Results
Find all the latest Under 15 results here.
- Cup match
- League match
- Tournament
- Friendly
Date | Home team | Home score | - | Away score | Away team | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
08.05.22 | (U15) |
5 | - | 1 | Ossett Albion U16s | Match report |
Ossett Albion U16s home (Friendly) Sam, Luis, Cameron, Keegan, Toby, Luke, Kain, Jaxon, Bradley, Finlay, Charlie, Ethan, Will Town shook off last weeks Cup disappointment to step up an age group and thrash an unsuspecting Ossett Albion U16 side 5-1 on the dandelion infused carpet of our Farnley Tyas pitch. A new look Holmfirth lined up as preparations for next season started in earnest. Bradley leading the line as striker ahead of Jaxon, Kain and Jacob as an attacking midfield three. Toby and Luke sitting deep ahead of a back four of Finlay, Keegan, Cameron and Luis with Sam in goal. Kicking off downhill Town were quick out of the traps, teasing their opponents before Luis stepped up to intercept an Ossett half clearance and send a through ball for Jacob to chase into the area outmuscle his strapping opponent before cutting inside and burying a left foot shot into the bottom right corner of the net. The early goal set the tone as Town flooded forward with Albion scrambling back desperately to keep the score down. Jaxon weaved in and out of two defenders before having his heels clipped, Keegan firing the free kick into the wall and away. Kain carried on from where he left off last week, terrorising the right back and almost scoring a spectacular second goal for the boys after a neat one-two between Luke and Toby on the left saw our tricky winger cut inside the penalty areas and curl a shot just wide of the far corner. Sam was barely troubled in goal acting as sweeper keeper most of the half to recycle the ball and allow Keegan and Finlay to act as deep lying playmakers in central defence and set Toby and Luke away down the centre whilst Kain and Jacob repeatedly outskilled and outpaced their opponents down the flanks. Luis and Cameron pushed higher up the pitch from the fullback positions and as a result Luis picked out Toby in the centre who half turned and switched to Kain down the left who perfectly timed his pass into the path of the overlapping Cameron who shot wide. Luis drove forward and shot high of the target, Jaxon played a one-two with Toby and powered a shot which the keeper saved at full stretch and Kain almost doubled our lead from another great move from the back, Keegan intercepting an Albion attack before relieving pressure with a backpass to Sam who quickly found Jaxon in space down the centre, Jaxon carrying the ball forward and finding Kain with pin point accuracy in the penalty area, Kain’s shot fizzing low and hard but wide. Cameron went close with another effort wide of the upright and Bradley forced the keeper into another fine save before Jacob picked the ball up on the right from Toby’s pass, our captain again cutting inside skipping past two defenders and angling a pass to Bradley who nipped ahead of his marker and buried the chance from near the penalty spot. With Town in the ascendancy Albion were on the retreat, looking content to keep the score at 2-0 and take their chances with the slope in their favour in the second half and as frustration set in the No5 said a few too many choice words to the referee, finding himself cutting a lonely figure in the sin bin to the dismay of his teammates. Unrelenting, Town ramped up the pressure Toby’s give and go with Luke setting up another opportunity for Bradley to sweep a shot towards the bottom corner only for the keeper to meet it full length to make the save. Meanwhile back on the touch line, not content to accept his punishment the Ossett No5 managed to get his marching orders whilst still off the pitch after another barage of needless abuse towards the ref and Albions afternoon went from bad to worse although they did benefit from the next major reffing decision as Bradley had a goal chalked off for offside after another great build up move from the back starting with Luis and finishing with Brad via intelligent interplay between Toby and Jacob. 2-0 the half time score. New boy Will came on for Jaxon to make his Holmfirth Town debut with Ethan replacing Finlay in defence as the boys regrouped for the restart. Our debutant made a blistering start linking immediately with Luke and Toby to set up a shooting opportunity for Cameron but the shot was saved, then threading a great ball through the defence towards Kain who had it snatched from his toes by the Albion No1. Luis drove forward to shoot just wide then Cameron went close with a shot which the keeper palmed round the post for a corner. Luke swung in the cross, Bradley rising to head the boys into a 3-0 lead. Bradley went off to rapturous applause from the home contingent as Charlie came on for the remainder of the game another rejig releasing Cameron from defensive duties to lead from the front, Jacob switching to right back. Ossett took advantage of a moment of uncertainty in defence to break clear down the middle but Sam dived full length to his left to make a timely save. Will continued his great work sending Keegan galloping forward Luke receiving the pass inside and releasing Kain to the byeline, his cross met by a rasping shot from Charlie which again the keeper tipped wide. Luke’s corner was cleared but he was soon on hand to take Toby’s pass who found Will in space, Will squaring for Cameron to fire home goal number four. Luke, Keegan, Toby and Luis had shots high or wide of the target, Charlie had a shot tipped over the bar, Toby swinging in a corner which Luis glanced wide with a header as Town made a mockery of the uphill slope finally claiming a fifth goal and a second for Cameron. Luis and Luke involved with the build up before Ethans cross fell to Cameron who found the net with a sharp finish. With time running out Ossett grabbed a consolation goal on the break but Town held out for a convincing win to put a full stop on the end of a terrific season. Toby scooped the double in terms of the MOM awards for another faultless display in midfield, the number of assists and chances created too many to mention in one report! Well done boys on a fantastic Season, a team on the up and who are already strengthening the squad for next year. Watch out White Rose!!!👊👊👊👊⚽️ |
||||||
01.05.22 | (U15) |
0 | - | 2 | White Rose Allstars | Match report |
District FA Cup Final v White Rose Sam Cameron Lance Jacob Luis Luke Toby Charlie Bradley Kain Jaxon Keegan Ethan. A courageous and gutsy performance from the lads wasn’t enough to stop the march towards double glory as White Rose added the Cup to their first division league title. Though this Season’s League bridesmaids, the boys were determined to be the Cup brides, starting the game on the front foot as Luke quickly spread the ball wide right to Kain whose cross was blocked by the opposition left back which launched a devastating counter attack culminating in the worst possible start. The Allstars quick transition to the right flank sent their speedy winger clear of our defence before angling the perfect pass into the path of a teammate at the back post who tapped in the opening goal. A sucker punch but not a knockout blow as Town fought back with the industry and quality required to face up to the County’s best team where others would have folded. The remainder of the half was a cagey affair, both defences on top as the teams traded quality passing moves with little end product. White Rose enjoyed more of the play down the centre, thwarted by Lance and Jacob in the heart of defence with our all blue kitted opponents limited to two strikes from outside the box which Sam comfortably saved. Cameron and Luis marshalled the two wingers with pace and strength and it was out wide where Town posed the greatest threat particularly on the right where Kain had the upper hand. Great approach play from Toby and Luke saw us advancing to the opposition penalty area, combining with Bradley and Jaxon but the blues dealt with the crossing of Kain and Charlie easily as they swarmed around any attacker with a micron of space in the box. Kain continued to offer our best attacking threat down the right twice leaving his opponent for dead but finding the final pass intercepted and cleared or the shot blocked. Best move of the half saw Luis drive forward from deep, play inside right to Toby, Toby sent Kain down the wing and his cross was met by Charlie running in who chested the bouncing ball but slipped as he lined up to shoot with the half clearance recycled by Toby to Luke who squared the pass outside left for Charlie to cross, Kain picking up the loose ball to set up Luke to centre which the keeper claimed at the second attempt as Charlie followed up the rebound. Rose always looked a threat on the break and Cameron and Luis had to be alert to the counter attack, covering their ground and winning the physical battles to keep the Champions at bay as the whistle sounded for halftime with the boys 1-0 down. The second half saw the boys start brightly. Cameron, Toby and Kain combining well before Toby was brought down for a free kick on the right side of the box. Luke curling the shot round the wall and on target but the keeper dived to smother the ball and quell the danger. Ten minutes in and Town made the inevitable change, Keegan coming on for Jaxon who had once again worked tirelessly for the team, Jacob switching to striker as Keegan slotted into central defence alongside Lance. Luis, Toby and Kain interchanged passes to set Bradley up for a shot at goal which was cleared, White Rose breaking wide down the right before Cameron launched himself at full stretch to intercept with the tackle of the day. As Town gambled to push for an equaliser the game opened up and the both sides created more chances, Sam called into action to make a timely save from the Allstars striker who met a left wing cross on the volley which Sam held firm. With 15 minutes remaining the Allstars got the killer second goal. A scruffy free kick on the edge of the box somehow bobbling through our wall and into the bottom left corner of the net to double the lead. Town responded well. Luis switching to centre forward, Jacob dropping to right back as the reshuffle provided our best two chances. Jacob carrying the ball forward prior to angling a pass over the top for Luis to pounce on and fire a shot which the keeper parried half clear, Charlie wrestling away from his marker to get at the rebound but unable to get over the bouncing ball enough to keep the it down and the shot fizzed over the bar. Luke then created an opening down the left, playing a neat give and go with Charlie prior to a back post cross which cleared everyone, Kain picking up the loose ball and sending a cross from the right which Luis met with a header at full stretch which again went high and over when with better communication Toby may have had more of a chance of scoring running in behind his teammate. Ethan replaced Bradley immediately involving himself to outmuscle the White Rose striker and power clear two defensive headers as Town kept battling to get back in the game. Two cases in point, the midfielder who pulled Toby back by the shirt to stop a dangerous Town attack (taking one for the team) and another when Toby again was blatantly obstructed as he was about to break clear into the box to receive Kains inside pass only for the referee to miss the block but see Toby’s attempt to climb round him and subsequently award a free kick to the opposition🤦♂️Diego Simeone himself would have been proud of that one! 2-0 the score remained with Kain securing the Parents and Players Cup final MOM awards for his industry tracking back and killer pace and skills on the right wing. Congratulations to White Rose on a perfect Season for them and well done to our boys for producing a season of highly entertaining and exciting football and some terrific memories. Heads up boys you didn’t get the trophies this year but you did us all proud 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 |
||||||
24.04.22 | Battyford U16’s | 1 | - | 2 | Match report | |
Battyford U16s away (friendly) Sam Cameron Keegan Finlay Luis Luke Toby Charlie Bradley Kain Jaxon Keon Ethan Romario With a Trophy still up for grabs Town stepped up an age group in preparation for next Sunday’s final against old enemies White Rose , defeating high flying Battyford U16s. A brace from Bradley sealing the victory. The difference in age was barely evident but the difference in class was, as our boys started on the front foot matching their older opponents for physicality and dominating possession in an impressive first half display. Luke was first to show on the edge of the box hitting a dipping shot just too high of the target after good work from Toby before Jaxon’s persistent pressing forced a mishit back pass which Bradley intercepted with a first time shot into the back of the net. One nil up Town turned the heat up on their opponents, Kain particularly giving the hosts a testing time in the Spring sunshine, setting up Jaxon for a volleyed effort which fizzed wide of the post. Cameron foraged for opportunities to attack from left back and carried the ball from deep before releasing Charlie behind the right back, Charlie’s cross met at the near post by the lively Brad who steered the shot a fraction wide of the upright. In defence Town remained solid, Ethan and Finlay marshalling the back line expertly, alert to the counter attack but just as efficient with the pass as they drove their team forward. Kains tracking back was a feature of the first half and his tenacity produced a sublime second goal. Chasing down his opposite number Kain won the ball deep in his own half, Luis acting as pressure valve receiving the short pass and sending Kain back down the right touch line and into Battyford territory. Looking up Kain tracked the run of Bradley through the centre, releasing a perfectly weighted back spinning pass which Bradley lifted over the advancing keeper and into the empty net. Battyford were rattled, arguing with the officials and each other as they sought responsibility for a lack of cohesion reflected the score line. Toby orchestrated midfield alongside Luke, both contributing to our impressive possession stats whilst creating numerous chances for the boys to put the game to bed. Charlie broke wide left from Toby’s pass swinging in a cross to the back post which Kain sliced on the volley to a relieved keeper. Kain then turned the left back inside out before angling in the cross which Bradley flicked up, turned and volleyed inches wide, Luis then taking his turn to send Bradley bearing down on goal but the keeper sprinted out , narrowing the angle sufficiently to block Brads shot on goal. The half time whistle blew with Town good value for their two goal lead. Town began the second half much in the same vein, Luke striding into the home penalty area before winning a corner on the left with his deflected shot. Toby swung in the cross, Ethan rising high above the defence to glance a header just wide. Jaxon who had clocked up another batch of frequent flyer miles in the hot sun for his teammates made way for Keegan to drop into the number 10 slot vacated by Brad who pushed forward to striker in search of a deserved hatrick. Toby cut inside to shoot high and wide before Charlie found Keegan in space he crossed first time, Bradley rising to nod a bouncing ball over the keeper which was hooked clear off the line. Cameron and Charlie then played a give and go ending with Cameron’s cross, Luis meeting it with a powerful shot which was hooked clear for a corner. Charlie left the field to be replaced by rapido Romario who was soon involved, drawing a foul from his opponent on the left. The ball being swept out to the right for Kain to cross with the clearance prompting a quick Battyford transition on the left wing, the inside ball played in to the path of their striker who applied a clinical finish In light of Battyfords new found vigour, Sam found his goal tested a few times in the remaining twenty minutes holding firm as Fin, Ethan, Cameron and Luis joined forces to maintain the rear guard. Toby’s fitness and finesse ensured he was a menace to the hosts backline right up to the final whistle as he drove forward with force, getting shots away, holding the ball up and spreading play either side of the pitch to make sure Battyford had to cover the miles if they were to win back possession. Romario won a corner on the left, Toby driving the cross which was headed straight back to him, he found a gap through two defenders which set Finlay for a shot on the edge of the box but it fizzed inches over the crossbar. Kain almost set up a goal for Keegan, showing great footwork to turn inside the box then out before delivering an inch perfect near post cross which Keegan diverted agonisingly over the bar with the outside of his left foot. Bradley went close with a shot gathered by the keeper then Romario also went close. cutting onto his right foot from the left corner of the area before curling a shot just the wrong side of the far post. With the end of the the game closing in Battyford thought they had sprung the offside trap to get an equaliser. A quick counter attack ending with the ball in the back of the net, the linesman flagging three Battyford attackers offside to justify our back lines perfectly timed step up. With seconds remaining it was Town who had the last opportunity to add to the score sheet, great work by Kain resulting in a cross for Luke on the edge of the box, he flicked the ball up with his left foot before lashing a right foot volley fractions wide. As news filtered through of White Rose eclipsing our boys to secure the division 1 League title after a win against Westend the final whistle sounded with our lads celebrating a hard earned victory to launch a week of preparation for next Sunday’s showpiece District Cup final. Players MOM went to Kain for terrific industry and creativity against opponents two years above his age group. Bradley securing the Parents vote for great movement and two well taken goals. One last push boys, on the way to Ovenden’s Wembley. Up the Town! |
||||||
10.04.22 | (U15) |
1 | - | 2 | Wilsden | Match report |
Wilsden home (Friendly) Sam, Jacob, Keegan, Luis, Bradley, Luke, Toby, Charlie, Kain, Cameron, Jaxon, Ethan, Romario. After the double disappointment of back to back defeats to White Rose, Town looked leggy and surprisingly lacking in confidence against a Wilsden side who they had previously beaten 6-1 earlier in the season. A reshuffling of the pack and a different formation brought a new challenge for the boys on our familiar yet unfamiliar Farnley Tyas home pitch which played its part in the result. Town got off to the perfect start taking the lead in the opening two minutes, the ball working out wide right to Kain whose quick feet set up a crossing opportunity for Bradley to pick out Luis at the back post who volleyed home. Wilsden hit back immediately from the restart, a ball down the centre splitting our back line as the blues striker capitalised on a fortunate ricochet into his path which he swept past Sam for the equaliser. The rest of the half saw Town on top, bossing possession and creating much the better chances without finding the net. Luis and Charlie working openings down the left whilst Jacob supported Kain down the right to make full use of our extra width , Luke orchestrating the attacks from midfield with Toby linking play to both our strikers. Luis, Kain and Charlie all went close with shots from distance which cleared the crossbar, Jacob worked tirelessly with lung bursting runs into the box and crosses which bounced frustratingly away from our attackers or were hooked clear by the visitors defence, the exception a slotted pass into the path of Luis who struck the ball low and true only for the keeper to parry around his near post. Excellent work by Kain to charge down a centre half clearance on the edge of the box bounced away from goal to make the angle that much harder to strike on the second attempt, which was easily blocked and cleared as the luck of the bounce once again favoured the visitors. Cameron ensured our back line stayed alert to the break, sweeping up anything down the middle whilst his two compadres at either side Ethan and Keegan dealt with the Ariel threat of long ball clearances to either wing. Sam was called upon once to palm a shot clear after a quick counter attack, the score remaining 1-1 at the halftime break. The second half produced more Holmfirth chances but the team all too often lacked that essential zeal and fighting spirit when out of possession that saw our visitors grow in confidence. Jaxon who had replaced Toby as No10 busied himself to create shooting opportunities bringing out two fine saves from the Wilsden keeper, the second one gathered squarely on the line. Charlie and Luis continued to attack the back post, both of them side footing volleys into the outside netting from Kain and then Jacobs crossing and Kain came closest of all lashing in a right foot shot from just inside the box which the keeper tipped round the post at full stretch. With ten minutes remaining Wilsden struck a decisive second goal, the No9 beating Sam to the ball as he came to clear then following up to nod the ball into an empty net. Romario replaced Charlie for the restart immediately getting a shot away which whistled over the bar and then winning a free kick on the edge of the box, Toby beating the wall with a curling shot which the keeper easily gathered. Wilsden then created a golden opportunity to put the game to bed, the blues striker running in to a back post cross only to power a shot towards the heavens with the goal at his mercy as he fell victim to the dreaded curse of our bobbled pitch. Soon after, the final whistle blew with Wilsden celebrating a victory which clearly meant alot to them. Town trudging off disappointed and in desperate need of the kind of spark which ignited the first three quarters of the season. Luis claimed Parents and Players MOM, the boys having this week off to recharge their batteries before the Cup final countdown to May 1st. Heads up boys, one more game 👊⚽️ |
||||||
03.04.22 | (U15) |
1 | - | 3 | White Rose Allstars | Match report |
White Rose Allstars home (League) Sam, Jacob, Finlay, Keegan, Luis, Bradley, Luke, Toby, Charlie, Kain, Cameron, Jaxon, Ethan, Keon, Lance. Town squared up to White Rose hellbent on a revenge mission after last weekend’s potentially League conceding capitulation at the home of the Allstars. Armed with a full squad all be it with one or two still carrying injuries Holmfirth started with the determination and fighting spirit which had taken them to the league’s summit but was all too often lacking the previous week. White Rose for their part took to the field with the familiar all conquering line up, yet to concede a point all season and again they showed their quality on and off the ball to secure what looks like a title winning double over our boys. From the off White Rose sought to get behind our new look 3-5-2 formation particularly targeting the left winger who was a constant threat all game, flashing an early cross to the back post which thankfully lacked a finishing touch. Charlie lasted just seven minutes, limping off with a back problem to be replaced by Cameron on the left who is still recovering from a similar injury and the omens didn’t look good. Minutes in and another volleyed cross from the left was deflected out for a corner via Finlay. Cameron rising to head clear the set piece. A high intensity counter press deep in Holmfirth territory coupled with the fast paced one touch passing from the Allstars, kept Town on the defensive until the visitors inevitably took the lead. Another sprayed pass out left was redirected inside before two sharp first time exchanges between White Rose attackers lead to an opening on the left side of the penalty area, which the striker seized upon, opening up his body to curl a right foot shot round Sam and into the bottom right corner of the net. In contrast to last weekend our boys responded well, matching their opponents physically to make this a true contest. Cameron fed Bradley on the left corner of the penalty area before he turned and switched right to Luis. Luis testing the opposition goalkeeper with a chip to the near post which he gathered at full stretch. At the opposite end White Rose carved out a shooting opportunity on the right after quick build up play from the back but the striker’s attempted lob cleared Sams crossbar. Jaxon came off the bench to replace Bradley up front but it was the visitors who conjured up the best goal scoring opportunities in the remainder of the half. Sam pulling off a wonderful save at the back post from a bullet header after another dangerous cross from the left. Proving a real thorn in our side, the Rose winger then checked inside to drive a shot low and hard with his right foot which Sam was again equal to, diving to his right to make the save. On the stroke of half time another White Rose foray, this time down the right ended in a dipping shot testing the strength of our crossbar before bouncing harmlessly over as the ref blew the whistle for half time. Bradley returned to action for the restart as Jaxon made way and the team regrouped for a second half fight back. White Rose with the first attack of the half forcing a corner on the right which Lance cleared, Sam diving low to claim the ball from a fizzing right foot shot from the edge of the box. Jaxon replaced Keon to partner Bradley up front and Town began to create chances of their own, Luis playing a neat one-two with Toby before having his path blocked by a solid tackle as he lined up to shoot. Jacob had a drive and shot halted by the keeper and Toby and Luke grew in confidence to create opportunities in our opponents penalty area for the first real period of sustained Town pressure. Cameron won a corner soon after, following excellent Town build up play, Toby sending in a violent inswinger which Luis rose to meet with a powerful header which crashed against the crossbar and was scrambled clear. Keegan came on for Jaxon, slotting into holding midfield as Jacob was encouraged forward to create havoc down the right flank with Town continuing to enjoy their best period of the match as they flooded forward in search of the equaliser. Lance sent Cameron galloping down the left, he swung in a dangerous cross which was headed clear. Jacob drew a foul on the edge of the box but Luke’s free kick hit the wall before Lance sent a teasing ball high into the penalty area, Jacob first to the high bounce to nip in behind the defence and head the ball over the keeper and into the net for a deserved equaliser. With the crowd sensing a shift in the tide, Town pushed for the winner, the Allstars looking to benefit on the break with quick transitions into attack. White Rose then twice went close, once from a free kick outside the box which Sam saved, the other from a break behind our defence which saw the ball crossed from the byeline and tapped in by a White Rose striker but only after Fin had deflected the ball over the goal line for a corner. Kain and Jacob created overloads down the right which caused the visitors problems Jacob drawing a foul on the right allowing Toby to whip in a free kick which was headed as far as Luke on the edge of the box who volleyed over the bar. Bradley had a shot from inside the box saved and Luke almost found the net from distance but the keeper pulled off a spectacular save, diving right to palm the ball round the post for another corner. Toby sent in a partially cleared cross which again fell to Luke but this time his pile driving low effort was gathered into the chest of the White Rose No1. The visitors then struck a killer blow, breaking down the right the ball was squared across the penalty spot to a grateful attacker who swept the ball past Sam to restore the visitors lead. Town battled hard but couldn’t make a second breakthrough, White Rose winning a corner on the right following a swift counter attack, the centre finding an Allstars chest/midriff/arm then the back of the net to kill off any further resistance with just four minutes remaining. The final whistle blew with White Rose celebrating what looks like a certain title win with Town left disappointed and needing a massive capitulation from their rivals to hold any aspirations of claiming the League prize. Parents MOM went to Jacob who got us back in the game and fought to the end. Toby getting the Player’s for award showing real quality and quick feet in very limited midfield space to create attacking opportunities for the team. Despite a disappointing result in the final League game our boys can reflect on a fantastic campaign. Playing entertaining high quality football and showing continued progression, they have emerged over the past three seasons from second division promotion winners to mid table Division 1 stability to mini league winners and now genuine title contenders guaranteed at least runners up spot this season. Also not forgetting we have the little matter of a District League Cup final to look forward to. Well done lads, you’ve done us all proud !👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏⚽️ |
||||||
27.03.22 | White Rose Allstars | 3 | - | 0 | Match report | |
White Rose Allstars away (League) Sam, Jacob, Finlay, Keegan, Luis, Bradley, Luke, Toby, Charlie, Kain, Romario, Cameron. Town travelled to Heckmondwike for the biggest game of the season hampered in their preparations as illness and injuries swept the camp leaving our coach with eleven fit players and a half fit sub. White Rose came out of the blocks fighting, dominating from the start with some scintillating passing moves to leave our boys pinned back in their own half and chasing shadows as we struggled to keep up with the pace. Keegan headed an early chance clear of the goal line and in conjunction with Finlay, Jacob and Bradley they were the standouts for Town by at least matching the opposition for physicality and commitment. Sam performed first half heroics in goal to keep the score down, leaping valiantly low to his left to somehow turn a goalbound effort round the post whilst Luis rose to head clear the resulting corner. Town then survived a double scare as the No4 struck a shot which rattled the crossbar, falling to the eager No9 who reacted quickest to head the rebound again off the underside of the bar with the goal at his mercy, Keegan thankfully on hand to scramble the ball clear. A break down the left ended with a volley just wide and soon after, Jacob had to scamper back to clear another left wing attack away for a corner. In came the resulting set piece, an Allstars attacker rising to head the home side in front. Sam was soon called upon to make another miraculous save as the right winger played inside to the onrushing White Rose striker who bore down on Sam’s goal but powered in a shot which Sam deflected clear. With Town on the back foot Kain, Charlie and Romario struggled to find any attacking momentum, Cameron replacing Romario to add physicality against two otherwise untroubled centre halves. A volley from outside the box spun wide of the Town goal before the Allstars registered a second. A White Rose attacker afforded the freedom of the midfield before hammering a sweetly hit shot beyond Sam and into the top left corner of the net. The halftime break didn’t come soon enough for under pressure Town who took advantage of the opportunity to reshuffle the pack, electing to play a more solid looking 3-5-2 for the second period in the hope of clawing their way back into the game. Within minutes of the restart Town fashioned their first meaningful attack of the match. Toby bringing the ball under control prior to feeding Cameron who spread the ball wide left for Charlie to whip in a cross which was diverted out for a corner. Toby produced an in swinger , Luis glancing a header which was half cleared to Bradley who shot wide. Although Town enjoyed more possession in the second half it was still the Allstars that regained control as the home side continued to win the vast majority of the 1v1s and second balls. A break down the left was cut out by Finlay at the expense of a corner and more quick thinking from the home side played a short corner to an unmarked opponent who swung in a cross to the back post which Sam palmed away for a corner on the opposite side. The centre found a White Rose head with Finlay providing a block which Bradley half cleared to the Allstars No9 who tested Sam with a first time shot from the edge of the box, Sam gathering with ease. As Town laboured to find clearcut openings the third goal was always going to be crucial in either switching momentum our way or putting White Rose out of sight and unfortunately it was our hosts who grasped the opportunity all be it in fortuitous circumstances. Another opening created down the right engineered a shooting opportunity for the No4 to take, his blocked effort falling to a midfield teammate whose effort struck the hand of Fin resulting in a penalty which was aptly converted to put the Allstars 3-0 up. Town toiled in vain, Jacob fashioning an opportunity for Cameron to hit a shot which was cleared off the line and Luke striking a free kick from distance inches over the bar before Cameron won a header in the box to give Jacob a shooting chance which the keeper easily gathered. Romario returned to action to replace Charlie but the boys couldn’t break down the meanest defence in the league , White Rose managing the game to ensure the Allstars went away with all three points and put them on course for the first division title. Parents MOM went to Sam for a heroic performance particularly in the first half, Keegan and Bradley splitting the vote for Players MOM with both putting in a real shift for the team. Heads up boys, one game remaining to keep the title alive, White Rose at home next week. Fingers crossed for better news on the injury front🤞🤞🤞 |
||||||
13.03.22 | Honley | 1 | - | 2 | Match report | |
Honley away (League) Sam Luis Keegan Jacob Luke Toby Kain Cameron Jaxon Bradley Ethan Charlie Romario Finlay Missing Lance due to a concussion injury sustained whilst securing his School rugby teams place in a showpiece Twickenham final, Keegan once again stepped up to play a leading role at the back as Stoic defending and two quality finishes saw Town over the line in a hard fought contest with our Holme Valley rivals. Honley started the brighter, playing the conditions to their advantage as the ball swirled around on a pitch more suited to Rugby than football. Plenty of high long balls bouncing at angles to give our back four of Keegan, Fin, Luis and Jacob a real headache, the likes of which they dealt with admirably to keep a first half clean sheet. Quality on the ball was difficult but the endeavours of Luke and Toby in centre midfield to at least keep the ball down and play the simple pass meant the boys could still create openings for Charlie, Jaxon and Kain behind the industrious Cameron. Honley however had the better first half chances. A free kick whistling inches over the crossbar from outside the box followed by a neat through ball which required Sam to sprint out and smother on the edge of the box early warnings as the Claret and blues dominated the early exchanges. Town then survived two corners, both expertly curled across the six yard box with threatening pace, the first directed over the bar from an outstretched Honley boot at the back post , the second resulting in a nudge towards goal which Toby did well to hook clear from underneath the crossbar. Our boys continued to battle hard pushing forward but falling short with the final ball, aided by a classy display from the Honley No18 playing centre half and the unpredictable bounce of the ball. Ten minutes from halftime, Jacob made the all important breakthrough with a terrific goal from outside the box. Charlie winning a game of head tennis on the left touch line to find Toby, he brought the ball down and switched to Kain who set Jacob up for a rasping first time shot into the top right corner of the net for 1-0. The goal seemed to lift our boys who finished the half strong. Toby and Luke combining in midfield to find Cameron with his back to goal who in turn spread the ball left for Charlie to whip in a volleyed left foot shot come cross which tested the keepers agility as he rose high to nip the ball off the head of our attackers. Luis then won a corner, running on to Charlie’s pass before crossing via a defender. Toby swung in the cross which was cleared. Toby swinging in another set piece which Cameron rose to glance a header towards the back post which was once again hooked clear, Cameron picking up a back injury in the process requiring him to leave the pitch to be replaced by Bradley. Jacob and Luis strode down the touch line with power and purpose which kept the home side pegged back, Keegan and Finlay allowing the drive from deep with timely interceptions to limit the counter attack and some no nonsense defending to keep the ball in our opponents half and ensuring a 1-0 lead at the break. The second half was a much more open affair, Bradley slotting nicely into the No10 position as Jaxon took on the striker role and Town looked sharp as Luke brought down the ball to send Bradley striding into the box but his snapshot shot fizzed wide. Jacob gave Toby an opportunity to set Bradley for a lob on the edge of the penalty area Two nil up Town looked comfortable , almost too comfortable. Kain bursting into life down the right to give the left back and centre half a torrid second period. One such occasion from Jacobs clearance lead to Kain giving his marker a ten yard start before putting on the afterburners to keep the ball in play beating his man in the process and angling in a cross which flashed across the six yard box Charlie playing inside to Luke who fired over. Toby sent Kain clear to shoot high of the target before once again setting up a shooting opportunity this time for Jaxon who also cleared the crossbar. With Town in the ascendancy, Honley hit back. A dubious free kick awarded deep in Holmfirth territory was played through our defence to the Honley No10 who coolly controlled and finished. A tense last ten minutes ensued with both sides trading half chances, Kain’s shot blocked, Lukes effort deflected for a corner which Toby swung in but was headed clear launching a Honley counter attack, Sam grateful to claim the resulting through pass. Kain initiated an intricate pass and move with Jacob only to be thwarted by the keeper who smothered as he set up to shoot and then Bradley chased down the centre half who was forced to concede another corner. Luke whipping in a near post corner which almost found the net, but for the keeper’s alert intervention, Luke having a second opportunity to swing in the ball which shot across the six yard box but clear of the back post. Romario came on to replace the hard working Jaxon and there was time for one last effort on goal for each team, Charlie controlling a high ball then laying it into the path of Kain whose shot was saved. Honley, at the other end winning a free kick on the left, half way into Holmfirth territory directed across the box but cleared expertly by Finlay then Luke as the whistle blew for time. Jacob just edged out Kain for Parents MOM, also getting the Players award after an impressive display of controlled aggression in a game they had to win to keep any hopes of a title win alive. Securing a vital derby double over Honley now sets up a mouthwatering home and away shootout for the title with the all conquering Allstars of White Rose. Well done lads👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 |
||||||
06.03.22 | (U15) |
5 | - | 2 | Wakefield Raiders U16’s | Match report |
Wakefield Raiders home (Friendly) Sam Luis Keegan Jacob Luke Toby Kain Cameron Jaxon Bradley Ethan Keon Town took advantage of their fixture less weekend to step up an age group and take on Wakefield Raiders Under 16s in a hastily arranged friendly at Almondbury. Eager to keep the boys match sharp for the League and Cup run in Town gave starts to Ethan and Keegan in the heart of defence, Bradley in midfield whilst Romario and Keon also clocked up valuable game time in attack and it was those five players who proved pivotal in an impressive 5-2 win. The opening half hour was tightly contested both teams locking horns in a midfield battle for supremacy with only one shot of note from the Raiders No9 whistling wide, Jacob firing our best shot in anger high of the crossbar. Town dominated possession with the more accurate short passing lead by Luke, Toby and Bradley as Ethan and Keegan stood firm at the back, Luis and Jacob pushing the Wakefield wingbacks into retreat as they imposed themselves from the flanks. A Jacob centre from the right almost lead to the opening goal as Cameron rose high to beat the onrushing keeper to the ball on the edge of the box but his header dipped just over the bar and with Town beginning to dictate play Kain and Jaxon proved a menace on the wings opening up more opportunities to attack a Wakefield defence that were made to do all the chasing. Toby wreaked havoc in the opposition penalty area to draw a penalty for a push in the back and it was up to Luke to bury the ball into the bottom left corner of the net to put us 1-0 up. Luis had a shot from the left side of the box saved before Kain was clattered by an overzealous defender which put paid to his afternoon in painful fashion, Keon stepping up from the bench to make an immediate impact as he ran on to Jaxons threaded through ball, sweeping a shot past the keeper with his left foot to double our lead. As frustration gathered amongst the Wakefield ranks the chatty No7 got his marching orders for descent leaving his teammates short as he repented for his sins on the touch line for the regulatory eight minutes as Town ended the half much the stronger with Cameron, Luis and Jaxon unlucky not to add to our 2-0 halftime lead. The restart prompted a spirited second half fightback as the Raiders enjoyed their best twenty minutes of the game, a cross driven from the right handled by Luke presenting the visitors an opportunity to halve the deficit from the penalty spot which they seized with a clinical finish. Much improved passing from our opponents meant the boys had to work harder off the ball, Keegan and Ethan getting in the tackles at key moments joined by Cameron now at left back and Jacob on the right making sure the back four stepped up higher and avoided being hemmed in by a revitalised Wakefield attack. Sam was called upon to make a few saves from long range and the Raiders No9 also went close fizzing a shot into the side netting when he really should have scored. The boys weathered the storm, regrouped and settled into their new team shape, regaining their fluidity going forward and opening up spaces as Wakefield pushed forward for the equaliser. Keon then got a crucial third goal. Cameron driving into space through the middle before drawing a defender and playing Keon in behind the defence. Fullback and goalkeeper incommunicado as Keon took the ball round both and coolly slotted home with his right foot. At 3-1 the game could have been safe but all credit to the Raiders who struck back straight from the restart. A speedy run down the right caught the boys napping as a low cross was whipped in eventually falling to the No9 who smashed home his team’s second goal from six yards out. The remaining fifteen minutes saw Town press home their advantage as once again the boys superior fitness proved key. Romario came on for Toby to inject new energy into our attack as our diminutive No 23 added more problems for the opposition with his creativity and mazy runs, coming in from the left earning himself a few bruises in the process as he drew a number of free kicks around the box. Bradley added to the scoreline from Luke’s corner, bundling the ball over the line after an intelligent back post run to lose his marker. Keegan putting the icing on the cake with our fifth, cutting inside the penalty area from the right to power home with a left foot finish from six yards out. The final whistle blew with Keegan claiming the Parents MOM award after a leading performance from the back alongside Jacob, Cameron and Ethan whilst capping it off with a much deserved goal. Ethan and Keegan sharing the players award at the heart of our defence. A good workout for the boys after a tough physical battle on a bumpy overgrown pitch which could well mirror the conditions in our return league game with Honley next week. Well done boys👏👏👏👏 |
||||||
27.02.22 | Queensbury Celtic | 1 | - | 4 | Match report | |
Queensbury Celtic away (District Cup semi final ) Sam Luis Lance Keegan Jacob Luke Finlay Toby Kain Cameron Jaxon Charlie Bradley Ethan Towns quest for silverware continued after a battle royale ended in semi-final victory at Queensbury. Bradley orchestrated the first attack of the game in a scrappy first half, holding off his marker to drive deep into Queensbury territory and shoot narrowly wide. Clearcut chances were at a premium for both sides on a difficult surface as the ball bobbled around before Cameron fired us in front. Luis, Charlie and Luke linking up well on the left, Luis sending in a cross, half blocked by the keeper, Cameron alert to sweep the ball home. Jaxon replaced Bradley, pushing into the No10 position behind Cameron as Toby reverted back to his holding midfield role and the boys began to enjoy more controlled possession. Jaxon forcing an early save as Cameron, Kain and Luke had shots from distance clear of the target. Queensbury for their part continued to probe. Quality shown by the two fullbacks, centre half and the No8 striker who looked lively up front when chasing the ball over the top but constantly ran into our immovable stoppers Fin and Lance who outmuscled and outplayed their opponents whilst Sam swept up any scraps. Luis sent Kain galloping clear down the right he outsped his opponent, testing the keeper with a fine shot which bobbled to Charlie who struck the rebound high over the bar. Toby then twisted in and out of two defenders prior to sending Kain through a second time, Charlie the recipient of a first time cross to the back post which he diverted across goal onto the crossbar only to be hooked clear. Town were looking more dominant going forward, Luke picking holes in the Celtic defence to send Charlie and Kain clear behind the fullbacks who were now forced into retreat. At the back Finlay dominated the centre snuffing out the counter attacking threat alongside Lance. Both Luis and Jacob working together to advance and create overloads with terrific judgement and timing. With the halftime whistle approaching Jaxon grabbed a crucial second goal. Lance bringing the ball out from the back prior to sending Kain clear into the penalty area, Kain looking up and squaring a ball into the path of Jaxon who found the empty net. Queensbury started the second half desperate to get the next goal and swing momentum back in their favour but it was Town who were quickest out of the blocks, Charlie latching onto Luke’s through pass and curling a shot which was saved, Cameron going close with two half chances in the box, Luke then setting up a Jaxon right foot effort which the keeper parried into the path of the outstretched Cameron who put the ball over the bar after another frustrating bobble off the pitch. Having weathered the storm Queensbury hit back, the dangerous No 8 breaking clear and setting up a tap in for his teammate to halve the deficit. Town proved unfazed, immediately restoring their two goal lead. Kain centred from the right after Toby’s pass, Cameron rose to glance a header which fell to Charlie wide left of the Penalty area he exchanged passes with Luis before cutting inside and curling a shot under the keeper and into the net. Keegan replaced Charlie with Ethan taking over from Cameron upfront as Town looked to put the game to bed. Keegan soon involved with a snapshot from distance whistling wide and then getting on the end of Jacob’s angled cross to bob and weave between two defenders and flash another effort wide of the target. Towns superior fitness as in so many games this season came to the fore as the boys once again finished the stronger, Ethan forcing defensive errors before Fin sent Jaxon clear to smash home a decisive fourth goal and firmly plant the cherry on the cake. A determined and controlled performance from the boys who can now look forward to a Cup final and title showdown with White Rose who overcame Hepworth Utd in the other semi final. Parents MOM went to Lance for a dominant performance in the heart of defence with no shortage of quality on the ball whilst fittingly Finlay got the Players award for equal endeavour, laying the foundations for victory from the back. Well done boys 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏⚽️ |
||||||
13.02.22 | (U15) |
5 | - | 2 | Honley | Match report |
Honley home (League) Sam Luis Lance Keegan Jacob Luke Finlay Toby Kain Cameron Jaxon Romario Keon Despite Valentines Day on the horizon there was no love lost between these two local rivals as Holmfirth secured the points in a hotly contested Holme Valley Derby. Missing the dynamism of Bradley, the towering strength of Ethan and the free scoring Charlie through injury, Town had to shuffle the pack again. Keegan stepping up into midfield with Kain switching to left wing and Jaxon flanking the right, Finlay partnering Lance at the heart of our defence. An opening 15 minutes of frantic pinball football saw both sides showing 100% commitment but little composure as Honley wrestled early control. A free kick on the right finding the Honley No 12 clear to glance a header past Sam for the opening goal. Cameron won a free kick on the edge of the Honley penalty area as Town sought an immediate response but Lukes dipping effort beat the wall but dropped the wrong side of the crossbar. Kain received a pass from Luke, wide on the left, skipping past his marker to cut inside and drive a low shot goalwards only for the keeper to dive down to his right and make the save before Honley doubled their lead with a fine breakaway move down the left. Town old boy Conor sprinting wide and arcing a ball into the path of his striker who swept the ball past Sam and into the bottom corner. Town took a good half hour to get going but get going they did, and a switch of positions for Keegan and Finlay undeniably helped the cause. Lance lead by example at the back, keeping a cool head under fire and dominating the physical exchanges as Jacob helped organise a rejigged defence against a determined Honley strike force. Luke, as a consequence gained more influence in midfield, combining well with Kain and Cameron to create more forward momentum on the left, whilst Toby, linked well with Jacob to send Jaxon in behind the visitors defence on a number of occasions down the right. Kain had a snapshot saved, Cameron then provided a through ball which Kain angled across the six yard box for Jaxon to send crashing against the back post with the rebound hastily hacked clear of goal from a claret and blue boot. As Town pushed forward and pressed more effectively as a unit the deficit was soon halved. Luis finding Cameron on the edge of the box who presented Toby with an opportunity to set and shoot low and hard into the bottom left corner of the net. Honley were left backtracking, holding on to their lead for dear life as halftime approached, not helped by a ten minute spell with only ten players as the winger received a nasty whack in the face that needed treatment, with the visitors devoid of subs. On the stroke of half-time Luke stroked home the equaliser, battling through a midfield melaise prior to applying an accomplished finish, the whistle blowing seconds later with the teams all square. The second half saw Town take full control, Jaxon and Jacob creating openings down the right as Kain and Luis reciprocated down the left, Kain and Luis both having shots saved before our boys took the lead. Luke picked the ball up just inside the Honley half before rampaging into the box , past two defenders and hitting a low shot which the keeper palmed round the post. Toby swung in the corner, Luis rising above the defence to head us into a 3-2 lead. With Honley’s resistance fading, Town extended the winning margin, Kains persistence rewarded with another corner on the left as the keeper once again denied our left winger, conceding the set piece at his near post. Kain curled in the cross this time for Lance to power a header into the back of the net for 4-2. The final 20 minutes saw the introduction of Keon and Romario as Jaxon and Keegan made way and both played their part in looking to bolster Town’s goal difference. Keon had several efforts saved whilst Romario displayed silky skills on the left and through the middle before scoring the deciding goal. Firstly controlling a spinning high clearance from the keeper, then turning inside towards the penalty area and lifting the ball over the keeper and into the empty net for his first goal in Town colours. As the rain continued to lash down on the lush 3G surface the final whistle blew with Town celebrating another vital victory in their charge for the title. Parents MOM went to Lance after a dominant display at the back combining power and strength with cool composure on the ball particularly in a torrid first half whilst Luke took the Players award for another classy display against his former teammates. Holme Valley bragging rights secured at least until the return game next month ⚽️⚽️⚽️👊👊👊 |
||||||
06.02.22 | Rastrick Rangers | 1 | - | 9 | Match report | |
Rastrick Rangers League (away) Sam Luis Lance Keegan Jacob Luke Chaz Toby Kain Cameron Jaxon Romario Ethan Keon A storming second half performance and some clinical finishing ensured Town extended their lead at the top of table to eight points. On a day where only this fixture survived the driving wind and rain, Town had to dig deep in the first half, kicking uphill against the wind and against equally dogged opponents. The main feature of the half, Toby and Luke’s link up play as they consistently fought to win the ball back on a muddy surface, receive the ball from defence and distribute wide to the grassier parts of the pitch where Charlie and Kain could do damage down the wings. Kain almost opened the scoring on eight minutes ducking to power a header from Luis’ cross, only to be thwarted by the lightning reflexes of the Rangers keeper who dived low to his left deny the goal. Keegan struck from outside the box to bring another fine save from the alert shot stopper before Luis drove forward from the left back position prior to Cameron winning a corner off the defender. Toby crossed for Luis to rise above the defence and nod a header which the keeper again saved as Cameron followed in with a shot which was somehow blocked on the line and cleared. On fifteen minutes the keeper was finally beaten. Luke driving forward and angling a shot from distance, the keeper saving with Cameron first to the rebound forcing another spectacular save before Charlie bundled it over the line at the back post. Five minutes later Town doubled their lead Jacob finding Toby on the half turn in midfield he played a neat one two with Kain on the right, turned inside to set up Jaxon for a shot outside the box which he hit with venom, dipping over the keeper and into the back of the net. Rangers efforts on goal were limited by Keegan and Lance in the heart of defence, Sam mopping up any loose balls at the back whilst Jacob and Luis martialled the fullback areas to clear their lines when the long ball over the top looked to threaten. The whistle blew for half time with Town good value for their two goal lead. Town hit the ground running in the second half, backed by the wind and rain and two ball playing centre halves, Keegan and Lance leading the forward momentum as Luis and Jacob pushed further forward to support our wingers. Shots from Charlie, Cameron and Jaxon all brought out saves from Rangers No1 before Luis threaded a precision pass into the path of Cameron who applied a cool left foot finish. Jacob and Toby combined to set up a shooting opportunity for Luke on the edge of the box, Luke burying it into the bottom right corner to make it four. The devastating 10 minute spell was complete when Jacob lofted a free kick from deep inside his own half over the top of the defence and into the path of Charlie who hammered home the fifth. With the game all but secured Keegan, Cameron and Jaxon made way for Romario, Ethan and Keon to continue the onslaught. Toby’s trickery and vision lead to a round half dozen, Charlie benefitting from a needle threaded pass to cut inside and dispatch a powerful shot past the keeper to claim his second successive hatrick. Keon displayed great skills on the edge of the area, flicking up Luke’s forward pass and volleying inches wide prior to Lance almost getting onto the scoresheet as he met Lukes in swinging corner with a towering backpost header which the keeper saved on the line with the rebound hooked over the bar. Toby’s creativity fashioned number seven, receiving Luis’ ball forward and swinging in a back post cross which Charlie hooked in with a far post volley across goal. Then Luke provided a through ball behind the defence which Charlie again pounced upon, opening up his body to strike the ball early, right footed past the keeper for eight nil. Rastrick battled bravely making Holmfirth work for every opportunity and eventually were rewarded with a breakaway goal, Jacob speeding back behind Sam unlucky to see his heroic goal line clearance find a Rangers striker running in to smash first time into the net. Ethans determination at the back alongside Lance meant there would be no repeat goal and Romario showed his quality on the ball to fashion more opportunities for his teammates before six shooter Charlie completed his double hatrick with his finest effort of the day. Kains crossfield pass over the back four Another vital win for the boys in an intriguing title race where they have once again shown their resilience and versatility, rattling up big scores on the sumptuous 3G of Moorend last week but also the quagmire of Rastrick this. Charlie won the Parents and Players MOM this week after a master class in finishing which topped off another fantastic team display. Well done lads👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 |
||||||
30.01.22 | (U15) |
14 | - | 0 | Holmewood Town | Match report |
Holmewood Town League (home) Sam Luis Lance Keegan Jacob Luke Bradley Chaz Toby Kain Cameron Jaxon Romario Ethan Finlay Holmewood Town were the visitors to our U15s latest home pitch, as Towns nomads cruised to a resounding 14-0 win to keep them five points clear at the top of the league. laying their preverbial hats on the relative splendour of Moorend High Schools’ new 3G pitch, Town hit the ground running, scoring three early goals, doubling their tally and effectively putting the game to bed before half time. Luis opened the scoring, pushing forward from the left back position, he cut inside midway through the Holmewood half to curl a delightful shot into the top right corner via the keepers outstretched fingertips. Kain swung in a corner from the right which Bradley met at the back post to power home a header into the roof of the net before Cameron made it three. Jacob the instigator with a throw in on the right on the halfway line which he received back before playing Kain into space, Kain avoiding a desperate tackle to arrow a ball across the six yard box for Cameron to tap into the empty net. Toby’s tenacity lead to the fourth, skipping past two defenders and angling a cross for Bradley to smash home his second. Kain sent our overlapping right back Jacob to the byeline, his cross deflecting clear for a corner. Kain once again delivering a text book cross for Luis this time to rise above the defence and head home off the crossbar. Jacob rattled the angle of bar and post after a forward drive and rasping right foot rocket prior to Cameron’s sixth sense completing the first half scoring. Cam anticipating a sloppy backpass from the visitors to dispatch a quality left foot finish past the despairing dive of the keeper and neatly into the bottom right corner for a six nil halftime score line. On came Jaxon, Romario, Ethan and Keegan as Charlie, Lance, Finlay and Brad made way and the onslaught continued, Town’s six goal cushion acting as a catalyst for the boys to showcase their skills in a high tempo second half which mesmerised their opponents. Jaxon worked his magic down the right wing, quick feet and a pinpoint cross leading to Cameron’s hatrick strike into the back of the net. Ethan and Keegan piled on the agony for Holmewood, snuffing out any breakaway attacks and driving forward at every opportunity as the green and back stripes remained pinned into their own half. Luke, Romario and Jaxon all tested the keeper before Kain almost grabbed the goal he deserved, playing a quick one-two with Cameron, opening his body up inside the box and curling a shot past the keeper but against the post and clear of goal. Again Kain was unlucky to hammer a shot past the keeper from the left only to see a Holmewood defender somehow get his head to it and clear from the goaline. The pattern continued. Toby proving too hot to handle on a number of occasions as he harried and harassed his opponents into giving up the ball before creating a number of chances for our forward players. Cameron nodding home number eight from another perfectly weighted cross from Jaxon. Charlie replaced Kain on the left wing, quickly adding his name to the scoresheet flicking up Jacobs crossfield pass and volleying past the keeper from the edge of the box. Luke, who had worked tirelessly to create and conjure up everything but a goal, came off for Bradley to pursue a hatrick but not before seeing his own dipping shot cannon off the crossbar and onto the goal line prior to being hooked clear. But it was Charlie who gave the boys a perfect ten. Sam sending a ball over the top for Charlie to pursue, take a touch forward and fire home his second of the game. Jacobs great vision and Gerard esq 30 yard crossfield pass from the right again found Charlie galloping clear of the defence before our diminutive winger cushioned the ball with his right foot ala Denis Bergkamp, claiming a quick fire hatrick with a cool finish. Sam was called into a rare spell of action, speeding out of his goal to smother a breakaway run and shot from the left winger before Luis made it 12-0 and claim a team hatrick of hatricks. Toby floating in a corner from the right for Luis to leap above his marker and power home his second headed goal. Toby set up another Luis finish to make it an unlucky thirteen for Holmewood before Ethan completed the rout. Toby again laying the foundations for the goal with a short corner to Romario who sent a cross fizzing into the box, Ethan smashing the partial clearance into the roof of the net. With the final whistle sounding Players MOM went to super striker Cameron with four goals including a perfect hatrick (left foot, right foot, header) with Luis just pipping Toby to the parents award after a four goal haul of his own and a powerful display at left back. A first class performance from the boys who maintain top spot with five games remaining of the season, brilliant lads!👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 |
||||||
23.01.22 | Dalton Dynamos | 2 | - | 3 | Match report | |
Dalton Dynamos (Cup away) Sam Luis Lance Keegan Jacob Luke Bradley Chaz Toby Kain Cameron Jaxon Romario Ethan Keon. Town once again had to dig deep against second division opponents in the Cup. Kain grabbing the winner as the boys fought back from two goals down to seal victory. Bradley shone for the visitors in a frantic first half full of endeavour but lacking the all important finish as our opponents took advantage in front of goal to race into a two goal lead despite Town rattling the woodwork three times. Our boys, however, kept their composure Luke assisting Luis to halve the deficit midway through the first period before Bradley latched on to Toby’s pass for a timely equaliser before the break. Keeping up with Brad and Toby proved problematic for the Dynamos midfield on a dodgy pitch which acted as a great leveller, but it was Towns extra quality that won the day, Kain firing home the winner to send Town into the draw for the next round. Players MOM this week going to Toby with Bradley picking up the Parents award. Well done boys!👏👏👏🏆 |
||||||
16.01.22 | Matlock Town | 1 | - | 5 | Match report | |
Matlock Town away (Friendly) Team: Sam, Jaxon, Cameron Keegan, Lance, Luis, Finlay, Charlie, Toby, Kain, Jacob, Ethan, Bradley, Luke, Romario, Keon. With White Rose in cup action this week, the lads top of the table clash had to be postponed to the frustration of a fully fit and eager Town squad. Instead the boys traveled to Matlock Town for an equally challenging friendly against top amateur opponents on their luxurious new 4g surface. High on confidence after last week’s win at Westend, Town were buoyed by the signing of another hot young prospect Romario, plucked not from the beaches of the Copa Cabana (Town’s scouting network doesn’t extend that far…. yet) but from the pitches of Leeds Road Sports complex! where he recently joined the boys for training, making an immediate impression in the process. Town lined up in a familiar 4-2-3-1 with Cameron once again spearheading the attack, Romario slotting into the No10 position with Charlie on his left and Kain on his right. Luke captained the side from holding midfield alongside Toby with Luis and Jacob flanking our central defensive partnership of Lance and Finlay in a back four ahead of Sam in goal. The royal blues of Matlock seized the early initiative, showing clear composure to play out from the back and display progressive possession football into the Holmfirth half as Town slowly got to grips with the fast playing surface. A pinpoint pass from the opposition keeper lead to a break down the right wing, the blues No7 squaring the ball across the area to set up a shot which Sam expertly smothered down to his right. Our boys soon regrouped, creating much the better chances as Luke commanded control of the midfield, taking the fight to our opponents with aggressive counter pressing, driving runs into the opposition half and intricate balls through the defence to release Charlie and Kain down the wings, Romario and Cameron through the middle. Much of our play focused on the left, Luis, providing the foundations which allowed Luke to receive the ball deep and drive his team over halfway, Charlie profiting on occasion to speed clear of his marker and force two corners in quick succession, the first after a block tackle from the right back the second a shot palmed away from the near post by an alert keeper. Toby swung in our first corner just a fraction too high for Cameron at the back post and the second bang on the money as Luis rose to glance a header narrowly wide. Luke then almost grabbed the opener, releasing Charlie clear of the right back before Charlie checked back to send a ball across the six yard box towards our captain who had continued his run but, off balance, scuffed the shot wide. Sam was called into action to make a diving save to his right from a shot emanating from a Matlock counter attack before Luke gave us the lead in spectacular fashion. Toby finding Romario in a pocket of space provided our No10 with the opportunity to dazzle and turn showing quick feet to his opponent who caught him late on the edge of the centre circle conceding a free kick in the process. From distance Luke caught the keeper off guard, rifling in a left foot shot which rattled into the top right corner of the net via the crossbar. Toby,Cameron and Luke combined to send Charlie to the byeline again, his cross once again diverted for a corner whipped in by Toby and half cleared to Kain on the edge of the box who drilled his shot across the keeper and wide. Sam made another crucial save diving to his right to keep out a break and shot from the Matlock No 9 before Charlie doubled our lead, pouncing on a mis-hit clearance from the keeper to beat the blues centre half to the ball and hit an early shot into the back of the net before the keeper had time to recover. With halftime approaching and Town pressing hard from the front lead by Cameron, Matlock fought hard to get back into the game and Lance, Finlay, Luis and Jacob had to remain alert to keep the blues at bay, Lance and Finlay calmly holding off their opponents through the middle whilst Luis and Jacob ensured they weren’t outpaced by the Matlock wing attack. The halftime whistle blew with Town still two goals to the good as the second half saw the wholesale introduction of a strong Holmfirth Town bench. On came Jaxon, Bradley, Keegan, Keon and Ethan, and off went Lance, Toby, Kain, Finlay and Cameron as Town continued their assault in a much more open second period. Romario continued his impressive debut, pressing high and creating space for his teammates with some intelligent running to take away a marker which facilitated Luke’s sweeping runs towards the box as he combined with Charlie to set up an early shooting opportunity for Keon whose shot was blocked, Jaxon following up to hammer another effort which struck a defender and was scrambled clear for a corner. Luke swung in the cross, Luis rising above the defence to guide a header past the keeper to make it 3-0 to the boys. The game then swung from end to end, Jacob busy at right back to stem the tide of left sided blue attacks, Sam pulling off another couple of fine saves as Matlock upped the shot count well into double figures. In midfield Bradley grasped the nettle to rob his midfield opponents of possession and start us back on the attack through the middle. Jaxon proved a menace on the right, shooting just too high of the target on one occasion and sending teasing crosses for Keon to attack as our striker often proved too hot to handle but thwarted on occasion by the offside flag. Matlock then got themselves back into the game, a long ball through the middle splitting our defence and sending the number 8 clean through on goal where he beat the on rushing Sam with a cool finish. Luis, Charlie and Romario made way for the reintroduction of Toby, Kain and Cameron to provide fresh impetus in the final twenty minutes and it didn’t take long for our subs to make an impact. Toby fashioning an opening to shoot inches over the bar before Kain sent Keon clear of his marker to bear down on goal, round the keeper and send the ball beyond the despairing outstretched defender on the line with a composed right foot finish from a tight angle. Cameron continued to provide service to Kain on the left before Keon doubled his tally, receiving a through ball from Brad to outmuscle his opponent and smash home from the edge of the box to make the score 5-1. With the luxury of having so many top class options from the bench Town finished strong as Matlock wilted, Keon cruelly denied a hatrick by the offside flag after Kains exquisitely directed pass over the top was met by Keon’s deftly taken left foot volley over the keeper and into the net. The game ended 5-1 to herald another impressive victory at top opposition and showcase the mouthwatering capabilities of this ever strengthening squad. Players MOM went to Luke for a commanding performance in midfield, an assist and a top quality opening goal with Sam securing the parents award for assured handling in goal and some crucial saves during key stages of the game. Well done boys!👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 |
||||||
09.01.22 | Westend Lions | 2 | - | 4 | Match report | |
Westend Lions away (League) Team: Sam, Jaxon, Cameron Keegan, Lance, Luis, Finlay, Charlie, Toby, Kain, Jacob, Ethan, Bradley, Luke. A New Years visit to the Lions den isn’t for the faint hearted but our boys rose to the challenge, avenging their pre Christmas defeat by taking all three points at Westend. Positional changes saw Luis take on the left back role with Jacob switching to right back, Finlay slotting into holding midfield and Cameron starting for the first time this season as lone striker. Town began brightly, dominating possession early on and putting the home side under pressure. Jacob pushing high on the right to send in a couple of teasing crosses which Charlie and then Luis nodded inches over the crossbar. Ten minutes in and Luke sent Charlie speeding down the left, his square pass inside the box finding Toby who took the ball on the half turn before playing into the path of Kain whose goal bound effort took a slight deflection off a red shirted defender before clipping the top of the crossbar and flying over for a corner. Toby swung in the cross from the left for Cameron and Luis to attack with the ball dropping to Finlay who smashed it into the roof of the net to put us one up. Westend were quick to respond, the Lions awakening heralding new found pressure on Towns backline which eventually merited an equaliser. The all reds, marauding down the left, won a free kick on the edge of the box which beat our wall but not Sam who dived to parry it away, the Westend striker pouncing on the second ball to fire home the leveller. Westend seized the initiative, capitalising on some hesitancy at the back to take the lead. A break down the right saw two of our defenders beaten for pace before Luis recovered to block a right foot shot inside the box which fell nicely into path of the Lions No9 who powered his team into the lead. Both sides then traded possession and chances, Westend looking a threat down the middle with Finlay, Lance and Keegan all kept busy whilst our best attacks came from wide, Charlie and Kain benefitting from Luke’s creativity to swing in crosses which left the home sides central defence exposed but where we couldn’t beat an excellent keeper. Kain and Charlie both took defenders away with intelligent off the ball running which opened up opportunities for Luke and Luis to test the keeper from range as they both endeavoured to drive into space created through the middle and unleash dipping shots on goal which the keeper was equal to. Jacob continued to send probing balls into the box from deep to keep the goalie occupied but the half time whistle blew with the score line remaining Westend 2 Town 1. The second half saw a much improved performance from Town as they matched their opponents for physicality, battling for every second ball and dominating their opponents who seemed content to sit deep, defend their lead and hit us on the counter attack. Lance put in another mammoth performance at centre half as he wrestled to quell the Lions quick breaks through the middle whilst also providing an attacking threat at set pieces. Tenacious Toby pushed higher up the field to create openings for Cameron, Charlie and Kain and Jacob provided the extra threat wide on the right, playing little give and go’s with Kain and exploding into the box to drill crosses along the six yard box for Cameron to attack. Westend struggled to stem the tide and Town finally got their reward. Keegan found Luke with a pass from deep, Luke sent Charlie clear of his marker on the left with Charlie pulling the ball back from the byeline to Toby who rolled the ball across the six yard box and into the path of Kain who found the net at the back post. Having made the second half breakthrough Town were unrelenting. Jacob overlapping the left back once more to speed past him , into the area and power an unstoppable shot between the keeper and his near post. Three, two up Keegan made way for Bradley. Finlay slotting into central defence alongside Lance with Bradley holding in midfield and it wasn’t long before Brad was on the scoresheet. Charlie winning a corner off the right back saw Luke called into action to curl in the cross which was headed clear, Luke delicately lifting the rebound back into the six yard area for Brad to nip ahead of the defender and power a header past the keeper and put the lads 4-2 up. More substitutions followed as did more problems for Westend. Jaxon replacing Kain to cause more mayhem down the right alongside Jacob as Cameron made way for Ethan who ably assisted in forcing the two centre halves into mistakes as playing the ball out was replaced with heavty hopeful long balls from the back. Lance and Finlay remained solid at the back which allowed Luis and Jacob to continue pushing into midfield to force the home side deep and ensured Sam had a quiet second half in goal as the final whistle blew heralding a vital three points which move the boys six points clear of second place White Rose although having played three games more. Players MOM this week was split between Luke and Cameron with Finlay just edging out Jacob and Luis for the parents award. Well done lads. Next up? The big one, White Rose at home!⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️ |
||||||
19.12.21 | (U15) |
2 | - | 4 | Westend Lions | Match report |
🎄Westend Lions home (League)🎄 Team: Max, Jaxon, Cameron, Keegan, Lance, Luis, Finlay, Charlie, Toby, Kain, Jacob, Ethan, Bradley, Keon, Luke. 🎁Town secured the Christmas No1 spot despite suffering their first league defeat at the hands of a rampant Westend Lions.🎁 A misty backdrop and an overgrown pitch provided the teams with less than festive conditions and it was the Westend boys who produced the better football in a frantic first half. Luke had an early free kick tipped over the bar for a corner which was cleared. Toby won a free kick on the left which Keegan whipped in to the box for Kain to head narrowly wide and both Luis and Jacob got shots away which the keeper easily dealt with but despite those early chances Max proved to be the much busier shot stopper. ⛄️The Lions roared, hunting in packs to retrieve possession and pounce first to every ball with our boys struggling to keep pace. Finlay was the one shining light battling valiantly alongside Lance in the heart of defence to keep the visitors at bay.⛄️ Westend bossed the midfield, controlling possession and creating the better openings, spurning a golden opportunity to take the lead five minutes in. A long ball over the top taken in his stride by a Lions attacker, Bradley flying in to block a shot destined for the top corner of the net. 🧑🎄Minutes later a similar ball found the Westend No9 running clear in a one v one with Max but he screwed his shot wide with the goal at his mercy.🧑🎄 Max needed to be alert to stem the torrent of attacks, on one occasion scrambling low to his left to divert the ball around the post and then leaping high to gather the resulting corner safely into his chest as Westend pushed and eventually claimed the goal they richly deserved. A cross from the left half cleared by Lance fell to the feet of the Lions No 4 who rifled a first time shot into the roof of the net giving Max no chance. ❄️Keon came on as a second half substitute for Bradley, immediately taking up the striker position alongside Luis with Jacob switching to right back and the boys looked much sharper enjoying their best period of the match to take advantage of a sleeping Lions defence.❄️ Kain and Charlie gained more influence out wide as Toby and Luke drove through midfield providing some quality passes to our wingers who, in turn, afforded opportunities for Luis and Keon to test the keeper with an array of opportunities until we eventually fashioned an equaliser. Keegan found Luke on the move who developed a double one touch passing exchange with Charlie that sent our winger clear of the fullback and into the box, Charlie curling in a cross come shot to the back post which escaped everyone and found the net. 🥂Having created themselves a way back into the game Town kicked on and it was no surprise when our boys took the lead soon after. Luke crossing for Keon to lay off a shooting opportunity for Luis striding forward on the edge of the box who guided a powerful shot past the keeper for 2-1 Town.🥂 🎉This launched a Lions reawakening and our lead lasted all of five minutes. Westends left winger playing a give and go before looping a cross over Max’s head and into the net for a rapid response equaliser.🎉 Jaxon replaced Kain on the right and was immediately involved switching play to Luke who sent Charlie clear of the right back, Charlie setting up Toby for a strike on goal which the keeper smothered to his right. Keegan went close with a drive forward and long range effort which dipped over the bar but in all honesty it was the red shirts of Westend that regained the upper hand, once again taking the lead with a powerful header past Max from a right sided free kick cross. 🍻Luke and Charlie combined down the left to provide Keon with an opening to shoot which the keeper saved before Westend put the game to bed with a killer fourth goal. A corner from the left swung in to the back post for a striker to tap in unchallenged.🍻 The game ended with the boys disappointed in defeat but still at least top of the league and able to reflect on an overall impressive first half of the season. Players MOM went to Lance after a solid display at the back alongside central defensive partner Finlay who took the parents award. 🎁Fittingly, after the game, the boys celebrated the club Christmas party at Adrenaline showing immediately how they are able to bounce back from defeat!🎁 Merry Christmas all and here’s to a happier and healthier New Year ⚽️🎄🧑🎄🎁 |
||||||
12.12.21 | (U15) |
3 | - | 2 | Northowram | Match report |
Northowram home (League) Team: Sam, Max, Jaxon, Cameron Keegan, Lance, Luis, Finlay, Charlie, Toby, Kain, Jacob, Ethan, Bradley, Luke. Town maintained their 100% League record to stay three points clear of the chasing pack after a crucial 3-2 victory at home to bitter rivals Nothowram. A game which saw plenty of incident and no lack of quality often lead to some tetchy exchanges between two uncompromising teams desperate to secure the points, the referee expertly taking control to ensure football provided the main talking points. Despite the long grass and uneven surface the boys produced a performance worthy of summit status. Toby making his mark early in the game to set the high tempo in midfield with some quality pass and move manoeuvres into enemy territory aided by the equally impressive Luke as much of the first half was played down the middle, Finlay and Lance providing the foundations from central defence. Jacob fired the opening salvo, benefitting from Bradley’s good work on the right to receive and drive forward into the box and unleash a thunderbolt destined for the top corner only to be denied by an acrobatic visiting keeper who palmed the ball around the post for a corner. Luke swung in the cross which Luis met with a glancing header inches wide of the left upright. Northowram hit back on the break, forcing Max into a save which produced a corner for the yellows and a golden opportunity to take the lead. A free header from six yards missing the target and leaving the centre forward apoplectic, his head held firmly in his hands. Luke drove from deep, unleashing a wicked shot to send the keeper springing low to his right to pull off another spectacular save which lead to a corner on the left. Toby’s cross rebounding back to him via a Northowram head as he set up Luke for a second snap shot which spun inches wide. Town played the better football to feet but Northowram had the physical edge, often bordering on the illegal to keep the ref busy and it made for an intriguing contest. Charlie, Jacob and Cameron playing a one touch triangle produced another Toby corner. Luke collecting the near post clearance to thread a through ball for Luis to take on the half turn and angle a cross to Kain who had the ball nicked away from his toe by the visitors centre half as he bore down on goal. Northowram broke quickly to almost take the lead as their midfield substitute put through a defence splitting pass for the centre forward to lift over Max but thankfully clear of the bar before Luis broke the deadlock in Towns favour. Luke tracking Luis’ forward run to serve a weighted ball into his path with Luis finishing with a right foot strike low and hard into the bottom left corner of the net. A goal down and with frustration mounting, Northowram mouthed off to the referee once too often, the yellow shirted No6 sent to the sin bin for eight minutes solace and contemplation! But rather than dampen the spirits this seemed to galvanise the visitors as they fought hard for the equaliser which came on the half hour mark. Toby adjudged to have fouled his opponent down the right side of the penalty area presented the yellows a free kick opportunity which was driven across the six yard box, everyone leaving it as it flew across Max and into the back of the net. Town immediately hit back. Charlie playing a one-two with Toby before being dragged down for a free kick deep in the opponents half, Jacob stepping up to curl a shot agonisingly wide of the back post, but it was Northowram that were gaining the upper hand in a ten minute spell where they created three good chances down the middle without finding the net. Lance, Finlay, Cameron and Bradley all standing firm to deny the visitors a lead. The last five minutes of the half however saw Town wrestle back control. Kain winning a corner on the right which he swung into the box, Luis rising high above the defence to nod home and give Town a 2-1 half time lead. Second half and the visitors were first out of the traps, No14 pouncing on a loose ball in midfield to carry the ball into our half and shoot high of the target. Town regrouped. Luis driving forward and providing Jacob with a shooting opportunity that dipped the wrong side of the crossbar before Charlie extended the lead. Toby switching to Luis breaking down the left who released Charlie to speed past the right back and strike high into the top corner with a clinical left foot finish. With Town using the width of the pitch and switching the ball much quicker in the second half Northowram were stretched. Keegan replaced Bradley at right back and provided the service for Kain to attack more down the right whilst Cameron ensured Charlie caused the opposition a headache down the left with more forays forward which sent our speedy winger in behind the defence to whip in crosses for Luis and Jacob to attack in the box. Jacob’s mazy run was brought to an end by an over zealous challenge on the edge of the box. Luke stepping up to curl a terrific dipping shot over the wall with the acrobatic keeper palming his goal bound effort from underneath the crossbar and away for another corner. Toby arced the ball into the area to be headed clear but only as far as Luke who powered a first time effort from the edge of the box off a defender and onto the crossbar as it looked destined for the back of the net. Jaxon replaced Kain on the right as Town looked to keep possession and see the game out but Northowram weren’t finished. Lance chasing back to clear a piercing ball which almost put the striker through on goal and both Keegan and Cameron were called upon to make crucial tackles as the visitors looked to break wide. With ten minutes remaining Northowram reduced the deficit to a single goal, a quick through ball deflecting into the path of a yellow shirted striker who burst into the box before applying a cool right foot finish. That set up a grandstand finale. Town defending in numbers as the yellow and black tide sought to trickle through weaknesses in an unbreachable defensive wall. The last opportunity created with a touch of magic from the Northowram No18 who dragged a ball back from the byeline and inside the area between two of our defenders to set up a left foot shot from ten yards out which flashed wide of the far post. With the last chance gone begging the final whistle blew to signal an important victory against title rivals and keep Town top of the Division 1 pile. Players and parents MOM awards going to Luis for two vital goals in an accomplished team performance. Well done lads 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 |
||||||
05.12.21 | (U15) |
1 | - | 3 | Northowram | Match report |
Team: Sam, Ethan, Cameron, Luke, Jacob, Bradley, Jaxon, Chaz, Toby, Kain, Keon, Gabriel, Finlay, Keegan, Max. Northowram provided the opposition in this hastily arranged friendly after league opponents Holmewood pulled out of Sunday’s scheduled fixture due to lack of players. Town lined up against old foes at full strength, Northowram keen to exact revenge for their defeat at the hands of our boys on the first day of the league season. An experimental Town team matched up to their opponents with equal endeavour, Luke providing the catalyst for our boys as they fought back from 2-0 down to halve the deficit just before half time after Toby provided the assist for Charlie to control with his left and apply a clinical right foot finish to set up an intriguing second half. Luke pushed his team forward after the break alongside Toby who became our most influential player in the quest for an equaliser but it wasn’t to be our day as Northowram held firm, snatching a decisive third goal before the end to clinch a 3-1 victory. Players MOM went to Luke with the parents award split between Luke and Toby after both players lead the fightback without their just rewards. A constructive exercise for the boys and another highly competitive game under their belt as they head into a double assault on the Cup and League title. Up the Town! |
||||||
21.11.21 | (U15) |
4 | - | 1 | Kirkburton | Match report |
Kirkburton (League Cup) home Team: Sam, Ethan, Cameron, Luke, Jacob, Bradley, Jaxon, Chaz, Toby, Kain, Keon, Gabriel, Finlay, Keegan. Town booked their place in the next round of the cup but not without a scare against a plucky Kirkburton team who belied their second division status to provide our boys with their toughest game of the season so far. Fielding three former Town players, Kirkburton lined up with new kit and sponsor and real fire in their hearts to play their part in an enthralling cup tie both high in quality and incident. Clear cut chances were few and far between in a first half played out in midfield, both teams bringing the ball down and playing to feet to great effect on a bumpy uneven surface. Toby once again shone alongside Luke down the centre ably assisted by Keegan and Finlay who were excellent at snuffing out danger and playing the passes forward to create attacking opportunities. Kirkburton were equal to us as they negotiated the slope with quality passing, working the ball out wide at every opportunity and keeping possession with real assurance but it was Town who eventually broke the deadlock. Charlie breaking away down the left before sending a crossfield ball which split the defence and put Jacob clear on the edge of the box to nudge it past the advancing keeper and into the empty net. Town squeezed up after the restart, looking to press their opponents further into their own half, Bradley finding Kain via Luke on a number of occasions as Kain used his skills to nutmeg the fullback and drive in crosses for Jaxon and Jacob. Luke and Toby almost benefitting from any loose balls to get shots away without finding the target. Cameron and Charlie gained more influence on the left as the half progressed, Charlie cutting inside and hammering a shot which the keeper parried into the path of Jaxon who poked the rebound goalwards only for the keeper to quickly recover and smother his shot on goal. Cameron combined with Luke to send Charlie in behind the right back before the resulting cross was met by Kain who drove a shot low and hard which the keeper pouched diving to his right. Toby Luke and Charlie had shots saved, Luke curled in a free kick to the back post which Kain headed into the side netting and Town continued to apply pressure but couldn’t make the crucial breakthrough, poor decision making often the cause as our boys looked to pass when a shot was on or looked to shoot when the pass may have been a better option. Kirkburton could have nicked an equaliser just before half time, former Town striker Ruben breaking through our defence to be denied by Sam who palmed the ball clear as the number 10 looked to round his man and finish. One nil at half time and both teams made personnel changes. Keon replacing Jaxon and Ethan deputising for Keegan as the lads looked to extend their lead, but it was the visitors who looked the most lively, carving out a number of opportunities without an end product. Toby, Charlie, Kain, Luke, Jacob and Keon all had shots comfortably saved or high and wide of the target as the lads struggled to put the game to bed, Kirkburton refusing to accept defeat driven on by their menacing No7 who accepted the free role afforded him to generate chaos around the Town midfield and defence whilst our old boys Ruben, Fin and Roddy played a key part in tormenting their former teammates. Finlay was outstanding at the back, organising the Holmfirth defence and ensuring runners were picked up as he put in some crucial tackles himself to keep the visitors at bay, but eventually the blues got their reward. The No7 winning the ball back on the left of the penalty box before cutting inside and smashing home a deserved equaliser. With the clock running down, both teams had chances to win it. Jacob sending in a back post cross which just eluded Charlies outstretched boot, Keon breaking clear before launching a rocket of a left foot shot which crashed against the inside of the post and across the goaline and out for a goal kick whilst our former Fin ran in to shoot high of the target for Kirkburton with the goal at his mercy. The final whistle blew with the teams locked at 1-1, both sets of supporters looking forward to 10 minutes each way extra time and the looming threat of a penalty shootout. In the end a penalty duel wasn’t required as Town launched a 10 minute extra time blitz to win them the game. From the kickoff, Jacob recycled the ball quickly from a throw to send Kain galloping into the box, his cross cleared to Luke who drove forward and tested the keeper with a stinging low shot. Toby followed with an audacious chip from the edge of the box which almost caught the keeper off guard instead he managed to scramble back on his line to claim the ball high above his head and just under the crossbar. Seconds later the Burton defence was finally breached. Jaxon sending Charlie past his marker, Charlie angled his cross into the path of Kain via Toby’s head, Kain finding the net with a cool finish. More pressure from the kickoff saw Luke’s shot rattle the woodwork, Cameron first to the rebound to smash home a killer third goal. Town managed the second half of extra time without major incident, Keon using his strength to win the ball inside the penalty area and send a cross for Charlie to half volley into the roof of the net from point blank range killing the game off with a 4-1 score line which flattered the hosts in a terrific contest. Finlay scooped a player’s and parents MOM double, combining leadership on the pitch with controlled aggression in winning back the ball and composure going forward as he drove the team higher up the pitch. Well done lads, we’re up for the Cup! 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆⚽️ |
||||||
14.11.21 | Wilsden | 1 | - | 6 | Match report | |
Wilsden (Friendly) away Team: Sam, Max, Ethan, Cameron, Lance, Luke, Jacob, Bradley, Jaxon, Chaz, Toby, Kain, Keon, Gabriel. An impeccably held two minutes silence preceded this Remembrance Sunday friendly game. Town crossing the Huddersfield/Bradford divide to record an impressive 6-1 victory over hosts Wilsden. The boys lined up in an unfamiliar 4-4-2 formation which saw the return of Lance to central defence alongside Ethan whilst Max flourished in his new found role as striker alongside the impressive Jacob. and it was Jacobs first half masterclass in first class finishing which sent the boys on their way to a comfortable 4-0 half time lead. Toby orchestrated midfield alongside Luke and fashioned the first clearcut chance of the game, taking Sams clearance on the half turn before sending a sumptuous ball wide right and into the path of Kain who whipped the ball across the penalty area to be met by Jaxon sprinting in from the left who shot narrowly wide. Minutes later the home side almost took the lead but fell behind in the same passage of play. The lively Wilsden No8 driving forward from the left and unleashing a venomous shot from outside the box which rattled the crossbar before Town scrambled the ball clear to Luke who sent another thread needle ball between the home defence which Jacob latched onto and buried with a clinical left foot finish into the bottom corner of the net. Seconds after the restart Town doubled their lead. Sam clearing the ball high over midfield for Jaxon to take with a great first touch before steering his pass across the box for Jacob to smash home number two. Battles along side both flanks ensued as Wilsden sought to use width in reply to our boys dominance of midfield. Cameron tussling to great effect with the Wilsden No9 to deny any space from the right whilst Bradley gained the upper hand over the No 8 who provided the main threat from our Craven League opponents. Thirty minutes in and it was three nil. Jaxon cutting inside from the left on halfway to find Luke central and in space, Luke swept the ball across the edge of the box, behind the back line of the blues defence as Jacob ran through and smashed home his hatrick goal. Sam joined the attacking threat, clearing a pass down the right for Kain who cut inside before curling a powerful shot away from the keeper and into the top left corner to make the half time score a convincing 4-0. Changes at halftime saw the introduction of Charlie for Jaxon and Keon for Max and although the blues of Wilsden applied more of the early pressure, pulling a goal back from a counter attack after Keons shot was blocked and cleared it was our boys who soon reestablished control. Toby brought down Ethans lofted free kick with a deft first touch before sending Keon through into the penalty area but his left foot shot cleared the upright. Ethan also went close with a speculative effort from outside the box before Toby grabbed goal No5. Jacob looping in a cross from the right which Toby watched onto his right foot, volleying past the keeper and into the net. Max and Jax returned to action replacing Kain and Brad as the team was again rejigged to allow Max upfront and Jaxon wide right, Jacob switching to the right back position to shore up the defence and the boys looked more fluent again, Max and Keon cutting through the defence with intelligent running and Charlie and Jaxon creating overloads from the wings. Charlie sped past his marker down the left before cutting in and shooting straight at the keeper before repeating the process, receiving another Steve Gerrard esq 30 yard pass from Luke skipping to the byeline and pulling the ball back for Toby to set Keon for a fizzing shot which the keeper palmed clear for a corner. Toby’s cross was scrambled clear to the edge of the box, Ethan running in to aim a chip over the keeper which fell just short of its target and into the outstretched goalies arms. Toby played a neat one two with Jacob to almost claim goal of the day, Wildens shot stopper at full stretch to palm Toby’s volley away from goal before Charlie notched Towns sixth and final goal, controlling a high ball on the edge of the box before hitting a half volley over the keeper and into the net. Six one up the boys had time to summon one last effort on goal, Luke sending a ball over the right back for Charlie to take with the finest of touches and send Max through on goal, his shot bringing out the kind of save he would have been proud to make himself. The final whistle blew on a top quality technical performance from the lads. Luke claiming the Players MOM after another cultured display with the parents deciding on a team award for MOM as everyone played their part in a fine away victory. It’s up for the Cup next week as Town host local rivals Kirkburton. Bring it on!⚽️🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆⚽️ |
||||||
07.11.21 | Ecclesfield | 0 | - | 1 | Match report | |
Ecclesfield Red Rose (Friendly) away Team: Max, Ethan, Cameron, Luis, Keegan, Jacob, Bradley, Jaxon, Chaz, Toby, Kain, Finlay, Keon, Gabriel. With the dying embers of bonfire night melting into the Ecclesfield landscape it was up to our boys to reignite the football fireworks and provide a dazzling display for the hardy supporters. Unfortunately the match failed to generate many oohs and aaaghs, with the blue touch paper remaining largely unlit in a scrappy affair that fizzled out with a hard fought one nil win for Town. Cameron sparking the victory with a bullet header at the back post from Kains expertly driven corner. Sheffield league division one outfit Ecclesfield provided strong opposition from over the border as both defences rose to the fore to keep chances at a premium. Bradley at right back putting in a solid performance on his Holmfirth Town debut to contribute to our third clean sheet of the season alongside Ethan, Cameron, Keegan plus Max in goal. Toby toiled tirelessly in midfield alongside Luis to provide the creative spark which saw Kain galloping clear of his marker on a number of occasions in the first half as most of our best attacking moves came down the right. Keon acted as an attacking midfield fulcrum balancing distribution from right to left as Charlie sought joy down the opposite flank, Jacob looking the most likely to score as he turned lost causes into chances, twice chasing down defenders to rob them of the ball inside the touch line and test the keeper with shots on goal. Cameron then broke the deadlock. Kain latching on to Toby’s pass down the right to force a corner which he angled across the six yard box where Cameron rose at the back post to nod in the winning goal. Cameron on form then turned provider, receiving Keegans pass deep inside his own half before playing inside a ball for Keon to turn and flick into the path of Jacob, our captain crashing a shot off the inside of the post when it had goal written all over it. Town finished the stronger of the two sides shored up by the return of Finlay to the defence in place of Ethan as the whistle sounded for half time. More changes were made for the second half with Jaxon coming on to lead the line, Bradley slotting into midfield and Jacob taking up position in defence as Keon and Cameron made way and the pattern of the first half continued both sides trading half chances but lacking an end product. A promising move emanating from Fins energetic run down the left found Charlie in space, he cut inside and switched the ball for Kain to knock past his marker and send a testing cross which the keeper plucked out of the air as Charlie looked to meet it at the back post. Bradley almost scrambled the ball home as the keeper fumbled another Kain cross but recovered in time to smother the rebound and Charlie was unlucky to see his low left foot shot beat the keeper but come back off the post and into the grateful goalies chest following Jaxon’s great work to set up the shooting opportunity. Ethan returned to action for Bradley as the team was rejigged again, Toby going close minutes later with a delicate chip over the keeper which dropped just the wrong side of the post, Cameron almost grabbing a second soon after, driving into the box down the left, cutting inside and shooting with the keeper equal to it. The final chance fell to Ecclesfield, the centre forward breaking clear of our defence and hammering a shot destined for the top corner were it not for the acrobatics of Max who palmed the ball into the air before gathering safely. The whistle blew on another industrious away win and a pleasing clean sheet for the boys. Max receiving the Players MOM in recognition of his contribution to the shut out whilst Toby scooped the Parents award for sheer persistence, hard work and quality on the ball. Well done boys👏👏👏👏👏👏⚽️ |
||||||
24.10.21 | Queensbury Celtic | 2 | - | 4 | Match report | |
Queensbury Celtic (League) away Team: Sam, Ethan, Cameron, Luis, Luke, Chaz, Toby, Kain, Finlay, Keon, Gabriel. Having dispatched of Rangers last weekend (Rastrick), Town travelled to Celtic looking for a Calder Valley old firm double on a cold and windy Queensbury Sunday morning. Missing Keegan, Jacob and the jet pack burners of Jaxon, our boys lined up with a hardy eleven devoid of outfield subs but up for the epic challenge ahead. Chances were few and far between in a dogged first half where both defences took the plaudits. Our main attacking threat coming from Kain down the right in the first 20 minutes, Luke and Toby providing the creativity to send our right winger clear of defence, ably backed up by Keon on the inside and Gabriel up front. Fin lead the backline with a commanding performance in central defence alongside Ethan as both battled hard against the Queensbury front two and the elements, the wind also providing a formidable opponent for our trusty centre halves as the ball swirled around in the air. Both teams showed quality with the ball to feet and Queensbury fashioned the first clear cut opportunity which lead to the opening goal. A neat through ball piercing our defence for the home striker to receive and pass through the advancing Sam and into the net. Town regrouped, Luke dictating the pace from midfield bringing Charlie into the game down the left supported by Cameron who pushed our defence forward. Toby taking control of the right and moving the ball between Luis and Kain to provide forward momentum on the opposite flank. With half an hour gone Town turned the game around with a two minute smash and grab. The equaliser punctuated a fine team move. Cameron laying the foundations from the back to advance and feed Gabriel, he held off a defender finding Keon in the process who continued a chain of first time passes involving Fin, Toby and Luis before Kain was sent galloping clear of the defence, our winger delivering a perfectly directed cross to pick out Charlie’s run at the back of the six yard box Charlie needing a touch to set up a shot on his right foot and a ball in the back of the net. Straight from the kickoff, lightning Charlie struck a second time, receiving Keon’s through ball to cut inside and hammer home to give us the lead. Shell shocked Celtic hit back, Sam called into action to pull off a spectacular triple save, first tipping a breakaway shot onto the bar then punching clear the rebound cross which fell to a Celtic striker to hit a third time effort forcing our keeper to spring low to his right and gather the ball to his chest. Town then survived another scare when the Queensbury striker broke clear and beat Sam with a low shot into the bottom right corner of the net only to see his effort ruled out for a marginal offside. Despite the pressure Town finished the half strong, Keon’s mazy run and pass to Gabriel setting up a shot which was saved before Luke and Charlie combined to send Kain through on goal only to be bundled to the ground by a Queensbury defender on the edge of the box, the referee waving play on much to the surprise of all concerned as the whistle blew for half time with our boys leading 2-1. The second half saw Town build on their lead. Toby and Luke gaining more prominence to dictate play from midfield and exploit the spaces for Charlie and Kain to run into and expose the Queensbury 3-5-2 formation. Cameron supplied Luke who fed Charlie down the left, his cross deflected for a corner which Toby zipped across the six yard box with venom, nobody attacking the ball to apply the finish it richly deserved. With Charlie leading the right sided centre half a merry dance and Kain doing the same on the opposite side, Queensbury were forced to retreat, both wing backs finishing as fullbacks as they attempted to stem the flow of attacks driven by Luke and Toby in the middle of the park. Max came on for Gabriel, again swapping keeping for striking and for a second game this season he came up with a goal, latching onto Toby’s through ball and applying a clinical finish. Luke cut inside on his trusty left foot to power a shot which the keeper half saved, smothering the rebound as Max pounced looking to double his tally. As Charlie was increasingly shackled by two defenders, Toby and Luke looked for space elsewhere, expertly switching play to put Kain away on the right, Kain again bundled over on the edge of the box to win a free kick which Luke curled around the wall but too high to trouble the keeper. Luke then got the reward his industry deserved. Driving forward from deep, drawing the defender towards him before playing the pass for Charlie to overlap clear of the defence and turn the ball back inside for Luke to take a touch and smash home our fourth goal. Kain used his pace and skill to set up a shot which the Celtic keeper deflected onto the crossbar and Toby also went close before Queensbury struck a second consolation goal. The Celtic striker hitting the top left corner with a free kick from the edge of the box, Fin picking up a yellow card for an adjudged late challenge. The final whistle blew on another fine away win, Town maintaining their 100% start to the season to go six points clear at the top as they prepare for next week’s table topping clash with Westend. Luke bagged both Parents and Players MOM awards showing composure on the ball, creative influence in a captain’s performance to lead his team to a vital victory, Well done lads👏👏👏👏👏⚽️ |
||||||
17.10.21 | (U15) |
2 | - | 1 | Rastrick Rangers | Match report |
Rastrick Rangers (League) home Team: Sam, Jaxon, Keegan, Ethan, Cameron, Luis, Luke, Chaz, Toby, Kain, Jacob, Finlay, Keon, Gabriel. Having entered the Lion’s den last week at Holmewood, Town returned to their more familiar pastoral home surroundings of Farnley Tyas to face a plucky Rastrick Rangers side, our lads battling hard to earn the 2-1 win. Riding high in the league with a 100% record and second behind White Rose only on goal difference Town lined up full of confidence against a Rangers team without a point so far and reeling from the loss of their two regular centre halves. A routine three points? Far from it as Rastrick fought for their lives pressing all over the pitch to deny Holmfirth space and coming up with a chance or two themselves on the break which almost got them the point many could argue they deserved. Kicking down hill in the first half Town struggled to find their rhythm, long and short passes going astray and clearcut chances kept to a minimum by a solid Rastrick back four and a compact midfield. Keon worked hard up front, probing for an opening and he struck twice from outside the box to bring a save out of the keeper whilst the other flashed the wrong side of the post. Toby and Charlie both had long range efforts easily saved and Keegan went closest with a drive from deep inside his own half and shot which the away stopper plucked from under the crossbar and although our boys had the bulk of possession they lacked penetration in the final third. Rastrick looking dangerous on the break when the opportunity arose. Sam had to be quick out of his goal to sweep up the balls over the top a couple of times with Ethan and Keegan shepherding the centre forward who looked for space in between. Kain and Charlie worked the wide areas with Cameron and Jacob pushing from the fullback positions but the boys were far less effective than in recent games, in main thanks to two Rastrick fullbacks who were quick to shut out their opponents, and a couple of makeshift centre halves who showed great composure to sweep up our attacks. Eventually though persistence paid, Charlie breaking through the defence only to be scythed down by the centre half for a clear penalty. Luke stepped up to strike the spot kick to the right, the keeper anticipating well to parry the ball out allowing Rastrick to clear. Finlay came on for Ethan in defence, Luis switching to centre back as Fin helped bolster the midfield adding a physical presence which gave Luke and Toby the freedom to create more forward momentum and allow both our wingers to get into the minimum space afforded by the Rastrick fullbacks by drawing them inside. With minutes remaining in the half Luis almost made the breakthrough, Cameron exchanged passes with Charlie before thrusting forward into the box and winning a corner on the left. Toby swung in the cross, Luis rising above the defence to power a header goalbound which the defender headed off the line. Keon hit a shot inches over, Kain got in behind the defence more to create several half chances which lacked the finish and Charlie’s snapshot from the edge of the box was saved as Town ended the half strong. The whistle signalling half time as both teams walked off goalless. Jaxon replaced Keon up front for the restart as Town kicked uphill seeking the elusive goal and what an impact he made! five minutes in, chasing down Toby’s through pass, wrestling free of an opponent before sending a dipping shot from outside the area over the keeper and into the net to register one of the goals of the season. That was the catalyst for a stronger second half performance, Toby seizing control of midfield to dictate the tempo, switch play and create more space down the wings for Jacob and Kain to exploit down the right Charlie and Cameron reciprocating down the left. Minutes later Town doubled their lead, Toby finding Kain in space behind the left back, Kain angling in the cross for Charlie to rise and nod in off the back post. Cameron drove forward to latch onto Fins pass, shooting into the keepers chest. Seconds later receiving another Fin lay off before arrowing a pass down the line for Charlie to sprint past the right back and drive across the six yard box, Jaxons shot blocked and cleared, then Jaxon burst clear of his marker to get on the end of Kains cross and glance a header inches wide of the far post. With Town now in control more changes were made, Gabriel coming on to make his league debut with Ethan returning to action in defence, Cameron and Keegan making way. Luke switched to left back as Toby dropped into holding midfield. Gabriel taking up the vacant No10 position. The boys took time to adjust and the Rastrick centre forward took full advantage, jumping onto some indecision in defence to nip ahead of our high back line and get a toe to the ball as Sam came to gather, reacting to the loose ball to tap in a simple goal. Rastrick took heart and gave the Town defence a few scares, switching play themselves to better effect and sending a few invitations to run in behind our rearguard with telegraphed balls over the top which lead to chances that kept Sam alert in goal. Cameron returned to the action for the final ten minutes to shore up the defence and allow Luke to partner Toby in midfield and the pair were effective in retaining possession for our team seeing out the remaining minutes and securing the three points. Both goal scorers took the MOM awards for decisive moments in a tight game. Charlie winning parents award for what proved to be a winning header. Jaxon winning the players award for his spectacular strike which set us on our way with what may prove to be goal of the season.👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 |
||||||
10.10.21 | Holmewood Utd | 1 | - | 8 | Match report | |
Holmewood Utd (League) away Team: Sam, Jaxon, Keegan, Ethan, Cameron, Luis, Luke, Chaz, Toby, Kain, Jacob, Max, Keon. A gladiatorial performance at Holmewood saw Town march to victory, slaying their opponents 8-1 in an often bitter and niggling affair which saw four players booked. Keon lead the line for Holmfirth quickly establishing his dominance over the centre halves to hold off an opponent and power a shot from outside the box which the keeper could only palm into the path of Charlie who applied the finish. Our diminutive left winger then doubled his and Town’s tally after terrific work from Jacob to chase back and win the ball deep inside his own half before releasing a pass to Luis who found Toby venturing down the right, Toby angling a cross for Charlie to tap in the second. Toby, Luke, Luis and Charlie tussled with Utd midfielders constantly in a first half show of strength, enduring shirt pulling, elbows and devious late challenges often out of view of the referee, to give their opponents the run around with quality football. Keegan squared up to the terrier like No8 with the goalkeeper rushing a good forty yards to involve himself in the handbags at ten paces which followed only to earn himself the first booking of the day for his troubles, the game turning scrappy as the ball bounced off the uneven surface and with far too many late challenges disrupting play. Both sides guilty of getting involved in meaningless face offs. If this was a ploy by the home side to break up the flow of our boys football, it worked for a while, the referee halting play to allow both teams a cooling off period. Keon who worked hard to chase down the defence kept cool and put in a top first half performance, getting shots away but also setting up chances for Toby, Charlie and Kain to get in behind the defence, Toby finishing off one move only to be called back for offside. Cameron was involved in a personal battle with the right winger which almost erupted and Ethan was drawn into another squaring up with the home No7, Jacob, as captain, often intervening to calm his teammates and ensure we finished with eleven players on the pitch. The Holmewood No8 then pulled a quality goal back. A cross-field free kick sent diagonally over our defence from the left side of the centre circle finding the perfectly timed run of the Utd midfielder who smashed the ball past Max for 2-1. Town responded well. Keegan causing chaos with one of three free kicks swung into the box, the keeper flapping at it as it fell to Luis who shot wide. Kain went on a mazy run which ended with a clipped ankle on the edge of the box. Luke stepping up to curl a left footer round the wall and into the net. Cameron was soon called into action as Holmewood sought to hit back literally and metaphorically, our right back chasing down the winger but adjudged to have fouled his opponent near the byeline. In came the cross/shot which rattled the bar, the rebound lofted back into the mix only for Max to punch away the cross and Luis to clear. Minutes later Luke sent Kain clear who forced the ball past the keeper to put us 4-1 up. Charlie added a fifth, keeping a calm head to get on the end of Toby’s cross and claim a first half hatrick, the move once again emanating from Luis and Lukes creative work in midfield. Five one up at half time and the game effectively over as a contest Sam came on for Max in goal, looking for a second half clean sheet and Town set off eager to extend their lead. Luis rattling the crossbar early on from a Toby corner Toby gathering the loose ball and curling a stunning shot which again dipped onto the bar when the back of the net would have been a more fitting reward. Charlie intercepted a goal kick before teeing up Keon for a shot which spun wide and as Charlie terrorised the right back with quick feet and dangerous crossing, Kain began to gain more influence to do the same down the right with the unlucky left back feeling the brunt of his work. Shots from Keon, Luke and Toby stung the gloves of the keeper before Kains right wing cross found Charlie at the back post to tap in No6. Jaxon replaced Keon from the bench, Cameron adding his name to the scoresheet soon after with a glancing header from Toby’s in swinging corner. With the home team tired and frustrated, the needling No8 finally got himself booked for another pointless altercation this time with Keegan, with his day ended minutes later from Jacobs crunching challenge which also earned our captain a booking. The inevitable revenge mission played out when the Holmewood Captain then cynically scythed down Jacob on the edge of the box to collect his own yellow card. But it was cool heads and creative football that won the day in the end. Jaxon unlucky not to notch a goal when his effort was ruled offside from Kains cross and again denied this time by a top save by the keeper after Charlie’s cross. Max came on as an outfielder for Keegan, immediately immersing himself in the action, getting shots away that were high, wide then saved just to get his sights set for the goal that soon followed. Toby tracking the run of Ethan who exploded into the box and powered in a shot which the keeper palmed into the path of Max to punctuate the score line with an eighth goal. The final whistle blew on an 8-1 win that keeps Town top of table after three games. Charlie winning both players and parents MOM after another devastating display of quick feet and great finishing. Well done lads👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏⚽️ |
||||||
03.10.21 | (U15) |
2 | - | 1 | Queensbury Celtic | Match report |
Team: Sam, Jaxon, Ethan, Luke, Finley, Charlie, Cameron, Toby, Kain, Jacob, Max, Keon, Luis, Keegan. A little complacency perhaps after last Sunday’s epic victory at title contenders Northowram or maybe some tired legs after a full program of School football this week, either way Town had to scrap for the full 80 minutes to come from a goal behind and edge ahead of Queensbury 2-1 at Farnley Tyas. The visitors were quickest out of the blocks seizing the initiative and taking an early lead as Town struggled to find their form. All credit to the lads though as they fought hard to wrestle back control from the green and blacks fashioning a deserved equaliser before half time. Kain driving down the wing before sending a dipping right foot shot over the keeper and into the net. Kicking downhill in the second half Town continued to apply forward momentum on a tiring Queensbury rear guard. Charlie grabbing the headlines with a mazy run inside from the right to power home a left foot winning goal from just inside the box which secured him both Parents and Players MOM awards in addition to the three points. Not a vintage performance but great resilience and bouncebackability shown by the boys to claim victory.👏👏👏👏👏👏🙌 |
||||||
26.09.21 | Northowram | 2 | - | 4 | Match report | |
Team: Sam, Jaxon, Ethan, Luke, Finlay, Charlie, Cameron, Toby, Kain, Jacob, Max, Keon. There is something about a sunny Sunday morning at Northowram that brings the best out of our boys and this weekend was no exception as Town prevailed 4-2 at one of the League’s toughest venues. Fully briefed on what was required and with Luis, Keegan and Lance all missing, Town had to dig deep against a strong physical opponent. Jaxon , Ethan and Sam stepping into battle to play a vital role in a memorable victory. Northowram hit the ground running asserting their physical advantage in the one v ones, but also moving the ball quickly. Sam the savior with a couple of fine early saves to keep us in the game. Town however looked sharp on the break, Jaxon receiving the ball twice on halfway before sending Kain galloping down the right flank only to be thwarted by a couple of solid Northowram tackles. Ethan made a vital interception as a yellow shirted striker threatened to break through one on one with Sam before our keeper palmed a header round the post and pounced seconds later to smother a shot and rebound from the resulting corner. Then the breakthrough. Jaxon again releasing Kain who nodded the ball past his marker, sending a teasing ball from the byeline across the six yard box towards Keon who tussled with an opponent before the ball fell invitingly for Charlie to smash home the opener. Jaxon again was creator of the second, receiving Keon’s pass on the half turn before directing the ball down the centre of the area and into the path of Kain who applied a clinical right foot finish. Jaxon was instrumental in our first half attacking play receiving and distributing the ball left and right with growing confidence and an immeasurable quality as our back four absorbed a constant supply of forward affrays from the home attackers. Ethan, Fin , Cameron and Jacob matching the yellows for Braun and showing superior technique in playing the ball out of danger and bring our midfield creators into play. Nothowram remained a constant threat particularly on set pieces. Sam rising to save two headers from corners, then diving low to his right to gather a fizzing shot as the No 9 cut inside and pulled the trigger and again scurrying off his line to deny the striker as he directed a volley goalwards from a ball over the top. Town weren’t without chances themselves as Keon worked the home back line and Luke and Toby moved the ball on the floor to provide shooting chances for Kain and Charlie who both narrowly missed either upright. Jaxon was unlucky not to notch a couple of ‘worldies’ in his role as No 10. The first a spectacular volley from Fins free kick which flashed across goal to be palmed wide by the alert keeper and the second a curling shot which rattled the woodwork after fantasy footwork from Keon allowed Cameron to set up the shot. With ten minutes of the half remaining Sam pulled off save of the season so far, the big Norhowram striker rising above our defence Pele 1970s style to power a header down and destined for the net before super Sam did his Gordon Banks virtuoso to tip the bouncing ball over the bar as the home side held their heads in collective disbelief. Wave of attacks followed with Sam master of his goal demonstrating secure handling as yellow strikers lay in wait for a rebound opportunity which never came. Then as half-time approached the home team pulled a goal back. A spectacular strike from outside the box giving the unsighted Sam no chance as it flew into the top right corner of the net. Town regrouped at the break knowing that only a monumental performance in the second half would secure the points and the boys didn’t disappoint. Toby produced the first real threat of the second half whipping in a corner, won by Luke, which Finlay headed just clear of the crossbar. Max came on for Keon to give our hard working striker a well earned rest and it was Holmfirth who seized the initiative to put their opponents under pressure, Charlie turning on a sixpence at the edge of the box to test the keeper from Cameron’s throw in down the left before Kain got a crucial third goal. Jacob giving a shout to Kain and sending a free kick from deep over the home rearguard, Kain reacting with a lightning fast run into the box before nodding the bouncing ball past the advancing keeper. 3-1 up and in the ascendancy Town almost grabbed a fourth, Charlie hacked down at the corner of the penalty box from an increasingly frustrated right back presented Luke with a free kick opportunity, he struck a dipping shot which the keeper did well to get across his goal and tip over. From the corner Jaxon brought another cat like save from Northowrams No1 as he turned and shot low and hard to the keepers left before our No10 got his just rewards. Max brought a high ball down to feet playing a pass to Toby who turned and found Luke receiving, shielding and delaying his pass long enough for Charlie to run in behind the right back before telegraphing a perfectly weighted ball into Charlie’s path, our left wingers first time driven cross met by the speedy Jaxon who diverted past the keeper for 4-1. Town endured a long final twenty minutes, Ethan making many timely challenges as Fin directed our back line and won all the headers that came his way. Cameron and Jacob were equally stoic at left and right back respectively, not only winning the ball back but putting us back on the attack as Norhowram were made to work hard for scraps. The home side did double their tally but only halve the deficit, slotting home a penalty after Jacob was adjudged to have fouled his opponent but Town stood firm Ethan almost grabbing a fifth with a blistering shot which shaved the crossbar. In a team full of Man of the matches Sam got the majority nod for both Players and Parents award for his heroic display in goal. An epic performance full of courage and commitment. Nothing short of brilliant lads!👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏⚽️ |
||||||
12.09.21 | Kirkburton | 0 | - | 12 | Match report | |
Team: Sam, Jaxon, Keegan, Ethan, Luis, Luke, Finlay, Chaz, Toby, Kain, Jacob, Max, Gabriel, Keon. Town travelled to Kirkburton with three of their regular back four missing and top heavy with attackers. Forget Ronaldo! Gabriel and Keon returned to Town to make their eagerly anticipated debuts. Kirkburton, struggling to raise a team, had to borrow Toby for the first half in order to field 11 players as the game had the inevitable feel of a training match rather than the classic battles of old. Town hitting a dozen without reply. Sam provided the backbeat in a dominant display, keeping the play flowing. Finlay conducting our defensive unit whilst Luis and Jacob orchestrated midfield in order to facilitate the creative flourish of Luke who enabled our attackers to hit the top notes. The results, a cacophony of leather on leather and a rustling Kirkburton net. Kain struck early to put us one nil up, striking home a devine crossfield pass from Charlie. Minutes later, two nil. Luke switching play from left to right to send Kain galloping down the wing and angling the ball across the six yard box to the grateful Charlie who doubled the scoring with a left foot tap in. Kain instigated a third and Charlie’s second of the game, crossing from the right for our diminutive left winger to cut inside on his right foot and curl the ball into the top right corner. Luke allowed Keegan to push forward from midfield providing the service for three well struck shots on goal, the keeper saving two whilst the crossbar ducked out of the way of the third before Charlie claimed his hat-rick, another cross from the right cooly finished at the back post via Charlie’s left foot. Ethan sent Jaxon clear on the right who squared the ball inside for Jacob to launch a rocket inches over the bar before Kain applied a clinical finish from Luke’s assist to chalk up a fifth. The blues struggled to get the ball out of their own half, Fin and the larger than life Keon easily mopping up any adventurous looking forays into our half, both flanks ably covered by Ethan on the right and Luis on the left who provided an additional attacking threat as overlapping fullbacks. Charlie, who had terrorised the Burton right back all game, again turned him inside out to present Keegan with the opportunity to smash home number six before the team goal of the game made it seventh heaven for Town. Sam recycling a backpass to Keon, who turned out to find Luke on the left, his pass edged forward to Charlie who layed the ball into the path of Jacob, our midfield Terrier driving at the blues defence before releasing a perfectly weighted pass into the path of Kain who rattled the bar with a thunderbolt which fell nicely into the path of Charlie who guided the ball home. Jaxon was rewarded for his endeavour, slotting home number eight when he pounced first on a shot from Kain which the keeper half parried, and the boys went off at half time good value for their 8-0 lead. Short on options Kirkburton borrowed Sam as a right back, with Ethan slotting into their defence, Toby swapping a Burton bib for his more familiar Town shirt and Max entering the fray as second half Town keeper. All credit must go to the home side for a courageous second half display lead by former Town old boy Ruben who battled hard against his former teammates alongside Roddy in midfield. Ruben tested Max with two cracking shots from the edge of the box and played a couple of terrific through balls behind our defence but the strikers were unable to capitalise. Gabriel came on for Jaxon upfront and it wasn’t long before normal service was resumed. Keon pushing forward and showing some silky skills before laying the ball off to Luke who shot wide. A Jacob, Gabriel combination resulted in Kain striking a shot past the keeper but off the post, Charlie cut in on his right foot to curl a shot which again rattled the upright before Luke grabbed the bull by the horns to drive forward from deep, skip past two defenders and rifle the ball home claiming a well worked individual goal. A fitting number 10 followed as Prime administer Kain struck a shot parried by the keeper, Gabriel tapping in the rebound to notch his first goal on a return to the club. Luke hammered home the eleventh, to grab a brace whilst Kain completed a clinical display, notching a hatrick and rounding off a resounding 12-0 win. Parents Man of the match award went to Charlie, four goals and a couple of assists in a devastating display particularly in the first half. Luke and Charlie sharing the player’s award. Luke for driving his team forward and restoring our dominance when Kirkburton looked to fight back. Well done boys! |
||||||
08.09.21 | Wombwell | 0 | - | 2 | Match report | |
Wombwell friendly away Team: Sam, Jaxon, Cameron, Max, Ethan, Lance, Luis, Luke, Chaz, Toby, Kain, Jacob, Finlay. Towns extra quality up front proved the difference in a very physical and often scrappy encounter at Wombwell on Tuesday evening. Jacob, Cameron and Finlay the stars of the show leading our boys to a bruising victory. The story of the first 20 minutes was an enthralling duel between Wombwells right winger and Cameron, the two rivals locked in battle as the home side looked to set their energetic No7 in behind our defence. Cameron stood firm tussling for the ball and giving every bit as much as he got despite shirt pulling, barging and all manner of methods designed to put our left back off his game and send the home winger clear. Winning the battle was key, Cameron setting up our first chance of the game with a well-read interception and pass inside to Luke who took the ball on the half turn before spreading a Crossfield pass to Kain who galloped past his pursuer to whip a ball across the six yard box and inches away from the speedy attacking threat of Luis and Charlie. Wombwell looked to assert their authority with Barnsley brawn as Town relied heavily on the fighting qualities of Finlay, Cameron and Jacob to wrestle the ball off our opponents and get us on the attack. Max was alert in goal to close down the through ball and clear with the reds restricted to shots from outside the box which lacked any real quality. Town then took the lead with the first real clear cut chance of the game. Toby finding Kain on the right with space to swing in a cross which evaded the first defender and bounced up for Charlie on the penalty spot who cushioned a header to his left foot and volleyed home the opener. Wombwell reacted with a couple of substitutions giving the No7 a rest from Cameron but also from Ethan who had afforded him little change when switched to the left but Town remained solid through until half time, going in 1-0 up. Jaxon and Sam came on for the second half, taking up positions at opposite ends of the pitch. Jaxon moving to striker with Luis dropping into midfield and Jacob slotting into the right back spot vacated by Ethan. Sam replacing Max in goal as Town enjoyed more possession in the opponent’s half. Kain broke clear from a Luis pass to set up Jaxon for an early strike on goal from a half volley just inside the box which was blocked. Charlie sent a Crossfield pass to Kain who set Luis to whip a ball to the back post with Toby meeting the delivery on the volley but directing his shot across goal and wide. Luke then had a trio of strikes on goal, the first set up by the industrious Jacob who won back possession and set Luke for a shot saved by the keeper. Jaxon teeing up a second strike over the bar from outside the box before Cameron won a free kick on the edge of the box after an aggressive run from deep inside his own half, Luke’s set piece gathered easily by the Wombwell No1. With Wombwell tiring Jacob, Cameron and Finlay bossed the back line, pushing forward at every opportunity, confident in their ability to track back and cover as required but also assured by the huge presence of Lance who allowed little to pass him by in a strong second half performance. Kain and Luis collaborated with Toby to present Jaxon with the opportunity to shoot but his attempt was blocked and cleared, Jacob sprinting ahead of the home midfielder before being upended for another free kick without yield and as Town continued to apply the pressure the home sides defence was finally breeched for a decisive second time. Jacob picking the ball up deep in his own half before driving into the opponent’s half past two defenders and into the box, playing a wall pass off Kain and striking the ball past the keeper to give the boys an unassailable lead. Ethan replaced Toby for the last 10 minutes as Town saw out the game to earn another hard fought away win. Jacob’s leading by example securing him the parents MOM award with Cameron scooping the player’s award after doing his team a huge favour, nullifying the home side’s most potent attacker. Well done lads! |
||||||
05.09.21 | (U15) |
3 | - | 3 | Steel City Rangers | Match report |
29.08.21 | (U15s) |
11 | - | 1 | Little Town | Match report |
Little Town friendly home Team: Sam, Keegan, Cameron, Max, Jaxon, Ethan, Lance, Luis, Chaz, Toby, Kain, Jacob. Little Town stood little chance against a rampant Holmfirth who swept aside their opponents 11-1 at Farnley Tyas. An impeccably observed minutes applause preceded the game in tribute to the sad passing of former Huddersfield Junior League Secretary Ursula Spencer. ‘Thank you Ursula for all your terrific work’ and our thoughts go to her close friends and family. Town kicked off down the slope without Luke and Finley. The versatile Jacob replacing Luke as holding midfielder, Ethan dropping into the right back slot and Jaxon starting as lone striker. Little Town donning similar colours to our local rivals Honley seemed to add fuel to the Holmfirth fire as our boys were soon trailing a blaze across the visitors back four which quickly morphed into a back five. Cameron drove forward to send an early cross flashing wide of the far post. Luis followed up to send Toby clear and trigger a triple save from the keeper first from Toby then Charlie and then Toby again as the claret and blue rear guard struggled to scramble the ball clear. Toby then neatly gathered Ethans crossfield pass on the turn, guiding the ball towards Charlie for the cross which found Jaxon who set the ball for Kain to shoot narrowly wide. Kicking uphill, Little Town faced a monumental mountain to climb but still offered a counter attacking threat from their speedy No18. Ethan called upon to track back and put in a timely tackle on more than one occasion to break up play while Lance and Keegan martialed the back line with the assurance of a couple of Virgil Van Dykes. The opening goal soon followed, Ethan spreading the ball wide to Kain who won a throw parallel to the right of the penalty area. Jacob launched the throw across the box, Charlie darting across his marker to shoot past the keeper for 1-0. Town doubled their lead a couple of minutes later, again the move emanating from the back. Lance sweeping up from defence edged the ball forward to Jacob just inside the opponents half he looked up and picked out Kain on the wing who layed the ball back for the advancing Ethan to arc a precision ball behind the visitors defence which Charlie played forward with a cushioned left foot before striking the ball home. Luis and Toby went close then a one two between Lance and Ethan created space for our big centre half to drive forward find Kain who cut inside from the right using quick feet and trickery to skip past three defenders on the edge of the box and play Jacob through and into the area but his shot cleared the bar. Little Town then hit back. A clearance from the keeper splitting our defence to send their striker one on one with Max who was beaten by a cool finish. Despite the temporary setback Town continued to dominate the first half. Toby winning every second ball in midfield and dictating the tempo with Luis. Lance recycling any attempts to clear and Ethan providing excellent cover on the right to not only stop their best player in his tracks but also provide Kain with plenty of crossing opportunities and create his own attacking threat with some equally impressive angled deliveries into the box. Ethan orchestrated our third goal, swinging in a cross for Jaxon to turn with an exquisite first touch before burying the ball into the back of the net. Toby fired wide, Charlie had another left foot shot saved, Luis also testing the keeper from range before Toby got his goal. Jacob finding our tenacious terrier in a pocket of space after clever wing play from Kain, Toby guiding the ball past the keeper to put us 4-1 up. Luis smashed home a fifth from outside the box then Toby broke clear again from a Charlie through ball only to be pulled back by his shirt as he burst through on goal, Jacob sending the keeper the wrong way to despatch the resulting penalty. Six one and cruising Luis made it lucky seven with the strike of the day. Driving from deep to smash an unstoppable shot into the top left corner. Jaxon almost reciprocated with a similar effort from inside the box which agonisingly grazed past the angle of post and crossbar before Charlie completed his hatrick pouncing first on a rebound after Jacobs shot was parried by the underfire Little Town keeper. Eight one up at half time Sam came on for Max in goal and Little Town played with a twelfth player to give our boys an extra test but it did little to stem the flow of play although it did keep the second half scoring down to three as the visitors elected to use the extra man in a back six which virtually formed a shot blocking claret and blue wall. Toby soon carved open the defence with a precision pass inside the fullback which Charlie hammered towards goal past the goalkeeper but not the speedy defender who hooked the ball clear from off the line, Charlie recovering the ball at the byeline to cut inside and smash past the keeper but the ball was adjudged to have already crossed the byeline prior to his finish and so the goal was chalked off. A second half of attack v defence developed, Jacob taking on a free role to skip in and out of two defenders before crashing a left foot shot against the bar and over. Luis had two strikes from distance a shade too high, Kain cut inside and shot but the keeper saved, Charlie had two shots saved one right foot one left and Jacob had a pile driver turned away with Toby also shooting wide before the lads finally breached the Little Town defences to claim a ninth. Kain crossing from the right to allow Charlie to tap in his fourth goal. Double figures soon followed. Cameron the instigator sending Toby into the box before he crossed unselfishly for Jaxon to double his tally and the boys didn’t let up despite the score. Rising to the challenge of keeping possession and choosing their moment to play the penetrating pass in behind the defence as they advanced or getting a shot away if the defence dropped deeper. Cameron started a move and almost applied the perfect finish sending Charlie down the left wing who crossed for Luis to set up Cameron with a right foot follow up strike which deflected wide. Toby volleyed wide and Kain almost got onto the end of Charlie’s in swinging cross before Jacob completed the scoring with a delightful left foot chip over the keeper which nestled nicely into the far corner of the net. Tougher tests lie ahead but another pleasing workout for the boys that can only breed confidence. Players MOM went to Luis for a composed display in midfield and a couple of cracking goals. Midfield compadre Jacob scooping the parents award for his industry, bagging a brace himself whilst being involved in another four of our goals. Well done lads 👏👏👏👏 |
||||||
22.08.21 | Penistone Church | 3 | - | 3 | Match report | |
Team: Sam, Jaxon, Cameron, Leo, Jaxon, Ethan, Lance, Luis, Finlay, Luke, Chaz, Toby, Kain, Jacob. A brace from Charlie and a heavenly finish from Jacob ensured our Sunday morning visit to the Church ended with a happy congregation having witnessed a thoroughly entertaining three all draw. Missing Max in goal, Sam secured the goalkeeping gloves against our South Yorkshire opponents, Ethan slotting into the centre half position in place of the injured Keegan with Luis manning the right back slot. Jaxon and Leo providing back up from the bench. Having missed two weeks training due to the summer holidays the boys displayed some early ring rust. Penistone capitalising on a sleepy defence to slot home an opener after just two minutes. Sam pulled off some stunning saves to keep the margin a narrow one, before our boys started to find their rhythm. Toby and Luke leading the fight back via the laws of gravity bringing the ball down expertly and playing to feet to take advantage of the immaculate playing surface. Charlie and Kain were the main beneficiaries as Town took control of the midfield, Charlie receiving a through ball from Luke before switching play to Kain whose first time cross flashed across the penalty area just clear of Jacob and the home defence, Charlie recycling with a first time left foot cross met by Jacobs near post header which the keeper comfortably gathered. Toby sent Charlie clear of his marker setting up a left foot shot palmed away at the near post back to our winger who pinged a first time cross into Jacob who glanced his header fractionally wide. A quick break down the left from the magpie stripes almost lead to a doubling of the home sides lead but Ethan was on hand to make a timely tackle taking out the on rushing centre forward. Under the cosh, Luke and Toby then combined beautifully to fashion an equaliser, Luke bringing the ball under control on the left before seeking Toby on the right who slotted an inch perfect pass into the path of Jacob who smashed home the equaliser. Seizing the momentum Toby and Kain linked well on the right ably supported by Luis who drove forward to support the attack with Luke providing Charlie with the left wing service backed up by the forward thinking Cameron. Penistone’s main threat remained a speedy centre forward who looked to capitalise on the flick on from the home No4 who found space in the middle of the park on a number of occasions to redirect the long ball towards his striker, often unopposed. Sam called upon to sweep up in goal. Sam it was who provided the double save of the day. Penistones No9 cutting in from the right to guide a left foot shot towards the top left corner before Sam, leaping to his right parried the effort away from goal but only into the path of the home striker, Sam pulling off a second stunning save low to his right before Lance cleared the danger. Town pushed forward as the game seesawed either way Fin gaining more influence to win a ball in midfield and provide Kain with an opportunity to interchange passes with Toby before rifling a right foot shot which the keeper did well to tip over the bar. Luke sent in the corner which was punched wide for a second attempt, the follow up cross finding Fins darting diagonal run and volley which ricocheted off the near post and clear. Luke then spread the ball wide to Charlie on the left who weaved in and out of the fullback, nutmegging his opponent before centring from the byeline for Jacob whose header cleared the crossbar. Charlie also going close minutes later with a left foot shot just inside the box which the keeper saved. With Town applying most of the pressure Penistone retook the lead against the run of play. A throw from the right finding the No6 on the edge of the box who shot past Sam to put his side 2-1 up. Rattled but not relenting Town responded quickly, the increasingly influential Finlay sending Jacob clear on goal only for him to be caught fractionally offside. Luis providing another attacking opportunity for Jacob to head goalwards only to find the Penistone shot stopper on equal form and Kain curled a powerful shot from the edge of the box forcing an acrobatic tip over the bar from the home No1. Toby drove forward before releasing Fin for another strike on goal, the keeper saving low to the right, with Toby first to the rebound to fire home a certain goal only for the Penistone shot stopper to miraculously deflect the shot over the bar for a corner. Luke sent in a near post cross to meet Finlays diagonal run who again shook off his marker but deflected a volley inches wide. Persistence eventually paid off for the boys as the home defence was finally breached, Luis’ throw bouncing through the home defence to Charlie who powered a left foot shot off the keeper and into the net. Cameron pushed further forward on the left to provide further problems for the Penistone defence, causing an overload in midfield which created enough space for Fin to shoot, the keeper again saving his powerful effort which spun into the air, Charlie doubling his tally with a volley at the back post. The half time whistle blew to the relief of the home side, our boys 3-2 to the good. Leo replaced Ethan for the restart and the lads began well. Lance teeing up a shot for Charlie which spun wide, Kain providing a similar opportunity for Jacob with similar results and Luke clearing the crossbar from range. Jaxon came on for Kain with immediate effect, chasing down a Penistone defender to force him into a wayward pass which Jacob was quick to sieze upon and drill a low shot past the keeper but against the upright with the home centre half scrambling the rebound clear. Penistone then got an equaliser which emanated from our own free kick outside the box. Toby, Jacob and Luke looking to execute a training ground move which backfired and lead to Penistone winning the ball back from a short pass, breaking clear down the left and forcing Sam into a fine save to his left with Luis clearing off the line. Penistone kept the attack going winning a free kick wide on the left. In came the cross/shot Sam partially saving at the near post only for the ball to spin up into the air and fall invitingly to a Penistone player who nodded the ball into an empty net. The home side gained confidence from the equaliser forcing our fullbacks on the retreat and creating several chances themselves from both flanks. Jacob hit a shot wide from Toby’s through ball and Luke had a free kick outside the box tipped over the bar but it was Penistone who finished the strongest, momentum swinging further their way when Finlay had to go off injured as a result of a crunching tackle. The final whistle blew with honours remaining even. Cameron claiming the parents MOM for Town following a solid display at the back coupled with some impressive forward support play. Charlie’s trickery and pace topped with two goals securing the Players award. Well done lads 👏👏 |