Winchmore Hill Football Club

Transcript

Winchmore Hill Football Club Season 2003-2004 First Eleven Results and Match Reports WINCHMORE HILL FOOTBALL CLUB Season 2003-2004 First XI Season 2003-2004 Final League Table – SAL Senior Division One Old Esthameians Old Owens Old Salesians Winchmore Hill Polytechnic Norsemen Civil Service Broomfield Old Actonians Association West Wickham Alleyn Old Boys HSBC P 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 W 15 12 12 10 11 11 9 8 7 7 7 2 D 1 4 2 6 1 1 5 4 5 5 4 4 L 6 6 8 6 10 10 8 10 10 10 11 16 F 57 49 52 35 49 44 35 36 42 22 27 26 A 11 31 39 31 41 41 33 43 43 26 42 60 D 13 18 13 4 8 3 2 -7 -1 -4 -15 -34 Pt 46 40 38 36 34 34 32 28 26 26 25 10 Relegated Relegated Results 06 13 20 27 04 11 18 25 01 08 15 22 29 06 13 20 10 17 24 07 28 13 20 27 03 14 17 01 Sept Sept Sept Sept Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec Dec Dec Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Apr Apr Apr May Old Foresters Old Hamptonians Old Actonians Old Owens Old Esthameians Civil Service West Wickham Old Actonians Old Ignatians Broomfield Mill Hilll County Broomfield HSBC BB Eagles Old Esthameians Norsemen Polytechnic West Wickham Alleyn Old Boys Nottsborough Old Owens Old Salesians Broomfield Alleyn Old Boys Civil Service Polytechnic HSBC Old Salesians Greenland Cup Greenland Cup SAL SAL SAL SAL SAL SAL AFA Middlesex Cup SAL AFA Senior Cup AFA Middlesex Cup SAL AFA Senior Cup SAL SAL AFA Senior Cup SAL SAL AFA Senior Cup SAL SAL SAL SAL SAL SAL SAL SAL away Civil away home away away home home away home away away away home home away home away home home away home away away home home home away won won draw won won won drew lost won drew won lost won won lost won drew won drew lost lost drew lost won drew won won won 5– 2– 2– 2– 2– 2– 0– 0– 4– 1– 13 – 2– 3– 2– 1– 4– 1– 2– 1– 1– 0– 1– 1– 1– 2– 1– 41– 0 1 2 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 0 3 0 0 2 0 1 1 1 2 4 1 2 0 2 0 2 0 Gleave, Nathan, Penfold (pen), Hurst, Gower Hurst 2 Hurst, Foley Penfold, Nathan Penfold 2 og, Nathan Strouts, Hurst 3 Nathan Hurst 6, Strouts, Penfold 3, Jackman 2, Gower Foley, Nathan Penfold 2, Hurst Penfold (pen), Hurst Penfold Penfold 3, 1og Hurst won on penalties Hurst, Chaters Penfold Hurst og Hurst Gleave Gupta, Darwin Willis Newton, Willis, Nathan 2 Penfold The details of the matches against Polytechnic and Norsemen are not known, although calculating from the league table proves that we lost both matches, scoring four goals and conceding nine. Match Reports Old Foresters 0 Winchmore Hill 5 AFA Greenland Trophy Saturday 6 September Report from Martin Gleave After a convincing win against local rivals Norsemen and a hard fought draw against Hale End Athletic, the Hill faced Old Foresters of the Arthurian League, knowing a convincing victory was required if we were to progress to the final of the Greenland Trophy. After three games at Firs Farm, a decent pitch to complement Winchmore's attacking play was the order of the day. The fact we couldn't find the pitch wasn't ideal preparation. With the gaffer on a different page of the A to Z, skipper G stuck somewhere in Docklands and the rest of us at the correct school but still unable to find the pitch or the changing rooms – things were not looking good. An impromptu game of hopscotch helped pass the time - Mark Gower claiming victory, although I don't remember shirt pulling being in the rules. When we eventually found the ground, it was a pleasant surprise, a top drawer pitch - plus we didn't have to put the nets up. Encouraged by the excellent passing surface, the Hill started the game at a great tempo, winning every challenge and dominating all areas of the game. The breakthrough came after 15 minutes when Michael Nathan cleverly nodded back across goal for Martin Gleave to tuck the ball home from 6 yards. The visitors' confidence was personified by Barry Chaters at the back and when the opposition's centre forward tells you you're playing like Franco Baresi, you know you're having a good game. With Cruyff turns deemed "so last year", Barry has introduced the header back to the keeper as his new skill of the day. Works great on a rock hard pitch in September, let's see what happens on a waterlogged pitch in January. Winchmore doubled their lead when Hasani Thomas, our new Trinidad & Tobago all-rounder who has managed to get a work permit ahead of next week's Presidents Cricket match, played Michael Nathan through and he made no mistake. Neil Hurst then had a trademark header disallowed for what appeared to be a perfectly legitimate goal. The counter attacking play of the visitors was irrepressible however with Ben Penfold providing pace and directness on the right, complimented by a marauding George Wainwright. The score remained 2-0 at the half, although this flattered the hosts who never really threatened the visitors' defence. Half time did disrupt the flow of Winchmore's attacking play, and Old Foresters to their credit did come more into the game at the start of the second half. After an even 20 minutes the lead was extended though when Mark Gower found Gleave who mis-controlled, stumbled, attempted a Cruyff turn Barry would have been embarrassed of, and then was nudged over in the area - penalty given. Ben "David Dunn" Penfold stepped forward and slotted home. Knowing goal difference could decide the group, Winchmore flooded forward. A lightning counter attack led to Neil Hurst picking up the ball in the inside left channel. The summer break has not stinted his eye for goal and the ball was driven home to make the score 4-0. The emphatic performance was sealed with 10 minutes to go when the offside trap was sprung and who arrived in the penalty area but yours truly, Mark Gower - who tucked the ball home with the confidence of a man who has scored more goals in 4 games this season than he did all last year. A final against Old Hamptonians waits next week - they will be looking to make amends for the Middlesex Cup semi-final defeat last season, whilst Winchmore Hill will be looking to capture their third trophy of 2003. Winchmore Hill 2 Old Hamptonians 1 The W.E. Greenland Cup Final Saturday 13 September at Civil Service F.C. Report from Martin Gleave Old Hamptonians must be thinking purple is their unlucky colour. In almost a carbon copy of the Middlesex Cup Semi Final the Hill edged last season a hard fought match with another late winner. Played at Civil Service, on a huge pitch in searing heat, this was always going to be a test of a side's fitness and stamina - a marathon not a sprint. Which was a good job, because Old Hamptonians were out of the blocks like Harvey, Winchmore more like Bobby Davro? Chasing shadows is the term that comes to mind when you look back on the first half an hour of the game. On a difficult surface, Hamptonians used the width of the pitch to great effect and attacked from all angles. The goal they deserved came when Kieren Hutchings was caught in two minds (whether to bowl off spin or seam up on Sunday) and the centre forward blocked his clearance to roll the ball into an empty net. This did provide a wakeup call to Winchmore and they started to get a foothold in the game. By the time the half-time whistle went the game had become more even but the Hill still found themselves one down. The second half was a different matter. Following a dressing down from the manager, Winchmore started well and took the game to the opposition. Confidence grew and the Hill started to dominate possession. The equaliser came from a Gleave corner, Neil Hurst rising to head home emphatically. Chances to win the game were created and spurned, the best of which fell to Ben Penfold who was played clean through by Foley. The Hamptonians keeper stood tall and did enough to foil the chance. With extra time looking inevitably a free kick was awarded 25 yards out and Neil Hurst stepped up and drove the ball into the 6-yard box. The ball made its way through the crowd and to the relief of every Winchmore player (and maybe a couple of Hamptonians too) nestled in the bottom corner. With just 30 seconds to go, victory was guaranteed. The victory stands us in good stead for next week's league opener away to Old Actonians, although a warning must be heeded from last year's winners of this trophy, Old Owens. They followed up their Greenland Cup success with 3 consecutive league defeats. Old Actonians 2 Winchmore Hill 2 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 20 September Report from Martin Gleave Winchmore Hill's first game in the top flight of the SAL for eight years found them travelling to West London to take on Old Actonians, a side who were looking to kick start their season after losing to Norsemen in the first game of the season. The Hill went into the game without the services of both Barry Chaters and Michael Nathan - both fast tracked into the MCC winter academy down under after impressive performances last Sunday. Paul Strauts and Jack Newton came into the side, emphasising the strength in depth that will be needed this season. Preparations were further disrupted when Hasani Thomas turned up at the ground with a newly cultivated Afro and a crocked knee. A failed fitness test before the game meant Actonians weren't going to be seeing the "Trinidad lollipop" - Joe Hackworth replacing Hasani at late notice and performing admirably in an unaccustomed position. In searing heat the game started at a fast pace, both sides trying to gain the ascendancy in midfield. Old Actonians put together a few neat passing moves without really threatening the Hill goal. As the half wore on, Winchmore started to create chances with Jack Newton unsettling the home side's defence. Hurst and Foley both created chances for themselves before Newton earned himself a free kick on the edge of the home side's penalty area. Neil Hurst stepped up and drilled the ball home with his left foot to give the Hill a deserved lead. The visitors could have doubled their lead before half time, a Gleave free kick headed back across goal by Hurst but just out reach of Ben Willis. Winchmore went in at half time one up and confident that they could build on the hard earned advantage. Old Actonians had other ideas though and claimed the equaliser from an early corner. A half cleared header was hit home from short range to give the home side the perfect start to the second half. This proved to be a turning point of the game, with Winchmore on the back foot for the next twenty minutes. Actonians took the lead with a neat finish from a tight angle and continued to pile on the pressure. Keiren Hutchings kept the Hill in the contest with a string of fine saves - smothering at the feet of the Actonians centre forward after he had waltzed through the Hill defence far too easily and then tipping over a fine free kick. It took until the last fifteen minutes for the visitors to get back into the game. Ben Willis twisted and turned in the box (yes Willis, not Penfold) and forced a good save from the keeper who tipped the ball onto the post and from the resulting corner Hurst came close. Neil then set up Shane Foley, probably the cleanest striker of the ball in the side, only for Martin Gleave, a close second to Gower at the other end of the scale, to take the ball off his toes and clear the crossbar. Foley was not to be denied though and his long distance strike was helped into the net by a generous deflection. The Hill almost won it at the death when a great cross from the left by Hurst somehow evaded everyone and rolled harmlessly wide. In fairness a draw was probably the right result, with both sides enjoying periods of prolonged pressure and creating clear-cut chances. The game will hopefully act as a wakeup call to the Hill, who after a successful preseason, were brought down to earth in the second half by a stirring fight back from the home side. Winchmore Hill 2 Old Owens 1 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 27 September Report from Martin Gleave When Ian Holloway recently described his QPR side's performance in 'gentleman's terms' using these words, he could very easily have been describing Winchmore Hill's performance last Saturday against Old Owens: "Some weeks the lady is good looking and some weeks they're not. Our performance today would not have been the best looking bird but at least we got her in the taxi." It certainly wasn't pretty but the end result was a hard earned 3 points against an excellent Owens side who will be closer to the top than the bottom of the league come May. Our first game at the Paulin ground this season was played on a surface more akin to that normally found at Firs Farm - bone dry, bumpy and offering no assistance to the footballing purists - in other words, perfect for the Hill! It was just a shame Mark Gower was left to look on from the side lines at his ideal surface due to a chest injury. Michael Nathan returned to partner Jack Newton up front, Shane 'Engine' Foley dropping (way back) into midfield to partner Gleave. With Paul Strauts also unavailable, ex Haltwhistle Crown Paints defender, Barry Chaters came back into the side to instill his own brand of composed defending. In a carbon copy of last season's Middlesex Cup game, Old Owens started the game at a tremendous tempo and the Hill did their best "startled rabbit" impressions. The first twenty minutes were spent almost entirely in the home side's half with Owens dominating possession and creating a number of chances. The away side shaved the post with a diving header and had four corners in succession, the last of which brought a shout of "Are Winchmore Hill going to start playing today?" from one of our loyal supporters behind the goal. This did bring a response from Winchmore and possession became more even. Jack Newton held the ball up well and allowed the Hill midfield to get into the game. 50-50 challenges were now starting to be won by those in purple, Shane Foley leading the way. On the back of this a number of chances were created and the long throws of Neil Hurst were causing havoc in the Owens defence. From such a throw, a scramble in the 6-yard box allowed Ben Penfold to stab home - as Holloway said, sometimes it's not pretty. The Owens defenders were incensed that the goal had been given, one of their players took the protests a bit too far for the referee's liking and the ensuing red card allowing him to join the Winchmore Hill life members in the bar for afternoon drinks a little earlier than anticipated. Ben Penfold had a great chance to extend the lead when played clean through just before the half. Having recovered from what can only be described as a temper tantrum last week, the sight of a rejuvenated Penner's bearing down on goal looked like it would only result in one outcome. A combination of a huge bobble and a bit of shin meant the chance went awry though. This meant the Hill went in at half time one up, without playing particularly well. The second half followed a similar pattern to the first and despite Old Owens being down to 10 men, they still had a large amount of possession. Winchmore did grow into the game and created a number of chances but the quality of passing was simply not good enough when it mattered most. The second Hill goal was again a scrappy affair, the lively Michael Nathan latching onto a short back pass and finishing from a tight angle. With 20 minutes to go, it was hoped this would provide the platform to go on. Neil Hurst, who is hoping to get a new knee as a house warming present, produced a couple of trademark runs but the Owens keeper was not forced into a good save. With 10 minutes to go, slack marking allowed the Owens midfielder to get a clean strike away from 25 yards, a chance he took to place the ball in the top corner. This led to a nervous last period for the Hill as the visitors threw caution to the wind. It took some resolute defending from the back four of Wainwright, Chaters, Willis and Hackworth (quickly realising his left foot is not just for standing on) and some excellent keeping from Kieren to maintain out slender lead. The final whistle brought relief for the home side, tinged with an air of disappointment due to a performance that was not up to the standards that were set last season. The positives that can be taken from the game though are that we have beaten a strong side without playing particularly well (one of many clichés banded around in the bar after) and that hopefully Gower will be back next week so I don't have to do Shane's running again. Old Esthameians 1 Winchmore Hill 2 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 4 October Report from Martin Gleave After last week's game, Old Owens described the Paulin Ground as the worst they have played on this season. They obviously have the delights of the Blake Hall Sports Ground in Wanstead to look forward to. The Winchmore team turned up to find a pitch that made Crouch End's "Theatre of Burnt Out Cars" look like Wembley. In now customary fashion, the whole squad (minus Ben Willis, en route, en phone) turned up at the ground an hour and a half before kick-off. This gave us the chance to watch a load of kids chase a bobbling ball around at the morning soccer school (the future of route one football is safe if all kids have to play on surfaces like that) and hear about the exploits of East Barnet High School Year 9 and 10 school teams from the Sven Goran Erikkson and Tord Grip of Enfield Borough - Messrs Chaters and Penfold. Andy Russell introduced a new exercise in the warm up (coming soon to a Ben Penfold P.E. Class), bouncing the ball 20 yards up in the air for us to head. A very astute bit of coaching, as we spent the next 90 minutes doing exactly the same. After the coke cans, take away wrappers, plastic knife and fork and dog dirt were removed from the field the ground almost looked like a football pitch. Mark Gower returned from injury and Michael Nathan had recovered from his bout with a corner flag (he was punching above his weight) to able to take his place in the starting line up. Jack Newton was unlucky to drop to the bench after a good performance last week. Kicking with the wind, rain and attacking downhill the Hill looked to take the game to the hosts. It was clear from the start that this was not going to be a game for the Winchmore artists - Gower setting out his intentions after approximately 4 seconds with his first foul of the game. After an early bout of pinball, Ben Penfold intercepted a clearance and advanced on the Esthameians goal. From 25 yards he crashed in a tremendous strike off the underside of the crossbar, in the words of George Wainwright - it was a "Different Gravy Gear". This led to a good spell of play from the visitors, Neil Hurst going close with a far post header following good play from Foley. Esthameians did create chances though, Kieren pulling off a fingertip save when the full back was given too much time to get a shot on target. The hosts drew level when a free kick was not fully cleared and a good strike from the edge of the area found the bottom corner through a crowd of players. The rest of the first half was an even affair and the teams went in level. The second half was played almost entirely in the Winchmore half. Esthameians did create chances but it is to the credit of the Hill back four that Kieren was not overly stretched. He did have a fair bit of kicking practice though, luckily Neil Hurst was on hand after about his 14th goal kick to let him know he should "put his foot through it" - cheers Hursty. With four minutes to go, Ben Penfold charged down the keeper's clearance and as the rest of the team watched on from the half way line, Penfold followed up the rebound of the crossbar and out-jumped the 6'4" goalie to nod home. The ref was perfectly positioned on the centre spot to give the goal. There was still time for a late scare when Joe Hackworth got a bit too friendly with the winger in his own box but luck was on our side and a hard earned victory was secured. Civil Service 1 Winchmore Hill 2 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 11 October Report from Martin Gleave On another Saturday when temperatures were more akin to July than October, the Hill took their unbeaten record to Chiswick to take on Civil Service, a side they defeated last season on their way to AFA triumph. After two successive victories where the final score has been more impressive than the performance, Winchmore were looking for an improvement all round. The sight of Ben "Robert Molenaar" Willis with shirt tucked into briefs (on mobile phone naturally) in the middle of the pitch before the game was not an improvement. Andy Russell kept faith with the eleven that started last week, although this was a game where all fourteen players were to play an important part. When the game kicked off, the Hill looked like every outfield player would have failed one of the FA's doping tests. In every area of the huge pitch, the visitors were second best. In particular the three-man midfield of the home side was finding far too much space, feeding the lively forward pairing. After 15 minutes a free kick on the right somehow managed to evade every defender in purple and at the far post the Civil Service winger got in front of Joe "Dave Challinor" Hackworthy to fire past Kieren. The dreadful start defensively was matched by an inability to maintain possession going forward. Struggling to string three passes together, good positions in the opposing side were wasted and Winchmore didn't give the home side's keeper any work to do. Civil Service were rampant and really should have extended their lead. A combination of last ditch, Rigobert Song-esque defending and some poor finishing kept the score at one. One fine move left the Service midfielder one on one with Kieren on the edge of the 6-yard box. Credit Kieren for a good save, but the score should really have been two. The half time whistle couldn't come soon enough for the Hill. Andy Russell, not normally the teacup throwing type, was as angry as one of Neil Hurst's new neighbours about eight hours later. George "Tim Breaker" Wainwright was the one to make way for Paul Strauts as Winchmore switched to 3-5-2 although it could have easily been any of the ten outfield players. The change in formation did make a big difference to the game and Winchmore started to dominate without creating any clear-cut chances. It was Civil Service who had the best chance to score, blazing over the bar from 8 yards out. Jack Newton and Mario replaced Mark Gower and Neil Hurst with fifteen minutes to go in an attempt to get the vital breakthrough. When it came, it was bizarre. A long clearance went all the way through to the Service keeper, who cleared the ball first time. The ball hit the centre half flush on the backside on the 18 yard box and flew into the back of the net, without a Hill player within 20 yards. Saying Winchmore Hill have been a tad lucky this season is a bit like saying Alpay Ozalan will be a little unwelcome at Dave Beckham's mum's place on the weekend. This spurred the visitors belatedly into action and Martin Gleave found Michael Nathan, thankfully minus Alice band. Michael beat the full back and advanced on goal, before coolly slotting home in the far corner. Amazingly, Winchmore could have run out 4-1 winners - Paul "Ronny Rosenthal" Strouts missed the target from 4 yards (it was a tight angle) and Michael Nathan spurned a far easier chance just minutes after putting us in front. The victory was secured, even though Winchmore had to call on the ever dependable Kieren "Gary Bailey" Hutchings to tip over following a free kick with seconds remaining. Winchmore had again performed their customary smash and grab - ten points from twelve putting them second in the table behind local rivals Broomfield. If they are to stay near the top of the table, their performances will have to improve. Winchmore Hill 0 West Wickham 0 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 18 October Report from Martin Gleave Winchmore Hill’s second home game of the season found them entertaining West Wickham, the side who had run them so close for the second division championship last season. The sides had experienced differing fortunes so far this season, Winchmore Hill were a victory away from the top of the table whereas Wickham had only managed one win and a single goal in their first five games. Mark Gower had failed to recover from a heel injury so Paul Strauts took his place in the centre of midfield. This was the only change to the starting line-up that had won last week. The Hill started the game kicking with the wind, hoping to get the early breakthrough that would provide the platform for victory. The surface at the Paulin is in desperate need of some heavy rain. The hard ground did not help Winchmore's attempts to stamp their authority on the game. The surface can only be blamed to a certain extent however, the team as a whole need to match their work ethic with their quality in possession. West Wickham defended resolutely and in great numbers with chances few and far between. The best chance of the first half fell to Michael Nathan, who intercepted a weak pass and bore down on the Wickham goal. Michael rounded the keeper but was unable to squeeze the ball home. Credit must be given to the keeper, who remained on his feet long enough to force the miss. Barry Chaters fired over following a Gleave corner in the Hill's only other noticeable chance of the half. Attacking the clubhouse in the second half, Winchmore raised the tempo in an attempt to secure the vital first goal. Chances were still at a premium however and credit must be given to the Wickham defending for this. Jack Newton was brought on for the injured Joe Hackworth and this coincided with the Hill's best period of pressure. Neil Hurst and Martin Gleave both provided crosses which flashed across the face of the Wickham goal but drifted harmlessly wide. Winchmore did not manage to create a clear-cut chance and the game fizzled out disappointingly. On the positive side, this was Winchmore's first clean sheet of the league campaign and the defending by the back four was resolute when required, Hutchings not having a save of note to make. With another home game next week, Andy Russell will hopefully be introducing a rain dance as part of the warm down in training this week. Winchmore Hill 0 Old Actonians Association 1 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 25 October Report from Martin Gleave This game had it all. A captive audience watching from the clubhouse were treated to some sublime skills from Kieren Hutchings, a cameo appearance from Neil Hurst and a stunning hat trick from Shane Foley. Just a pity all this took place in a game of "crossbars" during the warm up. The Hill's second consecutive home game found them entertaining Old Actonians, a side they had drawn 2-2 with on the opening day of the season. Joe Hackworth had not recovered from his injury sustained last week so Peter Gyles replaced him at left back, encouraged from the side lines by his chairman / old man. With the memories of last weeks 0-0 draw still fresh in the memory, Winchmore started the game determined to take the game to the visitors. A flowing move inside five minutes led to the first chance. The ball was switched from left to right and eventually found George Wainwright who had stolen in on the right hand side. George could have crossed to the far post but opted instead to try and pinch an early lead for the Hill. The Actonians keeper easily saved his shot and a great chance to end his epic goal drought had disappeared. Winchmore continued to push forward in search of the breakthrough. Gleave played through Michael Nathan only for the keeper to palm away to safety and then Neil Hurst had a cracking drive tipped round the post when it looked like the keeper had been beaten. The frustration of not making the breakthrough started to affect the Hill's play, and as a result Old Actonians started to get more into the game. By the time the half time whistle went, the game was evenly balanced. Attacking the clubhouse in the second half, the Hill again had the upper hand in terms of possession and Kieren was hardly called into action. Ben Willis and Barry Chaters in particular, were equal to the few attacks that Actonians launched. An Old Actonians substitution half way through the second period brought them more into the game, and the game became more stretched. The best Hill chance of the second half fell to Paul Strauts who timed his run into the box perfectly. His shot from the edge of the box wrong footed the keeper who could only parry the shot (again). The rebound was cleared and the chance had gone. Almost immediately Actonians went down the other end and clinched the winner. A neat turn and strike from the forward found the ball nestled in the bottom corner, giving Kieren no chance. With only 10 minutes left Winchmore piled forward but for all their pressure the goal they deserved did not arrive. The final whistle brought the Hill's first defeat of the season, the second consecutive game without a goal. The performance was a marked improvement on last week's goalless draw however and a little bit of luck could have led to a different result. With a break from the league next week a return to winning ways is required in the Middlesex Cup - the competition Winchmore were beaten finalists in last season. Old Ignatians 1 Winchmore Hill 4 AFA Middlesex Senior Cup Saturday 1 November Report from Martin Gleave The first break from league duty of the season found the Hill making the short journey up the A10 to face Old Ignatians in the Middlesex Cup. A local derby anyway, this game was given extra spice by the fact the Winchmore line-up contained three bona-fide "Old Ignatians". Neil Hurst, Kieren Hutchings and debut making Shane Mullins were re-acquainting themselves with Rupert, Quentin, Crispin and the rest of their old chums. Manager Andy Russell made a tactical switch before the game. Ben Penfold moved up front to partner Michael Nathan with Shane Foley dropping back into midfield. Paul Strouts moved to right midfield to provide balance, not quite the diamond formation that was talked about in the clubhouse last week - more of a triangle with Foley's work rate. A windswept Enfield Playing fields was the location for the cup-tie, conditions perfect for a cup upset. Winchmore, finalists in this competition last season, started the game kicking into the strong wind and almost got off to a dream start. Ben Penfold latched onto a through ball and hammered the ball against the crossbar, almost an action replay of his effort against Esthameians. Unfortunately this time the ball rebounded to safety. The Hill tried to impose themselves on the game but a combination of tricky conditions and a spirited Ignatians side made for an even first half. Kieren Hutchings was only brought into action on one occasion in the half, getting down low to block a drive from the edge of the box. The half ended 0-0, a fair reflection of a tight 45 minutes. The Hill turned round and attacked with the wind in the second half, looking to break their two-week goal drought. When a goal did come though, it was for Old Ignatians. A free header from 8 yards out met a far post free kick, giving Hutchings no chance. The inquest into who was meant to be picking the scorer up was finally resolved in the dressing room after the game, when Barry Chaters admitted to his first mistake in two seasons (his words). This was the jolt that Winchmore needed and their passion and desire to get back into the game cannot be questioned. In the case of Michael Nathan, this was taken to the extreme - the Enfield Grammar / Ignatians school rivalry must run deep if the vacant, possessed look on Mike's face in the second half is anything to go by. Luckily, Shane was on hand to appease the situation - honestly he was, I saw it with my own eyes. The Hill got back on level terms from a short free kick taken by Foley to the overlapping Shane Mullins whose excellent cross was bundled home. One for the dubious goals committee, Paul Strouts was later claiming the goal (with an air of desperation) - he is clearly from the Gower and Gleave School of goal scoring. From here on in, this was the Neil Hurst show. Malcolm Macdonald may have bitten the hand that used to feed him when he scored for Arsenal against Newcastle in the 1970's, Hurst had a bit of arm too. From a skied clearance he picked up a Gleave header 30 yards out, advanced ten yards and found the top corner with a sweet left foot strike. Winchmore were in the ascendancy now, superior fitness creating numerous chances. Foley fed the excellent George Wainwright and his pinpoint cross found Hurst at the far post who finished with a trademark header. Hurst's hat trick was complete when he picked up a loose pass just inside the Ignatians half, beat two men and calmly slotted past the advancing keeper. Unfortunately he did so with his left foot, missing out on the "true" hat-trick of left foot, right foot, head. At 4-1 the game was won, but the Hill still had chances to extend their lead. Ben Penfold, who had caused problems for the home side all day, should have got the goal he deserved when he beat two men but screwed his shot wide. Gleave should have then provided Penfold with the goal he still deserved minutes later but opted to slice the ball into the hedge instead of finding the unmarked Penners six yards out. Credit must be given to Old Ignatians who made a real battle of this game. Their lowly league position is certainly not due to a lack of effort, from start to finish they competed for every challenge. A fine second half performance though ensured the Hill advance into the next round of the cup. The whole side battled well as a team with Ben Penfold and George Wainwright prominent. The day belonged to Neil Hurst though, who probably won't be getting an invite to the old boys reunion at Ignatians. Winchmore Hill 1 Broomfield 1 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 8 November Report from Martin Gleave Local rivals Broomfield brought their 100 % record to the Paulin ground, looking to build on an excellent start to the season. Winchmore went into the game buoyed by a convincing cup win last time out, and eager to start climbing the table again. Pete Gyles came back in at the merry-go-round that is left back for Winchmore Hill 1s. The Hill started the game at a great tempo, taking the game to the visitors through a combination of composed passing in possession and great energy when trying to get it back. It was no surprise when chances started to come the way of the home side. Following a neat interchange of passing Shane Foley found Ben Penfold in the penalty area with a delightful pass. One on one with the keeper, Ben couldn't find the net - but credit must be given to the keeper for a good block. Winchmore were dominating the half and a Gleave pass found Michael Nathan through on goal. When he might have shot Michael squared to Penners, who was as surprised as anyone. With the keeper out of position it was the full back this time who denied him with a great block. Neil Hurst then hit the post with a far post header from a corner, the Hill doing everything but score. The breakthrough finally came via a long ball from Pete Gyles which Michael Nathan chased down and hooked over the keeper from the tightest of angles. The hardest chance of the half had been converted to give the Hill a deserved lead. Broomfield only threatened from set pieces, a far post header narrowly clearing the crossbar. The only downside of an excellent first half performance was an injury to Pete Gyles when he landed awkwardly on his back following an aerial challenge. Not awkwardly enough however to warrant the high pitch squeal which was barely audible to the human ear but provided extra discomfort to Mike Bowen's dog on bonfire weekend. Pete was fit enough to start the second half, or at least we all told him he was when we realised it would have meant one of us playing left back. Winchmore started the second half in exactly the same fashion as the first, Foley in particular prominent in midfield. Anyone who didn't know him would think he might be getting a bit of fitness. Broomfield did raise their game in the second half, as would be expected from a side with a 100 % record. Their front three in particular started to cause problems for the Hill defence. Pete Gyles finally conceded to his injury and was replaced by Mark Gower - returning after a three-week absence through injury at his favoured left back position. It didn't take him long to get back into the swing of things - a man who couldn't be more of a soldier if you stuck him in the toaster, buttered him and dunked him in a boiled egg (thanks Cappy, been waiting 3 weeks to use that one), he made himself familiar to their midfield artist courtesy of a left boot to the midriff, and became the first Hill player into the Ref's notebook. Gower was later followed into the Ref's notebook by Shane Foley (comical handball) and Kieren Hutchings (long distance swearing at Ref). The ensuing free kick was lifted into the Winchmore area and Kieren's attempts to claim it were clearly obstructed by the arm of the Broomfield attacker. Everyone in the ground saw it apart from the man that counted. The Hill were extremely unfortunate to find themselves back on level terms. The goal spurred Broomfield on and they showed glimpses of why they have won every game so far this season. The Hill, in contrast, went into their shell and for 20 minutes were second best. To their credit they did come back into the game in the final 10 minutes and should have won it. Good work by Neil Hurst found Ben Penfold in space in the area. His drive was inches wide; on another day he could have had a hat trick. It wasn't to be and Winchmore walked off knowing this was definitely 3 points dropped, rather than a point gained. Mill Hill County 0 Winchmore Hill 13 AFA Senior Cup Saturday 15 November Report from Martin Gleave The defence of the AFA Senior Cup began away against Mill Hill County. The ground proved about as hard to find as the team on the Amateur Football Combination Website. Working down the leagues from the Premier Division, you had to go as far as Division 4 North to find Mill Hill sitting in 3rd place. George Wainwright, early arrival at the ground, was met by an opponent carrying a wheelbarrow full of soil to fill in the huge craters on the pitch telling him that they had been entered in the wrong cup. In terms of cup upsets, if Mill Hill were to triumph against the cup holders, it would rival non-league Hereford's triumph against the mighty Newcastle in the 1971/72 FA Cup courtesy of Ronnie Radford's 30 yard strike in a jersey two sizes too small. We had our own "SuperMac" too in Neil Hurst. There is no "I" in team, but there is "I rule" in Neil Hurst. In an outstanding display of finishing, Hurst scored the first 6 Winchmore Hill goals. The ball got rolling after 10 minutes when Hurst finished off a good move involving Michael Nathan and Shane Foley. With the Hill dominating possession chances came thick and fast. The lead was doubled 10 minutes later when Hurst finished at the second attempt after hitting the bar. His hat trick was completed when he was set up by Gleave to finish at the far post. Mill Hill did show good spirit in the first half and may have got on the score sheet if one of a number of crosses had been converted by more accurate headers. The second half was a much more one-sided affair with Winchmore spending almost the entire half in the host's half. Hurst notched his fourth with a header from a Michael Nathan cross and his fifth from a far post header from a corner. The Neil Hurst show (really getting bored of writing Hurst now) was completed when he tried desperately to set someone else up but was faced with just the keeper to beat from 6 yards out. A magnificent individual effort, and he managed to get a true hat trick in there somewhere along the way with a left foot and right foot strike along with a header. Paul Strauts notched the crucial seventh goal from a scrappy corner and wheeled away in celebration "Antonio Careca Mexico 1986" style, providing more evidence that he is a man that really doesn't score very often. Ben Penfold got on the score sheet when set up by Hurst (thought I'd finished mentioning his name). Dwayne Jackman fancied winning another cup winners medal and made his first appearance of the season, replacing Michael Nathan. Dwayne scored with a neat finish across the keeper after being set up by Gleave. Penfold doubled his tally and got his hat trick when Shane Mullan, on for Pete Gyles, spotted his run across the defender from the far post and delivered a pinpoint cross into the box for Penner's to nod home. Or in Shane's words "I just kicked it." With the score at 11-0, the team lined up for the kick off to hear Shane Foley say "Let's not get cocky now". This from the man who had just attempted a scissors volley from the edge of the box when he had time to bring the ball down, make himself a brew and slot the ball home. Dwayne showed another glimpse of what we saw last season, out-pacing the now exhausted defence and finishing coolly. Mark Gower had replaced Neil Hurst and proved that anyone can score from left midfield. Leaving his touchline he streaked into the box, pushed Dwayne off the ball as he was about to complete his hat trick and shovelled the ball home from 4 yards. Still, at least he didn't celebrate like Paul Strauts. The final word has got to go to the Mill Hill centre half though. With 5 minutes left on the clock, the Ref spotted his earring and asked him whether he had been wearing it all game. "Nah, I put it on at half time" he replied. Fair play if you have still got a sense of humour when you're 13 -0 down. Research into such large victories has revealed that Winchmore Hill have won 13 – 0 on two previous occasions, both in Cup matches and both during the Second World War. In March 1943 the Hill beat Old Aloyesians 13 – 0 with the Winchmore Hill forward, Jennings, finding the back of the net no less than ten times, and on 21 October 1944 Winchmore Hill beat Broomfield 13 - 0 with Elmer scoring six. Could this be an omen for next week’s Middlesex Cup tie? Broomfield 3 Winchmore Hill 2 (After extra time – score at 90 minutes 2-2) AFA Middlesex Senior Cup Saturday 22 November Report from Martin Gleave While anyone with any sense was tackling their 6th pint by 12-30pm in the comfy confines of a boozer, basking in the glory of the rugby, Winchmore 1s instead made the short trip to Broomfield in the incessant rain to take on their local rivals in the second round of the Middlesex Cup. As the squad gathered in the dressing room Andy Russell announced two changes to the normal set up. A revolutionary 1-2-1-4-2 formation was introduced along with some individually labelled "energy" drinks for each player, the colour of which differed for each of us. Just glad I didn't have Hursty or Shane's - they looked a bit too much like the preferred tipple of a rugger bugger. The game was to bear a remarkable resemblance to the corresponding fixture two weeks ago. Winchmore started the game at a tremendous pace, pressuring Broomfield in all area of the pitch. It was Kieren who was the first keeper brought into action though, making a flying save following a sharp strike from the lively striker. Winchmore began to dominate the game and chances were created. Martin Gleave had a diving header tipped round the post by the keeper and both Ben Penfold and Neil Hurst flashed crosses agonisingly across the box, just evading both Michael Nathan and Dwayne Jackman. The deserved lead came when Gleave played Penfold into space and Shane Foley converted his cross from 6 yards. Winchmore continued to press throughout the half, Shane brushing off the disappointment of Australia being beaten by England and the opposition's taunting ("Pick up the Fat midfielder, he's running the show" harsh but fair) to put in an excellent display. Winchmore created a number of chances and when half time came, we were disappointed to be just the single goal up. The second half started in the same fashion, the Hill comfortably in control and pushing for the decisive second goal. Unfortunately, in a carbon copy of the game two weeks ago between these sides, Broomfield got back into the game via a scrappy set piece. A corner was not cleared and was eventually stabbed home from close range. Winchmore were stunned further when Broomfield took the lead through another scrappy goal. With time ticking away the Hill finally got the equalise their efforts deserved, Gleave picking up the loose ball and playing Michael Nathan in and he finished via a deflection - a bit of luck that the Hill deserved for their efforts. At the final whistle the ref called upon his extensive meteorological experience and with one glance upwards informed us that there was enough time for 20 minutes extra time before it went dark. Extra time was full of end-to-end action, both sides having chances to snatch victory. When the goal came it went to Broomfield, in the cruelest of fashions. Football can be harsh, and in the space of a week Neil Hurst has experienced the highs and lows. After scoring a record equalling 6 last week in the AFA Cup, Neil was unfortunate to get a bout of the "Andy Varley's " this week and deflected a free kick past Kieren. With less than 5 minutes to go this was to be the decider. The Hill still pushed forward and Neil almost made amends when he flashed the ball across the goal, the ball again rolling harmlessly across goal. It was not to be and the Hill were left with nothing for their efforts except for a filthy kit to clean and in my case, a shiner that matched the Hill's club colours perfectly. A prize is still available for the 100th person to say to me "Had a row with the missus have you?" HSBC 0 Winchmore Hill 3 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 29 November Report from Martin Gleave A pitch like Wembley, a great bar in the clubhouse and even soap dispensers in the showers. With all this just a ten-minute drive from home, meaning I could watch all of Soccer AM for a change begs the question - what the hell am I doing playing for Winchmore Hill! Ninety minutes of football was enough to answer that question (although that pitch is amazing). The only change to the side was the return of Mark Gower for Dwayne Jackman. Don't panic, it wasn't a straight swap - even if Gower will point out that he is the 4th top scorer in the side. Ben Penfold moved up front to partner Michael Nathan and Mark was asked to cover the wide-open spaces at wingback (square peg, round hole - his words). The warm up was full of comments like "If you can't play on this, you can't play anywhere". Naturally, the first 10 minutes were then littered with some dreadful passing by the visitors and the Hill could have easily gone behind. Struggling to come to terms with a strong wind in their face and their own 3-5-2 formation on such a huge pitch, Winchmore had Kieren to thank for keeping the scores level, tipping a firm header round the post from point blank range - a top class save. A succession of corners by the home side kept the pressure on and it took 20 minutes before the Hill managed to get a foothold in the game. A free kick 10 yards inside the HSBC half was delivered onto the head of Neil Hurst by Gleave and he nodded home past the flapping goalkeeper. Continuing our bad luck from set pieces though, the referee disallowed the goal for an extremely harsh push. Mark Gower was getting accustomed to his wing back role, much to the annoyance of his ginger opponent who resorted to kicking him and calling him "fatty". Geoff Hurst was quick to defend Gower from the side lines, pointing out that he'd had a baby just 4 months ago (or something like that, give or take a few choice words). The lively pairing up front of Nathan and Penfold were causing problems and Penfold fizzed a ball across the 6yard box for Michael to just nudge over. The roles were reversed minutes later when Nathan was played in down the right by Gleave. He outstripped the centre half and fed Penners at the far post to finish clinically. The Hill went in at the interval with a deserved lead. The second half was a very one-sided affair with the Hill in full control. Following a comical throw by Gower (with sound effect - "woops"), a foul just inside the HSBC half allowed Barry to launch one of his missiles into the box. The ball travelled all the way into the 6-yard box and Ben Penfold finished at the second attempt. The lead soon became three following a quick counter attack with Ben Penfold finding left wing back Neil Hurst on the right wing with a fine pass. Hurst beat his man and finished neatly in the far corner. Although the Hill did take their foot of the gas slightly and HSBC did have a couple of chances, they were still in control with George Wainwright prominent in defence. There was still time for Barry Chaters to pop up at left wing to demonstrate why he shouldn't pop up at left wing and for Gleave to scuff a shot from 8 yards when set up by Pete Gyles. Kieren then had a bit of long distance target practice, picking out the moving target of the back of Jack Newton's head from 60 yards, the ball rebounding of his head and almost beating the opposing keeper. A comfortable win for Winchmore was exactly what was needed and this should move them up the table to keep in touch with the leaders. Let's just hope this is still a Division 1 fixture next year - it's good to watch Football Focus once in a while! Winchmore Hill 2 BB Eagles 0 AFA Senior Challenge Cup Round Two Proper Saturday 6 December Report from Neil Hurst Ninety minutes that had it all. Barry Chaters up close and personal with his opposite number, Ben Penfold and Neil Hurst showing great movement and fast feet and Jack Newton and Shane Foley both hitting the bar on a number of occasions. However this was just the scene at Andy Varley's 30th birthday party which was a far greater spectacle than the match at the Paulin hours earlier. Thankfully, Vialli's party was the only surprise of the day as cup holders Hill eventually overcame stubborn opposition to reach the last 16 of the AFA Cup. BB Eagles, a team born out of a recent merger between Barclays Bank and the NFL's Philidelphia Eagles enjoyed the better of the opening exchanges looking every bit like a team playing in their 'cup final' trying desperately to dump the holders out of the competition on their own (cabbage) patch. As a place with a history of hosting SAL Division 1 and Representative matches, the centre pitches slide to decline is rather like meeting your old secondary school sweetheart thirty years later and realising what harm the ravages of time and the elements can do when left unchecked. While the visitors chased, hustled and harried; the hosts stuttered and stalled showing no signs of their recent good form. The Hill went in at the break with the scores level knowing that their performance and work rate would need to vastly improve if the coveted trophy was to stay in our cabinet. The second half didn’t bring an instant improvement despite the probing runs of the lively Michael Nathan and Ben Penfold and on the hour manager Andy Russell, a known fan of Sheryl Crow, felt a change would do us good. On came senior citizens Shane Foley and Jack Newton, like two battle weary gladiators returning to the coliseum to show the youngsters the pearls of their infinite wisdom (OK, one's an Aussie and the other certainly doesn’t share the intelligence of his namesake Isaac) but they made all the difference on a day when a cup upset seemed to be in the offing. Almost immediately Foley began pulling the strings in midfield while Newton made a nuisance of himself as only he can, linking the play up well. With twenty-five minutes remaining Foley fed Ben Willis whose pinpoint crossfield ball found Hurst whose mazy dribble was ended by a clumsy challenge in the area - penalty to Hill. Up stepped Penfold to coolly slot home the opener much to Hill's relief. The goal proved to be the catalyst for a resurgent Hill performance in the final quarter of the match and the tie was settled ten minutes from time when Hurst's looping header found the far corner of the net after tireless work from Nathan. With the game won the Eagles sloped off down the dark, desert highway (North Circ) with the cool wind in their hair in search of the Hotel California but only succeeded in arriving bruised and battered on the streets of Philadelphia. Hill face Polytechnic at home in the next round. Winchmore Hill 1 Old Esthameians 2 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 13 December Report from Martin Gleave Table toppers Old Esthameians were the visitors to the Paulin Ground on Saturday, looking for revenge for their only league reverse so far this season. Winchmore knew that if they could take 6 points from their two contests with the league leaders they would be right back in the title race. The Hill squad had been hit by a bout of (man) flu during the week. Mark Gower in particular looked as peaky as he did before the Lloyds game about this time last year - funny how these things coincide with work Christmas parties. Two changes were made to the starting line-up, the wily old veterans Shane Foley and Jack Newton restored to the starting 11. Esthameians were out of the blocks much quicker than the Hill, showing signs of why they are currently top of the pile. The Hill slowly began to work themselves into the game though and made good use of the space out wide, both full backs joining up in attack. Jack Newton was ruffling feathers as only he can and was unlucky to see his header miss the far post following a Gleave cross. Winchmore took a deserved lead following a wind assisted long throw from Neil Hurst. Jack Newton put pressure on the keeper who spilled the ball in the 6-yard box. Ben Penfold was on hand to stab the ball home, taking his impressive goal tally to 12 for the season. This stung Esthameians into action (in more than one way) and the Hill lead was to be brief. Within 5 minutes a corner was delivered into the 6-yard box and deflected in through a mass of bodies, Winchmore once again conceding from a dead ball. The game then descended into a procession of free kicks with some shocking challenges not being properly punished by the referee. George Wainwright was the victim twice in the space of 5 minutes and had to be replaced by Paul Strouts. After a 10-minute spell when absolutely no football was played, the Hill finally started to string a few passes together. The ever-improving Pete Gyles linked with Neil Hurst who found Ben Penfold with a superb cross-field pass. The full back just managed to do enough to clear the danger. A fine move involving Strouts, Penfold and Newton ended with Neil Hurst firing the rebound wide. When the half time whistle went, the Hill were confident that they could capitalise on their 1st half dominance and seal victory. I'm not too sure what was in our half time drinks - Rohypnol maybe. The second half was a blur to the home side, Esthameians totally dominating both in physical and footballing terms. After the visitors had a number of good opportunities, Winchmore had a great chance to snatch victory. Ben Willis' cultured left foot (well, as cultured as we got in the 2nd half) found Neil Hurst whose mazy run ended with a drilled cross which found Jack in the 6 yard box. Credit the keeper who made a good save, but the Hill's only chance of the half had gone begging. The winner when it came for the visitors was a worthy winner of any game. A cross was half cleared to the Esthameians midfielder fully 30 yards out who was given ample time to unleash a ferocious strike through a crowd of players. Winchmore were right to be extremely disappointed with their 2nd half performance, which was simply not good enough. They must now bounce back and what better way than against local rivals Norsemen, with a chance to leapfrog them in the table. Norsemen 0 Winchmore Hill 4 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 20 December Report from Martin Gleave Manager Andy Russell received the perfect tonic after (what the Club described as) a “routine” operation during the week. It was confirmed there was no truth in the rumour that he was a “work alcoholic”, a la Fergie. With the Norsemen ground only a stone’s throw away from the Paulin Ground (or possibly a large brick following Saturday’s result) this was a local derby that had been eagerly anticipated from the moment Winchmore gained promotion last season. The poster in the Norsemen bar for the 1952 AFA Cup Final contested between the two sides was testimony to the long running rivalry between the two sides. On that day the Hill had been on the wrong end of a 3-1 defeat in a game that cost each punter 6d to watch – Mark Gower tells me that used to be quite a lot of money. With a couple of that team now part of the dedicated Winchmore faithful on the side lines, the modern day Hill were looking to exact some form of revenge 51 years on. Paul Iontton was called up from the 2s to spearhead the attack alongside Michael Nathan, Ben Penfold dropping back into midfield. In torrential rain, Winchmore took the game to the hosts with a combination of slick passing and committed defending. A succession of corner kicks led to the first goal for the visitors. Gleave delivered an inswinging corner which found Ben Penfold to touch home at the far post. In previous weeks Winchmore have gone in front only to allow sides back into the game. This was not the case on Saturday as the lead was doubled in almost a carbon copy of the first goal, Penners again finishing inside the 6-yard box from a Gleave corner. Two became three 10 minutes later when a fine passing move involving most of the team found George Wainwright on the right. He delivered a superb cross, which could only be turned into his own goal by Norsemen defender Gary Casey. A shell-shocked home side eventually came into the game through a dubious penalty decision where Barry Chaters was judged harshly to have fouled the Norsemen attacker. Up stepped the Norsemen keeper to take the penalty and strike it against the post, the follow up being tapped in from an offside position. The Hill have had little in the way of luck in recent weeks, hopefully this is a sign of things to come. The lead was then extended to 4 from another Gleave – Penfold corner combination. The Norsemen keeper, far more reluctant to come for crosses than he was at joining Neil Hurst at the bar on Thursday, stayed on his line to allow Ben to complete his hat-trick with a header before half time. Playing into the strong wind in the second half, Winchmore were always going to be put under pressure by a side lying second in the table at the start of play. Although camped in their own half for most of the 45 minutes, the Hill still threatened through the pace of the excellent Mike Nathan on the counter attack. Kieren was only forced into one save of note, getting down low to his right to block a shot from the edge of box. Barry Chaters did his best to let Norsemen in with a couple of reverse Cruyff’s in his own area but the scoreline remained the same. Winchmore should have extended their lead following a superb Mike Nathan run, ending with him squaring it to Gleave who skied it over the bar – I think I got away with it though by feigning injury for a couple of minutes though. Substitute Jack Newton then almost scored with his first touch, the keeper forcing his shot wide. The second half remained goalless, but all the damage had been done in the first half. An excellent team performance, with all the commitment and desire so lacking in the 2nd half last week combined with some excellent possession football. A convincing win over local rivals was a great end to what has been a superb 2003 for Winchmore Hill 1s – let’s hope 2004 continues in the same vein. Winchmore Hill 1 Polytechnic 1 After extra time – score at 90 minutes 1-1 Winchmore Hill won 4-3 on penalties AFA Senior Cup Round 3 Proper Saaturday 10 January Report from Martin Gleave Winchmore returned to action following the Winter break to defend their AFA Cup Title against Polytechnic at home in the last 16. With Pete Gyles unavailable, Paul Strouts became the latest occupant of the left back position. This gave him the opportunity to show off his Christmas present outdoors for the first time - a shiny new pair of black and orange football boots from Santa. With Mark Gower retiring in preference of Bluewater on a Saturday afternoon (watch out for shirt tugging and two-footed challenges coming to your local Early Learning Centre), Jack Newton filled the super sub role on his own. Gleave lost the first of 3 coin tosses on the day (Tails for Wales ALWAYS fails) and Poly opted to attack with the slope in the first 45 minutes. Judging by the sluggish 1st half performance by the home side, the Winter break had not been spent re-fuelling batteries. Instead, it looked like the men in purple had been doing the type of refuelling that Gazza enjoys. Poly controlled possession for the majority of the half but only managed to create one clear-cut chance, which was foiled by a good save from Hutchings followed by a narrow miss from the rebound. Ben Penfold was then on hand to make a superb last-ditch tackle when the Poly striker was clean through. The Hill finally came into the game in the last 10 minutes of the half. Shane Foley fed Neil Hurst who skinned the full back and fired the ball across goal. The ball fell to Michael Nathan who snatched at his shot, which ended up well wide. Winchmore improved significantly in the second half and started to dominate possession. A barn-storming run by Ben Willis set up Paul Ionnton whose first touch beat the defender but his shot rolled agonisingly across the face of the goal. Neil Hurst went close with a couple of headers but the breakthrough when it came, went to the visitors. From a Winchmore corner, a pacy counter attack found the Poly attacker one on one with Kieren. He managed to save the initial shot but the follow up was tucked into the open goal. With 20 minutes to go, the Hill's Cup credentials were to be stretched to the limit. The goal actually led to the best period of football by the home side, but with time running out it looked like the Hill were facing an early exit. With minutes left Paul Strouts fed Gleave in midfield who picked out Hurst in the inside left channel (as Ken Wolstenholme would have described it in the olden days). Neil took the ball in his stride and beat the defender before rifling home - a superb finish. There was only time for one of the two Poly substitutes used to injure his shoulder before the final whistle went. The visitors were to face extra time with only ten men. Winchmore were in full control of extra time. Michael Nathan forced a good save from the Poly keeper in the first half and George Wainwright fired a left foot volley straight at the keeper in the second, either side of him almost certainly would have led to his first competitive goal for the club. With minutes remaining the referee sent of the Poly skipper for his second bookable offence - alleged time wasting from a free kick. This summed up the over-officious nature in which a game with no malice had been refereed. Winchmore could not find the breakthrough in the remaining moments and penalty kicks were to decide the fate of this cup-tie. With Poly down to 9 men the Hill had to nominate 2 players not to take part in the shoot-out, or as the ref put it "You can get rid of your 2 worst players." Benny Willis and George Wainwright wouldn't fall into this category, but they did step out of proceedings. Penfold, Hurst and Foley converted their spot kicks and the 5th Poly kick would have made Jonny Wilkinson happy, giving Barry Chaters the chance to send the Hill into the quarter-finals. Barry placed his spot kick inches wide, explaining later that thinking which way he was going to run to celebrate when he had scored had distracted him. The safety of spot kick 6 opted for by Elfie was now looking a bit too crucial for his liking. Fortunately Kieren saved the 1st Poly sudden death kick and the deciding kick was converted to send the Hill into the last eight dodgy celebration though. Winchmore just about deserved this victory and can now concentrate on picking up league points in the coming weeks before taking on promotion certainties Nottsborough in the quarter finals. West Wickham 1 Winchmore Hill 2 Southern Amateur League Saturday 17 January Report from Neil Hurst The sight of Barry Chaters tearing his shirt off and swinging it 'helicopter style' a la Ryan Giggs in celebration of his last minute winner on Saturday is an image that will linger long in the memory. The fact that he couldn't get it back on and played the remainder of the game with it inside out and back to front Forlan-style was pretty funny too but the importance of the goal was enormous. It hasn't all been plain sailing for our mercurial centre half lately. The fact that he was at fault for Wickham's goal and guilty of a penalty miss in last week's shoot-out just scratch the surface on what have been a calamitous few weeks for the man they call Baresi. The next bit of this report is worth reading, so get comfortable and feast your eyes on a great story to use as a get out clause the next time your missus spits her dummy and thinks you are the world's worst boyfriend/fiancée/husband. Bazza has recently bought a house with his lovely girlfriend and what better time to get all the family round than Christmas. In attendance on Boxing Day were parent, siblings, aunts, uncles, and grandparents etc - a great opportunity to settle into their new home. In chronological order here are the days events: 12pm - Barry suggests they all go to the local pub 'to break up the day' - all agree 2pm - the ladies suggest returning for dinner, the boys concur and agree to 'finish of their drinks' and meet them back at the house 9pm - after a full-scale pub-crawl and several pints of Geordie Juice later the boys give in to their conscience and decide to return home 10pm - Barry decide this is a good time to introduce himself to his new neighbours - they invite him in to join their party 10.01pm - Barry's Dad falls over whilst attempting to sit down in the neighbours living room 10.10pm - Barry takes over the house karaoke set 10.30pm - Barry goes to the toilet 10.45pm - worried neighbours wonder where Barry is 10.46pm - Barry is found asleep in one of the bedrooms of the house 11pm - Bazza gets a second wind and parties on Midnight - Eventually arrives home and gets the hairdryer treatment from missus, Mum in-laws etc Four days and a lot of grovelling later - makes peace with his girlfriend. Remember this story chaps - you never know when you might need it. Anyway, the game. There is no love lost between Hill and West Wickham after several years of close encounters and despite their lowly league position we knew this would be a stern test. After a relatively innocuous first half in which neither side settled into any kind of rhythm the hosts took the lead from the penalty spot after Paul Strouts felled the opposition centre forward who had just dispossessed Boyfriend of the Month attempting his 35th Cruyff turn of the half. The goal gave Hill a much-needed scare and their reaction was instant, laying siege on the home goal. After a couple of long range efforts from Ben Willis the equaliser finally arrived when substitute Duane Jackman's header put Neil Hurst through on goal and he made no mistake lobbing the onrushing keeper to silence the 'not-sochirpy-now' home supporters. With ten minutes remaining Hill poured forwards sensing victory was within their grasp and after several near misses the Hill got a deserved second when everyone's favourite alibi Barry Chaters headed home emphatically from Martin Gleave's corner. The three points keep us well on track in the title race but the day belonged to Barry who for some reason didn't stay around for long after the game. Winchmore Hill 1 Alleyn Old Boys 1 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 24 January Report from Martin Gleave After last week's dramatic last minute away win, Winchmore were hoping to turn around their poor league record at home. The visitors to the Paulin Ground were Alleyn Old Boys, struggling in the league but fellow AFA quarter finalists along with the Hill. Missing from the Winchmore squad this week were Pete Gyles and Paul Strouts - two players who have both filled the troublesome left back position this season. Returning to the fold though was another occupant of the left back role - Joe Hackworthy. Joe is available for selection now that the January sales have finished and he can't spend Saturday afternoons traipsing round shopping centres with his girlfriend. Winchmore started brightly and dominated possession. The watching ladies (I think it was plural) nearly had a treat courtesy of a Barry Chaters topless goal celebration. The excellent Alleyn's keeper tipped his near post header from a corner over the bar to keep the scores level. From another corner a Neil Hurst header was deflected onto the crossbar and cleared off the line. The visitors rarely threatened the Hill defence but territorial advantage could not be converted into the goal Winchmore deserved. On a difficult surface, the final ball let the home side down and the sides went in at half time level. Andy Russell's final words at half time were not to keep the pressure up and not let the visitors in the game. Needless to say, before he had time to take up his post in the 2nd half the Hill were one down. In Alleyn's first real attack of the game, a cross from one of their blond "Salon Reject" midfielders eluded everyone except the centre forward at the far post who nodded in. As is customary with the Hill, this was the trigger for them to step up a gear. Ben Penfold was put through on goal but again the visitor’s keeper stood tall and blocked the shot. Constant pressure finally resulted in a deserved equaliser. With less than ten minutes to go, Shane Foley's long ball was taken on by Gleave who crossed for Penfold to neatly tuck past the keeper. Winchmore could have taken all three points in the dying seconds when Michael Nathan latched onto a defensive mistake and bore down on goal. Unfortunately he snatched at his shot when he had more time. The scores ended level, another precious two points dropped at home by the Hill. Next week's home game against Norsemen now takes on more importance if Winchmore are to maintain their position in the title race. Winchmore Hill 1 Nottsborough 2 AFA Senior Cup Round 4 Proper (Quarter Final) Saturday 7 February Report from Martin Gleave Like Jordan and Peter Andre's jungle romance (or at least it was when I started writing this), Winchmore Hill's AFA Cup dreams are over. For the men in purple, there is to be no repeat of last season's Cup Final "insania". Nottsborough brought their unbeaten record to the Paulin Ground and by the final whistle they were deservedly still on course to emulate the Hill's fantastic 2002-2003 season. This was not the case after 45 minutes. Winning the toss, Winchmore attacked the clubhouse with a strong following wind. Playing at a high tempo, the home side gave Nottsborough no time in possession and dominated the opening exchanges. From an early free kick, Gleave picked out Barry Chaters whose free header was well saved low down by the keeper, the rebound being hacked to safety by a creaking visitors defence. Neil Hurst was then played through but the angle proved too tight and the keeper was able to block his shot. Mike Nathan then found space in a similar position but his shot lacked the power to trouble the keeper. Symptomatic of Winchmore's luck at home this season, Nottsborough's first attack of any note led to the opening goal. A long throw was not properly cleared and confusion in the Hill's defence allowed the Nottsborough centre forward to cleverly nod home. The home side did not let this affect their play and were level within ten minutes. Gleave helped the ball into the penalty area and the Nottsborough sweeper could only clear as far as Hurst under pressure from Penfold. Neil beat the last defender and drilled the ball into the bottom corner to deservedly level the scores. Frustratingly, this was a turning point in the game as Nottsborough started to show the form that makes them a certainty for the second division title. A neat one-two down the right hand side led to a cross travelling all the way across the 6 yard box to the centre forward. He composed himself and rolled the ball past Kieren. A stunned Hill went into the half time break feeling very hard done by. The second half was a non-event for the men in purple but credit must be given to Nottsborough who defended resolutely and caused problems for the Hill back line on the counter attack. The front two in particular were as good as Winchmore have faced this season. On another day, the score could have been more comfortable in the visitors favour. The closest Winchmore got to an equaliser was right near the death, when Ben Penfold's cross was hacked clear. Following this disappointing end to the AFA cup campaign, the Hill must now focus on the ten remaining league games. With Saturday's league results favouring Winchmore a run of good results in the remaining games will leave them right in the middle of the title race. On Saturday night though, drowning sorrows was the order of the day - Barry Chaters the pick of the drownees, finding his now customary position in someone else's spare room and decorating it in his own pebbledash style. Old Owens 4 Winchmore Hill 0 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 28 February Report from Martin Gleave They say football management can give turn your hair grey. One weekend was enough to have me reaching for the “Just for Men”. With Andy Russell away on a training course (“How to find and keep a left back for a season”) the Hill players were left to fend for themselves. This meant Friday night was spent juggling with the possibility of having between 10 and 14 players. Neil Hurst scoured his little black book for football players, just a pity we weren’t looking for 11 20-something dolly birds. With regulars Ben Penfold and George Wainwright both missing, new recruits Matty and Rod came into the starting line-up. On a fine surface the hosts took the game to Winchmore from the off, looking to get the early break through. After a couple of early scares the Hill grew in confidence and the game became more even – the two new recruits both involved in some neat passing. With the score at 0-0, Michael Nathan sprung the offside trap and just beat the on-rushing keeper to the ball. Unfortunately, his lobbed attempt drifted harmlessly wide. Minutes later Old Owens took the lead. Winchmore failed to clear their lines inside the penalty area and Kieren was forced into a fine save from a cross-shot, the rebound was rifled home though from the edge of the box. With the score at one nil a shot from Rod was parried by the keeper, and fell into the path of Mike Nathan. Again he couldn’t find the finish required to get the Hill back into the game. The one goal deficit became two moments later from a right hand side free kick. Kieren was unsighted through a crowded penalty area and the ball drifted into the net. Two nil down at half time, the visitors changing room was the perfect example of why you need a manager. Everyone had a different opinion and the formation for the second half changed about 5 times in as many minutes. In the end, the Mike Bassett “four four f***ing two” formation remained. Not that it mattered too much. Old Owens dominated the majority of the second half, scoring two more. As the game dragged on the Hill became more disjointed and it became a damage limitation exercise. Winchmore did have a couple of good chances to bring an air of respectability, both falling to substitute Tim Guptha. It wasn’t to be though and the final score ended 4-0. A disappointing result for Winchmore but one which must not ruin the Hill’s league season. With nine games still left and plenty of points up for grabs, Winchmore must get back to winning ways this week. And what better way to do this than at home against local rivals and title contenders Norsemen. Winchmore Hill 1 Old Salesians 1 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 13 March Report from Martin Gleave Busy day at work, just managed to get this finished in time..... It is fair to say that the Winchmore Hill 1st team have not been enjoying the best of times recently. Three losses on the bounce, a spate of injuries and a distinct lack of the type of luck which helped make last season so successful, was making Saturday afternoon football lose its appeal somewhat. Sometimes it takes some strange things to regain your focus. Injured for last week's game against Norsemen, I spent Saturday afternoon at a 5 year olds birthday party along with 30 "little cherubs", being entertained by Mr. Happitty and Mrs Giggles. As the game of musical chairs came to a climax I looked up at the clock in the local village hall as it turned 3pm and could feel my ankle getting better already. The moral to the story – playing football doesn't last forever, enjoy it while you can because you're a long time retired. Reigning SAL champions Old Salesians were the visitors to the Paulin Ground this week, on an excellent run of late and well in contention to retain their title. After the return of Mark Gower last week the trend continued with Mark "Steady Eddie" Godsalve making a much welcomed return to the 1st team fold. Keith Gyles also stepped up from the 2nd team to partner Jack Newton up front. With George Wainwright still unavailable through injury / getting acquainted with girlfriends friends, Barry "Lilian Thuram" Chaters proved that good players can play anywhere, moving from his usual sweeper role to right back. Attacking with a strong following wind, the Hill imposed themselves on the visitors and started brightly. Shane "Vodka and Coke" Foley had a long range shot tipped over the bar by the Salesians keeper. Winchmore certainly could not be criticised for lack of effort, the breakthrough they needed just did not materialise. The closest they came followed an in-swinging corner from Godsalve. A scramble at the near post ensued with Chaters nudging the ball towards the line. In fact, it looked quite a long way over the line. Not in the referees opinion though who was able to call upon both his superhuman eyesight and his doctorate in advanced mathematics to judge from 10 yards away that only 9/10ths of the ball was over the line. To compound this near miss Salesians then had their best spell in the match resulting in the first goal of the game. Their tricky winger was allowed to travel to far into Winchmore territory and the ball broke to the centre forward. His shot was aiming harmlessly into Kieren's arms until Ben Willis stuck out his size 12 and re-directed it into the other corner. Like the previously mentioned loser of the musical chairs game, the Hill went into a collective sulk for the next 10 minutes. Salesians could have increased their lead after another goalmouth scramble. Joe Hackworth bravely blocked and hack(worthy)ed clear to keep the score at 1-0 when the half time whistle blew. Attacking into a strong wind, things looked ominous for the Hill. Credit to the men in purple though, as a team they responded to Andy Russell's half time demands to stand up and be counted. Winchmore controlled possession, getting joy from the right wing combination of Michael Nathan and Barry Chaters. Keith Gyles did well to work himself into a good position but his shot was well blocked. The home side eventually got the equaliser they deserved from a free kick 25 yards out. Every player and supporter had noticed that the free kick was indirect apart from Neil Hurst, the taker, and the Salesians keeper. His left foot shot was heading just under the crossbar when the keeper tipped it onto the bar. The ball bounced back down onto his head and into the net, 1-1 and another vital goal from Neil Hurst, who is having a superb season at both club and representative level. Unlike David Blunkett, Winchmore have had great difficulty holding onto leads this season. The visitors almost regained their lead immediately following a corner. A looping header was dropping into the net until Kieren stretched to tip over. Bob Gyles said it was a great save, Kieren wasn't arguing. Winchmore responded by spending the last ten minutes camped in the Salesians half. Gleave crossed for Hurst (just can't get used to talking about myself in the 3rd person) but his sliding effort was well blocked by the Salesians centre half. The best chance fell right near the death to Chaters, who had more chances in 90 minutes than George has mustered in 2 years playing right back. Substitute Tim Guptha controlled well and showed great vision to pick out Barry in acres of space, at full gallop. He just managed to beat the on-rushing keeper to the ball but his clipped finish had just too much power, clearing the crossbar by a yard. The goal would have given the Hill a deserved victory, based on their second half performance. However, after three defeats the dressing room was a far happier place and they will now look forward to next week’s local derby against Broomfield. Salesians must be applauded for their performance in the clubhouse after the game. To a man, they drank like Leicester City players on a mid-season break. If team spirit is the key to success in the SAL, then they are worthy champions. Broomfield 2 Winchmore Hill 1 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 20 March Report from Neil Hurst Winchmore Hill's already faltering season was dealt another blow on Saturday, losing 2-1 to local rivals Broomfield in a game where Hill really ought to have taken all three points. With just ten minutes remaining the visitors had their pockets picked on this ground for the second time this season through an outstanding strike from the Broomfield centre forward who, along with the home goalkeeper, was entirely responsible for the hosts undeserved victory. After hearing the tragic news about much loved teammate Mark Gower, Hill went into the match determined to build on last week's encouraging second half performance. The gale force winds and heavy rain made for an intriguing match, every bit a stereotypical local derby and a game that the tough-tackling talisman Gower would have revelled in. With the wind at their backs, Hill dominated territorially throughout the opening exchanges but all too often were prone to one dimensional attacking tactics that made Brooms' task easier than it should have been. Then, just as frustrations threatened to boil over, the breakthrough came when Martin Gleave found Neil Hurst wide on the left. Hurst jinked inside two challenges before firing into the bottom corner to give Hill the advantage. However, moments later parity was restored when Broomfield equalised straight from the kick off Winchmore again guilty of switching off at restarts. At the interval Broomfield looked to have done the hard work against the elements but Hill had other ideas and, galvanised by the excellent Gleave proceeded to dominate much of the second period despite playing into the wind. Time and again the hosts were opened up by the probing runs of Ben Penfold and Hurst with the tireless Gleave pulling the strings in midfield. Jack Newton and Penfold were then both foiled in quick succession after more excellent approach play from the visitors before succumbing the classic sucker punch on the break after yet another attack on the seemingly impenetrable home goal. There was still time for more drama when Barry Chaters' sweetly struck volley was miraculously kept out by a keeper who must have bought a lottery ticket after this fantasy performance. For Hill though the taste of defeat was real. There are numerous reasons for the team's recent decline which have been discussed at length in dressing rooms, clubhouses and bars throughout London but with six games to go, surely more performances like Saturday will see a turnaround in fortune for the AFA champions. This remains a highly talented bunch of individuals who owe it to themselves and to Mark Gower to enjoy the last few games and finish the season on a high. Alleyn Old Boys 0 Winchmore Hill 1 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 27 March Report from Martin Gleave Winchmore made the long trip south (or the short trip north in my case) to face struggling Alleyn Old Boys on Saturday. After last week’s full complement of 3 subs for an away game against local rivals Broomfield, this week the Hill could only muster 11 players to travel down to Dulwich – funny that. With Kieren away working out what his handicap is going to be this summer at the El Bandito invitational tournament in Mexico City, 3rd team football stalwart and "batting average topping" 1st team cricketer Danny Barker filled his shoes in sticks. George Wainwright also made a much-welcomed return to 1st team action after a lengthy period sidelined with injury. George was told by the physio that he wasn't up to 90 minutes so the gaffer assured him that we would have a squad to cope with that - a squad of 11 that is. With Ben Willis unavailable. Shane Foley retreated into the comfort zone behind Barry Chaters, Neil Hurst moved inside and Tim Guptha started wide left. The Alleyn's pitch bore a striking resemblance to Miriam from Sky One's There's Something about Miriam. From a distance very pleasant to look at and certainly worth a closer look. However on close inspection it was not all it was cracked up to be, and there were some unusual bumps where you wouldn't expect them. On a difficult surface the Hill tried to take the game to their hosts but struggled to gain any momentum. Winchmore played Tourett's football in the 1st half - miscontrol "f???, misplaced 5 yard pass "s???", scuffed shot from 3 yards "b?????k?". Everyone had a go but Wainwright, Gleave and Mike Nathan took the awards for consistently poor touches and equally good swearing. Mike's outburst followed a long throw from Neil Hurst which made its way to the far post where he fired wide from inside the 6 yard box. Ben Penfold was set up by Gleave but he fired straight at the keeper from a tight angle. At the other end Danny was not troubled until a scramble in the box forced a fine save at the near post / short leg. He did follow this up with a sliced straight drive of a back pass which he was trying to send back over the bowlers head - it ended up somewhere near 3rd man. The score remained 0-0 at half time with the Hill having the best of possession but not getting the breakthrough they deserved. Andy Russell read the riot act at half time, picking out Hurst's ambidextrous deficiencies (salmon straight in the tin) for particular criticism. The second half was again a scrappy affair but the Hill finally got the opening goal midway through the half. The ball was half cleared but Neil Hurst won a good header and Martin Gleave nipped in to tuck the ball home - nothing like opening your account in March! Alleyn's never really threatened to equalise and Winchmore should really have extended their lead. Solid defensive work from the back 4 kept the door shut with Wainwright winning some towering headers and customary calm play from Godsalve. The best chance to double the lead when Neil Hurst made a late break. He shot a yard wide with his weaker right foot (or was it his left). [His left - Ed] A good team performance away from home and most importantly, 3 points to climb the Hill back up the league table after a run of poor results. Winchmore Hill 2 Civil Service 2 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 3 April Report from Neil Hurst A 2-2 draw in a game short on quality and even shorter on tempers. This is the game that ITV shoe-horn into the end of their highlights programme between two sides with little to play for than personal pride. It was the SAL's equivalent to Fulham v Birmingham minus the lavish spending of Mohammed Al Fayed (although Bert Prosser ran him close last year) and without the porn empire of Birmingham owner David Sullivan (n.b. the 3rd XI dressing room is rumoured to be a full on 'swop-shop' for this kind of material if that's your thing - for further details contact Danny Barker. As has been the norm for some weeks now, Hill fielded an understrength line up missing captain Martin Gleave and Ben Willis amongst others. Simon Darwin came into the defence for his 1st XI debut and Neil Hurst skippered the side against a Civil Service team eager to avenge a 2-1 home defeat earlier in the season that Hill were a little fortunate in to say the least. The hosts started brightly and went close early on when Hurst's through ball found Ben Penfold but his effort was saved by the visitor’s keeper. Civil responded and began to impose themselves more on a game that got unnecessarily niggly with players from both sides responsible but it was the hosts who were affected most and they fell behind soon afterwards when the Civil centre forward finished clinically after a smart move on the break. Kicking into the wind in the second half it looked like Hill had their work cut out but yet another stirring 2nd half performance from the men in purple saw the complexion of the game change. Within five minutes of the restart Hill were level when a defensive lapse allowed Tim Gupta to open his Winchmore account. Revitalised by this, Hill poured forwards and were unlucky not to go in front, firstly when Jack Newton's lobbed effort missed the target and then when Hurst's curling drive was tipped around the post by the goalkeeper. From the resulting corner, however, Hill went in front when Simon Darwin capped an impressive debut with a fine headed goal. He was denied a second moments later when the referee disallowed a goal for a push on the keeper. Hill continued to control the game with substitute Paul Naylor adding energy and verve to the cause but Hill were to be cruelly denied in the closing moments once again when Civil scored a well-worked goal on the break as Winchmore appealed in vain for a handball at the other end of the pitch. With four games remaining Hill must now focus on preparing themselves for next season and remain positive that they can once again reach the justifiably high standards they have set. Winchmore Hill 1 Polytechnic 0 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Wednesday 14 April Report from Neil Hurst With the title and relegation equations being decided without them Hill refocused its objection to finish in 4th place thereby clinching the highly lucrative final Champions League qualifying spot. The decadent surroundings of Enfield Playing Fields was the setting for a game that Hill hoped would improve their abysmal home form. Having been beaten by Hill in the AFA Cup and also having won the Middlesex Cup at the Paulin Ground already this season, Poly could be forgiven for not locating the Donkey Lane Field of Dreams (Dogsh*t Ridden Exercise Area Might Stain) in time for a 6pm kick off. When they eventually did arrive they were a man short but confident of getting a result against a Hill side that had started to show a return to form in recent weeks. And so, like an underpaid nurse, onto the game. The hosts started brightly and both Neil Hurst and Ben Penfold came close to opening the scoring only to be denied by some good goalkeeping and resolute defending. Undeterred, Hill poured forwards and Hurst was unlucky to see his towering header well blocked by the visiting keeper. Buoyed on by such resilience Poly began to impose themselves onto the game and hit the bar with a header after a crisp passing move. Winchmore were then indebted to Kieren Hutchings who made a stunning save with the Poly centre forward bearing down on him. Yet another vital save from a man who along with Martin Gleave will be impossible to replace when they both leave the club at the end of the season. Shortly before the break Hill went in front when Ben Willis' cross missed out everybody but crept just inside the far post for a deserved if a little fortunate opening goal. The visitors battled gallantly in the second period and put Hill under a lot of pressure but time and again Winchmore defended superbly as a unit and looked dangerous themselves on the counter attack but could not fashion a second goal. As darkness descended the final whistle blew and three valuable points were clinched. Although disappointed by the result, Poly should have been comforted in the knowledge that the showers were hot and the food tasty this proved not to be the case though so we had to offer them a 2 mile journey up the road for a shower followed by an assortment of Walkers crisps - classy! Poly will have a chance for revenge on Saturday 24th when Hill visit Chiswick for the return fixture knowing that a win will take them above Norsemen in the table. Winchmore Hill 4 HSBC 2 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 17 April Report from Martin Gleave Bottom of the league, only two wins all season and relegated a month ago - the last thing HSBC wanted in their penultimate game of the season was a trek from the hallowed turf of Beckenham up to Winchmore Hill. Even worse, they had to endure the not so hallowed Firs Farm turf. Credit to the visitors for turning up with a full complement and making the game a competitive one. The Hill were virtually at full strength with the only absentee being Shane Foley, serving a (long overdue) suspension. Cramping his toes into Foley's size 7 seven shoes was Andy Atherton, rewarded for his fine performances in the 2nds throughout the season. On a difficult pitch HSBC started well and had a good claim for a penalty turned when the left winger completely skinned George and then fell over his leg. Compared to the two penalties that were to be given later in the game, this was the most blatant. The ref waved away the appeals however. HSBC did take the lead after quarter of an hour following a woeful piece of control in midfield Gleave and a nutmeg on Ben Willis. When played through the striker finished clinically. This spurred the Hill into life and they took control of the game, knowing that the chance to finish above local rivals Norsemen would be much helped by three points in their last home game. The equaliser came from a long ball from Neil Hurst which was reached by Mike Nathan just in front of the HSBC keeper. He calmly squared the ball to ("the knuckle dragging" according to the Civil Service website) Jack Newton who tucked the ball home from 12 inches. Winchmore continued to dominate possession and Neil Hurst saw a trademark header from a corner go narrowly over the crossbar. Shortly after, another corner was headed across goal by Hurst for Ben "joint 4th top goalscorer" Willis to score his second goal of the season. In the changing rooms after the game, Ben confirmed that was the happiest he had ever been! Shortly before half time the champagne fuelled Neil Hurst cut inside and played a defence splitting pass to Mike Nathan. Michael calmly finished past the advancing keeper to make the score 3-1. The second half should have seen the Hill continue their domination and increase their lead. This was not the case and the game turned into typical end of season fare. Bored by this, the referee livened things up by giving a penalty to HSBC following an innocuous challenge in the Hill box. This was duly converted to make the score 3-2 and more importantly, woke Winchmore from their slumber. A high ball into the visitors box led to an even more innocuous looking challenge and an even more dubious penalty. Ben Penfold did the honourable thing and slotted the ball wide. Mike Nathan then struck a 25-yard effort against the post with the keeper stranded. He was not to be denied though and five minutes from the end Winchmore added a fourth to make the scoreline more comfortable. Gleave picked out Nathan who capped off a fine performance with a calm finish over the keeper. With two games left Winchmore will be aiming to continue their good recent form and finish as high as possible in their return to the SAL top flight. Old Salesians 0 Winchmore Hill 1 Southern Amateur League Senior Section Division One Saturday 1 May Report from Martin Gleave The Hill's final game of the season found them making the long trip south to face recently deposed SAL Champions Old Salesians. After an eventful season, with more ups and downs than a night in with Leaslie Ash, Winchmore found themselves within 3 points of a guaranteed 4th place, and possibly 3rd. The game had an added incentive for Martin Gleave and Kieren Hutchings. Both will be unavailable next season due to relocations, the latter to various beaches / golf courses / bars around the world, the former to Stoke-onTrent. The game started at a whirlwind pace (well, the Salesians frontline did – I don't think Ben Willis has ever been classified as a whirlwind). From the opening kick-off Neil Hurst dispossessed the full back and with his weaker left foot placed a cross-shot against the bar. Salesians went straight down the other end and following a neat move blazed wide from 8 yards. The game continued to be an open affair with the hosts having greater possession but Winchmore threatening on the break, looking particularly dangerous from corner kicks. Paul Strauts was making a welcome return in midfield after 8 weeks ("that's about 2 months" according to Paul) missing through work commitments - driving a truck across Europe by the look of the cap he was donning. Gleave and Strauts in midfield were just managing to contain the lively midfield three of the home side. It's depressing when you find out after the combined age of those three is less than the two of you (I didn't realise Strauts was 34 though). The only other event of note in the first half was a half pike with tuck from Neil Hurst following a brush with the 14 year old Salesian's midfielder. His punishment after the game for this was to neck two pints of all sorts of grim stuff. You wouldn't see Robert Pires diving around if he had to face that after each tumble. Winchmore began to take control in the second half with Salesians threatening far less, possibly distracted by a rogue pound coin, the eventual owner of which was to face a dodgy alcoholic concoction later, being handed round. Those who said this was Shane Foley's biggest contribution of the season were being slightly unfair - he gave me a sofa to sleep on later. The goal when it came was classic Winchmore. A free kick on the right by Gleave found the head of Hurst. His effort was only palmed out to Penfold to tuck home. Winchmore held onto this lead with only a couple of scares. An offside goal was rightly ruled out and Hutchings put in a classic display of safe handling to see the visitors home. And so Winchmore's first year back in the top flight ended with a Champions League spot secured. All that remained was to get blind drunk and contemplate a summer of doing nothing (I mean getting ready for preseason in July).