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U10 Boys
Date: 17/01/09
Fixture 1: Riverside Boys v Annfield Plain
K.O. Time: 11.59 am
From the kick off Riverside for a change in the first game of two take the game straight to Annfield and apply pressure onto the Annfield crew’s defence. Annfield are not here to let the Boys have it all their own way though and soon try to take the game back to them but the defence is up to it and repel their attack to put Riverside back on the front foot and are seen camped in the Annfield side of the pitch as they strive to break down their defence. Riverside gain the first few corners of the game but they come to nothing as the Annfield defence clears and breaks but the attack is dealt with again and frees the forwards with the help of the midfield to again put Annfield under constant pressure. We see Aiden and Esh combining well with a couple of neat one twos ending up with Esh’s shot going wide of the right post. As I said though Annfield are not here to sit back and spectate as they break through the defence and have a clear shot at goal but Jake stands firm and saves well. They next apply their own pressure down the left side and the Boys struggle to cope for a minute but start to gain control again and take the game back to Annfield after they clear from a corner. Riverside now attack down the right and Esh has a couple of his long throws into the box, from one Cameron picks up and shoots, his attempt is blocked but it comes back to him so he has another go and this time his shot just goes wide of the post. Next Cam is back to help in defence as Annfield break through again, he takes up position behind Liam and when they pass him he blocks and clears the danger. Aiden is through next as Esh puts him clear but the Annfield keeper is down well to save from his shot. Ben shows a bit of initiative next as he picks up in defence but instead of kicking it straight up field he sees he’s unmarked so takes the ball forward getting by one defender and deep into their half, passes to Esh who has a run at goal but he is forced wide. Its mainly Riverside who have possession, as the half winds down but no goals as yet and the half closes in at 0-0.
Substitution: Aiden off and Luke on.
Annfield come back at Riverside for the first minute or so from the break but it’s soon turned around and the Boys go back on the offensive as they break from a corner and Cam (who I have to say is playing out of his socks as he can be seen one minute in attack, but if they break he’s straight back to assist with the defence), gets the ball free and sets Esh away up the right wing but he takes the ball a stride too far and it goes out. Esh is involved next in what is ultimately the move of the game as he takes a throw in from the right, the ball comes back out of the box after bobbling about and seems to be going out for a corner but Esh has other ideas as he race up to it, twists and knocks it back into the box from the by line, it loops over the defence to a waiting Luke Bennison who brings it down excellently and half volleys it from only two yards out to nearly break the net on the 20th minute, in what, if it had been caught on film would surely have been a contender for goal of the month, 1-0 Riverside. Heads are definitely seen to go up after that as they go straight back on the attack from the kick off, Annfield try to counter but it’s brushed aside and the Boys are soon camped in their half again. It’s great to see as they pass the ball about from one to another, making space and talking to each other as they do so. Annfield are forced back further into their own half and are constantly blocking and chasing the ball. Kieran is next to see a shot well blocked by their keeper, who is keeping the score line down himself as he bravely thwarts a few good attempts. The reward comes eventually from the constant pressure, from an Esh corner the ball falls to Luke, who turns and from a very acute angle slots the ball past the keeper to get his and Riversides second on the 27th min.2-0. It’s all Riverside now as they come straight back again from the kick off and only a minute later Esh is the supplier again as he lofts in another long throw which Kieran manages to stick his head on and get Riversides third on the 29th min.3-0. There's not much time left for anything else and the game finishes off at a well deserved win for Riverside Boys
Man of the match game 1: Cameron Laing
Final Score1: 3-0
Goal Scorers game 1: Luke Bennison (2) Kieran Younger (1)
Fixture 2: Durham County Cougars v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 1.05pm
After another bout of confusion within the Russel Foster organisation we eventually see the match kick off and again Riverside are straight on the attack and take the game straight to the Cougars, both Esh and Aiden are nearly rewarded with a goal in the opening seconds as Esh races in on goal from the off, breaking through the defence but his shot on goal is blocked, Aiden is there to pick up and have a go himself but unbelievably he manages to loft it over the cross bar, what a start that would have been, let’s be hoped we don’t regret that at the end of the game.
Unbelievably the Cougars break from this and from a good 30 yards out they loft a speculative shot goal ward and with Jake just off his line it sails over his head to give them the lead 1-0 on the 2nd min. What a fluke! Though if we’d scored it, it would have been a cracker! Cougars go on the attack now and Riversides defence in Liam and Ben are called for more in this phase of the second game than what they were all of the first game.
Substitution: Kieran off and Luke on
Heads don’t go down and Riverside are back at them as Esh again breaks through the centre but again their keeper blocks him and saves well. We see Riverside again as in the first game combining well in the centre as Luke, Esh and Aiden impress as they pass the ball about in triangles, it’s just like watching the pro’s! Cougars are a different Team to last season though and soon begin to impress themselves as they come at Riverside in their own professional way knocking the ball about confidently forcing a break through the defence and Jake has to be determined, which he is, as he forces the attacker wide making him shoot wide. This is definitely a more organised outfit as they start to apply more pressure on the Riverside defence. They are also well up with their set pieces as they have a definite plan of action when taking corners.
Substitution: Kieran Back on Aiden off
It’s now turning into an end to end game as both teams probe each other for a break through one minute, then are back to defend the next. It’s difficult to pick a winner at this moment of the game as they both show good qualities. Another good chance passes by the Boys as Esh lofts another into the centre but no one is there to nod it in as the Cougars defence are left stranded by it as well. The Cougars have the next chance as they build up through the mid field and their attacker gets by Ben first turning one way then spinning to shoot from the other side but Jake is down well to palm it passed his post. Liam is next being passed as the same attacker gets by him and shoots again and once more Jake is down to save well. Then we see Esh and Luke forcing their defence to block and the keeper to save. The half closes at this with Cougars going in 1-0 in front.
Substitution: Jake off and Aiden on in goal.
Riverside take the game to Cougars from the off looking for an equaliser but it’s not going to be easy as Cougars again turn it round and come at the Boys with Kieran in his unfamiliar right back role called on to make a couple of good blocks. Riverside strive to get back into it again as Esh breaks down the left as he is freed by the defence, races in on the Cougars goal and shoots to get the equalising goal on the 19th min. Again we now see end to end stuff as the Cougars come at the Boys now trying to regain their lead but the Boys are also moving dangerously into their half of the park as they now fancy the win themselves. Ben gets himself involved left of midfield on a couple of occasions taking the ball wide and trying to get crosses in, in what for him is also an unfamiliar role, but he looks up for it. It’s good again to see Riverside playing a good competitive game against a side that also is playing in much the same vein. Chances come and go for both teams as they strive for the break through but the defences and midfields of both sides move to contain any major threats. It needs to be said as well that Aiden in goal is strong as he has to be down quick on more than a couple of occasions to palm the ball wide or save and block from well taken shots. Esh again is lofting throw-ins into the box with Cam, Luke and Ben all having efforts blocked from these throws. Just when it seems neither team will gain any advantage, in the dying seconds the Cougars have an innocuous shot saved by Aiden but the ball slips from his grasp and as he dives onto it and seems to have both hands on the ball their attacker flicks it from his grasp into the net for a contested goal on the 30th min.2-1.This reporter was too far away to see if the Boys were right in their protestations but never the less the game finishes at this in what was a good, close, and well fought encounter, well done to both teams!
Man of the match game 2: Kieran Younger
Final Score 2: 2-1
Goal Scorers game 2: Eshmael Samadi
Date: 21/03/09
Fixture 1: Riverside Boys v Washington Junior Blacks
K.O. Time: 12.02 am
For a change it’s a glorious day that sees us at Washington for 2 more games in what seems to have been a really long season due to the terrible weather we had during the winter months. Let’s see if the boys can keep temperature up on the field as well. From the kick off it’s a very even game as first the Blacks come at the Boys but they soon start to play themselves back into it a little. It’s the Blacks though who get the first chance on goal as they break through the middle of the park but Liam’s there to block and force the striker to shoot wide. And it’s a frustrating time again to all at Riverside as once again the Boys can’t seem to get motivated in the first game, there is little communication and hardly two passes strung together as they come under mounting pressure from a determined Washington Team. The Boys are under the cosh as they face corner after corner from the left flank and seem unable to clear the ball from their lines. Jake is called on a good few times to parry the ball away to keep them in the hunt. Eventually there is a break and the Boys try to take the game back to the Blacks. It doesn’t last long though as the Blacks are back on the attack and Luke, Michael, Cam and Liam are all involved in keeping the game to no score as they block again and again. It’s all hands to the pumps again as they struggle to hold them back long enough to try and raise their own game to counter this attacking. Next its Jake again who thwarts as he’s on his own as the Blacks get clean through, he’s at his best though as he blocks what looked like a certain goal. It’s like this more or less the whole first half with the Boy’s camped in their own half relying on the defence to keep the score line down, as they do, and the half closes in at a breathless 0-0.
Substitution: Ben on for Michael
The second half starts off with the Boys going on the offensive for the first minute but very soon they’re back in their own half as the Blacks come at them again. There’s gasps all round as the Blacks get passed Ben then Liam and see a screamer go straight across the goal face and just miss Jakes left post. Again they come, coming down the right this time, Aiden is back to assist in defence as he clears, then Jake has to save again and then Liam is there to head clear. Its back over to the left now as the Blacks have another bout of corners that keep the Boys penned in their own goal mouth again. It’s a rare sight but the Boys break through the middle as Kieran is freed up the centre, he takes the ball up and has a good attempt parried out with the ball finding its way to Luke who himself has ago but his well taken shot is well saved by the keeper. Its short respite as back come the Blacks and everyone plus his dog throws themselves in front of the ball in a goal mouth scramble, with Jake picking up a knock for his heroics diving around blocking and parrying the ball. He’s Ok though and bravely soldiers on. Next it jungle training time as this versatile reporter has to burrow through the under growth and fight his way amongst the trees to retrieve the ball to keep the game flowing (all Washington’s way though ? ). And he misses another rare attack from the Boys he’s told as he fights his way back out.
Substitution Dan on for Aiden
Next the Blacks miss what has to be said was a sitter as they break clear with only Jake to beat but miss the goal altogether. And it’s another close call as they break down the left and cross excellently into the middle but thankfully there’s no-one to get a foot on the end of it. The Boys are still trying to get in this game when they can get free and Cam has a shot on goal well saved after he had picked up from a Luke throw in. And just when it looks as though the boys are going to hold out for a draw the Blacks get the goal they deserve in the 29th min as they take yet another corner and this time their striker catches the ball excellently with his foot to leave the defence and Jake stranded and no chance to stop it. The Boys do try in the last minute to get back into it but the game finishes at this score- line with the Blacks getting the deserved win.
Man of the match game 1: Jake White
Final Score1: 0-1
Fixture 2: Riverside Boys v Durham Soccerena Phoenix
K.O. Time: 1.13pm Report 2:
It looks as though this is going to be much of a likeness to the first game as at first we see the game played in the middle of the park as each team tests the defence of their opponents then Durham start to take control and take the game to the Boys, surely it’s not going to be a repeat! They come close as their winger takes the ball up the right with Michael and Cam closing him down but he neatly side steps them both and whips in a low cross but fortunately no one is there to get on the end of it. It’s not all doom and gloom though as eventually we see the Boys start to play as we know they can and take the game back to the Durham team. Luke who is taking the throws in Esh’s absence gets one over to Kieran who turns and has a stab at goal but it’s knocked clear, only as far as Aiden though who sees his good effort hit the side netting of the Durham goal. For a change this day the Boys are now mounting their own pressure on to an opposing team, as again Luke takes a throw, getting it to Aiden who neatly gets past his marker and puts the ball into the centre but Kieran is unable to control and they get it safe. Luke has a go himself next as Cam whips in a good corner which falls to him but his shot goes wide. Kieran shows his skill next as he picks up in the middle of the park, chips one defender then sidesteps another taking the ball forward to see his well taken shot saved by the Durham keeper. Durham need to be watched as they break through the centre moving to the right getting past Michael but Liam’s across sharply to cover and force the attack wide. The game continues along these lines with, it has to be said a rejuvenated Riverside Boys doing most of the attacking and taking the game to a higher positioned Durham team but there’s no goals in the first half as the ref blows his whistle.
From the off in the second half it’s the Boys again taking the match by the scruff of its neck and dictating the play. It’s the move of the match that comes next as Kieran, Luke and Aiden combine brilliantly knocking the ball back and forward to each other, moving confidently forward culminating in Kieran again seeing his shot on goal well saved. As i mentioned earlier though its plain to see why Durham are a respected team and need to be watched as they do break and attack the Boys defence but they are standing strong for now as they face a bit of pressure from them. We see Durham awarded a few corners in succession with a good header just going over the bar from one.
Substitution: Nathan on for Cameron.
Riverside are still taking the game to Durham and its a bit of a sucker punch as they push forward and get caught with a quick break down their left getting past Michael who is too far forward, Liam races across to try and cover but they get past him as well leaving the winger with a simple cross into the middle where a waiting striker has an even easier tap in to give Durham the lead in the 27th min 0-1. It’s a bit of a collapse as straight from the kick off they come forward again and loft one up the right wing where Liam is caught out with the bounce as it sails over his head nad their striker racing on to it leaves Jake with no chance as they get their second in the 28th min 0-2.
Substitution: Ben on for Liam.
Heads don’t go down though as the Boys know they don’t deserve this and go back at Durham, Kieran picks up on the right wing, battles up the flank and whips a cross in to the centre, Dan controls it and gets it to Luke who seeing he is blocked kindly gives it back to Dan who turns and shoots excellently to get a well deserved goal back for the Boys 1-2. They still keep applying pressure as they strive for an equalizer and next its Nathan who picks up mid park controlling well, looking up to see Luke ahead of him so chips it up to him but Luke is unable to bring it under control and its knocked clear. Pressure is kept up and Kieran taking the ball forward is fouled on 15yards so steps up to take. It’s nail biting this as everyone knows we are in the final seconds... he steps back... waits a bit and sights on the goal... runs up...shoots ... and unbelievingly ... it just scrapes the paintwork on the outside of the goal post to be followed by the refs final whistle. What a finish it could have been if that had gone in! Never mind though at least we saw a game that showed how the boys can play!! Even the Durham manager acknowledges this with some encouraging comments and admitting his team were lucky to win that one.
Man of the match game 2: Kieran Younger
Final Score 2: 1-2
Goal Scorers game 2: Daniel Barbrooke-Grubb
Date: 14/03/09
Fixture 1: Riverside Boys v SAFC Foundation White
K.O. Time: 12.00 am
It’s a bitterly cold and windy day that greets us this day but hopefully the boys can warm the cockles and brighten the day. From the off Riverside, for a change take the game to the Whites but things soon turn round and the Whites mount pressure on the Boys goal and see an early shot just go wide of the boys left post. It’s a good move next from the Boys as Luke picks up from Liam’s header out, he crosses to Kieran who in turn frees Aiden, Aiden spots Esh free so passes to him but Esh’s shot is saved by the keeper, nice moves though! It seems too good to be true and sure enough the Whites attack down the left and the Boys stand back and give them room to shoot and concede the 1st goal of the game on the 5th min 0-1.The Boys try to get a quick one back and go all out on attack but forget to defend at their cost as the Whites break, and its 4 onto 2 with only Liam and Dan back, the Whites get by Dan leaving Liam with no chance to defend against 4 and they get their 2nd on the 7th min 0-2.The boys don’t let their heads go down though and still can be seen trying to get back in the game. It’s not easy what with the windy conditions blowing the ball all over and a more than determined Whites always dangerous on the break. They have to be alert with these and they prove it from one as Liam gets one clear which falls to Kieran he again gets it over to Aiden who puts it through for Esh who goes on goal and gets one back for the boys 12th min. 1-2. The boys do have a couple more chances from Esh’s throw-ins, one brings a header from Luke which just goes wide and another comes back to Esh and he sees his lofted shot well saved. Its settled down to a more competitive came in the last 5 minutes with both Teams probing but neither can find a breakthrough and the half ends at 1-2.
The Whites come straight on the attack after the break and Jake need to be quick off his mark to save well from their attack. Esh causes more problems for them as again another throw falls to Aiden this time and his shot is well saved. The boys are pressing and a goal mouth scramble sees Aiden, Esh and Kieran all have attempts blocked. It’s one of those innocuous moves forward that see the Whites get a throw, which they take and the ball thrown into the goal mouth somehow finds its way over Jake and goes in to give the Whites their third on the 18th min. 1-3. The boys are still probing and Kieran sees one go close as Esh passes to him but his quick shot just goes wide. The boys can be seen taking the game constantly now to the Whites but unbelievingly another break sees them get passed the defence to claim their 4th on the 20th min 1-4. I won’t say it’s one sided, but this half has definitely seen the boys the most dominant but keep getting caught out on the break. Dan need to be quick back again as the Whites break and look certain to grab another but he thwarts 4 attackers to clear the ball. They do break again from an attack to get their 5th of what ends up to be a flattering score-line on their part as the Boys were in it a lot more than the score suggests but their defence and lack of communication again let them down this game as it finishes at 1-5.
Man of the match game 1: Eshmael Samadi
Final Score1: 1-5
Goal Scorers game 1: Eshmael Samadi
Fixture 2: Washington Juniors v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 1.10pm Report 2:
And it’s nearly the quickest goal of the day as the Boys go straight on the attack and Esh just misses getting on the end of a rebound in the opening seconds but Washington manage to clear. After the early fright for Juniors they start to find their feet and start to give the Boys a good game of football. It’s entertaining stuff we see as both teams test each other and start to play an end to end game, The first clear chance goes Juniors way but Jake is off his line quick to force the attack wide. The boys find the breakthrough as they force Juniors back into their goal mouth and the keeper makes an unforced error as he takes a goal kick putting the ball at Kieran’s feet who obligingly take it forward and slots it passed him to score the first for the Boys on the5th min 0-1. This gives the Boys the confidence to take the game by the scruff of the neck and apply constant pressure onto the Juniors back line for the next 3-4mins and the pressure gets its rewards as on the 9th min after the game is stopped for an injury to a Washington player Esh wins the drop kick getting the ball through to Aiden who is quick to pounce and jab it into the back of the net 0-2. Washington need to be watched though as they look sharp on the break and Liam is quick to block the next chance they have forcing the ball out to Kieran who takes it up the left eventually managing to get it inside to Esh who goes for goal but his effort hits the side netting. The boys are dominating this half and take the game wholly to Washington, not only playing better but also using the fact that they have the wind on their side. No more goals though and the half closes at 0-2. It’s all different in the next half though as Washington with the wind at their back take the game back t the Boys, they apply loads of pressure on the back line in the opening minutes and see the fruits of their labour pay off as on the 19th minute they see a wind assisted shot get past Jake to make it 1-2. Riverside realising the danger switch themselves onto the strength of the wind and take more care keeping the ball on the ground and taking the ball up field in this manner. Washington do have the more chances in the second half and also the more possession but Riverside as usual in the second game of the day seem more determined and more communicative, backing each other up and forcing attacking play wide and out of danger. They do have their own chances in the second half as we see Cam, Like and Kieran all go close but not managing to put the ball in the net. All efforts though come to nothing from either side and the Boys come through the second half onslaught as deserved winners 1-2.
Man of the match game 2: Kieran Younger
Final Score 2: 1-2 Goal Scorers game 2: Kieran Younger and Aiden Campbell.
Date: 15/03/09
Fixture 1: Harraton Athletic Green v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 11.58 am
It’s a much warmer day than yesterday at Washington’s Northern fields so let’s hope the Boys can keep the fires burning in our chests. From the off it’s a even game as both sides fancy a result from this game but their little no. 9 has to be watched as he’s remembered from a previous encounter to be a player of some skill. And we are warned of this as he breaks down the left in the third minute and Liam picks up an early injury blocking his shot but it’s soon overcome and the game continues. The first chance goes the Boys way as Luke with his back to the goal tries a speculative overhead shot which wasn’t that far away from the left hand post. Luke has the next chance as well as Esh takes one of his now well known throw-ins which Luke catches sweetly on his right foot but the ball just inches over the cross bar. The Boys are now camped in the Greens last third of the pitch and next Esh is the instigator again as he throws to Cam who turns and shoot but the ball slides across the face of the goal. Luke is involved again as he neatly chips over a Green defender and spotting Aiden free puts the ball in front of him but he just misses getting on the end of it.. The Greens are not here to watch from a distance mind and Kieran has to be alert as they come down the right, which he is in an unfamiliar role to him at right back. Luke’s back in amongst it as he picks up the ball in the centre again, again getting the ball out to Aiden who this time connects with a nice shot but the keeper saves well. Jake is called on next to be alert as he quickly gets off his line to stop a threatening manoeuvre, he gets the ball swiftly out to Luke who takes the ball up the right moving over to the centre and shooting but his shot is saved. And again the Greens attack but this time it’s turned quickly around as Liam blocks and spotting Esh free gets the ball up to him, Esh turns with the ball and goes passed a defender and on for goal to score the opener in the 11th min 0-1. The game continues like this for the rest of the first half with both teams probing but it closes in at this score as the half finishes.
Substitution: Cam off and Dan on.
Again from the off the Boys take it to the Greens but they soon counter, and then again the boys take it up where Esh takes another throw lofting it to Luke who turns and shoots but again it goes over the bar, we should have seen the second with that one! And just when we think there’s only going to be one winner in this game the Greens see an attack that looked to be going nowhere poorly cleared and they pounce to get the equaliser in the 25th min. What a soft goal that was! Heads haven’t gone down and we again see Luke and Aiden combine but Aiden’s shot hits the side netting. As time moves on the Boys can be seen taking the game more and more to the Greens as they seek the winner, it’s an exciting final few minutes as they push crosses over and attempt shots on goal as well as having to be alert at the back as the Greens do try their own luck, but it all comes to nought as the the game finishes at 1-1 with the spoils shared
Final Score1: 1-1 Man of the match game 1 Luke Bennison
Fixture 2: Grangetown FC v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 1.05pm Report 2:
After arranging this match at short notice yesterday we find that confusion awaits us. Both teams are expecting a 12.40ish kick off but another team has already been waiting 30 minutes and they get the pitch we’re due to play on. The next available pitch is at 1.05pm which should be Grange Town’s second game. Grange Town’s opposition hadn’t registered that they were there so we go on at 1.05pm. No sooner does the game start than the parents from the other team start to complain that now they have to wait another half hour.
Play finally kicks off and the game is evenly matched. Esmael has a good run through the middle, there is no Grange Town defence, he has a shot but the keeper parries it out for a corner. Kieran moves up the field with Aidan dropping back, but the corner doesn’t make it back on to the pitch.
There is a good run from Grange Town and a long range shot is wide of the post.
Esmael intercepts a throw in and knocks the ball up for Kieran to take a long range with his right foot but this too is wide of the post.
From nowhere Grange Town string a few good passes around our defence and a solid shot sees the score for the half time whistle at 1-0.
Esmael and Kieran have switched positions for the second half with Kieran moving up front, the kick off flies straight at Kieran who knocks it across the goal but a defender gets a foot in to knock it out for a corner. The corner is floated right into the box but the keeper grabs and holds the ball.
The keeper has a good kick (with the wind now in their favour) their attack run on to Esmael who clears for a throw. The throw is held by Jake under pressure.
Play continues around our box for a while when a chip comes in which the wind catches, the bounce takes it over Liam’s head – the striker hits it 2-0.
The goal kick is taken but it stays along the ground, it’s intercepted by Grange Town who chip it back in over our three defenders a strike on goal 3-0
Liam is now struggling with his foot and comes off. Cameron gets a run forward, knocks on to Kieran but the defender clears.
There is a really strong session from Grange Town that has us chasing the ball but the defence stay strong and manage to clear it up the field for one final flurry from Cameron on to Aidan and up for Kieran to have another long range effort that goes high over the bar.
Well played to Grange Town – they certainly deserved this win.
Final Score1: 3-0
Man of the match game 2 No-one
Date: 7-8/03/09
Fixture 1: Riverside Boys v Washington Juniors Orange
K.O. Time: 12.02 pm
It’s a warmish day that greets us for a change at Washington’s Northern fields so let’s see if the kid’s can use the good weather to give us a good show.
For the first few minutes it’s an even game with both sides testing their opponent’s defences with the first clear chance heading to Orange as they shoot from 18yards out but it goes over the bar. It continues in this vein with Ben and Liam strong at the rear and Dan and Cam combining in the middle to take the game to Washington, and it’s Cam who has the Boys first shot on goal which is knocked wide for the corner. Another shot from the corner see’s the Orange keeper down well to block. Washington’s turn next as they counter from a mid park session but Cam and Liam combine to force them wide and safe. And from an innocuous attacking manoeuvre from Washington, Cam tries to kick the ball safe but unfortunately score a cracking own goal from a good 15yards out that gave Jake no chance of sparing his blushes! 0-1.Never mind though it happens to the best. The Boys counter from the kick for a few minutes, taking the game to Orange as they try o get back into the game. Orange weather the storm and then start to take the game back to the Boys having a few corners in succession as they put them under pressure. The game to’s and fro’s for a while but for the final few minutes of the first half it’s again constant pressure from Orange and they are rewarded with a goal from a goal mouth scramble in the dying seconds of the half.0-2.
Substitutions: Michael on for Aiden.
The Boys again take the game to Orange trying again to get back into the game but there’s little communication going on between them at vital moments and we see chances going by the way with no one there to receive passes or blindly kicking the ball anywhere without looking for a receiver. Orange return and Ben blocks a stinging shot bravely which leaves him a lot of pain (and his mother in stitches as she thought it was his family jewels and can be heard to say “Come on, get up and run it off!”) but the pain is too much and he needs to be substituted so Nathan is called in upfront with Michael dropping to right back. The Boys do have at least one good move in them as Liam picks up at the back, spots Cam free so slots it through to him, he flicks it neatly to Esh who in turn sees Dan moving up so passes through to him but Orange run the ball out of play. Orange attack again and Liam and Jake combine to thwart them as Liam blocks twice on the trot then Jake blocks the rebound. Orange next get a free kick on 16yards and take the free kick well scoring their third on the 28th min. 0-3. Again the Boys counter as we see Esh have a crack from the same kind of distance but he hits the right post and goes safe. From this shot Orange counter themselves and with only Liam back in defence he left stranded by three and they get their fourth in the dying seconds to make it a rout the Boys could have stopped with better communication and remembering to get back and assist in defence.
Man of the match game 1: Liam Clements
Final Score1: 0-4
Fixture 2: SAFC Foundation v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 1.17pm
After a lengthy delay as no pitches were available or Referees we get the second game away after agreeing with SAFC to ref the game ourselves.
From the off its SAFC on the attack as they apply constant pressure on to the Boys defence but at least this time they are combining to defend well against this onslaught. SAFC have constant throw-ins or corners for a good
7-8 mins of the first half. We see Liam, Ben Cam and Jake making good blocks to stop what seem certain goals at times. They get their reward on the 10th min as Jake again blocks well from a lofting shot but it bounces out and they pounce to make it 1-0. SAFC come at them again and again Jake is at his best as he blocks two good corners in succession then stops another with an outstretched leg. Subs have to be made as Liam goes off after feeling his ankle pulling with Nathan going up front again and Michael dropping to left back this time. But after more constant pressure and Jake being brave in goal he needs to go off as he’s studded in the face so Liam comes back on allowing Aiden to go in goal and Michael moves up to midfield. The game gets back under way with SAFC still in the ascendancy but the score stays the same as the first half closes with some bruised and battered Riverside Boys.
Substitution: Jake back in goal after some TLC so Nathan comes off allowing Aiden back up front.
Riverside try to get into this game as they take it to SAFC for a change and it’s a strange one who gets the first chance as Ben runs up from defence to have a crack at ball that comes back from an Esh throw but his shot goes wide
It’s definitely more even this half as Riverside start to give a decent account of themselves, taking the game more and more to the Sunderland crew. SAFC are not done though and come at the Boys again and get a corner on the 21st min that Jake saves but his knock out hits Ben and comes back into the net to give them a lucky second goal.2-0
The Boys are more in it now though as they counter this with some strong attacking and Esh forces the keeper to give away a free kick as he handles outside his box but the free kick comes to nothing. They still need to be alert though as SAFC are looking menacing on the break. The first clear chance to Riverside falls to Cam and Aiden both in a goal mouth scramble but they are unable to stab the ball home. They do get a reward though for their perseverance as Esh chases a lofted ball forward and as the SAFC keeper tries to get his hands on it he nods it out of his grasp and Aiden is there to collect, steady and shoot to score the first Riverside goal of the day. This was more or less the last play of the game and it closes in at 2-1 to SAFC.
Man of the match game 2: Jake White
Final Score 2: 2-1
Goal Scorers game 2: Aiden Campbell.
Fixture 3 (Sun) Riverside Boys v Blackfyne Devils
K.O. Time: 1.20 pm
It’s another late one as again the organisation of the Russell Foster league leaves something to be desired but we are under way on a bitterly cold day at the Northern fields. And it’s a different Riverside Boys that take the game to the Devils and the first chance comes their way as Aiden knocks a ball back to Ben, who in turn lofts it forward for Luke who turns and shoots but it just goes wide. The Devils come into the game more though and they have their moments that keep the Boy’s defence on their toes. The game settles into a bit of a mid park game with the Boy’s just on top with the wind at their backs. Again its Luke who has a chance as Liam clears to Cam who in turn gets it to Kieran, he takes it up, crosses into the centre for Luke whose shot skims the outside of the post. The Devils do start to come back more into it as the half moves on and we see a couple of long range efforts miss the posts or go over the top. It’s definitely Riversides half but they are unable to use the wind to their advantage and it closes in at 0-0
And it’s a sucker punch of an opening second half as the Devils use the wind from the kick off coming straight up and scoring in the opening minute 0-1. This spurs the Devils on and now we see them using the wind and putting the Boys under constant pressure. Heads haven’t gone down though and the Boys try to fight back against the Devils and the wind but it’s hard going. They do have a couple of breaks but they come to nothing. The most entertaining parts of the second half was the crowd watching this flustered reporter chasing the ball after the Devils shots missed the goal and went 50yards back into the trees and on one special occasion try to trap the ball before it got away from him and doing a majestic somersault over the ball much to the delight of the Mickey taking parents. Not much changes in the second half as it’s the Devils who have the most of the play with the Boys battening down the hatches and playing some good defensive football. We see them try to get back into it with Luke, Aiden and Kieran looking to test the Devils defence but wind and cold hold them back and the game closes off with a 0-1 win to the Devils but it would have been a fairer result if the points were shared.
Man of the match game 3: Aiden Campbell
Final Score 3: 0-1
Date: 21/02/09
Fixture 1: Anfield Plain v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 12.07 am
For a change it’s a warmish day that greets us for Riversides only game this Saturday so let’s see if the Boys can keep the warmth in our Hearts. From the kick off its Riverside who take the game straight to Anfield and immediately place them under pressure. It’s this way for the first few minutes. Anfield start to counter but not with the same level as Riverside and the Riverside defence deal with it and play the ball back up for their midfield and forwards to take the game back to them. They are all involved as first Luke throws up to Aiden who plays a nice one-two with Esh but the ball is forced out, then Kieran and Cameron get involved down the left again taking the ball to Anfield’s defence and forcing a corner. Anfield are not spectating though and Cameron is back to back up Liam as they get passed him to push it out for an Anfield corner. Riverside break again though as Liam gets it out to Kieran who takes it up 15 yards and crosses to Esh, he shoots but the ball goes wide. The next few minutes settle into a mid park game as both Teams start to play some nice flowing football that sees the ball moving from one half to the other as they both now try to find a breakthrough. The next clear chance comes to Riverside as again Liam defends well and looks up to see Luke free, passes up to him and Luke moves up the left flank nearly to the by-line, checks back, crosses to Esh who again sees his shot go wide of the post. Its third time catchy time for him though as after another end to end spell Luke picks up in the middle, spots Aiden free and gets the ball through to him, Aiden takes it on and passes over to a waiting Esh whose shot is blocked by the keeper but the ball bounces over him to bobble into the net to Riverside the lead on the 10th min 0-1. Next we see the stand in Captain Liam pick the ball up deep in his own half take it up the left flank, sweetly passes to Esh who again spots Aidan free who takes it on to the goal and shoots to get his second in the 12th min 0-2. Anfield though are not giving up as they counter down their left flank but the defence is there to clean it up. They are not so hot on the 14th minute though as again Anfield come down the left with Luke stranded to far up, they get past Liam, shoot and Jakes left stranded as the get one back to make it 1-2. The half closes in at this with Riverside going in with a deserved lead.
Substitutions: Ben on for Kieran, Dan on for Cameron and Michael on for Aiden.
Anfield try and take the game straight to the Boys but they are up to it and quickly turn it round to again pile the pressure onto the Anfield back line as they’re awarded corner after corner. They must be feeling it as the keeper takes a poor goal kick which falls to Esh but he doesn’t capitalize with the two free shots he gets on goal. It’s still all Riverside as again they get another corner which Esh takes and this time Luke is there to prod home from 2yards out to make it 1-3 on the 19th min. Anfield again though to give them their due don’t let their heads go down yet as again they come down the left getting past Ben but Liam is there to tidy up. It’s all Riverside now as they get corner after corner or throw in after throw in all around the Anfield 18yard box, Michael, Dan and Luke are all looking for chances at goal here. If Anfield do break it’s quickly broken down by the Riverside midfield and defence to put the ball back into their half where more pressure is applied. A good example is shown by Ben as picks up in his own half from an Anfield break, takes it up through the midfield, sees Michael free so clears towards him, Michael takes it up and shoots but just misses the left post. Riverside could have had a hatful if they had been more on target with their shooting.
Substitution: Cam back on and Esh off.
Cam is quickly involved again as he picks up from an Anfield goal kick takes the ball back to them, knocks it forward, they defend and clear but only as far as Dan who sees his waiting pay off as he pounces on the free ball, shoots and scores Riversides fourth on the 27th min 1-4. From the kick off Riverside are back at them again as Cam takes it up and has a go himself but they save this time. It’s again all Riverside as next we see Michael loft in a corner that Anfield attempt to clear but unfortunately can only knock into their own net to make it 1-5 to Riverside in the 29th min. The sweetest moves of the game come next as Dan picks up in midfield, looks up, spots Luke so side swipes it to him, Luke looks up, spots Michael so chips it to him, he collects , turns, looks to a free Cam so knocks it on to him, he runs onto it and shoots but sees it go wide. It came to nothing but looked very professional in the build up. Riverside are cruising now as Anfield have given up the ghost and they run well deserved 1-5 winners.
Man of the match game 1: Luke Bennison
Final Score1: 1-5
Goal Scorers game1 Eshmael Samadi (1) Aidan Campbell (1) Luke Bennison (1) Daniel Barbrooke-Grubb (1, with a claim on the own goal)
Date 22/02/09
Fixture 1: Easington Ospreys v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 12.00pmReport 1:
Riverside are the first on the attack in the opening minutes but Ospreys are quick to dispel any notions that they are here for the taking as they turn things round and start to mount their own forays onto the Riverside defence. The first chance falls to Ospreys as they are awarded a free kick on 15yards which they take well but Jake is alert and saves well. Riverside have the next chance as Aiden back in his own half, badgers an Ospreys attacker until he gets the ball off him, takes it forward a good 10yards and passes to Esh who shots from a good 15yards out and we see the ball loft up and start to drop but it just inches over the Ospreys cross bar. They quickly take the goal kick and Riverside are caught with their pants down as they are past the midfield before they realize it with three onto two in the last third, they pass Liam leaving two on Ben, they pass him with only Jake to beat which they do and leave him stranded to take the lead on the 3rd min 1-0. Riverside need to be a lot sharper in midfield as they left their defence wide open. Riverside look to get back into it straight from the off as they attack and Luke sees a good effort on goal well saved by the Ospreys keeper. They keep up the pressure as they creep down left flank with a succession of throw ins that eventually lead to a corner but the corner comes to nothing.
The pressure’s kept up as Liam spots Esh free up the left and frees him to run at the defence but he’s cruelly fouled as he closes in on the 18 yard line. Kieran takes the kick but it goes into the wall and the Ospreys clear. The game develops into a middle of the field game now as both teams probe each other’s defences, trying to find a way through and I must say that the Ospreys are making their bottom three position look a mistake as they look anything like it. They attack the Riverside goal area again and first Liam blocks then Ben has to be quick to block, then again comes another shot that Jake does well to save. Riverside are now making a few inroads at the other end as they mount a few minutes of pressure down the Ospreys left again creeping up the line again with more throw ins which gains them a reward as Esh lofts one into the Ospreys goal mouth from practically the corner spot it bounces over the defence to a waiting Aiden Campbell who is in just the right spot to stick a head on it to gain an equalizer on the 13th min 1-1. Again Riverside apply the same pressure and again Esh lofts one in from the same place as a minute ago but this time its Luke who is waiting to prod it home with a foot this time to give Riverside the lead in the 14th min 1-2. Ospreys are definitely struggling to cope with the long throws of Esh. It’s the same again as Esh lofts one in and again it come to Luke but his shot is knocked out, it falls to Aiden who also has a dig but the post comes to the Ospreys aid this time as it bounces out. The half closes in at this.
Substitutions: Luke off and Cameron on.
From the off the Ospreys are at the Riverside defence and come close with a shot that goes through a mass of bodies to just miss the post. Riverside counter bit it’s not for long as the Ospreys are back again and have a shot on goal again which Jake saves but it squirms away from him and he has to turn quickly to grab it as the Ospreys try to dive on it as though it was fish out of water.
Substitution: Aiden off and Dan on
It’s still anybodies game at the moment as you feel Ospreys are looking dangerous on the attack. It’s Riverside though who have the next chance as Liam gets it out to Cam who spots Esh open he takes it up and lofts it into the goal area but the Ospreys knock it out for a corner. It’s now the Ospreys applying a lot of the pressure on the Riverside defence down their right as they now are getting a lot of throw ins and creeping up the line. Riversides defence are struggling to get it out of the danger area. They eventually do though and return the compliment on the Ospreys defence and Esh puts them to the test with another lofting throw which Kieran gets onto and shoots but it goes wide of the post.
Substitution: Kieran off and Luke on
The game to’s and fro’s for the rest of the match with neither side able to break each other down and Riverside run out eventual winners 1-2 in which has been a hard fought win.
Man of the match game 1: Jake White
Final Score 1: 1-2
Goal Scorers game 2: Luke Bennison (1) Aiden Campbell (1)
Fixture 2: Riverside Boys v Grangetown FC
K.O. Time: 1.15pm:
From the off Riverside take the game to top three team Grangetown for a good few minutes and it’s Esh who lets them know how dangerous his throws are as he lofts one into the box which Aiden gets onto but his shot is knocked out, Luke picks up on the rebound but his effort just sails over the bar. Grangetown show why they are top three though as they quickly break down their right and are soon one to one on Liam, their attacker gets past him and looks to be in on goal but Liam races back to get a foot in the way and thwart him. The game settles down for the next few minutes with some good play from both teams. Riverside are making a good account of themselves at the moment but need to be alert as Grangetown do make forays into the Riverside area and let everyone know they are dangerous on the break. Riverside show them that they can be dangerous as well as we see from a goal kick, the ball is put up to Luke, he frees Esh who in turn sees Aiden open so passes to him, Aiden takes it up but their defence know their game and force him out wide but do concede the corner, It comes to nothing though. Riverside are definitely giving Grangetown a run for their money though as from a defensive position Cam heads clear to Esh who again frees Aiden but once again he is run out of the game. I won’t say it’s been one way traffic but up till now Riverside have been the more inventive of these two Teams. Now it starts to turn as Grangetown start to counter and Jake has to be on the top of his game as he makes four brilliant blocks one after the other to stop a certain goal from Grangetown. Now the pressure is all from Grangetown and Riverside are camped in their own 18 yard area and Jake is playing some excellent football as he keeps them out on countless occasions but they get the breakthrough on the 13th minute as again after a flurry of shots on his goal Jake is unable to block from a rebound and Grangetown take the lead 0-1. Grangetown are straight back on the attack from the kick off and get a corner for their efforts. It’s taken well and Jake grabs at it to catch but it’s spinning wickedly and spins out of his grasp and into the goal to give Grangetown the second in the 14th min 0-2. Heads don’t go down though and Riverside go back on the attack, as Esh takes it down the right Kieran moves up with him, Esh knocks it back to him and Kieran has a crack from a good 20 yards out but it inches just over the bar. The half closes in at this but it must be said that Riverside dominated most of the half; it was only in the final five that Grangetown came into it.
Substitutions: Aiden off for Dan and Luke off for Ben.
Grangetown take up where they left off as they descend onto the Riverside goal area and inside the first minute they add to their lead with a cross into the centre that Liam is unable to stop, they shoot and Jake has no chance to stop. Riverside are still making their own forays into Grangetown half when they get the chance as we see Esh take it up the left, he spots Kieran again with him so squares it over, Kieran shoots but again it just goes wide of the post. Grangetown are back again and Liam is strong this time as he blocks, the ball bounces to a Grangetown attacker who shoots but fortunately it goes wide of the post.
Substitution: Cam off and Luke on.
Grangetown are again camping in Riversides half as they apply constant pressure. Next they have a shot which smacks off the cross bar down onto the line. Jake picks up and thinking it had gone in just kicks it straight out towards the Grangetown team but after screams from his team, manager and this reporter he realizes that the ref hasn’t given a goal and dives on it before Grangetown can take advantage, that was nearly one for Have you been framed! Riverside counter again now for a couple of minutes and try to get back into this game as Luke puts Esh through but he is forced out wide, he tries to get round his defender but the ball is knocked safe. Grangetown counter again and come down the left flank, cross into the centre, shoot and gets their fourth of the game in the 28th min. Riverside still don’t lie down and go back up for one more effort as Esh puts Luke clear but his shot is blocked. The score stays this way till the end and Grangetown run out deserved winners but also know that it was not as easy as the score line shows.
Man of the match game 2: Eshmael Samadi
Date: 17/01/09
Fixture 1: Riverside Boys v Ryton Whites
K.O. Time: 11.55 am
We have a bright but cold day for today’s games and let’s hope we have some bright play on the field.
From the off it’s obvious that both teams are up for this as both show enterprising play,
Riverside are the first to put the pressure on as they sustain their attacking for the first few minutes on the Ryton goal area. Ryton are not here as spectators though and start to counter and Liam has to block to thwart their offense. They come again down the right and cross into the centre and fortunately for Riverside there’s no one there to connect. The games swung to Ryton now as they apply the pressure and Ben shows his determination as he makes a couple of timely blocks with Cameron there behind both him and Liam to tidy up anything that gets by them. Next Jakes called on to make a couple of good saves as Ryton now keep up the pressure on the Riverside goal. Then Ben has to be quick again as he blocks one attempt then forces another attack out wide.
Riverside though are not to be outplayed and counter again as we see Esh take one of his long throws which Kieran heads towards goal but their keeper saves. In the centre of the park Cam, Aiden and Esh along with Kieran are worrying this Ryton team who I don’t think were expecting this well formed team play from the Riverside Boys.
And the game starts to swing from side to side now as both teams seek a break through. The first clear chance goes their way as they take a corner out to the corner of the goal area and shoot but fortunately the ball goes over and from the goal kick they return and Liam has to block well to stop another attack. Next they have another goal chance as they shoot but Jake saves well but the knock clear falls to attacker’s feet, he shots but fortunately this time it’s the upright that keeps the ball out.
Half Time closes in at 0-0 with good play from both teams.
Substitution: Aiden off for Luke.
Riverside are straight on the offensive again and their first clear chance come from an Esh shot from the edge of the goal area which is curling in but the keeper is up well to save. Ryton counter again as Riverside concede a free kick from Liam that they take well but Cam is there to block the shot. Riverside counter themselves as Luke picks up in the middle and frees it to Esh who plays it into the middle for Kieran who plays it just a tad too soon for Esh coming in and the ball goes out, Nice play though! Ryton break next after a Riverside corner and this time its Dan showing what he’s made of as he stands strong to take the ball off their attacker and free Kieran who crosses to Esh but he’s just unable to latch onto the ball. The break through comes from Ryton as they break quickly from a Riverside attack and Liam’s stranded with two coming at him that he can’t stop, they pass the ball past him so Jake goes off his line to close down but their attacker shoots and scores on the 22nd minute of the game. It was a well taken goal but Riverside were lax in leaving Liam all by himself to watch the back line. Heads don’t go down as Riverside go straight on the attack from the restart but Ryton defend well and frustrate the Riverside offense. Next its Riverside who have a golden opportunity as Ben blocks in defense and frees Esh to race against the defenders, get past them then past the keeper but he’s stumbling as he shoots on an open goal and somehow manages to miss as the ball bobbles wide of the post. What a chance to pull level!! Substsitution: Kieran off and Michael on.
Riverside are taking the game to Ryton now as they strive to pull this game back with Dan playing well down the left and Michael making his presence felt in the centre as they try to break through Rytons defense.
Next it blunder time as Riverside take a poor goal kick gifting Ryton with a clear run on goal to score a soft and their second on the 28th min. What a sickener that was! Riverside to their credit try to salvage a goal at least and put more pressure on Ryton but time runs out and they win 0-2 but it’s a flattering score line as Riverside should at least have gotten a draw from that game.
Man of the match game 1: Ben Kirton
Final Score1: 0-2
Fixture 2: Tunstall Tigers v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 12.43pmReport 2: We’ll now find out how far the Boys have come as they take on the Tigers who are joint top with a massive goal difference and have a habit of knocking 6, 7 and 8 goals past their opposition.
And they show how from the off as they immediately attack Riverside who for a change to recent form are switched off at the back as they let them run right through them and score in the second minute with little resistance from the whole team who are caught napping.
They are under constant pressure for the next few minutes as they try to muster themselves and cope with the onslaught, which they do as they start to get their act together and counter the Tigers attacks. The first glimpse of what they can do comes from an Esh throw which finds its way to Kieran who turns and shoots but one of the Tigers defenders is there to back up his keeper and clear off the line.
Next we see what I wish had been televised as Esh deep in his own half in the 9th min picks up the ball and races up the left flank passing three Tigers players then cuts into the middle between two of their defenders, races on goal, shoots and score what has to be the goal of the day at Washington’s Northunbria Fields as he levels the score, what a cracking solo effort it was!! Heads go up after that and they start to play as we now know they can, taking the game at times back to the Tigers and putting them under some pressure for a change. It’s still predominantly the Tigers but Riverside are now showing they are not afraid of them. The Tigers counter again and Liam is there to make two good stops and with the second he frees Esh who spotting Aiden running passes to him but they defend well and run the ball out of play. The game is now flowing with some good play from both Teams, especially Riverside who had only a short break after their first game while the Tigers are playing their one and only game today so are not as tired as the boys! It’s now turning into a mid park game with both teams testing defenders on both halves of the pitch. Esh and Kieran are harrying their defense with back up from Aiden and Cam and when they attack Liam and Ben are showing mettle forcing them out wide and blocking when called for. Jake not to be out done is called on next as they take a short corner, knock it back to the edge of the goal area and shoot but he stops excellently. The Tigers next have another corner which is played in and turns into a goal mouth scramble as first Ben slides in to block then Liam has to, followed by Cam. They then have a half shot which Jake parries as he dives and as everyone is on the ground they shoot at a practically empty goal and score their second deep into the 14th min to make it 2-1 and it closes on that at half time.
Substitutions: Cam off for Nathan and Aiden off for Luke.
And from the off the Tigers come at Riverside as they did at the start off the first half but this time they are more switched on as Liam, Cam, Ben Luke and Kieran make good stops to thwart them, in fact the whole team at times are back to defend and try and stem the onslaught. Unfortunately Ben takes a knock in his defending and has to be subbed by Michael as he goes off with an obvious painful injury to his calf.
They keep coming at the boys and it has to be said Liam is making some impressive stops on the left as he blocks constantly or forces the ball out and keeps Riverside in the game on more than one occasion.
Riverside now having weathered the storm start taking the game back to the Tigers and they obviously have changed their tactics as far as Esh is concerned as he is brought down on more than one occasion as he starts to run at their defense. Another free kick is awarded after a handball which Kieran takes, it’s lofted into the centre and Luke is there to try and head but fails to get any power on it. It has to be said that the Tigers methods of dealing with Riverside are dubious as next Liam is fouled and their general tackling seems to be more aggressive. Might be me being biased, but we’ve seen more fouls in this half than we see in both games played on any other Saturday.
Substitution: Liam off and Dan on.
The game flows again from end to end with good play from both but the next breakthrough comes from the Tigers again as they come down the right getting past Dan, shoot, which Jake blocks well but he’s unable to hold onto it and with only one hand on the ball on the ground it’s kicked from under him to score their 3rd in the 27th min. It was a goal but not very sporting I must say. Heads still don’t go down though and Riverside again take the game back to the Tigers as they try to get one back. Another free kick comes the to boys after another foul but the Tigers break after the kick is taken come down the right and score their 4th in the 29th min. Again Riverside though go straight back at them from the restart and strive for a goal if only for pride but the clock beats them and again a Team run out very flattering winners as the score doesn’t reflect the game that Riverside played against them.
Man of the match game 2: Eshmael Samadi
Final Score 2: 4-1
Goal Scorers game 2: Eshmael Samadi
Date: 11/01/09
Fixture 1: Riverside Boys v Easington Ospreys
K.O. Time: 11.35 am
From the off it’s the Ospreys who try to take the game to the Boys but they are more than up to it as they soak up the early pressure, defending well with Liam and Ben strong at the rear. The game settles down into a mid-park game for the next few minutes as each team gets the feel of each other but Riverside look the livelier with Esh and Kieran testing their resolve, and it’s on the 7th minute we see Liam block well at the back then spots Cameron free so gives it to him and Cam sets Esh off who runs straight at the Ospreys defense passing two defenders and shooting to score the opening goal for Riverside Boys. It continues with Riverside on the offensive and it’s not long before Esh has another chance but he hangs onto the ball a stride too far and his shot is wide. He’s involved in the next move as he frees Kieran in the middle who takes a couple of paces up the pitch and has ago but the keeper is up to it and saves well.
The Ospreys are not here as spectators though and remind Riverside this as they break free with their attacker managing to get by Liam and have a shot but Jake is alert and is down quickly to save. They come again and if it weren’t for Ben this time who gets back to knock the ball away from their striker they would have been through clear on goal.
Riverside counter from their next attack with Kieran back to break it up and he knocks it to Cam who beats three Ospreys to put Esh clear but again he takes it just too far to control and his shot is wide, sweet play by Cam though!
Its turning into a great game of football with some end to end stuff as both Riverside and Ospreys seek to grab the next goal with Riverside having the next clear chance as Liam picks up at the back, chips one of their strikers and passes up to Esh who races at the defense again but his sliding shot on goal just misses the left post. Again they unite as Liam picks up in the middle and takes it past their midfielder and moves forward a good 10yards with the ball then passes to Esh on the left but again his shot goes just wide. Next it’s Cam, Aiden and Esh who play the ball sweetly between them and have another go but it just goes wide from Esh’s shot. Half time closes in at 1-0 with plenty to look forward to in the second half.
Substitution: Aiden of and Michael on.
Riverside are the first one to apply the pressure this half and Kieran has the first chance as he shoots from a good 15yards but his shot just scrapes past the Ospreys post. Riverside come again as Michael picks it up mid field and gets the ball over to Kieran who nicely puts the ball between two defenders to set Esh away again who tries too chip the keeper but manages a rugby try instead as he clears the Ospreys bar, excellent ball play by Kieran though! And he’s involved again as Esh floats a throw to him and he turns and shoots but the keeper blocks knocking the ball back out to Kieran who’s second shot finds its way through the defense and just manages to cross the line to give the boys a 2-0 lead on the 19th min. Riverside keep up the pressure but are nearly caught as the Ospreys break and if not for Cam backing up the defense, would have been through on goal. Riversides turn next as Esh takes a throw which drops in front of Michael in the 6yard box but he is unable to convert it as the defenders scramble it out as far as Cam who spots Kieran free, knocks it over to him and his screaming shot leaves their keeper with no chance as it finds the bottom left corner of the Ospreys goal on the 26th min to make it 3-0, what a corker that was! Ospreys haven’t given up yet though as they counter and Jake has to be quickly down to stop them as they manage to get through his defense. But again Riverside attack and Kieran is freed up the right by Ben then Cam, he races onto their goal but another screaming shot is saved excellently this time but the ball is not cleared well and it falls to Esh who steps past a defender and slots in his second and the boys fourth on the 29th min to give Riverside a well deserved win 4-0 as the ref blows the whistle.
Man of the match game 1: the whole team!
Final Score1: 4 - 0
Goal Scorers game 1: Kieran Younger 2 & Eshmael Samadi 2
Fixture 2: Felling Magpies v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 12.48pm
The first few minutes see no fear in the Boys as they compete for dominance in the middle of the park showing true grit and at times taking the game to the magpies and giving them a fight I don’t think they were expecting. It’s a 50-50 game at the moment as they both venture into each other’s half but no quarter is given as yet. The first chance falls to Riverside as Esh picks up mid field and runs at their defense getting through two of their defenders and shoots but their keeper is up to it and saves well.
Riverside attack again as Kieran collects from Liam on the left flank taking it forward and centering over to Esh who has another go but it’s knocked out for a corner.
The Magpies counter but are blocked by Liam who takes it forward a few yards and passes to Esh, he moves out to the right then back in to the centre and this time the Magpies can’t stop him as he scores on the 5th minute to give Riverside the lead 0-1.
Esh is involved again as the boys attack again but this time he assists Aiden putting him clear on the right, he moves into their goal area but his shot is saved. This Is good stuff from Riverside as they keep the Magpies contained in their half of the pitch and don’t allow them to run at their own defense, it’s visible to all that Esh’s pace is harrying their defenders and they are not sure how to deal with him as he’s also backed up by Kieran, Cam and Aiden behind him. The Magpies show why they need to be contained though as they move strong forward to counter and take on Riversides defense getting by them and Jake has to be down quickly to stop them which he does bravely and gets a good dollop of mud in his eyes for his bravery.
Riverside return on the offensive as Cam picks up on the left spots Aiden free on the right, passes to him and Aiden takes them on and has another shot but his shot is well saved.
The Magpies though show why they are nearly top of the tree as they break down their left first getting past Ben, Liam tries to stop next but they pass him as well and shoot and Jake saves but can’t hold on to the ball and their striker pounces on the loose ball to equalize on the 11th min
The Magpies are starting now to come into this game and Liam needs to be strong as he’s called on twice to block their winger who seems to be twice his size and gets fouled for his determination.
Riverside have not been put off by the Magpies goal and go back at them with Cam and Esh testing their defenses again.It’s now going end to end as both teams slug it out in the middle of the park and Liam is again strong blocking their winger but the ball falls to another Magpie and he shoots but Jake is up to it and makes two good stops to thwart them. The score stays this way first half with honours even so far.
Substitutions: Ben off and Michael on.
Second half starts 50-50 again with both teams vying for dominance and the first opportunity falls the Boys way with Cam picking it up in the centre and moving it out to Aiden who has a shot but it stick in the mud so Esh slides in to punt it on but it goes out for a goal kick.
The Magpies are starting to look dangerous on the break and Kieran is required at the back to stop what would have been a clear chance. And then its Cam turn as he stands strong on the goal line to block another certain goal. After another bout of pressure from the Magpies they get a corner, and from the kick the ball curls in on the goal with no one at the goal post to stop it and it goes in to give them a fluky second goal on the 20th min.
Heads don’t go down though as Michael frees Esh on the right he takes it up the wing and crosses to Kieran who shoots but it just scrapes the outside of their post. From the goal kick Cam blocks and puts it back to Kieran who sees this shot well saved. The Magpies counter and Jake saves well from a well struck shot.
Liam blocks the next effort and takes the ball forward moving into the centre to pass to Cam who lays Kieran on for another go but again it’s saved. The Magpies break from another Riverside attack moving down the right and their winger lofts in a long tester that catches everyone out to give them their third as it sails over a stranded Jake on the 26th min. Still the boys keep trying as Liam, Cam and Kieran combine to free Esh again but their keeper is down well to block. They counter again as Liam covering on the right blocks then Jake and again Cam who has been like a third defender at times is there to block as well. It’s still end to end as Riverside attempt to get back in to the game but leave themselves open to the counter and are caught out twice in the final minute to give the Magpies a very flattering 5-1 win. Even their manager stated at the end it was their toughest contest of the season so far. Riverside boys should be very proud of themselves as this has got to be the best they have played over two games.
Man of the match game 2: Cameron Laing
Final Score 2: 5-1
Goal Scorers game 2 Eshmael Samadi
Date: 3/01/09
Fixture 1: Hetton Lyons v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 11.58 am
It’s a bright but freezing day that greets us for the first games of 2009 and let’s see if the boys can warm us up with a good display.
It’s going to be tough though as Lyons go on the offensive from the off and if not for Esh and Liam forcing a Lyons attacker wide and putting him off his shot it would have been an early goal for the Hetton Team. They come again and after a goal mouth scramble get another shot in but fortunately it goes wide of the post. Riverside start to come into the game after about 5mins and let Lyons know they are not here for the taking and on the 7th min an Esh throw goes to Aiden who puts the ball at Kieran’s feet, he neatly knocks it slightly to his left and lets loose with a shot that leaves the Lyons keeper clutching at fresh air to give Riverside the lead. This gives Riverside a shot in the arm as next we see Esh loft a long one in and it bounces right in front of Michael who tries to stick his head on it but mis-times it and the ball bounces out of harm’s way. Hetton are back on the offensive now and pick the ball up on the right move it into the middle and shoot but it goes safely wide. They keep up the pressure and Liam is solid in front of his keeper with some good strong headers away and blocking more than one shot at goal. The game continues in this vein with Hetton doing most of the attacking but Riverside have to be commended on their fortitude in defense as they soak it up without panicking, knocking the ball about the pitch from one to another frustrating the Hetton squad. And it’s such a move that sees Liam block well then look up to to see Cam free, passes to him and Cam moves it forward then passes to Michael who takes it further up the pitch and seeing Kieran free puts it at his feet and Kieran doing the same as earlier taps the ball to the right this time and shoots but unfortunately this time it just goes wide of the post, what a sweet moving of the ball it was though! The first half closes in at this score with Riverside just about deserving the lead.
Substitution: Michael off and Dan on.
Hetton are straight back on the offensive from the off as next we see Liam make the tackle of the day as races after the Lyons forward who is clear on goal with what looks like a certain chance but somehow Liam dives feet first past him and not only gets a foot to the ball but manages to take it off the attacker.
It’s all Hetton attacking at the moment but Riverside do make moves on their goal and as we see Cameron pick up the ball in the centre of the park and frees Aiden up the left who takes it further before shooting but the ball goes wide. Then Hetton on the attack again have another shot on goal but the ball luckily goes just wide of Jakes right post. And this is turning into a nail biting final few minutes as Hetton pile loads of pressure on the Riverside defense with again Liam standing solid blocking the ball and moving it out of harm’s way time after time, he’s not the only one though as Cameron an Kieran are back to shore up the defense and batten down the hatches to keep this determined Lyons side at bay. And Kieran pays a price as he picks up an injury on the 28thmin and is substituted by Michael. Hetton come close again on more than one occasion though and Jake has to be at his best as they loft in a high shot but he’s up to it and knocks it safe and then he makes the save of the day as Hetton shoot and it looks a certain goal but Jake thrusts out his left leg to make us all gasp as he knocks it wide of the post. They hang on though determinedly to the end and come away with a hard fought 0-1 win.
Man of the match game 1: Liam Clements
Final Score1: 0-1
Goal Scorers game 1: Kieran Younger
Fixture 2: Ryhope CW v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 1.22pm
Report 2: This is going to be a hard game for Riverside to deal with as not only are Ryhope 2nd in the league and have only conceded 4 goals but the Boys have been standing waiting to play for nearly 40mins in freezing temperatures and can be seen to be physically drained by the cold.
Suffice to say this was the case as they were beaten by Ryhope who looked the more stronger and determined from the off. The game was taken to Riverside from start to finish with only a couple of forays from the boys into the Ryhope half of the pitch. The boys have to be commended though for putting on a brave show and fighting on for the whole match in the freezing temperature but it was obvious they had been sapped from their efforts in the first match and the cold. They keep the score down to 0-4 which in this reporters eyes was well done and they all deserved a pat on the back for their efforts
Man of the match game 2: Jake White
Final Score 2: 4-0
Date: 20/12/08
Fixture 1: Wearmouth CW v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 12.10 am
It’s a muddy and damp Northumbria fields that see us turn up to play Wearmouth for the last games before the Xmas break and its going to be difficult to try and and play in these sticky conditions.
From the off its Wearmouth who attack and pile some early pressure onto the Riverside defense who have to be on their game to deal with it as they do so, clearing from a goal mouth scramble through Liam and Ben.
After the initial onslaught Riverside start to show they are not here for the taking and start to take the game back to Wearmouth through Kieran who picks up the ball just in their half and puts Luke through who takes it forward and shoots but their keeper blocks well but his clearance is put straight back to Kieran who takes it to the right and unleashes a shot from a good 12yards out that screams above the keeper, dips under the bar and makes the net bulge to give Riverside the lead after only 3mins,what a cracker that was!!
Wearmouth respond to this and again the defense is required to be strong which they are as Luke is back to block what would have been a certain goal. The game settles now after the initial flurries into a mid park game with both teams playing well but it has to be said Riverside the stronger and keener to get to the ball first. The next clear chance come through Kieran again as he picks up in defense and sees Cameron unmarked, plays the ball through to him and Cam knocks it on and chases but their defense get their first to block what would have been another good chance. It’s great to see the Team playing as a Team, looking for each other, playing the ball around and moving forward menacingly with Luke, Cameron and Michael who is also having a good game. Next we see Liam stop an attack well but instead of putting the ball out of play he takes the attacker on, passing him, looking up and playing it forward up the wing to free Luke but he can’t quite control it. Kieran frees Luke next with a throw in, Luke is able to get on goal and shoots but the keeper saves well to keep the score at 0-1 Riverside at the half time break.
Wearmouth again start the stronger in the first few minutes as Liam and Ben have to make some strong tackles, but everyone stands off the next attack to give Wearmouth a clear chance but fortunately for the boys it goes wide of the Riverside goal. Again though as in the first half Riverside start to take the game to Wearmouth as next we see Cameron collect from a Kieran throw, turn, move forward and shoot only to see the keeper down well again to block, the ball bobbles out to Michael who tries to move it round the keeper but again he blocks. The keepers kick though is not the best as it falls to Luke who looks up and puts it out to Michael on the right, who takes it forward confidently, shoots, only to see the ball go wide of the post. He’s involved again as Kieran picks up a loose clearance, passes to Luke who again sees Michael free on the right who again moves on passing a defender and shooting but it just goes wide of the post. It’s mainly Riverside at the moment as again Cameron is freed by Kieran’s goal kick, he races forward but the ball gets away from him in the final yards. Wearmouth try to get back though and Liam’s excellent strong tackle gives Wearmouth a free kick on 10yards and for the first time Jake is called on to make an excellent save from the taken kick, he spots Kieran free after the kick and lays the ball to him who in turn passes to Luke who passes to a waiting Cameron who takes it forward making their defender dizzy as he ties him in knots going by him to have a shot on goal but unfortunately again it just goes wide. This is the way of the game as Riverside defends well and counter through Liam and Ben who have been excellent in defense this week as time and time again they has blocked and cleared for the forwards to chase. And it has to be said Michael has had a good game with more than one chance on goal as he’s been freed by Luke and Cameron.
Substitution: Nathan on for Luke
Towards the end it’s all hands to the pumps as they have to defend against a Wearmouth side who try to grab an equalizer but fortune this week is for the brave as they hang on to claim the spoils 0-1.
Man of the match : Michael Kelly
Final Score1: 0-1 Goal Scorers game 1: Kieran Younger
Date: 15/11/08
Fixture 1: Balckfyne Devils v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 12.06 am
It’s a chilly day that welcomes us today at Washington’s Northumbria Centre to try and catch up on some of the games that have been missed due to the consistent rain we have had the past few weeks and from the off the Devils take the game to Riverside putting them under some strong pressure and testing their defense which they stand up to the test well with Esh and Liam having to make some timely stops in the first few minutes but they can’t stop the first shot in the match which comes to the Devils but fortunately sails over the top of the bar. The game continues in this vein for a good 5-7 mins before Riverside get their act together and start to play as they can and begin taking the game back to the Devils with Esh clearing to Cameron who neatly passes a Devils defender but can’t capitalize and the ball runs out. Again Esh is involved this time with one of his by now legendry throws which clears the Devils defense and lands in front of Aiden but his shot goes well wide. The next 5 mins settles into a mid park game with some decent football by both teams but Riverside definitely coming more into their own and creating more chances than the Devils. That’s not to say the Devils are outclassed as they defend well from an Esh throw and play their midfielder through who but for a good stung tackle by Liam would have had a clear run on goal. Liam defends well again and plays the ball to Kieran who controls and plays it through to Luke and he spots Aiden free and passes but Aiden is just unable to get to the ball, it was a sweet few moves though. And again some nice moves from Riverside this time started by Esh as he frees Aiden who then plays through to Luke who neatly side steps a defender plays the ball on for himself but it gets away from him and goes out. The final minute sees Esh take a goal kick which Luke controls turns and frees Cameron who races clear to shoot but the Devils keeper is up to it and saves well to leave it 0-0 at half time.
Riverside are straight on the attack for the first couple of mins which leads to their down fall as everyone but Liam goes forward as Esh takes a throw on the right wing but the Devils break with three players descending on Liam and they pass the ball from one to another to go by him to leave a clear run at goal with Jake unable to stop and the Devils get the first goal on the 17th min. Riverside need to remember defense is also a big part of the game. Riversides heads don’t go down though as they return to the attack and from a Kieran corner which he plays back a few yards Esh races on to the ball and shoot only for his effort to hit the side netting unluckily. The Devils aren’t overwhelmed though and do counter occasionally but the defense is more aware now and cope with the attacks safely. Next we see what must be the move of the match as Kieran picks the ball up in the middle of the park who knocks it back to Esh and he plays it wide to Luke which he in turn plays it out to Cameron and Cameron then plays it back to Luke who controls and shoots but the ball just misses the right post. That was just like watching it on the Telly. And again it’s more good moves as Cam picks up on the left goes forward passing two players and centers the ball for Luke who again sees his shot go wide. Next Kieran has a volley from an Esh throw but again the ball misses the sticks, we could have had five goals any other day. The Devils counter and Liam is there to break down their attack pass the ball to Esh who plays it forward but unfortunately it goes out of play. The game continues in this vein with Riverside dominant and having a few more chance but unable to put the ball away and the game close off with a very fortunate 1-0 win to the Devils.
MOM Luke Bennison.
Fixture 2: Riverside Boys v Durham County Cougars
K.O. Time: 1.12pm
In the past I have been known to throw the towel in when doing match reports as we have been well and truly stuffed which left me with nothing to say. This time I’m sort of reversing this, as this game from beginning to end we totally dominated, controlled and outplayed a Cougars side who rarely left their side of the half, we should have scored at least 9-10 goals but it was one of those games that we couldn’t score if the goals had been 50ft wide and we played all day!! And amazingly deep into the second half the Cougars mustered a half hearted attack which had to be seen to be believed, which caught Riverside napping and they saw the ball creep over the line to give them what has to be one of the flukiest wins I’ve ever seen in my life. So I throw the towel in again as I had was left completely speechless and sick of the sight of football.
Nuff said….till next week ?.
Date: 11/10/08
Fixture 1: Ryton Whites v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 12.05 am
It’s a damp but warm day that greets us today with some heavy looking pitches that the boys will have to contend with.
The opening forays of the game go mainly Rytons way with Riverside struggling to cope with them. Esh is called on first to make a couple of timely stops then Jake has to be alert as he’s quick down to stop an eager Ryton forward.
Riverside counter through Esh freeing Cameron who’s blocked at the last moment and the defender races up with the ball and Jake has to be sharp to thwart him.
Riverside return back on the offensive but their previous form in the last few weeks seems to have deserted them for this opener as they struggle to pass cleanly and can’t seem to find their way past a mediocre Ryton.
Ryton though are looking the hungrier and start to camp in the Riverside half of the pitch and Riverside are lucky not to be behind as a goal mouth scramble is barely just cleared away.
It’s a rare moment that sees Riverside break with Esh clearing to Cam who passes to Aiden and Aiden’s shot is well saved by the keeper.
It’s all hands to the pumps though as first Liam has to block and Jake has to stop again, I suppose we can at least say the defense is getting a good run out today and they are coping OK with the pressure.
I have to say again though if Riverside could get something going, Ryton look a pretty ordinary Team and are there to be taken, but nothing comes from them and the half closes in 0-0.
Substitutions: Dan and Luke on with Aiden and Cameron off.
Ryton are straight back on the attack and an excellent shot from them is again excellently saved by Jake. He’s called on again to save from the resulting corner and palms it away for another.
Another rare moment comes along as Dan collects from a throw in takes the ball forward, passes to Kieran who lays it on for Luke but his shot is knocked clear by the keeper.
Riverside are looking a better squad at the moment and go forward again with Kieran having a punt but its blocked and Luke collects the rebound and shoots but his attempt is blocked as well.
Just as Riverside are starting to come back into the game Ryton take a corner and their forward tries a cheeky back heel shot that catches all off guard and goes into the net to give them the lead on the 21st min. What a jammy goal that was!
Riverside are nearly caught again as they try to get back into the game and leave their defense wide open in the centre and Esh has to come screaming back, slide in and stops what would have been a certain goal.
Rytons tails are up again and it’s on the 25th min that we see their winger side step Liam and shoot from 10yards and leaves Jake well beaten for their second. He didn’t have a hope with that one.
Riverside try again to get back into this and Luke has the best chance of the match as a cross comes over to him in front of an open goal but his header goes agonizingly past the left post.
That turned out to be the last clear chance of the game and Ryton run out 2-0 Winners but I must say Riverside on their day are a much better team than them but credit where its due they played better than us on the day and deserved the win.
Man of the match game 1: Jake White
Final Score1: 2 – 0
Fixture 2: Riverside Boys v SAFC Foundation
K.O. Time: 1.15pm
The game commences with SAFC straight on the attack and putting loads of pressure on Riverside and unbelievably on the 2nd min their winger has a stab from an impossible angle and sees his shot squeeze through the legs of the defense and scrape the inside of Jakes left post to give them a fluky lead 0-1.
SAFC are spurred by this and pile more pressure on which Liam and Ben do well to cope with along with the ever dependable Esh being all over the place to help out.
Riverside break and Cameron races forward but loses the ball and SAFC return and its Ben who first heads clear then has to block again but it falls to the SAFC again and this time Liam has to block well to stem the flow.
Riverside break out of their own half for the next few minutes and start to play the ball and its Esh who sees his throw in come back to him so he has a dig but the shot goes wide if the post.
SAFC keeper then has a poor goal kick which falls to Aiden who takes the ball forward and centers’ it for Cam but the keeper beats him to it.
SAFC counter again and we see Esh bravely stand firm to block a shot with a part of his body that has all the male spectators wincing, which makes him double over and miss the next shot that flies past him and leaves Jake stranded to make it 0-2 in the 11th min.
The SAFC tales are really up now and its constant pressure from them in the Riverside half of the pitch and they cope well for a few minutes with this but in the 14th min they are unable to get the ball out of the goal area and SAFC slot home to make it 0-3. The half close after this with SAFC having a deserved lead.
Substitutions: Kieran, Aiden and Cam make way for Michael, Luke and Dan.
Riverside look more alert at the start of this half and go out from the start on the offensive trying to get back into the game. First we see a flurry of activity in SAFC’s goal mouth that had the ball dropped a bit kinder for Riverside could have been their first goal of the day, and next Esh clears from an attack moving the ball forward for Michael who pushes it on for Luke but his shot goes wide of the post.
Riverside definitely look more committed at the moment and stand in manager Mark tries to capitalize by bringing Kieran back into the fray up front, moving Michael back to right back and bringing Ben off, no disrespect to Ben though as he’s showed some promise in the right back position.
Riverside are on the attack again and its Esh’s throw that once again frees the forward line with Kieran getting it over to Luke but his shot goes wide again.
SAFC are still dangerous on the break though and Liam has to stand firm for the next attack they have, which he does, taking the ball off the forward and passing to Kieran who moves forward but his forward pass doesn’t find anyone running on and goes out of play, good thinking by Kieran though.
If only the boys had put as much into their previous play in this game and the last they might just have had a better outcome.
Their next move is the best of the day as Esh picks up on the left moves the ball to Kieran, he manages to get it back to Esh and he plays round two defenders and shoots only to see his shot take the paint off the SAFC’s post, very unlucky!
SAFC are back on the attack again and are awarded a free kick, for what I’m not sure, but they take it and it’s well taken but equally well saved by Jake who unfortunately falls awkwardly badly twisting his ankle and has to be replaced by stand in keeper Aiden. Riverside still try to get a goal mainly for pride now but it isn’t to be as time runs out with SAFC the winners by the 3 first half goals
Man of the match game 2:
Final Score 2: 0-3
Date: 4/10/08
Fixture 1: Washington Juniors Orange v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 12.10 am
And it’s a chilly overcast day that welcomes us to the Northumbria playing fields in gods little green acre called Washington with Riverside getting us under way in the first of the two games scheduled this weekend.
First on the attack is Orange who are on the offensive for the first few minutes but Riverside are playing with more confidence these days and soak up the early pressure coping well and clearing strongly any dangers that crop up.
They start to turn things round and counter with some flowing football in the middle of the park moving into Oranges last third and giving them something to think about now.
Cameron picks up from Liam’s clearance to Kieran who then puts it to the feet of Aiden but his shot is short of strength and goes wide of the post.
Orange are back on the attack again and it’s a strong header out from Liam that gives Riversides front row an opportunity again but the attack is dealt with smartly by Orange, and they return to Riversides Goal area and have three consecutive corners from which Jake is called on twice to be strong, and be down on the ball quickly to cut out the danger.
From another attack Ben clears strongly to Cameron who again thinks smartly and plays it through to Aiden who sees his cheeky back flick nearly catch out Orange’s defense but they recover and put the ball out for a Riverside throw.
Orange are countering again and Jake has to be alert as they attack down the right and put in a low cross that he needs to get down on quickly and next its Esh who is strong as they attack again down the right and he’s there to block. Jake need to be strong again as Orange move through the middle passing Liam and Ben but he’s quick off his line and down at the forwards feet to thwart him with an excellent block.
Next we see Esh showing flair as he move up the left wing taking on and passing two of their defense but his shot is dealt with by the keeper.
The rest of the first half continues in the same vein with some good flowing football from both teams taking the game from end to end with Orange having slightly the more opportunities. It close though at 0-0
Substitution: Michael on for Ben
The second half sees Orange straight on the attack and Riverside need to be strong, which they are and I have to say the whole team are helping each other when they are under pressure and playing with determination and confidence at the back, reading the game and dealing with offensive forays from Orange.
Riverside are not only defending though and are quick to try their luck as Liam blocks in defense again and passes to Esh who races up the left wing only to see the ball get away from him at the byline and go out for a goal kick.
And next riverside pickup in the centre through Kieran who lays it onto Cameron who then puts Aiden away and the Orange defense are forced to concede a throw on the right wing. Esh takes sending it to Cameron who crosses to Aiden who spins and shoots but the ball goes wide of the right hand post. The keeper takes a poor kick next and the ball drops to Cameron who moves forward and shoots but the keeper makes up for the poor kick and saves well.
The game is now turning into a centre of the park game at this stage with both teams playing some intelligent football and finding it hard to break each other down.
Orange have the next go though as they break down the left, Liam forces the attacker wide but he gets past him and crosses in low and it’s a brave Jake who’s down at the feet of the Orange forward to thwart them again. Jakes having a blinder today.
Next Orange are awarded a dubious free kick 13 yards out and Jakes defense heed him this week and are quick to get the wall where he wants it. The kicks taken and luckily goes over the top as it beat everyone in defense.
Now we are seeing how Orange are a top of the table team as it becomes apparent they have more players on the pitch than Riverside which the manager points out subtly to the Ref who holds the game up as things are corrected.
Riverside are attacking now and are rewarded with another throw on the right which Esh takes and launches it into the centre where a waiting Kieran is on his own with only the keeper to beat but it bobbles awkwardly and the chance goes by.
There’s couple of more half chances for both teams, another one relying on Jake saving well but the score-line stays the same for what this reporter thinks was a well fought, fair and competitive game which either Team could have won. Well played boys!!
Man of the match game 1: Jake White
Final Score1: 0 - 0
Fixture 2: Riverside Boys v Ryhope CW
K.O. Time: 1.16pm
Report 2:
What can I say?
I’m not sure if it’s the rain and cold weather but this is a different Riverside Boys that have turned out for his game! There is no shape to them, no commitment, apart from Esh who is chasing ghosts and Ryhope dominate them for most of the match. There’s the odd flash of what they are capable of but mostly they stand back and let the fitter and more wanting Ryhope team take all three point with a 0-5 score line.
Sorry I can’t paint a better picture but I think we’ll put this one down to “I honestly don’t know what” go home for a hot cup of Tea, and hope they do better next week.
Nuff said!!
Man of the match game 2: Esmael Samadi
Final Score 2: 0-5
Date: 19/09/08
Fixture 1: Riverside Boys v Harraton Athletic Green
K.O. Time: 12.05 am
It’s been a long time coming because of some lousy weather and we’ve all been eager to get started so here we go with the first game of the 2008/2009 season and for once the sun is shining and unbelievably we need to be concerned for the boys overheating on this balmy September day. There’s been some serious training in the close season with some good friendly results and equally some poor ones. Let’s see if the Riverside boys are up for the opening contests.
From the kick off its Harraton who attack but Kieran quickly cuts it out and lays the ball forward for Cam to chase but Harraton pick up and return down the left and are rewarded with the first corner of the game.
Eshmael collects from the centre and takes the ball forward and has the first shot of the game saved by the Harraton keeper.
Harraton return down the left and get another corner but its dealt with confidently by the riverside team who from this early play seem to be moving confidently and playing up and down the field as a team and not as we’ve been seeing recently and in the past as individuals.
This can be seen again with the next move as Kieran picks up on the left and because Aiden and Esh move up and away from him they take defenders with them so Kieran moves on passing two players then has a shot which goes to the side netting.
Then its Aiden who is released on the Right by Kieran who shoots and the Keepers down quickly again to save.
Harraton are not here for a run out though and counter down the right and have a shot which goes just wide of the post. Next they attack down the left but Liam’s there to block well and clear the danger.
The ball is cleared across to the right and Riverside get a throw in which Esh takes with his usual strength and Kieran is there to flick on toward the goal but it goes wide of the left post but would have been a corker if it went in. He can count himself unlucky with that one.
Next its Cam who has two good chances when he is put clear by Kieran, races forward shoots which the keeper saves and Cam has a second go off the rebound but again the keepers down well to stop. Riverside are definitely the more composed team at the moment and after two quick corners to Riverside Aiden is the next to force a good save from the Harraton keeper.
Harraton need to be watched though as they break down the left and if not for Jake being alert it could have been a goal to them, but he saves well. And again he’s called on as Harraton have a good attacking move down the right thwarted by an excellent save.
Half time comes with score 0-0 and in my eyes Riverside the much better team.
Substitutions: Ben on for Liam and Luke on for Aiden
Second half kicks off and Riverside are straight back on the offensive and forcing Harraton to defend well.
Harraton again show they need to be watched as they attack strongly down the Right and force Riverside to concede two quick corners one is dealt with easily by Esh but the second is a text book corner down low to the post which Harratons deft number nine catches sweetly with a back heal flick to leave the whole defence stranded and the ball goes in to give Harraton a well taken goal but an undeserved lead 0-1 on the 18th min.
Riverside respond brilliantly and its constant pressure from them in the Harraton half of the pitch as first Kieran has a shot well saved and the Cameron is blocked again. If Riverside had put away these chances they could have had a commanding lead by now as next its Luke Bennison who has a shot saved.
It’s another break to the right again from Kieran in the centre who frees Cameron who again races for goal only to see the keeper save again.
Unfortunately on the 25th min we see Kieran substituted due to injury and Aiden comes on to cover.
Again Riverside are attacking and Esh takes another long throw which Luke gets on the end of but again the keeper thwarts him.
Riverside need to stay alert though as Harraton have another corner from the same side as they scored earlier but Riverside aren’t caught twice though and defend better.
Harraton are then awarded a dubious free kick which Riverside defence switch off for and Jake can be heard clearly berating his defence by shouting when is a I want a wall “I WANT ONE”
The game closes off at the same score line which saw a very good Riverside unlucky to lose but can take heart from a brilliant and probably the best performance I have seen them play. They played as a Team with all playing their parts and never giving up and for all Harraton should have been beat they played well also and it was a good sporting game.
Final Score1: 0-1
Fixture 2: Herrington St Aidans v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 1.35pm after a very prolonged wait.
Riverside Start where they left off in the first game and are straight on the attack and putting Herrington under some early pressure and we see Luke have the first chance from another of Esh’s long throws but he hits the right side netting.
Herrington mount a counter attack and get to within 10 yards of the goal but Liam is there to defend well and steer the ball safely away.
Next its Michaels turn to defend and he does it confidently knocking the ball to Kieran in the centre who takes it forward and puts it up for Aiden but it is knocked out for a corner.
Esh takes the corner well lofted over the defence and Luke gets a head on it but unfortunately it sails over the bar.
Next it’s a poor goal kick from Herrington that falls to Kieran who shots but just misses the left post.
Herrington though are still in this game and break through the centre of the park and Michael is quick to spot the danger and covers well to clear the danger up the left to Kieran who puts Aiden clear whose shot on goal is saved by the keeper.
After another Riverside attack the ball is cleared down the left but Liam is alert and spots a rare chance and has a dig from nearly 20yards but it just misses the left post.
Riverside are not as switched on as they were in the first game but are still the more dominant and composed of these two teams at the moment. You feel as though there has to be a goal in this game shortly as Riverside are camped in the Herrington goal mouth and they are only managing to mount the odd skirmish which riverside are coping with easily.
The constant pressure results in a free kick to Riverside after Kieran is fouled, who moves in to take the kick. He does so excellently keeping the ball low and Luke slides in to meet it and slots the ball between the posts to give Riverside a well deserved lead on the 15th min.0-1
Half time is blown for straight after
Substitutions: Cameron on for Aiden and Ben on for Michael.
The game restarts and Herrington are the first to attack this time but The defence is more than prepared and quickly control the situation as we see Esh pick the ball up and move forward passing to Luke who passes to Cam but the ball is knocked out for a Riverside throw which Esh takes but the keeper collects from the throw. His clearance though is very poor as it falls to Kieran who unfortunately shoots straight back at him and when the keeper does the same again you think Kieran must score this time but his shot just misses the left hand post. This is all in the opening minutes and already Riverside could have been 3 up. We don’t have to wait long though as Esh of all people picks the ball up in the centre goes past two defenders and shoots from a good 10 yards out to put the ball in the top corner for an excellent goal in the 18th min.0-2
Riverside are well in control now as Herrington’s lack of confidence and the heavy pitch starts to take its toll. Riverside are having most of the play but you can also see their legs tiring in the heavy pitch as the game starts to slow down in pace and composure.
It’s not finished though as Riverside still keep attacking and next it’s another long throw from Esh that bounces up in front of Luke who heads toward goal and again it just floats over the top.
Kieran is involved again from the centre as he puts the ball at Esh’s feet who shoots and sees the shot blocked by the keeper but Cam is there to collect and eventually put the ball away for the third goal to Riverside in the 23rd min.0-3.
Riverside are camped in the Herrington half again and again we see a chance fall to Kieran but he just misses and like Cam in the first match Kieran on another day could have had a hat trick.
Next another poor clearance drops to Ben who plays it nicely to Nathan who has an excellent shot on goal but it’s blocked.
Substitutions: Aiden on for Kieran and Michael on for Luke.
Another chance fall to Cam again as he picks the ball up on the 10yard line and has a shot but sees it go by the left hand post.
And from a Michael throw its Nathan who has another chance in front of goal but its blocked by the keeper.
The game starts to wane a bit now as both Riverside and Herrington know who has won this contest and they are right when the whistle blows for what I would consider to Riversides best performance to date over two games of football.
Well done Riverside boys!
Final Score 2: 0-3
Goal Scorers game 2
Date: 26/04/08
Fixture 1: Soccarena Lyon v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 12.00 pm
It’s a warmish welcome to Downhill this weekend but there’s clouds in the distance so let’s hope they have a silver lining for the boys on the pitch.
The first minute or so is a cagey affair with both sides keeping to the middle of the park and Soccarena are the first to move forward but Kieran’s alert and in the right place to clear strongly.
Riverside move forward themselves through Aiden and Cameron but it’s a quick clearance from Soccarena that brings about an attack and they surge forward but Jake is quick off his line to put off the Soccarena striker who shoots wide of the post.
The game settles down to a mid park contest with both teams playing some nice neat football, they pass confidently moving backward and forwards up the pitch with Liam and Esmael up to the Soccarena attacking movements.
Next to have a shot on goal is Soccarena but the ball goes wide and Riverside move forward with a kick off from Esmael to Luke and Aiden and they force a handball from the midfielder.
Kieran takes from roughly 16 yards and it takes some good defending to stop the ball heading towards the Soccarena goalmouth.
Next attack from Soccarena forces the first corner of the match which floats across the Riverside goal but Jake collects well.
Again the match ebbs back and forward and Luke can be seen running up and down the pitch one minute in attack and the next back to help out in defence.
First half closes in at (0-0)
Substitutions: Michael Kelly on for Liam Clements
Again the game settles into a mid park game with both Teams giving each other the respect that this game is showing they deserve.
And it’s Luke who picks the ball up for Riverside and moves forward passing to Kieran who attempts to slot into the path of Cameron but unfortunately the ball gets away from him.
We move into the third minute of this half and Soccarena loft the ball into the Riverside goal and unfortunately the ball catches Michaels hand and Soccarena score well from the resulting penalty (1-0), Jake had little chance with that.
The game is not over yet and Riverside attempt to get back the equaliser but the attacks seem to run out of pace every time they get into the final five yards.
Substitution: Nathan Rutherford on for Aiden Campbell.
It’s Kieran who comes the closest so far with a strong shot from 10yards out but the keeper’s up to it and collects well.
Soccarena make another break and are well clear and racing for a sure goal but Jake sprints off his line and blocks excellently to keep Riversides hopes up who move on the offensive for the next few minutes as they strive to get the equalizer with the whole team playing and combining well trying to break through the Soccarena defence.
And the best chance yet comes from a long Esmael throw which goes into the box and after a goalmouth scramble the ball drops to Kieran who shoots but again the keepers there to thwart him. This proves to be the last clear chance and the game close in with a close win for the Lyon side (1-0)
It was a well fought and good game from both sides with hard luck to Riverside Boys.
Fixture 2: Riverside RAR v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 1.00pm
This is a game that should see both teams up for it as it’s the long awaited Riverside Derby and from the off the Boys are on the attack showing all that they want something from this and the first chance falls to Cameron from an Aiden pass but it’s collected safely and punted out into the middle of the field.
RAR now move forward and get the first corner but the ball is dealt with well by Liam who clears.
It’s nice to see the Boys playing the second game in the same vein as the first with lots of commitment and running off the ball, playing a passing game as they strive to open up RAR.
As with all local Derby matches its settled down to some nervous but still good play in the middle of the park as they don’t want to give their opponents any chance to make the first break.
The first chance for the RAR team is a shot from 6 yards but it goes safely past the right hand post.
The next clear chance falls to the Boys through Jakes’ clearance to Luke who moves the ball to Cameron who in turn slides it sweetly into the path of Aiden but the keepers up to it and collects safely.
RAR are not spectators though and have their chances but the Boys are strong at the moment with Liam and Esmael defending well and moving the ball forward to their midfielders when they get the chance.
It’s from one of these moves that sees how confident the Boys are with themselves as Esmael clears to Cameron who frees Kieran up the right wing who takes the ball forward and crosses well to Aiden but Aidens knock on is just to strong and the ball gets away from him. What a sweet few moves it was though.
Unfortunately for the Boys the next nice move is against them as RAR from an innocuous throw in collect the ball well and the attacker turns confidently and shoots from 9 yards out and Jake is left stranded as there’s little he could do to stop it and RAR take the lead in the 13th minute. This stays the same and the half closes in at (1-0)
Substitutions: Michael Kelly on for Liam Clements
And the first chance in the second half falls to the Boys in almost a carbon copy of the RAR goal as Michael throws to Luke who turns and shoots but it’s cleared to the left for a corner.
The boys are keeping up the pressure with Esmael joining the attack from defence to shoot from nearly his own halfway line after a RAR clearance only to see the ball go out for a goal kick.
The boys need to be on their toes though as RAR are looking dangerous on the break and have more than a few skirmishes into the Boys half of the pitch.
The Boys are unlucky in their next venture as a cross into the box sees first Aiden then Camerons' shot's blocked and when it falls to Luke he sees his shot saved by the keeper.
As I’ve said the Boys need to be on their toes as RAR break from a defending corner and race up the pitch but Esmael is back quick to defend well.
RAR are lifted by this and now are putting pressure on the Boys goal mouth and it’s a telling move in the 24th minute that again sees Jake stranded on his five yard line as they shoot and get their second (2-0)
Substitution: Nathen Rutherford on for Cameron Laing
And the last clear chance for the boys is a nice one two between Michael and Luke with Luke having a shot but again its saved well and the game closes in at (2-0) to RAR.
The Boys can take a lot from these two games though as it’s been their best performances for a good couple of weeks.
Date: 19/04/08
Fixture 1: Wynyard Village FC v Riverside Boys
K.O. Time: 11.55 am
It’s a chilly day again at Downhill that greets us with hopefully some hot moves on the pitch to warm us on the sidelines, and from the kick off Wynyard are on the offensive and immediately attack the Riverside goal which takes some canny defending and a quick collection from Jake White to deal with.
Riverside though gather their wits and start to play the ball about the midfield and are soon putting Wynyard under a fair amount of pressure.
First we see Cameron Laing released up the left side and he takes the ball forward and crosses to KieranYounger whose shot on goal is saved by the Wynyard keeper.
The pressure is kept up and the keeper has to collect another shot from Kieran.
Wynyard do counter and Michael Kelly is called on to be strong and force the counter out into touch on the right hand side.
Wynyard are starting to make their mark on the game and coming into it more and more and Liam Clements and Kieran combine well to stop Wynyard’s next attack.
Next it’s up to Jake again to save as a failed clearance is sent back with spades and Jake does well to hold the ball.
And from a Riverside offensive that breaks down Wynyard attack through the middle of the field, the defence is caught napping and they get the first goal of the game on the11th min (1-0).
After a flurry of both teams moving back and forth we see an excellent goal by Wynyard where the youngster lobs the ball in the air and volleys as it comes down past a well beaten Jake in the 14th min,(2-0) very reminiscent of Gazzas against Scotland.
Wynyard are flying now and Riverside are struggling to hold them and it takes an excellent run off his line by Jake who dives at the feet of the striker to stop another certain goal, and the first half closes at this score.
Substitutions: Luke Benison on for Liam Clements
And as in the first half Wynyard are straight on the attack and its Esmael Samadi who has to block in the first minute
Riverside at this moment are chasing ghosts and when they do get the ball have no cohesion and are playing as individuals with little or no passing.
It’s a rare move that gives us a little sign as to how Riverside can play when Esmael frees Aiden Campbell who takes the ball up the left wing then passes sweetly to Cameron but unfortunately the ball gets away from him and goes safe.
Substitution: Nathen Rutherford on for Cameron Laing.
It’s another break from the constant Wynyard pressure that sees Luke Bennison take up the ball in Wynyard’s half and plays the ball to Nathen whose shot goes wide.
This moves gives confidence to the lads as next it’s a throw from Esmael over to Kieran who takes it well and passes to Luke who controls and lays it nicely in the path of a running in Aiden Campbell who scores a beauty goal on the 29th min in the mould of another England legend Gary Liniker (I was going to say Peter Beardsly but didn’t want to offend our Sunderland contingent with the second Newcastle comparison)
Trust Wynyard to spoil the celebrations though as Riverside are caught with a sucker punch as they race up to score their 3rd in the dying seconds to finish the match off at 3-1 to Wynyard
Final Score1: 3-1 Goal Scorers game 1: Aiden Campbell
Fixture 2: Riverside Boys v Athletico FC
K.O. Time: 1.09pm
Athletico are the first to attack and could this be Déjà vu as Riverside are not alert enough at the kick off and allow Athletic to waltz through the middle of the park and through a sleeping defence but at least Jake is alert and makes the save to stop any early embarrassment.
A few yells from the sideline wake them up though and they are now starting to look as if they want to get something out of this game.
Riverside start to move forward and take some control of the game and are rewarded with three corners in quick succession but unfortunately for no gain.
Things start to even out after the first five minutes with neither side able to stamp any kind of dominance onto the game.
Athletico have their first attack well dealt with by Liam who blocks well takes the ball off the feet of the attacker and clears up the left wing to Luke Bennison who crosses to Cameron who sees his shot go out for a corner.
Again we see one corner after another and its form one of these the ball drops to Michael Kelly but his shot just scrapes the left hand post.
It’s back to Athletico now as they attack and a lack of communication between Liam and Jake in the box leads to a heart stopping scramble for the ball but Jake finally falls onto it to make it safe.
They continue to apply pressure onto Riverside and its Luke back to help this time as he blocks and clears to the sidelines.
Riverside break with Michael who clears to Cameron bur once again the ball is knocked to touch for another corner; Kieran has had plenty to take this game.
Athletico are back on the attack and it’s a last ditch sliding tackle by Liam that keeps the scoreline down in this instance.
And it stays this way at the close of the first half. (0-0)
Substitutions: Nathen Rutherford on for Kieran Younger and Esmael Samadi on for Jake White who is replaced in goal by Aiden Campbell.
It’s a nice change this day to see Riverside on the attack from the off and applying some early pressure.
First it Michel up on the right wing who take the ball forward and shoots only to see it miss by a whisker then it’s Cameron who sees his shot stopped, which is swiftly followed up by a shot from Luke and again the keeper collects and makes it safe. Any other day and we would have seen a goal from one of those attempts.
Athletico counter but stand in keeper Aiden is well up to it as he saves well and quickly kicks up field for Cameron but the ball runs away from him and goes out.
Athletico attack again but again Aiden is down quickly to block the shot.
After another attack Athletico get a corner which Riversides defence decide is a nice time for a Siesta and it’s only the brave keeping from Aiden again which stops a certain goal after the ball sailed through the middle of the entire squad.
Substitution: Kieran Younger on for Luke Bennison
It’s a bit of see sawing now as the ball going from one end of the pitch to the other, neither team manages to make much impression though and it dies out to a (0-0) draw which is a fair result for this game.
