ARLESEY TOWN YOUTH FC UNDER 12 Under Blues 2004-05
Season 2004-05 MATCH REPORT ARCHIVE

Bedwell Rangers U12s 1
Arlesey U12 Blues 3
Sunday 20 March

For the second week running the Blues put in another good performance and came away from Stevenage with a very impressive 1-3 victory. This was against a team that has beaten the Blues on four occasions over the last two years, and who are doing very well this season.

In the first period Bedwell could not get out of their half for the first 15 minutes due to some fine football from every player. During this period, the Blues created numerous chances with the home keeper pulling of some great saves. The breakthrough came after some good work by Chapman found Towndrow unmarked in the area. His cool finish put the Blues one up!

This goal settled Arlesey down and from another left wing cross, Kirkham was unlucky not to score with a good header. Arlesey’s second goal came on 15 minutes after a good ball from Veness found Kirkham just outside the box his quick feet did the rest, rounding defenders and coolly slotting the ball home under the advancing keeper.

As the lads started to relax a little at this point, Bedwell got a goal back. It was clear the Blues would be in for a tough second half. The talk at the break was a good thing for the Blues. With a few changes, they came out fighting although it was a fairly even half.

On the odd occasion, Bedwell did get behind the Blues’ midfield. They found the defence on top of their game. In particular, Gask who was as solid as a rock with some smart saves, good kicking and also some very good decision making (long may it continue ). Towndrow, up front with his blistering pace, caught the home defence out again. This time a good ball by Smith found his team mate who easily beat the keeper to put the Blues 1-3 up and on their way to three valuable points.

The Talbot twins worked hard up front together and could have increased the Blues’ lead only for the home keeper to pull off some fine saves time and time again. Another plus for Arlesey was the form of Klugman on the right hand side. He put in some lovely dangerous crosses, if only his team mates had been on the same wavelength? There were a lot of very good performances today.

In fact, this week was a good one for the whole team. They worked, passed, talked, encouraged and won as a team. This week’s ‘man of the match’ was Rejek, who for the second week had an outstanding game. Gask, in goal, was also exceptional. Well done lads, keep it up. You still have some tough games ahead of you.

Arlesey: Gask, Berry, Rejek, Howard, Smith, Veness, Sage, Chapman, B Talbot, Kirkham, Towndrow, Ankers, J Talbot, Klugman.

Arlesey U12 Blues 3 Austen Arrowheads 1
Sunday 13 March

After a week off, the Blues faced an in form Stevenage side.  Both teams played good football, with the away team having the better of the first half and going a goal up at half time. Most of the first period was played in the middle of the park with little penetration at either end. 

A strong wind blowing down the pitch in the Blues faces made it hard for them to attack, but at times they defended very well. A couple of strong runs by Towndrow and Kirkham almost found a way through but the away keeper was quick off his line to smother the ball.

After a few home truths at half time the Blues at last found some fluency to their game and it was the Stevenage sides turn to be camped in their own half.  Five minutes in and a neat piece of skill by Kirkham put B. Talbot through and from the goalmouth scramble the ball came out to an unmarked Sage and he fired in from 18 yards to bring the Blues level. 

Only 3 minutes later another powerful run by Chapman down the left saw him drive the ball past the goalie on the edge of the area. With the Blues now in control of the game they imposed themselves more and more, the third goal was created by M.O.M. Sage whose surging run from 12 yards inside his own half took him effortlessly past 2 players, drove down to the by-line, crossed perfectly for B. Talbot to head into the top corner. (maybe a contender for goal of the season, who knows!)

The lads relaxed a little and let the Stevenage side into the game, but the defence of Berry, Smith, Ankers and Rejek held firm.  Sunday was all about getting 3 points and pushing for third spot, but a good second half performance was an added bonus, on loan Flint was also a lad that put in a good performance, as was the other M.O.M. Howard, who played some great football at times and also kept the defence on their toes with another majestic performance.  This coming week finds the Blues away to Bedwell, another hard game in a very competitive league, well done lads.

Arlesey: Gask, Berry, Ankers, Smith, Howard, Sage, B. Talbot, J. Talbot, Chapman, Kirkham, Towndrow, Rejek, Flint, Veness

Wymondley Park Wdrs U12s 4 Arlesey U12s Blues 2
Sunday 27 February 2004

This was always on the cards to be a difficult game against unbeaten Division 1 leaders Wymondley and so it turned out. The Blues were back to full strength but could not hold a strong Wymondley side.

The first 15 minutes were evenly matched with maybe the Blues having the better of the game but after Wymondley had scored their first, it seemed to settle them down and they were soon playing some great football.

They soon added two more goals after some really woeful defending by certain members of the Blues defence who went AWOL. The lads kept going and managed to get a penalty with five minutes left. This was coolly slotted home by Howard to give the Blues some hope in the restart. 

After a few changes at half time it was the Blues who were on top. Five minutes into the half and Towndrow managed to pull one back. Now it was Wymondley who were beginning to stutter. Arlesey, with slightly more care over the final ball, could and should have caused the home team more problems.

The one chance fell to the Blues 15 minutes in. An in-swinging corner into the 6-yard box had the home defence all over the shop. Alas the Blues could not get the final touch they needed. Wymondley wrapped the game up with just eight minutes remaining when a brilliant free-kick found the top corner of the Blues net, game over.

Those who watched the game will probably say Wymondley were not at their best but that was only down to the Blues hard work and determination. As one manager said, you can only play as good as your opponents will let you. Today the Blues improved a massive amount.

‘Man of the match’ was shared by B Talbot, who gave his usual 110% and was unlucky not to score, and Chapman, who on proved to be a big thorn in the side of the Wymondley defence, all morning. The Blues have had a few good performances over recent weeks. Let’s hope it continues through the month of March.

Arlesey Blues: Gask, Berry, Rejek, Veness, Howard, Sage, Chapman, Smith, B Talbot, Kirkham, Towndrow, Ankers, J Talbot, Klugman

Hitchin Town U12s 0 Arlesey U12 Blues 2
Sunday 20 February 2005

After another hard week’s work Arlesey came away with a more positive result but they still knew it was a hard game. The game started off with The Blues coming out being the best side with some good passing and battling. Arlesey knocked the ball around quite comfortably but even though they deserved a goal, it didn’t come until midway through the first half.

A good run from the left winger found Howard, whose teasing cross went over the keeper and into the bottom corner. A few minutes later another teasing cross, this time from a corner, was met by an unmarked Sage whose spectacular volley found the bottom corner of the net for 2-0 at half time to Arlesey.

In the second half, the Blues went into the game in the same as they had in the first, battling hard, passing well but most of all having a positive attitude. But still Arlesey couldn't find the third and killer goal but still the kept on digging deep. Both teams in the second half were evenly matched and could not break through to either’s goal.

Still Arlesey defended and battled well. Whenever they had a chance the home keeper kept them at bay. Some teasing runs by Kirkham nearly found the back of the net. A good ball through from Talbot found Kirkham, who ran with the ball a little way, chipped the keeper only to find the cross bar kept the ball out of the net. Then a run by a Hitchin midfielder found the bottom corner of Arlesey's net.

The Blues were determined to keep the score as it was and not let Hitchin get the equalising goal they wanted. Arlesey kept on defending well and battling hard until the final whistle was blown.

Today's ‘man of the match’ was shared BY Ankers and the whole team. With a number of players missing, all the Blues worked hard for each other and deserved the hard worked victory. In a League where all the teams are evenly matched, this was a very good win. Well done lads for all your hard work for the last couple of weeks, keep up the brilliant work!

Arlesey: Gask, Ankers, Veness, Berry, Rejek, Smith, B Talbot, Sage, Chapman, Kirkham, Howard.

Pin Green U12 2 Arlesey U12 Blues 0
Sunday 13 February 2005

After another hard week’s work and the lad's came away with another disappointing result. This was the best game the Blues have played for two seasons with every lad passing, talking, tackling and playing for each other.

The Blues started the game with a new confidence and tore the Pin Green side to shreds on numerous occasions. It was the puddles on the pitch that stopped the Blues scoring on a number of occasions as well as some very dodgy time keeping from the ref in both halves which resulted in the lads missing out on ten minutes of the game.

Towndrow found an opening to shoot and he took the chance only for the post to save Pin Green. The lad's were passing and battling very well. Then Gask was caught off his line and, from a fair distance, Pin Green chipped in the first goal. The Blues’ kept on battling but an unmarked Pin Green player soon found the back of the Arlesey net for 2 - 0 at half time.

In the second half Arlesey came out with a positive attitude and heads held high, ready for whatever challenges the Stevenage side could throw at them. Arlesey had numerous chances but did not punish Pin Green. Chapman ran all the way towards goal slid the ball past the keeper only for the mud to stop it crossing the line.

The Blues kept on trying but failed to find the goals they needed. Well done lads for your outstanding effort and battling. This week’s ‘man of the match’ was shared by Smith, who has produced some great performances over recent weeks, and Sage, who kept running and creating chances for himself and his team mates. The lads deserved to win but it remains a mystery as to how they didn’t.

Arlesey: Gask , Veness , Howard , Berry, J Talbot , Smith , Sage , B Talbot, Towndrow, Chapman, Kirkham, Tafe.

Arlesey U12 Blues 7 Fairlands Blues 2
Sunday 30 January 2005

Two games in two days took their toll on the lads. First up on Friday, a 10-0 win under floodlights at Arlesey Town FC’s Hitchin Road stadium, then a return to winning ways, in the League, on Sunday, against a very lively and spirited Fairlands side.
   The visitors from Stevenage started well and played some nice football. They took a well-deserved lead which spurred Arlesey on. Within minutes they were level after B Talbot’s first time shot found the back of the net. 15 minutes later the visitors grabbed a second goal and started to batten down the hatches.
   They defended strongly for the rest of the half albeit Arlesey’s leading scorer, Kirkham found the net for the home side, 2-2 at half time. After a few choice words from their Manager, Arlesey turned in a much improved second half performance. Right from the off, the Blues got up a good head of steam and really pushed the Stevenage side back.
   After just five minutes, Sage’s 18-yard shot flew into the bottom corner. The goal settled the lads down and suddenly they were playing some neat football again, just as they had done on Friday night. The fourth goal was coolly converted by J Talbot.
   Next came two typical poacher goals from Kirkham, scoring his third hat-trick of the season. Goal number seven was a penalty coolly converted from the very stylish Howard. Good performances from Chapman, Smith, Berry, Rejek and Klugman helped the Blues win another vital three points in their chase for third place in the League.
   This week the lads had a good second half but struggled slightly in the first. The Blues must play for the whole 60+ minutes through better concentration, learning to keep their eyes on the ball and working on their first touch. Arlesey have a big month coming up. It’s vital then that they work as a team, play as a team and encourage as a team. Well done lads on a very important win! This week’s ‘man of the match’ was Maxi Veness, another good display from a young man who at last is fulfilling his real potential.   

Arlesey: Gask. Berry, Veness, J talbot, Howard, Chapman, Smith, Klugman, Towndrow, B Talbot, Kirkham, Sage, Tafe, Ankers, Rejek.
 

Albion U12s 3 Arlesey U12 Blues 2
23 January 2005

After another hard week’s work, the Blues came away with a disappointing result against the Stevenage side. The Blues dominated the first half and passed the ball very well.  
   The first goal came when Denholm Kirkham knocked it out to the right wing. The ball was crossed in and a great first time volley was smashed into the back of the net by Jack Chapman. A minute later, Arlesey went two up when a great cross came in from the wing to enable Joe Talbot to drive the ball home into the bottom corner. 
   After that the Blues played well and battled hard until an Albion corner came into the Arlesey danger area. The ball was not cleared and found its way to an unmarked Albion player who toe poked it into the bottom corner for 2-1 at half time. In the second half the Blues did not pass the ball as well as they had in the first half. Josh Towndrow broke down the left wing, did a one - two with Jack Chapman who then ran into the penalty box only to see his shot be parried away by the Albion goalkeeper.
   A great corner swung in by Maxi Veness into the Albion danger area was scrambled away. Albion’s midfielders soon broke into Arlesey’s half. They levelled the score after a shot went straight through the goalkeeper. But the Blues’ heads did not drop. They kept on trying and, giving all they could, they battled hard.
   They had numerous chances to get a third goal but failed to convert their chances. Albion were then awarded a penalty after an Arlesey defender spontaneously jumped and accidentally handled the ball. Without waiting for the referee’s whistle, the penalty was taken and spectacularly saved by the Arlesey keeper, Connor Gask. Albion were ordered to retake the penalty. Second time round, the ball was struck powerfully straight down the middle and into the back of the net.
   With only minutes remaining, Arlesey kept on searching for an equaliser but it wasn’t to be. Well done lads, you all played and battled hard even though you let the game slip away at the end.
   This week’s ‘man of the match’ was shared by Maxi Veness, whose great tackles and passes were superb, and Denholm Kirkham, who tried his absolute best for the Blues upfront. The lads must learn to hold onto their leads and not let them slip away. Well done lads!

Arlesey: Gask, Berry, Ankers, Howard, Veness, Rejek, Towndrow, B Talbot, Chapman, Smith, J Talbot, Kirkham.

Arlesey U12 Blues 0 Icknield U12s 2
Sunday 16 January 2005, Beds County Cup

When the draw for the next round of the CountyCup was made the Blues knew it would be a tough fixture and that is the way it turned out.
   Icknield had not lost in two years having scored over 90 goals in ten games. They’d only conceded six goals throughout the whole of last season but had let in as many so far this season. Consequently, the Blues knew a massive effort would be required to get any sort of result.
   In addition, the lads were asked to play in a different formation. So, all in all, a tough game awaited them.
   Right from the kick-off the Blues got going, never letting Icknield settle into any kind of rhythm. This came as a bit of a shock for the visitors, being not the sort of thing they’d expected.
   For 20 minutes they were frustrated. Indeed, the Blues made the odd forage forward towards the Icknield goal. After a series of pinpoint corners, a single moment of lapsed concentration in the Arlesey defence enabled the visitors to take the lead.
   As the away supporters were saying this was the breakthrough they needed. It would now just be a case of sitting back and waiting for the goals to flow. Sadly for Icknield, the Blues had other ideas. All the lads worked their socks off so to get to half-time with the score at 1-0 was a brilliant achievement.
   In the second half, Arlesey made the running but as hard as they tried, they couldn’t find a way passed Icknield’s back line. Slowly but surely, Icknield took hold of the game putting it beyond the Blues’ reach with a penalty three minutes from time. It was a much tougher fixture than Icknield had bargained for, being amongst one of their lowest scoring victories, in recent memory.
   For the Blues there was nevertheless a great sense of achievement even in defeat. Although all the Arlesey lads played their part in a magnificent game, special mentions go to: Denholm Kirkham, who worked as hard as any player on the pitch for little reward; Josh Smith, for his tireless work in midfield; Ashley Berry and Jordan Rejek for some great defending. However, this week’s ‘Man of the match’ was Robert Howard who had a change of position and proved what a great player he is. His touch on the ball, his awareness, drive and passion are second to none.
   Also Connor Gask who made some great saves. His handling was superb, his bravery was a joy to watch - now you have done it once Con, we need to see it every week! The level of commitment and team spirit the boys have shown in the last few weeks will stand them in good stead for the coming week’s battle for third spot. Keep up the good work!    

Arlesey: Gask, Berry, Rejek, Veness, Howard, Smith, Chapman, Towndrow, Klugman, B Talbot, Kirkham, J Talbot, Tafe.

Arlesey Town U12 Blues 0 Apollo FC 3
Sunday 9 Jan 2005
 
The Blues first game into the New Year was a tough starter against table toppers Apollo. It ended in a 3-0 defeat. The score line flattered the away team and had the Blues scored first, it would have been a different story.
   As in recent games, finishing was a big factor. Both teams started brightly and played good football with only a few chances at either end. Patient play and good defending from both teams kept the score at 0-0.
   After a corner was only partially cleared, a mix-up involving two Blue defenders enabled Apollo to take the lead. This put the Blues on the back foot and just before half-time, the visitors grabbed a second after a harmless looking shot found its way into the bottom corner of the net. 
   The second half saw the Blues on top but as in the first half more composure was needed in front of goal. Gradually Apollo got on top and from one of their numerous attacks, they scored a third. Once again, Arlesey allowed a lonely unmarked midfielder to find acres of space and lots of time inside the Arlesey box to fumble in a weak shot that found its way into the bottom corner.
   The lads must learn that you can’t hand your opponents easy goals and not take your own chances. Everyone has a job to do. Communication is everything. Play as a team. Overall, it was a fair game to come back to.
   Next week sees another big test for the lads in the CountyCup quarter finals. Come on, you Blues!
Arlesey: Harding, J Talbot, Berry, Sage, Veness, Klugman, B Talbot, Chapman, Towndrow, Kirkham, Howard, Smith, Rejek, Gask 

ArleseyTown U12 Blues 3 Albion U12s 0
B Talbot
Kirkham 2
MOTM: J Talbot
Sunday 19 December 2004

The Blues finished off 2004 with a magnificent win against the Stevenage side. For the second week running, the Blues had a lot of possession in both halfves and played some lovely football at times, maybe over elaborating at times. Albion also played their part, pushing the Blues back on a few occasions but the home defence was as solid as a rock with Ankers playing his best game to date.

Chances in the first half for the Blues came thick and fast but some tremendous goal keeping and some inconsistent finishing kept the score 0-0 at half time. The second half started as the first had finished, with the Blues on top but whichever way the Blues tried to play or whichever side they went down, they could not find the goal touch that was needed.

But the lads were not finished and kept plugging away. From a great in swinging corner from Veness, the ball bobbled around only needing a touch from numerous lads but after what seemed like an eternity Albion scrambled it away. It seemed for all the coaches and supporters, this was going to end in a 0-0 score line.

Something of the lads did not deserve. But they kept going and got their reward after Kirkham was crudely hammered to the floor in the penalty area. From the resulting spot kick, up stepped B Talbot to fire the penalty into the bottom corner only to see the keeper make a great save, but the rebound was duly dispatched in to the top corner, 1-0 up with 15 minutes to go.

This goal settled the lads down and they played some great football and soon got another goal after goal poacher Kirkham controlled a cross from Klugman and dispatched his shot into the corner. Albion got stuck in with a few hard but fair tackles but when the Blues started to repay the favour the Stevenage team could not handle it.

If it was not for the referee (an independent official) and the good attitude from the Blues to not get involved the game may well have turned into a free for all. The lads conducted themselves impeccably and went on to score a third goal after once again Kirkham used his silky skills to good effect turning sharply in the box and shooting high into the top corner for a convincing 3-0 win.

This weeks ‘man of the match’ was J Talbot his tackling, aggression, passion and will to win was a great credit to himself, also Ankers. He had a great game and will only improve as time goes on well done lads for the second week running you have been outstanding all 16 of you . Enjoy your Christmas and New Year come back in 2005 raring to go. We can only succeed with all of us if you play as a team.

Arlesey: Gask, Ankers,Berry, J Talbot, Smith, Sage, Tafe, Chapman, Towndrow, Howard, Kirkham, B Talbot, Klugman, Veness, Rejek

 

Stortford Rangers U12s 1 Arlesey Town U12 Blues 0
MOTM: Ollie Sage
Sunday 12 December 2004

The Blues made the long trip to Stortford to play in a match that would see how far the Blues have come since the 5-3 home defeat to Stortford on the opening game of the season. The game was played at a furious pace.

The lads played with tremendous vision, enthusiasm and great attitude. As early as the second minute Chapman played the ball to Klugman. He in turn released Ben Talbot whose pace was electrifying. He cut inside, crossed to Towndrow whose close range effort was brilliantly saved by the keeper.

If a spur was needed this was it. Next into action was Tafe. He sold his marker a dummy, found space in the box and fired a terrific shot only to find the keeper in great form to make another great save. Still the Blues pushed forward. More good work from the midfield this time found Smith unmarked.

His effort hit the keeper's shin and rebounded to safety. Still the Blues waited for the onslaught from the top of the table team but it never came. If they did break passed the Blues' dominant midfield, which was rare, they found it impossible to get past Rejek, Veness and the much-improved Berry.

Good work once again by Klugman, released his roommate Kirkham into the clear. Again this found the home keeper in good form, 0-0 at the break.

The second half saw Stortford come out fighting. They showed, in patches, why they are top of the league but although they played some neat and tidy football they did not really have a cutting edge.

The Blues got their second wind and a magnificent run and cross from lively Rob Howard found Talbot again. All this was foiled again by, yes you guessed it, the home keeper. The lads kept going.

Wave after wave of good attacking football kept Stortford on the back foot. One thing the home team was good at was defending. They certainly got a lot of practice in this match. They hardly left their own half. With 58 minutes gone and the Blues looking good for a well-earned point, bang!

The sucker punch, a goal out of nothing! A hopeful ball into the Arlesey box was headed out to a Stortford player who, under pressure, hooked a shot high into the air and into the top corner. This was an absolute injustice for every one of the Blues who had worked extremely hard for the previous 58 minutes. This was something they did not deserve but hopefully can learn from.

A truly brilliant game, one of the finest witnessed by Arlesey's hardcore supporters who gave the Blues a standing ovation as they left the field. This week there are two special mentions: firstly, the 'away' referee who had a fantastic game, honest and fair and; secondly, 'man of the match' Ollie Sage who is a real asset to the Blues. He can play in any position, always gives 110%, and is a very strong individual.

The Blues have made tremendous strides in terms of skill, attitude, determination and all round comradeship! Well done lads, keep it up teamwork is the key!

Arlesey: Harding, Rejek,Berry, Veness, Sage, Chapman, Klugman, Smith, B Talbot, Towndrow, Tafe, Howard, Kirkham, Ankers, J Talbot.

Knebworth U12s 1 Arlesey U12 Blues 1
(4-5 a.e.t penalties)
Sunday 5 December

Arlesey Blues turned in magnificent team performance to win this League Cup fixture after penalties. Both teams produced some great football in the first half and the home team were the first to break the deadlock after five minutes.
   A harmless cross into the Blues box eluded the defence and was turned in by a Blues defender. This worked against the home team as they thought they were in for an easy win but the Blues had other ideas. As the half went on Arlesey got a lot stronger and had some good chances to score through Howard, Kirkham and Towndrow but only last ditch defending and tackling kept the home team's lead intact.
   The second half was all one-way traffic concentrated in the Knebworth half with every lad playing his part in the onslaught. In the end, it took a great piece of individual skill by Chapman to get Arlesey back on level terms. He glided passed three defenders, drew the keeper out and slipped the ball into the net.
   A goal was no more than what the lads deserved. Still they kept pushing on and once again numerous chances were created but Arlesey could not find the finishing touch. With time running out a good run down the Arlesey right saw them hitting the bar.
   The rebound was scrambled away. 60 minutes over with the score at 1-1’ extra time was looming. It took all the Blues strength to carry on. A sticky pitch was taking its toll but Knebworth held on for penalties. The Blues held their nerve to triumph 4-3 on penalties. All the spot kicks were struck with confidence and belief.
   Every lad played their part in this fantastic victory but special mentions go to Ollie Sage, for a terrific game at the heart of defence, Jack Chapman, a midfield dynamo, and Jordan Rejek, for some great tackling.
   This week's 'man of the match' award went to two players: Trevor Tafe, for his best game for the Blues and; Ashley Berry, from some great defending.
   Well done to each and every Blues player on the field. Playing as a team in this competition, talking to and working for each other, the Blues will go all the way!

Arlesey: Gask, Rejek, Neness, Sage, Berry, Tafe, Chapman, B Talbot, Towndrow, Kirkham, Howard. Klugman, Smith, Harding

Arlesey U12 Blues 3 HitchinTown U12s 2
Sunday 28 November

Arlesey Blues got back to winning ways on Sunday with a hard fought win against Hitchin. The away team started brightly and had a near miss as early as the third minute.
   They broke away down the left, cut inside and the resulting shot was well saved by Harding in the Arlesey goal. The blues played some nice and tidy football at times, sometimes just too much, but and scored through Towndrow only to be unfairly ruled offside.
   This incident spurred the Blues on but only some rushed finishing stopped Arlesey scoring. The second half started at a furious pace with the Blues on top. A corner from Klugman deep into the Hitchin box found Towndrow unmarked and his controlled right foot volley ended up in the top corner. The game now was end to end with each team having a number of chances but Ankers and Berry kept their concentration.
   15 minutes from the end Hitchin got their second and were then forced onto the back foot as the Blues searched for their second, they duly obliged after a ball from Howard was fumbled by the keeper. From an acute angle, Kirkham fired in his eleventh goal of the season.
   The Blues had their tails up now and went searching for the winner. This was supplied by Sage from twenty yards out. He hammered a free kick into the top corner, a truly spectacular goal to win any game.
   The whole Blues team worked hard to record a very good victory against a very good Hitchin side. This week’s ‘man of the match’ was goalkeeper Harding for some great saves, kicking and all round good goal keeping.
   A totally different game from last week, lots of effort, commitment and good all round play. Remember it's a team game lads, well done lads a good win!

Arlesey: Harding, Ankers, Talbot, Berry, Smith, Klugman, Talbot, Sage, Towndrow, Howard, Kirkham, Gask, Chapman, Tafe, Rejek, Veness.

Northolt Utd U12s 2 Arlesey U12 Blues 1
Sunday 21 November

The Blues’ coaches knew this would be a potential banana skin for the lads and so it turned out. After beating the same team last week 4-0 all the lads turned up this week thinking an easy game was upon them. Unfortunately nobody told Northolt to lay down and not fight.
   As early as the third minute, the home side broke through the Arlesey midfield, bypassed our non-existent defence and almost scored. This, you would think, would have been a nice wake up call but, alas, no the home team kept contesting every ball and every header and were first to the tackle (something no team has done for a long time is beat the Blues in the tackle).
   Northolt were unlucky not to score on a number of occasions. The Blues did, however, manage to score when a ball floated into the box which found Ollie Sage unmarked to put the Blues 1-0. The goal was against the run of play but very much welcomed. Into the second half, Northolt kept playing to a game plan that the Blues could not cope with and 10 minutes in, a mix-up in the Arlesey defence allowed Northolt to equalise.
   This was the cue for the rest of the lads to stop working and allow Northolt the chance to attack at will. They soon did, so it was no surprise when they scored a second. A ball was crossed into the box, headed out to an unmarked Northolt midfielder who fired a great shot into the top corner. The Blues rallied slightly but the home defence held firm as they had all morning.
   Last week Northolt had no answer to the Blues superb team. This week was an entirely different affair. This time, Northolt hardly broke into a sweat to record a sweet victory. This week’s ‘man of the match’ was shared by Andrew Harding and Trevor Tafe who did not stop encouraging their team mates from the side lines. Expect a hard game this coming week lads!

Arlesey: Gask, Berry, Veness. Rejek, Chapman, Sage, Smith, Towndrow, B Talbot, Howard, Kirkham, Tafe, Harding, Klugman, J Talbot, Ankers.  

Arlesey U12 Blues 4 Northolt Utd U12s 0
Sunday 14 November

The game between Arlesey and Northolt resulted in the second good win in November for the Arlesey Blues. Last year Arlesey lost twice to Northolt both by 3-0. So this year the overall impressive team performance by all players resulted in an excellent 4-0 win.
   The first goal was scored after only 3 minutes by Josh Smith who showed good ball control and skill. From then on Arlesey defended well with all players taking part especially Jack Chapman. Although Northolt put Arlesey under pressure, three minutes before half time Ben Talbot scored by putting the ball high into the left-hand corner of the net after the Northolt goalkeeper fumbled the ball.
   The second half followed in the same vein as the first half with the Blues knocking the ball about very well and opening up the Northolt defence at will, only the away Keeper keeping the score to 2-0. Denham 'Ronaldo' Kirkham scored the third decisive goal for the Arlesey Blues.
   After some stout defending by the whole team the ball was played to the Arlesey midfield, Joshua Towndrow then sprinted 30 yards and fired the ball into the right-hand corner. 
   This was the Blues best all-round team performance for the whole of the season. Let’s hope that this can continue. The whole team deserved ‘man of the match’ this week for their magnificent all-round performance.
   Good passing, good communication, good movement and good anticipation. A special mention goes to Ashley Berry and Joshua Towndrow for their excellent performances.

Arlesey: Gask, Berry, Veness, Chapman, Rejek, B Talbot, Sage, Smith, Towndrow, Kirkham, Klugman, J Talbot, Harding, Ankers, Howard.

Arlesey U12 Blues 4 Shillington U12s 0
Sunday 7 November:

On a dull and miserable day the one thing that was bright was the Blues’ football. Always neat and tidy with plenty of movement off the ball, the first ten minutes was equally matched.
   Then the gulf between the two teams was evident with Arlesey controlling the all the game in every area. The only thing lacking was a goal but the Blues’ midfield kept plugging away.
   A lovely through ball from Smith found Howard wide on the left. He beat his marker easily and dug out a perfect cross to his strike partner Kirkham to score a great headed goal.
   20 minutes gone and Ben Talbot broke from midfield ran, passed the Shillington defence and went one on one with keeper. There was only one winner on this occasion, 2-0 to the Blues at half-term.
   The opposition coach tried to rally his troops at half time but to no avail. The blues had all the game and scored again through Kirkham and Ben Talbot to secure a fantastic 4-0 victory.
   Sage in Arlesey’s midfield had an outstanding game and almost capped it off with a 25-yard rocket shot that the keeper saved with his face. An overview of the game was Arlesey were always in control and played some lovely flowing football at times but they will need to be on their best in the next round to progress. Well done, lads.
  This week’s ‘man of the match’ was Ollie Sage always gives the Blues his best efforts. Ashley Berry also deserves a mention. In the first 10 weeks of the season, Ashley has been outstanding. Well done, you Blues!

Arlesey: Harding, Berry, Veness, Chapman, J Talbot, B Talbot, Smith, Sage, Towndrow, Howard, Kirkham, Rejek, Gask, Klugman, Ankers, Tafe.    
 

Arlesey U12s Blues 1 BaldockTown U12s 1 (aet)
(Arlesey win 5-4 on penalties)
Sunday 31 October 2004

Arlesey progressed through to the next round of the League Cup at the expense of near neighbours Baldock in an enthralling game neither team deserved to lose.
   The first half produced some fine football from both sides without any real clear cut chances. Arlesey were the most neat and tidy with Smith in midfield and counter part Talbot putting some good balls through to the front men. When the Blues’ midfield was by-passed the defence held firm with Berry, Veness and Sage playing superbly.
   In the second half Baldock upped their game and put the Blues under a lot of pressure and had some good chances but the Arlesey keeper was at his best. The vital break through came 15 minutes into the second half. Rejek made a great tackle and released Towndrow on the left.
   He went passed his marker with ease then played the ball to Kirkham. He turned and found his partner Howard running through on Arlesey’s left. He travelled into the box then played a great pass back to Kirkham who continued his run lost his marker and under a lot of pressure coolly chipped the keeper. The home supporters went mental.
   As you would expect Baldock made a siege towards Arlesey’s goal and just as Arlesey were edging towards a well deserved win Baldock equalised. The game went into extra time with Baldock’s tails up playing really well.
  Only some last ditch defending from Arlesey’s Ankers, Sage and Joe Talbot kept the Blues in the game. By this time it was all hands to the pump with every Blues player giving 110%. Extra time ended with the score still level at 1-1. It was the time for the dreaded penalties. The Blues went on to win 5-4 on penalties. There was only one winner in this game and it was Arleset keeper Gask who for the whole game gave a very sure and commanding performance with some good handling, great saves and stopping two penalty shots. This week produced the Blues best all round team performance and just showed what a good team spirit they are developing. Well done, chaps keep it up!

Arlesey: Gask, Berry, Veness, Sage, Reyek, B Talbot, Tafe, Smith, Towndrow, Howard, Kirkham, J Talbot, Ankers, Harding, Chapman. 

Arlesey U12 Blues 0 Stevenage Colts 3
Sunday 24 October

The Blues’ recent run of good results came to an abrupt end on a lovely October day.
   The first half was equally matched with neither team rarely threatening each others’ goal. The Blues midfield played some nice tidy football but with hardly any penetration into the opposition half.
   Stevenage scored 20 minutes into the first half with a long harmless ball over the top of the Blues defence. An unmarked midfielder ran through unopposed to lob over keeper Gask, 1-0 at the break.
   In the second half with the wind behind them Arlesey thought they would score at will but not much had changed from the first half. Stevenage had a bit of a purple patch and put the Blues under a lot of pressure with a number of good chances.
   Luckily for Arlesey, keeper Gask was in good form and saved the day on many occasions. All in all, this was a game for the team and coaches to learn from.
   A little effort, commitment, passion are needed in every game to win. This week’s ‘man of the match’ was Jordan Rejek, a shining light in an otherwise dull game.

Arlesey: Gask, Berry, Smith, J Talbot, Reyek, Chapman, B Talbot, Tafe, Howard, Kirkham, Veness. 

Arlesey U12 Blues 4 Bushmead Wdrs U12s 0
Sunday 17 October 2004

Arlesey progressed into the next round of the Beds County Cup with an impressive 4-0 win over a very good Bushmead side.
   In the first half, both teams fought for every ball, every header and tackled hard but it was the Blues who made the best chances. After a spell of pressure and numerous magnificent corners from Maxi Veness, the Bushmead keeper could not hold one of these crosses and, from the goal mouth scramble that ensued, Joe Talbot was on hand to fire the loose ball into the net.
   Arlesey were well on top and in control, but Bushmead had other ideas and Arlesey keeper Gask was called into action to make a good save to keep the Blues’ lead in tact. Into the second half, Bushmead kept the Blues’ defence on its toes. Gask was, once again, Arlesey’s saviour with a flying save. Ten minutes gone and the Blues’ midfield were starting to get a grip on the game.
   From a great attack, Arlesey won a corner which was fired into the six yard box and there was Sage to give Arlesey a two goal lead. This second goal knocked the stuffing out of Bushmead. Five minutes later, Rob Howard’s close skill allowed him some space to fire into the top corner for 3-0.
   The football was now being played at a furious pace with a fourth Arlesey seemingly inevitable, a well taken knock-in by the Arlesey Captain, Jack Chapman.
   This was one of Arlesey’s hardest games of the season and all the lads playing very well as a team. A special mention this week goes to Jordan Klugman, who went to hospital after a nasty clash of heads. Get well soon. This week’s ‘man of the match’ was Ashley Berry whose performance today, in line with recent weeks, was exceptional 

Arlesey: Gask, Berry, Veness, Smith, J Talbot, Klugman, Sage, Chapman, Tafe, B Talbot, Howard, Kirkham, Ankers, Harding, Rejek  

Fairlands U12s 3 Arlesey U12 Blues 12
Sunday 10 October 2004

The Blues continued their recent run of good results with a very impressive 12-3 win in Stevenage. The home team went ahead early on closely followed by an equaliser from Rob Howard.
   This should have been the cue for Arlesey to settle into their pattern of football but unfortunately Fairlands made it 2-1. The Blues could have equalised long before they actually did due to poor finishing in front of goal.
   They finished the half 3-2 in front. In the second half, the Blues commanded all the play with goals coming almost at will. The midfield worked extremely hard in supplying the ball to the forwards and also helping out the defence when needed. Goalkeeper Andy Harding made a marvellous save when after being lobbed he managed to scoop the ball off the goal line.
   Jordon Klugman on Arlesey's right hand side was a joy to see putting in many excellent crosses. Joshua Towndrow and Ben Talbot have exceptional pace and the Stevenage defence could not handle either of them.
   The goal scorers this week were Rob Howard (4), Joshua Towndrow (4), Ben Talbot (2), Ollie Sage and Jordan Klugman. Overall a tremendous win, great team work and a will to succeed this season were the reason for this victory.
   This week’s ‘man of the match’ went to Jordan Klugman for some tremendous work on the right hand side and Robert Howard for his goals and all round play.

Arlesey: Harding, Rejek, Veness, Chapman, J Talbot, B Talbot, Smith, Towndrow, Klugman, Howard, Kirkham, Tafe, Ankers, Gask, Sage.

Arlesey U12 Blues 3 Sawbridgeworth Reds 1
Sunday 3 October 2004

The Blues played their best game so far this season. It was probably their best game for the last two seasons.
  The first half started very well with every player on top of his game, passing, movement, talking, were evident all over the pitch. The lads created numerous chances but could not find the back of the net, hitting the post on three occasions.
   The Sawbo keeper made some great saves and there was some last ditch defending by the Sawbo defence.  0-0 at half time even though it was one way traffic for the first half. 
   The second half was just the same and after 10 minutes Ollie Sage turned his midfield counterpart and fired a shot into the keeper’s far corner from 25 yards, 1-0 to the Blues. This kept Sawbo on their toes and they needed to be!
   Wave after wave of good flowing attacking football kept the away team in their own half. Then another one of Maxi Veness’ corners found Joshua Towndrow unmarked in the area to head the Blues into a two-goal lead.
   A penalty let Sawbo back into the game but the Blues kept on plugging away. They were rewarded when Joshua Towndrow scored his second after the ‘pass of the match' from Robert Howard found him unmarked in the Sawbo area.
   This week’s ‘man of the match’ was Captain Jack Chapman for an outstanding game at the heart of the Blues defence and also Ben Talbot for his non-stop effort and will to win. Overall a magnificent win with each and every one of the Blues putting in a fantastic performance, c’mon you Blues!

Arlesey: Gask, J Talbot, Veness, Rejek, Chapman, Sage, Smith, B Talbot, Towndrow, Howard, Kirkham, Tafe, Berry, Harding.

Stevenage Colts U12s 1 ArleseyTown U12 Blues 1
Sunday 26 September 2004

This game ended in a very pleasing 1-1 draw. It was a very tight match in which both teams produced some tremendous football. It was also end to end stuff with all the Arlesey supporters cheering the lads on.
   Arlesey were matched pass for pass and tackle for tackle by a well organised Stevenage side and at times in the first half were out muscled. The pleasing thing was the boys never gave up and after going a goal down mid way through the first half they kept on going and were rewarded with an equaliser.
A lovely ball from out of the Blues’ defence found Ben Talbot who wiggled his way down the wing and into the box. He then slipped a great ball to the Blues leading scorer Denholm Kirkham who fired the ball into the bottom corner.

Pic: Kirkham settles the score for Arlesey

Into the second half all the boys showed some good old fashioned steel to their game and competed for every tackle, every header and every second ball.  They managed to create some good chances but were unable to take them.
   Overall it was good and fair result. The Blues lads have so far realised that unless you put in the effort you can’t expect to get anything out of the game. Today was a great performance from every one of the lads.
   This week’s ‘man of the match’ for the second week running was Maxi Veness was again outstanding in the heart of the defence. Well done Max!

Arlesey: Harding, Berry, Veness, J Talbot, Rejek, Chapman, Smith, Klugman, B Talbot, Howard, Kirkham, Tafe, Towndrow, Gask, Ankers. 

Sunday 19 September 2004
Stortford Rovers 2 Arlesey Town U12 Blues 7

Arlesey won their first Cup tie of the season against a lively Stortford side. After only a minute, a shot from Kirkham across the keeper found the bottom corner.
   Then a fine through ball by Arlesey Captain, Jack Chapman found Robert Howard and whose silky skills put  the Blues 2-1 up. By this time all the Blues were playing great football. Mr ‘dependable’ Rob Howard to make it 3-1 stepped up to the penalty spot to make it 3-1 after Denholm Kirkham had been fouled after a lovely turn.
   In the second half, it was all Arlesey so it was no surprise when they increased their lead. Kirkham rounded the keeper with great composure to place the ball into the corner for 4-1.
   The ever lively Ben Talbot made it 5-1 with a great solo effort. Kirkham then completed his hat- trick with another clever finish 6-1. The Blues ended the game strongly and made it 7-2 after Kirkham for his fourth goal fired the ball into the bottom corner.
   This was Arlesey’s best game for a long while and every player had a great game: Berry, Rejek, Klugman, Tafe, Joe Talbot and Ankers for their tackling and positional play in defence; Chapman, Smith and Ben Talbot for their ‘never say die’ attitude in mid-field; Gask and Harding for some great goalkeeping; Howard and Kirkham for their goals, work rate and great team play; and lastly Veness, today's ‘man of the match’.
   It was his best game for Arlesey at the heart of the defence commanding, tackling, composure, talking, he had it all! Maybe all the lads’ efforts over summer are finally paying off. Well done chaps, long may it continue!

Sunday 12 September 2004
Arlesey Blues 8 Pin Green Juniors 2

Arlesey’s second game of the season was a magnificent 8-2 win over Stevenage side, Pin Green Juniors. The Blues first goal was scored by Ben Talbot with a great right foot volley, after only 5 minutes.
   Arlesey soon moved 2-0 in front after Jordan Klugman controlled the ball, spotted the keeper off his line and chipped the ball over the keeper’s head. On 20 minutes, midfielder Josh Smith made it 3-0 after the keeper only managed to clear a short way out and was chipped again. Sadly as per last week, the Blues let their opponents back into the game with a free header from a corner for 3-1 at half time.
   Into the second half and the Blues let in another goal for 3-2 with only a few minutes gone. The Blues defence of Ashley Berry, Maxi Veness, Jordan Rejek and Matthew Ankers stood firm. A good solo run by Josh Smith made it 4-2. Five minutes later, a fine left foot shot by Jack Chapman made it 5-2.
   Next up to score was Denholm Kirkham after a fine turn and classy finish from 12 yards out. Then a great pass by Ben Talbot found brother Joe Talbot who, under pressure, coolly finished, into the top corner. A brilliant turn and run by Rob Howard ended with him being fouled. From the resulting free kick, Josh Smith completed the rout. Three outstanding performances were played by Andrew Harding (called upon to make three brilliant saves), Trev Tafe (who played his usual steady game) and Josh Towndrow (whose non stop effort set up three goals).
   This week’s ‘man of the match’ was Josh Smith who in one game scored a hat trick, one more goal than his previous two seasons. Well done to the team for a good collective performance but they must continue to listen and defend. They will progress with more effort, effort, and effort. C’mon you blues!
Arlesey: Harding, Ankers Veness, J Talbot, Chapman, Smith, Towndrow, Klugman, Tafe,  B Talbot, Kirkham, Howard, Berry, Rejek, Gask.

Now read Captain Jack Chapman’s version of events here

Sunday 5 September 2004
Arlesey Blues 3 Bishop Stortford 5
Sunday
The Blues’ new season got off to a grim start with a 3-5 defeat against Bishops Stortford. In the first half, Arlesey were in control for much of the match and soon had a two goal lead through a great free kick by Captain Jack Chapman from fully 25 yards and a 20-yarder from Jack Legate.
   If only the Blues could have kept their 2-0 lead until half time but they allowed Stortford to get back in the game 2-1 after some rash defending. Into the second half you could see that the Blues were unhappy in defence and in midfield and it was no surprise when the away team made it 2-2. With their tails up, wave after wave of attacking play from Stortford got closer to the Blues’ goal. Soon Stortford added a third to take the lead.
   If Arlesey had taken their chances in the second half it might have been a different score line with the Blues’ taking more goals to equalize and then take the lead. There was some good play from the Blues and overall everyone gave 100 per cent.
   One great piece of skill by ‘Man of the Match’ Denholm Kirkham was a brilliant 20-yard free kick that sailed into the top corner, just like David Beckham’s goal against Greece at Old Trafford. Defending as a team has to be the Blues’ priority from now on otherwise they will under achieve as they did last year.
   Arlesey: Gask, Berry, Rejek, Veness, Smith, Legate, Chapman, Towndrow, Klugman, Kirkham, Howard. Subs: Ankers, B Talbot, J Talbot, Tafe, Harding.

Now read Captain Jack Chapman’s version of events here

This match was also our ‘featured match’ of the week. Here’s the atyfc.net report ....

Arlesey Blues 3 Bishop Stortford 5

This eight-goal drama was played out in the sweltering heat with both sides giving their all to win the points.
   It was Arlesey who started the game the stronger. Within the first two minutes, Jordan Klugman hit the crossbar. Five minutes later, the Blues were unlucky not to be one up after a scramble in the six yard box as the players continued to pile on the pressure.
   After quarter of an hour, Captain Jack Chapman found the net with a superbly taken Beckham-style free kick from some 25 yards out. Four minutes later, Jack Legate made it two with a fine cross across goal which went in off the bar leaving the poor Stortford keeper with no chance. In the last ten minutes of the first half, Arlesey continued to dominate the game with Stortford struggling to close down Arlesey’s in-form midfield and forward strike force.
   However, in the last minute of the half, Arlesey got a taste of things to come when a Stortford striker won a loose ball to tap into an open Arlesey goal from the edge of the 18-yard box.
   Arlesey made a number of tactical changes for the second half. Stortford returned to the field with more determination spurred on by the late first half goal. However, Ben Talbot was unlucky not to add to Arlesey’s tally with a number of fine shots on the break.
   Yet it was Stortford who started to win the battle for the middle ground. On 40 minutes, they had equalised and five minutes later they took the lead. After 53 minutes they made it 4-2 and the game appeared to be over. Denholm Kirkham scored a brilliant goal from another set piece free-kick just outside the Stortford 18-yard box, only to be cancelled out two minutes later on the stroke of full-time by a goal at the other end. 
   It was almost too hot for playing football yet both teams provided their supporters with much to cheer about. Arlesey seemed unable to repeat anything like their strong first half showing after the break and will need to work hard as a team to keep it together for the long season ahead.

Arlesey: Cask; Berry; Rejek; Smith (Sub – J Towndrow 57 Mins); Vaness; Klugman (Sub – J Talbot 31 Mins) ; Chapman; Towndrow (Sub – T Tafe 39 Mins); Howard; Kirkham (Sub – B Talbot 21 Mins);  Legate (Sub – D Kirkham 31 Mins)

Subs Not Used: Harding; Ankers.

Report and photos for atyfc.net by Alan Howard.

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