First Team finish Season with Cup final Defeat!...19/05/24

Division 1 League Cup Final

Taverners 1, The Panthers 3

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Ripper(Durrell), Brooks, Fitch(Burrup), Larkins, Fulker, Gheorghiu(Nestor), Monaghan, Pullen, Southgate(Jacobs R.), Wandira.

Goals: Wandira

Reserves Finish Season With Eye Catching Display!...12/05/24

Division 2

Taverners Res. 5, Eye Saints 3 - (Cross bar challenge winners too. . .)

The last game of this season was a treat for the neutral and rollercoaster of emotions for both teams on a beautiful Sunday morning. The history books will record that we (deservedly) won the game 5-3 what they won’t state is that:

• we hit the woodwork 6 times in and around scoring 5 goals,

• the opposition also hit the woodwork twice.

• In addition, two of our goals went in off the woodwork.

We opened the scoring early on when Dan Pasque poked home. Whilst we controlled most of the play the opposition looked dangerous with the ball over the top, however the equalizer came from a deep cross which saw defensive hesitation allow the Eye striker to have an easy free header inside the six-yard box. Our lead was regained when a brilliantly worked move down the left saw Monaghan cross for Pasque to again score. Pasque completed a first half hattrick in the dying seconds of the half with a well-directed header via a cross by none other than one Robert Fisk (random!).

Everyone was buzzing at half-time, and we talked about controlling not chasing the game and just continuing where we left off. Which is exactly what we did, only we continued where we left of the previous week and allowed the opposition to score two goals to make the score 3 -3. This and an injury to Tom Pearce forced us into changes earlier than planned but we seemed to settle down and started to dominate again. Our dominance was rewarded with further goals from Ryan Jacobs and Pasque to re-establish our two-goal lead. Dan’s fourth goal being courtesy of a cross from none other than Mr Fisk (extraordinary!).

This seemed to take the wind out of the oppositions sales and in all honesty, we could have scored more but for the woodwork some panicked finishing and the odd glaring miss.

Thank you to all the players reserves, first teamers and (now) ex-players for their efforts and contributions to what has been another generally enjoyable season.

Gentler reminder to all reserve team players to submit their votes for player of the season and goal of the season.

Team: Logan-Smith, Fisk(Anderson), Bowman(Burrup), Durrell, Mongahan, Pearce(Fulker), Strutt, Jordan W., Nestor(Burgess), Jacobs R.(Hall), Pasque.

Goals: Jacobs R., Pasque(4)

NEXT GAME:

Sunday 19th May

First Team - Division 1 League Cup Final: The Panthers - Whitton Sports Centre 10:45 KO

Reserves Hang On for Victory...05/05/24

Division 2

Taverners Res. 4, Phoenix 3

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Logan-Smith, Fisk(Hall), Bowman(Burton), Durrell, Mongahan, Pearce, Strutt(Gleed B.), Jordan W., Nestor(King), Jacobs R., Pasque.

Goals: Jacobs R.(2), Pasque(2)

NEXT GAME:

Sunday 12th May

Reserves - Division 2: Eye Saints(H): Bourne Vale Sports Club

Pasque Hat-trick and Wayne's Worldie Highlights of Entertaining Game...01/05/24

Division 2

Taverners Res. 8, Northam Celtic 5

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Logan-Smith, Bowman(Pearce), Mongahan, Fitch, Strutt(Nestor), Jordan W.(Hall), Primus, Careswell(Burgess), Jacobs R., Wandira, Pasque(Gleed B.).

Goals: Jordan W., Nestor, Pasque(3), Wandira(2), O.G.

NEXT GAME:

Sunday 5th May

Reserves - Division 2: Phoenix(H): Bourne Vale Sports Club

First Team Through To League Cup Final...28/04/24

Division 1

Real Suffolk 2, Taverners 2 (AET) - 3-4 pens

After a month of disappointment and Injuries finally we see the team we are. We see what we can do. And we prove that we are still the hardest team to beat.

We were being a little outplayed offensively. Real Suffolk never stopped coming forward the whole game. But defensively we were in total control. We held our shape. Players did their jobs and beyond. There were no individuals. There was a team determined not to be beaten.

The first half now seems like a forgettable part of the game. But it was the set up for what was to come. Real Suffolk were relentless but with only one shot on target you can now see how well we did defensively.

At the half time regroup we talked about continuing how we were but improving by keeping better possession going forward. The wind was now in our favour so opportunities would come. And they did! Two moments of magic from James Stozza Storey.

The first when he went through into the box only for a last minute tackle to block his shot. But he got up quicker than anyone to get the loose ball and fired in another shot which deflected off a defender to score.

The second was a through ball between the defenders leaving Stozza clean through on goal. It was still a difficult chance but he slotted it away easily.

Real Suffolk were visibly deflated but slowly started to come at us again. With 15 mins to go they scored from close range. Our natural reaction was to defend and to drop deeper but this meant Real Suffolk could come at us with no rest. They equalised with 5 to go and then almost won it when a shot was deflected sending Brandon Burton the wrong way. Somehow he managed to change direction to save.

So once again it was down to a penalty shoot out. In just two seasons this was to be our 5th penalty shoot out. We have never lost in these two seasons. But this one was a bit different. Three of our normal first five takers were not on the pitch. So there was a bit of pressure. It was confusing to us on the sideline so read this slowly.

Suffolk put their first one over the bar.

Tewanda Wandira scored with confidence (0-1)- Suffolk scored (1-1) and Will Pullen scored for us (1-2).

Suffolk then scored two in a row and we had two in a row saved (2-2), (3-2).

Branden Burton saved Suffolks 5th.

At 3-2 down Stozza had to score to keep us in the game. Although his penalty was saved the referee ordered a re-take because the keeper had stepped forward off his line before the ball was kicked. Stozza scored the re-take easily (3-3).

Suffolk then blasted their 6th over the bar leaving Ben Fitch to win the game. Although he slipped on impact with the ball it was strong enough and well placed to beat the keeper and win us another Cup Final appearance (3-4).

Team: Burton, Ripper, Fulker, Southgate(Pullen), Fitch, Primus, Monaghan, Storey, Jacobs R, Gheorgiu, Wandira.

Goal: Storey(2)




Division 2

Taverners 2, Ipswich Athletic 9

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Logan-Smith(Gleed A.), Fisk, Careswell, Anderson, Burgess(Hall), Gleed B.(Woods), Bowman, Strutt, Jordan W., Lowe A., Nestor.

Goals: Strutt, OG.

NEXT GAME:

Wednesday 1st May

Reserves - Division 2: Northam Celtic(H): Bourne Vale Sports Club

Loss For First Teams In Last League Game Of Season...21/04/24

Division 1

Taverners 1, Red Star UK 2

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Pullen, Southgate(Woods), Fitch, Pearce(Bowman), Careswell, Jacobs R, Strutt(Hollinsworth), Gheorgiu, Ripper, Nestor(Jordan W).

Goal: Ripper


NEXT GAMES:

Sunday 28th April

First Team - Division 1 League Cup Semi Final: Real Suffolk (N): Gainsborough Sports Centre

Reserves - Division 2: Ipswich Athletic(H): Bourne Vale Sports Club

Reserves Fight-Back Falls Short...14/04/24

Division 1

Taverners, The Golden Eagles - Match Abandonded, Result Pending

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Pullen, Southgate, Fitch, Durrell, Jacobs R, Pilkington G, Primus, Griggs, Wandira, Nestor(Monaghan).

Goals: Griggs, Wandira(2)




Division 2


Taverners Res. 2, Claydon Ath. 3

On another day. . . . .

The backdrop to the Res game was two Taverners teams beset by injury and unavailability, meaning that the reserves ‘bench’ consisted of two goalkeepers and an old man! This was not a good omen playing against a team I dislike immensely and therefore dislike losing to.

The game started at a fairly, furious pace with the reserves probably just edging it and it was no surprise that we had the first good chance. Unfortunately, as has been the case too many times this season the chance was squandered. Claydon then began to exert control of the half and we found ourselves one zero down when lax defending allowed a Claydon forward to get a shot away which went in off the post. We were forced to make an early change in personnel and formation when Matt King went down injured. Not long after this we found ourselves two nil down when Anderson brought down an attacking player right on the edge of the area. As the last defender it didn’t look good but the referee (the best one we have had for a long, long, long, time) let us off by insisting the foul took place in the area and therefore was just a penalty rather than a freekick outside and a red card.

Things looked dire however, a further change in formation meant we became far more solid at the back and with their dangerous front line now being well marshalled, we started to get back in the game and were rewarded with a goal not long before half time when Dan Pasque raced through with the ball from just inside the opposition half and cooly shot passed the goalkeeper.

The second half started scrappily but we were grateful to DLS in goal and the defence for making several crucial saves and clearances to keep us in the game. However, we were again undone by lax defending when we didn’t engage with the advancing Claydon attacker and allowed him to get his shot off which went in off the far post. In fact, all the Claydon goals appeared to go in off the woodwork.

We were forced to make another substitution and change in formation with 20 minutes to go with Tom P departing (to a birthday party apparently!). The game seemed to have gone flat when a clearance from a Claydon corner saw Dan Pasque make a perfectly weighted pass through the opposition defence. Cunningham ran on before opening his body to curl the ball past the advancing keeper into the empty net. The task was mad somewhat easier by the fact that the Claydon goalkeeper had no intention of trying to save the shot being more interested in flattening Cunningham (there is a back story here which can’t be put into print).

Despite the final 10 minutes seeing Claydon reduced to 10 men when one of their defenders was sinned binned (yes Dippy they did have only 10 men on the pitch!) The reserves were unable to force the draw. The reserves face another difficult opponent next week in the form of Eye Saints. A performance with the same spirit but potentially less mistakes and we will present them with a challenge.

Team: Logan-Smith, Anderson, King(Siggers), Pearce(Cunningham), Gleed B., Jordan, Bowman, Careswell, Strutt, Pasque, Nestor.

Goals: Cunningham, Pasque.


NEXT GAMES:

Sunday 21st April

First Team - Division 1: Red Star(H): Bourne Vale

Reserves - Division 2: Eye Saints(A): Eye Community Centre

Tough Sunday All Round...07/04/24

Division 1

Clapgate Lane 3, Taverners 2

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Pullen(Hollinsworth), Southgate, Fitch, Durrell, Gheorghiu, Stevens D., Primus, Croft, Wandira, Martin.

Goals: Primus, Wandira




Division 2


Brett Vale 3, Taverners Res. 1

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Logan-Smith, Fisk(Anderson), King, Pearce, Gleed B.(Woods), Jordan, Bowman(Haynes), Careswell, Strutt, Pasque, Nestor.

Goal: Strutt.


NEXT GAMES:

Sunday 14th April

First Team - Division 1: The Golden Eagles(H): Bourne Vale

Reserves - Division 2: Claydon Ath(H): Bourne Vale

First Team Draw with League Leaders, Reserves fight back but fall short...31/03/24

Division 1

Taverners 1, Shortley Rose 1

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Pullen(Stevens), Ripper, Fitch, Larkins, Gheorghiu, Mongahan, Primus, Fulker, Wandira, Storey.

Goal: Wandira




Division 2


Taverners Res. 2, Wincanton 3

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Logan-Smith, Fisk(Bowman), King(Haynes), Pearce, Durrell, Burgess(Gleed B.), Herridge(Woods), Careswell, Strutt, Pasque, Nestor.

Goals: Haynes, Pasque.


NEXT GAMES:

Sunday 7th April

First Team - Division 1: Clapgate Lane(A): Gainsborough Sports Centre.

Reserves - Division 2: Brett Vale(A): - King George Playing Field (Raydon)

First Team Suffer First Cup Defeat In Over Two Years...24/03/24

Suffolk FA Sunday Shield Semi-Final

Bury Bowl 4, Taverners 0

The most difficult result I have ever had to deal with. The fact is that our preparation was wrong.

From the moment we arrived at their ground it felt wrong. The facilities were non existent. We had to get changed a mile and a half from the ground and then drive back. The pitch was below the standard of this fixture. We were missing 3 important players. You can say all these things are just an excuse. But they were all part of how we started the game.

The biggest reason for this result was me. I was warned and given an insight into how Bury would play. In hindsight now I know that I should have prepared the team to address what I was told by the Shotley manager.

These are Shotley's words not mine. They said, Bury are not a good side. They can only play in one way which is that they hit long balls over the top for their two very quick attackers to run onto.

I believed we would stop this by closing them down and playing our possession game. I believed experience would win through. I was wrong. I should have played with Tom Brooks sweeping behind whenever they played this ball. I should have played Antonio Gheorgia in the holding midfield to maintain that presence for the whole 90 minutes. I should have played five in midfield and one up front.

The game had not one single highlight for us. I believe we had five shots with only one on target. In the past we would have snatched an equaliser early on and that would have maybe settled us into a better rhythm but that just never happened. Cup football is cruel. It's a one game shoot out and on the day Bury Bowl did exactly what they do every week and they beat us by four goals.

We can let this season go now if we sit back and let this affect us. We still have a slim chance of the league title. We have 4 games left. Shotley have two games left. They are 19 goals ahead of us. We have to beat them on Sunday. Every goal counts double. Our aim has to be to win by at least three goals. That will give them a 13 goal lead. We then have three games to score as many goals as we can against Clapgate, Golden Eagles and Red Star.

Even then we still have the Semi Final for the league cup. I totally believe we can do it.

It all comes down to us and how we want to finish this season.

Team: Burton, Southgate(Pullen), Lambert A.(Stevens D.), Fitch, Larkins, Brooks(Gheorghiu), Mongahan, Primus, Fulker, Wandira, Griggs.

Division 2


Trinity 1, Taverners Res. 0

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Logan-Smith, Fisk(Gleed B.), King, Pearce, Careswell, Burgess(Anderson), Herridge, Bowman, Strutt, Pasque, Nestor(Woods).

NEXT GAMEs:

Sunday 31st March ***** BST Starts 1am - CLOCK GO FORWARD 1 HOUR *********

First Team - Division 1: Shotley Rose (H): BOURNE VALE Reserves - Division 2: Wincanton(H) - BOURNE VALE

First Team Through to League Cup Semi-Final After Penalty Win....17/03/24

Division 1 Cup 1/4Final

Gainsborough Utd 3, Taverners 3 (Taverners Win 4-2 pens)

We are now at the business end of the season. Every game is as important and no opposition is taken lightly. We have not had the luck of the draw in any cup competition. We always seem to draw the toughest opponents. Now that we have won through to the semi final we will again meet the best team left in the draw. So we deserve to be involved in every competition. We have worked hard to be where we are.

Gainsborough are good opponents. This was our fourth meeting this season. It is still very obvious that because of our success last season every team still puts out their very best side against us.

We got off to a great start when Ben Griggs was put through and he beat the keeper to score. Then within ten minutes we were two up when the ball rolled under the keepers foot and into the goal. All seemed good and we had good possession. Gainsborough were not really pressing us but with a shot from thirty yards they pulled one back.

We then had a number of chances T Wandira went clear through only to be stopped when no advantage was played after being fouled.

Gainsborough came at us harder through the second half and were rewarded with an equaliser after 15 minutes. We reorganised a bit and started to take control more. From a free kick by Jack Lambert. Ben Griggs put us ahead again with a superb header. Time was running out for Gainsborough and they were pushing hard. They equalised with just a minute to go.

The game went straight to penalties. We do have some considerable experience in penalty shot outs. This was our sixth one in three seasons and in that time we only lost the first one.

Brandon Burton saved the first penalty diving to his left. Tom Brookes, T Wandira and Grant Monaghan all scored. Brandon saved their third penalty brilliantly diving to his right leaving Duncan Southgate to score to get us to the semi final.

There are no comparisons for me between this year's squad and last year. In reality although we lost three players permanently and a few not being available all the time but we have had some great replacements.

Just like last season we have rode our luck on a few occasions. The opposition this year has been harder. Every team doubles their efforts when playing us. The possibility of the treble is still there. But it is up to us to make it happen.

Team: Burton, Southgate, Fitch, Gheorghiu(Monaghan), Fitch, Lambert Ja.(Burrup), Brooks, Primus, Storey(Pullen), Wandira, Griggs

Goals: Griggs(2), O.G..


NEXT GAMES:

Sunday 24th March

First Team: Suffolk FA Sunday Shield Semi-Final - Bury Bowl (A) - MORETON HALL PREPARATORY SCHOOL, MOUNT ROAD, BURY ST. EDMUNDS, Suffolk IP32 7BJ. ///staked.cardinal.completed

Reserves: Division 2 -Trinity (A) - Gainsborough Sports Centre

Reserves Lose To Gardeners Arms...10/03/24

Division 2


Taverners Res. 0, Gardeners Arms 3

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Logan-Smith, Pearson J., King, Careswell, Pearce, Pullen(Anderson), Jordan W, Bowman(Stevens), Herridge, Pasque, Wandira.

Goals:


NEXT GAME:

Sunday 17th March

First Team - Division 1 Cup -Gainsborough Utd.(A) - Gainsborough Sports Centre

First Team Fell Foxhall...03/03/24

Division 1

Taverners 6, Foxhall Utd 0

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Ripper, Lambert A.(Lowe A.), Brooks, Fitch, Larkins, Southgate(Burrup), Lambert Ja., Primus, Fulker(Pullen), Wandira.

Goals: Fulker, Lambert Ja.(2), Lowe A., Wandira(2).




Division 2


Taverners Res. 0, Playford 4

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Logan-Smith, Fisk(Siggers), King(Gleed A.), Anderson(Glencastle), Careswell, Burgess, Jordan, Bowman(Herridge), Strutt, Pasque, Nestor.

Goals:


NEXT GAME:

Sunday 10th March

Reserves - Division 2 -Gardeners Arms (H) - Bourne Vale.

Clean Sheets on a Sunday Morning. Who Could Ask For More?...25/02/24

Division 1

Taverners 2, Gainsborough Utd 0

I am happy to say that we totally proved to ourselves that we are still the team to beat in this league. Gainsborough are not a bad side and they caused a few problems on occasions but these were dealt with. From the very start it felt like it was just a matter of time before we scored. We just had to be patient and stick to our own game.

A combination of excellent communication through our team and Brandon Burton pulling off some incredible saves made the difference. We are still missing players but this performance proved that we have the resources as a squad to adapt and dominate the opposition. There is no room for complacency. Maybe we were all guilty of that at Shotley. But the blip in performance is gone. Now we just have to push on.

We took the lead midway through the first half. Some great work from T Wandira as he went past three players in the 18 yard box to fire home.

Not everything was right. But we grew stronger as the game moved on. We had a strength with the way we organised from the back through to the whole team.

We had to make two changes on the hour but again we adjusted to the changes and began pushing even more. We scored again when Jack Lambert put Will Pullen through to beat the on coming keeper.

Every game is a big game now. We need to believe in ourselves and maintain this form.

Team: Burton, Ripper, Lambert A.(Stevens D.), Brooks, Fitch, Larkins, Southgate(Burrup), Lambert Ja., Monaghan(Pullen), Fulker, Wandira.

Goals: Pullen, Wandira.




Division 2

Phoenix 0, Taverners Res. 1 (So what formation were we playing then . . ???)

Following the spirited performance against top of the table MROB two weeks previous, we set out to play 3-5-2 formation again. However, we were forced to adapt to the oppositions formation of 3-4-3 and adapt we did. We switched to 4 at the back with a strict man to man marking strategy. Luke Anderson was pushed forward into midfield to man mark one of their creative midfielders.

This made for a tactically tight first 45 mins. Clear cut openings were few and far between however Phoenix, with their chances, worked Dan LS far harder than we worked their goalkeeper. Whilst it would have been undeserved, it was thanks to some brave and clinical goalkeeping that the score remained 0-0 . I had nothing but praise for the team at half time and hung my hat on the fact that one goal would win the game.

The second half continued much the same as the first although there were probably fewer clear-cut chances thanks to some magnificent defending from everyone up and down the pitch. We made 3 outfield substitutions replacing people who had literally run themselves into the ground. All the substitutes came on and did exactly what was asked of them and did it well.

The game looked like it was heading for a full-time stalemate when late on in the game Dan Pasque broke down the right and at the second attempt pulled the ball back for Nestor to tap home. This was late on in the game and there was no further action. A good win against a team we have historically struggled against and a further morale boost. On top of this I would say that several people put in their best performance I have seen - several candidates for man of the match.

As a foot note I would also like to record that I still don’t understand how the heck the Phoenix goalkeeper saved Strutty’ s brilliant freekick and of course the fact that it was a brilliant freekick. Both things left me speechless :-)

We go again.

Team: Logan-Smith, Fisk, King(Siggers), Anderson(Glencastle), Careswell, Burgess, Jordan, Bowman, Strutt(Herridge), Pasque, Nestor.

Goals: Nestor.


NEXT GAME:

Sunday 3rd March

First Team - Division 1 - Foxhall Utd (H) - Bourne Vale.

Reserves - Division 2 - Playford (H)- Bourne Vale.

Rare Defeat for First Team, Whilst Reserves Run League Leaders Close...11/02/24

Division 1

Shotley Rose 6, Taverners 0

It actually hurts to type the score. I accept defeat as a sportsman but I don’t have to like it.

The reality is that on the day Shotley fought harder, they won almost every battle. Their confidence grew as ours diminished.

We made mistakes. Two own goals, a lucky rebound, two uncleared crosses and one excellent shot for 25 yards. In the whole 90 minutes we had just one shot and that was not on target. So we got what we deserved.

Does this mean we are suddenly a different team. Of coarse not. The truth is that no matter what team we put out in the past we have always had a nucleus. A group of players who led the others through the games even when we went behind. But today we did not have enough to make that happen.

Naming names would not be fair to the team. Some players worked very hard to make a difference but the gaps between them were never covered and as the game went on we just never got on top. It’s not any one persons fault. Win, lose or draw we do that as a team. We all take responsibility. Own it and move on.

This is now behind us. We must pick ourselves up and get back on track. It’s not easy but we have the right game to do that this coming week.

We have six league games left. The league is still in our hands all we have to do is win all six games but we have to play Gainsborough and Shotley. Lose or draw and the league title is gone. Real Suffolk will not slip up and Shotley comes down to our game against them.

Make a note guys. These are the games. We need everyone available to make it happen.

18th Feb Red Star

25th Feb Gainsborough

3rd March Foxhall

17th March Gainsborough Cup

24th March Bury Bowl Cup

31st March Shotley

7th April Clapgate

14th April The Golden Eagles

Team: Burton, Pullen, Burrup, Brooks, Fitch, Larkins, Southgate(Stevens D.), Lambert Ja., Gheorghiu(Ripper), Fulker, Wandira.

Division 2

Martlesham Old Boys 3, Taverners Res. 2

Little reward in the end after a spirited performance. . . . . .

The Reserves travelled to top of the table and unbeaten M.O.B on Sunday. We have could be forgiven for thinking that following the previous weeks humbling by bottom of the table Wincanton, this was going to be a very uncomfortable morning. However, with a changed formation of 3-5-2 and a 10 min pre-match discussion around discipline of positions, we got off to a good solid start. We frustrated the opposition early on only allowing them significant possession at the back and at the same time we worked their back three with good quick counter attacks. It wasn’t long before we were rewarded with a goal following a smart finish from Ryan and not long afterwards thanks to some confusion in the M.O.B ranks as to whether play restarted following an injury, we found ourselves deservedly 2-0 up with another smart finish, this time from Nestor.

We looked comfortable and indeed could have further extended our lead had we made more of the numerous long throws we had into M.O.B area however we allowed them back into the game with two horrible individual defensive errors. From then we began to struggle to contain a now buoyed M.O.B team and were fortunate to come in at half time still in the lead.

The second half really continued in same with M.O.B pushing on and pushing us deeper back. The pressure we were under began to tell and it was no surprise that M.O.B came back into the game and indeed went ahead. Whilst their third girl was a sublime finish it did come from lazy defending in terms of our pressing and therefore with the other goal being another defensive error, it would not be unfair to say we gave M.O.B. all their goals.

We did however remain in the game and making full use of our subs to try and freshen things up we did press for an equalizer. Indeed, for the last 10 minutes we regained the control we had exerted for the majority of the first. We created pressure and half chances right to the whistle – with one glorious opportunity falling to Nestor with a mere minute on the clock. It wasn’t to be and the reaction from the opposition at full time told you everything about how relieved they were.

Another one of those games where the players could walk off the pitch with their heads held high. What a difference 7 days makes!!

Team: Logan-Smith, Fisk, Jacobs A.(King), Durrell, Careswell, Burgess(Anderson), Jordan, Bowen, Strutt, Jacobs R.(Bowman(Hall)), Nestor.

Goals: Jacobs R., Nestor.


NEXT GAME:

Sunday 18th February

First Team - Division 1 - Red Star UK (H) - Bourne Vale.

Reserves - Division 2 - Northam Celtic (H)- Bourne Vale.

First Secure Slot In Suffolk FA Sunday Shield Semi-Final...04/02/24

Suffolk FA Sunday Shield

Taverners 5, Stoke by Clare 0

It was the long awaited next chapter of trying to repeat our success last year of reaching the final of the Suffolk FA Shield. Last seasons cup final was a spectacular day and one we all want to do again.

There was a lot of speculation over the weeks as to how good Stoke by Clare would be. The reality was that they were not anywhere near their reputation. We had a strong squad ready to play whatever they put in front of us. It almost put us off our normal stride. We took the lead early after just five minutes. James Stozza Storey broke free and sent a pass across the 18 yard box for T Wandira to score.

We seemed to stumble a bit. We had chances and went close on a number of occasions but could not add to the score. Stoke were not causing us problems but the scoreline meant they were still in the game if they could find a way.

The second half saw us take better control the game. After just three minutes we scored when T Wandira forced his way into the 18 yard box. His cross field pass to the far post was met by Jimmy Fulker to score.

We scored again on 63 minutes when a ball from James Stozza Storey into the six yard area caused confusion and the defender put the ball into his own net. Although the opposition had a few attempts at putting us under pressure it never really worked and we went on to score twice more.

The first of these came when Ben Griggs went through from the halfway line with just one defender to beat he found James Stozza Storey leaving him with just the keeper to beat which he did by dribbling around him to walk the ball into the net.

The score was complete after 80 minutes when Jack Lambert put in a superb cross which was met by Will Pullen to head home.

You could see the opposition managers frustration. We are told they have a stronger squad than they showed today. But the reality is if your squad does not commit to the season, if they do not support you wherever and whenever the next game is, then you are not a strong team and you deserve to be beaten 5-0.

We are now the only remaining Ipswich based team in this competition. Our commitment is strong and we will be ready for whoever we meet.

Team: Burton, Ripper (Pullen), Burrup (Griggs), Brooks, Fitch, Southgate(Monaghan), Lambert Ja., Primus, Fulker, Storey, Wandira (Stevens).

Goals: Fulker, Pullen, Storey, Wandira, O.G.




Division 2

Wincanton 5, Taverners Res. 3

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Logan-Smith, Fisk, Jordan, Pearce, Burgess(Anderson), Bowman(Hall), Jacobs R., Nestor, Pasque, Lowe A.(Careswell)

Goals: Nestor(2), Pasque.


NEXT GAME:

Sunday 11th February

First Team - Division 1 - Shotley Rose (A) - Rose Playing Field, Shotley.

Reserves - Division 2 - Martlesham Old Boys (A) - Ransomes Sports & Social Club

First Team Fire In Four Whilst Reserves Force In Five...28/01/24

Division 1

Golden Hind Res. 0 Taverners 4

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Burrup, Pullen, Southgate, Larkins, Primus, Gheorghiu(Boja), Lambert Ja., Fitch, Storey, Wandira.

Goals: Lambert Ja., Pullen, Southgate, Wandira.




Division 2

Taverners Res. 5, Landguard Rovers 1

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Logan-Smith, King(Fisk), Jordan, Durrell, Careswell(Burgess), Bowman(Anderson), Bowen, Strutt, Gleed B.(Nestor), Pasque, Herridge(Lowe A.)

Goals: Bowman, Herridge, Pasque(2), O.G..


NEXT GAME:

Sunday 4th February

First Team - Suffolk FA Sunday Shield (1/4Final) - Stoke by Clare (H) - Bourne Vale

Reserves - Division 2 - Wincanton FC (A) - Gainsborough Sports Centre

Mixed Results in League Cups...21/01/24

Division 1 Cup

Taverners 2, Shotley Rose 1

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Burrup, Brooks, Southgate(Pullen), Larkins, Primus, Gheorghiu, Lambert Ja., Fitch(Monaghan), Ripper, Wandira.

Goals: Wandira (2).




Division 2 Cup

Claydon Athletic 6, Taverners Res. 2

Another slow start does for the Res. . . . . . .

The Reserves travelled to the familiar sights of Claydon Rec for our latest battle with a team which is fast becoming our least favourite opponents. After this encounter I think we can legitimately say of them, you only sing when you’re winning!

We approached this game full of confidence having previously come back from 2-0 down to our opponents to gain a good draw. But right from the kick-off, and indeed before the game it was quite clear they had been whipped up into a barely contained frenzy. This along with what we observed to be at least 3 decent players who had not featured against us before, saw Claydon come racing out of the blocks. Having recovered from conceding a goal in the first 50 seconds , we then found ourselves 3-1 down after (possibly) 15 mins and 5-1 down at halftime (our goal being scored by Dan Pasque). In truth had it not been for the efforts of Dan in goal and some last-ditch tackles and blocks, the halftime score could have been an embarrassment.

And that was the message at halftime – do we want to lose the game or be utterly embarrassed by our opponents. Thankfully, we chose the former. An early goal, all be it an own goal by Claydon was no more deserved as we gave a much better account of ourselves and dominated much of the half. In our strong periods we created several good half chances and could have made the score more respectable. One of Claydon’s few forays into our area saw them score their sixth. Contrary to what some of their players thought, it wasn’t potentially goal of the season – it wasn’t even their best goal of the game!

Whilst disappointed we should reflect that we played very well in the second half. Unfortunately, that is the third game in a row where our first half performance has been well below par. It was suggested that as our opposition had done on Sunday we should have an organised warm up routine , as despite my protestations few people make any effort to stretch or run. Food for thought before our next game against the very much improved Languard.

Team: Logan-Smith, Fisk(Anderson), Pearce, Durrell, Wessells(Herridge), Bowman, Bowen, Jordan W., Nestor(Gleed B.), Pasque, Lowe A.

Goals: Pasque.


NEXT GAME:

Sunday 28th January

First Team - Division 1 - The Golden Hind Res.(A) - Gainsborough Sports Centre

Reserves - Division 2 - Languard Rovers (H) - Bourne Vale

Six Point Sunday!...14/01/24

Division 1

Taverners 3, The Panthers 0

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Pullen(Monaghan), Burrup, Southgate(Stevens), Larkins, Fulker, Storey, Lambert Ja., Fitch, Ripper, Wandira.

Goals: Pullen, Storey, Wandira




Division 2

Ipswich Athletic 2, Taverners Res. 3

A brief(ish) report on Sunday’s game as so much occurred I can’t remember. What I would say however is the final score did not reflect the number of very good chances, and very good half chances we created in this game. I must agree with one player’s observation after the game that a fair result would have probably been 1-9.

This brings me to my first honourable mention for misses. This goes to Dippy, who after making a great run and bringing a cross field ball down with a sweet touch, proceeded to smash the ball onto the crossbar with only the goalkeeper to beat. If it had gone in, it would have been a strong contender for goal of the season. Was it the miss of the game? Well not for me.

If you had been a neutral observer, you might have said that the opposition belied their league position by playing some really good counter attacking football, stretching our defence with long balls for their young forward line. It still came as a surprise however when Athletic took the lead thanks to some abysmal marking from a corner kick allowing the goal scorer a free header.

After that and for the remainder of the game we dominated. We earned a quick penalty for an Athletic handball, and I was confident Strutty, captaining the game in Duncan’s continued absence, would level the score. We watched in disbelief as the ball smashed off the crossbar and over for a goal kick. Was this the miss of the game? Maybe and certainly a strong contender.

The remainder of the half saw us squander two or three more good chances to equalize, but my half-time message was just to carry on creating the chances and we would get something. We did when Strutty latched on to a ball just outside the Athletic area and drilled a shot into the left corner giving the goalie no chance. Shortly after this Baldy Will converted a cross at the far post following some good work down the righthand side from Dan Pasque to make the score 1-2. We had created and continued to create a plethora of great chances and here honourable mention for ‘bad’ misses go to Pasque, Panda, and Rio 😊

It wasn’t until Alex (chaos theory) Lowe entered the fray that we saw the kind of composure to score a chance which, had everyone showed, would have seen us possibly break the reserves ‘goals scored in a game’ record. Played in beautifully by Darren Herridge, Alex chopped the ball back, to send the defender to the changing rooms, and calmly slotted the ball passed the keeper. At 1-3 and our domination of the game, this should have been a relaxing last few minutes, however dithering and indecision defensively allowed Athletic to score again, making for a nervy last two minutes.

Whilst I have called people out for their misses, this is done in jest just to make for a more fun match report. In truth it was a very good Reserves performance against a team within our ‘mini league’ and another step improvement on performance, attacking wise certainly. Whereas we struggled to make chances earlier in the season, our performances and growing confidence - which has allowed us to switch to a more offensive 4-4-2 formation - is paying dividends.

Last, but not least, a very warm welcome to Dan who made his debut in goal, and Duck who unfortunately couldn’t make the squad due to injury.

Team: Logan-Smith, Fisk(King), Durrell, Jordan, Burgess, Bowman(Gleed B.), Bowen, Strutt, Nestor(Herridge), Pasque, Jacobs R.(Lowe A.)

Goals: Lowe A, Nestor, Strutt.


NEXT GAME:

Sunday 21st January

First Team - Division 1 Cup - Shotley Rose(H) - Bourne Vale

Reserves - Division 2 Cup - Claydon Athletic(A) - Claydon Rec.

First Team Return To Winning Ways For New Year...07/01/24

Division 1

Ipswich Elite 1, Taverners 4

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Pullen, Brooks, Southgate, Larkins, Storey, Gheorghiu, Lambert Ja., Fitch, Ripper, Griggs(Gleed).

Goals: Gheorghiu, Griggs, Lambert Ja., Pullen.


NEXT GAMES:

Sunday 14th January

First Team - Division 1 - The Panthers FC (H) - Bourne Vale

Reserves - Division 2 - Ipswich Athletic (A) - Whitton Sports Centre

First Lost for First Team Since March 22...10/12/2023

Division 1

Taverners 3, Ipswich Pythons 5

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Pullen, Burrup(Stevens), Southgate, Larkins, Fulker, Primus, Monaghan, Fitch, Ripper, Wandira.

Goals: Monaghan, Pullen(2).




Division 2

Claydon Athletic 2, Taverners Res. 2

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: King, Fisk(Anderson), Pearce, Jordan, Burgess, Bowman(Hall), Bowen, Strutt, Nestor, Pasque, Jacobs R.

Goals: Pasque(2).


NEXT GAME:

Sunday 7th January

First Team - Division 1 - Ipswich Elite(A) - Whitton Sports Centre

Escape To Victory...03/12/2023

Division 1

Real Suffolk 3, Taverners 4

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Ripper(Nestor), Fitch, Brooks, Larkins, Monaghan, Primus, Lambert Ja., Fulker(Pullen), Griggs(Southgate), Wandira.

Goals: Griggs, Lambert Ja., Wandira(2).


NEXT WEEK'S GAMES:

Sunday 10th December

First Team - Division 1 - Ipswich Pythons (H) - Bourne Vale

Reserves - Division 2 - AFC Claydon (A)- Claydon Recreation Ground

First Win for Reserves, Whilst T Makes it the Treble Treble...26/11/2023

Division 1

Taverners 5, Clapgate Lane 1

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Pullen(Monaghan), Burrup, Southgate(Glencastle), Larkins, Storey(Nestor), Primus, Lambert Ja., Fitch, Ripper, Wandira.

Goals: Lambert Ja.(2), Wandira(3).




Division 2

Taverners Res. 4, Brett Vale 0

A first win of the season and early GoS candidates. . . . .

Sunday saw the reserves host Brett Vale, at the Vale for the next one of our ‘league within a league’ games. Having put in a much-improved performance a fortnight previous, only to narrowly fall short, we approached the game with a very positive attitude. This game pitted the bottom two teams in Div. 2 against each other. Each team prior to the game had just one point and the goal difference between them of one.

Brett started much as we expected with lots of energy and whilst we controlled possession and played the much better football, the opposition were a constant threat with their only weapon, a long ball in behind the defence for their fast forwards to run onto. It was only through some smart (if not scary) sweeping by Matt King and several last-ditch tackles by the back four, which kept the game at 0-0. Our own patient build-up play, keeping possession at the back and in midfield whilst very good, was being undone by poor passes, poor crossing of the ball and poor decision making in the final third. We also failed to make use of numerous chances to put pressure on Vale from the many long throws into their area from Rio. We eventually realised how to make the most of this when another long throw caused havoc in the Vale area allowing Dan Pasque to poke home to make the score 1-0. From there we really took complete control for the rest of the half and should have extended our lead on several occasions.

At this point I would like to say the second half continued where we had left off in the first, but it did not. For the first 15 mins of the restart, we laboured under constant pressure, brought on by the defence seemingly unable to clear the ball any great distance (not wind related) and all through the team everyone giving possession away cheaply. However, we weathered the storm and a long goal-kick from Matt saw Dan Pasque out muscle a defender and cooly slot the ball past the Vale keeper to make it 2-0. This was shortly followed by the first GoS contender. Some idiot suggested we try the first team’s corner routine and whilst initially it appeared to have failed miserably. when the ball was cleared to Wayne Jordan on the right-side corner off the 18-yard box, he proceeded to volley it back into the left top corner of the Vale goal – apparently, he meant it!

With a comfortable lead it allowed us the opportunity to make several substitutions and it was one of those subs, Ben Gleed, who was involved in the next GoS contender. The impressive and uncompromising Luke Wessels gained possession at the back on the left side of defence, advanced across the pitch and whilst appearing to be considering a diagonal ball to the right executed an almost no-look reserve pass (apparently, he meant it too) 40 yards down the left to Ben who took a touch before pulling the ball back to Paul Strutt to smash into the far corner.

The game was really over prior to this and after but we had created and continued to create numerous chances. It was a shame we could not have really put the opposition to the sword as others have done to us, but a win is a win is a win and Sundays feel so much better when you get one.

Team: King, Fisk, Wessels, Durrell(Bowman), Burgess(Anderson), Jordan, Bowen, Pasque, Herridge(Hall), Strutt, Lowe A.(Gleed B.)

Goals: Jordan, Pasque(2), Strutt


NEXT WEEK'S GAME:

Sunday 3rd December

First Team - Division 1 - Real Suffolk(A) - Trimley Sports and Social Club

Patience Pays Off For First Team...19/11/2023

Division 1

The Golden Eagles 1, Taverners 6

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burrup, Ripper, Southgate(Pasque), Fitch, Larkins, Martin(Pullen), Monaghan(Nestor), Primus, Lambert Ja., Fulker, Wandira.

Goals: Fulker, Martin, Nestor, Wandira(3).


NEXT WEEK'S GAMES:

Sunday 26th November

First Team - Division 1 - Clapgate Lane (H) - Bourne Vale

Reserves - Division 2 - Brett Vale(H) - Bourne Vale

First Team Win, Reserves Lose (again!)...12/11/2023

Division 1

Foxhall Utd 1, Taverners 6

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Pullen, Burrup, Southgate(Martin), Larkins, Monaghan, Primus, Lambert Ja., Fulker(Lowe A.), Ripper, Wandira.

Goals: Fulker, Lambert Ja., Pullen, Wandira(3).




Division 2

Taverners Res. 2, Trinty FC 3

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: King, Fisk, Perace, Jacobs A.(Anderson), Burgess, Bowmman(Davis A.), Bowen, Nestor, Pasque, Herridge(Hall), Strutt.

Goals: Nestor, Strutt


NEXT WEEK'S GAMES:

Sunday 19th November

First Team - Division 1 - The Golden Eagles(A) - Gainsborough Sports Centre

Reserves - Division 2 - Wincanton (H) - Bourne Vale

First Team Draw After Conceding Last Minute Equaliser...05/11/2023

Division 1

Gainsborough Utd 2, Taverners 2

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Pullen(Southgate), Brooks, Fulker, Larkins, Storey(Stevens D), Primus, Lambert Ja., Fitch, Griggs, Wandira.

Goals: Fulker,Griggs.


NEXT WEEK'S GAMES:

Sunday 11th November - Kick-Offs 11:02am

First Team - Division 1 - Foxhall Utd.(A) - Timperleys Playing Field, Hintlesham, IP8 3NH

Reserves - Division 2 - Trinity FC (H) - Bourne Vale

First Team Win, Reserves Lose...29/10/2023

Division 1

Red Star UK 0, Taverners 3

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Pullen, Brooks, Southgate, Larkins, Storey, Primus(Stevens), Lambert Ja., Fitch, Griggs, Wandira.

Goals: Griggs, Wandira.




Division 2

Playford 6, Taverners Res. 1

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: King, Fisk, Wessels, Jacobs A.(Lowe A.), Anderson, Pasque, Jordan W, Hall(Burgess), Bowen, Jacobs R.(Davis A.), Strutt.

Goal: Strutt


NEXT WEEK'S GAMES:

Sunday 5th November

First Team - Division 1 - Gainsborough Utd.(A) - Gainsborough Sports Centre

First Team beat West Suffolk Wolves on Pens. (again)...15/10/2023

SFA Sunday Shield

West Suffolk Wolves 2, Taverners 2 (4-5 pens.)

We say this a lot because it is true. Every team we play want to beat us more than any other game they play in. Our reputation goes before us. Wolves are a prime example of this. I thought I would check how they had been doing in their league and I was shocked to see that they haven’t won a single game. But then on Sunday they are playing us and suddenly all their players are available and they want to pay us back for beating them in the cup semi final last season.

Just like last season they came at us strong from the start. We were without doubt riding our luck in the first half hour. Chance after chance fell their way but with some heroic defending we somehow kept them out and by half time we were just 1-0 down. We had started to improve in the last 15 minutes of the first half so we just had to keep that going. Wolves had three players causing us problems and we had to deal with those threats. Winning personal battles was a big priority.

We levelled the score when Ben Fitch headed in from close range and we started to make a difference. The game was now a 50/50 competition and it was hard to see who would get the next breakthrough. It was Wolves as they scored from 20 yards. We were creating chances and equalised again through Jack Lambert with a shot from 25 yards into the bottom corner. With time running out we were beginning to get on top. Two penalties were waved away with everyone at the ground believing they were dead certs including all of their own support. The final whistle meant we were again going to penalties. This is something we are getting used to. This was our 5th penalty shoot out in recent times. They are without doubt a nerve wracking thing but with our experience there is something inside which says we will come through.

Wolves missed their third penalty but sadly so did we.

Their 5th was saved by Brandon Burton. So we just need to score. But sadly again we missed.

We were now in sudden death. They missed their 7th. Will Pullen stepped up to confidently place the ball home in the bottom right of the goal.

On to the quarter finals!

Team: Burton, Ripper(Pullen), Brooks, Burrup(Martin), Larkins, Storey, Primus, Lambert Ja., Fitch, Griggs, Wandira

Goals: Fitch, Lambert Ja..




SFA Sunday Trophy

Thurston FC 7, Taverners Res. 3

A cup exit, debuts, and a decent pitch (at last). . . . . . . .

The reserves travelled to Thurston for a Sunday Trophy match against Thurston FC from the Bury league. The journey there itself was an experience, however the reward was playing on the best surface I have seen in many a year. As is always the case it seems our squad bore little resemblance to that which played the previous week against Celtic. With the normal numbers of absences and unavailability, we were happy to welcome three new faces to the team and Taverners family, Matt Hall, Alfie Davies, and Callum Glencastle.

Our opposition looked physically imposing but it was the tactics in attack which was most impressive. Playing ball quickly out wide and the crossing into our area equally as quickly. However, despite this and not at all against the run of play we took the lead when Rio B as he had done the week before rose above everyone else to convert a Jordan corner. This somewhat galvanised (or annoyed) Thurston who struck back quickly with two goals utilising the aforementioned tactic of early crosses into our box – ably assisted by some poor marking on our part. We equalised after Dippy pounced on a goalkeeping error to make it 2-2. However, Thurston replied with two further goals which were in many ways carbon copies of their first two goals. A 4-2 scoreline at halftime felt a little unfair and flattering to the opposition, however switching off defensively at any level tends to mean you are punished.

This proved in the second half where from a golden opportunity, with the goal gaping, missed by us at one end saw Thurston breakaway and score a fifth. This was soon followed by a sixth when a hopeful long pass which should have been dealt with by our keeper and then a poor attempt to stop the forward in any way, allowed Thurston to grab a sixth decisive goal. Rio grabbed a consolation goal again scoring from a header from a corner before we then allowed Thurston another free header to score their seventh and the last goal of the game.

Unfortunately, the scoreline did not reflect the team effort and several very good individual performances. The team performance if not results continues to improve week on week and I am certain that if we can gain some continuity of availability, we will become far more competitive on a regular basis. I am going to break convention and mention Rio who now has 3 goals in as many games from midfield, Luke Wessels physical performance on his return after some weeks of absence and an impressive cameo appearance on debut from Matt Hall.

There are numerous absences for next week game but hopefully this will also see the return of some players absent from this week.

Team: Siggers, Fisk, Wessels, Southgate, Burgess, Davis A., Jordan, Bowen, Glencastle(Cunningham), Bowman(Hall), Strutt.

Goals: Bowen(2), Bowman

NEXT GAMES:

Sunday 29th October

First Team - Division 1 - Red Star UK (A) - Whitton Sports Centre

Reserves - Division 2 - Playford (A) - Kesgrave High School (3G)

First Point Of Season For Reserves, But Should Have Been 3...08/10/2023

First Team - Division 1

Taverners 6, Golden Hind Res. 1

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burrup, Ripper, Brooks, Fulker(Martin), Larkins, Fitch(Lambert A), Primus, Lambert Ja., Monaghan, Griggs, Wandira

Goals: Griggs(2), Lambert Ja., Monaghan, Wandira(2)




Reserves - Division 2

Northam Celtic 3, Taverners Res. 3

The Reserves travelled to their second home ground, Gainsborough, to play Northam Celtic. The reserves were somewhat changed from the previous game and welcomed Will Pullen (upfront) and Brandon in defence. Prior to the game everyone agreed that in what is a two-tier division this was the type of game we should be competitive in. The game started relatively evenly on what was a difficult playing surface however Celtic took the lead from a corner with an annoyingly converted at the far post. This was even more annoying as we had been comfortably controlling the game at that point. Following a sustained period of pressure, indecision in the oppositions area saw us awarded a penalty. Duncan stepped up and cooly converted only for the ‘eccentric’ referee to demand it to be retaken for an incursion in the area. Duncan stepped up again only to see his second effort saved. However, it wasn’t long before we were back on terms when a cross from Wayne saw a smart finish from Dan Pasque. Not long later Will Nestor scored with what I am sure will be a strong contender for goal of the season, hitting the top corner with a rifled left foot 30-yard effort.

Our dominance of the first half unfortunately did not continue into the second half and we had not really started when a hotly disputed freekick and the positioning of the ball for the freekick was spectacularly converted by the Celtic player – he wouldn’t be able to do that again if he took the same shot a thousand times! Not long afterwards and whilst we were still trying to get any foothold in the second half, we conceded a third goal and went behind. A long clearance from Celtic by-passed the midfield, was not dealt with by the defence and allowed the striker to run through and score.

The remainder of the half ebbed and flowed as we sort to get ourselves back in the game and our efforts were finally rewarded when we equalized with a far post header converted from Rio Bowen from a Wayne Jordan corner.

Northam Celtic will probably feel that 3-3 was a fair result however given our dominance in the first half and conversely the way we conceded 3 goals everyone felt a little disappointed.

Team: Davis M., King, Southgate, Burton, Burgess, Pasque, Jordan W, Strutt, Nestor, Bowen, Pullen

Goals: Bowen, Jordan W, Nestor


NEXT GAMES:

Sunday 15th October

First Team - Sunday Shield - West Suffolk Wolves(A) - Gt Whelnetham Community Centre, Stanningfield Road, IP30 0TX - What3words ///acclaimed.distract.universal

Reserves - Sunday Trophy- Thurston(A) - Cavendish Hall Playing Field, Church Road, Thursford, IP31 3RU. What3words ///alarming.suitably.steady

First Team Power Past Panthers...01/10/2023

First Team - Division 1

The Panthers 3, Taverners 5

If there was ever a banana skin game then this was it. There has been a little history between the clubs. We often speak about the fact that our unbeaten record makes us a big target for every team we play. They raise their game for us. We cannot fault them for that. We would do exactly the same. So although I have heard whispers that we have not played any of the top teams yet we know that there will be no easy games this season.

At the start of today Panthers were just 1 point behind us.

By the end of the day. Pythons still only had one point. They got that point from us.

Golden Hind have a minus 17 goal difference and are rock bottom but today they were only narrowly beaten by third place Golden Eagles. So let's get it straight. We know that there are no easy games in this league.

A very sunny Eastwood Ho was not an unpleasant place to be. We had to make a few changes from the previous week.

For the first 20 minutes it looked like my fears on this being a problem game were unfounded. We had the lion share of possession and were creating good opportunities. James Storey went close heading just over the bar. Ben Fitch was fitting in well on his debut.

We went ahead on 20 minutes when again we had controlled possession through the team. Jerome Primus played an incredible pass through splitting their defence to T Wandira and T scored.

But then we seemed to sit back a little giving Panthers inroads to our 18 yard box. We were not closing down well enough in the last third. A speculative shot from 25 yards found it’s way into the far corner to level the score. We needed to raise our game again but Panthers were still fired up from their goal so it was going to take some time to achieve that. Time that we did not have as they were awarded a penalty on the half hour. 2-1 down at half time.

It was obvious that if we went back to the way we played in the first 20 minutes then we would win the game. That seemed to be working when we drew level. T Wandira took possession on the wide right and beat two players to get into the 18 yard box. He cut the ball across the six yard for Jack Lambert to score.

But again we had a set back when we lost possession and the counter attack resulted in another goal putting us 3-2 down. Instead of falling back this time we drove forward and within four minutes we were level again. Jerome Primus from 20 yards hit a fierce drive to score.

Now we had some control and were again creating chances. In a 10 minute spell T Wandira completed his second hatrick in two games with two well taken goals. Both from him bursting through their defence to face the keeper one on one. We could and should have added more. James Storey and T Wandira went very close in the final minutes.

One Game at a Time.

Team: Burton, Brooks, Burrup, Southgate(Pullen), Larkins, Primus(Tunbridge), Lambert Ja., Ripper, Fitch, Storey, Wandira.

Goals: Lambert Ja., Primus, Wandira(3)




Reserves - Division 2

Taverners Res. 0, Martlesham Old Boys 4

Sunday saw the Reserves entertain MOB at home. It was a something of a milestone game with the reserves sporting their smart new blue kit, courtesy of Ex-Tav and Chimney Sweep Extraordinaire Marcus Webb's TL Chimneys, and playing for the first time at our new home ground.

As will quite often be the case this season, we were playing opposition which were previously in the league above us and following on from last week’s very (very) poor team performance against Languard, we could have been expected to be totally outclassed. However, with the return of two of our more influential players from the first team and an all-round better performance, we made the opposition exert some effort to earn their points this week. Whilst we didn’t really cause MOB many problems offensively, we defended resolutely, and it was through two unfortunate lapses in concentration, individually and then as a team that we conceded two goals in the first half. In and around this Geoff (Matty D) pulled off two or three absolute worldy saves to keep the score respectable at half time.

Indeed, whilst not being particularly threatening ourselves, we were still in the game really until conceding the third goal. A fourth was added shortly thereafter, when a MOB crossed evaded three defenders allowing the striker a free header at the far post.

We had been forced into a relatively early change in the second half, when Luke Anderson had to leave the pitch due to a shoulder injury but as a team, we continued to defend against a reasonably good, fit, and quick attacking team. Special mention for Mikey D who was a rock at the back and indeed all the back four for several crucial last-ditch tackles and interventions - although arguably Matt King’s tackle on Mikey D was a tad unnecessary!!

A much-improved team performance compared to the previous week and much more akin to the type of hard work and commitment we regularly displayed last season.

Next week we are away to Northam Celtic a team we are well used to playing in recent years and hopefully this will be an opportunity for us to kick start our season.

Here's the Reserve Team pictured in their new TL Chimneys sponsored kit.

Team(As pictured)

Back Row: Strutt, Burgess, Jordan, King, Lowe A., Herridge, Pasque

Front Row: Gleed A., Davis M., Durrell, Jacobs R, Nestor, Anderson.


NEXT GAMES:

Sunday 1st October

First Team - The Golden Hind (H) - Bourne Vale

Reserves - Northam Celtic(A) - Gainsborough Sports Centre

First Team Back To winning Ways...24/09/2023

First Team - Division 1

Taverners 5, Ipswich Elite 0

It has been a difficult week with some important changes to the squad. On the plus side we have signed a total of 6 new players and with others returning from injury or being away I hope we will continue to make progress in both league and cup.

The announcement made by Grant Monaghan to retire from Sunday football was a huge shock.

Grant has been a very important part of Taverners for a good few years now. His influence and friendship on and off the field has been a big part of our success, which started way before last season in bringing not just some important players, but also along with Jimmy, Jack and Jerome he had a big influence on the style of play in midfield, which helped bring us the success of last season. It is a great lose.

On paper Elite was to be a big test so we had to be on our game from the first whistle.

The form of our back five has been a big factor in our results so far this season. If we can maintain that then we have an excellent base from where our midfield can control possession. This isn’t tactics. This is Taverners as a team. From the sideline we can see when the team are in their happy place. All we can do as supporters is to encourage to try to maintain that position.

We found our feet early in this game. Jerome Primus, Jack Lambert and Duncan Southgate had good control of the midfield game with T Wandira, James Storey and Dan Pasque creating some great movement for them to hit.

We took the lead after 12 minutes. Mike Durrell hit a ball into the 18 yard which cleared the defence. It looked like it would go straight through but James Stozza Storey did not give it up and collected the ball and scored from close range.

10 minutes later we scored again when Mike Durrell won an aerial battle in the 18 yard box. His head down found T Wandira and he calmly placed the ball passed the keeper to score. Elite had their moments but only forced one real shot in the first half which was dealt with confidently by Brandon Burton in goal.

Another goal was needed to consolidate our position. 10 minutes into the second half Dan Pasque found a great position wide and fought his way into the 18 yard box where the defender just could not stop him without fouling him. Tom Brookes stepped up to confidently score from the spot.

Elite to their credit never gave up but their finishing was from distance and not accurate. Daren Stevens went close late on. A ten minute spell towards the end of the game saw T Wandira complete his hatrick with two almost identical goals. Both just inside the 18 yard from an angle he fired home with some power.

Team: Burton, Brooks, Burrup, Southgate(Ripper), Larkins, Primus, Lambert Ja., Durrell, Pasque(Stevens D.), Storey, Wandira.

Goals: Brooks, Storey, Wandira(3)




Reserves - Division 2

Landguard Rovers 4, Taverners Res. 1

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Davis M., Burgess, King, Jordan, Siggers(Cunningham), Bowman(Anderson), Pilkington G., Strutt, Nestor, Bowen, Herridge(Lowe A.)

Goal: Lowe A.


NEXT GAMES:

Sunday 1st October

First Team - The Panthers(A) - Eastward Ho!

Reserves - Martlesham Old Boys(H) - Bourne Vale

Brooksy's Brace Secures Sunday Shield Success...17/09/2023

First Team - Sunday Shield

Gainsborough Utd. 1, Taverners 2

REPORT TO FOLLOW

Team: Burton, Ripper, Burrup, Brooks, Ford, Nestor, Monaghan, Pasque, Gleed B.(Stevens D.), Southgate, Storey

Goals: Brooks(2)

Goalless Draw Ends First Team Winning Streak...10/09/2023

First Team - Division 1

Ipswich Pythons 0, Taverners 0

STILL UNBEATEN!!!

I always knew the only way most opposition teams could get to us would be through things which are out of our control. Three call offs although unavoidable did not help. Decisions and the opposing teams officials can weigh heavy on the games outcome. Normally we would still win through. But there was always going to be a game when no matter how hard we tried we would not get that breakthrough. We are a target for every single team we play against. Last season and so far  this season there have only been 3 teams that have come anywhere close to us and all three do not play in the ISFL.

But the biggest problem was the heat. As I sit here eating my self made Sunday full English fry up I need to remember times when I have experienced weather which affected a game so much.

Hail stones the size of golf balls. Cornard Vs Sudbury Wanderers but we completed the game.

Fog so dense that you couldn't see either goal from the halfway line. Midweek cup game at The Priory. Match abandoned at half time.

Frost so bad that the groundsman drove his own car up and down the pitch trying to flatten the frost bitten ground. Braintree. The match was played.

Waterlogged pitch so bad that you could not kick the ball more than a foot along the sidelines. The water covered our feet. Midweek Heybridge Swifts. The game was played.

Mud so deep it covered your feet. Colchester Layer Road. Game played lost 2-1

But the last time I can ever remember heat as intense as today was a friendly game played on the beach in Kenya.

I'm not too sure there is much worth reporting about the game. They had just one shot on target throughout the whole game. We spent the first half with around 80% possession. Everytime we broke through the offside flag was raised. We had the stronger pace so you can play this by dropping another yard. But still we were frustrated. Along with the heat it was beginning to affect our play.  The second half did not bring any better results and if it was possible it got worse. Even when T Wandira was through the last defender fouled to stop him. A free kick was awarded but the player went unpunished. T again went through running from yards onside and went round the keeper only to be stopped for an offside decision. Unfortunately T was then sent off for a second bookable offense. This totally killed the game as we had to just look after the remaining few minutes to insure we came away with the draw.

Very disappointing.

Thank you to all the players who got us through this frustrating game.  Let's make sure it's the only time this happens.

Team: Burton, Brooks, Burrup, Stevens(Lowe A.), Larkins, Nestor(Gleed B.), Monaghan, Primus, Lambert Ja., Storey, Wandira

NEXT GAMES:

Sunday 17th September

First Team - Sunday Shield v Gainsborough Utd - Gainsborough Sports Centre

First Team Start New Season As They Finished Last Season....03/09/2023

First Team - Division 1

Taverners 4, Real Sufolk 0

The new season begins. There was a lot of talk about how good the opposition were and whether we had prepared enough.

I remember years of pre-season build ups. I always hated them. Meaningless games and endless summer 5-a-side competitions in which we were forced to play.

There was a yearly 5-a-side at Tavs old ground Cranes which is now the Ipswich Town training ground. We all dreaded the squad selection going up at The Priory. Like lambs to the slaughter we would travel to Ipswich so the locals could try to kick lumps out of us. With the likes of Dean Barker, Paul Smythe and Dave Barber they didn’t get away with too much but I would have rather trained extra at home.

So maybe just letting everyone rest through the off season is the right thing. Maybe not being around each other meant we were fresh.

In reality we were a little rusty. We didn’t really get into our stride for a good half hour.

First game at our new ground Bourne Vale and the pitch was as good as we had hoped. With the hangover of summer holidays still around we were missing 5 of last seasons squad. Hopefully at least two will return this coming week. But just like we have before we adapted and in the main it worked pretty well.

Tom Brooks at centre back had an exceptional game. Sticks put his body in the way of what looked like certain goals I am told nine times. Real would have taken the lead early on without these last ditch blocks. Brandon Burton made saves throughout the game that kept us clear of the opposition.

Although Real did have a number of chances in the first half hour we were matching them and took the lead on 20 minutes. After a mix up in the six yard box the ball fell loose and T Wandira was there to score. It was a nervous time because Real continued to press but within just ten minutes we were again pressing when the ball fell to Jimmy Fulker just inside the 18 yard box, he sidestepped one player and then from just 12 yards he chipped the ball over players and the goalkeeper to score a very special goal.

At half time we just confirmed that we needed to simplify things. At times we took the harder option when an easy pass was available. We had to begin to control possession. To that end we did take more control in the second half. Real continued to press but again a combination of good defending and some great saves from Brandon Burton. We controlled the midfield through Grant Monaghan, Jimmy Fulker and Jerome Primus. As time moved on we were commanding the play. We had opportunities. T Wandira scored with an incredible chip over the on coming keeper but it was disallowed with a very dubious off side flag. It took until the 75th minute before we got our third goal. Ben Griggs broke through into the 18 yard box and fired home into the bottom right of the goal. Within just 5 minutes we completed the scoreline when T Wandira scored his second in the same manner as Griggsy.

In truth we started slowly. But we grew into the game. Even though Real had chances throughout we dealt with everything they threw at us and as the game wore on we got better and better.

One Game at a Time.

Team: Burton, Fulker, Brooks, Burrup, Larkins, Ford(Nestor), Monaghan, Primus, Forrester(Pullen), Wandira, Griggs(Stevens)

Goals: Fulker, Griggs, Wandira(2).




Reserves - Division 2

Gardeners Arms 10, Taverners Res 0

Report To Follow

Team: Siggers, King(Fisk), Durrell, Goddard (Gleed A.), Burgess, Pasque, Strutt, Archer, Hillebrandt, Gleed B.(Bowman), Herridge(Lowe A.)

NEXT GAMES:

Sunday 10th September

First Team - Div1 - Ipswich Pythons(A) - Gainsborough Sports Centre

		First Team					Reserves
		Division 1					Division 2

Aug	13	Bedfield (Friendly)		(A)


Sep   	3	Real Suffolk			(H) 4-0 W	Gardeners Arms			(A) 10-0 L			
       10	Ipswich Pythons FC		(A) 0-0 D 		
       17	Gainsborough Utd (SS1)		(A) 1-2 W 	(ST1) BYE
       24	Ipswich Elite			(H) 5-0 W	Landguard Rovers		(A) 4-1 L
      	
		
Oct  	1	The Panthers FC			(A) 3-5 W	Martlesham Old Boys FC		(H) 0-4 L			
       08	The Golden Hind Res.		(H) 6-1 W 	Northam Celtic 			(A) 3-3 D	
       15	West Suffolk Wolves (SS2) 	(A) 2-2(4-5p) W	Thurston (ST2)			(A) 7-3 L		        
       22	Shotley Rose RC			(H) P-P		Phoenix FC			(H) P-P
       29	Red Star UK FC			(A) 0-3 W	Playford			(A) 6-1 L			

Nov  	5 	Gainsborough Utd.		(A) 2-2 D 						
       12	Foxhall Utd.			(A) 1-6 W 	Trinity FC			(H) 2-3 L						
       19       The Golden Eagles		(A) 1-6 W 	Wincanton FC			(H) P-P
       26	Clapgate Lane FC		(H) 5-1 W	Brett Vale FC			(H) 4-0 W
       
Dec  	3	Real Suffolk			(A) 3-4 W 								
       10	Ipswich Pythons FC		(H) 3-5 L 	Claydon Athletic FC		(A) 2-2 D
       17									(ST3)												
       24
       31    
   	
Jan	7	Ipswich Elite			(A) 1-4 W		
       14	The Panthers FC			(H) 3-0 W 	Ipswich Athletic		(A) 2-3 W					
       21	Shotley Rose (Div.1 Cup)	(H) 2-1 W	Claydon Athletic (Div.2 Cup)	(A) 6-2 L						
       28	The Golden Hind Res.		(A) 0-4 W 	Landguard Rovers		(H) 5-1 W				

Feb   	4	Stoke by Clare(1/4F) 		(H) 5-0 W	Wincanton FC			(A) 5-3 L
       11	Shotley Rose FC			(A) 6-0 L 	Martlesham Old Boys FC		(A) 3-2 L
       18	Red Star UK FC			(H) P-P		Northam Celtic			(H) P-P
       25	Gainsborough Utd.		(H) 2-0 W	Phoenix FC			(A) 0-1 W		

Mar     3	Foxhall Utd.			(H) 6-0 W	Playford			(H) 0-4 L
       10							Gardeners Arms			(H) 0-3 L
       17	Gainsborough Utd. (L/C2)	(A) 3-3 W(4-2 pens)	
       24	Bury Bowl FC (SS SF)		(A) 4-0 L	Trinity FC			(A) 1-0 L
       31	Shotley Rose FC			(H) 1-1		Wincanton FC			(H) 3-2 L

Apr     7	Clapgate Lane FC		(A) 2-1 L	Brett Vale FC			(A) 3-1 L
       14	The Golden Eagles		(H) Ab-Ab 	Claydon Athletic		(H) 2-3 L
       21	Red Star UK FC			(H) 1-2 L	Eye Saints FC			(A) P-P	
       28	Real Suffolk (L1/C 1/2F)	(A) 2-2 (3-4p)	Ipswich Athletic		(H) 2-9 L

May     1(Wed)							Northam Celtic			(H) 8-5 W
        5							Phoenix FC			(H) 4-3 W
       12							Eye Saints FC			(H) 5-3 W
       19       The Panthers - League 1 Cup Final (N) 1-3 L