Nigel Smith & Alistair Cox - Match Reports 2006-07

Reffley U13's Links

2006-07 MATCH REPORTS (as U12's)

REFFLEY U12's
Managers: Nigel Smith & Alistair Cox

SUNDAY 18 MAR 2007: REFFLEY 0-1 DERSINGHAM 'A' (League KO Cup - Q/F)

Awaiting Match Report...

SUN 11 MAR 2007: REFFLEY 1-3 DOWNHAM

SQUAD: Liam Taylor, Matthew Brockwell, Adrew Roseblade, Andrew Barnes, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre , Lewis Bankroft-Achurch , Aaron Gascoigne-Walker, Rowan Smith, Ryan Jackson , Jake Clarke, Ryan Barnes, Callum Hewitt.

Those watching saw an excellent performance from an understrength Reffley team that matched the league leaders for most of the game. The score line would suggest an easy win for Downham but that was not the case. Reffley made Downham work hard for their win and the only difference between the teams was that Downham punished the home side when they made an error in defence.

The midfield worked exceptionally hard, whilst Jake Clarke up front was a credit to his local team as he tirelessly ran for every ball even if it seemed a lost cause. Downham took the lead in the 18th minute when some slack marking allowed ex Reffley striker Josh Taylor through on goal who finished well to put them in front 0- 1.

He nearly scored again two minutes later but was foiled by the defensive play of Andrew Barnes by putting the striker under pressure and making his shot go wide.

Reffley kept their heads and started to move the ball forward, creating chances from the centre of midfield. Lewis Bankroft Achurch went close on 25 mins with a shot from the edge of the area that went just over the bar.

Reffley scored their equaliser in the dying seconds of the first half when Lewis Bankroft-Achurch floated a ball over the Downham defence that Jake Clarke picked up on and stabbed the ball past the keeper 1 - 1.

For twenty minutes of the second half Reffley gave as good as they got. A strong shout for a free kick was ignored by the Ref when a Reffley player was brought down just outside the area that Downham were fortunate to get away with.

With ten minutes left to play Reffley were close to causing an upset, but two poor defensive mistakes were well and truly punished by Downham as they scored from both. In the 50th min a ball was allowed to bounce at the back which Downham's Jake Wiseman pounced on and finished well 1 - 2.

In the last minute of the game Reffley got punished again when they lost possession too easily out wide near the half way line. The ball was floated over and some slack marking at the back allowed Josh Taylor to score his second of the game 1 - 3.

Take nothing away from Downham they played well, took their chances and as a result finished the season with a 100% league record, and for that the boys should be congratulated. But Reffley gave them a game, they worked hard and were equal to what was thrown at them for most of the match.

Well done to midfielder Lewis Bankroft-Achurch who was awarded Man of the Match for a tireless display in midfield. All but one of our team are local lads playing for their local team, they gave 110% effort and as such were a credit to the local community they represent.

SUN 24 FEB 2007: REFFLEY 1-1 DERSINGHAM 'A'
SQUAD: Liam Taylor, Adrew Roseblade, Andrew Barnes, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre, Lewis Bankroft-Achurch, Aaron Gascoigne-Walker, Rowan Smith, Ryan Jackson, Jake Clarke, Ryan Barnes, Callum Hewitt, Kyle Massingham.

Winning 11 - 0 the previous week did Reffley no favours as they approached this game with the wrong attitude. All credit to Dersingham they wanted to win this game and as a result were first to the ball for the whole 60 minutes.

There were a few Reffley players who didn't (for what ever reason) play to their full ability, and as a result we struggled to take control of a game that was well within us.

The first half saw few goal scoring chances for either team, Reffleys best attempt was in the 3rd minute when Callum Hewitt should have done a lot better after he received the ball from a Jake Clarke cross, but his shot was way off target. A goal mouth scramble was Dersinghams closest effort in the first half, but some brave keeping saw Reffley's Liam Taylor dive into a melee of boots to retrieve the ball.

The half time team talk saw a very slight improvement but it was Dersingham who got on the score sheet first. A move that started down the left hand side saw the attacker cross to a choice of 3 unmarked Dersingham players, for a well taken tap in. 0 - 1

From a Reffley perspective it was a very poor goal to concede, that saw basic mistakes made throughout the midfield and defence which resulted in 3 opposition players left unmarked in the box. Not nice to say but one of the poorest goals we've conceded all season.

Thankfully Reffley woke up a little, but we were still playing well below our potential. The ball was starting to be moved down both flanks which provided a number of opportunities that went astray due to a number of poor final balls.

Reffley scored their equaliser in the 40th minute when a nice move down the left hand side saw Rowan Smith deliver an excellent cross into the 6yrd box that Ryan Barnes headed into the net giving the keeper no chance. 1-1

The last 20 minutes saw both sides trying to get the winner, a shot in the 48th minute by Jake Clarke was well saved by the keeper and another shot from the edge of the area in the 58th minute by Lewis Bankroft-Achurch went just wide.

Dersingham nearly capitalised on some poor defending in the 54th minute but an excellent blocking save by keeper Liam taylor snuffed out the chance.

A goal line clearance by Dersinghams No 4 stopped Reffley from taking all three points .Jake Clarke had put Kyle Massingham through, but his shot lacked power and the Dersingham defender was just quick enough to clear the shot off the line and away for a corner.

Taking nothing away from Dersingham , they deserved their point as they worked a lot harder for the ball than Reffley did. But apart from the dreadful defending that allowed Dersingham to score they posed little threat to the Reffley keeper. The home side put in a poor performance that still saw them come away with a point. The two teams meet again in the cup in a few weeks time, so lets hope its an improved Reffley side that takes the field.

Man of the Match was awarded to Ryan Barnes who worked very hard down the right hand side. His headed goal was well taken considering he was being pressurised by two Dersingham defenders, well done ! Finally we thank our parents for their valued support and to Martin for running the line.

SUN 18 FEB 2007: TILNEY 0-11 REFFLEY (League KO Cup - last 16)
SQUAD: Liam Taylor, Andrew Barnes, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre , Matthew Brockwell, Lewis Bankroft-Achurch , Aaron Gascoigne-Walker, Rowan Smith, Ryan Jackson , Jake Clarke, Ryan Barnes, Charlie Ilson, Callum Hewitt. Kyle Massingham.

After two previous call offs due to a waterlogged pitch it was third time lucky for Reffley who finally made their first ever visit to Tilney as an 11 a side team.

Reffley started very brightly with both Jake Clarke and Ryan Barnes going close to scoring in the first few minutes. Some quality saves by the home keeper kept the scores level until the deadlock was finally broken in the 10th minute with a superb solo run by Rowan Smith. He picked the ball up from the edge of his own area and ran the length of the pitch down the right hand side, beating three Tilney players before cutting in and slammed the ball between the keeper and his near post 0 - 1 .

Two minutes later a cross from Smith was parried away by the home keeper to Jake Clarke who's shot went inches over the bar. Reffley continued to pile on the pressure and in the 13th minute Lewis Bankroft-Achurch slammed a shot into the net from 10 yards out 0 - 2

In the 16th minute Reffley made it 0 - 3 when Ryan Barnes connected with a cross from the left hand side. His shot hit the underside of the bar ,crossed the line and came out again. The referee immediately pointed to the half way line having no doubt the ball had crossed the line for a goal.

Another fine goal came in the 24th minute when Tilney tried to clear a Reffley attack, but the ball came to Lewis Banckroft-Achurch on the edge of the area who deftly floated the ball back over the heads of everyone including the outstretched keeper and into the net 0- 4.

The team was changed around at half time to allow the subs a full half. Hard working Charlie Ilson, Lewis Bankroft -Achurch and Matthew Brockwell gave way to allow Callum Hewitt, Aaron Gasgione-Walker & Kyle Massingham a chance to extends Reffley's lead. It only took two minutes from the restart for Reffley to score again when an alert Ryan Barnes took a quick corner that found Rowan Smith just outside of the goal area, who punished the home sides sloppy marking by sending a shot that screamed into the back of the net like an exocet missile ! 0 - 5.

Some excellent work by Jake Clarke down the left hand side of the pitch created Reffley's sixth goal on 45 mins when his shot was parried by the keeper onto the crossbar that eventually fell to Ryan Barnes for a cool tap in 0 - 6.

Reffley scored again in the 48th minute after shots from Kyle Massingham and Jake Clarke both hit the post before a Tilney player punted the ball into his own net. Own Goal 0 - 7

Jake Clarke spent 55 mins of the game by doing one of the following (i) providing assists to his other team mates goals (ii) seeing his own goal bound shots saved well by the home keeper or (iii) hitting the woodwork himself. But his hard work and persistence finally paid off when a nice cross from Rowan Smith found Jake 5 yards out for well earned tap in. 0 - 8

Less than 60 seconds later Jake Clarke scored again with a strong header from another Rowan Smith Cross. 0 - 9

Reffley went into double figures with a headed Own Goal after Ryan Jackson had been brought down just outside the area . Ryan had been causing problems in the second half and was unlucky not score himself. The resultant free kick was floated in by Rowan Smith who saw his kick headed into the net by a Tilney defender. 0 - 10

With virtually the last kick of the game Ryan Barnes got his well deserved hat trick after the keeper parried a shot to Ryan's feet for a cool tap in. 0 - 11

The whole 14 man squad played their part in an impressive display of football and quality finishing. Credit must be given to Tilney who played the game in a sporting manor that they can be proud of. Their keeper pulled off some excellent saves that denied Reffley an even bigger scoreline.

The Reffley Man of the Match award was a difficult decsion for the management to make, as a number of players had produced fine displays of football. The lads at the back can be proud of keeping another clean sheet whilst those in midfield worked very hard to create as many chances as they did. The boys up front could all have been hat trick heros like Ryan if it hadnt been for some excellent saves from the home sides keeper. But it was eventually awarded to Jake Clarke who's goal assists and 110% effort for 55 minutes finally got himslef on the score sheet, well done Jake ! And well done to each and every one of you for contributing to a superb team performance.

Again our thanks goes out to Martin for running the line and for the excellent support shown by our parents, thank you for giving up your Sunday afternoon.

SUN 04 FEB 2007: DERSINGHAM 'A' 0-1 REFFLEY
SQUAD: Liam Taylor, Andrew Roseblade, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre, Matthew Brockwell, Lewis Bankroft-Achurch, Aaron Gascoigne-Walker, Rowan Smith, Ryan Jackson, Jake Clarke, Ryan Barnes, Charlie Ilson, Callum Hewitt.

A half hour delay to the kick off allowed the sun just enough time to defrost the pitch. It also was probably a factor in Reffley's below par performance once the Ref blew his whistle to start the game. The lads looked second to the ball for most of the match but did enough to win the 3 points on offer.

The first 20 minutes of the game saw very few chances for either side, but Reffley did enough to combat what little threat Dersingham throwed at them. Reffley should have been awarded at least a free kick on the edge of the box in the 22nd minute, you could even argue the poor timed tackle was committed in the box, but the referee gave nothing when Rowan Smith was floored with only the keeper to beat.

But in true Reffley style he got up without complaining, brushed himself down and carried on playing. As a result of the decision going against Reffley they finally decided to wake up and play some decent football. Less than a minute later another good cross from Rowan Smith was sent through to Jake Clarke who's shot was scuffed and went straight into the arms of the keeper.

The resultant punt up field by the goalie was won back by Reffley and moved up the middle of the park to Lewis Bankroft-Achurch. He beat two Dersingham players then worked a lovely one two with Jake Clarke, who played him through to find himself with only the keeper to beat which he did with excellent skill to score the first and only goal of the game. (0- 1)

Two minutes later another cross beat the Dersinham defence and Callum Hewtitts close range shot was superbly saved by the goalie to keep them in the game. As the half drew to an end Dersingham came close to equalising, after some sloppy defending by Reffley allowed a Desingham player to have a shot from just inside the edge of the area, but it was way off target when the ref blew for half time.

A few words were said during the break in the hope it would spark some life into a lacklustre Reffley performance. But it was Dersingham who looked the brightest from the second half kick off and again Reffley did just enough to prevent them from getting any clear cut chances on goal.

The best chance of the half came close to full time when a Rowan Smith shot from the edge of the area thundered against the bar. Good honest,hard working performances from Jake Clarke and Charlie Ilson deserved at least a goal each but it was not to be. At the back we saw an excellent solid display of defending by Oliver Cox who read the game really well today and had the Dersingham front two in his pocket all game.

It was a below par performance by the majority of those playing but it was enough to come away with the 3 points on offer and another clean sheet and clean goal keeper which says it all.

Well done to Oliver Cox for his deserved Man of the Match performance and to the rest of the team for securing the 3 points. As always our thanks goes out to Martin for running the line and to all the families for their valued support on this frosty morning.

SUN 28 JAN 2007: REFFLEY 2-2 WALPOLE
SQUAD: Liam Taylor, Andrew Roseblade, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre, Matthew Brockwell, Lewis Bankroft-Achurch, Aaron Gascoigne-Walker, Rowan Smith, Ryan Jackson, Jake Clarke, Ryan Barnes, Charlie Ilson, Kyle Massingham.

After a two week break Reffley started this game on the back foot and were quite frankly not at the races. Walpole squandered a number of clear cut chances in the first ten minutes which ultimately cost them the three points.

It took 21 minutes for Walpole to produce a goal which ultimately came from some dreadful defending from the Reffley back four. The home team had been awarded a corner but the ball sent over was quickly cleared and a long ball over the defence had the back four in a muddle which allowed the Walpole attacker to pounce on the through ball and gave our keeper no chance. 0 - 1

A few minutes later Walpole should have gone further ahead but an easy header was sent high over the bar from 3 yards out.

Reffley started to play a little better in the final five minutes of the first half, with both Rowan Smith and Charlie Ilson both going close to equalising.

At half time some stern words were issued by the Reffley management which seemed to wake the boys up and they started the second half a diferent team. They were a lot more alert and started playing the type of football we've come accustomed to over the last few games.

Most of the second half saw Walpole encamped in their own half with Reffley on the attack. The equaliser finally came n the 46th minute when Reffley were awarded a free kick on the half way line. Rowan Smith lofted in a lovely ball that saw Jake Clarke beat the off side trap to collect the ball and finish well. 1 - 1

A minute later Reffley went ahead when Ryan Barnes ran from an ON side position to connect with great cross from the left hand side. The Walpole Linesman flagged for offside which was quite rightly (in my opinion) ignored by the man in the middle as Ryan had ran at least 15 yards forward to connect with the ball. 2 - 1

The decision stood which made Walpole even more determined to get back into the game, which they did on 47minutes when the Reffley defence gifted them an equaliser. Three of the defensive pack made basic errors which allowed a Walpole attacker to pounce on the ball. His first shot was well saved by Reffley keeper Liam Taylor who up until that point had hardly anything to do all second half. His save was parried wide but the ball was picked up again by Walpole who shot well to equalise. 2 - 2

In the remaining minutes of the game Reffley piled on the pressure to try and get the winner but time ran out on them, and all in all a 2-2 draw was a fair result in a well contested game.

All the team worked hard in the second half and gave as good as they got when it was necessary. Special mention to Aaron Gascoigne - Walker who played exceptionally well when he came on at half time. But man of the match was awarded to Lewis Bankroft-Achurch for his hard work in midfield. Well done to all the team, the parents for their valued support and to Martin who ran the line for Reffley.

SUN 07 JAN 2007: NORTH ELMHAM 0-13 REFFLEY

SQUAD: Liam Taylor, Andrew Barnes, Andrew Roseblade, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre , Matthew Brockwell, Lewis Bankroft-Achurch, Aaron Gascoigne-Walker, Rowan Smith, Ryan Jackson, Jake Clarke, Callum Hewitt, Ryan Barnes, Charlie Ilson.

A three week break from football to allow Christmas and New year to come and go, didn't hinder a superb team performance that saw them notch their biggest win of the season.

Reffley arrived in convoy an hour before kick off which allowed them to warm up properly and focus on achieving their third straight win. As soon as the Ref blew the whistle to start the game, you could see that the boys were up for it as they spent most of the match encamped in the home sides half.

Some quality saves from the North Elmham keeper prevented Reffley from scoring at least another 4 or 5 goals, whilst his opposite number had very little to do all game. This was due to a neat back four that dealt with North Elmham's rare attacking moves. Our midfield were industrious throughout the game creating some lovely football that more often than not resulted in a goal. The guys up front worked hard, running and chasing down lost causes when they weren't adding to the score line. All credit to North Elmham they never gave up and played the game in a sporting manner that they can be proud of.

Reffley's goals came in the following order. 7 mins: Rowan Smith took a free kick from the edge of the area that sailed over the defence and the outstretched keeper into the net 0 -1

8 mins: Reffley won back possession from the kick off, and moved the ball well up field eventually giving it to Rowan Smith who ran past a static defence and beat the keeper to score his second 0 - 2.

9 mins: Reffley's third goal in as many minutes was scored by Charlie Ilson who had an easy tap in from 3 yrds out after Ryan Jackson had delivered a lovely ball in from the edge of the area 0 - 3.

15 mins: A 25yrd shot from Rowan Smith powered over both the defence and keeper into the net to give him the quickest hattrick of his career 0 - 4.

27 mins: A lovely pass and run move saw a hard working Lewis Bankroft Achurch send over a lofted ball from the half way line that Jake Clarke ran on to, controlled then beat the keeper 0 - 5.

37mins: Another fine goal by Jake Clarke saw him take possession of the ball 30 yards out and go on a lovely run that resulted in a fine goal 0 - 6.

41mins: A powerful shot from just inside the area by Charlie Ilson was well saved by the keeper, but the force of the shot meant he couldn't keep hold of it, and up jumped the ever alert Jake Clarke to tap the ball home for his third hattrick in as many games 0 - 7.

44mins: After some fine football Callum Hewitt played a lovely pass trough to Jake Clarke who ran with the ball and beat the keeper well 0 - 8.

54mins: A thunderous strike from outside the box by Rowan Smith went top left hand side of the goal giving the keeper no chance 0 - 9.

57mins: A quality cross from Jake Clarke gave Callum Hewitt an easy tap in from 3 yards out to put Reffley into double figure 0 - 10.

58mins: Reffley took back possession from the kick off and another well taken shot from just inside the area this time by Rowan Smith, gave the keeper no chance 0 - 11.

59mins: As with the previous goal, Rowan Smith's shot was taken from the same area of the pitch and struck just as sweet as he had before 0 - 12.

60mins: As with the previous two goals North Elmham lost the ball from the kick off and Callum Hewitt deftly lobbed both defence and keeper from the edge of the area to score a fine goal 0 -13.

The Man of the Match was a difficult decision to make, as everyone was worthy of winning, but by adding six goals to his tally the award went to Rowan Smith.

Many thanks to all the parents for transporting the team into the wilds of Norfolk and who's support was paid back with interest today by the team ! As ever our thanks also goes out to Martin who ran the line. Everyone played their part in an excellent team performance, so well done to all concerned.

SUN 17 DEC 2006: REFFLEY 4-0 HUNGATE

Reffley Squad: Liam Taylor, Andrew Roseblade, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre , Matthew Brockwell, Lewis Bankroft-Achurch , Aaron Gascoigne-Walker, Rowan Smith, Ryan Jackson, Jake Clarke, Callum Hewitt, Ryan Barnes, Kyle Massingham.

Unlike the festive inflatable on Clarkey's roof, Reffley's run of good performances didn't go pop!! As seven days after an impressive performance against Heacham the boys repeated the display to earn the three points at stake.

The first half was a goalless affair with Reffley dominating the play and having most of the chances. Hungate thwarted Reffley's attacks with a solid display by their back four. Reffley should have gone in at the end of the half at least a goal up but failed to capitalize on some good attacking play.

The second half however was a different story ! It only took 45 seconds to break the deadlock. Reffley kept possession from the kick off with some lovely play and moved the ball down the right hand side. A superb cross from Ryan Barnes floated over the head of Hungate's tall center back to Rowan Smith who controlled the ball on the volley to chip it deftly over the keeper and into the net ! 1 - 0

A minute later Ryan Barnes was in the thick of the action again when he ballooned his shot from the edge of the area over the bar (what had we been practicing a day earlier Ryan !?!

It didn't take long for the home side to double their lead when on 34mins a Hungate goal kick was intercepted just outside the area and a great through ball from Lewis Bankroft-Achurch went to the feet of Jake Clarke who's shot gave the keeper no chance 2 -0.

The best move of the game came in the 46th minute. A Hungate attack was snuffed out by the impressive Reffley back four who gave the ball to Jake Clarke on the half way line. He lofted an accurate cross over to the right hand side where it was picked up by Ryan Barnes. He in turn passed to Ryan Jackson who put in a great cross that was met by Jake Clarke again , who'd run from the half way line to meet the ball two yards out. Ryan's cross beat the keeper and Jake Clarke had an easy tap in to put the boys 3 - 0 up. The whole move was a perfect example of two touch football and was a credit to the lads involved especially Jake who'd had the foresight to run half the length of the pitch after releasing the ball to put the return cross in the back of the net !

Supersub Kyle Massingham was let off the goalkeeping leash and put into the attack for the last 3 minutes of the game. His first touch of the ball saw him take a shot on goal that hit the post and rebound out to a grateful Jake Clarke to score Reffley's forth and his third ! 4 - 0

Reffley could have finished the game with another goal but a great save from the Hungate keeper in the final seconds of the game prevented any further additions to the score line.

The man of the match award was given to Jake Clarke for his hat trick (his second in as many weeks). It was created from some superb teamwork and passing moves. Every single player on the pitch (including the subs) contributed, and were up for the award today as they all played extremely well.

Enjoy the Xmas break lads, stay off the Brandy and go easy on the mince pies !! Merry Christmas and we'll see you in the New Year.

SUN 10 DEC 2006: HEACHAM 1-5 REFFLEY

Reffley Squad: Liam Taylor, Andrew Roseblade, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre, Matthew Brockwell, Lewis Bankroft-Achurch, Aaron Gascoigne-Walker, Rowan Smith, Charlie Ilson, Ryan Jackson , Jake Clarke, Callum Hewitt, Ryan Barnes.

Just like the festive inflatable on Clarkey's roof, Reffley rose to the occasion and put in a sterling performance against a hard working Heacham side.

After a few weeks of (at best) indifferent performances, each and every one of the squad showed the sort of football that they are capable of. The passing and interplay was superb and a joy to watch. From the start Reffley were up for this one, they'd let themselves and the team down the previous week but this was to be a game to be proud of.

The first of five goals came in the 9th minute, one that was well worthy of the professional game! The move started when Reffley received the ball on the half way line. Matthew Brockwell from 40 yards out sent in a lovely cross from the left hand side which Charlie Ilson brought down on the edge of the area and half volleyed it over the blameless keeper into the top left hand side of the net. 0 -1.

It only took another two minutes for Reffley to double the score. A lob over the Heacham defence looked like a lost cause. But the hard working Jake Clarke chased the ball and got to it just before the keeper and deftly poked the ball past him into the net 0 - 2. A well taken goal out of nothing which just goes to show you never give up ! Well done Jake!

On 15mins a good cross from Ryan Barnes was inch perfect for Jake Clarke who from less than 3 yards out put the ball passed the keeper in to the net to score his second of the game and Reffley's third 0- 3.

It was a very good 1st half for Reffley who had limited Heacham to two long range efforts on target. The back four didnt put a foot wrong and showed good composure on the ball.

The first 15mins of the second half saw few chances at either end. Reffley were in control but were being thwarted by a hard working Heacham side , who to their credit didn't let their heads go down.

In the 45th minute Rowan Smith went close with a well struck shot on the edge of the area that looked like it was going in, but the keeper had positioned himself well and pulled off an excellent save. Both Charlie Ilson and Jake Clarke went close two minutes later, with well taken shots equally dealt with by the impressive Heacham keeper.

A rare goal keeping error by Reffley's "Mr Consistent" Liam Taylor saw him scuff a goal kick in the 54th minute that went straight to a Heacham attacker, who punished the mistake for their only goal of the game by slotting in the gift to make the score 1 - 3.

Reffley immediately went on the attack and two minutes later had restored the 3 goal advantage, when a good cross from the right hand side saw Jake Clarke put the defender under pressure and score his first hat trick of the season ! 1 - 4

Captain Rowan Smith had spent the whole game trying to tee up a shot on goal. Unfortunately he had been thwarted by the bounce, the keeper or a timely interception by the opposition. So in injury time it was great to see him receive the ball on the edge of the area, beat several defensive lunges and toe poke the ball into the back of the net to make the final score 1 - 5.

Every single Reffley player who'd taken part deserved the praise they got. They all had raised their game, played well both individually and as a unit but most of all . .they had enjoyed their football.

Man Of The Match went to . . . The Whole Squad who proved to the management and supporters that they can turn it on with style ... When they want too!

SUN 03 DEC 2006: REFFLEY 3-5 WOOTTONS
Reffley Squad: Liam Taylor, Andrew Barnes, Andrew Roseblade, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre, Matthew Brockwell, Lewis Bankroft-Achurch, Aaron Gascoigne-Walker, Rowan Smith, James Kerry, Jake Clarke, Ryan Jackson, Callum Hewitt, Ryan Barnes.

With a strong blustery wind blowing from one end of the pitch to the other, it was definitely a game of two halves. Both sides struggled with the conditions when they found themselves facing the wind, but Reffley came away kicking themselves. Due to some dreadful defending and misses in front of an open net, they could have won this game with a few goals to spare.

Reffley gifted Woottons 3 goals in the first 10 minutes of the game, admittedly Woottons did have the wind behind them but all three goals were down to very very poor defending. Apart from the keeper and the two lads up front the rest of the Reffley squad were guilty of some dreadful defensive play in that first 30 minute period. All had forgotten how to tackle and kick a ball which is basic stuff. The only positive that could be taken was that there was some great headers in our play.

Wootton finished the half 5 goals ahead. And without naming names we should have had at least two goals ourselves but we kept missing easy chances where all we had to do is shoot on target.

The half time team talk wasn't pretty and some home truths were dished out by the management. What had been on display in the first half was totally unacceptable and each outfield player had to stand up and take responsibility for the score line, which I'm glad to report they did. And what a change it was...!

From the kick off we had Woottons on the back foot, we'd been in this position before (last year v East Lynn) and knew that it was very achievable to get back on level terms. Reffley used the wind to their advantage and started putting lots of pressure on the Wootton defence. They finally cracked in the 35th minute when Callum Hewitt stuck the ball in the net after a nice cross from the left hand side 1 - 5.

Less than a minute later James Kerry hit the crossbar with a lovely floated ball over from a corner. He only had to wait a further 3 minutes to score himself when a nice run through the Wootton defence saw him place the ball past the keeper to make it 2 - 5 .

Reffley scored their 3rd and final goal of the match in the 47th min when a James Kerry corner was headed in by Daniel Eyre to make it 3 - 5.

Reffley had several other chances that were either saved well by the opposition keeper or scrambled clear by the Wootton defence. The only chance worth noting by the away side in the second half came late in the game when another Reffley defensive error allowed a Wootton attacker through on goal, but an excellent save by Liam Taylor spared any further embarrassment Reffley had regarding the score line.

So Wootton left with all three points after gratefully receiving 3 early Xmas presents from the Reffley defence and midfield. Lets hope that next week they will be less generous and more Scrooge like ! . . . Only time will tell.

SUN 26 NOV 2006: EAST LYNN 2-3 REFFLEY

Liam Taylor, Andrew Barnes, Andrew Roseblade, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre , Matthew Brockwell, Lewis Bankroft-Achurch, Aaron Gascoigne-Walker, Rowan Smith, James Kerry, Jake Clarke, Ryan Jackson, Callum Hewitt, Ryan Barnes.

After a very poor performance the week before Reffley only had 7 days to make amends against the previous weeks opponents. Strong words had been said both at the weekly training session and just before the game started. It obviously paid dividends as there was improvements across the park with a lot more passion and commitment on show from Reffley.

James Kerry started the game in midfield and within minutes he was deprived of a goal by an excellent save by the oppositions keeper Jack Yule.

On 6 minutes Reffley went behind when they made a basic error in defence that allowed a 1 on 1 with the keeper which was well taken to put East Lynn in front. 1 - 0

It only took Reffley five minutes to equalise when a good cross from Rowan Smith was flicked on by James Kerry who's header was cleared off the line. Unfortunately for East Lynn the clearance went straight to Lewis Banckroft-Achurch who from the edge of the area floated the ball above a mass of players into the top of the net 1 - 1.

The sides went into the half time break all square after some exciting play at both ends o the park. After the restart Reffley continued to play the ball well but kept on being caught offside.

East Lynn went close to taking the lead in the 40th minute when a well taken shot on goal was equally saved by keeper Liam Taylor who tipped the ball away over the bar for a corner.

Reffley too went close in the 44th minute when a good move down the right hand side saw the ball moved into the area by James Kerry , his resulting shot hit the post, if only he had looked up he would have seen the his striking partner Jake Clarke all alone at the back post screaming for the ball!

Luckily for Reffley their very next attacking move saw them take the lead in the 45th minute when an excellent cross from James Kerry was met by the head of Rowan Smith to put the visitors. 1 -2 up!

From the resulting kick off East Lynn lost possession and Reffley went on the attack again. James Kerry was put through on goal, his shot was swell saved by the keeper but the rebound went straight to Jake Clarke who controlled the ball well and fired Reffley into a 1-3 lead.

East Lynn had their chances and all credit to them they didn't give up and deservedly scored again in the 55th minute . Their goal came from another defensive error which allowed a shot on goal that was fumbled by the keeper that went into the Reffley net. 2 - 3

This set up an exciting finish to the game, with both teams working hard on a very slippery and energy sapping pitch. When the full time whistle was finally blown both sets of supporters had witnessed an exciting game of football of which both teams can be proud they took part in.

Reffley showed they can compete and got a result because they worked hard. Well done to all concerned and after this performance we look forward to the visit of Wootton next week..... After our guest appearance on Sky Sports this coming Friday night !!

SUN 19 NOV 2006: REEFLEY 0-2 EAST LYNN

Reffley Squad: Liam Taylor, Andrew Barnes, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre, Matthew Brockwell, Lewis Bankroft-Achurch, Aaron Gascoigne-Walker, Rowan Smith, James Kerry, Jake Clarke, Ryan Jackson, Callum Hewitt, Ryan Barnes.

Less said about this match the better as its probably one of the worst performances given by the boys in the 18 months they've been playing 11 a side. We were last to everything and could hardly string a pass together all game.

Take nothing away from East Lynn they were a neat, solid outfit that played as a team with a hunger to win. They were everything we weren't, and they embarrassed us. Too many times we were second to the ball and when we did get it we gave it away just as quickly. You would think it was Christmas morning with the amount of gifts we showered upon our opponents!

You would have also thought we'd wake up when in the 19th min we went 1 goal down !?!? But alas not, we gave away a soft goal after failing to clear properly from a poor corner . The ball was just hacked away to the opposition again (remember we were in a giving mood). Which went to the far post where two Reffley players decided to leave an unmarked East Lynn man to fumble the ball into the net.

From the kick off we gave the ball away again and East Lynn were very unlucky not to go two goals in front as they hit the post from the resultant attacking move !

The high point of Reffley's first half was that we actually got an attempt on target in the 23rd minute !! In fairness it was the only time in the half we moved the ball, and a decent cross from Charlie Ilson was headed by James Kerry direct into the grateful keepers arms.

The half time team talk had no effect as the outfield players decided to ignore everything that was said to them and carried on from where the 1st had finished. We couldn't string a set of passes together if our lives depended on it. Everything we had seen in the previous days training session was clearly absent for no apparent reason and things got worse in the 41st minute.

Not one but three East Lynn players were in a blatant offside position that even the opposing Manager conceded but alas the linesman didn't ! So the resultant attacking move gave our keeper no chance and we went 0- 2 down.

There was a slight improvement after we had conceded the 2nd goal , but our play was ill conceived and barren of any ideas. We hacked the ball all afternoon and allowed opponents half our height and weight to boss the play, and run rings around us.

The ref couldn't blow the whistle quick enough for this scribe as Reffley (apart from 2 or 3 individuals) were an embarrassment. It wont take a lot to turn our fortunes around and we have an excellent opportunity to get our revenge as we have the pleasure of playing today's opponents again at their place next week.

What will be required is business as usual ie: composure whilst in possession, neat precise passing with a little thought up top to our movement on and off the ball. It aint rocket science and is something all the team are capable of, so hopefully next week we'll see the Reffley we all know and banish this nightmare performance to the history books for good.

SUN 29 OCT 2006: DOWNHAM 5-1 REFFLEY

Reffley Squad: Liam Taylor, Andrew Roseblade, Andrew Barnes, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre, Matthew Brockwell, Lewis Bankroft-Achurch, Aaron Gascoigne-Walker, Rowan Smith, James Kerry, Jake Clarke, Ryan Jackson, Callum Hewitt.

With a few key players missing for this clash against Downham Market (aka King's Lynn Select XI) the boys battled hard and the score line didn't do justice for the effort and performance put in.

Most of the game was played either in the centre of the park or close to the Downham goal. Credit were its due on the 8 occasions when Downham did get into our box, we got punished mainly due to ex Reffley centre forward Josh Taylor who showed some fine finishing touches.

Reffley started the game as they finished it causing Downham problems at the back, Jake Clarke went very close to opening the scoring in the 2nd min when his close range shot hit the keeper and went agonisingly wide of the post.

Downham's tactic was to play the long ball over the defence for the attackers to run onto, which they did in the 6th minute to take the lead. they used the same move two minutes later but a blatant offside was missed by the officials for Reffley to go 2 - 0 down which was harsh.

Credit to the lads they didn't let their heads go down (or cry !!) and more importantly they didn't question the officials decision. They battled hard and apart from an excellent double save by Liam Taylor on the stroke of half time they were equal to their opponents. The game was stopped on 20 mins when after a compliant by Reffley, the Downham manageress was spoken to by the Referee after a number of unnecessary comments had been directed at the linesmen.

After the break the lads continued from where they left off putting pressure on the home side and with only 2 mins gone got their just rewards with a well taken goal from Jake Clarke. 2 - 1

Special mention to Matthew Brockwell who had an excellent game , at one point in the 2nd half he took the ball from defence rounded three Downham players and then laid on a great ball over the top to James Kerry who's shot went just wide.

Reffley kept the ball in the Downham half and battled hard for the equalising goal. But as said already Downham when breaking forward were dangerous and we got punished twice in a ten minute spell against the run of play to go 4 - 1 down.

Best move of the game came from the home side in the 52nd minute when some lovely play out of defence resulted in a Downham attacker with the ball only to see his lob over the out coming keeper hit the bar.

Downham's 5th and final goal was a poor one to give away, the ball was moved down the right hand side and crossed into the box for a choice of 3 unmarked players to choose from. Resulting in an easy tap in 5 -1.

With 9 minutes left on the clock Reffley pushed forward and kept the ball in the Downham half. James Kerry deserved a goal for his effort but it was the keeper who denied him in the 57th min with a good save from a Kerry free kick. Ryan Jackson too went close in the dying seconds when his shot went inches wide.

It was an excellent effort by Reffley who deserved more out of the game, but they were up against a good side, who's players like us had to return to their homes in Reffley Kings Lynn !!

The management at Reffley U12's would like to thank the Referee who was by far the best we'd seen at Downham in many a year. Also our thanks goes to Andy and David for running the line and to the excellent support our players parents and families gave us this afternoon. Don't forget lads you should rightly be proud of playing for your local side as you were all a credit to the club - Well Done !

SUN 22 OCT 2006: REFFLEY P-P DERSINGHAM 'A'

SUN 15 OCT 2006: WALPOLE 3-2 REFFLEY

Reffley Squad: Liam Taylor, Andrew Barnes, Andrew Roseblade, Andrew Barnes, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre, Matthew Brockwell, Lewis Bankroft-Achurch, Ryan Barnes, Aaron Gascoigne-Walker, James Kerry, Charlie Illson, Ryan Jackson, Callum Hewitt.

As with every other game this season Reffley were unable to pick from a full squad. It resulted in a very disappointing lack luster performance that saw them loose a game they were well capable of winning, if they hadnt forgotten the basics of playing football. Simple errors cost us the game, some players who normally are outstanding where not at the races today and we got punished as a result.

Walpole put in an honourable hard working performance as they bit at our ankles for the full 60 minutes, and as a result deserved the win for their effort alone.

The first 20 minutes was even-stevens as both sides had their chances. First proper chance of the game went to Reffley when Ryan Jackson was put through on goal only to see his shot hit the post and go out for a goal kick. Walpole too should have scored 3 minutes later when the Reffley defence failed to clear a lob from midfield that put their No10 through with only the keeper to beat ,but his lob went inches wide of the post.

First blood was drawn on 19 mins when Reffley failed to clear a weak effort on goal, only to present the ball to a Walpole player who put a lovely shot from the edge of the area over the outstretched Reffley keeper into the net. (0-1).

On 22 minutes Reffley had to make a quick substitution after Walpole had just secured a corner. A Reffley player had just been (constructively) criticised by the management so he decided to leave the pitch of his own accord. Such a display of petulance let both himself and the side down! This put added pressure on the team who battled hard for the remainder of the half.

As stern half time talk resulted in a quick equaliser for Reffley, with less than a minute of the second half gone, goalkeeper Liam Taylor kicked the ball from the edge of his area that was allowed to bounce on the half way line over the Walpole defence for James Kerry to pounce on and lob the out-coming keeper to equalise (1-1).

Reffley had got themselves back into the match only to find they were making the same basic errors that had blighted them in the 1st half. All credit to Walpole they didn't relent on the pressure and as a result they went 1-2 in front in the 35th min. It was a basic defensive error that saw Reffley take a poor free kick that went straight to the feet of a Walpole attacker who took his chance well and put his side in front for the second time in the game.

The hard working Jake Clarke went close in the 43rd minute with a couple fo shots after a lovely cross from an industrious Lewis Bankroft-Achruch. But yet again Reffley let themselves down three minutes later with a Walpole move starting from the half way line saw them move the ball down the left hand side of the pitch without a single tackle being made to allow the attacker to have a free shot on goal from the edge of the area (1-3).

Whilst Reffley didn't play well, some of the decisions definitely went against them , a prime example was on 51 mins. A Walpole pass back from the half way line was intercepted by James Kerry who was in an off side position. The fact that he received the ball from an opposing player didn't prevent the Ref from blowing for an offside !?!? Frustrating to say the least!

Reffley did get some credibility back on 57 mins when another long kick from keeper Liam Taylor was allowed to bounce over the Walpole defence for James Kerry top control. He took the ball wide and cross to Daniel Eyre for an easy tap in (2-3).

Unfortunately the goal came too late in the game and Reffley ran out of time to salvage a point. It was a very disappointing performance that made the loss so much more difficult to bare. I doubt we'll play as badly for the rest of the season, please don't prove me wrong !!

Special thanks Martin running the line and to all the parents for bringing the lads to Walpole as well as their support.

SUN 01 OCT 2006: REFFLEY 9-0 NORTH ELMHAM

Reffley Squad: Liam Taylor, Andrew Barnes, Andrew Roseblade, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre , Matthew Brockwell, Rowan Smith, Lewis Bankroft-Achurch, Ryan Barnes, Aaron Gascoigne-Walker, James Kerry, Charlie Illson , Ryan Jackson, Callum Hewitt.

Nine goals and it could have been so much more, but for some excellent saves from the North Elmham keeper. That's how the game could be summed up in one sentence. From the start Reffley were on the attack and should've scored in the first 30 seconds when a goal mouth scramble was cleared to save North Elmhams blushes. But a 4 minute display of clinical finishing put this game beyond the visitors when Reffley scored 3 great goals.

Reffley's first came on 8 minutes when they caught the opposition's defence napping. They'd thought the ball had crossed the line for a goal kick, but the referee had a clear sight of the ball and waved play on. The ball was crossed from the left to Charlie Ilson who scored his first of the game from close range (1-0).

Less than two minutes later a good move from James Kerry saw his shot saved by the keeper, who's parry was cleared by the defence to just outside the area where Rowan Smith intercepted the ball and immediately drove it into the back of the net (2-0).

Reffley's third came two minutes later in the 12th minute when a North Elmham goal kick was pounced on by the dangerous James Kerry, who (from virtually the identical position of Rowans Smiths pervious goal) hit a thumping shot into the top right hand corner giving the keeper no chance to make it (3-0).

Reffley had to wait another 3 minutes for their forth goal of the game when (not for the first time this season) the opposition were punished for conceding a free kick just outside the area. James Kerry's kick was well saved by the keeper but he couldn't keep hold off the shot, and a very alert Ryan Barnes ran in to the area and pounced on the fumble to put the ball in the net (4-0).

Immediately from the re start Reffley made it five when they took possession and laid the ball through to James Kerry who beat the defence as well as the keeper to score his second of the game (5-0).

On 19 minutes a hard working Ryan Jackson had a good shot saved by the oppositions keeper, who put the ball out for a corner. A well taken corner kick was whipped in for Charlie Ilson to score his second of the game (6-0).

Reffley continued to press forward and in the 24th minute they scored again, when an excellent through ball from Daniel Eyre in central defence was picked up by James Kerry, his inch perfect cross went to Charlie Ilson who finished well to score his hat trick (7-0).

After the half time break Reffley continued to dominate and on 35 mins a well taken corner by Rowan Smith came to the rampant Charlie Ilson who's shot thundered into the net to make it (8-0).

Not happy with scoring 4 goals Charlie Ilson went on to score again in the 43rd min with a well taken goal from a nice move out of midfield (9-0).

The last 15 minutes saw Reffley make a few positional changes, some were enforced (!!) and others allowed us to experiment a little . Chances were still being created , Callum Hewitt went close as did Oliver Cox who hit the post from the tightest of angles. And a number of other good opportunities had either gone just wide of the goal or had been saved well by the opposition's keeper.

All the team had played their part in this convincing victory, with a special mention going out to the back four who made sure our keeper Liam Taylor had nothing to do all game and kept a clean sheet! Congratulations also to Charlie Ilson for scoring 5 goals in one match, well done!

Many thanks also to Martin for running the line and to Stuart for his officiating.

SUN 24 SEPT 2006: HUNGATE 1-1 REFFLEY

Reffley Squad: Kyle Massingham, Andrew Roseblade, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre, Matthew Brockwell, Rowan Smith, Lewis Bankroft-Achurch, Ryan Barnes, Aaron Gascoigne-Walker, James Kerry, Charlie Illson, Jake Clark, Ryan Jackson, Callum Hewitt.

Upon arriving at Hungate, Reffley received news that they were to be without first choice keeper Liam Taylor who was unable to make the game. Frantic phone calls were made and fortunately Kyle Massingham was able to jump into a car and make it to the game to start the second half. This meant that midfielder Ryan Barnes was to go between the sticks for the first 30 minutes.

Reffley got off to a bad start when they conceded a penalty with only 90 seconds on the clock. Hungate's first attack of the game saw their player brought down just inside the area. This meant that Ryan Barnes's first duty in goal was to pick the ball out of the net, after a well struck penalty put Hungate into an early lead (0-1).

From that point on Reffley pushed forward with James Kerry causing problems down the left hand side throughout the game. Hungate were dangerous on the counter attack, but excellent defensive play from Oliver Cox especially in the first 20 minutes kept Hungate at bay.

With only five minutes left of the 1st half Reffley stand in keeper Ryan Barnes pulled off three superb saves in as many minutes denying Hungate their second goal. His final save saw him release the ball down the left hand side, and a beautiful bit of play between James Kerry and Charlie Ilson saw the ball sent over to Jake Clarke who's clinical finish beat the keeper to score the equalising goal (1-1).

The start of the second half saw the arrival of our No2 keeper Kyle Massingham . This allowed Ryan Barnes to move up into midfield. The effect was immediate with Charlie Ilson having a shot within 40 seconds of the restart that went just wide. Two minutes later a James Kerry shot beat the keeper and hit the bar, with the resulting rebound just a little too high for Charlie Ilson to control and the ball went over the bar.

Both teams spent the rest of the half creating chances at each end , Kyle Massingham pulled of an excellent save in the 44th minute when the Hungate attacker was through on goal.

The last five minutes of the game should have seen Reffley secure the 3 points but a goalmouth scramble saw lady luck reside with Hungate who were able to clear it away for a throw in. Then in the last minute of the game a James Kerry cross was just an inch too far away for Jake Clarke to connect with as he ran towards the ball with an empty net in front of him.

It was a very enjoyable game of football to watch , that was played in a sporting manner. Both sides had chances but all in all a draw was the fairest result. Both teams should be congratulated for providing an entertaining mornings football, well done lads!

Special thanks go out to Kyle Massingham and his family for stepping into the breach at such short notice, and to Martin our linesman who's "My daughter Megan could have knocked that one in" was the best one liner of the season so far !

SUN 17 SEPT 2006: REFFLEY 5-1 HEACHAM

Reffley Squad: Liam Taylor, Andrew Roseblade, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre , Matthew Brockwell, Rowan Smith , Lewis Bankroft-Achurch , Ryan Barnes , Aaron Gascoigne - Walker, James Kerry, Charlie Illson , Jake Clark , Ryan Jackson , Andrew Barnes.

Reffley's first home game of the current campaign saw them up against a Heacham team who (due to a cancelled match the week before) were playing their 1st game of the season, after moving up from minors to 11 a side football. They must have thought that after playing 30 minutes against a very sloppy Reffley team that the move up to 11 a side was going to be easier than they first thought.

Unfortunately for the Reffley supporters we were not at the races for the first 30 minutes. None of the team played to their full potential, except for birthday boy Liam Taylor in goal who pulled off an important save in the 9th minute. A mistake in the Reffley defence put Heacham through on goal with only the keeper to beat, but Liam's positioning and lightning reflexes saw him parry the well taken shot on goal away for a corner saving the blushes of the Reffley defence.

It was a half of few chances for Reffley, who lost two players to poor challenges that were missed by the ref, luckily both Lewis Bankroft-Achruch and Rowan Smith recovered in time to play a part in a much improved second half.

When the lads came off at half time they were told in no uncertain terms that their performance was not acceptable and improvements were required across the team. The Managers words definitely got through, as from the kick off Reffley were back to playing the sort of football we had all been accustom to watching.

From the 2nd half kick off It only took 2 minutes to break the deadlock when some great play down the left hand side of the pitch by James Kerry, saw him send a strong accurate cross into the Heacham box that was inch perfect for Ryan Barnes to side foot into the Heacham goal 1 - 0.

Heacham pushed forward straight from the re start and the quick thinking Liam Taylor ran out of his area to snuff out a dangerous through ball that had beaten the Reffley defence. The resulting Heacham throw was eventually cleared and the ball was neatly moved up field to James Kerry, who went around two players and sent a thunderbolt from the edge of the area that the Heacham keeper did very well to parry, but the ball fell into the path of Jake Clarke for an easy tap in 2 - 0.

All credit to Heacham they kept their heads up and continued to try and move the ball forward. In the 36th minute they had a decent penalty shout waved away by the referee when one of their players looked to have been fouled just inside the area. Reffley responded with another attack that saw Ryan Jackson's shot from the edge of the area beat the keeper and go inches wide of the post.

The longer the game went on the more 'robust' the tackles became from the away side. Some were missed by the ref , but those that he saw Reffley ultimately punished them for. On 40 minutes a free kick was awarded to Reffley after a nasty tackle was committed 6ft outside the area. Both James Kerry and Jake Clarke had run their socks off in the second half, and whilst Jake had already been rewarded with a goal, James hadn't. But this was to change when up stepped James Kerry to take the free kick, and with perfect precision his kick sailed over the Heacham wall giving the keeper no chance as it hit the top corner of the net 3 - 0.

Again Heacham refused to give up and deservedly got a consolation goal in the 42nd minute when a ball over the top of the midfield wasn't cleared by the defence, which allowed the Heacham attacker a 1 on 1 with Reffley's keeper. This time the Heacham player took his chance with a nice finish as he chipped the ball over the outcoming Liam Tayor 3 - 1.

Reffley weren't happy conceding a goal and again pushed forward for another of their own. In the 46th minute a great ball from the hard working Lewis Bankcroft-Achrurch put Jake Clarke through, but a brilliant cover tackle from the Heacham No3 prevented a near certain goal. The resulting corner kick was taken by James Kerry who's accurate near post ball was flicked into the net by Jake Clarke for his second goal of the game 4 - 1.

Three minutes later Rowan Smith (who'd returned to the game after receiving a nasty knock to his ankle in the 1st half) saw his 30 yard shot beat the keeper but go inches wide of the far post. This should have been a warning to Heacham as he was to punish them later in the game.

Another player who had deserved a goal was Lewis Bankroft - Achurch, (after an earlier departure from the field for a nasty knock on his ankle) he'd returned and bossed the midfield in the second half and came close to scoring in the 50th minute when his shot from the edge of the area was deflected over the bar for a corner.

Reffley were playing with confidence and it showed with the quality of the passes and through balls that were keeping Heacham busy. James Kerry came close to scoring his second of the game when a superb ball from Rowan Smith was delivered to James's foot who from 6yrds out put his shot just over the bar.

The final goal of the game came on 55 mins when another poor challenge by Heacham gave Reffley a free kick 30 yards out on the opposite side of the pitch from the earlier James Kerry goal. Up stepped Rowan Smith who 6 mins previously had shot just wide form a similar position. After placing the ball down he took 3 paces back and then unleashed a superb kick that went straight into the top of the net 5 - 1 . No blame could be associated to the Heacham keeper as the shot was inch perfect and summed up the second half display by Reffley . . . . . Much Better !!!.

Well done to all the boys , it was the effort and hard work by all of you in the second half that provided the result. Our thanks also goes out to Stuart for his officiating and Martin for running the line.

SUN 10 SEPT 2006: WOOTTONS 2-1 REFFLEY

Reffley Squad: Kyle Massingham, Andrew Roseblade, Oliver Cox, Daniel Eyre, Matthew Brockwell, Rowan Smith, Lewis Bankroft-Achurch, Ryan Barnes, Callum Hewitt, James Kerry, Charlie Illson, Jake Clark, Ryan Jackson, Andrew Barnes.

Reffley traveled to Wootton for this opening fixture of the new season with only first choice 'keeper Liam Taylor absent due to a family wedding. The game saw 4 players making their league debuts for Reffley: 'keeper Kyle Massingham, defender Andrew Roseblade, midfielder Ryan Jackson and forward Jake Clark.

The game was an excellent advert for youth football with two sides working hard in the midday sunshine. Reffley were a little sluggish out of the traps with the defence having to be told on a few occasions to be more disciplined at the back. Charlie Ilson had the first Reffley chance of the game when he came close to scoring with a strong shot that went just wide in the 8th minute.

Wootton looked dangerous on the break and a minute after Charlie's shot Reffley found themselves a goal behind. They failed to clear a speculative long ball that was allowed to bounce over the defence into the path of Woottons' Charlie Butt, who finished the move with a good goal by rounding the 'keeper on the edge of the area (0-1).

It was the only mistake the back four made all half and got punished for it, but to their credit they battled hard to try and level the score. The impressive Jake Clark came close to equalising on 19 mins when his shot had beaten the 'keeper but went agonisingly wide. Less than a minute later, the hard working James Kerry also went close with a long shot that just went over the bar.

On 22 minutes there was a bad clash of heads between Reffley's Oliver Cox and Woottons' Charlie Butt. Both had gone to head the ball when the accident happened, after a few minutes treatment both were substituted as a precaution but thankfully both players rejoined later in the game.

Reffley started the second half in a much brighter fashion than they had the first. On 33 mins they should have equalised when a ball sent over the Wootton defence was pounced on by Jake Clark, he lobbed the oncoming Wootton 'keeper only to see the ball bounce and go inches over the bar. A minute later Rowan Smith had a shot from the edge of the area that again brushed the wrong side of the post.

It was one of those games that when we made a mistake we were punished and this happened in the 38th minute. A defensive mix up allowed Charlie Butt to run through unchallenged to score his second of the game (0-2). Reffley were lucky not to go three behind a minute later when again sloppy play at the back saw Mr Butt go close to scoring his hat trick.

The last 20 minutes of the game was exciting stuff as the Reffley never say die attitude kicked into gear. Reffley continued to push forward but were being foiled time after time by the Woottons No 9 who had a very good solid performance in defence, mopping up any balls that his defensive team mates had failed to deal with.

Reffley deserved a goal for all the hard work and effort they had put into this game, they finally got their reward when Wootton conceded a free kick 10 yards outside there own area. James Kerry took charge of the kick and floated an inch perfect shot passed the 'keeper and into the net (1-2).

From this point on Reffley pushed forward for the equalising goal. The last 5 minutes of the game were spent in the Wootton goalmouth as they conceded corner after corner, but alas Reffley ran out of time.

Both teams played an excellent game of football in a sporting manner and it was a shame there had to be a loser. All the boys worked hard in the sunshine and as managers we could not have asked for more.