Under 12s 09/10 Match Reports

Sunday 06 09 2009   Colts v Higher Bebington

For the first game of the new campaign the team were given a home fixture against new opposition in the shape of Higher Bebington, a team we knew little about having never met them previously.As ever the team was sent out in it's normal formation with the pre match talk all about getting our performance right and letting the result take care of it's self. Of the three summer signings the crowd would get their first view of two of the boys but sadly one debut was put on hold as illness struck P. Mohan forcing him to miss the opening game. The team appeared not to be at their fluent best during the early exchanges and seemed a bit below par, although edging the possession and early chances. This was to change when C.Scarisbrick took his chance and netted following a quick interchange of passes before beating a couple of defenders and striding purposely forward leaving only the keeper to beat, which he did with a neat confident finish. This seemed to settle the team and from then on in the game was pretty much one way traffic  but the Higher Bebington boys still found time to trouble our defense with one or two attacks. During the first half, in particular, they forced keeper J. Callow to pull off a fantastic stop which allowed the team to go into half time with a 4-0 lead.

The second half was much like the first as The Colts pushed forward limiting the opposition to the odd break away. The team had been change at half time to get some game time for more players getting as many players back in the fold as possible. This had little effect on the pattern of the game, if not making The Colts more dominant, and the goals and chances continued to flow.It was pleasing to keep a clean sheet in the opening fixture with both of our keepers in action on the day and contributing well with solid performances. The new strike force seemed to cause problems for Higher Bebington all game, with L. Davies seeming to relish the role  more and more as the game progressed, causing no end of panic in the Higher Bebington defense, before the game finished 8-0.

Of the new signings K.Mohan started the game in center defense before  his position was switched at half time, to right back, were he seemed to have the time of his life. He was asked to push forward at every given opportunity to help the team attack and seemed more like a winger through out the half ,exchanging passes and taking on the opposition at every give chance, to top his performance he even took one of his two chances to score on his debut. He was only beaten to the man of the match by our right sided midfield player O. Belmar whose elusiveness and choice and range of passing during his link up play was sublime on the day, which saw him carry on his excellent pre season form.Our second debutant  A. Ennion came on for the second half at full back and showed a calmness on the ball before delivering some lovely passes. The opposition had been put to the sword on the day and I'm sure they with regroup and give a good account of themselves through out the season. Their star man on the day was B. Murray who gave a fine account of himself always trying to play the ball around to his team mates and getting his tackles in to attempt to break up  play and stem the tide of Colts attacks. A little note of praise for the match official J. Gilbert who as ever gave a good performance with the whistle.

Wed 09 09 009   Colts v Neston Nomads 

On a bright late summer evening the team entertained the boys from Neston Nomads, who last season had proven themselves worthy adversaries. The Colts captain won the toss and elected to kick into the ever lowering sun in the first half, which proved to be  wise decision as the game progressed.The boys set about playing their style of football and created a number of early chances despite Neston Nomads attempts at stopping The Colts. Prominent in the early exchanges was debutant forward UP. Mohan who was proving to be a thorn in the side of The Nomads. Despite Nestons tough tackling and more direct style, than ours, our boys seemed determined to keep playing the ball around and create the chances to score the opening goal. This was eventually to come,  after a string of missed chances, via the award of a penalty, which was confidently tucked into the corner of the net by B. Glover. To their credit Neston responded well with some even harder tackling and a lot of long balls hit high into the sky and the very bright sun. This very direct approach gained them two late goals to take the lead into the half time interval. One scored with great a finish from the edge of the box by Nektons man of the match O. Thomas

A couple of tactical changes took place during the break and the team talk was all about keeping the faith in our style of football and not only matching Neston Nomads physical effort but bettering it. The boys came out showing a great appetite for the battle and a desire to overcome their opponents. After a few early chances the boys football got the reward it deserved with the equalizer coming from C.Burridge. This was quickly followed by a third goal, then a fourth with the team in full flow and well on top in the game. These goals seemed to take the sting out of the Neston boys and The Colts continued to play all the football creating chances with some excellant approach work.The goals flowed, which was no more than deserved by the teams football , during the second half.Two great  efforts from the edge of the box, one a piece from E. Doughty and C. Scarisbrick flew into the Neston net, along with a second from E. Doughty. A well delivered corner was met by L. Keating's forehead which dispatched the ball with venom into the corner of the net once again, a fine headed goal. But the goal of the game came from the boot of debutant and man of the match P. Mohan, he let fly with a thunder bolt from wide right of the Neston area. The Neston Nomads keeper and defense could only watch, open mouthed, as it nestled in the top left corner of their goal. The boys had showed a great belief in their style of football and given a much improved performance to gain this victory and can take great satisfaction from the result against tough opponents.

Wed 16 09 2009   Young Lions v The Colts

This game threw up two first for the season for the boys as it was their first away fixture of the campaign and the first time the team had faced Young Lions in a competetive fixture. The teams had previously met in a friendly mini soccer game a few years ago, give the changes in The Colts squad in that time you would have expected similar changes to Young Lions  so it was basically new opponents. It gave a couple of Colts boys a chance to shine against their old club and S.Simmons was made captain for the night against his former club, a fitting reward for his performances this season. The team played into a slight breeze in the first half, it wasn't enough of a wind to influence the game, but as always the team was soon into it's style of play. The pass and move football was their for all to see but was not played at it's normal tempo or with it's usual zip. The game seemed a little flat but the boys were going about the game in the normal style but not quite as quick and precise as is expected but the team were dominating possession and creating chances without really troubling the opposition keeper. There were plenty of long range efforts which were going wide or over the bar, but as The Colts got in close the Young Lions boys would get in their defensive blocks or the ball wouldn't quite drop in the right place for The Colts forwards. With half time looming and the score still goalless The Colts were well on top in possession and dominating the game but still having a few scares as Young Lions counter attacked on the odd occasion. The Colts kept pressing and gained a number of corners which lead to the creation of some good chances, if fact one header  appeared to have crossed the line but the referee was unsighted and unable to give a goal. The waves of Colts attacks continue and just before the interval whistle I. Keating , with a well weighted pass,was sent racing through to finish calmly past the advancing keeper , a just reward for all the pressure the team had exerted.The half finished 1-0 to The Colts.

The half time team talk was all about improving the quality of our passing and playing at a higher tempo to hopefully lead to a more impressive performance and let the shoreline take care of it's self. The performance was far more lively in the second period and the team raised it's standard of play accordingly. The Colts continued to push forward  limiting The Lions to the odd break which were confidently dealt with by The Colts rearline reducing The Colts keeper to being a spectator for most of the game. The Colts movement was far better in the second period as the team opened brightly and it wasn't long before the mounting pressure took it's effect and the goals started to flow. Further goals from C.Burridge (2) , B.Glover and C. Taylor (2)  gave the final score 6-0 and probably was no more than the team deserved on reflection of the game. The second half display was far more of a Colts performance as the quick passing and movement kept the opponents chasing the ball without gaining any control of it. The boys had done what was asked and expected of them and controlled the game from start to finish and ran out worthy winners.

There were a number of impressive displays by Colts players with the Mohan twins showing why they were captured during the summer C. Burridge as ever looking a goal threat, along with both "L's" Davies and Keating.It is always hard for the opponents manager to pick which one of the Colts boys should get the accolade as man of the match but on this occasion the honor went to E. Doughty, which was richly deserved on the night . He has been in out standing form so far this season and as ever gave his all to the team winning the ball and starting the teams attacks on numerous occasions on the night. The Young Lions player who took the eye on the night was G. Welch who was a thorn in the side of our defense every time The Lions broke forward.Whilst mentioning the defense it was good to keep another clean sheet which can only breed confidence right through the team and gives a good solid platform to mount our attacks from.

Sun 20 09 2009 A.C. Hoylake v Colts

On a bright warm afternoon a depleted Colts squad made the trip to Newton to face a Hoylake side that had impressed in the last meeting of the two sides, a cup tie which the Colts had been victorious in near the end of last season. The pre match talk was again centered on getting our performance right and letting the result look after its self. With only thirteen players available for the fixture, team selection was easier than normal for the management team, given they had only one outfield player and a goal keeper on the bench for the fixture. The team was picked and given A. Ennion was not 100% match fit he was named as a sub along with J.Callow but in no way was this a reflection on his recent performances.The rest of the boys were ready for kick off and set about emposing them selves on the game. The team was quickly into its stride and with little regard for the oppositions reputation tore into them with quick flowing football. The passing and movement was of the highest order and had Hoylake pegged back for long periods, limiting them to the odd break away by their pacey forwards.The desire to win, precise passing and flowing football was a pleasure to see from The Colts and goal was sure to come from one of the quick fire moves which lead to some fine defending in the Hoylake ranks. The Colts defense for their part was calm and assured, which enabled the midfield and forwards to attack at will in the knowledge the team was in control. The attacks kept coming and were repelled by the Hoylake defense but it appeared that the pressure would finally cause an opening that even Hoylakes valiant efforts couldn't stop.Two appeals for penalties, for handball, were turned down by the referee but eventually the goal came,a flowing move by the boys in blue saw E. Doughty thread a sublimely weighted pass through the defenders to allow L. Keating to run free and calmly pass the ball into the net, to give The Colts a deserved half time advantage.

The half time team talk was all about keeping the tempo high and continuing to pass and move as in the first half. The lads were told that it would be far more strength sapping for the Hoylake team as its always harder running around chasing the ball, than the work our boys had done with the ball. Due to the weather the boys took on a lot of fluids and went out with a steely glint in their eyes, determined not to concede a goal and to mount further pressure and add to their goal tally. The boys knew their task and set about it at pace forcing Hoylake back at every given opportunity, relentless in their pursuit of the victory that the display had deserved. The football was fast and furious from The Colts but at all times never panicked, the ball was moved around with great assurance and confidence.Wave upon wave of attacks would surely see Hoylake buckle and when B. Glover fed C.Burridge early in the half the Hoylake net bulged once again, 2-0. The game may well have been harder had T. Hamm not pulled off a top class save diving to his left to touch a vicious shot away around the post, this seemed to kill off any ideas Hoylake had of scoring and deflate their boys. The Colts got stronger and stronger and it was no more than the display deserved when two further goals were add to give a final score of 4-0. The Third was netted by C.Burridge from a tight angle in a packed box after a pass from S.Simmons and he was on hand again to free L.Keating with another quality ball. L. Keating again dispatched the ball into the opponents net with an assured finish to put the seal on a fine victory. The boys had given their all and came away with three deserved points to add to their tally , it was with out doubt the performance of the season so far from the team and has set the standard for the season.

For their part Hoylake's line were vocal in their support of the team but unable to lift them to better things, in the face of the onslaught from The Colts. The line became more and more frustrated but quietened as the game slipped away from them  We for our part judged F. Jackson to be their man of the match with his pace up front always a threat when he got the ball. Hoylakes managers gave the award to L.Boardman for his display in keeping the previously mention forward quiet for most of the game. As Dave and Phil commented after the game to the boys we couldn't have picked a man of the match from our side as all the boys were outstanding today and made us proud with the style and display of football given, I'm sure the travelling army of fans would agree.

Sun 27 09 2009   Colts v East Brom Utd

This Sundays fixture saw the side in action against tough opponents, who always make their opposition fight for every ball never mind every goal. The weather was set fair as the game got underway with the pitch hard and bobbly after the recent dry spell, the grass was also long out wide which didn't help the pass and move style The Colts employ. The boys were warned pre match what type of game to expect and that they would have to battle for the right to play their football today.East Brom didn't fail and came out all tackles and determined to stop The Colts  by getting in their face and denying the space or time to play football.They employ a far more direct style than that of The Colts and to their credit play it well, never giving anyone time to settle on the ball. The Colts lost the toss and had to kick down slope first half with a slight wind advantage in their favor not that East Brom took any notice of these factors and battled on. The Colts were attempting to get the ball down and play but having little or no success due to the dogged attitudes of the opposition, the much admired football was missing and the side was struggling to get into it's normal rhythm. It must be said that you can only play as well as your opponents let you, and East Brom don't let teams play, making the most of their resources and playing the game their way. The Colts huffed and puffed but didn't create many chances and it wasn't long before East Brom's direct approach caused a chance which was put away with some aplomb, they led 0-1.This seemed to awake The Colts for a short period and the use of the ball improved, if not the quality of passing and it wasn't to long before P. Mohan crashed home the equalizer from one of the better moves of the half. This was soon to be followed by a C.Taylor strike but still The Colts were still labored in their efforts and it wasn't that long before the game was level at 2-2 after East Brom had launched another attack. The Colts team were stung into action again with both Mohan twins along with C. Burridge hitting the bar. A couple of fine saves from East Brom's keeper further kept the scoreline level but just before the break a corner wasn't dealt with effectively and C.Burridge was able to give The Colts a slender half time lead.

The half time team talk centered on winning individual battles and being more confident and calm on the ball, to improve in the quality of our possession through out the second half. East Brom had other ideas and were straight back at their football and to their obvious joy equalized. The Colts were again aroused into action but weren't having everything their own way, East Brom just wouldn't stop fighting, a few neat passes had The Colts moving forward but not to the usual standard as the pitch and the opponents hampered the free flowing football the side is known for. The side had to battle for every touch of the ball and were now playing up hill but this team can be every bit as stubborn as any opponents you care to mention, though not on top of their game or their opponents they rallied, they kept fighting for the right to play football. As the game was entering it's last quarter The Colts again were able to thread a few passes and moves together, one allowing C.Burridge to race clear and under great pressure from a defender and with the keeper bearing down on him, he was able to clip the ball over the advancing keeper into an empty net.Such was the pressure from defender and keeper that The Colts had to withdraw the goalscorer as he was injured in scoring. The game still had plenty of time left and The Colts were applying more pressure and the East Brom keeper was showing the form that earned him the man of the match vote.He was confident in all he did, handling the ball well and pulling off some fine saves. The Colts kept pressing forward and got another goal as East Bron finally appeared to have cracked, they failed to clear the ball and L.Keating pounced to calmly make the score 5-3 with five minutes remaining.But the game wasn't dead and East Brom had other ideas and launched another attack which ended up with the ball once again in The Colts net 5-4 and still five minutes left to play. Most of this time had the ball in the East Brom area as The Colts looked to finally finish off their opponents but the goal wouldn't come but the final whistle did and The Colts were victorious, just.

East Brom Utd had proved worthy opponents and could have easily taken points from this display and probably would have had they not come up against a team as equally as determined as them. Many teams would have folded against their relentless fighting spirit and it is a credit to The Colts team that they won such a hard fought game. Sometimes your opponents deny you the right to play football and you must just win the battle, today was such an occasion, winning ugly was required and that is what was achieved.Winning with out playing your best is always a good sign but lets not forget the role played by East Brom in this nine goal game.The Colts man of the match was given to B. Glover and the award for East Brom Utd. star man was the afore mentioned goal keeper L. Heppa who gave an assure performance.

Sun 11 10 2009 Colts v Castrol Athletic.

This fixture saw the boys in action , for the first time this season in a cup tie, as they played hosts to Castrol Athletic who ply their trade in The Chester Junior Football League.The second round tie of The Wirral & District Minor "B" Cup took place in the park following a 13:00 hours k.o. a big crowd was expected and the fans as ever didn't let us down as they arrived in their numbers for the early kick off. These numbers were swollen by a good gathering of away support which helped add to the occasion.The game kicked off with the weather set fair but with a stiff end to end breeze playing it's part in the fixture.The Colts skipper won the toss and decided to kick against the wind in the first half.

The boys set about the task in hand and won the early skirmishes creating a few half chances but without their normal quality. The chances kept coming but weren't taken but still the boys pressed but Castrol refused to surrender any advantage and had ideas of their own about this game. They attacked when they could using a far more direct approach than that of the boys in blue but had caused a few scares in The Colts rear line. It was from a goal keepers clearance using the wind advantage that they took a shock lead, when The Colts defence failed to deal with the punted ball and the attacker ran on to it to score.This stung the boys in to a wave of attacks and surely it would only be a matter of time before the equalizer came.Chance upon chance was created but on a day when calmness was required the attempts at goal were rushed and duly squandered. The fans were becoming concerned but the team to their credit continued to attempt to play the ball around and be patient. It not

  our style to hit long aimless balls to chase after so chances kept being made and missed. The Colts had a number of chances ruled out for offside but eventually the goal came. A slick move led to the equalizer which was calmly converted and which would hopefully settle the boys and lead to a more impressive performance. Castrol had other ideas and kept hounding The Colts and from one such bit of closing down a "lucky" goal came.The Colts defender worked room for his pass well,keeping the game simple playing the way he was facing but hit it slightly to short. This enabled the quick attacker to close down the keeper and his attempted clearance rebounded off the striker into the empty net.You have to give credit to the forward for his closing down play so maybe it wasn't a luck goal. The Colts responded as expected but again failed to take their chances so trailed at the break 1-2.

A couple of changes took place during the interval and the team talk was about being patient, better quality use of the ball and being more clinical in front of goal. The game was much the same as the first half Colts pressure passing the ball around creating chances but not converting them.The referees whistle kept stopping the team in it's tracks as offside was given on regular if slightly annoying intervals.The ball in the opponents net but no goal given or offside previously blown for, the chances came and went as all players drew a blank in their attempts to get the team level. The corner count was mounting  and eventually a Colts head met one such corner at the back post, the team was level and not before time.The Colts pressed forward looking for the winner and for their part Castrol defended well and were looking to catch The Colts on the break, looking to get the ball forward as quickly as possible. The game entered the final few minutes with The Colts manager shuffl

ing his pack to  secure the winner and hopefully keeping his players fresher than Castrol's should the game go to extra time.Further chances were missed, the bar was hit, the ball cleared off the line, was it to be one of those days, Castrol had one last attack and but for a match saving tackle could have taken the tie.With extra time looming large and certain nervous fans unable to watch, the boys mounted one last attack and as our forward turned in the box the referees whistle sounded, foul penalty ! The Colts had a chance to take the win with the last kick of the game, Castrol were crest fallen The Colts excited. The ball was placed on the spot,the ball was placed low and hard, the keeper was sent the wrong way, the crowd waited for the net to bulge , it didn't, the kick went inches wide , 2-2 extra time was required.

Extra time started with the loss of the toss and Castrol decided to defend against the wind , seven minutes each way to decide the tie, if not a penalty shoot out would follow. The Castrol boys seemed lifted by the chance of extra time but The Colts set about their game unaffected by their late miss and determined to but the scoreline right. The game continued as before chances made chances missed but before the half time whistle The Colts took one of these chances. The distraught penalty taker erased that missed spot kick in the best way giving his side the advantage , 3-2 and the boys never looked back.The side remained on top for all of the extra time period having the ball in the net only to be disallowed for offside creating chances as their opponents ran out of steam. And as the final whistle approached a blistering shot made the score read 4-2 for The Colts.

The Colts were through to the next round and Castrol had finally been beaten in a great cup tie. It may not have been the lads best performance but you can only play as well as the opposition allow you, and to their credit they played their part in an exciting game of football, which I for one am glad to say we won!

    Sun 11 10 2009    Stork Youth v Colts

The highly anticipated table topping clash took place this week as The Colts traveled to face an inform Stork team on their home ground, at Green Lane Eastham.Both teams had started the league campaign with identical records, five straight victories, with The Colts edging top spot on goal difference. A big crowd was present for kick off as both sides made ready for a classic encounter, the weather was fine, the pitch was hard after the recent dry spell but in good condition and the referee let battle commence. Both teams set about gaining control in the early skirmishes but with little to choose between the sides and play fairly even Stork broke forward. The Colts players appealed for a foul in the middle of the park but nothing was given and Stork  clipped a ball forward to allow their forwards to chase onto, only a fine save kept the score level but sadly for The Colts keeper the rebounding ball was dispatched into the net. As the defenders streamed back to guard the goal one of Stork's boys lifted the ball coolly over The Colts players for a fine finish and to give his side an early advantage. This early strike may well have been a mistake as The Colts seemed annoyed at Stork for this act and then set about equalizing and taking the lead, The Colts seemed to raise their game for the rest of the half  and  produced a scintillating twenty five minutes of football which gave a healthy score line come half time. The Colts poured forward determined to show what they are made of  and soon had Stork pinned back for long periods, but Stork for their part were always willing to break given the opportunity, and a fine game was taking place.The Colts were passing the ball around probing for weaknesses in The Stork rearguard and not to long after Stork had taken the lead The Colts had equalized. A ball came into the area and B. Glover was able to steer a fine looping shot over everyone in the box into the top corner of the net, 1-1. The Colts kept coming and were now on top in the game creating chances with some fine interchanges  which enabled C. Taylor to not only put the boys infront but to increase the advantage. He headed a goal, hit a fine long range effort and was slightly fortunate when he was attempting to burst clear through the Stork rear guard, when an attempted clearance/ tackle saw the ball cannon past the keeper for a goal.A hat trick never the less which capped a fine individual first half display. The scoring wasn't finished and C. Scarisbrick was able to add a further goal from close in as the over worked Stork boys struggled to clear.

During half time the team was changed and four subs were used adding to the enforced change, due to an injury, during the first period.A hard tackle had seen E. Doughty land on his hand causing him severe pain, it was decided to send him for an x-ray as he had described hearing a crack. The teams entered the pitch again and were soon attacking each other with great ambition and desire, which was giving rise to a fine game of football and entertaining all watching. For his part the referee was letting the game flow and was contributing to the game as a whole due to his low key style. The early part of the half saw Stork on top  with their forwards causing The Colts defense some awkward moments, especially the hard working and slightly unpredictable R.Camp. It was from a corner that he was able to head  a goal as he leapt unchallenged to plant a header into the net. The Colts were once again stung into action with some fine inter passing and movement as both sides pressed to take charge in the second period.Stork were pressing and causing trouble amongst The Colts defense but were unable to convert their chances. As The Colts broke forward the hard working forwards Davies and Keating caused problems with some lovely link up play and from one such interchange Keato broke forward to see his shot well saved but L. Davies confidently lifted the ball high into the unguarded net from about twelve yards' from the rebound. The game continued at pace and Stork didn't stop attacking The Colts and were able to add to their goal tally as The Colts struggled to contain the  big strong afore mentioned R. Camp, who will cause trouble against any defense due to his size and willingness to work hard for his team.He finished the games scoring with a high shot past the stranded keeper. So the game was done and the referee blew for full time in a game which seemed to have taken only a few minutes such was the passion and quality of both sides. The Colts had come away with a worthy victory but not before Stork had given them a severe test, we look forward to our next encounter which as always promises to be another great game of football played as it should be with both teams giving their all and attempting to win the game but never stepping outside of the laws of the game, watched by fans who enjoy their football but remember that's its about enjoyment for the players not about shouting at them. Both sets of fans must take credit for their behavior and as a manager I must thank them for their support of the teams, you contributed to a great game of football with your encouragement for all the boys.

The man of the match awards were given to C.Burridge for The Colts and for our part we decided that A. Houston should receive it for Stork Youth, he showed some fine touches on the ball, lovely fast feet and threaded a range of passes around the pitch at all times and should take pride in his display regardless of the result.

Sunday 25 10 2009  Colts v Vauxhall

This game pitted two championship winning sides from last season against each other for the first time this season and the first time since the sides met in The Top Cup final of last season, which saw Vauxhall emerge victorious 2-1 on that occasion. The weather was set fair, although an end to end wind would play some part in the fixture, as two of the leagues best footballing sides clashed in this eagerly awaited game.The referee blew his whistle and a fascinating fixture, which promised top quality football from both sides, came to life and was underway. Both sides started as expected trying to bring the ball down and passing it around with good intent and probing each other for weaknesses.An early free kick to The Colts saw them take an early lead as the ball was delivered into the box, by C. Taylor, it took an awkward bounce and flew into the net over the keeper. A lucky goal but the delight was there to be seen on The Colts players faces regardless and the roar from the crowd was as loud as at any time this season, you could sense what that goal meant to all involved with the team. As ever The Colts were working hard to stamp their authority on the game but Vauxhall certainly weren't going to let The Colts have it all their own way and were always looking to play attractive football. The Colts were having the better of the first half creating a number of good chances and increased their lead when the ball was flicked on in the box. It was met with a wonderfully executed volley by P. Mohan , 2-0 the crowd roared its approval. Vauxhall were stung into action and as with all good sides came back strongly at The Colts and with one sublime pass to their forward and a quick touch and strike the deficit had been reduced. Both sides now knew a game was on and showed why they are two of the top teams in the division, no one side gave an inch or asked for it to be given and an excellent game was in progress.The Colts were pushing hard, with the wind advantage, hoping to secure a good lead to take into the second period when they had to defend against the wind. The chances were hard to come by but The Colts kept coming forward and C. Burridge restored the two goal advantage with a low shot into the left corner of the Vauxhall net not long before the half time whistle.

The second half kicked off with, as expected, all the early pressure coming from the Vauxhall team now playing with the wind at their backs and looking to use it to their advantage.It wasn't that long before they made good use of the early pressure with their second goal of the game. The Colts keeper failed to gather the loose ball and a Vauxhall forward slipped the ball into the net.This lifted the Vauxhall team and seemed to harden The Colts resolve and they came out fighting determined not to let the game slip away from them. For their part Vauxhall pressed forward and with a bit more luck may have equalized as one shot hit the foot of the post and went wide. That was as close as they were to come to an equalizer despite a few good saves from The Colts keeper, the boys in front of him battled well and added to their lead. The Colts continued to play bright entertaining football and deservedly extended their lead with two further goals from C. Burridge. These goals seemed to kill off any ideas of a fight back by the opponents  and the game came to an end with a 5-2 scoreline. The first came from a good attacking move that eventually freed C. Burridge to scamper clear of the defenders and finish calmly past the keeper. His hat trick was completed when the ball was in the box and he met it with a fierce shot which flew into the net , through a crowded box. It completed a convincing victory on the day not before there could have been further goals for both sides but The Colt had won and that was all that mattered to the boys, helping to ease the pain of that previously mentioned cup final reversal.

The game was played in a great spirit by both sides who let their football do all their taking and was enhanced by a great referee who gave a truly fantastic performance. For our part we awarded the man of the match to the scorer of Vauxhalls first goal J. Stinton who's touch and rapid shot  for the goal was worthy of the award alone but his running and speed caused The Colts defense a number of problems.Our own man of the match was awarded to C. Taylor for his range of passing and alround work in the middle of the park by The Vauxhall management.

Sun  01  11  2009   Colts v A.C. Hoylake

In the first return fixture of the season The Colts entertained A.C. Hoylake in a wind swept encounter in the park, on a day which was more suitable for any wind based activity but not condusive for good football.Both teams like to play attractive football and given the very strong wind the game was a good advert for junior football, although both teams struggled to take control of the conditions which were by far the worse of the season so far. It is without a doubt that both sides played their best football against the wind which is a testimony to all the players and shows how much the weather affected the game as a whole. The toss was won by The Colts captain and he elected to defend against the end to end wind during the first half and the game was underway.The Colts had been sent out to work hard and attack the ball making sure they got to the ball first but just as importantly before it bounced.These pre match words were taken on board by all the boys in the starting eleven and you could see how eager the boys were to put this into action.The teams thirst to work very hard and defend at all cost not only limited Holyoke to very few opportunities but also allowed The Colts to mount a series of attacks of their own. The normal flowing football was there in parts ,when the weather or opponents allowed it to come to the fore but the conditions were playing a major part in the game.The Colts were having the better of the first period despite the dis advantage of the weather and a series of passing interchanges had the Hoylake boys on the defensive, in a half when they must have believed the should be on top in the game.The Colts for their part defended well and attacked at every given opportunity. A couple of early moves came to nothing before the crucial move of the first half came. A number of neat passes around the half way line set The Colts forwards into action, a couple of short quick passes then sent B. Glover scampering clear out on the left. He looked up , cut in towards goal before sending a shot passed the keeper low into the right hand corner of the net.The rest of the half was spent defending well and attacking given any opportunity and given a bit more luck this lead may have been increased before the break.The whistle brought an  end to the first period which had seen the boys play well in difficult conditions and it was pleasing to have the advantage.

A half time the team was changed to give fresh legs after a tough first half against the wind but the player were warned that the hard work was still to come as they now had to use the wind to their advantage and not think the game was won because they had defended well against it in the first period.The expected onslaught was there for all to see but not as strong or decisive as hoped for, but the goals remained absent and to their credit Hoylake's boys came out with a great spirit and played some excellent stuff. They, like The Colts, played far better against the wind when their passes held up rather than run out of play as in the first period.The Colts had them pinned back for long periods and should really have extended their lead earlier than they did, although in charge of the game they were unable to kill the game off.A number of nice moves had the boys attacking down both flanks but ultimately leading to nothing as passes were over hit in the wind and the ball ran away from the intended target.A series of corners came and went, well defended by Hoylake's rear line. The post was hit , the bar was hit and a number of shots weren't connected with as the players would have liked but eventually the second goal came.A fine strike from the edge of the area hit the bar, denying O. Belmar his first goal of the season after some nice footwork,the ball was going clear until the strong wind held it up allowing B. Glover to turn it back across goal for C. Burridge to bury the ball into the back of the net.Surely now The Colts would kick on and put the result beyond the opponents but this wasn't to be the case, as the boys from Hoylake gave a good account of themselves in the closing minutes. They managed to pull a goal back after a defensive mix up which let in the forward, who gladly buried his shot into The Colts net. A couple of minutes remain but The Colts had the wind and fresh legs had been added using the roll on roll off substitutes of the second period the final whistle brought and end to the game which had seen the boys dominate the game with out dominating the scoring. On the day a win was gained but the real winner unfortunately had to be the weather which had spoiled a good game between to fine sides, who both gave good accounts of themselves despite mother natures attempts at ruining the spectacle.

Both teams had tried to play football despite the very strong wind and showed why they are both regarded highly by all who play them the man of the match awards war give to A.C. Hoylake's Keeper D. Simpson who had a fine game in the conditions, he didn't make a mistake all game and his handling was exemplary in the conditions.For Hoylake they picked E. Doughty as the man of the match in The Colts side with his all action display and range of passing on the day earning him the vote.

Sun  15 11  2009  Peninsula Stars v Colts

After a tense tussle in the previous round The Colts travelled to Wallasey to take on Peninsula Stars,at Ryecroft, in The Wirral District Minor Cup second round.The weeks weather had promised a pitch more suited to water polo than pass and move football but to the great delight of both managers the pitch was fine and at best could only be described as slightly heavy and bobbly.The weather hadn't done its worse and the game kicked off in fine weather for football and only a light shower lasting a couple of minutes spoilt the perfect footballing afternoon. The Colts were sent out to work hard and win their personal battles and then let their football win the game. In the early stages of the game The Colts were on top passing and moving, probing away at their opponents trying to find the weakness to exploit. A number of chances were created  although  not taken but the opponents had their own ideas and attacked The Colts at every opportunity. An interesting game was in the making and about halfway into the opening period the game saw its first goal.As The Colts poured forward  and a number of attacks came to little, the ball was worked back to J. Hamm who struck a first time shot.The ball didn't find the net, through the crowded goal mouth, but ended up at the feet of the unmarked L.Keating who had great joy in calmly stroking the ball home.The Colts had got the break through that they deserved and should have taken earlier in the game and were now lookimg to press home the advantage.The Colts continued with some neat football but didn't add to their lead before the break and may have been pegged back had the home team forwards been a bit calmer when they had a sight of goal.

At half time the changes were made to the side, as always giving all players game time, The Colts once again had the edge in terms of possession and mounted a number of attacks.But great credit to the Peninsula Stars they never stopped working and springing forward to try and equalize. A fine game nevermind cup tie was in progress and all players were playing their part in an entertaining game. The Colts were now well on top in he fixture but hadn't added the goals to secure the victory so the tie was still anyone's to win. The Colts kept attacking trying to put the result to bed and had two goals cancelled out by the refs whistle, one for hand ball and another for a push on the keeper. The Colts kept pressing and Peninsula kept attacking whenever they could but their work rate was starting to dwindle. The shear effort of keeping The Colts at bay and the soft pitch was taking its toll. Unfortunately the Peninsula keeper handled outside of his area and from the resultant free kick the score was doubled. From a central position a number of players fancied their chances and the kick was left to B.Glover, after much discussion, to hit the ball high into the right hand corner of the net. The goal breathed fresh belief into The Colts and had the reverse effect on their opponents it now seemed only a matter of time before more goals followed. Some fast flowing moves from The Colts saw the boys well on top and allowed C.Burridge to break through on a couple of occasions to add two more goals to his seasons total.But not before L.Davies had rounded off a fine move with a simply tap in at the far post a goal the boy deserved as he had been a nuisance to the home sides defense all game with his movement and strong running.The scoring wasn't finished as another fine move lead to a couple of goal line clearances before B.Glover netted calmly after what seemed like block after block after clearance etc etc.The Colts had moved into the draw for the next round with a well deserved victory and Peninsula Stars must take great credit for their part in a fine cup tie which was enjoyed by not only both managers but also the ref.

The man of the match awards were given to A.Seal from the Peninsula Stars team who will surely be a bright star of the future on this form. Whilst a brief first half and a full on second half display earned P.Mohan the vote for The Colts his work rate and sublime passes created havoc in the opponents defense.

Sun 13 12 2009 Colts v Allport Hawks

The first game for a month saw the boys in action  against old foes Allport Hawks, with a first round tie in The Top Cup with the squad aiming to go one game better than last season which saw them defeated in the final.The squad was a bit depleated with illness seeing a number of players missing but the opponents for the day  also had their own problems so an interesting game was in store.The pitch was quite heavy after all the recent rain but was  generally in good condition as the councils policy of pitch closures was proved to protect them. The game kick off in fine weather which was set for the whole of the game.The Colts captain won the toss and the game commenced with both sides on the front foot at every give opportunity and the early exchanges were pretty even in terms of possession and chances.The Colts were knocking the ball around well give the enforced break and soon the goals started to flow. An interval lead of 3-0 was gained with goals from former Hawk P.Mohan, leading scorer C.Burridge and left winger B.Glover.

The half time break came and went without little disruption to the football from The Colts and they continued as they had finished the first half well on top in the game.A number of changes were made to the side but little effect on the way the boys went about their game.The goals kept flowing with The Colts well on top in terms of possession and goals. A further four players added goals to the score with A.Ennion opening his personal tally of Colts goals and K.Mohan following his brothers example and netting against his former team.The game drew to an end with the result 14-0 to The Colts and progrssion to the next round secured.

The man of the match awards were given to C.Williams for a fine defensive display against the onslaught.Whilst for their part Allport Hawks decided that J.Lee had displayed a great range of passing whether in defense or in central midfield.

Sun 24 01 2010 Vauxhall v Colts

The game was lost 7-1  with C. Burridge scoring The Colts goal.

Sun  07 02 2010    Colts v Young Lions

The boys returned to league action, the first time in over two months, with a home game against an ever improving side who can now justify the title Lions. The previous meeting earlier in the season had seen The Colts run out comfortable winner but the boys had been warned pre-match to expect a much harder encounter this time out.The game kick off in fine weather and the pitch was much better than expected after the months of wet and frozen weather. The Colts as ever attempted to but their brand of football into action at all times never missing an opportunity to spread the ball about attempting to pass and move and leave their opponents in their wake.The enforced break was taking it's toll on the boys fluent game, as the passing was a bit labored and not as accurate or as crisp as normal. Added to this was a very determined Young Lions team who for their great credit were determined not to give an inch to The Colts, and who attacked at every chance offered.The early exchanges of the game set the tone for the whole game, both sides fully committed and trying to out battle and out play the opponents at all times. The game was a fine example of football both sides pushing each other hard but fair and never overstepping the mark.

The goals started to flow with The Colts taking the lead with a swift break, the ball coming across the goalmouth before ending up at the feet of leading scorer C.Burridge who dispatched the ball into the net to add to his seasons tally. The Colts had started to get on top and were stringing a number of moves together and beginning to look as if the rust was begin to go from their performance.But a swift interchange of passes from Young Lions forwards led to a well taken equalizing goal. This seemed to give their confidence a lift but also steel The Colts players and within a couple of minutes the lead was restored.A few neat passes sent wing wizard B.Glover scampering away to deliver a great cross, which was duly met with the finely placed headed goal from P.Mohan. The Colts were probably edging possession and slightly on top in the game but were certainly not having it all their own way. Just as it looked like a half time advantage had been achieved Young Lions mounted another attack and equalized once again.

Half time talk centered about improving possession and the quality of the passing and a number of changes were made to get all the boys back into action after the long enforced weather break. The boys again attacked the Lions with renewed vigor and a couple of minutes into the half, the lead was restored by The Colts. Second half goal king L.Keating struck to put the boys back infront much to everyone's delight.The ball was worked into the box and he found room to slot home with neat side foot finish. The Colts weren't finished and attacked at will but Young Lions always tried to stem the tide and mount their own attacks. A fully entertaining game was in full flow.The scoreline was made a bit more comfortable with another great move by The Colts, the ball was worked down the right with a number of well placed passes. These set P.Mohan free who sent over a great cross, straight onto the forehead of L.Keating who netted a fine goal to finish the scoring in a great game. The goal may have signaled the end of the scoring but the football from both sides continued only stopping with the final whistle from the referee.It was a fine game of football and a credit to both sides played in a true sporting spirit.

As ever with the league fixtures we have to pick man of the match  from the opponents ranks due to the high quality of the game this week prove a very hard task, all the boys on the day gave a great account of themselves and could have easily been awarded the honor. It goes without saying that the game of football was the winner in this fixture but we have to name a single player and for our part we decide on J.McColl. He gave a fine display leading the line for The Lions causing The Colts rear guard numerous problems and linking play at all times. The Colts man of the match went to B. Glover for another fine display which caused Young Lions untold problems all game long.