Match Report

Friendlies round-up

Thanks to Vic for arranging 5 friendlies against quality opposition. Two teams from our Premier division, two teams from a more Senior league, and one against a team from our own division. Despite the disappointment of hearing that we were to lose two of last seasons most outstanding players, Dave Garratty (work commitments) and Paul Garrett (international jet setting) we found two ideal replacements for the squad. 

Gary Napier, at last, has seen the light and joined the best run amateur Club in the country along with Jason Bailey. 
The squad is encouraging, I have seen at least 16 players that will be able to compete at the required first team standard, and I have not seen all signed on players yet. This strength in depth must benefit all teams and perhaps filter down to the Fourth eleven and give them the lift they need. 

The 2-1 win at Otford was a comfortable win only conceding one goal in the dark.

The match against SEGAS from our Premier was very encouraging, we completely outplayed them in every department winning 4-1. Carlos O'Connor showed he will be knocking on the door for a first team place with two very good games. 
Egerton was a very tough test they wanted the ball mote, but on goal chances we should have at least drawn and possibly won. 

Middle Park from our division was a bit disappointing, poor refereeing spoiled the game and we were unable on the field to organise ourselves against ten men. 

This Saturday against Plumstead Royals we were in command all game, but poor finishing let us down. Instead of being 2 or 3 goals up we found ourselves 1-1 with about ten to go, Gary saved the day leaving the defence and keeper in his wake.
I have been very encouraged with our teamwork, despite players playing in new positions and many changes during the games we have coped admirably. Unselfishness in front of goal highlighted the team spirit both Gary and Graham both did all the hard work to set up team mates. 

I will each week be in touch with other Team Managers especially Steve in the 2nd to monitor progress of players not selected. Remember if you do not make the team one week make sure you make an impression in Steve's team. 

I make no hard and fast rules about training, I know work has to come first, but I do expect the First team squad to train whenever possible. 

Paul Bailey slipped a disc on Sunday and will be out for the beginning of the season. A great disappointment as Paul has looked one of our most improved players this year. Lets give it our all on Saturday not only for ourselves but for Bodge who will be laid up.