24/4/10 - AFC Brooklands   3 : 4  Walton Casuals  (after extra time)

Now this was a little bit weird, but fun even so.  Home at Jubilee, on a Saturday, against a team in orange, with no lines on the pitch....grass roots football!

Continuing our efforts to bring together the Hawks and Falcons we had a large 12-boy squad for a friendly against a similar sized Walton Casuals squad.  This inevitably meant rotating everybody and the coaches agreed to

a period of extra time to allow everyone to get a good run.    The game was

evenly-balanced throughout and perhaps a draw would have been a fair result but the Casuals edged it in extra time.  This was a good opportunity though for some of the less experienced boys to get valuable game time and they all did well including Oliver in his first match.

Scorers for Brooklands were Conor with 2 including one direct from a corner

- though the dubious goals panel may need to sit as Josh claims he got a headed touch on the ball as it flew across goal.  Giacomo notched the other and there were plenty of chances at both ends.

The game finished with a penalty shoot-out which we think(!) ended 6-6!

This Saturday is back to training as usual at Jubilee on Saturday.  No match on Sunday.  Training will continue for a few weeks until we have a summer break.

I'm not sure whether we'll have any more matches, most teams finish regular games around now - maybe one more in May.  We may still try to find a tournament as our end of season finale.

Reminder that the Club's presentation evening and AGM is on 22 May - starting in the afternoon with some fun football stuff and going into the early eve.  All club members get a medal.  Details to follow.

18/4/10 - Mayford U8  3 - 4  AFC Brooklands U8 Hawks  (Asher 2, Conor, Giacomo)

There may be volcanic ashes somewhere up there in the stratosphere but down on the ground in Mayford it was a glorious sunny Sunday morning - perfect for football.

The mixed Hawks/Falcons had a new look, not least because of a clash of orange shirts the boys wore their black undershirts - luckily most of them had one apart from Kenny who soldiered on in a fleece - bit warm for that Kenny!  Actually we reckoned the boys looked pretty stylish - maybe we'll go for that look again.

With half a mind on next season we went back to a formation we last played months ago - 2-3-1.  Sam (skipper) in goal, George and Ryan in defence, Giacomo centre-mid flanked by Tom and Conor, with Asher given a rare outing at striker.  Kenny and Timmy were revved up and ready to come off the bench.

Mayford had given us a fair beating in January so we knew this would be a tough match. Sure enough it was nip and tuck all the way through.  The Hawks started brightly and took an early lead when Asher cut in from the left and steered his shot neatly inside the far post.  Mayford fought back and George was showing he's pretty nippy with some nicely timed tackles and clearances, backed up by the dependable Ryan who had the job of marking their dangerous No. 8.  AFC doubled their lead when Conor finished a strong run with a nice finish into the corner before Mayford bounced back with a

good goal themselves.    With Giacomo on the ball the Hawks looked to pass

and go, and Tom showed some nice touches out wide.   Timmy came on into

defence and Kenny onto the wing.  Sam - skipper for the day - made a very good save from a hard shot only to see the ball unluckily rebound off a

defender into the net, 2-2.   There was still time for Giacomo to dance his

way into the area and slot with the outside of his right boot, very cooly taken by the Italian maestro.

The second half followed a similar pattern with both teams creating chances.  Kenny made some forceful runs and almost got on the end of a cross, Timmy did a good job of marking their striker and made some important tackles.  Ryan nearly scored goal of the season with a first time volley from the half way line that just missed the upright.  The defence stayed firm and Sam was always there to sweep up, while at the other end Asher got a deserved second when he clipped one in at the near post.  Still Mayford came back and scored again before the whistle to make the final score 4-3 to the Hawks.

A great game in the sunshine and well done particularly to George, Timmy, Kenny, Tom and skipper Sam who all came in and fitted into the Hawks set up well.

MOM though went to Asher for a      lung-bursting effort up front.  He ran

relentlessly at the Mayford defence and showed his coach that he can finish as well.

21/3/10 Feltham 3 - 0 AFC Brooklands Hawks

14/3/10 AFC Brooklands Hawks 4 - 2 Staines Town Colts

"It was the biscuits wot done it" - that was the conclusion of the Hawks
supporters at the end of an entertaining topsy turvy match. Credit goes
to the custard creams and their biscuit friends (I couldn't find the Jaffa
cakes) for transforming a second best Hawks team at half-time into a
winning performance.

A gorgeous morning and a quite fantastic pitch set up a fine match with
Staines Town. The Hawks lined up with Theo in goal, Ryan and Max in
defence, Giacomo and Conor in midfield, Teddy and Josh up front, the
Standring boys on the bench. Right from the off both teams showed that U8s
can play proper football, pass and go, but it has to be said that Staines
were on top and one of the best passing sides we have faced. Sure enough
they took a deserved lead with a shot that crept through Theo's legs (how
is that possible? someone later asked me, there's not enough room!) and
doubled their advantage a few minutes later with a similar attack. The
Hawks were being beaten to the ball, losing their shape and generally being
outplayed. Louis came on up top and Asher in to reinforce midfield and we
managed to stem the tide until half-time.

The Coach gave a tactical masterclass at half-time ("will you pass the ball
- pleeeaaase") - and was roundly ignored when the boys set eyes on a
veritable smorgasbord of biscuits. Whatever it was the boys came out and
gave a much better performance in the second half. Asher took over in goal
with Theo moving into midfield and immediately showing what he can without
gloves on when he crossed from the corner flag and Josh was there lurking
at the near post to tuck neatly home.

With Giacomo giving a masterclass in sweeping the Hawks started to find
their game and be more positive. Maybe Teds took last week's advice on
board - he nicked the ball from the Staines defence, used his pace to get
into the box first and steered a low shot inside the far post - the far
post! Lovely goal. It was certainly not all one way however and Staines
passing game brought them close more than once - Asher pushed one shot past
the post and Ryan somehow cleared a header over the bar when a goal looked
certain. But with pressure comes the chance to break out and the Hawks did
that well. Louis again providing clever passes for the midfielders to run
onto and Theo put Conor through for an intelligent left foot finish. Back
came Staines only to be denied by no-nonsense defending from Ryan and the
immaculate Giacomo. With Max now covering serious ground in midfield,
Teddy finally made the game safe with a late surging run and neat finish.

A very good game against a talented team on a great pitch in the sunshine -
fun for everybody.
 

7/3/10 Badshot Lea Harriers 1 - 3 AFC Brooklands Hawks

At last, a beautiful morning, a great surface and a terrific match.

With the Hawks down to a bare 7 we arrived at Badshot's enormous but

excellent pitch with a little trepidation. We shouldn't have worried, the

Hawks were simply fantastic and edged a well coached and well organised

Badshot team 3-1.  Lining up with Asher starting in goal, skipper Ryan

partnered by the Kieronator in defence, Giacomo getting a deserved run in

midfield with Hitman Conor, and the mighty atoms up front, Louis and the

Bear.

Early exchanges were even and it was clear that the size of the pitch would

mean lots of hard running for both teams.  Badshot play a nice short

passing game and Giacomo was working overtime to support Ryan and Kieron as

we came under pressure.  Our outlet was typically Teddy who zipped about at

high speed and took on the Badshot defenders all game.  He didn't get the

goal his performance deserved but it was a super effort from the pint-sized

tornado.

It was Brooklands who got on the scoresheet first with a flowing move.

Giacomo picked up a loose ball, beat his man, fed Conor who turned and

played the ball into the box where Giacomo had continued his run and

slotted first time.  It had to be good to beat the Badshot 'keeper who was

excellent all match.  Shortly after it was 2 when Conor collected and hit a

low hard shot into the corner.  Now Badshot came back at Brooklands and

showed what a good side they are.  Kieron was tackling like a tiger and

Ryan marshalled the defence very well - we had a couple of close calls and

Asher did well under severe pressure but eventually a cross was turned in

to make it 2-1 at half-time.

With no subs Asher came into midfield, Giacomo into defence and Ryan took

the goalie gloves.  The second half followed a similar pattern with Badshot

pressing and Brooklands breaking at great speed through Conor and Teddy.

Louis was playing clever passes to bring them onto the ball and Asher put

in some strong runs down the right wing.  Time and again Teddy seared into

the box but couldn't quite finish or find a team-mate, and the Badshot

goalie was equal to everything thrown at him.  It was very even and Ryan

eventually got his hands on the ball after a goal-mouth scramble to save

the Hawks.    With a couple of minutes left and the coaches fingernails

getting shorter Conor finally put some daylight between the teams when he

turned sharply and hit a sweet shot low into the corner for 3-1.  The

effort of the Hawks was amazing as with no subs everybody played the whole

match without rest on probably the biggest pitch we have played on.

Thanks to Badshot coaches and parents for a warm welcome and both sets of

players for a good even match.

14/2/10 AFC Brooklands Hawks 0 - 2 Woking Town Footies

How do I start this report? What a hard fought game, non-stop football

bouncing backwards and forwards from each half.

Hawks down to a bare 7, Woking turned up with 10 all as tall or taller

than Conor.

Theo started in Goal with Giacomo & Ryan in Defense with Teddy, Conor &

Joshua playing in Midfield and Kieron up front .

From the opening whistle the game was very open and both teams battled

hard, with Hawks just edging the procession in the first half, Theo

was called into action with two great saves, and then Giacomo clearing

up any danger left behind.

Woking broke with 3 players, which some times left the Hawks defense

open with the midfield not tracking back all the time, Joshua, Conor and

Teddy at every chance pushing forwarded, bringing out some strong

defending from Woking and their goalkeeper also being bought into action

.

Hawks having 4 corners to Woking’s 3 , Joshua putting some great crosses

in that didn't drop for Conor, Teddy or Kieron.

Teddy had 3 nice shots and was unlucky with his deflection that hit the

cross bar .Kieran holding the bar up and running at the Woking defense .

Woking pushed forward and got there break just before half time with

lovely shot that deflected of a Hawks player and into the goal, Theo

was unlucky and almost got to ball.

HT 0-1.

Half time quick change Joshua having a great first half swapped with

Theo who had a great first half, took up the midfield role.

The second half started exactly the same with the Hawks pushing

forward more & More leaving the backs exposed but having no subs and

running non stop some players started to tire.

Woking started to find more space and started to take long shots at the

goal, the Hawks kept them at a distance for a time, with Joshua being

called into two great save tipping around the post and then a lovely

volleyed shot by Woking number 14 some how went off Joshua knee

and over the bar.

Conor, Theo and Teddy continually running at the Woking defense trying

to find an opening. Theo took three players on and his shot was

unlucky, Theo then had another try bringing another save from the

Woking goalie, 3 more corners Connor just wide, Teddy taking on a few

players, and Hawks just missing that final pass to get a clear shot on

goal. Every time Kieron would get the ball he would hold it up and run

with it waiting for the midfield support .

You could see this being a draw the Woking crowd getting nervous on the

touch line .

Then more attacks from Woking with Ryan making two great clearance and

Giacomo running all over the pitch, making some last ditch tackles,

but as Hawks pushed forward, Woking had another attack and shot just

outside the box with Joshua so unlucky not to catch the ball but it just

crept in, 0-2 , the Hawks heads dropped for a few seconds, and then

for the final few minutes they pushed forward leaving gaps at the back,

but they wanted a goal and Giacomo pushed forward with Conor, Teddy

Theo attacking again, but just couldn't get that final pass in for a

shot!

Hawks played out of there skins and where unlucky not to get a draw ,

one of our best performances against the best team we have played all

season .

Well done boys you should be proud of this performance .

Man of the Match was very close again and Mark Presented this to Joshua

Foreman for a great game especially in goal, making some very good

saves and his excellent kicking.

Giacomo also had a great game was just edged to M O M.

Well over to you now Neil!

7/2/10 Frimley Pirates 0 - 4 AFC Brooklands Hawks

A different team turned up this week to Frimley following the previous
week's Dancing on Ice Session at St Georges.


This week the team looked solid in defence and had some great attacking
moves in both halves Joshua and Teddy making some great runs into the
box with Conor and Kieron looking to pounce on every ball .

Theo stepped up to go in goal for the first half and was kept quite
quiet from some outstanding defending from Asher & Ryan , ( Asher
seemed to have a different breakfast to everyone else ,possible
shredded wheat or
porridge ) he didn't miss a tackle all game and ran from start to finish
).

The first half was close with possession but the Hawks took the 2 goals
well , a lovely pass from Joshua put Conor through , and his dogged
determination past one player , and another then the ball bouncing off
Frimley's defender and Conor muscled the ball into the back of the net .

The play came mainly through the centre of the pitch and not until the
second half did the Hawks use the width of the large Frimley pitch .

Frimley came back on the attack Ryan & Asher not letting any thing get
past them, the midfield held the ball up well , Joshua making some
lovely runs, and tracking back well to help the defence out .

Kieron playing some lovely passes , Conor & Teddy & Louis continued to
push for the second goal and a lovely pass from midfield allowed Conor
to run on and pass the ball into the net for Hawks second goal.

Change at Half time Theo( Keeping a Clean sheet for HT ) out of Goal
and Ryan took over between the sticks.
Theo added and extra attacking dimension to the team and from the
whistle the Hawks started to use the width more, Frimley kept on
pushing and Now with Joshua dropping into the defence along side Asher
and Ryan in goal it gave the Hawks a solid platform to build from, Conor
dropped into Midfield alongside Theo it made it difficult for Frimley to
mount many chances .

Frimley kept pushing and had several corners on the trot , but the
Hawks kept there formation , a safe pair off hands from Ryan and Joshua,  Asher & Conor making good clearances .

Frimley needed to push forward more allowing more space for Theo ,
Conor & Teddy to run at the defence ,a great ball from Louis put Conor
on goal this time hitting the post , 2 minutes later , whilst taking to
Ryan about his goal kicks Conor scored his hat-trick ( I missed the goal )
but well done to those involved in the leading up to the goal .

Hawks pushed on still more ,wanting more goals and tasting victory with
several more corners Theo crossing some lovely balls in going close,
Teddy "the Bear" unlucky not to get onto the score sheet, with 2
lovely shots and the Frimley Goalkeeper bringing off some great saves from Teddy, & Theo, Conor then scored his 4th goal on another day he could have had 6 or 7
as the Hawks made plenty of chances.

Frimley still remained positive and kept on pushing until the end with
Ryan strong in goal and Asher winning Man of the Match for a solid all-round game .


The Hawks ALL played well and from start to finish was a solid game ,
the scored line flattered us, but we showed how strong we can be in
defence and that given the chances up front we can finish most teams
off !!

Well done to Conor, his second match this season he has scored 4 goals
and @ 20 for the Season not had return, it's costing his grandfather a
small fortune .

Lets continue this weekend where we left off!

31/1/10 AFC Brooklands Hawks 1 - 4 Mayford Utd

After a break of 7 weeks it was good to see the Orange shirts of the Hawks
back on the field in a re-arranged match with Mayford. The pitch was
covered with a light frost but was just about playable and both teams
deserve credit for playing out the match in tough conditions. Fair to say
it was Mayford who adapted quicker and better, and within 10 minutes the
Hawks were 2 down. A bit of a lack of concentration in defence and marking
and the lively Mayford attack converted both chances.

Brooklands didn't seem their normal dynamic selves and the passing that had
developed pre-Xmas went missing. Still, Ryan had a fine game in
centre--defence and the midfield of Asher and Josh worked hard to get the
Hawks back into the match. Louis and Kieron ran hard up front but it was
Mayford who stretched their lead, breaking fast and finishing with a well
taken shot.

Half-time at 3-0 down was a new experience for coaches and players alike
and we all agreed to do better in the second half. And we did, Conor and
Teddy had a couple of good chances and the Mayford 'keeper did
exceptionally well to keep the score intact. Without a 'keeper of their
own the Hawks swapped payers in and out. and were unlucky to let in a
further soft goal. It looked like the Hawks were never going to score as
the ball just wouldn't seem to get over the line, but Giacomo got a
deserved consolation goal when he turned neatly and shot home.

Far from our best and maybe a little rusty, but fair play to Mayford who
outplayed us on the day

13/11/09 AFC Brooklands Hawks 4 - 0 Fleet Town Harriers

TV talent shows might be keeping the players, and their parents, up later
than they should but a little bit of  X-Factor rubbed off on the Hawks as
we saw something unusual and exciting - passing!  Yes, after weeks of
cajoling, demonstrating, pleading and bribery by the coaches, the boys
really started to understand that football involves passing!  Maybe not
quite a Eureka moment but 3 goals came from excellent passes to set up the
scorer and as Simon Cowell would say, the Hawks are through to the next
round - ok, it's only a friendly but I have to stick to my theme.

A cold and dark start to Sunday morning at St. Georges saw the parents
grapple with the goal posts and finally they emerged from the gloom like a
Dali scuplture.  The early exchanges were even, Fleet are a neat
footballing side and were straight into their game.  Hit Man Martin went
close for AFC hitting both posts early doors - remarkably the goals stayed
upright -  while skipper Louis and the Bear buzzed around the Fleet
defence.  In midfield we saw a welcome return from Theo Bennetts - small in
stature but big of heart -  and in defence the house that Ryan built
remains steadfast while behind him the Libero, Giacomo, continues to make
the game look easy and swept up everything that the slick Fleet passing
brought his way.  On the occasions Fleet broke through the Artful Dodger
was there in nets again, Asher clearing with feet, hands, whatever,
depending on which were warmest.

The breakthrough came when Teddy beat his man and then, to the coach's
surprise, looked up and played a perfect square ball to Conor in space who
stroked it into the bottom corner.    After a goalmouth scramble Ryan
cleared upfield where again, Teddy played in Conor to make it 2.
Half-time, 2-0 but pretty even and the Coach, slightly confused by this
new-fangled passing, suggested we try it even more.  A re-aligment as Conor
took over in goal, and the Dodger slotted into midfield.  More pressure
from Fleet and Conor made two great saves, including a one-handed effort
bound for the top corner.  That gave the Hawks confidence and now Theo
decided that he'd try this passing idea and promptly put in Teddy who
slotted neatly.  A final goal-mouth scramble and Fleet were unlucky to
concede a late own goal.

4-0 probably flattered the Hawks and Fleet fully played their part in a
good even match.  What was pleasing was to see the skills and techniques we
have been working on in training coming through in matches.    A little
passing goes a long way!
Neil "Louis Walsh" Standring

15/11/09 Woking Town Footies 1 - 2 AFC Brooklands Hawks

Now we coaches like to think we're clever, master tacticians, and that our
decisions on formations, substitutions and the like are the reason for
famous victories (and losses are down to bad luck :o ) .  But yesterday we
can safely say the win was nothing to do with the coaches and everything to
do with the boys attitude and effort.  Quite simply they put in an
astonishing second half to come from behind and somehow sneak a 2-1
victory.

On a beautiful morning in Old Woking the Hawks lined up with Joseph as
skipper in goal, Kieron and Ryan defending, Josh back in midfield with
Asher, Conor and The Bear up top.  We were outplayed in the first half by a
super Woking team, strong, organised and with good short passing.  For once
we were a little out of shape and were lucky a few times with Joseph making
some important stops.  We didn't create much at the other end even with the
introduction of Louis and it was no surprise when Woking went ahead.  A
long ball and the striker was through only to be denied by a brave diving
stop by Joseph, but the ball squirted to Woking to who tap in.  Half time
came and Joseph had hurt his knee so Asher "volunteered" to take on the
gloves and we were down to a bare 7 and it looked a tough ask for the boys
to get back in the match.

Maybe it was the new biscuits (crunchy) in place of the usual jaffa cakes,
but it was a storming second half.  Teddy suddenly remembered he is a great
dribbler and started taking on the Woking defence, ably supported by Louis
who continues to demonstrate a good first touch as we urge all the boys to
do.  Conor now in midfield decided it was time to get down to business and
with Josh solid as ever we turned the screw a little bit.  Still there were
scares in our defence but tyro Kieron and Ryan in particular mopped up the
pressure, and when they were beaten there was Asher, the Artful Dodger, in
goal keeping them out.  Now Conor kept driving forward and a goalmouth
scramble ended with Josh, as he does so often, positioning himself well to
tap home.  At the other end Dodger got fingers to a hard shot which hit one
post and rolled back along the goal-line, lucky Hawks!  A draw looked a
fair result as Conor put one wide when clean through, but Louis and
whirling dervish Teddy kept the pressure on, and again Conor ran from his
own half and belted one into the bottom corner, 2-1.

Well done boys, tremendous.

8/11/09 AFC Brooklands 7 - 1 Frimley Green Pirahnas

A late start to Sunday's game started with a minute silence with both teams

in the centre circle for those fallen heroes .

AFC Brooklands 7  -1  Frimley Green Piranhas

Conor 4 , Theo 2 , Giacomo 1.

Joseph , Keiron , Asher , Theo ,Giacomo ,  Conor , Teddy, Louis

What a follow on from a 2 week break, another well played game, the new

formation of 2-2- 2 starting to pay off with both defence & midfield creating more

space/chances  and getting the strikers more into the game .

This week  was  difficult to highlight key players as the whole team where

outstanding !!!

The first few minutes both teams pushed the ball around nicely with little

to choose between them,  then a break from defence, the ball passed up

field by Keiron to Theo, bounced around the Frimley goal with Conor

knocking the ball in off the post -  the Frimley crowd calling for touch line technology but the goal

was given by the well positioned ref.

Frimley got more into the game looking for an equaliser, but to no avail.

Some lovely defending by Giacomo & Keiron holding Frimley at bay

with the high energy Theo & Asher running the midfield.  A sweet turn and

square ball from Asher set up Theo who took a touch and stroked a lovely

shot low into the coner, 2-0, shortly followed quickly by another crisp

shot from Conor to make it 3-0.  With Great running from Louis in and

around the box  just before halftime AFC made it 4-0 will a well taken shot

by Theo .

The team's work rate was very high. Joseph making sure his defence was

still alert as Frimley still had their heads up and where pushing forward

with some neat passing.  Before half time we switched the team around ,

Conor dropping into defence with Giacommo, pushing Keiron & Asher into

midfield and livewire Teddy with Theo up front as AFC continued to show

good creativity.

Second half.

AFC mixed the team up again and there was little to choose between the

sides, Theo continually running at the  Frimley  defence from start to

finish,  Keiron solid in defence and passing the ball around in midfield

not missing a tackle, Asher got stuck in all game not letting  anyone pass

him and putting some great passes in .

Keiron passed to Asher who knocked out to Conor to score his third, a

lovely taken goal, and AFC's 5th  of the game. Frimley deservedly pulled

one back , which Joseph could do little about then, Frimley pushed on for

a second but some neat stops from Joseph and one amazing slide tackle by

Theo held them out .

Joseph's excellent kicking had Frimley on the back foot, with Teddy

receiving the ball from goal kicks and knocking it about and was  unlucky

not to get a goal. Giacommo  kept pushing for his opening Hawks goal with

the Frimley goalie pulling off two super saves but then it finally came

with a  lovely ball from Teddy to Giacommo who with a sweet half volley

made it 6. The final goal came from Conor - a big kick from Joseph to Teddy

who knocked it onto Conor who smashed it in the back of the net to make it

7-1, 4 goals this week following a hatrick in the previous game for Conor

- he's found his shooting boots alright.

The whole team were outstanding, and it was difficult to highlight key

players,  Theo and Asher ran the midfield, Conor's finishing was deadly,

Giacommo got his first goal & had a solid game, Joseph kept himself warm

and alert and was always in charge in goal, Keiron didn’t stop running all

game and was very good, Louis kept himself busy with some lovely running

off the ball. Teddy's running with the ball was excellent and on another

day would ended with a goal.

Respect also for Frimley who played neat football throughout and were well

supported.

18/10/09 AFC Brooklands Hawks 5 - 1 Hersham
(Conor 3, Theo, Teddy)

Somewhere in the back of the closet those scoring boots have been gathering
dust.  Finally on Sunday they emerged into the glorious light of a St
Georges day and did their thing - 5 goals!

But not before Hersham had given the Hawks a real battle and pushed them
all the way - the match had a familiar pattern of defences on top and
chances rare until the final 10 minutes.  Maybe it was a switch of
formation from 2-3-1 to 2-2-2, or maybe it was the half-time jaffa cakes,
or maybe just a case of one or two players doing what we know they're
capable of!  Whatever, it was a frenetic last 15 minutes  in which the Hawks
scored 4.

Back to the start - the coaches asked the players to concentrate on their
first touch to control the ball, and then to look for the pass or shot.
There are signs this is beginning to sink in and is the bedrock of the way
we want to play.  There is still a lot of running with the ball until
stopped, but Giacomo and Asher in particular seem to be listening and
trying to bring their team-mates into play.  The two teams were evenly
matched in the first half - Theo Bennetts broke the deadlock when he chased
down a lost cause, cut into the box and hit a sweet right foot shot.
Hersham play nice football though and put the Hawks defence under more
pressure than recent weeks.  Ryan, Giacomo and Joseph in goal worked hard
to snuffle out any chances - Joseph pushing a fierce shot onto the crossbar
and then somehow recovering to smother the follow-up - super 'keeping.

1-0 at half-time and it looked like yet another tight match.  Within 5 minutes
of the restart Hersham deservedly drew level, a long ball and the striker
tucked his shot neatly in the corner.     Seconds later Joseph made another
outstanding save, diving bravely to smother the ball right on the
goal-line.  At this point the Hawks threw caution to the wind a little bit
and decided to bolster the attack.  Conor pushed up to second striker
behind Teddy or Theo, Asher and Giacomo held firm in a 2-man midfield and
Josh, reading the game well, slipped in beside Ryan to sweep up at the
back.    The effect was almost immediate, Conor seeing more of the ball in
space and Teddy buzzing around the defenders.  Encouragingly we still
seemed to get width and crosses started to hit the front men.  Conor took
advantage, running strongly at the defence he hit a sweet low shot from
distance to give the Hawks the lead and followed it up minutes later with a
neat finish.  Now the boys tails were up and Teddy worked his way into the
box to notch the 4th.  Conor drilled another with his right to complete his
hat-trick as the Hawks found a lot of confidence in the new shape.  Credit to
Hersham who never backed off and continued to play football, but it was the
Hawks who left the field with beaming faces.

Thanks to both sets of supporters for friendly support and the two teams
for playing football in the right way.

11/10/09 AFC Brooklands Falcons 2 - 1 Woking & Maybury

Our first home game, at last, very skilful Woking and Maybury team turned up and we were under pressure from the first moment till the last, how they didn't score was down to some resolute defending and goalkeeping and praise must go to Sam, Tim, George and Max who never stopped working for each other.

Eventually we did get going and reach their half of the pitch however nothing came of our attacks.The first half came to an end 0 - 0 but honours must go to Woking and Mayford.

The second half commenced better for Brooklands and eventually we were forcing corners, nearly as good as a goal, the ball wasn't in our half as much as the first half.
Now Alfie, Jack and Colm were seeing more of the ball, and after a goal mouth scramble the Woking goal keeper couldn't get his hands to the ball there was too many leg there but some how a leg poked out and the ball went into the net - Jack was there, he now has as good a goals to games record as the top premiership players. Again Woking came at us lots of skill that deserved more than just close efforts.

However again from a breakaway the ball fell to Jack who placed a shot into the corner of the net the Woking goalkeeper had no chance as the crowd of players in front blocked his view now Jack has a better goal/game record than those in the higher leagues.

Would this deflate Woking, no way, back they came and pushed till the end corner after corner and eventually our defence folded and they scored from a very well rehearsed routine, a good goal and well deserved.

However the game ended very soon after that and Brooklands sighed in relief.

A good game and very well contested by both teams who were spurred on and applauded by all parents.

A big thank you to Woking and Maybury for a good game hope to see you again this season

P.S. Mr. Cappello come and watch these U8s teams and be entertained, its 100% effort by all and suprisingly a lot of skill for ones so young, more happens in these matches in 40 minutes than in 90 minutes in the premiership apart from the diving.

Gerard Crosby

11/10/09 Fleet Harriers 1 - 1 AFC Brooklands Hawks

The return to Fleet , a very tight even matched game, the boys giving
100% from start to finish, this match again could have gone either way,
with each team having their chances but neither team could get a winner.

The formation changed slightly this week with Joseph ( “The Cat “) making
his debut in goal and Conor pushing into midfield leaving Teddy ( The
Bear ) up front, this proved a good solid formation with each part of the
team supporting each other.

Ryan & Giacomo where solid in defence, Ryan holding fort and allowing
Giacomo to support the midfield on the attacks and Conor & Asher helping
and supporting the defence throughout the game.

The first half was edged by Hawks, with some great attacking work by Asher
& Josh bringing some good saves from the fleet goalie, Teddy also had a
chance which just went passed the post.

Some lovely work in the midfield with Asher And Giacomo passing to each
other knocking the ball through to Josh to score for the third week on the
trot, a well taken goal.

Hawks kept on pushing with further corners but to no avail then another
shot from Conor that just went wide.

Fleet started to get back into the game forcing one corner after another
Hawks trying too clear the ball for the third time , but this time the
ball sneaked in by the near post. Prior to this Joseph pulled off some
great saves pushing the ball to safety and giving his defence confidence.
throughout the game

Louis came on for Teddy before the end of the half offering further options
up front, but still no further breakthrough.

The second half was going to be a close fought thing, with Ryan staying
solid in defence, Giacomo pushed up into midfield, with Josh dropping
too the last man. Louis who never stopped running was switched for Teddy
and Conor pushed forward to support.

One goal either way would win this tight fought game

Asher pushed forward with a lovely shot well held by their goalie , and
further shots on target, from Giacomo, Teddy, and Conor couldn’t get
the deserved second goal.

Then the Fleet Goalie got carried away and decided to catch the ball well
outside his area. With 2 minutes to go, was this going to be the chance for a break
though, a free kick ,the ball placed just outside the box, Conor steps
back and drives a lovely ball over the wall and just over the bar ,
close!

The final few minutes got tense with Fleet pushing forward with all hands
on deck, with all the team helping out in defence. The ball bouncing around the Hawks area like a jack in the box, all the team trying to get their foot to the ball to clear the danger!

The final whistle blew a fair result, and the team should be pleased
with a good game and how well they played together as a team supporting
each other .

Must be the trucks & Trailers

Ben

4/10/09 AFC Brooklands Hawks 1 -1 Badshot Lea

After the seeding matches this was the Hawks first match in the new
"Beckham" division and a step up in class.  Could the boys compete with a
well organised and talented Badshot team?  They may be under 8s but these
two teams showed how entertaining and skilful junior football can be.

It was a real ding dong battle and some rugged tacking saw defences
generally on top.  Ryan hung tough at centre back alongside the smooth
touch and quality passing of Giacomo. The midfield worked hard to create
something, Josh again forceful supported by Teddy and Theo working their
wings and tracking back to support the defence.  Gunslinger Conor got on
the end of a couple of passing moves only to see his shots just slide past
the post.  The breakthrough came from sustained pressure on the Badshot
defence when Josh squeezed a shot under the keeper, 1-0 to the Hawks and so
it stayed to halftime.

Under 7s Louis and Keiron added some energy to the team and chased down
every ball.  Theo and Teddy looked far more dangerous in the second half
and a mazy run took Teddy close.  But Badshot are a fine team and fought
back, it took a flying two-handed save from Asher - helping the team out in
goal -to protect the Hawks lead.  As the clock ticked down a clearance went
straight to the Badshot striker who hit an unstoppable shot to make it 1-1.
The final couple of minutes were nerve jangling but a draw proved a fair
result and a good performance from our boys who are still getting to know
each other and how the coaches want them to play.

Good support from the parents, thank you - it really does make a
difference.

Neil Standring

27/9/09 Seeding Match - AFC Brooklands 1 - 0 Byfleet Village

A very lively crowd at St Georges on our first home outing on hot late
summers day - scorer -Joshua Foreman

The team line up changed from the previous week's success resting some ,
and bringing in some defensive  players from the Hawks who didn’t have a
game .

The teams cancelled each other out for most of the game, with Ryan and Max
solid in defence and Sam protecting the last line of defence with a few
important saves to keep another clean sheet for the Falcons.

The game spent a lot of its time  in the middle of the park  with Theo and
George , Joshua &  Asher all  holding  there midfield positions well and
putting in some strong tackles,  pushing forward at every opportunity with
several more shots at the Byfleet goal taken well by there goalie.

Conor then got his shooting boots on  catching the ball cleanly from a
lovely pass by Giacomo - with his right foot only to see an amazing save by
“ Mitchell “ the Byfleet goalie , known  better as Peter Cech of Byfleet .
Falcons then pushed hard until half time with still no clear breakthroughs
- a fair half-time score .

The team changed team around at half time with still both Falcons and
Byfleet cancelling  each other out , a few more chances with  Alfie , Theo
& Giacomo  putting shots in  on  the Byfleet goal ,

The Falcons had more than 9 corners in total with Josh , Theo & Conor
taking their turns  but still no break through .  The midfield & defence
got better as the game went on and you could see a score draw on the cards.

But  with 5 minutes to go and  some lovely passing in the midfield the ball
was knocked through to Conor who shot at goal bringing another great save
by the goalie - this time the ball came out to Joshua  who steadied himself
to hit the ball cleanly and score his first goal of the season .

The final few minutes had both teams on the back foot , Byfleet  pushing
for an equaliser & Falcons holding  their shape and positions but still
looking to further their lead - the game ended 1-0.

Well a great start to the pre-Season played  2 , won 2 , scored 7 goals
conceded none .

Boys well done - it was a great team performance and everyone played well ,
it was difficult to choose a man of the match  but Joshua Foreman edged it,
for his tackling and supporting both defenders & attackers throughout the
game  and the goal helped !

A  big thanks to all the parents who  came to support, the  kids &
coaches , we  really your  appreciate encouragement during the game .

Ben

20/9/09 Seeding Match -  Fleet Town Typhoons 0 - 6 AFC Brooklands Falcons

Wow!  What a start from the new U8 Falcons squad, 6 goals, a clean sheet
and an enjoyable match against plucky opponents.

For a first match together it was a very promising performance that bodes
well for this group of talented footballers, a mixture of U7s and U8s.  New
coaches Neil and Ben picked an attacking line-up, largely as a result of
having no outright defenders, and it paid off with exciting passing and
running right from the kick-off.

Despite pressure the Fleet defence coped well and it took Teddy Davey to
break the deadlock firing home direct from a corner, the Falcon's first
ever goal.  With Giacomo Sala and Alfie Harper composed at the back and
Keiron Carpenter putting in some crunching tackles, the Falcons were secure
but only one up and Fleet were seeing more of the ball.  Theo Bennetts, a
bundle of energy and with skill to match, took the ball into the heart of
the Typhoon's penalty area, his shot beet the 'keeper and as it rolled over
the line livewire striker Asher Standring followed up to poke it home -
2-0!  Not sure who should claim it; officially Asher as the ball  was still
in play, morally Theo as it was goal-bound.  Luckily they're mates so they
can argue it out!

Louis Standring joined the fray and the Falcons continued to show pleasing
passing and movement.  We will have to work on keeping our shape and not
all chasing the ball, but generally the positional play was good.  Conor
Martin came out of goal and went up top, with Alfie replacing him in nets.
Goal of the match came next, a clearance found Teddy Davey lurking a few
yards outside the box and he drilled a first time shot through the crowded
box - a bulging net, 3-0, what a strike!  Now Brooklands were well on top
and with Giacomo showing poise and class in the centre of the park, Conor's
power began to show as he made it 4 with a well taken shot just before
half-time.

The Jaffa Cakes attracted more attention that the coaches team talk, but
the Falcon's came out with a determined attitude.  Fleet deserve credit for
coming more and more into the match and the second half defence of Conor
and Teddy had to remain alert.  The half was fairly even until Louis
Standring on his debut got the Falcon's fifth,  lurking at the far post
like a good striker should he tucked a right wing cross home neatly.  There
was just time for Conor to demonstrate his sweet right foot as he made the
total 6.

There were several Man-of-the-match candidates, but it went deservedly to
Teddy - a blur of movement and energy and with two good feet - a tyro!

This was an outstanding first match for the Falcons, sister squad to the U8
Hawks.  What was pleasing was the attitude of the boys to play in positions
they are not used to and all contributed.  We need to think about
identifying a solid defensive player, we have plenty of attacking talent -
and there could be sharing of players across the two squads.

Well done to all, and thank you to the parents for your support and
encouragement.

See you next week! 

Neil "The Guvnor" Standring