Knobs 3 Litlington 2

Happy 2011 folks!
Football resumed after what seemed ages on a gluey pitch. I thought the vibes were shite by the way. Come on lighten up it's a privilege to be able to play a game of football in your dotage. Take a leaf out of John Boyle's book- happy- go- lucky. One of our best players and generous in his approach to participation- a sharer. Well as I approach my last couple of months 'in charge' I will be looking for a little bit of that joi de vivre and sense of community which makes this team game a joy to be part of. Impossible for some I know. Strangely the last game v Old Owens was a different world- camaraderie- but yeah that was in anticipation of the Christmas and New Year festivities- has it all so jaded the spirit?
They should have scored many but their shooting albeit from distance - was shite. They could have been out of sight first half. On the other hand I know we were efficiently methodical first half and until Martin limped off we were able to attempt to advance with our strengths- passing- not running like bad wind chasing hopeless punts- several of us- not only me- can't. Our half time lead came from an unrepeatable (probably) flying volley from Dave from the skimpiest of angles. Nice one you've scored.
John Twigg took the gloves and was almost our man of the match. He saved everything hit at him. OK he spilled most of them but woke up enough to pick up the second ball. Well played John, and he looked somewhat resuscitated in the pub afterwards I was pleased to see. Mind that Abbots Reserve was 6.5%! Their keeper deserves a mention he saved several one on ones.
It was with pleasure that we saw Matt take to the field for the second half -welcome back and many happy returns.
Phil Wheeler made his debut at last - what a touch player some lovely passes and a nice little bit of patience before he smacked in our (deflected) second goal.
Later, Steve to him and his chip over was a class bit of the game presaging good things to come in future games. They hit a good shot to reduce the deficit- John had no chance. Though they competed vigorously they weren't quite the threat they were, first half. Our third came from the unerring boot of Mark Mills- who had kindly reffed the first half. Someone was said to be interfering with play- at that stage I couldn't remember anyone interfering with anything.
A melee, with two shots blocked on the line, ended with Tony (good match at the back) saving on the line with both hands (I see he might be our latest reserve keeper). I sent him off to an early lock in the lavatory. That man took his dismissal and left like a man. We played out the game with 10 men since two our of our subs had fucked off yem- one injured and one... cold I suppose! Oh yes the ensuing penalty was sent sky high- I think John was organising a running wall as half our team pursued the penalty taker into the area but they scored the awarded retaken kick.
Next week home to leaders Harpenden Rovers- my best team- if they turn up and if they play to strengths:
Trevor: Darren A, Alistair, Chris G, Dave: John B, Steve, Chris W, Richard:
Chris C, Gavin. Well we've all got our opinions please share yours and let's have a debate as to what constitutes our best team up front, not behind closed pub doors- and what makes a good vet.

Ronnie O- I have calculated that with Sunday's game that was the 59th year I have had the pleasure of putting on my kit and having a game- it was fucking great. Roll on 2012!