Oaks Athletic F.C.

Oaks Athletic 3 - 1 Pegasus Coryton (Div 2 cup quarter final)

2012-01-24T18:13:00.010Z

This week's match report comes from a different perspective, as I decided to tell Milesy I wouldn't be available due to illness. Before this season I would have pulled on my boots regardless, but with the strength of the squad that we have now, it seemed unnecessary to declare myself fit for selection when we have so many capable lads who stood a much better chance than I did of lasting more than 20 minutes.

West Ham United fans haven't really taken to Sam Allardyce. They expect their teams to play in a certain way, and don't like the ruthless and direct approach that Big Sam is famous for. Although they aren't winning games in style, they are doing enough to win games as their position at the top of the Championship clearly demonstrates. Watching for the sidelines this week, I came to a similar conclusion about the Oaks; we've rarely annhialated teams this season, but every week seem to raise our game to one level higher than our opponents. I'm sure we're yet to see the Oaks really hit top gear, but third was enough today to cruise to victory against a Pegasus side who have improved no end since the 5-1 drubbing we handed to them at the start of the season. In doing so the Oaks set up an away Semi-Final clash against Tilbury United, who beat Jacks Lads 3-2. The Daisyfields on a Sunday morning can be a pretty intimidating place to play, and we'll have to really show what we are made of if we are to stand any chance of achieving a league and cup double this year.

The Poddington Pea gets some catching practice

With Eye-Ball missing, Niki came into the side to partner Rob in the middle while Luke switched to the left, leaving Deano on the right side of defence. The rest of the team was unchanged from the previous match.

ppppppppppppppppTy

Deano (c)ppppppRobppppNikippppLuke

NathanppppppMikey BpppppTapsellppppppRyan

ppppppppppNickppppHarry

subs: Joe, Sharpy, Bunny, Al, Parker, Browne

We learnt this week that Jordan has handed in a transfer request, and will be playing for F.C. Deportivo for the rest of season. While we are all sad to see him go, it is also pleasing to know that he will be getting regular football and I'm sure he'll be a real asset to Deportivo. It was inevitable that players struggling to break into the side would look to go elsewhere, but I'm glad that Whiley, Gav, Jordan and Gollum (retired) have all left on good terms and any time they want to pop along to training, The Ship, or even try again next year, I'm sure they will get a warm welcome.

Watching from the sideline isn't as easy as I'd expected due to the many other distractions. As soon as I arrived for example, I was given the job of looking after Parker's bitch, but to be fair to Holly, she was a lot more interesting than the game. So apologies if this week's report is a bit short on detail, but please feel free to comment on any glaringly obvious omissions.

The infamous Blackshots wind once again seemed to be making life difficult, and the Oaks seemed to be struggling to settle into any sort of rhythm. The ball spent far too much time in the air and passes were over-hit or wayward. We looked at our most dangerous when we got the ball out to Ryan on the left, who had the beating of his opposite number, and in drawing the attention of the Pegasus defenders started to make space for Harry and Nick to work in.

Fights break out over who should get to apply the wet sponge for the skipper

Pegasus showed their ability to use the ball on the floor and play neat passes and one-twos, but as has been the case in the two previous clashes between these sides, their final product wasn't good enough to bother the Oaks superior defence. They did create one or two decent chances in the first half from crosses, but couldn't apply the finish to trouble Ty's goal.

I've credited Luke with the assist for the first goal, as it was his long free kick - following a foul on Mikey in the centre circle - that caused havoc in the opposition box. With Harry challenging for the ball, both keeper and defenders failed to clear the danger, and Nick was left with the simple job of passing the ball into an empty net. If Harry got a touch the assist will be his, but until that's confirmed I've given it to Luke: 1-0.

The BFJ gave the Oaks the lead in the first half

That was pretty much it for the first half, and as an observer it was clear that most of the eleven men leaving the pitch were not happy with the way they had played in the first 45. All the critcism was constructive though, and it was great to see everyone sharing ideas and taking on board what was being said to help the team improve.

Cheer up lads; we're winning!

The half time team talk definitely worked, as within 10 minutes the lead had gone from one goal to three, two Oaks players had finally opened their account for the season, and the game had pretty much been won.

Parker is left fuming, as not only is new mascot Holly better looking than him, she thinks she's a better linesman as well!

Nathan obviously believes tricks and old dogs aren't incompatible

Following a corner, and the usual scramble in front of goal, the ball fell invitingly for Nathan who smashed the ball goalwards. Unfortunately for him there was an arse blocking the route from his boot to the goal. Fortunately for Rob, the resulting rebound fell more or less right onto his toe, and he poked the ball home for his first goal of the campaign (I can't believe it's taken 13 games for me to be able to write this!): 2-0.

All hell brakes loose when someone drops a fiver near the front post

I wonder how much Rob would pay to have an empty net in which to score his first goal of the season. Lost a fiver lately mate?

The next goal has a missing assist provider so I'll refer to him as Ronnie (as in Purple) until the rightful owner steps forward. The ball was worked down the right hand side, and played by Ronnie to Mikey in the middle. He let the ball run across him, before hitting it low from just outside the area back across the keeper with his left foot. The keeper was able to get something on it, but it wasn't enough to prevent the ball nestling in the bottom corner. This was also Mikey's first goal of the season; last year Mikey and Rob scored 7 between them, which just goes to show how many scoring options we have now: 3-0.

Another classic after-action shot. Hopefully the description of Mikey's goal is enough.

With a good lead now established, Milesy took the opportunity to introduce some fresh legs, with Nick and Harry making way for Sharpy and Bunny. Joe also replaced Ryan a little later in the half.

Holly tries to escape an Aaron Bass Special

Pegasus showed that they weren't ready to give up, and pulled one back with a neat corner kick which caught the Oaks defence napping as the attacker was allowed to run to the front post unmarked to meet the low cross and flick it into the net: 3-1.

This didn't seem to faze the Oaks; in fact Niki felt so confident that the game was won that he decided to leave his defensive post and go on a mazy run that saw him replace Sharpy as the lone striker at one point. I didn't have chance to ask Rob what he thought of this, but I reckon he would have been pretty impressed.

Watch out, ginger about. Not you taps; look left!

Some other moments that stick in the mind from the second half include Sharpy coming close to connecting with a header following a good cross from the right, Deano getting his foot out of his mouth just in time to congratulate Sharpy on some neat footwork to get the ball out to Ryan on the left, Mikey B's ultra heavy socks, and Luke belittling the opposition by showing that, while they couldn't stop his run, thin air and a few blades of grass were more than capable of doing so.

OK son, explain again how your socks could fall down with those lovely shoe laces tied round them?

Unfortunately we have another week off next week, but the following week we return to league action with a massive game against Socketts Heath who are second and just a point behind us (although having played three games more). A glance at the league table shows that they could go in to the game top of the table, and although we know this to be a false representation they're going to be up for a fight to stop us regaining our rightful position. Let's make sure they know they're only keeping it warm for us.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Away @ Palmers College v Socketts Heath - 10.30 K.O.

Goal Scoring Chart

Don't worry Nathan, I've given you the assist for Rob's goal.

Oaks Athletic 2 - 1 Tilbury United

2012-01-10T19:24:00.003Z

The nerves and doubts brought about by a tough opening fixture of 2012, following 4 weeks (incorporating Christmas) without a game, were soon forgotten as the Oaks put in a mature and controlled performance to continue their good form and extend their lead at the top of Division 2 to 4 points (with at least one game in hand over all of our nearest rivals).

Much like circling vultures, the Oaks' job of winning the league (I don't think anyone would disagree now that this is the aim) is being made a lot easier by the lack of any other consistent performers, with every team regularly dropping points leaving us to then swoop in and snatch the best of the left-overs. Results are also starting to make some of our less satisfying performances seem all the more sweet: 6 points from Jacks Lads for example, who since losing to us have taken 7 points from 9 including a win against Beauchamps, and depriving Sockets Heath (the form side) of 2 points this week. 3-0 against Jurgens also now seems all the more significant, as this week they held second place Thameside to a nil-nil draw. Then there is our 2-2 draw against Pegasus, who are 3rd in the form table based on results since this game. The overall shift in power has also been dramatic, with Wilburn and Beauchamps - seen as our main contenders for the title in the early form guide - self destructing and tumbling down the table (Wilburn lost to surely the most inconsistent side in the league - Stanford Wanderers - who have scored more, and conceded more goals per game than any side). Sockets Heath and Thameside now look like our main threat, and given that we have already taken maximum points from Thameside, our next league game (unfortunately not until 5th Feb) against Heath will be key.

The loyalty of the Oaks squad members shows no sign of waining, as Milesy once again had more players to choose from - 18 - than he is allowed to name. With our ambitions of winning the league now being foremost in most minds, making significant changes to the starting eleven becomes increasingly difficult, and Ty (missing from the last game through injury) was the only player to come in; dislodging his younger brother in the process:

ppppppppppppppppTy

LukeppppppRobppppDeano (c)ppppEye-Ball

NathanppppppMikey BpppppTapsellppppppRyan

ppppppppppNickppppHarry

subs: Joe, Sharpy, Bunny, Jordan, Niki, Parker, Browne

The Oaks showed no signs of rust (or the affects of Christmas over-indulgence), as they took early control in this game. Possession was kept well as the ball was worked around on the floor, whilst the opposition were hounded and quickly dispossessed when the ball was lost. Despite this dominance the early chances were restricted to speculative long range efforts, whilst Tilbury showed they had a dangerous weapon usually associated with the Oaks, with their new captain showing he was capable of hitting the far side of the six yard box with his long throws.

Whilst the Oaks dealt with attacks from this source, Tilbury didn't do so well when the boot was on the other foot. I've written this so much in match reports over the years that I've decided to save some (virtual) ink and come up with an acronym: N.A.T.H.A.N. : Nathan Amazing Throw Has Athletic Netting. On this occasion Rob beat the flapping keeper to flick the ball on and leave Harry with the easy task of directing the ball into the net with his head (his first headed goal of the season I believe): 1-0.

The Oaks didn't sit on this one goal lead, and continued to control the game. We've scored some good goals this season already, but few (if any) have been better than the one that doubled the Oaks lead when Tapsell showed great awareness to spot Nathan's run behind the back four on the right. Tapsell's slide rule pass was perfectly weighted for Nathan to arrive on cue, beating keeper and defender to the ball and side footing it into the far corner of the net, to remind us of the deadly finishing that has been missing in recent games: 2-0.

The strong smell of weed (not a reference to Jordan's odour problems), that engulfed both the changing room and the pitch suggested that some of the Tilbury team were already in a daze, and this second goal should really have enhanced their drug induced disorientation. As it was we once again took pity on our inferior opposition by handing them a ill deserved tonic, to raise their spirits going into half time. It was the Oaks turn to be undone by the long throw as Deano and Rob challenged for the same ball, and only succeeded in helping the ball into the middle of the area where only Eye-Ball and the opposition striker were in attendance. Surprised to see the initial ball not being dealt with, Eye-Ball was inexcusably caught off balance, and couldn't adjust in time to stop the Tilbury striker from lashing the ball home: 2-1.

The second half saw the Oaks continue to dominate proceedings, with every player excelling in their position. Nathan completely dominated his opposite number, and Tilbury's best player, whilst the dynamic duo of Tapsell and Mikey continued to stake their claim as the most feared centre midfield partnership in the league. Crunching tackles, dominance in the air, composure on the ball, accurate and intelligent passing, tireless work to support in both attack and defence; if it weren't for their looks these boys would have it all!

[N.B. Before I get any abuse we all know their heads wouldn't have fitted through the Ship door if I hadn't deflated them a little]

In addition was the energy and determination of the Young Ones - Ryan and Harry - whose willingness to carry the ball and turn the opposition inside out gives us granddads a chance to get our breath back. Then there was the regular sight of the BFJ swatting off Tilbury defenders as if they were flies on his jerk chicken, whilst the back four of Eye-Ball, Deano, Rob and Luke worked in packs to hunt down and nullify the Tilbury hounds (and the squealing pig who made an appearance mid way through the second half). Finally the Poddington Pea - who gives so much more than just stopping shots - came out quickly and bravely to claim the ball whenever it came anywhere near the goal, and his intelligent distribution was key in helping the Oaks keep possession and run down the clock towards the end of the game.

The only real disappointment was poor finishing, which prevented the game from ever being put beyond doubt. Subsequently this prevented us from having the cushion that would have enabled Milesy to make changes, and give the faithful Oaks members on the bench the pitch time that they deserved. Countless chances went begging, and I'm sure Nick and Harry would be more disappointed than any that they weren't able to add to their respective goal tallies.

Nick's best chances included a tame shot that was no reward for some excellent work to make space for the shot in a crowded box, a close range effort that was scrambled off the line by a wall of Tilbury bodies. Then there was another scuffed shot after he had broken free in the box and received the ball on the left. The frustration for all of us is increased by the fact that we know what the big man is capable of, having witnessed his thunderbolt of a penalty in the previous game.

Harry's finishing has been sublime up to now, but he too was guilty of squandering excellent chances: following an awful clearance from the keeper, Harry was perhaps surprised to find himself clear through on goal and snatched a shot straight at the relieved goalie. Then when the ball fell to him following a corner the ball was slashed wide from 8 yards.

It wouldn't be fair to only mention the misses of the strikers, as plenty of us missed good chances, including Rob who beat everyone to another Nathan throw but couldn't achieve a N.A.T.H.A.N. as he managed to head over from under the cross bar.

Despite there being much rejoicing to be done for a superb performance and another three points, I felt it was necessary to highlight that we can still make significant improvements. With half the season gone, there are still four teams who, for us, are an unknown quantity, and if we underestimate any of them (or the other teams who have improved since we last played them) we are sure to come unstuck. However, I think we are all hungry for the league title now and I'm sure the renowned Oaks fighting spirit we give us every chance of a feast come the end of the season.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 22nd January @ Home v Pegasus (Cup Match): 1030 K.O.

Goal Scoring Chart:

Oaks Official 2011 Christmas Knees Up

2012-01-08T19:44:00.003Z

With a 1230 KO, the Ship on London Road was the venue for this annual fixture in which drinking copious amounts of beer, playing the 10p football game, losing our money at Killer to the pub pool team captain, arm wrestling, trying to remember how you got home and hugging the toilet bowl were the main activities.

We also had the awards for the 2011 season:

Manager Milesy's player of the season

3rd place: Jimmy Edwards(unfortunately no longer with the team, but a deserved mention for dedication to the team with weekly train journeys from Sutton. Often had to settle for a place on the bench, but if you needed someone to break up a game and harrass the opposition, Jimmy was your man).

Runner up: Deano Wright

Joint winners: Paul "Gollum" Webb and Nathan Kerin

Player's Player of the Season

3rd place: Mikey Bradon

Runner up: Nathan Kerin

Winner: Paul "Eye-Ball" Radford

Thank you to all the staff and patrons of the Ship for letting us invade and have a throughly enjoyable day.

Eye-Ball (Your very proud and humbled 2011 Player's Player of the Season)

Thameside 0 - 1 Oaks Athletic (Division 2 Cup)

2011-12-15T19:29:00.010Z

I imagine Thameside will be glad to see the back of The Oaks this season, and to be honest we won't miss playing Thameside despite the fact that this was the third time we had beaten them in three encounters. There may well be more technically gifted teams in the league, but there surely isn't a harder working one than Thameside. For 90 minutes they press, and hurry their opponents into making mistakes. They give so much in every game that you can't help but feel that they deserve to get something from the match. Unfortunately for them, The Oaks are now a team who expect to win regardless of how hard the opposition try, and despite not being at their best on this occasion, still advanced to the next round of the league cup.

This was a day for a bit of nostalgia as we were reminded of certain elements of the Oaks of old. Firstly the sight of a small dog in matching team colours lead one of the assembled players to remark that we could put our loyal mascot, Jake in an Oaks purple shirt. Unfortunately Jake is no longer with us, but I'm sure he would have worn the Oaks shirt with pride.

An unshaven John Motson wishes someone had told him it was TV rather than Radio coverage.

Then there was the presence of an old Oaks servant and captain, who was there to watch his son play. It was really good to see Stu and hopefully he can make it along next week to join us for a beer.

Don't you hate it when you forget to take the coat hanger out of your shirt.

Finally, our preparation for this game was more like the Oaks of old: with a few minutes to go till kick-off we were still missing 2 of our starting eleven (including the goal keeper), and when they did turn up they added to the significant number of Oaks players who were still pissed from the night before. Still, we managed to start on time with eleven players and set about getting to the next round of a cup we should seriously be looking to win.

With Ty suffering from a dodgy hip, Luke was given the chance to impress in goal as much as he has at full-back. Surprisingly the Oaks were short of defensive cover on this occasion, and so Deano slotted into the hole left by Luke at right back whilst Nathan moved to centre-back. This then meant a start on the right for Jordan.

ppppppppppppppppLuke
Deano (c)ppppppRobppppNathanppppEye-Ball

JordanppppppMikey BpppppTapsellppppppRyan

ppppppppppNickppppHarry

subs: Joe, Sharpy, Gavin

The first half was somewhat of a blur for a large contingent of the Oaks players who had basically walked out from the changing rooms and straight onto the pitch to start the game. This was the case for no-one more so than Taps, whose over excuberence in the celebration of his birthday the night before had left him a shadow of his former self. The boisterous and bustling midfielder, who has driven us forward up to now, was was nowhere to be seen (unless you looked up to where Nick and Harry were stood) or heard for much of the first half. You wont be surprised to hear then that he created the best chance of the opening period, when the ball sat up for him on the edge of the area and he unleashed a stinging drive that was acrobatcially sent round the post by the Thameside keeper.

The Oaks continued to show what a good footballing side they have become as they looked to break down the stubborn Thameside defence, and when Jordan played the ball into the box from the right, it looked like Ryan's first touch off his chest may carry him and the ball past the back line and into a good scoring position. However, Ryan had underestimated the appetitie of the Thameside centre back pairing, who made him the meat in their sandwich and sent him crashing to the ground.

The lack of hesitation from the referee in awarding the penalty was only trumped by the speed with which the BFJ strode forward to pick up the ball and place it on the spot, whilst around him the debate continued about all should take the kick. No one would argue that your penalty taker needs to be confident that they are going to score, and nomination by committee isn't going to guarentee that. Nick left no one with any doubt that he was the right man for the job as he strode up to the ball and smashed it with venom into the corner of the net and out of the keepers reach: 0-1.

Thameside's never say die attitude shone through after this goal as they took control of the last quarter of the half. The Oaks in contrast were guilty of sitting off and letting Thameside pull the strings, and we were indepted to the second most enibriabted player on the pitch - Luke - for pulling off a superb double save to first dive right and stop and firmly hit shot from outside the area, and to then block the rebound shot with his knees. Luke wore the Oaks new green goalkeeper kit for the first time on this occasion, and whilst he looked as resplendant as Ty, his stature means that the Poddington Pea comparison really doesn't work. Fortunately Deano (the third most inhibriated player on the pitch) was able to manage a rare moment of clarity; and it was thus that the Runner Bean was born.

There was one additional scare when a mix up between Eye-Ball and Harry (the former leaving the ball for the latter, and the latter not wanting to get his new official Oaks Athletic purple boots dirty) presented the winger with a clear run on goal, but fortunately his shot was wide of the goal.

Sharpy regrets assuming his campaign for a gold kit would be successful

Deano then completed the domination of the drunks as he entered into a bizarre confrontation with Thameside's mouthy manager, who had taken exception to Harry swinging an arm in reacting to having his shirt held whilst trying to run onto a quick free-kick by Deano. The free-kick had been awarded following a late tackle on Deano to which Deano (who was wearing his angry green drunk hat), had reacted badly. He then mis-interpreted the Thameside manager's rant at him about Harry's swing as accusing him of throwing an elbow, which Deano was denying whilst explaining what would happen if he did want to elbow the player who had fouled him, which the Thameside manager took as vindication from the Oaks skipper for the use of the elbow. And so it went on to the half-time whistle.

The second half really had no significant moments of note, with both defences controlling the game. The Runner Bean made the six yard box his own, Nathan and Rob won every ball at the back, and Mikey continued to boss the midfield. Equally dogged work from the Thameside rear guard meant chances were at a premium, and the Oaks displayed the necessary grit to see out the rest of the game and progress to the next round of the cup.

The day got even better as we heard the news that we had even improved our strangle hold on the league thanks to a shock victory for Jacks Lads over Beauchamps.

This was our last game of the year, and was a fitting way to finish what has been a very succesful and memorable 2011 for the Oaks.

Eye-Ball

Goal Scoring Chart

Next game: Sunday 8th January @ home v Tilbury United.

Oaks Athletic 2 - 1 Jacks Lads

2011-12-08T21:34:00.006Z

The Oaks won their sixth game of the season, and extended their unbeaten start to 9 games, which is the best run they have had for at least 10 years (and possibly ever). With other results going their way (both Beauchamps and Wilburn lost) they also extended their lead at the top of the league to 4 points.

Games involving the Oaks are becoming as predictable as a budget porn movie. We soften up the opposition and take the lead, but rather than finishing the job early we over do the foreplay, concede a sloppy goal and let the opposition think they can get away with more than they bargained for. Eye-Ball takes one in the face, and we rely on Harry to provide the money shot. Although it might not be pretty the desired outcome is achieved, and as it is people only really tune in to see the t....(team) and ch....(chart).

Milesy made two changes for this game as Niki came in for his first start to replace the injured Deano, and Sharpy was given a run upfront in place of Nick.

ppppppppppppppppTy

LukeppppppRobppppNikippppEye-Ball

Nathan (c)ppppppMikey BpppppTapsellppppppRyan

ppppppppppSharpyppppHarry

subs: Steve, Gavin, Jordan, Joe, Nick

New player introduction: Niki "Lawsie" Laws

Best attributes Provides a vocal presence at the heart of defence, and has a a level head that is sometimes lacking in the Oaks team. Great positional sense and strong in the air, Niki's composure and love of defending make him a perfect addition to a defensive unit that is probably the best in the league (but then I would say that).

Lawsie joins an elite group of Oaks players who: have an officially trademarked Oaks Athletic nickname; joining Eye-Ball, Tapsie, Steptoe, Weeeeeeed, the BFJ, No-Fun and "that nob in the purple shirt" (a general nickname that is shared around as required).

The Oaks took the lead in the first half when a good passing move lead to Nathan's near post shot being well saved by the keeper. Nathan did eventually finish the job from Ryan's inswinging corner, as he rose highest to head home from six yards: 1-0.

The Oaks were unable to increase their lead in the first half despite totally dominating the opposition, and when half-time eventually arrived the score was 1-0.

The second half didn't go as well as planned and we conceded a bizarre goal to let Jacks Lads back into the game. Under pressure from three opposition players, Ty failed to gather the ball cleanly in the area, and as the ball broke and was fired across goal Robbie instinctively threw up an arm to clear the ball from danger.

I felt a little sorry for the referee who was being watch by an assessor and, like a teacher on Ofsted, went completely over the top with his application of the laws of the game. Prior to the match we were lined up like naughty school children on the edge of the 18 yard box as our boots and attire were scrutinised, and anyone straying from the line was reprimanded. We were told everything would be by the book, but unfortunately for him he had some decisions to make in this game that needed a bit more knowledge than the correct procedure for a substitution. The first big decision was to award a penalty when Weed had the flag raised for offside, and to only book Robbie when it was clear that he was going to send him off before Nathan convinced him otherwise. The penalty was converted (twice) and the Oaks had let the opposition back into the game. 1:1.

The rest of the half was full of missed chances: Sharpy's shot went wide when the keeper dropped the ball at his feet, Nathan was unable to convert a chance from the right that is usually his bread and butter, Tapsell's drilled free kick went wide of the goal by a gnat's whisker, and Mikey's left footed dipping volley from the edge of the area was deflected from the top corner by the flying Jacks Lads keeper.

All these missed opportunities put more pressure on the Oaks defence to keep out the opposition, which they did by any means possible, including Eye-Ball blocking a rasping volley from point blank range with his face. The opposition actually seemed to show more concern than his team mates, but then this isn't an unfamiliar sight for them.

Not for the first time this season, it was our two youngest players (the acorns you could say...) who showed the rest of us how it should be done. Ryan broke from midfield and played the ball out to Harry on the left. He advanced towards the goal, and although his shot wasn't great, it had enough pace to squeeze through the keeper's legs and trickle over the line: 2-1.

The Oaks held on to the lead for the remaining twenty minutes, with the game ending in bizarre circumstances as Nick - who had come on for Sharpy - tried to slow down the keeper as he looked to take a quick goal kick. Nick then put the player on the edge of the area under pressure, won the ball and then was brought down as he looked to round the keeper. The ref's immediate reaction was to point to the spot, but then with Nick rolling around on the ground indecision seemed to set in again. Should Nick have been penalised for being in the area when the goal kick was taken? Had he played advantage that had then ended by the time Nick regained possession? Should the penalty stand in which case would he have to send the keeper off? Or could he avoid making any decision at all by blowing the final whistle before any definitive action was taken?

You can probably guess what he went for, much to the annoyance and surprise of many of the Oaks players who were busy discussing who was to be given the opportunity to climb the goal scoring chart.

While this strange ending took some gloss of the result, we should be pleased to get another three points, and shouldn't be surprised that teams like Jacks Lads are proving a tougher challenge the second time round. I don't know what people used to think when they saw a game against the Oaks on the fixture list, but imagine that while they expected a tough encounter, they would have felt three point should be achievable. Now we are the team everyone wants to beat rather than the team that should be beaten, and everyone is going to raise their game against us as they look to be the first to slay the mighty Oaks. As long as we can keep our game above the level of our opposition (as we are more than capable of doing), there is no reason why we can't carry on winning.

Eye-Ball

Goal scoring chart

Oaks Athletic 2 - 2 Pegasus Coryton

2011-11-29T20:23:00.006Z

The fact that we were disappointed to only take a point from this game, despite showing good character in twice coming from behind, says a lot about the high expectation of the Oaks players this season. Both individually and as a team, we failed to match the high standards we have set so far this season. However, it is inevitable that we will have some bad days at the office, but the fact we still took something from the game (and in doing so matched the 2005/06 feat of 8 games unbeaten) should give us a lot of encouragement.

With Wilburn playing a cup match, the single point we took from this game meant we could only lose our position at the top of the table if Beauchamps scored heavily and won by two clear goals. As it happened our old friends Thameside did us a big favour by beating them 3-1. This means we can more or less say we are now top on merit given we have played the same number of games as Wilburn, and Beauchamps would need to win their game in hand by a big margin to overtake us on goal difference.

Three weeks at the top - surely not another record!

Steve once again felt he couldn't risk changing a winning side and apart from Nathan starting for Sharpy, the starting eleven was the same as the previous week:

ppppppppppppppppTy

LukeppppppRobppppDeano (c)ppppEye-Ball

NathanppppppMikey BpppppTapsellppppppRyan

ppppppppppNickppppHarry

subs: Parker, Steve, Gollum, Whiley, Sharpy, Niki, Jordan, Joe, Gavin

The Oaks started the game with a real swagger, and looked confident as they passed the ball around between the back four and the midfield. The Blackshots weather was once again going to prove a key factor, as a strong wind blew down the hill towards the far corner. Pegasus were playing with the wind in the first half, and struggled to play the ball through to their front men, as more often than not the wind would take hold and send it out of play.

Pegasus are well known for having one of the best, and largest, pitches in the league. However, this really doesn't seem to suit them as their uncharacteristic bad start to the season has mainly been due to the fact that they have lost all four of their home games, conceding 15 goals in the process (5 of them against the Oaks). They have enjoyed playing on their travels far more, and before this game had won two (including beating Beauchamps at Blackshots) and lost just the once. Perhaps we should offer to swap home pitches?

It was obvious that the smaller Blackshots pitch was helping the Pegasus defence, as Harry and Nick had a lot less space to run in to. Therefore despite all our possession, clear cut chances were at a premium, with the best efforts coming from Tapsell - who tested the opposition's short stand-in keeper with a floating shot which almost bounced in - and Harry who hit the outside of the post from a tight angle.

In the open exchanges, possibly the biggest threat for both teams was the referee. I can understand why Milesy thinks he is one of the better ref's in the league, as his arrogance and bloody mindedness would be perfect for one of the rougher encounters (our recent game against Tilbury being a prime example). However, the way he chose to conduct himself in this game was nothing short of ridiculous. The Oaks have always had a great deal of respect for Pegasus Coryton, and our games against them have always been hard thought but fair - with this one being no exception. How the referee found reason to book no less than three players for fouls that were first time offences and warranted a talking to at best was a mystery. The most frustrating thing is that a £10 fine actually makes a dent in the pocket of your average Sunday league footballer, and when he is penalised for making a genuine attempt to win the ball rather than talking himself into the book, you have to feel sorry for him.

The way the referee spoke to the players was also getting every one's backs up, as awards of free kicks would be accompanied by threats of what would come if it happened again, and comments that were designed to convince us of how right he was that only succeeded in adding to the frustration with some of his awful decisions. He also seemed to love starting arguments, as if he wanted the players to give him an excuse to get his little book out. Apologies for ranting on, but this guy seemed so determined to be the focal point and prevent us having a good, fun game, that I wouldn't want to upset him more by not giving him his own write up.

There were far too many bewildering decisions to list, but one stand-out one lead to the opening goal, against the run of play for Pegasus. When a throw-in was taken on the left by the half way line, Eye-Ball lent into his man with his hands clearly out to his side and the whistle was blown. This seemed harsh, but some refs don't like any sort of contact in these situations. To confirm that this was indeed the case Eye-Ball enquired as to the reason for the decision, at which point he was told he had pushed the player in the back with his hands! We then had no one to blame for falling into the trap of concentrating our efforts on questioning the decision rather than organising ourselves defensively, and when the ball was swung in we were in no position to prevent Pegasus's human tank from bulldozing the ball into the back of the net: 0-1.

This goal knocked the Oaks a little, and when the half time whistle came, it gave us a much needed opportunity to regroup.

The goal for Pegasus proved to be a much needed tonic, and suddenly any thoughts of our previous 5-1 demolition was forgotten as they now had the belief that the Oaks were beatable. Still, we showed we were prepared to scrap all the way and continued to win the key battles, especially the aerial balls in midfield where Mikey and Tapsell reigned supreme.

It didn't take long for the Oaks to get back on level terms, as Harry once again demonstrated that he only needs a sniff at goal to make things happen. Nathan won the ball in midfield from a Pegasus goal kick unchallenged, and nodded the ball back over the defence. Harry reacted quickest, and as the ball came down he steered it first time past the on-rushing keeper and into the net: 1-1.

With over half an hour left the Oaks now believed they could go on to win the game, but unliked our previous encounter with Pegasus, everything we touched turned to sludge rather than gold. Luke and Ryan's corners were causing particular problems, and there was a suggestion that at least two goal line clearances may have been after the ball had already crossed the line. One looked like it hit the top of the net and came out (a lesson for those putting up the nets) whilst Ryan's in swinging corner may have had help from the wind in sending it into the net before the clearance came. Nathan also almost scored with a diving header, but was put under pressure by our very own Robbie Lawrence and headed the ball over.

The best chance by far for the Oaks to take the lead came when Harry played an inviting ball across the box to the far post where an Oaks player was waiting unmarked. 99 times out of 100 you would put all Sharpy's money on this player burying the ball, but as it was even two swipes weren't enough for Nathan to finish the job on this occasion.

As if Nathan didn't feel bad enough, he then took the blame for the Oaks going behind when, after being moved to centre back to allow Sharpy to come on in midfield, Nathan missed an overhead clearance (again a 1 in 100 occurrence), and the Pegasus striker raced clear to score. This was only the third proper attempted they had created in the game (the second lead to the ball being blasted over from 8 yards), but it was enough to put them in a good position to take all three points: 1-2.

Most of the players in the current Oaks side have tasted plenty of defeat in the past, but our recent good form has obviously left us with a more refined palette; and losing is most definitely off the menu.

Within minutes we were back on level terms, as Tapsell found himself with time and space on the edge of the penalty area. With options left and right, he made the wise decision to play the ball to Ryan, who had been left totally unmarked on the left hand side of the box. Those who felt Ryan had waited too long to pull the trigger were proved wrong, as he unleashed a rasping side footed shot that flew over the keeper before hitting the underside of the crossbar and bouncing over the line. He may have displayed a Balotelli-esq lack of emotion on getting the Oaks back in the game, but I'm sure deep down he was as happy as the rest of us (and almost as happy as I imagine his dad, Alec, was on seeing him get up in the first half after fearing any chance of grand children may have been lost).

Despite our best efforts to grab all three points, it wasn't to be on this occasion and we had to settle for just the one. Still, at least it means Ty still shouldn't be allowed to cut his hair. If his challenge only applies to league games, a win next week could mean Cousin It will be carving the Owen Christmas Turkey this year.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 4th December @ Home v Jacks Lads - 1030 K.O.

Thameside 1 - 2 Oaks Athletic

2011-11-22T20:01:00.007Z

The Oaks Athletic juggernaut continues to gather speed, as first half goals from Ryan and Nick helped the boys in Purple record their 5th win of the season, and extended their unbeaten start to 7 games.

I'm not sure I can recall the last time the Oaks were top of the league, and I don't think I made enough of this fact last week. Fortunately the win kept us top for a second week running, so I have the opportunity to capture the moment now:

It's funny to recall where Belhus's one point came from...

The victory is made more impressive given the disruptions caused by the weather, the time keeping of the referee and the limited Billet facilities. We turned up at the ground to be met be dense fog, with the pessimists amongst us being adamant that the game would not be played. However, the "glass half full" types were confident that once you got into the fog and stood on the half way line, you could clearly see both goals. However, there was no point getting changed until the referee had confirmed that he was happy for the game to go ahead, which he did when he finally turned up at 10.05. Further disruption was then caused as we had to wait for a room to become free for us to change. This meant limited warm up time and an unnecessarily late kick-off.

The one problem caused by the continued good form of the Oaks is that it is obviously hard for Milesy to change a winning side, and despite the countless options available the manager made just one change from the previous week with Sharpy getting his first start on the right hand side of midfield:

ppppppppppppppppTy

LukeppppppRobppppDeano (c)ppppEye-Ball

SharpyppppppMikey BpppppTapsellppppppRyan

ppppppppppNickppppHarry

subs: Parker, Steve, Gollum, Whiley, Nathan, Niki, Jordan, Joe, Gavin

The disruptions seemed to have affected Thameside more than The Oaks, as the away side started brightly. The home side were not allowed any time on the ball, and the Thameside goal was soon under siege.

It wasn't long until the deadlock was broken as Sharpy collected the ball on the right hand side and played a delightful ball down the line with his left foot for the eager Harry to run on to. He glided into the box, and unselfishly crossed low for Ryan - who had timed his run perfectly - to calmly slot the ball home with the outside of his right foot back across the scampering and wrong footed keeper:: 0 - 1.

There is rarely a dull moment when Sharpy is on the pitch, but it was good to see him continue to warrant mention thanks to his involvement in goal scoring opportunities for the Oaks. He had two chances to bury headers from excellent Luke corners that would usually be bread and butter, but obviously match fitness is still causing an issue as he failed to make proper contact with either.

We didn't have to wait long for the lead to be doubled as Eye-Ball overlapped on the left to receive a pass from Ryan. A late call from Tapsell caused him to change his original plan to send Ryan down the line, and although the pass to Tapsell was a poor one, Taps' determination lead to the ball being won back. Although Tapsell's low shot was well saved by the keeper, Nick (aka the BFJ) showed the greatest desire to get to the loose ball and held of the defender to slot home into an empty net: 0 - 2.

I would argue that the BFJ had his best game of the season, and is starting to develop a really good relationship with his striking partner Harry. I don't know what the two of them talk about while they are watching the rest of us defend, but whatever plans they are concocting seem to be working. The plan appears to be to get close to one another, with Harry sitting on the last man and Nick coming deeper to win the ball and flick on first time for his mate to run on to. This proved very effective in the first half of this game, and showed what a valuable asset the BFJ is for the Oaks when he keeps things simple and looks to use his ability to create space for others, which gives the Oaks a cutting edge in attack.

The Oaks settled back five looked totally at ease in the first half, with their lives being made easier by the way in which Mikey and Tapsell were once again dominating the midfield battle. Thameside showed no signs of being able to threaten Ty's recent run of clean sheets and the half finished at 0-2.

Milesy made just the one change at half time, with Nathan replacing Sharpy who would have done his fitness no harm with a busy 45 minute outing.

The Oaks continued in the second half where they had left off in the first, as they went in search of the third goal that would confirm the points. The best chances fell to Nick, whose header from 6 yards drew a remarkable reaction save from the keeper, and Mikey who drilled the ball sweetly towards goal as it fell to him following a set piece, only for the Thameside defender to block the shot on the line.

Anyone who thinks we can maintain the high standards we have set for 90 minutes in every game obviously hasn't heard of some of The Oaks most impressive under achievements: Rec Rover 2010, Linford Wanderers 2009 and FC Deportivo Thurrock 2008 are just a few that spring to mind. One thing all these disappointing performances had in common is that they all followed good results from the previous week.

We've already shown that we can string commanding performances together this season, and the fact that we held out to win this game despite being well below par for the last 25 minutes should be taken as a big positive. We completely lost our shape and composure, and seemed to have forgotten who was on our team and therefore who to pass the ball to. To give credit to our opposition, they finally started to put us under the kind of sustained pressure that we expected, and started to make better use of their possession.

Despite this, it was still unexpected to see Thameside pull a goal back to set up a tense final 5 minutes. Interestingly we have now conceded 6 goals in the 7 games we have played, with half of them being scored by Thameside. Add to this the fact that all three goals have been handed on a plate following individual errors, and you can really see why most forwards wish they had stayed in bed when they come up against the Oaks defence. If the Oaks had kept their third clean sheet in a row, it would have been roughly 315 minutes since Ty had last picked the ball out of the net. Unfortunately it turned out to only be 310 minutes as Ty - whose great recent form has been key to keeping the door to the Oaks goal shut - had a moment to forget when he kicked more ground than ball in attempting to clear a back pass from Deano, and presented the Thameside midfielder with an easy finish into an empty net from 9 yards: 1-2.

I must admit to contemplating what a travesty it would have been for us to gain any less than three points from a game that we had dominated for such large periods. I shouldn't have worried as all eleven players dug deep, with Joe and Steve working as hard as anyone following their introduction for Nick and an injured Luke, and the final whistle that confirmed another three points came as something of a relief.

Well done everyone, and lets make sure we don't slip up in the next two weeks as we take on two more teams who we have already beaten this season. Beauchamps and Wilburn are matching us win for win, and we want to ensure that they can't win the league without getting past us first.

Eye-Ball

Next game: At Home v Pegasus Coryton @ Blackshots - Be there early to put the goals up!

Jurgens Sports 0 - 3 Oaks Athletic

2011-11-16T23:02:00.006Z

As the Oaks extended their unbeaten start to the season to 6 games with another dominate display, Tyrone revealed that he has vowed not to cut his hair until the Oaks lose. The prospect of seeing Ty sporting an alice band should be all the incentive the rest of us need to keep this impressive run going for as long as we can.

Everyone likes a good stat, and although I'm wary of jinxing the team, the numbers for The Oaks' season to date are pretty impressive:

- our unbeaten league run currently stands at 6 games for the season (DWWWDW)
- this is two behind our best run (from data available on league website) of 8 games unbeaten (WWWDWWWW) in 2005/06 when we gained promotion from the old league 3B
- I think that there are 6 members of the current squad who were in the side in 2005/06 (Rob, Deano, Parker, Gollum, Nathan and Sharpy). Plus Milesy of course
- if you include last season, our current unbeaten league run actually stretches to 11 games! (DDDWWDWWWDW)
- we have kept 3 clean sheets already this season (our best over the previous 7 seasons was 6 in 05/06)

Before the game had even kicked off, the signs weren't good. Half the team had been out on the lash the day before; either watching England beat the World champions, or playing drinking Monopoly (you'll have to teach us that one Tapsell). To add to this we were put in the girls changing rooms, with individuals showers. There wasn't a problem with the number of showers (the squad is rife with soap dodgers), but I caught a few anxious glances from those who were visibly dejected at the thought of missing out on our weekly shower banter (on the bright side I reckon you could easily fit three people in one of the cubicles).

We then walked out onto the school playing field to find a group of grown men playing with petrol powered planes on pieces of string, and would have to put up with the constant whine of their engines for the whole match. Then there was the pitch: we refer to our pitch as a postage stamp, but this was tiny in comparison - and the goals weren't even as big as they should be (Ty's hair nearly touched the cross bar).

Still, these things are sent to try us, and Milesy chose a starting eleven who he thought would be more than capable of dealing with such distractions:

ppppppppppppppppTy

LukeppppppRobppppDeano (c)ppppEye-Ball

NathanppppppMikey BpppppTapsellppppppRyan

ppppppppppNickppppHarry

subs: Parker, Steve, Gollum, Whiley, Sharpy, Niki, Jordan, Joe, Gavin

It may seem like I'm repeating myself each week, but once again it was fantastic to see so many of the squad turn up. It seems that everyone is willing to wait patiently for their chance to impress Milesy on the pitch, and I know for a fact that everyone who has had that chance has done just that.

New player introduction:

Ryan

Full Name: Ryan Kenyon

Best position: Winger

Best attributes:Lightning pace, great at running with the ball, and the ability to turn defenders inside out. Deceptively strong (maybe even a match for the Titanium Peperami), which has meant he is coping really well with the fact that inferior Sunday League defenders will spend all day trying to kick him up in the air. Good at crossing, an eye for a killer pass and willing to track back and do his bit defensively. I could go on, but then we might not fit his head in our cramped Blackshots dressing room!

Most surprising factRyan was introduced to the Oaks by Sharpy!

This match can be summed up pretty quickly, so for once I'm going to be brief. The Oaks dominated from the first whistle to the last, and never looked in any danger of conceding a goal let alone losing the match. There was some concern when, after half an hour we still hadn't taken the lead. The size of the pitch, combined with a heavy dew was causing problems for our slick passing game. Passes were over-hit or were running out of play when usually there would have been plenty of time to collect the ball. It was also a frustrating game for our wingers - Nathan and Ryan - as hitting the ball past their man would lead to them running out of pitch, and turning inside would see them confronted by centre back and central midfielder (who were basically occupying the same inch of space between the 18 yard box and centre circle).

Given that our attempts to play the ball into the goal were coming to nothing, it took a more direct root to break the deadlock. Nathan took a throw-in on the right into the box, Rob headed it on, and Nick was on hand to rise and head the ball into the goal from 8 yards out: 0-1.

Our very own BFJ (Big Friendly Jamaican) was also heavily involved in the second goal, as he stuck out a leg "donkey style" to redirect the ball over the defence on the right hand side. The defender made a right mess of dealing with the ball, and only succeeded in laying it on a plate for Nathan to race onto and dispatch his trademark finish from a tight angle which, on this occasion, went through the keeper's legs. 0-2.

Nathan's celebration - a back flip with pike - was probably not what the doctor had in mind when he said that Nathan could continue to play football as long as he warmed up and down properly. His excuse was that a lot of the new guys hadn't seen it, and I'm sure future goal celebrations (of which I'm sure there will be many) will be more sedate.

The Oaks strolled to half-time with Milesy's main instruction being to keep it tight and look to finish of the game by finding the third goal that would make it safe.

Harry didn't make it to the end of the match, as his involvement was cut short when he received a stray elbow that lead to an angry H leaving the field with a bloody nose and nothing but a purple sock to stem the bleeding.

Before he left the field he did his bit for the Oaks cause by making the game safe, when he latched onto a fantastic through ball from Mikey. It was far too good for the Jurgens defence to deal with, as was Harry's drop of the shoulder that took him round the keeper to slot home for his 6th goal of the season: 0-3.

The rest of the half was dominated by a hat full of Oaks chances, with only the odd free kick for the home side giving them any hope of troubling Ty (the pitch was so small that even an off-side flag would create an attacking situation).

Harry's early departure gave Sharpy a chance to get a good 25 minutes under his belt, and although his brain was more willing than his legs at times (and that's saying something!) he did show some flashes of what a fully fit Sharpy can offer. Having come on when Harry went off injured, he proceeded to insist on taking the resulting free kick (to be fair it was the right side for a left footer). His effort was on target, but was well saved by the Jurgens Keeper.

Sharpy was also involved in the best move of the half (after Mikey's goal creating pass), when Rob won the ball at the back and played it up to Tapsell. He then passed it to Mikey who moved it on to the BFJ. Nick continued to do what he had done really well all game, as he took one touch before laying it off to Sharpy. Sharpy's nonchalant back heel sent the ball into the path of Ryan, whose shot across the keeper just didn't quite have enough curl to bring it inside the post.

I've already said that the new players need to shine when they get the opportunity, and the two other second half substitutes - Gav for Taps and Jordan for Luke - did just that. Gav is another ball playing centre half in the Tapsell mould, whose composure on the ball and ability to make the simple passes make him exactly the sort of player Milesy likes to see in the centre of midfield, and I'm sure would have been impressed with what he saw. Jordan also worked hard in the short amount of time he had - although Weed's flying slide tackle wasn't to the referee's like - and his deliveries from the right were up to his usual high standards.

Although some players may feel they missed the opportunity to move up the goal scoring chart (ask Nick about his shot from close range that went the wrong side of the post for example),but from a personal point of view it was great to be part of a defence unit (which includes all those who have played in defence this season) that kept yet another clean sheet and to play with a squad of players who are 100% behind each other. Deano has expressed his surprise on a number of occasions that, despite so many new players, there isn't one wally (I'm using a polite term as my Nan read this - hi Nan!) and we definitely don't want anyone to leave the team.

The biggest surprise for me each week is the performances, the results and the manner in which we are winning games. I'm far too used to being part of an Oaks side that you know will give 100%, but will have to battle to grind out a win which would come as predictably as tossing a coin. What I'm seeing now is that, whoever is on the pitch, we still have eleven players who are willing to put their bodies on the line for the team, but that we now have the added ability, class and determination to win to give us justification for thinking we should win every game. Deano sums it up by saying that our game plan was also to win the ball and get it out to Nathan in the hope he could make something happen, now we have a wealth of players who can swing the game in our favour (that's not to say we don't need you Nathan!).

Our biggest enemy will be complacency, and next week we play Thameside again, who we have already beaten 4-2. However, they are doing well in the league (currently sitting 3rd), and last week beat Stanford Wanderers (who themselves have beaten Tilbury twice) 5-0! While we should obviously go into the game full of confidence, we shouldn't think we wont have to work for a win.

Eye-Ball

TRAINING: Just a reminder that training starts tomorrow at St Cleres School (be there at 1845 to give time to set up). Milesy will be looking for people to contribute £10 each for the first five sessions (that's a bargain £2 per week).

Next game: Sunday 20th November Away @ The billet v Thameside: 1030 KO.

Goal Scoring/Assist chart

Tilbury United 0 - 0 Oaks Athletic

2011-11-08T20:34:00.010Z

The Oaks missed the chance to go top of the league (but still moved up to second) as they battled to a nil-nil draw in their toughest league encounter of the season so far.

Our opponents this week may change their name more than the weather - Asda Tilbury became Anchor Tilbury became Tilbury United - but what you get from them has never changed. You know it's going to be a scrap, they are going to kick you at every opportunity and give you no time on the ball, and you're going to get more aggro from their supporters than from the players themselves. Having said that, they have also improved as a footballing side over the last few years, and the whipping boys who were Asda Tilbury even gained promotion to the 1st division two years ago as Anchor Tilbury (handing out a double header thrashing to the Oaks in the process, with Jordan's goal being the only thing we wanted to remember for that encounter). The 1st division provided a far less pleasing experience for them, and it would be interesting to see what sort of a team they had now they were back in the 3rd tier of the Thurrock Sunday League. What we found ourselves up against was a team that lacked a real cutting edge in attack, but defended with enough pace and determination to succeed where no other team has done in our league so far, in keeping Harry, Nick and co. under wraps.

Milesy was once again blessed with countless options as 21 of the 25 man squad turned up willing to take a shirt if asked. There was also the added bonus of having Ryan back from injury, Tapsell returning from international duty, and Brownie looking particularly buff (all will be explained).

Milesy was obviously reluctant to change the team that had done so well against Pegasus last week, and apart from replacing Bunny with Whiley and moving Eye-Ball to midfield, the team was the same as the starting eleven from the week before:

ppppppppppppppppTy

LukeppppppRobppppDeano (c)ppppWhiley

Eye-BallppppppMikey BpppppTapsellppppppAl

ppppppppppNickppppHarry

subs: Parker, Steve, Ryan, Gollum, Nathan, Sharpy, Niki, Jordan, Joe, Gavin

Watchers: Ryan's Dad, Aaron Bass, Becky and kids, and Sharpy's mates from the Ship.

In a change from the usual New Player Intro, I'd like to introduce a new feature I'm calling:
Losing Touch With Reality
This week staring the two Steves - the Oaks favourite double act.

Manager Milesy's match-day programme address

It's great to see a full house once again at the John Smiths Arena, the home of five times Christmas Pub Brawl Champions The Oaks Athletic. Your unwavering support is truly humbling given our awful performance last week, when you witnessed us throw away a one goal league, to lose 2-1 to our arch rivals - the Elephants in Pink Fluffy Tutus KFC. It's not easy being a manager, especially when a week of preparation is thrown out of the window, as you walk into the dressing room minutes before the game only to find that your in-form flame haired midfield play maker has been called up to win his first cap for Wales. Still the boys rallied well to take the lead, but when we were pegged back and 2-1 down I knew I had to make an attacking change. However, when I turned to the bench Paddy (you know, the one from Gypsy Weddings) and Harold Bishop were nowhere to be seen - apparently they'd run off to the chippy - unbelievable! Gollum had also vanished (he was last seen rubbing the tiny strands of hair that had appeared on his head whilst hissing "my precious") and I was almost desperate enough to put Parker on, but luckily Steve "six pack" Browne stepped forward to argue his case to be thrown on. He said to me:

"Darling Steve; surely after whipping me into shape in that hotel room last week you must have wanted to give me the chance to prove myself. I know I've had four bottles of Stella (other brands of beers are also available), and that nothing good ever came out of Belgium (apart from Kim Clijsters and Jean-Claude Van Damme) but I feel in the best shape of my life thanks to you and want to repay you in the only way I know how..."

I couldn't really argue with that, and as I slapped him on the right butt-cheek as he strode purposefully onto the pitch through a blizzard of bubbles, it finally dawned on me: a whole pack of Baby Bells and 12 Dairylea triangles (other brands of processed cheese are also available) before going to bed was probably a bad idea.

I'd advise Brownie to stick to San Miguel as well...

No one is more meticulous in their pre-match preparation than Brownie

Back in the bleak reality that is the Daisyfield we had an actual (although probably less interesting) game of football to play. The Oaks started really well with lots of promising moves developing from Taps and Mikey playing the ball out to Al and Eye-Ball on the flanks, who were offering quite different options. Al was linking up well with Harry on the left, whilst Eye-Ball was looking to exploit the space left by the Tilbury left full-back, who was playing more like a centre-back.

Although Eye-Ball made some good progress to the bye-line, the final ball was somewhat lacking, and it was Al who was involved in most of the best goal scoring chances that we created. On one occasion he attempted to curl the ball across the keeper, but couldn't direct his shot on target, but then he created an even better chance to put the Oaks ahead. Al made good progress into the box, drew the defender, and unselfishly laid the ball off to Nick, who found himself in acres of space on the edge of the six yard box. With the goal at his mercy, Nick was inflicted with a severe case of the Yips, and shot high and wide of the target.

Despite the disappointment at not taking the lead (with no-one feeling worse than Nick himself) we had no reason to panic, as Deano, Rob, Whiley, Luke and Ty were having no problem dealing with the long ball tactics of our opponents. Ty did have to rush out of his goal to beat the Tilbury striker to the ball (and receive a kick to the bargain), and scramble to gather the ball as it ran lose in the area, but that was it.

However, the Oaks have gone behind against the run of play more than once already this season, and looked to have done so again as Rob could only get enough on a long free kick into the box to increase the pace with which the ball flew into the back of the net.

We all know that Sharpy lives, breathes and sleeps (although I don't know about his dreams) the Oaks, but we also know he is far too honest for his own good. Therefore as we walked back to the half way line to prepare to get back into the game, we were all surprised to turn round to see Sharpy with his flag raised and talking to the ref. It transpired that at least two of the Tilbury players had been offside when the ball was played in, and Sharpy had correctly raised his flag to indicate this. Now it is the referee's job to decide whether or not they were interfering with play, and the general consensus was that, as Rob had won the header without being under any particular pressure then the goal should stand. However, the ref chose to go with the flag, and awarded a free kick to the Oaks.

I probably don't need to explain that Tilbury United were less than pleased with this outcome, although Sharpy received relatively few words from the players. His main cause for concern was the irate supporter who had decided Sharpy needed to be taught a lesson for being a man of such loose morals (obviously I've translated the actual words used). And while he was at it, he was also going to invite Rob, Mikey and Deano to join the class. As it was, we were proud to see a calmer, more reserved version of Sharpy than we have previously witnessed in these situations, and nothing more transpired (off the pitch at least).

For the rest of us, our punishment for somehow denying Tilbury the lead was to be kicked, pushed and generally maimed at any opportunity. Eye-Ball was the first to discover this as he was the unlucky recipient of the attention of three of the Tilbury players as he received the ball from the offside free-kick. Fortunately he avoided becoming the meat in a very angry sandwich and we all survived to half time.

Milesy made just the one change at half time with Ryan coming on as a direct replacement for Al. The Tilbury full back must have wondered what he had done to deserve such torture, and as Al finished tormenting him Ryan straight away showed his intention to run him ragged and turn him inside out for the forthcoming 45 minutes.

As it happened, apart from a few clear chances it was the defences who dominated, with the two centre back captains leading by example. Deano had by far his best game of the season, and was an absolute colossus - winning the ball in the air, reading the game to intercept through balls and beat the forward to the ball when it was played up from midfield, reacting first to head the ball away as it bounced back off the cross bar, and even going on his own jinxing run before releasing the ball to Ryan to carry on his good work. The icing on the cake came when Ty could only get enough on an attempted chip to parry the ball up into the air. We all watched on (yes, we know Ty) as the ball bounced agonisingly towards our virgin goal, but were able to breathe a huge sigh of relief as Deano was on hand to keep her pure and kick the ball off the line to safety.

Deano gets so feed up of waiting for the Oaks end of season awards night that he buys his own trophy (also the first sighting of the new purple kit)

Ty's good form continued as he made the initial save when the ball bounced up onto the bar, and was called upon to make another good low save when the Tilbury player shot from a tight angle. Whiley must also get special praise for an outstanding block on the edge of the six yard box that prevented a certain goal and sent the ball spinning over the bar for a corner.

I briefly mentioned the Tilbury skipper who, along with his band of merry (I'm not saying anything about what they might have been smoking) defensive men, did a pretty good job of shackling Harry and preventing Nick from having enough time on the ball to link up with the midfield.

Our best chance of the half was started and finished by Ryan, who drew a round of applause from the gathering crowd as he skipped passed his man, keeping on his feet in the box, despite the obvious contact, to beat a second man and shoot firmly at goal. Unfortunately the keeper was equal to the effort on this occasion and the deadlock still could not be broken.

I haven't said much about the midfield up to this point, but for humanitarian reasons I should just say that it was a mine-field. The tackles were flying in, and although Taps and Mikey had to assume a more industrious role on this occasion they were more than a match for their opponents, who disappeared for the last fifteen minute to allow our centre pairing to dominate and dictate proceedings to the final whistle.

Those watching the game have said that, despite there being no goals (sort of), it was an enthralling contest. It was so tight in fact, that Milesy really didn't feel he could make any more changes, as even a momentary unbalancing of the team could have made all the difference to the outcome. He was forced to make one change however, as Eye-Ball pulled up lame with cramp in the last ten having never recovered from the lung bursting 30 yard run from inside his own half to make a crunching block tackle on his helpless victim (you can open your eyes now Niki). Jordan replaced Eye-Ball on the right and showed what we had been missing with some good deliveries that caused the Tilbury defence some head-aches.

The game finished 0-0, and although we left the field frustrated at a referee who had given countless incorrect decisions, and taken no action to discourage Tilbury's sustained revenge attack, we also felt that, if it meant we could walk away from the Daisyfields alive, perhaps nil-nil was a fair result.

Eye-Ball

Proof that the continental influence has even spread to the grass roots of the English game

Next game: Sunday 13th November Away @ The Gateway Academy v Jurgens

TRAINING: Steve gave a good talk in the dressing room before the game to make it clear that, despite the obvious difficulty he is having in getting everyone a game, he sees this as being the one of the best squads he has had in his 15 years at the club, and wants everyone to stick around to find out what being an Oaks player is all about. To this end it is vital that everyone has the opportunity to gel, and we must thank Sharpy for organising a weekly training session to help with this. We know that not everyone will be able to attend regularly (myself included), and those who can't attend won't be penalised come Sunday. However, please do try and get along if you can, as this is not something we have done as a squad for a very long time.

Training will be at St Cleres School, Stanford-le-Hope, on a Friday night from 7-8. Starting on Friday 18th November (so don't turn up this week)! Make sure you have some money with you to contribute to the cost of the pitch.

Goals/Assist Chart

Pegasus Coryton 1 - 5 Oaks Athletic

2011-11-01T20:31:00.005Z

I've been reading the match reports for our past encounters with Pegasus (see April 2010, May 2010 and January 2011), and I was quite surprised to see that our record against this side is quite good: in four games over the last two seasons we have picked up 7 points with two wins, one draw and only the one (ridiculous) defeat. I say I was surprised by this, as reading the match reports would suggest Pegasus have always been a superior footballing side to the Oaks; a team who pass and move well and have the ability to keep possession for large periods. In contrast the Oaks name was synonymous with dogged and organised defending, being dangerous from set pieces and kicking the man if the ball couldn't be reached. The fact that we picked up so many points in this fixture has been due to Pegasus's lack of pace both down the flanks and through the middle which has meant they have always struggled to unsettle the Oaks defence with the final ball despite all their possession in midfield. In the past however, we have lacked our own cutting edge to make more of the small amount of possession we had and as a result have never scored more than 2 goals.

What a difference a season makes.

There is a directness about the way the Oaks are playing these days, and with the vision and creativity we now possess chances are being created for fun. And we are starting to turn these chances into league goals: 2 goals in the first game, 3 in the second, 4 in the third and 5 this week. At this rate I'm going to have to carry a note pad and pen come the end of the season! This was a quite superb performance from everyone in the team, and if it hadn't been for the fact that we played most of the second half with ten men, who knows what the score might have been.

Given the enormous scale of the Pegasus pitch Milesy has, in the past, opted to pack the midfield to try and disrupt Pegasus's passing game. However, on this occasion he chose to stay with the 4-4-2 formation that has worked so well in recent weeks. A mention for Luke, whose performance as a sub at right back a couple of weeks ago earned him his first league start.

ppppppppppppppppTy

LukeppppppRobppppDeano (c)ppppEye-Ball

BunnyppppppMikey BpppppTapsellppppppAl

ppppppppppNickppppHarry

subs: Parker, Steve, Whiley, Gollum, Nathan, Sharpy, Niki, Jordan, Joe

Watchers: Ryan, Gavin

New player introduction: Luke

Known as:Luke (anything else?)

Best attributes: A booming right boot that can be used to clear the ball way up the pitch or play an inch perfect cross field ball. Quick feet for a tall man that help him glide past the opposition. Not bad with a pair of gloves either.

Most common sound when near him: That of a pin dropping. Luke is a quiet bloke which leaves me short of embarrassing or humorous comments. All in good time...

The game couldn't have started better for the Oaks and within the first 5 minutes we were in front. Luke took a free kick from inside the Oaks half, floating a perfect ball over the Pegasus back four who had obviously not realised the danger Harry's pace would pose them. Their high line allowed him to run in behind and show great composure to lift the ball over the stranded keeper and into the net for his 4th of the season: 0-1.

Whilst it's obviously great to see the Oaks scoring lots of goals, it doesn't make my job any easier and I must admit I'm starting to struggle to remember the order of events. Therefore apologies for any inaccuracies in the chronological order of the following account (and again if there is anything I forget that is worthy of a mention let me know).

The Oaks were now looking settled, composed and organised. With Al and Bunny working tirelessly down the flanks, Mikey and Tapsell patiently waiting for the opportunity to rob Pegasus of the ball and then showing the vision to play Al, Bunny and Harry in behind the Pegasus defence, and Nick working hard to make himself available whilst holding the ball up to bring others into the game, at times the defensive quintet just had to stand back and admire their team mates as they kept the opposition on the back foot for much of the half.

The defence played their part when required of course, and with arguably the best and most uncompromising ball winner in the Sunday league on our side, playing alongside our best all round and most versatile defender, and flanked by two full backs who between them offer a mixture of pace, defensive instinct, level headedness and composure on the ball, it's no surprise that our experienced and dependable keeper had relatively little to do in the first half.

It wasn't long before the Oaks extended their lead when the Pegasus fullback put the ball behind for a corner whilst under pressure from Harry following a long clearance from Ty. The ball into the box eventually fell to Al after efforts from Rob and Nick had been blocked, and he struck the ball firmly through the crowd of players and into the net for his first goal for the Oaks: 0-2 (note that I have not awarded an assist for this goal).

We were looking so comfortable up to this point that it was somewhat disappointing to let Pegasus back into the game when a good through ball caught the Oaks back four square playing a higher line than was necessary.

Ty has informed us that his little black book doesn't contain the usual list of conquests, but rather records every game of football he has played. This explanation becomes a lot more conceivable than the first when you consider that this game was the 800th entry. I doubt whether he has every played better than on this landmark occasion, with his performance being worthy of a clean sheet. Especially as he saved the initial effort from the Pegasus striker well with his foot, only for the ball to fall perfectly at the feet on another of the opposition to slot home into the empty net: 1-2.

This goal threatened to change the balance of the game, but thankfully the Oaks in-form player was on hand to dash Pegasus's hopes of a come back whilst rocketing himself up the coveted goal/assists chart.

Tapsell's first goal of the game came when Nick fought hard to win a long throw in from Luke, and claimed the last touch as the ball sat up nicely for Tapsell to strike the ball towards goal. A deflection caused the ball to spin clear of the keeper into the bottom left hand corner of the goal: 1-3.

Tapsell doubled his tally for the game, and the season before half time with the goal of the game. Although Tapsell supplied the final touch, this goal was all about Harry who twisted the opposition defenders in knots in the corner before winning a corner. Despite feeling aggrieved at not being awarded a free-kick he needn't have worried, as his inch perfect in swinging corner was attacked at the back post by Tapsell who arrived unmarked at pace to power the ball into the net: 1-4.

We could have had more goals in the first half had it not been for the Pegasus linesman flagging Harry offside on a number of occasions. Many of these decisions could politely be described as "tight", and led to much frustration from Harry, Nick and others who questioned the honesty of the man with the flag. On one stand out occasion Luke jinxed his way across the midfield (leading Sharpy to compare him to Oaks legend Geoff, who was famous for such tricky and once scored a hat-trick from full back) before playing a delightful ball over the top with the outside of his right boot. Unsurprisingly Harry was flagged for offside, and that was that.

The first half couldn't have gone much better, and although Steve was full of praise for our performance, his instruction was for us to concentrate on defending as a team and not letting Pegasus back into the game.

Tapsell and Harry obviously had other ideas, and yet again combined early in the second half with a diagonal ball by Tapsell eluding defender and goalkeeper, and leaving Harry to slot home for his second of the game: 1-5.

I must admit that at this point I made the mistake of wondering when the last time was that the Oaks had looked in such control of a game, only for Bunny to even the contest when he was sent off for reacting to an elbow and kick from his opposite number. Justice was definitely not done as the petulant Pegasus player was allowed to stay one the pitch, and we would have to play the last 35 minutes with 10 men.

It was inevitable that we would have to soak up the pressure now, and soak it up we did. The fact we managed to keep a second half clean sheet was due in no small part to some fine saves from Ty, including getting down well to save a near post effort, a fine tip over the bar from a free-kick (he wasn't going to leave this one), and a good readjustment to cling onto an effort that he nearly dived over (and led to some harsh "beached whale" comparisons). We also had our share of luck as Pegasus hit the bar and the post twice.

Our efforts were also once again helped by the strength of the Oaks subs bench, and as is often the case when a player is sent off, it is one of the attackers who is unlucky to be sacrificed. On this occasion Nick was the unfortunate one to take one for the team, as he was replaced by Nathan who had his fan club with him for this game (including little Megan and even smaller pink poodle). Spurred on by this support Nathan created two great chances to open his account for the season. The first came when he powered past the Pegasus defence into the box only for his shot to strike the keeper. He then showed good determination to close down the ball in the box, but could only deflect the ball over the bar.

Niki "Lawsie" Law also came on for Eye-Ball to make his first appearance for the Oaks, and his first game of football for 14 months following a period of travelling. Niki obviously gets his footballing ability from his father's side (he's related to Ty and Jordan on his mum's side) and showed no signs of rust as his obvious class shone through to help the Oaks regain control of the game.

The final substitution saw Sharpy replace the impressive Al, and make his first appearance of the season following a long suspension. Although the 20 minutes was tough for him (even though he spent 10 of them tying his shoelaces) he looked like he enjoyed himself and may have even got on the score sheet if he had actually been on the back post when he instructed Harry to put the ball there.

The mood after the game was understandably buoyant, and I'm sure others will be watching our results with interest. The pressure is now on for us to continue to perform, and if we can eradicate the inconsistency that has been an issue for Oaks sides of the past there is no reason why we can't maintain our record as the only unbeaten side in the league for some time to come.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 6th November Away @ Daisyfields v Tilbury United: 1030 KO

Oaks Athletic 4 - 2 Thameside

2011-10-25T20:36:00.005+01:00

The oaks twice came from behind to eventually win at a canter, in a game that they were by far and away the better team and, had it not been for a couple of wind induced errors (although I'm not directly referring to Parker's pre-match issues, inhaling whatever it was emanating from his person can't do a man any good) and a hatful of missed chances, we could have made the Manchester Derby look like a close game.

With another great turnout Milesy had plenty of options again, and with Harry available was able to revert back to his preferred 4-4-2 without having to play anyone out of position:

ppppppppppppppppTy

Deano (c)ppppppRobppppMillyppppEye-Ball

BunnyppppMikey BpppppTapsellppppppJoe

ppppppppppNickppppHarry

subs: Parker, Steve, Whiley, Luke, Al, Gollum, Nathan

Watchers: Sharpy, Ryan

New player introduction: Steve Browne

Known as:Brownie

Best attributes: A marauding full-back whose low centre of gravity, combined with a good turn of pace, make him ideal for exploiting the space that inevitably appears between full backs and wingers in Sunday League football.

When not playing football you'll find him: enjoying a glass/bottle/beaker (or whatever else he can lay his hands on) of beer and perfecting his slip-stich technique (he does knit a lovely hat).

Before we get into the details of the game, it is worth giving a brief weather report. It was a clear, mild day, but most importantly there was a strong breeze blowing from one end of the pitch towards the flats at the other end. This was to give the team playing into the wind an immediate advantage, as clearances from one end would fly all the way into the last third whereas from the other end the defending side would struggle to get the ball past the half way line.

In the first half the Oaks were kicking into the wind, but seemed to be coping OK with the conditions to start with. The first chance of the game even fell to one of our players, and when Rob placed his shot into the bottom corner Tyrone did well to get down and tip the ball around the post (no typos there honestly).

Title for most relieved man on the pitch goes to: Mr Robin Lawrence

It was from corners that Thameside looked most dangerous, as with the help of the wind they were able to swing the ball right into the heart of the six yard box. The Oaks didn't help themselves by giving away far to many avoidable corners, mainly through miskicks and indecision for which the wind can only be partly to blame for. As it happened we defended these corners well (with a bit of luck as well as Thameside hit the post on at least one occasion), and should take some credit for not conceding via this avenue.

It was totally against the run of play that the Oaks went behind when Bunny committed a foul just inside the opposition half (let's call it 50 yards from goal for arguments sake). Bunny's tackle hadn't made him any friends from the opposition side, but all was soon forgiven as their skipper over hit a long ball into the box that sailed over Ty's head and into the roof of the net. Deceived by the flight of the ball (which initially seemed to be sailing well over), Ty didn't even move and it took a while for us all to realise that the ball had indeed gone in and we were 1-0 down.

In the past heads might have dropped at this point, but we knew that we had the beating of Thameside and were playing some really nice football. One particular move that stood out was a passing exchange that saw Mikey play the ball on to Nick, who immediately layed it off to Mikey who had continued his run towards the area. Mikey then passed it to Tapsell who spread the play to Joe on the left. It was unfortunate that this move came to nothing as we could have been looking at an early contender for goal of the season (an award that doesn't even exist by the way).

It wasn't long before our class finally shone through as Tapsell once again linked up with Harry to create a fine opening that was finished in style. On this occasion Tapsell actually used the head wind to his advantage as a firmly struck through ball (is it triangle in Fifa Harry?) held up perfectly for Harry to run in behind the defender, across and around the stranded keeper and to slot the ball expertly into the empty net: 1-1.

Title for most relieved man on the pitch now passes to: Mr Tyrone Owen

**INTERLUDE**

On the 16 August 1977 Elvis Presley was found dead on the toilet (conspiracy theorists still claim the fact Parker was seen leaving the bathroom shortly before Elvis entered can't be a coincidence). On 23 February 20 million viewers watched "Dirty" Den Watts get shot and fall into the canal (supposedly to his death). In 1991 Harold Bishop mysteriously disappears, with nothing but his glasses being found on the edge of a cliff. And on the 16 April 2011 Eye-Ball Paul wrote a touch obituary to the Oaks late inspirational captain Nathan Kerin.

http://oaksathletic.blogspot.com/2011/04/oaks-athletic-5-0-laird-athletic.html"

One thing all these men have in common is that they all have attempted to make a comeback in recent years (I believe you can see Elvis at the Indian Restaurant in Billericay in a few weeks time), but for three of the four these have proven to be relatively unsuccessful. After being given the all clear to return to playing football (although with the obvious warning to not over do it), Nathan returned to the Oaks fold this week, and on coming on for the injured Bunny (one of our new stars) he made an instant impact, and there is no doubt that his presence and determination galvanised the team.

**END OF INTERLUDE**

For Nathan to grab the headlines on his return, someone needed to give him, and the rest of the team, a reason to display their grit, determination and team spirit. Step forward Eye-Ball. The miskicks and slices that plagued the first half have already been mentioned, and Eye-Ball was by far and away the worst afflicted. The way he was playing in the first half he would have struggled to kick Sharpy if you'd tied him to a lamppost by his ear hair. Having already had Harry to thank for tackling back when possession had been given away perilously close to our own area, there was no-one to save him when a descending, spinning ball completely bamboozled him (think Mike Gatting and Shane Warne), leaving the Thameside winger to run clear through on goal and finish neatly over Ty's head to give Thameside another undeserved lead: 1-2.

Although I wanted the ground to swallow me up, the words of support and encouragement from around the team were much appreciated, and showed to me what a great bunch of lads we have assembled at the club. Now they just had to dig deep to get Eye-Ball out of jail and win the three points they deserved.

Although no goal came before half-time, the signs were good and there seemed to be plenty of confidence that, with the wind on our side in the second half the deficit could be overturned.

The chances were to come thick and fast in the second half, and there is no way I can remember all of them. If there is anything I miss that you would like mentioned (this week and every other week) just leave a comment and I'll add any additions/corrections. With Harry's pace upfront to exploit the wind, Nathan charging down the right hand side and Tapsell and Mikey now controlling the midfield the Thameside goal was now under siege. Add to this the added bonus of Nathan's trademark long throw (yes lads, get on the BACK post) - which must now only be used one most needed - it is amazing that the score was still 1-2 after 20 minutes of the second half.

Particularly good efforts that came to nothing included a rasping shot from Harry on the left hand side of the box, a towering header from Tapsell following a cross from Nathan that he couldn't quite direct on target, and a header from Mikey following a corner that hit the woodwork. There was even a moment of controversy as Robin's initial header from Nathan's throw was palmed up by the keeper only for the assistant referee's flag to be raised as Robin and Harry combined to put the ball in the net. Although Harry would have been offside from Robin's initial header (neither would have been offside from the throw-in) should the goal have stood if Robin got the final touch on the rebound? You could debate interference and "being active" until the cows come home, but at the end of the day we just had to go again.

We even had the odd scare, and both Eye-Ball and Ty went some way to making up for their early errors with interventions that kept the score at 2-1. Eye-Ball chased back to make a well timed sliding challenge in the area (although Deano rightly pointed out that it was his man who had been allowed to temporarily escape), and Ty closed the angle well to make a good save after the Thameside substitute had slipped in behind our back four.

By this point we were throwing absolutely everything at Thameside, and with Brownie now on and charging down the left wing (he'd originally been put on at left back but Milesy soon realised his switch was cranked to full attack mode, so pushed Eye-Ball back to full back) and Mikey and Tapsell getting further forward surely our luck had to turn sooner or later.

Nathan has always been a big fan of the goal scoring chart, and now that assists are also being recorded he would have been very happy to make his first notch. His through ball was initially meant for Deano (who had selflessly offered his cherished captain's armband to Nathan earlier in the half), but was latch on to by Tapsell who charged into the area and sent a screaming volley past the keeper and into the roof of the net: 2-2.

New holder of the most relieved man on the pitch award: Mr Eye-Ball

Thameside were now playing like they had already lost, and despite their best efforts to hold up proceeding with an array of confusing substitutions and re-organisations that at one point saw them with only ten players on the pitch for a good five minutes, there was still plenty of time to grab a winner. In fact we went one better and got another two inside the last 15 minutes.

The Oaks were now committing more and more players forward, and when Nathan broke down the right to the bye-line he had plenty of men to pick out in the middle. He opted for the biggest one, and Nick gratefully accepted the inch perfect low cross that left him with the simplest of tap-ins and earn him his third goal of the season: 3-2.

The scoring/assist chart only made its first appearance last week, and it has definitely made a big impression on Tapsell who seemed desperate to add to the one goal and 3 assists that he already had to his name. I won't ask if he collects notches, but he soon got another one as reward for the frequent lung bursting runs he was making into the box in the last 10 minutes. On this occasion it was another assit for Nathan who's long throw once again struck, with Tapsell beating the keeper to head home from 6 yards: 4-2.

I'm not sure any of us wanted this game to end, but all good things must. We're going to come up against tougher opposition but hopefully we can continue to play with the same determination and team spirit regardless of the opposition and the state of the game.

Interestingly our opponents next week - Pegasus - had lost 3 out of 3 before this week, when they beat the only other unbeaten side other than the oaks (Beauchamps - 4 wins out of 4 before this week) by two goals to one. This just shows what an open league we are in, and why we should be pushing ourselves to be up near the top of the table come the end of the season.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 30th October: Away @ Pegasus Club v Pegasus Coryton: 9:45 meet.

P.S. Don't forget that the clocks go BACK saturday night.

Goals an assists:

Lakeside Trojans 2 - 0 Oaks Athletic (Ted Fairchild Cup)

2011-10-18T20:20:00.009+01:00

Another week, another cup game, and another early exit for the Oaks. You never know what you are going to be up against when you play a team from the bottom division of the Thurrock Sunday League. With so many new and reformed teams popping up each year, the weakest teams often get forced up a league leaving some very good teams behind. The Lakeside franchise is already threatening to topple the Ockendon Motorspares empire that has dominated the Thurrock Sunday League for years, with the two existing teams making steady progress towards the premier division. They have now added a team of young upstarts, who have made a flying start in the 4th division and showed against the Oaks that they could compete well above their current level. However, although the better team on the day won, the Oaks still walked away disappointed in a performance that lacked composure and discipline, and was well below what we know we are capable of.

Milesy returned this week (complete with pink shirt and sun-tan), and although the tequila and sombreros were sadly missing, he did bring our shiny new purple kit (complete with matching socks) as chosen democratically at the end of last season. Although this wasn't a great start for the new kit, it still signals the start of a new era for the Oaks as Milesy looks to gel the significant contingent of new players with the old. For this game, with a severe lack of recognised strikers, Milesy chose to experiment with five in the middle, leaving Nick on his own up top:

ppppppppppppppppTy

RobppppppDeano (c)ppppMillyppppEye-Ball

ppppppppppppppGollum
MikeyppppBunnypppppTapsellppppppAl

ppppppppppppppNick

Subs/Watchers: Parker, Luke, Whiley, Gavin, Scott, Steve, Joe, Nathan, Chris, Jordan, Ryan

I haven't had any complaints about the new player intros so will continue this week with Bunny:

Ash

AKA:
Bunny

Most likely reason for nickname:
His surname is Bun

Least likely reason for surname:
Three years spent satisfying Hugh Hefner's labedo in the Playboy Mansion

Best attributes:
Strong in the tackle and in the air, and a great first touch that gives a stronger case for the above nickname suggestion.

Lakeside dominated the early exchanges, and showed themselves to be a confident and energetic young side. Virtually the first move of the game saw them work the ball to their main front man, who found some space on the edge of the area and shot wide of the right hand upright.

It wasn't long before Ty was called into action as he had to atone for his own error as a miscued kick from a back pass presented the ball to a Lakeside player in space. Ty recovered well to close the angle and block the shot with his legs.

Lakeside's constant harassment evidently unsettled the Oaks who failed to make use of the possession they had, and were guilty of giving away far too many soft free kicks when there was still plenty of cover to deal with any dangerous situations that may arise.

Twice in the first half the Oaks were punished for this indiscipline and the two goal difference that was to remain until the end of the game was soon established. Teams are often accused of lacking width, but I don't think this comment is meant to apply to a defensive wall. However, when a free kick was conceded 10 yards outside the area, and hit low around the right side of the wall and out of Ty's reach, it was clear that our one could have done with a bit more girth: 1-0.

One nil became two nil when, with our penalty area packed with red and black shirts (remembering we now play in purple) following another free kick, Ty attempted to play a 1-2 to with the opposition player who didn't oblige and deflected the ball into the net. While there was some debate over the legality of the method used to get the ball into the net (some sort of combination of hand and right testicle being one possibility), Ty sets himself high standards (his dazzling new green kit being a prime example) and I'm sure he would have been disappointed to have not held the initial shot, especially as he had commanded his six yard box from numerous dangerous inswinging corners up to this point: 2-0.

Still, with over sixty minutes left to play we had plenty of time to get back into this game and could have been level at the break if we had got a better rub of the green with two excellently manufactured chances.

Tapsell and Bunny play a lot of football together (they joined the Oaks from the same side and play five-a-side together each week), and showed an almost telepathic understanding when they linked up to create a chance that almost saw Bunny score his second for the season with a goal that would have been a contender for goal of the season. As the ball came towards Tapsell in the air, he heard the call from his mate and nodded the ball on in Bunny's direction. With his back to goal, Bunny let the ball bounce across him, swivelled and hit it first time towards the right hand side of the goal from 25 yards before anyone else reacted. We all watched on as the ball bounced, hit the post and bounced away out of the reach of Mikey, who was the only one who realised a re-bound might be on.

The second best chance of the half also fell to Bunny, as he rose like a ...(sorry, that's too obvious even for me) on the edge of the six yard box to meet Mikey's excellent cross from the right, but could not direct his header under the cross bar.

We also showed we could be dangerous from free kicks as Al "I can't take free-kicks" Blake floated an excellent ball to the back post which almost lead to a goal.

The half time team talk from Milesy was mainly positive: he could see that we could create chances against this side, and despite the goals, Ty's save and one defensive lapse when their striker broke through and shot over, we had defended well. Milesy did decided that Nick needed some support up top, and whilst to some of us the obvious choice would have been to simply move former prolific striker Gollum further up the field, he instead chose to give Scott (who we were all pleased to see return from injury) a run out whilst reverting to a 4-4-2 formation.

Although the infuriating sound of the referee's whistle continued to interrupt play during the second half, we soaked up the continuing Lakeside pressure and Ty had a much quieter second half.

With Scott now on we could look to make better use of our aerial threat from crosses and corners, as he showed that the lay-off through injury hadn't affected his ability to swing in tempting corners into the danger zone. Two stand out chances from these whipped in deliveries fell to Bunny and Rob. The former making a well timed run to the near post to head narrowly wide. Rob came even closer when his nod down at the back post unfortunately hit the Lakeside keeper, who didn't know very much about the save.

The keeper has to take more credit for the save he made from Tapsell, who made a superb run into the box and struck the ball with venom using the outside of his right boot, only to see his effort tipped over by a diving yellow blur.

If any of these chances had gone in, it would have been interesting to see how the young pretenders would have handled the pressure of protecting a one goal lead, and despite the fact that we failed to disturb the net there were a number of positives to take from the second half performance. The stand-out one for me being the cameo performance by Luke at right-back; for a man who has been patiently waiting to get his chance wearing a goalie's jersey he show himself to be a composed and tidy defender, and with a booming right boot that can be used to clear the lines or set up an attacking move Milesy has yet another option (or is that head-ache) to consider. Milesy should also get credit for managing to re-organsie the side during the second half to get all three permitted subs onto the field. With not many like-for-like changes possible he first brought on Gavin for Al, who was replaced by Scott on the left with Gav join Nick upfront. Then for Luke to get his chance at right back Mikey left the field and Rob moved to the right wing.

So although the result wasn't what we would have liked, I think we all (including Milesy) can learn a lot from this game as we look to compete in what looks to be the most evenly matched division in the league.

I should add that the main thing I learned is that it's advisable not to spend too long on the ground injured, as the next time Parker waddles on to provide unrequested treatment he may have something worse than orange squash in his bottle.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 23rd October @ Home v Thameside - Meet between 0915 and 0930 (as we have to put the nets up).

Goals and assists chart:

East London Catalans 6 - 0 Oaks Athletic (Essex Cup)

2011-10-11T19:52:00.005+01:00

The boys from Beckton sent the Oaks lads back to Thurrock with their tails between their legs, in a game that saw skill, speed, power and determination in abundance (unfortunately it all came from one side).

It was pleasing that so many of the squad turned up for this game; especially as many knew before the game that they would not be playing. Sharpy (who had been given a vote of confidence by the board after an impressive first week in charge) stuck to Milesy's plan to give a lot of the new lads - who had played a limited part in the first two games - the opportunity for a good run out. This meant a first start in goal for Luke, and with Gollum, Parker, Al also getting their first taste of the action this season:

pppppppppppppppppppLuke (GK)

pSteve (RB)ppWhiley(CB)pppDeano(CB) (c)ppppChris (LB)

Jordan (RM)pppGollum (CM)ppAl (CM)ppppppEye-Ball (LM)

pppppppppppppParker (CF)pppppHarry (CF)

Subs/Watchers: Nick, Rob, Mikey, Ty, Joe, Gavin, Tapsell, Nathan, Sharpy, Ryan

This week's introduction to the new players sees us take a look at Harry:

Harry

Known as: 'H'

Biggest hit: 'Tragedy' - a UK no. 1 with over 1 million copies sold

Young enough to be mistaken for: Robbie Lawerence's grandson

Best Position: Striker

Best attributes: Pace, quick feet, an eye for goal, and legs that miraculously turn to jelly inside the 18 yard box (funny, sounds remarkably like our old skipper...)

Don't be surprised to hear him shout: "Triangle R1!" as he forgets this is real football (OK perhaps only loosely speaking) and not FIFA 2012.

The Oaks started well enough with Al and Gollum breaking up the play in midfield, whilst linking up well with Jordan, Harry and Parker. However, it wasn't long before the Catalans got into their stride and showed that they were at least one level above us in every area. If any of us had ever wondered what it would be like to defend against Shaun Wright-Phillips and David Villa (yes Harry, I know you probably have done), this is probably the closest we'll come, as their speedy wingers terrorised us down the flanks whilst their midfielders started to over-run us through the middle as well.

As a result of their almost constant attack on our goal, Catalans won numerous corners and free kick. It was these set pieces that exposed the main weakness of the Oaks starting eleven for this game, as all our main aerial ball winners were either on the bench, suspended or semi-retired. The first goal conceded was a prime example of what we were missing, as Eye-Ball found himself knocked off-balance from a corner in an area that Rob and Milly would usually dominate, which subsequently left his man free to nod the ball home.

At least two more of the other three goals conceded in this half came as a result of us not clearing the ball from set pieces, and Catalans found various ways to get the ball past Luke, including an overhead kick from their centre back and skipper (says it all really!)

It wasn't all doom and gloom in the first half, as we managed to create two half chances with Harry heading goal wards from a cross by Jordan, and Parker failing to capitalise on a chance to show his technical ability as a volley skewed off the side of his boot. Luke also pulled of a fine diving save to keep the scoreline looking slightly more respectable than it could have done.

Even Deano's boots couldn't cope and had to be retired during the game

Joe, Tapsell and Gavin came on at half time for Chris, Gollum and Parker, and although things didn't improve dramatically we did manage to cut down the number of corners and free kicks which helped slow the rate of scoring. In fact both the goals in this half came from open play, with Eye-Ball once again having to put his hands up for the 5th goal as he was outrun by their forward following our own corner, and the striker was allowed to centre the ball for his partner to score. The 6th goal was scored by one of the Catalan substitutes who seemed to be even quicker and more skillful than the ones they had replaced. This was proven as the aforementioned player glided round Deano and Eye-Ball and shot low across Luke and into the bottom corner.

We did have our moments, with Tapsell once again showing his eye for a defence splitting pass; unfortunately on this occasion it was our defence he decided to split! Al repeated the feat, but this time the pass was for Harry, who may have continued his goal a game ratio if it hadn't been for a dubious linesman's flag that was to frustrate him all afternoon.

It was becoming apparent that, with the score at 6-0, the Oaks watchers were beginning to lose faith in their team mates. This was confirmed when Eye-Ball's attempt to raise the spirits of his team mates by proclaiming that "we're doing alright lads", was met by a barrage of hysterical laughter - very disappointing...

Anyway, the referee finally put us out of our misery and allow us to return to our new home at The Ship and reflect on what can only be put down as an experience. The good thing is that confidence should remain high going into next weeks game as we know we won't ever be this far out of our depth in the Thurrock Sunday League.

Eye-Ball

Injury List: Ryan damaged his ankle ligaments during the week and will be out for around 4 weeks, but this didn't stop him coming to support the team. This is a big blow given the great start he has made to the season, and we obviously wish him a speedy recovery.

Next Game: Sunday 16th October Away @ Blackshots v Lakeside Trojans - Ted Fairchild Cup.

Scoring chart to be added later in the week.

Jacks Lads 0 - 3 Oaks Athletic

2011-10-06T22:12:00.004+01:00

The Oaks carried off where they had finished against Belhus, and picked up their first win of the season with an impressive display against Jacks Lads.

With the Oaks' Manager continuing to refuse to engage the press due to a long running dispute which stemmed from incriminating photos of Hercules appearing in the local rag, assistant manager Juan Sharpy Del Bag-i0 emerged from the dressing room to simply proclaim that "The boys played the nuts!"

Today's brief synopsis is gratefully supplied by our very own Michael (Peter) Parker (we've always said you shouldn't leave him with your children...), and edited by Eye-Ball.

It would have been hard to change the team that finished so strongly last time out, but with club captain Deano returning, Eye-Ball missing and Harry turning up late changes were inevitable. However Sharpy showed himself to be more than capable of putting together a team that would give the Oaks a good chance of picking up all three points:

ppppppppppppppppppppppTy

WhileypppppppppMillyppppppppRobppppppppDeano (c)

Mikey B pppppTapsell ppppppppGavinppppppppRyan

ppppppppppppAsh pppppppppppNick

Subs: Parker, Steve, Jordan, Luke, Chris, Gollum, Nathan, Harry,Al, Joe

The Oaks took to the field in their skin tight Italian style blue shirts (although some of us would argue they actually fit snuggly). With Harry missing out on a starting spot for being late, Nick took full advantage of his starting place to net twice in a first half that the Oaks completely dominated.

It seems the curse of the Oaks captaincy struck once again, as Deano was forced off at half time to be replaced by Chris, who threatened to pull a Tevez rather than pull on Deano's drenched shirt which came as a result of playing in 30 degree heat on the 2nd of October! Harry replace a tired Mikey B, who had obviously worked hard in his new right wing position, and Joe got his first taste of action of the season as he replaced Gav. I'm going to assume that Ash moved to the middle whilst Harry went upfront and Joe took Mikey's place on the wing - possibly switching with Ryan? Then again, with Sharpy in charge anything could have happened!

The Oaks were put under more pressure in the second half, but with Harry's pace as an outball there was always a way of releasing this pressure and creating a chance to extend the lead. This they duly did when Harry beat the off-side trap to finish the game. Credit must be given to the ref (one of Jacks lads contingency) who ignored the linesman flagging for an off-side player who was not interfering with play, to allow Harry to carry on and score: 0-3.

Parker

Next game: Sunday 9th October - Essex Cup - Away v East London Catalans

Belhus Park Rangers 2 - 2 Oaks Athletic

2011-09-27T22:01:00.004+01:00

A new look Oaks Athletic started the season with an impressive 2^nd half fight back, in which they overcame a two goal deficit and created more than enough chances to win the match out right.

With more than enough new players to form an entire new team, the person with the hardest job this season (other than me having to remember everyone’s names and contributions) is definitely the manager Milesy. He has promised to try and give everyone a fair chance, but even with inevitable injuries (e.g. Gollum), suspensions (e.g. Sharpy) and band camps (Eye-Ball) when you can only name five, and use three substitutes giving everyone the amount of football they would like will be impossible. The good thing for Milesy, and the Oaks, is that every new player who has signed can do a good job for the team and it is definitely the strongest squad I have been a part of.

For the first game Milesy chose to go for a good mix of the old and new/young with 7 regulars from last year and 4 of the new faces:

pppppppppppppppTy

ppStevepppMillyppppRobpppppEye-Ball (c)

JordanpppMikeyppppTapsellpppppppRyan

ppppppppNickpppppppppHarry

Subs: Parker, Chris, Whiley, Ash, Luke, Joe, Gavin

With so many new faces I thought I could do a weekly introduction to the new lads as we get to know them a bit better. This week Tapsell made quite an impression so seems like a good place to start:

Tapsell

Known as: Tapsell / Taps

First name: ?

Pre-match drink: Red Stripe

Pre-match meal: All you can DRINK Chinese Buffet

Best position: Centre half/Defensive midfielder

Best attributes: Eye for a defence splitting pass, good in the air and the ability to find space and keep hold of possession (also not forgetting a dazzling head of ginger hair).

Best to avoid: Calling him Ginger – if he decides to confirm your suspicions you’ve only got yourself to blame.

Can’t get up for a match without: His girlfriend….supplying the Lucozade.

With Deano away at Jacko’s wedding (congratulations mate), Eye-Ball took both his shirt and his Captain’s armband. It was probably a combination of Eye-Ball’s uninspiring pre-match team talk, dirty kebabs and bottles of Jaigermeister, and the nerves brought on by a new season and the need to prove we all deserved a place in the team that saw the confidence borne from good pre-season displays quickly evaporating inside a dismal first 25 minutes. To be fair to Belhus, they threw everything at us, and caught us cold both in midfield and defence to quickly take a two goal lead with some wondering how big the margin of defeat could end up being.

However, there was definitely no need to panic, with there being plenty of reasons to suggest we could overcome the early deficit. Firstly, the attitude of the Oaks players was first rate, with no arguing or fingers of blame being pointed. Also, Ryan and Harry – two of our youngest new recruits – demonstrated on numerous occasions that the Belhus back four had a fragile core that we had more than enough fire power to breach.

These two were at the heart of all our good attacking moves in the first half, and with Nick using his sizeable frame to keep the Belhus defenders occupied their runs and ability to take on and beat a man gave us a dimension that we thought we may have lost following Nathan’s retirement.

Whilst it is obviously Ryan’s quick feet and pace that pose the greatest threat, it was via a throw-in that he set up one of our best chances of the half, with Nick acting as the middle man to flick the ball further into the box where Tapsell was on hand to head the ball goal-wards, only for the keeper to pull of a good reaction save on the line.

The keeper was to prove our nemesis throughout the match as he also saved well in the first half from a scuffed (sorry Nick, I couldn’t remember if you said scuffed or stinging) left foot shot from Nick, and from our free-kick specialist Jordan who almost caught him out with a low free-kick that was creeping inside the near post. Harry also rattle the cross bar with a rasping drive, that on this occasion had the keeper well beaten.

Harry then had the best chance to get us back into the match when he bamboozled the defender inside the box, who brought him down for a clear (if not a little soft) penalty. With Sharpy not involved it was at first unclear who should step up to take the kick, but as he had won it, it seemed only fair that Harry should be given the chance to open his account for the Oaks. Unfortunately it wasn’t to be on this occasion, as although the keeper went the wrong way, the ball hit the post and the score remained 2-0 at the break.

The half time team talk was a positive one; we had really improved towards the end of the half, and we all knew in ourselves that we had to up our game. No more so than Mikey and Tapsell, who were the first to admit that they had been completely out of it in the first half, with their opposite numbers completely dominating the middle of the park. However, the arrival of Tapsell’s better half with energy drinks rather than Red Stripe, the realisation from Mikey that the two of them could work better as a pair if he switched off his defensive instincts, and the introduction of fresh legs in the form of Ash and Whiley, resulted in a dramatic shift with the Oaks totally dominating the second half.

It is no understatement to say that we absolutely pummelled Belhus for the whole of the second half, and apart from one late chance and a few corners Ty was pretty much untroubled. The Belhus central midfielders may as well have made an early trip to the bar, as they didn’t get a look in with Tapsell winning every ball and Mikey finding time and space to link up with the front players. With Ryan providing a constant attacking threat, and Ash and Rob – who are both natural ball winners – taking hostage of their opposite numbers on the right flank Belhus were lucky to get a touch of the ball, let alone get it anywhere near their lone striker.

It is rare for the Oaks to have so many players on the pitch who want to get their foot on the ball, and although difficult on an awful surface, some of the football played in the second half is the best I have been involved in whilst playing for the Oaks. The opening goal in the second half was a prime example as I believe Ash, Mikey and Nick exchanged passes before Tapsell played a delightful ball over the top that Harry anticipated and calmly lifted past the stranded goalkeeper: 2-1.

It wasn’t long before our constant pressure was rewarded with an equaliser, with Ryan inevitably being involved. It was his corner from the right that was headed back across goal by Tapsell, who collected his second assist of the game as Ash rose powerfully at the opposite post to head the ball home: 2-2.

On paper Belhus may still have had a point to hang on to, but the reality was that on the pitch they were well and truly beaten. It was clear from their body language, and the almost constant arguing, that they couldn’t wait to hear the final whistle. The Oaks, on the other hand, were determined to find a winner, and the fact that we didn’t can only be put down to their keeper playing out of his skin, and a few rushed finishes in front of goal.

There is no way I can remember all of the chances, but here are some of the highlights:

Rob was one of those foiled by the keeper as his glancing header from a bullet cross from Ryan (who later admitted it was a shot) would have nestled in the far corner if it hadn’t been for the keeper’s intervention. He also saved well with his legs to deny Ash a deserved second goal for the Oaks following a great second half display. Mikey was yet another Oaks player to be denied by the one man Belhus team, as his controlled shot from the edge of the area was well tipped over.

Even Milly was getting in on the act, as he took advantage of the arrival of Whiley, whose pace and solid defensive skills meant Milly could advance into the box for corners. His header from one of these corners had plenty of power, but unfortunately lacked direction.

Ryan also created a great opportunity to grab us a winner as he showed good determination to win the ball on the bye line and run it into the area, it was unfortunate however that his low ball into the middle was just too late to coincide with the runs of any of the four Oaks players who had steamed into the area.

It’s no surprise that Harry alone had as many chances as the rest of the team put together to score. His superb running off the ball and ability to find room for a shot made him a constant threat, and once the finishing comes (which it surely will as he grows in confidence) the position at the top of the Oaks goal scoring chart should be his to make his own.

I’m not going to go into all the chances (not least because I can’t remember them all), but the one that will have Harry kicking himself the most will be when, once again put through on goal, he chose to try and lob the bouncing ball over the enormous advancing keeper, in the hope that he would go down. As it happens he didn’t and made the simplest of saves (I believe Nick may also have missed a chance in similar fashion?)

So the final whistle finally came to Belhus’ rescue, with the Oaks being left wondering what should have been. Despite only picking up a point, the second half display should do wonders for the confidence of the team, and hopefully we can carry this momentum into next week’s match and the rest of the season.

I have to say one final word about our referee for the day, Mike Stanley – aka Alan Partridge – who always entertains and frustrates the 22 men on the pitch and on this occasion didn’t fail to amuse. Firstly when he decided Ty had handled the ball outside the area, and subsequently booking him for the apparent offence. However, the absolute gem was when he penalised Nick, telling him he is “too big” to shield the ball. If that theory holds true then surely Jordan “Weed” Owen isn’t physically capable of committing a foul!

Milesy will be sunning himself in Mexico for the next two weeks, so Sharpy will be taking charge of the team. Please be kind to him, but if he does offer you a “free role” don’t be shy to suggest an actual position that might be more suitable.

Eye-Ball

Next Match – Sunday 2^nd October Away @ Belhus Park v Jacks Lads – 09.45 meet.

Goal Scoring Chart to follow

Oaks Athletic 5 - 0 Laird Athletic

2011-04-16T21:20:00.002+01:00

The Oaks finished the season in style with their second win in as many weeks against a weak Laird Athletic. We really couldn’t have asked for a better final game, which at times felt more like a friendly than a competitive league game. It’s great to finish the year with a win, but even more satisfying was putting in a performance which put the icing on the cake of what has been both a challenging and enjoyable season. The stats don’t tell the whole story, but we’ve finished with more wins than defeats, scored more goals than we’ve conceded and could finish the league as high as 6^th, which would make us the winners of the “best of the rest” league.

What is more pleasing for me is the commitment and team spirit we have maintained throughout the season. We played the majority of the season with a core squad of 15 players, and never once put out less than eleven men, and 12 of those 15 played some part in at least 20 of the 24 games (even if it was just turning up). A special mention must go to Nick, who was the only player to play in all 24 league and cup games (not that this helped his goal tally much – sorry Nick!). This season was also unprecedented in terms of goal scorers, with 16 of the 19 players who played during the season scoring at least one goal. This included first goals in Oaks colours for Eye-Ball and Ty (more on that to follow), which now leaves Milly as the only regular Oaks player not to have scored for the side.

Anyway, enough of analysing the numbers (you’d think I’d get enough of that at work), let’s get on with the action.

Rumours are always flying around (although I’ve never seen it) that Milesy will shake up the team for the final game if there is nothing in particular riding on it. However, whether it is old age or pride, he wasn’t going to start this game with anything but his strongest side:

pppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)

Deano(RB) Nathan (c) (CB) Rob (CB) Eye-Ball (LB)

Jordan (RM) pp Gollum (CM)pp Mikey (CM) Scott (LM)

pppppppppppppp Sharpy (CF)ppppNick (CF)

Subs: Aaron, Parker

It was clear that the Oaks meant business from the start, and were soon passing the ball around with confidence. Nick in particular seemed to be on inspired form (perhaps spurred on by the fact that he was originally named amongst the substitutes) as he showed what a valuable player he can be by holding the ball up and laying it off to one of the many Oaks players who were desperate to get a hold of the ball. This also seemed to be a rare occasion where he had the beating of his marker for pace, which meant we had another way of exploiting the space that Nathan had discovered Laird like to leave behind the back four when the two sides met last week.

It wasn’t long until the deadlock was broken, and it was fitting reward that Nick should be involved as he flicked on Deano’s throw in inside the area. Sharpy was on hand to aim a shot on goal, but was probably pleased his first effort was blocked as it gave him the opportunity to pull out an audacious back-heel which eluded the keeper and the two men on the line: 1-0.

Two more goals were to follow in reasonably quick succession, as the referee awarded two soft penalties to the Oaks. For the first penalty the referee adjudged that the Laird defender had felled Nick from behind as he looked to collect the ball from a throw in (timber!), and the second was for hand ball following a flick on from the man of the moment (yes you’ve guessed it), Nick.

You may think that, with the score at 1-0, you would want your number one penalty taker to step up to the spot. However, such was our dominance that surely it wouldn’t matter if this first penalty was missed. It was therefore offered to the two players on the pitch who were yet to score for the Oaks this season, and as Gollum wasn’t interested in a “cheap” goal, Tyrone sprinted up from his own penalty area to fill his boots. Having famously scored 30 goals in a season in a previous re-incarnation as a prolific striker, we were all confident that Ty would score, and with a drop of the left shoulder he calmly slotted the ball home in the now vacant right hand side of the goal. Apparently not having to pick the ball out of the net was the most satisfying thing as he skipped back to his own box: 2-0.

With Nathan playing at centre-back, and Sharpy now 4 goals clear at the top of the standings, you may think he would offer the second kick to someone with less ticks on the score sheet. However, charity begins at home, and having already given up one kick he wasn’t about to miss out on another opportunity to get a mention in the match report. To be fair Sharpy showed why he is the number one taker as he smashed the ball low and hard to the keeper’ss right to more or less finish the game inside the first half an hour: 3-0.

The chances kept coming, including no less than three lob attempts from Nick, Mikey and the closest from Gollum. Scott also had a good low shot well saved by the Laird goal keeper. The one negative in the half was losing Sharpy – who would have surely gone on to score three or four – to injury. This meant a reshuffle with Nathan going up front, Deano moving to centre back, Eye-Ball going to right back and Aaron replacing him on the left.

The only opportunity of note for Laird in the first half was almost a carbon copy of how they had scored in the previous week, but this time it was Rob catching the under-hit back-pass bug. Fortunately Ty was on hand this time to nonchalantly lift the ball clear of the striker and run it out to safety.

The second half was a bit more of a messy affair, with the Oaks frequently conceding free-kicks in an around the area. No, that isn’t a misprint we really did concede them inside the area as well. I think Deano was attempting to play a gentle back-pass to Ty, but perhaps the previous week’s blunder was still playing on his mind as he returned the ball with the pitching wedge rather than the putter. A surprised Ty had no option but to clutch the ball from above his head and hence prevent it going into the net. The referee who could only be described as “poor” at best then showed a total lack of knowledge of the laws of the game as he tried to award the free-kick from where Deano had kicked it rather than where Ty had caught it. When Laird did finally convince him to move the kick closer to the goal he then allowed Deano to charge down the kick before it had been taken – by the time they hit it against him he couldn’t have been more than three yards from the ball. We weren’t about to complain as we were determined to keep a clean sheet in our final game.

I think this target was also shared by the midfield and Mikey in particular who, despite joining as a potential striker, has shown himself to be a man who prides himself on fulfilling his defensive duties. He might not have many goals in the For column this year, but can take a lot of credit, along with General Gollum, for our defence being a lot meaner in recent weeks.

There is a strong possibility that this would be Nathan’s last game for the Oaks, and as such I’m sure he would have been desperate to get on the score sheet one last time. Mikey gave him the perfect opportunity as he timed his pass out to Nathan to perfection, who raced into the area but was denied by the far post.

Nathan may have been struggling to score himself, but claimed the assist for the fourth goal from his trademark long throw. We’ve scored many goals from this weapon, but I’m sure this would have been more satisfying for Nathan than any other as the ball glanced off the head of Gollum from 2 yards out and into the net. We’ve seen Gollum miss from this sort of distance before, but on this occasion we were able to breathe a sigh of relief as Mr Webb reminded us of his time as a prolific(ish) Oaks front man. So Gollum had his goal, and although Nathan put it on a plate for him, I don’t think he’ll be describing it as “cheap”: 4-0.

The determination to keep a clean sheet continued, and everyone was doing their bit with Aaron and Ty making stand out contributions. When One Eye-Ball Paul (having lost a contact lens in the first half) was literally catapulted from the pitch following a challenge with two Laird players the ball broke for the speedy Laird striker who had the now vacant right back position to exploit. He hadn’t banked on Aaron covering round from the left, and knowing he wouldn’t be able to compete for pace he put in a superbly timed tackle to dispossess the striker. In another phase of play Ty then pulled off a great double save as he could only parry the initial shot, and threw himself in front of the Laird player who had latched onto the rebound.

The chances continued to come for the Oaks, with Jordan and Scott exchanging crosses with both coming close to scoring. Gollum was then replaced by Parker, who went out on the right. He showed his attacking threat (despite lacking pace), but didn’t seem too interested in helping out with defending claiming an injury following an innocuous collision out near the touch line.

The script writers finally gave us the perfect ending we had been waiting for, as we played our favourite game of Where’s Robbie? We finally spotted him running to the right corner to collect a throw in from Parker and put the ball into the box. Now surely he had got too much on this one, and no one would be able to get on the end of it. Cue Nathan, who leapt head and shoulders above everyone else to fire a bullet header into the top left hand corner of the goal. No body else on the pitch (and very few in the Thurrock Sunday League) would have been able to score this goal, and it could be that this was a very fitting way for Nathan to finish his long (if not too short for a man of his age) career with the Oaks. This was to be Nathan’s last touch, and the last significant piece of action in the game which ended in an emphatic 5-0 victory to the Oaks.

The Oaks captaincy is becoming something of a poisoned chalice, with first Stuart and now Nathan being forced to retire because of injuries, from which they have accepted the pain they would feel for much of the week to enable them to present the Oaks on a Sunday morning. Are you sure you want to take on the arm-band Deano?

I won’t be able to do Nathan justice here, but don’t feel I should sign off without writing a few lines about our Captain Marvel. I’m sure no one would disagree that Nathan is our best player, and may also be the first name on the list of the Oaks all-time first eleven (Milesy and Deano would need to confirm that). Nathan could walk into most teams in the Sunday league, but has epitomised what Sunday football – and playing for the Oaks especially - should be all about, as he has chosen to stay loyal to his friends (and family) whilst sacrificing the chance to play at a higher level. An outstanding athlete, who dominates in the air and in the tackle. A great touch and cracking right foot – some of the goals he has scored from close to the right bye-line have been quite remarkable. Pace and determination in abundance, and an unselfish willingness to set up others rather than go for goal himself. And how can we forget the 30 yard throw ins that have given many a keeper nightmares.

As a captain Nathan has been inspirational, and has always led by example. We’ll miss him hugely as a member of the team, and will miss him on the pitch as a friend, although I’m sure we’ll still see him off it. I’m sure he’ll still also be the first to get on my back if the match report is slow in coming! All the best for the future Nathan, and if you ever feel like making a comeback just remember that it’ll mean dislodging Parker from the right wing!

(One) Eye-Ball

p.s. thank you all for a great season, and for reading these reports (it makes them worth writing). Although we’ve got a few friendlies, I’m going to sign off for this season and have a much need break. See you avid readers again in September.

Laird Athletic 1 - 4 Oaks Athletic

2011-04-03T21:03:00.008+01:00

The Oaks are renowned for their meticulous preparation, which on this occasion was hindered by the fact that this game was not confirmed until late on Friday. While this is an important factor for what was at times a comical performance, we could also site the scorching weather (although Nick possibly got a bit carried away to compare it to Jamaica), hard pitch, two week break and lack of urgency against a very poor (although determined) Laird side. So although the win looks more convincing on paper than in reality, at least we won and have next week to show Laird what we are really capable of on our home pitch.

Given that Laird were an unknown quantity Milesy wanted to start cautiously, and with Milly missing decided to start with Nathan at the back rather than in a more attacking position:

pppppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)

ppDeano(RB) Nathan (c) (CB) Rob (CB) Eye-Ball (LB)

pParker (RM) Gollum (CM) Mikey (CM) Scott (LM)

pppppppppppppSharpy (CF) Nick (CF)

Subs: Jimmy, Aaron

It soon became evident that Laird’s league position was a true reflection of their ability, with the only threat they posed being a goal keeper with a thunderous kick, and a speedy forward. However, we appeared to be finding it hard to drag ourselves above their level, as first touches turned the second ones into tackles, and the final balls went flying long, high and wide of their target. Despite this we were creating the better chances to score – mainly from corners and throw-ins – and looked relatively untroubled at the back.

Regular followers of the Oaks will be only too aware that the words “comfortable” and “untroubled”, when associated with our side, are usually followed by me describing how the opposition fortuitously took the lead against the run of play. I’m not one for breaking with tradition, and it was a rare error from Deano that lead to Laird being first to register on the score sheet. Having tracked his man well, he was first to the through-ball, and perhaps not wanting to replicate Eye-Ball’s over hit back pass from earlier that saw Tyrone “don’t make me run” Owen breaking into a sweat to try and keep the ball in, Deano’s attempted back pass was horribly under hit and the striker gratefully ran on to the ball and finished well passed a bewildered Tyrone: 1-0.

There really was no need to panic; there was plenty of time left in the half to get back on level terms, and surely we would take one of our chances sooner or later – we definitely created enough of them. Both Scott and Rob came close with headers, with one of Rob’s seeming to strike the player on the arm as he stood on the line. Scott also had a good shot well saved by the keeper. On another day we would have even been awarded a penalty as Mikey was felled in the area. However the referee seemed reluctant to give any such decisions at either end – at least he was consistent. Nathan – who had moved to the wing to continue Parker’s good work of exploiting Laird’s weak defence – was also finding a lot of joy down the right, with one good ball in to the box being turned just wide by Nick, and on another occasion the keeper saved well from Nathan with his legs.

The equaliser finally came with virtually the last touch of the half. It’s not often we see Gollum’s silky skills, but it was his elegant turn in the middle that led to the ball going out for an Oaks throw on the right. Nathan “Bulgarian shot putter Ivanka Hristova’s number one fan” Kerin launched the ball into the penalty area and Sharpy rose highest to re-direct the ball into the net: 1-1.

If our performance in the first half had been below par, the way we started the second half can only be described as woeful. Ty was called into action more or less directly from the kick-off when a bouncing ball wasn’t dealt with by the Oaks defence despite a number of attempts. Fortunately Ty was on hand to save well with his legs when the Laird player got his shot away.

It wasn’t until we took the lead that things started to improve. By this point Nick had gone off having unfortunately hurt his ankle after an attempted shot which saw him hit more turf than ball. Nathan went up front to partner Sharpy and Aaron took his place on the right. This was to prove the turning point, as Nathan took up a position on the left side from which he was afforded time and space to run in behind the defence on a regular basis. On the first such occasion it was Scott, collecting the ball after good link up play between Deano and Parker on the right, who played a perfect cross field ball that was collected by Nathan and calmly slotted home past the helpless Laird goal keeper: 1-2.

For the next goal it was the turn of the left sided players to get in on the act. Ty threw the ball out to Eye-Ball on the left who carried the ball up the line before passing it on to Scott. He was tackled by the Laird defender, but Eye-Ball was on hand to pick up the lose ball and run into the area. Eye-Ball then played the ball back to Nathan, who drew the man and returned the ball to Eye-Ball. Rather than shoot, he then played the ball across the six-yard box where Sharpy was on hand to “shin” the ball into the net: 1-3.

This goal seemed to relax the Oaks and we began to find our stride. We were also helped by the fact that Laird were now down to ten men due to injury, but we were able to bring on fresh legs in the shape of Jimmy, replacing Gollum the middle. The chances now started to come thick and fast. Nathan got in behind the left full back three more times but on two attempts couldn’t lift the ball over the keeper, and on the third put the ball just wide. Mikey also had a good effort saved by the keeper when he beat his man on the edge of the area before working the ball back onto his right and shooting low to the keeper’s right.

Given that Sharpy had pulled a goal further away from him in the chase for the golden boot, Nathan would have been rueing his missed chances, but was finally rewarded with his second of the game and the 4^th for the Oaks. Our very own Lucio went on a mazy run from the back before playing a perfect ball over the defence for Nathan to run onto. This time his lob was expertly executed and the ball bounced into the roof of the net: 1-4.

It is worth noting that this game saw a rare 90 minutes for Michael “At least I’m not ginger” Parker. Perhaps this contributed to a couple of unfamiliar footballing errors from a man who is blessed with a good footballing brain and technique, but was back of the queue when they were handing out agility and athleticism. I’m sure it is because we expect so much that Milesy felt it necessary to give Parker a colourful summary of his performance, when despite having approximately 4.2 hours to compose himself and control the ball it somehow eluded him and went off for a throw-in. Never mind Parker.

Despite a couple of late scares, the score in this enjoyable, but at times frustrating game ended in a comprehensive victory 4-1 for the Oaks. We’ve got just the one game left in the season, against the same opposition, and I’d like to set the challenge for us not to only win but to get the goal difference (currently at -1) into the positive. I’m not going to challenge Nathan to score 4 more than Sharpy (although I’m sure he is going to try).

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 10^th April v Laird @ Blackshots – 1030 k.o.

Leagues apart

2011-03-29T21:38:00.007+01:00

At the end of 2009/10 season the oaks had played 20, won 8, lost 9 and drawn 3.

After 20 games in 2010/11, we have won 8, lost 9 and drawn 3!

An interesting difference is that we actually have an extra point; 27 compared with 26 last year. It is even more interesting that while Sharpy was to blame for losing us this point a year ago, he can also be credited with gaining the most recent point this season. You could say he's finally repaid his debt.

So how do the tables suggest we have performed this year compared with last? Based on points per game we've done no better or worse that last year. Our current league position of 6th is one better than last year, but assuming Springhouse pass us and Laird don't win the majority of their remaining games (and we've still got to play them twice) 7th will again be our most likely finishing position.

How about goals for and against? We've score 4 less goals this year, but more pleasing is the fact that we've conceded 11 less - so A* for the defenders and goalkeepers, and a must try harder for the attackers.

We've said throughout the season that the league is much harder this year than it has been for a long time. The fact we've matched our results from last year whilst doing slightly better in goal difference (we would have finished 5th with a goal difference of -4 last year) means that if the league has got harder, we must have improved. This argument is strengthen by the fact that 2 of the three teams who played in this league with us last year (the Lakeside team of last year bears no resemblence to this year's team), Rec Rovers and Linford, finished 6th and 8th with 27 and 24 points respectively last season. However this year they have only managed 25 points between them this year although both have games left to improve their tally.

Anyway, there are still 6 points up for grabs so there is still time to get that goal difference in the positive, and even maybe for Nathan to catch Sharpy in the race for the golden boot (Sharpy currently has three more with 10). However, I don't think anyone will be bettering Eye-Ball percentage increase in goals this season compared with last...

Eye-Ball

Thameside 1 - 1 Oaks Athletic

2011-03-21T23:29:00.003Z

Thanks to Parker for supplying the following report for what sounds like a game full of incidents.

Milesy started this game at the Billet in Stanford having to shuffle his pack as two of the Oaks form players were not able to attend. Milly was carrying an injury from last week and goal machine Eyeball was at a stag do in Hereford, although personally I think that story is a load of BULL!! This left Oaks with the following line up.

pppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)
p
ppDeano(RB) (c) Rob (CB) Nathan (CB) (c) Aaron (LB)
p
Jordan (RM) Gollum (CM) Mikey (CM) Scott (LM)
p
pppppppppppSharpy (CF) Nick (CF)

Subs: Jimmy, Parker

Oaks had lost to this opposition a few weeks ago but with Tyrone in goal and a rare sunny day at The Billet, they were confident of getting a result this time. In fact Tyrone was about to play a central role in the first half action, although the referee nearly beat him to the honours for the centre of attention prize!

After receiving a passback, Ty suffered from a typical "BilletBounce" and the ball sliced across the area. The loose ball was taken up by the Thameside striker who thought he could not miss, although he did not bank on Ty commiting the worst professional foul ever by throwing himself across the strikers legs and then claiming he had fell over! At the resulting penalty Ty showed that although he may be lacking in subtleness (please excuse my spelling Eyeball!) he certainly is not lacking anything in shot stopping ability and superbly got down to save in the bottom corner. The next two incidents probably left Nofun, sorry Nathan wishing he was no longer the Oaks stand in centre back!

Thameside played a long ball through that Nathan had time to clear but he heard Ty call for it, so left him to claim it. What neither of them banked on was the Thameside forward getting between them to claim the first goal. A few minutes later Nathan jumped up for a header in our box and the Thameside player never jumped leaving him knocked to the ground and the ref awarded another spot kick. A few players argued but when Deano agrees with the ref then surely there might have been a chance he got it right. To be honest as usual I was watching the game next to us so missed the incident! Although Thameside scored this penalty, the ref decided there had been encroachment and ordered a re-take, and for the second time in the match it was saved low in the corner by Ty to keep the score 1-0 at half time.

Milesy put on Jimmy for an injured Gollum in midfield at the break and the second half started with me running the line in front of Thamesides bench. To be honest my memory of the second half is a bit hazy, this may or may not have something to do with their bench smelling like the England changing room during the Phil Tufnell era, who knows? What I can remember is Nick getting injured and Milesy putting me (Parker) on. At first I was excited at the prospect of going up front until Milesy then pushed Nathan up and put me at right back with Deano slotting in at centre back. Milesy then proved yet again what a great manager he is as the Oaks equalised not long after the substitution! The Oaks had a free kick just outside the box and Sharpy had a trick up his sleeve, well either that or a spare bag! Anyway he stepped up and smashed the ball against the Thameside defender. The rebound turned into a smart one-two which allowed Sharpy a much better and closer view of the goal and he made no mistake with the second attempt and finally Oaks had got back on level terms. The match finished with Scott and Jordan pushing down both flanks with Mikey and Jimmy controlling the centre of the park. Although we never got a winner, it did allow us at the back plenty of time to have a chat and do plenty of "watching"!

The Oaks left the field happy that we had got a better result than last time against Thameside, but we also know that it could have been even better.

Parker

Springhouse 1 - 1 Oaks Athletic

2011-03-13T16:04:00.002Z

The Oaks picked up a deserved point after coming from behind against a Springhouse side who were missing a number of first team players (and had to play the first half with ten men). When you look at the overall balance of play, and the chances created you could argue that we should be disappointed to only come away with a point. However, the way we played the game and the general attitude of the players makes the extra two points irrelevant but losing the game would have been an injustice.

With Rob away Milesy decided to pair Nathan with Milly at centre back, which was to prove an inspired move as Nathan was a colossus throughout the match, winning ball after ball in the air and showing good awareness to be first to the frequent through balls Springhouse attempted to play.

pppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)
p
ppDeano(RB) Nathan(CB) (c) Milly (CB) Eye-Ball (LB)
p

pppppppppppppGollum (CM)
Jordan (RM) ppppppppppppp Mikey (CM) Parker (LM)
ppppppppppppSharpy (CM)
ppppppppppppppppppppppppppppNick (CF)

Subs: Jimmy, JP, Aaron

The Oaks were unfortunate to find themselves behind in the first half, when Milly chased out following a set piece to meet the high bouncing ball and was harshly adjudged to have handled inside the area. The resulting penalty was calmly dispatched: 1-0.

We were pleased to see that we had been assigned a good referee for this game, but on this occasion he was having a bit of an off day, as he denied the Oaks an almost immediate chance to level the scores. Nick was put clean through, and when he was brought down the ref was too quick to blow up when Nick had actually played on, rounded the keeper and put the ball into the back of the net. To be fair to the ref, he knew straight away that he had made a mistake, and was big enough to apologise. It was also testament to the general good attitude of the Oaks players during this game, who accepted the decision and simply got on with the game.

The Oaks reverted back to 4-4-2 following the goal with Sharpy joining Nick up front, and we continued to try and play the ball around on the floor. However, we probably didn’t make best use of the extra time and space afforded by playing on a big pitch and against ten men, and could definitely make some improvements for the second half.

Milly had been struggling during the first half (which was possibly connected to following Sharpy into the toilet before the game), and couldn’t come back out for the second half. This meant Deano (who had a narrow escape himself from Sharpy’s deadly ablutions) had to move to centre back, Parker to right back and JP came on to the left side of midfield.

The Oaks created the first good chance of the second half when JP put through Nick on the left, who cut inside and unselfishly played the ball across goal to Sharpy rather than try and score himself from a difficult angle. Unluckily, with 90% of the goal gaping Sharpy hit the ball straight at the defender who had laid himself on the line.

Despite it now being eleven versus eleven, the Oaks were looking the more dangerous of the two sides, and it was a credit to the way we were playing that for the second week running we had forced a good footballing side to resort to long balls over the top which we were dealing with well.

It wasn’t long before the Oaks deservedly found an equaliser. Ty is always encouraging the full backs to take a gamble at the back post, and on this occasion the gamble paid off as free kick that was clipped into the box was flicked goal wards by Sharpy. The keeper made a good save, but could only parry the ball down where Eye-ball was on had to throw himself at the ball and head it into the empty net. It’s been strange season so far for Eye-Ball in which he has been sent off for the first time, and scored his first goal for the Oaks. That goal was a late added bonus, whereas this goal felt all the sweeter as it got the Oaks back in the points: 1-1.

Soon after scoring the equaliser the Oaks almost took the lead: the ball feel awkwardly for Mikey in the area, who did superbly to bring the ball under control and make space to shot with his left foot. His good work unfortunately went unrewarded, as the ball flew agonisingly wide of the right hand post.

The score remained at 1-1 for the remainder of the game, and all the Oaks players did their bit in gaining this point. The good work by the outfield players had kept Ty relatively quiet, although his directions and support were invaluable, and when he was called on to rush out to meet the ball with the Springhouse player bearing down he did well to block the effort and push the ball to safety. Parker also made an important (if possibly illegal) intervention to put off the opposition forward as he looked certain to head the ball into the goal. The referee seemed to agree that the contact was as a result of a clumsy fall rather than a deliberate push.

If we continue to show the good team spirit and fight displayed today against Thameside next week we should have every chance of avenging the disappointing defeat suffered a few weeks ago.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 20^th March away v Thameside @ The Billet – 1030 K.O.

LTD 1 - 1 Oaks Athletic

2011-03-12T18:29:00.004Z

It was pleasing to come away with a point in a game where the Oaks never really hit top gear, but battled hard and kept their heads whilst the opposition lost theirs, and despite having less of the possession, could argue they created the better chances. With our best player and captain missing through injury (although still present on the sideline to offer support and point out who needed kicking), we were always going to be less effective going forward, but we did have a boost with Scott making his first appearance in over a month. Ty also made a well timed return with Parker being unavailable. The Oaks longest serving player, Deano, was handed the captaincy but the arm-band was no where to be seen (strange that!).

pppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)
p
ppDeano(RB) (c) Rob (CB) Milly (CB) Eye-Ball (LB)
p
Jordan (RM) Gollum (CM) Mikey (CM) Scott (LM)
p
pppppppppppSharpy (CF) Nick (CF)

Subs: Jimmy, JP

The Oaks created some good chances to score in the first half, including a fine link up between Sharpy and Mikey with the former back-heeling the ball into the path of the latter, who had made a good overlapping run. Unfortunately the ball took a huge bobble as Mikey went to strike it inside the box, and skewed well wide.

Nick then put in a perfect cross for Sharpy from the right, but Sharpy couldn’t direct the ball on target. Eye-Ball also played a great reverse pass to put Scott through on the left, only for the linesman’s flag to be raised.

LTD are a good ball playing side, and displayed this for significant periods of the first half. However, they always seemed to opt for the ball over the top as the final pass, which the Oaks back four had more than enough pace and strength to deal with. We also sat off to avoid being caught out too high, but on the one occasion we did attempt to play the opposition forward offside – and according to Jimmy’s flag did so successfully – the LTD forward raced through to score. The referee decided the offside was for a player who was not interfering with play (without consulting his linesman), and the Oaks went into half time a goal down: 1-0.

The second half continued much like the first, with LTD enjoying the larger share of the possession, but achieving little with it. Apart from claiming the odd high ball, Ty only had to make one save of note as he dived to his left to parry away a rasping shot from outside the area.

The game changed when LTD had a man sent off for kicking out at Nick, who kept his head, and stayed on the pitch. It wasn’t until the last 10 minutes that the Oaks really started to make the extra man count, as Scott took up a more central position. One particular move out near the right saw a number of passes exchanged, before Scott found himself space in the box, but couldn’t connect cleanly with his shot.

By this time JP had come on for Jordan, and Jimmy replaced Gollum. Jimmy’s ability to break up the play in the middle gave Rob the opportunity to move further up the pitch as we searched for an equaliser, and this was to prove a decisive tactical change. Mikey won a free kick out on the right and when the keeper could only parry the ball into JP’s path a fine reaction save was all that denied him a headed goal. The Oaks packed the penalty area for the resulting corner, and when the ball was only half cleared Sharpy played it back into the danger area, and Rob beat the offside trap to poke the ball home. We were surprised not to see the flag go up, even if Rob had clearly not been offside, and the goal stood: 1-1.

Despite the Oaks reverting back to 4-4-2, Nick nearly grabbed a late winner but his header from a tight angle was deflected away and the game finished 1-1.

It was satisfying to pick up a point, and we were definitely the happy of the two sides as LTD would have expected to get more than one point from the six available from us. Although this performance was an improvement on the previous test, a much sterner test awaits against Springhouse next week but we gave them a good game the last time we met and there is no reason why we shouldn’t do so again.

Eye-Ball

Oaks Athletic 2 - 3 Thameside

2011-03-12T09:09:00.002Z

The recent run of tough matches and double headers against the top sides in the league seemed to have finally taken its toll, as a tired looking, heavy legged Oaks side slumped to defeat against a team who – if the league was anything to go by – should have been beaten. Thameside may have been a team we knew very little about, and although we have achieved better results against far better sides, they must be given credit for their energy and endless pressing and determination. This, plus an imbalance in the ‘rub of the green’ was the difference between the two sides, and although the Oaks had late chances to grab at least a point there can’t be too many complaints about the result.

pppppppppppppppppParker (GK)
p
ppDeano(RB) Rob (CB) Milly (CB) Eye-Ball (LB)
p
Jordan (RM) Gollum (CM) Mikey (CM) Aaron (LM)
p
pppppppppppNathan (CF) (c) Nick (CF)

Subs: Sharpy, JP

Mikey scored his second goal in two games to give the Oaks the lead in the first half. A long throw into the box, from Nathan on the right, was flicked on by Aaron and Mikey was well positioned and displayed excellent technique to volley the ball past the keeper and into the net: 1-0.

The score stayed at 1-0 to half time, but the warning signs were there as the Oaks struggled for much of the half to keep possession and allowed the opposition far too much time and space on the ball. Milesy made his concerns clear at half time: Thameside were going to chase everything, and if we couldn’t raise our energy levels to match them we would be in trouble.

An early scare in the second half was nullified thanks to a fine save from Parker after anuncharacteristic air kick from Milly that put the striker through on goal. This warning still didn’t wake us up, and we were punished when a Thameside player was not closed down fast enough and unleashed a clean strike from 35 yards that flew into the top corner. He’ll probably never hit the ball like that again, but it can’t be said Thameside didn’t deserve their goal: 1-1.

The Oaks had a chance to make an immediate response when Nathan surged into the penalty area and was brought down (well, he went to ground anyway). Despite our regular penalty taker (Sharpy) now being on the pitch, as captain and winner of the penalty Nathan stepped up to the spot. His shot to the keeper’s right was unstoppable except for the intervention of the post, and the rebound was scrambled to safety.

Thameside then took the lead when a combination of hesitation and lack of communication saw a long throw into the box land at the feet of the Thameside striker, who had the simple job of prodding the ball into the net: 1-2.

An Oaks side who were noticeably lethargic, where now also in a state of shock, and were soon further behind when a firm cross into a crowded area was headed passed his own keeper by Rob: 1-3.

The two goal deficit finally spurred the Oaks into life with 15 minutes to go and we started to press, commit more men forward and create chances. One of the best chances fell to Aaron, after Eye-ball ran to the near post to flick on a throw-in from Nathan, but Aaron could only kick the ball over the bar from 6 yards.

The deficit was reduced to one goal when a high ball following a corner was won by Eye-Ball and headed back to Nathan on the right. His low cross into the box was steered into the net by a Thameside player for the second own goal of the game: 2-3.

The Oaks continued the assault on the Thameside goal, but despite goal bound efforts from a number of corners, we couldn’t force the ball into the net and the game ended 2-3.

With the majority of Oaks players looking dejected, Deano felt almost embarrassed to say that despite the defeat he had actually really enjoyed the game. It had been his first 90 outfield minutes for a long time after spending a lot of time on the sideline (mainly) through injury, and he was the stand out player in this match. Far from being an embarrassing comment, this is actually something we should all think carefully about. It’s nice to win, but most important is enjoying playing (otherwise there isn’t much point getting up on a Sunday). This means brushing disappointing defeats aside, supporting and encouraging each other and accepting that we are all doing the best we can. On some days our best will be worse than on others, and on this day we probably underestimated our opposition and were subsequently caught out. However, anyone who has played with the Oaks for any length of time will know that this isn’t the last time we’ll lose a game we think we should have won, and there will be plenty of occasions to come when we will get points when most would have written us off.

Keep your heads up!

Eye-Ball

Lakeside FC 2 – 0 Oaks Athletic and Oaks Athletic 1 – 2 Lakeside FC

2011-02-23T22:56:00.003Z

You could argue that these results alone are reflective of the good form the Oaks are in at the moment. We may have come away without any points, but walked off at the end of 120 minutes with our heads held high, safe in the knowledge that Lakeside knew that they had been made to work hard for their points, and that their fans definitely would never have considered singing “can we play you every week”. On the contrary they will be pleased to see the back of us, and are unlikely to do battle with us again unless a cup draw dictates otherwise.

There were some early concerns about the mental state of some of the Oaks players, with it transpiring that Nick had given some bloke the fright of his life as he jumped into his car, mistaking it for Gollum’s. Milly also mistook Jimmy for Parker, which as insults go would have felt like a bigger kick in the teeth than anything Jimmy has experienced at the hands of the local rozzers.

The Oaks were boosted by the return of Ty and Jordan, but with Rob, Scott and JP missing it was going to be a tough morning for the 13 men available for selection. Milsey decided to start the match with the following line up:

pppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)
p
ppParker (RB) Deano (CB) Milly (CB) Eye-Ball (LB)
p
pJordan (RM) Gollum (CM) Mikey (CM) Aaron (LM)
p
pppppppppppNathan (CM) (C)

ppppppppppppppppppppppNick (CF)

Subs: Sharpy, Jimmy

For the first ten minutes, we were more than equal to top of the league Lakeside, whose game plan to play the ball behind our back four, and exploit the bags of pace they possessed both on the flanks and through the middle, was clear. However, Ty was quick of his line, and dealt with anything that came into the area.

I don’t want to use the fact that Lakeside were wearing red as an excuse, but along with their petulant youth, the proverbial rag to the bull seemed to be waved by the opposition, as the Oaks completely lost their discipline, and with it their competitive edge in this first half. One incident early in the half saw both teams reduced to ten men, and following a reshuffle a misjudged header from Eye-Ball turned into a through ball for the Lakeside striker, who had too much gas for Aaron and executed a composed finish past Ty: 1-0.

A deflated Oaks made it to half time without going further behind (mainly thanks to some fine saves from Ty with his legs), and had a much needed five minute break to recompose ourselves and attempt to regain the self-control that had been sorely missing in the first half.

Milesy could see that the reshuffled team following the dismissal just wasn’t working, and in an inspired move decided to shift Nathan to centre half, whose aerial presence, pace and strength in the tackle were a welcome boost to the make-shift defence. This also allowed Eye-Ball to return to the left-back position which helped to deal with the threat Lakeside possessed on the flanks.

Sharpy also came on for the second half and took up a position on the left where he was finding lots of space and causing all sorts of problems for the opposition. The team was functioning much better now, and we started to look back to our best. Despite this we were obviously weakened in attack with Nathan playing at the back, and failed to create many clear cut chances. Eye-Ball did come close to scoring when he broke in from the bye line, but could only hit the post from a tight angle.

Given how much better we had played it was disappointing to go two down, when Lakeside eventually found a way through our defence and finished past a helpless Ty: 2-0.

Lakeside are a very young and talented side, and if they stay together they will be a force to reckon with in the Thurrock Sunday League in years to come. However, what they have in footballing ability they severely lack in the art of self preservation. I don’t like to see any retaliation on the football pitch, but some of their players (the goal keeper especially) need to learn where they are in the food chain, and mouthing off at, or antagonising, any of the many players in this league who are just waiting to make them their lunch is like booking a one-way ticket to A&E. Still, these predatory instincts are often to the detriment of the team, which was once again proved when the Oaks lost their most influential player from the second half, and any chance of getting anything from the game. So an ill-tempered affair finished 2-0 to Lakeside.

Milesy and the referee made it clear that we needed to wipe the slate clean, clear our heads, and start again from scratch for the second match. Milesy had obviously decided we should look to soak up the pressure and try and hit Lakeside on the break as he packed the defence, with Nathan continuing in the centre with Deano and Milly, and Eye-Ball moving to the right to try and deal with the lightening fast winger who had terrorised Parker and Jimmy in the first match.

ppppppppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)
p
ppEye-Ball (RB) Nathan(CB) (c) Deano (CB) Milly (CB) Parker (LB)
p
ppppppJordan (RM) Gollum (CM) Mikey (CM) Aaron (LM)
p

ppppppppppppppppppppppNick (CF)

Subs: Sharpy, Jimmy

Such was Lakeside’s strength in depth, that they were able to change a number of players without appearing to weaken their side. The new winger who Parker was given the job of marking was even quicker than the one he replaced, and they were also able to call on a lightening fast 6 foot plus striker who had been surplus to requirements in the first match. It was this striker who broke the deadlock, with a finish we could only stand and applaud. A floated ball from the right drifted just over Milly’s head, and the striker was on hand to bring it down with one touch, and fire past Ty into the corner of the net with a second: 0-1.

Lakeside scoring first was the only similarity with the first match, as this game was destined to take a very different path. It was down to Mikey – who was working his socks off in the middle of the park – to raise the Oaks’ spirits and get us back on level terms with a goal that is up there with the best we have scored this season. Nick won the ball in the middle following a misunderstanding between the opposition players, and played the ball out the Jordan on the right. Jordan then showed why he is our best deliverer of a ball, as he played a superb cross over the Lakeside defence to the far side of the area where Mikey had advanced. Mikey caught the ball sweetly on the volley with his supposedly weaker left foot and the ball stung the keepers hands its way into the net: 1-1.

This goal really lifted the Oaks and with only 40 minutes or so to play in the match we started believing we could grab at least a point. Lakeside continued to look dangerous, and the new striker would have had a second goal if it hadn’t been for an outstanding save from Ty as he got down well to flick the ball away from the goal when it was heading towards the back of the net. The half ended 1-1.

The 4^th half followed a similar pattern with the Oaks entrenched in their own half for much of the time, and Nick casting a lonely figure as he tireless tried to hold up possession to give the rest of us time to get up in support. We did play some good football though, including a sequence of passes from kick-off that numbered between 10 and 15, but still ended up in a Lakeside attack. We even created a good chance to take the lead when the ball fell to Mikey in the area; he had more time than he realised though and his snatch shot with the ball bouncing sailed way over the bar.

Lakeside created plenty of chances to score as well, but were pretty wasteful in front of goal. They also had the difficult task of getting past Ty, for whom I’m running out of superlatives. He continued to keep us in the game, and made one splendiferous save in particular, diving to his left to tip a rasping shot past the post.

With only a few minutes remaining we were starting to believe that we were going to hold out for a much deserved point, but then a rare lapse at the back saw us lose our shape, and the five that had worked so well were now more like three. The youthful Lakeside players were quick to turn this into a numerical advantage inside the box, and one of the unmarked players had time to steady himself and shoot high into the net past a despairing Eye-Ball and possibly unsighted Tyrone: 2-1.

There was still time for one last throw of the dice, and when a throw-in was won out on the right Nathan hurled the ball into the box. Mikey leapt to win the header and flicked it on to Deano, whose own flick on look like it was going to slip under the bar, but unfortunately went just the wrong side. The game ended 2-1.

At the end of last week’s report I said that, whatever the results this week, if we continued to play in the way we have been recently we could leave the field with our heads held high. This we certainly did, as although our endeavours were not rewarded with any points, this performance should fill us with confidence when we go up against any of the teams in this league, and also leave us with some satisfaction from knowing how hard our opponents were made to work. Well done boys, and more of the same next week.

Eye-Ball

Next match – Sunday 27 Feb @ Home v Thameside – 10:30 K.O.

There will be a twist this week, as Milesy is away and has left Sven and Nancy (aka Nathan and Sharpy) in charge. This could be interesting…

Oaks Athletic 3 - 1 Rec Rovers

2011-02-16T23:27:00.003Z

A great win against the odds against George and Dragons meant the Oaks would have been confident of gaining another three points against a team we are more than capable of beating. However, as is typical of the Oaks, we turned out at Blackshots this week with a bare eleven and no goalkeeper. It is therefore testament to the attitude and determination of those who were there that we outplayed Rec Rovers and gained another deserved 3 points despite finishing the match with ten men.

With Parker not recovering from the elbow injury endured last week, and neither Ty nor Scott available, Deano put his hand up and put on the gloves, goalie shirt and padded shorts. Deano may not have been the first choice in terms of stature, but he stands tall above all others when it comes to putting himself on the line for the Oaks.

Apart from the lack of a recognised goalkeeper, the rest of the team had a good balance, and with Parker on his way to watch we could at least name a sub.

pppppppppppppppppDeano (GK)
p
ppEye-Ball (RB) Rob (CB) Milly (CB) Aaron (LB)
p
Nathan (RM) (c) Gollum (CM) Mikey (CM) JP (LM)
p
pppppppppppSharpy (CF) Nick (CF)

Subs: Parker

It was inevitable that the squad problems would affect team confidence, and this was evident in a nervy first half in which we struggled to settle into our stride. The intention to play football was clear however, but stangely Sharpy and Nathan’s telepathic link was letting them down and strong defending from both sides kept clear cut chances to a minimum. Deano was well protected by his back four and although he looked assured when coming out to collect the ball, he wasn’t required to make a save of note. Nil – nil at half time was no bad thing, and we were definitely more than equal to Rec in every department.

Unfortunately James (JP) Poskitt only lasted 45 minutes in his second outing for the Oaks. He wouldn’t have expected to have been thrown in at the deep end quite so quickly, but looked to be finding his feet as he put in an assured and composed performance on the left. He also showed he isn’t scared of a challenge, which means he should fit in well at The Oaks Athletic. Let’s just hope those hamstrings last longer as the weeks go on. This meant that Parker – who had no boots and had to borrow a pair of Gollum’s canoes – had to come on for the second half on the left of midfield.

Milesy’s inspired half time advice to make sure we got that first goal seemed to do the trick, as the Oaks started to get on top early in the second half. Nowhere more than the centre of the park, where the Gollum-Mikey partnership is really starting to work well. Gollum continued his good form from last week and was winning everything in midfield. Once he had completed the donkey work he then looked to give the ball to Mikey as quickly as possible, who is getting close to his best having now had a run of games following a lengthy lay-off. With the ball at his feet, Mikey looked to create space and bring the wingers and strikers into the game, and we began to look a real threat to the Rec Rovers goal. One pass in particular stood out as Mikey played a fantastic ball to Nathan through a crowd of players, which unfortunately didn’t lead to anything.

It is no surprise that Mikey was involved in the opening goal, when he played the ball out to Parker on the left who then feed the ball to Nick in the centre of the goal. Nick is becoming more familiar with the concept of shooting, and was rewarded on this occasion as his turn and shot found its way into the net via a deflection: 1-0.

Any worries about the vulnerability of our depleted team were now long forgotten, and although we had to remind Deano that standing on the edge of his area with the wind against us probably wasn’t a wise move, we were playing with a huge amount of confidence. It wasn’t long before 1-0 became 2-0, with the Oaks regaining possession after Eye-Ball single handedly defeat the Rec hords to the cry of “I am Spartan!” In Rec’s desperation to regain possession a foul was committed, and Rob showed good awareness to play the ball behind the high back four for Nathan to run onto whilst Sharpy walked back, hands aloft from the offside position. Everyone’s money was on Nathan to finish with ease past the stranded keeper, and although his effort was a little closer to the keeper than expected, the goal was scored and the three points seemingly were in the bag: 2-0.

I should have realised that there is no such thing as an easy victory as far as the Oaks are concerned, and when “he who shall not be named for legal reasons” talked the referee into sending him off, we faced the task of seeing out the last 30 minutes of the match with ten men.

Everyone dug deep, but Deano was the real hero as he pulled off two great saves. The first (which I suppose counts as a save) came when the ball fell to the Rec’s burly centre half in the six yard box following a scramble from a corner. As he took aim to smash the ball into the net (and probably take Eye-ball – who was on the post – with it) Deano came from nowhere to throw his body in the way and block the shot. He then pulled off an amazing one handed save to deny the Rec Rovers striker on the odd occasion that the Oaks offence was breached. He also commanded his six yard box from the numerous Rec corners, and looked destined to keep a clean sheet.

There was still plenty of time on the clock when these two efforts materialised, and if either had been converted it could have been a very nervy last 15 minutes for the Oaks. As it was we held out to the last minute, when a free kick just outside the area was well converted by Rec – if only we’d kept that extra man in the wall: 2-1.

The following is a list of rare events involving Oaks players:

Deano wearing a jumper
Sharpy winning a bet
Gollum announcing he is feeling “as fit as a fiddle”
Aaron timing a tackle
Nick having a shot
Milesy paying Parker a compliment
Milly mis-timing a volley
Rob being booked for dissent
Eye-Ball scoring at the right end
Deano playing in goal
Alex not being at Alton Towers
Ty just taking the ball when the player is in striking distance
Nathan being beaten in the air
Sharpy getting on with the referee
More than 35% of the squad having a shower
Jimmy turning up wearing an Everton shirt
Mikey not complaining about having done too many squats at the gym
Parker managing two nights out in a row
Rob not ending up bleeding from some part of his face
Jordan making a full blooded crunching tackle
Ty complimenting us on the lack of watching.
…..[please feel free to add your own rare events to the comments]

Now they say miracles do happen, and with two of the more outrageous statements having already occurred this weekend (Sharpy actually won a bet and Deano was between the sticks), you may say that anything was possible. However, not even Sharpy would have been stupid enough to put his money on what happened next.

Following Rec’s goal the referee indicated that there was only 45 seconds to play, so the plan seemed obvious: kick-off and boot the ball into the corner. However, such was our confidence that we decided we could keep the ball from Rec for long enough to run down the clock. So Mikey kicked off with Nick and we advanced into the opposition half. Possession was temporarily lost, but quickly won back by Mikey who played the ball out to the right to Nathan. Nathan then looked to run the ball into the corner to safety, and Eye-ball followed him to give support and an extra outlet. The ball then found its way to Parker who turned inside and had a good effort at goal that shaved the post and dropped again to Nathan on the right. He played the ball back across to Parker, whose second attempt came off the wrong side of the canoe and looped back to Nathan on the right by-line. He then headed it back into the middle, where Eye-Ball of all people was standing unmarked on the edge of the six yard box. All those years of Heads and Volleys finally paid off as Eye-ball jumped and direct a firm header towards goal which went over the flapping keeper and into the net: 3-1.

In five seasons of playing with the Oaks Eye-Ball finally had his first goal, but unfortunately the celebration that followed wasn’t quite what had been planned as he turned in shock, expecting to see that the goal had already been taken down at the other end and everyone walking towards the changing rooms. It wasn’t until the rest of the team rushed over to congratulate him that he realised the goal had been awarded. As a fellow West Ham fan, I felt a bit insulted to be compared, by the manager, to Frank Lampard, but it was later made clear that he was referring to Frank Snr’s goal in the 1980 FA Cup semi final rather than the portly version who plays for Chelsea. It’s just a shame that the chairman of the “Get Eye-ball a goal” society wasn’t there to see it, but hopefully he’ll still be playing long enough to see the next one. Records show that Milly is the only regular member of the current squad still to score for the Oaks, but I’m sure it won’t be long.

Some have question what the right back was doing on the edge of the opposition penalty area when we were protecting a one goal lead with ten men, but in my defence I thought the referee had said there were five seconds rather than 45 left, and that he would blow up as soon as we kicked off. As it turned out, this was the longest five seconds in history, for which I am very grateful.

This was a great team performance from the Oaks, and although everyone played their part the manager heaped particular praise on Gollum and Nathan, both of whom played out of their skins and between them were iconic of everything we did well in defence and attack.

Next week will be a much tougher affair as we face top of the league Lakeside in a double header, but if we continue to play like we have the last two weeks we can leave the field with our heads held high whatever the result.

Eye-Ball

Next match: Sunday 20^th Feb Double header Away v Lakeside @ Lakeside

George and Dragon 1 – Oaks Athletic 2

2011-02-09T23:06:00.002Z

I learnt this Sunday that there are two things you should never do: write off The Oaks, and let Parker use your towel! Discounting last weekend’s walkover, the Oaks have had a torrid time of late, with two very tough double headers and their worst defeat in recent memory. With confidence already low, the fact that we were up against the only undefeated side in the league, who had beaten us 7-4 earlier in the season, wouldn’t have done much for morale. However, not only did we win this match, we outplayed G&D for large periods of the game and thoroughly deserved to earn all three points.

With Deano passing a late fitness test (which involved running from one end of the living room to the other), and Milly also back from injury, Milesy was able to name his regular back four for the first time since the start of January. Unfortunately the instructions on Ty’s antibiotics clearly stated that shouting “Out!” and “You’re all watching!” was an absolute no, no, so there really wasn’t any way he could play. Parker stepped in, who we all know can do a job if his head is screwed on and he is reasonably sober.

With Sharpy’s ankle still not 100%, he had to settle for a place on the bench as Milesy started with the following eleven:

pppppppppppppppppParker (GK)
p
ppDeano (RB) Rob (CB) Milly (CB) Eye-Ball (LB)
p
Jordan (RM) Gollum (CM) Micky (CM) Aaron (LM)
p
pppppppppppNathan (CF) (c) Nick (CF)

Subs: Jimmy, Sharpy, James

Watchers: Tyrone

Milesy summed up the first half as: first fifteen not very good, last half hour much better. We started slowly, and seemed also in awe of G&D as we allowed them to pass the ball around us and enjoy the lion share of possession. As if a disallowed goal for a narrow offside wasn’t enough, we once again got caught playing too high a line and the G&D forward ran in behind our defence to shoot passed Parker, who got a hand to the ball but couldn’t keep it out: 1-0.

I have been told the majority of the seven goals conceded last time these two sides met were scored in this fashion, and it took Mikey to remind of us this fact and suggest we drop off five. The advice was taken, and set the tone for the remainder of the match. The Oaks started to find their feet, and found some time on the ball. With Nathan dropping deep to link up with Mikey and the wingers, and Nick causing havoc in the swirling wind, the Oaks began to get on top.

Nathan started to find space between the defence and midfield, and with good service from those around him would have been disappointed not to test the keeper with a couple of scuffed efforts. Even Nick got a shot away at one point, which proved too hot for the G&D keeper to hold as he could only deflect it onto the post.

The Oaks deservedly got back on level terms before half time when Aaron – who was having a superb half – executed a cheeky volleyed flick with the outside of his left boot following a good delivery from Rob. The ball looped passed the bemused G&D keeper and into the net: 1-1.

The Oaks were now on top, having discovered that this young G&D side weren’t particularly up for the rough and tumble that the Oaks are so good at. With the defence quick to put their men under pressure from goal-side as soon as the ball was received, and Gollum breaking up play in front of the back four, G&D’s passing started to go astray. This allowed Mikey to pick up the loose balls and link up with Aaron, Jordan and the two front men who were causing the G&D defence all sorts of problems.

It was a real blow when Nick, who was having one of his best games of the season, limped off just before half-time. This meant an early debut for new signing James, whose initial contribution was to fall over every time he ran towards the ball. Despite the obvious rustiness, James was set to play a major part in the outcome of this match.

The second half was a really competitive affair, with the play moving from end to end. G&D created chances but, when they did break through, Parker was equal to the threat and produced some fine saves. On one occasion he charged out to meet the advancing attacker, and blocked the shot with what was later described by one of the Oaks players as his “moo moo” (which I think roughly translates to nose). He also leapt (or flopped if you want to be more accurate) to his left to stop an effort that was destined for the corner of the net. As well as a knock to the nose, Parker also sustained damage to his left elbow when a G&D player fell on it. The person who showed most concern was the referee, who was particularly interested to know if Parker was left handed, and if this would affect his evening entertainment. When he offered Parker “a hand” that was the cue for the rest of us to return to our positions. Maybe Parker can update us next week…

When G&D were awarded a free kick in a dangerous position on the edge of the area, their lack of experience was once again evident as, despite Deano making his intention to drop back onto the post evident to everyone (he even demonstrated how this would work before the kick was taken) no attacker went with him, and he was perfectly positioned to deflect the goal bound effort behind unchallenged.

Sharpy may not have been fit enough to start this match, but nothing was going to stop him playing some part in the game, and with about 20 minutes to go he came on for the exhausted Aaron, who had put in a great shift down the left. James moved to left midfield, and Sharpy took up his customary position spearheading the attack. Sharpy admits that he has often been used as an impact player, and it’s easy to see why as defences tend to think they are going to get an easier time when a sub striker comes on. However, with Sharpy chasing down every ball and competing in every challenge he must be a defence’s worst nightmare. Perhaps he works so well in this role because he hasn’t spent an hour getting more any more angry and frustrated with himself.

It is therefore no surprise that he was heavily involved in The Oaks winning goal, as the Oaks caught G&D on the counter attack. I can’t quite remember exactly what happened in the build up, but I think Sharpy held the ball up before laying it off to Nathan. The ball then found its way back to Sharpy on the edge of the area, and he turned his man before seeing his shot deflected and looping up over the keeper towards the goal. James, who had made up good ground was then on hand to poke the ball over the line. It is debatable whether or not the ball would have gone in without James intervention but nobody (including Sharpy) was moaning: 1-2.

The Oaks actually held out quite comfortably, and the strength of the squad was once again demonstrated as Jimmy slotted in for Deano, who had been struggling since his goal line clearance, and more than once popped up in the right place to clear the danger.

The full-time whistle was greeted with muted celebrations (I think we tend to be more relieved than anything when we get a win), with the oppositions management team (yes “team”) being very gracious in defeat and acknowledging that the best team had won.

Including the three points for the walkover, we now have 21 points with 9 games remaining so should be looking to better last season’s tally of 26 points. Next week’s game against Rec Rovers should be a real opportunity to get 3 points closer to that goal, but worryingly our second best performance of the season (I would rate this week as number one) in beating LTD was followed by a dismal display against Rec the following week – let’s make sure history doesn’t repeat itself.

Eye-Ball

Next match - Sunday 13 February @ Home v Rec Rovers - 1030 KO

Katkus W - O Oaks Athletic - Oaks awarded three points

2011-02-05T20:21:00.002Z

Sharpy is probably the only Oaks player with a smile on his face following Kaktus's withdrawal from this match due to insufficient numbers to field a team. Injury means he would have missed this match, but his 3 goal cushion in the goal scoring chart remains in tact.

There are obviously no guranteed points in this league, but after three very tough weeks we were looking forward to getting off the ropes and going toe to toe for a few rounds with a weak Kaktus side. As it happens we got three points without having to get out of bed, let alone break into a sweet which I suppose we should be glad for.

Eye-Ball

AFC Staggs 5 – 1 Oaks Athletic and Oaks Athletic 1 – 4 AFC Staggs

2011-02-05T20:11:00.003Z

The one good thing about this double header is that, after 120 minutes of being taught a severe lesson, we can say goodbye to AFC Staggs for this season and probably beyond given they must be one of the favourites for promotion.

We were found out by a very good footballing side on this occasion, with matters not being help by injuries and absences that mainly affected the Oaks defence. Ty, Alex and Milly were missing, and Deano just wasn’t ready to return to action despite his best efforts.

Scott was called on to play in goal in the first match, having impressed in his last outing against Linford in November. With what was left, Milesy went for the following line up for the opening match:

pppppppppppppppppScott (GK)
p
ppJimmy (RB) Rob (CB) Eye-Ball (CB) Aaron (LB)
p
Nathan (RM) (c) Gollum (CM) Jordan (CM) Aaron(2) (LM)

pppppppppppMikey (CM)
p
pppppppppppppppppppNick (CF)

Subs: Sharpy, Parker

The first half was definitely one to forget, with Staggs cutting us apart with their pace and movement. The unfamiliar back four struggled to gel, and weren’t given any time to settle by the opposition. The situation wasn’t help by our failure to keep possession for more than two passes, and as soon as the ball was cleared it was coming back again.

It was 4-0 by half time with two goals coming as a result of breaks down the flanks which ended in perfect low crosses for the man in the middle to finish. The others came from a break down the middle and a goal through a crowded area. Later in the pub, Mikey was adamant that he should take the blame for two of the goals despite there being no fingers pointed. His argument was that he should have made the tackle on the winger leading up to one goal, when he showed good pace and determination to get back to put in a sliding tackle, but somehow missed the ball and the player. The goal through the crowd of bodies could possibly have been avoided if Mikey and Scott hadn’t challenged each other for the ball. However, this doesn’t change the fact that we were totally out played and couldn’t complain about the half time score.

Sharpy and Parker came on in the second half and Jimmy swapped with Eye-Ball. Jimmy was given the job of man marking Staggs dangerous number 10, and it was possibly felt Eye-Ball might have a bit more pace to deal with the breaks down the flanks which had given us so many problems in the first half. The second 30 was a much better performance, and we actually drew the half 1-1, and only conceded because Eye-Ball was caught out by the oldest trick in the book as he allowed the Stagg player to make a gap in the wall following the award of a free kick. The ball was duly placed through the gap and into the far bottom corner.

The Oaks goal came courtesy of good work from Nick in the area, and Nathan was on hand to put the ball in the back of the net via a deflection. He assures me his effort was goal bound, and he is therefore credited with the goal.

Unfortunately the Oaks lost yet another key player to injury, as Sharpy fell awkwardly on his ankle whilst trying to keep the ball in play. He initially thought that he had broken it, and as he lay stricken with one foot still in play the game had to be stopped for a good 10 minutes and an ambulance was called. The paramedics confirmed the diagnosis that many of us had already made – Sharpy was just being a big girl (there goes any chance of being a Sky Sports commentator). Although the ankle wasn’t broken, damage to ligaments had obviously been sustained and Sharpy would take no further part. The game ended 5-1.

The referee we had been assigned for this match was stranger than most, and in particular was adamant that we should have as little a break between halves as possible, and also seemed very upset to have to delay play whilst Sharpy lay on the side of the pitch. He apparently didn’t have anywhere to be, so the only other explanation was that he had foolishly ordered a beer from the club bar before the game, and was concerned it would be warm after two and a half hours. Weight was added to this argument when he stormed off after the first match following a discussion about a decision with the opposition, only to be seen at the end of the match sitting in the bar enjoying a cold beer.

This caused a further delay as we tried to sort out what to do about the second match. The Oaks have fallen foul of opposition officials standing in as referees before, but on this occasion agreed to the suggestion that their man could take the whistle. To be fair he did OK, even though he couldn’t stop himself from giving advice to, and willing on his own men. His pitch coverage and running lines were also woeful – there is a lot more to being a referee than just knowing the rules.

The twelve men left in Oaks shirts did very well in the second match despite still conceding 4 goals. Parker replaced Scott in goal, which gave us a fresh pair of legs on the left. This definitely made a difference as we started to see more possession, and even put some good passing sequences together. Scott even managed to improve his goal aggregate for the day, as a cross come shot from the left sailed over the keeper into the far corner.

Tiredness began to show as the game wore on, and Staggs’ superior quality and much larger squad meant they were able to keep the pressure on right to the end, and despite some good chances for Nick and Nathan we were well and truly beaten. It was something of a relief when the final whistle blew and we could lick our wounds on the way to a much needed pint at The Oak.

Eye-Ball

Oaks Athletic 1 – 0 Pegasus B. Pegasus B 6 – 1 Oaks Athletic

2011-01-18T22:50:00.005Z

The long lay-off due to the harsh winter means double headers will be a regular feature for the rest of the season. These often throw up strange result and this first one against a good Pegasus side was no exception, with the Oaks inflicting only Pegasus’s second defeat of the season, before conceding 6 in a result that was heavily influenced by Mother Nature, and Gollum’s rear end.

The Thurrock Sunday League manager really earns his salt when the double headers come round, and Milesy obviously came with a plan (and a scrap of paper). I can’t remember the Oaks squad being as big, or attendance being better than at the moment, and even with Deano (crippled) and Alex (man flu) missing, Milesy still had 15 players to choose from, with the return of Mikey especially being a massive boost. To start with the following eleven took the field for the first match:

pppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)
p
ppJimmy (RB) Rob (CB) Milly (CB) Eye-Ball (LB)
p
Parker (RM)pGollum (CM) Jordan (CM) Scott (LM)

pppppppppppNathan (CM) (c)
p
pppppppppppppppppppSharpy (CF)

Subs: Aaron, Aaron(2), Mikey, Nick

The strong wind and low sun would cause havoc for much of this match, and in the first half (i.e. the first 30 minutes of the first 1 hour long match), the Oaks really struggled with the conditions. Passes frequently went astray, and possession was given up again as soon as it was won. Much of the half was spent on the back-foot, and it was clear that we would have to be strong defensively. Matters weren’t helped when Milly limped off following a kick on the knee in the first 10 minutes, and that was the end of Milesy’s master plan for squad rotation. As has already been mentioned, both Deano and Alex were missing, which meant that Eye-Ball - the fifth choice centre half – had to move to the middle to partner Rob with Aaron coming on to fill the hole at left back.

We know Pegasus are a good side who like to play football, but they are used to playing on a pitch that is almost as big as Wembley, and always struggle when they come to our postage stamp. Although we struggled to create many chances of our own, we defended well and played the off-side trap when it was appropriate. We maybe didn’t deserve to go in at half time on level terms, but the fact we did meant we had a good chance of snatching something from this match.

With so many changes I may get some wrong, but I believe Mikey and Nick came on in the second half for Jordan and Parker, and Milesy reverted to a 4-4-2 with Nick partnering Sharpy up front.

The Oaks continued to frustrate Pegasus by allowing them no time on the ball, and forcing them into errors which were berated by their team mates. At the back Eye-Ball and Rob looked comfortable against their strikers who looked to have all but given up. We even started to create chances of our own, and maybe should have had a penalty when Scott was brought down on his way towards goal, but the referee deemed the foul to have been just outside the area. Nick also had a great chance to make an impact, but when Rob nodded a corner back across goal he somehow managed to head it wide with the goal at his mercy.

Our endeavours were finally rewarded after Mikey was fouled for the umpteenth time on the half way line. Rob floated a superb ball to the back post where Nick, Nathan and Sharpy were queuing up to score. Sharpy shouted the loudest and met the ball low with a diving header that evaded the keeper and gave the Oaks the lead: 1-0.

There was still 15 minutes to go, and it was backs to the wall time. The Oaks defence held firm, and although I can’t recall any individual saves Ty completely dominated his area and was on hand to claim anything that came anywhere near the six yard box. His huge clearances, while helping to run down the clock also caused the opposition goalkeeper to panic on one occasion when he had to tip an awkward bouncing ball over the bar.

We did get some luck as Pegasus failed to convert good chances from crosses, and a ball that was flicked goalwards in the dying seconds fell straight into Ty’s hands. The final whistle was a welcome sound, and a battling performance was rewarded with 3 points for the Oaks.

After a short break to take on water and compare wounds we were at it again. Milesy again rotated the squad as much as he could and I think he went with the following eleven for the start of round 2, with the obvious tactic being to hit them with our pace down the flanks:

pppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)
p
ppJimmy (RB) Rob (CB) Eye-Ball (CB) Aaron (LB)
p
Aaron(2) (RM)pGollum (CM) Mikey (CM) Parker (LM)

pppppppppppNathan (CM) (c)
p
pppppppppppppppppppNick (CF)

Subs: Scott, Sharpy, Jordan

The relief of getting a win in the first game never really subsided, and the Oaks struggled to raise their game again for this second match. This wasn’t helped when we found ourselves behind in the first half when the Pegasus striker finally broke free of our defence to slot neatly past Ty: 1-0.

Pegasus’s dangerous crosses from the right also finally found their reward, when Jimmy – faced with a two on one situation at the back post – decided to make it a more even contest by pushing one of the attackers to the floor. The resulting penalty was easily converted: 2-0.

Although we didn’t seem to be on the same pitch as the opposition, we were still in the game come half time thanks to a goal from an unfamiliar source. Aaron Bass has collected significantly more cards than goals this season, but was on hand to steer home his first of the season from inside the area after Pegasus had failed to clear an Oaks set piece.

Milesy again reverted to 4-4-2 in the fourth and final half, with Scott and Sharpy replacing Aaron(2) and Jimmy. Jordan replaced Mikey – who had done well to last as long as he did following a long illness – mid way through the half.

Any hopes we had of improving on the 3 points we already had were soon dashed in a farcical 30 minutes of football. The Sun may have disappeared behind a mass of clouds, but the wind was still causing havoc, and seemed to be blowing in the exact direction occupied by the 12 by 6 space known more commonly as the Oaks’ goal.

The next four goals can be summarised as follows:

3-1: corner from the right hits Scott, then hits Gollum on the bum and goes in (o.g.)

4-1: high inswinging corner curls toward the back post. Ty gets a hand on it but can’t direct it away from the goal (we’ll say the ball was going in before Ty’s intervention).

5-1: the Oaks don’t learn the lesson from the previous goal, and the ball is once again swung in wind assisted and flies above the below-maximum-height man at the back post and into the net.

6-1: Rob looks to have cleared the ball from the goal line following a throw-in, but the brave (and ridiculously large) Pegasus defender puts his head in the way and Rob claims the assist.

Some last ditch defending (including a crunching, but for once well timed challenge from Aaron) and a great finger tips save from Ty stopped the score line getting any worse.

Despite the game seeming to be beyond us, we could have had an interesting finish if the referee had not, once again, decided to award only a free kick for a foul on Scott that looked pretty close to being in the box. Also, Sharpy unfortunately seemed to have put the boots back on that he was wearing against Linford, as he produced two incredible and uncharacteristic misses from right in front of the goal. Such was Sharpy’s frustration, that in a change from the normal routine, we almost had to step in to stop him from beating himself up.

Losing by such a margin may have left heads hanging low when the 120 minutes of football was finally over, but Milesy was happy with the day’s work and the shift put in by all 15 players. Next week we do it all again, against AFC Staggs who – on paper at least – look like another tough propostion.

Eye-Ball

Lakeside United 11 - 1 Oaks Athletic (League Cup)

2011-01-11T21:39:00.007Z

11-1 may more closely resemble Paul Collingwood’s Ashes batting average than a football score, but it is with a significant degree of embarrassment that I have to confirm it is indeed the result of 90 minutes of dire football from the Oaks.

pppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)

ppEye-Ball (RB) Milly (CB) Deano (CB) Alex (LB)

Nathan (RM) (c) Rob (CM) Jordan (CM) Scott (LM)

pppppppppppSharpy (CF) Nick (CF)

Subs: Parker, Aaron, Aaron (2)

Nobody wants, or needs to be reminded of the details of this game (and it would be too painful for me to recount), and it is also not my place to give a view of the particular failings that contributed to it going so horribly wrong. I will, however, try and convey the basic facts that I think we would all agree contributed to our humiliation.

Firstly, Lakeside are undoubtedly a very good side, and will surely gain promotion from division 2A (where they currently sit top with 7 wins from 8 games). In terms of technical ability and fitness they had the upper hand in more or less every position on the field. It can therefore be argued that the Oaks would have lost this game even if all eleven players, and the team as a whole, had played to their absolute best.

The second fact is that the Oaks are no strangers to this situation, and have put in losing displays that felt like victories against noticeable opposition including Springhouse and premiership stalwarts Legends. In these situations we have more than matched our opposition for heart and desire and as a result have made the opposition work for their victory.

The difference in this game is that we didn’t come close to matching Lakeside in this aspect, and simply rolled over and admitted defeat more or less from the first kick of the game. This is not to say there weren’t occasions were Oaks players put their bodies on the line, with Deano optimising what we should have all been doing for 90 minutes as he first received a bang to the head that left him dazed and with a nice shiner to boot, and then had to be helped off following a tackle that the referee admitted was reckless but for which the offending player was allowed to go unpunished for.

The only positives I can take from this game are that this should give us a wake up call ahead of a tough double header against Pegasus B next week, we took the defeat as a team without criticising individuals, and there are two entries in the scoring chart thanks to a superb corner from Scott that was headed in by Rob (to actually make the score 2-1), and an own-goal from Eye-Ball.

Oh, and there is always next week.

Eye-Ball

Oaks Athletic 2 - 1 Linford Wanderers

2011-01-11T21:23:00.004Z

Finally, after 7 weeks of frost, snow and the coldest December since records began, we were able to play a game of football against our last opponents way back on 14^th November. The Oaks won that game 4-0, but everyone knew this would be a totally different affair, with concerns over match fitness, and the ability of some of us to remember what “football” is being evident. Added to this was the absence of key players in Mikey and Milly (both flu victims), and also Gollum who pulled up lame in the warm up (fortunately we don’t need to put him down just yet).

Nethertheless, it is a testament to the commitment of the Oaks players that Milesy still had 14 players to choose from and went with the following line up:

pppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)

ppEye-Ball (RB) Rob (CB) Deano (CB) Alex (LB)

Nathan (RM) (c) Jimmy (CM) Jordan (CM) Scott (LM)

pppppppppppSharpy (CF) Nick (CF)

Subs: Parker, Aaron, Aaron (2)

All the goals (but by no means all the action) came in the first half which was a typically hard fought affair. The Oaks may have been a bit rusty, but had lost none of the confidence gained from the previous victory, as they looked to pass the ball to feet and create space for each other. Consequently some good chances to take the lead were created, including a free kick from Nathan that was tipped over by the diving Linford keeper, and a left foot volley from Scott after his run into the box was expertly spotted by Sharpy. Nick was also unfortunate to see a firmly struck header from a free kick cleared off the line.

There was also plenty of defending to do, with bodies (quite literally in Rob’s case) being thrown in front of the ball, and Ty making a fine save to divert a shot onto the post.

Despite the Oaks early pressure, it was Linford who took the lead when a close decision for offside went their way, and the forward poked the ball past Ty after receiving a cross from the right: 0-1.

This setback didn’t seem to faze the Oaks, who continued to apply pressure, and were soon back on level terms thanks to some quick thinking from Rob and good link up play between the front two. Noticing the opposition were slow to retreat following the award of a goal kick, Rob played the ball quickly up field where Nick was on hand to flick the ball on with his head into the path of Sharpy, who beat the off-side trap and netted past the keeper off the inside of the post: 1-1.

Given how well Sharpy had finished this effort, we all expected him to make the score 2-1 when he was again put clean through, but his left foot shot across the keeper lacked any curl and drifted wide of the left upright.

Sharpy was able to shrug off the disappointment of this miss to give the Oaks the lead at half time, with Rob once again being heavily involved. Linford failed to clear a corner, and Rob held off and turned his man before floating the ball to the back post where Sharpy was on hand to nod the ball down into the net: 2-1.

Linford really came at us in the second half, but defensively we held firm with Jimmy and Jordan especially putting in an impressive shift in the middle of the park. Defensively we were relatively untroubled, and when called upon Ty was able to rebel anything Linford could throw at him, including a firmly struck low shot to his left which he got down to well and flick round the post.

Nick and Sharpy continued to toil away up top against Linford’s impressive centre halves, and Scott and Nathan looked to exploit the weaknesses at full back. Some good chances to put the game beyond doubt were created but unfortunately no further goals were scored. Sharpy could have had at least two more goals after first being put through by Jordan, and then by Nathan but both his efforts sailed high and wide of the target. Alex even got in on the action from left back with a rasping shot that wasn’t far wide.

There were some late jitters as Rob was inexplicably asked to leave the field after taking an elbow in the mouth (where is the justice in us going down to 10 men after our man has be fouled?), but we held out for a hard fought and well deserved 3 points.

Eye-Ball

Linford Wanderers 0 – 4 Oaks Athletic

2010-11-20T10:10:00.008Z

pppppppppppppppppScott (GK)

ppAlex (RB) Rob (CB) Deano (CB) Aaron (LB)

Jordan (RM) Gollum (CM) Micky (CM) Eye-Ball (LM)

pppppppppppNathan (CF) (c) Nick (CF)

Subs: Jimmy, Sharpy

Watchers: Parker, Tyrone

Do not adjust your monitors; the Oaks really did return to winning ways and with our first choice left winger playing in goal. With both Ty and Parker on official watching duties, it was a welcome surprise to discover that Scott used to play regularly in goal, and he showed no signs of rust as he put in a solid performance and kept a clean sheet to boot.

Games between the Oaks and Linford Wanderers tend to be close, with 3 of the last 4 being decided by a single goal. This just goes to show what a vast improvement this performance from the Oaks was, as Linford were made to look a far inferior side.

The game got off to a slow start, with neither team really taking control. However, the Oaks soon got into their stride and looked to play the ball to feet, and the determination to experience a win again after 3 straight defeats was evident from the movement and noise from those in blue and black (away strip).

The first chance to score, for the second week running, feel to Eye-Ball, who was relishing the chance to bomb forward from his position on the left wing. As Nick broke down the right, Eye-Ball raced through the middle into the penalty area. Nick then put in a superb cross at waist height which Eye-Ball threw a left foot at, but he couldn’t direct the ball on target.

Having almost set up the first goal, Nick then had a great chance to give the Oaks the lead himself. When the ball broke to him following a throw in, his first time effort hit the post, and rebounded behind off the goal keepers face.

The Oaks had looked very solid at the back, with none of the problems of the previous weeks being evident. Even when Linford did eventually break through Deano was on hand to snuff out the danger with a fine sliding tackle.

With Gollum doing the donkey work in front of the back four, Mikey was given licence to link up with the wingers and front men, and was at the heart of most of the good things created going forward. One such move saw Mikey linking up with Eye-Ball down the left, with a series of close passes along with good movement and even a cheeky back heel from Eye-Ball leading to the Oaks winning a corner. Nathan swung in the corner, and Ty would have been overjoyed to have seen Alex gambling at the back post to steer the ball home from close range: 0-1.

The Oaks maintained their one goal advantage going into half time, despite a wobbly last 10 minutes when we repeatedly gave up possession and let Linford Wanderers have too much time and space on the ball.

The half time team talk was mainly positive, with Milesy re-iterating the importance of getting a second goal to kill off Linford’s challenge.

The second half performance was one of the best from an Oaks side in some time, as we totally dominated the opposition. Eye-Ball’s pre-match banana (and instructions to stay wide when we had possession) seemed to be paying dividends as he ran the Linford fullback ragged. Although I have been told not to be modest about my performance, it is worth pointing out that the Linford fullback was one of the worst we have seen, so just imagine what would have happened if we had a proper winger out on the left. However, the confident and positive approach adopted by Eye-Ball seemed to spread throughout the team, and whereas some weeks we are accused of being too quiet and watchful, the ball was being demanded from all areas.

With the front two being well marshalled by the Linford centre backs, Eye-Ball was the unlikely best attacking option, and he repaid Nick’s favour from the first half by putting the big man through only for the keeper to make a good save with his legs.

With the score at 1-0, Linford were still hopeful of getting back into the game. But these hopes were shattered when, out of nothing, Eye-Ball won possession in midfield and headed towards the penalty area. He held off the opposition challenge before responding to Nathan’s cries with a defence splitting pass to which Nathan supplied his trademark finish into the far corner from the right: 0-2.

This goal seemed to knock the stuffing out of Linford, whilst giving the Oaks renewed energy, and Sharpy – who came on for a run out with twenty minutes remaining – claimed the assist as a scramble in the area saw the ball finally poked home by Mikey with the aid of a deflection. Some tried to claim this should go down as an own goal, but as the original effort was on target the dubious goals committee awarded Mikey his second goal of the season: 0-3.

The emphasis now was on keeping a clean sheet, not only because we hadn’t managed this all season but also because we didn’t want to give Linford any reason to believe they were anything but dead and buried. Defensively we had looked at total ease, with some even comparing Rob to a hippo. Not, I hasten to add, that these comparisons were connected to size or a craving for small plastic balls, but rather that the muddier it is the better he seems to perform. With Deano, Alex and Aaron also putting in assured performances Linford were unable to create much. When they did get a shot on goal Scott was more than equal to it, as he dived to his left to palm one fierce drive around the post and tipped a speculative effort from 35 yards onto the bar. Deano then reacted quickest to clear the danger.

Now there aren’t many similarities between Sharpy and Peter Crouch (he doesn’t have his height or good looks for a start), but just like Crouchy does with England, Sharpy always seems to pop up with a goal for the Oaks. This game was no exception when, rather than attempt to play the ball in himself, Eye-ball played the ball down the line to Nathan who, in acres of space, planted the ball right onto Sharpy’s head to leave him the simple task of beating the stranded keeper: 0-4.

Despite some late unsavouries thanks to the stupidity of Linford’s regular hot-head (which isn’t an affliction suffered by any of the Oaks players of course), this was a really enjoyable game for the Oaks, not to mention a great result. We have a week off next week as Deano leads a band of merry men to Newcastle to celebrate his 30th (sorry 21st) birthday.

I’d suggest they avoid the Pig and Whistle, but then you can almost guarantee they will end up there:

http://www.beerintheevening.com/pubs/s/12/1252/Pig_and_Whistle/Newcastle

See you all in two weeks.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 28th November Away @ Lakeside v AFC Staggs

Oaks Athletic 1 - 3 Springhouse

2010-11-10T23:57:00.004Z

The considerable annual turnover of teams in the Thurrock Sunday League means that half the teams in divisions 2A, 2B and 3 are either completely out of their depth, or punching well below their weight. Kaktus are an example of the former; due to two teams folding, last season they effectively finished second from bottom of division three, with just one win and a goal difference of minus 50. Despite this they were promoted to 2B to make room for all the new teams or teams who had folded and reformed with a new name. So far this season they’ve lost 3 of their 4 games, and twice been thumped 9-1. The Oaks opponents, Springhouse, are just one of the many examples of the latter. A team who were playing in the Premier division a few years ago under a different name, and spent last year in the 1st division of the Romford League. So given the league’s policy of putting teams who they consider are too good for the third division into one of the two 2nd divisions (even if they were playing in the Premiership the year before), and combining this with teams relegated from division 1 and promoted from division 3 it becomes clear that there will be very few easy games (discounting the unfortunate Kaktus).

Highlighting this situation is important, as it means that more weight should be given to the performance than the result. Regardless of the ultimate result being the same as the previous two weeks (a defeat), the performance from the Oaks this week was a vast improvement with us playing at the level we should do every week.

In a hope to address the defensive issues of the past few weeks, Milesy changed the look of the side, with Deano deployed in a sweeper role and Rob moving into the five man midfield to give Mikey more opportunity to support Nick up top. With Scott returning, and Alex coming back into the side we had extra strength in both attack and defence:

pppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)

ppppppppppppDeano (CB)

Eye-Ball (RB)pppppppppppppppMilly (CB) Alex (LB)

ppppppppppppppGollum (CM)

Nathan (RM) (c)pppppppppRob(CM)ppppppppScott (LM)
ppppppppppppppMikey(CM)

pppppppppppppppppppNick (CF)

Subs: Parker, Aaron, Aaron (2)

The Oaks started the game brightly, and showed that they were determined to make amends for the lacklustre performances the two previous weeks. Every ball was competed for, and we did a great job of disrupting the opposition’s flow. We even played some football of our own, and should have taken the lead when Eye-Ball intercepted a pass inside the opposition half, and passed the ball to Mikey who expertly played the ball behind the defence to meet the continued run of Eye-Ball. Now Eye-ball being clear through on goal is about as unlikely as Parker coming home to find the Brazilian women’s beach volleyball team lying in wait for him. Although these two things are very different, Eye-Ball’s reaction was the same as Parker’s would be probably be. Panic, decide you’re not up for the job, and get someone else to finish the job. Unfortunately passing the ball across goal for Nick to tap into an empty net proved to be a mistake, as the referee claimed Nick had benefited from being in an offside position when the ball was originally played through. Despite some debate about the offside rule (which I think centred around Nick’s resemblance to Cristiano Ronaldo) the goal was ruled out, and the chance for the Oaks to take the lead – and for Eye-Ball to open his scoring account for the Oaks – was squandered.

To make matters worse, another bad decision from Eye-Ball soon after lead to Springhouse taking an unexpected lead. Caught in two minds between staying goal side and running with his man, or stepping up to play him offside, the result was that neither was done successfully and the Springhouse winger produced a neat finished when clean through on goal: 0-1.

The Oaks new system can’t be blamed for this, and was actually working very well with every man knowing the plan and executing it as intended.

The Oaks reacted well to going a goal down, and although no obvious goal scoring opportunities spring to mind from the first half, we continued to battle hard, and all were pleased with the performance in the first half.

There was no need to change anything at half time, and although we continued to play well, we went a further goal behind when a rare error form Ty saw a well struck shot slip through his raised hands and trickle agonisingly into the net: 0-2.

Not even going two goals down could dampen the Oaks spirit, and the fact that Springhouse started arguing amongst themselves, despite being two goals up, was a testament to the disruptive effect we were having on their game. Our determination was rewarded when Alex sent in a trademark long free kick into the box, which Springhouse watched sail apparently harmlessly over their heads (see it’s not just us Ty!). However, Nathan had taken a gamble and chased in to poke the bouncing ball past the keeper with the tip of his stud: 1-2.

Unfortunately Springhouse’s two goal lead was restored as quickly as it had been lost, thanks in part to some foul play from the opposition skipper who called “Keeper’s ball” as the ball was swung into the box from a free kick. However, instead of seeing Ty race out to claim the ball, all we saw was the back of the offending player as he raced in unchallenged to steer the ball home: 1-3.

The spirit we continued to show was outstanding, and the determination to challenge for every ball was commendable. It was to be expected that we would get caught on the break, as we pushed forward in an attempt to reduce the deficit, and although everyone dug deep to get back and defend, goal saving challenges from Scott, Nathan and Mikey stand out in the mind. Confidence also continued to be high with Parker even executing a Cruyff turn inside our own penalty area.

The deficit should have been reduced to one goal when Nathan broke down the right and smashed the ball home from an impossible angle, but the linesman decided to give a dubious offside. The decision was possibly influenced by the fact that the opposition had felt aggrieved when, just minutes earlier, Milesy received instructions from the fourth official, via his mobile, to give an offside against Springhouse.

The two negative points were injuries to both Ty and Deano. Ty damaged his shoulder, which meant he missed his first minutes of football for the Oaks since joining at the start of last season. The injury is likely to keep him out for a few weeks which is a real blow. Parker showed himself to be an able substitute though as he pulled off a fine save from a fierce volley, but I’m sure he is wishing Ty a speedy recovery more than anyone. Deano also went off with a “bum” injury, but I’m sure he’ll be ready to go again next week.

Despite some late unsavoury scenes there were no further goals to report, and although all were happy with the performance who knows what the Oaks may have got from this game if it hadn’t been for three avoidable goals. Still, if we play like this against our old rivals Linford Wanderers next week, we’ll have a great chance of returning to winning ways.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 14 November Away v Linford Wanderers @ Corringham Rec - 1030 ko

Oaks Athletic 2 – 6 Wilburn Wanderers (League Cup)

2010-11-03T23:40:00.005Z

Despite being only 2-0 down at half-time, it was another lacklustre first half that sewed the seed for an early exit from this cup competition for the Oaks. Many people will tell you that preparation is key, and turning up at Belhus Park to find out we are actually playing at Blackshots – and that we are the home side and had to put up the nets – probably isn’t in the coaching manual. As a result we started the game cold, and 10 minutes late.

With Sharpy on emergency duty only, and no obvious replacement without weakening the side in other areas, Milesy went for a 4-4-1-1 formation with Nathan supporting lone striker Nick.

The Oaks starting eleven looked as follows:

pppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)

ppDeano (RB) Rob (CB) Milly (CB) Eye-Ball (LB)

Jordan (RM) Gollum (CM) Mikey (CM) Aaron(2) (LM)

pppppppppppNathan (RM) (c)

pppppppppppppppppppNick (CF)

Subs: Parker, Jimmy, Aaron, Sharpy, Aaron (2), Alex

It could be argued that the Oaks had an excuse for being slow out of the blocks, but the reality was that they were knocked onto the ropes by a young and energetic Wilburn side who were doing what we should have been: moving into space and demanding the ball, and giving the Oaks players no time on the ball. As a result, without the ball we were chasing shadows, and when we had it panic set in and possession was given away far too easily.

Despite this the opening goal came from a set piece, which highlighted the uncertainty about how we set up defensively. It was decided at half time that Rob would call the line in open play, but that this would be Ty’s job from set-pieces. However, half time was too late to help with this set piece, as keeper and centre back both attempted to marshal their confused troops. Amongst the confusion the free kick was floated in, Ty came and missed, and the ball bounced off Rob and into the net: 0-1.

Things really didn’t get any better in the first half, with many players being guilty of ball watching, including your esteemed match reporter who found himself in a two on one situation and managed to play both the opposition players onside. Needless to say the striker was gifted a clean run on goal and finished neatly over the stranded Ty: 0-2.

Half time couldn’t have come soon enough for the Oaks, and the riot act was duly read. Two changes were made with Jimmy and Alex replacing Jordan and Aaron (2), who had acquitted himself well in his first start and even had one of the best chances to score, but could only head wide when in a good position at the back post. Alex slotted in at left back with Eye-Ball moving up to the wing, and Jimmy came in on the right wing.

The attitude was much better in the second half, and the majority of the game was played in Wilburn’s half. However, they showed themselves to be as good in defence as we had allowed them to look in attack in the first half. One of the battles of the match was between Nick and the Wilburn captain. Both would definitely be classed as heavy weights in footballing terms, and Nick struggled to get the upper hand on his opposite number.

The other major battle was between the Oaks players and the referee, who was the same man in black who had been blamed for denying the Oaks a point a week ago. Unfortunately he suggested that rather than last week being a one-off poor performance, the problem was terminal and this week was another shocker. Off-side flags were ignored (which made Sharpy as happy as larry), good shouts for penalties against Mikey and two against Nick were ignored, and he basically gave the opposition free licence to kick our striker into next week without punishment. To make matters worse he showed no hesitation in awarding Wilburn a soft penalty after Jimmy made minimal contact with their man: 0-3.

Three nil became four when the Oaks were once again caught out playing to high up the pitch and Ty was again greeted with the far too familiar sight of an opposition player bearing down on him unchallenged. The odds were obviously against him and Wilburn made no mistake: 0-4.

By this time the Oaks seemed to have got their belief back, and despite the mountain now being insurmountable some pride was restored when the Oaks scored following the best move of the match. Jimmy, Nick and Mikey combined on the edge of the area, with Mikey chipping an excellent ball through to Nathan who showed good composure to slot home past the helpless Wilburn keeper: 1-4.

Unfortunately the 4 goal cushion was quickly restored thanks to a superb through ball from Jimmy. This sentence isn’t misprinted, but I should clarify that it was a superb through ball for the opposition rather than the Oaks. This time the Oaks back four can be excused for being caught out, but then you could argue that the high line leaves no margin for error. Deano – who had a great game and epitomised the passion and commitment that is expected of all who pull on the red and black – valiantly gave chase and was desperately unlucky to see the ball bounce into the net off the inside of the post following his last ditch ball winning tackle. 1-5.

The Oaks did pull another goal back when a low corner from Nathan was converted from close range by Nick, but we conceded again when Wilburn broke again, and the substitute headed home from what looked suspiciously like an offside position.

Despite the one sided score line, the story could have been very different if it hadn’t been for the young Wilburn keeper, who had the game of his life. He denied Mikey, who looked to have slotted the ball in at the near post only for a strong hand to come to Wilburn’s rescue. He also denied Parker who shot firmly from the right, and was unlucky not to score his first goal of the season. Add to these saves the unrewarded penalties and it could have been a much closer game.

For a team that prides itself on defence we have conceded an awful lot of soft goals of late. This has been discussed at length, and although we know what the problem is with playing the offside trap, the same mistakes are still being made. Next week the manager will try something different with Deano playing in a sweeper role, and it is important that all the team (and the supporters for that matter) know what the plan is so encouragement and advice can be given coherently and consistently. The spirit and support between the players in the second half was great to see, and if we all get behind each other we won’t have many days like this.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 7th November v Springhouse @ Blackshots (home) 10:30 K.O.

Rec Rovers 2 -1 Oaks Athletic

2010-10-26T23:08:00.004+01:00

The Oaks curse struck again as, for the countless time, a battling win against one of the better sides in the league was followed by a disappointing defeat against one of the worst. We know that the Oaks are notoriously slow starters, but a first half in which we didn’t leave the changing room, let alone get out of the blocks, cost us the game against a Rec Rovers side who made up for what they lacked in skill with determination and spirit.

The manager was forced to make changes to last week’s team, with Scott not available and Sharpy carrying a hamstring injury. He did come on in second half in an attempt to give us a much needed boost, but unfortunately the hamstring didn’t hold and it looks like a bit of a lay-off is required for our star striker.

pppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)

ppJimmy (RB) Rob (CB) Milly (CB) Deano (LB)

Nathan (RM) (c) Gollum (CM) Jordan (CM) Eye-Ball (LM)

ppppppppppppppMikey (CF) Nick (CF)

Subs: Parker, Sharpy, Aaron, Aaron (2)

The less said about the first 45 minutes the better. We just didn’t function as a team; the ball was given away too easily, the opposition were often first to the ball, and allowed too much time and space when in possession, and good opportunities were wasted due to a lack of composure in the final third.

Still, despite all this Rec didn’t offer much of a threat to our goal, but still took the league when the Oaks were once again caught out playing a high defensive line. All it took was a hopefully ball over the top, and the rest of the story writes itself: 1-0.

No one would argue that it’s important to keep the opposition a safe distance from goal, but playing the offside trap in the Sunday league is always a risky business, especially when condensing the play means that, if possession is lost, the opposition are suddenly in an attacking position with forward and midfield players up on our last line of defence. Defending has always been one of our strengths, and if we keep goal side we won’t get beaten often. Imagine if you were an opposition striker; would you rather Rob was trying to play you offside or have him charging in from behind you as you’re about to collect the ball?

Going a goal down wasn’t enough to galvanise the Oaks, and 1-0 was soon 2-0 when Gollum’s clumsy tackle felled a Rec player in the box. Despite Ty’s best efforts to get the penalty spot moved to somewhere near the centre of the goal (it’s painted on Ty!), the penalty was despatched under Ty’s ample frame and into the net: 2-0.

Now it wasn’t all bad, and the Oaks did create some good chances to score, but were unfortunate to find the Rec keeper on top form. Nathan showed great athleticism and skill to sweetly strike an overhead kick from Eye-Ball’s cross, that went straight at the keeper. Nathan also had another shot saved at the near post following a surging run into the box. Jimmy also had a good effort from range after creating space for himself on the left. We also had a good shout for a penalty turned down when Mikey B was tripped whilst attempting a shot.

Milesy made it clear what he felt of our performance at half-time, and it was no more than we deserved. One change was made at half-time with Sharpy replacing Jimmy and Mikey moving back into the midfield. The rollicking seemed to do the trick, and much of the second half was spent in Rec’s half. Right from the first minute, when Jordan saw a rasping shot from range well saved, it was clear that the second half was going to be a totally different game. The one chance Rec had to kill of the game was a fortuitous one, as Milly’s clearance ricocheted off the opposition player’s face and caught us on the back foot. Fortunately the forward’s shot hit the cross-bar the deflected to safety.

The deficit was halved when Nathan (who actually predicted a goal would be scored) hurled on of his torpedoes into the box where it was flicked on at the front post by Rob, and Deano was on hand to poke the ball home via his right moob. 2:1.

The Oaks continued to pile on the pressure, and chance after chance came and went. The pick of the bunch included Aaron – who had made a real impact after coming on for Sharpy – putting in a great low cross which found Nathan with acres of space at the back post. Unfortunately he didn’t know that he had time to get the ball under control, and his first time effort spooned wide. Nicky also had a good header from Nathan’s corner cleared off the line, and had two good shouts for a penalty ignored.

As if the referee wasn’t unpopular enough already, he was well and truly struck off the Christmas card list when his decision to disallow a goal from Nathan’s long throw basically settled the game. All the Oaks players in the box were convinced the keeper had touched the ball as it flew over his head into the net, but the ref was convinced otherwise, and so the goal was not given. Little did we know that the paparazzi were on hand to capture the Oaks player’s reaction to this decision (it looks like Gollum was the ring leader to me).

So although the performance in the second half was much better, and we should have at least picked up a point, we can’t blame the referee for our poor show in the first half and will need to play much better if we want to compete in this league as we know we can. Despite giving us constant ear ache I should mention that Ty had a very good game, and totally dominated his area. He sets himself high standards, and would have been unhappy at not saving the penalty having guessed the right way, but he should be very pleased with the rest of the game.

Next week we have a cup game, which will be another challenge which hopefully we will rise to.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 31st October away @ Belhus Park v Wilburn Wanderers – 10:30KO

Oaks Athletic 2 - 1 Little Thurrock Dynamos

2010-10-19T18:33:00.003+01:00

The Oaks reacted to last week’s defeat by notching up their second victory of the season in a hard fought battle against a strong LTD side. On a Sunny Autumn morning at Blackshots (where they had still neglected to cut the grass on the pitch to an acceptable length) Milesy once again had a large squad to choose from, and decided on the following starting eleven:

pppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)

ppJimmy (RB) Deano (CB) Rob (CB) Parker (LB)

Nathan (RM) (c) Gollum (CM) Mikey (CM) Scott (LM)

pppppppppppNick (CF)ppppppSharpy (CF)

Subs: Eye-Ball, Jordan, Aaron, Ashley, Aaron (2)

The Oaks made a much better start than they have in recent weeks, and didn’t actually concede within the first minute. The opening 15 minutes was a tight affair, with neither side creating any clear cut chances. However, this doesn’t mean our physical partnership of Nick and Sharpy wasn’t causing the opposition problems, with Nick especially holding the ball up well and trying to bring others into play. He might be well advised not to wear the shirt with “Kick Me!” emblazoned on the back next week as the opposition seemed to think this was an acceptable (yet ineffective) tactic for trying to dispossess him.

LTD showed on a number of occasions that they had the ability to break at pace, however the Oaks offside trap was working well, and when they did break away it came to nothing. The Oaks had chances of their own, with Mikey seeing a sweetly hit volley deflected just over the bar, and a good free kick from Parker causing all sorts of problems for the LTD defence.

The Oaks were the first to break the deadlock when Sharpy ran on to a ball into the box, and was clumsily felled by the LTD defender. Sharpy picked himself up to firmly hit the penalty kick low to the keeper’s right and give the Oaks the lead: 1-0. Having added to his goal tally for the season, Sharpy’s hamstring decided its work was done, and Sharpy had to be replaced by Jordan, with Mikey moving upfront.

The lead was soon doubled in comical fashion as Nick, walking back from an offside position, raised his hands to signal he wouldn’t attempt to play the ball that was heading in his direction. No whistle was sounded, but LTD thought play had stopped, allowing Nathan to run onto the unattended ball and coolly slot past the out of position keeper: 2-0.

This second goal was a real bonus, as LTD were looking good defensively, with their keeper coping well with Nathan’s long throw in, and more of the play being conducted in the Oak’s half. However, with a two goal cushion we had given ourselves a great chance of getting something from the game.

Unfortunately the lead was halved before the interval when the LTD winger went to ground inside the box whilst being shepherded away from the goal by Deano. Those who criticised Deano for his rashness, when there was minimal danger, were soon turning their attentions to the referee as the LTD player nobly admitted that he had tripped over his own feet. However, the penalty stood, with the winger soon reverting to mere peasant as he stepped up to stroke the ball into the net: 2-1.

Milesy was thoroughly pleased with the first half performance; we were in the lead and had shown that the apparent defensive frailties suggested from the week before were simply a blip. Just the one change was made at half time with Parker being replaced by Eye-Ball, which was no reflection on what had been a fine performance, but with a lead to protect the gaffer probably felt Parker’s creativity and attacking flair would be wasted and a more defensively minded primitive full back was required.

As predicted LTD threw everything at the Oaks goal in the second half, but all was repelled with every ball being fought for, and every man doing his bit. With such a slim margin between victory and defeat, the defence had to stick to their first job, and the full backs in particular couldn’t afford to get forward. This made life especially difficult for the wingers, but we are fortunate to have two young lads in Nathan and Scott who were prepared to work their socks off to get forward and support the strikers when we had possession, but also to get back and defend when we didn’t. Then in the middle Jordan and Gollum were competing for every ball, with Gollum in particular having his best game of the season; I don’t know how he does it, but he seemed to be everywhere and was a constant thorn in the oppositions’ side.

The back four were also working well as a unit to repel all that LTD could throw at them, and when they did get in behind Ty was on hand to smoother the ball, or pull off a superb one handed reaction save. The one blemish would be mistaking the LTD player’s face for the ball when, in the heat of the moment Ty reacted following a 50:50 challenge where he got to the ball first. Suprisingly the soft “baby’s bottom” like feel of Ty’s mittens weren’t appreciated by the opposition player – or the referee – but fortunately the situation was pacified before handbags were drawn.

So with 20 minutes to go, and the score still at 2-1 to the Oaks, it was time for another of those game defining moments. I should warn you that I’m not going to apologise for the self-indulgent and biased account of what happened next.

As a mediocre Thurrock League “footballer” (note the inverted comma) - whose primary contribution in most games is to make life unpleasant for annoying, skilful, young wingers, stand on the half way line for corners, and head the ball onto the running track – I often wonder if, and how, I could ever experience the feeling of performing a single act for which I would be given the credit for winning the match, and be hailed a hero by my fellow team-mates. Let’s be honest, it’s unlikely to ever be for scoring a screamer from 30 yards in the dying seconds or beating three men before rounding the keeper and sliding the ball home. Perhaps more likely would be taking the ball in the face from point blank range on the goal line, or boring the opposition into submission by making them sit through a slideshow of my recent band camp exploits. I never thought that when my moment came, leading to being greeted by a chorus of cheers on entering the changing room, that it would be for receiving a straight red!

I didn’t have much time to think as the LTD forward raced clear through the centre, and I darted across from my left back position, but what I did know was that I was the only one who could intervene to prevent him (and his team mate who was next in line) from becoming odds on favourites to potentially snatch at least two points from the Oaks. I also thought I might have a chance of making a clean tackle and winning the ball. Whilst the first thought was correct, the second was more wishful thinking, and as I slid in the ball was poked forward leaving just the player as the optional target. Having now been reminded what the first thought was, optional was erased, the target was hit and went crashing to the ground. The ball rolled harmlessly into Ty’s hands, and the whistle was blown.

Now the referee had shown himself capable on more than one occasion of getting the simplest decisions wrong, but not even he could fail to deduce that, as the last man who had prevented an obvious goal scoring opportunity, I had to go. I’ve never even been booked before, so Deano’s advice on how to receive your marching orders whilst keeping your dignity in tact was very welcome (although I did choose to keep my shirt on).

I must confess to feeling quite embarrassed at the reaction of my team mates and managers as, rather than the red card being seen as a punishment for serious foul play, it was hailed as a reward for a courageous act. Apparently I had “taken one for the team”.

Now obviously for this act to qualify under the “match winning” category still depended on the outcome of the subsequent free kick, and the courage and determination of the ten men who were left to fend off the advance LTD hordes. As it happened the free kick sailed harmlessly wide, and despite their best efforts LTD couldn’t find a way through to goal no matter how hard they tried. The Oaks actually managed to create some match clinching chances themselves, but although Nick showed a great touch and close control, the shoot button seemed to have been disabled.

The game ended like a scene from 300, with Rob literally throwing himself in front of the opposition to prevent a goal, and picking up a juicy shiner and cut lip for his efforts, and Aaron being sprawled on the floor clutching his tackle (I should add this was totally unrelated to Rob’s shiner). This was symbolic of the considerable effort all had put in to hold out for 20 minutes with 10 men, and came as an important reminder that it is always the team that wins the game.

Eye-Ball

Next match: Sunday 24th October away @ Lakeside v Rec Rovers – 1030 KO

Oaks Athletic 4 - 7 George and Dragon

2010-10-15T23:25:00.004+01:00

ppppppppppppppppTy

ppDeanppppppMillyppppAlexppppAaron(Bass)

Keri(c)pppppMikeyBppppppGollumppppppJordan

ppppppppppppNickpppppppSharpy

Subs; Scott, Terry, Jimmy Not Used; Parker, Aaron, Ash

With last weeks thumping victory still fresh in our minds, the Oaks were confident of producing a good performance against a young and athletic George team. Unfortunately within the first minute Oaks yet again conceded an early goal. This goal was to be repeated 6 more times in similar fashion with the George attackers breaking the high Oaks offside trap and sadly left Ty exposed. That is all you need to know about them!

The Oaks managed to hit back from the early setback to actually take the lead themselves, although in reality this was as good as it got. These goals come courtesy of 2 close range strikes from the in form striking duo of Nick and Sharpy. George and Dragon come storming back into the game to regain and extend their lead either side of a cooly taken penalty from Nath which come about from a foul on himself. All this drama led to the crazy half time score of 6-3 to George and Dragon.

During half time Milesy took off left back Aaron and replaced him with new boy Terry and Van der Weed come off for Scott. The Oaks were in determined mood not to be embarrassed second half and went out and gave the George a tough game with some crunching tackles and a more high pressure approach. This change paid off and the Oaks kept the second half score 1-1. Our goal come from Jimmy who had replaced Sharpy and he produced a cool turn in the area and then swivelled round to fire the ball home to restore some Oaks pride and to cap a great half hour by the midfield maestro.

The Oaks can take some heart from the fact that we are still scoring and the goals are coming from all over the pitch. If we take this scoring form into future games i'm sure the wins will return. See you all next week and hopefully Eye-ball will return as trying to remember the details of this match was a nightmare!!

Parker.

Oaks Athletic 9 - 1 Kaktus

2010-10-05T23:08:00.002+01:00

It’s probably easiest if I start by addressing Kaktus’ contribution to this match. Firstly they were gifted an undeserved lead as the Oaks kicked off, and whilst keeping possession the ball found itself at the feet of our ever reliable goalkeeper Ty. Possibly Kaktus’ first touch of the game then followed as Ty’s attempted clearance rebounded off the striker’s backside and rolled into the bottom corner: 0-1.

The opposition’s only other highlights were a first half shot that hit the post, and a second half effort which brought a good reaction stop from Ty. For the rest of the match they were mere spectators as the Oaks ran riot to record their first win of the season in emphatic style.

The man with the hardest job was manager Milesy, who had to choose a starting eleven from eighteen available players. The team he went with included two players, Nick and Mikey, who were making their league debuts for the Oaks with both having already impressed in pre-season and last week’s narrow Essex cup defeat.

ppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)

ppDeano (RB) Milly (CB) Rob (CB) Eye-Ball (LB)

pKeri (RM) (c) Gollum (CM) Mikey (CM) Jordan (LM)

pppppppppppNick (CF) Sharpy (CF)

Subs: Jimmy, Alex, Parker, Aaron, Scott, Ashley, Aaron (2)

It would have been easy for heads to go down given we had gone behind so early, but last week’s strong performance against supposedly superior opposition had convinced most in the Oaks ranks that we have the squad to perform well in the league this year. As a result the Oaks were soon back into their stride and Kaktus were totally dominated all over the pitch. The familiar looking Oaks back four were playing well as a unit and mostly successfully playing the offside trap to nullify Kaktus’ hopeful ‘ball over the top’ strategy. The midfield – orchestrated by new man Mikey B – competed for every ball, and found space for each other to keep possession for long periods. Then upfront Sharpy, who is keen to regain his title as Oaks top scorer, was already showing a good understanding with big man Nick, with ‘big’ being an understatement! This pair are going to be a formidable partnership, and I’m just glad I’m not defending against them! Having said that, those who remember how Eye-Ball was born will remind me that being on the same side as Sharpy doesn’t mean you’re safe!

It wasn’t long until the Oaks were back on level terms when Mikey B showed good determination and skill to turn his man on the by-line and put in a low cross which was slid home by a combination of Sharpy and the defender. The dubious goals committee credited Sharpy with the goal, and I don’t think anyone would argue: 1-1.

The Oaks were now well into their stride, and took the lead when Eye-Ball slid in to win the ball on the half way line, with the ball finding its way to Sharpy. He then put Nick clear with a perfectly weighted through ball, and the big man showed he has good feet and a steady head as he rounded the keeper with ease to slot home for his first goal in Oaks colours: 2-1.

Not to be out done, the other league debutant was soon to cap a superb performance with the Oaks’ third goal. We’ve been trying to get Mikey to join the Oaks for a couple of seasons, and he is already showing that our persistence was well worth it. Mikey’s hunger for the ball and composure and strength whilst on it meant that he was at the heart of everything good that the Oaks did. Whether it was giving the defence an out ball to get play moving up the pitch, or linking up with the front men and wingers to set up goal scoring opportunities, you just couldn’t keep him out of the game. On this occasion he decided to go for goal himself, but whilst most thought Mikey’s sweetly struck - though not overly powerful - left footed shot from the edge of the area would be easily dealt with by the Kaktus keeper, the keeper was equally confident that the ball was going wide. The reality was that he actually politely let the ball pass him and into the corner of the net: 3-1.

They say that behind every great man there is a great woman. This may be true in the ideal world, but in reality great women are hard to come by. However, Gollum definitely does his bit for the Oaks, and his willingness to sit in front of the back four and anchor the midfield or drop into the defence gives others the licence to get into the box, and when the ball was only partially cleared following another Oaks attack red shirts were queueing up to score. As it happened, on this occasion the ball fell at Nick’s feet and he finished with aplomb from 8 yards: 4-1.

Such was the Oaks dominance that the half time team talk mostly turned into the meeting of the dubious goal committee, but Milesy did find the opportunity to remind us that complacency could be costly, and the last thing we wanted to do was give Kaktus any hope of a comeback. Just one change was made with Scott replacing Nick, which meant Jordan moving into the middle and Mikey moving into a familiar role upfront with Sharpy. It’s unfortunate that a recurring back problem prevented Scott from pursuing the career in the Army that he had worked so hard for, but their loss is definitely our gain and it was great to have him back following a short lay-off with a broken foot.

The introduction of Scott meant we now had natural width on both sides of the park, and when combined with the constant threat posed by skipper Keri on the right, the Kaktus full backs were having a torrid time. It was therefore no surprise that, when a partially cleared cross saw the ball bouncing at the edge of the area,the ball was subsequently flying into the top corner courtesy of the outside of the right boot of the newly named Rafael van der Weed: 5-1.

It’s worth drawing to your attention that the Oaks had now scored five goals without a corner or long throw in sight. Well, that was never going to last and we were soon treated to the familiar sight of Sharpy and Rob both attacking the ball from Keri’s corner, but thankfully they combined to steer the ball home, with Rob being credited with the final touch: 6-1

Not to be kept out of the action, Ty set up the Oaks 7th and Sharpy’s second, when his long clearance caught the Kaktus defence unawares, and Mikey left the ball for Sharpy to calmly lob over the keeper: 7-1.

Sharpy then secured his (slightly dubious) hat-trick, when the Kaktus keeper made a mess of another cross and Sharpy was on hand to force the ball over the line: 8-1.

There was still time for Deano (complete with suspected broken jaw) to open his tally for the season as he burst into the box, where he was fed by Keri and finished superbly with a side footed shot across the keeper. His obvious joy at scoring may have resulted in shooting jaw pains, but I suspect it was worth it: 9-1.

I shouldn’t finish without mentioning Ashley and Aaron(2) - who also made their debuts in the second half replacing Mikey and Sharpy. We also musn’t forget Parker, Aaron, Jimmy and Alex who didn’t get on this week. These lads are Oaks through and through and know that their loyalty doesn’t go unnoticed.

While I don’t want to spoil the celebrations of what was a superb performance, it is worth mentioning that Kaktus effectively finished 2nd bottom of the 3rd division last season with one win and a goal difference of minus 50. Promotion to league 2b seems unfair on them, and I do wish them all the best for the coming season. We’re going to come up against much tougher opposition – starting next week with George and Dragon – but that said, if we can consistently play with the same conviction and desire we showed in this match, we will be a match for anyone.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 9th October 1030 KO @ Blackshots (home) v George and Dragon

Oaks Athletic 2 -3 Prittlewell

2010-09-28T21:47:00.004+01:00

pppppppppppppppppTy

ppDeanopppppppRobpppMillyppppppAaron

Nathan(c)ppppGollumpppppJordanpppppParker

ppppppppppMikey BpppppSharpy

The Oaks first competitive fixture of the season saw us have our usual first round defeat to a team from a higher league, who should not really be in our part of the Essex Cup. Today the lucky team was Prittlewell of Southend's first division.
Before the game we had to go through a Champions League style handshake before kick off. This was the closest we got to the opposition in the first couple of minutes! Prittlewell took advantage of the Oaks pacey left hand combo to go 1-0 up with barely a minute played! This gave us a chance to show our famous fighting spirit and Oaks only had to wait 20 minutes or so to draw level.
Jordan took the ball down 30 yards from goal and looped a stunning shot over the keeper into the onion bag. In fact the shot was so good that the first thought on most of our minds was, "did he mean it?" :O)

The oaks were now settled into the game and we appeared to be going in at half time all square. Unfortunately this was not to be the case. Ty conceded a penalty and the ref told Ty he thought the Prittlewell striker had dived! Work that one out! Anyway the spot kick was cooly dispatched, which to be fair was made more impressive by the fact that Gollum was virtually on the penalty spot by the time the striker struck the ball, such was his enthusiasm to be first to any rebound!

The second half bought many changes, the subs were Parker off for returnee Alex White at half time, Gollum for new boy Nick about 20 minutes later and Jimmy came on for Aaron shortly after this.
This meant that Alex slotted in at left back with Jimmy in front of him and MikeyB going into the middle with Nick up top.

The second half really sprung into life during injury time. Alex up on the edge of the area for an Oaks set play had the ball land perfect for a stunning goal from the famous ONE FAT LEG. In fact it was so good that we all thought...... You get the idea! With the ref looking nervously at his watch and the prospect of missing his afternoon game, he decided to let Prittlewell have one last attack. A throw to the edge of the box led to another Alex/Jordan style shot into the top corner and that was that for another Essex Cup run.

It was not the result we wanted, but if we play that well in the league, then surely we have got a chance this year?

Todays report was by Mr Parker, due to Eyeball being away blowing his own trumpet!

End of season round up

2010-09-28T20:23:00.003+01:00

Better late than never...

The Oaks finished the 2009/10 season comfortably mid-table, but maybe a disappointing finish given our fine start to the season. However, the usual injuries and disappearance of key players means those who stood by the club should be proud of their contribution.

One sad note is the retirement of club captain Stuart Hand. He has been a great servant to the club, and we hope to see him at the pub at some point at the very least.

The end of season drinks was a well attended affair, and I vaguely remember that top goal scorer Nathan rightfully received the Player's Player of the year award, with Milly Swopping Milesy's Manager's player award. There is no doubt that both were thoroughly deserved, and we hope they both have another fantastic season in 10/11.

Eye-Ball

AFC Blackshots 6 - 0 Oaks Athletic

2010-09-28T20:08:00.001+01:00

The season finished early for two of the Oaks players as we finished the match with 9 men, playing much of the match with 10. While the Oaks had nothing to play for in this game, Blackshots needed to grab the league title from Anchor Tilbury – who had turned up in force to make sure we gave it 100%. There was no denying that most of us preferred a particular outcome, especially with there being more than one family connection between the Oaks and the opposition. However, Steve put out a strong team, and resisted the temptation to play people out of position for the last game.

pppppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)

ppppJimmy (RB) Milly (CB) Eye-Ball (CB) Deano (LB)

Jordan (RM) Gollum (CM) Stu (CM) (c) Rob (CM) Scott (LM)

ppppppppppppppppppppNathan (CF)

Subs: Aaron, Casey, Sharpy

The Oaks started well, and for the first 20 minutes were able to contain a determined Blackshots side, with a bit of help from the post and some good reactions from Ty, as a deep cross hit the far post and game back along the line for Ty to kick away. Blackshots finally got the lead they needed when the Oaks weren’t quick enough to close down the player in the box, who was able to shoot low past Ty: 1-0.

Blackshots were now well and truly on top, and soon extended their lead. As if things weren’t bad enough the Oaks then went down to ten men; Eye-ball successfully intercepted a low cross, but rather than clearing the ball up-field, only managed to slice it behind him at pace. Deano’s instinct took over, and he palmed the ball down thinking it was on root into the net. The referee took no sympathy (despite a number of Blackshots players showing commendable sportsmanship to try and convince the referee to not show a red card), and sent Deano off. The resulting penalty was converted: 3-0.

The referee was central to the match now, and seemed to take a real disliking to the Oaks, perhaps thinking the rowdy lager swigging Anchor fans were actually our supporters. He even managed to irate Eye-ball, as the competitive left-back was penalised for what was seen as a rash challenge when attempting to block a ball up the line. The rest of the match became a bit of a waste of time, as frequent bursts of the referee’s whistle added to the numerical disadvantage effectively ended the game as a contest. The Oaks continued to battle in vain, with the frustration becoming too much for Nathan who was sent off for telling the referee what we all really thought of him.

Eye-Ball

Oaks Athletic 2 – 1 Pegasus Coryton B (League game 19)

2010-05-27T10:19:00.003+01:00

This was always going to be a different ball game to the previous week, with Pegasus having to adapt to playing on the Oaks much smaller pitch. As it was, this game was as close as the previous week but with the Oaks being the more likely team to take all three points.

An opener from Nathan, and late winner from Rob gave the Oaks a much deserved win. Unfortunately I wasn’t there, so can’t give the full lowdown but do know that special mention must be given to Ty; it’s not often that a goal keeper scores, and even rarer for this to be from within their own area. It’s just a shame that it was Pegasus’ keeper who scored. I’m sure Ty has plenty of excuses…

Eye-Ball

Goal scoring chart:

Pegasus B 1 - 1 Oaks Athletic (League game 18)

2010-04-16T11:46:00.004+01:00

It is a shame the season will be finished after a further two games, as the Oaks built on the fine win in the last game to gain a hard fought point against a good Pegasus side. The trips to the Pegasus Club are always pleasant, with the well kept pitches, large changing rooms, warm showers and on site club house. The match itself lived up to these high standards, and was a really enjoyable 90 minutes. It must have been good to keep Milesy away from the club house, as he chose to stay and watch the following side step into battle:

pppppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)

ppppDeano(RB) Milly (CB) Rob (CB) Eye-Ball (LB)

Casey (RM) Gollum (CM) Stu (CM) (c) Jordan (CM) Scott (LM)

ppppppppppppppppppppNathan (CF)

Subs: Aaron, Parker, Jimmy

The Oaks started well, and looked to make full use of the large pitch. With Casey providing pace on the right, and Scott adding some trickery on the left, Nathan was well supported and we looked like we could cause them trouble on the break. It was clear that Pegasus were keen to play nice football as well, and frequently looked to play intricate 1-2’s and defence splitting passes. However, the Oaks had enough pace at the back to deal with the through ball, and were able to frustrate the opposition by breaking up play in midfield.

The effort put in by the Oaks in the opening half hour was to be rewarded as Stu found space in the middle of the park to collect Eye-Ball’s throw in, and lift the ball first time over the defence where Nathan rose, with his back to goal, and headed the ball over the advancing keeping and into the back of the net: 0-1.

The Oaks were a crossbar width away from extending their lead before half time when Nathan once again rose to win the ball in the area, but his bullet header had everyone beaten but the woodwork.

Not content with just being the best player for the Oaks, Nathan also appeared to want to be the best player for the opposition, as he played a defence splitting pass that was up there with Eye-Ball’s recent efforts. Fortunately Milly and Eye-Ball were able to snuff out the danger, and the Oaks were able to hold onto their one goal advantage up to half time.

The effort put in by the Oaks in the first half on a much bigger pitch than they are used to looked to have taken its toll in the second half, as we struggled to keep possession, and were on the back foot for most of the 45 minutes. Still, we were resolute in defence with Deano in particular being colossal in the centre of defence having replaced the injured Milly.

On the first occasion that Pegasus did break through Ty was on hand to pull off a fine save with his legs and the danger was subsequently cleared. When the equaliser did eventually come there was nothing Ty could do, as a quick break following a corner for the Oaks had left us short at the back, and when the ball was played through to the striker the offside trap was finally beaten, and the number 10 was left with the simple task of slotting the ball home: 1-1.

With Gollum having his best game of the season in the defensive midfielder role, we continued to frustrate Pegasus, and were even able to create a couple of good chances to re-take the lead. The first saw Rob head goal wards from a corner, but unfortunately his effort went straight at the keeper.

When a ball behind the Pegasus defence left the Oaks with a two on one situation, for a split second spirits rose as the onlookers thought we had a great chance to snatch all three points. However, what we actually saw can only be compared to watching the Hairy Bikers attempting to run up the travelator after having eaten a full English (double bacon and black pudding). Parker actually had the edge on Aaron and the one chasing defender, but perhaps he thought he was being chased by Ulrika Johnson, as he decided to attack the defender rather than the ball and the chance was lost. Oh well, it was quite funny anyway.

Well played everyone, and enjoy the re-match.

Eye-Ball

Note: I only added two goals for Nathan for the last match rather than three, so have added two this time.

Lakeside0 - 3 Oaks Athletic (League game 17)

2010-03-26T21:23:00.009Z

The Oaks bounced back from the disappointment of the double defeat the previous week to record their seventh win of the season in style.

I didn't play in this game so can't give a full lowdown, but for some reason Nathan was keen to fill me in on the major highlights (could it be because they all involve him scoring?).

The team was as follows:

pppppppppppppppppppppppTy (GK)

pDeano (RB) ppppppMilly (CB) pppppRob (CB) pppppParker (LB)

pCasey (RM) Jordan (CM) Stu (CM) (C) Gollum (CM) Scott (LM)

ppppppppppppppppppppppppNathan
Subs: Aaron, Jimmy

Nathan's first goal came following the breakdown of a Lakeside attack. The ball broke to Scott on the left who spotted Nathan's run and played the ball past the left back into his path. Nathan compared this run to watching Michael Owen, by which I assume he didn't mean it resulted in him dislocating his knee without another player in sight. On collecting the ball Nathan turned inside to beat the defender and let rip with a venomous shot which rendered the keeper helpless: 0-1.

There weren't any more goals in the first half, but Deano did confirm that he is actual Bill Oddie's love child, and the uncanny resemblance when he grows his beard isn't just a coincidence. On this occasion Nature Watch consisted of Bill Junior rescuing a worm (possibly a slow worm), and attempting to encourage cross species breeding between a flock of geese and some passing ducks.

The travelling fans had to wait until the second half for the Oaks to extend their lead, with Nathan leaving the keeper red faced as he latched onto a through ball and curled the it over the stranded keeper and into the net: 0-2.

The win was wrapped up when Casey showed fine skill to avoid two Lakeside players and took advantage of the high Lakeside defence and Nathan's superior pace to play in the in form striker, who fainted one way and then the other to once again bamboozle the goal keeper and finish into the empty net. This completed Nathan's hat trick, and means he has now scored 8 in the last 6 games, and 16 for the season. Who knows, with three games left to play he might even better Sharpy's total of 21 for last season: 0-3.

Congratulations to all involved in this fine performance, and thankfully we don't need to remember about the clocks going forward next week as we don't have a game.

Eye-Ball

Scoring chart

Anchor Tilbury 3 - 1 Oaks Athletic & Oaks Athletic 1 - 4 Anchor Tilbury (League games 15 & 16)

2010-03-18T20:38:00.008Z

You'll have to excuse the briefness of this report, but recalling the events of this double header brings back the sort dark and disturbing images that I can only imagine would be comparable to waking up to find Parker laying naked next to you smoothered in strawberry flavoured Angel Delight.

To get that awful image out of your mind I will describe the one bright moment before breezing over the other 119 minutes and 50 seconds of misery. The Oaks kicked off, passed the ball around the midfield and worked the ball to Jordan on the edge of area. Weeeeed then unleashed a dipping shot which sailed over the keeper and into the net off the underside of the crossbar. Only 10 seconds had been player, the opposition hadn't touched the ball, and Jordan had scored one of the goals of the season. Those who think this story surely couldn't have a sad ending obviously haven't seen Bambi.

Although Anchor looked dangerous going forward, Eye-Ball still felt they needed some help and gifted them the equaliser by underhitting a backpass which was easily intercepted and worked into the goal. From here it was all down hill, and the first of the two matches was eventually lost 3-1.

The second match wasn't much better, but there was a glimmer of hope that The Oaks might grap a point when Nathan once again found the back of the net when he beat the keeper to the ball and headed over him and into the goal making the score 2-1. However, injuries to Kenny (t.y.) and Scott saw The Oaks reduced to nine men and they ended up losing 4-1.

It's not so much the two defeats that made this such a disappointing 120 minutes, but the manner of the defeats. We may well have played to our best and still lost both games, but as it was this was probably our worst performance of the season. Anchor's enthusiasm and desire to win seemed to intimidate us, and we just rolled over and let them dictate from start to finish. We lacked the hunger and commitment that you can't win a football match without and simply didn't function as a team. This might sound a little melodramatic - it is only the Thurrock Sunday League afterall - but this wasn't a fun experience and to think that we all paid for the privilege must make us some sort of masochists.

Whether we win, lose or draw we can still enjoy ourselves in the process if we can honestly say we have given 100% for each other and the team. Good luck for Sunday, and I hope you have fun.

Eye-Ball

I don't usually mention other results but I just wanted to congratulate my brother's team, Mustang (good team rubbish name), who beat Ockendon Motorspares 3-2 in the Ted Fairchild Cup last week. Apparently they didn't expect a 2nd division side to give them much trouble. That'll teach them.

Scoring chart:

Oaks Athletic 1 - 2 Rec Rovers and Rec Rovers 2 - 3 Oaks Athletic (League games 13 & 14)

2010-03-11T21:50:00.005Z

The first double header of the season would have left most Oaks players with mixed feelings whilst they chewed on their Sunday roast. I think there would have been some disappointment that we hadn’t been able to replicate the display from two week previous, but also some encouragement from the fact that we rallied to win the second game and take a share of the points.

Milesy had the luxury of 16 players to choose from for this double header which, compared to the bare eleven for the opposition gave us an immediate advantage. The fact that it was a double header meant that everyone would have the opportunity to be involved, and Milesy showed his superb man management skills by ensuring every player got at least 60 minutes (equivalent to one game) on the pitch. For the first game he understandably started with the same eleven who performed so well against Belhus:

pppppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)

ppppEye-Ball (RB) Milly (CB) Deano (CB) Parker (LB)

Jimmy (RM) Gollum (CM) Rob (CM) Jordan (CM) Scott (LM)

ppppppppppppppppppppNathan (CF) (c)

Subs: Kenny (the younger), Casey, Aaron, Stu, Landon

There must be something galvanising about the air at Belhus Park, as normal service was resumed at Blackshots with The Oaks being slow out of the blocks and struggling to make the passes count or settle into any sort of rhythm. The early pressure nearly all came from Rec Rovers, who took the lead midway through the first half when their forward struck a rasping shot following a corner. Ty did well to get his finger tips to it, but could not prevent the ball from nestling in the back of the net: 0-1.

Little improved in the first half, and by half time the Oaks were two nil down when the same striker who had put Rec Rovers in front evaded his marker on the by-line and put in a low cross that was neatly finished from 8 yards: 0-2.

No one would have been more frustrated at this first half performance than Milesy, who must have wondered how deploying the same tactics that had seen us win 4-1 in the last match now saw us 2-0 down inside 30 minutes. He made three changes for the second half with Casey, Aaron and Stu replacing Jimmy, Jordan and Gollum. We also reverted back to 4-4-2 with Scott moving up front to offer Nathan some much needed support.

The game definitely opened up in the second half, and the Oaks started to dominate possession and chances. With the exception of a fine one handed reaction save, and a bit of tom foolery in the penalty area, Ty had very little to do. However, we still struggled to create any clear cut chances in front of goal, and when the opportunity did arise to shoot hesitation and a lack of conviction meant these chances went begging.

The Oaks did finally get a goal with the final kick of the game, when a long throw in was scrambled over the line by a combination of Aaron and Rob. Although Rob thought he had the ball over the line before a goal was actually awarded, Aaron was credited with the decisive poke and with it his first goal of the season: 1-2.

After a ten minute break it was time to do it all again for the second of the double headers. Milesy changed the team around to make sure everyone got a fair go, and went with the following line up:

ppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)

Kenny (t. y.) (RB) Milly (CB) Deano (CB) Aaron (LB)

p Casey (RM) Jordan (CM) Stu (CM) (c) Scott (LM)

pppppppppppNathan (CF) Landon (CF)

Subs: Eye-Ball, Parker, Rob, Gollum, Jimmy

The Oaks starting eleven were definitely the fresher, with six having already played no more than 30 minutes. Add to this the fact that this was one of the most youthful sides the Oaks had fielded in some time (I won’t make any exceptions), and you would hope Rec would be made to work extremely hard to get anything out of the replay.

Those expecting a “however” moment will be disappointed, as the Oaks took full advantage of their extra energy, and started to find time and space on the ball that had eluded them in the first match. This meant they grew in confidence and finally started playing some really nice passing football. This game also saw the first start in at least 3 years for our very own American export, and it seemed his time on the other side of the pond playing ‘soccer’ had done some good as his touch, hold up play and awareness frequently brought others into the game and meant we posed a much greater threat in attack.

In a complete reversal of the previous match it was the Oaks turn to take the lead, as Nathan pealed off his marker to race on to a ball over the top and hit a cracking trademark volley across the keeper and into the far corner of the net. Nathan’s finishing has improved remarkably this season, and from my position running the line I had a perfect view of this sublime finish: 0-1

With Nathan and Landon linking up with the wide men the Oaks were getting a lot of joy down the channels, as Rec Rovers appeared to have run out of steam. It wasn’t long before The Oaks extended their lead with Nathan once again breaking away down the right and into the box. Landon had got himself into a good position in the box, but wasn’t needed in the end as Nathan’s attempted pass hit a divot which redirected it into the bottom corner: 0-2.

It is worth mentioning that, whilst Nathan was grabbing all the headlines, Milly was having a superb match at the other end of the field, which meant Rec’s one attacking threat was completely neutralised. It seems sleepless nights and dirty nappies are the perfect preparation for the job of defending on a cold Sunday morning. Thanks to Milly and the overall team performance, Rec looked dead and buried. However (there had to be one), they were handed the footballing equivalent of 10 litres of Red-Bull when a goal was bundled in through a sea of bodies in the Oaks area. All involved were convinced an offside decision should have been given, but when the ref consulted the linesman (aka Parker) he had to admit that he had been distracted by the pink elephants jumping hurdles on the adjacent running track: 1-2.

With a comfortable 3 points now looking like it could become a disappointing 1 (or worse) some managers may have been reluctant to make wholesale changes, but Milesy kept with his plan to rotate the team and give everyone a game. To this end Jimmy, Gollum and Rob came on for the second half to replace Aaron, Deano and Milly. The Oaks looked the stronger team again in the second half, and extended their lead when a fine cross from Landon would have fallen invitingly for Nathan if it hadn’t been for the intervening defender. Unfortunately he was more determined to upstage Nathan’s finishing rather than clearing the ball and headed the ball into the top corner: 1-3.

The remainder of the game was all about missed chances and final nervous moments. The stand out chances to put the game out of reach fell to Landon and Casey twice. Firstly Landon took up a great position in the penalty area to meet a cross from Casey, but perhaps forgot which way he was shooting as the powerful header we expected turned into a lame back pass. Space was starting to opening up in abundance, and twice Casey took advantage of this to latch onto cross field balls and create goal scoring opportunities. The first time he turned inside onto his favoured left foot and, with only the keeper to beat chose power over placement but came closer to breaking a window in one of the flats than the net. The second time Casey chose to stay on his right, but unfortunately the end result was very similar.

The nerves came in the last five minutes when the ball was threaded through to the Rec Rovers’ striker, who turned his man and slotted home: 2-3. As if things couldn’t get any worse, with 53 seconds remaining Rec won a throw in a dangerous position, which consequently turned to a corner. Fortunately this came to nothing, and The Oaks were able to run down the clock and secure the win: 2-3.

It was really encouraging to see so many players turn up for the Oaks this week, especially when other teams seem to be struggling for numbers at the moment. Hopefully everyone enjoyed the matches and with another double header next week our enthusiasm and commitment will be doubly important.

Eye-Ball

Next Match: Sunday 14th March AWAY @ Blackshots v Anchor (double header) 11:00 K.O.

Belhus Park Athletic 1 - 4 Oaks Athletic (League Game 12)

2010-02-23T22:50:00.002Z

The Oaks returned to winning ways on Sunday in emphatic style, with a 4-1 victory over bottom club Belhus Park Athletic. Amazingly this was our first win since November, and came off the back of our two heaviest defeats of the season (losing 7-2 twice to Stanford). The awful weather and boggy conditions could do little to dampen the spirits of those in the red and black, and I’m sure everyone would agree that this is the most fun we’ve had on the football field for a while.

Perhaps the improved performance and result can be partly attributed to Milesy’s astute tactical decision to move Rob up into a five man midfield and play Nathan as a sole striker:

pppppppppppppppppppTyrone (GK)

ppppEye-Ball (RB) Milly (CB) Deano (CB) Parker (LB)

Jimmy (RM) Gollum (CM) Rob (CM) Jordan (CM) Scott (LM)

ppppppppppppppppppppNathan (CF) (c)
Subs: Aaron

The extended warm up granted to the Oaks thanks to Belhus’ lack of enthusiasm for putting up the posts, and the ref’s evident reluctance to take off his track suit, seemed to be exactly what we needed. For the first time in ages we were actually quick out of the blocks, and looked the far better side in the opening exchanges.

The two previous thrashings had obviously been character building experiences, as you could almost taste the determination from all on the team to hand out our own blend of humiliation to a team who were evidently inferior to Stanford Wanderers, and seemed prepared to give us as much time on the ball as we wanted. The Oaks seemed to have found their voice, and were always quick to offer the man on the ball an outlet. As a result we were retaining possession much more successfully than in previous weeks, and suddenly the game looked easy.

Belhus really didn't look like they had much to offer, and apart from giving them a couple of half sniffs thanks to Ty being even more cocky than usual in his penalty area, the Oaks were totally dominant.

It wasn't a surprise that it was the Oaks who took the lead, but it was still a big relief to see Nathan latch on to a ball through the middle, out muscle the two centre backs, and round the keeper to score: 0-1.

The confidence surging through the Oaks ranks grew and grew as the half went on, and the fluidity of the midfield, with players overlapping and moving into the space, left Belhus chasing shadows. Some might have feared that Nathan would have found himself isolated upfront, but the Oaks played a high line; compressing the play and meaning that there was never much of a gap between Nathan and at least one of Gollum, Jordan and Rob. In fact, even the forward position seemed interchangeable, with Nathan often dropping deep to get involved in play and Gollum letting his natural strikers' instinct take over. On one such occasion he found himself through on goal, but seem to run backwards and was unable to get a shot away.

Despite our dominance, one goal was never going to be enough, and when the second goal arrived it was thanks to some real quality from Scott and Jordan down the left. The acorns of the Oaks side (Aaron's more like the pod from which the acorn grows) linked up well before Scott found space and crossed low across the box where the on-rushing Rob wrapped a left foot round the ball and divert it beyond the keeper: 0-2.

When stand-in skipper Nathan beat the offside trap and rounded the keeper, many would have thought he had wasted a great opportunity to extend the Oaks lead even further by running the ball too wide; however, he underlined his quality by finishing superbly from a tight angle for his second of the game and eleventh of the season: 0-3.

The score line could have looked even more lopsided before half time, especially given Rob's dominance in the air. Belhus really couldn't get close to him, and every corner or long throw looked like it was going to end up in the back of the net. It wasn't just Rob who was looking to take advantage from the set pieces, with Deano volleying home from one of many fine deliveries from Scott. Unfortunately the ref had already blown his whistle to sort out pushing by the Belhus keeper on our player; which was one of his many strange decisions.

So the half finished with the score at 3-0 to the Oaks, and we were able to truly enjoy Milesy's sunny disposition for 10 minutes.

It was hardly surprising that the second half didn't quite live up to the first, with the pitch - which was becoming more and more of a bog - being a contributing factor to this. Some of the intensity from the first half was lost, and Belhus were even given a sniff of hope when, following an Oaks corner, the substitue striker held off Milly and finsihed well passed Ty (who still hadn't made a save). The substitute striker continued to cause the Oaks problems, and it is a mystery why he didn't play from the outset: 1-3.

The next quarter of an hour was a nervy period, as we knew that another goal for Belhus would give them a real boost and could lead to the unimaginable happening. We continued to create chances, and Nathan had two very good opportunities to get his hat-trick. The first time he was felled on-route to goal, for what we thought was a penalty. However, the referee decided to defer the decision to the obviously impartial Belhus linesman (insert sarcastic tone), who said the foul had been outside the area. Rather than argue, the Oaks just got on with it and Scott came narrowly close to extending the lead. Nathan's other chance to get his hat-trick - a rasping shot from just inside the area - was deflected wide by the keeper's face.

The game was settled when Rob's dominance in the air finally paid off, with Scott's pin point corner being powerfully headed home: job done: 1-4.

They say everyday you learn something new, and The Oaks players never cease to provide a source of education. This Sunday I learned that "a weed" is not only a nuisance plant, an 80's indie band, and a weak man. It also refers to the flying, heading shy younger brother of the Oaks goalkeeper whose challenge left the opposition captain spitting expletives and was greeted by shout of "you've been done by a weed!"

This was a really enjoyable game, which will hopefully dispell the doubts about whether we still had something to offer in this league. It's just a shame that we don't have a game next week, but don't forget what this felt like, which should be all the encouragement we need for the rest of the season.

Eye-Ball

Oaks Athletic 2 - 7 Stanford Wanderers (League game 11)

2010-02-16T22:39:00.004Z

Those professional ‘spot the difference’ exponents will notice the one glaringly obvious difference between the last week’s and this week’s match report: this week the Oaks appear first in the score line. In actual fact the amateur players amongst you will notice that the two reports are completely different; it was suggested that I just copy and paste last week’s report – but I wouldn’t sell you short like that!

The one positive at the end of another ninety minutes of woe was that it will be at least another 5000 hours before we have to even contemplate playing Stanford Wanderers again, or listening to their incessant whining. Thanks to Sharpy’s curiosity we at least got to see how they would react if someone really gave them a kick – I think hissy fit pretty much sums it up.

Once again we were completely outplayed over the 90 minutes, but it was a better performance than last week overall, with just our inability to deal with deliveries from set pieces being the major problem. With the ball over the top being our biggest concern from last week Milesy went for a tactical change; packing the centre of the park, and deploying a sweeper:

ppppppppppppppppppTy (GK)

pppppppppppppppppMilly(SW)

pppppppppppppRob (CB) Eye-Ball (CB)
ppDeano (RWB)ppppppppppppppppppppppp Scott (LWB)

ppppppppppJordan (CM) Stu (CM) (c) Jimmy (LM)

pppppppppppNathan (CF) Gollum (CF)

Subs: Sharpy, Aaron, Parker

The new formation seemed to be working OK to start with. We were definitely a lot more competitive in midfield and the route through the middle of the field was well a truly blocked. The problem is that Stanford play a very fluid formation, and simply moved their play to the flanks, where space had naturally developed. Scott and Deano worked tirelessly up and down the wings, but invariably found themselves overrun.

It was a break down the flank that led to the first goal for Stanford. Ty intercepted the initial low cross from the by-line, sending the ball high into the air. The ball wasn’t dealt with before coming back to earth and fell invitingly for a Stanford player to poke home: 0-1.

The next goal was the first of many to result from a cross or set piece; whilst Eye-Ball stayed with his man he was beaten to the ball at the edge of the six yard box and the Stanford player’s well directed header was pretty much unstoppable: 0-2.

The third and fourth goals followed in quick succession; both as a result of exploiting the space on the left hand flank. First the ball was played across the middle, and into the path of the on-rushing fullback, who was tracked all the way by Scott, but could not be prevented from crossing low to the back post to be bravely met the onrushing Stanford player. Next the same player who had supplied the cross found himself unmarked in the box and finished well across Ty: 0-4.

We obviously hadn’t adapted as well to the new formation as Milesy had hoped, and so reverted back to the more familiar 4-4-2. This seemed to help stabilise the team, and we even managed to pull a goal back before half-time when Robbie beat Scott, Deano and all the opposition to the loose ball, following a Nathan long throw, to poke home his second goal of the season: 1-4.

The half time team talk was pretty straight forward: get your heads up and keep trying to play football. Sharpy came on for the second half for what will be his last appearance for this season at least. He is finally going in for the op that he has been putting off for some time, and he showed glimpses of why he will be sorely missed. His desire for the ball, and determination to win the ball and bring others into play made us a much more dangerous threat. Best of luck from all at The Oaks Sharpy, and hopefully you’ll make a speedy recovery.

Despite improving in most areas we still managed to concede a further three goals in the second half. Again it was set pieces and deliveries into the box that caused the problem; one goal was exceptionally unlucky, and Milly’s attempt to clear a cross resulted in the ball looping off the outside of his boot and into the back of the net. The pattern continued as a Stanford player found himself unmarked at the front post and headed home with ease from a corner.

It is not unusual for memories of frightening or unpleasant events to be repressed as part of the coping mechanism. The fact that I can’t remember the 7th goal is evidence of this. My guess is that it came as a result of another corner.

Just like last week we had a perfectly good goal ruled offside. This time it was Deano who ran from deep to collect the ball and finish with aplomb. Unfortunately, the linesman didn’t think he had run from deep enough and raised his flag. Again, just like last week Nathan scored a goal that was far above the standard of the rest of our performance. When the ball fell to him in the box, he fired an unstoppable shot past the helpless goal keeper. In doing so Nathan became The Oaks top scorer for the season with nine goals, overtaking Sharpy. With Sharpy now out of action we are going to be relying on Nathan much more heavily for goals over the rest of the season. When you consider that between the two of them they have scored over half of our goals, and the next closest active scorers are Deano and Rob with two a piece, you have some idea of the problem: 2-7.

Let’s hope this is the end of a unhappy period in The Oaks season, and lets try extra hard to restore some pride over the upcoming games.

Eye-Ball

Next game: Sunday 21st February, away @ Belhus Park