Season 2015/2016 Award Winners!------------ 21/05/2016

First Team Players'  Player of the Year: 	Tom Brooks

First Team Manager's Player of the Year: 	Tom Brooks

First Team Goal of the Season: 		 	Gary Pilkington

First Team Golden Boot:				Gary Pilkington/Jamie Britton (9 goals)



Reserve Team Player's  Player of the Year: 	Bevan Burgess

Reserve Team Manager's Player of the Year: 	Callum Keeble

Reserve Team Goal of the Season:                Paul Strutt

Reserve Team Golden Boot:			Trevor Hollinsworth (5 Goals)



Most Promising Newcomer: 			Brandon Burton

Most Improved Player:     			Callum Keeble

Clubman of the year:      			Liam Hadley

Reserves Finish with Great Evening Entertainment!------------ 10/05/2016

We have 57. Yes 57 players signed on. And yet we struggle most weeks to put out two sides.

Taverners FC are a good club. The people that turn up week in week out are great characters and fun to be around. You would find it hard to find a friendlier place to play football on a Sunday morning.

It was not that long ago that both Taverners teams were in the top half of this league with players who were fit and committed to playing for the team. We all have commitments. We all have private lives to lead. That includes the guys who spend their time organising the football club. For 49 years now Bob, Frank and Pat have kept this club going. Please think about that and have some respect for the fact that they spend hours of their spare time doing this.

All we ask of you is that you commit to playing. Enjoy your Sunday morning football and work as a TEAM to bring a better result to our 50th season.

Bob is committed to keeping faith with the younger players even when they are still learning the game. You may think you know it all but stop for a moment and listen to the experience around you and you will become a better player. Talk to some of the older players and they will tell you that when they were your age they learnt the game from listening and watching the experienced players. In every single game I have ever played the words of advice from my Dad still go through my mind. Without his advice and that of many others I would never have done half the things I did in football. You will find this to be true in every older player at Taverners.

If you want to run rings around someone like Ray Sherman did on Tuesday night then listen to Ray when he tells you something.

Want to be voted player of the year then Paul Ryan, Andy Lambert and Tom Brooks can show you.

Want to be a quality defender watch Andy Lambert, Duncan Southgate and Bevan Burgess.

Be the key man in midfield, talk to Tom Brooks, Paul Ryan, Paul Bestley, Wayne Jordan.

Score and create goals. Daren Stevens, Trevor Hollinsworth, Gary Pilkington.

All have knowledge and experience you need and they all want you to be the best player you can be.

The team that played on Tuesday night were committed to getting a result. Rosary are a good side but the reality is that two of their goals were from our mistakes and not their quality of play. Brandon Burton saved all the efforts they created. Andy Lambert marshalled the defence and Paul Ryan the midfield.

We pulled back to 2-1 midway through the 2nd half and here is lesson number one for those who want to know.

Daren Stevens won a penalty by shielding the ball in the 18-yard box forcing the defender to try to go round him, which drew the foul. It was no accident. Daren forced him into the mistake.

Lesson two. Trevor Hollinsworth has not missed a penalty in over 5 years but came very close to letting the keeper save his spot kick. The reason was he concentrated on the keeper and not striking the ball. It is a fact with no exceptions that unless the keeper guesses and moves before the ball is kicked he cannot save a well-taken penalty. For over 5 years this is the first time he thought about the keeper instead of hitting the ball true and it will not happen again. Luckily the keeper could not hold the spot kick and we scored. With time running down Rosary scored again but this game goes to prove that we can compete and with a little more knowledge to iron out minor mistakes we can get bigger and better results next season.

Team: Burton, C Keeble (Bloomfield), Spalding, Lambert, Burgess (Sherman R.), Herridge, Strutt(Falkoner), Ryan, G Pilkington, Stevens(Sherman N.), Hollinsworth

Goal: Hollinsworth (Pen.)

First Team Finish with Fighting Finale!------------ 08/05/2016

The side showed several changes which meant the we took time to settle and Feathers took advantage with an early goal. However, we came back well and Daren Stevens’ dominance in the air provided Jawa Tacey with an opportunity which he accepted superbly, firing high past the keeper.

Jawa’s pace was worrying the Feathers defence and he was put clear by an excellent through ball from Kai Tunbridge to beat the keeper and give us a 2-1 lead. Despite the fine work of the whole defence – with Brandon Burton and David Spalding outstanding as dual centre halves - we were unable to maintain our lead and Feathers grabbed the equaliser.

Feathers went on to take the lead in the second half with a superbly struck goal but the Tavs pressed forward and forced several corners without managing the breakthrough. Daren Stevens went the closest with a near post header from Gary Pilkington’s inswinging corner. At the other end, Liam Siggers made several good saves and interceptions.

Certainly everyone in a Taverners shirt could leave the field at the end with head held high after a good team display.

Team: Siggers, C Keeble (Sub: W Pilkington), Spalding, Burton, Ripper, Tunbridge, Strutt (Sub: Herridge), G Pilkington, Falkoner, Tacey, Stevens.

Goals: Tacey(2)

First Team Stumble, Again!------------ 01/05/2016

Our problem is a lack of goals and this was illustrated on Sunday when we had by far the better share of the play – and more chances – than Trinity but came away 2-0 losers. We had a strong team, we played some neat football at times but we seemed to lack a ‘killer instinct’ in the box. Gary Pilkington and Tom Brooks hit the woodwork, other chances were saved or were poorly struck while we also saw a strong appeal for a penalty turned down.

A little bit of luck in the trinity box would have helped too!

Trinity themselves scored after ten minutes and netted a penalty for their second.

There were good points: Brandon Burton had a fine match at centre half while Kai Tunbridge showed good touches, particularly early on.

Our cause in our final game will not be helped by feared injuries and unavailabilities.

Team: Siggers, Tacey, Southgate (Sub: Burgess), Burton, High, Bestley (Sub: Hollinsworth), Tunbridge (Sub: W Pilkington), Jordan, Brooks, Ripper (Sub: Stevens), G Pilkington.

First Team fade after gallant start!------------ 24/04/2016

We defended resolutely in the first half and were grateful for Liam Siggers’ speed off his line and a series of good saves and interceptions. Brandon Burton did well at centre half while Daren Stevens made one marvellous clearance off the line so it was most unfortunate when he and Liam collided heavily to give the Feathers the lead.

Although we were generally under pressure, we broke quickly at times with Hector Falkoner showing up well wide on the right.

We remained only one or two goals behind for quite a spell and it was only in the closing spirits that we flagged and Feathers added three more goals.

It was good to see Matt Davis – injured at present – and we hope he will be back in a Taverners shirt before too long.

Team: Siggers, Tacey, Stevens, Burton, Burgess (Sub: W Pilkington), High, Falkoner, Jordan, Pilkington, Tunbridge, Hollinsworth.

First Team Falter in Promotion Push!------------ 17/04/2016

Having written off our defeat at the hands of Adastral Park as a ‘blip’ we approached our home game with Trinity with every confidence – hoping that we quickly regained the form which had produced our strong run since the autumn. Unfortunately, two bad examples of defending saw Trinity two up after only ten minutes.

Despite playing poorly, we fought back and should have been ahead by half time! Jawa Tacey saw his superb chip hit the far post with the goalkeeper nowhere while clear-cut headers went straight to the keeper and longer-range shots went high and wide. We conceded a third goal immediately after the break but reduced the arrears through Kai Tunbridge from a fine cross from Jawa.

Everyone in the Tavs camp were confident that we would pull the two goal deficit back as we dominated the play only to see chances missed and shots hit defenders nearly on the goal-line. However, Trinity were tremendous on the break and once a fourth goal went in our spirits dropped and we eventually finished 6-1 losers.

We have three matches left – enough to finish the season on a ‘high’ which will ensure this one is forgotten!

Team: Siggers, Burton, Lambert, Southgate, Ripper, Tunbridge, High, G Pilkington (Sub: Stevens), Jordan, Tacey, Brittain (Sub: Palmer).

No Easter cheer for Reserves!------------ 27/03/2016

With the wind at our backs in the first half, we managed to get forward a fair bit without really threatening the Playford goal. Darren Warner assumed his role, just in front of the back four, very well using his experience to good effect. Unfortunately, it was Playford who made the breakthrough and they added to their lead within a minute of the re-start.

A third goal settled things and Brandon Burton had to excel with speed off his line and good handling. Wayne Jordan helped us gain and keep possession for periods but our best chance fell to Hector Falkoner – lively and persistent throughout – who unfortunately lost his footing as he shaped to shoot.

Playford scored twice more but – bearing in mind the high wind that we faced in the second half – we kept our shape and all gave 100%.

The match was played in exemplary spirit and well-refereed by Tim Moore.

The only downside was the bizarre lack of changing/shower facilities at Farlingaye School which could be shrugged-off in the sun before the game but which were less amusing in the wintry conditions which greeted the final whistle!

Team: Burton, C Keeble (Sub: J Keeble), Bullamore (Sub: Byfield), Spalding, Hayward, Falkoner, Jordan, Warner, G Pilkington, W Pilkington, Palmer.

First Team's run comes to an end!------------ 20/03/2016

We looked sloppy early on and only one or two misses combined with a good save by Liam Siggers kept our goal intact. Gradually, we came into the game and a switch of wings by Kai Tunbridge and Jawa Tacey gave us a more incisive look as we approached the break. We grabbed the lead immediately before half-time when Kai chipped the keeper from a tight angle.

Unfortunately our determination at the interval wasn’t reflected in our play in the second half. We continued to give the ball away in poor areas and to dive into tackles. Two minutes of complete laxness saw Adastral score twice for a 2-1 lead.

With a good half hour left, we ‘huffed and puffed’ but never played the football of which we are capable. Few chances were created and three points slipped away.

Team: Siggers, Burton, Southgate, Lambert, High, Tunbridge(Brittain), Jordan, Ripper, Brooks, Tacey, Pilkington G.

Goal: Tunbridge

Reserves

Felixstowe Harpers Res. 6, Taverners Reserves 0

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Keeble C., Bloomfield, Spalding, Bullamore, Hayward(Keeble J.), Falkoner, Burgess, Stevens, Pilkington W., Hollinsworth, Herridge(Sherman N.)

First Team continue good run!------------ 13/03/2016

In fact, the Tavs began in style and produced some flowing football early on without any reward. We eventually took the lead when skipper Tom Brooks found the bottom corner from distance and we were then unlucky when a Gary Pilkington effort – rounding off a fine move – was ruled out by the offside flag.

At the other end, Rushmere thought they had equalised when a header found the net with the last action of the half but ‘birthday boy’ Liam Hadley’s flag was raised for offside.

The beginning of the second half was scrappy but gradually Taverners got on top with our solid-looking defence rarely troubled. We made it 2-0 when Wayne Jordan fired into the top corner. An excellent move brought our third goal, the tireless Pilky flicking on and Tom Brooks driving low into the corner.

A solid display by the whole team in which Sean High hardly put a foot wrong and Kai Tunbridge impressed.

Also good to see Andy Cracknell in support (and with ‘itchy feet!’) on the touchline.

Team: Siggers, Burton, Southgate, Lambert, High, Tunbridge, Jordan, Bestley, Brooks, Tacey (Sub: Ripper), Pilkington G.

Goals: Brooks(x2), Jordan

Reserves

Rosary CC 3, Taverners Reserves 0

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Keeble C., Spalding, Burgess, Bullamore, Hayward, Bloomfield, Strutt, Stevens, Sherman R., Hollinsworth, Sherman N.(Pilkington W.)

Reserves Run Rangers Reserves close!------------ 06/03/2016

The prophecy from Bob's garage states that "On any given Sunday. 11 men will wait patiently in the carpark of a Sainsburys for their 12 and 13th men. They will not arrive. 11 men will follow their manager into battle knowing that this day could be either the worst or the best Sunday of the season. The 11 men whether injured, unfit or just plain old will play above their station for the cause. The cause is Taverners and your faith in Sunday football will be restored."

So here we were with 11 players. 5 not fit for 90 minutes and 1 pregnant. Word was sent out and a 12th man did arrive through Darren Warner.

The team talk was about enjoying the game no matter what, talk to and encourage each other. Do not come off the field wondering why you still do this every week.

Another problem was that there was no referee for the second week running.

We set up very defensively with just one up front. Clearing our lines from almost their first attack a ball from Trevor Hollinsworth was chased down by Paul Strutt who's first time shot took a slight deflection to beat the oncoming keeper.

We set ourselves the task of frustrating Rangers and to this aim we did well keeping them to long range efforts which stand in keeper Brandon Burton dealt with very well.

Rangers only equalised when we failed to clear the ball in our 18 yard box. We had three or four chances to clear but Rangers hit the ball from close range to score.

1-1 at half time was better than we expected and made the half time talk very easy. All we had to do was maintain our positions and continue to frustrate Rangers.

We knew our fitness could be an issue late in the game so it was important that we chose our battles wisely.

Within 10 minutes of the restart we went ahead again when Paul Strutt was fouled in the area. Trevor Hollinsworth converted the penalty.

With time running by we were still holding our position. There were a few scares when we lost possession in prime areas leaving us short in midfield. Fitness was showing although Paul Strutt, Paul Bestley and Gary Pilkington coped with a lot of the work. Bevan Burgess and Rob Fisk marshalled the defence well.

In the end with Rangers pushing hard we lost our concentration and they scored twice in just two minutes.

We pressed for an equaliser and went close a few times but the opposition flag was raised everytime we went through. This was the only disappointing part of the game.

Both teams played well and fairly. It was a great pity their linesman did not participate in the fairness of the game.

It was without doubt the best game of the season. The Taverners prophecy never fails us every season.

Team: Burton, Keeble C., Burgess, Fisk, Hayward(Warner), Sherman R., Strutt, Bestley, Pilkington, Hollinsworth, Herridge,

Goals: Hollinsworth (Pen.), Strutt.

Reserves Run out of resistance against Rampant Raydon Ravens!------------ 28/02/2016

Team: Keeble. C, Bullamore(Burton), Lambert, Burgess, Hayward(Baldwin), Herridge, Strutt, Bestley, Pilkington, Stevens(Tunbridge), Hollinsworth

First Team Continue good start to second season with Brittain's second Hat-Trick!------------ 21/02/2016

The absence of a reserve match once again gave us great strength on the bench and we were grateful for this when Andy Lambert (himself coming back from injury) replaced Duncan Southgate who was struggling with a hamstring-pull midway through the first half.

With the advantage of the strong wind, the Tavs pressed forward in the boggy conditions and we took the lead when Brandon Burton’s fine cross was firmly headed home by Jamie Brittain. A through-ball from Kai Tunbridge gave Jamie the chance to burst through and beat the advancing keeper for number two. Knowing that we would be facing the wing after the break, we were eager to get a third goal but didn’t quite manage it, Wayne Jordan seeing one fine effort narrowly miss the far post.

The Eagles enjoyed more of the possession in the second half but everyone in a Taverners shirt marked well, supported one another, were strong in the tackle and quick to break although we had Liam Siggers to thank for one superb save from a strongly-hit free kick.

The next goal was clearly going to be vital and we went 3-0 up when Wayne’s pass found Kai who put Jamie Brittain away to coolly fire past the Eagles keeper; Jamie’s second hat-trick in successive games – a great effort.

Number four finished things off as Jawa Tacey’s corner found its way to skipper Tom Brooks who fired in from close range; Eagles reduced the arrears near the end.

This was another very solid performance in which everyone could take credit; particularly satisfying as The Eagles are themselves a good side who won’t drop many points this season.

Team: Siggers, Burton, Southgate (Sub: Lambert), Brooks, High, Tunbridge, Jordan, Stanojevic, Tacey (Sub: Hollinsworth), Pilkington (Sub: Bestley), Brittain (Sub: Stow).

Goals: Brittain(x3), Brooks

First Team Dish Out St. Valentine's Day Massacre!------------ 14/02/2016

Jamie Brittain’s corner was headed down by Brandon Burton and Guy Stow pounced to tap the ball in from close range for our first. Jamie was the provider again as Kai latched onto his superb pass and coolly ‘dinked’ over the advancing keeper for a great goal. Next, Jamie sent a free-kick into the box and Brandon headed home for a 3-0 lead.

Jamie Brittain was having a field-day and he made the tally four with a snappy shot after cutting in from the left. Next it was a direct free-kick from Jamie which flew into the top corner.

A foul on Jamie led to a clearcut spot-kick and the striker picked himself up and completed a fine hat-trick with the penalty; not to mention the assists in the first half!

After Adastral had pulled a goal back, Darren Frances made the score 7-1 and then Jawa Tacey netted from the spot after Jordan Ripper had been fouled.

A fine win in tricky windy conditions, followed by sausage & chips provided by Liam Siggers!

Action shots taken by the Tavs' Photographer Trevor Hollinsworth can be seen here

Team: Siggers, High, Southgate, Burton, Ripper, Stanojevic(Frances), Jordan, Pilkington G.(Keeble C.), Brittain(Hollinsworth), Tunbridge, Stow(Tacey)

Goals: Brittain(x3), Burton, Frances, Stow, Tacey, Tunbridge

First Team in rare Sunday Morning Nil-Nil!------------ 07/02/2016

We started strongly and our near-misses in the opening minutes suggested a straightforward victory which would have built on our fine performance last week. However, although the Tavs dominated possession, with the wind at our backs in the first half, we lacked direction in the final third and too often a long ball flew through to the R&D goalkeeper or out of play. Our best move ended with a great cross from Gary Pilkington which Kai Tunbridge just fail to head in and then Jawa Tacey got free on the left only to hit the post.

The second half saw a different story as R&D pressed forward and we were forced to show our defensive qualities. Andy Lambert and Duncan Southgate were cool while, behind them, Liam Siggers rescued several potentially difficult situations with his speed off the line and good judgement. We lost Andy Lambert, injured, but Brandon Burton moved into the middle and impressed there.

A late flurry of Taverners attacks saw Jamie Brittain hit the bar and several shots were blocked in the subsequent scramble.

Certainly a match which we should have won but might have lost; clean sheets are always welcome.

Team: Siggers, Burton, Lambert (Sub: High), Southgate, Ripper, Tunbridge, Brooks, Stanojevic, Tacey, Pilkington, Brittain

Reserves

Blakenham Chequers 6, Taverners Reserves 1

Trying to get my thoughts together on not only this game, but also the season so far.

So report the game.

We lost 6-1

Positives?

We did much better but still a long way from being able to compete even at this level.

We created a number of chances but due to circumstances before the game the best person to convert those chances was on the sideline.

We held the ball a bit better and we were more organised defensively. But we were still found wanting when they attacked at pace.

4-0 down by halftime. We did change things a little at halftime but not because anyone was under performing. We needed a bit more aggression in the attack. The second half started well but we were soon 5-0 down. To be very honest our fitness is abysmal. That goes right through the whole team. Even those with some fitness are affected by those with less because they have to over work to cover for this.

After going to 6-0 we finally broke through their defence. Daren Stevens chipped through ball into their 18 yard was met by Guy Stow who held off the defender to lift the ball over the oncoming keeper to score.

We have a dilemma and I would like to know your thoughts. We can carry on like this, but then we have to accept that we will be lucky to get just a few points every season. Next season Raydon and one other will move up the leagues but another decent team will replace them.

I enjoy the company of the guys in our team. So it’s easy just to say lets just carry on. But are you happy with that. Are you happy knowing you will lose 10-0 on more than one occasion in a season?

The other option is to actually do something about it. You can all play football but there are things missing which can only be addressed through training.

Number one is fitness. To do something about this means more time. I would love to do some fitness work but it needs your support and commitment to it. The second thing we need to do is simple drills. Passing, control, shooting.

The last thing we need to do is to get rid of some major bad habits. That means listening to advice and working on correcting these problems.

So your homework this week is to think about the team and how you feel about the things I’ve said.

The second thing I would like to know is. What would be your 15 players if you had the choice of the normal reserves we have available to us. Be very honest. If you think you should be in the team then put yourself in. Don’t pick anyone for being a nice guy. You can include two 1st team players you would use if the 1st does not have a game. Pick the team and formation you prefer. The list of possible squad is Matt Davis, Bevan Burgess, Julian Holmes, Callum Keeble, Bradley Hayward, Alan Baldwin, Rob Fisk, Paul Strutt, Sam Burrows, Trevor Hollinsworth, Ollie Ward, Ian Ward, Paul Ryan, Gary Cunningham, Fraser May, Ian May, David Spalding, James Bloomfield, Guy Stow, Gregg Palmer, Jordan Keeble, Daren Stevens, Ray Sherman, Darren Warner, Nathan Sherman.

The 1st team players who have been in our squad are Paul Bestley, Andy Lambert, Duncan Southgate, Jamie Brittain, Jordan Ripper, Kai Tunbridge, Gary Pilkington.

Then email or text your thoughts and team direct to me. And by the way you won’t be dropped if you leave me out. Be honest.

trevorjhollinsworth@gmail.com

I’ll use the results to form the top 15 players and that will form the basis of our team structure.

Team: Davis, Spalding, Burgess, Hayward(Hollinsworth), Bloomfield(Stevens), May F., Strutt, Fisk, Baldwin, Stowe, Herridge
Goal: Stow

First Team Start 'New Season' with a win!------------ 31/01/2016

However, we steadied ourselves in miserable conditions with a strong-back four performance and Tom Brooks’ move into midfield alongside the tireless Wayne Jordan being a notable success. We eventually equalised and then went ahead – in the absence of the ‘gaffer’ who was busy ferrying the injured Julien Holmes to A&E!

The returning Bob actually saw our second goal hit the net and was updated with the details by our delighted ‘caretaker manager’ Liam Hadley: Jamie Brittain had scored both goals, the first being a long-range free kick and the second a deft chip over the keeper.

The Tavs continued to defend well – full backs Brandon Burton and Jordan Ripper supporting Andy Lambert & Duncan Southgate in the middle superbly – and we played some good football going forward. In addition we battled for everything up and down the pitch.

We made the score 3-1 when ‘goal machine’ Gary Pilkington unleashed a great shot into the bottom corner and then Tom Brooks went close with two headers, one hitting the bar.

The Eagles came back with a goal from a free-kick but Taverners held onto the lead for a deserved victory in which everyone played their part to the full.

Team: Siggers, Jordan, Lambert, Southgate, Ripper, Burton, Tunbridge, Tacey, Pilkington G.(Stow), Brooks, Brittain(Frances).

Goals: Brittain(2),Pilkington



Reserves

Taverners Res. 0, Ipswich Rangers 10

It's hard to report without going through the same old story.

We could complain we didn't get the run of the ball.

We could genuinely ask why the referee gave so many decisions against us for minor touches and then let Rangers get away with the same thing.

We could wonder how did every loose ball land at the feet of a Rangers player.

We could blame our bad luck.

But the truth is that we did nothing to combat these things. The way you win over a game like this is to up your own game. Make your own luck. Enjoy the game no matter what the opposing team or referee put in your way. So who do we blame? .............Just ourselves.

If we want to compete then we have to take responsibility.

All of us need to learn how to pass a ball. Get fitter and re-discover how to play simple football.

We had one shot at goal, two corners and four free kicks in their half.

They broke away and scored directely from both our corners. They scored from three of our free kicks.

So instead of getting upset and blaming everything around us lets just play to our ability and enjoy Sunday morning football.

As a kid whenever I needed to get up for a game I would put on the England World Cup song "Back Home" from 1970. It will be a little old for nearly all of you. So get yourself onto You Tube and enter into the search 1970 #8. Back Home - England World Cup Squad

There you will see players like Bobby Moore, Bobby Charlton, Alan Ball, Gordon Banks, Terry Cooper, Francis Lee and Geoff Hurst. In the Brazil side Pele, Tostao, Jairzinho, Rivelino and the great Carlos Alberto.

To show you how important this game was to us as a nation I watched the game live on TV with my whole school. It was bigger than the moon landings the year before.

England lost the game 1-0 but in the grainy film on You Tube you will see the greatest save ever made at a world cup finals. And a team of players who inspired not only me but many thousands of young footballers. The whole school sang the song before during and after the game.

“Back home, they'll be thinking about us When we are far away Back home, they'll be really behind us In every game we play They'll share every goal we are scoring Out there We will still hear them roaring And we'll give all we've got to give For the folks back home.” So on Sunday just take a minute to let yourself know. Football is to be enjoyed. You don’t have to play. If you do not enjoy it then stop playing.

But if you are there on Sunday come to the game with a smile on your face. Win or lose it’s how you play the game that matters.

Team: Davis, Keeble C., Ward I.(Baldwin), Holmes(Pilkington W.), Hayward, May F., Strutt, Burgess, Palmer, Hollinsworth, Herridge

Soggy Start to Season for First Team------------ 29/01/16

We started to get into the match but were perhaps unfortunate to stand appealing for a free-kick which never came while Snape ‘played to the whistle’ and made the score 2-0; they added a third just before the break.

There had been no lack of effort by anyone in a Taverners shirt and we reduced the arrears when a free-kick from Jamie Brittain was headed across goal by Andy Lambert and Gary Pilkington nodded in to keep up his consistent goalscoring form.

Snape made the score 4-1 before we had a gilt-edged chance for a second but this was missed and, as we wilted in the deteriorating conditions, Snape added three more goals to run out clear winners; we wish them well in the next round.

Duncan Southgate had his usual sure-footed game at the back and we were delighted to see Andy Lambert back in Tavs colours. Andy had his usual outstanding match and this bodes well for the team’s future.

A word too for Brandon who made some good saves in the difficult conditions and whose spirit and determination was not diminished by the size of the scoreline.

Team: Burton, High (Sub: Hollinsworth), A Lambert, Southgate, Ripper, Tunbridge (Sub: Bestley), Jordan, Pilkington, Tacey, Brittain (Sub: Palmer), Stevens (Sub: Stow).
Goal: Pilkington

Reserves' Festive Fightback Falls short in Christmas Cracker!------------ 20/12/15

We are always looking for new players and old players returning to add to the squad. We are looking forward to Andy Lambert returning to our defence in the new year. Midfield is a key role in any team. These people are the engine room, the creators. So many people play this position believing they are responsible for the success of the team and take on too much. We have had gifted players in the team at times who just do not do enough for the team. If only they could see that sometimes less is more. The right pass at the right time is worth ten times a solo run.

Our balance was just not quite right in the first half. We played well but Adastral scored 3 times before half time. We converted to a back 3 with a 5 in midfield after half time. Adastral scored again but the formation was working better. At 4-0 down we had to change and made 2 substitutions. We attacked again and again. Within 30 minutes we were at 4-3 with 2 goals from Gary Pilkington and one from Paul Strutt.

Our lack of fitness was beginning to show as the end of the game drew nearer and we could not get the equaliser. So another cup run comes to an end. A managers job is always difficult but sometimes it is frustrating when players are not honest about their own abilities. We need everyone to be part of the squad. I want everyone to play a part. But sometimes the game dictates the amount you can use players.

Team: Davis, Keeble C., Burgess, Burton, Baldwin(Holmes(Hayward)), Fisk(Ward O.), Bestley, Jordan, Strutt(Hollinsworth), Pilkington G.(Pilkington W.), Herridge
Goals: Pilkington G.(2), Strutt

Back to Blanks!------------ 07/12/15

Our success had been based upon a fairly stable line-up – vital at any level of football – but we had to make several changes including a virtual clean-sweep in our defence. The first half saw the Feathers enjoy the advantage of the strong wind and their speedy attacks – combined it must be said by some ineffective tackling on our part – saw them score at regular intervals to lead 4-0 at the break.

It could have been worse as Liam Siggers – in the Taverners goal – made a marvellous save from a Feathers spot-kick.

We enjoyed a good start to the second half and Guy Stow finished coolly to reduce the arrears from a pass by the busy Wayne Jordan. However, our come-back petered out as the Feathers regained control and they added a fifth goal.

For the Tavs, David Spalding enjoyed a good game, both at right back and then following a switch into the middle of the back four.

Team: Siggers, Spalding, Southgate, Stevens, Burgess(Frances), Tunbridge(Byfield), Bestley(Palmer), Jordan, Tacey, Pilkington G., Stowe

Goal: Stowe



Reserves

Taverners Res. 0, Felixstowe Rangers Res. 4

After such a good result last week against opposition probably better than Rangers this result was hard to take. The weather conditions were almost identical and our team with only two changes.

In truth we did not play any worse than the previous week. The difference was that Rangers adapted very well to the conditions and played well against the wind.

We were against the wind in the first half which was difficult but we coped with almost everything Rangers threw at us. On the few occasions they did get through Matt Davis was there with some great saves to keep us in the game. 1-0 at half time we thought was very positive. However in the second half we did not use the conditions to our advantage. We threatened a few times but zero shots on target was very disappointing.

Rangers performed well against the wind and took their three goals very well.

Team: Davis, Keeble C., Ward I., Holmes(Baldwin), Hayward(Keeble J.), Burrows, Fisk, Strutt, Hollinsworth, Pilkington W., Herridge

First win of season for reserves for Strutty's 200th Game!------------ 30/11/15

However, David Spalding settled in well at right back while Brandon Burton’s switch to centre half was a resounding success; hardly a tackle, interception or header missed all morning. (Nice tip-off to the boss, Jordan!) In addition, Paul Bestley was tidy and competitive and Daren Stevens was a handful for the Old Boys defenders throughout.

Our recent success has relied upon tremendous hard-work and a willingness to battle back when a move breaks down which has seen a good team spirit to emerge and this was again evident.

The tricky conditions made it difficult for both teams and there were few chances. The Old Boys went close with a header and some dangerous crosses early on while we produced one or two centres and half chances; but nothing really clear-cut in front of goal.

The game seemed destined for a goalless draw when Tom Brooks – once again playing a captain’s role - launched in a free-kick from just inside the Old Boys half and the ball flicked off an unfortunate defender’s head over his keeper for our dramatic winning goal, and our win was made the sweeter as the news filtered through that the reserves had recorded their first victory of the season at Greshams

Our run has seen two clean sheets and, once again, Liam Siggers showed why with a cool display between the sticks.

Club statisticians report that it is six years since the first team produced such a good sequence of wins; however, our current run is more impressive as it came after a miserable first half of the ‘autumn campaign’ which saw us rock-bottom in the league table only a few weeks ago.

Well done everyone!

Team: Siggers, Jordan, Brooks, Stevens, Ripper, Spalding, Burton, Tunbridge, Tacey, Pilkington G.(Frances), Bestley

Goal: Brooks



Reserves

Taverners Res. 4, Playford Res. 2

Sooner or later things had to go our way. We came close to our first win of the season a couple of times but things did not quite go our way.

This great result is down to hard work. We were by no means perfect but we were determined. Players of note were Matt Davis, Bevan Burgess, Julian Holmes, Paul Strutt and Rob Fisk. But rather than these players having to cope fully with the game every single other player put in as much as they had and that meant that Playford had a game on their hands.

A heavy pitch and strong wind meant this was going to be about the team who coped quickest with the conditions.

Taverners took the lead when Trevor Hollinsworth crossed to the edge of the 18 yard box to find Rob Fisk who gathered the ball and finished with a bullet shot.

With the strong wind against us we were under pressure. Matt Davis pulled off a number of exceptional saves to keep us in the game. In the main we coped well with this but a wind assisted shot and a bad bounce due to the heavy conditions gave Playford a 2-1 lead.

We kept pressing against the conditions and were rewarded with just seconds of the first half left. From a corner Playford failed to clear twice and when the ball bounced up Darren Herridge was there to head home.

With the elements on our side in the second half we pressed. Chance after chance went begging. It was another corner which gave us the lead. Swung into the far post Paul Strutt headed powerfully against the bar, Sam Burrows shot from the rebound was blocked and the ball landed at the feet of Rob Fisk who's shot hit Darren Herridge in the 6 yard box beating the sprawling keeper.

Playford were now pressing against the wind to draw level leaving themselves short in defence. This gave Taverners a number of opportunities which were not taken. Finally Paul Strutt on his 200th game for Taverners gathered the ball on the edge of the box beating one player to fire strongly passed the keeper.

Strong second half performances from Callum Keeble and Will Pilkington added to players already playing well. Can we do this every week? Yes we can. We still have fitness issues and we will not beat everyone but with this commitment we will give everyone problems and we will win more games.

Strutty receiving his trophy for playing 200 games can be seen here


Team: Davis, Keeble C., Burgess, Holmes(Pilkington W.), Hayward(Keeble J.), Burrows, Fisk, Strutt, Hollinsworth, Baldwin, Herridge


Goals: Fisk, Herridge(2), Strutt

Three in a row for First Team!------------ 22/11/15

However, we had the same goalkeeper and back four combination as in our last two games and this stability always helps. We were reliant on yet another outstanding display at centre half by Tom Brooks who led the team by example but, even for all our hard work, we allowed Celtic too much space in the first half and were fortunate that – apart from their goal – our opponents were wild in their finishing.

The second half was a completely different story as the Tavs swept forward and we had the boost of an early equaliser. Jamie Brittain – unlucky to see a first half effort disallowed for offside – knocked in a fine pass and Jawa Tacey came in from the left and fired a great shot past the keeper.

A substitution saw the hard-working Greg Palmer limp out of the action and Gary Pilkington marked his switch upfront with a goal from his first touch! Pilky knicked the ball past the advancing keeper and covering defender from a defence-splitting pass from Jamie Brittain.

Celtic were far from finished but their most dangerous player was well handled by the duo of Brandon Burton and the tireless Kai Tunbridge while substitute Rico Stanojevic immediately linked up well with Wayne Jordan in the middle of our midfield.

We made the score 3-1 with a similar move to our first goal; another fine pass from Jamie and a decisive finish by Jawa as he ‘ghosted’ in at the far post.

More good defensive work was needed – Duncan Southgate cool and decisive while Jordan Ripper gave nothing away. Behind them, Liam Siggers showed good anticipation and clean handling in goal.

Another excellent team effort – well played everyone including Paul Bestley and Will Pilkington who weren’t to see action because of the tightness of the play.

Team: Siggers, Jordan, Brooks, Southgate, Ripper, Burton, Tunbridge, Tacey, Pilkington G., Palmer(Stanojevic), Brittain.
Goals: Pilkington, Tacey(2)



Reserves

Raydon Ravens 11, Taverners Res. 0

Maybe we knew we were up against it from the start but we set ourselves up well and for the first 15 minutes we kept Raydon down to a few long range shots.

Rob Fisk, Bevan Burgess, David Spalding and Paul Strutt stuck to the task of leading the younger players. However to maintain this level of resistance for 90 minutes was always going to be hard.

Raydon broke through to score 3 times in quick succession and we started to falter.

Raydon led 9-0 by half time.

We changed a few things at half time. A combination of those changes and the fact that Raydon got over confident meant we showed more in the second half and kept them to just two goals.

Everyone gave their all and the whole team deserves credit. But we need a few more of the experienced players here every week. We all have busy lives but it would be bliss to be able to play people in their best positions rather than filling in for someone who is missing.

So last week I questioned myself and what reason I had to carry on turning up every Sunday morning to get beaten by younger and fitter teams.

Why do I set a bigger priority to Sunday morning than others. Maybe this is one of the reasons and maybe some of you have never felt this feeling.

The first competitive team I played for was Cornard Corinthians. We got beat every week. Our manager left because we lost and he couldn't take it.

Our new manager Joe Treacey told us that before you can win you have to learn. Losing is part of that lesson.

Towards the end of the season we were playing the best team in our league. Cornard Spartans had every decent footballer from our area. They were unbeaten.

Joe our manager stood with us before the game and told us we were ready to win. All we had to do was to believe it. He told each of us how good we were and how much he wanted us to be the best player we could be.

Although miles apart in the league this was the local derby. It was a beautiful sunny day at Cornard rec. A decent sized crowd was there. Our parents to support us and Spartans parents turned up to see us get thrashed.

But Joe was right. We were ready. We played out of our skins. Joe screaming orders and encouragement. Drawing 1-1 with just minutes to go.

Joe was telling us they've given up they want the draw. Their manager and parents were in quite shock having beaten us 12-0 earlier in the season.

We were almost out on our feet but with Joe screaming even louder we attacked again. Kevin Steed hit a shot which the keeper Dave Thompson could not hold and the ball fell to my feet for a simple tap in. The whole team went insane. Joe ran onto the pitch, I was in the middle of a mass huddle but I looked up to see Joe with tears streaming down his face. The final whistle blew and few minutes later and the celebrations began again. It was the most perfect feeling I had ever felt.

That morning everyone became a player. Kevin Steed, Roland Cheeseman, Neil King, Andy Treacey and I all went on to play semi pro football. All I believe in some part because of that day.

So when I question myself why I still turn up every Sunday. This feeling is the reason.

See if you can spot the future Taverners' all time leading goal scorer in his younger days here
Next Week - More blasts from the past!

Team: Davis, Keeble C., Spalding, Burgess, Keeble J., Bloomfield, Strutt, Fisk, Henry(Hayward), Byfield(Hollinsworth), Baldwin

Reserves lose out in 10 goal mud-bath------------ 15/11/15

But all the changes to the squad and formation seemed to be working in the first 10 minutes we pressed and were rewarded when Jamie Brittain put Gary Pilkington free to beat the keeper. However a series of mistakes left us finishing the first half 3-1 down. We were playing some of the best football seen this season and the score by no means reflected the play.

With the wind behind us we took the game to Claydon in the second half. Jamie Brittain and Wayne Jordan were causing major problems. The keeper could not hold onto a cross from Rob Fisk and the ball spilled into the 6 yard box for Jamie Brittain to pounce to make it 3-2. Then just 5 minutes later Jamie Brittain was put through with just the keeper to beat and he chipped over the advancing keeper to make it 3-3.

We were now in total control of the game so it was totally against play when Claydon again took the lead after a breakaway attack. They made it 5-3 when we again lost the ball in an attack and they broke away to score.

Even with this lead we were still playing well. But the situation got harder when Jamie Brittain received a straight red card for retaliation.

The numbers were levelled a few minutes later when Darren Herridge was fouled in the box for a penalty. The player was sent off. Trevor Hollinsworth converted the penalty.

With 15 minutes left and only a goal between us the game again swung our way. So it was majorly frustrating when a simple clearance was under hit leaving the Claydon player an easy shot to score.

Quote of the week.

"Losing... Really does say something about who you are.

Among other things it measures are:

Do you blame others, or do you own the loss ?

Do you analyse your failure, or just complain about bad luck?

If you're willing to examine failure, and to look not only at your outward physical performance, but your internal workings, too, losing can be valuable.

How you behave in these moments can perhaps be more self-defining than winning could ever be. Sometimes losing shows you who you really are. "

Wise words you might say. Except these words were said by Lance Armstrong one of the worst drug taking cheats of all time.

No. Losing drains your energy, knocks your confidence and is one of the worst feelings. We all own the loss. And if you want to examine our failure to win then it has to be primarily fitness. When we needed to track back we could not. But beyond all of that. This was an enjoyable game. The result stinks but the game was good.

Team: Davis, Spalding, Stevens, Burgess(Hayward), Fisk(Byfield), Cunningham, Jordan, Pilkington G., Keeble C.(Hollinsworth), Brittain, Herridge
Goals: Brittain(2), Hollinsworth (Pen.), Pilkington

Two in a row for First Team!------------ 08/11/15

As last week, the Tavs played five in the midfield including the returning Jamie Brittain who had an outstanding match in a ‘free’ role. Jamie made himself lots of space and Capel found him difficult to mark.

Both teams had their moments in the first half with Tom Brooks standing out at the heart of the Taverners defence and, in Brooksy’s words, Brandon Burton ‘playing a blinder’ at right back.

We were unlucky when a tremendous cross from Jawa Tacey flew across the face of the goal with no one able to get a touch and then Pilky was unfortunate to find the net with a thoroughly accidental hand-ball but one which could hardly be ignored by the referee.

As the second half wore on, we became more and more dangerous and we got the breakthrough when Kai Tunbridge played in Jamie Brittain who had ‘ghosted’ in on the left and Jamie swept the ball into the far corner; our cheers might have been heard back at Greshams!

It had always looked as though one goal would settle the match and so it proved with the Tavs fully deserving the points with the best team display seen for the club for some time.

Once again, the blend of youth and experience worked well with everyone deserving the highest praise.

Team: Siggers, High(Stanojevic), Brooks, Southgate, Ripper, Burton, Tunbridge, Tacey, Pilkington, Palmer(Stow),Brittain.
Goal: Brittain



Reserves

Taverners Res. 0, Felixstowe Harpers Res. 8

Yet again we found ourselves outplayed in almost every department. No excuses. We have played Harpers on numerous occasions over the past few seasons. They look more organised this season. They wanted this game more than us.

We started ok and got into decent positions but the way we were forced to play by Harpers would leave the attack with no support.

I simply have no explanation for these results. So I must turn to the professional game for guidance.

Jose Mourinho.

He has said.

"Individual players don't win trophies, teams win trophies, squads win trophies"

If you look back over this season I wonder what I can do to change our fortunes.

With a depleted team we lost 10-0 to Orford. With a strong team some weeks later we lost 11-0

I have talked about teams like Orford and Rushmere being in our league to win plastic medals. But Harpers beat Orford last week 7-2 and Harpers are not falsely in our league.

A few seasons ago we lost 10-0 and 8-0 to Briarbank in the league. Then we played them in the Cup Final. We competed and played them off the park. We were winning 1-0 with just 30 secs to go.

So what can I learn from this?

Maybe we just do not want to win enough on a normal Sunday. Maybe some of us are just not fit enough, experienced enough. Some of us think we are better than we really are. And that takes us back to Jose

"Teams win trophies, squads win trophies.

" There are a lot of players past and present at this club who come from a different world when it was a joy to play football. They would do anything for a game. Any weather, any day. To find this love and passion for the game in the younger players is rare in today's game.

So what can we do this week to give AFC Claydon and game ?

Maybe some motivational speeches....

Guess who said these pearls of wisdom.

"If you want to play on your own. Go and play tennis.

" "I would not be bothered if we lost every game as long as we won the league. "

"He covers every blade of grass out there... But that's only because his first touch is so crap. "

I know that we can turn up Sunday morning with our mates. Get involved in some dressing room banter, then go out on the pitch, play as a team and enjoy the game of football which people like Bob, Frank, me and and most of you guys have loved since the day we started walking and talking. I'm looking forward to it. See you Sunday.

Team: Davis, Fisk, Stevens, Spalding, Burgess(Hayward), Sherman R., Cunningham(Pilkington W.), Strutt(Paterson), Keeble C.(Bloomfield), Herridge(Sherman N.), Hollinsworth

First win for First Team!------------ 01/11/15

And a tremendous performance too, as all thirteen Taverners players on duty gave 100% effort throughout, working hard and battling for everything. And with skill and teamwork provided by the combination of youth and experience.

We got off to a great start when Jawa Tacey’s corner was headed in by Gary Pilkington at the near post but then saw the Old Boys fight back and score twice before half-time with goals which really should have been prevented. However, the second period saw the Tavs driving forward and we got our reward when a handling offence was punished and Tom Brooks fired home from the spot for 2-2.

Good work out on the left saw Jawa break into the box and his low cross was flicked in by the raiding Brooksy to give Taverners a 3-2 lead. With our tails-up, we attacked again and a fine through ball by Guy Stow saw the hardworking Pilky in space and he ‘brought the house down’ with a superb chip over the keeper for our fourth goal and his eighth in as many appearances. A big contender for ‘Goal of the Season’ already!

Hardly had the cheers died down when the Old Boys pulled back a goal with a well-taken effort and they still had time to force a great save from Liam Siggers before the final whistle signalled a win for the Tavs to savour.

Team: Siggers, High, Brooks, Southgate, Ripper, Burton, Tunbridge(Paterson), Jordan, Tacey, Pilkington, Palmer(Stow).
Goals: Brooks(2), Pilkington(2)



Reserves

Ipswich Rangers 5, Taverners Res. 0

There are some weeks when writing this report is easy and the words appear effortlessly from my weird mind to the paper.

While thinking of what to tell you I realised that today was more a war of words than a football contest.

It all started when their Centre Half called me 'Fatty'..... I was hurt!

But as I looked back at him standing there with nothing else in his vacant mind to say and his shirt barely covering his oversized stomach I thought Maybe he should have gone for an XL shirt.

Maybe his cutting remark was made because he is looking for someone he can deflect his fatness onto.

We unfortunately were the victims of yet another series of no shows. 3 in all. Two of which were in the starting lineup. But we were playing ok. Ipswich Rangers were beatable.

They had nothing in attack. Their Centre Forward couldn't hit a barn door with a banjo. So it was so annoying when he found himself clear with just Matt Davis to beat.

He somehow fumbled the ball passed Matt. It was nearly as bad as his celebration which involved running to the corner flag where he celebrated with an imaginary crowd.

We didn't deserve this but at half time we were 1-0 down.

We also lost Ian May who was doing well filling in at centre half midway through the 1st half.

It all sparked up again when Matt Davis who was superb in goal made his only mistake of the game. A miss hit free kick was heading safely for Matts hands. Maybe the mistake was made because catching the ball looked so easy. Unfortunately the ball went straight through Matts hands for their second goal.

The war of words started when their rather juvenile defender was jogging back he shouted his thanks to Matt for the goal. Again I feel this is born of the fact that their striker is so dreadful and maybe he really was grateful for Matts help.

The fat centre half was being quite and instead resorted to using his elbows and forearms on any occasion possible which the referee deemed to be fair.

So accepting that the referee was letting the game flow it was a complete mystery when he awarded a penalty after one of their players fell over his own feet with neither Ollie Ward or Rob Fisk close enough to affect him. We had no words.

It was obvious that the ref was trying to calm down what was turning into a fractious game by making an example of someone. It was unfortunately the weakest penalty decision I have ever seen.

The fat centre half joined forces with the ref when he wrestled Darren Francis to the floor. Darren was sent off for letting the referee know his view of the incident.

When asked politely by Sam Burrows why he didn't give a foul he said it was a 50/50 incident. Unfortunately 22 players saw a foul.

So the game was over but the war has only just begun. Looking forward to welcoming them to Greshams later this season...... Note to self.... Must start that diet before I meet the Fat Centre Half again!

Team: Davis, Keeble C.(Hadley), Hollinsworth, Strutt, Warner, Fisk, Ward O., Pilkington W.(Baldwin), May I.(Henry), Burrows, Frances

Reserves out of County Cup------------ 25/10/15

It was without doubt a beautiful setting. A leafy park beside the West Suffolk Hospital. The sun was shinning and Bob's coffee was as incredible as ever. Even an ice cream van turned up.

But within this idyllic setting was the reality that there were just two players on the field who had started the game last week. We were forced to play a lot of new players who would normally be given time to bed in.

Will Pilkington made his debut and did very well. Other notable players were Ollie Ward, Callum Keeble and Paul Ryan. But the man of the match was Matt Davis who pulled off a number of superb saves.

We had injuries and absences which, were explained

But there were a number of players who were contacted about playing and did not even bother to reply. Some of these players were asking to play in previous games. I just do not get it.

Don’t tell me you didn’t receive the text, because you did.

Don’t tell me you didn’t read it, because you did.

So please tell me why your schedule is so busy and you are so important that you find it impossible to spend a few seconds replying to a text from the team you play for.

The only thing you did do was to ignore it. Pathetic.

Team: Davis, Ryan, Ward I., Ward O., Hayward, Herridge, Francis, Paterson, Baldwin, Henry, Pilkington W., Hadley.

Reserves secure first point of season------------ 18/10/15

Special thanks to the whole team. Sincere apologies to Alan Baldwin and Chris Henry who unfortunately did not get on. It was unfortunate for them that the game was just too close to make a change.

The first half was close and chances were made for both teams. Blackenham took the lead when a speculative cross from close range evaded Matt Davis and the front post for a tap in.

We knew we needed just a little bit more fire in midfield so a tactical change at halftime saw the introduction of Jordan Ripper. It proved to be the right decision and Taverners equalised when we broke out of defence and Darren Herridge was put through. Jordan Ripper ran 40 yards to the far post where he was found by Darren and Jordan bravely beat the keeper to score.

Taverners were now a threat and pressed foward.

Everyone was playing to their own strengths. But special mention to Ian Ward and Fraser May who were solid at the centre of defence. Darren Herridge caused many problems for the Blackenham defence. Taverners took the lead when an in swinging corner from Trevor Hollinsworth was not dealt with at the front post and the ball deflected into the goal after the faintest of touches from Pilky.

Blackenham came back at us but we continued to deal with their attacks. With just ten minutes left we lost Fraser May to injury from a studded tackle.

The change was something we did not need at that point and Blackenham had a number of near misses. They eventually equalised with just a few minutes left on the clock.

Well done everyone. Now we need to build on this confidence and produce more games just like this.

Team: Davis, Fisk (Keeble C.), Ward I., May F.(Hayward), Burgess, Burrows, Pilkington, Southgate, Herridge, Hollinsworth, Paterson (Ripper)
Goals: Pilkington, Ripper

Reserves suffer another heavy defeat------------ 11/10/15

So enjoy your plastic medals at the end of the season. When the leagues get too difficult you can just change your name again and drop down.

So to the real team. So many positives.

Fraser May looks to be an excellent signing. Looking forward to playing alongside both Ian May and Ian Ward when they return fully.

Sam Burrows was excellent for his first game for a few years.

In reality we were playing against a Division One side and we did well. We were a threat and four good chances in the first half just needed that little bit of luck to bring us back into the game.

Unfortunately a few more clear opportunities were stopped through a poor referee who even admitted that he was close to overruling the linesman.

We finally got the goal we deserved when Gary Pilkingtons header hit the bar and Trevor Hollinsworth volleyed in the rebound.

We have now played Orford and Rushmere twice so we can get on with the real season against teams who are supposed to be in this league.

Team: Davis, Fisk (Keeble C.), Burgess, Southgate, Ripper (Pilkington), Burrows, Ryan (Baldwin), Beatley, May F., Herridge, Hollinsworth
Goal: Hollinsworth

Early Shield Exit for First Team!------------ 04/10/15

The first half was even although the Tavs started brightly and looked dangerous going forward. Unfortunately, we showed little inside the Martlesham box and our opponents rarely got a shot in although Liam Siggers was called upon to tip one effort over the bar. The first goal was clearly going to be vital and it came to Martlesham in a bizarre way with the last kick of the first half.

Martlesham began the second half with confidence and made several good chances which they wasted. Our closest effort was a superb cross from the raiding Sean High which ‘begged’ for an attacker to head for goal.

A second Martlesham goal forced the Tavs to throw men forward and, as so often happens, the gaps left behind gave Martlesham the chance to add two more goals before the end.

It was good to see David Spalding in action and one definite ‘plus point’ was the performance of Jordan Ripper, both at right back and after a switch to centre half.

The first team now have an unwanted break before they have the opportunity to put this wretched start to the season behind them.

The last few weeks has seen a number of new young players signing on and spirit in the club remains strong – 26 at training last Thursday! October should see the reserve team have the opportunity to stabilise after their difficult start.

Team: Siggers, Ripper, Brooks, Stevens (Sub: Spalding), High, Tunbridge, Bestley, Jordan, Pilkington, Brittain, Palmer (Sub: Hollinsworth).

Goals Galore, at wrong ends!------------ 27/09/15

Given the amount of possession we enjoyed, the corners we forced and the chances we had in front of goal, the game should have been over – in Taverners favour – by half-time. However, just when we seemed poised to win the match – having fought back from 0-2 to 2-2 shortly after half-time – we were undone at a corner and Northam Celtic never looked back, going on to extend their lead to 6-2.

There were plus-points: Sean High had a solid game at right back and Jamie Brittain looked lively, full of pace and awareness on his first game of the season.

Our goals came from a long-range effort from Gary Pilkington – his third goal in successive matches – and Greg Palmer who slid home after great work by Jamie Brittain.

Team: Siggers, High, Stevens, Southgate, Ripper, Bestley, Tunbridge, Brittain, Tacey, Pilkington, Palmer.
Goals: Palmer, Pilkington

Reserves

Taverners Res. 0, Real Orford 8

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Davis, Keeble J., Hollinsworth, Burgess, Warner, Keeble C., Ward O., Fisk, Baldwin, Sherman N.(Henry), Herridge

First Team Fight Back For First Points of Season!------------ 20/09/15

Adam Gardiner looked strong on his debut while Jordan Ripper once again showed good touches and involved himself in several attacking moves.

However, the Feathers were lively on the counter-attack and, following a good Taverners spell when we seemed to be building up some pressure, they took the lead after we had lost possession. They came close to making it two with a curling shot which hit the far post.

We got off to the worst-possible start to the second half when a lack of concentration allowed Feathers through but gradually we came back into the game and we grabbed a lifeline when Greg Palmer was fouled and Tom Brooks fired home the spot-kick.

Time seemed to be running out but the Tavs continued to press with great spirit and a point was gained when Sean High produced a deep cross and Gary Pilkington headed in.

Team: Siggers, High, Brooks, Southgate, Ripper (Sub: Revell), Tunbridge (Sub: Hollinsworth), Bestley, Gardiner, Tacey, Stevens (Sub: Palmer), Pilkington.
Goal: Brooks(pen.),Pilkington

Action shots can be seen here

Gallant Failure, again!------------ 13/09/15

Not so!

Our ten men buckled down to give a magnificent account of themselves – every player was a credit to himself and to the club – battling for everything for ninety minutes and being so unfortunate to have nothing in the way of points to show for it in the end. But sometimes football is above points and everyone wearing a Taverners shirt could feel pride in their morning’s work.

After soaking up some heavy pressure we showed that we could be dangerous on the break, playing some good football going forward. A great cross from Jawa Tacey gave Gary Pilkington a heading chance while the dynamo Wayne Jordan saw a header saved and Jawa fired over.

At the other end, Liam Siggers commanded his box well while Daren Stevens and Duncan Southgate gave little away, well-supported by Ray Sherman and the strong Jordan Ripper at full back.

In the second half, once again we defended well and counter-attacked effectively, the speedy Kai Tunbridge hitting the bar with a great effort. On the hour mark we took the lead when Rico Stanojevic found Pilky and the Evertonian rifled the ball in.

With fifteen minutes left Capel grabbed the equaliser and then scored the winner three minutes from time.

On the broader front, the game was played in a great spirit and well refereed by Mark Wright.

Team: Siggers, sherman, Stevens, Southgate, Ripper, Tunbridge, Stanojevic, Jordan, Tacey, Pilkington.
Goal: Pilkington

Reserves

Real Orford 9, Taverners Res. 0

How many more teams in our league are teams which have moved down the leagues by disbanding and starting up again?

The players we have who turn up every week are a good bunch of lads who enjoy the pre-match banter, but how long will that remain if we are the whipping boys for these teams who glory hunt in the lower leagues.

They will do it again in a few years because as they get promoted every year they will play teams they cannot beat 9-0. They will get bored, disband and start again.

Teams like us will not and cannot continue.

So it's up to the league. If they want this league to survive then put teams in at a level that suits their ability. It's not right or fair that the lowest leagues suffers every single season.

We did well first half. We did not pressure Orford to much up front but we contained them. Paul Strutt and Rob Fisk performed well in the centre of midfield. Bevan Burgess also kept the defence together after losing Julian Holmes early to injury. 3-0 at half time and all the goals were mistakes on our part.

The second half saw us lose Paul Strutt through injury and we played for much of the half with only ten men. Orford had no problem stretching us and attacking at will.

Unfortunately we have inexperienced players in all departments. Perhaps we should introduce a new rule. Every player can only have two touches before he either passes or shoots. Perhaps we should teach these players about the importance of being a team player.

If you want to be Ronaldo then you better be good at it. A near miss is in reality a missed opportunity. No excuses.

Learn how to be part of the team and then opportunities will come your way. Do your job in your position and then other players will not have to cover for you taking them out of their own position.

We have strength in Bevan Burgess, Paul Strutt, Rob Fisk, Matt Davis, Ollie Ward, Julian Holmes and Trevor Hollinsworth. But that strength is stretched when they have to cover for others. When they have to move out of position they are not at their strongest.

Trust in their knowledge of the game and use it to become a better player. We need to develop the new players. But right now we have too many learning at one time.

The team we want to field is yet to be available on a Sunday. Looking forward to the return of Paul Ryan, Ian Ward, Karl Dawson, Gary Pilkington. But we also need the first team to have a full selection of players.

Taverners would be competing in both leagues for top half positions if the players were available.

Team: Davis, Keeble C., Holmes(Hadley), Burgess, Keeble J., Baldwin, Strutt, Fisk, Stowe, Ward O., Hollinsworth

Deja Vu for first team, but reserves ship 10------------ 06/09/15

Despite having to make so many changes, the Tavs began confidently with everyone relishing the task and helping each other throughout. Daren Stevens and Tom Brooks were rock-like at the back with Liam Siggers giving everyone confidence with a commanding goalkeeping performance – quick off his line, good handling and several fine saves.

We had a good outlet in Jawa Tacey on the left and it was his corner which brought the opening goal, a rebounded own goal finding the net. Another cross saw the speedy young Kai Tunbridge go close while a jinking run from Jawa deserved a goal, the ball flashing past the far post.

Wellington managed to equalise before the break but the Tavs continued to do well until beyond the hour mark when Wellington went ahead and then added two more goals in a purple patch. It would have been easy for Taverners to cave in but we stuck to the task well and can look back on some positives.

Team: Siggers, Burgess, Brooks, Stevens, Ripper(Revell), Tunbridge, Bestley, High, Strutt, Tacey, Palmer
Goal: Own Goal

Reserves

Taverners Res. 1, Rushmere Lions 10 (Ten)

As with every season we had high expectations. They were dampened slightly by a serious number of people not ready for the start of the season. A total of 14 first choice players were not available. We still fielded two teams with 24 players. However the missing players was never going to help.

We can continue to blame many things. But apart from the league allowing our opponents to fold and start up again in lower leagues the rest is our fault.

We do not train properly and we are not fit. We have players who need to learn how to deal with situations on the field and they will not learn unless we teach them. They will not learn unless they listen to the biggest strength we have. Experience.

This we have in abundance. But unfortunately this week we had no choice but to throw people in the deep end and hope they did ok. And in the main they were fine.

The pace of Rushmere was just too much. The quality of their team although made to look better by us should not be in the lowest league.

We were 5-0 down by half time. Matt Davis was excellent in goal and he alone kept to score down. We did better in the 2nd half. But we had no attacking threat. As quickly as we cleared the ball, it just came straight back.

The solution to this is simple. We need fitter players and we need more people available every week.

Expectations are still high. We have 14 first choice players still to return. With these people we can play against Rushmere.

But we all have to think about fitness and we all need to learn more about doing the right things during the 90 minutes on a Sunday.

Rushmere scored another 5 in the 2nd half but they had to work a bit harder to get them. We were awarded a penalty on 90 minutes which Trevor Hollinsworth put away. It was the only shot we had from the whole game.

Looking forward to playing Rushmere again with a full squad.

Team: Davis, Hadley(Sherman N.), Holmes, Ryan, Cunningham, Stow, Herridge, J. Keeble, C. Keeble, Baldwin, Hollinsworth
Goal: Hollinsworth (Pen.)

First Team start season with defeat------------ 30/08/15

The usual number of team-changes meant that the Tavs took a time to settle against a team who looked good coming forward and we fell behind to a well-taken angled shot after 15 minutes. Our best efforts were coming from the corners taken by Jawa Tacey and one or two near-misses gave us confidence while, at the other end, James Horsfall and Duncan Southgate marshalled our defence superbly.

We grabbed the equaliser when Gary Pilkington fired home in goalmouth scramble and the score remained deadlocked at 1-1 for a considerable time.

Wellington took the lead midway through the second half and, although we went close more than once – Trevor Hollinsworth hitting a post – the Stow-based side scored twice more before the end.

Liam Siggers did well in goal – and came up trumps with a platter of sausage & chips afterwards! – while Jordan Ripper made a good impression in his debut for the club at left back. Unfortunately, an injury to Ryan Horsfall restricted our attacking options.

It was great to see Andy “Crackers” Cracknell on the touchline after his bad injury back in June.

Team: Siggers, Tacey, Southgate, J Horsfall, Ripper, R Horsfall (Sub: Cunningham – Sub C Keeble), Bestley, Jordan, High, Stevens, Pilkington (Sub: Hollinsworth).
Goal: Pilkington

Golf Day!

It is much appreciated that we get continued support from the golfers who attend every year.

Pat Elvin, Andy Spivey, Ray Sherman, Darren Warner, Michael Collin, Julian Holmes, Ken Hollinsworth not forgetting all the members of their respective teams who come every year. We were a few players short through holiday and injury so we sadly missed Bevan Burgess and Paul Ryan this year.

As always the contest was contested fairly and with some considerable sense of humour.

The eventual winners were Julian Holmes team with Ian May winning the individual award. Lee Hammond won the longest drive and Ken Hollinsworth closest to the pin.

Pictures can be seen here

Five in First Friendly!------------ 30 May 2015

In fact, Bucklesham had the edge early on but the Tavs came into the game more and, once ahead, always looked comfortable. Tom Brooks and Duncan Southgate were tremendous at the back while Paul Bestley and the non-stop Wayne Jordan ran the midfield.

Greg Palmer scored a deserved and well-taken hat-trick while our other goals came from Wayne and newcomer Mikey Revell.

It was good to see Matt Davis have a good run-out.

Squad: C Keeble, Burgess, Brooks, Southgate, Siggers, Stanojevic, Bestley, Jordan, Brittain, Stevens, Palmer, Herridge, Cunningham, Revell, Strutt, Davis

Season 2015/16 Fixtures!-------------

		First Team				Reserves

Aug  9		Bucklesham (Friendly)     H 5-0
    16          Whitton Knights (Friendly)H
    23(Thur)    Whitton Rangers	(Friendly)H				
    30		AFC Little Wellington(WL) H 1-4            

Sep  6		AFC Little Wellington(WL) A 4-1		Rushmere Lions      H 1-10
    13		Capel Plough (WL)	  H 1-2		Real Orford         A 9-0
    20		The Feathers FC (WL)	  H 2-2
    27		Northam Celtic (WL)	  A 6-2		Real Orford         H 0-8
 
Oct  4		Borussia Martlesham (S/S) A 4-0
    11							Rushmere Lions      A 11-1
    18							Gt Blakenham Chr    H 2-2
    25							Horringer(S/T2)     A 13-0

Nov  1		Eastern Elec Old Boys(WL) H 4-3		Ipswich Rangers     A 5-0
     8		Capel Plough (WL)	  A 0-1		Felix. Harpers Res. H 0-8 	
    15							AFC Claydon	    H 4-6
    22		Northam Celtic(WL)        H 3-1		Raydon Ravens	    A 11-0
    29          Eastern Elec Old Boys(WL) A 0-1		Playford Res. 	    H 4-2

Dec  6		The Feathers (WL)	  A 5-1		Felix. Rangers Res. H 0-4
    13							Adastral Park FC(JC)H P-P
    20							Adastral Park FC(JC)H 3-4
    27

Jan  3							Felix. Harper Res.  A P-P
    10							Rosary CC	    H P-P
    17							Playford Res.	    A P-P
    24 		Snape FC (Junior Cup)	  H 1-7
    31		Whitton Eagles (SL)	  A 2-3		Ipswich Rangers	    H 0-10

Feb  7		Rushmere & Diamonds (SL)  H 0-0		Gt Blakenham Chr    A 6-1
    14		Adastral Park (SL)        H 8-1		AFC Claydon 	    A P-P (Home Win)
    21		Whitton Eagles (SL)       H 4-1 
    28							Raydon Ravens       H 0-9

Mar  6							Felix. Rangers Res. A 3-2
    13		Rushmere & Diamonds (SL)  A 0-3		Rosary CC	    A 3-0
    20		Adastral Park (SL)        A 2-1		Felix. Harper Res.  A 6-0
    27							Playford Res.	    A 5-0

Apr  3
    10
    17		Trinity (SL)		  H 1-6
    24		The Feathers (SL)	  A 5-0

May  1		Trinity (SL)		  A 2-0
     8		The Feathers (SL)         H 2-3
    10(Tue)						Rosary CC	   H 1-3

		WL=Winter League
		SL=Spring League