First Team Finish Season with a Draw.....30/04/2017

Shotley had the better of the play in the early stages and the Tavs were forced to defend well – Tom Brooks and Brandon Burton outstanding at the heart of the defence – but, when we broke forward, our pace often caused the Rose defence concern.

We went close when Jawa Tacey saw his shot just clear the bar but Jawa then produced a brilliant dribble inside the box, finishing with a fine low shot into the far corner, to give the Tavs the lead just before the break.

The early part of the second half should have seen Taverners out of sight. We had three or four one-on-one’s with the Shotley keeper but were unable to beat him; another day and we could have been four up before Shotley had the opportunity to come back.

And, to be fair, Shotley then put us under great pressure against which we continued to defend well with Luke Wessels having a super game in goal. Just when we thought that the points were ours, a mistake at the back gave Shotley the ball and a tremendous shot flew past Luke into the corner.

The draw was a fair result over the 90 minutes but disappointing to concede so late in the game.

We were indebted to Matt Davis for stepping in with the whistle after the non-appearance of the appointed referee and his job was helped by the sporting attitude of both teams.

The first team are currently second in league MB2A. With Elite 405 and Laxfield Utd 1 and 2 points behind the first team respectively, and with those two teams playing each other twice before the season ends, the first team await their fate in the Spring league.

The reserves, on the other hand, have benefited from Kesgrave Kestrels Res. indiscretion of fielding an ineligible player in their recent game. As a result, Tavs Res have been awarded the 3 points, which has raised their finishing place in the league to the dizzy heights of second from bottom!

Team: Wessels, Spalding, Brooks, Burton, G Pilkington, Fisk, Jordan, Southgate, Tacey, Tunbridge (Keeble C.), Sheppard (Burgess).
Goal: Tacey

First Team Fall to Four from Elite 405.....18/04/2017

The Tavs battled hard against opponents who had beaten us narrowly on their own artificial pitch but, in all honesty, played better on grass at Greshams.

We went close when a superby shot from Mikey Sneddon – wide on the right – hit the post and, although Elite took the lead, we were well in the match as the score stayed 1-0 for a long period.

We all thought we had equalised when the Elite keeper made a fine save from a thundering Ryan Coote shot and we had other half-chances.

However, Elite scored a second and went on to bring their tally to four as Taverners heads went down.

It was good to see Brandon Burton back in action and he had a very good game at centre half.

Team: Siggers, Spalding(Keeble C.), Southgate, Burton, Pilkington, Tacey, Coote, Jordan, Sheppard(Tunbridge), Stevens(Ripper), Sneddon

Impressive First Team Display Sees Off Laxfield!.....03/04/2017

The early minutes were fairly even but we began to get on top with some neat football and good use of the wings.

A ‘shoot-on-sight’ policy saw us go near several times before we eventually took the lead. Good inter-passing ended with Ryan Coote putting Mike Sneddon away to slide the ball past the advancing keeper.

Craig Risby’s long throws led to several scrambles in the Laxfield goalmouth which were eventually cleared and then Daren Stevens saw a great header clawed away by the keeper when a goal looked certain. At the other end, Laxfield issued a warning when a shot hit our post from some distance.

The second half saw Taverners press forward and a handling offence led to a penalty kick which skipper Tom Brooks fired home.

More chances followed as the Tavs played some fine football with the Ryan Coote/Wayne Jordan combination so influential in the middle of midfield.

We rounded off a most pleasing victory when yet another silky move led to Jamie Brittain playing Daren Stevens in to hook home from close range although Luke Wessels had to produce a great tackle to clear after a loose back-pass had led to trouble.

Team: Wessels, Spalding(Keeble C.), Brooks, Risby, Pilkington, Tacey(Burgess), Coote, Wessels, Jordan, Brittain, Stevens, Sneddon

Goals: Brooks, Sneddon, Stevens

First Fall To Rampant Ravens Whilst Reserve Finish with Battling Defeat!.....26/02/2017

All genuine injuries, illness and unavailability but they meant that an unprecedented ten changes had to made to last week’s team. And all credit to everyone who played; but, even with our strongest side, the best result we have achieved against a good Raydon team was a 1-1 draw early in the season.

Team: Siggers, Burgess, Spalding, Jordan, High, Sheppard, Coote, Wessels(Hatt), Tunbridge, Stevens, Falkoner

Reserves

Athletico Once 5,Taverners Res. 2

The story of players pulling out late continues. On Thursday I had 17 players available. By 9am Sunday morning I had lost 5 players to cover for the first team.

This affects both sides dramatically. The players taken for 1st team duty are not part of their regular squad and therefore are not used to playing with the rest of the 1st team squad. These players are very seriously missed by the reserves. They are the difference between us beating Athletico 2-1 earlier in the season and losing 5-2 on Sunday.

I often look at the game from my own performance, which lacks fitness, sharper reactions, aggression and pace. I am not the only player who needs to resolve these issues. Football is a competition and if you cannot compete at the level you play in then it is up to you to do something about it. I now have until the end of August to improve these things. If I cannot do it then I will not play.

We can bleat on about this forever. But I just do not want to anymore. It is the responsibility of the individual to be at the game fit enough and prepared enough to compete. My body may not let me but I will try because I am so tired of making players look good. Players who have never played and never could play a decent level of football in their lives.

It was a great day for football. We had 12 players and no excuses for the result. As a team we were flat from the first whistle. We went 2-0 down early in the first half but pulled one back from a Paul Strutt free kick which was headed home by Trevor Hollinsworth after the keeper made a complete hash of the attempted save.

Athletico scored very early after halftime but again we came back when Chris Henry was put through from the half way line by Paul Strutt. Chris finished with a chip over the on coming keeper. Even at 3-2 we did not cause too many problems and another 2 goals from Athletico sealed the win.

The reserves season is over for another year and as expected we are bottom of the league.

We played 18 league games and a couple of cup games. We used 35 players during the season only 13 players played more than half the games.

So those of you who really like playing for Taverners must take it upon yourselves to be the person who turns up every week and lets make next season one to remember.

Team: Davis, Keeble J.(Henry), Risby, Cunningham, Fisk, Pilkington W., Bloomfield, Keeble C., Smith, Hollinsworth, Strutt

Goals: Henry, Hollinsworth

First Team In Quarter Final Quagmire Defeat!.....06/03/2017

A bog of a pitch greeted us and this suited neither team although we enjoyed a lot of possession only to fail badly to put together any sort of threat to the Raydon goal.

And we were caught on the break – and ball watching – as Raydon scored a couple on the break. If we could have managed one goal, we might have threatened a come-back but it was not to be and Raydon added a third to progress.

The brightest moment was before the kick-off when long-service awards were made to Bevan Burgess (700 games) and Trevor Hollinsworth (500 games). Both great achievements; well done!

Team: Siggers, Spalding(Hollinsworth), Brooks, Ripper(Southgate), G Pilkington, Sheppard(Wessels), Jordan, Coote, Tacey, Sneddon, Brittain(Burgess)

First Team Fire In Five Whilst Reserves Are Tanked by Ten!.....26/02/2017

We took the lead when Jawa Tacey – fresh from goalkeeping heroics for Henley on Saturday – unleashed a great shot which flew into the far corner. Shotley grabbed an equaliser and looked lively in attack but we regained the lead when Tom Brooks headed a corner towards goal and Gary Pilkington showed his goalscoring instincts with a neat header past the keeper.

This was the start of a ‘purple patch’ as we added two more goals in quick succession.

First, a well-placed free kick from the impressive Ryan Coote saw Tom Brooks power in from the right to fire home and then ‘Cootey’ himself took the Rose defence by surprise with a low free-kick into the corner of the net.

Although we led 4-1 at the break, we were fully aware that Shotley had looked dangerous going forward and it was vital that we didn’t let them in with an early goal. We were fortunate that a Shotley forward missed an open goal but we defended superbly with all eleven players fighting for everything.

Eventually, we made the game completely safe when Jawa Tacey collected the ball wide on the right and fired in another super effort into the far corner of the net.

One or two chances went astray but this was an excellent display all round.

Good to see the injured Brandon Burton supporting the side and thanks to Bully for running the line and acting as our only sub.

Team: Wessels, Spalding, Brooks, Ripper, G Pilkington, Sheppard, Jordan, Coote, Tacey, Sneddon, Tunbridge

Goal: Brooks, Coote, Pilkington, Tacey(2)



Reserves

Taverners Res. 1, Boleyn FC 10

The score line speaks for itself. Or does it? Well yes it does but there were positives. Our plan was to insure we did not totally fold in the first half. We set out our formation defensively and we frustrated Boleyn. We knew our best chance would be from a corner or free kick and throughout the first half we did this well and had a number of chances.

Boleyn were finding no way through and in the end only scored when their centre half ran through from the back. It caught us by surprise and he went all the way through to score. They added a second before half time but we had our share of the play and we considered ourselves unlucky to be two down.

Unlike most of our games where we do better in the second half the next 45 minutes saw us completely melt down. Boleyn scored very early and continued to attack at will. We were awarded a penalty with 15 minutes to go which Trevor Hollinsworth converted. This seemed to change the play and we played well for the final 15 minutes.

We have just one game left and baring some kind of miracle we will be bottom of the league. But we have been more competitive in the games this season.

I wonder what new superstar team the league will decide in their wisdom should be in the bottom league.

Every year I am happy that the likes of Brairbank, Raydon Ravens and this year Boleyn & Elmsett are promoted and out of our league. We played Elmsett on the opening day of the season. I had a conversation with their manager before the game. He explained that they were newly formed this year and this was their first ever game in the Sunday league. What he neglected to say was that they had been playing together on Saturdays for a number of years.

I am looking forward to our final game of the season. It would be great to finish with a win. Then we wait for the start of the new season. No matter how bad the previous season has been I am always excited by the first game of the season and I always believe that maybe this year will be our year.

We have decent players. We have loyal players. If we get a good start then just maybe we can maintain our form. If all the regular players commit to being available as much as possible then I can see no reason why not.

By the way. I need to score 5 goals in the last game to catch up with Daren Stevens. Its been done before.

Team: Davis, Keeble C., Risby, Pearson, Burgess, Pilkington W., High, Bellhouse, Lowe(Keeble J.), Herridge, Hollinsworth

Goals: Hollinsworth(Pen.)

No Points!.....19/02/2017

We had to defend – at times desperately – in the early minutes but we held out and then began to play some good football going forward. However, too often our crosses were too close to the 405 keeper and we were made to pay when one of their midfielders was allowed too much time just outside the box and he fired low into the corner.

We dominated the second half and went closest when Tom Brooks saw his shot well-saved by 405’s Paul Allen. Then we were caught out as a free-kick was driven high into the corner for 2-0.

Undeterred, we came back and eventually made the breakthrough, Ryan Sheppard laying off to Mikey Sneddon who fired high into the net. We forced the pace and thought we had equalised through Ryan Sheppard only to be thwarted by an ‘offside’ flag.

Our come back was not to be but we had given a decent display on a surface which most visiting teams will find difficult.

One of our changes had come overnight as the news broke that Brandon Burton had broken his wrist playing in goal for Henley Athletic reserves. This was a big blow – both for us and for Brandon himself – as he had been in great form as a defender in addition to always being happy to play in goal. Our best wishes go to BB for a speedy recovery.

Team: Siggers, Tacey, Wessels(Coote), Spalding, Pilkington G.(Tunbridge), Brooks, Jordan, Southgate, Sheppard, Sneddon, Ripper.

Goal: Sneddon



Reserves

Taverners Res. 3, Cherry Tree 5

I have lost count of how many times we have been beaten by half time this season. We always play better in the second half.

I listened with interest to the brothers who manage Lincoln City. They split the game into six sections. Their objective is to win each 15 minute game one by one.

If we just split ours games into two we would always win the 2nd half.

Again against Cherrytree we won the 2nd half convincingly 3-1. They would not have even scored one goal if we had not gone to sleep after the referee failed to award a foul throw. We spent the next few seconds thinking of the referee’s mistake rather than the fact that Cherrytree were now pressing. It was probably the last defensive mistake we made in the game that caused us a problem.

The problems we had especially in the first half were individual errors. The players who commit these errors do not do this every week. We all have good and bad games and hopefully when you commit an error there is a dependable player beside you to save the day. We have players who can do this job on this occasion I can say with no doubt in my mind that Cherrytree would not have scored four goals in the first half if we had Andy Lambert at the heart of the defence. He was in our original line up and it was not his fault he missed the game.

We were 4-0 down by half time. If the players who committed the errors do not have the honesty to see it, then at some point I will have to make changes to the line up. We must concentrate on keeping possession especially in the middle third.

The second half saw a different game. We out played Cherrytree in every department. We made changes going to a 3-5-2 bringing on Darren Herridge and Tom Lowe. We have not seen Darren for a number of weeks but his addition changed the game even further and his touch a distribution put Cherrytree under a lot of pressure.

We scored three times in the second half all three from corners taken by Trevor Hollinsworth. Daren Stevens headed the first home. The second was headed down by Daren and taped over the line by Darren Herridge. The third almost went straight in from the corner but the goalkeepers outstretched arm pushed the ball away but Sticks Burrup was there to head home.

We are going to have to be better from the first whistle next week against Boleyn at home.

Team selection is often a point of conversation. Everyone has an opinion. I try to select the team honestly. I try to make substitutions for the benefit of the team. People may question my decisions and I am happy for you to speak to me direct. But before you do, take a minute to think about your point. Think about why I might have made that decision and most of all look at what we achieved after the changes.

Team: Davis, Keeble C., Risby, Stevens, Pearson, Fisk(Lowe), High, Bellhouse(Herridge), Burgess, Burrup, Hollinsworth

Goals: Burrup, Herridge, Stevens

Impressive First Team Performance.....12/02/2017

The Tavs began at a good pace and put together some good football, varying the play between short and long passing and using the wings well.

We eventually took the lead when Wayne swept the ball in from the left and, with Ryan Sheppard challenging the keeper, Wayne’s effort found the far corner. We made it 2—0 when a short corner move saw Mikey Sneddon lay the ball back for Rico Stanojevic to fire low into the net.

With spirits buoyant after a good first half, the Tavs again took control and made the score 3-0. A neat build-up ended with new signing Ryan Coote crossing low and Ryan Sheppard backheeling past the keeper.

Jamie Brittain then produced a tricky run on the left and crossed for ‘Cootey’ to show greatness coolness in scoring his first Taverners goal. Another good run, this time by Mikey, saw him cross for Ryan Sheppard to score his second.

A 6-0 win was rounded off when Ryan Coote collected the ball on the edge of the box and turned quickly to smash the ball past the goalkeeper.

A tremendous performance which was founded on a strong back four display; they and keeper Liam Siggers deserved the clean sheet.

Raydon Ravens await in the next round!

It was satisfying to produce a good all-round showing in front of Club (joint) President Clive Bloom who is, of course, currently organising the Tavs’ 50th anniversary celebration on 9 June. Anyone interested in what should be a great evening should contact Clive direct: clive_bloom@sky.com

Team: Siggers, Burton, Brooks, Southgate, G Pilkington, Sheppard, Jordan, Stanojevic (Sub: Wessels), Tacey (Sub: Coote), Brittain (Sub: Hollinsworth), Sneddon.
Goals: Coote(2), Jordan, Sheppard(2), Stanojevic

Just Another Blank Sunday.....05/02/2017

Much of the play was limited to midfield but, as we began to show frustration with the balls being used, we lost our concentration and a general sloppiness allowed Laxfield into the game. We conceded a penalty which was put away with some force to give our opponents the lead.

The second half saw Taverners show great determination to get back into the contest but we found the home goalkeeper in great form particularly with saves from Rico Stanojevic and from Wayne Jordan.

We were completely caught on the break for 2-0 and then a third before Brandon Burton produced a superb save from a second Laxfield spot-kick. We were punished by a fourth goal as we pushed forward to chase the game.

A thoroughly disappointing display after two good performances recently.

Team: Burton, Tacey, Spalding(Falkoner), Stanojevic, Pilkington G., Brooks, Jordan, Southgate, Tunbridge(Sheppard), Sneddon, Ripper.

Reserves

Kesgrave Kestral Res. 3, Taverners Res. 1

A beautiful morning for football. The pitch was ok. Our team was almost as strong as it could be. Kesgrave were a decent team, competitive but fair. So what is there to complain about ?

Everything started well enough and we had the run of the play early on. Kesgrave came into the game more and went close a couple of times hitting the bar on both occasions.

They were causing problem wide and we were not covering well. This gifted Kesgrave the lead when we failed to track the wide player coming in at the far post to score easily.

We could have gone further behind but for some incredible saves from Matt Davis. We were still very much in the game although we did lack some pace in midfield.

To address this at halftime we converted to a 4-5-1 bringing Paul Strutt into the centre and Callum Andrews wide right.

We were creating opportunities but often found the final pass lacking in pace making it easy for the defenders to cut in front stopping our attack.

Kesgrave went further ahead with an uncontested penalty. We made changes again and converted to a 4-4-2 and this paid off after some excellent football Daren Stevens found himself clear on the edge of the 18 yard box and he calmly slotted the ball home.

We were now on top and causing problems but fell further behind after a Kesgrave player hit a clearance on the volley from 25 yards to score. With just minutes to go, we had little chance of a reply.

This match was eventually awarded to Taverners Res. as Kesgrave Kestrels Res. fielded an ineligible player.

Team: Davis, Keeble C.(Hatt.), Risby, Lambert A., Pearson.(Bloomfield), Strutt, High, Wessels(Hollinsworth), Burgess(Hosking), Andrews, Stevens

Goal: Stevens

First Team Fire in Three whilst Reserves Rue Missed Chances......30/01/2017

We had been forced into a late change, Luke Wessels once again answering the call and giving his usual whole-hearted performance.

The pitch was very narrow but we managed to get the ball wide and this enabled the Tavs to grab the lead when Jawa Tacey made a tremendous run into the box and, with the Brantham defence struggling, Gary Pilkington pounced at the far post to head in. A very similar move brought us number 2, again Jawa made the initial break and a goalmouth scrimmage was settled by Pilky smashing the ball home.

We looked well in control but, while we couldn’t find the third goal, suddenly Brantham took advantage of a mistake to pull a goal back.

Things looked decidedly ominous when David Spalding was sent off for a ‘professional foul’ but the Tavs showed great character and had the boost of a third goal just before the break. Duncan Southgate’s long ball deceived the Brantham defence and the ever-lively Mikey Sneddon chipped the keeper for 3-1.

The second half saw Taverners continue to hold sway and, with everyone playing their part to the full, we looked the likelier scorers. Brandon Burton and Duncan Southgate held the defence together superbly throughout.

A fine team display.

Team: Siggers, Tacey, Spalding, Burton, Pilkington G., Wessels, Jordan, Southgate, Tunbridge(Sheppard), Sneddon, Ripper.

Goals: Pilkington(2), Sneddon.



Reserves

Taverners Res. 1, The Feathers Res. 2

Sometimes you just do not get what you deserve in football. It is without doubt the most frustrating part of football.

Our seasons over the past few years have not had many highs. We are not a lucky side. We just do not get the bounce of the ball. Today was just simply unfair.

We had this game under control. We spoke before the game about the side of our game we need to improve and we took that on board fully.

Excellent performances from Sean High, James Bellhouse and Paul Strutt. We went 1-0 down early in the second half but within 10 minutes we were level again when Paul Strutt dribbled into 18 yard box. He was sent a little wide to the corner of the 6 yard but at that point in one movement he swivelled and shot into the far corner of the goal.

Unfortunately Feathers took the lead again after a highly contested free kick was awarded. Our concentration was not in place and they broke through to score.

We continued to press and had good possession but although we went close we could not level the score.

It was a frustrating result but we played well and the game was enjoyable.

Team: Davis, Keeble C.(Keeble J.), Pearson, Burgess, Pilkington W., Brodie(Fisk), High, Bellhouse, Strutt, Falkoner, Hollinswoth

Goal: Strutt

First Team Hit Four To Go Through in Junior Cup!......15/01/2017

We quickly began to play some neat football and posed many questions of the Boleyn defence. We eventually took the lead when Jawa Tacey’s corner deceived the defence and an own goal resulted.

Jawa was unlucky to see a header from Jordan Ripper’s cross hit the bar but Boleyn’s reprieve was short-lived as the lively Mikey Sneddon gained possession and smashed a superb shot into the net off the underside of the bar.

We allowed Boleyn back into the game with a free header from a corner which meant that the next goal was going to be vital.

With a great back four performance – Brandon Burton outstanding – the Tavs looked in command and we made the score 3-1 when a neat ball from Mikey saw Jamie Brittain make a super blind-side run and fire past the keeper.

Boleyn weren’t finished and they scored a second but Taverners had the deserved final word when Jamie broke through on the right and Jawa Tacey finished coolly at the far post.

An excellent performance by the whole side who battled and fought for every ball throughout.

Team: Siggers, Tacey, Spalding, Burton, Pilkington G.(Tunbridge), Stanojevic, Jordan, Southgate, Brittain(Wessels), Sneddon, Ripper.

Goals: Brittain, Sneddon, Tacey.



Reserves - Junior Cup

Rosary CC Res 8, Taverners Res. 0

There's not much to say about the game. We lost to a better team. They scored two incredible goals. I do however remember when this was a mans game. When no matter what the result players respected each other.

I have never been on a pitch with so many juveniles. I have never heard grown men sound so much like an infant school playground. Luckily I kept my temper and didn't get involved. Experience taught me that you cannot win a war of words when you are losing this bad.

Players like this would have been severely treated 10 years ago. I had a few conversations with our team about the history of Taverners. I have every respect for the players who turn up every week and it would be my wish that we get better and more competitive together.

But on a day like this I miss the likes of Paul Ryan, Andy Glover,all three Parker brothers, Daren Stevens, Andy Spivey, Smokey, Pat Elvin, James Bullamore and me 10 years ago.

Rosary would have met swift retribution from these players back in the day. Rather than feeling defeated, all I feel is the need to play this lot again and teach them a football lesson.

If we stick together and maybe add a few players we can improve our competitiveness. With a regular nucleus to the team we can learn about each other's game. Then juvenile teams like Rosary will be silenced very quickly.

Team: Davis, Pearson(Keeble J.), Risby, Burgess, Bloomfield(Hollinsworth), Keeble C., High, Brodie, Warner, Stevens, Hosking

New Year, No Points!......08/01/2017

On paper, our line-up didn’t look our strongest but all credit to everyone for a tremendous, gutsy performance which might – just might – have achieved a result.

From the start, Raydon dominated possession and they must have had 75% of the play. However, we were led by example by the dominating Tom Brooks, ably supported by his fellow defenders. Behind them, Liam Siggers had a fine game in goal – judging when to punch or catch and showing great anticipation.

When we eventually got into the game Mikey Sneddon produced some dangerous runs and a vital incident (with the Tavs two down) saw Mikey cleaned out when in full flight on goal. A yellow card was produced but on another occasion it might have been red.

The busy Gary Pilkington very nearly took full advantage of hesitant defending but his snatched lob went wide.

A rather fortunate third Raydon goal straight after the break might have seen lesser teams cave in but we continued to fight for everything in all areas and were rewarded when Mikey dispossessed a defender and raced away to score.

In the dying minutes, a header from Wayne Jordan hit the Raydon bar and Brandon Burton was on hand to score our second.

Team: Siggers, Tacey, Spalding, Burton, Pilkington G., High, Jordan, Southgate, Wessels(Pilkington W.), Sneddon, Brooks.

Goals: Burton, Sneddon.



Reserves

AFC Claydon 5, Taverners Res. 2

We knew before this game started that we were playing a team on the same level as ourselves. We won the home fixture 4-3 against Claydon. The result of this game was totally down to ourselves and how we played.

Everything started well but we fell behind to a weak goal which we should have cleared on a number of occasions. We were playing well and equalised shortly after their goal. Trevor Hollinsworth found Paul Strutt on the wide right his pin point cross found Scott Brodie who skilfully hit the cross first time to score.

We then took the lead when Paul Strutts shot from 25 yards beat the keeper at his near post.

Despite knowing we had to maintain the pressure we again failed to clear and Claydon equalised before half time.

The second half is normally our strongest part of the game and we matched Claydon throughout but with three dreadful errors Claydon scored three times making the score look like we had been well beaten. This was not the case. It was a very disappointing result which we can only blame ourselves for.

Team: Davis, Pearson, Risby, Holmes, Keeble C., Bloomfield, Brodie(Keeble J.), Bellhouse, Burgess, Strutt, Hollinsworth.

Goals: Brodie, Strutt.

No Christmas Cheer This Year!......04/12/2016

We had lost to the Old Boys with virtually the last kick of the match a few weeks ago but these days a management aim of seeking revenge in such circumstances rarely holds up because of a combination of injuries and unavailability – problems which are experienced at all levels of local football.

We began well, with a young-looking line-up willing to chase and harry and it was disappointing when poor defending saw the Old Boys take the lead. Our determination brought an equaliser when Chris Henry crossed well for Hector Falkoner to score from close range.

A second goal was conceded and then we suffered a big blow when an injury forced Rob Fisk out of the action and we had to play three quarters of the game with ten men.

The Old Boys forged a 4-1 lead soon after half-time but the Taverners ten men were not prepared to lie down and everyone was a credit to the Club.

We pulled a goal back when Luke Wessel’s well-flighted free-kick was headed in by Wayne Jordan and, although the Old Boys made the score 5-2, we were again on the mark with a superbly struck free-kick from Luke.

EEOB made the final score 6-3 but ‘well played’ to all the Tavs who were on display for a gritty performance.

Team: Siggers, Tacey, Spalding, Burton, Pilkington G., Fisk, Jordan, Tunbridge, Wessels, Henry, Falkoner

Goals: Falkoner, Jordan, Wessels



Reserves

Taverners Res. 1, Amboed Utd. 8

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Davis, Keeble J., Risby, Stevens(Holmes), Pearson, Keeble C., Strutt, Burgess, Brodie, Hollinsworth, Pilkington W.

Goal: Pearson

Fisky's Thunderbolt Secures Three Points for Reserves......27/11/2016

Athletico were not a good side. They looked a shambles from the start, without even checking the website they turned up in red shirts causing a colour clash. We tried the first half in our home kit but had to change at half time. They started the game with only 10 men. It is very often the case when against ten men you think you have an automatic right to command possession and dominate the game.

Athletico had two plus points. A very good goalkeeper and a half decent forward. But it was the goalkeeper who held us back. Combine this with our poor finishing the game became very frustrating.

We should have taken the lead when Paul Strutt was fouled in the box. For the first time in over five years Trevor Hollinsworth failed to convert the penalty extending his baron goalscoring spell.

You need just one thing to take a penalty and that is to strike the ball well into either corner. Maybe the lack of goals affected the spot kick.

We attacked well and Callum Keeble forced the keeper to save from an acute angle. Gary Cunningham went close with a header from a corner. Callum Andrews was very lively and caused Athlectico problems. Jim Bellhouse saw a strong shot saved well. But with all our possession and chances we were not turning this into a deserved lead. We finally scored when another long throw from Craig Risby found the head of Daren Stevens who headed into the far post to score.

Athletico were simply not causing problems. Their centre forward was constantly offside. So it was a shock when the first time they got to our by line the resulting cross was headed home. We knew at half time all we had to do was to be patient and stick to the task however the second half was even more frustrating as chance after chance went begging. One was even headed over the bar from the goal line.

With time fast running out it looked like this was going to be two points dropped. But with only one minute to go we got a corner which was headed clear to the edge of the box where Rob Fisk was waiting. With no hesitation he volleyed the ball into the top corner to score a superb goal.

The score flatters Athletico and we could have got a hat full but we are happy with the three points and we move on to next week for another home fixture against one of the unbeaten top three.

Team: Davis, Fisk, Risby, Stevens, Cunningham(Bloomfield), Keeble C.(Pilkington W.), Strutt, Bellhouse(Hoskin), Burgess, Hollinsworth, Andrews

Goals: Fisk,Stevens.

Plenty of goals, but no points!......20/11/2016

We scored early, Tom Brooks gaining possession as the Rushmere defence fumbled and his accurate pass being coolly fired home by Gary Pilkington. Our celebrations had hardly finished when we were caught napping by a long ball and the equaliser was in the Tavs net. Poor defending in our own six yard box led to a second Rushmere goal before half-time.

Sure, we had chances but we are currently lacking a hungry and regular goalscorer.

After a call to wake up at half time and the wind in our favour, we conceded straight from the restart; more indecision in a goalmouth scramble proving costly. We put on some pressure with Jawa Tacey continuing to put in some fine crosses and pulled a goal back when Tom Brooks fired a great shot into the net.

Hopes of a revival were dashed when an own goal made it four and more poor defending enabled Rushmere to make it 5-2. Our opponents have managed two wins this season, both against the Tavs which is highly disappointing.

Team: Burton, Tacey, Spalding, Brooks(Henry), Pilkington G.(Brodie), Southgate, Jordan, Tunbridge, Ripper(Cunningham), Brittain, Sheppard.

Goals: Brooks, Pilkington



Reserves

Rosary CC Res. 7, Taverners Res. 5

As a manager you try to set up each game to enable everyone to play as a team and most of all to enjoy the game. I spent many years only half listening to advice given to me before a game. It was only when my Dad became the Assistant Manager at my Sunday side that I really listened. It was only then that I started to improve the parts of my game that helped me move onto higher football leagues.

So I know the feeling of going out and doing it my way instead of listening to the plan.

The first half was very disappointing as Rosary took the lead. We started well enough and from the sidelines it looked positive. We had chances especially from the long throw ins of Craig Risby. One player is always given the direction to be the last man on the far post. Rosary did not know how to defend against any crosses let alone the long throw ins. So it was very frustrating that three throws bounced across goal to the far post only for no one to be there to score an easy tap in.

With Rosary making good on our mistakes we were not playing the way I had envisaged. It has to be said the second goal from Rosary was a very good finish. They also were awarded a penalty, which although we know was a fair tackle it was understandable from the referee’s position why he gave it. We had one spark of light in the first half. We were awarded a free kick 20 yards out. Paul Strutt took it quickly and scored but the referee ordered the kick to be taken again. Paul waited for the whistle and scored in exactly the same way with a fine chip shot over the wall.

We were 5-1 down at half time and things had to change or at least we had to try. Not any one player was playing worse than any other so the changes were tactical. We needed to be more positive in attack so we moved Bevan Burgess forward into midfield to increase the quality of delivery into the box and Callum Andrews dropped back into midfield to add his speed and ability to take on the full backs. The two subs went in at full back to cover Bevan and up front to cover Callum. The changes had an immediate affect and we attacked non-stop through the second half. Daren Stevens scored two identical goals. Two free kicks floated in swinging from the right and he rose above the defence each time to head home.

Matt Pearson scored when an in swinging corner hit the far post. He was on hand to score from close range.

Unfortunately we were then caught out twice as we pushed forward and Rosary scored when our attack broke down leaving us short at the back.

We scored again when a Trevor Hollinsworth shot was only pushed away by the keeper and Callum Andrews speed put him in position to score.

If only we had this belief in the first half. If only we had listened to a few short directions from the management.

1. Always force your player wide. Do not let him cut inside.

2. Always keep one holding player in place when attacking.

3. Make sure we cover defenders who come up for set pieces.

4. Make sure you are the last man on the far post.

So we lost the first half 5-1

We won the second half 4-2

Team: Davis, Keeble C., Risby, Stevens, Burgess, Pilkington W.(Hollinsworth), Fisk, Bellhouse, Hoskin(Pearson), Strutt, Andrews

Goals: Andrews, Pearson, Stevens(2), Strutt

First Team Double Trinity, Just!......13/11/2016

Some fine attacking moves – often prompted by the influential Wayne Jordan – too often finished with a weak shot or mis-directed cross. Jawa Tacey went the closest with a super effort from wide on the right which hit the top of the bar.

Trinity came back and a loose back-pass gave them the opportunity to open the scoring but this was missed.

We eventually had a golden opportunity to break the deadlock when Kai Tunbridge was fouled in the box but Jawa saw his spot-kick miss the target. He quickly made up for this with a couple of vital goal-line clearances.

The Tavs finally got off the mark when a neat build up saw Gary Pilkington put Ryan Sheppard away to find the far corner from a tight angle.

We continued to make and miss chances while, at the other end, Trinity were wasteful; they thought they had equalised when a long-range effort was expertly tipped over by the impressive Liam Siggers.

Liam and his defence deserved their clean sheet with David Spalding and Brandon Burton doing well.

Team: Siggers, Tacey, Spalding, Burton, Ripper(Fisk), Tunbridge, Jordan, High (Burgess), Wessels, Sheppard, Pilkington G (Falkoner).
Goal: Sheppard

Mikey's Trinity Resurrects First Team!......06/11/2016

With other changes having been necessary, it took us time to settle and we conceded the first goal. However, Luke Wessels – playing his first game for the 1st team - settled in well and we looked dangerous going forward, playing some neat football. Daren Stevens enjoyed his striking partnership with Mikey Sneddon and they combined well to give Mikey the chance for two very well-taken goals before the break.

David Spalding continued an effective switch into the middle of the back four alongside the cool Duncan Southgate as we dominated the second half.

A snap shot from Wayne Jordan put us 3-1 ahead before Mikey completed a superb hat-trick after the Trinity defence had got into a tangle. Mikey’s tackling-back gave Jawa Tacey the chance to net a great shot from long range and, after Trinity had pulled a goal back, Daren Stevens broke through the offside trap for our sixth.

More great work from Jawa on the right saw him give Daren the opportunity to make the final score 7-2.

A good team performance after some recent disappointing shows.

Team: Siggers, Tacey, Spalding, Burton, Pilkington G., Southgate, Jordan, High, Wessels, Sneddon, Stevens.

Goals: Sneddon(3), Stevens(2), Jordan, Tacey



Reserves

Taverners Res 0, Elmset Utd. 6

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Davis, Keeble C., Risby, Burgess, Cunningham(Hollinsworth), Pilkington W.(Hart), Fisk, Brodie, Bloomfield, Strutt, Hoskin.

Missed Early Chances Prove Costly for First Team......30/10/2016

Kai Tunbridge had a chance from an angle as Taverners looked promising going forward but we were suddenly exposed by the Ravens’ attacking pace and found ourselves behind. We went close when both Tom Brooks and Daren Stevens saw efforts well saved and Gary Pilkington found the net only for the whistle to have already been (controversially) blown for a foul!

We were found out twice more before the break which meant that we had the proverbial ‘mountain to climb’ afterwards as we trailed 3-0.

Although Gary Pilkington hit a post, we were generally second-best particularly when (with three subs afield) we lost the injured Tom Brooks and played out the dying stages with ten men. The Ravens took full advantage to bring their tally to eight.

Team: Siggers, Burton, Brooks, Lambert A., Keeble C.(Burgess), Tacey(Hollinsworth), Stanojevic(Fisk), Jordan, Tunbridge, Stevens, Pilkington G.

First Team Awarded Win After Match Abandoned!......23/10/2016

Team: Siggers, Spalding(Lambert B.), Brooks, Burton, Lambert A., Southgate, Jordan, Stanojevic, Brittain, Tacey, Sheppard

Goals: Stanojevic





Reserves

Boleyn FC 9, Taverners Res. 0

A through ball was being chased down by their wide midfield. Callum Keeble went over to cover. The pass was over hit and the ball ran out of play by over 2 yards. The player knocked the ball back onto the pitch and it touched Callum on the shin and went off near the corner flag. To our complete disbelief a corner was given. They scored direct from the corner he gave.

The second and third goals both started from blatant hand balls.

The second half saw no improvement 'in our luck', it was soul destroying. So back to us. Not everyone had a great game but there were some very good performances.

Daren Stevens and Bevan Burgess at centre halves were both very good. The performance of the day was James Bellhouse. Tim Smith and Scott Brodie got though some excellent work.

With the rest of our normal squad available we can definitely compete with them so I look forward to the home game.

Team: Davis, Keeble C., Burgess, Stevens, Keeble J., Tunbridge, Bellhouse, Brodie, Henry(Hollinsworth), Smith, Falkoner.

First Team Fall Foul of Faux Field......16/10/2016

There’s no avoiding the fact that football on an artificial pitch is not the ‘men’s 11 x 11’ game as we know it. Personally, I feel that if football was invented now on a 3G surface, it would never catch on! That’s not sour grapes, it’s my view.

Neither side got to grips with the speed at which the ball flies off the surface and bounces so high so that any pass which is not ‘ball to feet’ is likely to go stray.

Elite 405 grabbed the lead when a long ball deceived our defence and a forward diverted it past the oncoming Brandon Burton.

The second half saw the Tavs have more possession and our one real opportunity came when Trevor Hollinsworth hit the post and a goalmouth scramble ensued before the ball was cleared.

405 made the score 2-0 in the last minute as Taverners pressed forward in search of an equaliser.

For the Tavs, David Spalding had a great game at right back.

Team: Burton, Spalding, Brooks, Southgate, G Pilkington, Tunbridge, Tacey, Stanojevic, Burgess, Sheppard, Stevens (Subs/all used: W Pilkington, Hollinsworth, C Keeble).

Goals but not Glory for both teams......09/10/2016

This early advantage gave everyone a lot of confidence and our defensive work was good, the back four marshalled by skipper Tom Brooks, while Rico Stanojevic had a fine game in midfield throughout.

Although the Old Boys enjoyed more possession – and forced Liam Siggers into several good saves – we had chances, Ryan Sheppard twice going close.

Losing Mikey through injury was a blow and we conceded an equaliser just after the break when a corner eluded everyone except an Old Boys player at the far post who was left with a free header.

Play went from end to end and we regained the lead when the ball fell to Jawa Tacey who fired home from angle for 2-1.

Unfortunately, we were vulnerable from set-pieces and a short-corner routine – so rarely successful – saw the Old Boys level the scores at 2-2. A rash challenge gave our opponents a free-kick on the edge of the box and this was fired low into the corner to give them victory with virtually the last kick of the match.

A sickener!

Team: Siggers, Spalding, Brooks, Burton, Pilkington G., Tunbridge, Stanojevic, Brittain, Tacey, Sneddon(Ripper), Sheppard

Goals: Sneddon, Tacey.





Reserves

Cherry Tree 4, Taverners Res. 3

It has been a disappointing two weeks. I have put these two reports together because the same problems ran through each game.

The first result looks ok if you did not see the game. But we should have beaten the Kestrels easily. We went 1-0 up through Darren Herridge and we had all the play. But it was like we had the game sown up and we took our foot off the pedal. They scored before half time and to be honest we never really troubled them again. We had opportunities but constant bad decisions when in possession in key areas meant we never dealt the killer blow.

It felt more like two points lost at the final whistle.

In the second game we looked so much better in the first half. Even when we gifted them a goal early on we always looked like we would get it back which we did through the lively Will Pilkington. Darren Herridge got the ball out wide and spotted Wills run on the far wing. He found him perfectly and Will went through to beat the keeper and a fierce shot.

But again we let ourselves down by losing possession and not being in position to cope with their break away. After a horrible goal mouth scramble they forced the ball over the line to go 2-1 up. With just seconds to half time we got a free kick which Duncan Southgate floated to the far post for Sticks Burrup to glance a header into bottom corner.

It was obvious to everyone at half time that we were better than Cherrytree and as long as we stuck to our game and held our positions we would win this game.

With just 25 minutes to go Luke Wessels went on and scored almost immediately with an overhead kick from inside the 18 yards box. Cherrytree had nothing to offer unless we gave it to them which we did that in spades and they scored twice more to take the lead.

With just 15 minutes to go we were still the better side but we never got another shot on goal. The reason for this was exactly the same as the Kestrels game. We made bad decisions in key areas which meant we did not give the front men any chance of shooting.

The best chance fell to Darren Herridge when Bevan Burgess crossed low and hard into the 6 yard box but we failed to get the touch on what looked like a certain goal.

We all makes mistakes but the trick is to learn from them. It is so refreshing to have people like Will Pilkington, Hector Falconer and Callum Keeble in the team. They make mistakes but they listen and they learn and they were by far the best three players we had on the pitch.

We have had the luxury of being able to field the same back four for a while and this confidence and team work shows. What we do not have is people who are prepared to cover their position correctly. They get drawn forward and when we make bad decisions in possession the attack breaks down and our back four are out numbered. People have to stop believing they are the best player on the field.

We are a team. Your only thought should be what can I do to help someone get into position to score. You play the way you are facing. If you see a team mate in a good position there is no decision to make. GIVE HIM THE BALL.

I love turning up on a Sunday morning with my football mates. I pick the team and I try to give everyone a fair opportunity. I insist that the subs all get on during the game. So maybe it is my fault. Maybe I should pick the squad with more honesty and less friendship.

Would the players I need to leave out accept that without any complaint ? The players I do not include are not included because they are not in the best 16 players we have available. Rather than ask me why, look at yourself honestly and ask yourself why. Are you fit enough to play? Do you make good decisions on the pitch when it matters? Are you beneficial to the team? Do you listen to your manager and team mates when they advise you? When you have the answer and you realise that I am not the problem then do something about it.

Come training and do not treat it like a kick about. Think to yourself I have to play just like this on a Sunday morning. If you learn good habits then your game on a Sunday will improve.

There is not one player at this club I can say I will not pick because I do not like them. But there are players I know will not benefit the team and we will have to cover for them when they lose possession. You all have the ability to be better than you are and that should be your goal. If you apply yourself the way that some people at this club do then you will be in my team for all the right reasons.

Team: Davis, Keeble C., Risby, Stevens, Burgess(Pearson), Pilkington W. (Wessels), High, Southgate, Herridge, Burrup(Bloomfield), Falkoner(Hollinsworth)

Goals: Burrup, Pilkington W., Wessels

Reserves Extend Unbeaten League Run To Three......02/10/2016

Despite warnings that no opposition should be taken lightly, we seemed to have believed our own publicity after good results and collectively decided that we only needed to turn up to win against Rushmere & Diamonds.

We put in what can only be described as a shoddy display and ended up 2-1 losers.

Team changes can’t tell the whole story because the players on duty should have been good enough to win but throughout the team we gave the ball away regularly, failed to mark, and played ourselves into trouble. We made a minimal number of chances at the other end and our shooting was high, wide and wayward.

The Tavs took the lead when Duncan Southgate played Gary Pilkington in for a near post goal, well taken but then a bad mistake enabled Rushmere & Diamonds.

Half-time talks seem pointless when no improvement is evident after the break and we were finally punished with a header from a free-kick 20 minutes from time.

In addition the morning had got off to a dreadful start when David Harvey was injured during the pre-match kick-about and he was taken to hospital with a broken ankle which has necessitated an operation. We wish David all the very best for a good recovery.

Team: Siggers, Spalding, Brooks, Burton, Pilkington G., Tunbridge(Bullamore), Ripper(Lambert J), Jordan, Tacey, Southgate, Sheppard

Goal: Pilkington G.





Reserves

Taverners Res. 1, Kesgrave Kestrals Res. 1

For report see here

Team: Davis, Keeble J.(Pearson), Risby, Stevens, Burgess, Brodie(Pilkington W.), High, Fisk, Strutt, Herridge, Hollinsworth

Goal: Herridge

Impressive display by Reserves......25/09/2016

The first was a free kick from 20yrds. It was very central but Paul curved his kick around the wall beating the keeper on his left hand side. The second came after some decent one touch football in our midfield. Paul Strutt took possession just outside the 18yrd box. A quick one two with Trevor Hollinsworth gave him the chance to score which he did in some style firing the ball into the roof of the net.

It is true that we lost our way a little at the start of the second half. Feathers deserved their goal to bring them to 2-1. This was just what we needed and we took control again. Darren Herridge scored from close range after an excellent in swinging corner from Bevan Burgess.

Exceptional performance from Callum Keeble and Daren Stevens was a rock at the heart of the defence. Tim Smith caused the opposition problems the whole game.

From bottom of the league to 4th in 3 weeks. We need to keep our confidence now. We need to be able to keep the nucleus of the team every week. It turns out that our first three games this season were against the three teams above us now in the league and all of them are unbeaten. We have no one to fear in this league as long as we continue with this confidence.

Team: Davis, Keeble C.(Keeble J.), Risby, Stevens, Burgess(Hayward), Brodie(Pilkington G.), High, Fisk, Strutt, Smith(Bellhouse), Hollinsworth(Herridge)

Goals: Herridge,Strutt(2)

First Team Progress in Sunday Shield......18/09/2016

Some neat play saw Mikey Sneddon make several dangerous runs. Being able to get the ball forward and then see the opposition struggling to cope with such a lively and incisive front-runner added to the team’s confidence. He was well supported by Rico Stanojevic’s movement from midfield.

The back four were tremendous with mention being due for David Spalding who has been performing well at right back; 100% concentration and good tackling.

As the half progressed, we faltered a little and we were given a real ‘wake-up call’ when a quick break gave Wellington a great chance to open the scoring immediately after the break.

However, we upped our game again and a great cross from Jawa Tacey gave Ryan Sheppard – on his debut – a headed chance. Shortly afterwards, Ryan made a fine run forward and played in the hard-working Kai Tunbridge who fired past the onrushing keeper.

We made the score 2-0 when Mikey Sneddon’s superb cross was volleyed in by Ryan. Jawa had previously hit the bar while the dying moments saw heated debate in a ‘Geoff Hurst’ moment; where is a Russian linesman when you need one!

This was a most impressive display by all eleven players against opponents who have been chalking up some big wins and it was heartening that – although disappointed – one of Wellington’s defenders was complimentary on our improvement over the last twelve months (when they had ‘doubled’ us within a fortnight). Thanks also to unused substitutes: Callum, Hector and Fisky who ran the line for us.

Team: Siggers, Spalding, Brooks, Burton, G Pilkington, Tunbridge, Stanojevic, Jordan, Tacey, Sneddon, Sheppard

Goals: Sheppard, Tunbridge





Reserves

Taverners Res. 1, Boleyn FC. 7

The Reserves can be seen here sporting their new kit.

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Davis, Burgess, Risby, Bullamore(Hayward), Cunningham(Keeble J.), Hoskin(Henry), Stevens(Bloomfield), Strutt, Brodie, Pilkington W., Hollinsworth

Goal: Stevens

Reserves Grab Last Gasp Winner!......11/09/2016

The Tavs surprised their hosts with a bright opening which, with a bit more luck, might have brought a very early goal. We more than matched Raydon in the midfield battle where we had the impression they could dominate teams physically; they certainly couldn’t on Sunday with the tireless Rico Stanojevic and Wayne Jordan outstanding for Taverners.

Raydon had a tremendous weapon in a long-throw specialist but countless times they found skipper Tom Brooks unbeatable in the air and influential throughout. When they did seem to have scored, Brandon Burton typified a fine performance by clawing the ball onto the bar.

We grabbed the lead just after the break when Mikey Sneddon’s never-say-die spirit won the ball back from a Raydon defender and Jamie Brittain fired into the far corner.

As the half progressed, we gained in confidence and Jamie was a hair-breadth away from connecting with a header close to the Raydon goal. The Ravens weren’t finished and with 20 minutes remaining they equalised with an overhead kick.

Play went from end to end and, for the Tavs, Mikey was unlucky to be forced away from goal after creating an opening.

The consensus of opinion was that this was a most satisfying game to take part in and a buoyant dressing room was cheered when news of the reserve team’s last-gasp win filtered through.

Team: Barton, Tacey, Brooks, Spalding, Pilkington, Stanojevic, Jordan, Brittain, Tunbridge, Sneddon, Southgate

Goals: Brittain



Reserves

Taverners Res. 4, AFC Claydon 3

An intriguing blend of youth and returning experience took the field on a glorious Sunday morning with a view to producing a more positive performance than had been seen so far this season. After a couple of shaky ‘getting to know you’ moments in the back four, we settled down to play some neat, flowing football with Calum Andrews and Paul Strutt providing movement and options up front. It was disappointing then when we fell behind to a quick breakaway goal which took several deflections before settling into the back of the net. Undeterred, we carried on our positive approach which paid dividends when a break through the midfield resulted in Calum Andrews neat pass setting the marauding Sean High through for a one on one with the ‘keeper, whom he beat with his eyes and a well placed shot into the bottom corner. We continued to push forward in the remainder of the first half without being able to add to the score line, and we threatened on numerous occasions as a result of our newly discovered weapon, Craig Risby’s throw-ins!

The second half began with Claydon on the front foot, but Matt Davis proved he was back to his best with a string of ‘show reel’ saves that even drew positive comments from the Referee. With experience limbs growing tired, and a full herd of youngsters on the bench chomping at the bit to enter the fray, a succession of substitutions followed. Gary Cunningham, playing his first game for some months, was replaced by Chris Henry, who went on to have a fine game with some mazy runs on the left and threatened on more than one occasion to add to the score sheet; The vocal James ‘ Bully’ Bullamore, who had formed a promising partnership with Craig Risby in the centre of defence, made way for Matt Pearson, who has recently returned from his travels around the world; and the quiet, yet effective, James Bloomfield was replaced by Tim Smith making his Tavs debut. More on Tim later! Claydon took advantage of the inevitable bedding in period for the subs to score a breakaway goal from one of our own corners. However, we were quick to equalise when Calum Andrews evaded two dangerous tackles to play Strutty in who finished well from a wide angle. Credit goes to the Ref. Dave Primus for allowing the advantage from both tackles, and who had a good game throughout.

Two more substitutions followed with another debutant, Ben Thomas, replacing the Steely Rob ‘Fisky’ Fisk in midfield and Jordan Keeble replacing his tireless twin brother Callum at right back, but I don’t think anyone noticed that one!

Frustratingly, we feel behind to another breakaway goal making the score 3-2. Undeterred, we pushed forward and were somewhat fortunate (for once!) when Tim Smith, who was growing into the game as the minutes passed, produced a tremendous cross from the right touchline that floated over the goalkeepers head to level up the game 3-3.

With time running out, and some of us already settling for a point, Calum Andrews once again broke down the left and produced a fine, low cross which Tim Smith coolly despatched into the net for his second. Before Claydon could even take the kick-off the ref blew his whistle for the end of the game. BOOM! (Drops notepad)……..3 points!

EVERYONE played their part in this win, from Liam ‘Tracksuit boy’ Hadley with his help with the admin side of things and being the refs. assistant, Julian ‘Jules’ Holmes for his inspired substitutions, and the five substitutes who all had important roles to play, and played them well, when they joined the game.

This game marked the start of my 30th year with the Taverners, and it reminded me of when I first joined this club…Youth and experience! ‘The Youth’ who are eager and willing to turn up and play, and the experienced players, like myself now, who question if they should still be playing! ‘The Youth’ who are the future of the club and the experienced players who are ‘The History’ of the club.

As Captain, and manager for the day, I thank you……for becoming part of The Taverners’ History!

As the badge says……Ex Familia Victoria – Through Family Comes Victory!

Bevan

Team: Davis, Keeble C.(Keeble J.), Risby, Bullamore(Pearson), Cunningham(Henry), Bloomfield(Smith), High, Fisk(Thomas), Burgess, Strutt, Andrews

Goals: High, Smith(2), Strutt

First Team start with a win!......04/09/2016

It was a shock when Playford took the lead thanks to some poor marking against a free-kick from a deep position but we were undeterred and we equalised when David Spalding laid the ball in-field to Tom Brooks and the skipper hit a 30 yard screamer past the Playford keeper and into the top corner.

Chances much closer to goal were going astray as we continued to pass the ball around well but we took the lead when Rico Stanojevic’s long ball was collected by Mikey Sneddon and he cut in to fire low past the keeper.

Mikey’s corner from the right was then hooked in by the tireless Wayne Jordan for a 3-1 interval lead.

Although we continued to enjoy most of the possession, Playford were far from finished and they pulled a goal back when a poor clearance let them in for a chance which was gratefully accepted.

As in the first half, we scorned some opportunities before we finally made the game safe when Jawa Tacey’s deep cross was headed in by Gary Pilkington after being touched on by Kai Tunbridge.

Certainly, a solid performance and something to build on over the weeks ahead.

Team: Siggers, Tacey, Brooks, Spalding, Pilkington, Stanojevic, Jordan, Brittain(Bloomfield), Tunbridge, Sneddon, Southgate

Goals: Brooks, Jordan, Pilkington, Sneddon



Reserves

Amboed Utd. 8, Taverners Res. 1

A small spark of light at the end of the tunnel and then it is snatched away.

Forget the opposition. Forget the result. We have to concentrate on just two things. Our fitness and getting everyone injury free and available. We have four players missing. A centre half. We are hoping this will be solved this week with a new signing. We need a Paul Ryan or Paul Bestley in the midfield. Both are injured. And we need a goalscorer.

Apart from that we actually started this game well. We were organised and working hard. We were under some pressure but we were coping.

The first two goals hit us hard. Both were only inches away from being blocked. Ambeod added a third before half time.

We were under intense pressure and Ambeod added a fourth soft goal. We needed to find an outlet in attack but with only one man up front it was difficult. It was perhaps a mistake to disturb the defence but I changed it because at 4-0 we had to do something. The truth is that we might have held the score at 4-0 if I had kept it the same but 4-0 or 8-0 we do not lose anymore points.

The small spark of light was that we have three new signings on the pitch and they were all doing well. This light was firmly extinguished when two of them announced they were now away for 5 weeks in America.

So we move on. Hopefully a little wiser and more importantly a little fitter.

Team: Davis, Keeble C., Strutt, Burrup, Keeble J., Fisk, Henry(Hayward), Wessels, Hollinsworth, Pilkington W., Brodie(Harvey)

Reserves Steady The Ship, abit!......28/08/2016

The Rosary left back had the ball a good 30 yards out. He basically miss hit a cross. The ball looped up in the air catching Matt Davis on his six yard line to land in the far corner of the net. Totally unbelievable.

We never really recovered. I heard one of our main supporters comment after the game that it was embarrassing to watch. My first reaction was hurt at such a comment when the players I had out there were doing their best. But as I looked back on the game I can only agree with the comment. I cannot speak for all the players but yes I personally feel I need to do more. I need to be fitter so I can compete more in the game.

We finally broke our duck when Jordan Ripper picked up the ball midway in their half. He side stepped two players to hit a powerful shot from 25 yards beating the keeper hands down.

Team: Davis, Keeble C., Strutt, Jordan, Ripper(Hayward), Herridge(Keeble J.), Bullamore(Fisk), Spalding, Hollinsworth, Pilkington G., Palmer(Sherman N.)

Goal: Ripper

Season Starts with Big Defeat for Reserves......21/08/2016

,I had no time for chatting after the game as I had to get to a wedding. I was driving to Ashford Kent so not a good time to be writing a report anyway. I text the whole team to thank them for being there for us today. Disappointed that only one person replied but maybe they are feeling like me. Perhaps it was too early to talk.

9.45pm Sunday 21st

I've had a few texts during the day from players asking how we got on. I’m driving home from Kent, children asleep in back of car. Can't be bothered with the radio so in silence I think through the game. Perhaps it is still too early for reports. Just keep thinking of negatives. Two missed chances and players not fit enough to keep up with the pressure we faced.

Were they better than us.

Yes of coarse they were. Stupid thought. They beat us 10-0

Were they better than the original team I wanted to put out against them.

No they were not.

I thought this was a good opportunity to start the season strong. I always intended to include regular reserves as this would give them the chance to learn from stronger and more experienced players. Two Central defenders and a strong midfield. However this did not happen. We lost 12 players alone to the Ipswich Norwich game. So by the time Sunday came around I did not have one single Centre half. From my original midfield I had two players from the five I originally selected.

10am Monday 22nd
On my way to work. Still trying to find the right positive view of the game to put in my report. Think I'll list them

1. Somehow we had 14 players. We have been in worse positions.

2. Matt Davis returned after a long injury and did well. He was not at fault. Three of their first half goals were lucky beyond belief. But it is often true that you make your own luck in football and if you don’t shoot then you won’t score. Great to have him back.

3. Think we found a good position for Nathan. It was the most affective I have seen him when he came on at fullback.

4. Sean worked hard at Centre half and was our most affective defender.

5. We created chances and had a good number of shots on goal.

6. A number of players did not give up and kept going to the end.

But then perhaps I can learn from the negatives.
1. Our concentration on the job our position dictates was poor.

2. Our distribution was awful. We never kept possession

3 The fitness of a number of key players was very poor.

So what is the solution

Well you can start with selection. If the players I need were available we would compete better.

I question myself more than anyone else could.

My results are not great. Do I know better than you ? Maybe not.

But remember I am not asking you to be a different player. I am asking you to play to your strengths.

Do that and we will be a different team. Do that and we will never lose

10-0 again.

Played one game and we are bottom of the league.

Lets change that this week.

Team: Davis, Keeble C.(Hayward), Strutt, Jordan(Sherman N.), Keeble J., Herridge, High, Wessels, Brittain(Hollinsworth), Palmer, Sheppard

Season 2016/17 Fixtures!-------------

		First Team				Reserves

Aug  7		St John's CC               H       (Friendly, Mixed Team)				
    14          Northam Celtic             H       (Friendly, Mixed Team)				
    21  					 Elmsett Utd		 A 10-0				
    28				           	 Rosary CC Res.		 H 1-5

Sep  4		Playford Res (WL)   	   H 4-2 Amboed Utd		 A 8-0
    11		Raydon Ravens (WL)   	   A 1-1 AFC Claydon		 H 4-3
    18		AFC Wellington (S/S1)  	   A 0-2 Boleyn FC    (S/T)      H 1-7
    25						 The Feathers Res.	 A 1-3	
 
Oct  2		Rushmere & Diamonds (WL)   A 2-1 Kesgrave Kestrals Res	 H 1-1
     9		Eastern Elec. Old Boys(WL) H 2-3 Cherrytree FC		 A 4-3					
    16		Elite 405 (S/S2)           A 2-0					
    23		Playford Res. (WL)	   A 0-1 Boleyn FC		 A 9-0
    30		Raydon Ravens (WL)	   H 0-8					

Nov  6		Trinity FC (WL)		   A 2-7 Elmsett Utd.		 H 0-6	
    13		Trinity FC (WL)	 	   H 1-0
    20		Rushmere & Diamonds (WL)   H 2-5 Rosary CC Res.		 A 7-5							
    27		       				 Athletico Once		 H 2-1

Dec  4		Eastern Elec.Old Boys(WL)  A 6-3 Amboed Utd.		 H 1-8
    11							
    18	        Intra-Squad Christmas Match Followed by Food and TV Football						
    25

Jan  1							
     8		Raydon Ravens (SL)     	   A 3-2 AFC Claydon		 A 5-2					
    15		Boleyn FC (Jnr Cup)    	   A 2-4 Rosary CC Res.(Jnr Cup) A 8-0							
    22 		Brantham Ath. Res.(SL) 	   A P-P The Feathers Res.       H P-P
    29		Brantham Ath. Res. (SL)    A 1-3 The Feathers Res.       H 1-2

Feb  5		Laxfield Utd. (SL)	   A 4-0 Kesgrave Kestrals Res.  A (A-W)
    12		Rushmere & Diamonds (J/C2) H 6-0		
    19		Elite 405 (SL)		   A 2-1 Cherrytree		 H 3-5
    26		Shotley Rose (SL)          A 1-5 Boleyn FC		 H 1-10				

Mar  5		Raydon Ravens (J/C3)       H 0-3					
    12		Raydon Ravens (SL)         H 0-13Athletico Once          A 5-2
    19		
    26		Brantham Ath. Res. (SL)    H H-W					

Apr  2		Laxfield Utd. (SL)         H 3-0
     9
    16		Elite 405 (SL)	           H 0-4
    23
    30		Shotley Rose (SL)          H 1-1

	
   
		WL=Winter League
		SL=Spring League