop the unstoppable.
If Ringstead didn’t know they were in a game, they did now as Wellingborough throw everything at them including the kitchen sink. Such was the way the boys played I thought I had put on a couple of extra players such was our dominance. I hadn’t really before any asks it was just, we were that good.
Then came two major talking points, believe you me they are talking points. Ask the wife she’s fed up of me going on about them. Firstly Trent burst down the right wing and just like last week unselfishly squared the ball across the box to Akshay whom took a touch and you thought the ball was going to end up in the net, but a defender sprang from no where and the chance was gone. If only……..
Then what seemed to be the equaliser was cruelly wrenched off us, as the ball ended up in the net. Only to be judged off side. I know what you’re thinking. The dodgy lines man, who could not see past his nose. The dodgy lines man who had left his dog at home. The referee had a long chat with him. And a glimmer of hope was offered. And after what seemed an age the goal was disallowed. But no, this was the right decision, if I am honest the goal was offside so no complaints from me. If only…..
So with Wellingborough still pushing to equalise Ringstead put the game beyond doubt with their forth of the game, to end any hope that Wellingborough had to get anything from this match.
I was really proud of the boys today, and it shows how far they have progressed in a short period of time. This was an excellent performance from each and every player in the team. Yes a bit disappointed with the result, but never disappointed with the way the boys played. I could not have asked for any more.
The Ringstead coach was pleased with his team and that they had preserved their 100% record, but I think he knows they were lucky and perhaps rode their luck a bit. Remember they have only conceded 6 goals all season and over the 2 games we have played them we have scored 5 of them.
So all the best to Ringstead, they are the best team we have played all season, but I can’t stop thinking, if only……….
Well done boys.

Sunday 26/1/2009
Raunds Town 1-7 Wellingborough Town

Goal Scorers: Ryan, David (2), Alex, Trent (2) 1 OG

MOTM: Drew

After last weeks drawn match it was great to get back to winning ways with the first victory of 2009, although  for the first 5 minutes it looked like Wellingborough would struggle to score, as chance after chance went begging. Really it could have been 4 nil in the first 5 minutes as Trent, Malvin and David all went close to breaking the deadlock.
With Wellingborough opting to play up the hill on the sloping pitch in the first half it took a great piece of individual skill for Wellingborough to take the lead, as Trent burst into the area and chipped the advancing goalkeeper, which could only be described as top draw. Wellingborough quickly doubled their lead through Alex, who collected a great through ball by Malvin and he expertly slotted the ball home.
Wellingborough then went on to score another goal through Trent, who seemed to like his new position on the right wing, as he lashed in a wicked cross that eluded everyone in the box and the ball came to rest in the back of the net.
At this point there was only going to be one winner, as Raunds again rode their luck on more than a few occasions, much was the way Wellingborough played and if I am honest it was awesome.
It wasn’t all one way traffic as the scoreline suggests, as Raunds did have a few opportunities to score. And they should have scored as Wellingborough allowed them a couple of one on one chances, although Daniel in goal was more than a match, with literally two great pieces of goalkeeping. I personally thought his 2nd save was the best, but I would rather he was not in that position!! As the defence went awol.

Halftime 3- 0

With Wellingborough using the slope in the second half to great effect with again some great football, it was Raunds who scored against the run of play. Now this was going to be a test, as Raunds seemed to up their game a bit, although I did not have to worry too long as Wellingborough selected 5th gear and left Raunds eating dust and chasing shadows. Such was the pace and the movement of the Wellingborough boys that even the referee was struggling to keep up. No disrespect intended although the watching crowd will know what I mean.
It was the passing and moving that created Wellingborough’s 4th and 5th goals as David used his pace and skill to latch on to two great moves and finish with devastating effect.
Ryan added the 6th as Trent not to be out done by David used his pace and skill to skip past, what seemed like a motionless defender such was the pace of this boy to unselfishly square a pass into the path of Ryan who coolly finished from 6 yards.
The 7th was an own goal, which took a deflection off a Raunds defender and landed in the back of the net after a shot from Trent.
There was some great man of the match performances today from every player, and it was very difficult to single 1 player out for this, much sought after award. If I had 15 medals available I would have given out one to every player. From Daniel in goal, who just gets better and better. Kieran, Thomas and Owen who tackled like their life depended on it. The silky skills of Alex, David and Malvin, the finishing and pace of Trent. The workman like performance of Jacob, Elliot and Adam. The great left foot of Akshay. The reading of the game of Mat and the cool finishing skill of Ryan. There was one player who shaded it above everyone else. And that was Drew. He was given a job to do and did not let anyone down. He ran himself into the ground and covered just about every blade of grass on the left as he worked his socks off. Well done Drew.
After last weeks disappointing draw, it was great to see smiley faces not only on the faces of the supporters but also on the faces of the team. The boys had a swagger about them today. Not a show off, in your face type of swagger, but a swagger that said we mean business. A truly professional performance, which had David and I purring, such was the way the boys worked for each other.

Well Done Boys

Sunday 19/1/2009
Wellingborough Town 3-3 Ise Lodge Hawks

Photos can be seen here

Goal Scorers: David (2), 1 Own Goal

MOTM: Kieran

Both teams contributed to a great spectacle, as Wellingborough let the lead on 3 occasions slip as Ise Lodge Hawks never gave up. The game perhaps should have been over as Wellingborough took the lead with 3 mins to go. But back came Ise Lodge to snatch a point.

Sunday 21/12/2008
Wellingborough Town 2-1 Grammarians

Goal Scorers: David, Trent

MOTM: Daniel

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. And the supporters really were walking in a winter wonderland, as this result was without doubt the best Christmas present I could have wished for. Forget the socks, forget the jumper, forget the hat and scarf, this was a performance that even the wise men could not have predicted. But one that everyone connected with Wellingborough Town Under11’s had put on their Christmas wish list.  The boys put in an unbelievable performance against the league leaders. But the result wasn’t, if I am honest important, what was, was the way the boys performed against a team that had not been beaten all season. And on this performance there would be room in every Inn in Bethlehem if the boys ever wanted to stay there.
I laid down the challenge to the boys not to be afraid, of what lay ahead. To fight for everything (in the right way), to chase everything, to close down everything, but most importantly to encourage each other and work as a unit. Every single player was given clear instructions in what was expected, and boy did they deliver.
With both teams going close to scoring, it was the Grammarians who scored first with a well taken goal. Perhaps on another a day and perhaps against another team the Grammarians would have gone on and scored some more, but they perhaps have not come across a team that is becoming more and more difficult to beat. The boy’s heads did not drop. It seemed as if everyone one of them rolled up their sleeves and helped each of their teamates out. Wellingborough were unlucky not to have levelled soon afterwards but their effort was judged to have been off side.
This seemed to spur them on even more, with Trent, David and Malvin going close. As halftime approached it looked as if the boys would go in 1 nil down, until Trent was played in by a great ball from Jacob, he raced onto the ball and with an ever increasing stride left the defender and slipped the ball past the goalkeeper into the empty net. The celebrations were long and wild not only by the players, but by the watching crowd. The halftime whistle blew and the score was 1-1
Some changes were made at halftime, with Jake replacing Kieran who had run himself into the ground, Adam moving to an unfamiliar role at right back, and Jake filling Adams position.
Tom expertly marshalled the defence, with Muctarr winning everything. When the Grammarians did get through, man of the match Daniel was more than a match in goal.
The midfield worked exceptionally well, with Elliot and Jacob stopping most things that the Grammarians could muster. Alex had a great game with some excellent wing play. He had ran his heart out and was replaced by Mat, who also had a great game, apart from his fist touch. I will let Mat tell you what happened next!!
Half chances fell to both sides. But you just had a feeling that Wellingborough would score again, which they did through David. He picked up the ball just inside his own half and beat his marker with ease. He then knocked the ball into space and ran like an express train onto the ball. He approached the box and shot from just outside the box. A gasp was heard from the crowd as his shot was slightly miscued and for a split second it looked like the goalkeeper would make an easy save. But the gasp turned to wild euphoria as the goalkeeper some how let the ball slip under him and the ball came to rest in the back of the net. The celebrations went on forever. I thought the referee was going to intervene. But nothing could hold back the celebrations of both the players and supporters. Order was somehow restored, and the reality hit home. We were beating the league leaders.
There was about 10 minutes to go, that somehow always seems longer, when you want something so badly. Cast your mind back to when you were younger, its Christmas Eve, you could never go to sleep. The excitement was too much; the night seemed to go on forever. You think Christmas would never come. That’s how it was on Sunday. You just wished the referee would blow his whistle. And blow his whistle he did. We had won the game
I have never been as proud of these boys as I was on Sunday. They never cease to amaze. As I have said the result wasn’t and isn’t important. It’s the way they played that I was extremely pleased with. The way they helped each other out and played as a team that’s what won the game. This will go down as one of the best results we have ever achieved, and rightly so, the boys deserve all the credit. Well done.

Sunday 30/11/2008
Castle Rise 4-7 Wellingborough Town

Goal Scorers: Reece (2), Jacob, Alex, Trent (3)

MOTM: Jacob

I now know why I love the game of football so much. The passion, the heartache, the unpredictability, the tension, but above all 2 fully committed teams attempting to play football.

I have experienced some weird and wonderful moments in my managerial career, but I think this game tops them all. The heartache of seeing us 3- 1 down at halftime to a team that had failed to register a win all season(no disrespect intended) to the euphoria of us scoring 6 quality goals in the second half. And watching us play at times some literally mouth watering football. You know the kind, the kind of football that has double chocolate sugary bits on a bed of marshmallow, drizzled in chocolate sauce and a chocolate flake for good measure, as everything in the 2nd half was awesome.

So to the facts. I will leave out most of the 1st half as we did not turn up at all. And the less said about the performance the better as Castle Rise stormed into a 3 -1 lead which they held until half time. The only bright side was Alex’s goal to draw us level with a well taken goal after the goal keeper had fumbled in the area. So cue my rallying speech to the beleaguered troops. The kind of speech that the great Winston Churchill would have been proud off, as each and every player went back onto the pitch in the second half 10 feet tall. I challenged them to get us back into the game as they had let a lot of people down. Not only had they let David and I down, but their parents also. Who again had braved the near artic conditions, to cheer on their hero’s. But most importantly they had let themselves down with quite simply in places, and it hurts to say a shambolic display.

So the 2nd half started and within minutes Wellingborough Town scored through Trent, then another through Trent to level the scores. Perhaps my speech had worked, as we looked a different side. Still not playing some of the free flowing football we are more than capable of, but it was a thousand times better. Then off the ropes Castle Rise came back like a prized boxing champion, to score and make it 4- 3. At this point you thought that the boys would crumble, but they had different ideas.

Like 2 heavy weight boxer’s the two teams traded blow after blow, but unable to land the knockout punch, as both sides went close to adding to their tally of goals. Until Jacob scored to get Wellingborough Town on level terms again.

This was the power packed body blow, the jaw hurting south paw upper cut, the quick one two, as Wellingborough Town took fully control with some devastating football. Man of the Match Jacob was at the heart of most things and Malvin danced his way through the Castle Rise defence on numerous occasions. Mat went very close as his shot just cleared the bar, again after a great move. Ryan worked tirelessly up front and produced a great performance.

Trent then completed his hat trick with a great finish and Castle Rise fell apart. They really were punch drunk at this time as Reece scored twice to finish them off.

So a great victory and a real Rocky Balboa  performance in the 2nd half, so I am not going to take any accolades that may or may not come my way, as it was the boys who dug them selves out a great big hole.

My voice is hoarse and a few more grey hairs have appeared, but that’s why I love this game of football!!! Long may this winning run continue but boys, please be a bit more considerate to what you are going to put me through in the future.
Well Done

Sunday 16/11/2008
Wellingborough Town 4-1 Whitworths

Goal Scorers: Muctarr (2), Ryan, David

MOTM: Muctarr

With it being about a month since our last game in the league, it was nice to get back to winning ways with a 4 -1 win over our local rivals, and 3 points to boot.
Things got off to a great start with Ryan scoring his first league goal of the season, with a great finish after some excellent work from Drew on the left. You just had a feeling that the flood gates would open and we would go on and score loads of goals. But Whitworths had other ideas. They made things really difficult and at times got themselves into some great goal scoring positions, although not really testing Daniel in goal. Not really sure what it was with the boys today, but the usual free flowing football, the first to the ball and the encouragement was sadly missing. It just wasn’t Wellingborough out there.
After last weeks exploits in goal, in the friendly match, Jacob was back in his familiar centre midfield role, and he just about covered every blade of grass, trying to work a little opening for himself or a team mate. But Whitworths continued to frustrate the Wellingborough attack with some last ditch tackling and some defending in numbers. Wellingborough just couldn’t find the break through that they strived for.

Half time 1 v 0

The second half was barely minutes old when David scored with what was his first touch of the ball to bury the ball into the net, after coming on as a half time sub. Surely this was the lighting of the blue touch paper that the watching crowd were hoping for. But sadly and frustratingly it did not happen. It was like watching a firework display in your garden, were you had bought loads of great looking fireworks to let off. Lighting them and standing well back ready to admire the fine display materialise before your eyes. Only to be disappointed as none of them would light.
Until up stepped Muctarr, the shining light, clad in the Wellingborough Town colours. Not only did he bring joy to the watching crowd, he single handily ensured the points were ours. I am sure the cloud and light drizzle momentarily stopped and sunshine shone as the Muctarr show, swung into action.
First of all he collected the ball in his own half and with one thing in his mind; he set off like a steam train with jet propelled motion, dancing his way through the Whitworths midfield. He then reached the defence. They too were dispatched with ease as he continued his hip shaking, knee jerking, strictly come dancing routine and rounded them and the goal keeper to score an absolute wonder goal. Cue wild celebrations from the watching crowd and team mates.
Who says lightening does not strike twice? This time he found himself on the right wing, again after going on a mazy run, he took on the defender, beat him with ease and fired in a peach of a cross, which eluded everyone, and nestled in the net from a tight angle. Now some may say it was luck, but Muctarr assures me that he planned to do that and I for one believe him. Who am I to question what I just witnessed?
Whitworths grabbed a late consolation, with Daniel suffering an injury in the process.
Other chances went begging, notably from Mat, Elliot and Adam. But on the whole a great day for Wellingborough and especially man of the match Muctarr.

Sunday 9/11/2008
Wellingborough Town 4 v 2 Vicarage Farm
With torrential rain the night before having a major influence on this friendly fixture, the match was switched from Vic Farms venue to our venue at the last minute. Informing all the parents about the change of venue with only moments to spare was a tall order, never mind plotting the downfall of our opponents from a division above. But plot we did and a fantastic result was gained, as we out played, out fought, out skilled and just about every other “out “ I can think of as well.
Watched and cheered on by a large crowd considering the outrageous weather the night before, the boys put on a display that could only be described as world class.
With a new formation of 3 at the back and 5 in midfield the boys quickly adapted to their positions, with some at times breathe taking football that would have more than satisfied the football purists.
Alex opened the scoring with what can only be described as a great team goal. The ball was passed about with ease, as Wellingborough opened up the Vic Farms defence like a hot knife through butter, and he scored from what looked like an impossible angle, after eluding many defenders lame efforts to tackle him, with his disco dancing feet.
Goal number 2 came from Malvin who beat the offside trap, after a terrific through ball from Adam to coolly slip the ball past the advancing goalkeeper, a finish that would not have looked out of place in the premier league. Such was the quality.
The back 3 of Thomas, Owen and Muctarr coped very well with all that Vic Farm could produce, and when that well marshalled rear guard was breached, Jacob in goal, yes that’s right Jacob in goal, was more than a match.
By this time the confidence was sky high and changes were made to the playing staff, Mat replaced Alex and Ryan replaced Malvin, and they both made an immediate impact on the game. Goal number 3 came from Trent who will not score an easier goal all season, as he latched on to a great pass to stroke the ball home from 3 yards.
Drew was involved in a great move that almost ended in a goal but he ran out of steam at the last minute and the chance fell by the wayside.
The best goal was saved till last as David scored the 4th. The centre midfield of Elliot, Jake and Adam were all involved with winning the ball back, passing it about and again producing the killer pass for David to do the rest. This goal had everything, Individual skill to score the goal, great determination to win the ball back, great awareness to see the pass, but above all the ability to have a go.

Halftime 4-0

I had a job and a half to calm the boys down at halftime such was their excitement at leading 4 nil. I made a few changes and introduced Akshay and Reece to the team and both boys were involved from the off. Reece came very close to continuing his goal scoring exploits with a chip that the goalkeeper did well to save and Akshay nearly scored with a great shot on goal.
Then the game turned a bit uncomfortable for Wellingborough as Vic Farm scored 2 goals in quick succession. Wellingborough just switched off and all the great work of the first half was in danger of slipping away as Vic Farm looked to get back into this game. Thomas and his fellow defenders then steadied the ship and shut up shop and gave Jacob some better protection. Something that perhaps was missing for the 2 conceded goals. Chances came and went for both sides, but no real goal scoring chances were created by either side.

Sunday 3/11/2008
Wellingborough Town 3 - 4 Cogenhoe

What a weird and wonderful game of football in this friendly encounter with Cogenhoe, materialised on this rather wet, blustery and cold morning. Having gone through the warm up and team tactics it was discovered that Cogenhoe had only got 8 players to field. As we had 3 subs, it was decided that these lads would play for Cogenhoe. And what a game they had.
Wellingborough took the lead through Reece who raced on to a great through ball and rounded the keeper and planted the ball firmly in the back of the net. 1 nil to the super yellows. The cries of Reece, Reece could be heard echoing around the great facilities at the Caroline Chisholm School from the Reece fan club who had turned out in force to watch their hero. Apparently this school is a performing arts school and for a short while it looked as if Wellingborough would put on a great show.
Things then went slightly a miss as Wellingborough took their foot off the pedal and allowed the 8 players of Cogenhoe and the 3 “loaned” players to get into the game. I think the friendly fixture and the conditions had a major influence on this match, as it seemed to take a long time for some of the boys to find their feet. The “loaned” lads were instrumental in all that Cogenhoe conjured up and they performed above their station to fire Cogenhoe into a 2 -1 lead. This was after they had hit the post and the crossbar in quick succession to really frighten the living daylights out the run ragged Wellingborough defence.

Halftime 1-2

I then decided to make some tactical switches and take back the “loaned” players back into the colours of Wellingborough Town and 3 other players were “loaned” out. Unfortunately this also backfired as Cogenhoe and the “loaned” players went further ahead to make it 3 -1. And to rub salt into the wounds it was one of the loaned players who scored. And yes you have guessed it that boy Reece who slotted the ball home. I am not sure if I heard the Reece fan club shout and chant his name, but I think they did. Or were they just jumping around trying to keep warm in the freezing conditions? I think not!!!
This seemed to spark Wellingborough into life as they got back into the match with a well taken goal through Jake, his first for the club. It flew into the net after his shot took a deflection and nestled in the back of the net.
For about 5 minutes it seemed Wellingborough would go on and win the game as they started to play football and found space with some great passes. But in their eagerness to score they were caught out by a counter attack and Cogenhoe scored again to make it 4-2.
This wasn’t the end of the match as Jake doubled his goal scoring tally and made it 4-3 with about 2 minutes to go, with another fearsome shot which gave the goal keeper no chance.
Wellingborough then had a good penalty shout turned down as a Cogenhoe defender looked to have handled the ball in the area, but their cries fell on deaf ears as the ref waved play on. The pressure was intense as Wellingborough throw everything at Cogenhoe, even sending Daniel in goal up for a corner to try and salvage something. But their luck ran out and Cogenhoe and the loaned players held on to win the game.
It was a great run out for the boys. A few lessons learnt something to work on and I am sure we will get back to winning ways soon.

Sunday 19/10/2008
Ringstead Rangers 5-3 Wellingborough Town

Goal Scorers: Jacob, Trent (2)

MOTM: Trent

With Wellingborough Town the more dominant team in the first 15 minutes, they took the lead with an expertly executed bicycle kick from Trent. They won a free kick on the edge of the box, which David who terrorised the Ringstead right back all morning floated in an inch perfect cross for Trent to attempt this difficult piece of skill and the ball nestled in the back of the net.

This should have been the platform for Wellingborough Town to push on and take control, but they took their foot of the pedal and allowed Ringstead to get back into the game. Credit where credit is due, Ringstead throw everything at Wellingborough, and they equalised and then got their noses in front, with perhaps a little help from the Wellingborough defence whom didn’t play to their strengths and gifted a couple of chances to Ringstead. They didn’t ask twice and gleefully took up the invite.

I perhaps have never seen two more committed teams at this age, attempting to play football. The game had everything. Tackles flying in from all angles, the will to win, the will to do well, the will to help each other out but ultimately to score more goals than the other team. This all added up to a fantastic game of football, which was watched by a large and very vocal crowd.

Half time 1v 2

The second half continued in very much the same vein as the first, but this time Wellingborough took the bull by the horns and levelled things through Jacob with an expertly executed penalty after a Ringstead player handled in the area. The celebrations were loud and wild by the visiting supporters, but also by the players. So game on 2 each and a fantastic game of football on the cards. But in a matter of seconds Ringstead regained the lead as I think the Wellingborough players were still celebrating. You see it every week in the premier league where a team scores and the other team scores moments later. All due to a lack of concentration, so perhaps something to work on
Ringstead then scored another two goals to put the game out of reach of Wellingborough.

Wellingborough Town grabbed a late consolation goal through Trent, his second of the game,
As I mentioned earlier a fantastic game of football and the boys should be proud that they all contributed to an enjoyable game of football.

Sunday 28/9/2008
Wellingborough Town 8-0 Raunds Town

Goal Scorers: Alex, Trent (2), David (2), Malvin, Akshay

MOTM: Trent

I not sure what it is with the boys at the moment but everything they seem to do at present pays off. The game started very similar to the weather, a bit dull and foggy but as soon as the sunshine burst through the thick cloud that covered the pitch, Wellingborough burst into life.
Both teams weighed each other up and probably cancelled each other out with no one taking the game by the scruff of the neck. But as the sunshine shone so did Wellingborough. After some great work by David down the left he whipped in a great cross that eluded the Raunds defenders and it ran right across the area where Alex duly applied the finishing touch to put them 1 nil up.
The centre midfield pairing of Elliot and Jacob introduced themselves, and totally dominated this important area as Raunds were no match for their tough tackling antics.
The defence again expertly marshalled by Thomas played as a unit and caught the Raunds attack offside time after time. Owen and Kieran again both had excellent games with some great positional play and awesome tackling. Muctarr again showed what an athlete he is as he covered almost every blade of overgrown grass (when will it be cut Mr Grounds man!!!)
The front two of David and Malvin worked hard and closed down the Raunds defence at every opportunity .Drew on the left was involved in most things that Wellingborough conjured, with again some excellent wing play.
It wasn’t until the introduction of Trent for his first competitive game that the game turned on its head. The pace of this boy was unbelievable and Raunds could not handle him at all. With his first touch of the ball it was knocked into space for him to run onto and like a greyhound after the rabbit he strode towards goal with the Raunds defence eating dust, he unfortunately pulled his shot wide. But that was just a small taste of what was to come.

Halftime 1-nil

What was to unfold before the watching parents would only have previously happened in their dreams, as Wellingborough totally, out passed, out fought, out skilled and quite literally blew Raunds away with some devastating football. The fire power that Wellingborough unleashed was no match for a team that was run ragged by Trent and David. They added 2 goals each with David lobbing the Raunds goalkeeper with an exquisite French fry (a chip, for the uneducated) from a tight angle for his second of the game. His first was expertly executed after some great football by the whole team.
 I personally thought Trent’s second goal was the pick of the bunch as he fired in an unstoppable shot from the edge of the box and it flew like a laser guided missile and only came to rest in the back of the net that just about held firm. It was a good job that the goalkeeper didn’t touch it as it may have caused injury to him; such was the ferocity of the shot. His first goal was just as good, but without out the power.
Both players were again involved for the 6th goal as the ball was played out wide after some great work by Alex who played the ball to Mat whom fired in a goal bound shot but it cannoned of a Raunds defender and flew into an open net as the goalkeeper was rooted to the spot. Mat wanted to claim the goal, but after consulting the dubious goals committee an OG was sanctioned. I am sure Mat you will get a hatful of goals on this performance!!
Malvin added the 7th for his 2nd goal of the season with a great piece of skill to guide the ball home past a mass of players on the line. And not to be out done Akshay added the 8th for his first goal of the season. With what could only be described as a cool piece of work to skip past the defender and slip the ball past the advancing goalkeeper.
With his man of the match performance, Trent who had been duly selected by the self proclaimed Man of the Match committee will go down in Wellingborough Town folklore with a league debut like this. But every player should be proud as every one of them contributed to a great team performance that was strong in every position. It was a great day, for the players, the coaches and the parents/supporters, as they witnessed a sublime, cultured display, way above anything that the players had served up before. I may have tempted fate but on this performance things look rosy in the Garden of Eden that is Wellingborough Town under 11’s. Long may it continue.

Saturday 27/9/2008
Wellingborough Town 8-0 Whitworths

Wellingborough were very dominant in this friendly encounter with Whitworths, surging ahead into a 2-nil advantage with 2 excellent goals from Ryan, his first goals of the season. Chances went a begging from both sides, but no further goals were notched by either side. Muktarr suffered an injury within the first 10 minutes, and while he was getting treatment Elliot slotted into defence and did an excellent job in an unfamiliar role. He was looked after by Man of the Match Tom who held the back 4 together with some words of encouragement and excellent talking. Kieran and Owen again played very well with some strong tackling and great positional play.

The second half started with Wellingborough upping the tempo and they went further ahead with goals from Akshay (2), David (2), Alex and Drew.
The result was in my opinion irrelevant I just wanted the boys to continue playing well after last week’s great result which they did. Things that we work on in training are starting to come off and I could not fault any of the boys at all.

A special mention to Trent who had a great game, his first for the club. Malvin who worked tirelessly, Jacob who like Elliot was asked to play in an unfamiliar role and did a great job. Dan in goal whom didn’t have much to do, but when he was called upon, rose to the challenge. Akshay for 2 great goals, his second was world class. David who every time I see this boy play, he just gets better and better. Mat who very nearly scored with another great shot. Alex for his first goal of the season and some terrific wing play. But I have saved the best until last Adam and Drew.

These 2 boys have been in and out of the squad  all season, have not complained when they have been subbed or not in the team at all. Drew scored with a great goal and the cheer from the crowd was heard in Northampton. Adam I don’t know what else this boy has to do to score for the club, as on this occasion he was again foiled by a great save from the keeper. He was involved in most things that Wellingborough did and had an excellent game.

Well done boys long may it continue.

Sunday 21/9/2008
Ise Lodge 1-3 Wellingborough Town

Goal Scorers: David, Malvin, Jacob

MOTM: Owen

Back to winning ways after the defensive frailties of last weeks match, Wellingborough Town produced a fine display that we know they are more than capable of.

After some early pressure where David again showed some excellent wing play they just failed to make the final ball count and take advantage.

The defence after last weeks rude awakening looked in control, as Thomas and Muktarr bossed the centre of defence and they were expertly aided by man of the match Owen and tough tackling Kieran. Behind them was Dan in goal, who had a excellent game with some first class distribution and kicking.

The midfield centre pairing of Jacob and Elliot worked tirelessly and often broke up anything that Ise Lodge could conjure up. Mat on the right wing worked well and looked to increase his goal scoring tally for the season.

The front pairing of Malvin and Ryan combined well and struck up a good understanding between each other. They worked well when the ball was lost to try and win it back.
Wellingborough’s opening goal came from the penalty spot after an Ise Lodge defender handled in the area. This was duly dispatched by Jacob who coolly slotted home into the bottom left hand corner.

Other chances went begging but Wellingborough could not increase their lead.
Halftime 1 nil.

The halftime talk consisted of Wellingborough been urged to try and preserve their lead for 5-10 minutes and then step things up and go out to increase their lead , but this all went out of the window as Ise Lodge threw everything at Wellingborough. At times I had to check as it seemed they had more players on the field than we did as Wellingborough could not get close to them. Inevitably Ise Lodge scored to level things with a well taken goal that gave Dan in goal no chance.

This seemed to spur on Wellingborough, whom I thought may have gone the other way and cave in to the pressure, but credit where it is due the boys stuck to their task well and continued to create chances, although they still had to work hard which they did to overcome the threat from Ise Lodge.

The introduction of the subs Alex, Adam and Drew gave Wellingborough a lift as the boys they replaced had worked their socks off. And this paid off as Wellingborough took the lead with a great goal from David. He managed to squeeze the ball home from what looked an impossible angle. 2 -1 to Wellingborough.

Ise Lodge’s heads went down a bit and Wellingborough went further ahead with possibly the goal of the season. Malvin picked up the ball after a surging run from Alex. Drew played the ball to Malvin and he let fly with a rasping shot from outside the box into the top corner.

The visiting crowd went wild, David and I went wild, his team mates went wild and the home supporters clapped in gentle appreciation to what they had just witnessed a truly fantastic piece of skill by young Malvin.

Prior to the goal Muktarr had obviously been watching some old England videos and had tried to copy John Barnes fantastic piece of skill against Brazil (those who can remember  that far back) as he took on the whole of the Ise Lodge team. He went passed these with ease beat the goalkeeper twice but was unfortunately foiled by a defender on the line to prevent a truly fantastic individual effort.

It was a great team effort by every single player today, and just goes to prove anything is possible. Well done boys

Sunday 14/9/2008
Wellingborough Town 1-5 Kettering Generals

Goal Scorers: Matt

MOTM: Davis

With Wellingborough being the better of the 2 sides for the first 10 minutes. They couldn’t make the pressure count, and unfortunately went behind after a mix up in defence.

They worked hard to draw level with a great goal from Mat.

But further uncertainty in the defence was Wellingborough’s undoing.